Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Joystiq interview: Namco Bandai stacks the deck with Culdcept Saga]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/joystiq-interview-namco-bandai-stacks-the-deck-with-culdcept-sa/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/joystiq-interview-namco-bandai-stacks-the-deck-with-culdcept-sa/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/16/joystiq-interview-namco-bandai-stacks-the-deck-with-culdcept-sa/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


By all accounts Omiya Soft's Culdcept franchise has no business being as fun as it is. An admittedly bizarre meshing of board and collectible card game antics, the resulting gameplay potpourri comes across as one big happy accident, but one that has endured since well before the Saturn was pushing up daises. With iterations released in Japan for Sega's final console pair as well as the original PlayStation, North American gamers got their first taste of this unique hybrid in 2003 when NEC released Culdcept for the PlayStation 2 to modest critical acclaim.

Since that time, however, the franchise has faded into obscurity, but will soon be given another chance, this time under the banner of Namco Bandai for the Xbox 360. Culdcept Saga, which has been available for some time in Japan, marks a decidedly different sort of experience for Xbox 360 owners, one usually associated with XBLA downloads rather than a full-on retail release, though even trepidatious players may find the $39.99 price difficult to pass up, especially those looking for something different to play during their FPS downtime.

In advance of the game's early February release we managed to corner Namco Bandai's Nobu Taguchi, who is spearheading Culdcept Saga's localization here in North America. Taguchi was more than willing to set us straight on a number of topics, from the title's multiplayer gameplay to changes made regarding how DLC will be handled...and more.

Check out the full interview after the jump.

Gallery: Culdcept Saga

Continue reading Joystiq interview: Namco Bandai stacks the deck with Culdcept Saga

JoystiqJoystiq interview: Namco Bandai stacks the deck with Culdcept Saga originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>board gamesBoardGamesccgculdcept sagaculdcept-sagaCuldceptSaganamconamco bandainamco-bandaiNamcoBandaiNobu TaguchiNobuTaguchiOmiya SoftOmiya-SoftOmiyaSoftXbox-360Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Questionable Soulcalibur Legends for Wii goes gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/questionable-soulcalibur-legends-for-wii-goes-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/questionable-soulcalibur-legends-for-wii-goes-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/01/questionable-soulcalibur-legends-for-wii-goes-gold/#commentsFiled under: ,


When we first took remote in hand to try out Soulcalibur Legends for the Wii at E3, the whole incident compelled us to throw away our clothes and take a shower while trying to wash ourselves clean of the experience altogether. But the filth would not come off. Granted, this was of an early build, but given the state of things, our hopes for the fighter-made-action game were left irrecoverably gutted.

Now, however, Namco Bandai sends word that the game has gone gold, and while we have trouble caring, Wii owners on the lookout for something original (regardless of quality) can look forward to getting dirty themselves November 20. Just don't say we didn't warn you.

JoystiqQuestionable Soulcalibur Legends for Wii goes gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Nov 2007 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>legendsnamco bandaiNamcoBandaisoul caliburSoulCaliburWiiThu, 01 Nov 2007 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Ace Combat 6 demo flies out next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ace-combat-6-demo-flies-out-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ace-combat-6-demo-flies-out-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ace-combat-6-demo-flies-out-next-week/#commentsFiled under: ,


In the latest episode of GameSpot's On the Spot, In Joon Hwang, Product Marketing Manager for Namco Bandai, revealed that a demo for Ace Combat 6 should be available on Xbox Live Marketplace next week. Ace Combat 6 is the first in the flight combat series to appear on a non-Sony console and also the first new-gen entry in the series. Hwang notes that the game's support system has been revamped, and players will now be able give commands to naval, air, and ground combat units during play. Expect to hear more about Ace Combat 6 from E3 next week.

[Thanks, Dark Mobius]

JoystiqAce Combat 6 demo flies out next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ace combatace combat 6Ace-CombatAce-Combat-6Ace-Combat-6-Fires-of-LiberationAceCombatAceCombat6bandaibandai namcoBandaiNamcolive marketplaceLiveMarketplacemarketplacenamconamco bandaiNamco-BandaiNamcoBandaixblmxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceFri, 06 Jul 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese Soul Calibur Legends site opens for business]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/japanese-soul-calibur-legends-site-opens-for-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/japanese-soul-calibur-legends-site-opens-for-business/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/japanese-soul-calibur-legends-site-opens-for-business/#commentsFiled under:



The Japanese site for Soul Calibur Legends is up and running, complete with screenshots and a few character profiles, and lots of room to expand for later content. Despite the change in gameplay, the site gives us warm and fuzzy feelings of familiarity. While this isn't the same ol' fighting game that we're used to from Soul Calibur, the mood of the series is definitely intact.

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqJapanese Soul Calibur Legends site opens for business originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionfightingjapannamco bandaiNamcoBandaisitesoul calibursoul calibur legendsSoulCaliburSoulCaliburLegeFri, 06 Jul 2007 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Beautiful Katamari drops PS3, picks up Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/rumor-beautiful-katamari-drops-ps3-picks-up-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/rumor-beautiful-katamari-drops-ps3-picks-up-wii/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/rumor-beautiful-katamari-drops-ps3-picks-up-wii/#commentsFiled under: ,

Rumors surfaced over the last couple of weeks about Beautiful Katamari rolling itself away from PlayStation 3 and towards Nintendo Wii. An Xbox 360 version, already weighted its own speculation, is the only confirmed version to be shown at next week's E3.

Now comes word that Famitsu (via PS3 Center) has validated the rumors and that Namco Bandai has indeed quietly canceled a PS3 iteration in favor of rolling the Prince of All Cosmos onto the Wii. As we have yet to see the purported issue of Famitsu, we're still labeling this as rumor fodder.

We've contacted Namco Bandai for a statement. In the meantime, take a stroll down memory lane with our recent b[ack]log on We Love Katamari.

