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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Heavy Rain cost $52 million but made $130 million, you do the math]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/heavy-rain-cost-52-million-but-made-130-million-you-do-the-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/heavy-rain-cost-52-million-but-made-130-million-you-do-the-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/heavy-rain-cost-52-million-but-made-130-million-you-do-the-ma/#comments Heavy Rain cost $52 million but made $130 million, you do the mathHeavy Rain cost developer Quantic Dream $21.8 million to make, and with Sony's marketing budget added in, production costs topped out at $52.2 million (based on a mid-range euro-dollar exchange rate of $1.31), Quantic CEO Guillaume de Fondaumiere tells Eurogamer. It was worth it in the end - Heavy Rain made Sony more than $130.6 million.

"It's very profitable," Fondaumiere says. Since there seems to be a wide discrepancy between the definition of "successful" in AAA and smaller games, it's always good to know that yes, more than $100 million is still "profitable" to some developers.

JoystiqHeavy Rain cost $52 million but made $130 million, you do the math originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costdevelopmentHeavy-Rainplaystationproduction-costps3quantic-dreamSONYSun, 21 Apr 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain composer Normand Corbeil passes away, aged 56]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/heavy-rain-composer-normand-corbeil-passes-away-aged-56/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/heavy-rain-composer-normand-corbeil-passes-away-aged-56/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/heavy-rain-composer-normand-corbeil-passes-away-aged-56/#comments Heavy Rain composer Normand Corbeil passes away, aged 56Normand Corbeil, the celebrated screen and video game composer, has died at age 56. Corbeil, twice nominated for Emmy awards for his work on Hitler: The Rise of Evil and Human Trafficking, composed the award-winning music of Quantic Dream's Heavy Rain. He also co-composed Indigo Prophecy, and was working on the studio's next project, Beyond: Two Souls. After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August 2012, Corbeil passed away on January 25.

One of the key components of Heavy Rain, a game Joystiq doled out five stars to, was its powerful, often deeply melancholic music. As our reviewer put it, Corbeil's "superb" accompanying score drew you into the experience because it fit the situation so well.

Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and colleagues. Gaming has lost a great composer, but Corbeil's work lives on, and we hope you take the time today to enjoy it.

JoystiqHeavy Rain composer Normand Corbeil passes away, aged 56 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beyond-two-soulscomposerdeathheavy-rainmusicnormand-corbeilquantic-dreamripMon, 28 Jan 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EU could lose tax breaks for game developers, threatens talent exodus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/eu-could-lose-tax-breaks-for-game-developers-threatens-talent-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/eu-could-lose-tax-breaks-for-game-developers-threatens-talent-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/eu-could-lose-tax-breaks-for-game-developers-threatens-talent-e/#comments The European Union provides us a small-scale glimpse into the potential functions of a truly global society -- and more recently, a global society in crisis. The unified currency of the EU, the Euro, was on the brink of collapse recently and all of its member countries are still running damage control.

Now, France in particular is facing another monetary hurdle, as its tax incentive for game development has expired and casued "genuine concern" the EU may not renew the exception that would reinstate it. State aid is normally forbidden under EU law, but in some cases it is allowed -- without an exception, game-development tax incentives would be banned in all EU countries, including France and the UK, Develop reports.

French developer Quantic Dream (Heavy Rain) said that if the tax break is not reinstated it would relocate its operations to Canada, which does offer incentives for development companies, Develop adds. And according to TIGA, The UK's game-development workforce -- which sees no tax breaks -- fell 10 percent between 2008 and 2011, with 41 percent of its workers relocating overseas to countries such as Canada.

JoystiqEU could lose tax breaks for game developers, threatens talent exodus originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaEUeuropeEuropean-UnionfranceHeavy-Rainmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3quantic-dreamtax-breakstaxesvitawiixboxThu, 09 Feb 2012 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial: 'I'm tired of saving the world']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/editorial-im-tired-of-saving-the-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/editorial-im-tired-of-saving-the-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/28/editorial-im-tired-of-saving-the-world/#comments Heavy Rain asks us "How far would you go to save someone you love?" Few games bother with this sort of question because the answer is intensely personal. Most games would rather task you with saving the world than with rocking a baby to sleep or patching up a failed relationship. This intransigence on the part of developers to create idiosyncratic stories that resonate with the individual is holding the medium back.

Why should gaming's prime inspiration be Michael Bay instead of David Lynch, David Mamet, Paul Thomas Anderson, or even Mel Brooks? An interactive medium like this has the potential to tell complex stories in ways that are sublime, irreverent, and evocative.

Gaming could explore the human condition by interfacing with the player like books, movies, and TV never could. Instead, we do battle with rogue Russian nationalists, storm Normandy for the 47th time, or fight off an alien invasion. I can't relate to any of this.

I'm tired of saving the world, and the industry is belatedly coming to the same realization. My favorite games of 2011, L.A. Noire and Catherine, spent generous time on character development, with highly personal stories that resonate with the individual.

Continue reading Editorial: 'I'm tired of saving the world'

JoystiqEditorial: 'I'm tired of saving the world' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscatherinedseditorialheavy-rainla-noiremicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationps3pspsonyxboxWed, 28 Dec 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[A third of Heavy Rain players kept all characters alive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/a-third-of-heavy-rain-players-kept-all-characters-alive/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/a-third-of-heavy-rain-players-kept-all-characters-alive/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/05/a-third-of-heavy-rain-players-kept-all-characters-alive/#comments Heavy Rain developer Quantic Dream recently shared some player statistics with IGN about its 2010 interactive drama. Of the 3 million players who reportedly played the game, 74 percent completed the game. Of those, 33 percent of people must have gotten the "four heroes" trophy, surviving home invasions, sinister scenarios and angry junkyard mechanics to keep the game's quartet of protagonists alive and kicking.

Here's a good takeaway for game developers seeking to implement multiple endings for their games: only four percent of players have seen all Heavy Rain's endings and only three percent earned the game's platinum trophy.

