Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[CoD4 overtakes Gears of War, Infinity Ward planning update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/cod4-overtakes-gears-of-war-infinity-ward-planning-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/cod4-overtakes-gears-of-war-infinity-ward-planning-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/18/cod4-overtakes-gears-of-war-infinity-ward-planning-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We like us some Call of Duty 4, and based on Major Nelson's top ten Xbox Live titles for this past week, so do a lot of other gamers. The game placed second in the rankings, right below Halo 3, and right above a certain quartet of steroid infused, uber-masculine gunhavers.

Infinity Ward isn't resting on their digital laurels, it would seem. Though the game has only been out eleven days in the states, they're already talking updates. The biggest change in their first planned update is a fix for the game's often fickle matchmaking and host selection, one of the few black marks against the title. Also, games will no longer end abruptly if the host drops out, and server performance on games with large numbers of players will supposedly improve. You can read the full list of gameplay changes after the jump.

Continue reading CoD4 overtakes Gears of War, Infinity Ward planning update

JoystiqCoD4 overtakes Gears of War, Infinity Ward planning update originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Duty-4CoD4DLCInfinity WardInfinityWardPCPS3UpdateXbox-360Sun, 18 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: Call of Duty 4 multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/joystiq-hands-on-call-of-duty-4-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/joystiq-hands-on-call-of-duty-4-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/10/joystiq-hands-on-call-of-duty-4-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We've already had a first look at Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, and we've seen the multiplayer video that was pre-alpha, but this was the first chance for us to snatch up the controller and get our hands dirty in the actual game. Sure, it's a beta build, but the first thing we can say is yes ... it does look that good.

The second thing we can say is yes ... it does look that good, and then some. Activision had an event at a trendy bar / club in Los Angeles yesterday, and we were among one of the first groups to get our game on outside of Infinity Ward. Despite some major router issues on their end that delayed things by a couple of hours, the game still managed to blow us away thoroughly.

Gallery: Call of Duty 4: Modern Combat

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: Call of Duty 4 multiplayer

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: Call of Duty 4 multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Aug 2007 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Infinity Ward's Jason West demoed Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, showing off the game's visceral visuals and gameplay. The mission seen takes place 15 years prior to the present in the game, with you and your sniping partner infilitrating a base. The graphics are crisp, and the lighting, explosions and smoke look especially realistic. The trailer has some intense firefights and some heavy duty missile blasts.

To show that all good things come in threes, Infinity Ward announced an Xbox Live exclusive Public Beta and gave a URL to watch for developing info. This looks to set new standards in contemporary combat games.

JoystiqCOD4: Modern Warfare demoed & beta announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C o DC o D 4Call of DutyCall of Duty 4CallOfDutyCallOfDuty4CODE3E3 07E3 2007E307E32007Infinity WardInfinityWardWed, 11 Jul 2007 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most pre-alpha video: Call of Duty 4 multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/todays-most-pre-alpha-video-call-of-duty-4-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/todays-most-pre-alpha-video-call-of-duty-4-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/todays-most-pre-alpha-video-call-of-duty-4-multiplayer/#commentsFiled under: ,

While not as visually or aesthetically appealing as the Children of Men-esque landscape in a previous trailer, this footage from Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare multiplayer match gives a feeling for how their designing death match, as all we see in thirty seconds is our perspective shooter running in with a rifle, switching to pistol and getting shot. Thrilling.

The game is still in pre-alpha but already looking pretty. You know the drill: video embedded after the break.

Continue reading Today's most pre-alpha video: Call of Duty 4 multiplayer

JoystiqToday's most pre-alpha video: Call of Duty 4 multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Over at Game Videos there is some new footage from a very early, pre-alpha build of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare. The scene, entitled "Bog Rescue," takes place in a desolate, urban environment that reminds us of the backdrop for the last one-third of the film Children of Men.

Much of the combat takes place through night vision goggles, and a visible laser shoots out from your gun to the turret -- when you see a wall of laser sights shoot out from flanking buildings, you get a feel for the atmosphere developers Infinity Ward are going for. Video embedded above.

