Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[You Don't Know Jack and Cookie Masterson want to be your new Facebook friends]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/you-dont-know-jack-and-cookie-masterson-want-to-be-your-new-fac/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/you-dont-know-jack-and-cookie-masterson-want-to-be-your-new-fac/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/23/you-dont-know-jack-and-cookie-masterson-want-to-be-your-new-fac/#comments ImageWe don't know about you, but You Don't Know Jack's charismatic host Cookie Masterson sure seems like a swell fellow; the kind of guy who takes to Facebook only to post photos of cats doing silly things, and potentially show his friends pictures of his newly shaven dome. We say this because we now have a new way to interact with Mr. Masterson through - you guessed it - You Don't Know Jack, now on Facebook.

The game is currently in closed beta, but I signed up to be a beta tester and was already in before this post was finished. Also, yup, I did play a round right quick, and it was totally awesome. In so many words, it's You Don't Know Jack, but played asychronously against Facebook friends. Rounds are shorter, and there's some microtransaction stuff in there, but it's pretty much the same game you've been playing (and loving) for 20 years.

Regardless, it's free and seemingly unobtrusive in regards to your Facebook account, which sounds like a big winner to us.

JoystiqYou Don't Know Jack and Cookie Masterson want to be your new Facebook friends originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cookie-mastersonfacebookfree-to-playjellyvisionmacmicrotransactionspcyou-dont-know-jackWed, 23 May 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE announces free-to-play Bullet Run, a revamped Hedone from Acony Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/soe-announces-free-to-play-bullet-run-a-revamped-hedone-from-ac/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/soe-announces-free-to-play-bullet-run-a-revamped-hedone-from-ac/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/soe-announces-free-to-play-bullet-run-a-revamped-hedone-from-ac/#comments Acony Games, a German developer, has been working on an online first-person shooter called Hedone, about contestants fighting to win a deadly reality show. Sony Online Entertainment today announced that it is publishing a game by Acony called Bullet Run, and as far as we can tell it's Hedone with a new title.

There's no mention of Hedone on the official website or in the press release, but the free-to-play shooter now called Bullet Run boasts the same reality show premise as Acony's project, and it certainly looks the same as the old game (not to mention that hedone.tv now redirects to Sony's official Bullet Run site).

Some of Acony's developers previously worked on MMO flops APB and BattleForge, so the track record here isn't the greatest. But SOE apparently sees something in the title and is already trying to work some rebranding magic. Beta signups for Bullet Run are going on now, and the game is set to go live later this summer.

Continue reading SOE announces free-to-play Bullet Run, a revamped Hedone from Acony Games

JoystiqSOE announces free-to-play Bullet Run, a revamped Hedone from Acony Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 21:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acony-gamesbullet-runfree-to-playhedoneonlinepcshootersoeSony-online-entertainmentTue, 22 May 2012 21:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Hawken to be playable via Gaikai prior to official release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/hawken-to-be-playable-via-gaikai-prior-to-official-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/hawken-to-be-playable-via-gaikai-prior-to-official-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/20/hawken-to-be-playable-via-gaikai-prior-to-official-release/#comments ImageHawken keeps surprising us. First, we were surprised that the really great-looking mech shooter is being made by an indie studio, then it surprised us to learn that it would be free-to-play. And here's another surprise: Dave Perry's cloud gaming system Gaikai has signed a deal to let players see Hawken running through the service in advance of the planned December 12 release date.

Gaikai allows nearly any game to be streamed directly from its servers to any browser, which means that the first impression of the graphics-intensive Hawken will be playable anywhere Gaikai will run (including on some tablets, and computers of all shapes and sizes). This deal makes a lot of sense from both sides: Hawken needs a large audience to get its free-to-play engine running, and Gaikai could use a big title to connect users to its servers. The Gaikai demo will be on playhawken.com and a few other sites, so eyes open until then.

Continue reading Hawken to be playable via Gaikai prior to official release

JoystiqHawken to be playable via Gaikai prior to official release originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 May 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adhesive-gamesclouddave-perryfree-to-playgaikaihawkenmechpcservershooterstreamingSun, 20 May 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Bringing a Chinese shooter to the west with Mercenary Ops]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/bringing-a-chinese-shooter-to-the-west-with-mercenary-ops/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/bringing-a-chinese-shooter-to-the-west-with-mercenary-ops/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/bringing-a-chinese-shooter-to-the-west-with-mercenary-ops/#comments ImageMercenary Ops is something of a rarity. While there are quite a few Western-developed games being published in Asia by Chinese and Korean companies, there aren't a lot of Chinese-developed online titles being published by Western companies.

Developed in China by Yingpei Games, which used to be called Epic Games China, the shooter is being distributed by the San Francisco-based outfit Kalends, a group of developers who've decided to try their hand at publishing on their own.

As for the game itself, Kalends has announced that Mercenary Ops will be released as a free-to-play, microtransaction-based title - a business plan that has deep roots in China, but is only just breaking ground stateside.

Gallery: Mercenary Ops

Continue reading Bringing a Chinese shooter to the west with Mercenary Ops

JoystiqBringing a Chinese shooter to the west with Mercenary Ops originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiabetaeasternfree-to-playjason-sharpkalendsmarketsmercenary-opspcshooterthird-personuswesternying-peiTue, 15 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft expects next-gen consoles to integrate 'item based model']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/ubisoft-expects-next-gen-consoles-to-integrate-item-based-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/ubisoft-expects-next-gen-consoles-to-integrate-item-based-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/ubisoft-expects-next-gen-consoles-to-integrate-item-based-model/#comments Ubisoft likely knows more about the next generation of consoles than we all do, thanks to working on games for them and stuff, and it sees them going in a social gaming-oriented direction. The company's earnings release features an outlook for the next year, in which Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot expects to see an increase of 25-61% in operating income.

Beyond that, Guillemot expects growth due to two trends: first, "the forthcoming arrival of the next generation of consoles which will be increasingly connected and will strongly boost the market thanks to a new qualitative leap and the integration of social games benefits and the item based model," and free-to-play games.

