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[April NPD: Sam Fisher's grim month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/april-npd-sam-fishers-grim-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/april-npd-sam-fishers-grim-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/13/april-npd-sam-fishers-grim-month/#comments Apparently everybody was paying taxes last month instead of buying games, because despite analysts' expectations, sales for April were way down. As you can see below, sales dropped out on every single console that NPD tracked during April, with the Wii taking the biggest hit, down 50 percent from March. Hardware sales overall fell by 37 percent.

Software sales didn't do any better -- Splinter Cell Conviction was a bright spot and Super Street Fighter IV just barely made the list (which you can find after the break), but otherwise it was all leftovers from March and previous months. NPD reports that last month's 11 percent industry drop-off was the "worst year-over-year decline...since July '09, and the fourth largest year-over-year percentage decline ever." The industry got rained on -- here's hoping April showers bring some May flowers.

-DS: 441K260K (-37%)
-Wii: 277K 281K (-50%)
-360: 185K 153K (-45%)
-PS3: 181K 133K (-42%)
-PSP: 66K 54K (-44%)
-PS2 sales are no longer being tracked by NPD -- goodbye, old friend.

See the top 10 games after the break. (Note: Sales figures for the games ranked six through ten were withheld by NPD for unstated reasons.)

Continue reading April NPD: Sam Fisher's grim month

JoystiqApril NPD: Sam Fisher's grim month originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 May 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-2010DSgod-of-war-iiihardwarejust-danceMicrosoftnew-super-mario-bros-wiiNintendonpdnpd-monthlysalessoftwaresplinter-cell-convictionsuper-street-fighter-ivWiiwii-fit-plusXbox-360Thu, 13 May 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[How God of War 3 could have ended]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/how-god-of-war-3-could-have-ended/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/how-god-of-war-3-could-have-ended/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/29/how-god-of-war-3-could-have-ended/#commentsThe God of War trilogy ended in the recent God of War 3 with Kratos [redacted]. But each God of War game before 3 (directed by Stig Asmussen) had a different director, and, as Asmussen told GamePro, each director had a different idea of how to end the saga of Angry Man Kratos.

Series creator David Jaffe had stories in mind beyond Greek myth. "Basically, you destroy Greek mythology and then Norse mythology is right around the corner," Asmussen recounted. "That's the next thing that Kratos would go after. It becomes clear at the end that he's going to become this harbinger of death across different mythologies in the world and maybe carry the series on from there." God of War 2 director Cory Barlog's ending, according to Asmussen, would turn Kratos into Death. "He pretty much becomes the Grim Reaper at the end of the game and his blades become sickles."

1UP points out that Jaffe had issues with both claims. On Twitter, Jaffe said that the Norse mythology idea was more complicated than Asmussen made it sound. "There is an element of truth but it goes far beyond." Later, he clarified further: "For the love of the Gods, I was NOT proposing Kratos go thru each mythology one by one and milk the series with new myths each time. It was to be a focused singular story that INVOLVED Norse myths- among others." He also mentioned that the "Death" idea attributed to Barlog was actually his.

JoystiqHow God of War 3 could have ended originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cory-barlogdavid-jaffegod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiisony-santa-monicastig-asmussenThu, 29 Apr 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mystery Spartan stands tall on God of War teaser site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/mystery-spartan-stands-tall-on-god-of-war-teaser-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/mystery-spartan-stands-tall-on-god-of-war-teaser-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/mystery-spartan-stands-tall-on-god-of-war-teaser-site/#comments
Click to enlarge A mystery figure has appeared in the latest update to the God of War teaser site "SpartansStandTall." His reflection (captured above) momentarily flashes on screen during the video loop of the site's rendered thunderstorm. This is the second update to the site; its URL is revealed to players that unlock the God of War 3 Platinum Trophy.

The apparent meter that circles the icon in the upper right corner of the full screen (not pictured) is now three-quarters full (it was one-quarter full to start and was filled to halfway upon the first update), suggesting that the next update will display a full meter and perhaps the ultimate reveal. (DLC? Spin-off? 3D Blu-ray movie? It's anyone's guess.) The icon itself is thought to be representative of the Spartan army's shield; the upside-down "V" being the Greek letter Lamba, standing for "Lacedaemon" (what the ancient Greeks called Sparta).

So who is this mystery man? He certainly looks like he could be angry. And anger has always fueled this franchise, which still has some venting to do.

[Thanks, Geoff]

JoystiqMystery Spartan stands tall on God of War teaser site originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiispartans-stand-tallteaserupdateWed, 28 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[March NPD: Pokemon and Kratos catch all the money]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/march-npd-pokemon-and-kratos-catch-all-the-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/march-npd-pokemon-and-kratos-catch-all-the-money/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/march-npd-pokemon-and-kratos-catch-all-the-money/#commentsThe ill-timed announcement of the 3DS wasn't enough to scare consumers off from purchasing new DS systems. Thanks to the combination of a new hardware variant (the big, big, big DSi XL) and new Pokemon games, the dual-screened platform sold like gangbusters. Meanwhile, hardware shortages kept the PS3 from massive sales despite the fact that it had the best-selling game of March (God of War 3).

Speaking of software, we've learned a lot about you from this month. For example, Final Fantasy fans strongly prefer PS3, Battlefield fans strongly prefer 360, and Pokemon fans' dollar votes went to SoulSilver over HeartGold by quite a lot. How do you even decide something like that? Seriously, one of the 1.78 million or so of you who bought it -- take us through your process!

-DS: 701K88K (14%)
-Wii: 558K160K (40%)
-360: 338K>84K (-20%)
-PS3: 314K46K (-13%)
-PSP: 120K13K (-10%)
-PS2: 118K16K (16%)

See the top 10 games after the break.

