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 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Fable Legends confirmed for Windows 10, cross-plays with Xbox One [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/fable-legends-confirmed-for-windows-10-pcs/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/fable-legends-confirmed-for-windows-10-pcs/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/21/fable-legends-confirmed-for-windows-10-pcs/#comments
Fable Legends is in development for Windows 10 PCs, Lionhead Studios confirmed during Microsoft's Windows 10 briefing today. The game was announced in August 2013 as an Xbox One exclusive. PC and Xbox One players will be able to partake in cross-platform cooperative multiplayer.

Fable Legends' multiplayer beta launched in October. The developer did not offer a release date for the PC version of the game, though it is expected to arrive this year for Xbox One.

Update: Check out the latest screens (below) and a trailer (above) of the game.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

JoystiqFable Legends confirmed for Windows 10, cross-plays with Xbox One [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Jan 2015 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementfablefable-legendsLionheadLionhead-Studiosmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiospcwindows-10Windows-10-EventWed, 21 Jan 2015 13:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Get prepped for State of Decay: Year One on Xbox One in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/get-prepped-for-state-of-decay-year-one-on-xbox-one-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/get-prepped-for-state-of-decay-year-one-on-xbox-one-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/get-prepped-for-state-of-decay-year-one-on-xbox-one-in-april/#comments State of Decay: Year One Survival Edition fights for more life on Xbox One starting April 28 in North America, with other countries joining the party on May 1. Microsoft confirmed the game's US price is $30, while owners of the Xbox 360 original can get a 33 percent discount off the Xbox One version up until June 30.

The 1080p Xbox One edition of Undead Labs' zombified survival horror comes with add-on packs Breakdown and Lifeline, as well as new content. It's also just part of the developer's "multi-year, multi-title" agreement with Microsoft.

JoystiqGet prepped for State of Decay: Year One on Xbox One in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2015 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class3microsoftmicrosoft-studiosrelease-datestate-of-decayundead-labsxbox-oneTue, 20 Jan 2015 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Ori and the Blind Forest lights up Xbox One & PC this March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/ori-and-the-blind-forest-lights-up-xbox-one-and-pc-this-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/ori-and-the-blind-forest-lights-up-xbox-one-and-pc-this-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/ori-and-the-blind-forest-lights-up-xbox-one-and-pc-this-march/#comments Ori and the Blind Forest is set to mix beauty with beastly platforming when it hits Xbox One and PC on March 11. Moon Studios' side-scroller is priced $20 on both platforms.

Ori caught the eye last year with its picturesque look, comparable to the UbiArt engine as seen in the watercolor-like Child of Light. What also caught Richard Mitchell's eye in our preview was the speedy, precise platforming.

According to the developer, Ori's agile, fluid movement was inspired by Super Meat Boy - when we say fluid, we don't mean the red kind. Ori is a less gruesome, more spiritual affair then Team Meat's offering, but its air-dash combos and wall-to-wall platforming tricks look like they require some dexterity.

Continue reading Ori and the Blind Forest lights up Xbox One & PC this March

JoystiqOri and the Blind Forest lights up Xbox One & PC this March originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2015 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmicrosoft-studiosmoon-studiosori-and-the-blind-forestpcrelease-datexboxxbox-oneTue, 20 Jan 2015 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Screamride: For those who dream of disaster]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/screamride-for-those-who-dream-of-disaster/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/screamride-for-those-who-dream-of-disaster/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/20/screamride-for-those-who-dream-of-disaster/#comments It's only fair to start this with an apology to Screamride, which joins us just as every second game gets to be called a 'roller coaster ride,' usually because it has a car chase, some explosions, and at least one scene of the protagonist going NO NO NO N- [explosion cuts off the rest, but an additional NO is strongly implied].

Screamride, in contrast, is actually about roller coasters: riding them; building tightly coiled tracks for them; destroying them in fiery catastrophe. It's so in love with pleasing disaster that it's likely to be wrongly categorized as 'cinematic action game.'

Continue reading Screamride: For those who dream of disaster

JoystiqScreamride: For those who dream of disaster originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frontier-developmentsmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosq1-2015recommendedxboxxbox-oneTue, 20 Jan 2015 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: MCC patch tweaks matchmaking (again), up now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/19/halo-mcc-patch-tweaks-matchmaking-again-up-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/19/halo-mcc-patch-tweaks-matchmaking-again-up-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/19/halo-mcc-patch-tweaks-matchmaking-again-up-now/#comments The latest patch for Halo: The Master Chief Collection is live now and focuses on matchmaking, UI, stability and other features, outlined by 343 Industries in summary form after the break.

For matchmaking specifically, the patch promises to improve search success rates, reduce instances of the "Awaiting Privileges" error, more correctly determine player counts in each playlist, fix an issue where players appeared to be searching in the incorrect "find game" screen, and add a countdown sound effect to the voting timer. The update should improve the network performance of Halo 2: Anniversary, lower the music volume in multiplayer menus and fix stability issues across multiple games in both campaign and multiplayer.

The Master Chief Collection has suffered from matchmaking issues since launch, prompting 343 Industries to dole out compensation in the form of a free month of Xbox Live for early adopters, plus a free 1080p, 60fps Halo 3: ODST campaign due in the spring, and a fresh nameplate and avatar.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

Continue reading Halo: MCC patch tweaks matchmaking (again), up now

JoystiqHalo: MCC patch tweaks matchmaking (again), up now originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-the-master-chief-collectionmatchmakingmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmultiplayerpatchupdatexbox-oneMon, 19 Jan 2015 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Phantom Dust for Xbox One will retell original game's story, may release in 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/phantom-dust-for-xbox-one-will-retell-original-games-story-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/phantom-dust-for-xbox-one-will-retell-original-games-story-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/14/phantom-dust-for-xbox-one-will-retell-original-games-story-may/#comments The upcoming JRPG Phantom Dust for Xbox One will offer a "reimagining" of the story featured in the game's original 2005 Xbox release, Microsoft Studios Creative Director Ken Lobb revealed on The Inner Circle podcast this week.

Few details regarding Phantom Dust were divulged since its E3 2014 unveiling, but Lobb clarifies that it will feature improvements to the original game's pacing and storyline. Limited sales following Phantom Dust's initial release drove the decision to produce a remake, rather than continue its story.

