Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 Linux beta is live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/left-4-dead-2-linux-beta-is-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/left-4-dead-2-linux-beta-is-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/04/left-4-dead-2-linux-beta-is-live/#commentsLeft 4 Dead 2 Linux beta now live Valve has announced a beta build of Left 4 Dead 2 for Linux is now live. Left 4 Dead 2 owners should see a special beta version of the game in their Steam library; if not, a client reboot is required.

The Linux beta offers access to the Extended Mutation System, authoring tools and dedicated servers - on par with what's been available to PC and Mac versions of the title. This latest beta build also offers updates for Windows and Mac users, plus cross-play between all three platforms.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 Linux beta is live originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 May 2013 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaL4D2Left-4-Dead-2left-4-dead-2-betalinuxsteamsteam-for-linuxsteam-linuxvalveSat, 04 May 2013 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil 6's 'Napad' enters Left 4 Dead 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/resident-evil-6s-napad-enters-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/resident-evil-6s-napad-enters-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/resident-evil-6s-napad-enters-left-4-dead-2/#comments
While we've seen the Left 4 Dead 2 gang holding their own in Resident Evil 6, we've yet to see Valve's side of this crossover event on PC. Above you can see the Napad in Left 4 Dead 2, a tank variant you can add to your game through Steam Workshop. The Napad is a fusion of infected corpses, all mashed together in some horrifying, Akira-like monstrosity.

The PC version of Resident Evil 6 launched on March 22. The Left 4 Dead 2 cast will be playable through a free update, available for download this Friday.

Gallery: Resident Evil 6 x Left 4 Dead 2 Crossover

JoystiqResident Evil 6's 'Napad' enters Left 4 Dead 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomcrossoverL4D2Left-4-Dead-2nepadpcresident-evil-6steamvalveThu, 04 Apr 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 adds Helm's Deep Reborn to official servers list]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/left-4-dead-2-adds-helms-deep-reborn-to-official-servers-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/left-4-dead-2-adds-helms-deep-reborn-to-official-servers-list/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/left-4-dead-2-adds-helms-deep-reborn-to-official-servers-list/#comments Left 4 Dead 2 adds Helm's Deep Reborn to official servers listThe fanmade map Helm's Deep - wherein Left 4 Dead 2 players attempt to defend the iconic Lord of the Rings castle fortress from relentless hordes of the undead - is now an officially supported map.

It's part of the latest update to Left 4 Dead 2, which addresses consistency issues when playing on dedicated servers - Valve also decided to add Helm's Deep to the official servers list. If you want to add the map to your game, all you have to do is head to the Steam Workshop page for Helm's Deep Reborn and click to subscribe to download the map.

The Steam beta version of Left 4 Dead 2 recently added an Extended Mutation system, where players could tweak existing game types and maps or come up with entirely new ones of their own design. To date, the Left 4 Dead series has sold more than 12 million copies.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 adds Helm's Deep Reborn to official servers list originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2macpcsteamsteam-betaupdatevalvevalve-softwareMon, 25 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 Steam beta introduces 'Extended Mutation System']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/left-4-dead-2-steam-beta-introduces-extended-mutation-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/left-4-dead-2-steam-beta-introduces-extended-mutation-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/left-4-dead-2-steam-beta-introduces-extended-mutation-system/#comments Left 4 Dead 2 Steam beta introduces 'Extended Mutation System'The Left 4 Dead 2 beta program has added the Extended Mutation System, an expanded toolset for modders to author custom scripts controlling enemy behavior, spawn points and custom game types. A Valve-created survival variant, called Holdout, is included as a Mutation example.

Valve has published a wiki page detailing everything possible with the Extended Mutation System for budding directors, explaining the scripting language used in the game and some of the finer points of Mutation modding. Throughout this test phase, Valve will monitor what Mutations players come up with, fix bugs when needed and keep a close eye out for any features that may be missing.

If you're in the Left 4 Dead 2 beta program - if you want in, this is probably the best place to ask for an invite - you can get cracking on your own custom Mutations right now.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 Steam beta introduces 'Extended Mutation System' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaextended-mutation-systemL4D2Left-4-Dead-2macmutationpcsource-enginesteamvalveWed, 13 Feb 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve exploring Left 4 Dead 2 with R18+ rating for Australia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/valve-exploring-left-4-dead-2-with-r18-rating-for-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/valve-exploring-left-4-dead-2-with-r18-rating-for-australia/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/valve-exploring-left-4-dead-2-with-r18-rating-for-australia/#comments Valve's Linux Left 4 Dead outperforms Direct XValve is looking into its options for bringing the unedited version of Left 4 Dead 2 to Australia. Gamespot took note of a post on the Steam forums where Valve's Chet Faliszek stated the company is exploring the brave new world of R18+ ratings for video games in the region.

"No need to flood us with emails," wrote Faliszek. "We will have more information on this when we understand the issues fully and how we are moving forward but don't worry any cost associated with it doesn't worry us, this is something we want to do."

Left 4 Dead 2 was denied classification twice in its unedited form for Australia. The game was eventually classified in the region without zombie decapitation and limb dismemberment - a skillset that Australians would have learned is also helpful in dealing with necromorphs.