However, 100 percent of future developers should "press X to Jason."

JoystiqA third of Heavy Rain players kept all characters alive originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavy-Rainmoveplaystationps3quantic-dreamMon, 05 Dec 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain Director's Cut slated for November 8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/heavy-rain-directors-cut-slated-for-november-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/heavy-rain-directors-cut-slated-for-november-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/03/heavy-rain-directors-cut-slated-for-november-8/#comments Heavy Rain Director's Cut launches on November 8. In addition to scrapped content, the re-release also includes The Taxidermist DLC, the soundtrack, eight bonus making-of videos, a few themes, concept art and two trailers, PlayStation Blog reports. There's also a new front-end menu and UI with Move support.

To celebrate the (re)launch, Sony's making the Heavy Rain Crime Scene Dynamic Theme available on PSN the same day. We're sure that'll fill the void in your heart left by the child you lost at the mall that one time.

[Update: This post originally said the Director's Cut included the game's deleted scenes, which ... well, it doesn't. We apologize for the mistake, please don't drown us.]

JoystiqHeavy Rain Director's Cut slated for November 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavy-Rainheavy-rain-chroniclesheavy-rain-directors-cutmoveplaystationplaystation-moveps3q4-2011quantic-dreamrelease-dateThu, 03 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain developer estimates $13M loss on second-hand sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/heavy-rain-developer-estimates-13m-loss-on-second-hand-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/heavy-rain-developer-estimates-13m-loss-on-second-hand-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/heavy-rain-developer-estimates-13m-loss-on-second-hand-sales/#comments Quantic Dream co-founder Guillaume de Fondaumiere estimates the studio lost between €5 and €10 million ($6.8 and $13.7 million) worth of royalties on Heavy Rain because of used sales.

"We basically sold to date approximately two million units, we know from the trophy system that probably more than three million people bought this game and played it," de Fondaumiere told GI.biz. "On my small level it's a million people playing my game without giving me one cent."

The three million "bought" math sounds a little fuzzy, especially if one were to consider the rental market and friends borrowing games, but he seems to be on the right path.

"Now are games too expensive?" de Fondaumiere continued, "I've always said that games are probably too expensive so there's probably a right level here to find, and we need to discuss this altogether and try to find a way to I would say reconcile consumer expectations, retail expectations, but also the expectations of the publisher and the developers to make this business a worthwhile business."

We bet that's especially true when your game does better than your publisher ever expected.

JoystiqHeavy Rain developer estimates $13M loss on second-hand sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavy-Rainplaystationps3quantic-dreamMon, 12 Sep 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tamer version of Heavy Rain to be re-released in Europe [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/tamer-version-of-heavy-rain-to-be-re-released-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/tamer-version-of-heavy-rain-to-be-re-released-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/tamer-version-of-heavy-rain-to-be-re-released-in-europe/#comments PEGI, the European video games rating board, recently published an evaluation for Heavy Rain Edition Modifiée, an apparently toned-down version of Quantic Dream's interactive drama which will carry a PEGI 16 rating (marked down from the original's PEGI 18 rating). Little is known about the content or reasoning behind the new, minor-friendly version of the game, but as the PEGI rating mentions an August 3 release date, it'll probably start showing up on European store shelves soon.

So, what's getting cut in the Edition Modifiée? According to the PEGI ratings, the original's "extreme violence" and "violence towards defenceless people" have been downgraded to "realistic-looking violence." We can't wait to see how this changes the game's more intense sequences. For instance, there's that one scene, during which you have five minutes to improvise a tool which you can use to cut your fingernails.

Update: Looks like the tamer edition isn't releasing Europe-wide -- a Sony representative confirmed to Eurogamer that the new version "is just a small initiative for France only."

JoystiqTamer version of Heavy Rain to be re-released in Europe [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavy-Rainpegipegi-16playstationps3quantic-dreamSony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeFri, 05 Aug 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canned Quantic Dream project 'Infraworld' trademarked by SCEE]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/canned-quantic-dream-project-infraworld-trademarked-by-scee/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/canned-quantic-dream-project-infraworld-trademarked-by-scee/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/04/canned-quantic-dream-project-infraworld-trademarked-by-scee/#comments Earlier this year, gaming industry sleuth Superannuation uncovered the possible monikers of two projects from Heavy Rain developer Quantic Dream. The first was Fiv5, which showed up in a domain and European trademark registered by the developer. The second was Infraworld, a project the studio canceled in 2006. It later showed up as a Heavy Rain Easter egg, as well as a Quantic Dream hire's LinkedIn profile. Today, the latter name showed even more signs of life when it surfaced in a U.S. trademark filed by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe this past May.

If Infraworld has indeed been saved from the Quantic Dream cutting room floor, it's possible that it follows the same style of Heavy Rain -- in March, David Cage explained that he wanted to build on his treasured "Interactive Drama" genre. That's still a pretty broad set of expectations, though one thing's for sure: Bizarre and unplaceable accents are pretty much a lock.

JoystiqCanned Quantic Dream project 'Infraworld' trademarked by SCEE originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cagefiv5Heavy-Raininfraworldinteractive-dramaplaystationps3quantic-dreamThu, 04 Aug 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon offers buy one, get one half-off on select games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/amazon-offers-buy-one-get-one-half-off-on-select-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/amazon-offers-buy-one-get-one-half-off-on-select-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/amazon-offers-buy-one-get-one-half-off-on-select-games/#comments If last week's video game industry festivities filled you with an unquenchable thirst to buy more video games, you should turn your unhealthy impulses towards Amazon. For a limited time, the retailer's offering buy one, get one-half off on a beefy list of 186 titles across various platforms.