[Via Evil Avatar]

JoystiqRumor: Beautiful Katamari drops PS3, picks up Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaibeautiful katamariBeautifulKatamarikatamarinamconamco bandaiNamcoBandaiPS3WiiFri, 06 Jul 2007 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco E3 lineup confirms Katamari exclusivity?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/namco-e3-lineup-confirms-katamari-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/namco-e3-lineup-confirms-katamari-exclusivity/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/namco-e3-lineup-confirms-katamari-exclusivity/#commentsFiled under:

If you needed any more confirmation that Beautiful Katamari will only roll on the Xbox 360, you need look no further than Namco Bandai's recently released E3 lineup. Eurogamer has the list and was quick to notice that the Xbox 360 was the only platform designated for the title. Is it ironclad proof that Beautiful Katamari is 360 exclusive? No, but it's pretty damned close. Other Namco Bandai 360 games to be shown at E3 include Dynasty Warriors Gundam, Ace Combat 6, Eternal Sonata, and Culdcept SAGA.

JoystiqNamco E3 lineup confirms Katamari exclusivity? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaibeautiful katamaribeautiful katamari damacyBeautifulKatamariBeautifulKatamariDamacye307katamarinamconamco bandaiNamcoBandaiFri, 06 Jul 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco Bandai announces E3 PSP lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/namco-bandai-announces-e3-psp-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/namco-bandai-announces-e3-psp-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/namco-bandai-announces-e3-psp-lineup/#commentsFiled under:

The new E3 is just around the corner, and that means that publishers are sending out lists of their E3 slate. Such is the case with Namco Bandai. On the PSP front, we can look forward to seeing the fan favorite RPG Tales of the World: Radiant Mythology, the tennis champ Smash Court Tennis 3, and of course the knuckle headed ninja in Naruto: Ultimate Heroes. There may of course be a few surprises, or behind closed doors presentations, but those three games are certainly heavy hitters. Which of these titles are you most looking forward to seeing more on at E3?

[Via Gamespot]

JoystiqNamco Bandai announces E3 PSP lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>namco bandaiNamcoBandainarutonaruto: ultimate heroesNaruto:UltimateHeroessmash court tennissmash court tennis 3SmashCourtTennisSmashCourtTennis3tales of the worldTalesOfTheWorldFri, 06 Jul 2007 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fusing the world of Gundam and Dynasty Warriors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/fusing-the-world-of-gundam-and-dynasty-warriors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/fusing-the-world-of-gundam-and-dynasty-warriors/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/fusing-the-world-of-gundam-and-dynasty-warriors/#commentsFiled under: ,


In a recent conference call with the press, Namco Bandai's localization producer Nobuaki Taguchi revealed numerous new details on its upcoming Gundam brawler. The game, which now has a confirmed August 28th ship date, is the first Gundam and Dynasty Warriors game that will feature both English and Japanese voices.

Although there will be no downloadable content, it appears that fans will have a lot to look forward to. There are two main game modes to explore, "Official" and "Original" mode. In "Official" mode, players will go through classic Gundam storylines based on the official manga and anime series. "Original" mode weaves a new tale for the game, that somehow manages to incorporate the various Gundam universes involved. Some of the series to be incorporated into the game include Mobile Suit Gundam (the first Gundam), Gundam Seed, G Gundam, and Gundam Wing.

Continue reading Fusing the world of Gundam and Dynasty Warriors

JoystiqFusing the world of Gundam and Dynasty Warriors originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty warriorsdynasty warriors: gundamDynastyWarriorsDynastyWarriors:Gundamgundamnamconamco bandaiNamcoBandaiThu, 28 Jun 2007 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Ace Combat 6 and The Bigs on XBLM]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/watch-ace-combat-6-and-the-bigs-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/watch-ace-combat-6-and-the-bigs-on-xblm/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/watch-ace-combat-6-and-the-bigs-on-xblm/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A couple of new trailers landed on Xbox Live Marketplace this morning. First we have a trailer for Ace Combat 6, it's the same cheesy trailer we saw released before, with lots of American pride and important-sounding music (think Armageddon). Our favorite moment is when a woman's voice breaks through the chaos: "I don't know a whole lot about war, but there's something I need to tell you." Yes, the cheese-factor is strong with this one. The Bigs trailer, on the other hand, is straight up balls-to-bat action (still no demo, by the way). You've got big, beefy players, flaming baseballs, and home runs so powerful that they could bring down small aircraft. For those of you without access to your 360, we've embedded it at the top of the post. Enjoy.

JoystiqWatch Ace Combat 6 and The Bigs on XBLM originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k sports2kSportsace combat 6Ace-CombatAce-Combat-6Ace-Combat-6-Fires-of-LiberationAceCombat6bandaibandai namcoBandaiNamcolive marketplaceLiveMarketplacemarketplacenamconamco bandaiNamco-BandaiNamcoBandaithe bigsTheBigsxbox live marketplaceXboxLiveMarketplaceThu, 28 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy hands-on: Smash Court Tennis 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/psp-fanboy-hands-on-smash-court-tennis-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/psp-fanboy-hands-on-smash-court-tennis-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/psp-fanboy-hands-on-smash-court-tennis-3/#commentsFiled under:


Namco Bandai is promoting Smash Court Tennis 3 quite interestingly in other parts of the world (pictured, above). After getting our hands dirty with a preview build of the game, we have to admit that this game deserves the attention. Although tennis is a fairly simple game to understand, we appreciate the more simulation-based gameplay of Smash Court Tennis. Unlike its nearest competitor, Virtua Tennis, each hit is a lot more difficult to pull off, and each stroke can be decisive in a match. Although daunting at first, a well-designed, and incredibly thorough tutorial mode teaches the various strategies and techniques hidden within the game.

We're most impressed by the game's stellar production values. The menus simply look gorgeous. The camera moves in a nice, cinematic way, and the text overlays border on sexy. Load times are incredibly brief, rarely interrupting gameplay. The graphics look solid on PSP's diminuitive screen, and the animations, for the most part, are detailed and fluid.

