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[New Humble Indie bundle packs Darwinia, more Introversion stuff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/new-humble-indie-bundle-packs-darwinia-more-introversion-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/new-humble-indie-bundle-packs-darwinia-more-introversion-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/new-humble-indie-bundle-packs-darwinia-more-introversion-stuff/#comments
Introversion is in the spotlight for the latest Humble Indie Bundle, which offers up four of the studio's titles: Darwinia, Multiwinia, UpLink and Defcon. As usual, paying above the average will net you some extras, namely Aquaria and Crayon Physics Deluxe in this specific bundle.

And if you're wondering what other fun stuff will be added to the bundle down the line, perhaps toying with a "wait and see" approach, don't sweat it. No matter when you buy this bundle, you'll get access to everything added to it -- that is, if you choose to buy the bundle. If you don't, then clearly you don't like fun games, which isn't so much a character flaw as it is just a flaw flaw.

JoystiqNew Humble Indie bundle packs Darwinia, more Introversion stuff originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Darwiniahumble-indie-bundlehumble-introversion-bundleIntroversionintroversion-softwarepcTue, 22 Nov 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia devs working on new project, 'Prison Architect']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/darwinia-devs-working-on-new-project-prison-architect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/darwinia-devs-working-on-new-project-prison-architect/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/20/darwinia-devs-working-on-new-project-prison-architect/#comments It seems Darwinia developer Introversion has put its procedurally generated heist game Subversion on the shelf while it focuses its efforts on a new, not entirely unrelated project. See, what happens when a heist goes bad? The Heistees go to prison. But who designs those prisons? You do, in Introversion's new game, which is called Prison Architect. It's the circle of crime!

Few details about this project are known outside of the name, but we'll keep you posted. Until then, start thinking about what kind of prison you'd want to build. We're thinking of using a lot of lilac and lavender hues -- something to soothe the nerves of our incarcerated guests, you know?

JoystiqDarwinia devs working on new project, 'Prison Architect' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Darwiniaindieintroversionpcprison-architectThu, 20 Oct 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Indie gaming mavens plan a heist in Subversion demonstration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/indie-gaming-mavens-plan-a-heist-in-subversion-demonstration/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/indie-gaming-mavens-plan-a-heist-in-subversion-demonstration/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/30/indie-gaming-mavens-plan-a-heist-in-subversion-demonstration/#comments What if two independent game development superstars (VVVVVV's Terry Cavanagh and Love's Eskil Steenberg) and one video game journalist (Kieron Gillen) coordinated a bank heist? No, that's not the setup for a poorly constructed joke -- it's the premise of the video demonstration posted after the jump of an upcoming game from indie developer Introversion titled Subversion.

The game (which was announced back in 2006, but is still in the early, pre-beta stages of development), tasks players with executing Mission Impossible-esque espionage missions using a real-time strategy interface. Check out the half-hour guided demo after the jump to see how these missions unfold -- and to get a look at the game's unique, procedurally generated world in motion.

Continue reading Indie gaming mavens plan a heist in Subversion demonstration

JoystiqIndie gaming mavens plan a heist in Subversion demonstration originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dev-diaryindieintroversionpcsubversionwalkthroughworld-of-loveTue, 30 Nov 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK's Channel 4 kills digital innovation fund [Update: Lots of gaming still 'on the slate for 2011' at Channel 4]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/uks-channel-4-kills-digital-innovation-fund/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/uks-channel-4-kills-digital-innovation-fund/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/08/uks-channel-4-kills-digital-innovation-fund/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The UK's Channel 4 is ceasing 4iP, its £20m digital innovation fund. The division was responsible for digital innovations like AudioBoo and Privates. Any projects currently in development will finish and the remaining 40 percent of the fund will be redistributed.

We remembered that Channel 4 was funding Introversion's Chronometer, but studio co-founder Mark Morris tells us it "never got taken forward beyond the concept stage." Morris elaborated, "Sad news about C4 though, they were doing some good in the business."

[Update 10/8 3pm ET: Channel 4's Alice Taylor - you may recognize her blog, Wonderland! - took to the comments to clarify how this affects some projects: "Naw. Mixup. 4iP is going, but it wasn't responsible for Privates. 4iP's closure doesn't affect The Curfew, or Privates DLC, or 1066, or Smokescreen, or Cover Girl, or Trafalgar Origins, or 303 Squadron, or Ada, or Bow Street Runner, or the 8 or so new game commissions we've got on the slate for 2011. 4iP's games: Papa Sangre and friends, they'll still turn up too. Hope that helps!

