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[Professor Layton meets Phoenix Wright in crossover 3DS game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/professor-layton-meets-phoenix-wright-in-crossover-3ds-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/professor-layton-meets-phoenix-wright-in-crossover-3ds-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/professor-layton-meets-phoenix-wright-in-crossover-3ds-game/#comments Professor Layton VS Gyakuten saiban -- the Japanese name for a new crossover 3DS game that features both Phoenix Wright and Professor Layton -- was revealed last night by Level-5 during a press conference in Tokyo. The game is being developed in collaboration with Capcom, though Ace Attorney creator Shu Takumi will be heading up writing. It appears that this marks the beginning of Level-5 and Capcom's much teased collaboration, and one of the four surprise titles Level-5 said it would reveal during its Vision 2010 event currently taking place in Japan.

1UP's liveblog details the gameplay of Professor Layton VS Gyakuten saiban as a "combination of puzzles and crime mystery," while Level-5 president Akihiro Hino characterizes the collaboration by comparing it to "two TV shows getting together and making a movie." The game's official website is scheduled to open officially on October 20, but we've embedded a shaky cam video of the reveal trailer after the break, courtesy of 8-4's Mark MacDonald.

Gallery: Professor Layton vs. Phoenix Wright (3DS)

Continue reading Professor Layton meets Phoenix Wright in crossover 3DS game

JoystiqProfessor Layton meets Phoenix Wright in crossover 3DS game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsace-attorneyakihiro-hinocapcomdslevel-5level-5-vision-2010level5nintendophoenix-wrightprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-vs-phoenix-wrightTue, 19 Oct 2010 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton DLC already on the cartridge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/professor-layton-dlc-already-on-the-cartridge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/professor-layton-dlc-already-on-the-cartridge/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/22/professor-layton-dlc-already-on-the-cartridge/#commentsFiled under: ,


We're sure that many of you inquisitive DS owners out there have spent countless hours with your eyes peeled to your handheld's twin suns, waiting for Nintendo to post the latest downloadable brainteasers for Professor Layton and the Curious Village. This same group of puzzle junkies may be upset to learn that what they're actually downloading is a code to unlock puzzles which are already on the game cartridge -- essentially meaning that there's a set number of puzzles on the game (162, to be exact).

GoNintendo discovered a supposedly complete list of the game's riddles to back up this claim. You can check out every single puzzle featured in the game, and even choose to sneak a peek at every solution as well -- an action we can't help but feel would be frowned upon by the eponymous scholar and his pint-sized associate.

JoystiqProfessor Layton DLC already on the cartridge originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdslaytonlevel-5level5nintendoprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-and...professorlaytonpuzzlepuzzlesSat, 22 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton and the awesome promotional flyer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/professor-layton-and-the-awesome-promotional-flyer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/professor-layton-and-the-awesome-promotional-flyer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/10/professor-layton-and-the-awesome-promotional-flyer/#commentsFiled under:

It saddens us to say that none of us are wealthy people. If we were, we'd fund the purchase of a ludicrously expensive high-end color printer, which we would then use to print this fantastic promotional poster for Professor Layton and the Curious Village. We'd laminate it, pin it proudly to our wall, and then do the same for all of our friends.

Yes, even the promotional material for this game rocks. This flyer was circulated as part of a recent Nintendo email, and is just like the game it promotes: inventive, quirky, and a little bit different from the usual promotional baloney we encounter.

Hit the break for a far bigger version, and see how quickly you can solve the puzzle.

Continue reading Professor Layton and the awesome promotional flyer

JoystiqProfessor Layton and the awesome promotional flyer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionCurious-VillageCuriousVillageemailLevel-5Level5marketingMysterious-VillageMysteriousVillageposterProfessor-LaytonProfessorLaytonpromopuzzleThu, 10 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Start solving Professor Layton's puzzles early in these new screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/02/start-solving-professor-laytons-puzzles-early-in-these-new-scre/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/02/start-solving-professor-laytons-puzzles-early-in-these-new-scre/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/02/start-solving-professor-laytons-puzzles-early-in-these-new-scre/#commentsFiled under:

For the last few months, we've had no choice but to pore over screens and scans of Professor Layton and the Curious Village that contain nothing but indecipherable kanji. But no longer! This morning, Nintendo issued the first batch of English language screenshots from Level 5's professorial puzzler.

Rather than showing off the game's beautiful manga art, all three depict some of the puzzles we'll encounter when the game hits North America in February, and Europe ... heck, whenever.

Check the new shots out in the gallery below, or go past the break for a clip from The Office that we couldn't help but be reminded of upon seeing the wolf/chick puzzle to the right.

Continue reading Start solving Professor Layton's puzzles early in these new screens

JoystiqStart solving Professor Layton's puzzles early in these new screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jan 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionadventureCurious-VillageCuriousVillageLevel-5Level5Professor-LaytonProfessorLaytonpuzzleWed, 02 Jan 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Inazuma Eleven site scores a GOOOOOAL]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/31/inazuma-eleven-site-scores-a-goooooal/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/31/inazuma-eleven-site-scores-a-goooooal/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/31/inazuma-eleven-site-scores-a-goooooal/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The website for Japanese super-soccer romp Inazuma Eleven has got some stuff going on for the few of you who're as excited for the game as we are. There's a complete character section, explaining all of the different participants in the title. There is also an explanation on the game's controls, plus all of the indecipherable Japanese text you can try to read.