The "item based model" sounds like a trend bleeding over from free-to-play games, in which games are sold for free (or cheap) and microtransactions bring in revenue through the sale of in-game items. We have seen this outside of the free-to-play world in this generation, in the form of costume sales and the occasional weapon unlock; however, if Guillemot expects it to be a significant source of income on consoles, it's likely to be even more emphasized in the next generation.

JoystiqUbisoft expects next-gen consoles to integrate 'item based model' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsfree-to-playMicrotransactionsnext-generationubisoftyves-guillemotTue, 15 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alien Hominid has been played 20 million times on Newgrounds]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/alien-hominid-has-been-played-20-million-times-on-newgrounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/alien-hominid-has-been-played-20-million-times-on-newgrounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/alien-hominid-has-been-played-20-million-times-on-newgrounds/#comments ImageBefore there was, uh, that other game called Alien Hominid (and Castle Crashers), there was the original Alien Hominid, a free browser run-and-gun game that debuted on Newgrounds. And that original game has now surpassed 20 million play sessions, The Behemoth has announced.

The brain child of Tom Fulp and Dan Paladin, Alien Hominid was built in Flash and released on Newgrounds way back in 2002. It would eventually be ported to the GameCube and PS2 in 2004 (and Europe would see Xbox and GameBoy Advance ports), then to Xbox Live Arcade in 2007. Currently, The Behemoth is working on Battleblock Theater.

JoystiqAlien Hominid has been played 20 million times on Newgrounds originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsAlien-Hominidandroiddsfree-to-playgamecubeiosipadiphonemacmicrosoftmobilenewgroundsnintendopcplaystationps3the-behemothwiiwii-uxblaxboxWed, 09 May 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Legend of the Beast' DLC coming to ... Serious Sam HD: Second Encounter?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/legend-of-the-beast-dlc-coming-to-serious-sam-hd-second-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/legend-of-the-beast-dlc-coming-to-serious-sam-hd-second-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/legend-of-the-beast-dlc-coming-to-serious-sam-hd-second-e/#comments Like one of those headless-yet-somehow-screaming dudes popping out of nowhere, Croteam has managed to surprise us with a DLC announcement today. Serious Sam HD: The Second Encounter will receive the Legend of the Beast DLC pack on May 15, extending the campaign and multiplayer experiences. The Legend of the Beast costs $4.99 and adds three new campaign missions, along with three new maps each for Brutal Survivor mode and Chaotic Versus mode. And again (weirdly), this is DLC for Serious Sam's second HD game, not the most recent Serious Sam 3.

In addition to the DLC, all Serious Sam HD: The Second Encounter's multiplayer modes - which include both co-operative and competitive-based modes - will be free for all through Steam on May 15. All you have to do is download the free, standalone multiplayer on or after May 15 and you're good to go.

Gallery: Serious Sam HD: The Second Encounter (Legend of the Beast)

Continue reading 'Legend of the Beast' DLC coming to ... Serious Sam HD: Second Encounter?

Joystiq'Legend of the Beast' DLC coming to ... Serious Sam HD: Second Encounter? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>croteamdevolver-digitaldlcfree-to-playlegend-of-the-beastpcserious-sam-hd-the-second-encountersteamWed, 09 May 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tribes: Ascend isn't skiing to consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/tribes-ascend-isnt-skiing-to-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/tribes-ascend-isnt-skiing-to-consoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/tribes-ascend-isnt-skiing-to-consoles/#comments We've more or less known that Tribes: Ascend wouldn't be heading to consoles - as initially pitched - for a year or more now. That whole "free-to-play" thing is kinda the kiss of death for devs hoping to port to consoles (unless you're CCP, that is). Hi-Rez Studios COO Todd Harris explained it further in a recent interview.

"We do not have any plans for Tribes on console at this time," Harris said. That decision sprang from Hi-Rez's business model of choice, rather than technical limitations. "The way it went is that we wanted to do the free-to-play model, and there wasn't a clear path to that on consoles early on." Unlike CCP, the Tribes team is just 15 people, so negotiating with the big boys (Sony, Microsoft) wasn't really an option.

Harris isn't counting out console makers playing nice with free-to-play devs in the future (even the near future), but Tribes: Ascend likely won't bridge that gap. "We're still interested in free-to-play on consoles, but at this point, we have nothing specific to Tribes on console," Harris added.

Tribes: Ascend is currently available on Windows PC.

JoystiqTribes: Ascend isn't skiing to consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playhi-rez-studiosmicrosoftpcplaystationportps3todd-harristribes-ascendxboxThu, 03 May 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Free premium week on Quake Live, new content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/free-premium-week-on-quake-live-new-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/free-premium-week-on-quake-live-new-content/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/free-premium-week-on-quake-live-new-content/#comments ImageQuake Live is receiving a hefty load of new premium content and, to celebrate, it's all free for a week. The classic shooter gains five new game modes, including one-flag CTF, Domination (territory control), Red Rover (zombies) and more. The update also packs in four maps, two from Quake Arena Arcade and two inspired by the popular Campgrounds map.

The content will be free to all Quake Live users through this Sunday, May 6. The $1.99 per month premium wall goes back up after that, so get it while the gettin's good. Head over to the Bethesda Blog for details on all the new maps and modes.

JoystiqFree premium week on Quake Live, new content originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 May 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bethesdafree-to-playid-softwaremacpcquake-liveTue, 01 May 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The diary of a murderous skier: My first two weeks with Tribes: Ascend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-diary-of-a-murderous-skier-my-first-two-weeks-with-tribes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-diary-of-a-murderous-skier-my-first-two-weeks-with-tribes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/the-diary-of-a-murderous-skier-my-first-two-weeks-with-tribes/#commentsAs free-to-play games are constantly changing, traditional reviews can't really do them justice, so Joystiq relies on a series of unscored review diaries to record our experiences with them.

