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[Canned Sony projects including The Getaway 3, Heavenly Sword 2 found in artist's reel, CV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/canned-sony-projects-including-the-getaway-3-heavenly-sword-2-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/canned-sony-projects-including-the-getaway-3-heavenly-sword-2-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/24/canned-sony-projects-including-the-getaway-3-heavenly-sword-2-f/#comments
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Former Sony lead artist Martin Binfield touched a few projects that never saw fruition, including The Getaway 3, and his showreel shows off bits of these before they were shelved. The Getaway 3 footage in Binfield's above reel is pulled from the game's E3 trailer, while canceled PS3 science-fiction and lifestyle projects demonstrate rocket-fueled space travel and the joys of being a single father, respectively.

Heavenly Sword 2 is listed on Binfield's CV as canceled in 2008. He was the character animation team lead on the first Heavenly Sword.

JoystiqCanned Sony projects including The Getaway 3, Heavenly Sword 2 found in artist's reel, CV originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canceledcannedHeavenly-Swordheavenly-sword-2martin-binfieldplaystationps3pspsonythe-getaway-3Tue, 24 Apr 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Sony working on a Smash Bros-esque fighter featuring Sony all-stars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/rumor-sonys-got-a-smash-bros-esque-fighter-in-the-works-featur/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/rumor-sonys-got-a-smash-bros-esque-fighter-in-the-works-featur/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/28/rumor-sonys-got-a-smash-bros-esque-fighter-in-the-works-featur/#comments The hat of "Sony Mascot" has been worn by many, many different critters and folk since the days of Crash Bandicoot and, uh, Croc. In fact, Sony's stable of lovable household names is so fully stocked that they've decided to pit their creations against one another to determine who lives and who dies.

Okay so, that last part might be a little hyperbolic, but the rumor mill is operating at full capacity over Title Fight, a Super Smash Bros.-ish cross-franchise brawler reportedly in development at SuperBot Entertainment, according to The Paul Gale Network. If rumors are to be believed, the game will feature a cast of Sony-console specific characters like Nathan Drake, Sweet Tooth, Sly Cooper, that guy from Killzone and Fat Princess. Fights will take place in various Sony related locations such as Sandover Village or a golf course from Hot Shots Golf.

The gallery of images below, which shows Sweet Tooth, a blank female form that may or may not be Heavenly Sword's Nariko and a debug screen that mentions Kratos, were tweeted (and subsequently deleted) by SuperBot Entertainment's senior level designer Chris Molina. Apparently, this hullabaloo is also what that franchise-rich teaser trailer from September was all about, which would also indicate the inclusion of Parappa the Rapper, as well as a representative from FOXHOUND.

If all this pans out, Title Fight will be the latest in a long, proud history of SCEA-published fighting games like Battle Arena Toshinden and Cardinal Syn. We'll keep our ear to the ground for more as this story develops.

Gallery: Title Fight (Tentative, Leaked)

JoystiqRumor: Sony working on a Smash Bros-esque fighter featuring Sony all-stars originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crash-bandicootcrocfat-princessheavenly-swordjak-and-daxterkillzonenarikoparappa-the-rapperplaystationps3ps3-exclusiverumorsly-coopersuperbot-entertainmentsweet-toothtitle-fightMon, 28 Nov 2011 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword 2 could have gone to Hell]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/heavenly-sword-2-could-have-gone-to-hell/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/heavenly-sword-2-could-have-gone-to-hell/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/06/heavenly-sword-2-could-have-gone-to-hell/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With Enslaved now wrapped up, Ninja Theory's Tameem Antoniades answered a few questions from VG247's readers. One asked about the possible direction a sequel to the team's previous game, Heavenly Sword, could take. (Spoiler alert!) The death of the first game's heroine, Nariko, obviously poses a challenge.

According to Antoniades, one idea had players discovering Nariko "trapped in Hell by the spirit of the sword." Coming to her rescue would be Kai, playable in the real world and somehow able to "communicate with Nariko and try and help rescue her soul." Fascinatingly, the potential sequel would have played with the movement of time -- one day in Hell represents a year on Earth -- and as such, Kai would transform from "teenage girl to old woman" throughout the course of the game.

The Voices of a Distant Star approach to the game's storytelling could have made for an interesting, thought-provoking journey. (Certainly more so than EA's Dante's Inferno.) However, it's unlikely this concept will ever come to fruition. Last we heard, Ninja Theory is no longer involved with the series.

JoystiqHeavenly Sword 2 could have gone to Hell originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavenly-Swordheavenly-sword-2ninja-theoryplaystationps3tameem-antoniadesWed, 06 Oct 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Theory co-founder explains studio's move to multiplatform development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ninja-theory-co-founder-explains-studios-move-to-multiplatform/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ninja-theory-co-founder-explains-studios-move-to-multiplatform/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/05/ninja-theory-co-founder-explains-studios-move-to-multiplatform/#commentsWith the release of Heavenly Sword, Ninja Theory had seemingly established itself as a high-profile, PS3-exclusive developer. However, the studio's next game, Enslaved, a gritty action version of the same classical Chinese story Journey to the West from which Dragon Ball originates, is going to be multiplatform.

"Heavenly Sword came out pretty early on the PS3," Ninja Theory co-founder Tameem Antoniades explained to CVG, "and we sold, I think, a million and a half copies, and that's still not enough as an independent studio to break even. The publisher potentially breaks even at that point, but the developers don't. It's just that when so many people have Xbox -- I mean over half the market or more has Xbox 360s -- why limit yourself to one platform?" Without a clearly dominant platform like the PlayStation 1 or 2, he said, it's difficult to profit from console-exclusive games.

