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[More Puzzle Quest coming from reborn indie Infinite Interactive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/more-puzzle-quest-coming-from-reborn-indie-infinite-interactive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/more-puzzle-quest-coming-from-reborn-indie-infinite-interactive/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/25/more-puzzle-quest-coming-from-reborn-indie-infinite-interactive/#comments Yesterday's announcement regarding EA's Firemint and IronMonkeys merger actually had a sideplot to it, in that Infinite Interactive, which was "acquired" by Firemint last year, quietly split off this past January to be independent again.

"There was never an actual acquisition of Infinite, it was more of a merger. It was all amicable stuff - as much as it would be fun to have a bit of a scandal. Unfortunately there isn't one," Infinite Interactive's founder and creative lead Steve Fawkner told us. "I think everybody agreed that Infinite does its best work when it's independent, and so we headed back out into the wilderness to work on our own stuff again."

Fawkner explained he couldn't get into the "nitty-gritty" details about intellectual property ownership and that things are "a little more complicated" than before, but that Infinite do still retain the Puzzle Quest and Warlords IP rights.

"While I don't have a specific announcement that I can make at the moment, if you shook a Magic 8-Ball and asked it 'Will Infinite's next game be a Puzzle Quest title?', then it would quite probably say 'All signs point to yes!'," Fawkner explained.

"In the short term, we will continue to build and innovate in the genres and settings that we know and love. That means games that combine fantasy, puzzles, strategy and tactics. It's doubtful we'll ever move too far from those genres, because they are our favorites, and you always do your best work when you're building games that you're passionate about."

[Thanks Aaron S.]

JoystiqMore Puzzle Quest coming from reborn indie Infinite Interactive originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>firemintfiremonkeysinfinite-interactiveIronMonkeyironmonkey-studiosmicrosoftpcplaystationps3puzzle-quest-2steve-fawknerxboxWed, 25 Jul 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 canceled for PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/puzzle-quest-2-canceled-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/puzzle-quest-2-canceled-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/21/puzzle-quest-2-canceled-for-psp/#comments From PSN-only to the void, Puzzle Quest 2 for PSP has met with the ultimate skull chain combo. Steve Fawkner, CEO and president of Infinite Interactive, confirms on his Facebook account that the PSP version has been canceled.

"After Firemint's acquisition of Infinite, and EA's acquisition of Firemint, so many people have moved around, that I find myself without enough manpower to finish it," Fawkner writes. "I would also like to point out that it was nothing to do with EA and/or Firemint that it has been cancelled - they have been excellent in giving me enough time and freedom to get it done... this is just a very unfortunate logistical problem where key people are no longer available to work on it."

Fawkner claims there was "ONE sound bug remaining to be fixed, and it would have been good to go." He won't give up hope entirely, but admits that finishing the project is "unlikely to happen." So, um, anyone with working knowledge of PSP development want to help a brother out?

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 canceled for PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canceledcancelledinfinite-interactiveplaystationpsppuzzle-quest-2sonysteve-fawknerThu, 21 Jul 2011 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EA agrees to buy Firemint, devs behind iOS hits Flight Control, Real Racing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/ea-agrees-to-buy-firemint-devs-behind-ios-hits-flight-control/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/ea-agrees-to-buy-firemint-devs-behind-ios-hits-flight-control/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/03/ea-agrees-to-buy-firemint-devs-behind-ios-hits-flight-control/#comments Electronic Arts continues to chase the mobile market, today announcing an agreement to purchase Firemint, the Australia-based developer behind iOS hits like Flight Control, Real Racing and, notably, "an attractive future slate of games." Flight Racing, anyone? While it may be true love, EA and Firemint aren't ones to kiss-and-tell; the purchase price isn't being disclosed.

EA isn't just buying Firemint, however. The developer recently purchased fellow Australians Infinite Interactive, the devs behind the popular Puzzle Quest series. For its part, EA recently purchased a company called MPP, a "leader in high quality cross-platform development and porting of games for smartphones." We don't know about you, but we detect a faint whiff of synergy.

Oh, here it is: "The added technical expertise of MPP, combined with the creative talent of Firemint and our EAi studio teams, fuels EA's leadership in delivering top selling, high quality games across mobile phones and smartphones, tablets and future digital interactive entertainment platforms," EA Interactive's Barry Cottle said in a press release.

This courtship has ostensibly been going on for some time. Before it struck it rich on the App Store, Firemint labored in the EA Mobile mines working on the Madden NFL 3D series, a 2006 mobile release of Need for Speed Most Wanted, and something called The Sims DJ. You can't say Firemint hasn't paid its dues.

JoystiqEA agrees to buy Firemint, devs behind iOS hits Flight Control, Real Racing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 May 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Barry-CottleEAEA-interactiveEAiElectronic-ArtsFiremintflight-controlinfinite-interactiveiOSiPadiPhonemobilereal-racingreal-racing-2Tue, 03 May 2011 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 drops to $10 on XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/puzzle-quest-2-drops-to-10-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/puzzle-quest-2-drops-to-10-on-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/12/puzzle-quest-2-drops-to-10-on-xbla/#comments Puzzle Quest 2 is now 800 Microsoft Points on Xbox Live Arcade. With a sequel that stands up to and surpasses the original in many ways, it's actually a better buy at the same price as original Puzzle Quest.

Meanwhile, Puzzle Quest Galactrix is still 1600 Microsoft Points ($20) on XBLA. Nope, we can't explain it either.

