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[Guardians of Middle-Earth review: MOBA fête]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/guardians-of-middle-earth-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/guardians-of-middle-earth-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/07/guardians-of-middle-earth-review/#comments Guardians of MiddleEarth review MOBA a feeling"Multiplayer Online Battle Arena," or MOBA, is the name given to the emerging genre of games initiated by Dota, and now led by games like League of Legends, Dota 2, Heroes of Newerth, Smite, and more. Because MOBA games come from a heritage of real-time strategy gameplay, they tend to have most of the qualities of that genre. They're complicated, high stakes affairs, with lots of controls and nuances, where one little move can sometimes turn the tide of battle completely. These are traditionally games meant for hotkeys and minimap clicking, mouse precision and a Ventrilo client, rather than the relatively imprecise triggers and joysticks on a console controller.

Which makes it all the more impressive, then, that Monolith (a studio with a long shooter tradition that includes No One Lives Forever and the FEAR series) has chosen to take on Guardians of Middle Earth, a MOBA game designed from the ground up to recreate the traditionally PC-centric experience on consoles. Yes, games like Awesomenauts and Monday Night Combat have borrowed MOBA principles, but Monolith here goes full bore, all the way back to the top-down isometric view that began with the original Starcraft Aeon of Strife map at the genre's inception.

In fact, given this task, the fact that Monolith's game also happens to use the Lord of the Rings license (right around the release of the new Hobbit film) is almost inconsequential. Tolkien nerds may want to see Sauron battling it out with Gandalf directly, but MOBA nerds should be even more excited to see what Monolith does with this emerging new form.

Gallery: Guardians of Middle-earth (E3 2012)

Continue reading Guardians of Middle-Earth review: MOBA fête

JoystiqGuardians of Middle-Earth review: MOBA fête originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balanceconventionsgenreguardians-of-middle-earthlord-of-the-ringsmicrosoftmobamonolithplaystationps3reviewxboxFri, 07 Dec 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[They're taking the hobbits to Isengard, elsewhere in this Guardians gameplay video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/theyre-taking-the-hobbits-to-isengard-elsewhere-in-this-guardi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/theyre-taking-the-hobbits-to-isengard-elsewhere-in-this-guardi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/30/theyre-taking-the-hobbits-to-isengard-elsewhere-in-this-guardi/#comments Three lanes of LOTR, trailerized
Sometimes when we start up a game with branching story paths or "evil" character options, we'll get down with our bad selves and go for the dark choices, intent on violently slaughtering the goody-two-shoes right off the "light" side. With Guardians of Middle-earth, we don't think we'll be able to do that, though.

Perhaps it's because we're invested in the lore of Lord of the Rings, because we've spent years devouring the books, films and Trivial Pursuit board games, and we've rooted for Frodo, Gandalf and the good guys to win the whole time. Choosing to play as Sauron now would feel dirty.

That said, the first-ever gameplay trailer for Guardians of Middle-earth makes each side look equally cool, and it promises the game will launch this fall, for XBLA and PSN only. Go Gandalf! Really, go -- Sauron's like right behind you.

JoystiqThey're taking the hobbits to Isengard, elsewhere in this Guardians gameplay video originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guardians-of-middle-earthlord-of-the-ringsmicrosoftMOBAMonolithMonolith-Productionsplaystationps3PSNWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-InteractiveXBLAxboxSat, 30 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mind-blowing Middle-earth manufactured in Minecraft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/23/mind-blowing-middle-earth-manufactured-in-minecraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/23/mind-blowing-middle-earth-manufactured-in-minecraft/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/23/mind-blowing-middle-earth-manufactured-in-minecraft/#comments
Minecraft is one of the most flexible creation engines this side of LittleBigPlanet, and despite the pretty cool stuff we've seen in the past, nothing comes even remotely close to the synapse-destroying brilliance of the in-game, more-or-less-to-scale Middle-earth created by Shorvok and the hobbits of Minecraft Middle-Earth.

A large majority of the reproduction has been crafted without the use of plug-ins, with incredibly massive cliff-faces and mountain vistas being carved by hand. More than a thousand man-hours have been devoted to the project, and the results are nothing less than breathtaking. If you've got the time, we heartily recommend watching the full video. If you're pressed for time, however, make sure and check out Rivendell at 29:09 and the Mines of Moria at 33:23.

[Thanks EvoHelix!]

(Please note, neither Joystiq nor Minecraft Middle-Earth can be held responsible for brains exploded in bewilderment.)

JoystiqMind-blowing Middle-earth manufactured in Minecraft originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Lord-Of-The-RingsMiddle-EarthMinecraftMines-of-MoriapcRivendellYouTubeSat, 23 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online to go free-to-play this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/04/lord-of-the-rings-online-to-go-free-to-play-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/04/lord-of-the-rings-online-to-go-free-to-play-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/04/lord-of-the-rings-online-to-go-free-to-play-this-fall/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Following the success of its other MMO property, Dungeons and Dragons Online: Eberron Unlimited, it's not surprising that Turbine has elected to make the three-year-old MMO Lord of the Rings Online free-to-play sometime this fall. At that time, players will be able to download and explore the game for free, with the option to purchase additional content, including expansions, quest packs, items and "account services" from an online storefront. Players will also have the option to become "VIP" members, which automatically gives them access to these items. Turbine did not specify if VIP membership was a one-time fee or an ongoing subscription cost.