"I think people are going to hold off for a long time before getting on to the next generation," Antoniades added. "I think everyone's licking their wounds and releasing new games to try and keep this current generation going. I'm hoping it doesn't come too soon either because we want to make at least a couple more games in this generation." Squeezing in a few more current-gen releases sounds like a good plan -- it'd be tough to be totally broke and have to start developing on new hardware again.

JoystiqNinja Theory co-founder explains studio's move to multiplatform development originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console-exclusiveenslavedenslaved-odyssey-to-the-westexclusivityheavenly-swordMicrosoftnamco-bandaininja-theorytameem-antoniadesXbox-360Mon, 05 Apr 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Theory's 'Enslaved' promises a mix of brains and brawn]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/ninja-theorys-enslaved-promises-a-mix-of-brains-and-brawn/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/ninja-theorys-enslaved-promises-a-mix-of-brains-and-brawn/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/ninja-theorys-enslaved-promises-a-mix-of-brains-and-brawn/#comments It's been a while since we last heard about Enslaved, the brand new IP coming from Heavenly Sword developer Ninja Theory and partner Namco Bandai, but IGN has broken the silence with a preview. The game sounds intriguing: Players control an Andy Serkis-modeled brawler named Monkey, who's neurologically tied to a techno-chick named Trip as they roam from a New York 150 years from now and out into a post-apocalyptic America.

The game is actually based on an old Chinese tale named Journey to the West, in which a sage and a powerful monkey go on a quest to find Buddhist wisdom, with the sage getting in all sorts of dangerous traps that the monkey (controlled via headband, just like the game) has to help him out with.

Likewise, the game offers up a set of challenges that will require Monkey to work with and defend Trip, who offers tools and advice all along. The third-person combat (against various robots and post-human bad guys) is supposed to be tough at first, but much easier with a little strategy and help from Trip. We'll keep an eye out for it at E3 -- the saga of Monkey and Trip could turn out to be one of 2010's more original endeavors.

JoystiqNinja Theory's 'Enslaved' promises a mix of brains and brawn originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-serkisenslavedenslaved-odyssey-to-the-westheavenly-swordMicrosoftnamco-bandaininja-theoryXbox-360Fri, 26 Mar 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhianna Pratchett launches portfolio website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/rhianna-pratchett-launches-portfolio-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/rhianna-pratchett-launches-portfolio-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/rhianna-pratchett-launches-portfolio-website/#commentsRhianna Pratchett, the British game writer behind Heavenly Sword, Overlord (and its upcoming sequels), Mirror's Edge and Viking: Battle For Asgard has launched her portfolio website, making it easier to keep track of her various projects. The website showcases all the games that she's worked on, as well as her contributions to some game writing textbooks and her ongoing series of Mirror's Edge comic books.

There are also links to interviews (including one of ours) for those who want to get a little more insight into the person behind the words. From the look of things, the site won't be updated for a while as Rhianna's being kept fairly busy with Overlord 2 and the Wii and DS Overlord games. Now that she's set up home on the internet, we wonder if she'll be joining us on Twitter soon, too.

JoystiqRhianna Pratchett launches portfolio website originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenly-swordmirrors-edgeOverlordRhianna-pratchettWed, 18 Mar 2009 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 2, Buzz and Heavenly Sword LBP DLC revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/killzone-2-buzz-and-heavenly-sword-lbp-dlc-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/killzone-2-buzz-and-heavenly-sword-lbp-dlc-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/killzone-2-buzz-and-heavenly-sword-lbp-dlc-revealed/#comments
The observant among you may have noticed that Sony's LittleBigPlanet 2009 DLC roadmap has now finished and we're still clueless as to what's coming next. The PlayStation Blog has updated with some new costume images, as you can see above, including Sev from Killzone 2 (almost certainly due to arrive today, in time for the game's launch tomorrow), Kai from Heavenly Sword and Buzz from, uh, Buzz!.

While unlikely, the low-res textures and low poly-count of the Buzz model have us thinking ... maybe, just maybe, this may be a model from the upcoming PSP version?

JoystiqKillzone 2, Buzz and Heavenly Sword LBP DLC revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpBuzzcostumesDLCHack-and-SlashHeavenly-swordkillzone-2LBPlittlebigplanetmedia-moleculeSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaThu, 26 Feb 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Andy Serkis: Game narrative is lacking, but has much potential]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/andy-serkis-game-narrative-is-lacking-but-has-much-potential/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/andy-serkis-game-narrative-is-lacking-but-has-much-potential/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/andy-serkis-game-narrative-is-lacking-but-has-much-potential/#commentsIf Gollum says it, it must be true. Andy Serkis, who played the loathsome creature in Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings movie adaptation, has said that he feels game stories are generally lacking. "There's no heart in them. We put so much into the writing of film scripts and plays, but not into games. And games are where the audience is going to be. I absolutely think that gaming is a massive storytelling arena in the making and now the technology has arrived to do that. It's a fascinating time."

We absolutely agree with Serkis that this generation is the launchpad for real cinematic storytelling. Games like Uncharted and Metal Gear Solid 4 are paving the way, but with such a young medium there's still plenty of room for improvement. Serkis' background may be in Hollywood, but he did a lot of motion capture and dialogue work for the under-represented PS3 title Heavenly Sword, stating afterward that he'd love to work in games again. Perhaps if game stories keep improving at the rate they have over the last couple of years, it won't be long until we see him donning the skin-tight motion capture suit again.

