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[DICE vows continued support for Battlefield 3 in light of Battlefield 4 announcement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/dice-vows-continued-support-to-battlefield-3-in-light-of-battlef/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/dice-vows-continued-support-to-battlefield-3-in-light-of-battlef/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/17/dice-vows-continued-support-to-battlefield-3-in-light-of-battlef/#comments DICE vows continued support to Battlefield 3 in light of Battlefield 4 announcementEA officially revealed Battlefield 4 today as a project being developed at the company's Sweden-based DICE studio. Beyond that, however, no one's saying a peep about the game. Lest you forget, three more DLC packs are planned for DICE's last game, Battlefield 3, and that apparently means DICE isn't ready to talk Battlefield 4 just yet.

"There is no further Battlefield 4 news at this point," reads a post from DICE on the Battlefield 4 subpage. "With the Back to Karkand and Close Quarters expansion packs already out, Armored Kill around the corner, and End Game and Aftermath still on the horizon, we're looking forward to many more hours of gameplay with you, and can't wait to see the stories you will tell through Battlelog and player created videos."

With Medal of Honor's 2010 reboot, EA set out to match its competition's annual shooter, Call of Duty. EA's Los Angeles-based Danger Close studio is in charge of EA's Medal of Honor franchise, apparently trading off years with DICE and the Battlefield franchise. The two franchises currently share DICE's Frostbite 2.0 game engine, and Danger Close's next MoH employs DICE's Battlelog system as well. Thus far, EA has yet to best Activision's Call of Duty powerhouse (in terms of sales and critical reception) with its two shooter franchises.

JoystiqDICE vows continued support for Battlefield 3 in light of Battlefield 4 announcement originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3battlefield-4battlelogdanger-closedicedlcdownloadable-contenteaea-danger-closeea-diceelectronic-artsfrostbite-2frostbite-enginemedal-of-honor-2010medal-of-honor-warfighterTue, 17 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield, Medal of Honor series discounted on Steam today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/battlefield-medal-of-honor-series-discounted-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/battlefield-medal-of-honor-series-discounted-on-steam-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/08/battlefield-medal-of-honor-series-discounted-on-steam-today/#comments Today's edition of Steam's EA Week sales doesn't focus on one of the company's franchises, but two: Battlefield and Medal of Honor. Check out the many one-day discounts on Bad Company 2, Bad Company 2: Vietnam, Battlefield 2: Complete Collection, and plain ol' Medal of Honor below!

Continue reading Battlefield, Medal of Honor series discounted on Steam today

JoystiqBattlefield, Medal of Honor series discounted on Steam today originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 May 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-bad-company-2battlefield-bad-company-2-vietnameaea-weekmedal-of-honor-2010pcsteamSun, 08 May 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam has Ubisoft hits on sale this weekend; Impulse has Medal of Honor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/steam-has-ubisoft-hits-on-sale-this-weekend-impulse-has-medal-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/steam-has-ubisoft-hits-on-sale-this-weekend-impulse-has-medal-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/05/steam-has-ubisoft-hits-on-sale-this-weekend-impulse-has-medal-o/#comments Whether you're in the mood for shooting or shooting, Steam and Impulse have your back this weekend. Active now, Steam's offering Assassin's Creed, Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood, Far Cry 2 and Rainbow Six Vegas 2 in a bargain $3 bundle; while Impulse has Medal of Honor for $15.

Continue reading Steam has Ubisoft hits on sale this weekend; Impulse has Medal of Honor

JoystiqSteam has Ubisoft hits on sale this weekend; Impulse has Medal of Honor originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedCall-of-Juarez-Bound-in-Bloodfar-cry-2impulseMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010pcrainbow-six-vegas-2steamSat, 05 Mar 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor soundtracks getting reprinted in eight-disc collection]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/medal-of-honor-soundtracks-getting-reprinted-in-eight-disc-colle/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/medal-of-honor-soundtracks-getting-reprinted-in-eight-disc-colle/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/medal-of-honor-soundtracks-getting-reprinted-in-eight-disc-colle/#comments Are you looking for a metric ton of musical accompaniment for ... well, any event that would require you to get super, super pumped up beforehand? La-La Land Records and Electronic Arts have teamed up to create the most potent bundle of inspirational tunes you've ever heard: An eight-disc, ten-hour-long compilation of all the original scores from the Medal of Honor series.

In addition to the almost-half-day of music from composers Michael Giacchino, Christopher Lennertz and Ramin Djawadi, the bundle includes a 40-page book with information on each game and soundtrack, complete with a foreword from the series' creator, Stephen Spielberg. The collection will be available through La-La Land Records on March 1, though a price wasn't included in the announcement. Really, though, can you put a price on inspiration?

Continue reading Medal of Honor soundtracks getting reprinted in eight-disc collection

JoystiqMedal of Honor soundtracks getting reprinted in eight-disc collection originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsla-la-land-recordsMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010michael-giacchinoscoresoundtrackTue, 01 Feb 2011 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA earnings from digital distribution up in fiscal Q3, retail not so much]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/ea-earnings-from-digital-distribution-up-in-fiscal-q3-retail-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/ea-earnings-from-digital-distribution-up-in-fiscal-q3-retail-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/ea-earnings-from-digital-distribution-up-in-fiscal-q3-retail-no/#commentsEA sent out its earnings for fiscal Q3 2011, which ended December 31 of last year, and it was a good quarter for EA ... 's digital distribution initiatives. Net digital revenue is up $62 million year over year, hitting $195 million, while net "packaged goods" publishing revenue dropped $78 million to $91 million in the quarter. Along with a drop in revenue from games distributed by EA, the publisher's year-over-year take dropped $190 million.

Touting its digital domination, EA claimed to be the "#1 publisher in the Apple App Store for both iPhone and iPad and #1 on Microsoft Windows Phone 7" in the West during the quarter. It also touted large shipments of two of its Q3 retail releases, Medal of Honor and Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit, both of which have passed five million units shipped to date.

