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[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[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[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[Worldwide PS3 releases for the week of September 10th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/09/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-september-9th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/09/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-september-9th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/09/worldwide-ps3-releases-for-the-week-of-september-9th/#commentsFiled under: ,

This week's release list can only be described as ... heavenly. We've been waiting for a long time for this. Heavenly Sword is finally available to the masses this week and we can't wait to get our hands on it. Here's the full release list:

US Games
European Games
 Asian Games
 Check it out. Two potentially great games being released simultaneously throughout America and Europe. This is what we really love to see. As for Megazone 23: Aoi Garland, we've never heard of it. If you're intrigued and want to try it out then go right ahead, your PS3 will play games from any region. Release dates are constantly subject to change, so always keep that in mind.

JoystiqWorldwide PS3 releases for the week of September 10th originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Sep 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CodemastersColin-McRae-DiRT-2DiRTDiRT-2euroreleasesheavenlyswordRacingreleasesSun, 09 Sep 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword to be bundled with French PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/heavenly-sword-to-be-bundled-in-french-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/heavenly-sword-to-be-bundled-in-french-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/heavenly-sword-to-be-bundled-in-french-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,


Sony has confirmed that the French will be getting a new "Starter Pack" for their PlayStation 3s starting Sept. 19 which will include Heavenly Sword and F1 Championship Edition. The rest of Europe can still take their Motorstorm, along with Resistance, and like it too! Speaking with GI.biz, Sony said, "The choice of which titles to include in the Starter Pack, and the freedom to change the titles is up to the individual markets based on their unique market conditions."

Sony went on to confirm that this new pack will be introduced in France for the time being and will be available for the Heavenly Sword launch. Actually, it would be hilarious if Sony America ever introduced the Starter Pack in the States and started offering games to "individual markets based on their unique market conditions." One state gets Motorstorm, while another gets Heavenly Sword. We'd love to see how those determinations would be made.

JoystiqHeavenly Sword to be bundled with French PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeheavenlyswordps3starterpackThu, 06 Sep 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animated series: Part V]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-v/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-v/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-v/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In this episode of the Heavenly Sword animated series we discover that the return of the Heavenly Warrior is met with disbelief as it turns out the baby has a va-jay-jay. Yup, she's born a -- wait for it -- "worthless girl." Ouch, the clan initially decides to kill her, but they seem to settle on letting her live as an outcast.

The series is starting to wrap up in preparation for Heavenly Sword's Sept. 12 launch. We really do hope that the crumb of a demo isn't indicative of the whole experience. At this point, it's sad to think we'd prefer having three-minute animated shorts tell the story of the game each week than actually play the thing. We'll find out in a week.

See also: Part I, Part II, Part III & IV

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animated series: Part V originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animatedcartoonheavenlyswordheavenlyswordanimatedPS3Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animation: The Day of the Warrior]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/heavenly-sword-animation-the-day-of-the-warrior/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/heavenly-sword-animation-the-day-of-the-warrior/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/heavenly-sword-animation-the-day-of-the-warrior/#commentsFiled under:

And finally, it comes: the day of the warrior. Entrusted with the Heavenly Sword, will this warrior succumb to the sword's mythical bloodlust? Watch this week's episode of the Heavenly Sword prequel animation and see Nariko's transformation into a skilled warrior. This episode will also be available for download this Thursday on the PlayStation Store. Check out the previous episodes here:

See also:
Episode 1: Legend of the Heavenly Sword
Episode 2: Guardian of the Sword
Episode 3: The Rise of Evil
Episode 4: The Divine Birth

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animation: The Day of the Warrior originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Sep 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationheavenlyswordTue, 04 Sep 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animation: The Divine Birth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/28/heavenly-sword-animation-the-divine-birth/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/28/heavenly-sword-animation-the-divine-birth/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/28/heavenly-sword-animation-the-divine-birth/#commentsFiled under:

The Heavenly Sword animation continues. The latest episode chronicles the journeys of the clan that protects the Heavenly Sword. At the end of their trials comes a birth of the divine variety (is there any other kind?). What will this mysterious baby become? Well, you'll have to watch and find out, no?

This episode will be available in HD on the PlayStation Store later this week.