JoystiqValve exploring Left 4 Dead 2 with R18+ rating for Australia originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaL4D2Left-4-Dead-2pcr18r18+valveThu, 17 Jan 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 free to play this weekend on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/left-4-dead-2-free-to-play-this-weekend-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/left-4-dead-2-free-to-play-this-weekend-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/left-4-dead-2-free-to-play-this-weekend-on-steam/#comments Celebrating the pre-Halloween weekend, Left 4 Dead 2 will be free on Steam this weekend. Valve announced that starting Thursday the co-op shooter will be gratis to play and is currently available to pre-load.

This weekend adds a new achievement titled "Good Guy Nick" for current players who join up with a free weekend warrior.

It should also be mentioned, in case you haven't paid attention the multi-million selling franchise in a while, that Left 4 Dead 2 added many of the maps from the original Left 4 Dead as free DLC on PC a while back.

[Thanks, Bean]

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 free to play this weekend on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2pcsteamvalvevalve-softwareWed, 24 Oct 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead series sells more than 12 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/30/left-4-dead-series-sells-more-than-12-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/30/left-4-dead-series-sells-more-than-12-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/30/left-4-dead-series-sells-more-than-12-million/#comments The Left 4 Dead series has sold more than 12 million copies, Valve writer Chet Faliszek noted in an interview with VG24/7. Faliszek talked about the company's approach to promoting its games, saying Valve doesn't rely much on marketing because "when a game does really well at pre-release, they're going to know that you're not just talking a bunch of PR crap."

"We just let the game speak for itself because the internet has made this thing where you can't pull the wool over people's eyes any more. They're going to know you're hyping," he said. Either the zombie apocalypse creates some high-quality wool, or Left 4 Dead must be a pretty great series.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead series sells more than 12 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 30 Sep 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chet-faliszekL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcplaystationvalvevalve-softwarexboxSun, 30 Sep 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 almost got 'Cabin in the Woods' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/left-4-dead-2-almost-got-cabin-in-the-woods-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/left-4-dead-2-almost-got-cabin-in-the-woods-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/left-4-dead-2-almost-got-cabin-in-the-woods-dlc/#comments Left 4 Dead Cabin in the Woods DLC WHATThe Cabin in the Woods, the brilliant kitsch horror film from director Drew Goddard, features a lineup of classic horror monsters, hidden in the background or dismembering members in the fore. One scene even shows a glimpse of infected from Left 4 Dead, and in a Reddit AmA Goddard says this isn't an accident.

Read on for The Cabin in the Woods spoilers:

"We actually were going to do a downloadable L4D2 expansion pack, where you'd fight in the Cabin world, but then MGM went bankrupt so the delay squashed it," Goddard writes. "But the people at Valve were still cool enough to let us use some of their monsters to fill the cubes in the background (I had a lot of cubes to fill)."

The Left 4 Dead zombies populate some of the monster holding cells shown as the elevator descends into the bowels of the facility. Goddard was excited for the tie-in DLC and is upset it never happened.

"By the way - the game was gonna be amazing. You were gonna be able to play in both the upstairs Cabin in the Woods world and the downstairs "facility" world with all the monsters. Believe me, I HATE all video games based on movies, they always suck, but porting Cabin into Left For Dead felt like the right fit. It pains me that it didn't happen."

Us too, Goddard. Us too.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 almost got 'Cabin in the Woods' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabin-in-the-woodsdrew-goddardL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcplaystationthe-cabin-in-the-woodsvalvevalve-softwarexboxSun, 23 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam Workshop support coming to Left 4 Dead 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/steam-workshop-support-coming-to-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/steam-workshop-support-coming-to-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/23/steam-workshop-support-coming-to-left-4-dead-2/#comments Steam Workshop support added to Left 4 Dead 2Left 4 Dead 2 will receive Steam Workshop support starting in the middle of October, according to a recent developer blog. The system will allow players to rate and install community-created add-ons, including new maps, weapons, items and mutations thanks to an "expanded scripting tool."

Steam Workshop will roll out for PC, Mac and Linux versions of Left 4 Dead 2 next month, though no specific release schedule has been announced yet by Valve.

JoystiqSteam Workshop support coming to Left 4 Dead 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 23 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2macmutationspcSTEAMsteam-workshopvalvevalve-softwareSun, 23 Sep 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Matrix as envisioned in Source Filmmaker]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/the-matrix-as-envisioned-in-source-filmmaker/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/the-matrix-as-envisioned-in-source-filmmaker/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/09/the-matrix-as-envisioned-in-source-filmmaker/#comments The Matrix gets Remaked in Source Filmmaker
Dodge this - er, sorry, we meant watch this. Because it's one of the best scenes from The Matrix, remade in Valve's Source Filmmaker.

JoystiqThe Matrix as envisioned in Source Filmmaker originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2012 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2macmicrosoftpcplaystationps3sourcesource-filmmakersteamthe-matrixvalvexboxThu, 09 Aug 2012 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Linux Left 4 Dead 2 outperforms Direct X Windows version]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/04/linux-left-4-dead-2-outperforms-direct-x-windows-version/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/04/linux-left-4-dead-2-outperforms-direct-x-windows-version/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/04/linux-left-4-dead-2-outperforms-direct-x-windows-version/#comments Valve's Linux Left 4 Dead outperforms Direct XValve recently announced that it will be bringing a few of Steam's most popular games to Linux, the first of those being Left 4 Dead 2. But besides the novelty factor of running the now classic zombie simulator on penguin-emblazoned hardware, there may be another reason to try the new platform out: It'll be faster. Even now, during development, the Valve team has L4D2 running at 315 frames per second on the Linux text platform, as compared to the standard Windows speed of 270.6 FPS.