JoystiqEA earnings from digital distribution up in fiscal Q3, retail not so much originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiondseaearningselectronic-artsfy-2011medal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftmobileneed-for-speed-hot-pursuitnintendopcplaystationps3pspq3salessonywiixboxTue, 01 Feb 2011 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon deals: Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, GTA IV: Complete, more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/amazon-deals-assassins-creed-brotherhood-gta-iv-complete-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/amazon-deals-assassins-creed-brotherhood-gta-iv-complete-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/15/amazon-deals-assassins-creed-brotherhood-gta-iv-complete-m/#comments Generosity is a wonderful, uniquely human impulse, but no matter what television and every Christmas song would have you believe, it's also a finite resource. Haven't you already done enough for others this season? Haven't you earned a little something for Big Poppa? Isn't it time you stopped referring to yourself as "Big Poppa" unironically?

Why not treat yourself to some Amazon Lightning Deals today? You can already find Gold Box deal Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood for $38 or Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete for $26, and more (find Thrifty Nerd's best guesses after the jump) are being teased for later in the day. Go on ... you've earned it.

Continue reading Amazon deals: Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, GTA IV: Complete, more

JoystiqAmazon deals: Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, GTA IV: Complete, more originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonassassins-creed-brotherhooddsgrand-theft-auto-ivMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxWed, 15 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[October NPD: NBA 2K11 tops charts, Xbox 360 'best selling console in 2010']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/october-npd-nba-2k11-tops-charts-xbox-360-best-selling-consol/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/october-npd-nba-2k11-tops-charts-xbox-360-best-selling-consol/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/17/october-npd-nba-2k11-tops-charts-xbox-360-best-selling-consol/#comments Here is the second edition of the revised (and less informative) monthly NPD report. With the market research group no longer sharing specific hardware figures, it's noteworthy to point out that only Microsoft has (as of writing) released concrete sales numbers. Major Nelson tweeted that Microsoft sold 325K Xbox 360s in October. Although the figure represents a 32-percent drop from the previous month, it was enough to secure Microsoft's spot as best-selling console of the month. Major Nelson also added that the Xbox 360 "is the best selling console in 2010 [with] 3.5 million" sold so far.

Sony's response doesn't offer console sales numbers, but Patrick Seybold commented on increased momentum for the company's PlayStation Move motion controller. "The PS3 Move Bundle had a 15-percent increase in sales since launch last month, and we're working hard to keep the inventory up across the country to meet strong consumer demand." In addition, Seybold reminded us of the impending launch of Sony's big holiday game: "With next week's launch of the industry's most anticipated title, Gran Turismo 5, we're sure to carry the momentum through the holidays."

Nintendo, as of the time of publishing, had not offered comment.

Software sales jumped 6 percent year-over-year for the month to $605 million. The multiplatform release of NBA 2K11 helped propel it to the top of the charts, undoubtedly aided by EA Sports' cancellation of NBA Elite 11. Fallout, Medal of Honor and Fable all made strong debuts -- but Rock Band 3's 15th-place position in sales has us concerned. NPD analyst Anita Frazier did make a special note in the report, assuring us that "this game has the potential to perform well over the holidays."

The top-ten software breakdown is posted after the break.

Continue reading October NPD: NBA 2K11 tops charts, Xbox 360 'best selling console in 2010'

JoystiqOctober NPD: NBA 2K11 tops charts, Xbox 360 'best selling console in 2010' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Nov 2010 01:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsFable-3fallout-new-vegasFIFA-11Halo-Reachjust-dance-2madden-nfl-11Medal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftNBA-2K11nintendonpdnpd-monthlypcplaystationps3pspRock-Band-3salessonystar-wars-the-force-unleashed-2usawiiWWE-SmackDown-vs-Raw-2011xboxWed, 17 Nov 2010 01:20:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE: Medal of Honor Taliban controversy affected reviews]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/dice-medal-of-honor-taliban-controversy-affected-reviews/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/dice-medal-of-honor-taliban-controversy-affected-reviews/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/dice-medal-of-honor-taliban-controversy-affected-reviews/#comments We're not firm believers in the "any press is good press" maxim. Just ask the Xbox 360 and its Red Ring of Death which garnered many a headline -- headlines that reminded would-be consumers why they should hold off on purchasing the console. It would appear EA DICE, the developer behind the multiplayer component of Medal of Honor - the Afghanistan-based shooter in which the Taliban murders American troops - has now too learned this lesson.

"The controversy did affect some reviews," DICE's Patrick Liu told Eurogamer. "It stirs a lot of feelings, just the setting. And that does affect people's judgment." While it may have affected some people's judgment, it didn't stop the reboot from moving two million units in just two weeks; not quite Call of Duty numbers, but a healthy start. But back to those reviews: "The game is better than today's reviews are indicating," EA' s Patrick Soderlund previously told Eurogamer.

"We're also competing with ourselves," Liu continued, referring to DICE's own Battlefield series. "Obviously we're competing with Call of Duty. It's a very tricky situation to be squeezed in between those giants." He added that competing against Battlefield "can feel awkward sometimes" and, while plans aren't set for an MOH sequel, he replied both "yes and no" when asked if he'd want to work on one. "It would be cool to continue to develop the franchise. At the same time we have a lot of exciting stuff going on in DICE as well that we have been working on in parallel." We're guessing that would be: Battlefield 3, another installment in the Battlefield: Bad Company series, and Mirror's Edge 2. You are working on Mirror's Edge 2, right, DICE?

JoystiqDICE: Medal of Honor Taliban controversy affected reviews originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DICEEA-DICEElectronic-ArtsMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftPatrick-Liupcplaystationps3TalibanxboxFri, 05 Nov 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor discounted on Amazon today, as we enter the Hot Zone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/medal-of-honor-discounted-on-amazon-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/medal-of-honor-discounted-on-amazon-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/05/medal-of-honor-discounted-on-amazon-today/#comments Though the recently released Medal of Honor "Hot Zone" DLC doesn't come free with your EA Online Pass (the add-on is $10), saving $20 on a new copy of the game might help ameliorate your hesitancy to really heat things up. As its Video Game Deal of the Day, Amazon has dropped the price of Medal of Honor by a cool third to $40.

Additionally, EA has released the Hot Zone trailer -- embedded after the break. Apparently, the "Hot Zone" moniker is related to the DLC's new multiplayer mode, and not the possibility of the Tier 1 gang returning home, shaving their beards and hitting the town in crisp party shirts. Fooled again!

