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 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Golem to follow Omen's lead onto Killer Instinct roster]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/golem-to-follow-omens-lead-onto-killer-instinct-roster/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/golem-to-follow-omens-lead-onto-killer-instinct-roster/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/golem-to-follow-omens-lead-onto-killer-instinct-roster/#comments

Following a reveal earlier this month, developer Iron Galaxy has issued a proper trailer for Omen that, like past Killer Instinct character trailers, is nearly overshadowed by a cameo at the end.

The walking mass of rocks and shrubs that crashes onto camera and squishes Orchid is named Golem. Whether or not words can hurt you is irrelevant, as Golem brings both sticks and stones - two items notorious for bone trauma - to the Xbox One-exclusive fight. Unfortunately, beyond that brief footage, none-too-surprising name and the pun about sticks and stones, we know nothing about this new fighter. Outside of this brief footage, Iron Galaxy has yet to reveal any useful information on Golem.

We can tell you, however, that Omen will join Killer Instinct later this week. On January 30, the character will be available for owners of Killer Instinct Ultra Edition, while those with Killer Instinct Combo Breaker Edition will be waiting until February 5.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqGolem to follow Omen's lead onto Killer Instinct roster originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixgolemiron-galaxykiller-instinct-2013microsoftomenxbox-oneMon, 26 Jan 2015 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Evo 2015 line-up announced, double helping of Smash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/evo-2015-line-up-announced-double-helping-of-smash/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/evo-2015-line-up-announced-double-helping-of-smash/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/evo-2015-line-up-announced-double-helping-of-smash/#comments Super Smash Bros Wii U and Melee are two of the nine games already confirmed for this year's Evolution Championship Series. As revealed during last night's Twitch stream, the line-up for Las Vegas this July also includes returning games Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3, Ultra Street Fighter 4 and Killer Instinct, The remaining four games are new for this year, and they are Persona 4 Arena Ultimax, Guilty Gear Xrd Sign, Mortal Kombat X and Tekken 7.

Recent years have seen more games added closer to the event, though a roster of nine is already on the high end for an EVO championship. Whatever the full line-up proves to be, it's coming to the Bally's/Paris Las Vegas Casino, where the world's fighting game specialists will duke it out across July 17-19.

Continue reading Evo 2015 line-up announced, double helping of Smash

JoystiqEvo 2015 line-up announced, double helping of Smash originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evoevo-2015guilty-gear-xrd-signkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmortal-kombat-xnintendopersona-4-arena-ultimaxplaystationps3ps4shoryukensuper-smash-bros-for-wii-usuper-smash-bros-meleetekken-7ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3ultra-street-fighter-4wii-uxboxxbox-oneWed, 21 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct's character roster foresees an Omen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/killer-instincts-character-roster-foresees-an-omen/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/killer-instincts-character-roster-foresees-an-omen/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/killer-instincts-character-roster-foresees-an-omen/#comments Killer Instinct for Xbox One is about to receive its next fighter: Omen, the spirit of rage, corruption and shadow energy. Players familiar with Killer Instinct's lore may recognize Omen as the spirit that turns Jago into Shadow Jago, a dark and twisted version of the warrior monk. According to developer Iron Galaxy, Omen has accrued enough energy through his battles as Shadow Jago to take physical form of his own.

What does said physical form look like, you ask? Well, it wouldn't be a Killer Instinct character reveal without a tease before the proper unveiling. All there is to see so far are the bat-like wing and fingertips crackling with blue energy pictured above.

Omen is also a bonus character, meaning he will not be sold individually, nor will he have his own Story mode. Players who have purchased either the Season 2 Combo Breaker Add-On or Season 2 Ultra Edition will receive Omen for free later this month.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

JoystiqKiller Instinct's character roster foresees an Omen originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iron-galaxykiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosomenxbox-oneSun, 04 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Deliver season's beatings via Killer Instinct Classic's new online multiplayer mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/deliver-seasons-beatings-via-killer-instinct-classics-new-onli/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/deliver-seasons-beatings-via-killer-instinct-classics-new-onli/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/deliver-seasons-beatings-via-killer-instinct-classics-new-onli/#comments If you get an Xbox One in your Christmas stocking this year (by the way, we need to have a chat about your monstrously huge fire hazard of a stocking), you'll soon have a new way of beating up on your faraway friends. Killer Instinct Classic will receive an online multiplayer mode as part of a free update launching tonight.

Released last year via Killer Instinct's digital Ultra Edition, Killer Instinct Classic is an emulated port of Rare's 1994 arcade one-on-one fighter. Tonight's update will introduce an online multiplayer option, along with several fixes and improvements for the core Killer Instinct game.

Another recent update unlocked holiday-themed costumes for Killer Instinct characters TJ Combo, Orchid and Sabrewulf. 'Tis the season.

[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqDeliver season's beatings via Killer Instinct Classic's new online multiplayer mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinct-2013killer-instinct-classicmicrosoftonline-multiplayerpatchupdatexbox-oneWed, 24 Dec 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct update 2.2 brings raptors and reindeer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/killer-instinct-update-2-2-brings-raptors-and-reindeer/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/killer-instinct-update-2-2-brings-raptors-and-reindeer/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/killer-instinct-update-2-2-brings-raptors-and-reindeer/#comments Killer Instinct for Xbox One is about to get a cup of Christmas cheer with patch 2.2, which will bring holiday-themed costumes for fighters TJ Combo, Orchid and Sabrewulf, as well as the re-introduction of Riptor, a fighter from the game's original 1994 release.

Players who own Orchid or play as her when she is part of the free character rotation will be able to do battle decked in holly jolly red-and-green stockings. Those who have purchased the Ultra edition of Killer Instinct's Season One will also be able to equip Orchid with oversized candy canes, as well as place reindeer antlers and a red nose on Sabrewulf's adorable face. If you own the Ultra edition of Season Two, you'll be able to give TJ Combo a white beard and Santa hat.

As for the return of Riptor, developer Iron Galaxy states on the Killer Instinct forums that they are aiming to release her from captivity on December 17 for Ultra edition owners, and December 23 for Combo edition owners. "Full transparency: we hit an issue in Cert that paused us long enough to put the date in slight risk. SLIGHT," creative director at Microsoft Studios Adam Isgreen wrote. "We are all good to land it as long as there are no further hiccups." The cybernetic dinosaur will also receive a trailer to show off her unique talents on Monday, but just looking at her, we have no doubts about her lethality.