There's a lot of potential in Smash Court Tennis, and we're sure that its various game modes will offer a lot of value. The tutorial mode has been excellent, and we've enjoyed playing simple matches of tennis. Arcade, Pro Tour and Challenge modes look to offer a significant amount of gameplay. The build that we've played does have some very noticeable glitches, though. There are some missing animations and graphics, especially when playing near the edge of the court. At times, it appears that there's no way to exit back into the menu. We're hoping that these issues get cleaned up by the game's final release -- if so, we could be looking at a winner. We'll be giving you more info on the game as we get closer to its release.

[Image source. Thanks, Robert!]

Gallery: Smash Court Tennis 3


See also:
Smash Court Tennis 3 downloadable demo

JoystiqPSP Fanboy hands-on: Smash Court Tennis 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>namco bandaiNamcoBandaismash court tennisSmashCourtTennistennisWed, 27 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Soul Caliber screenshots show off Ivy's enchancements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/new-soul-caliber-screenshots-show-off-ivys-enchancements/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/new-soul-caliber-screenshots-show-off-ivys-enchancements/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/new-soul-caliber-screenshots-show-off-ivys-enchancements/#commentsFiled under:

Video games have come a long way. Soul Calibur 4 is one such game. While the original version, which we're not attributing to the arcade but on the Dreamcast (which was basically the arcade console for a while), was amazing, each additional title in the franchise looks better and better and plays more fluidly than the last. The newest game in the franchise has a few screenshots released to the world at large and they're impressive. Most are of the character Ivy, because she wears skimpy clothes or something, but they show off what we can expect when the game releases sometime next year. So, enjoy!

JoystiqNew Soul Caliber screenshots show off Ivy's enchancements originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>NamcoNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3SonySoul Calibur IVSoulCaliburIvWed, 27 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese game pubs jumping from Sony to Nintendo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/japanese-game-pubs-jumping-from-sony-to-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/japanese-game-pubs-jumping-from-sony-to-nintendo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/27/japanese-game-pubs-jumping-from-sony-to-nintendo/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The biggest third parties in Japan are throwing their support behind Nintendo in a big way. Namco/Bandai, Sega and Capcom are all increasing both the number of distinct titles and the number of units ordered for games on Nintendo systems, according to research done by the Nikkei newspaper and reported by Variety Asia. Namco Bandai alone is planning a ridiculous 115 games for the DS and Wii in fiscal 2007, a 109 percent increase. Sony, meanwhile, can expect a 30 to 40 percent decline in shipment orders from the big three, according to the report.

In more potential bad news for Sony, the Variety article off-handedly mentions that "Square Enix ... has no plans to develop titles for the PS3 until sales improve enough to make the steep development costs financially worthwhile." This seems to confirm earlier reports that the company wouldn't release any PS3 games until the next fiscal year starts on April 1, 2008. Deep breaths, Final Fantasy fans. Just remember, patience is a virtue.

JoystiqJapanese game pubs jumping from Sony to Nintendo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2007 11:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BandaiCapcomDSJapanjump shipJumpShipNamcoNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiNintendoPS3PSPSonythird-partyWiiWed, 27 Jun 2007 11:06:00 EST<![CDATA[SCIV scans: medieval cleavage galore]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/sciv-scans-medieval-cleavage-galore/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/sciv-scans-medieval-cleavage-galore/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/sciv-scans-medieval-cleavage-galore/#commentsFiled under:


Hot on the heels of the revelation that Soul Calibur IV will feature online play, images pulled from the related EGM article are beginning to hit the internet. The images come to us courtesy of Xboxygen, and they are quite, ahem, revealing. We are of course referring to the amazingly supported female naughty bits (made even more amazing considering the game takes place in an age before the underwire bra). The image above also reveals a well-wrought thong (or a spectacularly painful wedgie). Ogling aside, the images certainly do look sharp. We also have to point out that one shot contains a dodo. Given that Soul Calibur IV looks to be the last in the series, the fact that it contains an extinct bird seems appropriate. Here's hoping the gameplay does a better job of evolving (ba dum bum, psh!).

Hit the "read" link for more images.

JoystiqSCIV scans: medieval cleavage galore originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaibandai namcoBandaiNamconamconamco bandaiNamcoBandaisc 4sc ivSc4ScIvsoul calibursoul calibur 4soul calibur ivSoulCaliburSoulCalibur4SoulCaliburIvTue, 26 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Calibur IV now burns online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/soul-calibur-iv-now-burns-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/soul-calibur-iv-now-burns-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/soul-calibur-iv-now-burns-online/#commentsFiled under:


This is the sort of thing we like to hear. In the latest issue of EGM, Namco has confirmed that Soul Calibur IV will feature online play. The news comes straight from the game's director, Katsutoshi Sasaki, who says that online play is part of all current-gen consoles and "with the current environment, we really couldn't make SC4 without online play." We would be remiss if we didn't point out that every iteration of Soul Calibur has appeared on a console capable of supporting online play, but we digress. In other news, players will be able to take their custom "create-a-character" avatars online, though Sasaki isn't sure whether or not players will be able to trade them. We shudder to imagine all the Takis and Ivys -- wearing nothing but flesh-tone underwear -- we'll be facing online.

Now, if only we could get Sasaki-San to have a talk with SEGA about Virtua Fighter 5.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSoul Calibur IV now burns online originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandai namcoBandaiNamconamco bandaiNamcoBandaisc 4sc ivSc4ScIvsoul calibursoul calibur 4soul calibur ivSoulCaliburSoulCalibur4SoulCaliburIvTue, 26 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tamagotchi: Party On! for $18]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/tamagotchi-party-on-for-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/tamagotchi-party-on-for-18/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/tamagotchi-party-on-for-18/#commentsFiled under:

Reviews for Tamagotchi: Party On! haven't been favorable, but if you've ever wanted to compete against your friends in an election for the Sparkling President of Tamagotchi planet, have we got a deal for you! Amazon is selling Namco Bandai's minigame collection at a bargain price of $17.99, shipping them out for free with orders totaling over $25, as usual. The deal ends today, and we don't expect the game to stay in stock for long, so snatch up a copy now, while you can!