Continue reading Medal of Honor discounted on Amazon today, as we enter the Hot Zone

JoystiqMedal of Honor discounted on Amazon today, as we enter the Hot Zone originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Nov 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondanger-closedicedlceaelectronic-artshot-zoneMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftplaystationps3xboxFri, 05 Nov 2010 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Medal of Honor sells two million in first two weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/medal-of-honor-sells-two-million-in-first-two-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/medal-of-honor-sells-two-million-in-first-two-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/02/medal-of-honor-sells-two-million-in-first-two-weeks/#comments According to EA's latest earnings report, "Medal of Honor is off to a strong start, selling-through 2 million units in just two weeks in October." Translation: EA sold 2 million of copies of Medal of Honor last month, following its October 12 launch.

Two million is a pretty impressive feat for the reboot of a franchise that was all but sunk -- not to mention marred in a bit of controversy leading up to launch. It just goes to show you that overcoming any obstacle is as simple as shooting it with a gigantic gun. Growing a beard probably doesn't hurt, either.

JoystiqEA: Medal of Honor sells two million in first two weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closedanger-close-gamesdiceeaMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3salesxboxTue, 02 Nov 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor paid DLC also out November 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/medal-of-honor-paid-dlc-also-out-november-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/medal-of-honor-paid-dlc-also-out-november-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/medal-of-honor-paid-dlc-also-out-november-2/#commentsPreviously, EA revealed that it would release free Medal of Honor DLC to "Online Pass" holders on November 2. Today, the company announced that it will also issue a second DLC pack -- this one, the kind you pay for -- on the same day. The $10 add-on will include a new multiplayer mode, "Hot Zone" (a.k.a. "King of the Hill").

This Hot Zone DLC will also include two new maps, Hindukush Valley and Korengal Outpost, as well as redesigned versions of the Shahikot Valley and Helmand Valley maps. That's right -- even more venues for your totally fictional fight for a hill against the Opposing Force.

JoystiqMedal of Honor paid DLC also out November 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closedicedlcea-storeelectronic-artshot-zoneMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3psnrelease-datexblmxboxWed, 27 Oct 2010 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Fallout: New Vegas explodes on UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/fallout-new-vegas-explodes-on-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/fallout-new-vegas-explodes-on-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/25/fallout-new-vegas-explodes-on-uk-charts/#comments
 Fallout: New Vegas hit it big on the High Street strip, taking the top spot on the UK Charts and besting Fallout 3's premiere week sales by 29 percent. Last week's top game, Medal of Honor, lost ground and dropped 48 percent in sales to second place, while FIFA 11 also slipped one position to the third spot.

Nintendo DS title Professor Layton and the Lost Future (Unwound Future across the pond) debuted in fourth place, with -- no surprise! -- Just Dance 2 showing the stamina of its predecessor by rounding out the top 5. In case you're wondering, the original Just Dance doesn't look like it's coming back to the top ten this year, but it's still sitting comfortably in the teens at the 14 spot.

Higher-profile premieres that didn't make the top ten include: Vanquish at #12, EA Sports MMA at #23 and DJ Hero 2 at #25. Discover the UK top ten for 10 picarats after the break.

Continue reading Fallout: New Vegas explodes on UK charts

JoystiqFallout: New Vegas explodes on UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Britainchart-trackchart-track-weeklydsfallout-new-vegasFIFA-11medal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftnintendoplaystationps3UKwiixboxMon, 25 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Medal of Honor has generated $100 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/ea-medal-of-honor-has-generated-100-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/ea-medal-of-honor-has-generated-100-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/ea-medal-of-honor-has-generated-100-million/#comments There's no doubt that EA had an uphill battle on its hands with Medal of Honor. The industry has been waiting to see just how Medal of Honor would fare against the likes of Halo: Reach and the looming release of Call of Duty: Black Ops. Now, EA has announced that the game managed to ship 1.5 million copies in its first five days.

Speaking to Fox Business, EA CEO John Riccitiello noted that the game has generated $100 million for the company. Not quite as impressive as the numbers pulled in by Halo: Reach, but certainly a strong showing for an aging franchise in need of a jump start.

Riccitiello also touched on Medal of Honor's disparate review scores, chalking them up to the game's polarizing real-world subject matter. Regarding the Taliban controversy surrounding the game, Riccitiello said that the issue boiled down to media outlets being unfamiliar with multiplayer games. "When you were a kid you might've said 'Cowboys and Indians.' Somebody had to be the Indian," he said. "It's not really fun if everyone's a cowboy."

See the full interview after the break.

Continue reading EA: Medal of Honor has generated $100 million

JoystiqEA: Medal of Honor has generated $100 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsfinancialJohn-riccitielloMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3salesxboxWed, 20 Oct 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Medal of Honor DLC adds new multiplayer mode November 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/free-medal-of-honor-dlc-adds-new-multiplayer-mode-november-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/free-medal-of-honor-dlc-adds-new-multiplayer-mode-november-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/19/free-medal-of-honor-dlc-adds-new-multiplayer-mode-november-2/#commentsEA will release a free multiplayer download pack for the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions of Medal of Honor on November 2. Well, free for those who have the Online Pass, anyway.

The DLC adds a new multiplayer mode called "Clean Sweep," in which American troops help organize a messy home "an elimination mode where players must rely on their own skill and teammates' expertise to prevail as the winning team." The DLC includes two new maps designed for the new mode, called Bagram Hangar and Khyber Caves, and new versions of the Diwagal Camp and Kabul City Ruins maps also designed for Clean Sweep.

JoystiqFree Medal of Honor DLC adds new multiplayer mode November 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closedicedlcmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftplaystationps3xboxTue, 19 Oct 2010 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor claims UK sales top spot; Just Dance 2 debuts in third]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/medal-of-honor-claims-uk-sales-top-spot-just-dance-2-debuts-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/medal-of-honor-claims-uk-sales-top-spot-just-dance-2-debuts-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/18/medal-of-honor-claims-uk-sales-top-spot-just-dance-2-debuts-in/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Here's the latest communique from the UK: Medal of Honor managed to premiere in the top spot of the UK sales chart, ousting FIFA 11, which had a 65 percent drop in sales and slipped to second. Although Chart-Track won't share raw intel on sales figures, it claims MoH had the fourth and fifth biggest premieres for 2010 on Xbox 360 and PS3, respectively.

Just Dance 2, the sequel to the unbelievably stalwart chart topper, debuted in third place. The original Just Dance has been the best selling game on one format in the UK this year and, even with its sequel out, still managed to secure a spot at #12 last week. This is only the seventh time since hitting the Wii-exclusive dance floor that the title has been out of the top ten.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow and Enslaved both slipped four spots last week to tenth and eleventh, respectively. There's little hope that either of these quality games will hang around the top ten for more than a couple weeks, especially as the incoming competition keeps heating up. Check out the UK's top ten after the break.