If you're wondering how Lord of the Rings Online will operate under this new pricing structure -- well, Turbine probably is as well. Both parties' curiosity will likely be satisfied by a closed beta, which kicks off June 16.

JoystiqLord of the Rings Online to go free-to-play this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jun 2010 09:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betafree-to-playlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinemmommorpgturbinewarner-brosFri, 04 Jun 2010 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online celebrating 3rd birthday with $10 subscription]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/lord-of-the-rings-online-celebrating-3rd-birthday-with-10-subsc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/lord-of-the-rings-online-celebrating-3rd-birthday-with-10-subsc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/26/lord-of-the-rings-online-celebrating-3rd-birthday-with-10-subsc/#comments To celebrate the arrival of its third birthday -- or, as is more accurate when describing the age of MMOs, the third year it's managed to avoid the sweet release of a global server shutdown -- Lord of the Rings Online is seeing a temporary reduction in the cost of its monthly subscription fee. From April 26 to June 30, you can grab a three, six or 12 month subscription for LotRO for just $9.99 a month, down from the standard rate of $14.99 a month.

In addition, Turbine is turning up the rare item drop rate for monsters during the birthday festivities, and is providing each player with a skill which reduces the price of vendor goods by 20 percent. That's awfully nice of the studio, but aren't birthday-havers supposed to receive presents, and not give them? We're not complaining, mind you -- we just feel like we're taking advantage.

JoystiqLord of the Rings Online celebrating 3rd birthday with $10 subscription originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>birthdaydiscountlord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinemmommorpgsalesubscriptionturbineMon, 26 Apr 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy the Lord of the Rings HD trilogy on PSN, get a free dynamic theme]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/buy-the-lord-of-the-rings-hd-trilogy-on-psn-get-a-free-dynamic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/buy-the-lord-of-the-rings-hd-trilogy-on-psn-get-a-free-dynamic/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/11/buy-the-lord-of-the-rings-hd-trilogy-on-psn-get-a-free-dynamic/#comments We're constantly looking for reasons to re-purchase the Lord of the Rings film trilogy -- a fact clearly evidenced by our ownership of the theatrical versions of the films, the extended director's cut of each movie, the Blu-ray version of the trilogy, and another set of each of those, so we can keep one in mint condition, and watch the other on a bi-weekly basis.

A recent PlayStation.Blog post has informed us that we'll need to shell out for yet another version of the films: The HD, downloadable trilogy on the PlayStation Store. Not only does it curtail our need to purchase two versions of the bundle, but it also comes with a free, LoTR-based dynamic PS3 theme. We've already collected a number of background skins for Sony's home gaming console, but we have a feeling this one has a pretty good shot at ruling them all.

JoystiqBuy the Lord of the Rings HD trilogy on PSN, get a free dynamic theme originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raydynamic-themehdhigh-deflord-of-the-ringsmovienew-line-cinemaplaystation-storepsnthemetrilogySun, 11 Apr 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings: War in the North announced by WBIE; Snowblind developing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/wbie-announces-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-from-snowblin/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/wbie-announces-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-from-snowblin/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/18/wbie-announces-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-north-from-snowblin/#commentsIf you've been nervously tapping your fuzzy Hobbit toes in anticipation of the project behind the trademarked "Lord of the Rings: War in the North," then prepare for a delicious second breakfast of information. Warner Bros. Interactive has officially announced the game which, as it turns out, is an RPG from Champions of Norrath / Justice League Heroes developer Snowblind Studios, due for PC, PS3, and Xbox 360 in 2011.

It sounds like it will be familiar gameplay to fans of those games, as well. Snowblind head Ryan Geithman calls it "a natural evolution of the acclaimed RPG gameplay that Snowblind has consistently delivered over the past years." In this online co-op RPG, up to three players will take part in the War of the Ring, visiting areas and meeting characters from the films and uncovering "unseen lands, story elements and characters from Middle-earth."

The game will receive a full reveal in PlayStation: The Official Magazine's May issue, which will be on shelves April 6. Head past the break for a trailer.

Continue reading Lord of the Rings: War in the North announced by WBIE; Snowblind developing

JoystiqLord of the Rings: War in the North announced by WBIE; Snowblind developing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-northMicrosoftRPGsnowblind-studiosWarner-Bros-InteractiveWBIEXbox-360Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest makes 'Move' to PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/lord-of-the-rings-aragorns-quest-makes-move-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/lord-of-the-rings-aragorns-quest-makes-move-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/11/lord-of-the-rings-aragorns-quest-makes-move-to-ps3/#comments
[Wii version]
Warner Bros. Interactive has revealed that, in addition to the previously announced PS2, PSP, DS and Wii releases, it's putting Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest on PS3 -- with PlayStation Move support. The kid-friendly LOTR game will now be released this fall (delayed again!) on all five platforms, with the Wii version developed by Headstrong Games (yes, that Headstrong Games) and the others by TT Fusion. Of course, the Wii and PS3 versions will be the only ones with motion control, and they will also be the only versions featuring two-player co-op (with the second player controlling Gandalf).

The PS3 version won't be an exact port of the Wii one, but it's the same idea -- a game for which the Wii was originally the lead platform, now spreading to the PS3 thanks to the existence of a very Wii-like motion controller. It may be the first, but this is definitely not the last time we'll see this!

