Joystiq

Breezing through Flower on PlayStation Vita

Ludwig Kietzmann — Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST

Having indirectly announced the PlayStation Vita version of thatgamecompany's Flower, the Indiecade booth at this year's E3 went on to hosting a playable version of the game. Flower on the smaller PlayStation suffers no loss in its vibrancy or serenity (provided you have some headphones handy), and it offers a new control scheme suited to the platform's touch screen.

Breezing through Flower on PlayStation Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower lands on Vita, viewable at E3's Indiecade exhibit

Jessica Conditt — Wed, 29 May 2013 18:00:00 EST

Flower is coming to Vita after four years as a PS3 exclusive, according to the list of Indiecade games coming to E3. Flower used tilt controls on the PS3, and the Vita version will take advantage of the system's touchscreen and motion-sensing abilities.

"Using simple touch or motion controls, the player guides the lead petal and accumulates a swarm of flower petals as he moves at his own pace within the environment, causing the on-screen world to change," the Flower Vita description reads.

Flower was designed by Jenova Chen and thatgamecompany, which went on to develop Journey.

Indiecade's lineup of E3 games lists two Vita titles, IGF finalist Hohokum from Honeyslug and Flower Vita. Indiecade consistently brings a solid batch of underground games to E3, and this year it features 37 PC, Vita, mobile, console, card and Sifteo Cubes games, including 7 Grand Steps, Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime, Legend of Dungeon, Guns of Icarus Online, Tower of Guns and Towerfall.

Continue reading Flower lands on Vita, viewable at E3's Indiecade exhibit

Flower lands on Vita, viewable at E3's Indiecade exhibit originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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thatinterview with thatgamecompany co-founder Jenova Chen

Jordan Mallory — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:15:00 EST

In a relatively quiet, upstairs nook of the rain-soaked Palmer Events Center in Austin, TX, thatgamecompany co-founder Jenova Chen and I sat down to discuss Journey, his company's future and his thoughts on free-to-play business models, among other things.

For Chen, 2012 was an auspicious year. Journey was a critical smash hit, earning top honors at DICE and a five-award sweep at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts game awards, among other illustrious achievements. Beyond its success with the press, however, Journey's release represented an even larger milestone for Chen and thatgamecompany: The developer's three-game exclusivity agreement with Sony had come to an end.

Continue reading thatinterview with thatgamecompany co-founder Jenova Chen

thatinterview with thatgamecompany co-founder Jenova Chen originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Journey art director opens new studio, first game to include music from Austin Wintory

Mike Suszek — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST

Matt Nava, former art director for Journey and Flower, announced that he will be opening a new game development studio, Giant Squid. Nava teamed up wth Los Angeles television and film company Ink Factory to found the studio, and will serve as creative director.

Nava is joined by Nicholas Clark, who assisted in developing Journey, Flow and Flower and will act as an advisor to the developer. Grammy-nominated Journey composer Austin Wintory has signed on to score the music for the first Giant Squid game, according to the developer's official site. It's unclear if Wintory will join the team on a permanent basis.

Journey art director opens new studio, first game to include music from Austin Wintory originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Mar 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Journey: Collector's Edition won't make the trip to Europe

Richard Mitchell — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST

European fans hoping to pick up the upcoming collector's edition of Journey may be waiting a long time, possibly forever. It appears that the special boxed edition of Journey won't be available in Europe at all, according to thatgamecompany's Twitter account. "We wish Europeans could get it, but there's nothing we can do," reads a TGC tweet, adding further that perturbed fans should make their complaints known to the PlayStation EU Twitter account.

Journey: Collector's Edition was fully revealed over the weekend, and features lots of goodies for the discerning thatgamecompany devotee. In addition to copies of Journey, Flower and Flow, the disc also includes a 30-minute documentary on Journey, commentary, art, screens, soundtracks and three additional mini-games: Grave Digger, Duke War!! and Nostril Shot.

Journey: Collector's Edition won't make the trip to Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Journey: Collector's Edition' gets 'exclusive minigames,' all three soundtracks on Aug. 28 for $30

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST

Journey Collector's Edition's contents got a lot clearer this morning, as thatgamecompany revealed the box art and more details on its website. The collection comprises all three thatgamecompany PSN games - Flow, Flower, and Journey - and also includes a one-month PS Plus membership, "exclusive mini games," creator commentary audio tracks, soundtracks for all three games, and a variety of other bonuses (the full list is below the break).