Continue reading Puzzle Quest 2 drops to $10 on XBLA

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 drops to $10 on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>D3-Publisherinfinite-interactivemicrosoftpuzzle-quest-2xboxTue, 12 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Firemint acquires Puzzle Quest dev Infinite Interactive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/firemint-acquires-puzzle-quest-dev-infinite-interactive/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/firemint-acquires-puzzle-quest-dev-infinite-interactive/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/04/firemint-acquires-puzzle-quest-dev-infinite-interactive/#comments You'd think after selling a billion iPhone games, the Firemint crew, makers of those Flight Control and Real Racing games on your phone, would go buy a boat or something. But, oh no, they had to be "smart" with their money, acquiring Puzzle Quest developer Infinite Interactive to form an even stronger, more independent operation, which "works exclusively on self-published original games." Who do these guys think they are ... PopCap?

It would seem that Firemint starter Rob Murray and Infinite Interactive founder Steve Fawkner, both Aussies, have been casually strategizing for years now. "Steve and I have been talking about working together for a long time, and I remember him showing me an early version of Puzzle Quest," Murray recalled. "This inspired me to make a game during my own holidays two years later, which was Flight Control -- and now, another two years later, we've finally found a way to work together!" (The financial terms of the deal haven't been disclosed.)

Infinite Interactive will merge into Firemint's "recently expanded" (how convenient!) offices in Melbourne and continue work on some kind of infectious game that could endanger world health at a bargain price. And then, they'll all probably buy a fleet of boats and retire into Port Phillip Bay.

[Image credit: Firemint]

JoystiqFiremint acquires Puzzle Quest dev Infinite Interactive originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquisitionaustraliadsdsiwarefiremintinfinite-interactiveiosiphonemacmelbournemobilenintendopcplaystationps3psnpuzzle-questpuzzle-quest-2rob-murraysteamsteve-fawknerTue, 04 Jan 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 PSP only available via PSN, lacks multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/puzzle-quest-2-psp-only-available-via-psn-lacks-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/puzzle-quest-2-psp-only-available-via-psn-lacks-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/puzzle-quest-2-psp-only-available-via-psn-lacks-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Yesterday, we reported that Puzzle Quest 2 would make its way to PSP later this year, but we still had questions. Specifically, it was unclear if the game would see a UMD release and whether it'd be as full-featured as the console versions.

Steve Fawkner, CEO and president of Infinite Interactive, confirmed with Joystiq that the PSP game would only be available as a PSN download -- there will not be a UMD version. "Although we've received great support from D3 and Namco for all previous Puzzle Quest releases, PQ2 PSP is the first Puzzle Quest game that Infinite is doing by itself, without a publisher, so we're not really able to handle a full UMD release at this time," Fawkner told us. He went on to say that "it's important to get a PSP version out there for all the people who enjoyed the original PQ on PSP and wanted the second one."

Fawkner offered further insight into why Infinite would be publishing the PSP version itself (given that other versions were published by D3). "The truth is that most publishers really aren't keen to take a risk on PSP these days, which is kind of sad, because it's 'taking risks' that gets great games like Puzzle Quest published in the first place!"

As far as features go, Fawkner also confirmed that Puzzle Quest 2 for PSP would not include multiplayer. The multiplayer mode in the first Puzzle Quest was apparently not so popular among PSP players, so the team decided to focus on implementing Elite Mode (a tougher version of the single-player game that yields better rewards) into the PSP sequel, which it thought would be a better fit for the PSP demographic.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 PSP only available via PSN, lacks multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-interactiveplaystationpsnpsppuzzle-quest-2sonyThu, 02 Sep 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 embarks on a journey to PSP later this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/puzzle-quest-2-embarks-on-a-journey-to-psp-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/puzzle-quest-2-embarks-on-a-journey-to-psp-later-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/puzzle-quest-2-embarks-on-a-journey-to-psp-later-this-year/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Aww, poor PSP -- it's like you've been sitting out in the rain, looking through the window at all of the other consoles, laughing and having a good time together with Puzzle Quest 2. Well, come on in, buddy! You've finally been invited to the party.

IGN reports that Sony's handheld will indeed receive a port of Puzzle Quest 2, launching "towards the end of 2010." Oddly enough, the IGN piece mentions the game will be available for download via PSN and makes no mention of a UMD release. We've gone ahead and contacted the game's publisher, D3, for clarification.

Along with extreme tardiness, the PSP port brings with it a new game mode called Elite. Here, the difficulty of enemies has been ramped up, naturally yielding better rewards for players and more chances to throw your PSP to the ground in frustration.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 embarks on a journey to PSP later this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-interactiveplaystationpsppuzzle-quest-2q4q4-2010release-datesonyTue, 31 Aug 2010 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Solve Puzzle Quest 2 on Steam August 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/solve-puzzle-quest-2-on-steam-august-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/solve-puzzle-quest-2-on-steam-august-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/06/solve-puzzle-quest-2-on-steam-august-12/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Though we usually elect to enjoy Puzzle Quest 2 during life's natural intermissions -- red lights, bathroom visits, literal intermissions between two acts of a lengthy musical -- we suppose having it on our home computer would be equally convenient. (We spend a lot of time on computers, you know.) We'll all get our chance to grab the game's PC iteration when it lands on Steam next Thursday, August 12.

The puzzle-RPG will be available for the (relatively) bargain price of $19.99 -- but if you'd like to do a bit of damage to that cost, you can save 10 percent by pre-ordering the game on Steam.

JoystiqSolve Puzzle Quest 2 on Steam August 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publisherinfinite-interactivepcpuzzlePuzzle-Quest-2release-datesteamFri, 06 Aug 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: Puzzle Quest 2 (DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/review-puzzle-quest-2-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/review-puzzle-quest-2-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/review-puzzle-quest-2-ds/#comments When creating the follow-up to a critically beloved game, it's rare for a developer to lose sight of just about every aspect of what made the original so great. That was the unfortunate case with Puzzle Quest: Galactrix -- a title so disappointing, it led many fans to worry that the franchise's maiden voyage was merely a fluke. A really entertaining, addictive-as-all-get-out fluke, but a fluke nonetheless.