JoystiqInazuma Eleven site scores a GOOOOOAL originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>footballinazuma-eleveninazumaelevenjapanlevel-5level5rpgsoccerMon, 31 Dec 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fresh Famitsu scans for Inazuma Eleven]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/fresh-famitsu-scans-for-inazuma-eleven/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/fresh-famitsu-scans-for-inazuma-eleven/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/26/fresh-famitsu-scans-for-inazuma-eleven/#commentsFiled under:


After getting our peepers knee-deep in some Inazuma Eleven, we knew this game was for us. Not being as obsessed with soccer (football or futbol, to some of you) as the rest of the world, we're still convinced the game will be a big success, because the gameplay looks sound and, of course, it's being made by Level-5. Hopefully menu navigation won't be a pain, because we're pretty sure we're going to have to import it.

For the full scans, head past the break.

Continue reading Fresh Famitsu scans for Inazuma Eleven

JoystiqFresh Famitsu scans for Inazuma Eleven originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>footballinazuma-eleveninazumaelevenjapanlevel-5level5rpgsoccerWed, 26 Dec 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village dated Feb 18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/professor-layton-and-the-mysterious-village-dated-feb-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/professor-layton-and-the-mysterious-village-dated-feb-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/29/professor-layton-and-the-mysterious-village-dated-feb-18/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

prof layton
Here's a concept: take Brain Age and write a story to it. Level-5 did just that, creating Professor Layton for DS, a combination of classic brain teasers and an adventure-style narrative driven by irresistible Totoro-esque looks -- the celebrated developer even got a University professor to slap his seal of approval on it (but stopped short of making Prof. Akira Tago the game's antagonistic talking head).

The first game in the trilogy, Professor Layton and the Curious Mysterious Village, was released in Japan back in February (its sequel arrives this week, with the third game not far behind) and became the envy of westerners keen to the next Ouedan or Gyakuten Saiban breakout hit. Like those series (known as Elite Beat Agents and Phoenix Wright in the US), Professor Layton will be localized for western audiences. Today, we have the date: February 18th, 2008.

If you can navigate through the language barrier, there's a playable demo on the official Japanese site.

JoystiqProfessor Layton and the Mysterious Village dated Feb 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2007 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>akira-tagoDSlevel-5level5professor-laytonThu, 29 Nov 2007 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Inazuma Eleven and Professor Layton 2 trailers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/inazuma-eleven-and-professor-layton-2-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/inazuma-eleven-and-professor-layton-2-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/31/inazuma-eleven-and-professor-layton-2-trailers/#commentsFiled under:

Level-5's Inazuma Eleven gets us interested in soccer the only way anything could: by adding RPG elements and extreeeeeeme anime-ness. Seriously, we'd totally watch soccer if there were more screaming and speed lines. We haven't seen a sports RPG this fun-looking since Acclaim's cancelled Hit the Ice RPG for the NES. Have we even seen a sports RPG since then? No idea.

In other delightful Level-5 news, there's some new footage of Professor Layton and the Devil's Box, courtesy of video recorded from a Level-5 presentation.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqInazuma Eleven and Professor Layton 2 trailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Aug 2007 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureinazumaelevenlaytonlevel5rpgFri, 31 Aug 2007 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton and the Excellent Screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/professor-layton-and-the-excellent-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/professor-layton-and-the-excellent-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/30/professor-layton-and-the-excellent-screenshots/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We haven't even gotten the first Professor Layton adventure yet, and we're already seeing screens of the sequel. Professor Layton and the Devil's Box looks much like the first game, which is to say, gorgeously lush.

The game's scope is expanded from that of its predecessor: the professor and his student Luke have access to a train, which acts not only as a vehicle for traveling to multiple towns (or multiple Curious Villages, if you prefer), but is also the venue for its own puzzles.

These screenshots are best coupled with IGN's preview of the game, for the complete screenshot/description package. The Famitsu page has the same information, but in a less convenient language.

JoystiqProfessor Layton and the Excellent Screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2007 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventuredevilsboxlaytonlevel5professorlaytonThu, 30 Aug 2007 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Another Level 5 title set to create new genre]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/rumor-another-level-5-title-set-to-create-new-genre/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/rumor-another-level-5-title-set-to-create-new-genre/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/rumor-another-level-5-title-set-to-create-new-genre/#commentsFiled under:

If you've been wondering if Level 5 is up to anything other than getting themselves knee-deep in White Knight Story programming code, we've got some good news for you today. Seems a preliminary list of RPG's to show at the Tokyo Game Show compiled by RPGFan denotes a few Level 5 titles, one of which has yet to claim a title of its own. The interesting thing is the description released in the game listing: "set to create a new genre". That's pretty ambitious.

What could this game be? What platform will it land on? We don't have any answers yet, but since Level 5 has a strong connection with Sony and a lot of their time is going into White Knight Story, we don't think it'll be another PS3 title, rather, a PSP title. Yeah, it's not as exciting that way, but do you really think a company would really want to work on two PS3 titles at once? Leave us your thoughts, hypotheses, or guesses!

[via PS3 Forums]

JoystiqRumor: Another Level 5 title set to create new genre originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>level5Thu, 16 Aug 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumors: new Bionic Commando, and four RPGs from Level 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/rumors-new-bionic-commando-and-four-rpgs-from-level-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/rumors-new-bionic-commando-and-four-rpgs-from-level-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/rumors-new-bionic-commando-and-four-rpgs-from-level-5/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The latest issue of Electronic Gaming Monthly's Quartermann rumor mill is coming with a fresh set of rumors to peruse. The juiciest hearsay is that Capcom's Bionic Commando, once rumored to be getting the remake treatment, is now being developed as a full-fledged installment for the PlayStation Network.

