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[XBLM Deal of the Week: Ninja Gaiden II DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/xblm-deal-of-the-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/xblm-deal-of-the-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/01/xblm-deal-of-the-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-dlc/#commentsThe latest content inducted into the recently revived XBLM Deal of Week program is the Ninja Gaiden II Mission Mode DLC, which will be available for 560 ($7). A $3 savings off the normal price.

According to a comment made by Major Nelson on his official blog, the Ninja Gaiden II DLC will be available for purchase off the XBLM at the cheaper price beginning Monday, March 2 and will remain discounted until Sunday, March 8.

As is with all Deal of the Week offers, only Xbox Live gold members can purchase the marked down content. Something that may have bothered Live silver members last week when Braid was only $10, but probably not so much this time. Seven smackers for the Mission Mode DLC is still mighty expensive. Especially for a game whose all-star ninja has been off the gaming radar for quite some time.

JoystiqXBLM Deal of the Week: Ninja Gaiden II DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Mar 2009 23:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealdeal-of-the-weekmgsmicrosoft-game-studiosninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaxblmSun, 01 Mar 2009 23:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Zero Punctuation takes a katana to Ninja Gaiden 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/zero-punctuation-takes-a-katana-to-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/zero-punctuation-takes-a-katana-to-ninja-gaiden-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/06/zero-punctuation-takes-a-katana-to-ninja-gaiden-2/#commentsFiled under:


It's been a while since Zero Punctuation's Yahtzee has loosed his venom on an unsuspecting Xbox 360 game. It's been far too long, really. Thankfully, Yahtzee's latest review is for none other than the Xbox 360's would-be premier action game, Ninja Gaiden 2. Expecting the worst, as we tend to do with ZP reviews, it turns out that he actually likes it ... to a degree, citing strengths (gameplay) and weaknesses (glitches and uneven difficulty). Frankly, we think it's a perfectly rational way to feel about the game (except for his preference of the claws, which pale in comparison to the double katanas). Check out the review after the break.

Continue reading Zero Punctuation takes a katana to Ninja Gaiden 2

JoystiqZero Punctuation takes a katana to Ninja Gaiden 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosng2ngiininja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoWed, 06 Aug 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The cutest badass: Ryu Hayabusa Munny]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/the-cutest-badass-ryu-hayabusa-munny/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/the-cutest-badass-ryu-hayabusa-munny/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/the-cutest-badass-ryu-hayabusa-munny/#commentsFiled under:


Continuing the tradition of turning badasses into Munny dolls, one Justin Baldwin has created the best cute / deadly hybrid yet, a Ryu Hayabusa Munny. Just look at him! He's adorable ... all soaked in blood like that. He comes complete with the Eclispe scythe and Falcon's Talons from Ninja Gaiden II. He even has little bitty shuriken strapped to his leg. Frankly, the combination of killer and cuddly is a little confusing. We imagine Munny Ryu uses that to his advantage as he systematically dismembers people.

[Via TheBBPS]

JoystiqThe cutest badass: Ryu Hayabusa Munny originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>munnyninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-iiryu-hayabusateam-ninjatecmoThu, 10 Jul 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Confirmed: NG2 'Mission Mode' DLC on July 25th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/confirmed-ng2-mission-mode-dlc-on-july-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/confirmed-ng2-mission-mode-dlc-on-july-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/confirmed-ng2-mission-mode-dlc-on-july-25th/#commentsFiled under: ,

Thanks to some Xbox Live Marketplace advertising, we've already known about the latest Ninja Gaiden 2 downloadable content headed our way this month. Well, today Microsoft officially confirmed its existence and some DLC details announcing a new NG2 Mission Mode pack of DLC.

The Mission Mode DLC will release later this month on July 25th and include 25 various mini-challenges where players are tested to stay alive the longest, kill with certain weapons and other tasks. And, of course, all high scores will be tracked via online leaderboards. The new game mode will not come cheap though, as it's slated to release for an "ouch" inducing 800 Microsoft points. Then again, NG2 fanboys should be used to expensive DLC by now anyway.

JoystiqConfirmed: NG2 'Mission Mode' DLC on July 25th originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ngiininja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxblmThu, 10 Jul 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Ninja Gaiden II receiving Mission Mode July 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/rumor-ninja-gaiden-ii-receiving-mission-mode-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/rumor-ninja-gaiden-ii-receiving-mission-mode-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/rumor-ninja-gaiden-ii-receiving-mission-mode-july-25/#commentsFiled under: ,


Ninja Gaiden 2 will receive Mission Mode as DLC on July 25, according to a post on NeoGAF. Mission Mode, if similar to the original iteration introduced in Ninja Gaiden Black, drops Ryu into an arena setting and lets him go on a flippin' awesome ninja killin' spree. There is currently no price attached to the new Mission Mode DLC.

The possibility of a Mission Mode should come as good news to NG II players who don't find dressing up Ryu like a Ken doll a worthwhile activity. But, let's be honest, if it's anything like the original Mission Mode, shouldn't it have been shipped with the game or, and we're hoping this is the case, at least be free?

[Via X3F]

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden II

JoystiqRumor: Ninja Gaiden II receiving Mission Mode July 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiryu-hayabusaxbmXbox-360Thu, 03 Jul 2008 10:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: NG2 gets worthwhile DLC July 25?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/rumor-ng2-gets-worthwhile-dlc-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/rumor-ng2-gets-worthwhile-dlc-july-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/rumor-ng2-gets-worthwhile-dlc-july-25/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Thank you sharp-eyed forum posters, you may have spotted something that could mean Ninja Gaiden 2 will actually get some content worth paying for. Mentioned over at NeoGAF, and spotted somewhere on the XBL Marketplace, was the mention that NG2 will get a downloadable mission mode on the 25th of this month.