See also:
Episode 1: Legend of the Heavenly Sword
Episode 2: Guardian of the Sword
Episode 3: The Rise of Evil

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animation: The Divine Birth originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Aug 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationanimeheavenlyswordTue, 28 Aug 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animated series: Part III & IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/28/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-iii-and-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/28/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-iii-and-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/28/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-iii-and-iv/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's a double feature with parts three and four of the Heavenly Sword animated series. Part three tells the tale of a son's betrayal and his desire to become a god. This animated series has been a great way to get exposition and background out of the way before the game releases Sept 12 -- we're still fence-sitting in angst after the PSN demo if these shorts will end up being cooler than the game.

Part four can be found after the break, in it the clan protecting the sword prepares for the rebirth of the Heavenly Warrior ... a boy savior. Then there's a shocking cliffhanger during the birth. Um, not to ruin anything, but most should be able to guess what the revelation was if you've been paying attention to Heavenly Sword at all.

See also: Part I, Part II

Continue reading Heavenly Sword animated series: Part III & IV

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animated series: Part III & IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animatedcartoonheavenlyswordheavenlyswordanimatedPS3Tue, 28 Aug 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Even more Heavenly Sword screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/even-more-heavenly-sword-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/even-more-heavenly-sword-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/even-more-heavenly-sword-screenshots/#commentsFiled under:


The deluge of Leipzig Games Convention information made us forget to give you these: brand new direct-feed shots of Heavenly Sword. You know the drill by now: these have Nariko destroying her enemies, in one horrifying way after the other. IGN UK may not have liked the game, but GamePro certainly did, giving it a 4.5/5. It won't be too long before American audiences get their hands on the game, and judge for themselves.

Check out the gallery now.

JoystiqEven more Heavenly Sword screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Aug 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordMon, 27 Aug 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Theory wants Heavenly Sword sequel [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/ninja-theory-wants-heavenly-sword-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/ninja-theory-wants-heavenly-sword-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/24/ninja-theory-wants-heavenly-sword-sequel/#commentsFiled under:

We can't say we didn't see it coming -- Ninja Theory is willing to give us a second Heavenly Sword game. Chief developer for Ninja Theory (always get the two ninja companies confused), Nina Kristensen, issued this statement: "We'd certainly like to do the sequel with Sony but nothing's been set in stone ... We're looking to expand and do new things but certainly we want to continue the Heavenly Sword franchise." Ultimately the decision comes down to Sony and we're sure their decision will be based on sales of the first game.

Reviews are starting to come in for all of Sony's anticipated, heavy-hitting games. While there aren't a lot of reviews for Heavenly Sword just yet, it's getting mostly positive responses. Also, since it is so heavily anticipated, we think it'll sell well enough for Sony to "okay" a sequel. Even though most of us haven't gotten our hands on the final version, do you think Heavenly Sword should turn into another sequel-churning franchise, or is there just something a little more special about a single game that tells a whole story?

[Update: changed "Team Ninja" to "Ninja Theory"... seriously, these companies need to think a litter harder about their names.]

JoystiqNinja Theory wants Heavenly Sword sequel [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Aug 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordninjatheoryFri, 24 Aug 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[IGN UK reviews "Sevenly Sword"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/23/ign-uk-reviews-sevenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/23/ign-uk-reviews-sevenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/23/ign-uk-reviews-sevenly-sword/#commentsFiled under:


The NeoGAF forums exploded in a fury of wild emotions at IGN UK's recent review of the much anticipated Heavenly Sword. The critics at IGN UK have much to praise about the game's visual presentation, noting its stellar graphics: "Everything from the beautifully designed, slickly animated characters to those magnificent, omnipresent sweeping vistas is a glory to behold."

But the review goes downhill from there. The combat system is called "tiresome and, to be blunt, incredibly boring." The story goes through a "hopelessly hackneyed, melodramatic script."

IGN UK is known for its highly critical reviews. However, PS3 fans must feel like Nariko (above) when one of the first reviews of such a heavily promoted game gets bashed so strongly. Hopefully, future reviews will show the game in a more favorable light, considering how crucial having a AAA title in the PS3 library is.

JoystiqIGN UK reviews "Sevenly Sword" originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Aug 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordignignukneogafreviewThu, 23 Aug 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animation: The Rise of Evil]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/heavenly-sword-animation-the-rise-of-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/heavenly-sword-animation-the-rise-of-evil/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/20/heavenly-sword-animation-the-rise-of-evil/#commentsFiled under:

It's Monday. You know what the means: another episode of the Heavenly Sword prequel animation. As if the titular Heavenly Sword wasn't cursed with bloodlust already, this episode chronicles the rise of evil. As usual, you'll be able to download a high definition version later in this week's Store update.