Continue reading March NPD: Pokemon and Kratos catch all the money

JoystiqMarch NPD: Pokemon and Kratos catch all the money originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSdsi-xlfinal-fantasy-xiiigod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiiMicrosoftNintendonpdnpd-monthlypokemonWiiXbox-360Thu, 15 Apr 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: God of War Trilogy retail partners still being worked out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/psa-god-of-war-trilogy-retail-partners-still-being-worked-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/psa-god-of-war-trilogy-retail-partners-still-being-worked-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/psa-god-of-war-trilogy-retail-partners-still-being-worked-out/#comments There seems to be a tiny bit of confusion going on over in Europe after the God of War Trilogy bundle was removed by some retailers. Eurogamer clarifies that the set isn't canceled, but that Sony is still working out who the retail partners will be for the special edition. The takeaway here is that not all shops will sell the item, which explains the pre-order cancellations we've received tips about.

Barring any hiccups, the Trilogy should release the last week of April in PAL lands for €89.99 (£64.99). Oh, and if you're wondering about picking up God of War 3, well, we liked it.

Gallery: God of War Collection


[Thanks, Miguel B.]

JoystiqPSA: God of War Trilogy retail partners still being worked out originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Apr 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiigod-of-war-trilogyretailsonysony-santa-monicaTue, 13 Apr 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Art of God of War III at Gallery Nucleus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/the-art-of-god-of-war-iii-at-gallery-nucleus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/the-art-of-god-of-war-iii-at-gallery-nucleus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/the-art-of-god-of-war-iii-at-gallery-nucleus/#comments The God of War III art team held a panel this past weekend in Alhambra, California, at a place called Gallery Nucleus. In front of an audience packed to capacity, artists (from left to right above) Scott Seeto, Jung Ho Park, Izzy, Andy Park, Cecil Kim, and Andrew Kim spoke and answered questions about how they'd come up with the art designs for Kratos' final story ("as far as I know," Cecil Kim said, "there is no more God of War").

They were first asked about bringing the game into the HD generation, and how that affected their work on the games. Mostly, it just meant more work for them -- they pointed out that even when the camera isn't close-up on Kratos, you can still see the muscles in his back tense as he pulls out his blades. Art designers in HD have to be meticulous about details, and as a result, character development takes about six times longer. The team also said that they were impressed by the PS3 hardware -- on the PS2 versions of the game, the developers knew how far they could push the older console, but on the PS3, "we still don't know what we can do with it."

Gallery: The Art of God of War at Gallery Nucleus

Continue reading The Art of God of War III at Gallery Nucleus

JoystiqThe Art of God of War III at Gallery Nucleus originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart-teambladesconceptsdesigndetailsgallery-nucleusgenerationgod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiihdkratosMon, 29 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War website teases 'Spartans Stand Tall']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/god-of-war-website-teases-spartans-stand-tall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/god-of-war-website-teases-spartans-stand-tall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/god-of-war-website-teases-spartans-stand-tall/#comments Earning a Platinum Trophy in God of War III will give you an elusive reward: a link to a secret page, hidden on the God of War website. The "Spartans Stand Tall" website doesn't feature much right now, other than falling rain and a shield with an upside-down V, possibly a Lambda sign -- wait, does this mean we're finally getting the Half-Life/God of War crossover we've been waiting for?

This could simply be a placeholder website for upcoming God of War DLC. Or, this could be hinting at a new Ready at Dawn-developed PSP game we've heard murmurs about. In fact, Chains of Olympus was revealed in exactly the same way, via a website hidden in God of War II on PS2. Considering the franchise's penchant for announcing new installments alongside the latest releases, we wouldn't be surprised if this ends up being a brand new game in the God of War universe. Stay tuned.

[Thanks, Bryan!]

JoystiqGod of War website teases 'Spartans Stand Tall' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-chains-of-olympusgod-of-war-iiigod-of-war-spartans-stand-tallspartans-stand-tallThu, 18 Mar 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a 1,000 hit combo in God of War 3 the easy way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/heres-an-easy-way-to-get-a-1-000-hit-combo-in-god-of-war-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/heres-an-easy-way-to-get-a-1-000-hit-combo-in-god-of-war-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/17/heres-an-easy-way-to-get-a-1-000-hit-combo-in-god-of-war-3/#comments Are you working your way to a Platinum in God of War III? You may want to check out this video, which helps you net Hit Man, one of the more challenging Trophies in the game. To get the award, you must perform a 1000 hit combo. Should your fighting skills not be up to snuff, there are two easy (but time consuming) ways of getting the achievement. It can take upwards of 20 minutes of mindless button mashing, but it's a sure-fire way of making sure you get the Bronze Trophy.

Check out the (rather cheap) strategies after the break.

[Via N4G]

Continue reading Get a 1,000 hit combo in God of War 3 the easy way

JoystiqGet a 1,000 hit combo in God of War 3 the easy way originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>combogod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiitipstrophyWed, 17 Mar 2010 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War 3 'right within budget' -- a $44 million budget]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/god-of-war-3-has-44-million-dollar-budget/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/god-of-war-3-has-44-million-dollar-budget/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/god-of-war-3-has-44-million-dollar-budget/#comments Anger management simulator God of War III cost $44 million to create, according to director of production development John Hight, which is "right within budget." Speaking with Giant Bomb, Hight revealed that the team of 132 staff required to finish the third installment was more than double the crew (of about 60) on hand to wrap up God of War II, with the biggest growth occurring in the graphics and art departments.

Considering the ultimate Kratos adventure will likely go on to become a phenomenal sales hit, the $44 million budget isn't as ridiculous as it might seem. Consider that Gran Turismo 5's budget, at last count, had reportedly ballooned to around the $60 million mark. On the other hand, Ken Levine previously put the first BioShock's budget at about $15 million. With such variation in current-gen development costs, in the end, the price is just a number -- and in the case of God of War III, it was certainly worth the dough.