Sheesh, where's Chris Pratt when you need him?
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqKiller Instinct update 2.2 brings raptors and reindeer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasiron-galaxykiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosriptorxbox-oneSat, 13 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Meet Killer Instinct's next fighter, the sorceror Kan-Ra]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/21/meet-killer-instincts-next-fighter-the-sorceror-kan-ra/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/21/meet-killer-instincts-next-fighter-the-sorceror-kan-ra/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/21/meet-killer-instincts-next-fighter-the-sorceror-kan-ra/#comments After weeks of teasing fans, developer Iron Galaxy has unveiled the next fighter to join Season 2 of Killer Instinct, an ancient sorcerer named Kan-Ra.

"Didn't Iron Galaxy claim Kan-Ra would not be a mummy? Wasn't there even a #notamummy hashtag in use for a while?" you wonder. Yes, the developer repeatedly said that Kan-Ra is not a mummy, and he isn't (technically, sort of). In lieu of revived Egyptian royalty, Kan-Ra is a 2,534-year-old sorcerer from Ancient Babylon who betrayed his king and was exiled for an assassination attempt. Instead of aging gracefully, Kan-Ra used dark magics to slow the decomposition of his body. Iron Galaxy offers no explanation for the decidedly mummy-style bandages, so we're just chalking that up to a universal undead fashion sense.

Beyond the break you'll find footage of Kan-Ra in action. Be sure to stay to the end. There's a tease that should excite old-school Killer Instinct fans.

Edit: This article initially named Double Helix as the current developer of Killer Instinct, while Iron Galaxy is actually the developer in charge of the game's Season 2 content.
[Image: Microsoft]

Continue reading Meet Killer Instinct's next fighter, the sorceror Kan-Ra

JoystiqMeet Killer Instinct's next fighter, the sorceror Kan-Ra originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>killer-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneFri, 21 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Double Helix had Killer Instinct build on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/16/report-double-helix-had-killer-instinct-build-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/16/report-double-helix-had-killer-instinct-build-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/16/report-double-helix-had-killer-instinct-build-on-xbox-360/#comments Killer Instinct for the Xbox One may have began life as a project for the Xbox 360, if new footage showcased by Andrew Borman of Past To Present Online is to be believed. A video from PTP Online, viewable after the break, shows a (very) rough draft of what would go on to become the Killer Instinct we know today. Lighting effects are missing, only a few characters are in the build, some stages are broken and Chief Thunder is naught but a gray blob of a man, but if nothing else, it's interesting to see the progress the game has since achieved.

Though we can't say for sure what the purpose of such a build would be, it makes a certain kind of sense that it would exist. Even if Killer Instinct was never intended for release on the Xbox 360, developers aiming to have their games ready for the Xbox One's launch would have benefited from early prototyping. Or maybe the game was shunted off the Xbox 360 to bolster the Xbox One's launch lineup.

We may never know, but sometimes mystery is a little more fun.

Continue reading Report: Double Helix had Killer Instinct build on Xbox 360

JoystiqReport: Double Helix had Killer Instinct build on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxxbox-oneSun, 16 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct prototype throws punches on the Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/killer-instinct-prototype-throws-punches-on-the-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/killer-instinct-prototype-throws-punches-on-the-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/killer-instinct-prototype-throws-punches-on-the-xbox-360/#comments

The Xbox One's flagship fighting game Killer Instinct didn't begin life on Microsoft's latest hardware, as two newly-unearthed prototype videos demonstrate.

The clips, one above and one below the break, come to us from the prototype sleuths at Past to Present Online and depict an early-in-production version of the game, when it was still in the hands of developer Double Helix. Despite using a relatively underpowered Xbox 360 as a test bed, this version of Killer Instinct retains many of the hallmarks of the Xbox One game, from its basic combo system, to character designs, to certain graphical flourishes. Granted, there are parts of the game that are obviously not finished and the Xbox One's Killer Instinct is far more littered with particle effects than its Xbox 360 predecessor, but otherwise this game is immediately recognizable.

While this demonstrates that Killer Instinct probably could work on the Xbox 360 without losing much of its core gameplay, it's most likely that this prototype was built in an era when the Xbox One hardware wasn't quite finished but Double Helix needed a way to test its new fighter. You'll notice that the game even features references to the Xbox One's Menu button, despite the Xbox 360 having no such functionality. Sorry Xbox 360 owners, but after all the money Microsoft's poured into Killer Instinct to promote the game as an Xbox One exclusive, it's unlikely to appear on any other hardware - even one of Microsoft's own machines.
[Image: Microsoft]

Continue reading Killer Instinct prototype throws punches on the Xbox 360

JoystiqKiller Instinct prototype throws punches on the Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftprototypexboxxbox-oneFri, 14 Nov 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct's next fighter to be a 'trap grappler']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/27/killer-instincts-next-fighter-to-be-a-trap-grappler/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/27/killer-instincts-next-fighter-to-be-a-trap-grappler/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/27/killer-instincts-next-fighter-to-be-a-trap-grappler/#comments
As Killer Instinct fans await the arrival of Season 2's first new character, Microsoft creative director Adam Isgreen stopped by the Ultra Combo forums to offer a few hints on what the mystery combatant will bring to the fight.

"He's a zoner ... with a ranged grapple ... and great (situational) mobility ... and traps ... oh, and curses too," Isgreen wrote. "Internally we call him a 'trap grappler,' but I don't even know if that's the best way to describe him." Despite Isgreen's difficulties in explaining the unnamed character, he notes that the fighter scored very well among players in recent Killer Instinct locations tests held in Chicago and Orlando.

As for a name, Isgreen remains mum, though he points out that despite the bandages and decrepit flesh we've seen in teaser images, the character is not a mummy. Fans will have to wait until his official reveal trailer debuts in November to find out what sort of creature will join the Xbox One fighting game.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqKiller Instinct's next fighter to be a 'trap grappler' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Oct 2014 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-isgreeniron-galaxykiller-instinct-2013Mon, 27 Oct 2014 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TJ Combo, Maya return today in Killer Instinct Season 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/tj-combo-maya-return-today-in-killer-instinct-season-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/tj-combo-maya-return-today-in-killer-instinct-season-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/tj-combo-maya-return-today-in-killer-instinct-season-2/#comments
The second season of content for Xbox One-exclusive one-on-one brawler Killer Instinct premieres today boasting eight new characters and several major gameplay tweaks, Microsoft and developer Iron Galaxy Studios announced.

Season 2 re-introduces classic characters TJ Combo, Maya, Riptor, and Cinder. Four more fighters, including a handful of series newcomers, will join the brawl in the coming weeks. Season 1 characters have also been overhauled to account for the expanded cast, with many now boasting new moves and rebalanced attacks.