Dark Cloud developer Level 5, whose current PlayStation 3 project White Knight Story has been outside of the limelight since wowing us with footage from last year's Tokyo Game Show, is rumored to be announcing four new RPGs at this year's TGS in September. And they're not necessarily PS3 games, either.

Also mentioned? Incoming Dragon Quest remakes, but this isn't exactly a rumor since we heard Square Enix CEO Yoichi Wada explicitly say remakes were coming before Dragon Quest IX. The Quartermann does add some details, however, reporting that the first remake will be Dragon Quest IV for the DS.

JoystiqRumors: new Bionic Commando, and four RPGs from Level 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jul 2007 21:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioniccommandodragonquestlevel5PS3rumorssquareenixwhiteknightstoryFri, 27 Jul 2007 21:40:00 EST<![CDATA[White Knight Story details explain character customization]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/white-knight-story-details-explain-character-customization/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/white-knight-story-details-explain-character-customization/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/white-knight-story-details-explain-character-customization/#commentsFiled under:

Yesterday, we wrote up a story on some new White Knight Story screenshots. Today, after our readers cleverly deduced our assumption regarding character customization was correct, Level 5 has issued a statement regarding that very device as well as hinting at what to expect, gameplay-wise. Shall we listen in?

The player customization is exactly what we wanted to hear -- you create a character to travel with the main party. That means we've still got a static main character and other party members, but you create your own self-image to travel with them. This is a fantastic move, if you ask us. Our reasoning is complicated, but if you're curious enough, we might type up a rant about it should it be requested. This character customization mechanism was actually used to create the main protagonist as well as over 1,000 NPCs.

Finally, gameplay. Level 5 indicates that, aside from the White Knight transformation, battles will play out similar to Rogue Galaxy. We've noticed a few subtle differences, though. Battles seem more organized in pacing, less "mash square and triangle" like RG often forced us to do. It was square and triangle, right? Been a while. What we really think was meant in this comparison was this: action-based RPG battles with seamless loads between battles and map-wandering. The crutch of a standard hard drive in the PS3 will help in shattering any sort of load times and we believe if anyone can pull it off, it should be Level 5. We'll keep you posted with more details as they arrive.

JoystiqWhite Knight Story details explain character customization originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jul 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>level 5Level5white knight storyWhiteKnightStoryWed, 18 Jul 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A triumvirate of White Knight Story screenshots [UPDATE]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/a-triumvirate-of-white-knight-story-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/a-triumvirate-of-white-knight-story-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/17/a-triumvirate-of-white-knight-story-screenshots/#commentsFiled under:

Today is a good day for us. First up, the strangely addictive and get-nothing-accomplished gameplay of Disgaea is making its way onto the PS3. Secondly, donuts were buy two, get one free this morning. Thirdly, we've got some White Knight Story screenshots to share with you, courtesy of IGN. They are awesome, because we're finally starting to get a sense of scale for the great White Knight himself. At least, that's who we imagine is featured in one of the screens.

Another screenshot is what appears to be a shop menu, but ... for some reason, we can't help but think it's a character creation screen. If someone could translate the menu, we'd know for sure. Does this mean you create your main hero, or perhaps create your own personal party member? If so, that would be the coolest thing ever. It's like putting yourself in the shoes of not the "silent protagonist", but "that guy who happened to travel with the world's greatest hero." We know, that sounds odd, but from a writing standpoint, it's a nice touch that we hope is what we assume it is.

[UPDATE] Word has reached us the White Knight Story will be playable at the Tokyo Game Show in September. We'll report back to you with our hands-on impressions during the event.

JoystiqA triumvirate of White Knight Story screenshots [UPDATE] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>level 5Level5playstation 3Playstation3ps3sonywhite knight storyWhiteKnightStoryTue, 17 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[What other RPG studios are plotting PS3 releases? Where's White Knight Story?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/what-other-rpg-studios-are-plotting-ps3-releases-wheres-white/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/what-other-rpg-studios-are-plotting-ps3-releases-wheres-white/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/what-other-rpg-studios-are-plotting-ps3-releases-wheres-white/#commentsThis is a great bit of news for anyone out there who has been itching for some next-gen role-playing action, but like to stay away from the "MTV of RPG: Final Fantasy" stuff. A bunch of Japanese developers sat down and discussed their plans for now regarding the PS3 and you may be happy to know that a lot of studios have started moving on to the new console. We'd talk about the bits mentioned on The Last Remnant or the Final Fantasy XIII games, but it's all stuff we've heard. With that in mind, we'll go on to more obscure titles and studios.

Level 5 has remained hush on their upcoming RPG White Knight Story ever since the showing at the Tokyo Game Show last year, but they've finally issued a statement on the game and what we can expect at E3. Level 5's president Hino Akihiro says their development is progressing well and "should be able to show everyone something really soon." In addition to that, he said the graphical quality shown at TGS is just a taste of what's to come. We're fairly sure he's referring to the scope of the enemies and places in the game. We recall hearing about a giant turtle with a city on its back?