It sure does. Thanks, Alice!]

JoystiqUK's Channel 4 kills digital innovation fund [Update: Lots of gaming still 'on the slate for 2011' at Channel 4] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4ipBBCChannel-4IntroversionMark-MorrispcprivatesUKFri, 08 Oct 2010 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Introversion credits Steam for company's salvation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/introversion-credits-steam-for-companys-salvation/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/introversion-credits-steam-for-companys-salvation/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/25/introversion-credits-steam-for-companys-salvation/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In a candid post on Introversion Software's DEFCON forums, company co-founder Mark Morris admits that the Darwinia+ developer was close to closing up shop following disappointing sales of the game's XBLA port. "Internally we knew within about an hour of Darwinia+'s launch that it hadn't done well enough," Morris wrote. "It took us about two weeks to really accept that and the awful realisation that we didn't have enough to continue with the office or the staff. We had a bunch of creditors knocking at the door, but worse than all of that we were absolutely shattered."

Having let its staff go, closed it office and retreated to the bedrooms of its three remaining employees, the company made a last-ditch move to generate some income. "We put together a rescue plan involving creating Steam achievements for DEFCON so we could convince Valve to run a promotion with it," explained Morris. Turns out, a seemingly small tweak and some promotion delivered major results, Morris revealed: "The promo exceeded all of our expectations and when combined with our low burn rate (no office or staff now) we had gone from being fearful about paying our mortgages to having a year's operating capital in the bank."

Introversion is still running lean, but is back on track to release its "most ambitious project so far," Subversion, in 2011.

JoystiqIntroversion credits Steam for company's salvation originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Darwinia-PlusdefconIntroversionmark-morrismicrosoftpcsteamvalvexboxWed, 25 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Introversion releases first screens of Subversion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/introversion-releases-first-screens-of-subversion/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/introversion-releases-first-screens-of-subversion/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/22/introversion-releases-first-screens-of-subversion/#comments It's hard to believe that, after being announced in 2006, we're just now getting our first look at Subversion, the tactical action game from developer Introversion, which just released Darwinia+ on XBLA last week. The screens, recently unveiled on the Introversion forums (with some of the first gameplay details) look ... well, they don't look like a game.

Introversion says that Subversion's look (which is still unfinished) is based on 3D blueprints, and it looks quite compelling. We can't seem to get enough of games that don't look like games -- especially Excel. We've been into Excel LAN parties since way before it was cool.

[Via Big Download]

JoystiqIntroversion releases first screens of Subversion originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniaintroversionsubversionMon, 22 Feb 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Here are your Darwinia+ Achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/30/here-are-your-darwinia-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/30/here-are-your-darwinia-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/30/here-are-your-darwinia-achievements/#comments Now that Darwinia+ has passed Microsoft's Xbox Live Arcade certification process, you likely have your passport ready for the upcoming trip to Darwinia's action RTS battlefields. According to Xbox 360 Achievements, lending a helping hand to your stick brethren in need won't just net you the warm fuzzies, but will also reward you with some Gamerscore.

There's 200 to be had in total, rewarding players for things like saving Darwinians, crushing invading ant hordes and winning matches on every map in the game. It's a nice, varied list that doesn't look like it encourages too much grinding -- well, except for the Stick Man Slaughter Achievement, which requires you to kill 65,536 enemies.

JoystiqHere are your Darwinia+ Achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Dec 2009 01:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementsdarwiniagamerscoreIntroversionintroversion-softwareMicrosoftrtsxblaXbox-360xbox-livexbox-live-arcadeWed, 30 Dec 2009 01:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Introversion: Darwinia+ on XBLA after Christmas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/introversion-darwinia-on-xbla-after-christmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/introversion-darwinia-on-xbla-after-christmas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/28/introversion-darwinia-on-xbla-after-christmas/#comments
 Darwinia creator Introversion announced during this week's Eurogamer Expo that its upcoming Darwinia+ should arrive on Xbox Live Arcade by "the next side of Christmas." The game should be submitted to Microsoft certification in the coming weeks, hopefully ensuring a release early next year. Darwinia devotees will remember that the game began its journey to XBLA all the way back in 2006, and, according to Eurogamer, Introversion isn't exactly happy about it.

