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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge free on iOS today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/mirrors-edge-free-on-ios-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/mirrors-edge-free-on-ios-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/09/mirrors-edge-free-on-ios-today/#comments Why not start Friday with a string of vertiginous vaults through a sterile cityscape? EA's faithful, well-constructed mobile version of Mirror's Edge is free on the iOS app store today. It's not a universal program, mind you, so you'll have to grab it on iPhone or iPad separately.

It's not as thrilling as DICE's original game -- and less likely to make you look up "proprioception" -- but this interpretation of Mirror's Edge is a breezy side-scroller with elegant controls and combat that's less of a show-stopper. It's also the perfect distraction from all those articles about how Mirror's Edge 2 might, won't, could, and can't happen.

JoystiqMirror's Edge free on iOS today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaiosipadiphonemirrors-edgeMirrors-Edge-iPhonemobileposts-that-have-minor-educational-valueFri, 09 Dec 2011 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge 2 isn't not a possibility more than ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/mirrors-edge-2-isnt-not-a-possibility-more-than-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/mirrors-edge-2-isnt-not-a-possibility-more-than-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/08/mirrors-edge-2-isnt-not-a-possibility-more-than-ever/#comments DICE knows its Mirror's Edge fans want a sequel with a desperate, craven passion, but with the focus on launching Battlefield 3, we haven't gotten more than vague hints that a second isn't impossible. With Battlefield 3's release around the corner, now DICE is offering slightly less vague comments about continuing the Mirror's Edge story.

"I think it's something that people are ready to get into again," producer Patrick Liu said. "We see that there's a huge fan following -- it's almost like a cult. And we know what strengths we had, and what weaknesses we had in that game. If we were to release a new game, we'd know what to improve and how to reach a broader audience. So I definitely think there's a market there."

The story here is what Liu isn't saying -- he isn't saying that DICE has given up on Mirror's Edge; he isn't saying a sequel will never happen; he isn't saying Faith will return as a 7-foot male cyborg with tribal tattoos and a pot belly. Not that that's something he would say, but still, he didn't say it.

JoystiqMirror's Edge 2 isn't not a possibility more than ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3DICEmicrosoftMirrors-Edgemirrors-edge-2pcplaystationps3xboxSat, 08 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: A Mirror's Edge sequel could get cooler with Frostbite 2 engine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/31/mirrors-edge-sequel-could-get-cooler-with-frostbite-2-engine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/31/mirrors-edge-sequel-could-get-cooler-with-frostbite-2-engine/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/31/mirrors-edge-sequel-could-get-cooler-with-frostbite-2-engine/#comments The Mirror's Edge and Battlefield franchises are related through more than developer-publisher relations -- they're poised to share digital DNA. If it is made, a sequel to Mirror's Edge may use Battlefield 3's Frostbite 2 engine, according to Official PlayStation Magazine, which writes, "The Frostbite 2 engine will pave the way for Mirror's Edge to make a free-running return."

We don't know much more about the potential sequel or OPM's "inside whispers," besides the fact that Mirror's Edge is an "important franchise" to EA. We may have to wait until EA and DICE stop coddling Battlefield 3 for confirmation of another game or details about its engine. For now, dreaming about free-running on Frostbite 2 will have to tide us over. Mmmm...

JoystiqRumor: A Mirror's Edge sequel could get cooler with Frostbite 2 engine originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battlefieldbattlefield-3DICEEAmicrosoftMirrors-Edgemirrors-edge-2pcplaystationps3sequelxboxSun, 31 Jul 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[36 Origin PC games on the cheap until Sunday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/36-origin-pc-games-on-the-cheap-until-sunday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/36-origin-pc-games-on-the-cheap-until-sunday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/30/36-origin-pc-games-on-the-cheap-until-sunday/#comments When it comes to digital distribution services, EA's Origin is the new kid in school. And who wants to hang out with the new kid? Nobody, that's who, unless the new kid has pockets full of candy. And by candy, we mean really cheap video-games.

From now until tomorrow, you can promise to be Origin's best friend forever in exchange for 36 PC games and/or expansion packs on sale for $4.99 each, including Battlefield: Bad Company 2, Spore, Mirror's Edge, Burnout Paradise: The Ultimate Box, and Littlest Pet Shop. Whether or not Origin's popularity on the playground will last when the candy runs out remains to be seen, but for right now we're willing to trade our chocolate milk for a copy of Sim City 4.

[Thanks, Thomas!]

Joystiq36 Origin PC games on the cheap until Sunday originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-bad-company-2Burnout-ParadiseBurnout-paradise-the-ultimate-boxEAlittlest-pet-shopmirrors-edgeOriginpcSim-City-4SporeSat, 30 Jul 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA 'figuring out' how to continue Mirror's Edge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/ea-figuring-out-how-to-continue-mirrors-edge/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/ea-figuring-out-how-to-continue-mirrors-edge/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/04/ea-figuring-out-how-to-continue-mirrors-edge/#comments Like the Gap and cargo shorts, EA is "trying to figure out how to bring Mirror's Edge back."

EA Games label president Frank Gibeau told CVG that the Mirror's Edge franchise is unequivocally not dead. "I greenlight the games. I did not kill it -- as God is my witness," he swore. According to Gibeau, the publisher is looking for ways to bring back the franchise in "a way that fans will be excited," while still reaching a larger audience. "We need to go from version one to version two so that it sells two to three times as many, it finds a much bigger audience."

DICE, developer of the first game, is currently working on Battlefield 3. According to earlier reports, EA requested that the developer focus exclusively on that game, instead of a Mirror's Edge sequel. A EA spokesperson later commented that Mirror's Edge is an "important franchise," but there was "nothing further to announce."

JoystiqEA 'figuring out' how to continue Mirror's Edge originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diceeaFrank-GibeaumicrosoftMirrors-Edgemirrors-edge-2pcplaystationps3xboxFri, 04 Mar 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Mirror's Edge 2 rejected by EA (oh, and Happy Valentine's Day!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/mirrors-edge-2-rejected-by-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/mirrors-edge-2-rejected-by-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/14/mirrors-edge-2-rejected-by-ea/#comments In late 2008, EA released two new intellectual properties; while both failed to break sales records the world over, they went a long way towards proving to the world that EA was serious about changing its image. The more successful of the two games just saw a sequel released: Dead Space 2 opened to strong reviews and is outselling its predecessor two to one. The other game, however, hasn't had such an easy time of things. According to a Press 2 Play TV report - translated by Eurogamer - "EA was shown a prototype" of a Mirror's Edge sequel but "declined" to pursue it, ostensibly opting to focus all of developer DICE's efforts on the upcoming Battlefield 3, as previously reported.