JoystiqLord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest makes 'Move' to PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aragorns-questdelaysDSfall-2010headstrong-gameslord-of-the-ringsLord-of-the-Rings-Aragorns-Questmotion-controlNintendoplaystation-moverelease-datett-fusionwarner-bros-interactivewbieWiiThu, 11 Mar 2010 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New trailer reminds us that LOTR: Aragorn's Quest exists]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/new-trailer-reminds-us-that-lotr-aragorns-quest-exists/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/new-trailer-reminds-us-that-lotr-aragorns-quest-exists/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/16/new-trailer-reminds-us-that-lotr-aragorns-quest-exists/#commentsFor the first time since the announcement of the game's burial in the first quarter of 2010, WBIE has released new media for The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest. In case you've forgotten about the upcoming Wii/DS/PS2/PSP action-RPG, it's a kid-friendly game starring a cuddly incarnation of Viggo Mortensen's Aragorn -- and, in the Wii version, an equally huggable Gandalf (for a second player to handle).

It seems that, even though you're in the middle of a war and hacking up thousands of monsters, the game's been approved for kids because your avatar has big feet.

JoystiqNew trailer reminds us that LOTR: Aragorn's Quest exists originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurearagorns-questDSheadstrong-gameslord-of-the-ringsLord-of-the-Rings-Aragorns-QuestNintendorpgtrailerwarner-bros-interactiveWBIEWiiWed, 16 Dec 2009 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood going live December 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/29/lord-of-the-rings-online-siege-of-mirkwood-going-live-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/29/lord-of-the-rings-online-siege-of-mirkwood-going-live-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/29/lord-of-the-rings-online-siege-of-mirkwood-going-live-december/#comments Have your frequent visits to the Mines of Moria and Mount Doom filled you with an inexorable case of the doldrums? Looking to get away to a hot vacation destination? The lush, arboreal lands of Mirkwood are ... well, they're pretty terrible. They're infested with monsters and unfriendly wildlife, and completely lacking in tropical luxuries. Still, they'll inject some fresh blood into the veins of Lord of the Rings Online when the appropriately-titled expansion, Siege of Mirkwood, goes live December 1.

The expansion will be offered as a download through online distributors for $19.99 -- though current LOTRO players who upgrade their subscriptions to a multi-month plan before October 31 will get the Mirkwood expansion for free. For more info on the expansion (as well as few special offers which will accompany its release), check out Turbine's recent press release announcement.

JoystiqLord of the Rings Online: Siege of Mirkwood going live December 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinemirkwoodmmommorpgrelease-datesiege-of-mirkwoodtolkienturbineTue, 29 Sep 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LOTRO free for lapsed players until Aug. 24, new subscriptions $10 per month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/lotro-free-for-lapsed-players-until-aug-24-new-subscriptions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/lotro-free-for-lapsed-players-until-aug-24-new-subscriptions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/21/lotro-free-for-lapsed-players-until-aug-24-new-subscriptions/#comments
A quick note for those who have been jilted by Lord of the Rings Online: It's ready to take you back. Not only that, but all returning users can play the game for free until August 24. Players with lapsed accounts will also be able to enjoy the new content found in the "Scourge of Khazad-dum" expansion and receive 25 percent bonus experience. Once the free period expires, players can rejoin the MMO for ten bucks a month.

If you're new to the game, you can still sign up for $9.99 a month, so long as you purchase at least three months in advance before September 30. Not a bad deal, unless you have something else to keep you busy.

[Via Massively]

Source - LOTRO.com -- Welcome Back Week
Source - LOTRO.com -- Stay Cool in Middle-earth

JoystiqLOTRO free for lapsed players until Aug. 24, new subscriptions $10 per month originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelotrommoturbineFri, 21 Aug 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aragorn's Quest bumped to most popular release quarter of all time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/aragorns-quest-bumped-to-most-popular-release-quarter-of-all-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/aragorns-quest-bumped-to-most-popular-release-quarter-of-all-ti/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/12/aragorns-quest-bumped-to-most-popular-release-quarter-of-all-ti/#comments A recent Warner Bros. press release has revealed the cuteified Lord of the Rings RPG Aragorn's Quest will follow the example of a number of big-name titles, moving from its inital launch window of fall 2009 into spring 2010. Based on the screenshots we've seen from the game, we're guessing they accidentally used up all the color in the world, and are now scrambling to find new sources of brilliant hues.

We worried that this adorable adventure might get swept away in the burgeoning first quarter of next year, as it's set to face off with some extremely hyped, sometimes jetpack-equipped giants. However, it's filling the somewhat uninhabited niche of "family-friendly co-op RPGs set in a colorful, pint-sized reimagination of a historically bleak and robust fantasy world," so, you know. It might do okay.

JoystiqAragorn's Quest bumped to most popular release quarter of all time originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aragornaragorns-questdelaysDSheadstrong-gameslord-of-the-ringsLord-of-the-Rings-Aragorns-QuestNintendorpgtolkientt-fusionwarner-brosWBIEWiiWed, 12 Aug 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trademark registered for 'The Lord of the Rings: War in the North']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/trademark-registered-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-nort/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/trademark-registered-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-nort/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/trademark-registered-for-the-lord-of-the-rings-war-in-the-nort/#comments The mighty trademark digger at Superannuation has unearthed The Lord of the Rings: War in the North. The trademark was applied for by the same company that handled Aragorn's Quest, which could signal another one of Warner's Ring offerings, designed to appeal to families as well as "hard-core RPG fans."

We'll be sure to communicate what's happening in the war to the north when we learn more.