Returning players will find a new interface and refined mechanics that focus on aerial combat. Players can now trigger Air Breakers and Air Counter-Breakers in response to juggles, and new aerial capture moves allow characters to continue their combos on the ground after a mid-air flurry.

Season 2's Combo Breaker Pack, which unlocks TJ Combo and Maya instantly and grants future access to six additional fighters, is priced at $14.99. The season's $39.99 Ultra Edition additionally includes a set of alternate costumes and accessory kits, along with a port of the 1996 arcade game Killer Instinct 2.

[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqTJ Combo, Maya return today in Killer Instinct Season 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Oct 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlciron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftseason-2xbox-oneWed, 15 Oct 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct community reminds us why he's named TJ Combo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/29/killer-instinct-community-reminds-us-why-hes-named-tj-combo/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/29/killer-instinct-community-reminds-us-why-hes-named-tj-combo/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/29/killer-instinct-community-reminds-us-why-hes-named-tj-combo/#comments

After Killer Instinct fan and YouTube user Maximilian posted a colossal 175-hit combo featuring upcoming season two roster addition TJ Combo, experts in the game have pulled out all the stops to create the most vicious ultra combos. The current high score? 195 hits from YouTube user StyloJuice. I think he's dead, TJ! Now you're just being a jerk.

Though Ultra Edition owners snagged early access to the character, Killer Instinct: Season Two officially kicks off October 15.

Below, check out VIRUS916's 190-hit combo attempt to beat the record.

JoystiqKiller Instinct community reminds us why he's named TJ Combo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Sep 2014 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>killer-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneMon, 29 Sep 2014 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct: Season 2 hits on Oct. 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/12/killer-instinct-season-2-hits-on-oct-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/12/killer-instinct-season-2-hits-on-oct-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/12/killer-instinct-season-2-hits-on-oct-15/#comments Killer Instinct's second season launches on October 15, bringing along two new fighters, game modes and a revamped interface.

Season 2 includes the characters TJ Combo and Maya. The Killer Instinct: Season 2 Ultra Edition includes eight new fighters to be released one per month after TJ and Maya, some costumes and accessory packs, and Killer Instict 2: Classic. The Ultra Edition runs $40. The Combo Breaker Pack is $20 and includes the eight new fighters, one per month. Individual fighters cost $5 each.

Purchase the Ultra Edition between September 23 and October 14, and snag TJ early.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

Continue reading Killer Instinct: Season 2 hits on Oct. 15

JoystiqKiller Instinct: Season 2 hits on Oct. 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCiron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinct-2013killer-instinct-season-2microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneTue, 12 Aug 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct hits retail with bonus Season 2 fighter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/31/killer-instinct-hits-retail-with-bonus-season-2-fighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/31/killer-instinct-hits-retail-with-bonus-season-2-fighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/31/killer-instinct-hits-retail-with-bonus-season-2-fighter/#comments Come September 23, Xbox One-exclusive fighter Killer Instinct will make its debut on retail shelves as the "Killer Instinct: Combo Breaker Pack."

Included in the $20 Pack are the eight fighters currently available in Killer Instinct: Jago, Orchid, Sadira, Sabrewulf, Fulgore, Thunder, Glacius and Spinal. The retail package also includes a code for TJ Combo, an additional fighter slated to appear in the imminent second season of Killer Instinct DLC releases.

For comparison, the digital Combo Breaker Pack, which includes only the eight Season One characters and no access to TJ Combo still features an identical $20 price tag, while the free-to-play, one-character version of Killer Instinct asks players to spend $5 for each additional fighter.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqKiller Instinct hits retail with bonus Season 2 fighter originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jul 2014 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iron-galaxykiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013killer-instinct-season-2microsoftretailxbox-oneThu, 31 Jul 2014 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct Classic 2 for Xbox One outed by Game Rating Board]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/28/killer-instinct-classic-2-for-xbox-one-outed-by-game-rating-boar/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/28/killer-instinct-classic-2-for-xbox-one-outed-by-game-rating-boar/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/28/killer-instinct-classic-2-for-xbox-one-outed-by-game-rating-boar/#comments A Korean Game Rating Board submission (via NeoGAF) named "Killer Instinct Classic 2" as an upcoming release for the Xbox One, suggesting that Microsoft is planning a port of the 1996 arcade game Killer Instinct 2.

Microsoft previously bundled a port of 1994's Killer Instinct with its Xbox One reboot issued last year. The retitled Killer Instinct Classic was available as a free bonus for players who purchased Killer Instinct's Ultra Edition and boxed Pin Ultimate Edition.

Developer Iron Galaxy Studios revealed earlier this month that Killer Instinct 2 star Maya will join Killer Instinct's playable roster this fall as part of its second season of content. Microsoft has not confirmed Killer Instinct Classic 2's existence or a release date, but given the publisher's previous release schedule for Killer Instinct content, the port could surface as part of a second-season bundle.

[Image: Iron Galaxy Studios]

JoystiqKiller Instinct Classic 2 for Xbox One outed by Game Rating Board originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jul 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-rating-boardiron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinct-2killer-instinct-2013killer-instinct-classic-2microsoftxbox-oneMon, 28 Jul 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon queen Maya returns in Killer Instinct season two]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/amazon-queen-maya-returns-in-killer-instinct-season-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/amazon-queen-maya-returns-in-killer-instinct-season-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/amazon-queen-maya-returns-in-killer-instinct-season-two/#comments Divekick developer Iron Galaxy Studios will re-introduce players to Maya, Queen of the Amazons, when it rolls out the second season of content for Killer Instinct, according to reports from this year's EVO event.

Microsoft community manager Mike Robles tweeted concept art of the dagger-wielding warrior, while GameSpot reports that Iron Galaxy described Maya as a high-risk, high-reward character during the panel where she was unveiled. According to GameSpot's report, Maya's daggers will level up as she lands hits on her opponents, eventually reaching the point where she can throw them as projectiles.

A photo of the presentation also reveals that Maya's design is inspired by the Inca civilization. While the Incas lived on the fringe of the Amazon Basin and not deep in the rainforest, thus making her "Queen of the Amazon" title a bit of a mismatch, we're willing to bet you'll have bigger things to worry about - things like daggers flying at your face - when Killer Instinct season two begins this fall.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqAmazon queen Maya returns in Killer Instinct season two originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jul 2014 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixiron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013killer-instinct-season-2microsoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosxbox-oneSat, 12 Jul 2014 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Score FIFA 14 for $36 in this week's Xbox Deals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/20/score-fifa-14-for-36-in-this-weeks-xbox-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/20/score-fifa-14-for-36-in-this-weeks-xbox-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/20/score-fifa-14-for-36-in-this-weeks-xbox-deals/#comments With the World Cup 22 days away, Xbox is getting into the festival mood with a 40 percent sale on FIFA 14 for Xbox One and 360 - that's right, not the World Cup game that just came out. That discount takes the sportsballer down to $36 (£30/42 euros), and as with all of this week's deals, that price stays good until Monday, May 26.