Nearly two years ago, EA's Patrick Soderlund said, "You will see another Mirror's Edge for sure. It's just a matter of when that time is and what we do with it. We have a small team on it and I'm excited about what we do." While Soderlund could have been talking about EA Mobile's better-than-it-should-be Mirror's Edge for iOS, the name Mirror's Edge 2 popped up on a DICE lighting artist's portfolio a few month's later. EA CEO John Riccitiello even said "it's a game that deserves to come back," and we don't think he was referring to mobile.

So has Mirror's Edge 2 been rejected by EA? We'll have to wait for EA to get back to us before we know anything for sure but, if it has, we just wanted to say thanks, EA. For breaking our hearts. On Valentine's Day.

[Update 3:05pm:An EA spokesperson got back to us with this: "Mirror's Edge is an important franchise built by the DICE studio in Stockholm. DICE is currently producing Battlefield 3. Nothing further to announce." With just one full title under that name, and the aforementioned mobile game, franchise sounds like an awfully strong word for Mirror's Edge. With that in mind, we'll try to keep our hopes up.]

JoystiqReport: Mirror's Edge 2 rejected by EA (oh, and Happy Valentine's Day!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cancelledDICEEAEA-DICEElectronic-ArtsmicrosoftMirrors-EdgeMirrors-Edge-2playstationps3xboxMon, 14 Feb 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Judge strips Langdell of trademarks, doesn't award EA damages]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/judge-strips-langdell-of-trademarks-doesnt-award-ea-damages/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/judge-strips-langdell-of-trademarks-doesnt-award-ea-damages/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/12/judge-strips-langdell-of-trademarks-doesnt-award-ea-damages/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Tim Langdell and EA have been bumping heads for a while now. As suggested last week, Judge William Alsup has approved a move to cancel Langdell's collection of "Edge" trademarks after he lost a legal battle with EA, concerning "Mirror's Edge." All parties must furnish their own court costs and EA will receive no damages, GamesIndustry.biz reports.

There's also a special stipulation: Langdell must inform "all persons and entities with whom a licensing agreement has been obtained involving the trademarks asserted herein that the marks have been cancelled and provide these persons and entities with a copy of the order denying plaintiff's motion for a preliminary injunction and the final judgment." In layman's terms, it means that Langdell must contact these firms and individuals and inform them he no longer holds any of these "Edge" trademarks. By Friday, Langdell or his representatives must provide a sworn statement to this effect.

As for EA, it looks like the company is ready to move on from the affair. In a statement, an EA representative stated, "We're pleased that we've reached a settlement and can put this behind us."

JoystiqJudge strips Langdell of trademarks, doesn't award EA damages originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ealawsuitMirrors-Edgetim-langdellTrademarktrademark-disputetrademarksTue, 12 Oct 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge and Puzzle Agent slide and sneak onto iPhone tonight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/mirrors-edge-and-puzzle-agent-slide-and-sneak-onto-iphone-tonig/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/mirrors-edge-and-puzzle-agent-slide-and-sneak-onto-iphone-tonig/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/mirrors-edge-and-puzzle-agent-slide-and-sneak-onto-iphone-tonig/#commentsFiled under: , ,

According to a report from Touch Arcade, the previously iPad-only Mirror's Edge will become available for purchase this evening on iPhone and iPod Touch, alongside Telltale's first "pilot program" release, Puzzle Agent. Given Faith's reduction in size from iPad to iPhone, the price for Mirror's Edge will be dropping accordingly from $9.99 to $4.99.

Puzzle Agent will also carry a $4.99 price point, staying in line with the pricing for other Telltale Games on iDevices. Both games are confirmed to be available via the iTunes App Store right now in some international territories and are expected to arrive in the US App Store around 11PM ET tonight.

JoystiqMirror's Edge and Puzzle Agent slide and sneak onto iPhone tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storeappleeaea-playelectronic-artsMirrors-Edgemobilepuzzle-agenttelltale-gamesWed, 01 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space, Mirror's Edge and Spore on sale at the EA Store this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/dead-space-mirrors-edge-and-spore-on-sale-at-the-ea-store-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/dead-space-mirrors-edge-and-spore-on-sale-at-the-ea-store-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/28/dead-space-mirrors-edge-and-spore-on-sale-at-the-ea-store-this/#comments Wanna dodge the sun's harmful rays and get some gaming in within the air-conditioned comfort of your home? EA's been offering discounts on its PC lineup every weekend; a revolving door of its best and brightest for a pittance. Through Sunday, Dead Space, Mirror's Edge and Spore share the spotlight -- you can get each game for $10, $5 and $20, respectively.

JoystiqDead Space, Mirror's Edge and Spore on sale at the EA Store this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Aug 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spaceDICEmaxisMirrors-Edgepcsporevisceral-gamesSat, 28 Aug 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Overheard@GDC: Seeing red in Mirror's Edge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/overheard-gdc-mirrors-edges-odd-go-here-color/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/overheard-gdc-mirrors-edges-odd-go-here-color/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/overheard-gdc-mirrors-edges-odd-go-here-color/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Did you ever stop to think that red was an odd choice for the guiding Runner's Vision in Mirror's Edge? Well, the first-person parkour game's level designer, Elisabetta Silli, used to think so. At the "The Tao of Level Design" panel this morning, she said, "Red is an odd choice because it means danger or stop." She mentioned that when she first played the game she got to a red door and stopped. Of course, now she can't imagine it being any other way: "Red is perfect for Faith, I wouldn't change it."

Silli is currently working on the Battlefield franchise, but she couldn't get into specifics when asked about which title (hmmm). When asked about a potential sequel to Mirror's Edge, she said she "can't talk about it, sorry." Asked how she would change the design for a sequel, she opened up to say that she'd focus on navigation and letting the player get a better idea of what's coming next, instead of relying on the red flashes to point the way. She would like the path of the player to be clear from the beginning. On whether she'd like to work on a sequel, "Yeah, I would love to work on a sequel." You want it, we want it - let's just do this thing, EA.