At that point, of course, the speeds are mostly arbitrary. But as Valve says, this speed shows the potential in customizing a game for the Linux operating system. This work on Linux is also benefiting the Windows teams - in working on the Linux version, Valve was able to speed up the OpenGL implementation on Windows to 303.4 FPS.

JoystiqLinux Left 4 Dead 2 outperforms Direct X Windows version originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directxfasterL4D2Left-4-Dead-2linuxopen-glopenglpcportspeedwindowsSat, 04 Aug 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 'Cold Stream' DLC for Xbox 360 this Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/left-4-dead-2-cold-stream-dlc-for-xbox-360-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/left-4-dead-2-cold-stream-dlc-for-xbox-360-this-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/left-4-dead-2-cold-stream-dlc-for-xbox-360-this-friday/#comments New L4D2 DLCIt's been a long time coming, but the Cold Stream DLC will arrive on Xbox 360 this Friday, August 3, according to Valve. The Cold Stream update, which is already available on PC and Mac over Steam for free, will cost 560 Microsoft Points ($7) on the console.

Cold Stream includes the fan-made campaign of the same name, along with the four original Left 4 Dead maps: Crash Course, Death Toll, Dead Air and Blood Harvest. Friday night we'll see if the new pack gets people "RELOADING!" the three year old game.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 'Cold Stream' DLC for Xbox 360 this Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftValvexboxWed, 01 Aug 2012 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 Cold Stream DLC delayed on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/left-4-dead-2-cold-stream-dlc-delayed-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/left-4-dead-2-cold-stream-dlc-delayed-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/24/left-4-dead-2-cold-stream-dlc-delayed-on-xbox-360/#comments Left 4 Dead Cold Stream DLC delayed on 360Left 4 Dead 2's Cold Stream DLC is out in completion on Steam today, but the Xbox 360 version is being held up (probably at gun- or frying-pan-point). Valve is working with Microsoft on a release schedule, the Left 4 Dead development team tweeted today. They hope to have it out "soon."

When Cold Stream does finally drop an anchor in Xbox 360, it will cost 560 MS Points ($7). Cold Stream is free for PC and Mac via Steam.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 Cold Stream DLC delayed on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamDelayDLCL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftxboxTue, 24 Jul 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam moves to Linux, first title will be Left 4 Dead 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/steam-moves-to-linux-first-title-will-be-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/steam-moves-to-linux-first-title-will-be-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/16/steam-moves-to-linux-first-title-will-be-left-4-dead-2/#comments Steam moves to Linux, first title will be Left 4 Dead 2Valve has a dedicated team of developers working to bring Steam to Ubuntu 12.04, a distribution of Linux, and is beginning its endeavor with a port of Left 4 Dead 2. The team has been working on Linux distribution since 2011, based on Steam's success with Linux-based and internal Ubuntu servers, a post on Valve's new Linux blog announces. Valve is calling the project "Steam'd Penguins," apparently.

Valve chose Ubuntu because it is "still experimenting" and Ubuntu is a popular distribution, but it will look to support others in the future. Right now the Valve Linux team is working on getting the Steam client on Linux with full functionality, optimizing Left 4 Dead 2 with a high frame rate and respectable graphics, and porting additional Valve titles. There will be an internal beta of Steam on Ubuntu in the "near future."

The Valve Linux team will post updates on its blog, complete with penguins.

Players generally have to use a compatibility layer such as Wine to play Steam games on Linux distributions, a process that can lead to some unwanted, unwarranted complications, no matter the platform.

JoystiqSteam moves to Linux, first title will be Left 4 Dead 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2LinuxpcportSTEAMubuntuubuntu-12.04valveMon, 16 Jul 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Cold Stream DLC for L4D2 making waves on July 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/cold-stream-dlc-for-l4d2-making-waves-on-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/cold-stream-dlc-for-l4d2-making-waves-on-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/cold-stream-dlc-for-l4d2-making-waves-on-july-24/#comments New L4D2 DLCCold Stream, the massive, much-anticipated and acceptably murderous DLC pack for Left 4 Dead 2, is set to launch on PC, Mac and Xbox 360 on July 24. Cold Stream includes a fan-made campaign, and ports of Left 4 Dead's Death Toll, Dead Air, Blood Harvest and Crash Course levels.

Cold Stream first entered beta in March 2011 and is still open for PC and Mac on Steam, making this launch more of an official, polishing update for those platforms. Valve initially said Cold Stream would launch "some time after Portal 2," and really, it's not as if they were wrong about that one. Clever, Valve. Clever.

JoystiqCold Stream DLC for L4D2 making waves on July 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamDLCL4D2launchleft-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2macmicrosoftpcrelease-dateSTEAMvalvexboxSat, 30 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Australian government begins the process of games reform with a Discussion Paper]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/australian-government-begins-the-process-of-games-reform-with-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/australian-government-begins-the-process-of-games-reform-with-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/australian-government-begins-the-process-of-games-reform-with-a/#comments The Australian Law Reform Commission has been listening, and after hours of bureaucratic thought, research, filing papers, losing papers, rewriting those papers, finding the originals and sobbing quietly at their cubicles, the Australian government has proposed a Discussion Paper to revamp media classification ratings, including those for video games. The paper addresses issues of hypocrisy in its games-rating system, citing how long it took for the R18+ rating to be implemented, and how its absence was restrictive to adults in the country:

"Major inconsistencies exist in the application of classification guidelines across media platforms. The major anomaly has been in the treatment of computer games as compared to films and publications, with the absence of an R 18+ classification for computer games," the paper reads.