The re-release launches on August 28 for $30 in North America ("info for additional territories to be announced soon"), and the minigames are described as "three exclusive mini-games born out of a thatgamecompany tradition: the 24hr Game Jam." The three games, "Gravediggers," "Nostril Shot," and "Duke War!!," were each created by TGC "start to finish in 24 hours," and their release with this collection marks the first time the trio can be played (except for those who played the games while visiting TGC).

There's also reversible cover art on the box - TGC's first physical release - which excites us greatly. Remember that sweet Ico/Shadow of the Colossus reversible cover art? That was pretty much the best. We're hoping this woos us even more.

Continue reading 'Journey: Collector's Edition' gets 'exclusive minigames,' all three soundtracks on Aug. 28 for $30

'Journey: Collector's Edition' gets 'exclusive minigames,' all three soundtracks on Aug. 28 for $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Journey, Flower and Flow PS3 bundle listed for late summer

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 09:30:00 EST

thatgamecompany confirmed early this morning that a disc-based Journey collector's edition, which will include Flow and Flower, is a thing for PlayStation 3, but "can't say anything more."

That's okay, we'll let retailers do a little more of the talking: both GameFly and Play-Asia list the compilation with an August release date. There is no speculation on price at this time.

None of thatgamecompany's PlayStation Network PS3 titles were previously available on disc, but Flow was available on PSP. The most excellent Journey concluded the developer's three-game deal with Sony and now thatgamecompany is moving toward unknown horizons in self-publishing.

Update: Added full statement from company after the break.

Continue reading Journey, Flower and Flow PS3 bundle listed for late summer

Journey, Flower and Flow PS3 bundle listed for late summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jun 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Six years in, Journey studio rewards itself with two new hires

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:30:00 EST

Did you know that today is thatgamecompany's sixth birthday? It's true! In those six years, the team of approximately a dozen people created Flow, Flower, and, most recently, Journey, all the while cementing their place as heads of the art games movement. The company recently completed its contract with Sony for three exclusive titles, but that doesn't mean it's resting on past successes. For instance, TGC is already in talks with publishers for whatever's next.

Alongside its success, some big names at the studio recently moved on - co-founder Kellee Santiago and executive producer Robin Hunicke both exited in the past few months, following the launch of Journey this past March. Today, TGC adds two new employees.

In light of its big sixth birthday, thatgamecompany is announcing the appointment of two new stars: former director of marketing and business development of PowerMMO Games, Sunni Pavlovic, becomes studio manager, and taking up the new position of audio director is Cloud and Flower contributor Vincent Diamante.

In a prepared statement from TGC, Diamante said, "I'm very excited to be a part of thatgamecompany, joining forces with both friends from past projects as well as new faces. The last time around, I worked with TGC mostly as a music contractor. Things this time around will be a bit different, as I'll be dealing with all sound and music issues on their upcoming game."

Diamante related his first several weeks at TGC as akin to "tight-rope walking with chainsaws," which is, like, the exact opposite of what we imagine working at TGC to be like. Isn't it all floaty stuff and soft music? Quit ruining our illusions, Diamante! You've only just started!

Six years in, Journey studio rewards itself with two new hires originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Journey is fastest-selling PSN game ever, soundtrack coming April 10

Jordan Mallory — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST

We thought Journey was a very good game, as you may recall, and apparently we weren't the only ones looking forward to its release, as Journey is now the fastest-selling SCEA-region PSN game in all of recorded history. Previously, that honor was held by Sucker Punch's Infamous 2: Festival of Blood.

"We thank you so much for your support, for spending time and money to play our game and for spreading the word about Journey to your dear friends and family," said thatgamecompany co-founder Jenova Chen in a post on the PlayStation Blog. "We have received more letters from fans in the two weeks since Journey's launch than we did for Flower over the past three years!"

Chen also announced that Journey's brilliant score (composed by Austin Wintory) will be available on the PS Store and iTunes come April 10, with a "limited" CD release to follow shortly after.

Journey is fastest-selling PSN game ever, soundtrack coming April 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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thatgamecompany's Kellee Santiago on Vita, and her ongoing argument with Roger Ebert

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:15:00 EST

With Flow and Flower, Kellee Santiago and Jenova Chen's 12-person dev studio, thatgamecompany, completed two thirds of its three-game contract with Sony. And when Journey arrives some time in 2012, that three-game contract will come to an end, leaving Santiago and co. to an unknown future in the game industry. At a recent Sony press event in New York City, Santiago wouldn't say what the future holds for TGC ("Right now we're really focused on finishing Journey," she told me), but she did speak to her own interest in the PlayStation Vita.