JoystiqAndy Serkis: Game narrative is lacking, but has much potential originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andy-serkisheavenly-swordnarrativestoryTue, 10 Feb 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet's Nariko Sackgirl is Best Buy exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/littlebigplanet-nariko-sackgirl-is-best-buy-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/littlebigplanet-nariko-sackgirl-is-best-buy-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/littlebigplanet-nariko-sackgirl-is-best-buy-exclusive/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony previously announced several planned pre-order bonuses for LittleBigPlanet, including custom downloadable "Sackboy" versions of God of War's Kratos and Heavenly Sword's Nariko. While the Ghost of Sparta went to GameStop, the official LBP blog has revealed that pre-ordering the game at Best Buy will land you a download voucher code for Nariko.

Both characters are über-spiffy, but, if you want both, you'll have to pre-order the game twice. No one's preventing you from avoiding it at one of the two stores when it's released, though. Oh no, certainly not us. Of course, you could always wait a bit for the characters to be made available for paid download via the PlayStation Store, something we're sure Sony would never think of doing, not in a million billion years.

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet's Nariko Sackgirl is Best Buy exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpdlcHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordlittlebigplanetmedia-moleculenarikopre-orderpre-order-bonusPS3SCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaWed, 03 Sep 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nariko Sackgirl is Play.com's LittleBigPlanet preorder bonus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/23/nariko-sackgirl-is-play-coms-littlebigplanet-preorder-bonus/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/23/nariko-sackgirl-is-play-coms-littlebigplanet-preorder-bonus/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/23/nariko-sackgirl-is-play-coms-littlebigplanet-preorder-bonus/#commentsFiled under:

Europe, rejoice! You're not being left out in the cold. Those amazing LittleBigPlanet preorder bonuses will be available on both sides of the Atlantic. So far, we've spotted Nariko hanging out over at Play.com, but there's no sign of any of the others. At least, not yet. The Nariko Sackgirl (who is actually a Sackboy playing dress up, but don't let that put you off) is downloadable via the PlayStation Network. Instructions will be sent out during the week of release, according to Play.com, so don't expect to be playing with your new heavenly pal on launch day.

Now, where's that Kratos Sackboy got to? We're sure he's hiding around here somewhere.

JoystiqNariko Sackgirl is Play.com's LittleBigPlanet preorder bonus originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordlittle-big-planetlittlebigplanetmedia-moleculenarikoplay.compreordersackboySCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSat, 23 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor mill round-up: Heavenly Sword 2 [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/rumor-mill-round-up-heavenly-sword-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/rumor-mill-round-up-heavenly-sword-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/rumor-mill-round-up-heavenly-sword-2/#commentsFiled under:

Yesterday, Kotaku posted a rumor saying Heavenly Sword 2 was in fact in development ... but that it had been canned by the Sony higher-ups. Details of a potential sequel to Heavenly Sword were leaked to the public from a focus group a few months ago. However, since then, developer Ninja Theory has moved on to a yet-unannounced multiplatform game.

According to the Kotaku report, the Heavenly Sword franchise is not seen as commercially viable, in spite of generally favorable reviews and respectable sales figures. Supposedly, Ninja Theory has "grown increasingly bitter about their treatment at Sony's hands." The bad blood between Ninja Theory and Sony has supposedly caused the developer to move offices, further away from Sony Cambridge.

If there is any truth to this rumor, it would be the third major game canceled by Sony's European arm in recent memory (The Getaway and Eight Days being the last two games canned). Today, SCEE responded saying "I think it is fair to say that we do not comment on rumor and speculation, especially about games that have never been announced." In addition, the rep wants to remind everyone that Killzone 2, LittleBigPlanet and Motorstorm: Pacific Rift are all from Sony Europe, emphasizing that first-party development in Sony Europe is not in any kind of trouble.

Update: Speaking to Gamespot, Ninja Theory confirms that the relationship between Sony and Ninja Theory are good. "We are moving, but it's completely amicable," Ninja Theory cofounder and chief development ninja Nina Kristensen told GameSpot. "We move mid July and have been planning it for the best part of a year; there's nothing nefarious about it. We are excited about the move--our new premises are considerably bigger and in an excellent location near the town centre." According to the report, Heavenly Sword 2 was offered to Ninja Theory, but the team declined to work on it.

JoystiqRumor mill round-up: Heavenly Sword 2 [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordheavenly-sword-2ninja-theoryrumorSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaWed, 18 Jun 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Heavenly Sword 2 canceled; Ninja Theory 'bitter' with Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/rumor-heavenly-sword-2-cancelled-ninja-theory-bitter-with-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/rumor-heavenly-sword-2-cancelled-ninja-theory-bitter-with-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/17/rumor-heavenly-sword-2-cancelled-ninja-theory-bitter-with-so/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sony Europe has allegedly canceled the Sony Cambridge-helmed Heavenly Sword 2, while the first game's developer, Ninja Theory, has been said to be generally unhappy with the company. Kotaku reports an "inside UK source" said the game was killed after months in development because it was no longer commercially viable.

Meanwhile, Ninja Theory, which has offices in the same building as HS2 developer Sony Cambridge, is apparently moving out following "increasingly bitter" treatment by Sony. We've contacted both Ninja Theory and Sony for comment. If true, we'll never underestimate Sony Europe's game culling ability again.