Gallery: Mirror's Edge

JoystiqOverheard@GDC: Seeing red in Mirror's Edge originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DICEEAElectronic-Artsgdc-europe-2010microsoftMirrors-Edgepcplaystationps3xboxTue, 17 Aug 2010 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Your first five iPad games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/your-first-five-ipad-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/your-first-five-ipad-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/28/your-first-five-ipad-games/#comments You weren't going to be that guy. Your friends could fall in line all they wanted, but you were going to be strong. You didn't need an iPad, after all, you had your iPhone! Besides, the thing can't even make calls, what's the point? But then, your friends started coming around, magically flipping through USA Today with a swipe of their fingers like news genies, and you cracked, guiltily sliding your last $500 bill across the Genius Bar and walking out of the Apple Store defeated, but one iPad richer. It's OK, could have happened to the best of us.

But now that you have the thing, what do you play on it? We've tried dozens of apps specifically made for the device and have culled a list of the top five you should buy without hesitation. Don't have an iPad yet? No problem. Just bookmark this page and come back later, we'll be updating with the new hotness whenever it sweeps us off our feet.

Continue reading Your first five iPad games

JoystiqYour first five iPad games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app-storeappleeafiremintmirrors-edgemobilepinball-hdreal-racing-hdsmall-worldMon, 28 Jun 2010 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/02/ipad-roundup-heres-the-stuff-that-may-interest-you/#comments With the iPad set to launch April 3, we know a lot of you out there are wondering what types of games and apps there are to look forward to. Well, we reprogrammed the Joystiq bots to scour the iTunes App store for information on updates and new games, culling the data for you all. There's plenty to look forward to, so don't waste time reading this -- head past the break for the goods!

Continue reading iPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you

JoystiqiPad Roundup: Here's the stuff that may interest you originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-ton-games-inc2k-gamesactivisionamazon-hidden-expeditionangry-birdsangry-birds-hdapple-ipadasphaltasphalt-5azkend-hdbig-fish-gamesbreak-hdcall-of-dutycall-of-duty-world-at-warcall-of-duty-world-at-war-zombiescastlecraftcharadiumchillingoCivilizationcivilization-revolutioncogscogs-hdCommand-and-Conquercommand-and-conquer-red-alertdoonsdoons-hddungeon-hunterdungeon-hunter-hdeaElectronic-Artsfieldrunnersfiremintfiremint-incflick-bowlingflick-fishingflight-controlflight-control-hdfreeversefroggerfrogger-padgameloftgeometry-warsgluglyder-2imahjongimahjong-hdipadipad-launcjirbokonamilaminar-researcglets-golfmarvelmarvel-comicsmarvel-comics-appmetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-touchminigoreminigore-hdmirrors-edgemodern-combatmodern-combat-sandstormnamconba-hotshotneed-for-speedneed-for-speed-shiftnflnfl-2010nfl-2010-hdngmoconovapac-manpaper-footballpaper-football-hdplants-vs-zombiesplants-vs-zombies-hdpopcappopcap-gamesreal-racingreal-racing-hdreal-soccerreal-soccer-2010-hdsam-and-maxscrabblesecret-exit-ltdsegasneeziessneezies-hdsnowboardingsnowboarding-hdsparkle-hdsubatomicsubatomic-studiossuper-monkey-ballsuper-monkey-ball-2super-monkey-ball-2-sakura-editionteam-17telltale-gamestetristhe-penal-zoneunouno-hdwarpgatewe-rulex-planezen-boundzen-bound-2Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on: Mirror's Edge (iPhone)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/hands-on-mirrors-edge-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/hands-on-mirrors-edge-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/hands-on-mirrors-edge-iphone/#comments How do you translate one of the most innovative experiences of this console generation to a platform with no buttons? Copy a game with a similar premise. Mirror's Edge plays largely like a prettier, beefier Canabalt -- and it manages to capture the essence of the original PS3/360/PC game perfectly.

Like its console counterpart, Mirror's Edge for iPhone/iPod Touch is all about momentum. Faith must run, jump, roll and slide without stopping for the various obstacles in her path. Translating this into a third-person side-scrolling 2D experience has Faith almost always running forward, and you must use your reflexes to react to the path ahead. The primary swipe-enabled jumping mechanic, coupled with the game's demand to always move forward will feel immediately familiar to anyone's that played Canabalt. Thankfully, EA doesn't just replicate the (admittedly simple) gameplay mechanic from Canabalt; instead, it expands Faith's repertoire with additional moves that give the game much-needed depth.

Gallery: Mirror's Edge (iPhone)

Continue reading Hands-on: Mirror's Edge (iPhone)

JoystiqHands-on: Mirror's Edge (iPhone) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleeaea-playElectronic-ArtsiPodmirrors-edgeFri, 26 Mar 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2, Mirror's Edge highlight weekend Impulse sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/mass-effect-2-mirrors-edge-highlight-weekend-impulse-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/mass-effect-2-mirrors-edge-highlight-weekend-impulse-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/19/mass-effect-2-mirrors-edge-highlight-weekend-impulse-sale/#comments Impulse purchasing may be in the stars this weekend if you're a PC gamer without Mass Effect 2 yet -- seriously, what are you waiting for? This weekend, Impulse has the regular and "digital deluxe" edition of Commander Shepard's suicide mission for $30 and $40, respectively. That's $20 off the regular price.

Other deals include indie darling World of Goo and the experimental Mirror's Edge for $10. The full list of discounted games is after the break.

Continue reading Mass Effect 2, Mirror's Edge highlight weekend Impulse sale

JoystiqMass Effect 2, Mirror's Edge highlight weekend Impulse sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>impulsemass-effect-2mirrors-edgestardockFri, 19 Mar 2010 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge iPhone leaps to 'early 2010' release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/mirrors-edge-iphone-leaps-to-early-2010-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/mirrors-edge-iphone-leaps-to-early-2010-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/08/mirrors-edge-iphone-leaps-to-early-2010-release/#comments It would appear our favorite little Runner, Faith, has hit a bit of a wall. IGN reports her iPhone outing has been pushed back from its previous January release window to a much more vague "early 2010." We're bummed, but hey, it's better than EA forgetting about the Mirror's Edge franchise entirely -- a real and entirely horrible possibility, we might add.

IGN says this delay is to add some content and polish to the experience, which we're all for. We've sent along our own courier to EA for comment. Cross your fingers the Blues don't nab her first.