The mission mode that was in the original iteration was incredibly popular among the franchise faithful for its focus on the game's main strength: pure combat. There are of course no details on how the implementation will work, but as long as it isn't just more of the Tests of Valor (we're really tired of that environment) we'll be ready to shell out the points if this hits on the 25th. Anyone else out there spot this on the Marketplace yet?

JoystiqRumor: NG2 gets worthwhile DLC July 25? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcmicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaxblmWed, 02 Jul 2008 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden 2 Costume Concept Art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-costume-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-costume-concept-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/ninja-gaiden-2-costume-concept-art/#commentsFiled under:

To go with the overpriced and and relatively pointless downloadable costumes for Ninja Gaiden 2, we've got even more relatively pointless stuff for you. Why would we do such a thing you ask? Because cheap as the actual DLC is (we're really opposed to it more on principle) this relatively pointless stuff is absolutely free, that's why. And while we've seen one of the DLC concepts before, the shots are now hi-res and great for some backgrounds or wallpaper. What're ya waitin' for? Right-Click -> Save Picture As already!

JoystiqNinja Gaiden 2 Costume Concept Art originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contentmicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaWed, 02 Jul 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Too expensive Ninja Gaiden II costume DLC now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/too-expensive-ninja-gaiden-ii-costume-dlc-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/too-expensive-ninja-gaiden-ii-costume-dlc-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/02/too-expensive-ninja-gaiden-ii-costume-dlc-now-available/#commentsFiled under: ,

Just as was promised a few months back, the Itagaki-less Team Ninja and Microsoft Game Studios have partnered to release three chunks of new Ninja Gaiden II downloadable content to the XBLM. Content that we've previously compared to Oblivion's legendarily overpriced horse armor, because for comparative purposes, that's what it is. The NGII DLC comes in the form of three costume packs that allows you to cloth Ryu in five color variations of either Biometal, Shadow Walker or Fiend Hayabusa duds (all viewable here). The rub, each costume variant will cost you 200 Microsoft points. Ouchy! Ouchy indeed.
  • Biometal Hayabusa Costume Pack - 200
  • Shadow Walker Hayabusa Costume Pack - 200
  • Fiend Hayabusa Costume Pack - 200
[Photo via GameSpot forums]

JoystiqToo expensive Ninja Gaiden II costume DLC now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxblmWed, 02 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F TV -- Points>Life: Lazy Ninja Technique]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/x3f-tv-points-life-lazy-ninja-technique/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/x3f-tv-points-life-lazy-ninja-technique/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/x3f-tv-points-life-lazy-ninja-technique/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Each week, X3F tips gamers to the tricks of the trade of Achievement hording in Points>Life. Every week a new achievement is unlocked to help you continue your unhealthy obsession with the Xbox 360 meta-game.

In honor of our brand new Ninja Gaiden II page, Points>Life is tackling an achievement from Xbox 360's Summer mega-action release, Ninja Gaiden II. Having difficulties landing a 100-hit combo? That wonky camera got you down? Just want 20 random points? You've come to the right place!

Check out the video above for a few helpful tips and if you have any tricks of your own, make sure to leave them in the comments!

Also, make sure to check out our retrospective features on Tomonobu Itagaki and the Ninja Gaiden Series itself.

Music: "Ninja Gaiden" by minibosses

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[MP4] Download the MP4 directly.

JoystiqX3F TV -- Points>Life: Lazy Ninja Technique originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievement-pointsachievementsitagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iipoints-greater-than-lifepoints-lifeteam-ningatecmox3f-tvTue, 10 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Introducing the Ninja Gaiden II page]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/introducing-the-ninja-gaiden-ii-page/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/introducing-the-ninja-gaiden-ii-page/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/introducing-the-ninja-gaiden-ii-page/#commentsFiled under:


Ladies and gentlmen, fanboys and girls, Xbox 360 Fanboy presents the Ninja Gaiden II page. This is our first page dedicated to a single game (you may have seen similar pages on Joystiq). On the page you will find all the major Ninja Gaiden II news stories, every Ninja Gaiden II screenshot, and all the Ninja Gaiden II features compiled into a single, bookmark-friendly page. The page will be updated as time goes on to include other features and stories as well (including an upcoming episode of Points>Life). This is only the first dedicated game page on X3F. Expect more to show up in the future. With major 360 exclusives right around the corner (Gears of War 2, Fable 2), there's plenty to cover.

For all things Ninja Gaiden II, check out the page right now.

JoystiqIntroducing the Ninja Gaiden II page originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiTue, 10 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sharpen your swords for a Weekend of Vengeance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/sharpen-your-swords-for-a-weekend-of-vengeance/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/sharpen-your-swords-for-a-weekend-of-vengeance/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/sharpen-your-swords-for-a-weekend-of-vengeance/#commentsFiled under: ,

Hopefully you've perfected your ninja skills playing the Ninja Gaiden II demo, because the ninja lessons you've learned will be tested come Friday when Xbox Live hosts a Weekend of Vengeance.