Gallery: God of War 3


[Via Edge]

JoystiqGod of War 3 'right within budget' -- a $44 million budget originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budgetgod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiijohn-hightsanta-monica-studiosony-santa-monicaTue, 09 Mar 2010 11:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: God of War III]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/god-of-war-3-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/god-of-war-3-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/god-of-war-3-review/#comments You know how Kratos' battle against the gods of Olympus is known for its massive, insane action sequences spread throughout? Well, some genius (or likely several geniuses) at Sony's Santa Monica Studio had the brilliant idea of making a whole game just out of those incredible moments. It was rare that I went 15 minutes without my jaw dropping at the immense size, stunning beauty or sheer creativity of the set piece I was now scaling or destroying.

I'm willing to agree that God of War III is just "God of War HD," provided that "HD" stands for "Holy Shit."

Gallery: God of War 3

Continue reading Review: God of War III

JoystiqReview: God of War III originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiisanta-monica-studiosonysony-santa-monicaMon, 08 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Download an MP3 from the official God of War III soundtrack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/download-an-mp3-from-the-official-god-of-war-iii-soundtrack/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/download-an-mp3-from-the-official-god-of-war-iii-soundtrack/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/05/download-an-mp3-from-the-official-god-of-war-iii-soundtrack/#comments Like good, sane people, our friends at AOL Radio are huge fans of God of War. They've not only managed to add the entire God of War III original soundtrack to the Video Games Score station, but they're also giving away a free downloadable MP3 from the upcoming PS3 game. "Brothers of Blood," composed by Cris Velasco, has everything you'd expect from a God of War instrumental track: a brass-heavy orchestral score with dramatic choral singing.

Should you want your morning commute to get a little more vengeance-y, head over to the AOL Radio blog to download the MP3 onto your favorite MP3 player.

JoystiqDownload an MP3 from the official God of War III soundtrack originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downloadgod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiimp3soundtrackFri, 05 Mar 2010 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Kratos talks fashion in GameStop God of War 3 video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/kratos-talks-fashion-in-gamestop-god-of-war-3-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/kratos-talks-fashion-in-gamestop-god-of-war-3-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/kratos-talks-fashion-in-gamestop-god-of-war-3-video/#comments You've got to hand it to those PlayStation and GameStop marketing people: They know how to speak our language. Take note, wannabees: If you've got an exclusive God of War III outfit to show off, you could show Kratos flipping out and killing people in it. But why do that when you could show him having a polite conversation with a mythological beast about his ensemble choice? Why indeed.

Fun fact: Kratos has more dialog in this trailer than in God of War I and II combined. It's true!

JoystiqKratos talks fashion in GameStop God of War 3 video originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiisanta-monica-studiosonyThu, 04 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Blood and Metal for $1.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/god-of-war-blood-and-metal-for-1-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/god-of-war-blood-and-metal-for-1-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/god-of-war-blood-and-metal-for-1-99/#comments $2 isn't much to ask for when delivering something one can really bang his (or her!) head to -- and you can nab God of War: Blood and Metal for that price right now. Featuring six different previously detailed artists, this particular mixture of metal madness celebrates God of War III and will be included in the Ultimate Edition box set.

Of course, you probably already knew that, considering you already built a shrine around your pre-order receipt. We really like the crimson candles, by the way. Nice touch.

[Via VG247]

JoystiqGod of War: Blood and Metal for $1.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-and-metaldream-theatergod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-blood-and-metalgod-of-war-iiikillswitch-engagemutiny-withinopethsoundtracktaking-downtriviumWed, 03 Mar 2010 15:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Kratos' Blade of Chaos up for sale, some strings attached]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/kratos-blade-of-chaos-up-for-sale-some-strings-attached/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/kratos-blade-of-chaos-up-for-sale-some-strings-attached/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/kratos-blade-of-chaos-up-for-sale-some-strings-attached/#comments We know that there are a few cutlery enthusiasts out there who read that headline and immediately clicked the source link to purchase Kratos' Blade of Chaos from retailer BUDK. Before you do so, you should take into account a few facts:

  1. Kratos' weapons are being sold piecemeal on the site, so that $123.99 price tag only represents the cost of a single Blade. What's the point of having a single Blade of Chaos? Unless you're ironically cosplaying as Amputee Kratos, you're going to need two, so you should mentally jack that price up to $247.98.
  2. Replica swords are dangerous.
  3. Replica swords that you attach to your wrists with chains and then swing around like a madman are extremely dangerous.

JoystiqKratos' Blade of Chaos up for sale, some strings attached originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>budkcollectiblesgod-of-wargod-of-war-iiikratossonysony-santa-monicaWed, 03 Mar 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA['Revenge Starts Here' in European God of War III TV ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/revenge-starts-here-in-european-god-of-war-iii-tv-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/revenge-starts-here-in-european-god-of-war-iii-tv-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/revenge-starts-here-in-european-god-of-war-iii-tv-ad/#comments Although it commanded a large presence at E3, Sony has been otherwise quiet about God of War III. With the game's release only weeks away, Sony has opened the floodgates, revealing new footage, highlighting new levels, and most importantly, advertising the game on TV. The European markets are treated to an ad which simply states "Revenge Starts Here." The ad doesn't need a gimmick: it simply relies on real-time footage of the game.

Check it out after the break.

[Via TheSixthAxis]

Continue reading 'Revenge Starts Here' in European God of War III TV ad

Joystiq'Revenge Starts Here' in European God of War III TV ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecommercialeuropegod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiiMon, 01 Mar 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: John Hight, God of War III director of product development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/god-of-war-3-product-development-john-hight-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/god-of-war-3-product-development-john-hight-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/god-of-war-3-product-development-john-hight-interview/#comments John Hight runs Sony's Santa Monica studio and oversees the entire God of War 3 team. He makes sure that everyone is happy, that the game is going to ship on time, and that it's going to be something you'll want to play. Read on to learn more from him about the the future of the franchise, the possibility of multiplayer, the God of War movie and why he hasn't played Dante's Inferno (yet).