Continue reading Medal of Honor claims UK sales top spot; Just Dance 2 debuts in third

JoystiqMedal of Honor claims UK sales top spot; Just Dance 2 debuts in third originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BritainChart-Trackchart-track-weeklyFifa-11Just-Dance-2Medal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftnintendoplaystationPro-Evolution-Soccer-11pro-evolution-soccer-2010ps3UKwiiWii-PartyxboxMon, 18 Oct 2010 10:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake, Epic Mickey among award-nominated video game scores]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/alan-wake-epic-mickey-among-award-nominated-video-game-scores/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/alan-wake-epic-mickey-among-award-nominated-video-game-scores/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/17/alan-wake-epic-mickey-among-award-nominated-video-game-scores/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Set to be announced in advance of the Hollywood Music In Media Conference running November 18-20, 2010 in -- where else -- Hollywood, CA, the 2010 Hollywood Music In Media Awards nominees include nine video game scores under the category of Visual Media. The bombastic orchestral sounds of God of War 3 and Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood are joined by the more moody fare of Alan Wake and -- a bit out of left field -- the score to Disney Epic Mickey.

The winning score will be revealed on November 11, 2010, and you can find the complete list of nominees after the break. Cue dramatic end-of-post theme.

Continue reading Alan Wake, Epic Mickey among award-nominated video game scores

JoystiqAlan Wake, Epic Mickey among award-nominated video game scores originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanAlan-Wakeassassins-creed-brotherhoodbioshock-2epic-mickeygod-of-war-3halo-reachMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftnintendopcplaystationprince-of-persia-the-forgotten-sandsps3pspsonywiixboxSun, 17 Oct 2010 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor insists on PS3 firmware 3.42, blocks PSJailbreak]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/medal-of-honor-insists-on-ps3-firmware-3-42-blocks-psjailbreak/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/medal-of-honor-insists-on-ps3-firmware-3-42-blocks-psjailbreak/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/14/medal-of-honor-insists-on-ps3-firmware-3-42-blocks-psjailbreak/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony's ongoing battle with PSJailbreak seems to have reached the software side, as DigitalFoundry reports that Medal of Honor requires at least PlayStation 3 firmware 3.42 in order to run. DF notes that copies of the Medal of Honor have made it onto the net but "the game is completely unplayable with the hack as is." It seems that 3.42 includes a new decryption key, which is required to run Medal of Honor, while the firmware that PSJailbreak is based on "simply can't read the code." Presumably, this protection will be added to other future releases as well.

The article adds that it's possible that existing hacks could be altered to accommodate the change, though it remains to be seen if that will happen and, if so, how long it will take the hacking community to adapt.

JoystiqMedal of Honor insists on PS3 firmware 3.42, blocks PSJailbreak originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eahackMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010modsplaystationps3ps3-firmwareps3-firmware-3.42PsJailbreakThu, 14 Oct 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Medal of Honor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/metareview-medal-of-honor/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/metareview-medal-of-honor/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/metareview-medal-of-honor/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In our review of Medal of Honor we said the "campaign is an exceptional experience, but the total package simply doesn't beat Call of Duty." The real drag was the game's "unremarkable" multiplayer, developed by DICE, not standing up to the single-player campaign or being able to headshot Call of Duty's twitch-based multiplayer, its clear inspiration and competition. Critical opinion of Medal of Honor is definitely mixed.
  • Eurogamer (80/100): "As a game about the Afghanistan war that does its absolute utmost to avoid being about the Afghanistan war, Medal of Honor is arguably just a shooting gallery spliced with a fairground ride and a solid multiplayer accessory which owes a lot to Bad Company 2."
  • 1Up (B): "But while the multiplayer is very much a worthwhile experience, it lacks the scope and grandeur of Modern Warfare 2, let alone the upcoming Black Ops. By comparison, the number of play modes and customization/rank options seem quite limited, and it's hard to believe fevered Call of Duty or Bad Company 2 players will break from their current favorites to dedicate themselves to Medal of Honor."
  • Game Informer (70/100): "All the parts for a great multiplayer experience are here - class unlocks, a variety of familiar modes, lots of guns - but they don't come together in a way that makes Medal of Honor a must-play shooter. Military buffs may enjoy the game on some level, but in such a densely packed genre, EA must try harder to stand out."
  • IGN (60/100): "Swinging wildly between the horrors and danger of war and unrealistic action movie moments and hampered by a surplus of boring scripted sequences, not even DICE's talented multiplayer designers are able to elevate Medal of Honor to something memorable."
  • Giant Bomb (3/5): "But all of those scripting bugs and boring unlockables quickly add up, death-of-a-thousand-cuts style. In the absolutely ruthless world of online shooters, there's little room for weakness. Medal of Honor alternates between its derivative style and its annoying technical glitches way too frequently to rise above the crowd."

Gallery: Medal of Honor (10/12/10)

JoystiqMetareview: Medal of Honor originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DICEEAElectronic-ArtsMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010Metareviewmetareviewsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 13 Oct 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Digital Foundry examines Medal of Honor: Frontline HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/digital-foundry-examines-medal-of-honor-frontline-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/digital-foundry-examines-medal-of-honor-frontline-hd/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/13/digital-foundry-examines-medal-of-honor-frontline-hd/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"Examines" is perhaps not specific enough a word in this context -- Digital Foundry fully dissects the "updated" Medal of Honor: Frontline that's included in a limited run of the PS3 version of Medal of Honor ... and then rips it apart. Aside from noting the "low-poly and low-fi textures", DF also claims the game's visuals have "an absolute mammoth level of screen-tear," and its frame rate "varies dramatically."

When compared with the God of War Collection's HD remastering and the forthcoming Sly Cooper remix, MoH: Frontline is said to do little more than serve as "a reminder of how far the genre has progressed over the last eight years." But then, being free, it's hard to argue that the inclusion of Frontline is a ripoff -- it's just not all that "updated," is all.