Update: Sony informs it will not comment on the Heavenly Sword 2 rumor. Ninja Theory's official statement is after the break.

Continue reading Rumor: Heavenly Sword 2 canceled; Ninja Theory 'bitter' with Sony

JoystiqRumor: Heavenly Sword 2 canceled; Ninja Theory 'bitter' with Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jun 2008 18:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordheavenly-sword-2kotakuninja-theoryPS3rumorSCESCEAsceesonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-Europesony-europeTue, 17 Jun 2008 18:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword devs target 360 for next project]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/heavenly-sword-devs-target-360-for-next-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/heavenly-sword-devs-target-360-for-next-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/heavenly-sword-devs-target-360-for-next-project/#commentsFiled under:


If you read this site religiously to the point of excluding all other media (and you should), the name Heavenly Sword may be unfamiliar to you. Perhaps there is a tiny voice in the back of your mind that tells you it's related to the Playstation 3. The voice in your head is right (for once), as Heavenly Sword is one of the Playstation 3's more well-known exclusive titles and received decent reviews last year. It comes as good news then that Ninja Theory -- developers of Heavenly Sword -- are developing a new title for both the 360 and PS3. Gamesindustry.biz has the scoop, in which Ninja Theory's Nina Kristensen notes, "We're certainly targeting a triple-A blockbuster, with two and a half years in production - a big game that builds on our core strengths of story-telling, cinematics and combat." Kristensen also says that Ninja Theory is considering creating a CG movie using the game's engine that would be released as a compliment to the game.

No further details, such as a projected release date, have been revealed.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqHeavenly Sword devs target 360 for next project originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenly-swordninja-theoryWed, 19 Mar 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword dev working on new IP for 360, PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/heavenly-sword-dev-working-on-new-ip-for-360-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/heavenly-sword-dev-working-on-new-ip-for-360-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/heavenly-sword-dev-working-on-new-ip-for-360-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,


With the story's second part already scribed, fans of big-haired action epic Heavenly Sword have eagerly been awaiting confirmation of a sequel. Though it hasn't arrived just yet (possibly waylaid by disappointing sales of the original), developer Ninja Theory has revealed to Gamesindustry.biz that it's no longer entangled in Nariko's mess of red hair. A new intellectual property for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 is now being assembled, with some thought spared to a CGI movie tie-in.

"We're certainly targeting a triple-A blockbuster, with two and a half years in production - a big game that builds on our core strengths of story-telling, cinematics and combat," said Ninja Theory co-founder and chief developer, Nina Kristensen. "But we're actually looking at something in addition to that - we're considering opportunities in creating a CGI movie using the game engine alongside the game itself."

Kristensen went on to say that the company hopes to maintain its relationship with the world of film, which seems to imply that Ninja Theory's next game will boast the same high production values and cinematic flair seen in Heavenly Sword. Right, is this where we make a joke about running time?

JoystiqHeavenly Sword dev working on new IP for 360, PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavenly-SwordHeavenlySwordNinja-TheoryNinjaTheoryPS3Xbox-360Wed, 19 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Theory's next game could have accompanying CGI movie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/ninja-theorys-next-game-could-have-accompanying-cgi-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/ninja-theorys-next-game-could-have-accompanying-cgi-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/19/ninja-theorys-next-game-could-have-accompanying-cgi-movie/#commentsFiled under:

Unfortunately it seems that Ninja Theory are definitely not currently working on Heavenly Sword 2. Nina Kristensen, co-founder of Ninja Theory, confirmed the news during an interview with GameIndustry.biz. Instead, the development team is working on a new multiplatform intellectual property, potentially leaving the Sony owned Heavenly Sword franchise for another developer to play with.

Kristensen also mentions that they're thinking of producing a CGI movie to accompany their new project. Nothing's confirmed yet, as the two and a half year development cycle has only just started, but the potential of using the game engine to produce a movie is something they're definitely interested in. The full interview will be published on GameIndustry.biz later this month, where Kristensen will discuss their new project in further depth. In the meantime, check out the concept art for the game that was found on the new Ninja Theory website.

JoystiqNinja Theory's next game could have accompanying CGI movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordheavenlyswordinterviewninja-theorySCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaWed, 19 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: March 6, 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/today-in-joystiq-march-6-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/today-in-joystiq-march-6-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/today-in-joystiq-march-6-2008/#commentsFiled under:

Check out this impressive piece of woodwork, a Heavenly Sword replica sword that reportedly took a trimester to make (via PS3 Fanboy). Check out the highlights for today:

Joystiquery
First impressions: Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Metareview -- Army of Two (Xbox 360, PS3)
X3F Week in Review: February 29, 2008 - March 6, 2008