Continue reading Interview: John Hight, God of War III director of product development

JoystiqInterview: John Hight, God of War III director of product development originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>God-of-WarGod-of-War-3God-of-War-IIIinterviewJohn-Hightsanta-monica-studioscesonysony-santa-monicaMon, 01 Mar 2010 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Adam Puhl, God of War III's combat designer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/god-of-war-3-lead-combat-designer-adam-puhl-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/god-of-war-3-lead-combat-designer-adam-puhl-interview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/01/god-of-war-3-lead-combat-designer-adam-puhl-interview/#comments As lead combat designer of God of War III, Adam Puhl has the enviable position of creating an arsenal of weapons and abilities fit to take down the gods. I recently spoke with Adam about the design process for such a titanic task and the pressures of surpassing the first two God of War games. Additionally, Adam offered his gameplay reactions to Dante's Inferno and Darksiders, two recent action-adventures that owe a lot to the God of War series.

Read on after the break for the full interview.

Gallery: God of War 3

Continue reading Interview: Adam Puhl, God of War III's combat designer

JoystiqInterview: Adam Puhl, God of War III's combat designer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-puhlgod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiiinterviewsanta-monica-studioscesonysony-santa-monicaMon, 01 Mar 2010 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War III features 'first-person kills']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/god-of-war-iii-features-first-person-kills/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/god-of-war-iii-features-first-person-kills/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/god-of-war-iii-features-first-person-kills/#comments "You finally get the chance to see what it's like to be killed by Kratos," Adam Puhl explained to Geoff Keighley in the latest episode of GameTrailers TV. Although described as "first person kills," we'd argue that they should be coined "second person kills" -- you are doing the killing, after all. Regardless of the terminology, these interactive sequences are likely to represent some of the most gruesome moments of the entire franchise. For us, this footage represented the highlight of last night's episode.

The 21-minute special includes a rather comprehensive look at God of War III, but be warned of potential spoilers. You will see some new bosses, and even a new power that enhances the combat rather significantly. It's only a few weeks away until the game's release, so let's find out if you have the willpower not to visit GameTrailers.

Continue reading God of War III features 'first-person kills'

JoystiqGod of War III features 'first-person kills' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gametrailers-tvgod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiigttvFri, 26 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Listen to God of War III 'Blood & Metal' at AOL Radio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/listen-to-god-of-war-iii-blood-and-metal-at-aol-radio/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/listen-to-god-of-war-iii-blood-and-metal-at-aol-radio/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/26/listen-to-god-of-war-iii-blood-and-metal-at-aol-radio/#comments Want a taste of the "Blood & Metal" LP included with the God of War III Ultimate Edition? AOL Radio's Metal Mosh Pit station is now carrying six songs from the upcoming Kratos-inspired soundtrack:
  1. Killswitch Engage 'My Obsession'
  2. Trivium 'Shattering the Skies Above'
  3. Dream Theater 'Raw Dog'
  4. Taking Dawn 'This is Madness'
  5. Opeth 'The Throat of Winter'
  6. Mutiny Within 'The End'
The station plays songs randomly, so you may not immediately hear all of these ditties; however, it should give you a good idea of what's included in the $100 premium box you probably already pre-ordered.

JoystiqListen to God of War III 'Blood & Metal' at AOL Radio originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aol-radiodream-theatergod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiikillswitchmutiny-withinopethsoundtracktaking-dawntriviumFri, 26 Feb 2010 16:17:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War 3 won't sacrifice your time with HDD install]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/god-of-war-3-wont-sacrifice-your-time-with-hdd-install/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/god-of-war-3-wont-sacrifice-your-time-with-hdd-install/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/23/god-of-war-3-wont-sacrifice-your-time-with-hdd-install/#comments We can only imagine that if Kratos were a real person (wait -- he's not?), the idea of having to wait for God of War 3 to install a portion of itself onto the PS3's hard disk wouldn't sit too well with the rage-filled Spartan. Heck, even we don't dig mandatory installs. It's a good thing, then, that God of War 3 won't have one -- this according to Sony Santa Monica director of technology, Christer Ericson.

Ericson stated via Twitter that, "God of War 3 does NOT do a HD install. The 5MB listed on box back is for save game only." This is in stark contrast to other games (yes, we're talking about you, Devil May Cry 4) that require -- nay, demand! -- multi-gigabyte mandatory installations. Of course, for some, the ability to install an entire game to the PS3 hard disk, potentially cutting down on loading time is a welcome option -- but it won't be for GOW3. "No there is no HD install option," Ericson replied when asked if the game will allow for it.

Given that the final back cover of the God of War 3's box only lists the 5MB space requirement, this pretty much rules out the game secretly carving out HDD space for caching data -- data that would eventually translate into images of Kratos carving up enemies on-screen.

[Via Eurogamer]

Source -- Twitter
Source -- Twitter

JoystiqGod of War 3 won't sacrifice your time with HDD install originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-iiihddmandatory-installSONYsony-santa-monicaTue, 23 Feb 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LGJ: Dante's Infringement (or lack thereof)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/lgj-dantes-infringement-or-lack-thereof/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/lgj-dantes-infringement-or-lack-thereof/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/16/lgj-dantes-infringement-or-lack-thereof/#commentsFiled under:

Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq ("LGJ"), a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:

While I'm still waiting for my copy of Dante's Inferno, I have been checking out the review sites, Achievement guides and message boards in preparation for the arrival of the game. One question that keeps being asked over and over again, between many different boards, is "How is EA not being sued over this game?" While the overwhelming majority of these posts reference God of War, I have even seen mention of a "license" to Inferno (as a part of the Divine Comedy). Before I begin, I know many people might have issue with me writing this before playing, but I can assure you between the videos available online and the demo, I've experienced enough of the game to be able to come to a simple conclusion: No infringement here.