JoystiqDigital Foundry examines Medal of Honor: Frontline HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Oct 2010 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-foundryeaelectronic-artsMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010Medal-of-Honor-Frontlineplaystationps3updateWed, 13 Oct 2010 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Marine reminds us Medal of Honor is just a video game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/former-marine-reminds-us-medal-of-honor-is-just-a-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/former-marine-reminds-us-medal-of-honor-is-just-a-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/former-marine-reminds-us-medal-of-honor-is-just-a-video-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In his Medal of Honor review, Joystiq's Andrew Yoon writes: "Recalling the terminology, remembering the technology and feeling the burden of the mission, the campaign is a true learning experience -- one that I didn't expect, but ultimately enjoyed." This statement is a testament to EA and Danger Close's ability to successfully execute the so-called "historical fiction" element that was so key to the game's design and marketing. Andrew hadn't learned to be a soldier, but he was drawn into the "perceived realism" much in the way that any celebrated war movie or book has sucked in its consumers. Certainly, games' ascent into the high art of "realism" has rasied some issues for a medium commonly associated with kids stuff.

If you're concerned that war (video) games are becoming too real, especially for the kids who get their hands on them one way or another, give former U.S. Marine Corps infantry officer Benjamin Busch's editorial on NPR a read. "The game cannot train its players to be actual skilled special operations soldiers, nor is it likely to lure anyone into Islamic fundamentalism," Busch writes of Medal of Honor. "It can grant neither heroism nor martyrdom. What it does do is make modern war into participatory cinema. That is its business."

Busch's problem with Medal of Honor is in its depiction of the War in Afghanistan -- a war that's obviously going on "right now." He believes that it "equates the war with the leisure of games" (perhaps distorting how best for a civilian, including those considering enlistment, to understand war), and he argues that, despite "the fully articulated violence," Medal of Honor can't possibly emulate the reality of combat. "There is a truth common to all, and that is that playing war in any medium is not combat, and for a gamer, it's not even political. It's just sedentary adventurism in need of a subject."

"The power of controlling your situation, to be able to stop the war and rest, is something that our soldiers are quietly desperate for. For those who patrol the valleys of Helmand, it is a way to impose limits on the uncertainty of war and the constancy of vulnerability," Busch reminds us. "A video game can produce no wounds and take no friends away."

Continue reading Former Marine reminds us Medal of Honor is just a video game

JoystiqFormer Marine reminds us Medal of Honor is just a video game originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 20:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Benjamin-BuschDanger-CloseEAedtitorialMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 12 Oct 2010 20:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor review: Danger close but no cigar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/medal-of-honor-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/medal-of-honor-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/medal-of-honor-review/#comments EA has tasked Danger Close and DICE with the formidable challenge of not only rebooting the Medal of Honor brand but making it a direct competitor to Call of Duty, arguably the biggest franchise on the planet. Instead of taking a more fanciful approach to "modern warfare," EA's offering zooms dangerously close to ongoing combat operations. Set in modern day Afghanistan, Medal of Honor is inherently provocative, if only for setting alone. But is it good? That depends on what you're looking for.

Single Player

Medal of Honor is essentially two games in one, with two developers and two engines (Unreal for campaign; Frostbite for multiplayer) powering the distinctly different components of the package. The decision to splinter the development of the game has a certain logic to it: single-player gamers are not necessarily multiplayer gamers, and vice versa. Presumably, EA's approach allows each mode to be optimized for their respective audience. As it turns out, this method makes for a rather confusing end product.

When viewed as a standalone offering, Danger Close's campaign is one of the finest shooters I've experienced in years, successfully finding the middle ground between a realistic military simulation and a great piece of entertainment. The story, which covers two action-packed days in the US military's ongoing battle against insurgents in Afghanistan, masterfully switches between the perspective of an elite group of soldiers (Tier 1), and the Army Rangers, and offers a genuine, realistic look into the struggles of being a modern warrior.

Gallery: Medal of Honor (10/12/10)

Continue reading Medal of Honor review: Danger close but no cigar

JoystiqMedal of Honor review: Danger close but no cigar originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 09:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closediceeaMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 12 Oct 2010 09:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor marketing director explains 'Taliban' removal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/medal-of-honor-marketing-director-explains-taliban-removal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/medal-of-honor-marketing-director-explains-taliban-removal/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/11/medal-of-honor-marketing-director-explains-taliban-removal/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In writing about the "controversy" surrounding Medal of Honor's multiplayer and the subsequent name change of one faction from "Taliban" to "Opposing Force," we've heard from two sides, primarily -- EA corporate and the Army and Air Force Exchange Service. But we've never heard directly from the folks developing MOH -- Danger Close Games. Earlier this week at an EA event in New York City, we talked with Danger Close marketing director Craig Owens. Owens spoke to why he believes the name change occurred, what it will accomplish, and how internal reactions have been at Danger Close.

In his eyes, it wasn't a result of AAFES-based GameStop stores not carrying Medal of Honor -- as he points out, the change hasn't affected the AAFES' sale embargo of MOH. "The objection was, kind of from an older generation that doesn't understand games, that the soundbyte was 'Play as the Taliban and kill US soldiers,'" though he admitted "There still is, it seems, a group that's still a little bit leery of a game taking place around an active conflict."

Owens further clarified, adding that "Really the big thing was playing as a Taliban killing US troops. So we basically just changed it to 'Opfor' -- which is a term they [the US Armed Forces] use, some of our competitors use -- more out of respect." The AAFES, he contends, didn't factor into the decision whatsoever. He also pointed out that during the beta earlier this year, there were "about 500,000 people playing it, as the Taliban, killing US troops," without a single complaint. He further lamented the nefarious "soundbyte" that lead to the seemingly inevitable controversy, adding "Later that soundbyte kinda caught wind and got taken out of context, really."

Gallery: Medal of Honor (multiplayer)

Continue reading Medal of Honor marketing director explains 'Taliban' removal

JoystiqMedal of Honor marketing director explains 'Taliban' removal originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Oct 2010 13:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aafesarmy-and-air-force-exchange-servicecraig-owensdanger-closedanger-close-gamesdiceeaea-diceelectronic-artsgamestopMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftopposing-forcepcplaystationps3talibanxboxMon, 11 Oct 2010 13:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Military stores won't carry Medal of Honor despite 'Taliban' change [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/military-stores-wont-carry-medal-of-honor-despite-taliban-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/military-stores-wont-carry-medal-of-honor-despite-taliban-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/military-stores-wont-carry-medal-of-honor-despite-taliban-cha/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service has decided that, despite EA's recent moniker change of "Taliban" to "Opposing Force" in Medal of Honor's multiplayer component, that its decision not to sell the title "remains unchanged."