Continue reading Amazon offers buy one, get one half-off on select games

JoystiqAmazon offers buy one, get one half-off on select games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonassassins-creed-brotherhooddsheavy-rainkillzone-3microsoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 15 Jun 2011 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain director encourages more 'personal' stories]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/heavy-rain-director-encourages-more-personal-stories/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/heavy-rain-director-encourages-more-personal-stories/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/heavy-rain-director-encourages-more-personal-stories/#comments Speaking to The Guardian about storytelling in games, Heavy Rain director Cage singled out the FPS genre -- its use of WWII and sci-fi settings in general -- as an example where that aspect of the medium is stagnating. His advice for other game writers: " Don't write about being a rookie soldier in WWII, because you don't have a clue what that's like."

Heavy Rain has drawn accolades, Cage says, because the inspiration for its story is personal and relatable. "Talk about yourself, your life, your emotions, the people around you, what you like, what you hate," he advised. "This is how the industry will make a huge step forward. I'm fed up with space marines."

In his case, inspiration came from something much more down to earth. "It was not about space marines fighting aliens, it was about my relationship with my first son and how he changed my life -- and also about how loving someone without expecting anything in return was something totally new."

So, Modern Warfare 3 writers: instead of "how many people can you shoot?," why not try asking players "how many people would you shoot to save someone you love?"

JoystiqHeavy Rain director encourages more 'personal' stories originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureBAFTAdavid-cageHeavy-RainInteractive-Dramaplaystationps3quantic-dreamsonywritingMon, 21 Mar 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Fiv5' could be the title of Quantic Dreams' next game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/fiv5-could-be-the-title-of-quantic-dreams-next-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/fiv5-could-be-the-title-of-quantic-dreams-next-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/fiv5-could-be-the-title-of-quantic-dreams-next-game/#comments David Cage, director of the soggy serial killer interactive drama Heavy Rain, has already said there won't be a sequel to that game, telling the PlayStation Blog, "We're going to be exploring a different direction, which will still be very dark and still for adults, but completely different to Heavy Rain" for Quantic Dreams' next project. That game's specifics may be a secret, but it may have a title: "Fiv5" ... yes, in the style of David Fincher's film Se7en.

Gaming trademark sleuth superannuation has turned up several clues supporting this theory, including a trademark filing with Europe's Office of Harmonization for the International Market. There's also a domain name registration by Quantic Dream, and a new hire at the developer has listed themselves as "Concept Artist: Video Game "FIVE" & "INFRAWORLD" on LinkedIn. Infraworld? Where'd we put our deerstalker hat and magnifying glass?

Joystiq'Fiv5' could be the title of Quantic Dreams' next game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cagefiv5Heavy-Rainplaystationps3quantic-dreamsceesonytrademarkMon, 21 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mega 64 spoofs Heavy Rain, makes all of us uncomforJAAAASOOON]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/mega-64-spoofs-heavy-rain-makes-all-of-us-uncomforjaaaasooon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/mega-64-spoofs-heavy-rain-makes-all-of-us-uncomforjaaaasooon/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/16/mega-64-spoofs-heavy-rain-makes-all-of-us-uncomforjaaaasooon/#comments Yes, Mega64's (second) spoof of Heavy Rain features one of the guys wandering through a mall on a very vocal hunt for Jason -- but that's not all. It also contains some of the most cringe-worthy moments of social discomfort that the troupe has ever, ever managed to elicit.

Continue reading Mega 64 spoofs Heavy Rain, makes all of us uncomforJAAAASOOON

JoystiqMega 64 spoofs Heavy Rain, makes all of us uncomforJAAAASOOON originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comedyHeavy-Rainmega64playstationps3quantic-dreamsonyWed, 16 Mar 2011 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 2 GOTY, God of War 3 and others become latest PS3 'Greatest Hits' for $30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/uncharted-2-goty-god-of-war-3-ps3-greatest-hits/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/uncharted-2-goty-god-of-war-3-ps3-greatest-hits/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/uncharted-2-goty-god-of-war-3-ps3-greatest-hits/#comments Sony has promoted four of its favorites to PS3 "Greatest Hits," dropping the price of each to $30. The most significant addition to Sony's growing lineup of discounted bestsellers of yesteryear is the "Game of the Year" Edition of Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, which includes a plethora of extra content not included in the original release.

God of War 3, Heavy Rain and ModNation Racers were the three other first-party titles to be made Hits. Additionally, THQ's UFC Undisputed 2010 was recognized as one of last year's best, representing the first third-party game to become part of the PS3's 2010 hall of fame class.

Continue reading Uncharted 2 GOTY, God of War 3 and others become latest PS3 'Greatest Hits' for $30

JoystiqUncharted 2 GOTY, God of War 3 and others become latest PS3 'Greatest Hits' for $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-3greatest-hitsheavy-rainmodnation-racersplaystationps3ps3-greatest-hitsufc-undisputed-2010Uncharted-2Uncharted-2-Among-ThievesFri, 25 Feb 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain film adaptation helmed by Deadwood creator]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/heavy-rain-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/heavy-rain-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/heavy-rain-movie/#commentsHeavy Rain movie Heavy Rain is getting the Hollywood treatment and, hopefully, some American accents to go along with it. David Milch, executive producer of "NYPD Blue" and "Deadwood," is working on an adaptation that will simply be called "Rain." According to Variety, Milch will begin writing the script after finishing work on his current project, a new HBO series called "Luck."

"David Milch's incredible ability to transform intense and complex storylines into gripping, popular drama makes him the perfect partner for us to have on Heavy Rain," producer Bob Shaye told the outlet. We then fictionally added, "Milch's penchant for adding male nudity into NYPD Blue makes him the ideal candidate for this project."