Celebrating the release of Ninja Gaiden II, this Weekend of Vengeance which runs from June 13th through June 15th will feature an Achieve and Win sweepstakes where a few NGII themed Xbox 360s will be up for grabs as well as three XBVM ninja movies (Ninja Hunter, A Life of Ninja and Ninja in the Deadly Trap) will be available for download. For free! Finally, if you haven't been keeping track, all seven Live exclusive Ask a Ninja episodes will be downloadable as well. This weekend, be vengeful, be a ninja and be deadly ...

JoystiqSharpen your swords for a Weekend of Vengeance originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxbox-liveMon, 09 Jun 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deals: Cheap MS points and get Mass Effect free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/deals-cheap-ms-points-and-get-mass-effect-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/deals-cheap-ms-points-and-get-mass-effect-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/09/deals-cheap-ms-points-and-get-mass-effect-free/#commentsFiled under:

This week we're all business, because we have an overly long list of retail deals to ramble off. So, we'll forgo the fluffy intro and just get to it.

Starting with Best Buy, all this week they're giving away a copy of Call of Duty 3 with the purchase of Enemy Territory: Quake Wars and a free $10 gift card with purchase of The Incredible Hulk. Best Buy also discounted a few accessories, offering the Messenger Kit for $20, Wireless Headset for $50 and Vision Camera for $30. Heading over to Circuit City, you can snag a free $10 gift card with the purchase of either NASCAR 09 or Dragon Ball Z: Burst Limit, get the Rock Band bundle for $155 and BioShock or Mass Effect for $32. They're also offering Burnout Paradise for $40, Frontlines: FoW or MX vs. ATV for $48, Need for Speed Carbon for $24 and our favorite CC deal of the week, 1600 Microsoft points for $15. Next up is Target, where they're giving away a FREE copy of Mass Effect with the purchase two of the listed Xbox 360 titles including Ninja Gaiden II ($60), RSV2 ($40), Scene It? ($50), Gears of War ($40), NASCAR 09 ($60) or Assassin's Creed ($40). And finally, because we love our Canadian readers so much, we hopped on over to Best Buy Canada and discovered they're offering two free games with any Xbox 360 console purchase (selection based on one of four game bundles) and a 12 Month Xbox Live subscription card for $50. Now run along and have a spectacular time shopping.

JoystiqDeals: Cheap MS points and get Mass Effect free originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jun 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActivisionAspyr-Mediaassassins-creedbest-buybioshockburnout-paradisecircuit-citydealsEnemy-Territory-Quake-WarsFPSfrontlines-fuel-of-wargears-of-warid-Softwaremass-effectmessenger-kitnascar-09need-for-speed-carbonNerve-Softwareninja-gaiden-iiQuakeQuake-Warsrock-bandrsv2scene-itSplash-Damagetargetthe-incredible-hulkUnderground-DevelopmentvisionMon, 09 Jun 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II demo slashes North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-slashes-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-slashes-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/07/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-slashes-north-america/#commentsFiled under: ,

After one too many broken promises, the previously Japanese exclusive bloody ninja demo goodness has finally made its way overseas and not a moment too soon. Today, U.S. and Canadian Xbox Live members are being treated to a new'ish Ninja Gaiden II demo that's available for download right this ninja-second via the XBLM. You'll also be excited to hear that the demo comes complete with the option to view Japanese or English subtitles! W00t! And, for those of you who'd like to view our take on what the demo has to offer, be sure to check out our Ninja Gaiden II demo impressions video while waiting for your 858MBs to download. Miss you Itagaki ...

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II demo slashes North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoxblmSat, 07 Jun 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Now that Ninja Gaiden 2 developer Tomonobu Itagaki has departed from Tecmo and Team Ninja (and left a lawsuit in his stead), our friends at X3F have compiled a retrospective on Itagaki's career with the company. From his beginnings as a programmer for Tecmo Bowl, through Dead or Alive and Ninja Gaiden and all the way to his departure, everything is covered.

Join us as we take a stroll through memory lane and examine the games, the controversies and the impending future of Tomonobu Itagaki. Click here, get educated.

JoystiqTomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-or-alivedoaxitagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaTecmotomonobu-itagakiXbox-360Thu, 05 Jun 2008 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/05/tomonobu-itagaki-a-blood-splattered-history/#commentsFiled under:


With the news of his recent departure and the release of his final swan-song to the Ninja Gaiden series, Tomonobu Itagaki has had an amazing career.

We've already tackled the history of Ninja Gaiden in our previous retrospective, A History of Violence, but this time we're going back to look at one of Ryu's most influential allies.

In this special feature we look back at the history of the man and how he helped re-shape Tecmo in the early 90s to the company they are today. Join us as we take a stroll through memory lane and examine the games, the controversies and the impending future of Tomonobu Itagaki.

Continue reading Tomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History

JoystiqTomonobu Itagaki: A Blood Splattered History originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiThu, 05 Jun 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Ninja Gaiden II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/metareview-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/metareview-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/metareview-ninja-gaiden-ii/#commentsFiled under:


The reviews for Ninja Gaiden II are in and thus far they paint the game as a solid action affair, though it doesn't come without its share of problems (and some . Mentioned in every review we scoured was the camera, which Eurogamer declares "awful - really, speechlessly awful." Still, while the reviews scrape together a pile of negatives -- poor plot, annoying camera, occasionally cheap bosses, steep difficulty -- they all agree that Ninja Gaiden II excels at what it does best, action.