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 footage shows bleak cityscape originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Jun 2007 01:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call of dutyCallOfDutyinfinity wardInfinityWardmodern warfareModernWarfarePCPS3sand boxSandBoxXbox-360Thu, 21 Jun 2007 01:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New Call of Duty 4 trailer astounds in a non-WWII kind of way]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/new-call-of-duty-4-trailer-astounds-in-a-non-wwii-kind-of-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/new-call-of-duty-4-trailer-astounds-in-a-non-wwii-kind-of-way/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/new-call-of-duty-4-trailer-astounds-in-a-non-wwii-kind-of-way/#commentsFiled under:

We have to admit we weren't really excited at the last Call of Duty reiteration, Call of Duty 3. A fine game, to be sure, but we couldn't overcome the been-there done-that feeling. Then the announcement and subsequent first peek at Call of Duty 4 in action, which did more than generate a frenzy of renewed interest. We had long since grown tired of WWII shooters and now, the leader of WWII shooters was going all modern. We took a peek at the latest trailer and literally, were blown away. The lighting on your fellow solders, the smoke entrails from heat-seeking rockets, the spinning and exploding helicopter: jack the sound up as you watch and you may find yourself sharing similar "OMFG" sentiments. Call of Duty 4 is reported to be on track for an Xbox 360, PS3 and PC release, sometime this fall and it's definitely on our "must buy" list now. How about yours?

JoystiqNew Call of Duty 4 trailer astounds in a non-WWII kind of way originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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If you're getting tired of World War II game, then you are in luck. Today GameVideos brings us the first gameplay trailer for Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare. The video is unquestionably modern, featuring laser sights, gun-mounted grenade launchers, and night vision goggles. However, it's also clear that the game maintains the feel of previous Call of Duty titles, really making you feel like you're in the center of the action. The video takes place during a nighttime operation, and all the aforementioned gadgets are put to good use. Give it a watch and tell us what you think.

[Thanks, Jeff]

JoystiqCOD4 gameplay video: old game, new tricks originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall of duty 4CallOfDuty4cod 4Cod4infinity wardInfinityWardWed, 20 Jun 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty dev rejects Live Anywhere]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/call-of-duty-dev-rejects-live-anywhere/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/call-of-duty-dev-rejects-live-anywhere/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/call-of-duty-dev-rejects-live-anywhere/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Infinity Ward's studio head Grant Collier, who we reported yesterday was unhappy with the overuse of sandbox gameplay and destructible environments, told IGN in an interview that there was no interest in using Live Anywhere for PC and Xbox 360 cross-play.

The Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare developer put it bluntly: "We said no and they didn't call back." Clarifying, Collier said "[it's cool] if you're playing online poker, but who wants to be playing an RTS on a console and have some guy on a PC clicking and dragging all his troops, attacking your base while you're sitting there with your thumb sticks." The keyboard/mouse vs. gamepad argument is a long-standing battle, and clearly Collier feels that they cannot be equals for fast-paced strategy or first-person shooter titles.

Live Anywhere is currently in use by Halo 2 (update: nevermind), Shadowrun and the action-packed Uno.

JoystiqCall of Duty dev rejects Live Anywhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 18:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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In an interview with Infinity Ward's studio head Grant Collier, IGN discussed everything Call of Duty 4 and got the company's opinion on Microsoft's Live Anywhere initiative. Grant said that after Microsoft pitched the idea of incorporating Live Anywhere into their games they felt that it wouldn't work with their projects and simply said "no way". Collier says such a system is best suited for "card games or Tetris or something like that" and not the RTS or FPS genres. Microsoft didn't have a convincing argument to Infinity Ward's complaints and didn't respond to them.

Collier's take on Live Anywhere directly conflicts with Microsoft's view of bridging multiple gaming platforms like their latest gem Shadowrun, which is a FPS and incorporates the technology. So, maybe that's why phone calls weren't returned ... they hurt Microsoft's feelings. Big bullies.

JoystiqInfinity Ward rejects Live Anywhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sandbox gameplay. Destructible environments. Those are a few of the latest video game buzzwords used to sell ideas, and Grant Collier, studio head of Infinity Ward (Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare), is not happy with it.

In an interview with IGN, Collier sees a problematic trend with using sandbox gameplay and "total destructibility" without first considering if it will make the game fun. "And total destructibility, you can really ruin the gameplay," he said.

Collier cites Counter-Strike's über-popular Dust map, where the two choke points serve as the focal point of entertainment, and how that could be compromised with destructible environments.