If you prefer your contact sports with more bloodshed, the Killer Instinct Ultra Edition is 50 percent off for Combo Break owners, and 12 percent off for everyone else. While the base game is free, the Ultra Edition adds all Season 1 characters, costumes and accessories as well as the classic arcade game from the 90s.

Finally, Bandai Namco has a selection of Xbox 360 games on sale that includes musically classic RPG Eternal Sonata for just over $5, the offline-playable Soul Calibur 2 HD for $10, and the Serkis-enhanced Enslaved for around $5 too. For the full list of games and their discounts, hop on over to Major Nelson's.
[Image: EA]

JoystiqScore FIFA 14 for $36 in this week's Xbox Deals originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enslavedEternal-Sonatafifa-14killer-instinct-2013microsoftsoul-calibur-2-hd-onlineXBLAXBLMxboxxbox-games-storexbox-oneTue, 20 May 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[XBL's Deals with Gold discounts Killer Instinct, Fez]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/06/xbls-deals-with-gold-discounts-killer-instinct-fez/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/06/xbls-deals-with-gold-discounts-killer-instinct-fez/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/06/xbls-deals-with-gold-discounts-killer-instinct-fez/#comments This week's Deals with Gold lineup on Xbox Live spotlights Double Helix's Killer Instinct alongside a handful of standout Xbox Live Arcade releases, offering discounts of up to 80 percent off of featured games.

Starting today, Killer Instinct's Combo Breaker Pack is priced at $14.99, giving Xbox One owners the chance to unlock all eight Season One characters for 25 percent off of the DLC's regular price. Fable Anniversary is also 25 percent off this week, while Activision's Transformers War For Cybertron and Transformers Fall Of Cybertron get their prices slashed by 75 percent.

This week's discounted Xbox Live Arcade games include Pool Nation, Scourge: Outbreak, Fez, and Sacred Citadel. All sale prices are valid through May 12.

[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqXBL's Deals with Gold discounts Killer Instinct, Fez originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 May 2014 12:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deals-with-goldkiller-instinct-2013microsoftxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-oneTue, 06 May 2014 12:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Divekick devs were almost first to head Killer Instinct reboot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/26/divekick-devs-were-almost-first-to-head-killer-instinct-reboot/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/26/divekick-devs-were-almost-first-to-head-killer-instinct-reboot/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/26/divekick-devs-were-almost-first-to-head-killer-instinct-reboot/#comments Divekick developer Iron Galaxy Studios will be taking over for Amazon-acquired Double Helix on the Xbox One-exclusive Killer Instinct reboot, but that idea may not be as far-fetched as it sounds. In an interview with USgamer, Iron Galaxy CEO Dave Lang revealed that his studio was one of the original applicants being considered to develop the game.

Lang said that, while he doesn't know all the details, he knows that both his company and Double Helix were in the running to develop Killer Instinct, right up to the end. However, Microsoft had already tapped Iron Galaxy for Wreckateer, leaving the studio short-handed. Thus, the contract went to Double Helix. Now that Iron Galaxy is getting another shot at Killer Instinct, Lang calls the situation "sort of like dating someone's ex-girlfriend."

Despite losing out on developing the game's first season of content, it might have been for the best. "If you take a look at where we were at that point versus the final game Double Helix was able to make, I firmly believe we would not have made as good of a game as Double Helix did," Lang said. "In terms of available resources, we simply weren't there at that time."
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqDivekick devs were almost first to head Killer Instinct reboot originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Apr 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dave-langdivekickdouble-helixiron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneSat, 26 Apr 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fulgore, Arcade Mode arrive in Killer Instinct's latest title update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/09/fulgore-arcade-mode-arrive-in-killer-instincts-latest-title-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/09/fulgore-arcade-mode-arrive-in-killer-instincts-latest-title-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/09/fulgore-arcade-mode-arrive-in-killer-instincts-latest-title-up/#comments
Microsoft has deployed a 6.8 GB title update for its free-to-play Xbox One fighting game Killer Instinct, adding a number of significant features and a new character to its playable roster.

Classic Killer Instinct combatant Fulgore joins the fray in the game's latest update, finishing up developer Double Helix's first season of planned character rollouts. The patch also adds a single-player Arcade Mode, online lobbies with rooms that accommodate up to eight players, and a spectating feature.

This week's patch arrives as the final update curated by Killer Instinct's original developer, Double Helix. After being acquired by Amazon in February, Double Helix handed over Killer Instinct development duties to Divekick studio Iron Galaxy Games, who will manage content expansions from this point forward.

[Video: Microsoft]

JoystiqFulgore, Arcade Mode arrive in Killer Instinct's latest title update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Apr 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixfulgoreiron-galaxy-gameskiller-instinct-2013microsoftpatchtitle-updatexbox-oneWed, 09 Apr 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tekken Tag Tournament 2 joins EVO 2014 lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/07/tekken-tag-tournament-2-joins-evo-2014-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/07/tekken-tag-tournament-2-joins-evo-2014-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/07/tekken-tag-tournament-2-joins-evo-2014-lineup/#comments EVO fighting game tournament founder Joey "Mr. Wizard" Cuellar appeared on a recent episode of iPlayWinner's The Fray, where he revealed that Tekken Tag Tournament 2 would appear at this year's tournament.

As we reported in September, EVO 2014 is slated to take place in Las Vegas from July 11 to July 13. As with last year, EVO 2014 will be streamed via Twitch. Though it's not terribly surprising to see the fan-favorite Tekken Tag Tournament 2 join the tournament roster, it's far from the only draw at EVO 2014. Other games appearing at the event include Super Smash Bros. Melee, Ultra Street Fighter 4, Injustice: Gods Among Us, Ultimate Marvel Vs Capcom 3, Killer Instinct, King of Fighters 13 and BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma.