"I could definitely see all of thatgamecompany's titles on the Vita," Santiago said. "But, as you said, we're a team of 12, so for us in each title we just try to focus on the specific platform we're distributing on, and then leave the future to the future." The studio's first game, Flow, ended up on Sony's last handheld system, so the idea of Flower and Journey ending up on the Vita isn't exactly a far-fetched one.

Given Santiago's apprehension at speaking about TGC after Journey, I instead prodded her about her interactions with famous (infamous?) film critic Roger Ebert. Had anything transpired since her last note? Santiago laughed before telling me, "He seems to have conceded that while he has his opinion, he can't really have it 'cause he doesn't play games anyway." In her last response, Santiago even offered to send Ebert a PlayStation 3 with Flower.

"We did send him a PlayStation 3 with Flower," she said. But has he played it? "At least of the last writing on it, he has not played it." Maybe she should've sent an employee to play the game for him as well?

[Image credit: TED Blog]

thatgamecompany's Kellee Santiago on Vita, and her ongoing argument with Roger Ebert originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Industry veteran Mark Cerny talks about the hugeness of modern developers

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:25:00 EST

Mark Cerny is a game developer with 30 years of experience under his belt, which just so happens to be notched with widely known projects like Marble Madness and Crash Bandicoot. In an interview with Gamasutra, Cerny discusses how the size of game development teams has ballooned in recent years.

He explains that there was more accountability when he developed games by himself, adding, "You couldn't blame upper management who didn't understand you, you couldn't blame the marketing guys who didn't put together the proper marketing campaign."

Cerny says that his role as a part-time mercenary developer becomes less effective when he's hired by hundred-strong teams, and that some games -- namely, Thatgamecompany's Flower -- simply can't be developed by a gargantuan ensemble. "Because you're taking such a curved path on the way to making the final product, you don't want the art staff of 20 just waiting, just building the models, when Jenova is going to have some idea that goes in a completely different direction," Cerny says.

We agree, though we think a larger staff would have allowed for the online deathmatch mode that Flower so, so desperately needed.

Industry veteran Mark Cerny talks about the hugeness of modern developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Journey closed beta starts tomorrow, open to select few

Richard Mitchell — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:15:00 EST

Following up on last week's report, thatgamecompany has revealed the requirements for taking part in the "very limited" beta for its upcoming project, Journey. According to a recent post on PlayStation Blog, the beta will be restricted to "the very earliest adopters of Flower" who are also PlayStation Plus subscribers. The beta will begin on June 28 (that's tomorrow!) and run through July 12. Those who qualify should receive an invitation via their PSN inbox soon.

For those who don't fit the criteria (remember, everyone's on PlayStation Plus at the moment), all hope is not lost. A "limited number of additional spots" will be made available via PlayStation Blog and some unnamed "media partners."

Finally, more invitations are being given away via thatgamecompany's Facebook page. You'd best hurry if you want one -- the Facebook giveaway closes at 7pm Pacific tonight.

Journey closed beta starts tomorrow, open to select few originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Thatgamecompany's Flower recreated in LittleBigPlanet 2

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST

We get legitimately excited when we see how beta testers are using LittleBigPlanet 2's creation tools in an ingenious way -- but sometimes, the logistics of their creations give us a wicked headache. Like, for instance, PSN user RAPHEAI's in-game recreation of Flower. It simply boggles the mind.

Continue reading Thatgamecompany's Flower recreated in LittleBigPlanet 2

Thatgamecompany's Flower recreated in LittleBigPlanet 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Oct 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower soundtrack flies onto PlayStation Store this week, only $2.99

Andrew Yoon — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:25:00 EST

The PlayStation Store is continuing to expand its offering of game soundtracks. In addition to the recently released Heavy Rain soundtrack, the PlayStation Store will update with the soundtrack to Flower this week. Best of all, it's a steal -- $2.99/€1.99/£1.59.

A key aspect of Flower's allure was it's interactivity, something that this pre-recorded soundtrack won't be able to offer. We do have a helpful alternative, though. Download the OST to your MP3 player, and then just start running through your neighbor's garden, ripping all the flower pedals you see. It'll feel just like the game.