Let's get the latter, more absurd suggestion off the table first. There's not now, nor will there ever a be, a license to Inferno, the epic poem by Dante. Why is that? It's a part of the public domain. It, as a work, would have been eligible for copyright had such laws been in place at the time, but even with the modern expansive rules, the copyright would have ended hundreds of year ago. After all, taking the normal 'life of the author plus 70 years' for works created after 1978 in the US, 70 years after Dante's death was 1391. We're well past 600 years after Dante's death at this point; in fact, 2021 will mark the 700 year anniversary of Dante's death, 10 times the length granted by statute. So, this particular statement was absurd even for forum posts, but the idea that Dante's Inferno infringes on God of War isn't much more sound.

Continue reading LGJ: Dante's Infringement (or lack thereof)

JoystiqLGJ: Dante's Infringement (or lack thereof) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Feb 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>copyrightdantes-infernogod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiiinfringementlawlaw-of-the-gamelawsuitlgjTue, 16 Feb 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spike TV holding casting calls for nightmarish God of War 3 contest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/spike-tv-holding-casting-calls-for-nightmarish-god-of-war-3-cont/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/spike-tv-holding-casting-calls-for-nightmarish-god-of-war-3-cont/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/15/spike-tv-holding-casting-calls-for-nightmarish-god-of-war-3-cont/#comments Good news, The Tester -- you're off the hook for being the worst idea for a video game-themed game show. Look sharp, Spike TV's recently announced God of War 3 promotion/contest Last Titan Standing -- you're officially on notice.

According to a recent press release announcing the show's casting call, Last Titan Standing (which airs the night before GoW 3's March 16 release) pits players against one another for a chance to play the game "before the rest of the world." Kind of a lackluster prize -- what will they be doing to win it? Well, according to the casting call: "The story, puzzles, and straight-up action in God of War 3 will be recreated and YOU can be standing in the midst of the battles."

Thanks, but no thanks, Last Titan Standing -- all things considered, putting up with pre-order panhandling from our friendly neighborhood GameStop clerk is marginally more bearable than getting our arms ripped off by a minotaur.

JoystiqSpike TV holding casting calls for nightmarish God of War 3 contest originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestgame-showgod-of-warGod-of-War-3god-of-war-iiilast-titan-standingSCEA-Santa-MonicasonySpike-TVMon, 15 Feb 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop handing out giant Kratos poster with God of War III pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/gamestop-handing-out-giant-kratos-poster-with-god-of-war-iii-pre/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/gamestop-handing-out-giant-kratos-poster-with-god-of-war-iii-pre/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/gamestop-handing-out-giant-kratos-poster-with-god-of-war-iii-pre/#comments Do your living quarters need more art installations featuring massive, ashen dudes wielding massive, angry blades? You're in luck -- a recent PlayStation.Blog post has revealed that folks who pre-order God of War III at GameStop will not only gain access to an exclusive "Phantom of Chaos" in-game costume, they'll also snag a 17 x 24 poster of Kratos, signed by the game's concept artist, Andy Park.

To catch a glimpse of the poster, check out the full scan after the jump. It's going to look a lot like that, only without the words "FOR DISPLAY ONLY" plastered proudly across its midsection. (We hope!)

Continue reading GameStop handing out giant Kratos poster with God of War III pre-order

JoystiqGameStop handing out giant Kratos poster with God of War III pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-parkbonusgamestopgod-of-wargod-of-war-iiikratosposterpre-orderFri, 12 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War 3 trailer will boulder you over]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/god-of-war-3-trailer-will-boulder-you-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/god-of-war-3-trailer-will-boulder-you-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/12/god-of-war-3-trailer-will-boulder-you-over/#comments
Are all those Xbox 360 megatons getting a bit monotonous? Here, try something in PS3 flavor. Specifically, a brand new God of War 3 trailer. In it, Kratos proves that, for him, carrying around a big boulder is no Sisyphean task. In fact, it becomes somewhat of an improbable method of propulsion. The game also puts a giant monster on an even bigger giant so Kratos can fight while he fights.

It's a festival of excess, tied loosely into Greek myth. Total God of War stuff, essentially.

JoystiqGod of War 3 trailer will boulder you over originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Feb 2010 01:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiisony-santa-monicatrailervideoFri, 12 Feb 2010 01:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest episode of Qore features God of War 3 E3 demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/latest-episode-of-qore-features-god-of-war-3-e3-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/latest-episode-of-qore-features-god-of-war-3-e3-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/latest-episode-of-qore-features-god-of-war-3-e3-demo/#comments Wait, you're telling us you still haven't played that demo for God of War III which we got our hands on like, eight months ago? What, did you not get one of the download codes that came bundled with District 9 and the God of War Collection? We're trying not to be too condescending, it's just ... look, we're already playing the demo for God of War IV. If you don't make the effort to catch up, then what are we even doing here?

Consider this your last chance: According to a recent Playstation.Blog post, the next episode of Qore will land on the PSN alongside a God of War III demo, which will be available to the program's subscribers. Why not pick it up, and attempt to close the ever-widening gap between us, dear readers? We miss you.

JoystiqLatest episode of Qore features God of War 3 E3 demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demogod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiiplaystation-storepsnqoresonyThu, 04 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War III Slurpee tastes like Kratos' fury; it's delicious]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/god-of-war-3-slurpee-tastes-like-kratos-fury/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/god-of-war-3-slurpee-tastes-like-kratos-fury/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/29/god-of-war-3-slurpee-tastes-like-kratos-fury/#comments When playing the God of War games, we've often wondered, "If Kratos' unflagging rage could be assigned a flavor, what flavor would it be?" Finally, that question will be answered by Mountain Dew and 7-Eleven, which are collaborating on the next advancement in frozen sugar-drink technology: The Kratos Fury Slurpee. We know that sounds like the kind of thing we'd make up for comedic effect, but we assure you, it's berry real.