See also:
Episode 1: Legend of the Heavenly Sword
Episode 2: Guardian of the Sword

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animation: The Rise of Evil originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Aug 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationanimeheavenlyswordMon, 20 Aug 2007 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/18/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/18/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/18/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-30/#commentsFiled under:

Finally, after a long E3-related hiatus, PSP Fanboy Theatre is back with an all new edition. Every weekend, PSP owners can download files wirelessly via m.pspfanboy.com.

Instructions: Save all movie and thumbnail files to the VIDEO folder. These high resolution 480x272 videos require firmware 3.30 or above. (Note: OE custom firmware will also play these videos.)

New for PSP: Get selected videos delivered automatically to your PSP via our new RSS feed.


Legend of the Heavenly Sword: Part 2
Download MP4 (13.1MB) | Download JPG

The following videos are featured after the break: Folklore (PS3), Jericho, Stranglehold, Team Fortress 2, Tony Hawk's Proving Ground.

Continue reading PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 30

JoystiqPSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Aug 2007 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>folkloreheavenlyswordjerichostrangleholdteamfortress2theatretonyhawkSat, 18 Aug 2007 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 first-party exclusives finally get EU release dates]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/ps3-first-party-exclusives-finally-get-eu-release-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/ps3-first-party-exclusives-finally-get-eu-release-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/ps3-first-party-exclusives-finally-get-eu-release-dates/#commentsFiled under:


It's been kind of hard getting Sony to nail down release dates for their upcoming stable of first-party exclusives, regardless of territory. Europe has really gotten the rawest deal though, with no confirmed release dates for any games period -- until now. Thanks to Gamer's Creed, Europeans finally know when they will be getting the first wave of mega-titles from Sony. Here's the list according to the scanned documents:
  • Warhawk with headset: September 19th
  • Heavenly Sword: September 19th
  • Folklore: October 10th
  • Lair: October 24th
  • Eye of Judgment: October 24th
  • Singstar: October
The release dates are kind of lame in general -- with Europe getting titles between two weeks and a month later than Americans get them. At least PS3s are region free, so impatient Euros can simply just order them from an American store like this one (as used by Jem, our resident foreigner). Still, the release list has got to be frustrating for Europeans wanting for the summer game drought to finally end.

[Via N4G]

JoystiqPS3 first-party exclusives finally get EU release dates originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeeyeofjudgmentheavenlyswordlairsingstarwarhawkThu, 16 Aug 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword packed with 10 GB of sound data]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/heavenly-sword-packed-with-10-gb-of-sound-data/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/heavenly-sword-packed-with-10-gb-of-sound-data/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/15/heavenly-sword-packed-with-10-gb-of-sound-data/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ninja Theory's Heavenly Sword has some beautiful music -- anyone with the demo can testify to that. An interview with lead audio Tom Colvin has quantified the developer's focus on aural satisfaction: 10 GB of sound data is included in the game, according to Develop.

That sizable number includes approximately three and a half hours of music, sound effects and 4,500 lines of dialog. "There's an hour and a half's worth of cut scenes in eleven languages," said SCEE's Garry Taylor.

A dual layer DVD disc has an 8.5 GB capacity; will Sony be touting that its competition couldn't even fit the audio onto their discs? We'd be surprised if they showed restraint.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqHeavenly Sword packed with 10 GB of sound data originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Aug 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audiobluraydevelopheavenlyswordninjatheoryPS3sonyWed, 15 Aug 2007 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword has 10GB of sound data alone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/heavenly-sword-has-10gb-of-sound-data-alone/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/heavenly-sword-has-10gb-of-sound-data-alone/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/heavenly-sword-has-10gb-of-sound-data-alone/#commentsFiled under:


What's that about Blu-ray discs not being needed? According to Develop Magazine, Heavenly Sword has over 10 GB of sound FX, with three and a half hours of music, 4500 different lines of dialogue, and an hour and a half of cut scenes recorded in eleven (!) different languages. This means that without even counting the textures, art, models or anything else, the game couldn't fit on a normal DVD. It also means we're in for a hell of an aural treat when the game comes out next month.

Tom Covin, the audio lead for Ninja Theory, explains why they've put so much time and effort into their music and sound effects, "For me, sound is very 'immediate' to the player. Music has a well-established cultural language; sound is much less clearly delineated - but you can get straight to someone's emotional responses with it - there's little time for the brain to analyse. Sound is key in making this awesome weapon - the Heavenly Sword - come to life so you can sense its brooding power and almost hear it feeding off each kill."