Where Galactrix represented an attempt at innovation by first throwing out baby, bathwater and tub, Puzzle Quest 2 is a love letter to the jilted fans of Challenge of the Warlords. It not only recalls the prodigal formula of the series' first iteration -- it improves on that formula in countless clever ways.

Continue reading Review: Puzzle Quest 2 (DS)

JoystiqReview: Puzzle Quest 2 (DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publisherdsinfinite-interactivenintendoPuzzle-Quest-2Fri, 25 Jun 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 and Ancients of Ooga hit XBLA June 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/puzzle-quest-2-and-ancients-of-ooga-hit-xbla-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/puzzle-quest-2-and-ancients-of-ooga-hit-xbla-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/25/puzzle-quest-2-and-ancients-of-ooga-hit-xbla-june-30/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's pretty much accepted that none of us here at Joystiq are good people. We have to wonder, then, just what we did to deserve a much-desired sequel and a new NinjaBee game in the same week. It's a mystery for sure, but Major Nelson has announced that both Puzzle Quest 2 (as previously dated) and Ancients of Ooga are slated to arrive on Xbox Live Arcade next week.

If you want to dip into some puzzle-fueled role-playing, you'll need 1200 MS Points ($15) for Puzzle Quest 2. Meanwhile, the gastronomic platforming of Ancients of Ooga will run you 800 MSP ($10). Check out a new trailer for Ancients of Ooga after the break.

Continue reading Puzzle Quest 2 and Ancients of Ooga hit XBLA June 30

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 and Ancients of Ooga hit XBLA June 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jun 2010 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ancients-of-oogaD3-PublisherInfinite-Interactivej-kenworthy-entertainmentmicrosoftNinjaBeePuzzle-Quest-2release-datexblaXblaWednesdayxboxFri, 25 Jun 2010 12:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 drops on XBLA June 30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/puzzle-quest-2-drops-on-xbla-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/puzzle-quest-2-drops-on-xbla-june-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/puzzle-quest-2-drops-on-xbla-june-30/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Clear your schedule, Xbox 360 owners: you're going to have an ongoing appointment with some gems in the next couple of weeks. D3 Publisher has announced a June 30 release date for the XBLA version of Puzzle Quest 2, at a price of 1200 Microsoft Points. If you're wondering how you'll possibly survive the agonizing nine-day wait, may we suggest the DS version of the same game? It's out ... tomorrow.

Gallery: Puzzle Quest 2 (E3)

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 drops on XBLA June 30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>D3-PublisherInfinite-InteractivemicrosoftpuzzlePuzzle-QuestPuzzle-Quest-2release-datexboxMon, 21 Jun 2010 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest Chapters 1 and 2 free on iPhone this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/13/puzzle-quest-chapters-1-and-2-free-on-iphone-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/13/puzzle-quest-chapters-1-and-2-free-on-iphone-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/13/puzzle-quest-chapters-1-and-2-free-on-iphone-this-weekend/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Whether you're bored, cheap or in desperate need of a new on-the-go gaming addiction (perhaps for that long flight out to the west coast for a major electronic entertainment convention?), you'll want to hop on the App Store with all available haste to take advantage of a pretty wicked offer. For this weekend only, the first two installments in the pseudo-episodic iPhone version of Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords have been rolled into one totally free package.

The third (and final) chapter of the game is still selling at its usual retail price of $1.99, but we wouldn't worry too much about that. It's not like you'll be compelled to get that far in the game because it's super, super addictive or anything.

Download: Puzzle Quest Chapters 1 and 2 (Free)

JoystiqPuzzle Quest Chapters 1 and 2 free on iPhone this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>D3-Publisherinfinite-interactivemobilePuzzle-Questtransgaming-technologiesSun, 13 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Puzzle Quest 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/puzzle-quest-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/puzzle-quest-2-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/24/puzzle-quest-2-preview/#comments "So would you call this a return to form?" I asked Infinite Interactive's Steve Fawkner right before I picked up the controller to play Puzzle Quest 2. "Yes, very much so," he replied. Fawkner isn't shy about admitting that Puzzle Quest Galactrix deserved a few of the lumps it got from fans ("They didn't like it when minigames blocked progress on the main game"), and so when his team set out to create a full-fledged sequel to the gem-matching, role-playing hit, they wanted a good mix of updated gameplay that didn't stray too far from what made the first title so good.

And from my short play session, it seems that's exactly what they got. A lot has changed from the first Puzzle Quest, and while fans will miss a few things (my beloved Druid class is gone!), most of the changes are in service to, and succeed at, making the game more fun.

Gallery: Puzzle Quest 2 (XBLA)

Continue reading Hands-on: Puzzle Quest 2

JoystiqHands-on: Puzzle Quest 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 May 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publisherDSinfinite-interactiveMicrosoftNintendopuzzle-questpuzzle-quest-2xblaXbox-360Mon, 24 May 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 footage gets you from point A to point B]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/puzzle-quest-2-footage-gets-you-from-point-a-to-point-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/puzzle-quest-2-footage-gets-you-from-point-a-to-point-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/puzzle-quest-2-footage-gets-you-from-point-a-to-point-b/#comments Yes, we know you're upset that Puzzle Quest 2's completely addictive gem-swapping sessions will be interrupted by primitive world traversal -- why can't we just bounce from fight to fight on an overworld map like civilized humans? Try not to get your knickers in a twist; based on the trailer above, it doesn't look like traveling between levels will be too taxing of an ordeal. Especially if you just teleport to where you're headed, which may actually reduce the amount of downtime between brawls. Now that's more like it.