Other studios voiced their thoughts and plans also. Gust, makers of the Atelier games as well as Ar Tonelico, have new games currently in development. It should be noted that Gust and Banpresto are finishing up Ar Tonelico 2 for the PS2, but there's no word on whether or not it will come to America. If Nippon Ichi Studios is nice, they'll bring it over even though it'll probably stay on the PS2. Please! It was an amazing first game. We gush, but we were moved by it somehow. Other studios working on titles include: Takuyo, Namco Bandai, Hudson, Sunrise Interactive and of course, Nippon Ichi. We'll keep our eyes peeled for any info on their games because we loves us our RPGs.

JoystiqWhat other RPG studios are plotting PS3 releases? Where's White Knight Story? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gustlevel 5Level5nippon ichi softwareNipponIchiSoftwarenisPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3RPGSonywhite knight storyWhiteKnightStoryWed, 27 Jun 2007 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A trio of Jeanne D'arc movies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/a-trio-of-jeanne-darc-movies/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/a-trio-of-jeanne-darc-movies/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/a-trio-of-jeanne-darc-movies/#commentsFiled under: ,

The upcoming PSP SRPG, Jeanne D'arc looks incredible. Three new videos showcase the beautiful anime cutscenes, graphics, and accessible gameplay. It looks to have all the things that make Level-5 games so good. We're still a bit iffy on the voice acting, but color us impressed by everything else. The RPG will hit the handheld towards the end of summer, in August.

Check out the two other videos, after the cut.

Continue reading A trio of Jeanne D'arc movies

JoystiqA trio of Jeanne D'arc movies originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeanne d\\\'arcJeanne-DarcJeanneDarcJeanneD\\\'arclevel 5level-5Level5RPGSCESony-Computer-EntertainmentsrpgTue, 26 Jun 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Level 5 answers a few easy questions on Jeanne d'Arc]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/level-5-answers-a-few-easy-questions-on-jeanne-darc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/level-5-answers-a-few-easy-questions-on-jeanne-darc/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/level-5-answers-a-few-easy-questions-on-jeanne-darc/#commentsFiled under: ,

SCEA recently lobbed a few softball questions for Level 5, the talented team behind Jeanne d'Arc, a title we've had our eye on for some time now. The questions ranged from asking how long the game has been in development [2 years] to describing the overall world and story behind the game. The full interview has been included for your reading pleasure, after the break.

New details on the combat system are given, which imply importance on stance and character position in order to maximize combat skills. One of the combat particulars "Burning Aura," deals additional damage by trapping enemies between two playable characters whereas "Unified Guard" involves lining up your characters side by side to lessen the blow of damage from bad guys. We're already hooked, how about you? Anyone else got this one on your immediate radar? Jeanne d'Arc should be hitting stateside in August.

Continue reading Level 5 answers a few easy questions on Jeanne d'Arc

JoystiqLevel 5 answers a few easy questions on Jeanne d'Arc originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burning auraBurningAurajeanne d\'arcJeanne-DarcJeanneDarcJeanneD\'arclevel 5Level-5Level5RPGSCEsceaSony-Computer-Entertainmentunified guardUnifiedGuardTue, 05 Jun 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeanne D'Arc readies up for North American release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/jeanne-darc-readies-up-for-north-american-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/jeanne-darc-readies-up-for-north-american-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/jeanne-darc-readies-up-for-north-american-release/#commentsFiled under: ,

The folks over at Gamepro have an early preview of Level 5's upcoming turn-based RPG, Jeanne D'Arc. Previous information has been gathered from the original Japanese release and now, we get a taste for what to expect when the anticipated title comes stateside.

The game draws obvious inspiration from true-to-life Joan of Arc and appears to be much more light-hearted with its approach to the source material. Early impressions from the Japanese release seem overall, pretty positive. This title should satisfy gamers looking to satiate their hunger for more strategic game play, and having exceptional visuals is of course, a welcome addition to any party. Jeanne D'Arc is headed for North American shores in August. Until then, enjoy the screenshots!

JoystiqJeanne D'Arc readies up for North American release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeanne d\'arcJeanne-DarcJeanneDarcJeanneD\'arcjoan of arcJoanOfArclevel 5Level-5Level5rpgSCESony-Computer-Entertainmentstrategyturn-basedWed, 09 May 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[At last: Professor Layton coming to U.S., per EGM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/at-last-professor-layton-coming-to-u-s-per-egm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/at-last-professor-layton-coming-to-u-s-per-egm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/at-last-professor-layton-coming-to-u-s-per-egm/#commentsFiled under:

Now, this is being reported as a rumor, but the mere mention of Level-5's Professor Layton trilogy gets us too excited for words. Since this game was first revealed, with its beautiful character designs and logic puzzles, we've been hoping against hope for an English translation, and Electronic Gaming Monthly intimates that it is probably going to happen.

Now we're going to be chewing our nails down to nubs as we wait for some hint of confirmation. We can't help it. We're adventure junkies, and the Studio Ghibli-esque look of the Professor Layton franchise completely had us at hello. If it all works out, the good Professor may even compete with a certain Ace Attorney for a place in our hearts.

And speaking of hearts -- in that same issue, there are a few other rumors worth mentioning. The first involves whispers of a remade Bonk game for both the DS and the Wii. The other is a little more cryptic: the next Kingdom Hearts will be a spin-off, and it's coming to a "hearty" console. Unless they mean "hearty" as in robust (which would probably indicate the PS3 or the 360), then this could very well refer to the DS, which certainly reaps a hearty profit every month, no matter where you are. And for good measure, it's available in pink. We'll ponder that one once we're done jumping up and down and singing the unofficial "Professor Layton is coming," song, which is really just us chanting that single phrase over and over until someone throws a paperweight at us.

