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[Video Games Live at E3: Journey, Skyrim, Diablo 3, Earthworm Jim and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/video-games-live-at-e3-journey-skyrim-diablo-3-earthworm-jim/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/video-games-live-at-e3-journey-skyrim-diablo-3-earthworm-jim/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/24/video-games-live-at-e3-journey-skyrim-diablo-3-earthworm-jim/#comments During the week of E3, on June 6, Video Games Live will take over the Nokia Theater L.A. Live arena. Being E3 and all, and L.A. being one of the most frequently played venues for Tommy Tallarico's live video game concert, this year he wanted to add some special scores - like Austin Wintory's Journey score, conducted by Wintory himself.

It's just one of the more recent audio accompaniments added for the June 6 show. There are also select tunes from Skyrim, which will be handled by a secret guest conductor; composer Russell Bower will conduct some Diablo 3 tunes. Donkey Kong Country, Star Fox and even a Street Fighter segment - to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Capcom's fighter - are planned. Akira Yamaoka will also play guitar at some point.

Finally, there's Earthworm Jim to consider, a game that Tallarico himself worked on. Apparently folks have been asking him to add it to Video Games Live for quite some time now, which we're totally in favor of - as long as we get that thrash metal remix of "Use Your Head" we've been waiting our entire lives for.

JoystiqVideo Games Live at E3: Journey, Skyrim, Diablo 3, Earthworm Jim and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaustin-wintorydonkey-kong-countrydse3-2012journeykinectmicrosoftmobilemovenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psprussell-bowerskyrimsonytommy-tallaricovideo-games-livevitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 24 May 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[I Am Alive tops April 2012 PSN downloads; Escape Plan still atop PS Vita list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/i-am-alive-tops-april-2012-psn-downloads-escape-plan-still-atop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/i-am-alive-tops-april-2012-psn-downloads-escape-plan-still-atop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/i-am-alive-tops-april-2012-psn-downloads-escape-plan-still-atop/#comments The full PlayStation downloads list for April - as opposed to the sneak peek we got thanks to Pulse earlier this month, where the list is not segregated by platform - has been released and Ubisoft's I Am Alive was indeed the top download. On the PS3 and PSN list, thatgamecompany's Journey followed Ubisoft's long-awaited title. Reverge Labs' debut Skullgirls managed to snag the third spot.

On the PS Vita side, Escape Plan continued to dominate - no surprise since there's not much else for the PS Vita right now, though that changes today. Modern Warfare 3's Content Collection #1 drop on PSN also did well, topping out the PS3 add-on category. Finally, Final Fantasy VII was the top PSOne Classic, but then again you already knew that because it's always Final Fantasy VII.

JoystiqI Am Alive tops April 2012 PSN downloads; Escape Plan still atop PS Vita list originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3escape-plani-am-alivejourneymoveplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psnpsn-downloadspspskullgirlssonyvitaWed, 16 May 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Six years in, Journey studio rewards itself with two new hires]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/six-years-in-journey-studio-rewards-itself-with-two-new-hires/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/six-years-in-journey-studio-rewards-itself-with-two-new-hires/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/six-years-in-journey-studio-rewards-itself-with-two-new-hires/#comments ImageDid you know that today is thatgamecompany's sixth birthday? It's true! In those six years, the team of approximately a dozen people created Flow, Flower, and, most recently, Journey, all the while cementing their place as heads of the art games movement. The company recently completed its contract with Sony for three exclusive titles, but that doesn't mean it's resting on past successes. For instance, TGC is already in talks with publishers for whatever's next.

Alongside its success, some big names at the studio recently moved on - co-founder Kellee Santiago and executive producer Robin Hunicke both exited in the past few months, following the launch of Journey this past March. Today, TGC adds two new employees.

In light of its big sixth birthday, thatgamecompany is announcing the appointment of two new stars: former director of marketing and business development of PowerMMO Games, Sunni Pavlovic, becomes studio manager, and taking up the new position of audio director is Cloud and Flower contributor Vincent Diamante.

In a prepared statement from TGC, Diamante said, "I'm very excited to be a part of thatgamecompany, joining forces with both friends from past projects as well as new faces. The last time around, I worked with TGC mostly as a music contractor. Things this time around will be a bit different, as I'll be dealing with all sound and music issues on their upcoming game."

Diamante related his first several weeks at TGC as akin to "tight-rope walking with chainsaws," which is, like, the exact opposite of what we imagine working at TGC to be like. Isn't it all floaty stuff and soft music? Quit ruining our illusions, Diamante! You've only just started!

JoystiqSix years in, Journey studio rewards itself with two new hires originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cloudflowflowerjourneykellee-santiagorobin-hunickesunni-pavlovicthat-game-companythatgamecompanyvincent-diamanteTue, 15 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[I Am Alive tops April PSN downloads, just one Vita game charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/i-am-alive-tops-april-psn-downloads-just-one-vita-game-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/i-am-alive-tops-april-psn-downloads-just-one-vita-game-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/i-am-alive-tops-april-psn-downloads-just-one-vita-game-charts/#comments ImageUbisoft's post-apocalypse third-person-survivor I Am Alive apparently struck a chord with PlayStation 3 owners last month, topping the PlayStation Network's download charts for April 2012, even edging out March's big PSN release, Journey.

The Walking Dead's game adaptation from Telltale managed more than a shambling start as well, taking up two spots on the top 10 with the season pass and first episode in third and fifth place, respectively. Just one Vita title landed on the list, Escape Plan, in the number 10 spot. All of this information - and more! - can be found in the latest PlayStation "Pulse" video, which we've dropped just below the break.