News
Condemned 2 Xbox Live achievements detailed
Sims 3 teaser posted, more info coming March 19
Survival horror puzzler LIT coming to WiiWare
Rockstar working 'around the clock' to quell 360's Bully issues
US Air Force to purchase 300 Playstation 3s
GameTap Thursday: Batman Returns with Aces of the Pacific (now landing in Port Royale)
Famitsu confirms Disgaea for Nintendo DS in Japan
Full Gran Turismo 5 Prologue vehicle and track list announced
EA rejects 'impossible' collaboration with Jack Thompson
Former ESRB rater dishes on organization
Get the echochrome demo on your PSP
Device converts controller rumble to electric shocks
THQ has spirit with 'All Star Cheer Squad' for Wii, DS
Codemasters readies new action franchise: Damnation
Spore, 'Touch Fighter' shown on iPhone
GarageGames' InstantAction beta open to the public, c'mon in
Guitar Hero III gets Modern Metal, free Dropkick Murphys tunes coming
Sega: We're not interested in a buyout, thanks
PSN Thursday: Rocketmen blast off, Echochrome marches onto Japanese PSN
Microsoft: No Live Anywhere announcements in the immediate future
Sega: Hardcore gamers shouldn't be 'excommunicated' from Wii
Producer admits Tabula Rasa is starting slow
Eurogamer: Lego Indiana Jones dated for Europe June 6
Wax nostalgic over King's Bounty website, screenshots
Insomniac considering new IPs, Ratchet sells a million
Sony, Microsoft 'in talks' over Xbox 360 Blu-ray drive
The Sims 3 wants you to go outside (in the game)
Harrison: Atari is the best opportunity in the industry

Culture & Community
Witness the greatest Animal Crossing cosplay ever
GameStop holding Smash Bros. Brawl tournament, midnight launch events
'Free for All': Our favorite rap song about Smash Bros. Brawl
Romantic gamer proposes with homebrewed Bejeweled

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: March 6, 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Mar 2008 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dailyrecapheavenly-swordPS3Thu, 06 Mar 2008 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[A real life Heavenly Sword, made of wood]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/a-real-life-heavenly-sword-made-of-wood/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/a-real-life-heavenly-sword-made-of-wood/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/06/a-real-life-heavenly-sword-made-of-wood/#commentsFiled under:

What does a real PS3 fan do to show his love of Heavenly Sword? He makes one. "Linkin Park Fan" from Game Grep created his own wooden replica of the titular sword in wood shop. "Instead of making some stupid cabinet or a DVD shelf like the rest of the class, I decided to make something a little more original ... The sword is about 3 feet long and about 1 and a half feet high. To my surprise and others, the sword barely weighs anything. Light as a feather, Feather that can kill."

We love it. Check out more pictures here. And yes, it does it cut.

[Thanks, Jamie T.!]

JoystiqA real life Heavenly Sword, made of wood originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaswordwoodThu, 06 Mar 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No shirt? Sony launches official apparel program]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/no-shirt-sony-launches-official-apparel-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/no-shirt-sony-launches-official-apparel-program/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/no-shirt-sony-launches-official-apparel-program/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Tired of searching Etsy in vain for fan-made God of War apparel? You're in luck! Sony today announced partnerships with four different clothing and accessory makers to feature the company's biggest franchises on all sorts of shirts and such. IV Gear has a list (shown above) of at least some of the franchises which will be depicted, including God of War, Ratchet & Clank, Resistance: Fall of Man, Heavenly Sword and Little Big Planet. Apparel makers Fortune Fashions, Bioworld and MJC will also put the games' logos and character on everything from hoodies to handbags.

"PlayStation is an extremely strong and well-known brand" Shelly Gayner, Director of Licensing, SCEA, said in a press release "We feel that this is a great opportunity for us to satiate our core fans and extend and capitalize on PlayStation name recognition by creating a new line of apparel in connection with the PlayStation brands and our top franchise titles." Memo to Sony: If you really want to satiate the fanboy audience, you'll put Sofia from Battle Arena Toshinden on a body pillow. We're just saying ...

JoystiqNo shirt? Sony launches official apparel program originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-warheavenly-swordjak-and-daxterparappaPS2PS3PSPratchet-and-clankresistance-fall-of-manshirtssonytwited-metalunchartedWed, 05 Mar 2008 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: focus group discusses possible Heavenly Sword 2 info]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/rumor-focus-group-discusses-possible-heavenly-sword-2-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/rumor-focus-group-discusses-possible-heavenly-sword-2-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/05/rumor-focus-group-discusses-possible-heavenly-sword-2-info/#commentsFiled under:

It seems a focus group got together, thanks to Chatter Inc., and talked about Heavenly Sword 2. At first, the questions were standard survey stuff -- nothing too meaty, just reactions to the first game. Later, though, tidbits were unveiled about possibilities with the sequel. What were they? We'll list them below, but if you hate spoilers, we'd recommend you turn your monitor off and bathe in clorox until all the pigment is gone from your skin.
  1. Heavenly Sword 2 will take place 10 years after the events in Heavenly Sword.
  2. The main character will be a male with martial arts background.
  3. The main character will be Kai, but she will be a more mature woman.
  4. The game will require you to master different martial arts styles before retrieving the heavenly sword.
  5. The game will, instead of button mashing, have controls that utilize an analog stick to go through weapons.
  6. The game will have downloadable weapons, characters, and enemies to customize your experience.
  7. The game will be more interactive with the environment.
  8. The game will have you on a storyline with replayable missions, as opposed to an open world.
It seems like it's all speculation, but we can kind of see how the game will turn out if they follow some of these ideas. Instead of being compared to God of War, it seems the game might turn more into a Devil May Cry presentation style. Just so Kai isn't so ... weird. Take this rumor with a basket of salt.