Luckily, we're adept at dodging.

JoystiqAt last: Professor Layton coming to U.S., per EGM originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jeanne d'Arc has easily been one of our most anticipated games for the system. Sony Computer Entertainment of America has just announced a US release date for this strategy RPG, and it's a little sooner than we thought. This August, players will be able to take on Level 5's latest SRPG, based very loosely on the story of Joan of Arc.

Check out our previous coverage of the game, and don't forget to look at the beautiful new English screenshots, after the break. [Update 1: Sony has opened a sparse, but beautiful, official website for the game.]

Continue reading Jeanne d'Arc comes to US this August [Update 1]

JoystiqJeanne d'Arc comes to US this August [Update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeanne d\'arcJeanne-DarcJeanneDarcJeanneD\'arcjoan of arcJoanOfArcjrpglevel 5Level-5Level5rpgSCEsceaSony-Computer-EntertainmentsrpgWed, 21 Mar 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Details on the second in Professor Layton's trilogy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/details-on-the-second-in-professor-laytons-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/details-on-the-second-in-professor-laytons-trilogy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/05/details-on-the-second-in-professor-laytons-trilogy/#commentsFiled under:

Just when we thought we had settled the issue of Professor Layton and the Townlike Area of Disputed Size (aka the 'Mysterious Village'), 1UP's preview of the second installment in the trilogy raises questions about the upcoming game's translated title. Thus far we've seen it written Professor Layton and Pandora's Box, but according to 1UP, it's the 'Devil's Box.' By any name, however, the first game looks incredible, and the second may be shaping up to be even better.

Some things in this second installment will be the same, such as the logic puzzles created by Akira Tago, and the Professor will again be accompanied by his assistant Luke. The story is where the second title really takes a turn. Instead of exploring -- you guessed it -- a mysterious village, the action in the second adventure revolves around a corpse, a train, and a strange box. Since the game already features a soft, retro look, mixing that with a traditional train-based murder mystery looks like a match made in heaven. Now if only we could get some localization news!

JoystiqDetails on the second in Professor Layton's trilogy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Mar 2007 16:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureDevil's BoxDevil'sBoxDSLevel 5Level5NintendoPandora's BoxPandora'sBoxProfessor LaytonProfessorLaytonpuzzlerpgMon, 05 Mar 2007 16:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Already, screens from the Professor Layton sequel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/already-screens-from-the-professor-layton-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/already-screens-from-the-professor-layton-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/28/already-screens-from-the-professor-layton-sequel/#commentsFiled under: ,



They don't believe in wasting time over there at Level-5. The first game was just released in Japan, and not only do we have a sequel in the works for Professor Layton, but we're already seeing more images from the game. Yes, more -- we already saw a few when the sequel was announced!

We expect Professor Layton and Pandora's Box to have a firm release date by next week, and to be on shelves the week after. Okay, not really, but the sarcasm may not be too far off the mark. Check out a few of the pics after the jump. They're from scans, so may not be the best quality, but certainly good enough to see that the visuals are still uniquely gorgeous.

Continue reading Already, screens from the Professor Layton sequel

JoystiqAlready, screens from the Professor Layton sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Feb 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureDSLevel 5Level5logicNintendoProfessor LaytonProfessorLaytonpuzzleWed, 28 Feb 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton will rock your socks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/professor-layton-will-rock-your-socks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/professor-layton-will-rock-your-socks/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/20/professor-layton-will-rock-your-socks/#commentsFiled under: ,

Now we feel justified for all those times we were jumping up and down over new details on Professor Layton and the Mysterious Town (that may be a Village). Chris Kohler had nothing but love for this import over at Game|Life; he's praised everything from the animation to the story to the game's logic puzzles. We're expecting his homage to the box art any moment now.

If you want a sense of the level of challenge in Professor Layton, Kohler's put up the text of a few of the logic puzzlers that pepper the game, as well as one of the trailers. We've added it here as well, just in case you missed it the first time around. Check it out after the jump, and we're sure you'll join us in keeping our fingers crossed for an English translation.

Continue reading Professor Layton will rock your socks

JoystiqProfessor Layton will rock your socks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureDSimportlevel 5Level5mysterious townmysterious villageMysteriousTownMysteriousVillaNintendoprofessor laytonProfessorLaytonpuzzletrailerTue, 20 Feb 2007 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Already, a second round with Professor Layton]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/already-a-second-round-with-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/already-a-second-round-with-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/already-a-second-round-with-professor-layton/#commentsFiled under:



It looks like we were totally justified in going nuts for Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village. The game is barely out of the gate in Japan and Level-5 has already announced a second installment in what will apparently be a trilogy. The upcoming sequel, tentatively titled Professor Layton and Pandora's Box, will feature a train -- and that's all we know. If it's anything like what we've seen from the first game, it will be a beautiful, Miyazaki-inspired train rendered in muted colors, and it will probably make us drool.

Right now, all we want for Christmas is an English translation ... or intensive Japanese lessons. We need this game!