  • IGN (8.7/10): "It's challenging and rewarding. It looks great in motion and it feels great to know you're the one at the helm, directing this bloody dance. It has its foibles and doesn't feel as rich as the last Ninja Gaiden, but this sequel still offers up a great ride.
  • 1UP (B-): "[The camera] drags along behind you like a wounded dog and wanders off on its own when you need it most. When fighting multiple enemies that are more than a sword's length away, it's a chore to constantly pull the right trigger (which forces the camera to face the same way as Ryu). When those enemies come armed with unblockable projectiles, it becomes damn annoying."
  • Eurogamer (7/10): "NG2 doesn't even need a map to guide you around, because the section you're looking for is clearly signposted by the absence of blood, gore and limbless torsos, which are strewn and caked all over everywhere you've been."
  • Team Xbox (9/10): "One thing you won't hear us complain about with Ninja Gaiden II is the difficulty. This is a tough game. Deal with it, or go play Devil May Cry."

JoystiqMetareview: Ninja Gaiden II originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ngiininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoTue, 03 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A History of Violence: A Ninja Gaiden Retrospective]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-a-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-a-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/a-history-of-violence-a-ninja-gaiden-retrospective/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

A little bird told us Ninja Gaiden II was coming out today. Actually, that bird was more like a note attached to a shuriken with a flower on it, but the message was all the same. In honor of the series milestone and in memory of the now-former Ninja Gaiden designer Tomonobu Itagaki, we present you with a series retrospective we're affectionately dubbing A History of Violence (hey, we thought it was clever). Click here and be educated.

JoystiqA History of Violence: A Ninja Gaiden Retrospective originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSitagaking2ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiPS3team-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiXbox-360Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Itagaki sues Tecmo, decides to leave Team Ninja]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/itagaki-sues-tecmo-decides-to-leave-team-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/itagaki-sues-tecmo-decides-to-leave-team-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/itagaki-sues-tecmo-decides-to-leave-team-ninja/#commentsFiled under:

As we eagerly await our chance to experience the Ninja Gaiden II demo we just caught wind of a VERY juicy announcement coming from Mr. cool shades, Ninja Gaiden creator and Team Ninja member Tomonobu Itagaki. Simply stated, Itagaki is suing Tecmo and just announced plans to leave Team Ninja ... ZOMG!

According to 1UP who received an official letter from one of Itagaki's aids, Itagaki reveals that he is suing Tecmo for 145 million yen due to "unpaid completion bonuses" and because Itagaki claims that there were "unreasonable and disingenuous statements made towards me" by Tecmo's president Yoshimi Yasuda which caused "significant emotional distress." The letter goes on to say that the lawsuit is based on a "strong intent to question the social responsibility of Tecmo Co., Ltd." and that Itagaki will resign from Tecmo effective July 1st. Ending his letter, Itagaki addresses his fans, saying that Ninja Gaiden II "will be the last Ninja Gaiden I will create", mentions that he will never "be able to make Dead or Alive 5" and, for that, Itagaki regrets "the disappointment this will cause" those who have enjoyed his work.

Wow ... we're speechless. Itagaki leaves Team Ninja, leaves behind franchises that he helped bring to life and leaves both his fans and the industry, well ... speechless. We can only assume that Itagaki's battle with Tecmo will be hard fought and is going to get very, very ugly.

JoystiqItagaki sues Tecmo, decides to leave Team Ninja originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 04:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagaking2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiTue, 03 Jun 2008 04:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Breaking: Ninja Gaiden's Itagaki says 'Sayonara Tecmo, see you in court']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/breaking-ninja-gaidens-itagaki-says-sayonara-tecmo-see-you-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/breaking-ninja-gaidens-itagaki-says-sayonara-tecmo-see-you-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/breaking-ninja-gaidens-itagaki-says-sayonara-tecmo-see-you-i/#commentsFiled under: ,

Team Ninja head and creator of the landmark Dead or Alive fighting game series, Tomonobu Itagaki, has issued a statement announcing his resignation from long-time employer Tecmo. This news, first reported by 1UP, comes just as his latest creation, the Xbox 360 exclusive Ninja Gaiden 2, is due to hit US shelves.

In addition to resigning his position at the company - where he had a seat on the board of directors - Itagaki has announced his intention to sue Tecmo president Yoshimi Yasuda for 148 million yen (US$1.5m) in damages. Among the grievances listed in the statement are Yasuda's unwillingness to pay him bonuses promised for work on titles including Dead or Alive 4, and allegations that Yasuda "made demeaning remarks" about him to other Tecmo employees, which resulted in "significant emotional distress" and "worsening [of his] personal relationships and work environment."

Continue reading Breaking: Ninja Gaiden's Itagaki says 'Sayonara Tecmo, see you in court'

JoystiqBreaking: Ninja Gaiden's Itagaki says 'Sayonara Tecmo, see you in court' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsitagakininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmotomonobu-itagakiXbox-360Tue, 03 Jun 2008 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New games this week: Ninja Gaiden II edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/new-games-this-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/new-games-this-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/new-games-this-week-ninja-gaiden-ii-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


See, now this is what a video game release week is supposed to be like. Not a lesser of several evils rising to the top like some sort of wicked curd separating from more sinister whey, but rather one glistening title beating out other worthy competitors. This week, where we feature Ninja Gaiden II, is just such a week.

But if totally flipping out and killing people isn't your style, fear not! There are several other decent choices this week, like Lego Indiana Jones, The Bourne Conspiracy or GRID. Check out the full list after the break.