JoystiqMirror's Edge iPhone leaps to 'early 2010' release originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppledelaydiceeaElectronic-ArtsiPodmirrors-edgemobileportrelease-dateFri, 08 Jan 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam holiday sale is a legitimate Christmas miracle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/steam-holiday-sale-is-a-legitimate-christmas-miracle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/steam-holiday-sale-is-a-legitimate-christmas-miracle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/23/steam-holiday-sale-is-a-legitimate-christmas-miracle/#comments We know we throw the term around quite a bit, but seriously, folks -- "Christmas miracle" is the only way we can explain what's happened to the prices on over 800 games on the Steam storefront. It's like a "Greatest Hits" special of Steam's best sales throughout the year: There are sizable discounts on games from every genre, encheapened bundles of games from a dozen different publishers (including Square Enix and Telltale), and even five super-discounted daily offers (today it's Mirror's Edge, GTA IV and more)!

You simply must go check this sale out if your bank account hasn't been completely obliterated by the holiday shopping rush. Considering the wide, wide scope of the discounts offered, we'd be worried that this was a "Going Out of Business" sale -- a circumstance made entirely unlikely by the amount of monies we've spent on these nefarious Steam sales this year.

JoystiqSteam holiday sale is a legitimate Christmas miracle originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiondownloadgrand-theft-auto-ivholidaymirrors-edgesalesteamvalveWed, 23 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See Faith, See Faith Jump in Mirror's Edge iPhone trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/see-faith-see-faith-jump-in-mirrors-edge-iphone-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/see-faith-see-faith-jump-in-mirrors-edge-iphone-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/see-faith-see-faith-jump-in-mirrors-edge-iphone-trailer/#comments If you were wondering what the world of Mirror's Edge would look like from a side-scrolling, out-of-body perspective, your answer can be found in the above trailer for the platformer's iPhone port. Though the handheld obviously lacks the processing power of the 360 and PS3, the game still manages to retain the first installment's crisp visual aesthetic. Also, there's a lot of roof-jumping, which we remember being pretty prevalent in the home console version of the game.

However, the video still doesn't clarify how the original game's fairly complex control scheme will port over to the iPhone. "See, to scale this wall, you do a quick tap, then a tappity-tap, and then half a tap, and then you shake your iPhone violently. No, no, half a tap. How are you not getting this?"

Gallery: Mirror's Edge (iPhone)

JoystiqSee Faith, See Faith Jump in Mirror's Edge iPhone trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ApplediceeaElectronic-ArtsiPodmirrors-edgemobileporttrailervideoTue, 08 Dec 2009 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Riccitiello: Mirror's Edge deserves second chance, EA still pushing new IP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/riccitiello-mirrors-edge-deserves-second-chance-ea-still-push/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/riccitiello-mirrors-edge-deserves-second-chance-ea-still-push/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/riccitiello-mirrors-edge-deserves-second-chance-ea-still-push/#commentsEA CEO John Riccitiello told IndustryGamers that the company has no intention of reducing its reliance on new IP. "Does this mean EA is backing away from investing in quality and innovation?" Riccitiello asked. "Absolutely not. It's religion for me; I believe quality and innovation is what works."

EA faces a difficult task now: finding room in EA's now-reduced slate for the new content Riccitiello promises and the sequels the company must produce. But it's a task Riccitiello seems to believe is worth undertaking. "I believe there are publishers out there that are milking franchises at their peril," he said. "I do think you can sort of stop innovating and do well while you coast for a couple of editions before a product starts to fall apart or a sector starts to fall apart."

The juggle involves sequels like Mirror's Edge 2, perhaps. "There are some things we learned about that [first] game," Riccitiello told Kotaku. "It was, I think, a massively innovative product. To be honest with you, I think it's a game that deserves to come back." The CEO said he's "had several very lively debates" with the dev team about the design of a future game. "And they are working on it."

JoystiqRiccitiello: Mirror's Edge deserves second chance, EA still pushing new IP originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 09:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-strategyeaElectronic-Artsfranchisesjohn-riccitiellomirrors-edgemirrors-edge-2sequelsFri, 04 Dec 2009 09:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge vaults onto the iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/mirrors-edge-vaults-onto-the-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/mirrors-edge-vaults-onto-the-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/02/mirrors-edge-vaults-onto-the-iphone/#comments
Click to see all of Faith's roof-hopping antics.
So, hypothetical situation. You're perched on the roof of a skyscraper, peering across a lengthy chasm to the adjacent building, where your destination lies. You're suddenly overcome with doubt and uncertainty! If only you had some sort of portable parkour training manual which could show you the proper timing and form for such a jump. Fortunately, your hypothetical needs are being tended to. According to a recent EA press release, the high-flying, first-person adventure, Mirror's Edge, will soon land on iPhones and iPod Touches.

A few screenshots for the title (which is due out in January) show that while it will be in 3D, we'll be operating from a side-scrolling perspective rather than being stuck within Faith's head.

Gallery: Mirror's Edge (iPhone)

JoystiqMirror's Edge vaults onto the iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp-storeapplediceeaElectronic-ArtsfaithiPodipod-touchmirrors-edgemirrors-edge-iphoneWed, 02 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Direct2Drive running '24 Days of Christmas' sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/direct2drive-running-24-days-of-christmas-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/direct2drive-running-24-days-of-christmas-sale/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/direct2drive-running-24-days-of-christmas-sale/#comments Digital distribution service Direct2Drive is celebrating the 24 days leading up to Christmas by discounting a select PC title each day from now until December 25. As the math whizzes have no doubt already divined, that's 24 discounted games! Today's game is DICE's parkour-em-up, Mirror's Edge. At the ridiculously low asking price of $4.95, it'd be a crime for PC gamers to disregard this most excellent (and very much deserving of a sequel, EA!) game from 2008.

We can personally vouch for its high levels of quality, actually. In terms of fun-to-cents ratio, you're looking at about 16 gazillion wows of entertainment value. Trust us, we did the math.

[Thanks, Jordan]

JoystiqDirect2Drive running '24 Days of Christmas' sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anti-mehdicedirect2driveeaElectronic-Artsmirrors-edgeparkourTue, 01 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE lighting artist lists Mirror's Edge 2 on portfolio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/dice-lighting-artist-lists-mirrors-edge-2-on-portfolio/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/dice-lighting-artist-lists-mirrors-edge-2-on-portfolio/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/01/dice-lighting-artist-lists-mirrors-edge-2-on-portfolio/#commentsOscar Carlén, a lighting artist at EA's DICE studio, lists two "2009-present" projects in his portfolio: Battlefield 3 and Mirror's Edge 2. Not only do those games possibly exist, you'll be able to see what's going on in them.