JoystiqAlready, a second round with Professor Layton originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Feb 2007 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureDSLevel 5Level5NintendoProfessor LaytonProfessorLaytonpuzzlesequelThu, 15 Feb 2007 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan set to implode: Dragon's Quest IX is a DS exclusive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/japan-set-to-implode-dragons-quest-ix-is-a-ds-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/japan-set-to-implode-dragons-quest-ix-is-a-ds-exclusive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/12/japan-set-to-implode-dragons-quest-ix-is-a-ds-exclusive/#commentsFiled under:

Yayz!You heard it, folks: at Square-Enix's annual Jump Festa event, they let the bomb drop: the next entry in the venerable Dragon's Quest series, entitled Dragon's Quest IX: Defender of the Stars (another silly "DS" subtitle) will be coming exclusively to everyone's favorite little handheld. This is huge news: this franchise is second only to perhaps Final Fantasy in Japan, and still one of the most respected names in gaming worldwide. Having the title being developed exclusively on a Nintendo system is a clear show of faith from SE (they're also releasing a Final Fantasy XII sequel, Revenant Wings, sometime next year), and hopefully, even more Wii and DS support will follow.

Development of the game is being passed over to Level 5 (also working on White Knight Story for the PS3), and it'll feature a four-player co-op mode as well. Of course, there's no definite release date, but the team mentioned that they'd like to have it out sometime in 2007.

Let this news wash over your Tuesday, and make it full of glee and joy. Bring on DQIXDS!

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in, and GoNintendo for the pic!]

JoystiqJapan set to implode: Dragon's Quest IX is a DS exclusive originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Dec 2006 02:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Co-OpDefenderDragonDragon'sFestaFinal FantasyFinalFantasyJumpLevelLevel 5Level5QuestRevenantStarsSupportWingsTue, 12 Dec 2006 02:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Scanning Professor Layton]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/scanning-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/scanning-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/scanning-professor-layton/#commentsFiled under:

We've seen a flood of scans and screenshots and other media from Level 5's upcoming Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village, but there's a common theme in what we see: it's all the same. We want more! The latest Famitsu and Nintendo Dream scans reveal a few more details (likely more for those lucky enough to be able to translate the Japanese); of particular note are the gameplay screens that give us a look at how it all fits together.

As adventure games go, this seems to have a lot of potential, though much will depend on the story, since it seems so driven by the tale. It's nice to see a few more pictures of characters as well, though unfortunately, the two scans feature a lot of the same images.

Continue reading Scanning Professor Layton

JoystiqScanning Professor Layton originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Nov 2006 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureDSLevel 5Level5NintendoProfessor LaytonProfessorLaytonpuzzleWed, 29 Nov 2006 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[New Jeanne d'Arc trailer showcases gameplay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/new-jeanne-darc-trailer-showcases-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/new-jeanne-darc-trailer-showcases-gameplay/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/new-jeanne-darc-trailer-showcases-gameplay/#commentsFiled under: ,

This new Jeanne d'Arc trailer shows a few of the game's 150 characters, some more awesome cut scenes and some mouth-watering grid-based combat action, which the first trailer lacked.

If you've been stuck underneath a rock the past few months and don't know much about Jeanne d'Arc, the game takes place in a fictional world based on the true story of Joan of Arc. It will feature 40 to 50 stages and should take anywhere from seven to 25 hours to complete.

The game should ship Nov. 20 in Japan and is currently not scheduled for a US release.

JoystiqNew Jeanne d'Arc trailer showcases gameplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeanne d\'arcJeanne-DarcJeanneDarcJeanneD\'arcjoan of arcJoanOfArclevel 5Level-5Level5RPGSCESony-Computer-Entertainmentstrategy rpgStrategyRpgvideosWed, 08 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A deeper look at Professor Layton]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/07/a-deeper-look-at-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/07/a-deeper-look-at-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/07/a-deeper-look-at-professor-layton/#commentsFiled under:

Another video (complete with crowd noise) from Nintendo World, and this time it's for our latest obsession, Professor Layton and the Unknown and Sorta Mysterious Town-like Place That We've Seen Called Many Different Things*. Uh, pretty sure that's a working title.

So, the truth -- this video is, frankly, a little long. And devoid of sound, part of it is a little repetitive. However, it seems worth a watch since it reveals an interesting cast of characters, as well as some hints of the gameplay. And that's worth sitting through a little of the back-and-forth, though for a minute there, it looked like the sequel: Professor Layton and This Really Angry Woman. It's also somewhat impressive to see such a long clip of storyline, though the whole foreign language thing makes sad pandas of us all. Oh well. This forthcoming adventure/puzzle hybrid has us intrigued. Check out the video after the cut.

*No, really, it's Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village. Probably.

Continue reading A deeper look at Professor Layton

JoystiqA deeper look at Professor Layton originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Nov 2006 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureDSLevel 5Level5NintendoProfessor LaytonProfessorLaytonTue, 07 Nov 2006 16:02:00 EST<![CDATA[A chat with the real prof. behind Professor Layton]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/20/a-chat-with-the-real-prof-behind-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/20/a-chat-with-the-real-prof-behind-professor-layton/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/20/a-chat-with-the-real-prof-behind-professor-layton/#commentsFiled under:

Recently, some folks at Famitsu sat down with Professor Akira Tago, the puzzle-creator working on the upcoming Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village (aka "that game that is either in a town or a village or your backyard, we're not sure"). Akihiro Hino, president of developer Level 5, joined in as well to discuss the game.

The interview opens with a recap of the two's first meeting, a story which boasts more than a little "awww" factor. Hino grew up a fan of Tago's puzzle books and they stayed with him over the years, until he got the idea of incorporating the puzzles into a game. Tago lived up to the legend in Hino's mind by performing a magic trick at their first meeting, and after that, it was just a matter of laying the game's foundation. The popularity of brain-training titles served as a guiding star to the pair, but they wanted to make sure there was an engaging story interlaced with the puzzles.