Continue reading I Am Alive tops April PSN downloads, just one Vita game charts

JoystiqI Am Alive tops April PSN downloads, just one Vita game charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>escape-plani-am-alivejourneyplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3psnpulsetelltale-gamesthat-game-companythatgamecompanythe-walking-deadtop-10ubisoftvitaWed, 09 May 2012 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey Without Words]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/journey-without-words/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/journey-without-words/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/27/journey-without-words/#commentsYou're reading Reaction Time, a new weekly column that claims to examine recent events, games and trends in the industry, but is really just looking for an excuse to use the word "zeitgeist." It debuts on Fridays in Engadget's digital magazine, Distro.
I'm not sure I've seen anyone describe Journey as a well written game. It's praised as an earnest, emotionally stirring masterpiece, and a subtle success that nearly denigrates other games just by existing alongside them. But the topic of writing in games is often confined to scripts, spectacle and whatever is said in a cutscene, and Journey doesn't have any of that. If you completed it, you'll probably agree: There are no words.

As I wandered through an orange-hued desert, coming dangerously close to outright frolicking, I noticed a figure striding into distant view. Here I met another nameless nomad, and one that shared my appreciation of tasteful, unfettered fabrics. A friend? Another traveler compelled to reach the mysterious obelisk at the center of the world? "Would u like 2 work 2gether," he said in a text bubble. "I know how 2 get 2 the mountain and beat the game."

Continue reading Journey Without Words

JoystiqJourney Without Words originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jenova-chenjourneyplaystationps3psnreaction-timethatgamecompanyFri, 27 Apr 2012 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Seen@PAX East: Journey between halls]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/seen-pax-east-journey-between-halls/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/seen-pax-east-journey-between-halls/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/07/seen-pax-east-journey-between-halls/#comments Image
Joystiq: Oh, hello! We love your costume. What's the secret to effective, truly evocative cosplay?

Continue reading Seen@PAX East: Journey between halls

JoystiqSeen@PAX East: Journey between halls originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeypax-eastpax-east-2012playstationps3Sat, 07 Apr 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Robin Hunicke leaves thatgamecompany for Tiny Speck]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/robin-hunicke-leaves-thatgamecompany-for-tiny-speck/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/robin-hunicke-leaves-thatgamecompany-for-tiny-speck/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/robin-hunicke-leaves-thatgamecompany-for-tiny-speck/#comments Robin Hunicke, thatgamecompany's "Producer Extraordinaire" since 2009, has left the Journey developer to join Tiny Speck, the Canadian studio responsible for Glitch. Hunicke will be "providing leadership in game design" for Tiny Speck and Glitch specifically from Tiny Speck's San Francisco offices, according to an announcement at the Glitch Blog.

"When they told me they had an office in San Francisco, where folks were joining up to imagine new fun for Glitch... well, I must admit I swooned," Hunicke said in an update on her personal blog.

Hunicke's departure from thatgamecompany comes hot on the heels of Kellee Santiago's similar announcement earlier this morning. It was also heralded by an anonymous source speaking to Gamasutra, who warned of further "key staff departures" following in Santiago's footsteps.

JoystiqRobin Hunicke leaves thatgamecompany for Tiny Speck originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>glitchjourneyKellee-Santiagomacpcrobin-hunickethatgamecompanytiny-speckThu, 29 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey is fastest-selling PSN game ever, soundtrack coming April 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/journey-is-fastest-selling-psn-game-ever-soundtrack-coming-apri/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/journey-is-fastest-selling-psn-game-ever-soundtrack-coming-apri/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/journey-is-fastest-selling-psn-game-ever-soundtrack-coming-apri/#comments We thought Journey was a very good game, as you may recall, and apparently we weren't the only ones looking forward to its release, as Journey is now the fastest-selling SCEA-region PSN game in all of recorded history. Previously, that honor was held by Sucker Punch's Infamous 2: Festival of Blood.

"We thank you so much for your support, for spending time and money to play our game and for spreading the word about Journey to your dear friends and family," said thatgamecompany co-founder Jenova Chen in a post on the PlayStation Blog. "We have received more letters from fans in the two weeks since Journey's launch than we did for Flower over the past three years!"

Chen also announced that Journey's brilliant score (composed by Austin Wintory) will be available on the PS Store and iTunes come April 10, with a "limited" CD release to follow shortly after.

JoystiqJourney is fastest-selling PSN game ever, soundtrack coming April 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Austin-Wintoryfastest-sellingFlowerjenova-chenjourneyplaystationps3PSNrecord-breakingsalessoundtrackThatGameCompanyThu, 29 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kellee Santiago leaves thatgamecompany, nextcompany unknown]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/kellee-santiago-leaves-thatgamecompany-nextcompany-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/kellee-santiago-leaves-thatgamecompany-nextcompany-unknown/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/29/kellee-santiago-leaves-thatgamecompany-nextcompany-unknown/#comments Kellee Santiago, co-founder of thatgamecompany, left the Journey developer today. "Thanks so much for the kind words today, I feel so much love and gratitude," she Tweeted. "It's time to hit the 'Start New Journey' button!" She has yet to announce her destination.

Santiago told Gamasutra that she hopes to take what she's learned from making thatgamecompany's three PSN games, "and go forth and take it into new arenas." She said she saw her role at thatgamecompany as supporting Jenova Chen's visions for game design. "... I felt like I have done everything I needed to do there, and that he's in a great place now to go on and continue with some of the other people at Thatgamecompany, to take that to a whole new height." Gama also cites anonymous sources who warn of other "key staff departures."

A thatgamecompany representative told Joystiq, "Obviously, Kellee has been a huge part of thatgamecompany over the past six years. Even though it's sad to see her leave, we are very excited to see what she does in the future."