JoystiqHeavy Rain film adaptation helmed by Deadwood creator originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 03:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-milchHeavy-RainHeavy-Rain-moviemoviemoviesplaystationps3rainwarner-brosThu, 27 Jan 2011 03:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Telltale looks to Heavy Rain for Jurassic Park gameplay design]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/telltale-looks-to-heavy-rain-for-jurassic-park-gameplay-design/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/telltale-looks-to-heavy-rain-for-jurassic-park-gameplay-design/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/10/telltale-looks-to-heavy-rain-for-jurassic-park-gameplay-design/#comments Jurassic Park and Telltale Games may seem like an unlikely combination, but the The Escapist's recap of a new Game Informer magazine interview reveals that IP owner Universal Studios wasn't looking for a straightforward action game, making Telltale a good fit. The developer will still look to add a bit more action to its traditional adventure game framework, telling GI that the game will feature both slower-paced character building and the surprise scares that once propelled the franchise to box office success.

Telltale likens this gameplay balancing act to Quantic Dreams' suspense thriller, Heavy Rain. Aside from the possibility of dinosaurs with out-of-place accents, this means that the Jurassic Park game will feature some element of choice, though it's noted in the interview that the gameplay mechanics are still in the works. Additionally, some of the game's story has been cursorily detailed, revealing sub-plots such as identifying where Dennis Nedry's can of dino embryos ended up post-Dilophosaurus attack and a tie into the first film through the eyes of an unknown character.

Jurassic Park is expected to encompass five episodes, with the first coming to PC and Mac some time this year.

JoystiqTelltale looks to Heavy Rain for Jurassic Park gameplay design originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Jan 2011 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dinosaursheavy-rainjurassic-parkmacpcMon, 10 Jan 2011 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Top 10 of 2010: Heavy Rain]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/best-games-2010-heavy-rain/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/best-games-2010-heavy-rain/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/29/best-games-2010-heavy-rain/#comments The thoroughly democratic process through which our top 10 video games of 2010 were divined and decided left little room for sayers-of-nay once the dust had settled. The list -- as you'll soon see -- represents a cross section of what we believe to be the greatest (and therefore, our favorite, since we're such astute scholars of the ludological sciences) games of the year. All except for the game currently under discussion: David Cage's interactive thriller, Heavy Rain.

Of all the games on our list, Heavy Rain was the only one whose appearance -- even at the most humble position on the pedestal -- was called into question. With such apparent spite for the title coursing through our collective veins, you might wonder how it made any showing at all. The answer is indicative of the game's overall reception in the gaming community's collective consciousness: Many writers gave the game no weight in the discussion at all, while few gave it just about as much weight as they could possibly throw.

Continue reading Joystiq Top 10 of 2010: Heavy Rain

JoystiqJoystiq Top 10 of 2010: Heavy Rain originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Dec 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavy-Rainjoystiq-best-of-2010playstationps3Wed, 29 Dec 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Quantic Dream renovates mocap studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/quantic-dream-renovates-mocap-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/quantic-dream-renovates-mocap-studio/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/13/quantic-dream-renovates-mocap-studio/#comments A lot of times game journalists complain that December is light on news, with all the big releases for the year behind us. But we've always thought they were just a bunch of Negative Nancys. In an industry as robust and busy as ours, how tough can it be to find something to write about?

... So, umm ... Quantic Dream renovated its motion capture studio. Now it's got like 64 cameras, and some sound-proof curtains and stuff, so that's ... you know, a good number of cameras. So ...

We were going to make a Heavy Rain joke in which we suggest it "renovate" its voice capture studio by burning it to the ground. ... You know, because the acting was so bad? But it turns out that this new studio can do voice capture too, so that's not really that funny anymore.

So, yeah.

JoystiqQuantic Dream renovates mocap studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Dec 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cageHeavy-Rainmo-capmotion-captureplaystationps3quantic-dreamMon, 13 Dec 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain's deleted scenes exposed, reveal 'supernatural' connection for origami killer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/heavy-rains-deleted-scenes-exposed-reveal-supernatural-conne/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/heavy-rains-deleted-scenes-exposed-reveal-supernatural-conne/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/heavy-rains-deleted-scenes-exposed-reveal-supernatural-conne/#comments You may have missed this behind-the-scenes video of Heavy Rain on the PlayStation Network last week. This very revealing, spoiler-filled video highlights some of the deleted scenes and concepts for Quantic Dream's adventure game.

Continue reading Heavy Rain's deleted scenes exposed, reveal 'supernatural' connection for origami killer

JoystiqHeavy Rain's deleted scenes exposed, reveal 'supernatural' connection for origami killer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cagedeleted-scenesHeavy-Rainplaystationps3quantic-dreamMon, 08 Nov 2010 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain leads an all-PS3 Amazon Gold Box]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/heavy-rain-leads-an-all-ps3-amazon-gold-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/heavy-rain-leads-an-all-ps3-amazon-gold-box/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/heavy-rain-leads-an-all-ps3-amazon-gold-box/#commentsIf you're looking to buy PS3 sadness simulator Heavy Rain just in time for the PlayStation Move patch, Amazon has discounted it to $39.99 as its Deal of the Day. In addition, the retailer has devoted its Gold Box page entirely to PS3 stuff today, with deals launching through 11PM ET.

Right now, you can also get Madden NFL 11 for $44.99. Future deals, according to Thrifty Nerd's guesses, may include 3D Dot Game Heroes and Transformers: War for Cybertron. Let the all-day Amazon refreshing marathon commence!

[Thanks, MLC]

JoystiqHeavy Rain leads an all-PS3 Amazon Gold Box originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazongold-boxheavy-rainmadden-nfl-11playstationps3Tue, 21 Sep 2010 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain patches in Move support September 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/heavy-rain-patches-in-move-support-september-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/heavy-rain-patches-in-move-support-september-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/13/heavy-rain-patches-in-move-support-september-22/#commentsFiled under: , ,

PS3's atmospheric adventure game Heavy Rain will receive a free patch on September 22 to support the Move peripheral. The PlayStation Blog notes the patch will download automatically when users start the game, adding actions that "mimic real-world motions" -- like knocking on doors (pictured). For those interested in experiencing this, you'll have to pick up the Move controller on September 19.