JoystiqRumor: focus group discusses possible Heavenly Sword 2 info originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Mar 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordheavenly-sword-2ninja-theorySCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaWed, 05 Mar 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Theory concept art hints at new game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/ninja-theory-concept-art-hints-at-new-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/ninja-theory-concept-art-hints-at-new-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/ninja-theory-concept-art-hints-at-new-game/#commentsFiled under:


What have Ninja Theory been up to since making Heavenly Sword? Good question. It looks like we'll be finding out fairly soon though, as their website has today undergone a sudden transformation. An annotated Flash banner can be found on several pages of the site, showing some environmental concept art, such as the image above. These paintings are about as far removed from Heavenly Sword as you can get, so those of you who are itchy for a sequel straight away might be disappointed.

The front page of the website states that "there are some teaser elements on this new look website...and don't forget, this website is the very best place to check regularly for updates and news...especially the forums." It also says that Ninja Theory are "working on an exciting new concept that has got everyone we talk to buzzing." From the sounds of it, whatever project they're working on isn't very far along. They've successfully to get us intrigued, however, so we'll be keeping an eye out for any news. Who knows, maybe something will be shown at GDC?

JoystiqNinja Theory concept art hints at new game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordninja-theorySCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaTue, 19 Feb 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: January 17, 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/today-in-joystiq-january-17-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/today-in-joystiq-january-17-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/today-in-joystiq-january-17-2008/#comments Inspired by the Contra shirt made via a wallpaper print, reader Anthony decided to show off his own shirts and gaming art. We're going to highlight more of his work tomorrow and Friday. Check out the highlights for today:

Joystiquery
Law of the Game on Joystiq: Crossover Contracts
Joystiq interview: Namco Bandai stacks the deck with Culdcept Saga
Joystiq interview: Patrick Goschy talks about Midway, tells us he 'made the Wii'
Tabulator: Xbox Live Video Marketplace vs. Apple TV
Wii Fanboy Weekly: January 10th - January 16th

News
It's worth the wait: Smash Bros. Brawl scores 40/40 from Famitsu
Majesco details Majesco Studios, new internal developer
Sheik returns in Smash Bros. Brawl
Midway Austin hit with 'minor layoff'
Totilo: Lost Odyssey is a slow-paced, well-written game
See two minutes of Condemned 2
LittleBigPlanet public beta still coming
THQ chooses GamersGate for PC digital distribution
Valve tweaking Team Fortress 2's pyro, possibly soldier
Retailers listing Silent Hill Origins for PS2
2008 Sundance short films on Xbox Video Marketplace
Stranglehold ad gets choked off UK airwaves
Xbox Live class-action lawsuit lawyer speaks
Famitsu: Bionic Commando remake bound for XBLA, PSN
New Dead Space details, including (surprise!) sequel possibilities
Street Fighter Online ... with mouse controls
Pinball FX scares up new Haunted Mansion table

Culture & Community
Gamecock details E.I.E.I.O. 2008 expo
Performance pills for pro gamers
Zero Punctuation causes 'Crysis' with vaguely positive review

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: January 17, 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dailyrecapheavenly-swordportalWed, 16 Jan 2008 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Deal of the Day: Heavenly Sword for $40]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/deal-of-the-day-heavenly-sword-for-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/deal-of-the-day-heavenly-sword-for-40/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/08/deal-of-the-day-heavenly-sword-for-40/#commentsFiled under:


Ninja Theory's brief, but beautiful, action game is finally available for a discount. It's currently available at amazon.com for $40 -- that's $20 less than retail (and probably less than what GameStop is asking for it used). People have been divided in their opinion of the game: some think it wonderful, while others find it repetitive. Regardless, there's one thing that everyone can agree on: it's pretty darn short. If you haven't had a chance to play this PS3 exclusive yet, this might be the deal you've been looking for.

[Via CAG]

JoystiqDeal of the Day: Heavenly Sword for $40 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdealofthedayheavenly-swordTue, 08 Jan 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wal-Mart busts out some obsessed PS3 ads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/wal-mart-busts-out-some-obsessed-ps3-ads/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/wal-mart-busts-out-some-obsessed-ps3-ads/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/05/wal-mart-busts-out-some-obsessed-ps3-ads/#commentsFiled under:

Who doesn't love Wal-Mart? A lot of people, apparently, but their influence in most things consumer-related is undeniable despite your personal beliefs. This is why we took note of their latest advertisements for the PlayStation 3. They're obsessed. We've got one video above for Heavenly Sword and we've got three more waiting for you after the jump. We know the heart of Wal-Mart is in us all, but by the power of Grayskull, we just can't pass up those deals.

Continue reading Wal-Mart busts out some obsessed PS3 ads

JoystiqWal-Mart busts out some obsessed PS3 ads originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jan 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenly-swordratchet-and-clankunchartedwal-martwarhawkSat, 05 Jan 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Alexander's Picks of 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-alexanders-picks-of-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword (PC)

Please, make the addiction stop! Civilization IV: Warlords, the first expansion for Civ IV, made my "Best of the Rest" last year and Beyond the Sword tops this year's list. The funny thing is I'm not a Civ fanboy, nor am I even that great of a player (Full Disclosure: I still play on Noble level), but Civ IV is a game I can come back to over and over again. Beyond the Sword added much-needed mechanics for culture-prone and passive-aggressive players, with enhancements in espionage and other concepts "beyond the sword." Oh, and just to keep last year's tradition going: Firaxis (2K, Take-Two), please get the rights to Alpha Centauri back from EA and give us a sequel!