In a statement, the AAFES's Commander Maj. Gen. Bruce Casella said, "Out of respect to those touched by the ongoing, real-life events presented as a game, Exchanges will not be carrying this product." He continued, "I expect the military families who are authorized to shop the Exchange are aware, and understanding, of the decision not to carry this particular offering."

Last week, the AAFES was "engaged in a thorough review to fully understand the extent of the modifications." Apparently it wasn't enough. We've contacted EA for a statement.

Update: EA Senior PR Manager Amanda Taggart told Joystiq in a statement, "We respect AAFES' authority to decide what's best for their customers. EA has not asked for, and does not expect, a change in the Defense Department's decision to restrict the availability of Medal of Honor on bases."

JoystiqMilitary stores won't carry Medal of Honor despite 'Taliban' change [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 17:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AAFESDICEEAElectronic-ArtsMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 05 Oct 2010 17:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor Monday Night Football ad is [redacted]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/medal-of-honor-monday-night-football-ad-is-redacted/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/medal-of-honor-monday-night-football-ad-is-redacted/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/medal-of-honor-monday-night-football-ad-is-redacted/#comments Yesterday's Monday Night Football festivities were sponsored by a comparatively solemn advertisement for EA's Medal of Honor -- one that compiles all the testimonies from the game's anonymous military advisers into a single ad. Check it out after the break, provided you have codeword clearance.

Continue reading Medal of Honor Monday Night Football ad is [redacted]

JoystiqMedal of Honor Monday Night Football ad is [redacted] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adsadvertisingdiceeaMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 05 Oct 2010 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Military base GameStops reconsidering Medal of Honor sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/military-base-gamestops-reconsidering-medal-of-honor-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/military-base-gamestops-reconsidering-medal-of-honor-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/military-base-gamestops-reconsidering-medal-of-honor-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

On the heels of this morning's announcement that Medal of Honor's multiplayer mode swapped the "Taliban" moniker in favor of "Opposing Force," we asked GameStop and the Army and Air Force Exchange Service if they would now allow the sale of the title on military bases. A representative for GameStop referred us to the AAFES, refusing to give comment and suggesting that we should check if the the military retailer's "position had changed."

A representative from the AAFES told us that the service is "aware of reported changes to the latest Medal of Honor game" and that "the organization has been, and continues to be, engaged in a thorough review to fully understand the extent of the modifications." EA's Jeff Brown noted that the publisher isn't directly asking to "rescind the ban on the game," but did send the AAFES a letter last month "clarifying some facts about Medal of Honor." It seems there's still a possibility that this October's release will be available on military bases after all.

JoystiqMilitary base GameStops reconsidering Medal of Honor sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aafesarmy-and-air-force-exchange-servicedanger-closedanger-close-gamesdiceeaea-diceelectronic-artsgamestopjeff-brownMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 01 Oct 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor multiplayer beta client available for download]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-beta-client-available-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-beta-client-available-for-download/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-beta-client-available-for-download/#commentsFiled under: , ,

On Monday, PC players looking to get a taste of Medal of Honor's multiplayer component can participate in an open multiplayer beta. Anxious would-be soldiers can download the client in advance over at Big Download. Preparation is, like, the first thing they teach you in the military, folks.

The beta includes Sector Control on Kunar Base and Combat Mission on Shahikot Mountains -- both of which we recently sampled at an EA event. The beta concludes on October 7. For more details, hit up the official site here.

Download: Medal of Honor Multiplayer Beta Client at Big Download (1.6 GB)

JoystiqMedal of Honor multiplayer beta client available for download originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadanger-close-gamesdiceeaMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010pcFri, 01 Oct 2010 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor devs rename 'Taliban' to 'Opposing Force' in multiplayer mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/medal-of-honor-devs-rename-taliban-to-opposing-force/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/medal-of-honor-devs-rename-taliban-to-opposing-force/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/01/medal-of-honor-devs-rename-taliban-to-opposing-force/#commentsFiled under: , ,

In a reaction to outcry from friends and families of fallen soldiers, Medal of Honor developer Danger Close and publisher EA have decided to rename the multiplayer faction in their game from "Taliban" to "Opposing Force." Executive producer Greg Goodrich announced as much on the MOH blog this morning, explaining the alteration by saying, "We are making this change for the men and women serving in the military and for the families of those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice -- this franchise will never willfully disrespect, intentionally or otherwise, your memory and service."

This isn't the first such predicament Medal of Honor has faced in its development -- early last month it was revealed that GameStop stores within Army and Air Force bases wouldn't carry the game, with GameStop's internal memo naming the playable Taliban as its reasoning.

Unfortunately, we're not sure we see a solution here -- considering combatant casualties in any war are "opposing forces," won't considerably more people be offended this way?

JoystiqMedal of Honor devs rename 'Taliban' to 'Opposing Force' in multiplayer mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closedanger-close-gameseaelectronic-artsgreg-goodrichMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftmultiplayeropposing-forcespcplaystationps3talibanxboxFri, 01 Oct 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor really wants you to know about Tier 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/medal-of-honor-really-wants-you-to-know-about-tier-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/medal-of-honor-really-wants-you-to-know-about-tier-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/medal-of-honor-really-wants-you-to-know-about-tier-1/#comments These Tier 1 guys, they sure know how to ... umm ... remind us that Medal of Honor is a modern war game -- you know, in the sense that they're tough looking and are clearly armed to the teeth. Heck, amidst all the danger they're in, they don't even shed tear one!

Continue reading Medal of Honor really wants you to know about Tier 1

JoystiqMedal of Honor really wants you to know about Tier 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closedanger-close-gamesdiceeaea-diceelectronic-artsMedal-of-HonorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3tier-1xboxThu, 30 Sep 2010 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA claims Medal of Honor has broken franchise pre-order record]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/ea-claims-medal-of-honor-has-broken-franchise-pre-order-record/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/ea-claims-medal-of-honor-has-broken-franchise-pre-order-record/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/30/ea-claims-medal-of-honor-has-broken-franchise-pre-order-record/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Electronic Arts announced this morning that its massively marketed Medal of Honor reboot, launching October 12, has had the highest number of "pre-sells," as it calls them, "in the franchise's 11-year history." Considering the franchise's shaky history for the past eight years, and the absence of bonus goodies like Battlefield 3 beta access, that achievement is kinda like winning the Tour de France on a Harley.