Flower soundtrack flies onto PlayStation Store this week, only $2.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GDC: The music and sound of Flower

Mike Schramm — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 02:00:00 EST

On the last day of GDC, a little room in the back of the North Hall of San Francisco's Moscone Center was packed. Most of the audio design and sound creation panels in that part of the building weren't very well attended for most of the week. But on Saturday morning, it was standing room only for the panel hosted by a surprised Vincent Diamante and Steve Johnson, the respective composer and sound designer on thatgamecompany's downloadable gem, Flower.

They started off by explaining a little bit about how thatgamecompany developed the game: It all started from the narrative, as co-founder Jenova Chen wanted to try and create a rise and fall story with no actual protagonist to speak of. Then, they loaded up the game itself, and played through most of the levels, talking about their designs as commentary over the gameplay itself.

Continue reading GDC: The music and sound of Flower

GDC: The music and sound of Flower originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Into the Pixel goes into the auction on eBay

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST

Hey, you remember the Into the Pixel exhibit at last year's E3, right? Oh, no, that's right, they don't allow the plebes in. Had you been lucky enough to grace it with your stares, you'd have found a "jury-curated exhibition of video game art created by published video and computer game artists." And now that very same art can be found gracing the pages of eBay, as the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences has opened up bidding on a smattering of pieces (starting yesterday and running through February 20).

Featuring art from games like Flower and Fable 2, the proceeds will help to fund the AIAS' scholarship programs. The bidding has most certainly begun, though most pieces remain at their initial $100 opening bid as of publishing. If you're looking to snap up one of these snappy pieces, we'd suggest you get bidding sooner rather than later!

Into the Pixel goes into the auction on eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buy your love a Flower for half price today

Ben Gilbert — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST

As if yesterday's free copy of flOw weren't enough for you, thatgamecompany has decided to extend its love to PSN users that much further today by dropping the price of Flower to $4.99. For the price of 1/20th of a rose (hey, it's Valentine's Day and those prices skyrocket!), you can give your love a flower that doesn't wither and die over the next week. In fact, we highly suggest you go with that route of explanation should he/she not take your digital gift as well as you hope -- simply explain that you wanted to give something more emblematic of your relationship! Maybe something like, "It's digital, so it'll never die, baby! Just like our love!" Yeah, that should do it.

Gallery: Flower

Buy your love a Flower for half price today originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GDC Awards nominees announced, Drake leads the pack

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST

We've just received a press release revealing which titles will be vying for top honors at the 10th Annual Game Developers Choice Awards, held in conjunction with GDC 2010 on March 11. If you're not familiar with the show, picture the Kids Choice Awards, only ... with video game developers choosing the winners instead of teenagers. Or, alternatively, imagine the VGAs, only without all the half-naked women, pot references and awards named after highly caffeinated soft drinks.

You'll see some familiar names on the full list of nominees posted after the jump. Uncharted 2 netted seven nominations, Flower managed to grab five, and Assassin's Creed II ended up with four. Will Ezio be snubbed by Nathan once more in the Game of the Year runnings? We'll find out at GDC!

GDC Awards nominees announced, Drake leads the pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Best of the Rest: Kevin's Picks of 2009

Kevin Kelly — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST

Halo Wars
Yeah, that's right, Halo Wars. I've already caught enough flak for putting this on my best-of list for 2009 (it's hard to even remember that it came out way back in February), but it deserves to be recognized ... so pay attention once your laughter has died down. Ensemble Studios (RIP) proved that you could bring a real-time strategy game to a console, and still make it enjoyable. Sure, you'll never have 1:1 parity mapping everything a full-sized keyboard offers onto a controller, but this game came close. It's a pity Ensemble closed, since we'll never see any expansion packs or a sequel. The good news is that, since it wasn't received with blaring trumpets and the sounds of cash registers ringing, you can pick this up for under 20 bucks for some good fun.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Kevin's Picks of 2009

Best of the Rest: Kevin's Picks of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Jan 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Best of the Rest: Andrew's Picks of 2009

Andrew Yoon — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST

Flower
This year had a number of terrific downloadable games (this list is a testament to that), however no game -- retail or digital -- connected with me like Flower. Jenova Chen's flOw was an interesting experiment, but Flower is an actual game. In fact, Flower is one of the few experiences I can think of that show the true potential of games as a unique storytelling medium. No other non-interactive art form will ever be able to replicate what thatgamecompany has managed to create.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Andrew's Picks of 2009