Alongside the addition of Tekken Tag Tournament 2, Cuellar also revealed that publisher Bandai Namco has signed on as a sponsor for EVO 2014.
[Image: Bandai Namco]

JoystiqTekken Tag Tournament 2 joins EVO 2014 lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Apr 2014 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blazblue-chrono-phantasmaevoevo-2014injustice-gods-among-usJoey-Cuellarkiller-instinct-2013Tekken-Tag-Tournament-2ultimate-marvel-vs-capcom-3ultra-street-fighter-4Mon, 07 Apr 2014 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Divekick dev Iron Galaxy to continue work on Killer Instinct]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/divekick-dev-iron-galaxy-to-continue-work-on-killer-instinct/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/divekick-dev-iron-galaxy-to-continue-work-on-killer-instinct/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/divekick-dev-iron-galaxy-to-continue-work-on-killer-instinct/#comments

Amazon's acquisition of Double Helix won't end development on Killer Instinct. Instead, developer Iron Galaxy has been tapped to pick up where Double Helix left off.

Though not as prominent a name as Capcom or Bandai Namco, Iron Galaxy does have solid fighting game credentials backing this decision. The developer's most prominent, original work was on polarizing fighter Divekick, though it's also had a hand in games such as Marvel Vs Capcom: Origins, Darkstalkers Resurrection and Street Fighter 3: Third Strike Online Edition. That said, Killer Instinct is easily the studio's most notable project to date.

"This is an amazing opportunity to work on a game and a genre we are super passionate about," said Iron Galaxy CEO Dave Lang in an interview with Polygon. "Before we were ever talking about this, I was a fan of the game. And to get to now take it over and start with this great base, and expand it and put new stuff on top of it, everyone in the company is super pumped up, and we can't wait to show people what we're going to be doing down the road."

Before Iron Galaxy takes the reins, Double Helix still has one last burst of content in store for Killer Instinct fans. Come April 9, fan-favorite cyborg Fulgore will join the cast and to properly whet your appetites, Killer Instinct publisher Microsoft has issued the trailer you see above.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqDivekick dev Iron Galaxy to continue work on Killer Instinct originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondouble-helixfulgoreiron-galaxykiller-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneThu, 27 Mar 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Take a look at Amazon's Bluetooth gamepad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/14/rumor-take-a-look-at-amazons-bluetooth-gamepad/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/14/rumor-take-a-look-at-amazons-bluetooth-gamepad/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/14/rumor-take-a-look-at-amazons-bluetooth-gamepad/#comments The photo seen above may be the first public look at an Amazon-branded, Bluetooth video game controller, assuming the Brazilian equivalent of the American Federal Communications Commission is to be trusted.

That image, and the others in the gallery below, come courtesy of Zatz Not Funny, a tech blog that discovered the photos among the other listings on Anatel (.pdf). As you can see, it bears the familiar Amazon logo, a typical complement of buttons (including media controls), and a final button square in the center of the device that, as Engadget points out, resembles a monochrome take on the Amazon GameCircle logo. Specific tech specs on the controller are lacking, but we do know that it connects via Bluetooth and is powered by two AA batteries.

What the potential existence of this controller means is in question, but Engadget believes Amazon is "probably making a game console." Given the creation of Amazon Game Studios in 2012 and the company's recent acquisition of Killer Instinct developer Double Helix, that possibility may not be so far-fetched, though any such device is likely a long way off.
[Image: Anatel]

JoystiqRumor: Take a look at Amazon's Bluetooth gamepad originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonanatelbluetoothcontrollergamepadkiller-instinct-2013Fri, 14 Mar 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct soundtrack coming in March, composer reveals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/killer-instinct-soundtrack-coming-in-march-composer-reveals/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/killer-instinct-soundtrack-coming-in-march-composer-reveals/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/killer-instinct-soundtrack-coming-in-march-composer-reveals/#comments Following in the bloody, contused footprints of its predecessors, the recent Killer Instinct reboot will be receiving its own soundtrack album, yet again dubbed Killer Cuts, this March.

Composer Mick Gordon broke the news during a recent Killer Instinct stream hosted by YouTube personality Maximilian. "Killer Cuts: around the end of March dudes!" Gordon wrote, adding "You heard it here first!" Killer Instinct fans then sought out Gordon on Twitter to ask for confirmation of his earlier claims which Gordon met with a simple, "yes." Later Gordon issued a tweet asking fans for suggestions on what tunes to include on this latest edition of Killer Cuts.

Gordon has offered no further details on the soundtrack album, leaving fans to wonder about its price and how the music will be released. The original Killer Instinct and its sequel saw their Killer Cuts pressed to standard audio CDs, but that was before .mp3s and digital distribution made physical media a moribund concept.

Update: Microsoft has contacted us to offer an official comment: "The soundtrack for Killer Instinct is something that we would love to bring to our fans. While we are not confirming when this would be available at this time, we can say that it is something we want to offer in the future. Stay tuned for more news and more Fulgore."
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqKiller Instinct soundtrack coming in March, composer reveals originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Feb 2014 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-cutskiller-instinct-2013mick-gordonmicrosoftmusicsoundtrackxbox-oneTue, 25 Feb 2014 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct patch to help fighters avoid Jail time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/20/killer-instinct-patch-to-help-fighters-avoid-jail-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/20/killer-instinct-patch-to-help-fighters-avoid-jail-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/20/killer-instinct-patch-to-help-fighters-avoid-jail-time/#comments Spinal's introduction to the Killer Instinct roster hasn't been as smooth as Microsoft would've hoped. After adding the character and a new "Jail" feature, where players who habitually disconnect from online matches get paired up with similarly unstable brawlers, players started experiencing consistent game crashes. An upcoming patch from Double Helix hopes to mitigate these issues.

Double Helix says all Killer Instinct "Jail" stats will be wiped by the patch, and that the designated threshold for tossing a player in jail will be raised. Another bug where both players would be sent to "Jail," even when only one of them purposefully disconnected, will be squashed.

This patch will also fix Spinal's teleportation move, a major cause for the game crashes and de-synchronization that has plagued online matches recently. A bug preventing players from retaining progress will also be addressed and perfectly executing an Ultra Combo will soon guarantee a match win in Killer Instinct.

Double Helix hasn't said exactly when this patch will be available on Xbox One. Killer Instinct's next and final season one character, Fulgore, is due in March. Hopefully his addition doesn't yield as many issues as his boney post-launch counterpart.

JoystiqKiller Instinct patch to help fighters avoid Jail time originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiospatchxbox-oneThu, 20 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft to announce new 'development partner' for Killer Instinct]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/06/microsoft-has-a-new-development-partner-for-killer-instinct/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/06/microsoft-has-a-new-development-partner-for-killer-instinct/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/06/microsoft-has-a-new-development-partner-for-killer-instinct/#comments Microsoft plans to unveil a new "development partner" for Killer Instinct soon, following yesterday's acquisition of Double Helix by Amazon. Double Helix developed Killer Instinct on Xbox One, and the Irvine Studio was bringing regular updates to the fighter as part of the first season content.