[Via CAG]

JoystiqTamagotchi: Party On! for $18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We tried coming up with a better headline than this, but couldn't muster the creativity nor the energy to make it happen. Honestly, it's a tennis game: you'll want it, or you won't. Namco Bandai's sending us a preview build, so we should have hands-on impressions of the title soon. Until then, you may want to check out the awesome Pac-Man tennis videos, and download the demo and try it yourself.

Gallery: Smash Court Tennis 3

JoystiqNew Smash Court Tennis 3 screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>namco bandaiNamcoBandaismash court tennisSmashCourtTennisWed, 20 Jun 2007 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Beautiful Katamari fact sheet shows only Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/beautiful-katamari-fact-sheet-shows-only-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/beautiful-katamari-fact-sheet-shows-only-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/beautiful-katamari-fact-sheet-shows-only-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

According to an official Namco Bandai fact sheet (found after the break) Beautiful Katamari is coming to Xbox 360 ... and that is all. Siliconera dug up the sheet and adds another log to our crazy katamari of news surrounding this title. Even though the game is just more of the same gameplay we've come to enjoy from the series, the story behind all this maneuvering is becoming the interesting tale.

Maybe it is time to just to make an absurd list of what people think will happen next and we'll check back on it when the next Beautiful Katamari incident occurs -- see if anybody is on the mark. Siliconera goes on to say that the game is probably a timed exclusive, considering GameFly still has their info up for all three systems (and they don't just make stuff up), it's the best information we've got until Namco Bandai makes a clear statement on what's really going on.

Continue reading Beautiful Katamari fact sheet shows only Xbox 360

JoystiqBeautiful Katamari fact sheet shows only Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beautiful katamariBeautifulKatamarinamco bandaips3releasewiixboxXbox-360Wed, 20 Jun 2007 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Ace Combat 6 stick cheaper than a real jet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/ace-combat-6-stick-cheaper-than-a-real-jet/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/ace-combat-6-stick-cheaper-than-a-real-jet/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/ace-combat-6-stick-cheaper-than-a-real-jet/#commentsFiled under: ,


Namco Bandai has announced that it will release a special bundle for its upcoming aeronautical adventure, Ace Combat 6. The bundle will include the game, a limited edition Xbox 360 faceplate and the sweet flight stick combo seen above. The stick is manufactured by HORI, makers of the ultra-hard-to-find Dead or Alive 4 arcade stick. But how much does it cost, you say? Not $89.95! No, not $79.95. Not even $69.95! That's right, the Ace Combat 6 bundle will retail for ... $150! The bundle is expected to arrive this holiday season.

Any flight sim junkies out there willing to take the plunge?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqAce Combat 6 stick cheaper than a real jet originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ace combatace combat 6Ace-CombatAce-Combat-6Ace-Combat-6-Fires-of-LiberationAceCombatAceCombat6bandaibandai namcoBandaiNamcohorijoysticknamconamco bandaiNamco-BandaiNamcoBandaiperipheralperipheralsTue, 19 Jun 2007 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Afro Samurai going the way of the video game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/afro-samurai-going-the-way-of-the-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/afro-samurai-going-the-way-of-the-video-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/afro-samurai-going-the-way-of-the-video-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Let's run through the list:
  • Samurai combat? Check
  • Exagerrated afro? Check
  • Voicework by Samuel L. Jackson and Ron Perlman? Check
The hip hop-infused anime Afro Samurai has all the elements of a game destined for greatness. Namco Bandai showed a trailer for the game and, according to Game Daily, looks to have "lots of acrobatics and plenty of swordplay." Licensed games historically have been of subpar quality, with some exceptions. If they can get Jackson and Perlman to revise their roles for the game, we're sold.

See Also:
How to make The Boondocks into a video game

JoystiqAfro Samurai going the way of the video game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 22:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afro samuraiAfroSamuraibandainamconamco bandaiNamcoBandairon perlmanRonPerlmansamuel jacksonsamuel l jacksonSamuelJacksonSamuelLJacksonMon, 18 Jun 2007 22:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Time Crisis 4: FPS shooting for a new generation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/time-crisis-4-fps-shooting-for-a-new-generation/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/time-crisis-4-fps-shooting-for-a-new-generation/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/time-crisis-4-fps-shooting-for-a-new-generation/#commentsFiled under: ,


One game easily stole the show at Namco Bandai's Editor's Day: Time Crisis 4. This PS3 exclusive title will feature support for the Wii-inspired Guncom 3. Having recently played the original arcade version, we can confidently say that the PS3 version will be superior in every single way. If you haven't taken a closer look yet, you should. This will easily become one of PS3's killer-apps amongst hardcore gamers.

The new Guncom takes advantage of Wii-esque technology, which allows it to be compatible with SDTVs and HDTVs of all kinds (previous Time Crisis console titles did not work with certain types of TVs). The new HD graphics are stunning: a vast improvement over the pixelated mess of the arcade original.

The single most exciting feature of the PS3 Time Crisis has to be its new FPS mode, which allows you to freely move around the world whilst using Guncom 3 to fire at enemies. By adding the precision controls of a light gun game into the FPS genre is certainly going to create a truly immersive experience. If Namco Bandai can nail down the controls on the game before its November release, we can't help but think that this game could potentially set the standard for FPS game control.

View the trailer after the cut, or download the trailer directly to your PS3 by visiting our website on your console.

Continue reading Time Crisis 4: FPS shooting for a new generation

JoystiqTime Crisis 4: FPS shooting for a new generation originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guncomguncom 3Guncom3namco bandaiNamcoBandaitime crisistime crisis 4TimeCrisisTimeCrisis4Mon, 18 Jun 2007 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New screenshots and art from Dynasty Warriors: Gundam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/new-screenshots-and-art-from-dynasty-warriors-gundam/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/new-screenshots-and-art-from-dynasty-warriors-gundam/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/new-screenshots-and-art-from-dynasty-warriors-gundam/#commentsFiled under:


The awkwardly (but aptly) titled Dynasty Warriors: Gundam is coming to PS3 and Xbox 360 later this summer, and Namco Bandai has released a plethora of new screens and artwork for the title. Developed by Koei's Team: Omega Force, the creators of the original Dynasty Warriors series, the game has players using fan-favorite mechas from "more than 6" TV series (we're assuming that means 7?).