Best of the Rest: Andrew's Picks of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Jan 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Best of the Rest: Griffin's Picks of 2009

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST

DJ Hero
What started out as tepid fascination in DJ Hero quickly turned into a deep, passionate love. I initially thought it was just another rhythm game knock-off with an obtuse peripheral and a too-high price point. However, as my turntabling improved, my fondness for the game multiplied. Based on the game's lackluster sales, I'm guessing most people shared my outright hesitance -- but once you invest a bit of time and patience into DJ Hero, I guarantee you'll get hooked. (And that soundtrack! Oh, man, that soundtrack.)

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Griffin's Picks of 2009

Best of the Rest: Griffin's Picks of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VGA 2009: Flower developers amidst the explosions and hype

Kevin Kelly — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:25:00 EST

This past Saturday brought us the Spike TV Video Game Awards and - before experiencing the litany of world exclusives that awaited us inside - we spent some time outside cruising the red carpet and talking (briefly!) to many of the game developers and talent. We squeezed them for information as fast as we could while simultaneously wishing them holiday cheer and good tidings. Yes, it was as awkward as it sounds. Here's what we learned from Kellee Santiago and Jenova Chen from thatgamecompany about Flower.

Spike TV and the VGAs are all about naked women, shooters, and explosions. What's it like for Flower to be here?

Kellee Santiago: It's a very surreal experience. I think it shows that what are sort of seen as "artsy" games aren't niche, they appeal at the most commercial mass level, and that's very exciting for us.

Jenova Chen: We had Flower exhibit at the MOCA in Shanghai as an interactive art piece. It's quite interesting to see a video game stand next to these art installations. Being at these awards will hpefully give us even more exposure. The PlayStation Network had a sale during Thanksgiving, and a lot of people picked up Flower who had never heard of it before. Then we started to get a lot of emails thanking us for making the game. We know there are more people who haven't seen the game, and it would be great if they know what video games could be.

What's next? Could there be a sequel to Flower?

We're working on a third title for PlayStation Network right now, you'll see more soon. Hopefully you'll see something next year, but we don't know yet when it will come out.

VGA 2009: Flower developers amidst the explosions and hype originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower, Comet Crash & other PSN titles half-price this week

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:18:00 EST

It seems the PlayStation Store got a little jealous of the brick-and-mortar retailers who were offering discounts during this week of ~~Black Friday~~ Thanksgiving. Beginning with today's specially-dated Tuesday PSN update, a handful of downloadable PS3 titles will be offered for half-price until December 2. Here's a list of the encheapened games, and their temporarily slimmed-down prices:

Bomberman Ultra - $4.99
Comet Crash - $4.99
Flower - $4.99
Invincible Tiger: The Legend of Han Tao - $7.49
The Last Guy - $4.99
Prince of Persia Classic - $4.99
Smash Cars - $7.49

Check out Joystiq's Black Friday Game Deals Hub or jump to a retailer guide below:

For more Black Friday coverage, check out Black Friday Deals, Cyber Monday Sales,
And other Black Friday 2009 stories today from Walletpop.com

Flower, Comet Crash & other PSN titles half-price this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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TGS 2009: Sony adding motion to existing titles, new RE5 with motion coming Spring 2010 [update]

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:30:00 EST

During Sony's second press conference at the Tokyo Game Show, Capcom's Jun Takeuchi took the stage to demo the PlayStation 3's new motion controller with his game, Resident Evil 5. That's right, Sony will be bringing motion control to a handful of existing titles, including a re-released RE5 in Resident Evil 5: Director's Cut this coming Spring.

Sony also showed off LittleBigPlanet being controlled by two people, one wielding a motion wand while the other used a DualShock 3. Apparently a mess of other titles will be getting the motion treatment -- 13 in total (~~seen here, mostly in Japanese~~ see update below) -- with Flower and Pain standing out as notable examples.

Update: We've got the full list right here.

Gallery: Sony 2 gallery

TGS 2009: Sony adding motion to existing titles, new RE5 with motion coming Spring 2010 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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thatgamecompany's third Sony project is 'something you've never experienced before'

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST

thatgamecompany, aside from giving us a chance to start this paragraph off with a lowercase letter for once, is currently hard at work on its third contractual Sony project. At the Develop Conference in the UK this morning, tgc's Jenova Chen had a handful of artfully abstract information to drop on conference attendees regarding the upcoming game. He said the project "feels like a natural progression" from the company's other titles and will be "something you've never experienced before." So, Flowest confirmed? Not quite.