Interestingly, working with the DS presented a challenge to the team. While it seems like a no-brainer when it comes to puzzle games, the stylus actually presented something of an obstacle, forcing them to rethink certain aspects of the game. We're glad they got that worked out!

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqA chat with the real prof. behind Professor Layton originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Oct 2006 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Just yesterday, we reported on the upcoming Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village (though yesterday, silly us, we thought it was a town), and lo, a trailer has materialized. How convenient! And is it ever eye-poppingly beautiful. Level 5 seems to really have a potential gold mine on their hands with this one. Check out the trailer embedded after the jump -- we promise it will not disappoint! The Japanese website is also open, and after you wipe away the drool that's sure to dribble a little while you're watching the trailer, you'll want to stop by.

Continue reading Professor Layton and the Mysterious Village trailer

JoystiqProfessor Layton and the Mysterious Village trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Oct 2006 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionDSLevel 5Level5NintendoProfessor LaytonProfessorLaytonpuzzletrailervideoFri, 13 Oct 2006 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton and Mysterious Town]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/professor-layton-and-mysterious-town/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/professor-layton-and-mysterious-town/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/12/professor-layton-and-mysterious-town/#commentsFiled under:

RPG developer Level 5 is working on an intriguing new title that will hit Japan in February -- Professor Layton and Mysterious Town, a puzzle game. Puzzle game on the DS, you say? That's nothing new. Well, perhaps not, but what's different here (besides the style) is that they game is being co-developed by Akira Tago, the Chiba University professor behind a series of logic puzzle books. It'll be interesting to see what sort of impact that has not only on the puzzles themselves, but on the story. We're obviously big fans of game developers in general (it kinda goes with the fanboy-ism), but it's always nice to see other creative minds working in conjunction with game devs.

JoystiqProfessor Layton and Mysterious Town originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Oct 2006 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Level 5Level5logicNintendo DSNintendoDsProfessor Layton and Mysterious TownProfessorLaytonAndMysteriousTownpuzzleThu, 12 Oct 2006 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[We need a little more White Knight Story in our lives...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/07/we-need-a-little-more-white-knight-story-in-our-lives/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/07/we-need-a-little-more-white-knight-story-in-our-lives/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/07/we-need-a-little-more-white-knight-story-in-our-lives/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's been a little while since we've heard about Level 5's White Knight Story, arguably one of the coolest games shown at TGS, less arguably and more accepted as the most badass RPG shown at TGS. Akihiro Hino, producer of White Knight Story, sat down for a quickie with IGN recently. There, some interesting pieces of information were revealed... mostly resulting in mad respect points.

First off, they expect to have a full RPG experience -- we mean a 50-60 hour gameplay time, which no next-gen game has even come close to attaining. This means the game will take its time in development. That's a situation Hino had to fight for. Initially, there was some pressure by Sony to try to get the game out in time for the PS3's launch window. That would have cut the story, thereby the whole experience, short. Respect for taking the time to make a good game, Level 5. Respect. We'll see this game in 2007, hopefully.

JoystiqWe need a little more White Knight Story in our lives... originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Oct 2006 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Level 5Level5Playstation 3Playstation3PS3SonyWhite Knight StoryWhiteKnightStorySat, 07 Oct 2006 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[White Knight Story website up and jogging briskly]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/23/white-knight-story-website-up-and-jogging-briskly/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/23/white-knight-story-website-up-and-jogging-briskly/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/23/white-knight-story-website-up-and-jogging-briskly/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's not quite "running" yet, since there is only a neat backdrop, lots of Japanese, and six works of art (two game screens, four concept arts), but Level 5 has still given us a White Knight Story website. The two screens are both of the hero -- as a gorgeous CG-anime manboy, and then as the giant knight of white, in a classic Power Rangers megazord (right? It's been like... 10 years since I've seen that show) stance. What's amazing, though, is the concept art. It's something to frame and put on your wall. Just look at the above screen. It's a giant turtle. With a town on it. Look, look at the ship docked above its head. We can only imagine what that'll look like in the final game. A beautiful castle is also depicted, as is... an outfitted fellow doing some sky-driving? Finally, a castle hallway. After that, the website tells you to Go Home. Enjoy!

JoystiqWhite Knight Story website up and jogging briskly originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Sep 2006 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Level 5Level5Playstation 3Playstation3PS3SonyWhite Knight StoryWhiteKnightStorySat, 23 Sep 2006 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More White Knight Story info]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/more-white-knight-story-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/more-white-knight-story-info/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/more-white-knight-story-info/#commentsFiled under: ,

Did Enchanted Arms not deliver on the "next-gen RPG" front? Are you looking for something that is promising to blow you away? White Knight Story is starting to shape into that game we RPG freaks will count the days to. Perhaps it's IGN delivering a rosy, flattering preview, but even if so, the meaning behind the words remains the same -- this game is next-gen. All. The. Way.

Let's start off with a favorite quote from IGN's article. "With Level 5's animation system, swords realistically strike other swords and shields, rather than cutting right through characters. If a character blocks an incoming attack, you'll see his shield go up and physically block the sword. The collision is perfect. In White Knight Story, two characters sparring really look like they're sparring." No more magical sword-passing-through-enemy stuff! If the collision really is perfect (especially on the finished product) then that is quite an astonishing feat.