Check out the trailer to see Puzzle Quest 2's exploration in action, and to get a quick glimpse of the game that's going to devour our free time next month.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 footage gets you from point A to point B originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3publisherDSinfinite-interactiveMicrosoftNintendopuzzlePuzzle-Questpuzzle-quest-2rpgtrailervideoXbox-360Fri, 21 May 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 coming to DS June 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/puzzle-quest-2-coming-to-ds-june-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/puzzle-quest-2-coming-to-ds-june-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/puzzle-quest-2-coming-to-ds-june-22/#comments We know there have been plenty of pretenders to the Puzzle Quest throne, many developed/perpetrated by developer Infinite Interactive itself. But do you still remember? Is there a place in your memory for those seemingly countless hours you spent peering into your DS, hoping to line up enough red gems to get off that last fire spell before you were overwhelmed by a giant spider? Do you remember? More importantly: Have the countless clones and wannabes completely dulled your desire for a return to the world of puzzle quest?

You'll have on opportunity to answer that question for yourself as publisher D3 has just announced that the follow-up, Puzzle Quest 2, will arrive in North American shops on June 22 according to Shacknews. Can't wait a month? OK, fine, here. Just don't spoil your dinner.

Gallery: Puzzle Quest 2 (DS)

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 coming to DS June 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 19:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-interactivePuzzle-Questpuzzle-quest-2release-dateTue, 11 May 2010 19:20:00 EST<![CDATA[XBLA in Brief: Puzzle Chronicles, After Burner Climax]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/xbla-in-brief-puzzle-chronicles-after-burner-climax/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/xbla-in-brief-puzzle-chronicles-after-burner-climax/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/21/xbla-in-brief-puzzle-chronicles-after-burner-climax/#commentsFiled under:

We've got two wildly disparate games on Xbox Live Arcade this week. For the puzzle game / RPG hybrid fans, there's Puzzle Chronicles, essentially a different take on Puzzle Quest (which makes sense, as both were developed by Infinite Interactive). If you're more of an action bent, then After Burner Climax will be right up your alley. So, what's it going to be, saving the kingdom one rotating gem at a time or blasting bogeys from the sky? Watch the latest XBLA in Brief and see if either 800 ($10) title deserves a spot on your radar.

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Xbox.com: Add Puzzle Chronicles trial version to your Xbox 360 download queue
Xbox.com: Add After Burner Climax trial version to your Xbox 360 download queue

JoystiqXBLA in Brief: Puzzle Chronicles, After Burner Climax originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>after-burnerafter-burner-climaxinfinite-interactivekonamipuzzle-chroniclessegaSega-AM2x3f-tvXBLAxbla-in-briefWed, 21 Apr 2010 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 trailer is a real gem]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/puzzle-quest-2-trailer-is-a-real-gem/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/puzzle-quest-2-trailer-is-a-real-gem/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/puzzle-quest-2-trailer-is-a-real-gem/#commentsInfinite Interactive and D3 Publisher would like to remind you that they have claimed your free time this spring. Puzzle Quest 2 is on the way, bringing back the diabolical alchemy of match-three puzzles and fantasy role-playing that turned us all into gem-hoarding monsters the first time.

As the trailer above shows, Puzzle Quest 2 features an entirely new storyline, so we'll get to meet new characters just as memorable as whoever it was we were playing as between rounds of the puzzle game last time.

Gallery: Puzzle Quest 2 (DS)


Gallery: Puzzle Quest 2 (XBLA)

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 trailer is a real gem originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3D3-PublisherDSinfinite-interactiveMicrosoftNintendopuzzlePuzzle-Questpuzzle-quest-2Xbox-360Thu, 18 Mar 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[D3 Publisher: Puzzle Quest 2 won't have Galactrix's load time issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/d3-publisher-puzzle-quest-2-wont-have-galactrixs-load-time-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/d3-publisher-puzzle-quest-2-wont-have-galactrixs-load-time-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/d3-publisher-puzzle-quest-2-wont-have-galactrixs-load-time-is/#comments As exciting as the prospect of Puzzle Quest in Space might have been, the excitement offered by Galactrix was completely derailed by the game's outrageously lengthy load times. However, in a recent interview with Kotaku, D3 Publisher's Michael Cerven claimed that the recently announced Puzzle Quest 2 won't be plagued by the frequent intermissions, as developer Infinite Interactive "rebuilt the DS engine from the ground up to be fast and perform smoothly with very quick load times as opposed to retrofitting the lead SKU code for the DS."

If Cerven's claims are true, we suppose this is good news for the impatient puzzle-solvers out there. However, we got so much stuff done during Galactrix's near-constant loading screens. We even learned to speak Esperanto! Ĉi tiu estas rakonto pri videoludoj!

JoystiqD3 Publisher: Puzzle Quest 2 won't have Galactrix's load time issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publisherDSinfinite-interactiveload-timesloadingNintendopuzzle-questpuzzle-quest-2puzzle-quest-galactrixTue, 01 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest 2 coming to DS, XBLA in Spring 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/puzzle-quest-2-coming-to-ds-xbla-in-spring-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/puzzle-quest-2-coming-to-ds-xbla-in-spring-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/30/puzzle-quest-2-coming-to-ds-xbla-in-spring-2010/#commentsThough we're confident Infinite Interactive's Puzzle Quest 2 will eventually be a mega-multiplatform release like its predecessor, D3Publisher announced that the game's roll-out will start on DS and Xbox Live Arcade. It'll be out in spring 2010, along with every other game you've ever heard of, which means that you'll now have the choice to play all those games or Puzzle Quest. They'll occupy about the same amount of time.