In a statement provided to Polygon, Microsoft said it'll be working with a new team on the franchise, but left it unclear whether that pertains to the Xbox One game's first season, the expected second season, future games, or a mixture of the three.

"We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Double Helix and wish them success in their next endeavor," a Microsoft spokesperson told Polygon. "We want all of our loyal fans to know that the Killer Instinct team at Microsoft is not changing and that the franchise will remain with Microsoft Studios. We remain dedicated to delivering a great experience and plan to announce our new development partner soon. We're excited about the future of this popular franchise."

As it stands, the revived fighter's next update is due next month, when it's set to receive classic combatant Fulgore as an addition to the roster.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqMicrosoft to announce new 'development partner' for Killer Instinct originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Feb 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondouble-helixkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneThu, 06 Feb 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No bones about it, Spinal joins Killer Instinct cast]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/31/no-bones-about-it-spinal-joins-killer-instinct-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/31/no-bones-about-it-spinal-joins-killer-instinct-cast/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/31/no-bones-about-it-spinal-joins-killer-instinct-cast/#comments
Spinal, the first downloadable addition to the Killer Instinct roster has arrived, lending the anemic fighting game a bit more depth - or at least a few more bones to break.

While the Xbox One Killer Instinct is extremely light on backstory, the first two Killer Instinct games claim that Spinal is the reanimated skeleton of a long-dead warrior. Ultratech, the firm responsible for funding the Killer Instinct tournaments, revived the skeletonic fighter to serve as something of an undead goon, wreaking havoc in the tournament and ensuring that Ultratech's wishes were carried out. According to Xbox Wire, this new design for the character draws inspiration from classic Harryhausen adventure film Jason and the Argonauts, which is fitting given that the ending of the original Killer Instinct claimed that Spinal eventually left the world of combat sports in favor of a career as an Oscar-nominated actor.

Those who purchased the Killer Instinct Ultra Edition bundle or Combo Breaker Pack are now able to download Spinal at no additional charge. Everyone else will need to pony up $5 for the calcified revenant.

JoystiqNo bones about it, Spinal joins Killer Instinct cast originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Jan 2014 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdouble-helixkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftrarespinalultratechxbox-oneFri, 31 Jan 2014 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct's next free-to-play fighter is Thunder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/24/killer-instincts-next-free-to-play-fighter-is-thunder/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/24/killer-instincts-next-free-to-play-fighter-is-thunder/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/24/killer-instincts-next-free-to-play-fighter-is-thunder/#comments The Killer Instinct free-to-play character tour continues with Chieftain Thunder replacing the vicious furry Sabrewulf as the gratis brawler in Double Helix's Xbox One revival.

Thunder wields devastating tomahawks in the reimagining of the arcade and SNES cult hit, which features a handful of characters from the original game in the series. Since launching alongside Microsoft's Xbox One in November, the free-to-play character slot has rotated three combatants into the fray, first offering players a taste of the action with fan favorite Jago.

Killer Instinct offers players the opportunity to purchase characters individually for $5 or as a bundle featuring the game's first eight characters, beginning at $20. Currently only six fighters are available, with returning characters Spinal coming soon and Fulgore coming in March.

JoystiqKiller Instinct's next free-to-play fighter is Thunder originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jan 2014 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Double-HelixDouble-Helix-GamesFree-to-Playkiller-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneFri, 24 Jan 2014 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct's Spinal is no skin, all bones in first screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/killer-instincts-spinal-is-no-skin-all-bones-in-first-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/killer-instincts-spinal-is-no-skin-all-bones-in-first-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/killer-instincts-spinal-is-no-skin-all-bones-in-first-screens/#comments Spinal is set to be added to Killer Instinct's roster later this month. In anticipation of the new character, Microsoft has dropped some screens showing off the malnourished combatant's updated design - except for his tried-and-true headband that is. Some things never go out of style.

Continue reading Killer Instinct's Spinal is no skin, all bones in first screens

JoystiqKiller Instinct's Spinal is no skin, all bones in first screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneMon, 20 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct's free character is now Sabrewulf]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/03/killer-instincts-free-character-is-now-sabrewulf/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/03/killer-instincts-free-character-is-now-sabrewulf/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/03/killer-instincts-free-character-is-now-sabrewulf/#comments Double Helix has dropped a new patch on Xbox One fighter Killer Instinct, rotating out Jago for Sabrewulf in the free-to-play version of the game. If you're rocking the free-to-play version and want to go back to Jago, you'll have to drop $5 to unlock him.

The patch also includes a host of general fixes - like squashing a bug that would erase player data when signing in with Kinect and updating the ranking system to allow for quicker progression and fewer demerits for losing online matches. There's also a few fixes for some previously unblockable conditions, which you can read about in the full, in-depth patch notes over on the Double Helix forums.

Killer Instinct was a launch game for Microsoft's Xbox One console. While the current roster is only comprised of six fighters, Double Helix has promised at least two more: Spinal is expected to appear sometime this month, while Fulgore will join the cast in March. Following all of Double Helix's planned season one content, an Arcade mode will be added to the game.

JoystiqKiller Instinct's free character is now Sabrewulf originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jan 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixf2pfree-to-playkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneFri, 03 Jan 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Killer Instinct dev now working on futuristic shooter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/20/rumor-killer-instinct-dev-now-working-on-futuristic-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/20/rumor-killer-instinct-dev-now-working-on-futuristic-shooter/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/12/20/rumor-killer-instinct-dev-now-working-on-futuristic-shooter/#comments Double Helix recently launched the Xbox One-exclusive Killer Instinct and is currently at work on a Strider revival, yet thanks to some online resumé snooping, it appears that the studio also has a futuristic action game in the works.

Earlier this month, OXM discovered an image in the CG Society page of Double Helix artist James Paick. That image is partially shown above, and as you can see it doesn't look like anything from Killer Instinct. It could be a Strider asset, though further evidence seems to negate that possibility.

Allen Will describes himself as a senior visual effects artist at Double Helix on his LinkedIn page. That upcoming Strider reboot is listed in his credits, though directly below that we see "Unannounced Action Shooter," a game slated for release on next-generation consoles and the PC platform. Though Will's description of his duties does little to describe this mystery game, he does partially describe his role in the game's creation: "Development of high quality textures/particles for various effects such as smoke, energy, plasma, disintegration, electricity and explosions using third party software such as Maya fluids and photoshop and proprietary tools." Further, Will claims that he "Researched and conceptualized the look for explosions and rifle based weapon effects as well as organic/humanoid weapons, melee and character effects."