"This decision, which has only recently been reversed, can be seen as overly restricting the rights of adults to access content on a particular media platform, and as marking a reversion to earlier censorship-based understandings of the role of government."

Continue reading Australian government begins the process of games reform with a Discussion Paper

JoystiqAustralian government begins the process of games reform with a Discussion Paper originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaustraliaAustralian-Law-Reform-CommissiondsL4D2Left-4-Dead-2macmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiixboxSat, 01 Oct 2011 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead's Death Toll in beta, now playable in Left 4 Dead 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/left-4-deads-death-toll-in-beta-now-playable-in-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/left-4-deads-death-toll-in-beta-now-playable-in-left-4-dead-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/left-4-deads-death-toll-in-beta-now-playable-in-left-4-dead-2/#comments Valve's unleashed the Death Toll campaign from the original Left 4 Dead on the PC-playing Left 4 Dead 2 crowd today, albeit with some minor tweaks which Valve is being mum about. They want us all to go in with "fresh eyes" they say, so we'll see how that goes. Any feedback you have, you can drop it in the Steam forums. (Or you could leave a comment in this very post!)

Also, Valve's got an update on the launch window of the entire Cold Stream DLC release, of which Death Toll is a part of: It's coming around Halloween. Previously the goal was late summer, but with all of the testing and rigmarole that goes into tuning a game, Valve's gotten a little behind schedule. It's tough to complain, considering how very, very free all this stuff is.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead's Death Toll in beta, now playable in Left 4 Dead 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 22:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamdeath-tolldlcL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2pcsteamvalveFri, 16 Sep 2011 22:50:00 EST<![CDATA[L4D2 to get Blood Harvest if 60,000 players unlock Achievement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/l4d2-to-get-blood-harvest-if-60-000-players-unlock-achievement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/l4d2-to-get-blood-harvest-if-60-000-players-unlock-achievement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/05/l4d2-to-get-blood-harvest-if-60-000-players-unlock-achievement/#comments Blood Harvest posterThe slow and steady march (undead, you might say) to release all of Left 4 Dead 1's maps into Left 4 Dead 2 continues, with Valve offering fans a chance to unlock the beta version of Blood Harvest early. So, how does it work? Simple: To unlock Blood Harvest, PC players simply have to help test a new version of Dead Air.

Specifically, players will be awarded an Achievement for completing an entire Versus game in Dead Air. Once sixty-thousand (60,000) players unlock the Achievement, Valve will unlock Blood Harvest on the following weekday. Be warned though, it must be a complete game, as Valve notes "you can't rage quit and you need to work together."

Remember that the next time you willingly allow a Jockey to ride off on your friend.

JoystiqL4D2 to get Blood Harvest if 60,000 players unlock Achievement originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Aug 2011 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-harvestdlcL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2pcvalveFri, 05 Aug 2011 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Air beta available in Left 4 Dead 2 on Steam today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/dead-air-beta-available-in-left-4-dead-2-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/dead-air-beta-available-in-left-4-dead-2-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/22/dead-air-beta-available-in-left-4-dead-2-on-steam-today/#comments As Valve promised, those who partake in zombie slaughter wholesale on Steam in Left 4 Dead 2 may now access an updated version of the original Left 4 Dead campaign, Dead Air. Beta access to Dead Air was promised as an incentive to the community for playing through the Cold Stream campaign (also in beta) and unlocking the subsequent completion achievement, Stream Crosser.

In a post on the Left 4 Dead blog, Valve reveals that the fourth and fifth maps in the Dead Air campaign have been changed a bit and that the developer "tried something new" when it came to the Scavenge map. The full Cold Stream DLC is currently slated to launch this summer on both Xbox 360 and PC.

JoystiqDead Air beta available in Left 4 Dead 2 on Steam today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jul 2011 21:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadead-airL4D2Left-4-Dead-2pcsteamFri, 22 Jul 2011 21:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's 'Dead Air' DLC coming on or before July 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/left-4-dead-2s-dead-air-dlc-coming-on-or-before-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/left-4-dead-2s-dead-air-dlc-coming-on-or-before-july-22/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/left-4-dead-2s-dead-air-dlc-coming-on-or-before-july-22/#comments You did it! You achieved the goal of playing a ton of Left 4 Dead 2, in sufficient numbers to unlock more Left 4 Dead 2. Valve challenged the community to get the "Stream Crosser" achievement 20,000 times by completing the Cold Stream campaign, and after 24 hours that achievement had been achieved 60,774 times.

As a result, Valve is releasing the L4D2 version of the L4D "Dead Air" DLC early, as promised. The initial announcement said July 22 -- now Valve is saying July 22 at the latest and intends to release the content as soon as it's finished.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's 'Dead Air' DLC coming on or before July 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamdead-airdlcL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcvalvexboxMon, 11 Jul 2011 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve will release Dead Air early ... if 20K people unlock this Left 4 Dead 2 achievement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/valve-will-release-dead-air-early-if-20k-people-unlock-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/valve-will-release-dead-air-early-if-20k-people-unlock-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/valve-will-release-dead-air-early-if-20k-people-unlock-this/#comments Valve's revealed an incentive for Left 4 Dead 2 players: if 20,000 of you unlock the Stream Crosser achievement on Steam (finish the Cold Stream campaign on any difficulty level) this weekend, it will release the Dead Air campaign from the first Left 4 Dead early, on July 22. Sorry, no word on remaining L4D campaigns Death Toll and Blood Harvest -- they're still slated to be included in the final release of Cold Stream, which is currently in beta.