It's been over a decade since I last played PC games with any regularity. Outside of Word Munchers, The Secret Island of Dr. Quandary and The Oregon Trail, I grew up with a controller instead of a keyboard and mouse. There were brief flirtations with Duke Nukem 3D and Doom, but I was busy playing GoldenEye over Quake.

Starsiege: Tribes changed that. It barely ran on my father's computer, and our little 28.8Kbps modem could hardly handle the data stream necessary for online play, but I spent hours tying up our phone line regardless. Its fast pace, enormous outdoor environments, and central gameplay twist - "skiing" down hills and jetpacking up the other side, making for constant air battles with other players - entranced my adolescent brain. It seemed so vastly ahead of anything else available and, in many ways, still does.

Gallery: Tribes Ascend (2/22/12)

Continue reading The diary of a murderous skier: My first two weeks with Tribes: Ascend

JoystiqThe diary of a murderous skier: My first two weeks with Tribes: Ascend originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f2pfree-to-playhi-rezhi-rez-studiosmacpctribes-ascendFri, 27 Apr 2012 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[NPD: 40% of Free-to-play players have bought something]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/npd-40-of-free-to-play-players-have-bought-something/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/npd-40-of-free-to-play-players-have-bought-something/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/23/npd-40-of-free-to-play-players-have-bought-something/#comments A hefty chunk of free-to-play or "freemium" gamers have spent real dinero on their hobby of choice, according to a new report from the NPD Group. An online survey conducted by the group determined that four out of ten free-to-play gamers have made an in-game payment of some kind. Males are more likely to make such purchases, though females are more likely to have played free-to-play titles.

The report contains a few other interesting tidbits. For one, those who make an in-game payment tend to do so within the first month of playing, and those who try free-to-play titles tend to keep playing them, with 84 percent continuing to play after first trying them. Among those who abandon free-to-play titles, men aged 13 to 34 are most likely, while women in general are more likely to stay.

Perhaps the most interesting (horrifying?) statistic: data for the survey was gathered from 6,416 respondents aged two and older. Please, keep your two-year-olds away from the smurfberries.

Continue reading NPD: 40% of Free-to-play players have bought something

JoystiqNPD: 40% of Free-to-play players have bought something originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfree-to-playfreemiumiosipadiphonemacmobilenpdpcMon, 23 Apr 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Tribes: Ascend takes off its training wheels, launches today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/psa-tribes-ascend-takes-off-its-training-wheels-launches-toda/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/psa-tribes-ascend-takes-off-its-training-wheels-launches-toda/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/psa-tribes-ascend-takes-off-its-training-wheels-launches-toda/#comments
After several months of training exercises, Tribes: Ascend has officially launched.

The free-to-play revival from Hi-Rez Studios is the first playable Tribes game in eight years, incorporating futuristic Biathlon-based mechanics with jetpacks and flag-gathering. Also, we're totally over budget on hyphens in this post.

Tribes: Ascend is currently only compatible with Windows. If you want to check it out, hit up the source link below and sign up for a free account.

JoystiqPSA: Tribes: Ascend takes off its training wheels, launches today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playhi-rez-studiospcpsatribes-ascendwindowsThu, 12 Apr 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ngmoco's Cousins expects free-to-play equivalent of Skyrim in a few years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ngmocos-cousins-expects-free-to-play-equivalent-of-skyrim-in-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ngmocos-cousins-expects-free-to-play-equivalent-of-skyrim-in-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/ngmocos-cousins-expects-free-to-play-equivalent-of-skyrim-in-a/#comments Ben Cousins, who spearheaded Battlefield Heroes and Battlefield Play4Free for EA before being snatched up by ngmoco to head up its offices in Sweden, envisions an industry landscape where big-budget free-to-play titles dominate.

Cousins spoke of several different tiers of freemium games at the Free-2-Play Summit in London, as reported by GI.biz. The highest he predicts as a "monetization super-highway," with no limit to what players can spend and rewards that are more interesting and complex. "I believe that single-player will be the next to be cracked in terms of freemium monetisation," he said. "And I'm talking about traditional, story-based, scripted, linear and non-linear single-player that we see on consoles.

"I am totally 100 percent confident -- I will bet large amounts of money -- that we will have, in the next few years, a free-to-play equivalent of Skyrim," Cousins said. "A game like Skyrim, where you accrue skills and equipment over time, that you can play for hundreds of hours, is actually one of the easiest games to develop for a free-to-play model. That would be a big hit."

In this future, Cousins said the average user would have no problem dropping $60 over the course of playing the game. "In the future I believe free-to-play will be the way that nearly everyone plays games, it will be nearly every genre, and it will be nearly every platform."

[Image credit: OfficialGDC]

Joystiqngmoco's Cousins expects free-to-play equivalent of Skyrim in a few years originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-cousinselder-scrolls-5free-2-playfree-2-play-summitfree-to-playfreemiumngmocoskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimThu, 29 Mar 2012 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Meadow: The Pact free on iOS tonight, Android next month [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/dark-meadow-the-pact-free-on-ios-tonight-android-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/dark-meadow-the-pact-free-on-ios-tonight-android-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/dark-meadow-the-pact-free-on-ios-tonight-android-next-month/#comments A free-to-play version of The Dark Meadow, titled Dark Meadow: The Pact, will be available for download on Apple's App Store later tonight, bringing with it a slew of additions to both versions of the game. Dark Meadow: The Pact is identical to the original, save for the fact that it doesn't include any of the "premium" upgrades or content additions also coming to the original version tonight. paying players receive a "Premium Pack" of in-game goodies, which includes five health kits, 13 bombs, 15,000 gold, 150 Sun coins, and a distinct lack of advertisements.

Said premium upgrades and additions coming to both versions include iPad 3 Retina Display support, new environments, enemies and bosses, new weapons and amulets, a "Fast Travel" system for moving between floors, a world map, and perhaps most importantly of all, health packs that can be used during combat.

An Android version of Dark Meadow: The Pact is scheduled to launch some time in April, optimized for the Intel Tegra 3 processor with "enhanced visuals and physics."