Plasma? Disintegration? Rifle-based weapon effects deployed against organic and inorganic targets? That certainly sounds like a futuristic shooter, but until Double Helix opts to officially announce its next game, we remain in the dark.

JoystiqRumor: Killer Instinct dev now working on futuristic shooter originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Dec 2013 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allen-willdouble-helixjames-paickkiller-instinct-2013microsoftpcplaystationps4striderxbox-oneFri, 20 Dec 2013 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Fulgore joins Killer Instinct's playable roster in March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/22/fulgore-joins-killer-instincts-playable-roster-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/22/fulgore-joins-killer-instincts-playable-roster-in-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/22/fulgore-joins-killer-instincts-playable-roster-in-march/#comments
A launch trailer for the Xbox One free-to-download fighting game Killer Instinct revealed that classic fighter Fulgore will join the fray in March, emerging as the game's eighth playable character and rounding out its first season of planned content updates.

Fulgore first appeared in 1994's Killer Instinct, then later made appearances in the arcade follow-up Killer Instinct 2 and Nintendo 64 conversion Killer Instinct Gold. Fellow Killer Instinct veterans T.J. Combo, Cinder and Riptor are still missing in action, but are likely candidates for the Xbox One reboot's upcoming second season of content.

JoystiqFulgore joins Killer Instinct's playable roster in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Nov 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdouble-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-onexbox-one-launchFri, 22 Nov 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct review: Content breaker]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/18/killer-instinct-review-content-breaker/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/18/killer-instinct-review-content-breaker/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/18/killer-instinct-review-content-breaker/#commentsWe'll be rolling out Xbox One review coverage all the way through launch on November 22. Read all of our coverage right here!

Killer Instinct isn't finished yet. It's an attempt to get players to buy into a promise that the full game is still on the way, that investing now will guarantee an experience on par with other fighting games - eventually.

Right now, there's little else aside from training, survival and online modes. There isn't a story mode or an arcade mode, though the latter is promised for the future. There are only six fighters, with two more to come during the game's first season of content. As it stands, Killer Instinct is a streamlined fighter designed as a far-reaching modular experience, which highlights one of its key problems: a dearth of content.

Continue reading Killer Instinct review: Content breaker

JoystiqKiller Instinct review: Content breaker originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Nov 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixdouble-helix-gameskiller-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-onexbox-one-launchMon, 18 Nov 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct Classic includes two arcade revisions, only available in KI Ultra Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/15/killer-instinct-classic-includes-two-arcade-revisions-only-avai/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/15/killer-instinct-classic-includes-two-arcade-revisions-only-avai/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/15/killer-instinct-classic-includes-two-arcade-revisions-only-avai/#comments The DLC-bundled Ultra Edition of Microsoft's upcoming Killer Instinct reboot for the Xbox One will feature two versions of Rare's 1994 arcade Killer Instinct, Siliconera reports.

Producer Torin Retting revealed that Killer Instinct Classic will feature both the original arcade version (v1.4) and the upgraded ROM revision 1.5D, which fixes a number of glitches and infinite combos discovered after the game's initial release. The port will also feature CRT-emulating scanline options, a training mode, and sprite galleries.

Retting additionally notes that Killer Instinct Classic will only be included in Killer Instinct's Ultra Edition and boxed Pin Ultimate Edition, and will not be sold separately.

JoystiqKiller Instinct Classic includes two arcade revisions, only available in KI Ultra Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Nov 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadedouble-helixkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftrarexbox-oneFri, 15 Nov 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct picks up Arcade Mode after wrapping up Season One content]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/08/killer-instinct-picks-up-arcade-mode-after-wrapping-up-season-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/08/killer-instinct-picks-up-arcade-mode-after-wrapping-up-season-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/08/killer-instinct-picks-up-arcade-mode-after-wrapping-up-season-on/#comments While the Xbox One reboot of Killer Instinct will launch with local and online multiplayer modes, players will need to wait until Microsoft launches all of its planned Season One content before they can grapple with AI-controlled opponents in a forthcoming Arcade mode.

The series' traditional Arcade mode -- which pits players against all of the game's fighters in a series of one-on-one matches -- will unlock after the full roster of eight Season One characters is released, Microsoft Studios game designer Daniel Fornace revealed in an interview with OXM this week. The game will include six characters when it premieres on November 22, and two additional characters will round out the Season One lineup post-launch.

As consolation for Arcade mode's omission, players can beat up on endless waves of CPU opponents in a score-based Survival mode when Killer Instinct hits the Xbox Live Marketplace as a free-to-play download later this month.

JoystiqKiller Instinct picks up Arcade Mode after wrapping up Season One content originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Nov 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneFri, 08 Nov 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a closer look at Killer Instinct's spider lady, Sadira]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/07/take-a-closer-look-at-killer-instincts-spider-lady-sadira/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/07/take-a-closer-look-at-killer-instincts-spider-lady-sadira/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/07/take-a-closer-look-at-killer-instincts-spider-lady-sadira/#comments
Killer Instinct's roster isn't all returning faces.

Sadira, the spider-like lady detailed in the trailer above, is the game's first new character. She's an acrobatic brawler whose primary weapons are a pair of bladed gauntlets. It also looks like she spends a majority of her time in a dark cave, which would explain her incredibly pale complexion.

JoystiqTake a closer look at Killer Instinct's spider lady, Sadira originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Nov 2013 00:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftsadiraxbox-oneThu, 07 Nov 2013 00:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft: Gamerscore, Xbox Live tenure influenced Xbox One gift selection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/microsoft-gamerscore-xbox-live-tenure-influenced-xbox-one-gift/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/microsoft-gamerscore-xbox-live-tenure-influenced-xbox-one-gift/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/microsoft-gamerscore-xbox-live-tenure-influenced-xbox-one-gift/#comments Earlier today, social media was abuzz with reports of individuals claiming Microsoft had gifted them the entire Killer Instinct roster, free of charge. Others, including OperationSports writer Bishop Tart, mentioned that Microsoft has even promised a free Xbox One console.

But what makes one eligible for such a gift? Without going into too much detail, a Microsoft representative told Joystiq that, naturally, selection was fueled by individuals' Gamerscore and length of time on Xbox Live. Being an Xbox customer also helps.