JoystiqTrademark registered for 'The Lord of the Rings: War in the North' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringsLord-of-the-Rings-War-in-the-Northwar-in-the-northwarner-brosFri, 26 Jun 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[LOTR: Aragorn's Quest on Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/lotr-aragorns-quest-on-wii-ds-ps2-and-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/lotr-aragorns-quest-on-wii-ds-ps2-and-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/lotr-aragorns-quest-on-wii-ds-ps2-and-psp/#comments We just think it's adorable when publishers announce games that we've all known about for days already, like this release for Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest from Warner Bros. ... yes, the same one you read about last week. But it almost always pays to read these little missives. For example, in this one we learned that the "first Lord of the Rings videogame created specifically for kids and their families" will come to Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP.

Warner also hints at the future of the franchise, saying upcoming offerings will appeal to families as well as "hard-core RPG fans." ... Could we maybe just skip straight to that one, please?

JoystiqLOTR: Aragorn's Quest on Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 May 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aragorns-questDSlord-of-the-ringsLord-of-the-Rings-Aragorns-QuestlotrNintendops2warner-brosWiiThu, 28 May 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Warner's first stab at LOTR license: Aragorn's Quest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/warners-first-stab-at-lotr-license-aragorns-quest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/warners-first-stab-at-lotr-license-aragorns-quest/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/warners-first-stab-at-lotr-license-aragorns-quest/#comments Now that Warner Bros. Interactive has its hands on the precioussss Lord of the Rings license, Shacknews reports that the company has revealed its first game based on the franchise. The game was listed among Warner Bros' E3 debut titles and is reportedly named The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest. Okay, so an LOTR game starring Aragorn. That could be really aweso ... oh, wait, what's this?

Shacknews states the game "is the first Lord of the Rings videogame created specifically for kids and their families" and features "accessible gameplay set in a friendly, colorful rendition of Middle-Earth." Oh dear.

JoystiqWarner's first stab at LOTR license: Aragorn's Quest originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 May 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aragorns-questlord-of-the-ringsLord-of-the-Rings-Aragorns-Questlotrlotr-aragorns-questwarner-broswarner-bros-interactiveWed, 20 May 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare talks EA acquisition, Dragon Age perception]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/bioware-talks-ea-acquisition-dragon-age-perception/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/bioware-talks-ea-acquisition-dragon-age-perception/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/21/bioware-talks-ea-acquisition-dragon-age-perception/#comments
With a sequel, an original IP and now an MMO in the pipeline, it's a wonder that anyone at BioWare gets any sleep these days, least of all company head honchos Ray Muzyka and Greg Zeschuk. Still, if there's one benefit to insomnia it's that it leaves you with a lot of time on your hands to talk about any number of things, including what life is like after being gobbled up by a publishing giant.

"Honestly, I don't think there have been too many changes at all," reflected Muzyka on the state of BioWare following the company's acquisition by Electronic Arts in 2007. "If anything, we feel enhanced." The BioWare co-founder added that given that the company is now a publisher as well, "we control our destiny in terms of both development and marketing now."

Part of that destiny includes Dragon Age: Origins, a game that Zeschuk admits has been a challenge to market as something more than just a Lord of the Rings clone. One difference is the role of elves, which are described as "not special" and "second-class citizens" in the eyes of humans, promising a stark contrast to those scampering about in Middle Earth when Dragon Age rolls onto retail shelves later this year.

JoystiqBioWare talks EA acquisition, Dragon Age perception originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredragon-agedragon-age-originseaelectronic-artselvesgreg-zeschuklord-of-the-ringsMicrosoftmiddle-earthray-muzykaXbox-360Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lord of the Rings trilogy finally announced for Blu-ray]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-finally-announced-for-blu-ary/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-finally-announced-for-blu-ary/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/the-lord-of-the-rings-trilogy-finally-announced-for-blu-ary/#comments
Click to see full box art.
At last! Peter Jackson's incredible Lord of the Rings trilogy will finally be available in full 1080p for us to enjoy. According to Amazon.com, the Blu-ray package will be a seven-disc set featuring the theatrical editions of all three films. It looks like enthusiasts will have to either double dip, or wait an even longer time, before the extended editions appear on Blu-ray.

No technical specifications nor release date in sight, but the MSRP for all three films is $99.98. (It will obviously be much cheaper than that at most retailers.)

[Via Blu-ray]

JoystiqThe Lord of the Rings trilogy finally announced for Blu-ray originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blu-raylord-of-the-ringsFri, 17 Apr 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Precious Lord of the Rings license goes from EA to WB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/precious-lord-of-the-rings-license-goes-from-ea-to-wb/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/precious-lord-of-the-rings-license-goes-from-ea-to-wb/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/12/precious-lord-of-the-rings-license-goes-from-ea-to-wb/#comments
The Lord of the Rings license has journeyed to EA and back again to Warner Bros. The Cut Scene reports that the licensing deal for EA to create titles based on the Lord of the Rings films quietly expired at the end of last year. At that time, the rights reverted back to New Line, which is part of Warner Bros. When EA received the Ring license back in 2001, Warner wasn't fully committed to the game business ... that's certainly changed this decade. Warner has also heavily invested in Turbine, developer of Lord of the Rings Online. Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment apparently declined to comment on the story.

The movie industry is certainly attempting with increasing regularity to enter the game space, hiring executives that may get the job done. Paramount is ready to publish (the rumored) Star Trek DAC in a couple months, while Disney has become far less reliant on licensing its properties to THQ over the years. In time, it appears we'll see more in-house development of games that we currently see "licensed" out, which will hopefully mean better products.