You can pick up a tall, refreshing cup of Fury (which includes nonconsumable codes for DLC armor and other content) starting February 1, at which point you'll learn that Kratos' anger actually tastes like a pleasant mix of blackberries and lime -- and the blood of a freshly-slain Gorgon. But, yeah, mostly just blackberries and lime.

JoystiqGod of War III Slurpee tastes like Kratos' fury; it's delicious originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Jan 2010 10:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-elevenadsadvertisingdlcgod-of-wargod-of-war-iiikratoskratos-fury-slurpeemorpheus-armormountain-dewslurpeeFri, 29 Jan 2010 10:46:00 EST<![CDATA[A date with Kratos: God of War III hits the US on March 16]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/a-date-with-kratos-god-of-war-iii-hits-the-us-on-march-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/a-date-with-kratos-god-of-war-iii-hits-the-us-on-march-16/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/28/a-date-with-kratos-god-of-war-iii-hits-the-us-on-march-16/#comments
click to titan-size
Sony has announced (via PlayStation.Blog) that God of War III will launch domestically on March 16. That's just 47 days away (which is exactly 47 days too many). In addition to firming up the date, SCEA released the final box art (it's rated M!) and revealed that a new trailer for the game -- hopefully showcasing the considerable upgrades it has received since the playable demo hit -- will debut on February 11.

A box shot of the Ultimate Edition has also been released -- a package within which ultimate collectors will find a replica Pandora's Box containing the game (shocking, we know) along with collectibles and DLC (it's digital and physical!). Personally, we find a paltry cardboard box rather unbefitting of such a powerful artifact, so we'll be holding out for a "Supreme Ultimate Edition," which will obviously come in a replica Pandora's Temple on the back of a replica Cronos.

You can see the current, less "Grr! Extreme!" packaging after the break.

Continue reading A date with Kratos: God of War III hits the US on March 16

JoystiqA date with Kratos: God of War III hits the US on March 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jan 2010 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-iiirelease-datesceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaThu, 28 Jan 2010 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain, God of War III PS3 bundles listed for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/heavy-rain-god-of-war-iii-ps3-bundles-listed-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/heavy-rain-god-of-war-iii-ps3-bundles-listed-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/21/heavy-rain-god-of-war-iii-ps3-bundles-listed-for-europe/#commentsIf you're in Europe, you'll have the option to buy an even bigger, more expensive, but less crazy God of War III box than the "Ultimate Trilogy Edition." An Amazon.fr listing for a God of War III PS3 bundle has been spotted, complete with very believable image. According to Amazon, it'll be available March 17 for €349.95 (roughly $490) and will include the game and a 250GB PS3.

A similar bundle will also be released for Heavy Rain on February 24 for the same price, according to Amazon France -- and wouldn't you know, the bundle box image is classier than the North American game box. There's also a supposed MAG bundle due out January 29, but Amazon just shows the bundle as a regular 250GB PS3 and a copy of MAG.

[Via Kotaku; thanks francisco dang!]

JoystiqHeavy Rain, God of War III PS3 bundles listed for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jan 2010 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>250gbamazonbundleeuropefrancegod-of-war-iiiheavy-rainInteractive-DramamagQuantic-DreamSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaThu, 21 Jan 2010 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: God of War III ends trilogy, but not franchise, Sony's John Hight says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/interview-god-of-war-3-ends-trilogy-but-not-franchise/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/interview-god-of-war-3-ends-trilogy-but-not-franchise/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/interview-god-of-war-3-ends-trilogy-but-not-franchise/#comments While God of War III will conclude the trilogy, it won't spell the end of the franchise, Sony Santa Monica's John Hight reveals in a recent interview with Joystiq. With the third game "capping off what we started with God of War," Hight says we should expect more God of War games to follow, but the decision on where to take the franchise after the initial trilogy (and portable prequel) won't be taken lightly. "We're going to be really careful about what we do next," he assures.

The full interview can be viewed in its entirety above. Select portions of the interview can be read in the following transcription:

Can you explain the new technology that you're showing off today?

So what we've kept under wraps until this time is dynamic environments. It means we can take literally anything in the game, including creatures and in this case, extremely large thousand foot plus creatures, and turn them into an environment that Kratos can now navigate, battle on, engage other creatures on, find treasures, you name it.

Even since the very first God of War, we keep a running list of features that we'd like to have. So you're in the middle of making something ... some of them make it into the game, and some of them get moved to the next game. And this was the case of definitely a feature that the team has thought about for a while, but God of War 3 and the technology of PS3 enabled us to actually build it.

Continue reading Interview: God of War III ends trilogy, but not franchise, Sony's John Hight says

JoystiqInterview: God of War III ends trilogy, but not franchise, Sony's John Hight says originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiiinterviewjohn-hightsonysony-santa-monicavideoTue, 19 Jan 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: This is God of War III]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/this-is-god-of-war-iii/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/this-is-god-of-war-iii/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/18/this-is-god-of-war-iii/#comments
You should probably click this image. I summed up the E3 demo of God of War III with this opener: "God of War, in HD." That's not a "bad" thing per se, but for a franchise that's been known for pushing the graphical envelope, it simply wasn't enough. Thankfully, my concerns were obliterated last month when I got to play the latest build of the game. It only took a minute or so before I was able to say "this is God of War III -- and what it was always meant to be."