The PSN will also add a Heavy Rain Move demo on September 28, featuring two of the early levels in the game. As the update is all about adding Move support, don't expect a pronunciation patch for "ore-A-gammy killer."

Gallery: Heavy Rain Move Edition

JoystiqHeavy Rain patches in Move support September 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavy-Rainmotion-controlmoveplaystationplaystation-moveplaystation-move-navigation-controllerplaystation-move-sub-controllerps3Mon, 13 Sep 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[David Cage on his 'benevolent dictatorship' over Quantic Dream]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/david-cage-on-his-benevolent-dictatorship-over-quantic-dream/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/david-cage-on-his-benevolent-dictatorship-over-quantic-dream/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/18/david-cage-on-his-benevolent-dictatorship-over-quantic-dream/#comments For most developers, creating a game is a constant struggle between the design-based decisions of the creative team and the marketing-based decisions of the business team. Not at Quantic Dream, where David Cage's role as both CEO and lead designer means that "game design guides everything" at the company. So when Cage says "the game designer decided this, and I fully agree with it," he's actually referring to himself both times, as he pointed out at a talk at GDC Europe this week.

Cage said developing a game like Heavy Rain just wouldn't work in a more democratic development environment, where everyone on the team has equal power and the majority rules on major decisions. "When you want a strong vision, you need a vision holder, you need someone who has the final cut," Cage said.

Continue reading David Cage on his 'benevolent dictatorship' over Quantic Dream

JoystiqDavid Cage on his 'benevolent dictatorship' over Quantic Dream originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>David-CageGamescom-2010GDC-Europe-2010Heavy-Rainplaystationps3Quantic-DreamWed, 18 Aug 2010 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Cage: Heavy Rain sold four times more in US than Sony had anticipated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/cage-heavy-rain-sold-four-times-more-in-us-than-sony-had-antici/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/cage-heavy-rain-sold-four-times-more-in-us-than-sony-had-antici/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/cage-heavy-rain-sold-four-times-more-in-us-than-sony-had-antici/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We already knew Heavy Rain was an immediate success in the UK and a moderate hit in Japan. But with the game's quick disappearance from the NPD's monthly top ten in the U.S., we've been wondering whether the game's sales on this side of the ocean (which NPD pegs at just over 400,000 units so far) have lived up to expectations.

Well, "lived up to expectations" might be a bit of an understatement. At a GDC Europe talk this week, Quantic Dream CEO David Cage said Heavy Rain ended up selling "four times as many copies" as publisher Sony expected. "They were shocked. 'Oh my god, what happens?'" Cage said in his charmingly stilted English.

These unexpected sales presented a bit of a problem, Cage said, because the marketing spend for the game was based on the lowball expectation, not the surprisingly strong actual sales numbers. Still, Cage said Sony did a great job pushing the game in the States, especially considering the game's unorthodox concept and lack of a big franchise name, which led to some reluctance from distribution channels.

Cage said Heavy Rain has already sold 1.5 million copies (up from one million in April) worldwide and the game is on track to sell two million units by the first anniversary of its February release.

JoystiqCage: Heavy Rain sold four times more in US than Sony had anticipated originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cagegdc-europe-2010Heavy-Rainplaystationps3quantic-dreamsalessonyTue, 17 Aug 2010 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cage: Lack of additional Heavy Rain DLC 'unfortunate' but 'understandable']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/cage-lack-of-additional-heavy-rain-dlc-unfortunate-but-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/cage-lack-of-additional-heavy-rain-dlc-unfortunate-but-under/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/16/cage-lack-of-additional-heavy-rain-dlc-unfortunate-but-under/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the chances of further downloadable episodes of Heavy Rain's "Chronicles" DLC looking all but nonexistent, we wondered how Quantic Dream CEO and creative head David Cage felt now that his game has been folded up like an origami crane. We caught up with Cage after his talk at GDC Europe today to find out.

"I understand why the decision was made," Cage said of the cancellation of the planned DLC. "From a creative point of view it was not my choice. I would have really preferred a thousand times developing the Chronicles. I thought we had a lot to say about these characters, about their background. Things that were just mentioned in the game that had a true explanation in the background, and it's a little bit unfortunate that we won't be able to tell you the full story."

But at the same time, Cage said he's looking forward to working on something new. "I didn't want to do everything, I wanted to move on," he said. "I didn't want to spend another two years on Heavy Rain developing Move and Chronicles and stuff. ... So a decision had to be made and it's a decision I respect. Honestly, it's not like I'm upset about it, I would have preferred to do it differently but, you know what, it makes sense."

So, to sum up, Cage says he really want to finish the story through DLC, and that it's unfortunate that he didn't get to. But he also says he didn't really want to spend all that extra time on the game, and that he's happy to be moving on. So... that clears that up, yeah?

JoystiqCage: Lack of additional Heavy Rain DLC 'unfortunate' but 'understandable' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cageDLCgamescom-2010gdc-europe-2010Heavy-Rainheavy-rain-chroniclesplaystationps3quantic-dreamsonyMon, 16 Aug 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Style offering free game with 120GB PS3 purchase]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/12/sony-style-offering-free-game-with-120gb-ps3-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/12/sony-style-offering-free-game-with-120gb-ps3-purchase/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/12/sony-style-offering-free-game-with-120gb-ps3-purchase/#commentsIf you're in the market for a new PS3, and you don't mind waiting just a bit, Sony Style has an appealing offer. Through August 21, Sony's retail site is offering one of six first-party games for free with the purchase of a 120GB PS3 Slim. You can choose from Uncharted 2, MotorStorm: Pacific Rift, MAG, Heavy Rain, ModNation Racers or White Knight Chronicles.

Why the wait? The PS3 is currently on backorder at Sony Style, though the offer still seems to be good. So you can order now and actually receive your system later. Think of it as setting your future self up with a wonderful surprise.

[Thanks, Pete!]