JoystiqNew screenshots and art from Dynasty Warriors: Gundam originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty warriorsDynastyWarriorsgundamnamco bandaiNamcoBandaiMon, 18 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gamespot: Beautiful Katamari coming to Xbox Live Arcade [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/16/gamespot-beautiful-katamari-coming-to-xbox-live-arcade/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/16/gamespot-beautiful-katamari-coming-to-xbox-live-arcade/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/16/gamespot-beautiful-katamari-coming-to-xbox-live-arcade/#commentsFiled under:


[Update: We shouldn't have doubted you, Ross! Gamespot has stated that the information in the article was indeed "total crap". Original post follows.]

As the extreme and possibly insane cynic might ask, "Isn't there already a colossal ball of junk on Xbox Live Arcade?" To that we answer, "No sir, but there soon will be. Although, Feeding Frenzy was a bit rubbish, wasn't it?" The destined arrival of Bandai Namco's next Katamari game on Xbox Live Arcade is announced in a rather blasé manner by the first sentence in Gamespot's hands-on preview of the title: "The big, huge Katamari ball of junk just keeps on rolling, this time with a new installment called Beautiful Katamari slated to hit Xbox Live Arcade in October."

The news sticks to yesterday's word from Newsweek's N'Gai Croal that Beautiful Katamari would be an Xbox 360 exclusive, and neatly contradicts previous XBLA portfolio manager Ross Erickson's "total crap - not happening". Something obviously changed in the months since then, an observation not befitting of the Katamari franchise, it seems. Gamespot's Brad Shoemaker labels the game as "more of the same," noting the presence of new levels, high-definition graphics, 4-player online gameplay and, perhaps most importantly, an original soundtrack. Despite losing momentum in terms of moving the series forward, we suspect there's still plenty to heart about Katamari -- especially if the price is right.

JoystiqGamespot: Beautiful Katamari coming to Xbox Live Arcade [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Jun 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beautiful KatamariBeautifulKatamariKatamariKatamari DamacyKatamariDamacyNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiXbox-360Sat, 16 Jun 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A radiant montage of Tales of the World]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/16/a-radiant-montage-of-tales-of-the-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/16/a-radiant-montage-of-tales-of-the-world/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/16/a-radiant-montage-of-tales-of-the-world/#commentsFiled under: ,

Namco's upcoming fanservice-filled RPG Tales of the World is hitting PSPs soon, and Gametrailers has posted a new montage video, featuring the anime intro and various battles to be found in the game. It looks sharp, as expected, but we're wondering: where's our j-poppin' intro? We're hoping it's not axed for the US version.

JoystiqA radiant montage of Tales of the World originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>namconamco bandaiNamcoBandaitalestales of the worldTalesOfTheWorldSat, 16 Jun 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Newsweek: Beautiful Katamari rolling exclusively with Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/beautiful-katamari-rolling-exclusively-with-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/beautiful-katamari-rolling-exclusively-with-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/15/beautiful-katamari-rolling-exclusively-with-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Striking a blow to symmetrical ball-rolling controls everywhere, Newsweek's N'Gai Croal reports that Beautiful Katamari's royal rainbow will extend only to the Xbox 360. He explains that an exclusivity deal is already "very close to fruition" and is likely to be announced formally at July's Min-E3 event in Santa Monica. The trail of digital crumbs leading to the deal seems especially obvious in retrospect, with Ridge Racer 6, Ace Combat 6, Eternal Sonata and Pac-Man: Championship Edition all indicating quite the chummy relationship between Namco Bandai and Microsoft.

With the Katamari franchise not being nearly as unstoppable as its clutter-collecting cosmic prince, PlayStation 3 alarmists shouldn't view this as the end of their fragile and constantly beeping world. That being said, seeing a distinctly, almost obviously "Japanese" game picking up Microsoft's system alone certainly points to interesting times ahead. It also makes completing the level that much harder.

[Thanks, Matthew]

JoystiqNewsweek: Beautiful Katamari rolling exclusively with Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 12:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beautiful KatamariBeautifulKatamariKatamariKatamari DamacyKatamariDamacyNamcoNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiXbox-360Fri, 15 Jun 2007 12:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Ace Combat 6 trailer locks on to internet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ace-combat-6-trailer-locks-on-to-internet/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ace-combat-6-trailer-locks-on-to-internet/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ace-combat-6-trailer-locks-on-to-internet/#commentsFiled under: ,


The first trailer for Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation has found its way onto the intertubes, courtesy of GameSpot. Much to our surprise, the game features jets and the piloting of said jets. The first in the Namco series to appear on a non-Sony platform, Ace Combat 6 looks to up the ante with an emotional plot line centered around terrorism and protecting the next generation (of people, not consoles) from harm. The trailer features lots of interaction between a mother and her little girl, jets, terrorists, and plenty of swelling music. Check it out and tell us what you think.

[Thanks, Dark Mobius]

JoystiqAce Combat 6 trailer locks on to internet originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ace combat 6ace combat 6 fires of liberationAce-CombatAce-Combat-6Ace-Combat-6-Fires-of-LiberationAceCombat6AceCombat6FiresOfLiberationbandai namcoBandaiNamcofires of liberationFiresOfLiberationnamconamco bandaiNamco-BandaiNamcoBandaiThu, 14 Jun 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Guncon relies on Wii-like pointer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ps3-guncon-relies-on-wii-like-pointer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ps3-guncon-relies-on-wii-like-pointer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/ps3-guncon-relies-on-wii-like-pointer/#commentsFiled under: ,


With traditional light guns firing nothing but unhelpful blanks at our fancy LCD and plasma televisions, there was some question as to how the PlayStation 3's Guncon would function with the upcoming Time Crisis 4. An article on Japanese site Game Watch (which now appears to have been removed) provided the details, since documented and translated by Game|Life's Chris Kohler.