JoystiqPrecious Lord of the Rings license goes from EA to WB originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslicenselord-of-the-ringswarner-broswbThu, 12 Mar 2009 12:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Second round of LOTR: Conquest DLC will cost you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/second-round-of-lotr-conquest-dlc-will-cost-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/second-round-of-lotr-conquest-dlc-will-cost-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/26/second-round-of-lotr-conquest-dlc-will-cost-you/#commentsAfter releasing the first batch of content for free, EA will be going the paid route and deliver a second set of Lord of the Rings: Conquest DLC this Thursday, February 26, to the XBLM and PSN for 800 and $10, respectively.

The "precious" Conquest downloadable content will add three additional characters (including the freakish Gothmog), two new maps and two fancy arenas. But for a game that didn't fair too well in reviews, is $10 worth of downloadable content all that exciting? We doubt Elijah 'would' approve.

JoystiqSecond round of LOTR: Conquest DLC will cost you originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Feb 2009 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotr-conquestMicrosoftpandemic-studiospsnxblmXbox-360Thu, 26 Feb 2009 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LOTR Conquest demo conjures 1 million downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/lotr-conquest-demo-conjures-1-million-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/lotr-conquest-demo-conjures-1-million-downloads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/21/lotr-conquest-demo-conjures-1-million-downloads/#commentsFiled under:


Pandemic Studios just informed us that the Lord of the Rings Conquest demo that released to the Xbox Live Marketplace a few weeks back has been downloaded over 1 million times. That means the demo download has bested Call of Duty: World at War and its nine week run on top.

Congrats to the crew over at Pandemic on their demo download success, but we have to ask; how well did those demo downloads translate into retail sales? One could argue that those sales figures are a tad bit more important.

JoystiqLOTR Conquest demo conjures 1 million downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ealord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotr-conquestpandemicpandemic-studiosWed, 21 Jan 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: Lord of the Battlefront edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/shipping-this-week-lord-of-the-battlefront-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/shipping-this-week-lord-of-the-battlefront-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/shipping-this-week-lord-of-the-battlefront-edition/#commentsFiled under:


Guess what, kids? There's actually a game releasing for the Xbox 360 this week. You'll notice that "game" is singular, as there is only one game out this week. It's appropriate enough though, as the game itself happens to be about the One Ring. Yes, this week marks the release of Lord of the Rings: Conquest. If you've played the demo, you've got a pretty good idea of what to expect. It's essentially Star Wars: Battlefront only with fewer Stormtroopers and a lot more hobbits. Conquest has something that Battlefront definitely doesn't though: You can be a Balrog. A Balrog.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqShipping this week: Lord of the Battlefront edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotr-conquestpandemicshipping-this-weekMon, 12 Jan 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of January 12th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-january-12th/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-january-12th/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-january-12th/#commentsFiled under:

Moon, elves, chaos and madness -- it's just another week of new DS games, only this time, with actual games! January's been slow so far, but this week, Moon really is coming out, along with a few other titles. Looks like things are finally getting back to normal after the holidays.
  • Jumble Madness
  • The Lord of the Rings: Conquest
  • Moon
  • Personal Trainer: Math

Gallery: Moon

Continue reading DS releases for the week of January 12th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of January 12th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009januarylord-of-the-ringsmathmoonpersonal-trainerreleasesMon, 12 Jan 2009 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 5: Licensed Games That Don't Stink]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/top-5-licensed-games-that-dont-stink/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/top-5-licensed-games-that-dont-stink/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/15/top-5-licensed-games-that-dont-stink/#commentsFiled under:


Apparently, happy is the new angry (Uggh, I apologize; I hate the "X is the new Y" phrase as much as anyone). While the Angry Video Game Nerd series continues to grow in popularity, a legion of imitators -- err, "inspirées" -- have arisen from the depths of YouTube. While most appear to simply swap "Angry Video Game Nerd" with a few synonyms and reduce the effort, quality, and obtainable entertainment of the video, one manages to make the formula something completely his own. Alaskan native Derek, AKA lophatjello, has created the "Happy Video Game Nerd." While the self-explanatory premise may sound eye-roll-inducing, one would be hard-pressed to ignore his passion for the retro games he highlights after watching a video of his. And that is a quality which I value greatly: unbridled passion and optimism for gaming. We're too often deluged by a flood of pessimism and jaded cynicism from the gaming world.

Very recently, Derek covered the NES semi-classic Ducktales. He labels it as a "kick-ass licensed game." This is a notable statement, as conventional gaming knowledge tells us that a license is often indicative of a terrible game. While there are always exceptions to rules, I feel confident that most who are reading this post can agree that licenses are too often a kiss of death. Yet the HVGN is correct; Ducktales is a pretty awesome licensed game. Here, in my humble opinion, are the Top 5 games based on popular film and television.



The Top 5 is a weekly feature that provides us with a forum to share our opinions on various aspects of the video game culture, and provides you with a forum to tell us how wrong we are. To further voice your opinions, submit a vote in the Wii Fanboy Poll, and take part in the daily discussions of Wii Warm Up.