"It's not fun because you can blow up everything," he said, "it's fun because you know where the action's going to be and there's races against time to get to that action."

"So I think right now it's a fad, and the fad will pass, we're not going to be bite on in it - we want the game to be fun first, and destructibility comes second," he said. The over-indulgence may be a fad, but the interaction that destructible environments and sandbox gameplay adds is something that isn't (and shouldn't) go away, and we think Collier would agree that said features, if properly implemented, can potentially augment gameplay.

JoystiqCall of Duty dev down on destructible environments, sandbox gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call of dutyCallOfDutycounter strikeCounterStrikeinfinity wardInfinityWardmodern warfareModernWarfaresand boxSandBoxThu, 14 Jun 2007 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 screens deployed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/call-of-duty-4-screens-deployed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/call-of-duty-4-screens-deployed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/call-of-duty-4-screens-deployed/#commentsFiled under:


Xboxygen got their hands on 4 more screenshots of Infinity Ward's Call of Duty 4. Unfortunately, none of the shots are 360° flybys of a given scene, but it'll do. Still, the game seems to be coming along graphically and these screens have some great examples of the engine's explosion, lighting, rain and realistic smoke capabilities. Are you digging the art direction, as well as the move to modern day combat scenarios in this next installment of the Call of Duty series?

[Thanks, gaetge]

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 screens deployed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>C o DC o D 4Call of DutyCall of Duty 4CallOfDutyCallOfDuty4CODCOD4Infinity WardInfinityWardWed, 13 Jun 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[COD4 trailer assaults Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/cod4-trailer-assaults-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/cod4-trailer-assaults-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/cod4-trailer-assaults-marketplace/#commentsFiled under: ,


The Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare trailer that was released late last month is now available on Xbox Live Marketplace. Granted, it's been available in high definition from the promotional CharlieOscarDelta.com website since last month, but this will save you the trouble of registering for a marketing website. For those unfamiliar with the game, COD4 ditches WWII action in favor of, well, modern warfare. Check out the trailer and be sure to check out the 3D screenshot if you haven't already.

JoystiqCOD4 trailer assaults Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall of dutycall of duty 4call of duty 4 modern warfareCallOfDutyCallOfDuty4CallOfDuty4ModernWarfarecodcod 4cod 4 modern warfareCod4Cod4ModernWarfareinfinity wardInfinityWardmodern warfareModernWarfareFri, 25 May 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Call of Duty 4 3D screenshot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/video-call-of-duty-4-3d-screenshot/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/video-call-of-duty-4-3d-screenshot/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/08/video-call-of-duty-4-3d-screenshot/#commentsFiled under: ,


Infinity Ward released a cool 3D screenshot from Call of Duty 4, similar to what Bungie did for Halo 2 all those years ago. This one depicts some soldiers deploying from a helicopter into the battlefield below. The High Definition torrent for the Quicktime VR file can be found at Xboxyde and is definitely worth the look, along with some screen captures of the scene taken from multiple angles. So what do you think of the lighting, models, etc? Do you think modern combat is a step in the right direction for the Call of Duty series?

JoystiqVideo: Call of Duty 4 3D screenshot originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 May 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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As promised, the new Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare trailer (embedded above) aired on ESPN and hit the intertubes with a vengeance. And after watching their little teaser, you can color us impressed. Not only is the modern warfare theme a welcome change to the COD franchise, but the shear amount of action and destruction makes us want to go out and preorder Infinity Ward's little gem right now. And if you are interested, they also released an extended HD version of the trailer on the game's official website CharlieOscarDelta.com. Take a look, think it over, and judge for yourself as we know COD fans are eager to see Infinity Ward take back the developer's reigns.

[Thanks, to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqFirst look: Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Apr 2007 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sure, you could wait until the NFL draft on ESPN today to see the "exclusive worldwide reveal" of Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare ... or you can just click the movie above. CoD4 was pseudo-announced earlier this week when advertisements for the game showed up on our own little piece of the intertubes. Now game announcements can come in many forms, either from the actual company, ESRB, Gamefly or even the advertisements on our own website.