Update: We have been informed that the gameplay additions originally reported as only coming to The Dark Meadow are also coming to Dark Meadow: The Pact and have updated the post to reflect this new information.

Gallery: Dark Meadow (3/28/12)

Continue reading Dark Meadow: The Pact free on iOS tonight, Android next month [update]

JoystiqDark Meadow: The Pact free on iOS tonight, Android next month [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androiddark-meadow-the-pactf2pfree-to-playiosipadiphonemobilephosphor-gamesthe-dark-meadowWed, 28 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Starbreeze working on free-to-play title 'Cold Mercury']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/starbreeze-working-on-free-to-play-title-cold-mercury/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/starbreeze-working-on-free-to-play-title-cold-mercury/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/starbreeze-working-on-free-to-play-title-cold-mercury/#comments Syndicate and Riddick developer Starbreeze's next project will be a free-to-play title. GI.biz reports the title will be called Cold Mercury, but any further details would require Syndicate-style deep extraction on Starbreeze CEO Mikael Nermark. The exec also noted the title does not mean the company is moving away from AAA development.

"We are discussing with several leading game publisher on publisher financed games, but we will broaden our product portfolio of games in the new business models and segments that have arisen in the games industry," said Nermark. "I am convinced that Starbreeze will be successful with the new games."

The company is also currently seeking a distribution deal for P13, the project announced late last year in collaboration with Swedish film director Josef Fares.

JoystiqStarbreeze working on free-to-play title 'Cold Mercury' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cold-Mercuryf2pfree-to-playpcstarbreezestarbreeze-studiosMon, 26 Mar 2012 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantasy Star Online 2 is free-to-play, also coming to smartphones]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/phantasy-star-online-2-is-free-to-play-also-coming-to-smartphon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/phantasy-star-online-2-is-free-to-play-also-coming-to-smartphon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/26/phantasy-star-online-2-is-free-to-play-also-coming-to-smartphon/#comments Phantasy Star Online 2 isn't exactly the Dreamcast-era throwback we expected. Sega is embracing the future for its pricing model -- the infinitely expensive, vaguely annoying future. Sega announced a free-to-download, free-to-play model for the PC/Vita online action RPG during a streaming media event this morning. Revenue will come from item transactions.

Sega also announced a version of the game for iOS and Android. This won't exactly be the full game; according to Andriasang, Sega promised "social game elements," and simpler controls and character creation. Data will be shared between the phone and PC/Vita versions, but crossplay will not be possible. This version is due winter 2012, between the summer PC release and the 2013 Vita release.

JoystiqPhantasy Star Online 2 is free-to-play, also coming to smartphones originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfree-to-playiosiphonemobilepcphantasy-star-online-2playstationplaystation-vitasegavitaMon, 26 Mar 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Free iOS game 'Zombie Jombie' is GREE's first original American game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/free-ios-game-zombie-jombie-is-grees-first-original-american/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/free-ios-game-zombie-jombie-is-grees-first-original-american/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/free-ios-game-zombie-jombie-is-grees-first-original-american/#comments
GREE's new San Francisco studio has released its first game, and if you just got used to the word "GREE," get ready for another doozy. The free-to-play iOS card game Zombie Jombie gives you a deck of cards representing your very own undead army, which you use to fight "tough human bosses" and conduct missions.

You can also use your mysterious, eerie "Jombie" powers to fuse zombie cards, and trade them with friends, or you can battle to determine the superior "Jombie." The game is free to download, so there's not much risk if it turns out to be less entertaining than the word "Jombie."

Gallery: Zombie Jombie

Continue reading Free iOS game 'Zombie Jombie' is GREE's first original American game

JoystiqFree iOS game 'Zombie Jombie' is GREE's first original American game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playgreeiosiphonemobilezombie-jombieThu, 15 Mar 2012 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Command and Conquer F2P title enters open beta]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/command-and-conquer-f2p-title-enters-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/command-and-conquer-f2p-title-enters-open-beta/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/command-and-conquer-f2p-title-enters-open-beta/#comments
EA's "play4free" Command and Conquer: Tiberium Alliances will roll out into open beta today, following the game's closed beta period which began late last year. Developed by Phenomic, the browser- and mobile-based strategy MMO can be accessed today at the official site.

Updates planned for the title in the coming coming months include cloud saves for play across desktop and mobile.

The publisher also reiterated Command and Conquer: Generals 2 is currently in production at BioWare Victory for launch on PC in 2013.

Gallery: Command & Conquer: Tiberium Alliances

JoystiqCommand and Conquer F2P title enters open beta originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betacommand-and-conquer-tiberium-alliancesEAElectronic-Artsfree-to-playpcPhenomicThu, 15 Mar 2012 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[New Hawken gameplay teaser doesn't look like an indie game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/new-hawken-gameplay-teaser-doesnt-look-like-an-indie-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/new-hawken-gameplay-teaser-doesnt-look-like-an-indie-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/04/new-hawken-gameplay-teaser-doesnt-look-like-an-indie-game/#comments

Hawken, the free-to-play, first-person mech shooter from indie studio Adhesive Games, keeps looking better and better, especially now that its videos have lost the "this is a work in progress" warning. We guess raising $10 million will do that to a game. The latest teaser shows off gameplay during an intense battle from the inside of a mech suit that makes two things occupy our thoughts: rails guns and rockets.

Watch the teaser above and enlist in the Hawken beta right here.

JoystiqNew Hawken gameplay teaser doesn't look like an indie game originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adhesiveAdhesive-gamesfree-to-playhawkenIndiemacmechpcSun, 04 Mar 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: 'Killzone 3 Multiplayer' goes free-to-play today on PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/psa-killzone-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-today-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/psa-killzone-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-today-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/28/psa-killzone-3-multiplayer-goes-free-to-play-today-on-psn/#comments
Today marks the release of Killzone 3's multiplayer as a free, standalone product. To celebrate this occasion and mark the game's first anniversary, Sony will turn up the juice this weekend with a double XP event.