The demo was incredibly short, perhaps two or three minutes long. But that's all Santa Monica Studios needed to effectively demonstrate the scope of their vision. The graphical improvements were immediately noticeable: motion blur, depth of field, better lighting and special effects. However, it was the cinematic camera work and the incredibly inspired level design that really left an impression.

Once again, this demo takes place on the Titan, making his way to the top of Mount Olympus. What the VGA trailer failed to capture effectively, though, is how dynamic battles will feel atop a moving giant. Remember how impressive Uncharted 2's dynamic set pieces were? Imagine scenes like Uncharted's collapsing building and train, and remove the sense of "reality" that Nathan Drake has to adhere to.

Gallery: God of War 3 (01/18/10)

Continue reading Hands-on: This is God of War III

JoystiqHands-on: This is God of War III originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jan 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiihands-onMon, 18 Jan 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Get God of War 3 pre-order poster, cup of coffee at 7-Eleven]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/god-of-war-3-pre-order-poster-cup-of-coffee-at-7-eleven/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/god-of-war-3-pre-order-poster-cup-of-coffee-at-7-eleven/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/god-of-war-3-pre-order-poster-cup-of-coffee-at-7-eleven/#commentsIf you're trying to decide just which gas station through which to secure a copy of God of War 3, 7-Eleven has an interesting proposition for you. Pre-orders have opened up at 7-Eleven stores in the US, and include the exclusive poster seen above, which features Kratos checking out some totally sweet destruction courtesy of a Fire Titan. You can see the poster in Titan-size here.

Supplies are limited, so we advise you to go pre-order the game now if you want one of these. 7-Eleven is a very convenient store, after all, meaning it shouldn't take too long for others to find their way there and claim a poster.

JoystiqGet God of War 3 pre-order poster, cup of coffee at 7-Eleven originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7-elevengod-of-wargod-of-war-iiiposterpre-orderWed, 13 Jan 2010 15:46:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War III gets a Japanese release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/god-of-war-iii-gets-a-japanese-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/god-of-war-iii-gets-a-japanese-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/07/god-of-war-iii-gets-a-japanese-release-date/#comments We've known that God of War III would be arriving on the Playstation 3 in March for a while now, but Sony has blessed Japan with an actual date: March 26, 2010. There's no official date for the rest of the world yet, but we'll let you know when we see one.

The good news is that it's possible the game could come out earlier in the US, being as it's a title developed right here between the shining seas. But either way, that demo will have to tide you over for a couple more months.

JoystiqGod of War III gets a Japanese release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jan 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoeugod-of-war-3god-of-war-3-demogod-of-war-iiijapanjapanesereleaserelease-datesanta-monicasonyusThu, 07 Jan 2010 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War 'Ultimate Trilogy Edition' coming to Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/god-of-war-ultimate-trilogy-edition-coming-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/god-of-war-ultimate-trilogy-edition-coming-to-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/17/god-of-war-ultimate-trilogy-edition-coming-to-europe/#comments Dear Europe,

We're really sorry you weren't able to get God of War Collection this year. But we wanted to let you know that it's not you, it's us. Yeah, you really wanted it, but we thought you would want EyePet instead! To make up for the delay, we're making you an Ultimate Trilogy Edition of God of War III. Not only will it include a fancy box and a copy of God of War III, but it will also include God of War Collection, so you can have all three games in one garish box. We're also throwing in an art book and postcards, along with a lot of digital extras that America is also receiving. Does this make you feel better, baby?

Love,
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe

JoystiqGod of War 'Ultimate Trilogy Edition' coming to Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europegod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-collectiongod-of-war-iiilimited-editionpandoras-boxspecial-editionultimate-trilogy-editionThu, 17 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War 3 fan video contest offers signed 'Ultimate' editions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/god-of-war-3-fan-video-contest-offers-signed-ultimate-editions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/god-of-war-3-fan-video-contest-offers-signed-ultimate-editions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/god-of-war-3-fan-video-contest-offers-signed-ultimate-editions/#comments
Here's a challenge from the gods: the Playstation Blog has challenged followers to putt their dignity on the line to win one of 20 copies of the God of War III Ultimate Edition, signed by the development team. All you have to do is make a video that encapsulates your love for the game and explains why you deserve to open Pandora's Box. Creativity is important -- though we're sure they'll give bonus points for embarrassment. Not everyone can pull off that buff Kratos kosplay, you know ...

The top 20 submissions will also be included in the credits of God of War: Unearthing the Legend, "a full-length movie documentary depicting the history of the God of War franchise." Check out the video for the contest after the break to gain some inspiration.

Continue reading God of War 3 fan video contest offers signed 'Ultimate' editions

JoystiqGod of War 3 fan video contest offers signed 'Ultimate' editions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-3-ultimate-editiongod-of-war-iiigod-of-war-III-ultimate-editionkratossonyWed, 16 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dream Theater adding even more metal to God of War III soundtrack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/dream-theater-adding-even-more-metal-to-god-of-war-iii-soundtrac/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/dream-theater-adding-even-more-metal-to-god-of-war-iii-soundtrac/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/dream-theater-adding-even-more-metal-to-god-of-war-iii-soundtrac/#comments Dream Theater, a heavy metal band best known for creating songs that are impossible to play in Rock Band -- and, based on the image above, for serving as the artistic inspiration for Metalocalypse's Dethklok -- has chosen to lend its potent rock powers to the soundtrack of God of War III. This announcement was made by Theater drummer Mike Portnoy, who mentioned on the band's blog, "we will then enter the studio right after New Year's to write and record a brand new instrumental track for inclusion on the upcoming Gods [sic] Of War 3 soundtrack."

Between the inclusion of this track and the exclusive Trivium song (which was announced late last month), we appreciate the metallic infusion Sony's trying to introduce to the title. However, if it doesn't culminate in an unlockable electric guitar weapon, then you can expect us to be stricken with grief for a few months after the game's release.