JoystiqTop 5: Licensed Games That Don't Stink originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angry-video-game-nerdastro-boyavgnbucky-ohareducktalesfilmfilmsgoldeneyegoldeneye-007happy-video-game-nerdhvgnipjoystiqfeatureslicenselicensedlicenseslord-of-the-ringsmoviestreaasureMon, 15 Dec 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nerd out over LOTR Conquest achievements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/nerd-out-over-lotr-conquest-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/nerd-out-over-lotr-conquest-achievements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/09/nerd-out-over-lotr-conquest-achievements/#commentsFiled under:


We'll be honest, just the prospect of Lord of the Rings: Conquest has us excited. Getting a chance to take part in a massive fantasy battle out of J.R.R. Tolkien's universe is a geeky dream come true. Helping to fuel our nerdy desires are the newly discovered achievements for Conquest as provided by Xbox360Achievements.org. Most of the achievements center around completing single-player campaign levels or killing X number of enemies as class X. There are a few, however, that stand out. We're particularly fond of Flame of Anor, which is given to players for killing 100 enemies with a mage's firewall on a single life. It also might be hard to top You Shall Not Pass!, which is given for defeating the Balrog -- as Gandalf -- in the Mines of Moria. Nerdgasm complete.

JoystiqNerd out over LOTR Conquest achievements originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotrlotr-conquestpandemicTue, 09 Dec 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: LOTR Conquest shows its evil side]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/video-lotr-conquest-shows-its-evil-side/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/video-lotr-conquest-shows-its-evil-side/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/05/video-lotr-conquest-shows-its-evil-side/#commentsFiled under:

At this point, we've all taken a few steps in Frodo's shoes. We know what it's like to swing a sword as Aragorn. We've even laid waste to hordes of orcs with Gandalf's mighty magic. Now, thanks to Lord of the Rings: Conquest from Pandemic (creators of Star Wars: Battlefront), we can finally give in to our more evil inclinations. The latest trailer for conquest shows off plenty of evil creatures doing what they do best. From Orcs to Balrogs to Fell Beasts to Lord Sauron himself, it's a veritable buffet of malificence. We particularly like the scene in which an orc takes down an Ent singlehandely. Check out the video above and dream of the day you can do it yourself (which, incidentally, will be in January 2009)

JoystiqVideo: LOTR Conquest shows its evil side originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Dec 2008 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotr-conquestpandemicFri, 05 Dec 2008 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Trophies: The Lord of the Rings: Conquest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/trophies-the-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/trophies-the-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/04/trophies-the-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/#comments
1 Platinum
2 Gold
13 Silver
32 Bronze
 Difficulty: Easy
Online Trophies? Yes
Time to Completion: 15 hours
DLC Trophies? No
View Trophy List Read More About the Game

Gallery: Lord of the Rings: Conquest

Continue reading Trophies: The Lord of the Rings: Conquest

JoystiqTrophies: The Lord of the Rings: Conquest originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestthe-lord-of-the-ringsthe-lord-of-the-rings-conquesttrophiestrophyThu, 04 Dec 2008 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[LOTR: Conquest attacks in January]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/lotr-conquest-attacks-in-january/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/lotr-conquest-attacks-in-january/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/lotr-conquest-attacks-in-january/#commentsFiled under:


The Shacknews folks are reporting that Pandemic Studios' Lord of the Rings: Conquest - a game dedicated to re-creating epic LOTR battles sans Elijah Wood - will be landing on retail shelves next January 13th. And from the factual deets we've already been given, LOTR: Conquest doesn't sound half bad ... possibly even good. We believe in you Pandemic, so do us proud!

JoystiqLOTR: Conquest attacks in January originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotrlotr-conquestpandemicpandemic-studiosThu, 30 Oct 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings: Conquest teases epic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-teases-epic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-teases-epic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-teases-epic/#commentsFiled under:


There are few existing licenses that can pull large scale, arena-style, battles off and it looks like Lord of the Rings has just joined the ranks -- so far. In the teaser trailer for the upcoming title Lord of the Rings: Conquest, Pandemic showcases the epic battle of good versus evil from both perspectives. Pulling inspiration from Battlefield and its own Star Wars: Battlefront franchise, Lord of the Rings: Conquest has shown great potential. Working closely with Peter Jackson's Weta Digital to capture the look of the award-winning films, LotR: Conquest looks to impress gamers when it ships this fall.

JoystiqLord of the Rings: Conquest teases epic originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotrlotr-conquestpandemicMon, 23 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings: Conquest debut trailer depicts battles, oliphant violence]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-debut-trailer-depicts-battles-oliph/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-debut-trailer-depicts-battles-oliph/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/lord-of-the-rings-conquest-debut-trailer-depicts-battles-oliph/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Pandemic just released the first trailer for their Star Wars: Battlefront-esque take on Tolkien's beloved fantasy world, Lord of the Rings: Conquest, and despite a few framerate issues, we're as pleased as Miruvor-flavored punch. Though past titles have tried to capture the grand scale of Middle Earth's climactic battles through various methods of interactivity, we've never really felt the exhilaration associated with cutting through swathes of Orcborn adversaries with our trusty Andúril. The familiar Battlefront gameplay formula looks to be just what the doctor ordered -- though PETA might have a few unkind words to say about the Proboscidean homocide apparently featured in the title.

JoystiqLord of the Rings: Conquest debut trailer depicts battles, oliphant violence originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefrontconquestDSeaElectronic-Artselectronicartslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotrmiddle-earthpandemicPCPS3star-wars-battlefronttolkienXbox-360Sat, 21 Jun 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lord of the Rings, SOCOM vet launches Caffeinated Games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/lord-of-the-rings-socom-vet-launches-caffeinated-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/lord-of-the-rings-socom-vet-launches-caffeinated-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/lord-of-the-rings-socom-vet-launches-caffeinated-games/#commentsFiled under:

Greg Chudecke, an industry vet who's left his fingerprints on such franchises and games as SOCOM and Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring has launched his own indie studio called Caffeinated Games.