Dubbed Killzone 3 Multiplayer, the free standalone product features the Guerrilla Warfare, Warzone and Operations game modes, including all launch and DLC maps from Killzone 3 proper. Players are free to partake until they attain Sergeant I rank. To continue past then, you'll have to pony up $15.

Double XP kicks off on Friday at 8am PT and lasts until 2am PT on Monday. Those playing the free version of Killzone 3 multiplayer will not earn double XP this weekend.

JoystiqPSA: 'Killzone 3 Multiplayer' goes free-to-play today on PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-xpfree-to-playGuerrilla-GamesKillzone-3playstationps3psnsceaTue, 28 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 3's multiplayer on PSN as standalone free-to-play game next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/killzone-3s-multiplayer-on-psn-as-standalone-free-to-play-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/killzone-3s-multiplayer-on-psn-as-standalone-free-to-play-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/killzone-3s-multiplayer-on-psn-as-standalone-free-to-play-game/#comments Next week, you'll be able to get into Killzone 3's multiplayer without having to deal with all the cruft of the rest of the game. As revealed on the latest PlayStation Blogcast podcast, a standalone Killzone 3 multiplayer download will be available on PSN.

The mode will be a free download this Tuesday -- with a level cap. When you hit the cap, if you want to continue leveling up, you'll be able to pay $14.99 for the "full" multiplayer experience. By then, you'll know whether you want to continue playing, without having to pay a cent for the education.

JoystiqKillzone 3's multiplayer on PSN as standalone free-to-play game next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playKillzone-3multiplayerplaystationps3psnq1-2012release-dateFri, 24 Feb 2012 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Counter-Strike co-creator's Tactical Intervention launches in Spring 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/counter-strike-co-creators-tactical-intervention-launches-in-sp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/counter-strike-co-creators-tactical-intervention-launches-in-sp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/counter-strike-co-creators-tactical-intervention-launches-in-sp/#comments
Counter-Strike co-creator Minh Le's Tactical Intervention is a free-to-play online multiplayer shooter. Since its 2010 announcement, there have been a few closed betas -- another is set to launch next month -- and, according to Neowin, a launch is on the horizon. It'll be in Spring 2012, courtesy of publisher Online Gaming Planet, to be exact.

Tactical Intervention isn't about strategically persuading drug addicts they need to go into rehab; it's a lot like Counter-Strike. Teams of terrorists and counter-terrorists shoot each other a bunch. Simple.

The official site has gone live, so check it out if you want to sign up for next month's closed beta.

JoystiqCounter-Strike co-creator's Tactical Intervention launches in Spring 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fix-koreafree-to-playminh-leog-planetonline-gaming-planetpctactical-interventionFri, 17 Feb 2012 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Blacklight: Retribution moves to open beta on February 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/blacklight-retribution-moves-to-open-beta-on-february-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/blacklight-retribution-moves-to-open-beta-on-february-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/blacklight-retribution-moves-to-open-beta-on-february-27/#comments Zombie Studios' free-to-play sequel to Blacklight, called Blacklight: Retribution, has gotten itself an open beta date, which means that the game will essentially be ready to party. Feburary 27 is the date in question -- that's the point when the closed beta (which started up last year) will end, player information will be wiped, and the game will start anew for good.

Additionally, the open beta will bring new content with three new maps and custom Heroes to play with, and the Data Node system (which allows users to upgrade and specialize certain pieces of gear) will go live. If you weren't able to get in on any of our many beta keys for the game, then mark your calendar for February 27.

JoystiqBlacklight: Retribution moves to open beta on February 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blacklightblacklight-retributionblacklight-tango-down-2datefree-to-playopen-betapcrelease-datezombie-studiosWed, 15 Feb 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[EA now has 25 million registered Play4Free accounts worldwide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ea-now-has-25-million-registered-play4free-accounts-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ea-now-has-25-million-registered-play4free-accounts-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/ea-now-has-25-million-registered-play4free-accounts-worldwide/#comments EA's move into the freemium market appears to be working, with the company boasting yesterday that it now has a total of 25 million registered players across all Play4Free titles. Of course, that number is far less impressive if those people aren't actively playing, but that hasn't stopped EA from patting itself on the back and calling the number a "remarkable achievement." For those keeping score at home, that's 25 million registered players combined in Battlefield Heroes, Need for Speed World, Battlefield Play4Free, Dragon Age Legends, Battleforge and Lord of Ultima.

Battlefield Heroes and Need for Speed World are the top dogs, each with a registered base of players exceeding ten million.The remaining five million comes from the total players registered in the other four games. "Developing a community of 25 million players is a remarkable achievement. It is a testament to the explosive growth of the free-to-play market and a reflection of EA's commitment to spearheading the digital transformation," said Play4Free VP Sean Decker in the press release.

As a thanks to the community for taking time to at least register for its games, EA is offering some free in-game bux for its two heavy hitters: entering promo code EQ9M-TYYT-TXR3-5GU3 will net players 300 Battlefunds in Battlefield Heroes, while promo code EWPD-3KGA-VBVF-9HYS is good for 750 SpeedBoost in Need for Speed World. Codes expire on January 17, 2012 at 12:00 AM GMT.

JoystiqEA now has 25 million registered Play4Free accounts worldwide originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroesbattlefield-play4freeeafree-to-playfreemiumlords-of-ultimamacneed-for-speed-worldpcFri, 13 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Everquest 2 sees 300% player increase after going free-to-play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/everquest-2-sees-300-player-increase-after-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/everquest-2-sees-300-player-increase-after-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/13/everquest-2-sees-300-player-increase-after-going-free-to-play/#comments EverQuest 2 lady Proving once again that more people will try your product if they don't have to pay for it, Sony Online Entertainment president John Smedley has announced a huge player increase for EverQuest 2 since it went free-to-play in December. Smedley revealed on Twitter that the player base has increased by 300 percent, with daily logins going up by 40 percent.

Smedley also revealed that item sales have gone up 200 percent, proving another, more modern adage: More people will buy your product if they don't have to buy all of it. Fascinating!