The company's Chris Delay noted that Microsoft required several changes to the game, most notably the inclusion of multiplayer. Said Delay, "We were trying to satisfy Microsoft. That's the most awful motivation in the world for making a videogame." Here's hoping the developer's devotion to bringing the game to XBLA has paid off.

JoystiqIntroversion: Darwinia+ on XBLA after Christmas originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniaintroversionxblaWed, 28 Oct 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia avatar clothing revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/darwinia-avatar-clothing-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/darwinia-avatar-clothing-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/16/darwinia-avatar-clothing-revealed/#comments As PC indie-darling Darwinia takes the long way to consoles, it's time for developer Introversion to show off some Darwinia+ Avatar merchandise -- where the real money from the game is made. A couple weeks back the studio showed off two shirts that'll be available to Avatars at some point in the future, probably when the game finally launches.

Although we're not sure if the clothing items will cost anything on the Avatar Marketplace, it'd be pretty hard to resist the purchase of little Darwinians as a prop. They'd be so cute skittering about our virtual representation's feet.

JoystiqDarwinia avatar clothing revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Aug 2009 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avataravatar-marketplacedarwiniaintroversionintroversion-softwareSun, 16 Aug 2009 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DEFCON still headed to DS (if someone publishes it)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/defcon-still-headed-to-ds-if-someone-publishes-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/defcon-still-headed-to-ds-if-someone-publishes-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/defcon-still-headed-to-ds-if-someone-publishes-it/#commentsRemember Introversion's plans to port DEFCON to handhelds? Yeah, we didn't either, because that was like two years ago. It turns out that that a DS version of the stylized strategy game was actually completed in conjunction with Pinnacle Software, who ran into some ... trouble, of the all-too-familiar financial variety.

Introversion has reacquired the rights to the DS game and now hopes to find a publishing partner, in order to get it out worldwide in the third quarter of this year. "With the DSi flying off the shelves recently," Introversion's Mark Morris said, "we believe that there will be particular interest in a finished DS product with such a great track record, especially as the RTS/Strategy sector is so poorly served on the platform."

JoystiqDEFCON still headed to DS (if someone publishes it) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>defconintroversionpinnacle-softwarestrategyMon, 20 Apr 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Introversion details Microsoft approval process for Darwinia+]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/introversion-details-microsoft-approval-process-for-darwinia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/introversion-details-microsoft-approval-process-for-darwinia/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/02/introversion-details-microsoft-approval-process-for-darwinia/#comments
The XBLA approval process has always been a process shrouded in mystery ... until now. Developer Introversion, the folks behind upcoming XBLA game Darwinia+, are laying all the cards on the table -- design documents, internal emails, weekly reports, code from the game and even the project plan -- thus providing transparency of the XBLA approval process. Available on Introversion's website, the company has made it clear that it'll show "the good, the bad, and the very very very bad" that takes place during game development. "If we can show it to you -- we will."

Teaming up with GamesIndustry.biz, the company will also be regularly updating an ongoing series "critiquing the ongoing development process," and presumably helping those outside of Introversion to understand more intricately what has gone into creating Darwinia+. The game is set to release internally on September 24, so with any luck we'll see it not too long afterward.

[Via GamesIndustry.biz]

JoystiqIntroversion details Microsoft approval process for Darwinia+ originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 01:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniagamesindustry.bizintroversionMicrosoftxblaxbla-approvalXbox-360Thu, 02 Apr 2009 01:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Introversion working on Chronometer with Channel 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/introversion-working-on-chronometer-with-channel-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/introversion-working-on-chronometer-with-channel-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/introversion-working-on-chronometer-with-channel-4/#comments Introversion, whose previous efforts include the excellent Darwinia and DEFCON, are currently developing Chronometer. The project, funded by broadcaster Channel 4, is nearing completion of the pre-production phase. Other than an anecdote about how it totally blew co-founder Mark Morris' mind, there are no details about the game.

"Ultimately we don't know for certain if Chronometer will be going into full production," writes Chris Delay, "the conditions would have to be right for Introversion and for Channel 4, although they've been fantastic to work with during pre-production." The studio is currently "all-hands-on-deck" finishing up Multiwinia, with Darwinia+ for Xbox Live and Subversion to follow after that.