JoystiqSony Style offering free game with 120GB PS3 purchase originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavy-rainmagmodnation-racersmotorstorm-pacific-riftplaystationps3uncharted-2white-knight-chroniclesThu, 12 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain Move Edition patch coming 'pre-Xmas,' free if you own the game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/heavy-rain-move-edition-patch-coming-pre-xmas-free-if-you-own/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/heavy-rain-move-edition-patch-coming-pre-xmas-free-if-you-own/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/heavy-rain-move-edition-patch-coming-pre-xmas-free-if-you-own/#commentsFiled under: , ,

SCEE product Manager Ross Alexander took to the EU's PlayStation Blog earlier today and revealed that the PlayStation Move-enabled version of Heavy Rain will be available "pre-Xmas." He also noted that it will be digitally distributed for free via PSN to those who already picked up the disc, though he gave no word on a re-release of the retail edition with Move functionality already baked-in.

Apparently, the waggle-ified version of Heavy Rain will be playable both with the Move and a DualShock 3 or a Move and the Navigation Controller -- the latter of which Alexander claims is the only way to get the "full experience." Trailers with the new Move controls are forthcoming, but why wait? We've dropped a handful of screens into a gallery below right now.

Gallery: Heavy Rain Move Edition


JoystiqHeavy Rain Move Edition patch coming 'pre-Xmas,' free if you own the game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Heavy-Rainheavy-rain-move-editionplaystationplaystation-moveps3quantic-dreamsceeFri, 06 Aug 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Cage 'doubts' new Heavy Rain DLC will be completed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/cage-doubts-new-heavy-rain-dlc-will-be-completed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/cage-doubts-new-heavy-rain-dlc-will-be-completed/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/02/cage-doubts-new-heavy-rain-dlc-will-be-completed/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You'd better hope that playing Heavy Rain with PlayStation Move controls feels like a completely new experience, because that's pretty much the only way you're getting new content. Creator David Cage has added a note of finality to the announcement that work on the "Chronicles" DLC was shelved so the team could concentrate on Move support. Cage told Eurogamer that "Chronicles, as we saw them, were ambitious and with high expectations," and thus would have occupied the team's resources. "As explained, they are on hold to allow the team to work on Move and on new projects, and I doubt they will ever be produced."

Cage sounds pretty put off by the decision to dedicate time to Move support, but at least a little interested in the result. "I understand Sony's decision, and it gave us the opportunity to explore new possibilities regarding controls," Cage said. "I am really proud of this Move edition and think it will surprise many gamers, and show that Move can be used for things other than family entertainment. Now as a writer and director, would I have preferred to work on the three Chronicles I wrote? Guess."

JoystiqCage 'doubts' new Heavy Rain DLC will be completed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>David-CageDLCHeavy-Rainheavy-rain-chroniclesplaystationPlaystation-Moveps3Quantic-DreamFri, 02 Jul 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Visual overload: Sony's E3 PlayStation Move lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/visual-overload-sonys-e3-playstation-move-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/visual-overload-sonys-e3-playstation-move-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/visual-overload-sonys-e3-playstation-move-lineup/#comments PlayStation Move is essentially a brand new platform for Sony. While many of the motion-sensing launch games for the new PS3 controller are "Wii HD" titles, there are a few noteworthy additions, including echochrome 2, Heroes on the Move and a Move edition of Heavy Rain. Check out trailers for all of Sony's first-party Move titles after the break.

Continue reading Visual overload: Sony's E3 PlayStation Move lineup

JoystiqVisual overload: Sony's E3 PlayStation Move lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010echochrome-2eyepetheavy-rainkung-fu-riderplaystationplaystation-moveps3singstar-dancesports-championsstart-the-partythe-shoottumbletv-superstarsMon, 21 Jun 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Quantic Dream puts indefinite hold on Heavy Rain DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/quantic-dream-puts-indefinite-hold-on-heavy-rain-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/quantic-dream-puts-indefinite-hold-on-heavy-rain-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/quantic-dream-puts-indefinite-hold-on-heavy-rain-dlc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Holding your breath for new Heavy Rain DLC? Well, stop. Game Informer has learned that the "Heavy Rain Chronicles" have been put on indefinite hold, with creator Quantic Dream saying they were urged by Sony to redirect their focus on an upcoming Move patch for the game. It's not been canceled completely, mind, but it's not looking good.

No one's chalking the holdup to low interest, but one would imagine that if the first chunk of DLC -- which was free to those who purchased the game new, but on sale to those who didn't -- was moving like thickly-accented hotcakes, we'd already be playing the second episode.

JoystiqQuantic Dream puts indefinite hold on Heavy Rain DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 23:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCe3-2010Heavy-RainHeavy-Rain-Chroniclesplaystationps3quantic-dreamFri, 18 Jun 2010 23:11:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Move patch for Heavy Rain coming this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/playstation-move-patch-for-heavy-rain-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/playstation-move-patch-for-heavy-rain-coming-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/playstation-move-patch-for-heavy-rain-coming-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Press "Move" to Jason? While the exact motion controls for hailing your wandering son remain unknown, Sony managing producer Petro Piaseckyj confirmed that a PlayStation Move patch for Heavy Rain -- the entire game reworked with Move commands -- will be added at an unspecified date this fall. Piaseckyj could not confirm if the patch would be a free update or a paid add-on; nor did he know if the PlayStation Move control option would be implemented into a future version of the standard retail game or sold separately as, say, the "Move Edition."

"There's definitely a learning curve to the Move," Piaseckyj warned, explaining that two difficulty levels of Move controls would be available in the Heavy Rain update. In practice, when playing the old demo with the new Move controls (the harder setting) at Sony's E3 booth, Heavy Rain is more intuitive than when played with the DualShock 3. (Note: The new control method does require both the Move wand and the Navigation Controller.) There are still some awkward and confusing combinations of button holds and presses, coupled with punishingly specific hand swipes or pushing motions, but overall Move offers a simplified yet more engaging means of untangling the mystery of the Origami Killer.