Much like the Wiimote (as used by Sega's light gun game, Ghost Squad), the Guncon 3 relies on two markers placed on either side of the television. A sensor inside the gun's muzzle detects the markers and automagically figures out where it's being pointed. The controller also features six buttons and a second analog stick placed on an awkward "subgrip" that you're meant to hold with your left hand. The original article points out that while Japan gets a black gun, America and Europe will have to make do with a charming orange model, as seen above (in the company of the world's mangiest jacket)..

JoystiqPS3 Guncon relies on Wii-like pointer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GunconGuncon 3Guncon3Light gunLightGunNamcoNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiPS3Time CrisisTime Crisis 4TimeCrisisTimeCrisis4Thu, 14 Jun 2007 12:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Free Pac-Man Championship Edition from GTR]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/free-pac-man-championship-edition-from-gtr/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/free-pac-man-championship-edition-from-gtr/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/free-pac-man-championship-edition-from-gtr/#commentsFiled under:


We were as surprised and delighted as anyone when we Pac-Man Championship Edition turned out to be such a great game. Whether or not it will go down in gaming history is up for debate. Whatever becomes of Pac-Man CE, right now it's simply a good game. "Sure, it's fun, but what about the price?" you say. Well, we've got you covered. Actually, Gamertag Radio has you covered but we won't be bothered by semantics. The point is that GTR is giving away five copies of Pac-Man CE absolutely free. Head on over for your chance to win. Oh, and did we mention this week's episode features Aaron "this will go down in video game history" Greenberg? Well, it does. Listen to Aaron speak his mind and win free Pac-Man CE. Not too shabby, eh?

JoystiqFree Pac-Man Championship Edition from GTR originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2007 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadebandai namcoBandaiNamcolive arcadeLiveArcadenamco bandaiNamcoBandaipac man cepac man championship editionpac-man cepac-man championship editionPac-manCePac-manChampionshipEditionPacManCePacManChampionshipEditionxblaxbox live arcadeXboxLiveArcadeWed, 13 Jun 2007 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Calibur IV revealed, first trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/soul-calibur-iv-revealed-first-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/soul-calibur-iv-revealed-first-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/soul-calibur-iv-revealed-first-trailer/#commentsFiled under:

Good news for fighting fans, Soul Calibur IV has been officially unveiled for the Xbox 360.The trailer reveals, well, basically nothing. We see some character models, though they could easily be pre-rendered. What's more, they don't even move. Finally, we are treated with a logo and "2008." The text in the trailer also implies that Soul Calibur IV will be the last title in the series. Honestly, there isn't much to learn from the trailer. Let's hope next month's EGM -- whose contents will no doubt spill all over the internets ahead of time -- gives us something we can really sink our teeth into (this is where most blogs will make tasteless Ivy jokes).

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSoul Calibur IV revealed, first trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandai namcoBandaiNamconamco bandaiNamcoBandaisoul calibursoul calibur ivSoulCaliburSoulCaliburIvTue, 12 Jun 2007 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Calibur IV officially unveiled, teased]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/soul-calibur-iv-officially-unveiled-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/soul-calibur-iv-officially-unveiled-teased/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/soul-calibur-iv-officially-unveiled-teased/#commentsFiled under:

Considered by many to be the best weapons-based fighting game around, 1UP is giving gamers an early tease of their upcoming exclusive Soul Calibur feature for EGM. Namco is giving fighting fans exactly what they want as they have announced Soul Calibur 4 will be appearing exclusively on Xbox 360.

And PlayStation 3. While we're appreciative of this first-look, we're sad to admit that this has simply whet our appetite for more. Hopefully, it won't be too long until our local postal employee stops by our door and rescues us from our shriveled, frothing Soul Calibur-deprived lunacy.

JoystiqSoul Calibur IV officially unveiled, teased originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>namconamco bandaiNamcoBandaisoul calibursoul calibur 4soul calibur ivSoulCaliburSoulCalibur4SoulCaliburIvTue, 12 Jun 2007 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Chasing pellets: Pac-Man tries to make history again]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/chasing-pellets-pac-man-tries-to-make-history-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/chasing-pellets-pac-man-tries-to-make-history-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/chasing-pellets-pac-man-tries-to-make-history-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

carlos romero
Xbox 360 Pac-Man World Champion Carlos Romero (Pachuca, México)

 On Monday, Microsoft was struggling to generate interest in the Xbox 360 Pac-Man World Championship partly because those in-the-know had kept their mouths shut about the Iwatani-made Pac-Man sequel to be unveiled during the event, and partly because, well, this was just Pac-Man. Fearing that the championship would be ignored -- and the game announcement unnoticed -- Xbox 360 group product manager Aaron Greenberg let it be known that "video game history" would be made through a surprise revelation during the competition. Though Greenberg would later back out of his overstatement, word had spread, rumors ignited, and, for a moment, all eyes were watching for a megaton out of SupperClub in Manhattan's Times Square. The news came and went with a few groans and a shrug.

But someone was listening with eager anticipation last September when Microsoft announced plans to co-host a Pac-Man World Championship with the game's creator Toru Iwatani. Most of us were too busy tracking Sony and Nintendo's last-minute moves to notice -- just about everything Microsoft dragged overseas to Tokyo Game Show seemed irrelevant at the time. But when Microsoft again talked "World Championship" in mid-April, this time with a date and details, a few more ears perked up and a few more Xbox 360s were sold (yeah, just for Pac-Man -- and just a few). And then, on Wednesday, April 25th, some of us started competing.