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Alexander's Picks of 2007

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Alexander's Picks of 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionBest-of-the-rest-2007carcassonnecatanciv4civilizationcivilizationivcivIVCrackdownDSEternal-SonataGOTY-2007heavenly-swordheavenlyswordJRPGMicrosoftNamcoNamco-BandaioverlordPCprojectsylpheedPS3PSPpuzzle-questpuzzlequestratchet-and-clankratchetandclankRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActRPGSandboxthe-darknessthedarknessTri-CrescendoTrusty-BellXbox-360Tue, 01 Jan 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: James' Picks of 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-james-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-james-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-james-picks-of-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

pac-man ce
Pac-Man Championship Edition (XBLA)

If not worthy of a Top 10 spot, then certainly Pac-Man deserves Joystiq's 'Comeback Player of the Year' award. I covered Pac-Man CE's overblown launch in early June, but it wasn't until I became a devoted player at home that I realized the sheer genius of the first true Pac-Man sequel since 'the Ms.' hit the maze in '82. Designer Toru Iwatani managed to scrape off a quarter-century of rust and fashion a remarkably relevant game that held me down during an otherwise punishing summer drought. Geometry Wars might be the most celebrated, but Pac-Man CE is Xbox Live Arcade's true star.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: James' Picks of 2007

JoystiqBest of the Rest: James' Picks of 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionassassins-creedassassinscreedbest-of-the-rest-2007castlevaniacastlevania-symphony-of-the-nightcrackdownDSeverdayshootereveryday-shooterGOTY-2007heavenly-swordheavenlyswordjeanne-darcLost-Planet-Extreme-ConditionlostplanetmasseffectMicrosoftmlb-07pac-manpac-man-cepac-man-championship-editionphantom-hourglassphatomhourglasspicrossPS3psnPSPpuzzle-questpuzzlequestQueasy-GamesRealtime-WorldsRiot-ActSandboxSCEShooterSony-Computer-Entertainmentsuper-stardust-hdsuperstardusthdsymphony-of-the-nightsymphonyofthenightWiixblaXbox-360zeldaTue, 01 Jan 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Playboy: Heavenly Sword has 'Best Jiggle Factor']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/29/playboy-heavenly-sword-has-best-jiggle-factor/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/29/playboy-heavenly-sword-has-best-jiggle-factor/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/29/playboy-heavenly-sword-has-best-jiggle-factor/#commentsFiled under:

There are some awards our favorite games receive that make us happy they get the recognition they deserve, and there are some that leave us ... well, scratching our heads. Take Playboy's Best of Games of 2007 awards for instance as it awarded Heavenly Sword the "Best Jiggle Factor" award. We're not really sure what it means, but we're pretty sure it's a compliment.

Here's what they had to say about the game: "This game has more than a few rough edges, but we loved its compelling scenario and character design. Nariko is gorgeous but also strong, angry and vulnerable. By the end, you don't just want to date her, you want to marry her."

It beat out other scandalous and lewd games such as Ninja Gaiden Sigma, Conan and Lara Croft Tomb Raider: Anniversary. With this well-deserved recognition, could it mean that Nariko could have a future spread in Playboy's Girl's of Gaming?

JoystiqPlayboy: Heavenly Sword has 'Best Jiggle Factor' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureawardsBeat-Em-Upbest-of-2007Hack-and-Slashheavenly-swordplayboySCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSat, 29 Dec 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword gets patched to 1.1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/22/heavenly-sword-gets-patched-to-1-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/22/heavenly-sword-gets-patched-to-1-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/22/heavenly-sword-gets-patched-to-1-1/#commentsFiled under:

The PS3-exclusive action game, Heavenly Sword recently got a 1.10 patch. Right now, the contents of this 18MB download are mysterious. It has been confirmed that DualShock 3 support has finally been added to the game, for those lucky enough to have imported the rumble-ready controller. But, certainly the patch must hold other surprises. 18MB is a lot of data for just rumble alone ...

JoystiqHeavenly Sword gets patched to 1.1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Dec 2007 21:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordpatchrumbleSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSat, 22 Dec 2007 21:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Andy Serkis spearheading East England game industry network]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/andy-serkis-spearheading-east-england-game-industry-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/andy-serkis-spearheading-east-england-game-industry-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/03/andy-serkis-spearheading-east-england-game-industry-network/#commentsFiled under:


Gamasutra reports that Andy Serkis is to become a ringleader of sorts for a new game industry network in the East of England. The actor, best known for his motion-captured portrayal of Gollum in Lord of the Rings and Bohan in the PlayStation 3's Heavenly Sword, will kick off "Games Eden" in the hopes of encouraging and supporting game development within the region. The endeavor aims to keep industry members in touch through an international website and a series of networking events, with the envisioned result being the growth of the economy within the region. Awfully nice of him, really.

Funded by the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), East of England International (EEI), Screen East and FDMX, Games Eden will be guided by one of those committee things (we're told Princess Leia is a poor example of one) comprised of representatives from the likes of Sony, Zoonami and Ninja Theory. As gaming continues to grow larger and more lucrative, you can likely expect similar initiatives to take root in industry hot spots around the world.

JoystiqAndy Serkis spearheading East England game industry network originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Dec 2007 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andy-SerkisHeavenly-SwordHeavenlySwordNinja-TheoryNinjaTheoryMon, 03 Dec 2007 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's danciest video: Merry Xmas 2K7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/todays-danciest-video-merry-xmas-2k7/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/todays-danciest-video-merry-xmas-2k7/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/30/todays-danciest-video-merry-xmas-2k7/#commentsFiled under:


It's a little early for Christmas, but it's always the right time for dancing video game characters! Jan3D has put together a super-short video as an early holiday gift to his/her fellow gamers. And to think that you weren't planning on getting him/her anything.