The Develop article delves in deep into the sound theory and technology that was used in the development of Heavenly Sword and is a great read for those interested in some of the behind-the-scene machinations of one of the PS3's most anticipated titles. If only September would come a little quicker ...

JoystiqHeavenly Sword has 10GB of sound data alone originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-rayheavenlyswordTue, 14 Aug 2007 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Heavenly Sword gallery shows Andy Serkis in a funny suit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/new-heavenly-sword-gallery-shows-andy-serkis-in-a-funny-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/new-heavenly-sword-gallery-shows-andy-serkis-in-a-funny-suit/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/new-heavenly-sword-gallery-shows-andy-serkis-in-a-funny-suit/#commentsFiled under:

We love Andy Serkis for everything he's done for Heavenly Sword. Helping turn a game into a cinematic masterpiece. We've loved him for years though, ever since his role in Lord of the Rings. In fact, we're no strangers to seeing Serkis in a mo-cap suit, seeing as we watched the extras on the LOTR DVDs several times.

Our new gallery, found below, includes some fresh Serkis mo-cap pictures and some interesting King Bohan images. They are particularly fascinating to those interested in the specifics of 3D graphics generation. Low-polygon wireframes of King Bohan are found alongside high detailed mudbox renders. Fascinating!

JoystiqNew Heavenly Sword gallery shows Andy Serkis in a funny suit originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galleryHeavenlyswordTue, 14 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Heavenly Sword art shows off weapons, environments]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/new-heavenly-sword-art-shows-off-weapons-environments/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/new-heavenly-sword-art-shows-off-weapons-environments/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/new-heavenly-sword-art-shows-off-weapons-environments/#commentsFiled under:


Okay, we admit we have a love affair with Heavenly Sword. So much so that we're willing to grab onto any piece of art that comes out of Ninja Theory. This latest batch of art focuses on the weapons and environments in this upcoming PS3 action game. The graphics engine is impressive ... but what drives the real visual beauty of the game comes from its impressive art. Check out our gallery below:

JoystiqNew Heavenly Sword art shows off weapons, environments originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artconceptartheavenlyswordTue, 14 Aug 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Andy Serkis talks mo-cap in Heavenly Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/andy-serkis-talks-mo-cap-in-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/andy-serkis-talks-mo-cap-in-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/andy-serkis-talks-mo-cap-in-heavenly-sword/#commentsFiled under:

Yeah, we're impressed by the emotion delivered by the motion captured performances in Heavenly Sword. Andy "the guy who played Gollum" Serkis talked about his role as Dramatic Director of the game to CVG. Playing the game's villain meant internalizing a different kind of mentality for the actor: "Well, Bohan was this dictator that created his own moral universe where he was right. Rather than just playing an evil guy, you have to sort of believe in what you're doing - most dictators do. So I've been reading about dictators."

Unfortunately, it appears that Serkis' skill at acting far exceeds his ability to play games. "I'm pretty hopeless at games," he admits. "I love playing Shadow Of The Colossus, just riding round on my horse looking for colossi. I haven't actually found any yet, though." Andy, one clue to you: look for the moving giant in the distance.

[Thanks, Random1448!]

JoystiqAndy Serkis talks mo-cap in Heavenly Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andyserkisheavenlyswordmo-capmotioncaptureTue, 14 Aug 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animated series: Part II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/14/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-ii/#commentsFiled under: ,

In the second part of the Heavenly Sword animated series we discover that the sword wielded by the Heavenly Warrior in the first part became a burden on man. Eventually, to save the power obsessed people from themselves it ends up in the hands of a tribe that would protect it.

Yup, we're definitely enjoying these little shorts. At least we can respect this type of marketing, and the art behind it, compared to Nintendo's mind-numbing Smash Bros. info drip. Maybe Heavenly Sword will reveal Sonic as a secret character in Part III of the animated series?

See also: Part I

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animated series: Part II originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2007 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animatedcartoonheavenlyswordheavenlyswordanimatedPS3Tue, 14 Aug 2007 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animation: Guardian of the Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/heavenly-sword-animation-guardian-of-the-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/heavenly-sword-animation-guardian-of-the-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/13/heavenly-sword-animation-guardian-of-the-sword/#commentsFiled under:

The Heavenly Sword animation continues this week. Once again, GAP members were treated to an early look, and now the video is freely available for you to enjoy. This time, find out more about the Guardian of the Sword, and expect to find the video (in HD!) later this week when the PlayStation Store updates.