Puzzle Quest 2 will let players match gems as one of four new character classes: War Mage, Inquisitor, Barbarian, or Assassin, using "all-new weapons, spells, and shields." Sorry if you just got over a Puzzle Quest addiction.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest 2 coming to DS, XBLA in Spring 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3d3publisherDSinfinite-interactiveMicrosoftNintendopuzzlepuzzle-questpuzzle-quest-2release-dateXbox-360Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest sequel revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/26/puzzle-quest-sequel-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/26/puzzle-quest-sequel-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/26/puzzle-quest-sequel-revealed/#comments It appears that GamePro will reveal the first details of Puzzle Quest 2 in its next issue. Beyond a single image, the mag doesn't drop any details on its website. After Infinite Interactive went a tad off course with Galactrix -- meanwhile, developing Puzzle Kingdoms, Puzzle Chronicles and Neopets Puzzle Adventure -- it's good to see the team going back to its roots.

From the image, it seems that Puzzle Quest 2 is being developed for Xbox 360, but if it's anything like its predecessor, the game will eventually release on every console, handheld and electronic device known to man. One can also deduce that purple is now a rune for spells instead of XP. But what purpose do the gloves serve? We're sure to learn more very soon.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest sequel revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-interactiveMicrosoftpuzzlepuzzle-questpuzzle-quest-2xblaXbox-360Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest ventures to $5 this week on XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/puzzle-quest-ventures-to-5-this-week-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/puzzle-quest-ventures-to-5-this-week-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/07/puzzle-quest-ventures-to-5-this-week-on-xblm/#comments
The excellent and addictive Puzzle Quest gets half off this week for Xbox Live Gold Members. Major Nelson sends word by necromantic carrier pigeon that the jewel-dropping epic will cost a mere 400 ($5).

Even if you aren't interested in the game at the moment, may we suggest picking it up as a "boredom insurance policy?" Seriously, the first time you get bored, just boot up Puzzle Quest and you'll come out of the trance sometime the following week. Hey, listen ... we said it was an insurance policy against boredom -- nothing about you being able to keep your job, spouse or grades after starting.

Queue Puzzle Quest to download on your Xbox 360

Gallery: Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords (XBLA)

JoystiqPuzzle Quest ventures to $5 this week on XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Sep 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deal-of-the-weekinfinite-interactiveMicrosoftpuzzle-questxblaxblmXbox-360Mon, 07 Sep 2009 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[MTV's Totilo: DS version of Galactrix plagued by load times]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/totilo-ds-version-of-galactrix-plagued-by-load-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/totilo-ds-version-of-galactrix-plagued-by-load-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/totilo-ds-version-of-galactrix-plagued-by-load-times/#commentsFiled under:


Considering our outrageous, unslakable handheld lust for Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords, we didn't think anything could keep us from diving back into our dual-screened device for a go at Galactrix -- though a report from MTV Multiplayer's Stephen Totilo is giving us slight cause for concern. According to Totes, the DS version of the game suffers from "surprisingly long load times." Yes, he said the DS version -- not the Commodore 64 version. We were confused at first as well.

Totilo said that the four to five-second load times occur before each puzzle, during mission selection and when checking inventory. Doesn't sound like much, but as he assures us, "it adds up." Anyone else notice their precious seconds being squandered whilst participating in some interplanetary gem-swapping?

JoystiqMTV's Totilo: DS version of Galactrix plagued by load times originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publishergalactrixinfinite-interactiveload-timespuzzle-quest-galactrixtotiloFri, 27 Feb 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[You should probably play this Galactrix demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/you-should-probably-play-this-galactrix-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/you-should-probably-play-this-galactrix-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/20/you-should-probably-play-this-galactrix-demo/#commentsFiled under:


This Flash demo will give you a pretty good idea of what playing the DS Puzzle Quest Galactrix will be like, except that the DS one will look different, cost money, and last longer. Playing the thing will explain the concepts of the game a lot better than we can. Even the pre-demo instructions seemed complicated (and we've seen the game before), until we started playing, at which point we just got it immediately.

We wanted to complete the demo, so we could take in the entirety of the presentation before reporting it for you, but that's just not going to happen right now. In fact, we're going to go ahead and proclaim that it's impossible to beat General Tarn or whatever, and also that the game is cheating and it's totally not fair.

JoystiqYou should probably play this Galactrix demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galactrixinfinite-interactivepuzzlepuzzle-quest-galactrixrpgTue, 20 Jan 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Resistance is futile: Puzzle Quest Galactrix launches Flash demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/resistance-is-futile-puzzle-quest-galactrix-launches-flash-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/resistance-is-futile-puzzle-quest-galactrix-launches-flash-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/resistance-is-futile-puzzle-quest-galactrix-launches-flash-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


A Flash demo is available now for those looking to try Puzzle Quest's sci-fi follow-up, Galactrix. The rules may be slightly different (the no extra turn for 4-of-a-kind is a doozy), but be warned, star gazing gem shifters: the refined spice which made the fantasy realm of Puzzle Quest so addictive is still quite potent in this new form.

Galactrix is expected to arrive the relatively near future for Nintendo DS, PC, XBLA and PSN. The demo doesn't seem to take prisoners, so hit the enemy with lasers and use shields when opportunity allows.

[Via X3F, Evil Avatar]

JoystiqResistance is futile: Puzzle Quest Galactrix launches Flash demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publisherDSgalactrixinfinite-interactivePCPS3puzzle-questpuzzle-quest-galactrixXbox-360Mon, 19 Jan 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest: Galactrix demo trialable online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/puzzle-quest-galactrix-demo-trialable-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/puzzle-quest-galactrix-demo-trialable-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/19/puzzle-quest-galactrix-demo-trialable-online/#commentsFiled under: ,


Figured you'd like to know that there's a Puzzle Quest: Galactrix mini demo now available online at playpuzzlequestgalactrix.com. The flash demo of D3 Publisher's upcoming Xbox Live Arcade release of Galactrix gives a sampling of the gameplay, the powerups and the overall experience. Just watch out for that General Tarn and his abuse of the Trident Laser. He's a Trident Laser madman.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqPuzzle Quest: Galactrix demo trialable online originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publishergalactrixinfinite-interactivepuzzle-questpuzzle-quest-galactrixxblaMon, 19 Jan 2009 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinite Interactive mixes it up again with Deathbringer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/infinite-interactive-mixes-it-up-again-with-deathbringer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/infinite-interactive-mixes-it-up-again-with-deathbringer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/08/infinite-interactive-mixes-it-up-again-with-deathbringer/#commentsFiled under:

Well, we've seen Infinite Interactive take on the puzzle game with RPG elements, and that went okay. Time to branch out into new territory, right? That's just what they're doing with Deathbringer -- an ARPG ... uh, with puzzle elements.