It definitely looks like Call of Duty is going in a different direction, for better or worse will certainly be determined by sales. It looks like we've got some nasty "Eastern Europeans" and jihadists. Fighting Nazis is pretty cool across the board, but delving into the modern political climate may hit just a little close to home. Check out the trailer above to see if it reminds you of a stylized version of the six o'clock news.

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Apr 2007 11:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall of duty 4CallOfDuty4infinity wardmodern compatPCPS3WiiXbox-360Sat, 28 Apr 2007 11:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare confirmed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/call-of-duty-4-modern-warfare-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/call-of-duty-4-modern-warfare-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/25/call-of-duty-4-modern-warfare-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: ,

Word on the intertubes is that Activision has officially confirmed upcoming sequel Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare earlier this morning. This of course follows suite with Infinity Ward's news post last week, as we'll be treated to the very first CoD 4 video footage on April 28th during the NFL Draft airing on ESPN. Which is exactly what the advertisement to the right confirms. So guys, let's recap. Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare has been confirmed, it's being developed by Infinity Ward, and is leaving behind the WWII storyline. Remember, tune into ESPN on April 28th for your first look to what CoD 4 has to offer ... we dare you to not be excited.

JoystiqCall of Duty 4: Modern Warfare confirmed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Apr 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall of duty 4call of duty 4 modern warfareCallOfDuty4CallOfDuty4ModernWarfarecod 4Cod4espninfinity wardInfinityWardWed, 25 Apr 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinity Ward announcement coming next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/21/infinity-ward-announcement-coming-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/21/infinity-ward-announcement-coming-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/21/infinity-ward-announcement-coming-next-week/#commentsFiled under:

Yesterday, in a post on Infinity Ward's official forums, admin fourzerotwo hinted at a major announcement that will be coming next week. More specifically, fourzerotwo listed important events in history that occurred on April 28th (like the discovery of a vaccine for the yellow fever) and followed by saying that "what goes down this April 28th is equal to, if not surpasses, the magnitude of any of those". Yup, Infinity Ward's April 28th announcement is going to be bigger than James Monroe's birthday! So, will the news be something as simple as some more Call of Duty 4 details or are you thinking something on a much more grand scale? Speculate away ...

[Via Arrogantics, Thanks zizzy]

JoystiqInfinity Ward announcement coming next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Apr 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call of cuty 4call of dutyCallOfCuty4CallOfDutycodcod 4Cod4infinity wardInfinityWardSat, 21 Apr 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 4 to ditch World War II?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/call-of-duty-4-to-ditch-world-war-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/call-of-duty-4-to-ditch-world-war-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/call-of-duty-4-to-ditch-world-war-ii/#commentsFiled under:

Amped news is reporting that an inside source has confirmed the existence of Call of Duty 4. What is more, the source claims that Call of Duty 4 will forgo the World War II setting in favor of more modern warfare. Many are speculating that Call of Duty will shift its focus to the Middle East, as EA did with its Battlefield series. This would seem to confirm a similar rumor reported by Joystiq way back in March.

Development of the 4th installment of Call of Duty will be handed back to its original developer, Infinity Ward. Call of Duty 4 will also mark the series' return to the PC. According to the source, a deal has been made with Activision regarding future titles. Supposedly, Infinity Ward will now handle the development of all even numbered COD games, and Treyarch will develop all odd numbered COD titles. If true, this maneuver was probably executed to decrease the gap between sequels, though it will be interesting to note the future differences between Infinity Ward's and Treyarch's entries. Also worth noting, Call of Duty 4 is reported to have many technical improvements, including 16 critical points mapped to the head of each character. This allows for very detailed hit detection -- for example, shooting at the side of the head will tear off an ear or make a soldier's helmet spin. Finally, multiplayer is rumored to support 54 players.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqCall of Duty 4 to ditch World War II? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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the next call of duty?Back in March, some reliable intel informed us that the Call of Duty franchise was splitting off in two directions. We learned that a studio other than Infinity Ward was working on another WWII-based CoD entry. As suspected, this turned out to be Treyarch's Call of Duty 3. Our sources also detailed Infinity Ward's next CoD effort, dubbed Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, which would introduce the series to the 'war on terror.'

Some eight months later, Amped IGO reports its sources have re-confirmed Infinity Ward's modern-day CoD installment. The major bullet point posted in this report is that each rendered head will feature 16 critical points of contact, allowing players to experiment with trick shots like spinning an enemy's helmet by shooting the corresponding point. Allegedly, you'll even be able to blast off your enemy's ear.