Lobb additionally states that Phantom Dust may be better-suited to a Killer Instinct-styled free-to-play release, claiming that "gamers might not want to go out and take a sixty dollar risk" on a niche deck-building strategy game. Lobb notes that Phantom Dust "may or may not" see a release in 2015.

[Image: Joystiq]

JoystiqPhantom Dust for Xbox One will retell original game's story, may release in 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftmicrosoft-studiosphantom-dustxbox-oneWed, 14 Jan 2015 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Studios lays out Let's Play monetization rules]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/microsoft-studios-lays-out-lets-play-monetization-rules/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/microsoft-studios-lays-out-lets-play-monetization-rules/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/12/microsoft-studios-lays-out-lets-play-monetization-rules/#comments Microsoft Studios has outlined a revised ruleset for players looking to monetize footage from Microsoft-published games on video-sharing sites, granting permission to Let's Players and Twitch streamers with some stipulations.

Under the publisher's rules, players may monetize footage from Microsoft Studios games if it was captured during normal gameplay, without the use of reverse engineering or hacking. Microsoft's rules additionally prohibit the use of gameplay footage to produce content that is pornographic, lewd, obscene, vulgar, discriminatory, or otherwise "objectionable."

"Whether an Item is 'objectionable' is up to us," the rules page states, "but you can expect us to be concerned if a significant number of people in the game's community or the public at large report the content as offensive."

Additional rules prohibit gameplay footage gated behind paid-access websites and subscription-based services. Revenue earned through network partnerships is still permissible, however. A full list of Microsoft's revised guidelines is available here.

[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqMicrosoft Studios lays out Let's Play monetization rules originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2015 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lets-playmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmonetizationstreamingtwitchxboxxbox-oneMon, 12 Jan 2015 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct's character roster foresees an Omen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/killer-instincts-character-roster-foresees-an-omen/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/killer-instincts-character-roster-foresees-an-omen/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/killer-instincts-character-roster-foresees-an-omen/#comments Killer Instinct for Xbox One is about to receive its next fighter: Omen, the spirit of rage, corruption and shadow energy. Players familiar with Killer Instinct's lore may recognize Omen as the spirit that turns Jago into Shadow Jago, a dark and twisted version of the warrior monk. According to developer Iron Galaxy, Omen has accrued enough energy through his battles as Shadow Jago to take physical form of his own.

What does said physical form look like, you ask? Well, it wouldn't be a Killer Instinct character reveal without a tease before the proper unveiling. All there is to see so far are the bat-like wing and fingertips crackling with blue energy pictured above.

Omen is also a bonus character, meaning he will not be sold individually, nor will he have his own Story mode. Players who have purchased either the Season 2 Combo Breaker Add-On or Season 2 Ultra Edition will receive Omen for free later this month.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

JoystiqKiller Instinct's character roster foresees an Omen originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iron-galaxykiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosomenxbox-oneSun, 04 Jan 2015 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: D4, MX vs. ATV now on Games with Gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/02/psa-go-get-your-games-with-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/02/psa-go-get-your-games-with-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/02/psa-go-get-your-games-with-gold/#comments As the calendar flipped to January yesterday, Xbox Live Gold members are now able to download this month's free games on Xbox One and Xbox 360. As revealed in December, Xbox One owners with a premium Live subscription can now pick up Access Games' quirky adventure D4: Dark Dreams Don't Die free of charge.

Subscribers get two games on Xbox 360 this month: Offroad racer MX vs ATV Alive and CD Projekt's The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings. D4 will be available throughout the month while the two previous-generation games are on a split schedule. MX vs ATV Alive is free until January 15, then The Witcher 2 will be available to download at no cost on January 16 through the end of the month. Lastly, according to the Microsoft Store, last month's Xbox One game Worms Battlegrounds is still available to download for free.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqPSA: D4, MX vs. ATV now on Games with Gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>access-gamesd4d4-dark-dreams-dont-diegames-with-goldkinectmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmx-vs-atv-alivepsathe-witcher-2worms-battlegroundsxboxxbox-livexbox-live-goldxbox-oneFri, 02 Jan 2015 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Master Chief Collection reloads, adds Combat Evolved playlist]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/master-chief-collection-reloads-adds-combat-evolved-playlist/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/master-chief-collection-reloads-adds-combat-evolved-playlist/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/18/master-chief-collection-reloads-adds-combat-evolved-playlist/#comments Sure Halo: The Master Chief Collection has already seen its share of stability patches and performance updates, but any fans of the original Halo: Combat Evolved should be pleased by the newest update released by developer 343 Industries, which introduces a playlist dedicated to maps from Halo: CE.

Prior to The Master Chief Collection's launch, 343 specified that the Halo: CE playlist would be held until they were able to "provide the best experience possible." The developer now touts that many of the game's needed tweakings and improvements were added via the most recent patch, and so players can queue up to take one another down, old-school style. The playlist features 2v2 battles, which is due to player feedback, according to 343.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

JoystiqMaster Chief Collection reloads, adds Combat Evolved playlist originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 18 Dec 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-IndustriesHalo-Combat-Evolvedhalo-the-master-chief-collectionmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiospatchupdatexbox-oneThu, 18 Dec 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Master Chief Collection patch aims at stability, matchmaking]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/halo-master-chief-collection-patch-aims-at-stability-matchmaki/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/halo-master-chief-collection-patch-aims-at-stability-matchmaki/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/16/halo-master-chief-collection-patch-aims-at-stability-matchmaki/#comments Halo: The Master Chief Collection received another patch this week aimed at fixing the game collection's matchmaking, parties, roster and other issues. The latest update is expected to improve the "reliability" of matchmaking and also guarantee that split-screen, local multiplayer friends are always on the same team in Halo 2. Microsoft said that players should have fewer problems when joining or managing their parties as well. The Master Chief Collection's update should improve stability across the game's menus, campaign playlists, matchmaking and custom games. Full patch notes are available on 343 Industries' blog.

The four-game Halo collection launched in November for Xbox One and was met with a number of issues, primarily in the game's online components. It led to an apology from 343 Industries head Bonnie Ross, who said the developer did not deliver "the experience [players] deserve," and that the developer would "make this right" with its fans. 343 Industries also received criticism for a promotion earlier this month that gave Xbox Live Rewards members that purchased the collection $15 in marketplace credit. The developer says another update is in the works to fix a "Legacy" control option issue in Halo 2 and Halo 4, and will offer further content updates to improve the collection.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqHalo: Master Chief Collection patch aims at stability, matchmaking originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalohalo-the-master-chief-collectionmatchmakingmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosonlinepatchupdatexbox-oneTue, 16 Dec 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct update 2.2 brings raptors and reindeer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/killer-instinct-update-2-2-brings-raptors-and-reindeer/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/killer-instinct-update-2-2-brings-raptors-and-reindeer/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/13/killer-instinct-update-2-2-brings-raptors-and-reindeer/#comments Killer Instinct for Xbox One is about to get a cup of Christmas cheer with patch 2.2, which will bring holiday-themed costumes for fighters TJ Combo, Orchid and Sabrewulf, as well as the re-introduction of Riptor, a fighter from the game's original 1994 release.

Players who own Orchid or play as her when she is part of the free character rotation will be able to do battle decked in holly jolly red-and-green stockings. Those who have purchased the Ultra edition of Killer Instinct's Season One will also be able to equip Orchid with oversized candy canes, as well as place reindeer antlers and a red nose on Sabrewulf's adorable face. If you own the Ultra edition of Season Two, you'll be able to give TJ Combo a white beard and Santa hat.

As for the return of Riptor, developer Iron Galaxy states on the Killer Instinct forums that they are aiming to release her from captivity on December 17 for Ultra edition owners, and December 23 for Combo edition owners. "Full transparency: we hit an issue in Cert that paused us long enough to put the date in slight risk. SLIGHT," creative director at Microsoft Studios Adam Isgreen wrote. "We are all good to land it as long as there are no further hiccups." The cybernetic dinosaur will also receive a trailer to show off her unique talents on Monday, but just looking at her, we have no doubts about her lethality.

Sheesh, where's Chris Pratt when you need him?
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqKiller Instinct update 2.2 brings raptors and reindeer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christmasiron-galaxykiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosriptorxbox-oneSat, 13 Dec 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Matchmaking targeted in new Halo: The Master Chief Collection patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/20/matchmaking-targeted-in-new-halo-the-master-chief-collection-pa/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/20/matchmaking-targeted-in-new-halo-the-master-chief-collection-pa/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/20/matchmaking-targeted-in-new-halo-the-master-chief-collection-pa/#comments Halo: The Master Chief Collection has suffered from serious matchmaking issues since its launch earlier this month - when we reviewed it, matchmaking was "barely functioning." However, today's content update aims to fix many of these issues. In a blog post, developer 343 Industries outlines the changes, the most crucial of which are fixes to the wait time and success rate in matchmaking.

"With this update, you'll see better, more frequent and more informative status updates throughout the matchmaking flow - so 'Players Found' for example, will be displayed to let players know where they are in the matchmaking process instead of simply wondering if it's going to connect," 343 writes.

The update also ensures players stay together after reviewing the post-game carnage report, removes the ability to kick players from matchmaking games, and it removes an exploit that allowed players to boost their rankings.

Also part of the patch, the Master Chief Collection's overall UI and campaign processes get a spit-shine, and Halo: CE, Halo 2 and Halo 2: Anniversary get improvements. Today's patch was originally supposed to launch on November 19, but was delayed.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqMatchmaking targeted in new Halo: The Master Chief Collection patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Nov 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-the-master-chief-collectionmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosmicrosoft-studiospatchupdatexbox-oneThu, 20 Nov 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Double Helix had Killer Instinct build on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/16/report-double-helix-had-killer-instinct-build-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/16/report-double-helix-had-killer-instinct-build-on-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/16/report-double-helix-had-killer-instinct-build-on-xbox-360/#comments Killer Instinct for the Xbox One may have began life as a project for the Xbox 360, if new footage showcased by Andrew Borman of Past To Present Online is to be believed. A video from PTP Online, viewable after the break, shows a (very) rough draft of what would go on to become the Killer Instinct we know today. Lighting effects are missing, only a few characters are in the build, some stages are broken and Chief Thunder is naught but a gray blob of a man, but if nothing else, it's interesting to see the progress the game has since achieved.

Though we can't say for sure what the purpose of such a build would be, it makes a certain kind of sense that it would exist. Even if Killer Instinct was never intended for release on the Xbox 360, developers aiming to have their games ready for the Xbox One's launch would have benefited from early prototyping. Or maybe the game was shunted off the Xbox 360 to bolster the Xbox One's launch lineup.

We may never know, but sometimes mystery is a little more fun.

Continue reading Report: Double Helix had Killer Instinct build on Xbox 360

JoystiqReport: Double Helix had Killer Instinct build on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 16 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxxbox-oneSun, 16 Nov 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The new dance in Halo 5: Guardians]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/the-new-dance-in-halo-5-guardians/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/the-new-dance-in-halo-5-guardians/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/the-new-dance-in-halo-5-guardians/#comments Despite likening the beta test as "coming out of the house half dressed," 343 Industries and Microsoft will use December as a showcase for Halo 5: Guardians - at least the multiplayer part. With almost 2 years of work done and nearly another year to go before launch, Halo 5: Guardians is going to be a learning experience for just about everyone: first for seasoned Halo players coming to grips with new abilities and a far more responsive output of 60 frames per second, and then for its developers, who will have weeks of data and feedback to get Halo in suitable shape on Xbox One.

Continue reading The new dance in Halo 5: Guardians

JoystiqThe new dance in Halo 5: Guardians originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2014 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-industriesbetahalo-5halo-5-guardianshalo-the-master-chief-collectionmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneTue, 11 Nov 2014 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Sunset Overdrive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/27/metareview-sunset-overdrive/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/27/metareview-sunset-overdrive/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/27/metareview-sunset-overdrive/#comments Maybe you noticed, but we really liked spending time with Sunset Overdrive. Our five-star review of Insomniac's outlandish action game based in the apocalyptic Sunset City praised its variety in elements like mission structure and weaponry. Thanks to gear like the "rapid-fire weapon that launches vinyl albums" or "handheld helicopters with pistols dangling from strings," we found Sunset Overdrive to be "an MC Escher painting of comic book violence, with physics taking a back seat to personality and fun."

Don't only take our word for it, though. Head past the break for a glance at other critical looks at the "complete and purposeful" game.

Continue reading Metareview: Sunset Overdrive

JoystiqMetareview: Sunset Overdrive originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>insomniac-gamesMetareviewmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiossunset-overdrivexbox-oneMon, 27 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo: Spartan Strike goes top-down on PC, mobile in December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/16/halo-spartan-strike-goes-top-down-on-pc-mobile-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/16/halo-spartan-strike-goes-top-down-on-pc-mobile-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/16/halo-spartan-strike-goes-top-down-on-pc-mobile-in-december/#comments Microsoft announced a new top-down Halo spinoff today for PC and mobile: Halo: Spartan Strike. Developed by 343 Industries and Vanguard Games, Spartan Strike will arrive on Windows 8 devices and Steam on December 12 for $6. Spartan Strike bears strong resemblance to the developers' other third-person shooter that launched in July 2013, Halo: Spartan Assault, though it is not a direct sequel.

Rather, the upcoming shooter is set during the events of Halo 2 and has players guiding a Spartan through cities, jungles and other environments while using an "all-new arsenal of weapons, abilities and vehicles" such as the series' popular Warthog vehicle. Spartan Strike will include 30 missions filled with Covenant and Promethean enemies. Head past the break for Halo: Spartan Strike's launch trailer.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

Continue reading Halo: Spartan Strike goes top-down on PC, mobile in December

JoystiqHalo: Spartan Strike goes top-down on PC, mobile in December originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Oct 2014 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industriesannouncementhalohalo-spartan-assaulthalo-spartan-strikemicrosoft-studiosmobilepcrelease-datescreenshotsshooterTop-downtop-down-shootertrailervanguardVanguard-GamesThu, 16 Oct 2014 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Take Forza Horizon 2 out for a test drive next month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/27/take-forza-horizon-2-out-for-a-test-drive-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/27/take-forza-horizon-2-out-for-a-test-drive-next-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/27/take-forza-horizon-2-out-for-a-test-drive-next-month/#comments The demo for Forza Horizon 2 will be available for players to download on September 16. Playground Games' open-world racer will launch in full on September 30 for Xbox One, and will feature over 200 cars at launch. Microsoft also disclosed the game's achievements list, which can be found at Xbox Wire.

The developer did not reveal which vehicles will be available to drive in the demo, just that the selection is limited to a "handful" of cars that have been picked to "give you a brief taste of what to expect" when the full version of the racing game rolls to retail. Forza Horizon 2 will debut without microtransactions and will feature a Kinect-enabled assistant known as "ANNA."
[Image: Microsoft]

Continue reading Take Forza Horizon 2 out for a test drive next month

JoystiqTake Forza Horizon 2 out for a test drive next month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Aug 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AchievementsDemoforza-horizon-2microsoftmicrosoft-studiosPlayground-GamesSumo-Digitalturn-10xbox-oneWed, 27 Aug 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct: Season 2 hits on Oct. 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/12/killer-instinct-season-2-hits-on-oct-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/12/killer-instinct-season-2-hits-on-oct-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/12/killer-instinct-season-2-hits-on-oct-15/#comments Killer Instinct's second season launches on October 15, bringing along two new fighters, game modes and a revamped interface.

Season 2 includes the characters TJ Combo and Maya. The Killer Instinct: Season 2 Ultra Edition includes eight new fighters to be released one per month after TJ and Maya, some costumes and accessory packs, and Killer Instict 2: Classic. The Ultra Edition runs $40. The Combo Breaker Pack is $20 and includes the eight new fighters, one per month. Individual fighters cost $5 each.

Purchase the Ultra Edition between September 23 and October 14, and snag TJ early.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

Continue reading Killer Instinct: Season 2 hits on Oct. 15

JoystiqKiller Instinct: Season 2 hits on Oct. 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Aug 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCiron-galaxy-studioskiller-instinct-2013killer-instinct-season-2microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneTue, 12 Aug 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Forza Horizon 2 features Kinect-enabled assistant called ANNA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/05/forza-horizon-2-features-kinect-enabled-assistant-called-anna/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/05/forza-horizon-2-features-kinect-enabled-assistant-called-anna/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/05/forza-horizon-2-features-kinect-enabled-assistant-called-anna/#comments
Road trips are a blast if you've got someone to talk to, but not everyone can just drop their life for weeks at time to attend driving festivals. You're an exception to that rule in Forza Horizon 2, but Turn 10 Studios Creative Director Ralph Fulton shared some good news with Examiner: Horizon 2 drivers will have a companion in a Kinect-supplemented AI partner called ANNA, which means the prime passenger seat real estate is open for a kickin' snack buffet.

While ANNA probably won't keep your meal upright in hairpin turns, Fulton explained that she acts like a digital, navigation-savvy assistant. She'll suggest events to try, let you know when friends sign on and supply a recap when you slip back into the driver's seat. Sounds like ANNA will help you keep your eyes on the road then! When your view isn't darting between the windshield and your passenger side smorgasbord, that is.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

JoystiqForza Horizon 2 features Kinect-enabled assistant called ANNA originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Jul 2014 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aiannaforza-horizon-2kinectmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosPlayground-Gamessumo-digitalturn-10xbox-oneSat, 05 Jul 2014 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Powerstar Golf now free-to-play with full game unlock on Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/22/powerstar-golf-now-free-to-play-with-full-game-unlock-on-xbox-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/22/powerstar-golf-now-free-to-play-with-full-game-unlock-on-xbox-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/22/powerstar-golf-now-free-to-play-with-full-game-unlock-on-xbox-on/#comments Zoë Mode and Microsoft Studios' Xbox One golfing sim Powerstar Golf is now free-to-play with upgrade options available for players who wish to purchase the full version.

Originally priced at $19.99, Powerstar Golf is currently available as a free download that includes a single hole from every course featured in the full game. Players can test out the game's stroke and match play modes and earn XP and credits that can later be transferred to the paid version.

"Powerstar Golf is now a free-to-play title," a Microsoft spokesperson told Joystiq. "Players who've already paid for Powerstar Golf will get all the content updates for free - including the new course which is available today. Players who download the game as free-to-play will have to pay for additional characters, courses and in-game features."

[Image: Microsoft Studios]

JoystiqPowerstar Golf now free-to-play with full game unlock on Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playgolfmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiospowerstar-golfsportsxbox-onezoe-modeThu, 22 May 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Forza 5 Meguiar's car pack lets you be the fast prince of Bel Air]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/10/forza-5-meguiars-car-pack-lets-you-be-the-fast-prince-of-bel-ai/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/10/forza-5-meguiars-car-pack-lets-you-be-the-fast-prince-of-bel-ai/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/10/forza-5-meguiars-car-pack-lets-you-be-the-fast-prince-of-bel-ai/#comments

Now this is a story all about how Xbox got flip-turned upside down ... Okay, it's not. It's actually about how Forza 5 developer Turn 10 has released 10 new cars for players to download and burn rubber with, including two Aston Martin models and the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air (see where we got the joke from now?). The Meguiar's Car Pack is available now for $9.99, or at no additional cost for season pass owners. The full list of cars included are as follows:
  • 2013 BMW M Performance M3 Racing Car
  • 1986 Alfa Romeo GTV-6
  • 1958 Aston Martin DBR1
  • 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air
  • 2011 Aston Martin V12 Zagato (Villa d'Este)
  • 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle SS-396
  • 1940 Ford De Luxe Coupe
  • 1966 Ford Lotus Cortina
  • 1973 Mazda RX-3
  • 1968 Dodge Dart HEMI Super Stock
Carlton dance DLC not included.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

Continue reading Forza 5 Meguiar's car pack lets you be the fast prince of Bel Air

JoystiqForza 5 Meguiar's car pack lets you be the fast prince of Bel Air originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 May 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcforza-5forza-motorsport-5meguiarsmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosturn-10xbox-oneSat, 10 May 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Slide until you die in Xbox One's crazy Sunset Overdrive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/08/slide-until-you-die-in-xbox-ones-crazy-sunset-overdrive/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/08/slide-until-you-die-in-xbox-ones-crazy-sunset-overdrive/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/08/slide-until-you-die-in-xbox-ones-crazy-sunset-overdrive/#comments
Sunset Overdrive is a goofy explosion of vivid colors and anything-goes attitude, though it's not without shape. The outline resembles Jet Set Radio, with weapons on loan from Ratchet and Clank, and a dash of Fable's fuck-you to dying. We all know it's a video game, but listen - Sunset Overdrive is conspicuously a video game.

​In some ways it's a beacon of independence for Insomniac Games, which has historically aligned itself with PlayStation on major franchises like Ratchet & Clank, Spyro the Dragon and Resistance. Some players probably think the developers at Insomniac make up a huge studio owned by Sony - or that they are Sony - but here we are, talking about an exclusive game for Xbox One from a 20-year-old independent studio.

Continue reading Slide until you die in Xbox One's crazy Sunset Overdrive

JoystiqSlide until you die in Xbox One's crazy Sunset Overdrive originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>insomniac-gamesmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosrecommendedsunset-overdrivexbox-oneThu, 08 May 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft hiring for a 'well-loved strategy game franchise']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/07/microsoft-hiring-for-a-well-loved-strategy-game-franchise/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/07/microsoft-hiring-for-a-well-loved-strategy-game-franchise/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/07/microsoft-hiring-for-a-well-loved-strategy-game-franchise/#comments ​Microsoft Studios is working on a new entry in an established, AAA strategy franchise at its Redmond, Washington, location. A job post dated April 28, 2014, describes the game as follows: "Microsoft Studios is looking for a highly experienced senior games developer to help build and lead the team for a new AAA title within an established and well-loved strategy game franchise."

A series that isn't just loved, but well-loved. Microsoft Studios has a few established strategy franchises in its wheelhouse, including Age of Empires and Halo Wars. Both were developed by Ensemble Studios, which closed in 2009 after finishing Halo Wars.
​[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqMicrosoft hiring for a 'well-loved strategy game franchise' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 May 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Age-of-EmpiresHalo-WarshiringjobsMicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosstrategyWed, 07 May 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deadlight now free for Xbox Live Gold members]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/17/deadlight-now-free-for-xbox-live-gold-members/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/17/deadlight-now-free-for-xbox-live-gold-members/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/17/deadlight-now-free-for-xbox-live-gold-members/#comments As promised, the Tequila Works-developed survival game, Deadlight, is the latest freebie for Xbox Live Gold members. The Xbox 360 game - regularly priced at $15 - will remain free until April 30.

In her review of Deadlight, Joystiq's Jess Conditt said the game "shines in its detailed world-building," though its gameplay "fails to live up to the standard" set by the game's "glorious" art direction.

The Xbox Live Games with Gold program offers two free titles per month to Live subscribers. Earlier this month users were offered a free copy of Hitman: Absolution. Unlike the program's PlayStation counterpart, players can continue to enjoy any games they have downloaded if their Live subscription lapses.
[Image: Tequila Works]

JoystiqDeadlight now free for Xbox Live Gold members originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2014 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deadlightGames-With-GoldmicrosoftMicrosoft-StudiosTequila-WorksxboxXbox-LiveXbox-Live-GoldThu, 17 Apr 2014 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Forza 5 lets you race The Stig's Digital Cousin in new Top Gear DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/29/forza-5-lets-you-race-the-stigs-digital-cousin-in-new-top-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/29/forza-5-lets-you-race-the-stigs-digital-cousin-in-new-top-gear/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/29/forza-5-lets-you-race-the-stigs-digital-cousin-in-new-top-gear/#comments

Some say he invented the Internet, and that his laugh produces glass-shattering soundwaves. All we know is he's not The Stig - but he is The Stig's Digital Cousin, and a challenge against him is coming to Forza Motorsport 5. A new Top Gear-themed DLC pack is racing toward the Xbox One-exclusive game, and it includes not only a challenge in which players get to face off against The Stig's Digital Cousin for prizes, but 10 new cars, including an Xbox One-themed 2013 Holden Commodore VF. You can see the full list of vehicles included in the Top Gear Car Pack after the break.

Though each of the 10 cars included can be purchased a la carte, you'll need the pack if you want to take on Top Gear's famous masked man in the official challenge. It's available now for $9.99. Those who complete the challenge will receive an in-game credit reward, while those in the top 10 for the challenge will receive additional prizes. The number one driver against The Stig's Digital Cousin will win a special Stig Prize Pack from Top Gear.

And don't worry, it won't take you long to get into the driver's seat and onto the asphalt. Dan Greenawalt, creative director at Forza series developer Turn 10 Studios, recently announced that cars bought as DLC - such as those included in the Top Gear Car Pack - no longer need to be purchased with in-game credits after their pack's installation. Instead, cars can be added to a player's garage immediately. Greenawalt wrote that this applies to both current and future DLC purchases.
[Image: Microsoft Studios]

Continue reading Forza 5 lets you race The Stig's Digital Cousin in new Top Gear DLC

JoystiqForza 5 lets you race The Stig's Digital Cousin in new Top Gear DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Mar 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carsdlcforza-motorsport-5microsoftmicrosoft-studiosthe-stigtop-gearturn-10turn-10-studiosxbox-oneSat, 29 Mar 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Linkin Park's 'remixable' music video created in Project Spark]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/25/linkin-parks-remixable-music-video-created-in-project-spark/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/25/linkin-parks-remixable-music-video-created-in-project-spark/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/25/linkin-parks-remixable-music-video-created-in-project-spark/#comments
Musical group Linkin Park is now one step closer to the world of video games thanks to Project Spark developer Team Dakota. The developer created a "remixable" music video for Linkin Park's "Guilty All The Same" in Project Spark, which includes an audio remix station so players can build anything they want in the level. Project Spark is a robust game creation tool currently in beta for PC and Xbox One.

The "Guilty All The Same" level isn't the first time an interactive game experience was built around an existing piece of music. Just last month, Radiohead launched an experimental iOS and Android app called PolyFauna for imagery and sounds from its song, "Bloom."

Microsoft opened Project Spark's beta version to all Xbox One owners this month and also removed the game's Spark Time microtransactions.
[Image: Linkin Park]

Continue reading Linkin Park's 'remixable' music video created in Project Spark

JoystiqLinkin Park's 'remixable' music video created in Project Spark originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Mar 2014 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guilty-all-the-samelinkin-parkmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmusic-videopcproject-sparkteam-dakotaTeamDakotaxbox-oneTue, 25 Mar 2014 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Spark launches Xbox One beta today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/04/project-spark-launches-xbox-one-beta-launches-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/04/project-spark-launches-xbox-one-beta-launches-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/04/project-spark-launches-xbox-one-beta-launches-today/#comments Microsoft is inviting Xbox One players to give Project Spark and its game-crafting tools a test run in a new beta that launches today. The beta is global, and requires players to sign up to receive an invite - those who've been on the Windows 8.1 closed beta automatically get access to the Xbox One beta.

On Xbox One, players can use Kinect to animate characters using motion capture as well as give them triggered vocals, and Team Dakota's Sax Persson previously said the studio is also considering implementing gameplay control via Kinect.

"Part of the reason why we're in beta is to hear what people want to make," Persson told us last year. "If everybody tells us that we need to make it so I can play my Kinect games, then that's the next thing we do."
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqProject Spark launches Xbox One beta today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Mar 2014 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betamicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosmicrosoft-studiosproject-sparkrelease-dateteam-dakotaxbox-oneTue, 04 Mar 2014 09:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Zoo Tycoon chooses first Community Challenge, Microsoft to donate $10,000 to tiger conservation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/01/zoo-tycoon-chooses-first-community-challenge-microsoft-to-donat/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/01/zoo-tycoon-chooses-first-community-challenge-microsoft-to-donat/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/01/zoo-tycoon-chooses-first-community-challenge-microsoft-to-donat/#comments

Sumatran tigers will be the first species to benefit from a partnership between Microsoft and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), wherein Microsoft donates $10,000 to a wildlife-oriented charity every time players of Zoo Tycoon complete a chosen Community Challenge.

Developer Frontier also released the above dev diary detailing the studio's collaboration with the AZA, including how the studio studied real-life zoos to reproduce realistic animals, behavior and habitats in-game. Frontier also translated what they learned from the real world into the game's Zoopedia, a collection of facts about the animals players take care of. The more you know!
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqZoo Tycoon chooses first Community Challenge, Microsoft to donate $10,000 to tiger conservation originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Mar 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>association-of-zoos-and-aquariumsazabehind-the-scenescharitydev-diaryfrontiermicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxxbox-onezoozoo-tycoonSat, 01 Mar 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Nokia CEO Stephen Elop selected to oversee Xbox]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/former-nokia-ceo-stephen-elop-selected-to-oversee-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/former-nokia-ceo-stephen-elop-selected-to-oversee-xbox/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/former-nokia-ceo-stephen-elop-selected-to-oversee-xbox/#comments After choosing Satya Nadella to replace Steve Ballmer as CEO, Microsoft has elected to appoint Stephen Elop as head of its Devices and Studios division. The news comes from an internal memo posted over on TechCrunch. Microsoft's Devices and Studios wing oversees Xbox, Surface, entertainment and games.

Elop was the former CEO of Nokia, which Microsoft announced it intended to purchase last year. Elop will replace Julie Larson-Green, who will shift roles from hardware over to Microsoft's My Life and Work team, a subdivision of the Applications and Services Group. Prior to her appointment as head of Xbox last year, Larson-Green was in charge of all Windows products.

At one point, Elop was in the running to replace Ballmer at Microsoft, at which point insiders claim he was considering selling off the Xbox division. Elop served as CEO of Nokia for three years.
[Image: Wikimedia Commons]

JoystiqFormer Nokia CEO Stephen Elop selected to oversee Xbox originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Feb 2014 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>julie-larson-greenmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosstephen-elopxboxxbox-oneTue, 25 Feb 2014 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct patch to help fighters avoid Jail time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/20/killer-instinct-patch-to-help-fighters-avoid-jail-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/20/killer-instinct-patch-to-help-fighters-avoid-jail-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/20/killer-instinct-patch-to-help-fighters-avoid-jail-time/#comments Spinal's introduction to the Killer Instinct roster hasn't been as smooth as Microsoft would've hoped. After adding the character and a new "Jail" feature, where players who habitually disconnect from online matches get paired up with similarly unstable brawlers, players started experiencing consistent game crashes. An upcoming patch from Double Helix hopes to mitigate these issues.

Double Helix says all Killer Instinct "Jail" stats will be wiped by the patch, and that the designated threshold for tossing a player in jail will be raised. Another bug where both players would be sent to "Jail," even when only one of them purposefully disconnected, will be squashed.

This patch will also fix Spinal's teleportation move, a major cause for the game crashes and de-synchronization that has plagued online matches recently. A bug preventing players from retaining progress will also be addressed and perfectly executing an Ultra Combo will soon guarantee a match win in Killer Instinct.

Double Helix hasn't said exactly when this patch will be available on Xbox One. Killer Instinct's next and final season one character, Fulgore, is due in March. Hopefully his addition doesn't yield as many issues as his boney post-launch counterpart.

JoystiqKiller Instinct patch to help fighters avoid Jail time originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiospatchxbox-oneThu, 20 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft to announce new 'development partner' for Killer Instinct]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/06/microsoft-has-a-new-development-partner-for-killer-instinct/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/06/microsoft-has-a-new-development-partner-for-killer-instinct/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/06/microsoft-has-a-new-development-partner-for-killer-instinct/#comments Microsoft plans to unveil a new "development partner" for Killer Instinct soon, following yesterday's acquisition of Double Helix by Amazon. Double Helix developed Killer Instinct on Xbox One, and the Irvine Studio was bringing regular updates to the fighter as part of the first season content.

In a statement provided to Polygon, Microsoft said it'll be working with a new team on the franchise, but left it unclear whether that pertains to the Xbox One game's first season, the expected second season, future games, or a mixture of the three.

"We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Double Helix and wish them success in their next endeavor," a Microsoft spokesperson told Polygon. "We want all of our loyal fans to know that the Killer Instinct team at Microsoft is not changing and that the franchise will remain with Microsoft Studios. We remain dedicated to delivering a great experience and plan to announce our new development partner soon. We're excited about the future of this popular franchise."

As it stands, the revived fighter's next update is due next month, when it's set to receive classic combatant Fulgore as an addition to the roster.
[Image: Microsoft]

JoystiqMicrosoft to announce new 'development partner' for Killer Instinct originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Feb 2014 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondouble-helixkiller-instinctkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneThu, 06 Feb 2014 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free-to-play shooter Warface goes beta on Xbox 360 today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/05/free-to-play-shooter-warface-goes-beta-on-xbox-360-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/05/free-to-play-shooter-warface-goes-beta-on-xbox-360-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/05/free-to-play-shooter-warface-goes-beta-on-xbox-360-today/#comments
Crytek's Warface: Xbox 360 Edition enters its public beta phase today. The free-to-play shooter is powered by the company's own Cryengine technology, the same engine used in games such as Crysis 3 and Ryse: Son of Rome. Players can register for the beta on the game's official site. The PC version of Warface went live for the public in October 2013.

While the game is free for FPS fans to jump into, it is only playable by Xbox Live Gold subscribers. This continues a trend for free-to-play and subscription-based games, as both Wargaming's World of Tanks and the full version of Happy Wars require a paid Xbox Live membership to play. Even the upcoming Bethesda MMO The Elder Scrolls Online, which itself requires a monthly subscription, will need a Gold membership on Xbox One.

Continue reading Free-to-play shooter Warface goes beta on Xbox 360 today

JoystiqFree-to-play shooter Warface goes beta on Xbox 360 today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Feb 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaCrytekfpsfree-to-playmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmultiplayeronlineopen-betashootertrailerwarfacewarface-xbox-360-editionxboxWed, 05 Feb 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deja Review: Fable Anniversary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/04/deja-review-fable-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/04/deja-review-fable-anniversary/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/04/deja-review-fable-anniversary/#commentsThis is a Deja Review: A quick, unscored look at the new features and relative agelessness of a remade, revived or re-released game.

Ten years after hitting the original Xbox, Fable proves that, contrary to popular belief, Peter Molyneux is a man of his word. The eccentric former chief of Lionhead, prone to exclamations about the insane emotional experiences hiding in the games he makes, actually never delivered on dreams of simulating a hero's life in exhaustive detail. No acorns are planted at the beginning, and no mammoth trees sprout in their wake by the time its shaggy dog revenge story comes to a close.

All the basics Molyneux promised, however, made it in. In interview after interview during the development of Project Ego - Fable's early code name - he passionately described a role-playing game that would change depending on how it was played, a deeply personal reflection of your choices. Use a sword more than the bow, and your hero will gain better opportunities to build up strength and stamina. Cast lightning on the regular, your hero's flowing locks will turn shock white and arcane sigils will coat his body. Play the bandit, people will fear you; escort the weak through dangerous lands, citizens will cheer when you walk through town.

Fable Anniversary, Lionhead's admirably spit-shined remaster, has a surprise for those looking back at Project Ego. It's Albion, not the hero fated to save it from certain doom, that makes Fable worth playing today. How you play about its countryside, not how you build your character's stats, is what reflects and rewards the player.

Continue reading Deja Review: Fable Anniversary

JoystiqDeja Review: Fable Anniversary originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Feb 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable-anniversarylionheadLionhead-Studiosmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosrecommendedxboxTue, 04 Feb 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[State of Decay developer hires MMO veteran Patrick Wyatt]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/30/state-of-decay-developer-hires-mmo-veteran-patrick-wyatt/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/30/state-of-decay-developer-hires-mmo-veteran-patrick-wyatt/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/30/state-of-decay-developer-hires-mmo-veteran-patrick-wyatt/#comments En Masse Entertainment and NCsoft West alumnus Patrick Wyatt has joined up with State of Decay developer Undead Labs to assist the team with upcoming projects.

Previously, Wyatt oversaw design and development of TERA's game publishing platform, helping to launch En Masse's MMORPG in 2012. Wyatt additionally developed core server and network platform technology for Guild Wars during his time with ArenaNet, a studio he co-founded before it was purchased by NCsoft West in 2002.

Wyatt's role within Undead Labs has not been disclosed, but he may assist in developing Class4, an MMO project that stalled last year during the studio's negotiations with Microsoft. Undead Labs later signed a multi-year contract with Microsoft Studios, suggesting the project may be back on track.

JoystiqState of Decay developer hires MMO veteran Patrick Wyatt originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jan 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class3guild-warshiremicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosmmommorpgpatrick-wyattstate-of-decayxboxxbox-oneThu, 30 Jan 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Studios acquires rights to Gears of War series]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/27/microsoft-studios-acquires-rights-to-gears-of-war-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/27/microsoft-studios-acquires-rights-to-gears-of-war-series/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/27/microsoft-studios-acquires-rights-to-gears-of-war-series/#comments Microsoft Studios has purchased the rights to the Gears of War franchise from Epic Games, Microsoft announced. The publisher will take over all existing and future games in the series, and will hand development of future games over to Vancouver, BC developer Black Tusk Studios. Formerly Microsoft Vancouver, Black Tusk was said to be working on a new AAA game for Xbox One as of June 2013.

Rod Fergusson, former Director of Production at Epic Games on the Gears of War franchise, is joining Microsoft and will play a "key studio leadership role" at Black Tusk. The last time we heard from Fergusson he was launching a new studio for 2K in the Bay Area; it would appear that relationship didn't work out.

Each entry in the four-game Gears of War series was published by Microsoft since its introduction in November 2006. The last Epic-developed game in the series was Gears of War: Judgment, which launched in March 2013.

Continue reading Microsoft Studios acquires rights to Gears of War series

JoystiqMicrosoft Studios acquires rights to Gears of War series originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jan 2014 09:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EpicEpic-Gamesgears-of-warGears-of-war-2Gears-of-War-3gears-of-war-judgmentmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosmicrosoft-studiosrod-fergussonUnreal-Engine-4xboxxbox-oneMon, 27 Jan 2014 09:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Lionhead working on 'other sorts of games' that aren't 'Fable-esque']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/21/lionhead-working-on-other-sorts-of-games-that-arent-fable-es/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/21/lionhead-working-on-other-sorts-of-games-that-arent-fable-es/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/21/lionhead-working-on-other-sorts-of-games-that-arent-fable-es/#comments Lionhead has something in the works that doesn't have anything to do with the Fable series. "We're working on other different sorts of games as well that we're not talking about right now and won't be Fable-esque," Lionhead boss John Needham enigmatically confirmed with Eurogamer.

Producer Stuart Whyte added that Lionhead is "not just a Fable studio" and that "where we are at the moment we've had a lot of Fable games in recent times, but I wouldn't say that we're just Fable." Whyte concluded that he "can't really say any more" about Lionhead's current development slate. The studio's latest Fable game is the Fable Anniversary collection, due February 4, on Xbox 360

Lionhead was acquired by Microsoft in 2006 and has since worked entirely on the Fable series. Needham took over the role of studio boss last year, after serving stints at Cryptic Studios and Gazillion.

JoystiqLionhead working on 'other sorts of games' that aren't 'Fable-esque' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Jan 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fable-anniversarylionhead-gamesmicrosoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxxbox-oneTue, 21 Jan 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killer Instinct's Spinal is no skin, all bones in first screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/killer-instincts-spinal-is-no-skin-all-bones-in-first-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/killer-instincts-spinal-is-no-skin-all-bones-in-first-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/20/killer-instincts-spinal-is-no-skin-all-bones-in-first-screens/#comments Spinal is set to be added to Killer Instinct's roster later this month. In anticipation of the new character, Microsoft has dropped some screens showing off the malnourished combatant's updated design - except for his tried-and-true headband that is. Some things never go out of style.

Continue reading Killer Instinct's Spinal is no skin, all bones in first screens

JoystiqKiller Instinct's Spinal is no skin, all bones in first screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-helixkiller-instinct-2013microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxbox-oneMon, 20 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[State of Decay dev extends relationship with Microsoft Studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/10/state-of-decay-dev-extends-relationship-with-microsoft-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/10/state-of-decay-dev-extends-relationship-with-microsoft-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/10/state-of-decay-dev-extends-relationship-with-microsoft-studios/#comments Undead Labs, developer of the runaway zombie hit State of Decay, has signed a "multi-year, multi-title agreement" with Microsoft Studios.

"We'll be able to share details later this year, but as with State of Decay, we think it's best if we just keep our heads down and build some prototypes before we talk too much," said company founder Jeff Strain on the Undead Labs blog. "For now, suffice it to say there are big things going on with State of Decay."

So, the obvious guess here would be a version of State of Decay for Xbox One à la DayZ. But is that too obvious?

JoystiqState of Decay dev extends relationship with Microsoft Studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class3microsoftmicrosoft-studiosstate-of-decayundead-labsxbox-oneFri, 10 Jan 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Former Destiny design director Joseph Staten returns to Microsoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/09/former-destiny-design-director-joseph-staten-returns-to-microsof/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/09/former-destiny-design-director-joseph-staten-returns-to-microsof/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/01/09/former-destiny-design-director-joseph-staten-returns-to-microsof/#comments Joseph Staten, original holder of the Halo Bible and design director at Bungie, has returned to Microsoft, according to his LinkedIn profile page. In September, Bungie announced Staten was exiting his role as design director on Destiny; leaving the company after 15 years of service to tackle "new creative challenges." Bungie is set to launch its next franchise, a ten-year plan called Destiny, with Activision as its publishing partner later this year.

According to Staten's LinkedIn profile, his new role at Microsoft Studios will be as Senior Creative Director.

In a statement to Joystiq, Microsoft noted that Staten's role will be to shape the "franchise strategy for some Microsoft Studios titles." The publisher also clarified that Staten "is not working directly on the next Halo title." The Halo franchise is continuing in a new direction with developer 343 Industries at the helm.

"We're thrilled to welcome Joseph back to the Microsoft Studios family. Over the past 15 years at Bungie, Joseph has been a key creative force behind some of gaming's most iconic and celebrated franchises, including Myth II, ONI and virtually every "Halo" game leading up to Halo: Reach." Microsoft's prepared statement said. "As a senior creative director, Joseph will help create the world's best entertainment on Xbox."

JoystiqFormer Destiny design director Joseph Staten returns to Microsoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Jan 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BungieJoseph-StatenmicrosoftMicrosoft-Studiosxboxxbox-oneThu, 09 Jan 2014 20:00:00 EST