JoystiqKellee Santiago leaves thatgamecompany, nextcompany unknown originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyKellee-Santiagoplaystationps3psnThatGameCompanyThu, 29 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey costumes class up LittleBigPlanet next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/journey-costumes-class-up-littlebigplanet-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/journey-costumes-class-up-littlebigplanet-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/27/journey-costumes-class-up-littlebigplanet-next-month/#comments Next month, you'll be able to take a chubby, adorable version of your Journey character through somewhat less sweeping, and more sweded, landscapes. The PlayStation Blog announced plans to release a Journey costume for LittleBigPlanet next month, commemorating the news with a wallpaper image.

If you can't wait to give your Sackboy an otherworldly mystique, you can dress it like a creature of the deep with the new "Deep Sea Adventures Costume Pack," which came out this month for $2.99.

JoystiqJourney costumes class up LittleBigPlanet next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costumesjourneyLittleBigPlanet-2playstationps3psnTue, 27 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Indie documentary Us and the Game Industry raises $20,000 to finish film]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/indie-documentary-us-and-the-game-industry-raises-20-000-to-fin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/indie-documentary-us-and-the-game-industry-raises-20-000-to-fin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/indie-documentary-us-and-the-game-industry-raises-20-000-to-fin/#comments
Us and the Game Industry's common dreams ltd squeaked by its deadline with $20,256 of its $20,000 Kickstarter goal -- not that raising tens of thousands of dollars from 373 people is exactly "squeaking by." Us and the Game Industry will officially be able to continue production, complete shooting and edit its footage of successful indie developers into a complete movie, its Kickstarter page reads.

Us and the Game Industry began filming in March 2009, so this isn't a bandwagon response to the success of Indie Game: The Movie; it's merely a different approach. Where Indie Game featured a host of relatively (and previously) unknown developers working on unreleased titles, Us follows more established powerhouses, including thatgamecompany as it builds Journey over three years, Johann Sebastian Joust's Douglas Wilson of Die Gut Fabrik, Jason Rohrer of Inside a Star-Filled Sky and "more," common dreams promises.

JoystiqIndie documentary Us and the Game Industry raises $20,000 to finish film originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>common-dreams-ltddocumentaryfilmfundedjourneykickstartermovepcplaystationps3us-and-the-game-industryMon, 19 Mar 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Joystiq Show - 028: Street Fighter X Jenova]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/the-joystiq-show-028-street-fighter-x-jenova/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/the-joystiq-show-028-street-fighter-x-jenova/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/16/the-joystiq-show-028-street-fighter-x-jenova/#commentsFiled under:

Richard, Alexander and Jordan are back in the first segment this week, and while it is technically the "news segment," you might not know it with 30 minutes of Street Fighter X Tekken talk up front. After Jordan says his piece, it really is on to the news.

Classics are being resurrected with Diablo 3 finally getting a release date, and Baldur's Gate (I and II) are coming back in enhanced editions. Battlefield 3 is finally getting some more content, XBLA achievements are getting rejiggered, and Richard talks about his thoughts on Silent Hill: Downpour.

Part 2 is another interview this week as Richard and Jordan sit down with thatgamecompany's Jenova Chen to discuss Journey, his studio, and much more.

Part 1 (1:02) - Street Fighter X Tekken review and the news
Part 2 (59:30) - Journey interview

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Host: Richard Mitchell (@TheRichardM)
Guest: Jenova Chen (@JenovaChen) - Co-founder, thatgamecompany
Producer: Jonathan Downin (@jonathandownin - Game Thing Daily)
Production Coordinator: Richard Mitchell
Music: Trash80, Broke for Free and a selection from Silent Hill 2.

View the news topics and stream the show after the break.

Continue reading The Joystiq Show - 028: Street Fighter X Jenova

JoystiqThe Joystiq Show - 028: Street Fighter X Jenova originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyjoystiq-podcastjoystiq-showpodcastsstreet-fighter-x-tekkenFri, 16 Mar 2012 13:00:00 ESTThe Joystiq Show - 028: Street Fighter X JenovaJoystiq1:28:04podcasts<![CDATA[PSN releases: Journey, Shoot Many Robots, Warp]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/psn-releases-journey-shoot-many-robots-warp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/psn-releases-journey-shoot-many-robots-warp/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/psn-releases-journey-shoot-many-robots-warp/#comments Several high-profile downloadable titles hit the PSN this week, with Journey being the can't-miss experience from thatgamecompany. Our Jordan Mallory was smitten by Journey, calling it a "beautiful, evocative and unequivocally transcendental experience." He may have used such words to describe a burrito he once had, but, in fairness, it was a really fabulous burrito.

If you're looking for a co-op, run-'n'-gun shooter, it's worth trading a Hamilton for Shoot Many Robots. For something a little more cerebral, stealth action puzzler Warp is also available. Head on over the PS Blog for all the details on this week's PSN update.

JoystiqPSN releases: Journey, Shoot Many Robots, Warp originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationplaystation-vitaps3PSNPSN-Storepsn-tuesdayshoot-many-robotsvitawarpWed, 14 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey developer diary reaches for new heights]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/journey-developer-diary-reaches-for-new-heights/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/journey-developer-diary-reaches-for-new-heights/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/13/journey-developer-diary-reaches-for-new-heights/#comments
Beneath all that beautiful sand and those wide-open skies, Journey is a metaphor for birth.

JoystiqJourney developer diary reaches for new heights originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationps3psnthatgamecompanyTue, 13 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Spring Fever promo begins tomorrow, it's probably contagious]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/psn-spring-fever-promo-begins-tomorrow-its-probably-contagious/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/psn-spring-fever-promo-begins-tomorrow-its-probably-contagious/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/12/psn-spring-fever-promo-begins-tomorrow-its-probably-contagious/#comments PSN has a fever, and the only prescription is... well, lots of liquids and rest, probably, and definitely not cowbell. Seriously, have you been near someone playing the cowbell while your head is in a vice grip of feverish pain? It's terrible.