JoystiqEverquest 2 sees 300% player increase after going free-to-play originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>everquest-iifree-to-playjohn-smedleypcsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentFri, 13 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Abobo's Big Adventure begins today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/abobos-big-adventure-begins-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/abobos-big-adventure-begins-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/11/abobos-big-adventure-begins-today/#comments Abobo's Big Adventure is ready for action. The free-to-play Flash game from I-Mockery stars Double Dragon's mega man in a mishmash of classic NES settings. He's trying to rescue his son, Aboboy, from a rogues gallery of yesteryear's best-known (and most pixelated) characters.

There are several clever details in the first few moments of the parody, including a string of suicidal baddies from Kung-Fu, an assault by Donkey Kong and the angelic deaths of Spy vs. Spy. The game may take a little while to load, but it should be worth it for aficionados of old-school.

JoystiqAbobo's Big Adventure begins today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abobos-big-adventureflashfree-to-playi-mockerypcWed, 11 Jan 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hi-Rez only working on Tribes: Ascend for now, MMO and singleplayer could come later]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/hi-rez-only-working-on-tribes-ascend-for-now-mmo-and-singlepla/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/hi-rez-only-working-on-tribes-ascend-for-now-mmo-and-singlepla/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/hi-rez-only-working-on-tribes-ascend-for-now-mmo-and-singlepla/#comments Hi-Rez Studios had big plans for the Tribes property after picking it up a few years ago, and hoped to revamp the single-player game with Tribes: Ascend, and develop the franchise into a full-fledged MMO. Things have changed since then -- Hi-Rez's COO Todd Harris says, "right now our Tribes dev team is working only on Ascend."

Speaking to PC PowerPlay, Harris described Ascend as borrowing heavily from the earlier, fondly remembers Tribes games. Focusing solely on an action game means Hi-Rez could make sure to "get the movement and physics and combat feeling right." Some settings and weapons from the first game will return, but there will be new content, new weapons, and frequent releases of cosmetic items ("much the way League of Legends does in the MOBA genre," says Harris).

Both the MMO and single-player content are possibilities for the future, Harris adds, but Tribes: Ascend is the focus for now.

JoystiqHi-Rez only working on Tribes: Ascend for now, MMO and singleplayer could come later originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playhi-rezhi-rez-studiosmmopctodd-harristribestribes-ascendThu, 05 Jan 2012 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft's free-to-play Flight lands this spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/microsofts-free-to-play-flight-lands-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/microsofts-free-to-play-flight-lands-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/04/microsofts-free-to-play-flight-lands-this-spring/#comments
Flight simulator enthusiasts are a very specific, complex subsect of the gaming world. Their passion for checklists and indecipherable user interfaces places them at an almost MMO-level of dedication and persistence, and -- like the popular multiplayer RPGs -- flight sims are starting to make the leap to free-to-play.

Microsoft Flight will bring affordable ailerons and aerofoils to PC pilots this spring, according to an update on Major Nelson's blog. Everyone will have access to free crashes aircraft, though those who sign in with a Games for Windows Live account will receive additional free planes, missions and access to those sweet 'chievos.

The sim will also include the ICON A5, an amphibious, lightweight vehicle which doesn't enter real-world commercial production until the end of this year. Microsoft's PR describes the A5 as "the jet ski for the skies," which sounds like the most terrifying, fantastic way to die.

Prospective pilots can still sign up for that closed beta we mentioned by clicking here, presumably after strapping on goggles and a dashing scarf.

JoystiqMicrosoft's free-to-play Flight lands this spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>closed-betaflight-simflight-simulatorfree-to-playICON-A5microsoftmicrosoft-flightpcrelease-datesimsspringspring-2012Wed, 04 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Abobo's Big Adventure arrives on January 11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/abobos-big-adventure-arrives-on-january-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/abobos-big-adventure-arrives-on-january-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/03/abobos-big-adventure-arrives-on-january-11/#comments Abobo's Big Adventure is a free-to-play Flash game from I-Mockery that sends the Double Dragon strongman through a carousel of old NES settings and parodies. And if you're anything like us, you've been waiting for its release ever since that debut trailer first burned your eyeballs out with its awesomeness. Well good news, friends: The wait is almost over, as I-Mockery has announced a release date of January 11 for the title, confirmed on the official website.

The bad news is that only gives you eight too-short days to make your peace with the world before your mind succumbs to the insanity of this one as well. Better work fast.

JoystiqAbobo's Big Adventure arrives on January 11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abobos-big-adventureflashfree-to-playi-mockerymacpcq1-2012release-dateTue, 03 Jan 2012 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare docs defend subscription model, tease free-to-play iteration of classic IP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/bioware-docs-defend-subscription-model-tease-free-to-play-itera/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/bioware-docs-defend-subscription-model-tease-free-to-play-itera/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/bioware-docs-defend-subscription-model-tease-free-to-play-itera/#comments Understandably, BioWare heads Ray Muzyka and Greg Zeschuk seem tired of beating the drum for Star Wars: The Old Republic's subscription-based business model. I didn't actually bother asking them about their thoughts on subscription vs free-to-play gaming during an interview early last week, but Zeschuk launched into a spirited defense nonetheless, perhaps conditioned by being asked over and over in the run up to SW: TOR's launch last Monday.

"You look at the online space in general and it's fragmenting into all these different areas, but the core still works. The subscription model still works," Zeschuk said. "We know a lot of people say, 'Oh, everything's just going free-to-play.' But that's just one slice. There's one slice that's free-to-play, there's one slice that's social, there's traditional subscription still going." He was also quick to point out that, "it's obviously been the free-to-play guys trumpeting this," though his own company certainly isn't above working in the free-to-play space, as evidenced by Warhammer: Wrath of Heroes.

"I'm not saying it's better or worse. It just doesn't supplant the other things. 'Cause we can do some things no one else can," Zeschuk added. In his eyes, a free-to-play dev isn't able to throw the same amount of resources and time at an MMO project, and that marks a big differentiation between the two business models. "The free-to-play people can't invest to the level we can invest, and can't create something of the size and scale of something we can create," he said. The idea that free-to-play will take over all other MMO business models, he said is, "from a business perspective, ridiculous."