Of course, because Valve is a company full of diabolical geniuses, guess what's on sale right now? Left 4 Dead 2 is 75% off today only, bringing it down to $4.99.

JoystiqValve will release Dead Air early ... if 20K people unlock this Left 4 Dead 2 achievement originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamL4D2Left-4-Dead-2pcsteamstream-crosservalveWed, 06 Jul 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Half-Life 2's Gnome Chompski gets his own (fake) game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/half-life-2s-gnome-chompski-gets-his-own-fake-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/half-life-2s-gnome-chompski-gets-his-own-fake-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/30/half-life-2s-gnome-chompski-gets-his-own-fake-game/#comments Little did you know that the diminuitive, statuesque grandpa you were tasked with lugging around in Half-Life 2: Episode Two and Left 4 Dead 2 was actually a stationary action hero. Check out FineLeatherJackets' trailer for Gnome Chompski's (totally not real) video game posted after the break.

Continue reading Half-Life 2's Gnome Chompski gets his own (fake) game

JoystiqHalf-Life 2's Gnome Chompski gets his own (fake) game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gnome-chompskiL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcplaystationps3valvexboxWed, 30 Mar 2011 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Beta over here! L4D2 'Cold Stream' DLC now up for testing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/beta-over-here-l4d2-cold-stream-dlc-now-up-for-testing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/beta-over-here-l4d2-cold-stream-dlc-now-up-for-testing/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/23/beta-over-here-l4d2-cold-stream-dlc-now-up-for-testing/#comments Hey, remember when Valve announced that the new Cold Stream DLC for Left 4 Dead 2 would enter beta testing within the "next few weeks?" Guess what? It's been a few weeks! The DLC, created by modder Matthew Lourdelet, is now available for beta testing in both the PC and Mac versions of Left 4 Dead 2.

Valve warns that the campaign does have bugs -- it's a beta test, after all -- and asks players to report them via the in-game bug reporter. The company also invites feedback and suggestions -- particularly regarding the finale -- in the Cold Stream forums.

[Image: Bug submitted by zapwizard]

JoystiqBeta over here! L4D2 'Cold Stream' DLC now up for testing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cold-streamDLCL4D2Left-4-Dead-2macMatthew-LourdeletmicrosoftpcvalvexboxWed, 23 Mar 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's latest mutation has a Special Delivery for the survivors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-has-a-special-delivery-for-the-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-has-a-special-delivery-for-the-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/18/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-has-a-special-delivery-for-the-s/#comments These guys just can't catch a break, can they? As if the zombie apocalypse wasn't enough for the survivors to deal with, Left 4 Dead 2's latest mutation, Special Delivery, removes spawn timers for special infected and raises their in-game cap to 10.

Can you imagine it? The safe house is in sight; you're almost there and the effects of those hastily-consumed pain pills are quickly fading. Then you see them: two boomers, two jockeys, a spitter, a smoker and four tanks. Okay, maybe our version of the mutation sounds a bit extreme, but you get the idea.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's latest mutation has a Special Delivery for the survivors originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Dec 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcsteamvalvexboxSat, 18 Dec 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's latest mutation invites the survivors to a Hunter Party]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/16/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-invites-the-survivors-to-a-hunte/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/16/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-invites-the-survivors-to-a-hunte/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/16/left-4-dead-2s-latest-mutation-invites-the-survivors-to-a-hunte/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's Friday, which means it's Pizza Night in America. Sure, a slice of 'za is a great way to cap off the week, but some people prefer their unwinding to be a bit more slaughterful. So we'd like to point out the latest Left 4 Dead 2 mutation: Hunting Party.

This mutation simplifies the horde by turning all of the Special Infected into Hunters. No Boomers, no Smokers, no Jockeys, just the sheer agony of listening to screeching, nimble Hunters like so many dozens of nails scratching against so many dozens of chalkboards. And the tearing -- oh, why all of the tearing?

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's latest mutation invites the survivors to a Hunter Party originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcsteamvalvevalve-softwarexboxSat, 16 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 1 and 2 on sale for $10.19 on Steam for a limited time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/left-4-dead-1-and-2-on-sale-for-10-19-on-steam-for-a-limited-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/left-4-dead-1-and-2-on-sale-for-10-19-on-steam-for-a-limited-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/left-4-dead-1-and-2-on-sale-for-10-19-on-steam-for-a-limited-ti/#comments Valve has extended a whole mess of offers for Left 4 Dead and its sequel on its Steam platform in honor of the release of "The Sacrifice" -- both titles (the latter of which just launched on Mac) are available for $6.79 each, or $10.19 together for "a limited time."