PSN has spring fever, and its only symptoms are offering discounts and special deals on a handful of franchises for the next three weeks. PSN Spring Fever begins tomorrow with the launch of Journey for non-PS Plus members (no discount; just the release) and a sale on the Call of Duty franchise, with Black Ops, Modern Warfare, Modern Warfare 2, and Classic full games on sale, and World at War's map packs on discount.

Check out this week's sale below, as provided by the PlayStation Blog, and play Journey. We think you'll really enjoy it.

Continue reading PSN Spring Fever promo begins tomorrow, it's probably contagious

JoystiqPSN Spring Fever promo begins tomorrow, it's probably contagious originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Call-of-Dutyjourneyplaystationplaystation-blogps3PSNpsn-spring-feverSONYMon, 12 Mar 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Plus in March: Early Journey, free Sly Cooper, more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/playstation-plus-in-march-early-journey-free-sly-cooper-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/playstation-plus-in-march-early-journey-free-sly-cooper-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/05/playstation-plus-in-march-early-journey-free-sly-cooper-more/#comments PlayStation Plus members get a plethora of freebies and early-play opportunities this month, including access to Journey tomorrow, March 6, one week before its official launch. Tomorrow PS Plusers will also get Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus and Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo HD Remix for super turbo thieving free. Sony will announce all winners of the 2012 PSN Gamers' Choice Awards, which will all be 50 percent off for Plus members for one week.

March forth, PS Plusers -- well, actually, March 6, because that's when all the PSN goodness begins. But you get the idea.

JoystiqPlayStation Plus in March: Early Journey, free Sly Cooper, more originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationplaystation-plusplusps3Sly-Cooper-and-the-Thievius-RacoonusSONYstreet-fighter-2-turboMon, 05 Mar 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[thatgamecompany goes behind the Journey]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/thatgamecompany-goes-behind-the-journey/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/thatgamecompany-goes-behind-the-journey/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/thatgamecompany-goes-behind-the-journey/#comments
You've heard what we think of Journey. How about the people who made it? In this developer video, the team at thatgamecompany discusses their philosophy of game development, their goals, and what motivates them to keep a small team.

Joystiqthatgamecompany goes behind the Journey originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationps3psnThatGameCompanyFri, 02 Mar 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey travels to PS Plus members one week early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/journey-travels-to-ps-plus-members-one-week-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/journey-travels-to-ps-plus-members-one-week-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/journey-travels-to-ps-plus-members-one-week-early/#comments Reviews for Journey are already sprinkling the vast wasteland of the web, but the full game doesn't officially launch until March 13, giving the hype plenty of time to blow away like sand in the wind. Sony is looking to fix that by launching Journey one week early for PS Plus members, at the standard $15 price point.

Journey will be available next week for PS Plus members, along with a bonus dynamic theme. The bonus theme is also available to PS Normal users by pre-ordering Journey from the PlayStation Store.

JoystiqJourney travels to PS Plus members one week early originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earlyjourneyplaystationplaystation-plusps-plusps3SONYThatGameCompanyFri, 02 Mar 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Joystiq Show - 027: Journey to Amalur]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/the-joystiq-show-027-journey-to-amalur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/the-joystiq-show-027-journey-to-amalur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/02/the-joystiq-show-027-journey-to-amalur/#commentsFiled under:

Thatgamecompany's Journey has been a long time coming, but it is now on the cusp of release, and Jordan starts the show with his thoughts on this "harmoniously joyful expression of love." As usual, Alexander joins the crew for the news, and there is plenty of it; from the Assassin's Creed 3 reveal and release date for BioShock Infinite to rumors of Doom 4's demise and plans for PAX East.

In the second segment, Richard is joined by Sean Dunn, General Manager of Big Huge Games, to discuss Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, the history of Big Huge Games, and how the studio's open-world RPG came together.

Part 1 (1:04) - The news
Part 2 (42:04) - Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning interview

Get the podcast:
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[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Host: Richard Mitchell (@TheRichardM)
Guest: Sean Dunn - General Manager, Big Huge Games
Producer: Jonathan Downin (@jonathandownin - Game Thing Daily)
Production Coordinator: Richard Mitchell
Music: Trash80, Broke for Free and a selection from Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning.

View the news topics and stream the show after the break.

Continue reading The Joystiq Show - 027: Journey to Amalur

JoystiqThe Joystiq Show - 027: Journey to Amalur originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Mar 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyjoystiq-podcastjoystiq-showkingdoms-of-amalur-reckoningpodcastsFri, 02 Mar 2012 13:00:00 ESTThe Joystiq Show - 027: Journey to AmalurJoystiq1:01:39podcasts<![CDATA[Journey review: I want to go to there]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/journey-review-i-want-to-go-to-there/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/journey-review-i-want-to-go-to-there/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/journey-review-i-want-to-go-to-there/#comments The word "awesome" gets thrown around a lot, but I think we as a culture have lost track of its real meaning. Originally, the word meant "awe inspiring," and Dictionary.com defines "awe" as "an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, fear, etc., produced by that which is grand, sublime, extremely powerful, or the like." Nowadays, "awesome" functions as a synonym for "cool" or "impressive:" When someone says a game is awesome, they're really saying that it's great, and generally are not implying any existential or emotional significance beyond that.

I bring this up, because I don't want to be misconstrued as generic or uninspired when I say that Journey is an awesome game. In the most classical, archaic sense of the word, Journey is a beautiful, evocative and unequivocally transcendental experience.