Besides giving players a rapid heartbeat and the jitters, Caffeinated Games aims to not only create games, but also act as a social network for developers and gamers in general to interact as well. Comments the former Zipper and Black Label Games dev, "Our approach...is to make the games we want to play and then pitch those games directly to the gamers." The first such pitch is expected next week, with a timer on the site currently ticking down towards next Wednesday.

JoystiqLord of the Rings, SOCOM vet launches Caffeinated Games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caffeinated-gamescaffeinatedgameslord-of-the-ringslordoftheringssocomThu, 12 Jun 2008 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[LOTR Conquest details: playable creatures, heroes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/lotr-conquest-details-playable-creatures-heroes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/lotr-conquest-details-playable-creatures-heroes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/lotr-conquest-details-playable-creatures-heroes/#commentsFiled under:


In a recent interview with Crispy Gamer, Pandemic got the chance to shed some light on their recently announced Battlefront-meets-Lord of the Rings title, Lord of the Rings Conquest. With the interview come a few details regarding the game and just what gamers can expect. Said details are as follows:
  • Three types of combat: Melee, Ranged, and Magic (expect warriors, archers, etc)
  • The game will play from 3rd person perspective
  • There will be several playable creatures and vehicles including ents, fell beasts, catapults, siege towers, trolls, battering rams and eagles
  • Much like the Battlefront series, players will be rewarded with playable heroes for completing objectives
  • Players will fight through the major battles of the film and a few that appear in the books. There are also battles included that were "hinted at" in the books.
  • The Evil campaign plays out as though Frodo failed in his mission to destroy the One Ring
  • No cross-platform play between PC and 360 (surprise, surprise)
  • Conquest features "a recognizable actor from the films" as the narrator (dare we hope for Hugo Weaving?)
The concept of mixing Battlefront with Lord of the Rings already had us intrigued, but this new info has us even more excited, particularly the news regarding the available creatures and vehicles. Hit the "Source" link for the full article.

JoystiqLOTR Conquest details: playable creatures, heroes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotrlotr-conquestpandemicWed, 28 May 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandemic conquers Middle-earth with new LOTR title]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/pandemic-conquers-middle-earth-with-new-lotr-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/pandemic-conquers-middle-earth-with-new-lotr-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/pandemic-conquers-middle-earth-with-new-lotr-title/#commentsFiled under:


Pandemic Studios is spearheading a new Middle-earth based game entitled: The Lord of the Rings: Conquest. The team behind the Star Wars Battlefront and Battlefront II titles is tasked to breathe life into the Tolkien fantasy world with this new action game. Can they do it? Josh Resnick, co-founder and general manager of Pandemic Studios thinks so: "Our experience creating massive, rich, action-packed games means that The Lord of the Rings: Conquest will give fans exactly what they want: full control of the blade, bow, and magic to fight its epic battles any way they want -- even if they choose to play from the evil side."

Interesting PR-laced point there Mr. Resnick. We're sure intrigued about the "evil side" gameplay, though; the ability to play as an Oliphaunt, the Balrog, and Sauron do sound rather wicked (in a good way). Interested in more? Then check out the game's official website. The game is due for a global Fall 2008 release.

[Via press release]

JoystiqPandemic conquers Middle-earth with new LOTR title originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 May 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestpandemic-studiosFri, 09 May 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandemic reveals Lord of the Rings Conquest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/pandemic-reveals-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/pandemic-reveals-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/pandemic-reveals-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/#commentsFiled under:


click to enlarge
EA returns once more to the golden money spigot that is The Lord of the Rings franchise with The Lord of the Rings: Conquest. Currently under development at Pandemic, IGN states that Conquest is essentially the studio's Star Wars: Battlefront set in the LOTR universe. Players will take control of the series' many creatures and characters (no word on whether or not the game will feature heroes å la Battlefront) and wage war on some of the films' most famous battlefields. The game will also include battles not featured in the films (dare we hope for the Battle of Bywater?). Conquest will feature up to 16 players online, 4 player co-op (online and local), where players will fight battles that feature up to 150 characters on screen at one time. The game will include both a good and evil campaign, including a scenario in which Sauron -- the leader of the evil forces -- reclaims the One Ring. Expect Conquest to arrive in fall 2008.

Gallery: Lord of the Rings: Conquest

JoystiqPandemic reveals Lord of the Rings Conquest originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conquestealord-of-the-ringslotr-conquestpandemicThu, 08 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandemic announces Lord of the Rings: Conquest [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/pandemic-announces-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/pandemic-announces-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/08/pandemic-announces-lord-of-the-rings-conquest/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


click to enlarge

Just how many people are working at Pandemic anyway? Not only are they still finishing up Mercenaries 2: World in Flames and (maybe) making the next Batman game, but news has come from IGN today that the Lord of the Rings game the studio is currently crafting (called Lord of the Rings: Conquest) will arrive on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC this fall. By the developer's own admission it's an unabashed mash-up of the fantasy property and its own Star Wars Battlefront (read: huge fights in Middle Earth).