See also:
Heavenly Sword animation explains mythic origins

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animation: Guardian of the Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Aug 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animeheavenlyswordMon, 13 Aug 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Piyotama, Heavenly Sword videos in today's US PSN update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/piyotama-heavenly-sword-videos-in-todays-us-psn-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/piyotama-heavenly-sword-videos-in-todays-us-psn-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/piyotama-heavenly-sword-videos-in-todays-us-psn-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pastel-colored chickens are trapped in pastel-colored eggs and the only way to save them is to match four colored eggs and let the Magic of Physics handle the rest! Piyotama is available today on the US PlayStation Network for $2.99. European PS3 owners are not so lucky, having been denied egg-popping this week.

Two Heavenly Sword videos -- the first part of a Behind-the-Scenes featurette and the first episode of the animated series -- are also out today for the low, low cost of nothing.

JoystiqPiyotama, Heavenly Sword videos in today's US PSN update originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordpiyotamaplaystationnetworkPS3psnThu, 09 Aug 2007 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[American PSN updates for August 9th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/american-psn-updates-for-august-9th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/american-psn-updates-for-august-9th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/american-psn-updates-for-august-9th/#commentsFiled under: ,


Piyotama! That's cool, right? Eggs! Yay! It's that time again, we know what's coming to the US PSN this afternoon. Check below for the full list.
  • Piyotama game ($2.99)
  • Heavenly Sword Anime episode 1 (free)
  • Heavenly Sword making of video 1 (free)
  • Turok E3 trailer (free)
  • 10,000 BC movie trailer (free)
  • Fred Claus movie trailer (free)
  • Superbad movie trailer (free)
  • Perfect Stranger movie trailer (free)
How do we feel about that? We're not sure. We're still numb from the thrashing the European PSN gave us earlier today. We will say this though, as annoyed as we are that playable content is woefully limited (or egg-based), that Heavenly Sword anime is pretty nice. As animation connoisseurs we appreciate this sort of thing and look forward to future episodes. Though, not at the expense of demos. Please.

JoystiqAmerican PSN updates for August 9th originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordpiyotamareleasesThu, 09 Aug 2007 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animated series: Part I]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/heavenly-sword-animated-series-part-i/#commentsFiled under: ,

Was this Heavenly Sword cartoon originally conceived as a glorified commercial for the game? Sure it was. But so was the Star Wars: Clone Wars animated series on the Cartoon Network, and those things ended up being better than the movies. We won't be able to judge if the animated series is better than the game until Sept. 12, but so far we've been disappointed by neither.

In this first part of the animated series we learn the origins of the sword. Although eventually wielded by the Nariko, the sword actually belonged to ... well, watch the clip to find out. Oh, and we'll definitely take more of these animated series promoting games please. We're enjoying this and GameTap's Tomb Raider animated series very much.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

Gallery: Heavenly Sword (PS3)

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animated series: Part I originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animatedcartoonheavenlyswordheavenlyswordanimatedPS3Wed, 08 Aug 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword animation explains mythic origins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/heavenly-sword-animation-explains-mythic-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/heavenly-sword-animation-explains-mythic-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/heavenly-sword-animation-explains-mythic-origins/#commentsFiled under:

Ever wanted to know where the titular Heavenly Sword came from? Sony's releasing a brand new animated series highlighting the origins of Nariko's sword. Available first to GAP members, the video has made its way to the internet ... and to you. Watch the first part of an ongoing series, to be updated weekly.

JoystiqHeavenly Sword animation explains mythic origins originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 16:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationanimeheavenlyswordTue, 07 Aug 2007 16:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword producer defends against Itagaki's jabs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/heavenly-sword-producer-defends-against-itagakis-jabs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/heavenly-sword-producer-defends-against-itagakis-jabs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/heavenly-sword-producer-defends-against-itagakis-jabs/#commentsFiled under: ,

Oh no he didn't news now, with Team Ninja's tough-talking Tomonobu Itagaki expressing his thoughts on Heavenly Sword, September's highly anticipated PS3 kill-em-up from Ninja Theory. It seems the interactive cutscenes and corresponding button prompts didn't sit too well with the drinking designer. "I've never played a good game where the developers put a big icon of the button you're supposed to press onscreen," he told EGM (via CVG). "I look at Heavenly Sword and it seems really half-assed, because it's asking you to do all these button-timing sequences but you are not getting much payoff from it."