Gallery: Journey (Gamescom 2011)

Continue reading Journey review: I want to go to there

JoystiqJourney review: I want to go to there originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationps3PSNreviewThatGameCompanyThu, 01 Mar 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Jenova Chen: thatgamecompany aiming 'beyond just PlayStation']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/jenova-chen-thatgamecompany-aiming-beyond-just-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/jenova-chen-thatgamecompany-aiming-beyond-just-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/jenova-chen-thatgamecompany-aiming-beyond-just-playstation/#comments Indie studio thatgamecompany will conclude its three-game deal with Sony with the launch of Journey on March 13. Will the group still focus on Sony's hardware or possibly try their hands at PS Vita next? Somebody get Chuck Testa in here so he can respond aptly.

Jenova Chen, thatgamecompany co-founder and creative director, told Push Square that the plan is to expand the studio's audience beyond Sony's realm. "Right now we are very much exploring ways to bring our games to a bigger audience, beyond just PlayStation. We are still in the process of negotiating, but I hope that we can announce it [soon]."

By the sound of it, thatgamecompany already has its next project lined up. We've been through the ocean, the garden and the desert -- so where to next?

JoystiqJenova Chen: thatgamecompany aiming 'beyond just PlayStation' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jenova-chenjourneymulti-platformplaystationps3pspsonythatgamecompanyMon, 27 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey dev's next project to take online play one step further]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/journey-devs-next-project-to-take-online-play-one-step-further/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/journey-devs-next-project-to-take-online-play-one-step-further/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/journey-devs-next-project-to-take-online-play-one-step-further/#comments When is thatgamecompany's Journey coming out? March 13, as it turns out. But what's next, you ask? Man, you're so impatient! Anyway, it sounds like the next project from TGC is just as online focused (or more so) than Journey, as a job listing for the indie studio's next game reveals. "With our last game, Journey, we began incorporating online interactions into our projects, and we'd like to take it a step further on our next game," the listing reads.

"While we're pretty experienced making games, we've never built a full scale online service available to hundreds of thousands of users. We're looking for someone to help us plan and build our online infrastructure in a way that scales," it continues, demanding direct experience "building a scalable online service." More ambiguously, the listing also requires applicants have a "desire to see the medium of games mature and increase in relevancy for people around the world." That sounds more like TGC to us!

Also of note, applicants are "more likely to enjoy this job" should they have a "desire to create something not just for core gamers but everyone you respect in your life." So, uh, if you don't respect anyone in your life, probably not an ideal job for you.

JoystiqJourney dev's next project to take online play one step further originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>job-listingjourneytgcthat-game-companythatgamecompanyThu, 16 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey ventures to PSN on March 13 for $15 [update: March 14 for EU]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/journey-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/journey-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/journey-release-date/#comments
Journey's developers at thatgamecompany refuse to dilly dally when it comes to seasonally tied launch windows, announcing this morning that Journey will arrive on March 13 for $15, effectively kicking off the spring season.

According to a PlayStation Blog post revealing the launch date and pricing, no bonuses are currently being offered for PS Plus members regarding the title, but, uh, you can also totally play the game on March 13 as well, unless you choose to hold out for a special offer, of course.

The release date announcement is just the beginning of a weeks-long trailer campaign leading up to thelaunch, so keep an eye out for more looks into the game in the near future. Should you need a fix right now, we've dropped a trailer above for you. You're so needy!

Update: The EU PlayStation Blog says that the game will arrive on March 14 in Europe.

JoystiqJourney ventures to PSN on March 13 for $15 [update: March 14 for EU] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationps3q1-2012release-datesceascea-santa-monicasony-computer-entertainmenttgcthat-game-companythatgamecompanyThu, 16 Feb 2012 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey: Behind the Music]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/journey-behind-the-music/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/journey-behind-the-music/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/journey-behind-the-music/#comments
Wondering what goes into crafting Journey's beautiful orchestral soundtrack? Thankfully, it has absolutely nothing to do with the stadium rock band of the same name, and everything to do with the Macedonia Radio Symphonic Orchestra. No joke!

JoystiqJourney: Behind the Music originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeymacedonia-radio-symphonic-orchestramusicplaystationps3that-game-companythatgamecompanyThu, 05 Jan 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[thatgamecompany's Kellee Santiago on Vita, and her ongoing argument with Roger Ebert]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/thatgamecompanys-kellee-santiago-on-vita-and-her-ongoing-argum/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/thatgamecompanys-kellee-santiago-on-vita-and-her-ongoing-argum/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/thatgamecompanys-kellee-santiago-on-vita-and-her-ongoing-argum/#comments With Flow and Flower, Kellee Santiago and Jenova Chen's 12-person dev studio, thatgamecompany, completed two thirds of its three-game contract with Sony. And when Journey arrives some time in 2012, that three-game contract will come to an end, leaving Santiago and co. to an unknown future in the game industry. At a recent Sony press event in New York City, Santiago wouldn't say what the future holds for TGC ("Right now we're really focused on finishing Journey," she told me), but she did speak to her own interest in the PlayStation Vita.

"I could definitely see all of thatgamecompany's titles on the Vita," Santiago said. "But, as you said, we're a team of 12, so for us in each title we just try to focus on the specific platform we're distributing on, and then leave the future to the future." The studio's first game, Flow, ended up on Sony's last handheld system, so the idea of Flower and Journey ending up on the Vita isn't exactly a far-fetched one.

Given Santiago's apprehension at speaking about TGC after Journey, I instead prodded her about her interactions with famous (infamous?) film critic Roger Ebert. Had anything transpired since her last note? Santiago laughed before telling me, "He seems to have conceded that while he has his opinion, he can't really have it 'cause he doesn't play games anyway." In her last response, Santiago even offered to send Ebert a PlayStation 3 with Flower.