The game will incorporate every battle from the movies, a few from the books and some from whole cloth. Conquest's large-scale battles, which will sport up to 150 characters on screen at once, can be waged by eight players online [update: It's apparently 16] against one another or with four players teaming up on the main campaign online or via split screen. Frankly, we got a little burnt out on Lord of the Rings games when a glut of them arrived with Peter Jackson's films, but this sounds like the kind of meaty experience that justifies a return to Middle Earth.

Gallery: Lord of the Rings: Conquest

JoystiqPandemic announces Lord of the Rings: Conquest [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2008 07:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewseaElectronic-Artslord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-conquestlotrpandemicPCPS3Xbox-360Thu, 08 May 2008 07:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine secures $40 million investment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/turbine-secures-40-million-investment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/turbine-secures-40-million-investment/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/01/turbine-secures-40-million-investment/#commentsFiled under: , ,


MMO developer Turbine found its purse a bit heavier this week after securing a $40 million round of financing from a group of investors led by Granite Global Ventures, filling the Lord of the Rings Online creator's total venture capital money bin to around $90 million mark.

According to a report by Private Equity Hub, the investment also saw Granite Global's managing partner Hani Nada take a seat on Turbine's board, presumably in order to make sure the money was put to good use and not slipped into the underwear of Elvish hookers after a night on the town. While we remain in the dark as to what exactly the studio will do with its newfound wealth, Turbine is expected to make an announcement regarding its future plans in the next two weeks.

[Via GI.biz]

JoystiqTurbine secures $40 million investment originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 May 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asherons-calldungeons-and-dragons...lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-on...lordoftheringslordoftheringsonlinelotrlotroPCturbineThu, 01 May 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[April Fools' Alert #14: How the MMOs get their prank on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-alert-14-how-the-mmos-get-their-prank-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-alert-14-how-the-mmos-get-their-prank-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/01/april-fools-alert-14-how-the-mmos-get-their-prank-on/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With only so much time left in the day, we thought we'd fit in a handful of the gros amount of April Fools' pranks found in the various MMOs today.
Speaking of WoW, our Azeroth-obsessed sister site converted to Hello Kitty Insider for a day of mass coverage (30+ posts!). Here's what their front page looked like today.

JoystiqApril Fools' Alert #14: How the MMOs get their prank on originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Apr 2008 23:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanaprilfools08battle-for-middle-earthblizzardddodungeons-dragons-onlineguild-warshello-kittylord-of-the-ringslotrworld-of-warcraftwowTue, 01 Apr 2008 23:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Turbine, Tolkien to stay in bed together until 2014 (and beyond)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/turbine-tolkien-to-stay-in-bed-together-until-2014-and-beyond/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/turbine-tolkien-to-stay-in-bed-together-until-2014-and-beyond/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/turbine-tolkien-to-stay-in-bed-together-until-2014-and-beyond/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You know what it's like when it's early morning and so toasty under the covers snuggled up against that someone special that you just don't see any reason to get out bed. We imagine that's a lot like the relationship between The Lord of the Rings Online developer Turbine and Tolkien Enterprises, as the pair have agreed to extend their relationship until 2014 -- with an option to work together for three more years after that -- ensuring that players will be able to continue to frolic and grind their way through Middle Earth.

We're very interested to see where Turbine takes the franchise going forward, especially after comments made by executive producer Jeffrey Steefel in January regarding the developer's console-based aspirations for the license. In addition, while no new game announcements have been made, the recent confirmation of a new 2-part Hobbit film finally getting underway would seem to make excellent fodder for the MMO developer, and we expect that the pair will continue to play footsie beneath the sheets for years to come.

JoystiqTurbine, Tolkien to stay in bed together until 2014 (and beyond) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lord-of-the-ringslord-of-the-rings-onlinelordoftheringslordoftheringsonlinelotrlotroPCtolkienturbineWed, 20 Feb 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New LOTR title on the way from Pandemic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/new-lotr-title-on-the-way-from-pandemic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/new-lotr-title-on-the-way-from-pandemic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/new-lotr-title-on-the-way-from-pandemic/#commentsFiled under:


Ah, to remember the heady days when Electronic Arts was content to flood the world with Lord of the Rings titles. It seems that EA isn't quite ready to let its very lucrative license go by the wayside, as newly acquired studio Pandemic (Mercenaries 2) is working on a new title set in Middle Earth. And that's about it, really. The news was revealed in a recent analyst meeting (the same one that also seemingly unearthed plans for a new KOTOR title). The only thing known about the title is that EA plans to release it in their fiscal 2009, which runs April 1, 2008 to March 31, 2009. Could it be the resurrection of The White Council? Time will tell (and so will we, once we find out).

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqNew LOTR title on the way from Pandemic originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslord-of-the-ringslotrlotr-pandemicpandemicWed, 13 Feb 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandemic Studios developing new Lord of the Rings game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/pandemic-studios-developing-new-lord-of-the-rings-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/pandemic-studios-developing-new-lord-of-the-rings-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/pandemic-studios-developing-new-lord-of-the-rings-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

An EA analyst report and meeting (via ShackNews) has revealed that Pandemic Studios is developing a new Lord of the Rings title. The studio, which was recently acquired by EA along with BioWare, continues to work on the twice-delayed destruction-fest, Mercenaries 2: World in Flames.

Little is known about Pandemic's journey to Middle-Earth, save for EA CEO John Riccitiello's announcement that it will release during the publisher's 2009 fiscal year -- somewhere between April 1, 2008 and March 31, 2009. You'll know more when we know more.

JoystiqPandemic Studios developing new Lord of the Rings game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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