Itagaki has every right to feel robbed -- if he's never played a good game like that, we can only conclude that he's never experienced Shenmue, Resident Evil 4, God of War or Tomb Raider: Anniversary. He's probably played Dragon's Lair though.

Not content with leaving the battle of "Ninja" developers without a fight, Heavenly Sword producer Kyle Shubel courteously defended the game's interactive events, noting that the feats accomplished in them would be frustrating to pull off on your own. "My response to Mr. Itagaki would be that the intent of the Hero sequences is to empower the player to experience events that would be nearly impossible to play in a natural platforming state... for example, making the player run down ropes, leaping from rope to rope as they're being cut from underneath you, all while dodging other objects - that would be a frustrating experience to 99 percent of our users if we were to force them to do that manually."

We'll find out next month if Heavenly Sword is a fully-assed answer to Itagaki's thrice-released Ninja Gaiden.

JoystiqHeavenly Sword producer defends against Itagaki's jabs originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Aug 2007 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HeavenlySwordItagakiOhNoHeDidntPS3tomonobu-itagakiMon, 06 Aug 2007 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword called "half-assed" by Ninja Gaiden Guru]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/heavenly-sword-called-half-assed-by-ninja-gaiden-guru/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/heavenly-sword-called-half-assed-by-ninja-gaiden-guru/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/06/heavenly-sword-called-half-assed-by-ninja-gaiden-guru/#commentsFiled under:

In the latest issue of EGM, Ninja Gaiden creator Itagaki Tomonobu spoke out against the upcoming Heavenly Sword, deeming the sequences where you press certain buttons to perform certain actions (known as "hero sequences") a poor design choice and "half-assed".

Itagaki-san was quoted as saying: "I've never played a good game where the developers put a big icon of the button you're supposed to press onscreen ... I look at Heavenly Sword and it seems really half-assed, because it's asking you to do all these button-timing sequences but you are not getting much payoff from it." We have to disagree with Itagaki-san. For some of the actions you perform, there wouldn't be a really good substitute outside of timed button sequences. It's mostly for style and we enjoy watching them. With that in mind, we think there's a lot of potential for payoff.

Kyle Shubel, producer at Ninja Theory, responded to Itagaki's statement. It's a battle of words! "My response to Mr. Itagaki would be that the intent of the Hero sequences is to empower the player to experience events that would be nearly impossible to play in a natural platforming state ... for example, making the player run down ropes, leaping from rope to rope as they're being cut from underneath you, all while dodging other objects - that would be a frustrating experience to 99 percent of our users if we were to force them to do that manually." We agree, and we'll leave it at that.

[via N4G]

JoystiqHeavenly Sword called "half-assed" by Ninja Gaiden Guru originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Aug 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>egmheavenlysworditagakiMon, 06 Aug 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New videos show why it's Heavenly Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/05/new-videos-show-why-its-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/05/new-videos-show-why-its-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/05/new-videos-show-why-its-heavenly-sword/#commentsFiled under:

There's a reason why the game is called Heavenly Sword. Not Mediocre Sword. Not Slightly-Above-Par Sword. Heavenly. There's no doubt that the collaborative work of Weta Digital and Ninja Theory has created some truly stunning and emotive visuals. But that's not all! After the cut, you'll see some intense gameplay against a boss. Those that were afraid that the game might be repetitive need not: it looks like Heavenly Sword is hiding a lot -- and we can't wait to see more as we get closer to its September release.

Continue reading New videos show why it's Heavenly Sword

JoystiqNew videos show why it's Heavenly Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordSun, 05 Aug 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword dated for September 12th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/heavenly-sword-dated-for-september-12th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/heavenly-sword-dated-for-september-12th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/heavenly-sword-dated-for-september-12th/#commentsFiled under:


Remember when we said that Lair and Heavenly Sword would be out on the same day, since the delay? Well it looks like that won't be the case. Heavenly Sword has now been "pushed back" (or "officially dated" if you want to be picky) for September 12th, a full week after Lair. Currently our minds are reeling. Just the thought of two highly anticipated titles actually being released is almost enough for us to forgive the recent delays and "official datings". Almost.