Listen, when the hybrid works, it works. And most RPGs have some puzzle elements somewhere, so despite the hilarity of Infinite Interactive doing the opposite of what they've done before, it's not too far off the beaten path. Of course, they could probably make a game about scooping doggy poop off the sidewalk and we'd play it. That Puzzle Quest was some fun. Hit the break to see what they have to say about their forthcoming Deathbringer, which will be released for nearly every console known to man. Think companions and co-op. Maybe they should have named it Awesomebringer..

[Via NeoGAF]

Continue reading Infinite Interactive mixes it up again with Deathbringer

JoystiqInfinite Interactive mixes it up again with Deathbringer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgdeathbringerinfinite-interactivepuzzleThu, 08 Jan 2009 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Interview: Neopets Puzzle Adventure's Griptonite Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/ds-fanboy-interview-neopets-puzzle-adventures-griptonite-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/ds-fanboy-interview-neopets-puzzle-adventures-griptonite-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/23/ds-fanboy-interview-neopets-puzzle-adventures-griptonite-games/#commentsFiled under:


The last time we spoke to Griptonite Games, they were adapting a huge franchise with massive expectations onto the DS. Now, with Neopets Puzzle Adventure, two big series are in their hands: Infinite Interactive's narrative puzzle game series (Puzzle Quest, etc.), and the Neopets franchise.

The version of Neopets Puzzle Adventure that they're making for the DS features mostly the same gameplay as the PC and Wii versions, has been tweaked by Griptonite for handheld play. We spoke to producer Sean Epperson about the process of adapting Infinite Interactive's Othello-based puzzle game to the small screens.

What other gameplay/mechanics ideas were considered, when looking for an idea for a Neopets game (e.g. collectible card game, pet sim, etc.)?

When Capcom came to us, a good portion of the PC and Wii game had already been designed. We ran with those core ideas, leveraged what would work well on the DS platform, and made some changes where things wouldn't have worked as well. This also allowed us to create a different experience on the DS, which gives players a real reason to try out all the versions of the game.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Interview: Neopets Puzzle Adventure's Griptonite Games

JoystiqDS Fanboy Interview: Neopets Puzzle Adventure's Griptonite Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>griptoniteinfinite-interactivejoystiqfeaturesneopetsneopets-puzzle-adventureThu, 23 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Neopets Screenshot Adventure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/neopets-screenshot-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/neopets-screenshot-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/10/neopets-screenshot-adventure/#commentsFiled under:

Capcom has sent out a set of screens of the DS version of Neopets Puzzle Adventure, one of our most anticipated games in spite of an unfamiliar license. The screens feature some of the Neopets that you can create as avatars, if that matters.

Also notable: one of the Petpet abilities, which forces the opposing player to place a tile in a set location. These abilities are, to us, the most important addition to the Othello-based gameplay, as they allow players to do something to change the tide of the game other than placing tiles. This one also happens to be a lil' Pegasus. That's pretty excellent.

The minigames, which include things like drawing icons quickly, give us a bit of fear about how this will turn out. But we trust Infinite Interactive, Griptonite, and Capcom to deliver the Neopets game we've been waiting for. By which we mean one that we are interested in to some degree.


[Via press release]

JoystiqNeopets Screenshot Adventure originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcominfinite-interactiveneopetsneopets-puzzle-adventurepuzzlerpgFri, 10 Oct 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Neopets Puzzle Adventure gets October release window]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/neopets-puzzle-adventure-gets-october-release-window/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/neopets-puzzle-adventure-gets-october-release-window/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/06/neopets-puzzle-adventure-gets-october-release-window/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


When we raved about the Othello-based, Neopets Puzzle Adventure, we couldn't scrub away the sadness of endorsing something built on a Tomagotchi-knock-off. We name-dropped how it's being developed by Infinite Interactive, creators of Puzzle Quest, but that wasn't enough. We shivered for weeks.

Capcom let us know that the PC and DS versions are due by the end of October, while a Wii edition is coming later. So you'll soon be able to share our love of the puzzler (and self-loathing). Check out our original impressions again for the full details.

JoystiqNeopets Puzzle Adventure gets October release window originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomDSinfinite-interactiveneopetsneopets-puzzle-adventurenintendoPCpuzzle-questWiiMon, 06 Oct 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First look at DS Neopets Puzzle Adventure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/first-look-at-ds-neopets-puzzle-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/first-look-at-ds-neopets-puzzle-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/first-look-at-ds-neopets-puzzle-adventure/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This holiday, DS puzzle fans will grudgingly line up for a game about Neopets, and Neopets fans will grudgingly line up for a game with actual gameplay in it. And lots of us will line up for glorified Othello! The reason for the strange situation is Infinite Interactive, whose Puzzle Quest has inspired deep loyalty in pretty much everyone who has played it.

IGN has the first screens and videos of the DS version of Neopets Puzzle Adventure, a game which we fully expected to scale down to the DS admirably. And it has, although certain changes have been made from the other versions. For one, Petpets, which act as special magic attacks, are limited in stock (to five) rather than by a supply of MP. The changes don't sound like anything done to adapt to the DS's limitations, so maybe Infinite Interactive is just trying to sell you two versions.