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden II

Continue reading New games this week: Ninja Gaiden II edition

JoystiqNew games this week: Ninja Gaiden II edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSnewgamesninja-gaiden-iiPCPS2PS3PSPWiiXbox-360Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:20:00 EST<![CDATA[It's deals time! Bourne, LEGO Indy and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/its-deals-time-bourne-lego-indy-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/its-deals-time-bourne-lego-indy-and-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/its-deals-time-bourne-lego-indy-and-more/#commentsFiled under:

You've been waiting for it and now it's finally here. It's Sunday deals time where we dig through the Sunday newspaper, pull out the retail ads for the week, toss the actual news part of the newspaper in the garbage, look for Xbox 360 deals and share with you our findings. It's always good times! So, let's get to the money savings fun ...

This week, Best Buy is offering Guitar Hero III for $75, a chance to buy an Indiana Jones DVD for $5 with the purchase of LEGO Indiana Jones, a free Bourne DVD with the purchase of The Bourne Conspiracy, $5 in concession money with Kung Fu Panda and they're still offering a free $50 gift card with purchase of an Xbox 360 console and GTAIV. Circuit City is giving out a free tshirt and a character unlock with LEGO Indiana Jones, a free Bourne DVD with the purchase of The Bourne Conspiracy, a free plush toy with Kung Fu Panda, Overlord for $15, a free Ryu wall graphix with Ninja Gaiden II and a $10 gift card with the purchase of either The Incredible Hulk or GRID. Finally, Target is giving away a $10 gift card with The Bourne Conspiracy. Phew!

As always, feel free to comment about any deals you find when you are on your own weekly Xbox 360 deal search. Happy shopping!

JoystiqIt's deals time! Bourne, LEGO Indy and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bargainsdealsgridguitar-hero-iiikung-fu-pandalego-indiana-jonesninja-gaiden-iioverlordthe-bourne-conspiracythe-incredible-hulkSun, 01 Jun 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Shiny Xbox prototype in Ninja Gaiden II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/video-shiny-xbox-prototype-in-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/video-shiny-xbox-prototype-in-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/01/video-shiny-xbox-prototype-in-ninja-gaiden-ii/#commentsFiled under: ,


After playing a few hours of his pre-release copy of Ninja Gaiden II (come one Microsoft, where's our love?), Godfree of Gamertag Radio found a shiny Xbox Easter egg. Hidden behind some wood paneling is what looks to be the prototype for the original Xbox, the shiny metallic box that never came into existence and was instead replaced by the big black Xbox we've all come to know and love. And seeing that we were unsuccessful in our attempt to Google for an image of the original Xbox prototype, we'll award +5 fanboy points to anyone who can find and link to a legit shiny Xbox image. Go! Go! Go! Thanks for the image DBoyFlex. You get +5 points!

JoystiqVideo: Shiny Xbox prototype in Ninja Gaiden II originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoSun, 01 Jun 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[360 Fanboy shows us real ultimate power with Ninja Gaiden II demo impressions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/360-fanboy-shows-us-real-ultimate-power-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-dem/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/360-fanboy-shows-us-real-ultimate-power-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-dem/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/360-fanboy-shows-us-real-ultimate-power-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-dem/#commentsFiled under: ,


We can think of a lot of great things to sell our souls for, such as telekinesis, a swimming pool full of hundred dollar bills, or a seventh season of Mr. Belvedere. However, Xbox 360 Fanboy's Richard Mitchell (or as we like to call him around the office, Rich Mitch) recently showed his undying love for scarved ninjas by dealing with Beelzebub to get his hands on an early copy of the Ninja Gaiden II demo. Judging by the tone of his impressions as he plays the first seven minutes of the preview, it was totally worth it.

We strongly advise watching the above video -- not only will it get you totally pumped for the quickly approaching June 3 release date for the title, but you can also witness Rich Mitch's incredible proclivity for ninja flipping and henchman dismemberment.

Joystiq360 Fanboy shows us real ultimate power with Ninja Gaiden II demo impressions originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 May 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360demoimpressionsninjaninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iirealultimatepowerrichardmitchellrichmitchryuhayabusateamninjaXbox-360xbox360Sat, 31 May 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II NA demo by 'the end of next week']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/ninja-gaiden-ii-na-demo-by-the-end-of-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/ninja-gaiden-ii-na-demo-by-the-end-of-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/ninja-gaiden-ii-na-demo-by-the-end-of-next-week/#commentsFiled under: ,


For those of you patient enough to wait, Major Nelson tipped gamers off to news that the Ninja Gaiden II demo should be hitting Xbox Live Marketplace by the end of next week. "Looking for the NG 2 Demo? I am told that it will be available by the end of next week," reads Major's Twitter page.

The demo, which was released today on the Japanese Marketplace, features two levels one section from the upcoming game and showcases some of the various ways players will be able to cut dudes into bits-n-pieces.

Until then make sure to check out X3F TV where we dissect, no pun intended, the demo for the anticipated action title.

Update: The demo is actually the same as the Japanese release and features only one section, not two levels.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II NA demo by 'the end of next week' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-demoninja-gaiden-iiFri, 30 May 2008 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[X3F TV -- X3F Impressions: Ninja Gaiden II demo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/x3f-tv-x3f-impressions-ninja-gaiden-ii-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/x3f-tv-x3f-impressions-ninja-gaiden-ii-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/x3f-tv-x3f-impressions-ninja-gaiden-ii-demo/#commentsFiled under:

Don't ask us how, but we managed to lay our hands on the coveted Ninja Gaiden II demo today. Sure, we could have used it solely for selfish purposes. We could have kept it to ourselves to play over and over again (which, come to think of it, we already have). But no! Rather than hog the demo, we've encapsulated our impressions in a new episode of X3F TV. Check out our impressions in the video above (hint: Ninja Gaiden fans will be pleased).