"We did send him a PlayStation 3 with Flower," she said. But has he played it? "At least of the last writing on it, he has not played it." Maybe she should've sent an employee to play the game for him as well?

[Image credit: TED Blog]

Joystiqthatgamecompany's Kellee Santiago on Vita, and her ongoing argument with Roger Ebert originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flowflowerjourneykellee-santiagonew-york-citynycplaystationps3roger-ebertthat-game-companythatgamecompanyTue, 20 Dec 2011 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey floating to PSN in Spring 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/journey-floating-to-psn-in-spring-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/journey-floating-to-psn-in-spring-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/27/journey-floating-to-psn-in-spring-2012/#comments After teasing us with gorgeous footage, press demos, and a beta, Flower dev thatgamecompany today announced intentions to launch its next game, Journey, in Spring 2012. As with previous TGC games, Journey will arrive exclusively on the PlayStation 3's digital store.

"While there is still a ton of care and polish needed, we can't wait to finally deliver Journey, TGC's take on an online adventure game," creative director Jenova Chen writes on the PlayStation blog. "Like all our games, Journey is an experiment. In the end, it's what you think that matters."

JoystiqJourney floating to PSN in Spring 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Sep 2011 09:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnq1-2012release-datethat-game-companythatgamecompanyTue, 27 Sep 2011 09:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey beta preview: Feeling small]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/journey-beta-preview-feeling-small/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/journey-beta-preview-feeling-small/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/25/journey-beta-preview-feeling-small/#comments During a PlayStation press event last week, I spoke with thatgamecompany executive producer Robin Hunicke, who told me that the team was "really really satisfied" with the feedback on the recently wrapped up Journey beta. "So many people wrote us to say that meeting a stranger online was a satisfying experience," Hunicke said. "It was exactly the kind of feedback we wanted." If that sounds as counterintuitive to you as it did to me, Hunicke explains just how thatgamecompany managed to make meeting strangers online (ick!) a not-awful experience.

Over the course of the two-week beta, 10,000 players - 5,000 in the US and 5,000 in Europe, according to thatgamecompany co-founder Kellee Santiago - helped the small dev test its networking code. The beta was a good source of positive reinforcement; the game's ideas worked. Not bad for the studio's first multiplayer game. The networking code, on the other hand, had a single bug. "But it was a really big bug," Hunicke said, laughing. It presented itself immediately and was patched just as quickly. For the next two weeks, the team gathered feedback and enjoyed hearing players write in, sharing experiences that matched the game's goals.

Gallery: Journey (E3)

Continue reading Journey beta preview: Feeling small

JoystiqJourney beta preview: Feeling small originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationps3robin-hunickeSCEASonythatgamecompanyMon, 25 Jul 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony unveils San Diego Comic Con lineup, panels, crazy arcade cabinet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/sony-unveils-san-diego-comic-con-lineup-panels-crazy-arcade-ca/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/sony-unveils-san-diego-comic-con-lineup-panels-crazy-arcade-ca/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/sony-unveils-san-diego-comic-con-lineup-panels-crazy-arcade-ca/#comments Sony's presence at this year's San Diego Comic Con is, like Qwark's chest, large and complex. Beyond bringing major retail releases like Resistance 3 and Twisted Metal for attendees to play, the publisher is showcasing a variety of wares from PSN indies like thatgamecompany's Journey and Minority Games' Papo & Yo.

The company is hosting several presentations on a handful of its games -- everything from Starhawk to Uncharted 3 -- along with with the chance to play a variety of unreleased PlayStation titles. If that weren't enough, the construction of a full Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One arcade cabinet specifically for SDCC 2011 should help to get you on board. Take an early peek at the cabinet in working order just below the break.

Continue reading Sony unveils San Diego Comic Con lineup, panels, crazy arcade cabinet

JoystiqSony unveils San Diego Comic Con lineup, panels, crazy arcade cabinet originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comic-con-2011journeypapo-and-yoplaystationps3Ratchet-and-Clank-All-4-Oneresistance-3san-diegosan-diego-comic-consan-diego-comic-con-2011sdccsdcc-2011sony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-americatwisted-metal-2011uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionTue, 19 Jul 2011 15:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony to invest $20 million into PlayStation Network and Pub Fund over the next three years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/sony-invests-20-million-into-pub-fund-over-the-next-three-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/sony-invests-20-million-into-pub-fund-over-the-next-three-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/13/sony-invests-20-million-into-pub-fund-over-the-next-three-years/#comments Sony believes in its Pub Fund initiative and the PlayStation Network, and is putting up the cash to prove it. Over the course of the next three years, Sony will commit $20 million in seeking out independent developers to create games like Papo & Yo, Okabu and PixelJunk Sidescroller. Brandon Stander, director of marketing for PlayStation Network, describes it as a commitment of faith in the Pub Fund and a goal to bring "innovative, different, unique gameplay" to PSN.

Continue reading Sony to invest $20 million into PlayStation Network and Pub Fund over the next three years

JoystiqSony to invest $20 million into PlayStation Network and Pub Fund over the next three years originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandon-standerhello-gamesjoe-dangerjourneyminorityokabupapo-and-yopixeljunk-sidescrollerplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnpub-fundWed, 13 Jul 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey closed beta starts tomorrow, open to select few]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/journey-closed-beta-starts-tomorrow-open-to-select-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/journey-closed-beta-starts-tomorrow-open-to-select-few/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/27/journey-closed-beta-starts-tomorrow-open-to-select-few/#comments Following up on last week's report, thatgamecompany has revealed the requirements for taking part in the "very limited" beta for its upcoming project, Journey. According to a recent post on PlayStation Blog, the beta will be restricted to "the very earliest adopters of Flower" who are also PlayStation Plus subscribers. The beta will begin on June 28 (that's tomorrow!) and run through July 12. Those who qualify should receive an invitation via their PSN inbox soon.