"In the future there's a lot of feelings that video games haven't explored that are open for us to find," Chen said -- he specifically cited God of War as "a really good game about hatred." As Eurogamer points out in its coverage of the conference, Chen repeatedly cited the iteration time necessary for a game concept to go into full production -- he says that the concept for Flower took about two years -- and as such, may very well not have any solid information to talk about regarding his company's next game. Have you considered the fourth dimension, Mr. Chen? Hmm?

[Image]

thatgamecompany's third Sony project is 'something you've never experienced before' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Boom Blox producer leaves EA, joins thatgamecompany

Andrew Yoon — Thu, 21 May 2009 20:15:00 EST

thatgamecompany, the studio behind flOw and Flower, has managed to sweep away former EA developer Robin Hunicke. Hunicke worked as the lead designer behind MySims, and produced the two Wii Boom Blox titles. In a statement to Kotaku, Hunicke explains that she wants "to reach new people, with new experiences, via the medium of games and the language of game design" in her new position. With both flOw and Flower completed, Hunicke says thatgamecompany is "at the forefront of the indie movement."

It's currently unknown what position Hunicke will serve at thatgamecompany or what project she will be working on. The team is still contractually obligated to develop at least one more game for PlayStation Network.

Boom Blox producer leaves EA, joins thatgamecompany originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 May 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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You gotta believe Masaya Matsuura and Jenova Chen will speak at Develop Conference

JC Fletcher — Tue, 12 May 2009 19:45:00 EST

Develop has just announced the addition of two speakers to the Develop Conference's 2009 lineup, both respected game designers whose works tend to be more than a little unconventional.

Parappa the Rapper creator Masaya Matsuura, whose last game was the Wii marching adventure Major Minor's Majestic March, will present "It's Time for Music Games 2.0," in which the developer will "map out unexplored gaming possibilities and reinvent our understanding of the genre." thatgamecompany's Jenova Chen will present a retrospective about flOw and Flower, and "explore the relationship between games, entertainment and art."

The Develop Conference will be held at the Hilton Metropole Hotel in Brighton from July 14th through July 16th. If you're flying there and the pilot looks like this guy, get off and wait for the next plane.

You gotta believe Masaya Matsuura and Jenova Chen will speak at Develop Conference originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 May 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower remains best-selling PSN game in March

Andrew Yoon — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 21:30:00 EST

It appears thatgamecompany has yet another hit on its hands. Flower, the PSN-exclusive follow up to flOw, has remained atop the PSN sales charts for a second month in a row. We're glad to see gamers embrace the innovative downloadable game and its 200 thousand blades of grass. The full list:

Flower
Wheel of Fortune
Noby Noby Boy
Ratchet & Clank: Quest for Booty
Mortal Kombat II
Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix
3 on 3 NHL Arcade
Red Baron Arcade
Age of Booty
Linger in Shadows

Wheel of Fortune's brand name gave it a great debut (although the game itself is rubbish). Noby Noby Boy continues to confuse gamers, and Quest for Booty's discount price gave it a rather sizable sales boost. GamerBytes rightfully points out the absence of Watchmen: The End is Nigh from the list. Looks like poor reviews and a $20 price tag shunned gamers from the high-profile beat-em-up.

Flower remains best-selling PSN game in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Apr 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower's power exclusive to PS3: 200k grass blades and counting

Majed Athab — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:30:00 EST

We suppose grass might not be very exciting, but that doesn't mean it's any easier to put into games than anything else, especially considering the sheer amount of it needed in a game like Flower. In fact, Flower has coded 200,000 blades of grass to simultaneously move and sway in the wind, and co-founder / president of ThatGameCompany Kellee Santiago said this could only be possible on the PS3.

"It really would be impossible to make it look the same on any other system," she said in an interview with Gamezine. The developers say rendering Flower's detailed and free-flowing grass "leverages the PS3" and makes good use of the system's advanced SPU. So, the next time someone disses Flower for being a sissy casual title, let them know how hardcore it really is.