[iTunes] Subscribe to X3F TV directly in iTunes.
[Zune] Subscribe to the X3F TV directly (Zune Marketplace link coming soon).
[RSS] Add the X3F TV feed to your RSS aggregator and have the show delivered automatically.
[M4V] Download the M4V directly.

JoystiqX3F TV -- X3F Impressions: Ninja Gaiden II demo originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>impressionsngng2ngiininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmox3f-impressionsx3f-tvFri, 30 May 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II demo out today in Japan, rest of the world 'soon']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-out-today-in-japan-rest-of-the-world-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-out-today-in-japan-rest-of-the-world-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/30/ninja-gaiden-ii-demo-out-today-in-japan-rest-of-the-world-soon/#commentsFiled under: ,

ninja gaiden ii
A demo for the ultra-violent Ninja Gaiden II is due out today for the approximately 14 people in Japan who own an Xbox 360. Chris Paladino of Micorosft's Gamercore blog confirmed the news via NeoGAF earlier this morning, adding, "Looking for details on rest of world, haven't found anything other than 'soon,'" followed by a colon and a capital P.

Since March, the NGII page on Xbox.com had a message that said, "Get your hands on the free demo coming to Xbox LIVE Marketplace in May," but that was quietly removed sometime this week. Ninja Gaiden II will paint the wall with blood in North America and Europe next week.

[Via X3F]

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II demo out today in Japan, rest of the world 'soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 May 2008 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demomarketplaceng2ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iitecmoxblmXbox-360xbox-liveFri, 30 May 2008 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese XBLM to get NG2 demo on 5/30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/japanese-xblm-to-get-ng2-demo-on-5-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/japanese-xblm-to-get-ng2-demo-on-5-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/japanese-xblm-to-get-ng2-demo-on-5-30/#commentsFiled under: , ,


After the demo news disappeared from the game's official site, many of us were worried that there would be no Ninja Gaiden 2 demo at all. Fortunately the demo does exist, and it should be online shortly. In Japan. Only.

Now we know that the 360 is no big success in the East, so why not just release the demo everywhere at once? No one knows. Posting on NeoGAF, Chris Paladino (Hi Chris!) of Gamerscore blog confirmed that the demo would be hitting in Japan, and that there would be a demo release in the other territories "soon". Whether the demo would have helped sales of the game pre-launch or not is going to be a moot point soon. Microsoft better get it online!

JoystiqJapanese XBLM to get NG2 demo on 5/30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demomicrosoftng2ngIIninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaxblxblmThu, 29 May 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ryu Hayabusa: Super ninja or lazy employee?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/ryu-hayabusa-super-ninja-or-lazy-employee/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/ryu-hayabusa-super-ninja-or-lazy-employee/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/ryu-hayabusa-super-ninja-or-lazy-employee/#commentsFiled under: ,

Those crazy cats at Gamerscore Blog are at it again. This time they've set their sights on the upcoming Ninja Gaiden II. It seems that Ryu Hayabusa, main character of the Ninja Gaiden series and all-around badass, has given up his ninja way of life in favor of a cushy job at Microsoft. At least, we think he has a job there. The trouble is that no one at the Gamerscore Blog office can seem to find him and believe him to be a lazy bum. Of course, we know Ryu better than that. Looks like they'll have to learn the hard way though. Check out the video to see just how dangerous it is to meddle with a ninja.

JoystiqRyu Hayabusa: Super ninja or lazy employee? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagakimgsmicrosoft-game-studiosng2ngiininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoThu, 29 May 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Free fabric wall scroll with Ninja Gaiden II pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/free-fabric-wall-scroll-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/free-fabric-wall-scroll-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-pre-order/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/29/free-fabric-wall-scroll-with-ninja-gaiden-ii-pre-order/#commentsFiled under:

Good news fanboys! Ninja Gaiden II pre-order offers are super plentiful! Between Circuit City offering a free Legendary Map Pack download code, HMV giving away MS points and Best Buy giving out a ninja wall cling, the pre-order bonuses just can't get any better ... or so we thought.

Behold Walmart's Ninja Gaiden II pre-order goodie, it's a wall scroll! You read correctly, Walmart is giving anyone who is willing to slap down a pre-order on Ninja Gaiden II an exclusive free 22"x32", fabric ninja themed wall scroll. And as any ninja in training knows, if you decorate your gaming sanctuary with a ninja wall scroll, you gain a significant boost to your ninja-cred. Now go, be as sneaky as a sneaky sneaker and get your pre-order on.

[Via SlickDeals, Thanks Krichmar]

JoystiqFree fabric wall scroll with Ninja Gaiden II pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 May 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmowalmartThu, 29 May 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NG2 xbox.com page updated; no more demo?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/ng2-xbox-com-page-updated-no-more-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/ng2-xbox-com-page-updated-no-more-demo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/ng2-xbox-com-page-updated-no-more-demo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


As the reviews slowly roll in and decisions are made about whether or not to purchase the game, Ninja Gaiden 2's demo has yet to see release to the Marketplace. For some time now, the game's xbox.com page had a message for its readers, telling them to: "Get your hands on the free demo coming to Xbox LIVE Marketplace in May."

While it is true that May isn't over until the end of the week, the xbox.com page no longer has the message promising the demo's arrival, and instead points readers to the Ask a Ninja videos. This could mean a host of things really: the demo has been held up, or it's not coming at all, or it's coming but the page has been changed early. In all honesty we hope for the latter, because after getting our hands on it we can't wait to do it again!