JoystiqPlayStation Move patch for Heavy Rain coming this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 07:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010Heavy-RainpatchplaystationPlayStation-Moveps3updateWed, 16 Jun 2010 07:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Kmart instore deals next week include Mass Effect 2, BFBC2, Heavy Rain]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/kmart-instore-deals-next-week-include-mass-effect-2-bfbc2-heav/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/kmart-instore-deals-next-week-include-mass-effect-2-bfbc2-heav/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/11/kmart-instore-deals-next-week-include-mass-effect-2-bfbc2-heav/#comments Kmart is having some nice instore deals during E3 week, June 13-19. Although there are heavy discounts on Battlefield Bad Company 2, God of War 3 and Heavy Rain -- the real standout deal is Mass Effect 2 for $20. With those credits saved on the ME2 purchase, it's totally worth grabbing Kasumi's Stolen Memory and next week's Overlord DLC from the Cerberus Network. Check out all the discounts after the break.

Continue reading Kmart instore deals next week include Mass Effect 2, BFBC2, Heavy Rain

JoystiqKmart instore deals next week include Mass Effect 2, BFBC2, Heavy Rain originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battlefield-Bad-Company-2God-of-War-3Heavy-RainkmartMass-effect-2microsoftplaystationps3xboxFri, 11 Jun 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Jam-stained Heavy Rain costumes coming to LittleBigPlanet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/08/jam-stained-heavy-rain-costumes-coming-to-littlebigplanet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/08/jam-stained-heavy-rain-costumes-coming-to-littlebigplanet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/08/jam-stained-heavy-rain-costumes-coming-to-littlebigplanet/#comments Though the thematically distinct universes of LittleBigPlanet and Heavy Rain don't have much business crossing over into one another, we're in full support of the former's upcoming batch of DLC based on the latter. The costume pack, which will hit the US PlayStation Store later today, costs $1.99, and includes the outfits of Heavy Rain protagonists Ethan, Madison, Jayden, and Shelby. Also included is an origami hat, stained with the crimson hue of spilled ... jam. (We're guessing Media Molecule's stance on blood hasn't changed.)

We can't wait to see the LittleBigHeavyRain levels these costumes inspire. "In order to save your jelly beans, you'll have to cut off your own shoelaces. You have three minutes."

[Via Videogamer]

JoystiqJam-stained Heavy Rain costumes coming to LittleBigPlanet originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCHeavy-Rainlittlebigplanetmedia-moleculeSonyTue, 08 Jun 2010 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Press X to Jason: the music video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/press-x-to-jason-the-music-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/press-x-to-jason-the-music-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/press-x-to-jason-the-music-video/#comments We know it's supposed to be a moving moment in Heavy Rain, but we can't get enough of parody tributes to the game's true protagonist, little lost Jason. First there was the hit Flash game Press X to Jason and now the Dead Workers Party brings us "Press X to Jason," a bubbly, melodic retelling of the story of the boy who touched America's heart as America touched its X button. You can find it right after the break.

We're intentionally being pretty vague about the content of the scene here, since you really shouldn't be watching the clip unless you've already played Heavy Rain. Like, you really shouldn't. Trust us.

[Thanks, Spencer]

Continue reading Press X to Jason: the music video

JoystiqPress X to Jason: the music video originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavy-rainInteractive-Dramapress-x-to-jasonquantic-dreamSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaWed, 26 May 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unique Features acquiring Heavy Rain movie rights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/unique-features-acquiring-heavy-rain-movie-rights/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/unique-features-acquiring-heavy-rain-movie-rights/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/19/unique-features-acquiring-heavy-rain-movie-rights/#commentsHeavy Rain continues its slow progression from "like a movie with lots of button inputs" to "just a movie." Deadline reports that Unique Features is in the process of acquiring the film rights to Quantic Dream's game. Unique Features is a production company started by Bob Shaye and Michael Lynne, who used to be with New Line, the studio that had optioned the rights to the game in 2006.

Shaye and Lynne are apparently so interested in the project that they bought the rights with their own money. Maybe the game was too hard for them and they just wanted to see how it ends.

[Via Dread Central]

JoystiqUnique Features acquiring Heavy Rain movie rights originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 May 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureheavy-rainInteractive-Dramamovienew-line-cinemaquantic-dreamSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americaunique-featuresWed, 19 May 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain in Liberty City: a GTA IV Machinima]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/heavy-rain-in-liberty-city-a-gta-iv-machinima/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/heavy-rain-in-liberty-city-a-gta-iv-machinima/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/heavy-rain-in-liberty-city-a-gta-iv-machinima/#comments If you've played through Heavy Rain, you know that most problems can't be solved by shooting a dude in the face. For GTA IV's Niko Bellic, that's very much a real problem solver -- a tactic he has no problem using. So it's a pretty odd juxtaposition to see the two games spliced together like they are in the video past the break.

It's a pretty great video, but we feel we should warn you that you probably won't get it if you've never played Heavy Rain. Unless you're watching this part, which we're pretty sure is funny no matter what game(s) you've played.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading Heavy Rain in Liberty City: a GTA IV Machinima

JoystiqHeavy Rain in Liberty City: a GTA IV Machinima originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand-theft-autogrand-theft-auto-4grand-theft-auto-ivgta-4gta-ivheavy-rainheavy-rain-in-liberty-cityliberty-citymachinimaTue, 11 May 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamestop discounts FFXIII, BioShock 2 and more, offers free store credit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/gamestop-discounts-ffxiii-bioshock-2-and-more-offers-free-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/gamestop-discounts-ffxiii-bioshock-2-and-more-offers-free-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/gamestop-discounts-ffxiii-bioshock-2-and-more-offers-free-store/#comments SlickDeals tipster DJ3xclusive recently unearthed a handful of handsome discounts currently being offered by Gamestop. Anyone who enters the coupon code "15NEW" while checking out from the retailer's online storefront can save 15 percent on a few games, such as Final Fantasy XIII ($43 after coupon), GTA: Episodes from Liberty City ($28), and BioShock 2 ($38). In addition, these three games come with an additional $10 credit to be used on future purchases. Better still, the code works on pre-orders of Super Mario Galaxy 2 ($42.50), which comes with $20 credit.