Amped also claims that Infinity Ward's Call of Duty 4 (what Amped refers to the game as) will bring the franchise back to PC (in addition to consoles) -- Treyarch's Call of Duty 3 is currently console-only. Sources have placed multiplayer support at up to 54 players.

JoystiqMore hearsay about modern Call of Duty originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionall of Duty: Modern WarfareAllOfDuty:ModernWarfareCall of DutyCallOfDutyInfinity WardInfinityWardPCPS2PS3WiiXboxXbox-360Tue, 14 Nov 2006 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Call of Duty answered, previewed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/03/next-call-of-duty-answered-previewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/03/next-call-of-duty-answered-previewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/03/next-call-of-duty-answered-previewed/#commentsFiled under: ,

If the mention of World War II still compels you to go about shooting things (typically Nazis) from a first-person perspective, you'd best check out 1Up's weeklong feature that promises to detail every pixel, polygon and private that constitutes the upcoming Call of Duty 3. Taking over from Infinity Ward, developer Treyarch is keen on capitalizing on next-gen technology and the creative freedoms it provides -- with any luck, that means we'll actually be able to open doors in this one. Oh well, we suppose loads of on-screen enemies and trampled blades of grass are just as useful.

The screenshots and video provided are enough to convince us of the game's technical gravitas, but we're obviously much more interested in the Wii version and how it looks to take advantage of the unique control system. A small blurb in the first part of the preview suggests how, while at the same time suggesting that the other two versions of the game are the main focus here. "The Wii version, in development outside Treyarch, shows some potential to bring the player into the game during the Battle Actions in a way the PS3 and 360 won't be able to. Actually wrestling with a German for his gun or actually disarming that explosive are things only the Wii will let you do this gen."

Battle actions are Call of Duty's answer to Shenmue's Quick Timer Events. At certain points during the game, you're required to press certain buttons in order to escape a cinematic struggle or situation. Failure is likely to result in far more unpleasantness than getting smacked in the head by some Japanese kid's soccerball. These sound particularly intriguing if done correctly for the Wii and should make up for some of its inevitable graphical shortcomings. Even then, we have to wonder how long it'll take before we grow tired of crawling through trenches and taking out tanks. Is World War II the new Hoth?

[Thanks to everyone that sent this in!]

JoystiqNext Call of Duty answered, previewed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jul 2006 22:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call of DutyCall of Duty 2Call of Duty 3CallOfDutyCallOfDuty2CallOfDuty3First-person shooterFirst-personShooterFPSInfinity WardInfinityWardTreyarchWorld War 2World War IIWorldWar2WorldWarIiWW2WWIIMon, 03 Jul 2006 22:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Call of Duty answered, previewed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/03/next-call-of-duty-answered-previewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/03/next-call-of-duty-answered-previewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/03/next-call-of-duty-answered-previewed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

If the mention of World War II still compels you to go about shooting things (typically Nazis) from a first-person perspective, you'd best check out 1Up's weeklong feature that promises to detail every pixel, polygon and private that constitutes the upcoming Call of Duty 3. Taking over from Infinity Ward, developer Treyarch is keen on capitalizing on next-gen technology and the creative freedoms it provides -- with any luck, that means we'll actually be able to open doors in this one. Oh well, we suppose loads of on-screen enemies and trampled blades of grass are just as useful.

The screenshots and video provided are enough to convince us of the game's technical gravitas, but we're quite interested in the Wii version and how it looks to take advantage of the unique control system. A small blurb in the first part of the preview suggests how, while at the same time suggesting that the other two versions of the game are the main focus here. "The Wii version, in development outside Treyarch, shows some potential to bring the player into the game during the Battle Actions in a way the PS3 and 360 won't be able to. Actually wrestling with a German for his gun or actually disarming that explosive are things only the Wii will let you do this gen."

Battle actions are Call of Duty's answer to Shenmue's Quick Timer Events. At certain points during the game, you're required to press certain buttons in order to escape a cinematic struggle or situation. Failure is likely to result in far more unpleasantness than getting smacked in the head by some Japanese kid's soccerball. These sound particularly intriguing if done correctly for the Wii and should make up for some of its inevitable graphical shortcomings. Even then, we have to wonder how long it'll take before we grow tired of crawling through trenches and taking out tanks. Is World War II the new Hoth?