[Via VG247]

JoystiqDream Theater adding even more metal to God of War III soundtrack originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dream-theatergod-of-wargod-of-war-iiimetalrocksceasony-computer-entertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericasoundtrackSat, 14 Nov 2009 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War III Ultimate Edition to rip apart your wallet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/god-of-war-iii-ultimate-edition-to-rip-apart-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/god-of-war-iii-ultimate-edition-to-rip-apart-your-wallet/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/30/god-of-war-iii-ultimate-edition-to-rip-apart-your-wallet/#comments You'd think that with a box as obnoxiously large as this, the God of War III "Ultimate Edition" would be overflowing with goodies. However, don't expect an abundance of physical goods in this 8.3" wide x 10.5" long x 5.9" tall "High-End Sculpted Replica of Pandora's Box." With the exception of the God of War III art book, all the bonuses packaged into this collector's edition are downloads:
  • God of War Combat Arena containing an exclusive environment and seven challenges
  • Premium Kratos Skin - Dominus
  • God of War: Unearthing the Legend Franchise Documentary - a full-length movie documentary depicting the history of the God of War franchise
  • God of War Trilogy Soundtrack - God of War, II, and III scores from the game (mp3 digital download).
  • God of War: Blood and Metal EP - a heavy metal homage featuring original music inspired by God of War (mp3 download).
So how much will this big box o' digital goodies cost you? $100!

Of course, a big-budget game isn't complete without a requisite pre-order bonus. God of War III's pre-order bonus is none too surprising: a downloadable demo of the game you just put a deposit on! With the same demo releasing via the God of War Collection and the District 9 Blu-ray, chances are good you'll end up with more than one access code to the GoW demo before it ships next year -- heck you might even see a code pop up in your e-mail this weekend!

JoystiqGod of War III Ultimate Edition to rip apart your wallet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editiondemogod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiipre-orderultimate-editionFri, 30 Oct 2009 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War III demo included on District 9 Blu-ray]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/god-of-war-iii-demo-included-on-district-9-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/god-of-war-iii-demo-included-on-district-9-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/god-of-war-iii-demo-included-on-district-9-blu-ray/#commentsIf you're interested in checking out God of War 3 early, but don't want to play the first two God of Wars again, Sony corporate synergy has a solution for you! The Blu-Ray release of District 9, due December 29 (a bit later than the God of War Collection), will include a playable demo of God of War 3. Once you've played through the demo, a making-of featurette will be unlocked (for the game, not the movie).

While District 9 and God of War 3 are united in that they're both things that people presumably want to see, it strikes us as odd that this rather random collection is the first Blu-ray/game demo pairing for SCEA. The Watchmen movie and game actually related to one another in some way, and they came on separate discs.

JoystiqGod of War III demo included on District 9 Blu-ray originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raydistrict-9god-of-war-3god-of-war-iiihybridsceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-picturesWed, 28 Oct 2009 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trivium to rock God of War III with exclusive tune]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/trivium-to-rock-god-of-war-3-with-exclusive-tune/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/trivium-to-rock-god-of-war-3-with-exclusive-tune/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/21/trivium-to-rock-god-of-war-3-with-exclusive-tune/#comments
We can all admit the God of War series is pretty metal -- it's about a dude killing gods and tearing apart most of the Greek mythos' bestiary with his bare hands! And even though all of the orchestral tunes playing Kratos along his rampages have certainly been nice so far, Sony has seen fit to spice it up a bit and tap metal band Trivium for an exclusive track for God of War III.

The news was revealed by Trivium guitarist/vocalist, Matt Heafy, during an interview with Baltimore rock station 98Rock's Kid Christoff. It's definitely an "original song," Heafy said -- don't expect a tune lifted from one of the band's previous albums. If you're looking for a sneak preview, we suggest you crank this and watch this.

[Via G4]

JoystiqTrivium to rock God of War III with exclusive tune originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiimusictriviumWed, 21 Oct 2009 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War 3 director considering downloadable challenge rooms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/god-of-war-3-director-considering-downloadable-challenge-rooms/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/god-of-war-3-director-considering-downloadable-challenge-rooms/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/20/god-of-war-3-director-considering-downloadable-challenge-rooms/#comments
God of War 3's director Stig Asmussen thinks a good way to keep players involved beyond the single-player campaign is through downloadable challenge maps. Speaking with GamePro, he acknowledges the game will ship with a certain amount of challenge rooms, with a possibility of adding more, via DLC, at a later stage. He mentions a challenge in which players have to ride a Cyclops and kill a certain number of enemies in a time limit, possibly using "the Cyclops to get through a certain type of hazard or area or something like that."

Asmussen notes that creating challenge maps occurs late in the development process, but hopes that things move beyond the planning phase within "the next two months."

JoystiqGod of War 3 director considering downloadable challenge rooms originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>challenge-roomsdlcgod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiistig-asmussenTue, 20 Oct 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Europeans won't get God of War III demo before 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/europeans-wont-get-god-of-war-iii-demo-before-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/europeans-wont-get-god-of-war-iii-demo-before-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/16/europeans-wont-get-god-of-war-iii-demo-before-2010/#comments While Americans who purchase the God of War Blu-ray Collection and the Japanese gamers who pick up Infamous will be spending the harsh winter of 2009 behind the helm of a demo for God of War III, our European pals won't be so lucky. Sony recently confirmed to Eurogamer that the sneak preview of the Grecian action title wouldn't appear in the region until 2010.

Yes, unless you check out God of War III at the Eurogamer Expo in late October (or import one of the two games listed above), you'll have to do without this holiday season. Don't worry, you should be able to live vicariously through our highly exuberant tweets.

JoystiqEuropeans won't get God of War III demo before 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoeuropegod-of-wargod-of-war-3god-of-war-iiisceasonyFri, 16 Oct 2009 15:15:00 EST