JoystiqFirst look at DS Neopets Puzzle Adventure originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcominfinite-interactiveneopetsneopets-puzzle-adventurepuzzleThu, 28 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest update to infect XBLA this Wednesday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/puzzle-quest-update-to-infect-xbla-this-wednesday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/puzzle-quest-update-to-infect-xbla-this-wednesday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/puzzle-quest-update-to-infect-xbla-this-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Those jewels you've been collecting are about to get a whole lot more infectious, as D3Publisher announced that its player-christened Puzzle Quest expansion, Revenge of the Plague Lord, will infest Xbox Live Arcade this Wednesday, July 23.

Develped by Puzzle Quest devs, Infinite Interactive, the 700 Microsoft Point update will offer a virulent mass of new content, including 25 new quests, 50 new spells, 40 new items, and four new heroes, as well as the ability to build up characters to level 60. In addition, Revenge of the Plague Lord will also add three new Achievements to the popular puzzler, giving us plenty to feed our fever until we look to the skies next year.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest update to infect XBLA this Wednesday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>galactrixinfinite-interactiveinfiniteinteractivepuzzle-questpuzzlequestrevenge-of-the-plagu...revengeoftheplaguelordXbox-360Mon, 21 Jul 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Neopets Puzzle Adventure flips Othello over]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-neopets-puzzle-adventure-flips-othello-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-neopets-puzzle-adventure-flips-othello-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/e308-neopets-puzzle-adventure-flips-othello-over/#commentsFiled under:


So I didn't exactly play Neopets Puzzle Adventure on the DS. But I did play Neopets Puzzle Adventure, and Neopets Puzzle Adventure will eventually end up on the DS. It's not as if the Othello-based gameplay will face significant challenges in the transition from PC to DS.

And Othello it is, at least at first. You place a piece on the board to flank the opposing player's pieces, flipping them to your color. But there are layers and layers of new weirdness that change the board game entirely. For one, the board is different shapes, not just the standard square. Some spaces on the board award points, and others are marked with icons of a certain color. Points and gem collecting are the real point of the game, rather than controlling territory. You get points for covering spaces, but you can't just win by controlling more of the board.

Gaining control of a space with an icon on it enables you to use Petpet abilities, which are like spells. Each Petpet requires a varying amount of icons to activate. Clicking on a Petpet activates a spell that does something like flipping a bunch of pieces or awarding you points or otherwise altering the game -- you know, basic spell stuff.

What this means is that it's no longer obvious how to succeed at Othello. Random and non-board elements can change the status of the game instantly. In addition, when you flip a bunch of pieces, you trigger a combo effect that flips even more pieces.

JoystiqE308: Neopets Puzzle Adventure flips Othello over originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcome3-2008e308infinite-interactiveneopetsneopets-puzzle-adventurepuzzleFri, 18 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest: Galactrailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/puzzle-quest-galactrailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/puzzle-quest-galactrailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/puzzle-quest-galactrailer/#commentsFiled under:

Okay, so Puzzle Quest: Galactrix doesn't have online play. It's still got the rare and ephemeral quality of being Puzzle Quest! That counts for a lot. And besides, it's supposed to be an RPG, right? Those don't need online multiplayer! (Ignore the other versions of Galactrix. And, uh, the MMORPG genre.)

If this brief gameplay video is any indication, Galactrix moves really, really quickly. We'd get our futuristic spaceship captain asses handed to us before we could even figure out what all those numbers on the top screen meant. We'll be content to lose to the computer, and to our friends, who can then console/mock us in person.

JoystiqPuzzle Quest: Galactrailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3galactrixinfinite-interactivepuzzlepuzzle-questrpgThu, 10 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS version of Galactrix missing online play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/ds-version-of-galactrix-missing-online-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/ds-version-of-galactrix-missing-online-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/ds-version-of-galactrix-missing-online-play/#commentsFiled under:

What a bummer. We were all excited when we saw the first screens of the DS version of Puzzle Quest: Galactrix attached to IGN's preview. Then we had to go and read the preview.

"Galactrix will feature the same multiplayer modes as Challenge of the Warlords. That means the Xbox 360 and PC versions will be playable online, and the DS will include local multiplayer." And just like that, our dreams of Puzzle Questy Game Nights disappear like four contiguous red blocks.

This is less of an issue, of course, for people who have friends outside of the Internet, but we were really hoping Infinite Interactive would bring online play to the platform that made Puzzle Quest a household name (for certain values of "household"). And the screens do look nice.

JoystiqDS version of Galactrix missing online play originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3galactrixinfinite-interactivepuzzlepuzzle-questWed, 09 Jul 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Capcom puts Mega Man 9 on the menu, we plan to binge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/e308-capcom-puts-mega-man-9-on-the-menu-we-plan-to-binge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/e308-capcom-puts-mega-man-9-on-the-menu-we-plan-to-binge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/e308-capcom-puts-mega-man-9-on-the-menu-we-plan-to-binge/#commentsFiled under: ,


Do you want to know everything there is to know about Mega Man 9, or, uh, Neopets? If so, it's time to send hugs and kisses to Capcom. The company officially announced what it's showing at E3, and, guess what? Those titles made the cut. Now you have more reason than ever to try and get on Capcom's invite list.

For Wii owners, the Capcom Belle of the Ball is definitely going to be (a playable) Mega Man 9, a game that we just can't shut up about. Those of you who aren't impressed by the awesomely retro, 8-bit goodness might just come away from E3 feeling better about the project (/hypnotic stare). The rest of us who are already in love can commence happy dancing, as we wonder what Mega Mannish goodies will come out of the convention.