Continue reading BioWare docs defend subscription model, tease free-to-play iteration of classic IP

JoystiqBioWare docs defend subscription model, tease free-to-play iteration of classic IP originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-austinbioware-edmontonbioware-labelbioware-mythiceaea-biowareelectronic-artsfree-to-playgreg-zeschuknew-york-citynycpcplay-4-freeplay-for-freeray-muzykaWed, 28 Dec 2011 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Reggie Fils-Aime doesn't think much of Zynga, but he's intrigued by free-to-play gaming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/reggie-fils-aime-doesnt-think-much-of-zynga-but-hes-intrigued/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/reggie-fils-aime-doesnt-think-much-of-zynga-but-hes-intrigued/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/23/reggie-fils-aime-doesnt-think-much-of-zynga-but-hes-intrigued/#comments Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime is notorious for his ability to say very little with a whole lot of words, but he doesn't bother mincing words when it comes to his feelings on social gaming giant Zynga. Speaking to the Wall Street Journal's All Things Digital blog, Fils-Aime answers a question regarding his thoughts on Zynga's recent IPO by saying, "What's the share price? It will be interesting when it breaks below $9." In case it isn't clear, that's the executive way of saying, "Your IPO ain't shit."

He continues by inferring that Zynga's creating the same titles over and over, presumably referring to the company's many "Ville" games, though he seems more than okay with his own company doing as much with its recent release of the seventh Mario Kart title.

As for the free-to-play business model, however, Fils-Aime is less pessimistic. While he says, "I would argue Facebook is a platform ... I wouldn't expect to see our franchises on other platforms [that aren't owned by Nintendo]," he admits that Nintendo will "certainly" be experimenting with "other forms of monetization." When we'll see that pricing experimentation remains to be seen, however, as Fils-Aime only reveals vaguely that said price "experimentation" is currently taking place across Nintendo's various internal studios.

[Image credit: 'nateog']

JoystiqReggie Fils-Aime doesn't think much of Zynga, but he's intrigued by free-to-play gaming originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Dec 2011 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playnintendo-of-americareggie-fils-aimezyngaFri, 23 Dec 2011 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[APB Reloaded enjoying success via Steam, coming to store shelves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/apb-reloaded-enjoying-success-via-steam-coming-to-store-shelves/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/apb-reloaded-enjoying-success-via-steam-coming-to-store-shelves/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/17/apb-reloaded-enjoying-success-via-steam-coming-to-store-shelves/#comments Realtime Worlds' MMO APB has had a troubled past to say the least, getting shut down in record time after a disastrous launch. But the title was purchased by GamersFirst soon after that with the intention of being reopened as a free-to-play game called APB Reloaded, and it looks like things are going pretty well. Not only has the title appeared in Steam's most played charts already, but GamersFirst now says it has picked up three million new registered users after showing up on the Steam service.

That's quite a turnaround. The original game only boasted about 130,000 registered players, so the current iteration has already picked up that original audience and more. GamersFirst says the game has "quickly amassed a vocal, dedicated community, and they've been instrumental in growing the game and helping better the experience."

And then there's the ultimate rebirth: APB Reloaded is apparently headed back to store shelves at retailers, too, in the form of a $29.99 box with "more than $50 worth of value including unique in-game items." That's pretty impressive for a game that saw a server shutdown in just 90 days or so.

JoystiqAPB Reloaded enjoying success via Steam, coming to store shelves originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apb-reloadedfree-to-playfree-to-play-mmogamersfirstmmopcsteamSat, 17 Dec 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Need For Speed World caters to your need to spend money]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/need-for-speed-world-caters-to-your-need-to-spend-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/need-for-speed-world-caters-to-your-need-to-spend-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/16/need-for-speed-world-caters-to-your-need-to-spend-money/#comments You know how they say money can't buy you happiness? Well, if happiness to you is having the best thing possible in a game, then that saying doesn't apply to Need for Speed World.

The Play4Free title added the Koenigsegg CCX "Elite" Edition car pictured above, available to all players for $100. You can grab the flashy whip through the in-game Car Dealer. Your regret will immediately follow, after realizing you've spent a hundred bucks on an imaginary car.

Continue reading Need For Speed World caters to your need to spend money

JoystiqNeed For Speed World caters to your need to spend money originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eafree-to-playfreemiumneed-for-speed-worldpcplay4freeFri, 16 Dec 2011 21:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco's Tales series going on a browser-based 'Dice Adventure']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/namcos-tales-series-going-on-a-browser-based-dice-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/namcos-tales-series-going-on-a-browser-based-dice-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/namcos-tales-series-going-on-a-browser-based-dice-adventure/#comments If you are enthralled by the addictive world of high-stakes gambling and the even-more-addictive world of social games, Namco Bandai has a soul-crushingly-addictive announcement for you. According to Siliconera, the publisher's Tales series of role-playing games is making the jump to the free-to-play browser-based realm with Tales of the World: Dice Adventure.

The game, which will hit Japanese browsers next Spring, will let players team up with characters from the prolific Tales series, assumedly entering into games of chance using numbered cubes. (Or numbered Icosahedrons, if they go the Dungeons and Dragons route.) Little else is known about the title -- until Namco reveals more information, the whole thing is going to be a crapshoot.

JoystiqNamco's Tales series going on a browser-based 'Dice Adventure' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browserbrowser-basedfree-to-playnamco-bandaipctalestales-of-the-world-dice-adventureMon, 12 Dec 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Konami's Vita AR tank game is freemium]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/konamis-vita-ar-tank-game-is-freemium/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/konamis-vita-ar-tank-game-is-freemium/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/konamis-vita-ar-tank-game-is-freemium/#comments
Konami will offer its cute downloadable AR tank game in time for the Japanese launch of the PlayStation Vita, for free (or more). AR Combat DigiQ: Friend Tank Battalion, based on Konami's Combat DigiQ remote-controlled tanks, will turn any surface at which you point the Vita camera into a battleground for little tanks -- and you'll get five of said battlegrounds for free.