For those who don't fit the criteria (remember, everyone's on PlayStation Plus at the moment), all hope is not lost. A "limited number of additional spots" will be made available via PlayStation Blog and some unnamed "media partners."

Finally, more invitations are being given away via thatgamecompany's Facebook page. You'd best hurry if you want one -- the Facebook giveaway closes at 7pm Pacific tonight.

JoystiqJourney closed beta starts tomorrow, open to select few originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaflowerjourneyplaystationplaystation-plusps3psnThatGameCompanyMon, 27 Jun 2011 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey online beta beginning next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/journey-online-beta-beginning-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/journey-online-beta-beginning-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/journey-online-beta-beginning-next-week/#comments You may soon have a chance to test out the online component of Journey, the latest evocative project from thatgamecompany (you know the one). According to comments made by Mike Snider, who makes up one half of USA Today's Game Hunters, an online beta is due to start next week. We'll let you know as soon as we hear more about gaining access.

While the developers are sure to extract valuable deta from the beta, we're more excited by what internet can learn from the playground presented in Journey. Wrapped in elegant textiles, players travel through a sparse and wondrous desert, choosing to dilly-dally, collaborate or simply go their own way. There's no hostility, jealousy or snark, and even the shouting seems gentle and polite.

Meanwhile, Joystiq's own sources indicate that some people are already playing the beta. NO, PLEASE, go on without us. WE HOPE YOU CHOKE ON EVERY GRANULE.

Update: According to thatgamecompany's Twitter feed, further details of a "very limited" beta will come on Monday via its Facebook page and PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqJourney online beta beginning next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betajourneyplaystationps3psnthatgamecompanyThu, 23 Jun 2011 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[thatgamecompany's Jenova Chen tours the world of Journey]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/thatgamecompanys-jenova-chen-tours-the-world-of-journey/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/thatgamecompanys-jenova-chen-tours-the-world-of-journey/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/thatgamecompanys-jenova-chen-tours-the-world-of-journey/#comments We'll admit it: we're kinda, sorta seriously smitten with thatgamecompany's third game, Journey. As if the two previews we've run didn't already tell you that! Anyway, this recent interview with GTTV is interesting, sure, but look at all that gameplay footage! Beautiful! Check it out after the break.

Continue reading thatgamecompany's Jenova Chen tours the world of Journey

Joystiqthatgamecompany's Jenova Chen tours the world of Journey originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opgameplayjenova-chenjourneyplaystationps3sony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-americathat-game-companythatgamecompanyFri, 03 Jun 2011 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey preview: A million little fibers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/journey-preview-a-million-little-fibers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/journey-preview-a-million-little-fibers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/journey-preview-a-million-little-fibers/#comments "Our goal is to expand the boundary of emotional experience that games can communicate," Jenova Chen, ThatGameCompany's co-founder and creative director told me following my preview session of Journey. And in the span of 30 minutes, I would run the emotional gamut from fear to confusion to acceptance and back to fear. Clearly, the journey is both metaphorical and literal.

The game opens with the fading of a white-hot sun, the dimming light revealing vast sand dunes. A beacon of light, emitting from a far-off mountain barely visible in the distance instilled in me a sense of urgency. Silently I stood for a while, ignoring my instincts in an attempt to soak it all in. There we were, the sand and I, alone. It was an almost comforting bleakness.

As I took my first steps forward, pushing the sand out in front of me like a sheet with a pocket of air trapped under it, I made it my goal to reach the light. Walking up and down dunes small and large, I eventually stumbled upon what I could only describe as a shrine. Suddenly, my character was surrounded with an aura that highlighted the folds of my clothes and gave me a the tiniest bit of a scarf.

As it happens, the game is less about me and mostly about that scarf.

Continue reading Journey preview: A million little fibers

JoystiqJourney preview: A million little fibers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeyplaystationps3psnthatgamecompanyFri, 03 Jun 2011 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[NYC: Come watch thatgamecompany's Kellee Santiago speak at NYU's Game Center]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/nyc-come-watch-thatgamecompanys-kellee-santiago-speak-at-nyus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/nyc-come-watch-thatgamecompanys-kellee-santiago-speak-at-nyus/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/nyc-come-watch-thatgamecompanys-kellee-santiago-speak-at-nyus/#comments We've told you about New York University's Game Center in the past -- remember that time when Chris Hecker brought SpyParty and talked about all sorts of stuff? -- and we're here to do just that once more. Tomorrow evening, we're hoping you'll join us and several hundred friends in Room 6 of NYU's lower level, where thatgamecompany co-founder and president Kellee Santiago will be speaking to the "Challenges In Evoking Unique Emotions In Video Games." Maybe she'll even talk a bit about her company's new game, Journey? We certainly hope so!

Beyond her lecture, a discussion will be moderated by interim director (and Zynga New York creative director) Frank Lantz, with questions from the crowd also being solicited. The discussion begins at 7:00PM EST sharp, and we've dropped pertinent details after the break. Don't be late!

Update: NYU has updated its blog with a note about attendance, stating, "Thanks to your enthusiastic response, we have reached capacity for this RSVP-only event. There will be very limited extra seating opened up on a first come, first serve basis starting at 7PM. We encourage you to join our mailing list, follow us, or friend us for updates on future lectures and events. Thank you for your understanding!" So, uh, take that as you will! We're still going!