[Thanks, Sam]

JoystiqIntroversion working on Chronometer with Channel 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channel-4chronometerintroversionWed, 09 Jul 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia+ confirmed for XBLA, lands this Fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/darwinia-confirmed-for-xbla-lands-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/darwinia-confirmed-for-xbla-lands-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/darwinia-confirmed-for-xbla-lands-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: ,


So, should we expect all PC-to-XBLA ports to add a plus sign to their titles and call it a day now? Nominal concerns aside, Introversion Software has acknowledged the ESRB rating of Darwinia for the Xbox 360 and confirmed the existence of the title. The game will be titled Darwinia+ and will include both the original Darwinia and the upcoming multiplayer expansion, Multiwinia: Survival of the Flattest. Details are sparse, apart from the fact that Darwinia+ should hit XBLA in Fall 2008

For those who don't have the patience to wait that long, we suggest you snag the demo from Introversion, which is available for Mac, PC, and Linux.

JoystiqDarwinia+ confirmed for XBLA, lands this Fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniaintroversionintroversion-softwarexblaWed, 26 Mar 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia+ confirmed for Xbox Live this Fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/darwinia-confirmed-for-xbox-live-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/darwinia-confirmed-for-xbox-live-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/25/darwinia-confirmed-for-xbox-live-this-fall/#commentsFiled under:

Acknowledging the game's "leak" by the ESRB, Introversion has confirmed that Darwinia+, a combination of Darwinia and the multiplayer variant Multiwinia: Survival of the Flattest, is coming to Xbox Live this Fall. Introversion also provided reassureance that Multiwinia is coming to the PC.

No other details are given; if you have never played Darwinia, then we strongly suggest you to download the demo (available for Windows, Mac and Linux) and try it out. Here's hoping this starts a precedent and we can one day enjoy DEFCON and the upcoming Subversion on our platform of choice.

JoystiqDarwinia+ confirmed for Xbox Live this Fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Mar 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniaintroversionmarketmultiwiniaxblmXbox-360xbox-liveTue, 25 Mar 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia 360 finally rated by ESRB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/darwinia-360-finally-rated-by-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/darwinia-360-finally-rated-by-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/darwinia-360-finally-rated-by-esrb/#commentsFiled under:

Well that took a while. After being rumored for Xbox Live Arcade nearly two years ago, Darwinia from Introversion has been rated by the ESRB for Xbox 360. While we don't have any more solid details regarding the 360 version of the game -- believed to be an XBLA title -- the ESRB rating gives us hope that it won't be too long before we start to hear more about the title (or better yet, get a chance to actually play it).

For those that haven't played it, the gameplay is regarded as somewhat hard to classify, so we've embedded a trailer in the hopes that it might clarify things a bit (hint: it doesn't, but the game sure looks fun).

[Via XBLArcade]

JoystiqDarwinia 360 finally rated by ESRB originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniaesrbintroversionxblaMon, 24 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DEFCON in your pocket]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/defcon-in-your-pocket/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/defcon-in-your-pocket/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/25/defcon-in-your-pocket/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


According to CVG, indie studio Introversion (Uplink, Darwinia) is looking for developers to help create a portable version of its "everybody dies" disaster game, DEFCON. With simple visuals, an emphasis on multiplayer carnage, and highly addictive gameplay, DEFCON is an ideal candidate for cell phones, the PSP, or DS. The project is still in very early stages, so no details or platforms have been announced.

Earlier we reported that Introversion co-founder Mark Morris was looking to bring a few games to the home console market via digital distribution. DEFCON on your computer, on your TV, and in your pocket? Time to take the "everybody dies" slogan a bit more literally.

[Via PSP Fanboy]

JoystiqDEFCON in your pocket originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2007 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualcellphonedefcondsindependentindieintroversionmobilepspFri, 25 May 2007 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[DEFCON goes mobile; PSP intended target?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/22/defcon-goes-mobile-psp-intended-target/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/22/defcon-goes-mobile-psp-intended-target/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/22/defcon-goes-mobile-psp-intended-target/#commentsFiled under:


Introversion recently started looking for new developers for a mobile version of DEFCON, according to CVG. The original DEFON was a cult success, heralded by many for its unique apocalyptic premise: players are engaged in a deadly endgame, where the world's superpowers are launching their nuclear weapons. Players must kill as many people as possible through strategic use of their country's nuclear cache.
The game's simplistic graphics would make it an ideal candidate for all handhelds, including cell phones, PSP and DS. Although the awkwardly-worded job ad mentions no specific platform, CVG speculates that it will most likely head to PSP. We're not exactly sure why they'd assume that, but we really hope they're right.