JoystiqNG2 xbox.com page updated; no more demo? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demodownloadgnIImicrosoftng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iixblmxbox-live-marketplacexbox.comTue, 27 May 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II videos bring out the demons]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/ninja-gaiden-ii-videos-bring-out-the-demons/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/ninja-gaiden-ii-videos-bring-out-the-demons/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/ninja-gaiden-ii-videos-bring-out-the-demons/#commentsFiled under:

We have yet more glorious Ninja Gaiden II video love for you, kids. Today, it comes to us in the form of four new videos from the fine folks at GameVideos. What's that you say? You want to see more obliteration techniques? Done. You want to see some crazy pink demon things? Sure, we got that. Essence attacks? Yup. How about a big, mean King Kong mutha'ucka? Oh yeah, we've got one of those. Check out all the new hotness after the break.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden II videos bring out the demons

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II videos bring out the demons originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>itagakimgsmicrosoft-game-studiosng-iing2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoTue, 27 May 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II is gold, spattered with red]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/ninja-gaiden-ii-is-gold-spattered-with-red/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/ninja-gaiden-ii-is-gold-spattered-with-red/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/ninja-gaiden-ii-is-gold-spattered-with-red/#commentsFiled under:


Microsoft and Tecmo today announced that the whirlwind of blood and errant body parts known as Ninja Gaiden II has gone gold. In other words, the game is completely and totally finished and only awaits pressing and packaging before copies are whisked to retailers everywhere on June 3. The press release also announces that the remaining promotional Ask a Ninja episodes will arrive on Xbox Live Marketplace on May 27, June 3 and June 10, so keep an eye out for those. Finally, a documentary entitled The Way of the Warrior: Ninja Gaiden II, which will air on Cablevision IO Digital on May 30. The documentary will also be made available on XBLM starting June 10. The documentary focuses on "the history of the ninja and how it impacted the game" and purports to feature "members of Team Ninja, historical areas of Japan, real life ninjas and exclusive looks at behind-the-scenes footage."

Strangely absent in the press release is any mention of the playable demo that's supposed to drop sometime this month.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II is gold, spattered with red originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoFri, 23 May 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Game Studios' 2008 in Gaming: A Yearbook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/microsoft-game-studios-2008-in-gaming-a-yearbook/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/microsoft-game-studios-2008-in-gaming-a-yearbook/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/microsoft-game-studios-2008-in-gaming-a-yearbook/#commentsFiled under:

Interested in seeing what you'll be playing on your Xbox 360 in the coming months? X3F has compiled the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook for you, a list of this year's exclusive graduating class with a detailed account of each title's current status and the stories surrounding them.

The 2008 Microsoft Game Studios Yearbook chronicles the graduates, like the soon-to-be released Ninja Gaiden II, and the titles that didn't make it to grad, like Alan Wake. Yep, he had to be held back for a semester or two. Or maybe three, we just don't know yet.

Ladies and gentlemen, allow us to introduce the 2008 Microsoft Game Studios graduating class ...

JoystiqMicrosoft Game Studios' 2008 in Gaming: A Yearbook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionalan-wakebanjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsfable-2gears-of-war-2halohalo-warsLionheadLionhead-Studiosmarvelmarvel-universe-onlineMGSmicrosoftMicrosoft-Game-Studiosmicrosoft-games-studioninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iinuts-and-boltspeter-jacksonRPGtoo-humanviva-pinataviva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360yearbookFri, 23 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Japanese Ninja Gaiden II marketing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/video-japanese-ninja-gaiden-ii-marketing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/video-japanese-ninja-gaiden-ii-marketing/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/22/video-japanese-ninja-gaiden-ii-marketing/#commentsFiled under: ,


Being the rather "meh" Thursday that it is, we couldn't help but share with you a Japanese Ninja Gaiden II commercial that we just came across. A commercial that will make you raise an eyebrow in confusion due to the fact that it does not transcend the cultural void. Just watch the embedded video above and just try to tell yourself that you don't want to play a game that'll make you moan like a moose in heat, distort your face in pain or make you squeal like a sugar high eight year old. Oh yes, Japanese commercials sure are "interesting".

JoystiqVideo: Japanese Ninja Gaiden II marketing originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 May 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ng2ninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoThu, 22 May 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden II's Ten Days of Ninja starts May 25th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/ninja-gaiden-iis-ten-days-of-ninja-starts-may-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/ninja-gaiden-iis-ten-days-of-ninja-starts-may-25th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/ninja-gaiden-iis-ten-days-of-ninja-starts-may-25th/#commentsFiled under:

To prepare ninjas and wannabe ninjas across the globe for the release of Ninja Gaiden II, Xbox.com will be celebrating Ten Days of Ninja. Ninja-kick!

The Ten Days of Ninja Ninja Gaiden II countdown kicks off on Sunday, May 25th when, each day of the countdown, Xbox.com will post a ninja related event including a Family Game Night, GamerchiX game night and even a Game with Developers session on May 26th with the crew who brought us that other XBLA ninja game, N+. So, keep one eye on the Ten Days of Ninja website, keep your ninja-stars polished and increase your ninja skills before June sneaks up on us all ninja-like. And yes, we used the word "ninja" thirteen times in this post.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden II's Ten Days of Ninja starts May 25th originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-with-developersgwdnninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iixblaxboxcomTue, 20 May 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Next Gen: Ninja Gaiden II's major design flaw, a bad camera]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/next-gen-ninja-gaiden-iis-major-design-flaw-a-bad-camera/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/next-gen-ninja-gaiden-iis-major-design-flaw-a-bad-camera/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/next-gen-ninja-gaiden-iis-major-design-flaw-a-bad-camera/#commentsFiled under:


Not all previews of the soon-to-be releases Ninja Gaiden II have been glowing. According to impressions from Next Gen: Edge the game is cursed with a major design flaw, a bad camera.