Continue reading NYC: Come watch thatgamecompany's Kellee Santiago speak at NYU's Game Center

JoystiqNYC: Come watch thatgamecompany's Kellee Santiago speak at NYU's Game Center originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-centerjourneykellee-santiagonew-york-universitynyunyu-game-centerplaystationps3thatgamecompanyWed, 23 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey preview: Souls searching]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/journey-psn-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/journey-psn-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/17/journey-psn-preview/#comments I laughed when I first saw the scarf worn by Journey's main character. I couldn't help it -- the flair it adds to the enigmatic avatar renders the figure distinctly more charming than spooky. The scarf serves a more functional purpose, too: It's a gameplay meter, measuring your character's ability to fly. The scarf depletes as you fly; fill it back up -- and even lengthen it -- by completing puzzles and discovering secrets, among other things. There's actually a variety of scarves to be collected and equipped throughout the gameworld.

Scarves, however, are not the focus on thatgamecompany's third PSN-exclusive, Journey. The focus, creative lead Jenova Chen told me at a recent press event, is to enable unique online experiences. "Everyone's on a journey towards a goal, and everybody travels through a similar landscape," he said of the game. "And at some point, their paths cross each other, and then they could be playing together."

Gallery: Journey (12/10/10)

Continue reading Journey preview: Souls searching

JoystiqJourney preview: Souls searching originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opjenova-chenjourneykellee-santiagomultiplayerplaystationps3psnrobin-hunickethatgamecompanyFri, 17 Dec 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey's latest trailer keeps us believing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/journeys-latest-trailer-keeps-us-believing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/journeys-latest-trailer-keeps-us-believing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/10/journeys-latest-trailer-keeps-us-believing/#comments Journey isn't a game about transforming a landscape with the power of wind, or experiencing aquatic evolution, but about guiding your cloaked, scarf-wearing avatar through a world -- either alone or with another, unknown person -- and forever pushing towards the mountain in the distance. The game's latest trailer encapsulates a lonely tone and showcases Journey's gorgeous environments.

thatgamecompany president Kellee Santiago characterized the PSN-exclusive Journey as "a social experiment" in a recent interview with GTTV (much like her studio's previous two games have been), while creative lead Jenova Chen says he's hoping to evoke the feeling of awe and wonder that people experience while on a hike. Neither explains what the deal is with the scarves, though.

Gallery: Journey (12/10/10)

Continue reading Journey's latest trailer keeps us believing

JoystiqJourney's latest trailer keeps us believing originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplayjenova-chenjourneykellee-santiagoplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnthatgamecompanyFri, 10 Dec 2010 10:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Thatgamecompany holding Journey playtest event in LA next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/thatgamecompany-holding-journey-playtest-event-in-la-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/thatgamecompany-holding-journey-playtest-event-in-la-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/thatgamecompany-holding-journey-playtest-event-in-la-next-week/#commentsIf you're curious about thatgamecompany's enigmatic mountain-approaching PSN adventure, Journey -- and if you're curious about what you're going to do while you're in the LA area on November 19 -- the developer has something planned to satisfy both kinds of curiosity.

That night, thatgamecompany is hosting a semi-public playtest of Journey. If you're between 18 and 35, familiar with PSN, and able to make the journey to Santa Monica, then contact thatgamecompany (contact details after the break) and you might be among the lucky players invited!

Continue reading Thatgamecompany holding Journey playtest event in LA next week

JoystiqThatgamecompany holding Journey playtest event in LA next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>journeylos-angelesplaystationps3psnthatgamecompanyFri, 12 Nov 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview: Journey]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/preview-journey/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/preview-journey/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/17/preview-journey/#comments flOw = an experimental version of Pac-Man
Flower = a refined, perfected version of flOw
Journey = an online-enabled HD combination of Wind Waker, Ico and Shadow of the Colossus.

These comparisons may not be entirely accurate, but it's the closest way I could convey the changing trajectory of thatgamecompany's design philosophy. Journey is the most ambitious (and potentially revolutionary) undertaking from the independent studio, yet it also draws the most similarities to what many would call "traditional" games. Like most every other game, there is a humanoid avatar, controlled by analog stick. You jump. There's platforming. There's also an incredibly evident game-like goal: to reach the top of a mountain, looming in the far distance.

At its core, Journey can probably be best described as a platformer, with a clear objective: get to the end. However, thatgamecompany isn't simply focusing on a goal -- instead, the experience is geared towards its title. Players are dropped in a gorgeous psuedo cel-shaded desert world. The character designs evoke Wind Waker, but the mesmerizing cloth and sand physics make the world feel even more alive. Like Team Ico's games, there is an incredible sense of loneliness to the world: there's no life, no foliage to be seen. There are remnants of a world lost, with a beautiful tranquility.

Gallery: Journey

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JoystiqPreview: Journey originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jun 2010 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010journeyplaystationps3psnsceasonythatgamecompanyThu, 17 Jun 2010 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Journey: the third PSN game from thatgamecompany]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/journey-the-third-psn-game-from-thatgamecompany/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/journey-the-third-psn-game-from-thatgamecompany/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/journey-the-third-psn-game-from-thatgamecompany/#commentsFiled under: , ,

thatgamecompany, best known for flOw and Flower, has rather covertly announced another PSN exclusive. Journey follows the footsteps of its predecessors, offering "simple gameplay and accessible controls."

Unlike thatgamecompany's previous offerings, however, Journey is an "online adventure experience" that has players encountering strangers. According to the press release, traveling with others will "re-shape the experience -- creating authentic moments that they will remember and discuss with others."

It sounds a lot like Chat Roulette, doesn't it? The Journey begins on PS3 in 2011.
[Thanks, Stan K.!]

Gallery: Journey

JoystiqJourney: the third PSN game from thatgamecompany originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 01:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010journeyplaystationps3psnthatgamecompanyWed, 16 Jun 2010 01:55:00 EST