Not much else to say here. Just be prepared to see Big Daddy, Nariko, Mario, Master Chief, Ratchet, and NiGHTS like you've never seen them before -- in sync.

JoystiqToday's danciest video: Merry Xmas 2K7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Nov 2007 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockhaloheavenly-swordheavenlyswordhottest-videohottestvideomarionightsratchetandclankvotdFri, 30 Nov 2007 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese PSN Store gets two new demos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/japanese-psn-store-gets-two-new-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/japanese-psn-store-gets-two-new-demos/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/japanese-psn-store-gets-two-new-demos/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Japanese PSN store has been graced with two new demos. GI Jockey 4 2007 and Heavenly Sword have both had playable nuggets placed online for download. For those of you still interested in Heavenly Sword but not ready to actually pay money for it, this new demo may be for you. Featuring Kai, instead of Nariko, the second demo allows you to play through one of her arrow shooting missions - also allowing you a taste of using aftertouch to guide her arrows.

As for GI Jockey, we're fairly certain that if you're not into horse racing then this demo won't change your mind. Keep your eye out for the Gran Turismo Prologue demo - due to drop on the Japanese PSN Store later today.

JoystiqJapanese PSN Store gets two new demos originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demosHeavenly-SwordJapanFri, 19 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harrison: Sony didn't force motion controls on Lair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/harrison-sony-didnt-force-motion-controls-on-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/harrison-sony-didnt-force-motion-controls-on-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/harrison-sony-didnt-force-motion-controls-on-lair/#commentsFiled under:

Maybe trying to distance itself from the critically lambasted Lair, Phil Harrison told GameTrailers that it did not force tilt controls in Factor 5's controversial dragon game. "[Motion control] was definitely not mandated by us. We've always said all along that the use of the Sixaxis is something that should be decided by the developer in tune with their creative vision for the game, so it's not something we would mandate." In spite of this, it appears that many first-party Sony titles utilize tilt controls in some way. Thankfully, many developers have learned from the mistakes of Lair, and include options to turn off the tilt controls and replace them with analog movement (for example, Ratchet & Clank Future.)

In addition, Harrison doesn't find fault with Heavenly Sword's length -- a deciding factor that has limited the game's score in many reviews (including our own). "You know what? Not that many people finish games, so I think we shouldn't criticize a game for being a story, which has an arc with a beginning, a middle and an end... and actually encouraging all gamers to see all of the story, I think that's something positive." Granted, the experience looks and feels big-budget. But at the end of the day, most gamers probably want a longer journey for the increased price of admission.

[Thanks, njkid1! Via GameDaily]

JoystiqHarrison: Sony didn't force motion controls on Lair originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harrisonheavenly-swordlairphil-harrisonFri, 28 Sep 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy review: Heavenly Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/ps3-fanboy-review-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/ps3-fanboy-review-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/ps3-fanboy-review-heavenly-sword/#commentsFiled under:

Sony has recently started up their holiday blitz by releasing three highly anticipated games for the PlayStation 3; Warhawk, Lair, and Heavenly Sword. While Warhawk was released to almost universal praise, Lair was largely met with torches and pitchforks. So where does Heavenly Sword fall? Does it achieve the soaring greatness of Warhawk or is it doomed to languish in the used sales bin at your local videogame store like Lair?

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy review: Heavenly Sword

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy review: Heavenly Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Sep 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-UpHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordjoystiqfeaturesreviewsSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaWed, 26 Sep 2007 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War easter egg hidden in Heavenly Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/god-of-war-easter-egg-hidden-in-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/god-of-war-easter-egg-hidden-in-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/16/god-of-war-easter-egg-hidden-in-heavenly-sword/#comments Members of the PS3 Forums have found an interesting easter egg in Heavenly Sword. Kratos' sword and armor from God of War can be found somewhere in the depths of the armory during Kai's mission. Now, that begs the question: who would win in a fight: Kratos or Nariko? (We're siding with the tortured Greek here.)

[Thanks, XxBigP123xX!]

JoystiqGod of War easter egg hidden in Heavenly Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Sep 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Action-AdventureBeat-Em-Upeasteregggod-of-warHack-and-Slashheavenly-swordSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSun, 16 Sep 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword downloadable content coming ... if it sells well]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/heavenly-sword-downloadable-content-coming-if-it-sells-well/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/heavenly-sword-downloadable-content-coming-if-it-sells-well/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/heavenly-sword-downloadable-content-coming-if-it-sells-well/#commentsFiled under:

It's a two-way road, this video game business. Developers want you to buy their products so, in turn, if you request something from them then you had better be willing to front the cash. During a presentation and Q&A at last night's Warhawk tournament at 3Rooms, Tameem Antoniades (co-founder of Ninja Theory) was asked what his response was to the criticism that Heavenly Sword was too short. He replied that Ninja Theory are definitely interested in extending the experience via downloadable content - but only if it sells well.

The game has been getting good reviews pretty much across the board, with the most common criticism being that there simply isn't enough game to play. With the marketing push that is happening in Europe (we couldn't get through the paper this morning without being greeted by Nariko's face at least twice) we expect the game to sell well, but will it sell enough to persuade Ninja Theory to release extra content? We sincerely hope so. If you want to see it happen, then put down the money and buy the game.

JoystiqHeavenly Sword downloadable content coming ... if it sells well originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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