Continue reading Left 4 Dead 1 and 2 on sale for $10.19 on Steam for a limited time

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 1 and 2 on sale for $10.19 on Steam for a limited time originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2macpcsteamthe-sacrificevalveTue, 05 Oct 2010 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 attacks Mac on Tuesday, Oct. 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/left-4-dead-2-attacks-mac-on-tuesday-oct-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/left-4-dead-2-attacks-mac-on-tuesday-oct-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/04/left-4-dead-2-attacks-mac-on-tuesday-oct-5/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tucked neatly below some official details regarding Left 4 Dead's "The Sacrifice" DLC lies an announcement: Left 4 Dead 2 will be available on Mac starting Tuesday, October 5. As per usual, Mac users who previously purchased Left 4 Dead 2 on Steam for PC will automatically receive access to the game, along with free downloads of "The Passing," "The Sacrifice" and "No Mercy" add-ons.

In the same note, Valve also apologizes to Left 4 Dead 1 owners -- since the sequel is making it onto Mac before the original. The company states it's "running a little late" and that it hopes to "have it out in time to celebrate Halloween." If you previously purchased L4D on Steam for PC, you'll have access to everything once the Mac version arrives.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead ("The Sacrifice" DLC)


[Thanks, Ben]

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 attacks Mac on Tuesday, Oct. 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Oct 2010 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2macrelease-datesteamValveMon, 04 Oct 2010 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Give up a few minutes for Left 4 Dead's 'The Sacrifice' trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/give-up-a-few-minutes-for-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/give-up-a-few-minutes-for-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/give-up-a-few-minutes-for-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"The Sacrifice" DLC for Left 4 Dead and Left 4 Dead 2 arrives October 5 on Xbox 360 and PC. The expansion will add a new campaign to both games, the L4D1 "No Mercy" game type to L4D2 and a new mechanic in which players can choose to sacrifice themselves for the team. While free for PC players, the add-on will cost 560 Microsoft Points ($7) on Xbox.

To help you avoid confusing this with "My Sacrifice," the 2001 hit single by Creed, we've included some visual aids in the form of a trailer after the break and screens in the gallery below.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead ("The Sacrifice" DLC)

Continue reading Give up a few minutes for Left 4 Dead's 'The Sacrifice' trailer

JoystiqGive up a few minutes for Left 4 Dead's 'The Sacrifice' trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2microsoftpcthe-sacrificexboxFri, 01 Oct 2010 12:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Left 4 Dead 2 mutation reintroduces competitive survival]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/next-left-4-dead-2-mutation-introduces-competitive-surviving/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/next-left-4-dead-2-mutation-introduces-competitive-surviving/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/26/next-left-4-dead-2-mutation-introduces-competitive-surviving/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This week's Left 4 Dead 2 mutation introduces a game mode so clever, we're surprised Valve hadn't thought of it yet -- or have they? Yes, players will temporarily be able to re-experience the magic of Survival Versus, in which one team of four survivors lasts as long as it can on a chosen Survival map, and then the next team tries to beat their time. The competing teams go back and forth in this manner until one team fails to surpass the other's lifespan.

It sounds like a pretty hectic addition to an already hectic game type. Give it a try this week only if you think you can handle all the hect ... hecticnicity?

JoystiqNext Left 4 Dead 2 mutation reintroduces competitive survival originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcsurvivalvalvexboxSun, 26 Sep 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Parts 1 and 2 of Left 4 Dead 'The Sacrifice' comic now online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/parts-1-and-2-of-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-comic-now-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/parts-1-and-2-of-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-comic-now-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/22/parts-1-and-2-of-left-4-dead-the-sacrifice-comic-now-online/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Honestly, we would never have thought that [redacted] would be the character to bite the dust in "The Passing," but there it is. Sure, we could've pictured [redacted] dying, or [redacted] -- heck, even [redacted] -- but [redacted]? Life's a trip, qué no?

Thing is, we never figured out how that particular survivor perished -- not until now. The first two parts of Valve's four-part, 150-page digital comic primer for "The Sacrifice," the upcoming DLC for Left 4 Dead and Left 4 Dead 2, is now online. Give both issues a read by heading over to the Left 4 Dead Blog.

JoystiqParts 1 and 2 of Left 4 Dead 'The Sacrifice' comic now online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comicfpsL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcthe-passingthe-sacrificevalvevalve-softwarexboxWed, 22 Sep 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2's next mutation suffers a Healthpackalypse]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/left-4-dead-2s-next-mutation-suffers-a-healthpackalypse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/left-4-dead-2s-next-mutation-suffers-a-healthpackalypse/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/18/left-4-dead-2s-next-mutation-suffers-a-healthpackalypse/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The one thing saving Left 4 Dead 2 from being the world's most comprehensive zombie apocalypse survival sim is its liberal use of pain meds and "health packs." In the real world, these things don't have the immediate recuperative effects they do in the video games. If you want a taste of how it'll truly be, you should probably check out this week's mutation: Healthpackalypse.

In this custom Versus play mode on both the PC and Xbox 360, the survivors get no health packs whatsoever. If you're on the Infected side, laugh maniacally as the humans try to make it through without the use of first aid. If you're on the survivor side, well -- better luck next time! It's called "the apocalypse" for a reason, muchachos.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2's next mutation suffers a Healthpackalypse originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcvalvexboxSat, 18 Sep 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 fan campaign drops the survivors in City 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/left-4-dead-2-fan-campaign-drops-the-survivors-in-city-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/left-4-dead-2-fan-campaign-drops-the-survivors-in-city-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/left-4-dead-2-fan-campaign-drops-the-survivors-in-city-17/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Valve's latest featured fan campaign for the PC version of Left 4 Dead 2 should be instantly familiar to anyone who's enjoyed the developer's seminal Half-Life series. The five-chapter campaign is set on the streets of Half-Life 2's police-state metropolis, City 17, where the oppressed citizens have been replaced by zombies, and the totalitarian Combine have been replaced by zombies, and ... yeah, just about everyone's been replaced by zombies there.