"This isn't a problem with it getting caught on a corner occasionally, nor the odd confusing switch of perspective. It is a constant problem: obscuring foes, breaking up combos, losing track of Ryu, and flicking back and forth between positions."

While this isn't the first preview we've read citing the camera as an issue, previous impressions came from older builds of the game, however the most recent build shown at press events was the final code. So are we in for heartbreak when Ninja Gaiden II drops next month?

While the preview does praise Ninja Gaiden II for being one of the best 3D fighting engines ever made, they wonder how Team Ninja got the basic design of camera control utterly wrong. Remembering the original Ninja Gaiden had camera issues, is this something you'll be able to deal with or did this just break the deal for you and cancel that Ninja Gaiden II pre-order?

JoystiqNext Gen: Ninja Gaiden II's major design flaw, a bad camera originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2008-releasesmicrosoft-game-studiosninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaTue, 20 May 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy Ninja Gaiden II at HMV, get MS points free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/buy-ninja-gaiden-ii-at-hmv-get-ms-points-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/buy-ninja-gaiden-ii-at-hmv-get-ms-points-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/19/buy-ninja-gaiden-ii-at-hmv-get-ms-points-free/#commentsFiled under:

Love 'em or hate 'em, it's impossible to say that UK retailer HMV doesn't offer some good gaming deals. Their recent GTAIV offer is proof of that. So, it should be no surprise that HMV is offering up a pretty convincing Microsoft points bribe to customers who are interested in Ninja Gaiden II this June. A 1000 Microsoft point bribe. That's right, anyone who ends up fulfilling their Ninja Gaiden II fix at HMV will score a redemption code for 1000 free MS points to use however they choose. And get free shipping too. Love 'em or hate 'em ... 1000 free points is a 1000 free points.

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqBuy Ninja Gaiden II at HMV, get MS points free originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 May 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dealshmvninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjaMon, 19 May 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask a Ninja promotes Ninja Gaiden II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/ask-a-ninja-promotes-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/ask-a-ninja-promotes-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/ask-a-ninja-promotes-ninja-gaiden-ii/#commentsFiled under:

If you're not familiar with the Ask a Ninja podcast, you really should be. As the title implies, the premise is fairly simple: ask the ninja a question, and the ninja answers it. It is the delivery of the answers that makes the podcast so great though. In a genius bit of marketing, someone at Microsoft decided to team up with Ask a Ninja to produces some special episodes of the podcast sponsored by Ninja Gaiden II. The first two episodes are available now on Xbox Live Marketplace, so feel free to download them at your convenience. For even greater convenience, you can watch them right now, as we've taken the liberty of embedding them in this post (how we did this shall remain secret, though we will admit that Ninpo was involved). Find the second episode after the break.

Continue reading Ask a Ninja promotes Ninja Gaiden II

JoystiqAsk a Ninja promotes Ninja Gaiden II originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoft-game-studiosng2ngiininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoThu, 15 May 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/xbox-360-spring-showcase-impressions-roundup/#commentsFiled under:

Our friends at Xbox 360 Fanboy are having a ball at the Xbox 360 Spring Showcase, sending word of their hands-on experiences with the console's upcoming lineup. (Update: Now with more Human.) Check out their impressions below:
Impressions: Ninja Gaiden II
It's unapologetically hardcore, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
Impressions: Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts
There is good reason that Rare did not decide to title the game Banjo Threeie. It's something new.
Impressions: Penny Arcade Adventures
On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness. Turns out the game is a meld of Japanese RPG and old-school adventure.

Continue reading Xbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup

JoystiqXbox 360 Spring Showcase impressions roundup originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banjo-kazooiebanjo-kazooie-nuts-and-boltsmicrosoftmicrosoft-gamers-day-2008ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iipenny-arcadepenny-arcade-adventurestoo-humanviva-pinataviva-pinata-2viva-pinata-trouble-in-paradiseXbox-360Wed, 14 May 2008 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq talks to Itagaki about Ninja Gaiden II]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/joystiq-talks-to-itagaki-about-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/joystiq-talks-to-itagaki-about-ninja-gaiden-ii/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/joystiq-talks-to-itagaki-about-ninja-gaiden-ii/#commentsFiled under:


Sitting down with Team Ninja head (and snappy dresser) Tomonobu Itagaki, Joystiq (along with some people who aren't from Joystiq) got to dig up some info regarding Ninja Gaiden II. For example, gamers looking for something a little easier than the first game are in luck. While the Ninja Dog mode found in Ninja Gaiden Black essentially went out of its way to make fun of lesser players for choosing an easier difficulty, Ninja Gaiden II's Path of the Acolyte mode will do no such thing. Not that we had to worry about that. No, that fact is much more important for certain Joystiq bloggers (who shall remain nameless). Head over to Joystiq for the full interview.

JoystiqJoystiq talks to Itagaki about Ninja Gaiden II originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mgsmicrosoft-game-studiosninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-iiteam-ninjatecmoWed, 14 May 2008 18:30:00 EST