[Thanks to everyone that sent this in!]

JoystiqNext Call of Duty answered, previewed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Jul 2006 22:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call of DutyCall of Duty 2Call of Duty 3CallOfDutyCallOfDuty2CallOfDuty3FPSInfinity WardInfinityWardPS3TreyarchWiiWorld War IIWorldWarIiWW2WWIIXbox-360Mon, 03 Jul 2006 22:25:00 EST<![CDATA[New Call of Duty 3 details highlight immersive environments [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/new-call-of-duty-3-details-highlight-immersive-environments/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/new-call-of-duty-3-details-highlight-immersive-environments/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/new-call-of-duty-3-details-highlight-immersive-environments/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Call of Duty 3'MaK10' over on the SteakNBJ forums has posted a rough transcription of new details of Call of Duty 3, which were taken from a recent article in EGM. According to the post, Treyarch is focused on crafting immersive environments, adding new effects like:
  • Interactive foliage (e.g. grass remains flattened when walked over)
  • Scorch marks left from grenades
  • Surface-specific reactions to bullets
  • Destructible cover
  • Wind-altered smoke (from smoke grenades)
  • Smoke clinging to tanks
  • Bullets manipulating smoke clouds
There's a tendency to write off the hardware power of Xbox 360 and PS3 as simply creating 'prettier graphics.' But that hardware allows developers to build realism into physical environments, which in turn, greatly enhances player immersion. It's hard to imagine that these improved environmental effects will be carried over into the Wii version of COD3.

With that said, let's turn back to yesterday's topic, and ask a new question. What's more critical for player immersion: real world physical movements (i.e. the Wiimote's motion-controlled functionality) or in-game environments that not only look realistic, but exhibit realistic occurrences (e.g. interactive foliage, wind-altered smoke, etc.)?

Update: corrected developer (Treyarch not Infinity Ward).

JoystiqNew Call of Duty 3 details highlight immersive environments [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jun 2006 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall of Duty 3CallOfDuty3Infinity WardInfinityWardPS3WiiXbox-360Thu, 15 Jun 2006 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[First Call of Duty 3 image [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/30/first-call-of-duty-3-image/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/30/first-call-of-duty-3-image/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/30/first-call-of-duty-3-image/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


The first image of Call of Duty 3 has begun making rounds on the web. As expected, the shot features some stunning details, from the rendered water, to the billowing smoke, to the debris flying from the exploding building. Of course, it's difficult to know what the final game will look like, considering it's being developed for a variety of different platforms. Interestingly, there are no plans to release this next Call of Duty installment on the PC.

(Update: Activision has requested that we remove their image, writing that it was "not approved for online use" and that they're in the "process of asking all sites to pull it down." They do offer a conciliatory note: "We'll have plenty of screens  to share soon enough." Until then, check out the trailer for 24 screenshots per second. All real-time, right fellas?)

JoystiqFirst Call of Duty 3 image [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 May 2006 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall of Duty 3CallOfDuty3Infinity WardInfinityWardPS2PS3PSPWIIWorld War IIWorldWarIiXboxXbox-360Tue, 30 May 2006 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 3 announced; leak confirmed [update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/call-of-duty-3-announced-leak-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/call-of-duty-3-announced-leak-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/06/call-of-duty-3-announced-leak-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Call of Duty 3 logo screen
Call of Duty 3's just been confirmed, and it looks like we were right on the money with our early leak of the WWII-related game.

Back in early March, we printed the following information (and a whole lot more) on the focus of an upcoming sequel: "'CoD 3' ... is being produced by Big Red One dev Treyarch. ... The next Call of Duty World War II-based title will return gamers to the battlefields of Normandy as the Allies take on Nazi Germany to drive them out of France once and for all. This time around, American and British forces are joined by Canadian troops, Polish tanks, and French freedom fighters in a reenactment of the bloody Normandy Breakout campaign spearheaded during the summer of 1944. In the push to Paris, you'll get to choose how you approach each mission, free of menu screens and jarring non-interactive cut-scenes."