Oh, and Neopets! Can we get a woot? ... No? Okay, well, we tried.

JoystiqE308: Capcom puts Mega Man 9 on the menu, we plan to binge originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcome3-2008infinite-interactivemega-manmega-man-9neopetsplatformerpuzzleretroWed, 09 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fawkner talks up Neopets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/fawkner-talks-up-neopets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/fawkner-talks-up-neopets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/fawkner-talks-up-neopets/#commentsFiled under: ,


Steve Fawkner, the CEO of Infinite Interactive, chats a bit about the recently announced Neopets and some of its features in the video above. Neopets takes the game Othello (also known as Reversi in some circles) and spruces it up a bit with magical spells and things of that nature, while also adding an adventure storyline. This may not excite some of you, but we still have fond memories of 7up's Spot: The Video Game, which showed us that Othello can be awesome in the right circumstances.

Fawkner also claims that if you play just one game, you'll be hooked. Since Infinite Interactive gave us Puzzle Quest, a title that people had big doubts about until they realized it was video game crack (the DS version, at least), we're inclined to see if Neopets can live up to Fawkner's promise -- even if we still think the tie-in with the Neopets franchise is just weird.

Gallery: Neopets Puzzle Adventure

JoystiqFawkner talks up Neopets originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcominfinite-interactiveneopetsothellopuzzlereversisteve-fawknerThu, 05 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Overheard@Captivate 08: Of Puzzle Quest and bomb threats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/overheard-captivate-08-of-puzzle-quest-and-bomb-threats-dont/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/overheard-captivate-08-of-puzzle-quest-and-bomb-threats-dont/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/overheard-captivate-08-of-puzzle-quest-and-bomb-threats-dont/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Steve Faulkner of Infinite Interactive was promoting Neopets: Puzzle Adventure last week at Captivate 08, but hit us with this informative nugget when asked about Puzzle Quest's level 50 cap.

"I actually got a death threat for that," Faulkner said. "Twenty-five years in game development, I get one death threat. Puzzle Quest comes out and I get six death threats and a bomb threat."

Apparently, the bomb threat was thanks to a glitch in the PSP version. So keep your head high, QA staffers: You're more than bug squashers ... you're lifesavers.

JoystiqOverheard@Captivate 08: Of Puzzle Quest and bomb threats originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSinfinite-interactiveneopetsPSPpuzzle-questTue, 03 Jun 2008 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: Neopets Puzzle Adventure (PC)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/joystiq-hands-on-neopets-puzzle-adventure-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/joystiq-hands-on-neopets-puzzle-adventure-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/joystiq-hands-on-neopets-puzzle-adventure-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click to enlarge
First off, let us congratulate you for making it past the headline. We know that it takes a pretty special sort of person to read on in the face of a title like Neopets Puzzle Adventure, but believe us when we say that you will be rewarded for your perseverance.

As you may already know, NPA is the non-Galactrix follow-up to Puzzle Quest: Something Something Warlords by Australian developer Infinite Interactive. And even though the setting may not be our cup of tea, the game itself looks to be equally addictive.

Gallery: Neopets Puzzle Adventure (PC, Wii)

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: Neopets Puzzle Adventure (PC)

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: Neopets Puzzle Adventure (PC) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcaptivate-08DSinfinite-interactiveneopets-puzzle-adven...PCWiiTue, 03 Jun 2008 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinite Interactive reveals Neopets Puzzle Adventure, gets death threats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/infinite-interactive-reveals-neopets-puzzle-adventure-gets-deat/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/infinite-interactive-reveals-neopets-puzzle-adventure-gets-deat/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/infinite-interactive-reveals-neopets-puzzle-adventure-gets-deat/#commentsFiled under:


While we find it no joke, apparently Infinite Interactive's CEO Steve Fawkner thought that his company's receiving death threats was worth a slight chuckle. Heck, if the company received death threats before they revealed this, then they're sure to receive many, many more after today.

That sound you hearing? It's probably Eric, crying his eyes out as we hear about Infinite Interactive's new project, Neopets Puzzle Adventure. He's probably the biggest fan of their first title, Puzzle Quest: Challenge of the Warlords, we have on staff, so afford him some time to mourn.

If you still find yourself interested in the title despite it's Neopets branding, know that Joystiq managed to get some play time in with the title and actually enjoyed it. Hopefully that'll be enough to pull Eric out of his dark place.



Source - Infinite Interactive reveals Neopets Puzzle Adventure
Source - Infinite Interactive death threat

JoystiqInfinite Interactive reveals Neopets Puzzle Adventure, gets death threats originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-interactiveneopetsneopets-puzzle-adventurepuzzleTue, 03 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinite Interactive targets kids with Neopets Puzzle Adventure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/infinite-interactive-targets-kids-with-neopets-puzzle-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/infinite-interactive-targets-kids-with-neopets-puzzle-adventure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/infinite-interactive-targets-kids-with-neopets-puzzle-adventure/#commentsFiled under:


We don't know too much about the Neopets franchise, except that the Neopets can have their own pets, called "Petpets." It seems to be Pokémon without the good games associated with it. Despite this, it seems to be doing quite well.

In one of the most frightening developer/franchise pairings in recent history, Capcom announced Puzzle Quest developer Infinite Interactive's next game, Neopets Puzzle Adventure, at their Captivate '08 event. The game, releasing at the end of this year on DS, Wii, and PC, combines a Puzzle Quest-like puzzle game with Neopets pet care and collecting.

Joystiq's Justin McElroy will have a hands-on report later today. We can only assume that his hands are still on the demo, clamped down permanently.

JoystiqInfinite Interactive targets kids with Neopets Puzzle Adventure originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcominfinite-interactiveneopetsneopets-puzzle-adventurepuzzleTue, 03 Jun 2008 09:30:00 EST