JoystiqDEFCON goes mobile; PSP intended target? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cvgdefconintroversionTue, 22 May 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Multiwinia: Darwinia goes multiplayer in 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/multiwinia-darwinia-goes-multiplayer-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/multiwinia-darwinia-goes-multiplayer-in-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/multiwinia-darwinia-goes-multiplayer-in-2008/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Introversion has announced that award-winning game Darwinia is going multiplayer. Set for release as a standalone product, Multiwinia will let you play cooperatively or competitively with someone else. The number of people who can play together simultaneously is currently unknown, but we're hoping for for some pretty frantic action across many, many armies.

The game will be spearheaded by John Knottenbelt while Introversion co-founder Chris Delay "[begins] work on other new projects" (console titles? Subversion?). Knottenbelt mentions there will be graphical improvements from the game, though it's unclear if he's talking about the recent Vista upgrades or something beyond that, and a new formation mode, "which will let you organise your Darwinians into ranks to create massive armies."

Details are sparse currently, though Introversion is expected to make a few announcements at next week's Game Developers Conference. Multiwinia is being planned for a 2008 release.

[Thanks, Sam!]

JoystiqMultiwinia: Darwinia goes multiplayer in 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Feb 2007 21:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dar winiaDarWiniaintro versionIntroVersionmulti winiaMultiWiniaPCWed, 28 Feb 2007 21:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia, Defcon dev hints at console releases]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/darwinia-defcom-dev-hints-at-console-releases/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/darwinia-defcom-dev-hints-at-console-releases/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/darwinia-defcom-dev-hints-at-console-releases/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Introvervision co-founder Mark Morris has told Next Generation that the company is looking into bringing a few of their titles to the home console front by way of digital distribution.

Morris explained that their relationship so far with the console makers has allowed them to retain intellectual freedom in their design. Unlike publishers who try to give them money at the cost of some control of the game, the console makers are "just offering massive distribution of the games and to give [us] a return back on that. That works for us," he said.

For what system and which titles is unknown -- all three of the current systems (PS3, Wii and Xbox 360) are capable of digital distribution. Morris said the game(s) would be available within the next twelve months. An earlier rumor from eight months ago suggest a partnership with Xbox Live, which makes since considering the recent Vista upgrade of Darwinia and the similarities in architecture from Windows to Xbox 360 development.

Introversion is responsible for Darwinia, DEFCON, and Uplink. They are currently working on a project codenamed Subversion.

[Thanks, Sam!]

JoystiqDarwinia, Defcon dev hints at console releases originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Feb 2007 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniadefcomintroversionPS networkPS3PsNetworksubversionvirtual consoleVirtualConsoleWiixbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveTue, 20 Feb 2007 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia upgrades for Vista]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/darwinia-upgrades-for-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/darwinia-upgrades-for-vista/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/01/darwinia-upgrades-for-vista/#commentsFiled under: ,

Introversion, the little game maker whose project Darwinia garnered them cult status, has just released an enhanced version specifically for Windows Vista. The upgrade has been in the making since June 2006, according to Introversion co-founder Chris Delay. Upgrades include:
  • Shift from OpenGL to DirectX, which enable enhanced visuals such as "screen warping explosion effects, reflective water, and Darwinian soul 'auras.'"
  • Support for the Xbox 360 controller
  • Three new levels: Jailbreak, Stronghold and Doomsday
  • Other Vista-centric compatibility features
Those who already own Darwinia can expect an upcoming patch that adds all the enhancements. For those that want to try out the game (and we wholly recommend that you do), Darwinia has been given a prominent purchase location MSN Vista games page for $19.95.

Introversion is currently working on a double secret title codenamed Subversion.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqDarwinia upgrades for Vista originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris delayChrisDelaydarwiniaintro versionIntroVersionPCvistawindowsThu, 01 Feb 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Subversion to deploy procedural city generator]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/04/subverison-to-deploy-procedural-city-generator/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/04/subverison-to-deploy-procedural-city-generator/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/04/subverison-to-deploy-procedural-city-generator/#commentsFiled under:


In an update to the development diary, Introversion's Chris Delay discussed the use of procedural generation in the upcoming Subversion. Delay describes the tool as "utterly crucial to companies like Introversion and basically ignored by the bigger boys in favour of banks of expensive artists ... the secret weapon that most developers have yet to (re)discover." He provides preliminary work as to how cities will be created using procedural generation in both picture and video format.