Here's what IGN quoted from Activision for the announcement yesterday: "Through the eyes of four Allied soldiers, Call of Duty 3 brings players closer to the fury of combat as they fight through the Normandy Breakout, the harrowing offensive that liberated Paris and changed the fate of the world. Developed by Treyarch, Call of Duty 3 is the follow up to the #1 next-generation game and is scheduled for a 2006 release." Fingering the developer and the setting? Not too shabby -- while Joystiq pats itself on the back.

Check out the IGN trailer below for a first-person look somewhat reminiscent of the FPS sequence in the Metal Gear Solid 4 trailer from TGS. At the end of the "official E3 teaser" trailer, a number of platforms are listed, with the major manufacturers (including a small "Nintendo Revolution" in text) and publisher/developer combo listed. We suspect that versions for the PC and possibly the current-gen consoles will be covered with ports as well. Now all we have to do is wait for the word on Call of Duty: Modern Warfare. (Infinity Ward, we're looking at you!) More info obviously hitting at E3.

[Thanks, icemorebutts, jason, & Hiro Protagonist]

[Update 1: Had to fix a verb. Thanks, Hiro Protagonist, John Q, & Jiiiiihad!]

See also:

JoystiqCall of Duty 3 announced; leak confirmed [update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 06 May 2006 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionAlliedAlliesAmericanBig Red OneBigRedOneBritishCall of DutyCall of Duty 3Call of Duty: Modern WarfareCallOfDutyCallOfDuty3CallOfDuty:ModernWarfareCanadianconfirmedcurrent-genE3e32006early leakEarlyLeakFrancefreedom fightersFreedomFightersFrenchInfinity WardInfinityWardleakliberatedMetal Gear SolidMetal Gear Solid 4MetalGearSolidMetalGearSolid4MGSMGS4NaziNazi GermanyNaziGermanyNazisnext-genNormandyNormandy BreakoutNormandyBreakoutofficialParisPCPolishportportsPS2PS3RevolutionsequelsoldierstanksteaserTGStrailerTreyarchtroopsWiiWWIIWWII-relatedXboxXbox-360Sat, 06 May 2006 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 2 multiplayer finally patched]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/22/call-of-duty-2-multiplayer-update-finally-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/22/call-of-duty-2-multiplayer-update-finally-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/22/call-of-duty-2-multiplayer-update-finally-released/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Call of Duy 2Most of us were too busy GRAW-ing to notice, but yesterday, Infinity Ward quietly released the long overdue auto-update for Call of Duty 2's online multiplayer. Xboxic confirms that the following features have been added:
  • Can actively host a game
  • Lobbies fully implemented including game options and pre-game smack talk
  • Hoster can kick players
  • Private matches are allowed
  • You can select any map of choice
  • Score and time limits configurable
  • Post-game lobby after the game is over
  • Can invite players to the game
  • You can see enemy names in-game
  • No noticeable lag continuously disrupting games
[Thanks to everyone that sent this in]

JoystiqCall of Duty 2 multiplayer finally patched originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Mar 2006 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall of Duty 2CallOfDuty2Infinity WardInfinityWardXbox-360Wed, 22 Mar 2006 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD2.1: The Big Red Whatever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/cod2-multi-player-patch-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/cod2-multi-player-patch-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/21/cod2-multi-player-patch-released/#commentsFiled under:


Reports from the western front confirm that the long-awaited Call of Duty 2 multi-player patch has finally been released-just in time for war-weary fans to not give a flying frag. The saga of this patch is as long and ugly as any WWII slog, including delays, fired forum moderators and pissed off PC gamers. Booting the game on your 360 now results in an auto-update that supposedly fixes CoD2's multiple issues. Initial testing by the Xboxic staff discovered the following improvements:

  • Can actively host a game now.
  • Lobbies fully implemented including game options and pre-game smack talk.
  • Hoster can kick players.
  • Private matches are allowed.
  • You can select any map of choice.
  • Score and time limits configurable.
  • Post-game lobby after the game is over.
  • Can invite players to game.
  • You can see enemy names in-game.
  • No noticeable lag continously disrupting games.
Unfortunately, the patch fails to address the one gameplay issue that will continue to haunt CoD2's field-dressed XBL experience, namely, Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter. Old games never die, they just fade away.

Are you finally hearing Infinity Ward's call to multiplayer duty? Who else thinks this patch is a day late and a dollar short?