The discount also applies to the BioShock 2 Collector's Edition ($68), Demon's Souls ($34) and Heavy Rain ($45), though these three don't come with the appended, complimentary 10-spot. Still, those are some pretty great deals. Or, if we could be so bold -- pretty slick deals?

JoystiqGamestop discounts FFXIII, BioShock 2 and more, offers free store credit originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshock-2dealdemons-soulsepisodes-from-liberty-cityfinal-fantasy-xiiigamestopheavy-rainMicrosoftNintendosaleslickdealsWiiXbox-360Tue, 27 Apr 2010 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain sells one million worldwide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/heavy-rain-sells-one-million-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/heavy-rain-sells-one-million-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/13/heavy-rain-sells-one-million-worldwide/#comments No one was exactly sure if Sony's gamble with Heavy Rain would pay off. With no aliens, no stealth kills, and no epic boss battles, the game strayed so far from the mainstream norm that some wondered if it could possibly succeed. Considering the incredible technical effort Heavy Rain represented, it's clear that this was also an expensive experiment for both Sony and Quantic Dream to take on.

After seven weeks of release, Heavy Rain has managed to sell through a million units worldwide, according to an announcement on the PlayStation.Blog. No specifics are offered, but we'll deduce that Europe represents the largest piece of the sales pie; Heavy Rain was completely sold out in that part of the world.

It's unclear if a million units sold is enough for Quantic Dream and Sony to break even on Heavy Rain's lengthy development. Undoubtedly, the game will continue selling through the year, which has us hopeful that the industry will be unafraid to invest in another game like it in the future.

JoystiqHeavy Rain sells one million worldwide originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Apr 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavy-rainInteractive-Dramamillionplatinumquantic-dreamsalesSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaTue, 13 Apr 2010 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Thursday: Get stuffed by 'The Taxidermist']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psn-thursday-get-stuffed-by-the-taxidermist/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psn-thursday-get-stuffed-by-the-taxidermist/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/01/psn-thursday-get-stuffed-by-the-taxidermist/#commentsHeavy Rain's "The Taxidermist" DLC is ready to fill you up with more suspense for $5. To access your wallet, you'll have to flick your analog stick up and to the right.

PSP owners can download titles like BlazBlue Calamity Trigger and Perv Simu ... ok, fine, Dead or Alive Paradise -- we still contend we were going down the right path the first time. As is pretty common, the latest deluge of PSP comics is the real draw for the handheld.

Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list:
(Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)

Continue reading PSN Thursday: Get stuffed by 'The Taxidermist'

JoystiqPSN Thursday: Get stuffed by 'The Taxidermist' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Apr 2010 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavy-rainInteractive-Dramanba-unrivaledPSNPSN-StorePSN-ThursdayqoreQuantic-DreamSCESCEASonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaThu, 01 Apr 2010 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavy Rain 'Taxidermist' DLC hitting PSN for $4.99 on April 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/heavy-rain-taxidermist-dlc-hitting-psn-for-4-99-on-april-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/heavy-rain-taxidermist-dlc-hitting-psn-for-4-99-on-april-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/heavy-rain-taxidermist-dlc-hitting-psn-for-4-99-on-april-1/#comments We have a hard time watching films where people get caught being in places they totally shouldn't be. We get no enjoyment from watching a Misery or a Rear Window, for example. That kind of scenario is the bread and butter of Heavy Rain's first downloadable chapter, "The Taxidermist," which pre-order customers of the game have already gotten their hands on. The rest of us will have our chance to grab the suspenseful scene on April 1, when it hits the PSN storefront for $4.99.

Check out the video above for a brief teaser of the chapter's events. Actually, it doesn't look that scary to us. Madison climbs in a window, walks up some stairs, and accidentally intrudes on a woman taking a bath. What's that? The woman is dead? Yes, well, that is significantly more upsetting.

JoystiqHeavy Rain 'Taxidermist' DLC hitting PSN for $4.99 on April 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cagedlcheavy-rainInteractive-Dramapre-orderpsnquantic-dreamrelease-dateSCESCEAsonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericataxidermistFri, 19 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Spoiling Heavy Rain with David Cage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/interview-spoiling-heavy-rain-with-david-cage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/interview-spoiling-heavy-rain-with-david-cage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/interview-spoiling-heavy-rain-with-david-cage/#comments
Once a major release has been completed and propelled to the top of the sales charts, the critical discussion surrounding it typically evaporates just as the Next Big Thing appears on the horizon. But Heavy Rain -- whether you like it, love it or loathe it -- has been kept afloat in popular opinion, with critics still debating its controversial design and embarrassing themselves as they attempt to shoehorn water puns like "afloat" and "evaporates" into ham-fisted introductory paragraphs.

We drew Heavy Rain's director and writer, the soft-spoken, passionate and occasionally enigmatic David Cage, into the ongoing discussion and asked him to elaborate upon the game's story, its technology and its critical reception. Oh, and the nature of the Origami Killer, which means ...

SPOILER WARNING: The following interview contains massive, big-huge spoilers for Heavy Rain. If you have not completed Quantic Dream's cinematic adventure, do not proceed beyond the break -- and don't even think about reading the comments. Just turn around and slowly R2 away.

Continue reading Interview: Spoiling Heavy Rain with David Cage

JoystiqInterview: Spoiling Heavy Rain with David Cage originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventuredavid-cagegdc-2010heavy-rainInteractive-Dramainterviewmysteryquantic-dreamSCESCEAsonySony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaFri, 19 Mar 2010 12:00:00 EST