No actual pre-sell figures were shared by EA. We'll get our first retail reports from the UK charts next month, followed by a much clearer picture from the NPD report in November. Our blessings go out to all the games getting involved in that brutal month's retail warfare.

Gallery: Medal of Honor (9/16/2010)

JoystiqEA claims Medal of Honor has broken franchise pre-order record originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Electronic-Artsmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 30 Sep 2010 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor score created by Iron Man composer Ramin Djawadi]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/medal-of-honor-score-created-by-iron-man-composer-ramin-djawadi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/medal-of-honor-score-created-by-iron-man-composer-ramin-djawadi/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/medal-of-honor-score-created-by-iron-man-composer-ramin-djawadi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 had a sweeping series of arrangements created by famed composer Hans Zimmer. Earlier today, EA announced that its upcoming military shooter, Medal of Honor, will have a score composed by another Hollywood maestro. Ramin Djawadi, whose musical work has appeared in Iron Man, Prison Break and Clash of the Titans -- the remake, that is -- is the mind behind the game's musical accompaniment.

Djawadi explained in this press release announcement that "the music is designed to dynamically ebb and flow, complementing the big action sequences with thundering electric guitar and bass, and the quiet stealth with haunting strings and hymns." He adds, "it is like a Hollywood action movie score on steroids." So, it's going to be incomprehensibly strong, irrationally angry and covered in weird, plump, ever-shifting veins? We'll be honest -- we're more than a little frightened.

JoystiqMedal of Honor score created by Iron Man composer Ramin Djawadi originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diceeaMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftmusicpcplaystationps3ramin-djawadiscorexboxTue, 28 Sep 2010 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor PC beta starts October 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/medal-of-honor-pc-beta-starts-october-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/medal-of-honor-pc-beta-starts-october-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/medal-of-honor-pc-beta-starts-october-4/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Medal of Honor will launch a PC beta for its Call of Duty-esque multiplayer component on October 4. The two modes available in the open beta are Sector Control, a territory-grabbing game type, and Combat Mission. The beta will turn back into an IED pumpkin on October 7.

The beta also appears to be part of a PR campaign in light of the military's sensitivity to subject matter in the game. EA Games Label Frank Gibeau states, "We also hope that by offering the Multiplayer Open Beta, we can clear up any misunderstanding about the patriotism and respect that are the foundation of this game. The Medal of Honor franchise has always shown extraordinary reverence for American and Allied soldiers -- this game is no exception."

Gallery: Medal of Honor (multiplayer)

JoystiqMedal of Honor PC beta starts October 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadiceeafpsmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010pcFri, 24 Sep 2010 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor multiplayer preview: A DICE-y compromise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-preview/#commentsMedal of Honor multiplayer If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then Medal of Honor wants to have Modern Warfare 2's babies. It's evident in the entire makeup of the multiplayer package -- from the progression system to the Killstreak-like Support Actions right down to the run-and-gun, lone wolf style of play. But, it has that patented DICE touch, which gives it just enough character to stand on its own two feet.

Gallery: Medal of Honor (multiplayer)

Continue reading Medal of Honor multiplayer preview: A DICE-y compromise

JoystiqMedal of Honor multiplayer preview: A DICE-y compromise originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closedanger-close-gamesDICEeaEA-DICEmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 24 Sep 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor preview: Three missions, three pairs of boots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/medal-of-honor-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/medal-of-honor-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/medal-of-honor-preview/#comments During a recent EA press event, I played through three missions of Medal of Honor. The successive missions were taken from the middle of the game and were representative of the full game's transitional pacing. You don't play as one individual over the course of the late-2001-2002 campaign, but rather you switch between three different branches of the U.S. military: the Army Rangers, Air Force and the Tier 1 Operators.

My session was supervised by EA product manager Kevin O'Leary. He looked the part, sporting a Tier 1 Operator-level beard of his own and watched as I made my way through the first mission: "Belly of the Beast."

Gallery: Medal of Honor (9/16/2010)

Continue reading Medal of Honor preview: Three missions, three pairs of boots

JoystiqMedal of Honor preview: Three missions, three pairs of boots originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>medal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 16 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlefield Heroes become adorable Tier 1 Operators with Medal of Honor outfits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/battlefield-heroes-become-adorable-tier-1-operators-with-medal-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/battlefield-heroes-become-adorable-tier-1-operators-with-medal-o/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/battlefield-heroes-become-adorable-tier-1-operators-with-medal-o/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Playing military dress up doesn't get any cuter than Battlefield Heroes. Of course, we never expected to see the beard-clad, rough and tough Tier 1 Operators from Medal of Honor show up in EA's free-to-play FPS, but here they are. Outfits for Tier 1 Elites and Specialists are already available, with Operatives and Captains becoming available in "early October."

At that time, Battlefield Heroes will also be adding a new map in "Alpine Assault," liberally peppered with the cadre of new weapons (six total). Head past the break for a video of the new content in action.

Continue reading Battlefield Heroes become adorable Tier 1 Operators with Medal of Honor outfits

JoystiqBattlefield Heroes become adorable Tier 1 Operators with Medal of Honor outfits originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpine-assaultbattlefield-heroesdicedlceaelectronic-artsmacmedal-of-honor-2010pctier-1-operatorTue, 14 Sep 2010 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor gameplay trailer fuels the war machine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/11/medal-of-honor-gameplay-trailer-fuels-the-war-machine/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/11/medal-of-honor-gameplay-trailer-fuels-the-war-machine/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/11/medal-of-honor-gameplay-trailer-fuels-the-war-machine/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We've really got to give it to EA for these Medal of Honor Experience videos -- there's no quick cuts or flashy editing, just pure, unadulterated gameplay. It's as close as you can get without actually holding the controller in your hand. In this latest edition, titled "High Value Target," you get a look at the game's Combat Mission multiplayer mode, which has the two teams either attacking or defending a series of objectives. In this case, it appears that the player's side is trying to escort tanks through a destroyed airfield, making for some pretty impressive visual spectacle.

Of course, this video is missing one thing we experienced a lot in the multiplayer beta a while back -- all that time we spent waiting to respawn while dead. Sure, you could end up being as good as this guy, and sure, watching the action is more fun than watching a countdown timer. But next time, EA, maybe throw in at least one respawn and show the complete game. Whaddaya say?

Continue reading Medal of Honor gameplay trailer fuels the war machine

JoystiqMedal of Honor gameplay trailer fuels the war machine originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eagameplayMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftplaystationps3trailervideoxboxSat, 11 Sep 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor must sell 'at least three million copies' for sequel consideration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/medal-of-honor-must-sell-at-least-three-million-copies-for-seq/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/medal-of-honor-must-sell-at-least-three-million-copies-for-seq/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/09/medal-of-honor-must-sell-at-least-three-million-copies-for-seq/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EA's upcoming Medal of Honor is a risky proposition for the company. Unlike Activision's Modern Warfare series, Danger Close's game is based upon a real-life conflict. With battles ongoing in the Middle East, MOH has rightfully attracted its fair share of controversy -- some are eager to say that the game is simply going too far.

The military advisors EA has hired have the difficult job of "selling authenticity and realism" while making sure "it didn't go too far." Originally titled Medal of Honor: Anaconda, the game's pitch was essentially "Black Hawk Down for Afghanistan." It would be based on a failed operation called Anaconda, where a Navy SEAL was dragged to his death by Al Qaeda fighters. One consultant told the New York TImes that the original concept "hit a little too close to home" and would "put a sour taste in our brothers' mouths."

Medal of Honor has evolved over its development, with a new found focus on "telling the soldier's story." One designer told the NYT that, differing from Infinity Ward's approach to the genre, "we want the player to feel, not like they're in a movie, but like they're in Afghanistan." Funding such an ambitious goal is certainly not cheap, with executive producer Greg Goodrich telling the newspaper that "if the game doesn't sell at least three million copies, I'm not going to be able to do another one."

Certainly, the stakes are high for EA, attempting to capitalize on the success of its competitor's flagship franchise. But will Medal of Honor's approach resonate with gamers? We'll find out in one month's time.

JoystiqMedal of Honor must sell 'at least three million copies' for sequel consideration originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danger-closeeaMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftnew-york-timespcplaystationps3xboxThu, 09 Sep 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Source: Military-based GameStop stores will not carry Medal of Honor]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/source-military-based-gamestop-stores-will-not-carry-medal-of-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/source-military-based-gamestop-stores-will-not-carry-medal-of-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/source-military-based-gamestop-stores-will-not-carry-medal-of-h/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EA's upcoming Medal of Honor reboot has attracted some controversy due to the inclusion of Taliban fighters in the game's multiplayer mode. A source has informed Joystiq that, in response to the backlash, GameStop stores in Army and Air Force bases will not stock the game. According to the notice sent to employees, "GameStop has agreed out of respect for our past and present Men and Women in uniform we will not carry Medal of Honor in any of our AAFES based stores." The notice specifically mentions playable Taliban fighters as cause for the pullback.

The affected stores will have "all marketing material pulled" and will no longer take reservations for the game. While the move showcases GameStop's sensitivity to the hot-topic issue, stores are nonetheless encouraged to direct buyers to a non-military store. "Customers who enter our AAFES stores and wish to reserve Medal of Honor can and should be directed to the nearest GameStop location off base," the note explains.

The full statement can be read after the break.

Continue reading Source: Military-based GameStop stores will not carry Medal of Honor

JoystiqSource: Military-based GameStop stores will not carry Medal of Honor originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aafesgamestopmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftmilitarypcplaystationps3xboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor trailer previews Helicopters vs. Town cage fight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/medal-of-honor-trailer-previews-helicopters-vs-town-cage-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/medal-of-honor-trailer-previews-helicopters-vs-town-cage-fight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/02/medal-of-honor-trailer-previews-helicopters-vs-town-cage-fight/#comments The latest trailer for EA's Medal of Honor reboot focuses on a segment from the single-player campaign -- one which pits a pair of heavily armored attack helicopters against a village of hostiles. Who will emerge victorious? The results may -- who are we kidding? The helicopters, of course.

Continue reading Medal of Honor trailer previews Helicopters vs. Town cage fight

JoystiqMedal of Honor trailer previews Helicopters vs. Town cage fight originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 02 Sep 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former SAS op Chris Ryan handling Medal of Honor prequel novel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/29/former-sas-op-chris-ryan-handling-medal-of-honor-prequel-novel/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/29/former-sas-op-chris-ryan-handling-medal-of-honor-prequel-novel/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/29/former-sas-op-chris-ryan-handling-medal-of-honor-prequel-novel/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EA has tapped British author Chris Ryan to write a prequel novel to Medal of Honor, which will use in-game missions as the basis for "an authentic and respectful account of an elite soldier fighting in Afghanistan." Ryan is the author two bestselling novels, in addition to The One That Got Away, a narrative account of his time as a Special Forces operative on the Bravo Two Zero patrol in Iraq. Presumably he'll use both his combat experience and storytelling prowess to do the game franchise right. Hopefully his first line will be better than the one we came up with: "They loaded their guns carefully, knowing that soon, they'd be shooting a lot of people."

The creatively named Medal of Honor: The Book will be offered as a bonus with preorders of the game from UK retailer HMV, but we're not sure if it will be available for sale elsewhere -- we've contacted EA for comment and will update if we hear more. We sure hope it sees print in the US, if only to find out what a former British operative thinks of the Medal of Honor, a uniquely American military decoration.

JoystiqFormer SAS op Chris Ryan handling Medal of Honor prequel novel originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chris-ryaneamedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftnovelnovelizationpcplaystationprequelps3sasukxboxSun, 29 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor multiplayer trailer is eerily familiar]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-trailer-is-eerily-familiar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-trailer-is-eerily-familiar/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/27/medal-of-honor-multiplayer-trailer-is-eerily-familiar/#comments Half of the development of the upcoming Medal of Honor reboot -- multiplayer, specifically -- is being handled by Battlefield: Bad Company 2 developer DICE. The latest trailer, featuring the game's multiplayer component, highlights that division more than ever.

Specifically, the clip directly mimics Bad Company 2's marketing campaign. In fairness, it's mighty effective advertising, even while standing in stark contrast to our own experience in the game's multiplayer beta. Hit the break to see for yourself.

Continue reading Medal of Honor multiplayer trailer is eerily familiar

JoystiqMedal of Honor multiplayer trailer is eerily familiar originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diceeaelectronic-artsMedal-of-Honor-2010microsoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3xboxFri, 27 Aug 2010 18:00:00 EST