Continue reading Chasing pellets: Pac-Man tries to make history again

JoystiqChasing pellets: Pac-Man tries to make history again originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2007 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360billy mitchellBillyMitchellnamco bandaiNamcoBandaipac-manPac-Man Championship EditionPac-manChampionshipEditionPac-ManWorldChampionshippacmanpacmancepmwcxblaxbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Thu, 07 Jun 2007 11:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Calibur 4 about to reveal its true form]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/soul-calibur-4-about-to-reveal-its-true-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/soul-calibur-4-about-to-reveal-its-true-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/soul-calibur-4-about-to-reveal-its-true-form/#commentsFiled under:

Ever since the announcement was made that Soul Calibur was getting a little side story treatment on the Wii, the fighting game enthusiast crowd let out a collective sigh. They expected a big, next-gen announcement of their favorite fighting franchise. Namco Bandai heard you, oh brave warriors! In just a few short weeks, make your way to the nearest corner store and pick up a copy of the freshest EGM you can find. They'll be unveiling the first look at Soul Calibur 4.

As EGM said, "if you're truly looking to give your opponent something to cry about, it's all about wielding sharpened steel, and nothing beats Namco Bandai's Soul Calibur series for weapon-based fighting thrills. In our world-exclusive preview, we'll reveal the future direction of this beloved series." We know the future direction! It's definitely headed towards the PS3 and probably the 360. We can't wait to grab our copy on July 3rd. Once we get the info, we'll gladly forward it to you.

JoystiqSoul Calibur 4 about to reveal its true form originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BandaiNamcoNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3SonySoul CaliburSoul Calibur 4SoulCaliburSoulCalibur4Wed, 06 Jun 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F hands-on: Pac-Man Championship Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/x3f-hands-on-pac-man-championship-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/x3f-hands-on-pac-man-championship-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/06/x3f-hands-on-pac-man-championship-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,


If we told you that Pac-Man Championship Edition is the most significant thing to happen to Pac-Man in years, you'd probably call us crazy. Well, call us crazy, because Pac-Man CE rocks. Quite simply, Pac-Man CE has made Pac-Man relevant again. Yeah, maybe it's not the huge announcement we were all hoping for, but once you put some time into it, you'll find out that Pac-Man Championship Edition has some legs.

Continue reading X3F hands-on: Pac-Man Championship Edition

JoystiqX3F hands-on: Pac-Man Championship Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadelive arcadeLiveArcadenamconamco bandaiNamcoBandaipac manpac man cepac man championship editionpac-manpac-man cepac-man championship editionPac-manCePac-manChampionshipEditionPacManPacManCePacManChampionshipEditionxblaxbox live arcadeXboxLiveArcadeWed, 06 Jun 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pac-Man invades Namco Museum Remix on Wii]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/pac-man-invades-namco-museum-remix/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/pac-man-invades-namco-museum-remix/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/pac-man-invades-namco-museum-remix/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You remember Namco Bandai's Galaga, don't you? The very mention of it should conjure images of a lone spacecraft darting through unrelenting waves of giant insects, with bullets whizzing by and an unusually pleased Pac-Man rolling past. Oh, you don't remember him being there? That's because you haven't seen Namco Museum Rehash Remix for the Wii yet -- the "Remix" part referring to the inclusion of gluttonous gaming icon, Pac-Man, into every one of the revamped titles.

The image above is from Galaga Remix, a point-and-shooter (yes, really) that forms part of the five Wii-vitalized games included in Namco Museum Remix. Others detailed by IGN are:
  • Pac 'n Roll Remix -- Much like the early DS game, Pac-Man has to roll his obese body to the end of the level while overcoming enemies, obstacles and a self-image problem.
  • Pac-Motos Remix -- Pac-Man knocks his opponents out of dangerous arenas. He'll eat them later.
  • Rally-X Remix -- It's a 3-D version of Rally-X, only with Pac-Man driving the car (miraculously sans arms and legs).
  • Gator Panic Remix -- Whack-a-Mole, but with gators. And Pac-Man.
Galaxian, Dig Dug, Mappy, Xevious, Gaplus, Super Pac-Man, Pac & Pal, Pac-Mania and Cute Q will also be included, though they'll all have to make due without a "remix." Namco Museum Remix releases on Wii this Fall.

Gallery: Namco Museum Remix (Wii)



[Via Wii Fanboy]

JoystiqPac-Man invades Namco Museum Remix on Wii originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2007 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dig DugDigDugGalagaGalaxianNamcoNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiPac-ManWiiXeviousFri, 18 May 2007 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Digimon: From Dusk 'til Dawn]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/digimon-from-dusk-til-dawn/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/digimon-from-dusk-til-dawn/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/16/digimon-from-dusk-til-dawn/#commentsFiled under: ,



Looks like Digimon is getting into the double-your-gaming, double-your-profit market with its latest. Namco Bandai has announced Digimon Dusk and Dawn, two parallel stories, each with their own Digimon and Digifarms. Take on the role of a Sunshine trainer, or a trainer from the Dark Moon district, each with their own suspicions about the other side's role in a recent earthquake that is causing Digimon to devolve back into Digi-eggs.

Digimon Dusk and Dawn will feature WiFi battles and scads of all new Digimon for you to collect. The games are currently set for a fall release -- just about the time you've decided that maybe you should put the Pokémans aside. How convenient!

Hit the jump for screens and artwork from the upcoming games.

Continue reading Digimon: From Dusk 'til Dawn

JoystiqDigimon: From Dusk 'til Dawn originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dawndigimondsdusklitenamco bandaiNamcoBandainintendoWed, 16 May 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eat this! You never had a chance against my swords!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/eat-this-you-never-had-a-chance-against-my-swords/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/eat-this-you-never-had-a-chance-against-my-swords/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/11/eat-this-you-never-had-a-chance-against-my-swords/#commentsFiled under: ,

We love the gameplay of Tales games: the real-time battles certainly make for some intense clashes. Tales of the World looks to be just as fun as its console counterparts, but we're concerned about one thing: voice acting. The new videos posted on IGN might look good, but they certainly don't sound too pleasing. The one-liners that the characters spew every time they say an attack became tiresome even within this tiny clip. Please, Namco Bandai: let us turn off the voices, okay?