With August being the game wasteland that it is, with nary a Blu-Ray disc release to be seen, we're counting on Sony to step up to the plate and deliver us some decent PSN downloadable content for the next three weeks or so. To be fair, however, the last few weeks since E3 have been good for the PSN Store. Let's keep those demos coming. Ratchet and Clank and Lair, we're looking at you ...

Having said that, once August is over we can look forward to decent games coming at least every couple of weeks. Won't that be a treat. Hang on, I have a funny sense of deja vu.

JoystiqHeavenly Sword dated for September 12th originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordFri, 03 Aug 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword dated Sept 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/heavenly-sword-dated-sept-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/heavenly-sword-dated-sept-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/03/heavenly-sword-dated-sept-12/#commentsFiled under: , ,

bff
Sony's laying its exclusive bait early this year-end season, announcing a September 12th release date for Heavenly Sword. The crumb of a demo might be enough to whet the appetites of software-starved PlayStation 3 owners leading up to the full game release (really, what PS3 owner isn't gonna bite?), but the 5-minute tease hasn't generated the level of buzz that already surrounds two Xbox 360 console-exclusives, which sandwich Heavenly Sword's mid-September debut; that's BioShock (Aug 21st) and Halo 3 (Sept 25th). Of course, for those of us who devour games regardless of platform, it's time to loosen our belts -- let gluttony commence!

Gallery: Heavenly Sword (PS3)

JoystiqHeavenly Sword dated Sept 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>HeavenlySwordNinjaTheoryPS3Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword's origin is on first Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/heavenly-swords-origin-is-on-first-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/heavenly-swords-origin-is-on-first-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/heavenly-swords-origin-is-on-first-xbox/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Heavenly Sword could have been an interactive version of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon exclusively for Xbox One. Gametrailers chronicles the history of the now-PS3 exclusive by Ninja Theory using trailers that have been shown since May 2003.

Originally, protagonist Nariko had black hair, a more traditional Chinese attire, and a voice eerily similar to Michelle Yeoh. Even more reminiscent of films like Crouching Tiger and Hero were scenes of combat on top of water and gravity-bereft air fights. By May 2004, Nariko's hair had turned red and her clothes had all but disappeared. It wasn't until May 2005 that Heavenly Sword began to look like the final version we know today. A trailer from E3 2006 is not in the video montage, but trust us, it was there.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqHeavenly Sword's origin is on first Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordninjatheoryPS3videoXboxWed, 01 Aug 2007 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3 to rock Lollapallooza]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/playstation-3-to-rock-lollapallooza/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/playstation-3-to-rock-lollapallooza/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/playstation-3-to-rock-lollapallooza/#comments
Since nothing emphasizes the street cred and indie-vibe of an alternative music show like having a massive corporate sponsor, Sony has announced that they are sponsoring Lollapallooza this year and will be having a major presence at the event. Attendees at the show will be able to play a wide variety of PlayStation titles, including both Lair and Heavenly Sword on the PlayStation 3. Also shown will be Buzz and Singstar on the PS2 and Parappa on the PSP. Sony will even be having contests and competitive games to entertain you, in case you're not real into the musical lineup this year (and with Pearl Jam headlining, nobody would blame you).

Anybody hear planning on hitting up Lair-apallooza? (Sorry had to do it.) If so, let us know what you think of the games!

JoystiqPlayStation 3 to rock Lollapallooza originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordlairlollapalloozaMon, 30 Jul 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Still no solid release date for Heavenly Sword]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/still-no-solid-release-date-for-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/still-no-solid-release-date-for-heavenly-sword/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/still-no-solid-release-date-for-heavenly-sword/#comments
Aside from the same "September" date we've heard mumbled over and over for the past several months, there's no real solid release set for Heavenly Sword. Rumors have quaked about the title getting a release on September 14th, but Sony says nothing in return. Ninja Theory fully expects the game to get the go-ahead for September, but whether or not it'll be the 14th is up in the air.

Since we love random discussions, what if it gets delayed back to November for no apparent reason? There are a ton of titles hitting in November and this "launch title" would not do well to suffer from any more delays. It needs to get in the hands of the people as soon as possible, and if that's September, then fine. We don't know if we'll be able to handle another delay!