As with all its featured community levels, Valve's temporarily hosting servers running the City 17 campaign. If you feel up for a romp through your ol' crowbaring grounds, you should take advantage of this delightful opportunity.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 fan campaign drops the survivors in City 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>campaigncity-17fanmadehalf-life-2L4D2Left-4-Dead-2modpcvalveThu, 16 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 mutation plays Follow the Liter this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/left-4-dead-2-mutation-plays-follow-the-liter-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/left-4-dead-2-mutation-plays-follow-the-liter-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/12/left-4-dead-2-mutation-plays-follow-the-liter-this-week/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Left 4 Dead blog has revealed this week's mutation of choice, and it's another round of Follow the Liter, in which only one character can carry a gas tank at the time, and they always spawn together (meaning that Infected know where the survivors are going to be). Should be a grindfest, but Valve thinks you'll like it -- they're bringing some old modes like this back to see if they can "take" a second time around.

And just for kicks, you Left 4 Dead fans can head past the break for a (NSFW due to language) fanmade mashup between Pixar's Toy Story (the original one!) and your favorite zombie headshot game. We won't ruin the surprise, but after what happens below, Woody's going to need some pills here.

Continue reading Left 4 Dead 2 mutation plays Follow the Liter this week

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 mutation plays Follow the Liter this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcvalveweeklyxboxSun, 12 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Make a music video for Left 4 Dead's Midnight Riders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/make-a-music-video-for-left-4-deads-midnight-riders/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/make-a-music-video-for-left-4-deads-midnight-riders/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/03/make-a-music-video-for-left-4-deads-midnight-riders/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you found yourself particularly inspired by the quartet of southern rock troubadours prominently featured in Left 4 Dead 2's "Dark Carnival" campaign, you can now stretch your creative muscles to give one of the fictional band's hit songs some visual flair. Valve recently announced a contest to create the best music video for the Riders' chart topper "Save Me Some Sugar (This Won't Take Long)," which will make its debut in the upcoming "The Sacrifice" DLC campaign. The winner of the contest will receive a Valve "gift pack" and a guitar signed by all four members of the band.

The manner in which you create this video is entirely up to you -- will it be live action, in-game footage or a hybrid of both? Regardless of what you go with, we hope you first seek out some thematically appropriate inspiration.

JoystiqMake a music video for Left 4 Dead's Midnight Riders originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmidnight-ridersmusic-videopcvalvexboxFri, 03 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[L4D2's next Mutations: Gib Fest on PC; Chainsaw Massacre on 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/l4d2s-next-mutations-gib-fest-on-pc-chainsaw-massacre-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/l4d2s-next-mutations-gib-fest-on-pc-chainsaw-massacre-on-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/l4d2s-next-mutations-gib-fest-on-pc-chainsaw-massacre-on-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Valve has announced the latest Mutations for Left 4 Dead 2 and it looks like the Survivors will have a leg up on the undead hordes. It's good to know that even in the apocalypse, humans can sometimes catch a break.

In the PC version, players can check out Gib Fest, where all survivors are packing M60s with unlimited ammunition. Xbox 360 players will have to get a bit more up-close-and-personal in Chainsaw Massacre -- all survivors will have access to nothing but Chainsaws. Who wants zombie kebab?

JoystiqL4D2's next Mutations: Gib Fest on PC; Chainsaw Massacre on 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chainsaw-massacreeagib-festL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcvalvevalve-softwarexboxSat, 28 Aug 2010 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve reveals 'The Sacrifice' DLC for L4D1 and 2, digital comic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/valve-reveals-the-sacrifice-dlc-for-l4d1-and-2-digital-comic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/valve-reveals-the-sacrifice-dlc-for-l4d1-and-2-digital-comic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/22/valve-reveals-the-sacrifice-dlc-for-l4d1-and-2-digital-comic/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Both Left 4 Dead titles will be getting a new DLC pack -- titled "The Sacrifice" -- in the future. Valve's Chet Faliszek announced as much on the latest episode of GameTrailers TV, detailing the DLC's story as an explanation of how the first L4D crew lost a member (during "The Passing") and saying that the content will work across both games. Owners of Left 4 Dead 2 will be able to play as the first game's fearsome foursome and even be able to choose which member of that crew will end up having his or her brains eaten by the horde.

Faliszek also noted that the content will be free -- like usual -- for Steam users, and the series will be arriving on Steam for Mac as well. If that wasn't enough, L4D1's "No Mercy" campaign has been updated for the sequel and will be included with "The Sacrifice" when it ships. Though players will be able to choose which crew member passes in "The Sacrifice," a 150-page, four part digital comic details events leading up to the new DLC will have a more definitive finale which will effect the future content for the series (we can't be more specific without spoiling "The Passing"). Faliszek didn't give a price or a release window on the show, but he did admit that this "is not the end, we're gonna continue going" with future content for the series.

Update: According to an interview with PC Gamer (via Shacknews), it seems "The Sacrifice" will be available (at least on PC) as of October 5 for free, though it will cost 560 MS Points ($7) on Xbox 360. We've reached out to Valve for clarification on the release date for 360 and Mac.