JoystiqEat this! You never had a chance against my swords! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jrpgnamco bandaiNamcoBandairadiant mythologyRadiantMythologyrpgtalestales oftales of the worldTalesOfTalesOfTheWorldvoice actingVoiceActingFri, 11 May 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco Bandai present incredible earnings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/namco-bandai-present-incredible-earnings/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/namco-bandai-present-incredible-earnings/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/10/namco-bandai-present-incredible-earnings/#commentsIt's no secret that Namco Bandai is a huge advocate of Sony and the PlayStation 3 -- just like how Capcom might be a huge advocate for Microsoft and the XBox 360. There's no shame in it. Every developer and publisher might find their niche in certain hardware and dev kits. That's why when Namco Bandai (hereafter known as NamBan for the heck of it) released their earning statements for the period ending March 31st, we must rejoice at their success.

First up, NamBan's full year profits were in the green with a 71% growth, despite slower-than-expected sales of the PS3 and its games. The last quarter ending saw an increase of 1.8% in net sales (about $3.83 billion). Most game sales were generated in Japan, with heavy hitters including Gundam, Tamagotchi (seriously?), and Power Rangers (seriously!).

They're doing well and expect to increase further next year. They propose a 4.5% increase to net sales, operating income to rise 6.6%, and net income to go up by about 9.3%. None of this matters, though, unless we go out and buy their games. So, everyone together now, let's say that tired line we know and love: Riiiiiiiiiiiiidge Racer! Break!

JoystiqNamco Bandai present incredible earnings originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BandaiNamcoNamco BandaiNamco-BandaiNamcoBandaiPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3SonyThu, 10 May 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gundam comes to America, gets a silly title]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/gundam-musou-north-american-launch-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/gundam-musou-north-american-launch-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/09/gundam-musou-north-american-launch-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: ,

According to IGN, Namco Bandai confirmed today that Gundam Musou will be released in North America under the new moniker Dynasty Warriors: Gundam. It is scheduled to come out towards the end of summer on both the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360 platforms.

The game sold well in Japan, but not up to Namco Bandai's expectations. They had expected it to have an attach rate of over 50% though, which seems a tad high for this game. So maybe they were being a bit overly optimistic. Regardless though, it makes sense that they would expand the release market to increase their revenue return.

Hopefully this will be better than their previous PS3 Gundam attempt. The Japanese reviews were favorable, and the Dynasty Warrior games have always been a guilty pleasure of mine, but the graphics don't look real hot and the DW formula has grown a little stale. Also that new name bugs the hell out of me. It's descriptive sure, but it makes me think of this guy.

JoystiqGundam comes to America, gets a silly title originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2007 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty warriorsdynasty warriors gundamDynastyWarriorsDynastyWarriorsGundamgundammusou gundamMusouGundamnamco bandaiNamcoBandaiWed, 09 May 2007 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Keep up the neighbours with four player Drum Master]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/keep-up-the-neighbours-with-four-player-drum-master/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/keep-up-the-neighbours-with-four-player-drum-master/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/03/keep-up-the-neighbours-with-four-player-drum-master/#commentsFiled under: ,


Namco Bandai have announced that Taiko: Drum Master will feature a four player mode in its forthcoming DS incarnation. Previously popular in the arcades and on PS2, the rhythm action title is based on Taiko, the Japanese drum.

The game will support download play from one cart, so maybe you'll want to start persuading a friend to head down to your local import shop. Players can drum along to a variety of musical styles, ranging from Jpop to classical via the theme from Super Mario Brothers. You'll also be able to customise your drum with a selection of cute costumes. With this due out in summer, and Ouendan 2 on its way soon, it looks like rhythm action fans are in for a treat over the coming weeks.

Screens after the break.

Continue reading Keep up the neighbours with four player Drum Master

JoystiqKeep up the neighbours with four player Drum Master originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2007 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandaiBandai Namco GamesBandaiNamcoGamedrumdsExpert drummer dorodonExpertDrummerDonamconamco bandaiNamcoBandainintendoNintendo DSNintendoDsrhythmrhythm actionRhythmActiontaikoTaiko Drum Master DS Touch DocodonTaikoDrumMasterThu, 03 May 2007 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Giant stompy Gundam scans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/giant-stompy-gundam-scans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/giant-stompy-gundam-scans/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/30/giant-stompy-gundam-scans/#commentsFiled under: ,

These may not be the newest Mobile Suit Gundam MS Front 0079 scans, but they are big and beautiful ... much like the mecha themselves. In fact, it seems to be the full set from last week, but now that we can get the full picture, along with the gameplay footage we've seen, we're starting to get a little excited. We feel a powerful need to slice and dice, and not in the Cooking Mama-sort of way.

Continue reading Giant stompy Gundam scans

JoystiqGiant stompy Gundam scans originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionGundam 0079Gundam0079imagemechaNamco BandaiNamcoBandaiNintendorobotscanWiiMon, 30 Apr 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F has more Pac-Man to give away]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/x3f-has-more-pac-man-to-give-away/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/x3f-has-more-pac-man-to-give-away/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/x3f-has-more-pac-man-to-give-away/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: This contest is now over. For a list of winners, click here.

Were your hopes dashed earlier today when we revealed the winner of yesterday's Pac-Man giveaway? Were your spirits crushed? If you answered yes to either of these questions, then we have a nice fat ray of sunshine for you! We've scored 6 additional copies of Pac-Man to give away and we're not wasting any time. The rules are the same as yesterday. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post. Tomorrow, we'll select 6 winners at random. We'd like to thank Gamerscore Blog and Uncle Gamer for hooking us up with these fresh download codes. Also, if you're still not happy with the improved odds that 6 copies bring to the table, you can hit up Xbox MVP, Mordeux, who has three copies to give away. There's so much free Pac-Man floating around, it's insane.

What are you waiting for? Get commenting!

General contest stuff: Only one entry per person. Winners will be chosen at random using a number generator at Random.org. Winners will be contacted via email with individual download codes.

JoystiqX3F has more Pac-Man to give away originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 16:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadelive arcadeLiveArcadenamco bandaiNamcoBandaipac manpac-manPacManxblaxbox live arcadeXboxLiveArcadeThu, 26 Apr 2007 16:35:00 EST