Battlefield 3 was first mentioned in June at a conference by EA COO John Pleasants. At that time, Pleasants also revealed a Criterion-developed Need for Speed game, which was announced again during EA's latest financial conference call -- so Battlefield 3 is somewhat of an expected property, lending credence to the existence of Mirror's Edge 2 by association. The last we heard about a follow-up to Mirror's Edge was that a "small team" was working on something back in June. Carlén could be part of that small team.

It's possible, given EA's recent layoffs and turn toward more surefire franchises, that Mirror's Edge 2 did exist but no longer does. We're checking with EA to verify the information found on this portfolio and to determine the current state of the franchise.

[Thanks, Tim]

JoystiqDICE lighting artist lists Mirror's Edge 2 on portfolio originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3diceeaElectronic-Artsmirrors-edgemirrors-edge-2oscar-carlenportfolioTue, 01 Dec 2009 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: Rhianna Pratchett]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/interview-rhianna-pratchett/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/interview-rhianna-pratchett/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/interview-rhianna-pratchett/#commentsWith Rhianna Pratchett's most recent projects -- a trio of Overlord titles -- complete, the game scribe took some time out to discuss what it was like to write for three games at once, what she's looking forward to in the future, and why Faith in Mirror's Edge wasn't quite as talkative as originally planned:

Did you have any difficulties writing for three different platforms? What are the differences and limitations of writing for one platform over another?

It was mainly a question of age ratings. I'm sorry it's not more of an exciting answer. The Wii and DS, Dark Legend and Minions, were aiming for a lower rating than Overlord II, so there were certain things that I couldn't talk about in the scripts -- mainly to do with excessive violence and debauchery. You know, all the really fun stuff.

You can certainly get away with more by taking a comedic angle, but games ratings are actually pretty stringent. I don't think it impacted too much on the Overlord feel, although it was a shame to lose things like drunken minions and mistresses. Okay, in Dark Legend the lead character is only 16, so a harem might have been rather wishful thinking.

There was a definite need for economy of language when it came to the DS, which was a little more restrictive. Condensing a loquacious character like Gnarl was quite a challenge. Other than that it was really just trying to capture the right Overlord tone.

Continue reading Interview: Rhianna Pratchett

JoystiqInterview: Rhianna Pratchett originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interviewmirrors-edgeoverlordoverlord-2overlord-dark-legendoverlord-minionsrhianna-pratchettMon, 27 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unseen64: Backbone made Mirror's Edge demo for Wii, PSP, DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/unseen64-backbone-made-mirrors-edge-demo-for-wii-psp-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/unseen64-backbone-made-mirrors-edge-demo-for-wii-psp-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/unseen64-backbone-made-mirrors-edge-demo-for-wii-psp-ds/#comments
We love our Mirror's Edge as much as the next group of guys, but we don't really know what to make of this one. Unseen64 reports that Backbone Entertainment was asked by EA to make a demo for the game on Wii, DS and PSP, though the status of it is currently unknown.

Judging by the couple of pieces of concept art Unseen64 is sporting, the project looks suspiciously third-person, which is puzzling at best. But who knows? Maybe we're just old men set in our crotchety ways. Maybe it could have been awesome. But with less-than-stellar sales numbers for the flagship, we're doubtful EA will be willing to spend the cash to let Faith leap onto other boxes.

JoystiqUnseen64: Backbone made Mirror's Edge demo for Wii, PSP, DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>backbonediceDSeaElectronic-Artsmirrors-edgeNintendoWiiWed, 22 Jul 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA shatters our faith in future Mirror's Edge DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/ea-shatters-our-faith-in-future-mirrors-edge-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/ea-shatters-our-faith-in-future-mirrors-edge-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/16/ea-shatters-our-faith-in-future-mirrors-edge-dlc/#comments
Mirror's Edge fans are going to have to wait for the sequel before experiencing any new leaps of Faith. EA has told ThatVideoGameBlog that there are no "immediate plans" for more DLC. A downloadable map pack was made available this past February.

Although not a runaway smash, Mirror's Edge did find success and some awards -- even from our little corner of the internet. Hopefully a sequel will address the multitude of frustrating gameplay issues found in the original -- like the combat system. We have fai... ahem, we believe DICE will do right next time.

JoystiqEA shatters our faith in future Mirror's Edge DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diceeaelectronic-artsfaithMicrosoftmirrors-edgemirrors-edge-dlcXbox-360Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge DLC now free on EU PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/mirrors-edge-dlc-now-free-on-eu-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/mirrors-edge-dlc-now-free-on-eu-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/13/mirrors-edge-dlc-now-free-on-eu-psn/#comments
All of you Europeans who enjoy a bit of the parkour-inspired gameplay of Mirror's Edge now and again, we've got a treat for you. PSN now has all of the Mirror's Edge DLC content available at the low, low cost of free. The news comes courtesy of TheSixthAxis, and we've logged on ourselves to confirm that, yes, you can now nab all of the game's content with no need to spend anything. If you don't own Mirror's Edge, it's got to be on sale somewhere around you -- and honestly, there is no suitable excuse for not owning it.

Oh, and before you US residents go rushing to turn on your PS3, know that we already checked PSN for this and the content is still priced as usual.

[Thanks, Josh!]

JoystiqMirror's Edge DLC now free on EU PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dicedlceamirrors-edgepsnMon, 13 Jul 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA VP: 'Small team' working on more Mirror's Edge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/ea-vp-small-team-working-on-more-mirrors-edge/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/ea-vp-small-team-working-on-more-mirrors-edge/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/12/ea-vp-small-team-working-on-more-mirrors-edge/#comments
Joy be thine, as EA has confirmed Joystiq GOTY Mirror's Edge won't be the last we see of Faith. In speaking with Videogamer back at E3, EA's senior VP of EA Games Europe, Patrick Soderlund, stated, "You will see another Mirror's Edge for sure. It's just a matter of when that time is and what we do with it. We have a small team on it and I'm excited about what we do."

Of course, one mustn't jump to conclusions and automatically label this as a sequel. Soderlund could've meant anything based on that comment. EA could be working on a full-fledged sequel (something we desperately need), sure, or could be adapting a port for some other system. Or, the company could be making a spiffy new Flash game for all we know. Only time will tell, but the important thing is that no matter what this project turns out to be, we all have more parkour-based gameplay to look forward to down the line. And that's a very good thing.