JoystiqStill no solid release date for Heavenly Sword originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordMon, 30 Jul 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq talks about Heavenly Sword's Chatterbox and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/joystiq-talks-heavenly-swords-chatterbox-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/joystiq-talks-heavenly-swords-chatterbox-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/joystiq-talks-heavenly-swords-chatterbox-and-more/#commentsFiled under:


Rhianna Pratchett is the esteemed writer of Sony's upcoming PS3 action game, Heavenly Sword. In a revealing interview with Joystiq, she reveals her inspirations and the responsibilities of a game writer (you know you want to be one).

One of the more interesting aspects of Heavenly Sword's dialog system comes from its "Chatterbox" system. As she explains: "the Chatterbox system that the Ninja Theory guys have talked about way back when they did the cover of Heavenly Sword in Edge. You've got the soldiers talking away to each other during fights, mocking Nariko, mocking each other, reacting to the player's moves etc. The enemy will have a noticeable change depending on how many of them there are in the fight. If there are lots then they'll be more upbeat and bolshy. If there's just a few they'll be much more panicked or cowardly."

Read Joystiq's full interview to find out more about Heavenly Sword and game writing.

JoystiqJoystiq talks about Heavenly Sword's Chatterbox and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordinterviewjoystiqrhiannapratchettMon, 30 Jul 2007 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq interviews Heavenly Sword's Rhianna Pratchett]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/joystiq-interviews-heavenly-swords-rhianna-pratchett/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/joystiq-interviews-heavenly-swords-rhianna-pratchett/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/joystiq-interviews-heavenly-swords-rhianna-pratchett/#commentsFiled under: ,


While at the Develop Conference we had the opportunity to sit down with Rhianna Pratchett, script writer and story designer for Heavenly Sword. We discuss the story of the game, her inspiration, the role of storytelling in video games and, among other things, her dad's (author Terry Pratchett) influence on her work.

Why are you writing for games, in particular?

I've always been a gamer, since I was about six and I started playing Mazogs on the ZX81. My dad was very techy and into computers, electronics, robots and that kind of thing. He'd bring something that clicked and whirred home and I was an only child so, of course, I was fascinated with whatever my dad was doing. Games were only really becoming commercial then and maybe he thought it was quite cute to get his six year old daughter playing a game where she would run around with a sword killing giant bugs. I asked him about Mazogs the other day and he said that he remembers me being rather frightened of the bug creatures, at first. Although once I found I could kill them, I was much happier!

I got hooked from that and I would get all his hand-me-down machines. We would play lots of games together, mainly isometric adventure games. Or rather, he would play them and I would sit beside him drawing all the maps for him. When I was around eleven years old, a girl called Katie moved next door to me and we would play adventure games together (there was precious little else to do in our tiny, one-road village!) but this time it was our adventure. We played games like Monkey Island, King's Quest, even things like the old Leisure Suit Larry games (we'd have to guess all the 'are you 18?' questions - which were mainly, and rather bizarrely, about the American political process!)

I studied journalism at university. I didn't really think about games writing back then, so I started off being a games journalist, in about '98 on a magazine called PC Zone, which was (and still is) quite a hardcore PC magazine. I also did some work for The Guardian for a couple of years. Then about four years ago, I started going freelance and then I got my first gig as a story editor for a game and it took off from there as I started to get more and more projects.

Gallery: Heavenly Sword (PS3)


Continue reading Joystiq interviews Heavenly Sword's Rhianna Pratchett

JoystiqJoystiq interviews Heavenly Sword's Rhianna Pratchett originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DevelopConferenceHeavenlySwordinterviewsjoystiqfeaturesRhiannaPratchettMon, 30 Jul 2007 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword demo too short? Watch these vids]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/28/heavenly-sword-demo-too-short-watch-these-vids/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/28/heavenly-sword-demo-too-short-watch-these-vids/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/28/heavenly-sword-demo-too-short-watch-these-vids/#commentsFiled under:

We're sorry that the playable Heavenly Sword demo that was recently released on the PlayStation Store is so short. Instead or providing you with the meaty experience we received at E3, Sony decided to give you about five minutes of gameplay -- a mere tease that might mask how truly brilliant Heavenly Sword truly is. Don't be fooled: as we said before, this is not meant to be God of War -- it's far more methodically paced than Sony's Greek epic.

In lieu of an extended gameplay experience, the best we can offer are these videos from GameVideos.com. Watch as Nariko devastates a small army of minions with her stylish moves. We've become enamored by Nariko and hope that the final game is as good as we hope it'll be.

Continue reading Heavenly Sword demo too short? Watch these vids

JoystiqHeavenly Sword demo too short? Watch these vids originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordSat, 28 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST