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[Factor 5 shuts down US operations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/factor-5-shuts-down-us-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/factor-5-shuts-down-us-operations/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/14/factor-5-shuts-down-us-operations/#comments
Factor 5 officially announced the closure of its US operations recently, concluding a story that feels like it's been just out of reach for half a year. The developer had been having some rough times since the poignant failure of Lair. Following that, there was its falling out with Brash Entertainment (which led to layoffs), leaks of the Superman and Kid Icarus games, and, obviously, the closure of the studio.

The bright side on this really dark tale is that Achim Moller, CEO of Factor 5 Germany, states the company has "partnered with both old and new friends in the industry who will reveal our upcoming projects over the next months." With E3 visible in the smog-filled distance, perhaps we'll learn what the German-based developer is up to soon.

[Via Kotaku, Siliconera]

JoystiqFactor 5 shuts down US operations originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 May 2009 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessclosuredepressioneconomyfactor-5kid-icaruslairlayoffsrecessionsupermanThu, 14 May 2009 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Factor 5 shuts down]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/rumor-factor-5-shuts-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/rumor-factor-5-shuts-down/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/rumor-factor-5-shuts-down/#commentsFiled under: , ,


What's Santa putting in developer stockings this year? Unemployment, apparently. Following earlier rumors of a 50-percent cut in staff at Factor 5, internet murmuring now suggests that the Lair and Rogue Squadron developer has closed its doors completely. According to an alleged forum post by IGN's Matt Casamassina, which in turn cites an "inside source," today marked the end of Factor 5's operations. It seems the infamous Brash bailout had more severe repercussions than we previously suspected.

Joystiq has contacted relevant parties in order to obtain more concrete information -- as well as more concrete. With all these depressing stories, we're going to need a dam to hold all these tears.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqRumor: Factor 5 shuts down originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Factor-5LairLayoffsPS3Rogue-SquadronRumorWiiMon, 22 Dec 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Factor 5 cuts 37 jobs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/rumor-factor-5-cuts-37-jobs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/rumor-factor-5-cuts-37-jobs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/rumor-factor-5-cuts-37-jobs/#commentsFiled under: ,


Speaking to a "well-placed source," Edge Online reports that Rogue Squadron developer Factor 5 laid off 37 employees on Friday, December 12th. This leaves around 38 workers to continue development on one or more projects which may or may not be canceled, depending on whose blog you read and how quickly it gets deleted from the internet.

While most would speculate that the drama has its origin in Factor 5's botched deal with Brash, Edge's source claims, "The thing that bothers me the most about it all is they could have avoided all of this ages ago. It wasn't really the Brash deal going south that was the big problem, but it didn't help much either." According to the source, the last time Factor folks got so much as a fiver was on October 15th. That's grimmer than most of Lair's reviews.

JoystiqRumor: Factor 5 cuts 37 jobs originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Factor-5LairLayoffsPS3Rogue-SquadronRumorTue, 16 Dec 2008 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Factor 5 dev blogs about canceled title, later deletes post]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/factor-5-dev-blogs-about-canceled-title-later-deletes-post/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/factor-5-dev-blogs-about-canceled-title-later-deletes-post/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/factor-5-dev-blogs-about-canceled-title-later-deletes-post/#commentsFiled under:


Nearly every company in the video game industry has taken a hit during this economic fiasco -- though we've seen a few cases where the full brunt of the recession has come down on certain developers and publishers. Factor 5, creator of the wildly criticized Lair, appeared to be the latest company to suffer under the credit crunch -- one of its employees, Sam Baker (who blogs under the moniker MISTASAM), recently posted about "financial issues" which kept his fellow developers from receiving payment and health care benefits, and ultimately led the company to "stop production" on a project he'd been working on for eight months.

However, this post (cached version), as well as every other post on Baker's blog, disappeared quickly after its publication, and was replaced by a brief correction. In this follow-up post, Baker explains that the closure of Brash Entertainment, whom Factor 5 was working with on what was rumored to be a new Superman title, had caused the economic distress. Baker adds that whatever game Factor 5 was developing for Brash is still alive and well (and was never "in trouble"), and that the rest of the studio's projects are "doing great".

This second post is confusing and somewhat contradictive, to say the least. While the erasure of Baker's entire blog certainly gives off an air of impropriety, we can't be certain of what exactly is going on at Factor 5. With the inital post mentioning employee layoffs, we certainly hope the cheery exposition of the second post proves accurate -- not just because of our concern for our fellow man, but because we really want a new Rogue Squadron game.

JoystiqFactor 5 dev blogs about canceled title, later deletes post originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brash-entertainmenteconomyfactor-5lairsupermanMon, 08 Dec 2008 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Factor 5 speaks out on 'Superman' game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/factor-5-speaks-out-on-superman-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/factor-5-speaks-out-on-superman-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/factor-5-speaks-out-on-superman-game/#commentsFiled under:


Last week's closure of Brash Entertainment left a number of unanswered questions lingering, and as thrilled as we are that Saw is still set to get its game on, we're more curious to find out if Superman survived the publisher's swift implosion. The Man of Steel was allegedly the subject of a deal between Brash and Factor 5 earlier this year, and MTV Multiplayer recently caught up with the Lair developer's president, Julian Eggebrecht, to find out more.

While the exec admitted that Factor 5 is working on "several" multi-platform and Wii-specific titles, he stopped just short of admitting that the studio is developing a game based on Superman. "One of our large-scale multi-platform projects was started with Brash because it is a dream property for us, hasn't been given its dues in gaming since the Atari 2600, and has a huge universe to draw from," teased Eggebrecht, who added that "things are obviously in flux and we hope that the game proves to be as indestructible as our hero..."

Though still unconfirmed, it seems fairly obvious that Factor 5 has its sights set on the son of Jor-El. We just hope that there's something left of him after his current cross-universe beatdown.

JoystiqFactor 5 speaks out on 'Superman' game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brashbrash-entertainmentbrashentertainmentfactor-5factor5lairsupermanMon, 17 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Weekly Webcomic Wrapup minus Garfield plus Lair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/weekly-webcomic-wrapup-minus-garfield-plus-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/weekly-webcomic-wrapup-minus-garfield-plus-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/20/weekly-webcomic-wrapup-minus-garfield-plus-lair/#commentsFiled under: , ,

For those who haven't seen Garfield minus Garfield, you've really been missing out. It's not the most brilliant Photoshop we've ever done, but the Garfield void can sometimes be easily filled with a character foil to Jon's manic depression ... enter Lair. Here are our picks for the week's best game-related webcomic; polling after the break.

Continue reading Weekly Webcomic Wrapup minus Garfield plus Lair

JoystiqWeekly Webcomic Wrapup minus Garfield plus Lair originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 20 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>garfieldlairwebcomicSun, 20 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Lair goes analog, Super Stardust HD expands]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/psn-tuesday-lair-goes-analog-super-stardust-hd-expands/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/psn-tuesday-lair-goes-analog-super-stardust-hd-expands/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/15/psn-tuesday-lair-goes-analog-super-stardust-hd-expands/#commentsFiled under: ,

Along with a revamped PSN Store, we usher in the return of PSN Thursdays Tuesdays. Since we're already welcoming back the store and updates, we should probably say something to Lair, who just flew in under our radars with an update to make the game playable -- not only with rumble but also analog controls. He's looking kind of lonely over there in the corner.

Also this week, Super Stardust HD expands its universe with new modes: Endless, Survival, Bomber and Time Attack. Arcade Mode now features the Easy difficulty. A new Retro soundtrack has also been added

Update: SCEA has confirmed that Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will headline the return on PS Store's regularly scheduled Thursday updates this week (April 17th). We'll post the full release list when it becomes available.

Check out the complete list of this week's content after the break. For a listing of Europe's goodies, head over to PS3 Fanboy.

Continue reading PSN Tuesday: Lair goes analog, Super Stardust HD expands

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Lair goes analog, Super Stardust HD expands originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lairplaystation-networkPS3psnpsn-thursdaypsn-tuesdaysuper-stardust-hdTue, 15 Apr 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair updates finally flying in -- will it change people's minds?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/lair-updates-finally-flying-in-will-it-change-peoples-minds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/lair-updates-finally-flying-in-will-it-change-peoples-minds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/lair-updates-finally-flying-in-will-it-change-peoples-minds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Long, long, long overdue is the update to Lair's control interface, but on April 17th, it's finally arriving on the Japanese PS Store. The update not only allows a left analogue stick control scheme, but a better aiming function as well as two new dragons to mount and ride. Yep -- now you have the Wind and Poison dragons at your beck and call. But that's not all -- new custom themes will be available that change at random on startup. Will we see this stuff outside of Japan? Who knows -- if some of it's free, that stuff won't necessarily have to.

[via N4G]

JoystiqLair updates finally flying in -- will it change people's minds? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor-5lairThu, 10 Apr 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Upcoming Lair patch to add analog controls]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/upcoming-lair-patch-to-add-analog-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/upcoming-lair-patch-to-add-analog-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/upcoming-lair-patch-to-add-analog-controls/#commentsFiled under: ,

Factor 5's Lair is getting a rather timely update. As reported by IGN in a rare moment of headline snark ("Will this push the score past 5?"), the game will finally support analog controls. The patch, coming out in Japan on April 17 (and likely everywhere else, too), also includes DualShock 3 rumble support, the appearance of a targeting icon and the ability to download the Wind Dragon and Poison Dragon for use in all stages.

As the old adage says, analog controls don't grow on trees. Well, it turns out they do, and that's why it took until Spring to see them bloom and the update to arrive. We expect a resurgence of interest in the title starting ... um ... guys? Are you still here?

JoystiqUpcoming Lair patch to add analog controls originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor-5lairPS3Thu, 10 Apr 2008 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Brash taps Lair dev Factor 5 for yet another movie game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/brash-taps-lair-dev-factor-5-for-yet-another-movie-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/brash-taps-lair-dev-factor-5-for-yet-another-movie-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/brash-taps-lair-dev-factor-5-for-yet-another-movie-game/#commentsFiled under:


Brash has an unrelenting love for games based on movie IP, and as if patterning its business model after a remake of Freaks, the publisher has convinced yet another developer to become one of us. The latest studio to sign on the dotted line is Lair dev Factor 5, which according to Brash involves an unspecified title to be revealed "around the E3 Expo" in July.

The news follows the announcement yesterday of a deal between Brash and Folklore Dec Game Republic on another secretive movie-to-game deal. While it's true that film-games have earned their place as everyone's favorite whipping boy, Factor 5 co-founder and president Julian Eggebrecht seems pleased as punch about the whole affair, stating that "because the filmmaker is a game fan who is really excited about how we want to expand on the story of the film, we've been given a lot of latitude." Let's just hope this time they leave any motion-sensitive controls up to the professionals.

JoystiqBrash taps Lair dev Factor 5 for yet another movie game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brashfactor-5factor5lairmoviesThu, 13 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Lair analog patch coming, makes the game much better?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/gdc08-lair-analog-patch-coming-makes-the-game-much-better/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/gdc08-lair-analog-patch-coming-makes-the-game-much-better/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/23/gdc08-lair-analog-patch-coming-makes-the-game-much-better/#commentsFiled under:

You thought you heard the last of Lair, didn't you? While at GDC, a man we will call DugBuzz, states in his IGN blog, seeked out the Factor 5 booth and played around with their new build of Lair that incorporated an analog function. He made a comment about the guy who reviewed the game on IGN after playing the new version: "Greg needs to give them a new score. It was kind of clear that Factor 5 put in the extra effort a little begrudgingly, but the results were amazing. This might push me over the edge into the "must buy PS3" territory."

So there you have it. If you haven't played Lair, or rented it and had a bad taste in your mouth, should this analog patch (which also might fix other things -- just an assumption) come out, we'll let you know. It's then your call whether or not to try it out again, but if this guy has decent tastes, it might just make a potentially great game great. Get it?

JoystiqRumor: Lair analog patch coming, makes the game much better? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor-5gdc08fanboylairSat, 23 Feb 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair control fix may be in the works]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/lair-control-fix-may-be-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/lair-control-fix-may-be-in-the-works/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/lair-control-fix-may-be-in-the-works/#commentsFiled under: ,


The shoddy SIXAXIS controls may not be Lair's only problem, but it's certainly the one that's taken the brunt of the criticisms pointed at the game. Throughout it all developer Factor 5 has insisted that motion-controlled dragons were the only way to go, but it seems that they may finally be softening.

Recently, the company's president, Julian Eggebrecht, told IGN "If we find a chance in the future that would bring Lair to the audience which didn't get any access, that would be fantastic," he said. "I can't say anything quite yet, but there might be something in the works there. We might have a chance yet to bring those back to the table and hopefully, if that should happen, they would give the game a second chance." Now, as much as we'd like to see a patch, we get the sneaking suspicion he's hinting at a sequel. What does it sound like to you?

[Update: More of Eggebrecht's quote added.]

[Via PS3F]

JoystiqLair control fix may be in the works originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor-5factor5julian-eggebrechtlairPS3sixaxisTue, 12 Feb 2008 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Factor 5 might finally fix Lair's control scheme]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/factor-5-might-finally-fix-lairs-control-scheme/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/factor-5-might-finally-fix-lairs-control-scheme/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/12/factor-5-might-finally-fix-lairs-control-scheme/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's no secret many gamers aren't very happy with Lair's SIXAXIS control scheme. And despite overwhelming requests by gamers the world over for Factor 5 to issue a patch to rectify the issue, months have gone by without any fix for this issue.

However, Factor 5's President Julian Eggebrecht recently hinted that a fix may finally be in the pipeline. "I can't say anything quite yet, but there might be something in the works there," he said. Additionally, he admitted the decision to only include the SIXAXIS control scheme was a mistake. "If you're on a platform where this whole motion control is something new and not being pitched as the main feature of the platform, you should probably give the choice between having different control schemes, there is absolutely no doubt about it," he added.

It's hard not to agree with Eggebrecht, but what a lot of gamers out there want is just a fix for what many believe is crippling controls for an otherwise decent game. Hopefully, Factor 5 chooses to give us what we want.

JoystiqFactor 5 might finally fix Lair's control scheme originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor-5lairsixaxisTue, 12 Feb 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Ross' Picks of 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ross-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ross-picks-of-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ross-picks-of-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Team Fortress 2 (Xbox 360, PC, PlayStation 3)

While Portal is being given its much deserved credit for the year, and Half-Life 2 has enjoyed years of acclaim, let's not forget about the other pillar of Valve's The Orange Box. It's been eight years since the release of Team Fortress Classic, and the game has undergone so many revisions and delays we half expected it to be released alongside Duke Nukem Forever sometime in 2012. As it turned out, the game not only saw the light of day but ended up being an addictive online experience.

As a console gamer enjoying this with a gamepad, I don't care much much for the sniper, soldier, demoman, or anything except medic and occasionally the engineer. There's something brutally satisfying about charging into battle behind a heavy weapons guy, dodging the occasional bullet (people still haven't learned) and injecting him with a team-killing jolt of invincibility. Hours of enjoyment and not a single bullet shot. Pure. Enjoyment.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Ross' Picks of 2007

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Ross' Picks of 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Best-of-the-rest-2007Carcassonnefl0wFreeRiceGOTY-2007LairLittleBigPlanetMy-Word-CoachPCPS3Sin-and-punishmentTeam-Fortress-2TF2VCWiiXbox-360Tue, 01 Jan 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock kindly receives AP's game of the year award]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/bioshock-kindly-receives-aps-game-of-the-year-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/bioshock-kindly-receives-aps-game-of-the-year-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/17/bioshock-kindly-receives-aps-game-of-the-year-award/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The Associated Press put out a pretty good year-end list about games and named BioShock its game of the year. Sure, the AP almost invalidates the entire year-end round-up by mistakenly listing BioShock as available for PlayStation 3; however, because the wire service didn't simply phone in Halo 3 as their game of the year, we'll generously overlook their faux pas. Speaking of Halo 3, the AP actually says it was the "most overrated game" of the year ... not saying we agree, just sayin' is all.

The AP gave more accolades to the likes of The Orange Box for "best deal" and Rock Band for "best game that involves getting off the sofa" while trashing Lair as the "best idea for a game gone horribly wrong." One sentiment that we think everyone can agree with: the federal law requiring all good games to be released within weeks of each other has to be overturned.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqBioShock kindly receives AP's game of the year award originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2007 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apassociated-pressbioshockgotylairorangeboxPCrockbandXbox-360Mon, 17 Dec 2007 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[1UP talks turkey games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/1up-talks-turkey-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/1up-talks-turkey-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/22/1up-talks-turkey-games/#comments
What better way to spend Thanksgiving than talking about turkeys? And by turkeys, of course, 1UP's referring to those massively-hyped titles that ultimately fizzled.

We can't say we agree with all of the choices presented, though 1UP's criteria suggests that the games featured aren't necessarily "bad," but that all of them "fell short of expectations."

Still, given the sheer number of games out there, there are bound to be bigger, badder turkeys hiding in the bushes. Any more main-course nominees?

Joystiq1UP talks turkey games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Nov 2007 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upassassins-creedenterthematrixfablefinal-fantasyfinalfantasylairmariometal-gear-solidmetalgearsolidperfect-darkperfectdarkred-steelredsteelshenmueThu, 22 Nov 2007 16:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair delay caused by mislabeled discs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/lair-delay-caused-by-mislabeled-discs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/lair-delay-caused-by-mislabeled-discs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/lair-delay-caused-by-mislabeled-discs/#commentsFiled under:

It seems that the European Lair delay truly was outside of Sony's control this time. CVG have confirmed that it is down to the lack of an age rating on the discs, which is a legal requirement for any game being sold. Because of this, Lair will be delayed for an unspecified time until a work-around of some description can be implemented.

We know how much you enjoy hearing about Lair and its numerous delays, so we shall keep you up to date with any developments. But like we always say, there are plenty of other, better, games that are due to be released in the coming weeks. Not to mention the huge number of games released within the last month that are worthy of your time.

JoystiqLair delay caused by mislabeled discs originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayeuropelairTue, 13 Nov 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Whoops! Lair delayed in Europe again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/whoops-lair-delayed-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/whoops-lair-delayed-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/whoops-lair-delayed-in-europe/#commentsFiled under:

For those of you in Europe who ran down to your local game store this morning, wide-eyed and hopeful that you would finally get your hands on Factor 5's dragon dive bomber Lair, please try not to let your disappointment overwhelm you. The game did not come out this week, instead being pushed back a couple of weeks. The new estimated release date is the 23rd of November.

Apparently, for once, Sony isn't at fault and the problem is being blamed on a manufacturing issue. If you really want Lair and you haven't yet imported it, then we're going to assume you're a bit crazy. Lair's EU sales figures will probably suffer thanks to the release of Guitar Hero III, Kane and Lynch and The Orange Box on the same day, but at least it will be out.

JoystiqWhoops! Lair delayed in Europe again originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayeuropelairFri, 09 Nov 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair rides into Japan top ten for software sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/lair-rides-into-japan-top-ten-for-software-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/lair-rides-into-japan-top-ten-for-software-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/19/lair-rides-into-japan-top-ten-for-software-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Factor 5's Lair, much-ballyhooed in North America and Europe for its unfavorable control scheme (and Sony's subsequent response), has debuted in Japan with enough sales to crack the top 10 for weekly sales, according to Media Create (via GamesIndustry.biz).

The game, known there as Rise from Lair, landed in the number seven spot with 22,000 in sales, likely helped by Famitsu's positive review. For comparison, Project Gotham Racing 4 received the same Famitsu score and only charted at 25, the highest rank for an Xbox 360 title and a big drop in Microsoft's presence following the console maker's triumphant one week at the top with Halo 3 (59,000 unit sales).

Nishimura Kyotarou Suspense Detective Series: Deadly Intent for Nintendo DS debuted in the top spot this week with 61,000 in sales. Dragon Ball Z: Sparkling! Meteor for PS2 and Gundam Battle Chronicle (PSP) took second and third place, respectively.

JoystiqLair rides into Japan top ten for software sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Oct 2007 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor-5factor5japanlairPS3rise-from-lairsonyFri, 19 Oct 2007 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair enters Japanese charts at number 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/lair-enters-japanese-charts-at-number-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/lair-enters-japanese-charts-at-number-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/18/lair-enters-japanese-charts-at-number-7/#commentsFiled under:


Rise From Lair (you will most likely just know it as Lair) was released recently onto the Japanese market. While the game may have flopped in the US, it seems that Japan has taken quite a shining to it. A few weeks ago, Famitsu gave Rise From Lair a very favourable score (only 1 less than Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core). Now the title has entered the Japanese top 10 at number 7 after selling 22,000 during its first week, according to Media Create.

Could it be that the control issues have been fixed? Or maybe the Japanese don't really care and are enjoying the game anyway. We're intrigued to see how the game will do in Europe once it's finally released on November the 9th. If that is its real release date.

JoystiqLair enters Japanese charts at number 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanlairThu, 18 Oct 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan loves Lair; Famitsu awards game high score]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/04/japan-loves-lair-famitsu-awards-game-high-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/04/japan-loves-lair-famitsu-awards-game-high-score/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/04/japan-loves-lair-famitsu-awards-game-high-score/#commentsFiled under: ,

They say that Japanese and American gamers have different taste in games. Well, that certainly appears to be the case in Japan. Lair (or Rise from Lair, as it's called in Japan) has been getting a serious push by Sony's Japanese marketing team. They might have an easier job of selling the game in the territory, thanks to the fantastic critical reception of the game. Famitsu, Japan's leading gaming magazine awarded the game an impressive 34/40, which is far more generous than the current critical average of 55/100.

Will Lair be able to dominate the Japanese sales charts next week? With Halo 3 taking the top spot this week, it seems anything is possible.

JoystiqJapan loves Lair; Famitsu awards game high score originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famitsujapanlairThu, 04 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair soundtrack now on iTunes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/lair-soundtrack-now-on-itunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/lair-soundtrack-now-on-itunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/lair-soundtrack-now-on-itunes/#commentsFiled under: ,


Sure, Lair the game is bantha poodoo that reviewers apparently don't know how to play, but Lair's soundtrack is full of pseudo-John Williams goodness and now it's available on iTunes. Lair's score by John Debney, which is nominated for a BAFTA award, is great if you like listening to high-energy orchestral soundtracks while banging down the highway at 90 MPH.

If you're looking for alternative songs to the Lair soundtrack, might we suggest:
  • Fly Like an Eagle (Steve Miller Band or Seal)
  • I Believe I Can Fly (R. Kelly)
  • Wind Beneath My Wings (Bette Midler)
Can you think of any other alternative songs for the Lair soundtrack? Oh, and we're totally ahead of you if you think you're being witty by saying Crash and Burn by either The Bangles, Blues Traveler or Simple Plan. Also, don't even think My Favorite Mistake by Sheryl Crow.

JoystiqLair soundtrack now on iTunes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iTuneslairPS3soundtrackWed, 03 Oct 2007 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair soundtrack available for purchase on iTunes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/lair-soundtrack-available-for-purchase-on-itunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/lair-soundtrack-available-for-purchase-on-itunes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/03/lair-soundtrack-available-for-purchase-on-itunes/#commentsFiled under:


Regardless of what the critics may say, there's one undeniable great thing about Lair: its soundtrack. Composed by John Debney, the rich score of Lair is filled with epic drama and a full, textured sound provided by the London and Royal Symphony Orchestras.

All 26 tracks, which include hits like "Bridge of the Ancients," "Bridge Battle," and "Bridge Attack," are now available for purchase on iTunes for 99 cents each. The entire album can be purchased for a mere $9.99.

[Via PlayStation.blog]

JoystiqLair soundtrack available for purchase on iTunes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>john-debneylairsoundtrackWed, 03 Oct 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Harrison: Sony didn't force motion controls on Lair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/harrison-sony-didnt-force-motion-controls-on-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/harrison-sony-didnt-force-motion-controls-on-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/28/harrison-sony-didnt-force-motion-controls-on-lair/#commentsFiled under:

Maybe trying to distance itself from the critically lambasted Lair, Phil Harrison told GameTrailers that it did not force tilt controls in Factor 5's controversial dragon game. "[Motion control] was definitely not mandated by us. We've always said all along that the use of the Sixaxis is something that should be decided by the developer in tune with their creative vision for the game, so it's not something we would mandate." In spite of this, it appears that many first-party Sony titles utilize tilt controls in some way. Thankfully, many developers have learned from the mistakes of Lair, and include options to turn off the tilt controls and replace them with analog movement (for example, Ratchet & Clank Future.)

In addition, Harrison doesn't find fault with Heavenly Sword's length -- a deciding factor that has limited the game's score in many reviews (including our own). "You know what? Not that many people finish games, so I think we shouldn't criticize a game for being a story, which has an arc with a beginning, a middle and an end... and actually encouraging all gamers to see all of the story, I think that's something positive." Granted, the experience looks and feels big-budget. But at the end of the day, most gamers probably want a longer journey for the increased price of admission.

[Thanks, njkid1! Via GameDaily]

JoystiqHarrison: Sony didn't force motion controls on Lair originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>harrisonheavenly-swordlairphil-harrisonFri, 28 Sep 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Levine defends Lair, deserves playful scolding]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/ken-levine-defends-lair-deserves-playful-scolding/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/ken-levine-defends-lair-deserves-playful-scolding/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/19/ken-levine-defends-lair-deserves-playful-scolding/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's no denying that Ken Levine, lead of 2K Boston and guru of BioShock, is a golden boy in the industry right now. So when he defends the odious Lair in the latest episode of the Gamers with Jobs podcast, we can't help but politely, yet firmly, say, "No Ken Levine, bad! Wrong! We care too much about you at this moment to see you defending that ... that thing. Now go to your office, estimate the insane amounts of money you'll make before the end of the decade, and think about what you said!"

Levine is even in his defense of Lair saying things like, "I'm sure somebody came to them at some point and said, 'We have this motion control controller, and we have to make a go of it. And we really think you should try to make your game exclusively on that.'" He also goes on to say that beyond Wii Sports, there are a lot of games where he wonders if people wouldn't just be happier with a d-pad and analog stick. There's actually a lot of good stuff with Levine in the well-produced podcast, definitely worth a listen and a mention on this week's Podcast rodeo.

[Via GameDaily BIZ]

JoystiqKen Levine defends Lair, deserves playful scolding originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockdefendkenlevinelairPS3Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair dev critical of Warhawk's motion controls]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/lair-dev-critical-of-warhawks-motion-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/lair-dev-critical-of-warhawks-motion-controls/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/lair-dev-critical-of-warhawks-motion-controls/#comments Factor 5's Julian Eggebrecht has been thinking about motion controls a lot lately. While still content with Lair's much-maligned input system, he has found issues with Warhawk's use of motion controls less-than-stellar. In an interview with Games Radar, Eggebrecht said that "Warhawk's controls are... eurgh!"

"I see motion-sensing as a complimentary, additional new step in terms of controls and where it fits you should use it and where it doesn't fit, don't force it. Please don't force it," he said. You see that folks? Eggebrecht just redefined irony.

Note that Warhawk can be played entirely without using the Sixaxis' tilt capabilities -- hence, they are not "forcing it." Is this a sign that Factor 5 might resign themselves to releasing a Lair patch enabling analog stick flight, or do we need to tell the Emperor he is strolling through the village without any clothes on?



[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqLair dev critical of Warhawk's motion controls originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor5julianeggebrechtlairTue, 18 Sep 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Readers pick best webcomic: Marketing 101]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/readers-pick-best-webcomic-marketing-101/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/readers-pick-best-webcomic-marketing-101/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/11/readers-pick-best-webcomic-marketing-101/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hats off* to 2P Start for finding a way to spin the spin of Lair -- the logic is so dizzying, it's like we were actually trying to pull a 180-degree turn in the game (zing!). Consequently, the comic earned top honors in this week's webcomic wrapup.

Second place to Digital Unrest, and Penny Arcade has garnered third place. Thanks to everyone who voted, and be sure to let us know of any game-related webcomics you stumble upon this week!

* We took our hats off for them; "pants off" is optional but encouraged.

Continue reading Readers pick best webcomic: Marketing 101

JoystiqReaders pick best webcomic: Marketing 101 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Sep 2007 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digitalunrestlairpennyarcadewebcomicTue, 11 Sep 2007 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair Reviewer's Guide is dummy text, add headline here]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/09/lair-reviewers-guide-is-dummy-text-add-headline-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/09/lair-reviewers-guide-is-dummy-text-add-headline-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/09/lair-reviewers-guide-is-dummy-text-add-headline-here/#commentsFiled under:


Lair is not very good. Most people agree with that. To try and alleviate the reviewing experience and perhaps gain a few points on scores, Lair's handlers released a 'Lair Reviewer's Guide' to the gaming press. Some were insulted by this.

But what's really scary is that even the guide that Sony sent out is not very good either, or at least it was not proofread well. The image above is a clip from page 7 of the 'Lair Reviewer's Guide'. Yes, you read correctly, the Medium Dragon is described as "Dummy text, add new medium dragon txt here" several times over. Perhaps the "dragon-game curse" isn't done wreaking havoc on Factor 5 after all?

[Thanks, Stoo!]

JoystiqLair Reviewer's Guide is dummy text, add headline here originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>addnewtagheredummytextfactor5lairreviewersguideSun, 09 Sep 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony sends out 'Lair Reviewer's Guide' -- Must. Not. Laugh.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/sony-sends-out-lair-reviewers-guide-must-not-laugh/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/sony-sends-out-lair-reviewers-guide-must-not-laugh/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/sony-sends-out-lair-reviewers-guide-must-not-laugh/#commentsFiled under:


Dear seasoned reviewers, like Greg Miller of IGN (pictured and whose work back at the Columbia Tribune we covered), you're reviewing Lair wrong -- according to Sony. Miller, and probably many other reviewers, received their copies today of the "Lair Reviewer's Guide" so that they might go back and say, "Yes Sony, we totally don't know how to play video games, thank you! Thank you so much for showing us the light on how to play these ... things. We will now go back and redo our scores with the wealth of information we have been given."

We probably couldn't say it better than Tycho of Penny Arcade when he wrote what every video game professional with half a brain should think, "For my part, I don't give a good Goddamn if someone has trained themselves to eat shit and like it. The game is not challenging, it's difficult to play, and it's taken many years but I'm ready to begin making this distinction." Controls shouldn't need an explanation (or a video like the not-official one after the break), innovation can be intuitive if it's done right. Yeah, you can explain what the buttons should do, but when professionals can't use the controls properly, and they're trying to review the game for a general video game enthusiast -- that's a problem.

The fact that Sony and Factor 5 had to send out a packet telling reviewers how to play the game a week after the fact is so painfully tragic that it's funny. Oh, and just to be totally clear, there are typically "fact sheets" bundled with games and even follow-up info emails sometimes, but this "Lair Reviewer's Guide" goes well beyond that with "gameplay advice." Insulting with just a hint of desperation is what the "Lair Reviewer's Guide" is.

Continue reading Sony sends out 'Lair Reviewer's Guide' -- Must. Not. Laugh.

JoystiqSony sends out 'Lair Reviewer's Guide' -- Must. Not. Laugh. originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lairlairreviewersguidemillerPS3reviewsFri, 07 Sep 2007 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair cursed from start to finish]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/lair-cursed-from-start-to-finish/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/lair-cursed-from-start-to-finish/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/lair-cursed-from-start-to-finish/#commentsFiled under:


Sometimes when you combine things, they form something even greater than its parts, like peanut butter and jelly, or the five robot cats that form Voltron. Other times, like when you combine Factor 5 and ghosts, you get Lair. "I am not a believer in ghosts, but this one was haunted," Lair director Julian Eggebrecht explains to MTV's Stephen Totilo.

Factor 5's Eggebrecht and producer Brian Krueger even admit in Lair's in-game commentary that there was a "dragon-game curse". Ranging from contrast problems with the very first trailer, to power outages during the writing of the master disk, nothing would go Factor 5's way during the development of Lair.

Eggebrecht and his team's struggle with the creation of Lair may be the exception rather than the rule in the video game development business, but it does help people outside of the industry understand just how tough making a game can be. The Lair director explains that "every single time there was a crucial delivery, something bizarre went wrong", even sickness and deaths within employees' families.

Maybe Lair is not everything PS3 owners were hoping for, but maybe they deserve some credit too for completing a game under such trying circumstances. It's good to know that even with all that they had going against them, the Factor 5 team still had time to have a little fun and hot coffee.

JoystiqLair cursed from start to finish originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>factor5julianeggebrechtlairFri, 07 Sep 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony downplays Lair critics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/sony-downplays-lair-critics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/sony-downplays-lair-critics/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/07/sony-downplays-lair-critics/#commentsFiled under: ,

Reptile romp Lair may not be a critical darling, but Sony isn't too worried. Speaking to Next-Gen (while preparing his grand exit), SCEA PR director Dave Karraker said that it doesn't matter what the critics say: it's all about the consumer.

"At the end of the day, I'll be interested in the consumers' response, because the consumer awareness for this title was so huge," he said. "I've spoken to any number of people who really like it, and there's other people that find it a challenge."

Karraker makes a good point; who cares what a game review says if the game is well-loved by the gaming community at large (and, consequently, sells very well)? Should any consumers find fault with the game and its controls, just remember: the development was haunted. No, really.

JoystiqSony downplays Lair critics originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>criticsfactor5lairPS3sonyFri, 07 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's hottest video: the Lair 'Hot Coffee' code]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/todays-hottest-video-the-lair-hot-coffee-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/todays-hottest-video-the-lair-hot-coffee-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/todays-hottest-video-the-lair-hot-coffee-code/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Don't worry, it's not what you think. No dragons fornicating, or oddly polygonal women. Just a straight up, Safe-For-Work look at some hot, hot coffee.

To get in on the 'Hot Coffee' action yourself, enter the following, case-sensitive code into the cheats menu of Lair: 686F7420636F66666565. If you're lazy, or unwilling to purchase Lair after the glowing reviews, then the video is embedded above for your viewing pleasure. But be careful! It's hot!

JoystiqToday's hottest video: the Lair 'Hot Coffee' code originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hotcoffeehottestvideolairPS3videovotdThu, 06 Sep 2007 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair's secret "Hot Coffee" code is exactly what it sounds like]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/lairs-secret-hot-coffee-code-is-exactly-what-it-sounds-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/lairs-secret-hot-coffee-code-is-exactly-what-it-sounds-like/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/lairs-secret-hot-coffee-code-is-exactly-what-it-sounds-like/#commentsFiled under:

Did you know that Lair has a secret "Hot Coffee" code? Inspired by the controversy sparked by Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Factor 5 has included a video in the game that lampoons the ESRB's overly harsh decision. You can experience it for yourself by inputting code 686F7420636F66666565 (case sensitive) into the game. Or, you can take the lazy way out, and watch after the cut.

Continue reading Lair's secret "Hot Coffee" code is exactly what it sounds like

JoystiqLair's secret "Hot Coffee" code is exactly what it sounds like originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Sep 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hotcoffeelairWed, 05 Sep 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy review: Lair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/ps3-fanboy-review-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/ps3-fanboy-review-lair/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/05/ps3-fanboy-review-lair/#commentsFiled under:


While Colin gets the delightful task of reviewing Warhawk (9.0), I'm left with the arduous burden of reviewing Lair, one of PS3's most hyped and anticipated games. What could possibly go wrong with a game where dragons fly around, killing each other? With stunning graphics, incredible production values, and dragons, Lair easily had a ton of potential. However, it all goes to waste through unresponsive controls and flawed level design.

As any Gamecube owner knows, Factor 5 is a team comprised of technical wizards. Their previous Rogue Squadron games pulled off graphical techniques on Nintendo's last generation machine that most Wii games still don't take advantage of. Factor 5 managed to rip out the most celebrated moments of the Star Wars films and make a captivating series that delivered action faithful to its inspiration. So, why does Lair feel like a retread from Factor 5's previous games?

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy review: Lair

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy review: Lair originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Sep 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeatureslairreviewWed, 05 Sep 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play Lair on PSP with remote play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/play-lair-on-psp-with-remote-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/play-lair-on-psp-with-remote-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/play-lair-on-psp-with-remote-play/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you're wanting to enjoy Lair's gorgeous visuals on an itty-bitty screen (or more likely, you're just wanting to play the game with an analog stick instead of the much-maligned motion controls), it has been confirmed that the PlayStation 3 title supports remote play via the PSP, with credit going to Dubbedinenglish of the PlayStation forums for first making the discovery.

The "full" game is playable in this manner, although some actions can't be performed on the PSP's control scheme, making some parts of the dragon romp impassable. Video proof embedded after the break.

[Via PSP Fanboy; thanks, Rocco]

Continue reading Play Lair on PSP with remote play

JoystiqPlay Lair on PSP with remote play originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Sep 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lairPS3PSPsonyMon, 03 Sep 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview -- Lair (PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/metareview-lair-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/metareview-lair-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/03/metareview-lair-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , ,


On paper, Factor 5's Lair does so many things right: Beautiful graphics and sound making full use of all the blue rays, cells and bumpy maps the PlayStation 3 has to offer. Majestic dragons flapping their leathery wings, swooping down on hapless soldiers and occasionally fighting other, similarly majestic dragons. Unfortunately, this enticing list was apparently jotted down with a pen the size of a tree stump. Awkward to maneuver and clumsy to clutch, Lair's mandatory motion-control scheme seems to have sent it into a quality nosedive.
  • IGN (49/100) laments the "horribly unresponsive" controls and "god-awful lock-on system," quickly labeling the whole affair as "a mission worthy of swallowing the business end of a shotgun to avoid." Just so we're clear, they're implying that you'd rather kill yourself instead of playing Lair. Harsh, and certainly surprising if you read the E3 preview -- a few weeks earlier, the game was "surprisingly easy to pick up and play" with dragon controls that became "simple with practice."
  • Gamespot (45/100) thinks Lair is beautiful... a "beautiful disaster," that is. The review's third sentence claims it's "stunning to watch", but that comes after the second sentence which declares the game to have "one of the worst control schemes ever devised." That's assuming you even make it that far, as the first sentence is simply, "You shouldn't play Lair." If that sounds bitter, it's probably because you remember the sweet taste of the last preview: "Flying the dragon around isn't tough, but there is a bit of a learning curve." Apparently it was more like a 90-degree angle.
  • 1UP (60/100) was right to be concerned about the controls in an earlier version of the game. Here, the game is deemed frustrating and "one of those games where you die or fail through no fault of your own." The article also reinforces the belief that Factor 5 is still stuck in the icy wastelands of Hoth, complete with dinosaurs waiting to trip over your dragon tow cable.

JoystiqMetareview -- Lair (PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LairMetareviewPS3Mon, 03 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: Lair can be played on PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/confirmed-lair-can-be-played-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/confirmed-lair-can-be-played-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/confirmed-lair-can-be-played-on-psp/#commentsFiled under:


No, this is not a joke. Lair can be played on PSP through PS3's Remote Play functionality. As discovered by Dubbedinenglish on the PlayStation forums, this is quite possibly the first Blu-ray PS3 game to run successfully on the PSP. By reducing the visual quality and increasing the response time, the game is actually quite playable. In fact, because the game uses the PSP's analog stick instead of tilt controls, it actually controls better than the PS3 counterpart.

Stay tuned for a video.

[Thanks, Nightz!]

Continue reading Confirmed: Lair can be played on PSP

JoystiqConfirmed: Lair can be played on PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Sep 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lairpspremoteplaySun, 02 Sep 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: Lair can be played on PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/confirmed-lair-can-be-played-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/confirmed-lair-can-be-played-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/02/confirmed-lair-can-be-played-on-psp/#commentsFiled under:


No, this is not a joke. Lair can be played on PSP through PS3's Remote Play functionality. As discovered by Dubbedinenglish on the PlayStation forums, this is quite possibly the first Blu-ray PS3 game to run successfully on the PSP. By reducing the visual quality and increasing the response time, the game is actually quite playable. In fact, because the game uses the PSP's analog stick instead of tilt controls, it actually controls better than the PS3 counterpart.

Stay tuned for a video.

[Thanks, Nightz!]

Continue reading Confirmed: Lair can be played on PSP

JoystiqConfirmed: Lair can be played on PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Sep 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lairps3remoteplaySun, 02 Sep 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lair swoops into stores a day early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/lair-swoops-into-stores-a-day-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/lair-swoops-into-stores-a-day-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/lair-swoops-into-stores-a-day-early/#commentsFiled under:


While there was some confusion about just when Lair was actually going to be shipped out, we have gotten confirmation from multiple sources that it's actually in the stores right now. That's right, you can go out and get your dragon on immediately. It's a little odd that it was released on a Thursday since almost all retail games go on sale on Tuesday, but why look a gift horse in the mouth?

If you do go out and pick up a copy of Lair today, why not come back here and leave your impressions in the comments section? The reviews have been pretty controversial so far, so it would be nice hearing what the fans themselves think.

[Thanks everybody who sent this in]

JoystiqLair swoops into stores a day early originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lairThu, 30 Aug 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon will not honour "incorrect prices" on Lair and Folklore orders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/amazon-will-not-honour-incorrect-prices-on-lair-and-folklore-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/amazon-will-not-honour-incorrect-prices-on-lair-and-folklore-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/amazon-will-not-honour-incorrect-prices-on-lair-and-folklore-o/#commentsFiled under:

What started out as a simple deal of the day has turned into an ugly battle between Amazon and some of its customers. Lair and Folklore were listed for £14.95 each, an incredible deal by anyone's standards. Because of this, both games shot to the top of the Amazon bestseller's list for Video Games. Some of our more paranoid commenters emailed Amazon about whether the price was correct and whether they would honour it if it turned out to be an error. At least one person apparently got an email stating that the prices were correct and that they should expect no price change.

As the old saying goes, "just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they're not out to get you." Amazon yesterday started sending out emails stating that people's Lair and Folklore orders had been cancelled due to a pricing mistake. It seems weird to us that two games were priced wrongly for exactly the same amount of time and at exactly the same price. What are your thoughts?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqAmazon will not honour "incorrect prices" on Lair and Folklore orders originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonfolklorelairThu, 30 Aug 2007 12:30:00 EST