[Via VG247]

JoystiqEA VP: 'Small team' working on more Mirror's Edge originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dicee3-2009eaElectronic-ArtsfaithMicrosoftmirrors-edgemirrors-edge-2Xbox-360Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Gorgeous Mirror's Edge inspired photo set leaps into view]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/gorgeous-mirrors-edge-inspired-photo-set-leaps-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/gorgeous-mirrors-edge-inspired-photo-set-leaps-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/gorgeous-mirrors-edge-inspired-photo-set-leaps-into-view/#comments
Savage Land Pictures have revealed a gorgeous photo set inspired by the 2008 Electronic Arts action title, Mirror's Edge. The shoot, which Savage Land Pictures notes took months to plan, includes sixteen images of a model dressed as Faith traversing rooftops and interacting with armor-clad enemies. The set isn't completely realistic however, as "Faith" is shown holding a pistol and the image doesn't completely break... like the game did when she picked up a weapon. Just kidding, kinda.

[Via SlicedLime Twitter]

JoystiqGorgeous Mirror's Edge inspired photo set leaps into view originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 May 2009 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artisticfan-madefanmadeflickrmirrors-edgephotographyTue, 19 May 2009 02:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Real first-person parkour to make Faith blush]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/real-first-person-parkour-to-make-faith-blush/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/real-first-person-parkour-to-make-faith-blush/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/17/real-first-person-parkour-to-make-faith-blush/#comments
Fans of the first-person parkour simulator Mirror's Edge are bound to enjoy this video discovered by the BBPS (embedded after the break). In the video, you'll see a very talented man perform all kinds of parkour antics, all shot from a first-person viewpoint. He even managed to find some surprisingly colorful surroundings to make it feel more like the game. It's all very impressive until around 2:05 into the video, at which point we realized it was filmed by a wizard.

To think such a powerful man would waste his time making silly videos.

[Via The BBPS]

Continue reading Real first-person parkour to make Faith blush

JoystiqReal first-person parkour to make Faith blush originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diceeaelectronic-artsMicrosoftmirrors-edgeXbox-360Fri, 17 Apr 2009 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gitcha SecuROM de-authorization tools! Git'em ova hur!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/gitcha-securom-de-authorization-tools-gitem-ova-hur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/gitcha-securom-de-authorization-tools-gitem-ova-hur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/gitcha-securom-de-authorization-tools-gitem-ova-hur/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EA's perpetual joke -- on you -- comes to an ironic end on April Fools' Day with the release of de-authorization tools for each of its 19 PC games with SecuROM copy protection (full list and download links after the break). If you've been working on that class action lawsuit against EA for bundling SecuROM with The Sims 2: IKEA Home Stuff, you can drop it now -- your flat-pack furniture can finally be moved to a new machine.

In the spirit of generosity, EA's giving you two options for managing your authorizations:
  • Option 1: Download and install yet another "tool" in order to scan your computer for EA's SecuROM games and find out how many computer authorizations you have (or don't have) left for each title.
  • Option 2: Cut to the chase and download the game-specific de-authorization tool you need.

Continue reading Gitcha SecuROM de-authorization tools! Git'em ova hur!

JoystiqGitcha SecuROM de-authorization tools! Git'em ova hur! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnout-paradisecommand-and-conquercrysis-warheadde-authorizationdead-spaceeaElectronic-Artsfifa-09fifa-manager-09littlest-pet-shoplord-of-the-rings-conquestmass-effectmercenaries-2mirrors-edgemysimsneed-for-speed-undercovernhl-09red-alert-3securomsims-2spore-creature-creatorthe-ultimate-boxWed, 01 Apr 2009 12:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge vs. Age of Conan at Nordic Awards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/mirrors-edge-vs-age-of-conan-at-nordic-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/mirrors-edge-vs-age-of-conan-at-nordic-awards/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/31/mirrors-edge-vs-age-of-conan-at-nordic-awards/#comments
Nordic Game 2009 is fast approaching and, like you, we're gearing up by listening to loads of ABBA, driving Volvos and wearing nothing but H&M clothing. That's all they do over there, right? Anyway, with the conference comes the obligatory awards show, though this one comes with a uniquely nordic theme. While über nordic games like LasseMajas and Englekræsj show up on the list, EA DICE-developed Mirror's Edge and Funcom-developed Age of Conan: Hyborian Adventures are duking it out for two major awards: Artistic Achievement and Best Nordic Game.

We can't speak to the ... ahem ... games we've never heard of running against Mirror's Edge and Age of Conan, but retro remake Bionic Commando: Rearmed is also competing for the Best Nordic Game award, while Watchmen: The End is Nigh takes on the two for Artistic Achievement. The awards are set to be a veritable smörgåsbord of gaming, if you will. (Those are Swedish, right?)

[Via Edge]

JoystiqMirror's Edge vs. Age of Conan at Nordic Awards originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Mar 2009 16:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-conanbionic-commando-rearmedea-diceEnglekrsjfuncomLasseMajasmirrors-edgenordic-game-2009swedenwatchmen-the-end-is-nighTue, 31 Mar 2009 16:10:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC09: Rhianna Pratchett says games should forget about making people cry]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/gdc09-rhianna-pratchett-says-games-should-forget-about-making-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/gdc09-rhianna-pratchett-says-games-should-forget-about-making-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/27/gdc09-rhianna-pratchett-says-games-should-forget-about-making-p/#commentsRhianna Pratchett, the woman to blame for the dialogue of last year's EA experiment Mirror's Edge, says that game writers (not, erm, us, mind you, but the type that write the stories in the games we all play) are doing the wrong thing trying to make gamers cry. She tells the Guardian's game blog, "As an industry we get very, very obsessed with making people cry. What's so great about crying?!" Rather, she says that they should be focusing on turning those frowns upside down, citing her work on the Overlord franchise.

"The world is dark enough, especially at the moment. Overlord, I think, was successful because it made people smile, it made people laugh. That seems to have resonated so much that I say 'Make people smile, don't make people cry.'" It's no secret that we are suckers for the lolz around here, so we're rather inclined to agree with Ms. Pratchett. In the eight minute interview with the Guardian (found after the break), Pratchett also touches on the importance of getting game writers into the development process early enough, calling shoehorned stories in gaming the result of "Weekend at Bernie's" processes, where a plot that doesn't really exist is "made up" to look like an actual plot. Rather than naming culprits, we'll leave the finger pointing to you fine folks -- and we're willing to bet you can name more than a few, no?

Continue reading GDC09: Rhianna Pratchett says games should forget about making people cry

JoystiqGDC09: Rhianna Pratchett says games should forget about making people cry originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Mar 2009 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsgame-storygdc-2009guardianinterviewmirrors-edgerhianna-pratchettFri, 27 Mar 2009 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EA is 'very, very pro independent development,' says DeMartini]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/ea-is-very-very-pro-independent-development-says-demartini/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/ea-is-very-very-pro-independent-development-says-demartini/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/ea-is-very-very-pro-independent-development-says-demartini/#comments
In what seems to be a multiple year-spanning sea change on the side of EA, the company is not only reaching out to independent developers like Grasshopper Manufacture and Valve, but also working with them to keep their properties autonomous. Chris Remo of Gamasutra sat down with David DeMartini, General Manager of EA Partners, to discuss the idea behind EAP and, in doing so, revealed some interesting truths about the EA initiative.

"I think that there is very much a renaissance within the EAP based on the leadership of Electronic Arts ... John Riccitiello and Frank Gibeau are very, very pro-independent development," says DeMartini, referring to titles like American McGee's Alice sequel and Suda 51's upcoming game (still untitled), as well as Valve-developed Left 4 Dead. The "renaissance," he believes, isn't spurred by the way in which the EA Partners program has been set up, so much as it's been a focus on "great quality."

While last year's Mirror's Edge and Left 4 Dead might not have sold huge numbers out of the gate, there is no doubt that their critical reception has been overwhelmingly positive. To add credence to his argument, sales of both titles have held steady as time goes on."What we've proven is that there is no one model. What we have also proven is quality and innovation always win." Not a terrible truth to arrive at, if we must say so ourselves.

JoystiqEA is 'very, very pro independent development,' says DeMartini originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>business-modelschris-remodavid-demartinidead-spaceeaea-partnerseapElectronic-Artsgamasutraindependent-developersleft-4-deadmirrors-edgeFri, 20 Mar 2009 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhianna Pratchett launches portfolio website]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/rhianna-pratchett-launches-portfolio-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/rhianna-pratchett-launches-portfolio-website/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/rhianna-pratchett-launches-portfolio-website/#commentsRhianna Pratchett, the British game writer behind Heavenly Sword, Overlord (and its upcoming sequels), Mirror's Edge and Viking: Battle For Asgard has launched her portfolio website, making it easier to keep track of her various projects. The website showcases all the games that she's worked on, as well as her contributions to some game writing textbooks and her ongoing series of Mirror's Edge comic books.

There are also links to interviews (including one of ours) for those who want to get a little more insight into the person behind the words. From the look of things, the site won't be updated for a while as Rhianna's being kept fairly busy with Overlord 2 and the Wii and DS Overlord games. Now that she's set up home on the internet, we wonder if she'll be joining us on Twitter soon, too.

JoystiqRhianna Pratchett launches portfolio website originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenly-swordmirrors-edgeOverlordRhianna-pratchettWed, 18 Mar 2009 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Swedes honor their own: Mirror's Edge wins Swedish GOTY]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/swedes-honor-their-own-mirrors-edge-wins-swedish-goty/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/swedes-honor-their-own-mirrors-edge-wins-swedish-goty/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/swedes-honor-their-own-mirrors-edge-wins-swedish-goty/#comments
Little known fact: Swedes love a good pat on the back. It's true, all of us like to be congratulated on a job well done, but for them it's in a league of its own. This year, they've heaped the honor for the best Swedish-made game at the annual Dataspelsgalan award show onto DICE's parkour-inspired first-person scoot-er, Mirror's Edge. When asked why it was so special, top Swedes commented to Joystiq that the "graphics on level three were really tight," among other things. One thing is certain: Mirror's Edge was definitely one of the better games from last year.

Previous Swedish GOTY winners:
  • 2000 Fem myror är fler än fyra elefanter
  • 2001 Ground Control
  • 2002 Headhunter
  • 2003 Battlefield 1942
  • 2004 -
  • 2005 Riddick: Escape from Butcher Bay
  • 2006 Battlefield 2
  • 2007 GTR 2: FIA GT Racing Game
  • 2008 World in Conflict

Continue reading Swedes honor their own: Mirror's Edge wins Swedish GOTY

JoystiqSwedes honor their own: Mirror's Edge wins Swedish GOTY originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diceeaElectronic-Artsfpsmirrors-edgeswedenswedishswedish-game-of-the-yearswedish-gotyWed, 18 Mar 2009 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[EA sees success in Dead Space and Mirror's Edge ... after a 'lifetime performance']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-sees-success-in-dead-space-and-mirrors-edge-after-a-lif/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-sees-success-in-dead-space-and-mirrors-edge-after-a-lif/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/ea-sees-success-in-dead-space-and-mirrors-edge-after-a-lif/#commentsEA's European Senior VP Patrick Söderlund has expressed optimism about the long-term success of new IPs Dead Space and Mirror's Edge in a conversation with Gamasutra. "If you analyze games like Dead Space and Mirror's Edge for their lifetime performance, I bet you'll find them to be seen as successful," said Söderlund, communicating a commitment to both franchises.

Söderlund went on to echo Glen Schofield's remarks regarding the not-too-brilliant plan of releasing both titles during the extremely competitive holiday season, admitting that EA could have "done a better job" scheduling its release calendar. Still, EA seems determined to forge ahead with both franchises in tow. We have a hunch gamers will support that decision -- so long as Dead Space doesn't turn into this and Mirror's Edge into that.

[Via guardian.co.uk]

JoystiqEA sees success in Dead Space and Mirror's Edge ... after a 'lifetime performance' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacediceeaElectronic-Artsmirrors-edgeredwood-shoressurvival-horrorFri, 06 Mar 2009 13:33:00 EST<![CDATA[DICE's Lars Gustavsson says game industry is at a 'crossroads']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/dices-lars-gustavsson-says-game-industry-is-at-a-crossroads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/dices-lars-gustavsson-says-game-industry-is-at-a-crossroads/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/dices-lars-gustavsson-says-game-industry-is-at-a-crossroads/#comments
Lars Gustavsson is no stranger to risk. After last year's first-person parkour-based action/platformer Mirror's Edge stumbled off shelves during the holiday season, you'd think DICE's creative director might be dissuaded from continuing to push the envelope. However, speaking at the Design Innovate Communicate Entertertain Summit (conveniently shortened to D.I.C.E.) last week, he told the crowd "the games industry has come to a crossroads."

According to him, the situation is multi-faceted -- the poor economy is forcing lower overhead costs on developers and people are less willing to spend their money while consumers are also less likely to invest in new intellectual properties (such as the aforementioned Mirror's Edge). Should developers play it safe with proven IPs or take risks in hopes of breaking in?

He pontificates that "more customization offerings, new business models, data-driven development and the active tuning of the games" will drive innovation and allay risk going forward. "It's totally different from anything we've done," Gustavsson noted when referencing upcoming online-only multiplayer shooter Battlefield 1943. And he seems to be putting the development costs where his mouth is, as Battlefield 1943 sticks to his plan (on paper at least) to a tee. It remains to be seen whether they'll work out. After all, we're still waiting on that other Battlefield game.

JoystiqDICE's Lars Gustavsson says game industry is at a 'crossroads' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefieldbattlefield-1943battlefield-heroesbusinessdicedice-2009economyedge-magazinelars-gustavssonmirrors-edgeTue, 24 Feb 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge and Mercenaries 2 fail to excite Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/mirrors-edge-and-mercenaries-2-fail-to-excite-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/mirrors-edge-and-mercenaries-2-fail-to-excite-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/20/mirrors-edge-and-mercenaries-2-fail-to-excite-japan/#commentsAnecdotal evidence suggests that neither Mirror's Edge nor Mercenaries 2 took off in Japan. This picture shows stacks of new copies of both games on sale for ¥1,980 ($21). Mirror's Edge was released on December 11 in Japan, and Mercenaries 2 followed one week later. Both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions are marked down, so the blame for poor sales doesn't fall solely on 360's lowly reputation in Japan.

Japan has no rental services, so people tend to buy games, complete them immediately, and then sell them back to stores asap, before the prices are slashed, leading to a precipitous drop in used prices of popular games. Even that isn't the case here -- these games are new, and retailer Sofmap's website shows used copies of Mirror's Edge at ¥4,780 for PS3 and 360, while new copies are marked down to a mere ¥1,980.

Would Mirror's Edge have benefited from a lead character redesigned for Asian audiences? Maybe, if that redesign had also encompassed not making the game a first-person shooter.

JoystiqMirror's Edge and Mercenaries 2 fail to excite Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A2MakihabaraEAElectronic-ArtsjapanMercenariesMercenaries-2Mercenaries-2-World-In-FlamesMicrosoftMirrors-EdgePandemicPandemic-Studiossandboxthird-person-shooterXbox-360Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mirror's Edge DLC jumps, climbs onto 360, PS3, PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/mirrors-edge-dlc-jumps-climbs-onto-360-ps3-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/mirrors-edge-dlc-jumps-climbs-onto-360-ps3-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/19/mirrors-edge-dlc-jumps-climbs-onto-360-ps3-pc/#comments In a cute homage to the new Mirror's Edge DLC that's now available, we were going to tell you that we had leaped between two buildings, scaled a fire escape and finally shimmied across a pipe to get from our 360 to our keyboard to bring you this news ... but we don't want to insult your intelligence. Look at us, after all. The only thing we've leaped between recently is our table at Max & Erma's and the sundae bar.

If you want to pretend you're virtually fit, you can drop your $10 on the XBLM and get nine races spanning seven brand new maps. PC and PS3 users keep an eye out for the DLC to pop up later today.

Gallery: Mirror's Edge Time Trial DLC

JoystiqMirror's Edge DLC jumps, climbs onto 360, PS3, PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 10:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlceaElectronic-ArtsMicrosoftmirrors-edgemirrors-edge-dlcpcpsnxblmXbox-360xbox-liveThu, 19 Feb 2009 10:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Hey, you got Mirror's Edge in my Tomb Raider!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/hey-you-got-mirrors-edge-in-my-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/hey-you-got-mirrors-edge-in-my-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/11/hey-you-got-mirrors-edge-in-my-tomb-raider/#comments
Lara and Faith have a lot in common. Both are strong, female protagonists, and both find themselves relying heavily on their ability to effectively navigate the environment around them. Now, they have another thing in common: they've both been the subject of weird mods. Check out the video past the break, which shows what Lara's world would look like had it taken inspiration from Mirror's Edge.

[Thanks, M]

Continue reading Hey, you got Mirror's Edge in my Tomb Raider!

JoystiqHey, you got Mirror's Edge in my Tomb Raider! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsdiceeaElectronic-Artsmirrors-edgemodmodstomb-raidertomb-raider-underworldWed, 11 Feb 2009 15:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space, Mirror's Edge pass 1m unit sales; Left 4 Dead nears 2m]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/dead-space-mirrors-edge-pass-1m-unit-sales-left-4-dead-nears/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/dead-space-mirrors-edge-pass-1m-unit-sales-left-4-dead-nears/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/04/dead-space-mirrors-edge-pass-1m-unit-sales-left-4-dead-nears/#commentsFiled under:

While Rock Band and FIFA 09 stole the headline (and let's not overlook Need for Speed Undercover selling 5.2 million copies), EA's new IPs were also battling an unpredictable market this past holiday. Unfortunately, both Dead Space and Mirror's Edge lost -- or, got lost in the traditionally crowded end-of-year release splurge. Neither game made EA's "highlight" reel, and both were tucked away in a carefully disguised statement of defeat: "Dead Space, Mirror's Edge, Madden NFL 09 and NBA Live 09 each sold over one million copies." Consider that Dead Space and Mirror's Edge's development costs surely far exceeded those of EA's perennial sports installments (not to mention, EA's trio of top sellers mentioned above) and it's easy to qualify the new IPs as underperformers.

Going by the sales figures, at 1.8 million units sold, Left 4 Dead isn't exactly a standout either -- but it does go down in EA's "win" column. As an EA Partners game, Left 4 Dead didn't cost EA development bucks; and while that means a lesser share of gross revenue, the game's decent sales performance has likely equaled greater profit for EA compared to the results of its new, in-house IP.

Where does EA go from here? Well, a "new" Dead Space game can signal one of two things: (a) EA is confidently moving forward with its plan to build compelling, new franchises; or (b) EA is morphing its compelling, new franchises into redundant, tired formulas. If the latter, don't blame EA. Our money does the dictating. EA just follows along.

Source - EA Q3 2009 Earnings Conference Call Script [PDF]

JoystiqDead Space, Mirror's Edge pass 1m unit sales; Left 4 Dead nears 2m originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacediceeaElectronic-Artsl4dleft-4-deadmirrors-edgepcsalesvalveWed, 04 Feb 2009 16:14:00 EST