[Via CVG]

Flower's power exclusive to PS3: 200k grass blades and counting originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower is top downloaded PSN game in February

Andrew Yoon — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

Looks like PS3 fans are willing to give experimental gaming a chance. The PSN-exclusives Flower and Noby Noby Boy both take the top spots in February. These innovative games take gaming in new directions, and we're glad to see gamers have embraced them.

Flower
Noby Noby Boy
Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix
3 on 3 NHL Arcade
Savage Moon
Mortal Kombat II
Bejeweled 2
Burnout Paradise
Linger in Shadows
Magic Ball

It's amazing to see the longevity some of these downloads have. Mortal Kombat II still rakes in the sales, despite being one of the earliest downloads to launch on PSN. The PSN version of Burnout Paradise takes the #8 position more than a year after its initial retail release. See? DLC really can make a game that much more attractive. See the top 10 movies, after the break.

Continue reading Flower is top downloaded PSN game in February

Flower is top downloaded PSN game in February originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower composer talks about game's soundtrack

Majed Athab — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 21:30:00 EST

Intelligent use of visuals and sound is one of the reasons that makes Flower such a surreal experience, and it was the job of composer Vincent Diamante to manifest this PSN dream world through music. He recently spoke with GameSetWatch to discuss his work in Flower, revealing some interesting bits on how the music not only affected the atmosphere of the game but also the design.

Diamante mentioned that the Sixaxis controls influenced the way he wrote his music. He called it a "soft type of control" and that "you can feel that there is a texture to the way you fly through the air." This texture, he added, would determine how he'd write music for "the winds." Conversely, Diamante also influenced the game design: "I had the opportunity to talk with the artists about the arrangement of flowers: tightening up lines of flowers or stretching them out, replacing red flowers with white flowers, and so forth so that the sound would work."

Lastly, those gamers looking to score a soundtrack might be in some luck. Diamante revealed he's in talks with Sony to put out an album; though, he does say the music lends itself more to the game experience over that of an album experience. Have a read of the full interview here.

Flower composer talks about game's soundtrack originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Feb 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower's Jenova Chen doesn't play new games, wants to explore 'feelings'

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sony PlayStation 3

Jenova Chen, creative director for thatgamecompany and champion for the recently released arboreal PSN title Flower, recently opened up during an interview with GamesIndustry to an extent we rarely see outside of Dr. Phil reruns. During the interview, he reveals that he's interested in making games that elicit emotional responses more effectively than the traditional industry blockbuster, in an attempt to "recapture" the emotions that games used to inspire within him during his formative years.

According to him, this is an area that modern video games (which he admittedly rarely plays) don't really excel at, saying most major releases "fail to educate you on an intellectual level, and the emotions they evoke are relatively primal." To this effect, the self-proclaimed goal of his burgeoning development company is to "push the boundary of what games can communicate." We're not sure what thatgamecompany's next aesthetically pleasing project will be, but one thing's for certain -- it probably won't incorporate any firearms with chainsaws attached to them.

[Image]

Flower's Jenova Chen doesn't play new games, wants to explore 'feelings' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Feb 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gaming renaissance happening now, Flower creator says

Majed Athab — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:15:00 EST

"I think right now - in the future, when people look back, I think it's the renaissance of video games." These words were spoken by Jenova Chen - creator of Flower and flOw - to MTV Multiplayer on the role of digital distribution in the industry. Chen believes that digital distribution platforms like PSN, Xbox Live, WiiWare, and Steam are a bastion for new and artistic game designers to flourish.

While larger companies are struggling to maintain higher production costs on "bigger and badder" versions of the same games every year, cheap and unique downloadable titles are doing well for themselves. Games like Flower, Braid and PixelJunk Monsters are noteworthy games that exemplify the "rebirth" of diversity and creativity for the industry. While it's nice to hear that digital distribution has been experiencing a renaissance and pushing boundaries, we can only hope that the rest of the industry catches up and gets pulled out of the dark ages.

[Image credit: Sklathill]

Gaming renaissance happening now, Flower creator says originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PSN Thursday: Don't be a Qore, give Flower a chance

Jem Alexander — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST

Flower is now available to download from the US PSN Store. What are you still doing here? Fine, there is some other stuff, but you should really look into fixing your priorities. Disgaea 3 gets even more DLC today, along with all the normal rhythm games. There's no LittleBigPlanet DLC, despite Europe getting some, but there is a new episode of Qore, which includes a free copy of PS1 classic Syphon Filter, playable on both PS3 and PSP.

Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list:

(Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)

Continue reading PSN Thursday: Don't be a Qore, give Flower a chance

PSN Thursday: Don't be a Qore, give Flower a chance originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Joystiq review: Flower (PSN)

Andrew Yoon — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:30:00 EST

There are a number of challenges a reviewer faces when writing a Flower review. It would be much easier to say "please buy it," but that would be unfair to the reader that demands to know why. The simplicity of Flower's gameplay is already well-documented: tilt the controller and collect flower petals. In regards to the mechanics, there really is nothing more to say that hasn't been said before.

It's tempting to explain the surprises the game hides in its second half. No footage or screenshots of the game's latter half can be found online, and for good reason. The revelations of the second half of the game are so startling that to know anything about them would ruin the game's impact. (Think of Rez's endgame transformation, and you'll have a good idea as to what Flower becomes.)

Perhaps my reluctance to reveal anything about the game's progression reveals that, in spite of its rather unconventional appearance, Flower ultimately follows a very standard blueprint for storytelling and game design. There is a greater "good" and a greater "evil" -- and the conflict that arises between the two becomes the driving force of a rollercoaster of emotions.

Gallery: Flower

Continue reading Joystiq review: Flower (PSN)

Joystiq review: Flower (PSN) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Trophies: Flower

Andrew Yoon — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 19:30:00 EST

	0 Platinum 1 Gold 2 Silver 11 Bronze	Difficulty: Easy Online Trophies? No Time to Completion: 5 hours DLC Trophies? No
	View Trophy List	Read More About the Game

Continue reading Trophies: Flower

Trophies: Flower originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower gets priced in Europe

Majed Athab — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST

How much is Flower worth? If your answer is anywhere near six pounds and 29 pence, then you'd be correct. As confirmed to Eurogamer, that's the price which British players should expect to pay on February 12 (the worldwide release date).

Moreover, a SCEE representative has confirmed to Joystiq that the rest of Europe will get this unique and relaxing PSN title for €7.99. Americans need not worry about pricing, as we already know it's coming our way for $9.99.

Flower gets priced in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower gets priced: $9.99

Andrew Yoon — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:44:00 EST

Filed under: e-Distribution Games

VentureBeat's Dean Takahashi calls the upcoming PSN game, Flower, the "most inspired game for the PlayStation 3." It seems as though he agrees with our assessment of the title. Takahashi doesn't restrain himself, calling the title "pure eye candy" and "artistic inspiration at its best."

His preview also adds a detail we didn't know: the price. Flower will be available on the PlayStation Network on February 12th for $9.99.

Continue reading Flower gets priced: $9.99

Flower gets priced: $9.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Jan 2009 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Flower. Screenshots.

Andrew Yoon — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:15:00 EST

Filed under: Videos and Screenshots

Click for high-resolution image.

It's hard to replicate the elegant beauty of Flower in a headline. The upcoming PlayStation Network game is getting ready for a February release, and we're psyched. It may sound surprising, but Flower is one of the best-looking games we've ever seen, from both an artistic and technical standpoint. Techies will love seeing thousands of individual blades of grass rendered on the screen; while those with a softer side will be awe-struck by the eye-catching use of color. Once you play Flower, you will believe.

Flower. Screenshots. originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumor: Wipeout Pulse headed to PS2, Fat Princess due in March

Ludwig Kietzmann — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:59:00 EST

Filed under: Sony PlayStation 2, Sony PlayStation 3, Action, Driving

According to an alleged Q1 release schedule issued by Sony Computer Entertainment Benelux, the PlayStation Network can--

Yes, that's right. Sony Computer Entertainment Benelux, which handles the European economic union comprising Belgium, Netherland and Luxembourg.

Anyway, VideoGamesBlogger claims to have received this schedule, which includes a PlayStation 2 version of PSP racer Wipeout Pulse -- due in February -- and a March PSN release for obese royalty roll-a-thon, Fat Princess. In addition, the--

What? Yes, of course we asked Sony for comment. The company indicated awareness of an "out of date" release schedule being mistakenly circulated to the media and could not confirm any of the games nor release dates. Even though Flower's already been confirmed for February 12th. The other ...

No, we're not being hasty. We're just trying to convey some information here. It would be truly helpful if you could just stop interrupting us. We're trying to write a post here. In the nice, padded room.

Rumor: Wipeout Pulse headed to PS2, Fat Princess due in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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