This isn't a gesture of kindness on Konami's part, however: AR Combat DigiQ is a freemium game, with additional levels available for purchase. Stages 6-30 will be bundled for ¥800 ($10.26, but discounted to ¥500 at launch), and stages 31 to 35 and 36 to 40 will sell for ¥200 ($2.56) per pack.

That might be annoying, but wouldn't you buy more AR Games levels for your 3DS if you could?

JoystiqKonami's Vita AR tank game is freemium originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ar-combat-digi-qaugmented-realityfree-to-playkonamiplaystationplaystation-vitavitaMon, 05 Dec 2011 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[KlickNation is no more; long live BioWare Sacramento]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/03/klicknation-is-no-more-long-live-bioware-sacramento/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/03/klicknation-is-no-more-long-live-bioware-sacramento/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/03/klicknation-is-no-more-long-live-bioware-sacramento/#comments If you've made a habit of frequenting the free-to-play worlds of Six Gun Galaxy, Age of Champions or Starship Command, you're probably familiar with their developer, KlickNation. Then again, maybe you aren't -- but you're about to be. The independent social game developer was recently acquired by EA and, as is their custom, given it a regionally appropriate rebranding as part of one of EA's development branches. Behold: BioWare Sacramento.

KlickNation co-founder Mark Otero added in a press release, "Joining with BioWare and EA is an opportunity to realize our vision for bringing high-quality RPG titles to the fast-growing, highly-engaged core gamers looking for deeper experiences on social platforms." You think that's what we're looking for? No way, man. We're just looking for new and exciting ways to ask our real-life friends to help us water virtual eggplants.

JoystiqKlickNation is no more; long live BioWare Sacramento originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Dec 2011 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarebioware-sacramentoeafree-to-playklicknationpcrpgsocialSat, 03 Dec 2011 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes adding content every day up until Christmas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/battlefield-heroes-adding-content-every-day-up-until-christmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/battlefield-heroes-adding-content-every-day-up-until-christmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/02/battlefield-heroes-adding-content-every-day-up-until-christmas/#comments EA is taking a cue from those advent calendars, but instead of giving us a piece of scrumptious milk chocolate every day, they're adding content to Battlefield Heroes on the daily leading up to Christmas. Today, it's a pair of new battle rifles: the M16-203 and AK74-30.

Outside of guns, there also promised events, additional content and more. Sorry, no word on the chocolate thing. Frankly, if we don't get at least one Hershey Kiss in the mail this month, we're going to boycott the game forever, in a totally rational and real way. If there's one thing we don't joke about here, it's seasonal chocolates.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes adding content every day up until Christmas originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advent-calendarbattlefield-heroeschristmaschristmas-calendareafree-to-playpcFri, 02 Dec 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EverQuest 2 going free-to-play (again)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/everquest-2-going-free-to-play-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/everquest-2-going-free-to-play-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/everquest-2-going-free-to-play-again/#comments No, you and you internet browser haven't slipped backwards through time -- though EverQuest 2 already went free-to-play last year (with the somewhat confusing, browser-based EverQuest 2: Extended), the game is going really free-to-play starting December 6. A post on the game's official site clears things up: The offerings of Extended will be folded into the rest of the title, and membership will be broken down into three tiers: Free, Silver and Gold.

Free members get a handful of races, classes, character slots and other utilities, while Silver members ($5.00 or 500 Station Points per month) get ... well, a handful more. These two tiers also have the option to purchase some items (like races and classes) piecemeal. Gold members ($14.99/mo.) get unrestricted access to everything. Check out this handy rubric if you're still confused by all these precious, precious metals.

JoystiqEverQuest 2 going free-to-play (again) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EQ2everquestEverQuest-2free-to-playmmommorpgpcsoeSony-Online-EntertainmentstationWed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ghost Recon: Future Soldier on PC replaced by Ghost Recon Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/ghost-recon-future-soldier-on-pc-replaced-by-ghost-recon-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/ghost-recon-future-soldier-on-pc-replaced-by-ghost-recon-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/25/ghost-recon-future-soldier-on-pc-replaced-by-ghost-recon-online/#comments Ghost Recon: Future Soldier is not coming to PC, Ubisoft has confirmed -- but never fear, because it is coming to PC. Ghost Recon Online will take the place of Future Soldier on PC, as "Ghost Recon Online is the PC equivalent," Ubisoft tells Eurogamer. In February 2010 Ubisoft teased a PC version of Future Soldier and began forums tagged "PC" for the game, but apparently those plans have transformed into Ghost Recon Online, a free-to-play, non-DRM, multiplayer title that Ubisoft believes will deter piracy.

If released online, 95 percent of PC gamers would download Future Soldier illegally, Ghost Recon Online senior producer Sebastien Arnoult believes, and Online is a direct reaction to that assumption. "To the users that are traditionally playing the game by getting it through Pirate Bay, we said, 'Okay, go ahead guys. This is what you're asking for. We've listened to you -- we're giving you this experience. It's easy to download, there's no DRM that will pollute your experience,'" Arnoult tells PC Gamer.

Um, thanks?

JoystiqGhost Recon: Future Soldier on PC replaced by Ghost Recon Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Nov 2011 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DRMfree-to-playGhost-Recon-Future-SoldierGhost-Recon-Onlinepcpiracypirate-bayUbisoftFri, 25 Nov 2011 17:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes captures Capture the Flag today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/battlefield-heroes-captures-capture-the-flag-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/battlefield-heroes-captures-capture-the-flag-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/battlefield-heroes-captures-capture-the-flag-today/#comments There are few things in gaming more satisfying then the planting of an enemy's flag in a friendly home base. If you've been turned off of Battlefield Heroes' lack of abductable pennants, you should give the game a second look: Capture the Flag mode is now available.

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes captures Capture the Flag today originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 22:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-heroescapture-the-flagdiceeafree-to-playMon, 21 Nov 2011 22:31:00 EST