There's some more blah-blah-blah about the visuals and trust us, we bet they're damn gorgeous too, but until we get to see some screens for ourselves, we'll not hype up the graphics just yet. Check out what else IGN had to say and let's get a "oooooh yeeeeeah" if you're looking forward to what may be the first true next-gen RPG experience. Oh, and no, I didn't draw the image. I suck at drawing.

JoystiqMore White Knight Story info originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Sep 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Level 5Level5Playstation 3Playstation3PS3SonyTokyo Game ShowTokyoGameShowWhite Knight StoryWhiteKnightStoryFri, 22 Sep 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[White Knight Story for PS3 sounds huge -- literally]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/21/white-knight-story-for-ps3-sounds-huge-literally/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/21/white-knight-story-for-ps3-sounds-huge-literally/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/21/white-knight-story-for-ps3-sounds-huge-literally/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Imagine a giant turtle carrying an entire town on its back. No, this isn't a rip from Terry Pratchett's "Discworld" novels (the giant turtle carried the whole world, if memory recalls correctly), this is an example the scale being delivered in Level 5's new RPG, White Knight Story. You'll remember that Level 5 was in charge of Dragon Quest VIII and the soon-to-be-stateside-after-a-ton-of-delays Rogue Galaxy, so you've got to expect quality from these guys.

WKS is the tale of a boy who can transform into a 7 meter tall knight thanks to an ancient artifact. Enough of that! Let's get technical. This game is about scale. Texture limitations prevented a title of such, er, magnitude to come into existence on previous consoles. Now, however, we can show such small details on large objects that it's entirely possible! In fact, Level 5 has to make its own capture studio for this game since it is using an incredibly complex animation blending studio.

The battles themselves stray from the typical JRPG and almost sound like a single-player MMO experience, with a palette of skills to set up for each character. You can only control one character in battle at a time like in the ill-received Magna Carta and use only the skills you've equipped. It sounds further along in development than expected and we'll get more details as it's unveiled over the next couple of days. Awesome!

JoystiqWhite Knight Story for PS3 sounds huge -- literally originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 Sep 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Level 5Level5Playstation 3Playstation3PS3Tokyo Game ShowTokyoGameShowWhite Knight StoryWhiteKnightStoryThu, 21 Sep 2006 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New historical RPG Jeanne d'Arc to have 150 characters and talking lions [Update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/20/new-historical-rpg-jeanne-darc-to-have-150-characters-and-talki/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/20/new-historical-rpg-jeanne-darc-to-have-150-characters-and-talki/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/20/new-historical-rpg-jeanne-darc-to-have-150-characters-and-talki/#commentsFiled under: ,

Yesterday, Famitsu revealed the big PSP game that we've been waiting for. IGN's Canadian Japanese correspondant, Anoop, has unearthed more information from an interview Famitsu conducted with Level 5. For a change of pace, the development team wanted to make a female hero. Also, they wanted to have a historical game and they've done a lot of research. Of course, that doesn't mean that it'll be 100% historically accurate: it'll still have magic and talking lions. When discussing development for the PSP, the team wanted to make a balanced gameplay system that would be suitable for both hardcore and casual players. Although the game will be on a handheld, the team at Level 5 have no intentions of making a small game, though. The game will have around 150 characters, and between 40 and 50 stages. Each stage, being about 10 to 30 minutes long means that the game will be somewhere between 7 and 25 hours long. Interesting.

If you haven't yet, you should get really excited for this project. The team at Level 5 is known for their excellent Dark Cloud games and Dragon Quest VIII. Their upcoming game, Rogue Galaxy, is featured in the screenshot to the right. Hopefully, we'll get more news on this game around Tokyo Game Show.

[Update 1: Included an image from Famitsu scan. Gallery is available here.]

JoystiqNew historical RPG Jeanne d'Arc to have 150 characters and talking lions [Update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Jul 2006 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anoopfamitsujeanne d\'arcJeanne-DarcJeanneDarcJeanneD\'arcjoan of arcJoanOfArclevel 5level-5Level5RPGSCESony-Computer-EntertainmentThu, 20 Jul 2006 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Level 5's super-secret RPG revealed!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/19/level-5s-super-secret-rpg-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/19/level-5s-super-secret-rpg-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/07/19/level-5s-super-secret-rpg-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,

Remember how Famitsu said they had the scoop on some big-name game coming for the PSP? Well, here it is folks. A tiny scan from NeoGAF shows that it's a new strategy RPG from big-name developer Level 5. It's entiteld "Jeanne d' Arc," or Joan of Arc, for you English-speaking folk. What has Level 5 done before, you ask? They're the ones responsible for the uber-hit Dragon Quest VIII.

Additional reporting from IGN reveals more info on the game: it takes place in a fictional world based on the true story of Joan. While hearing voices from the heavens, Joan is ordered to fight demons and the English army. In order to do so, she will partake in turn-based strategy battles. However, there are a few twists. Features like "Burning Site" and "Connection Guard" can boost stats of players on the field, drastically changing the flow of battle. The game features "full 3D visuals that appear to actually push the PSP hardware" and is 70% done. We can expect more news on this hot PSP-exclusive title soon, considering how it will come out by the end of the year... in Japan.

JoystiqLevel 5's super-secret RPG revealed! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Jul 2006 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famitsujeanne d\'arcJeanne-DarcJeanneDarcJeanneD\'arcjoan of arcJoanOfArclevel 5Level-5Level5neogafRPGSCESony-Computer-EntertainmentWed, 19 Jul 2006 15:20:00 EST