In a statement to Joystiq, the Microsoft representative said the company "considered a variety of things including Gamerscore and Xbox Live tenure, as well as other factors in markets where Xbox One is available." Some Microsoft MVPs, non-employed evangelists of the Microsoft brand, have been selected, but it would appear even regular schmoes are also eligible too. "Through this program, we're rewarding some of our biggest fans around the world," the statement added.

Unfortunately, Microsoft couldn't offer us any more detail on the program or just how many individuals have been selected to receive a gift; however, some "customers have received email messages with additional information" on how to claim their gifts already.

The Xbox One launches across 13 different markets on November 22.

JoystiqMicrosoft: Gamerscore, Xbox Live tenure influenced Xbox One gift selection originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Nov 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>killer-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneWed, 06 Nov 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft gifting complete Killer Instinct roster to select Xbox users]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/microsoft-gifting-complete-killer-instinct-roster-to-select-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/microsoft-gifting-complete-killer-instinct-roster-to-select-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/06/microsoft-gifting-complete-killer-instinct-roster-to-select-xbox/#commentsMicrosoft gifting complete Killer Instinct, free Xbox Ones to select users Microsoft is giving away all the Killer Instinct characters to select Xbox users, effectively unlocking the game in full (minus costumes and accessories it seems). Hundreds of social media users are reporting their Christmases have come early, after they received emails from Microsoft telling them they'll get the full roster of fighters as a freebie.

The Xbox One launch game is otherwise a free download with one character unlocked. The seven remaining characters are priced $5 each, and there's a $20 all-in-one bundle that unlocks all eight fighters, including two extra ones not initially available.

The giveaway isn't limited to Killer Instinct, because a seemingly much smaller group of users is getting the console itself completely free. Just a few Twitter users at the time of writing, including some Microsoft MVPs, are reporting they've received a code today that entitles them to a free Xbox One - just like that.

For the record, Microsoft MVPs (Most Valuable Professionals) are not company employees, but people who've been recognized by Microsoft for "their exceptional achievements in technical communities."

Microsoft's official Xbox Support Twitter accounts have confirmed the emails for both the Killer Instinct and the Xbox One freebies are legit. We've reached out to Microsoft to confirm the specifics of what's going on, and who exactly is entitled to receive what. We're not seeing any obvious rhyme or reason to the people receiving the Killer Instinct freebies, but if you were one of the lucky ones, please let us know in the comments. If not, come give us a hug, because we'll get through this.

JoystiqMicrosoft gifting complete Killer Instinct roster to select Xbox users originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Nov 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixfreefreebieFreebieskiller-instinct-2013microsoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosxbox-oneWed, 06 Nov 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Orchid and Spinal teased as next Killer Instinct fighters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/02/orchid-and-spinal-teased-as-next-killer-instinct-fighters/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/02/orchid-and-spinal-teased-as-next-killer-instinct-fighters/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/11/02/orchid-and-spinal-teased-as-next-killer-instinct-fighters/#comments
Classic combatants Orchid and Spinal are set to join the playable roster in Double Helix's rebooted Killer Instinct for the Xbox One, the developer revealed in a recent IGN preview video.

The assassin-and-skeleton pair bring Killer Instinct's playable cast up to seven characters, joining Jago, Sabrewulf, Glacius, Chief Thunder, and newcomer Sadira. Remaining '90s Killer Instinct fighters Fulgore, Cinder, Riptor, and TJ Combo are still missing in action, but may reappear as part of the reboot's planned second season of content.

Killer Instinct will be available as a free-to-play launch title for the Xbox One featuring a single playable character. The game's full roster can be unlocked via optional add-on purchases.

JoystiqOrchid and Spinal teased as next Killer Instinct fighters originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 02 Nov 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftxbox-oneSat, 02 Nov 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Limited Killer Instinct boxed version holds pins instead of a disc]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/12/limited-killer-instinct-boxed-version-holds-pins-instead-of-a-di/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/12/limited-killer-instinct-boxed-version-holds-pins-instead-of-a-di/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/12/limited-killer-instinct-boxed-version-holds-pins-instead-of-a-di/#commentsLimited Killer Instinct boxed version holds pins instead of a disc Killer Instinct, the Xbox One-exclusive fighting game based on the 90s classic of the same name, is getting a boxed edition for $59.99, available only through the Microsoft store. There will be no disc within said box however, as the "Pin Ultimate Edition" is a joint venture between Microsoft and Penny Arcade designed for displaying Pinny Arcade trading pins. Each copy of the Pin Ultimate Edition comes with one Jago pin and one Killer Instinct logo pin, with room for others, which will be revealed during the game's first season of content.

Customers who purchase the Pin Ultimate Edition of Killer Instinct still get the game. A download voucher for the Ultra Edition of the game, which includes all Season 1 characters, a season pass for all costumes and accessory packs, early access to all Season 1 content and a copy of the original Killer Instinct will be included. The case will double as a folio for a 16-pin set designed by Mike "Gabe" Krahulik.

The Pin Ultimate Edition's page doesn't specify how many units are being produced, but pin designer Krahulik wrote in a Penny Arcade post that it's "not a lot." Pre-orders are currently live through the Microsoft Store.

JoystiqLimited Killer Instinct boxed version holds pins instead of a disc originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Oct 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectiblesdouble-helixkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftpenny-arcadepinny-arcadetradingtrading-pinsxbox-oneSat, 12 Oct 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct FightStick for Xbox One is up for preorder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/12/killer-instinct-fightstick-for-xbox-one-is-up-for-preorder/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/12/killer-instinct-fightstick-for-xbox-one-is-up-for-preorder/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/10/12/killer-instinct-fightstick-for-xbox-one-is-up-for-preorder/#commentsKiller Instinct Tournament Edition 2 FightStick for Xbox One is $200, up for preorder A Killer Instinct-branded version of Mad Catz's forthcoming, Xbox One-flavored Tournament Edition 2 FightStick is up for pre-order on the peripheral manufacturer's official shop. At $200, the extent of the stick's Killer Instinct-ness appears to be its artwork, which can easily be removed and replaced thanks to the TE2's removable bezel.

Otherwise, the stick features all of the bells and whistles touted by the prototype we first saw at E3: Sanwa-Denshi parts, multi-setting LED lighting effects, removable cable, easy access to the sticks innards and an onboard screwdriver with swappable heads. The Killer Instinct Tournament Edition 2 FightStick launches alongside the Xbox One on November 22.

JoystiqKiller Instinct FightStick for Xbox One is up for preorder originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Oct 2013 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixfightstickkiller-instinct-2013mad-catzmicrosoftRaretournament-editiontournament-edition-2xbox-oneSat, 12 Oct 2013 04:30:00 EST