[Thanks to multiple tipsters]

JoystiqCoD2.1: The Big Red Whatever originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Mar 2006 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Infinity WardInfinityWardpatchesTue, 21 Mar 2006 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CoD2 patch leaker canned by IWN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/cod2-patch-leaker-canned-by-iwn/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/cod2-patch-leaker-canned-by-iwn/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/08/cod2-patch-leaker-canned-by-iwn/#commentsFiled under:


An update to my previous post on the Call of Duty 2 patch debacle: Tally, the brave source who leaked info on the reasons behind the the patch delay won't be hearing the call to duty any more. He has since been relieved of his status as a moderator at Infinity Ward Nation, "the official Infinity Ward forum":

"We've (Admins) discussed the current situation on IWNation.com. We all agreed that we would do best to remove Tally from moderator status here on IWNation.com.

The current problems and situation had reached it's top, and it's causing us a bad reputation. We've had to deal with many problems in the past, so this was something we could definately not use. Plus, we did not like the way the 'patch-topic' was posted.

We reckon this measure was not a simple one, but we hope it's for the best. Tally, we wish you the best in the future, and are looking forward to play with you on the online battlefields.

- Major Pain
On behalf of the Admin team."

Should Tally have expected this kind of response from his fair weather forum friends?

[Thanks, Curry]

JoystiqCoD2 patch leaker canned by IWN originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Mar 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Infinity WardInfinityWardWed, 08 Mar 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Call of Duty leaked: Modern Warfare tackles terrorists]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/07/next-call-of-duty-leaked-modern-warfare-tackles-terrorists/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/07/next-call-of-duty-leaked-modern-warfare-tackles-terrorists/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/07/next-call-of-duty-leaked-modern-warfare-tackles-terrorists/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The last two Call of Duty (2) titles releasedWe've heard from a reliable source what the next two Call of Duty titles will be about: one will focus on the Normandy Breakout campaign in WWII, while the other moves into the modern age, taking the fight to Middle Eastern terrorists. Yikes!

The big release news is that Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and the other WWII-themed game will be released for PC, PS2, PS3, Xbox, and Xbox 360--and they will be released only 3 months apart from one another. This would follow the pattern of releases for Call of Duty 2 on the PC and 360 and Call of Duty 2: Big Red One on current-gen consoles, only this time both would be released on both generations of hardware (minus the GameCube and Revolution).

What follows below are brief descriptions of each title, though Infinity Ward was explicitly fingered as the developer of Modern Warfare, while the as-yet untitled WWII game had no such designation. This would lead us to believe that "CoD 3" (or whatever that WWII game ends up being called) is being produced by Big Red One dev Treyarch. Whatever the case may be, just remember, folks: you heard about Call of Duty: Modern Warfare here first!

Continue reading Next Call of Duty leaked: Modern Warfare tackles terrorists

JoystiqNext Call of Duty leaked: Modern Warfare tackles terrorists originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Mar 2006 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionCall of Duty 2Call of Duty 2: Big Red OneCall of Duty: Modern WarfareCallOfDuty2CallOfDuty2:BigRedOneCallOfDuty:ModernWarfareInfinity WardInfinityWardPCPS2PS3TreyarchXboxXbox-360Tue, 07 Mar 2006 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Call of Duty 2 update will include anti-cheating software]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2005/12/22/call-of-duty-2-update-will-include-anti-cheating-software/http://www.joystiq.com/2005/12/22/call-of-duty-2-update-will-include-anti-cheating-software/http://www.joystiq.com/2005/12/22/call-of-duty-2-update-will-include-anti-cheating-software/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The battle between Call of Duty 2 players, Activision and Infinity Ward has been almost as heated as the battlefield itself. With the players resorting to strike action in order to see some form of anti-cheating technology incorporated into the game, the seriousness of this problem seems to have finally reached the developers.

The next game update in early 2006 will include new multiplayer maps as well as PunkBuster anti-cheat software, finally answering the players' demands. Of course, this doesn't solve the problems with the Xbox 360 release, but PC players should be a little happier.

JoystiqCall of Duty 2 update will include anti-cheating software originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Dec 2005 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall of duty 2CallOfDuty2infinity wardInfinityWardPCThu, 22 Dec 2005 12:00:00 EST