Procedural content is a new buzzword in the developer world, whereby programmers use mathematical algorithms instead of artists to create aspects of their game. Games using this technique include .kkrieger, Roboblitz, and most notably Will Wright's upcoming Spore. The process, however, can be taxing on a CPU, but also tailored to the hardware so that the same code can create different levels of desired detail.

Very little is known about the game other than it has been planned since before the company's acclaimed Darwinia and DEFCON. Delay notes that the lack of information is intentional so as to not build excessive hype.

[Thanks, Sam]

JoystiqSubversion to deploy procedural city generator originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jan 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>introversionPCprocedural contentProceduralContentsubversionThu, 04 Jan 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Defcon dev announces new game: Subversion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/28/defcon-dev-announces-new-game-subversion/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/28/defcon-dev-announces-new-game-subversion/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/28/defcon-dev-announces-new-game-subversion/#commentsFiled under:

Introversion, creator of indie darlings Darwinia and DEFCON, have announced their next project will be called Subversion. Company co-founder Chris Delay made the announcement earlier last week, noting that the project is early in production and the development will be blogged.

Understanding that many developers fall into the trap where hype leads to disappointment, Delay assures that he will make no promises as to final features and game play details.

As another point, Delay points out that the attached images, including the one to the right, is not a representation of the game and anyone who treats the screenshots as such are mistaken. You've been warned.

[Via videogames blogger]

JoystiqDefcon dev announces new game: Subversion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Dec 2006 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniadefconIntroversionPCsteamsubversionThu, 28 Dec 2006 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Darwinia and Uplink coming to the PS3?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/14/darwinia-and-uplink-coming-to-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/14/darwinia-and-uplink-coming-to-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/14/darwinia-and-uplink-coming-to-the-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you've played either Uplink or Darwinia, then you're familiar with, and more than likely love, UK-based developer Introversion. It seems the indie studio has been in talks recently with both Microsoft and Sony to bring its content to each respective company's online arena.

"I'm afraid I can't really give you any concrete details at the moment - suffice it is to say that we are currently discussing a number of deal negotiations with Sony and Microsoft," said Introversion's Vicky Arundel while talking with UK-based games site Eurogamer.

Given that the company has experience with digital distribution, having released their beloved game Darwinia via Valve's Steam service, the company is a natural fit for each company's service. The question is, will Microsoft try and throw money at the guys to gain exclusivity for their games on the Xbox Live service?

JoystiqDarwinia and Uplink coming to the PS3? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jun 2006 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darwiniaeruogamerintroversionplaystationps3sonyukuplinkWed, 14 Jun 2006 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Indie darling Darwinia to hit XBLA?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/08/rumor-indie-darling-darwinia-to-hit-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/08/rumor-indie-darling-darwinia-to-hit-xbla/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/08/rumor-indie-darling-darwinia-to-hit-xbla/#commentsFiled under:


In some leftover scuttlebutt from GDC, word on the street is that the bad boys from Introversion, the independent developers that created indie-darling (and Independent Games Festival winner) Darwinia are working with the big boys in Redmond to get their game on the Xbox Live Arcade platform. Reasons why this is a logical move and a likely rumor:
  • They've already gotten Darwinia on that other major digital distribution network (psst: it begins with "Stea" and ends with "m". Got it?)
  • Uh, they've said they're interested. We know, everyone's interested. Fellow Steam-distributed developers Ritual Entertainment keep screaming about it, but they've got that whole enormous download thing to deal with. The XBLArcade blog points us to this video (.wmv) of SpikeTV's GameHead where Introversion's Mark Morris says, "... it's about 30 megs which makes it perfect for things like Live Arcade." CliffyB asks if they're planning on it and Morris responds, "I'm gonna try. Gonna talk to Microsoft and see what they say."
  • XBLArcade correctly points out that if the developers of an award-winning and critically acclaimed independent game want to bring it to your platform, what do you say? Well, according to German blog Xbox Archiv, you say "Yes. Please." They claim to have overheard a conversation at GDC between the two parties.
Let's hope that logic wins the day and we get another stellar entrant to Microsoft's walled-garden of Arcade treats.

[Via Xbox 360 Fanboy]

Read - XBLArcade Rumor Roundup
Read - Darwinia for Xbox Live Arcade (Xbox Archiv machine translation)

JoystiqRumor: Indie darling Darwinia to hit XBLA? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jun 2006 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DarwiniaIndieIntroversionMark MorrisMarkMorrisXBLAXbox LiveXbox Live ArcadeXbox-360XboxLiveXboxLiveArcadeThu, 08 Jun 2006 17:58:00 EST