JoystiqValve reveals 'The Sacrifice' DLC for L4D1 and 2, digital comic originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chet-faliszekdigital-comicdigital-distributiondlcL4D2Left-4-Dead-2macmicrosoftpcrelease-datesteamthe-sacrificevalvevalve-softwarexboxSun, 22 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead 2 mutates again, DLC teased]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/left-4-dead-2-mutates-again-dlc-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/left-4-dead-2-mutates-again-dlc-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/left-4-dead-2-mutates-again-dlc-teased/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Thanks to Left 4 Dead 2, Friday has become some kind of weekly masochistic holiday. This week proves no different, as the latest mutation, Iron Man, pits the survivors against the Infected with "no respawns, no restarts, no ammo, all tension." In other words, you get the ammo you start with, no one respawns and, should your whole crew bite the dust (or be bitten by dusty zombies), you'll have to start the entire campaign over again. Ouch.

In other news, the Left 4 Dead Blog also dropped some hints about upcoming DLC. Those who finished "The Passing" DLC will know that someone from the original Left 4 Dead heads off for the great Safe House in the sky (don't hit the source link if you'd like this to remain unspoiled). According to the blog, a forthcoming comic and DLC will explain exactly how the survivor kicked the bucket. We're no psychics, but we're guessing it was zombies.

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead 2 mutates again, DLC teased originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftpcValvexboxFri, 13 Aug 2010 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Valve breaks down Left 4 Dead 2 mode stats, 'Gib Fest' is latest mutation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/valve-breaks-down-left-4-dead-2-mode-stats-gib-fest-is-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/valve-breaks-down-left-4-dead-2-mode-stats-gib-fest-is-latest/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/07/valve-breaks-down-left-4-dead-2-mode-stats-gib-fest-is-latest/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Valve has posted some interesting stats for Left 4 Dead 2's mutation modes. The team has been watching you closely as you work your way through the zombie hordes, and it turns out you like realism and gore in your L4D games: Realism Versus and Chainsaw Massacre have been the two most popular mutations by far, with Realism Versus (which was later turned into a permanent mode) grabbing 41 percent of the player base during its featured week and 22 percent of the playing time. The Chainsaw mode was the "most tried" of the mutations, with 52 percent of the player base revving it up, and 14 percent of player minutes spent playing it.

Outside of mutations, versus and the co-op campaign actually both nab about 40 percent of players every day. And while Valve doesn't mention any of the least-played mutations, it does give notice to the Infected-doubling Hard Eight mutation, which was only tried by 26 percent of players but still grabbed over 10 percent of that week's playing time. This week, it's a "Gib Fest," with everyone on the team getting M60s and unlimited ammo. That sounds like a hunting accident just waiting to happen.

JoystiqValve breaks down Left 4 Dead 2 mode stats, 'Gib Fest' is latest mutation originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chainsaw-massacregib-festL4D2Left-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationmutationspcrealism-versusvalvevalve-softwarexboxzombiesSat, 07 Aug 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Left 4 Dead's 'Tank' figure unveiled, busting through bank accounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/left-4-deads-tank-figure-unveiled-busting-through-bank-accou/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/left-4-deads-tank-figure-unveiled-busting-through-bank-accou/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/31/left-4-deads-tank-figure-unveiled-busting-through-bank-accou/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've got some mixed emotions about the just revealed Tank mini-statue (statuette just doesn't seem fitting for a giant terrifying zombie), created by Gaming Heads for Valve. Sure, its detail is marvelous and it comes with a totally sweet, albeit miniature, pump-action shotgun, but it's also 325 real-life actual dollars for the "exclusive edition".

At 15 inches tall, you'd better have a real special place in your heart (and in your house, preferably a cage) to shell out that kind of cash. If you'd like to save yourself a bit of money, there's a less-exclusive version (limited to a run of 750) for $300, but unfortunately it comes with no mini pump-action shotgun. And frankly, we both know that's completely unacceptable. How else will you fight off the little monster when he goes after your throat? Hmmm? Interested parties will be glad to know that orders appear to be open as of right now, though the statue won't be set free until "Q1 2011."

JoystiqLeft 4 Dead's 'Tank' figure unveiled, busting through bank accounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gaming-headsL4D2left-4-deadLeft-4-Dead-2microsoftpcq1-2011release-datevalvexboxSat, 31 Jul 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New L4D2 Mutation: Hard Eight (more like 'Just Hard')]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/17/new-l4d2-mutation-hard-eight-more-like-just-hard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/17/new-l4d2-mutation-hard-eight-more-like-just-hard/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/17/new-l4d2-mutation-hard-eight-more-like-just-hard/#commentsFiled under: , ,

At first, we really liked the idea of Left 4 Dead 2 "mutations." They promised fun tweaks to the gameplay to keep it interesting and fresh. In practice, however, they seem more like an excuse for Valve to make the game even harder. For instance, this week's mutation is "Hard Eight," which doubles the maximum number of active special Infected from four to eight. Eight.

What's that? You just killed a Boomer? Well, don't worry, because there are seven more standing right behind you.

JoystiqNew L4D2 Mutation: Hard Eight (more like 'Just Hard') originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>L4D2Left-4-DeadLeft-4-Dead-2microsoftmutationpcValvexboxSat, 17 Jul 2010 08:00:00 EST