Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[ZEN Pinball's Ninja Gaiden table trailer slices and dices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/zen-pinballs-ninja-gaiden-table-trailer-slices-and-dices/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/zen-pinballs-ninja-gaiden-table-trailer-slices-and-dices/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/13/zen-pinballs-ninja-gaiden-table-trailer-slices-and-dices/#comments Wondering what the official Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 table for ZEN Pinball looks like in motion? Wonder no more -- the video above will show you all of the Hayabusa-style bumper action you'll be able to find, complete with ramps, flashing lights, ninja spirits and... burning pagodas? Boy, those ZEN folks aren't really pinball traditionalists, are they? But it does look fun.

The table will bring new gameplay modes and missions along with it to the PlayStation Store on Thursday, January 14, for $2.49 (€1.99). Of course, it's DLC for the original ZEN Pinball game, so you've got to have that, too. Wait, we just rewatched it -- did Ryu just slice the ball in half? That's pretty awesome!

JoystiqZEN Pinball's Ninja Gaiden table trailer slices and dices originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jan 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcgameplay-modeshayabusalightsmissionsninjaninja-gaiden-sigma-2pinballplaystationrampsreleaseryu-hayabusascoretableweaponszen-pinballzen-studiosWed, 13 Jan 2010 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Ludwig's Picks of 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks-of-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/01/best-of-the-rest-ludwigs-picks-of-2009/#commentsSilent Hill: Shattered Memories
I mocked this "re-imagining" of Silent Hill when it was first announced. I thought Harry Mason had become an older, life-hewn Harry Potter and considered the town's frosty makeover as nothing short of sacrilege. But an encounter with the game at E3 2009 (and with candid producer Tomm Hulett) quickly changed my mind. While the game departs significantly from the franchise's known lore, it retains and streamlines much of what made Silent Hill stand out against games like Resident Evil. Encased in the game's frigid atmosphere, you'll experience a sense of bewilderment that, if you've been playing these games for a long time, you will not have felt in years. Indeed, the best surprises prey on those of us who think we know everything about Silent Hill.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Ludwig's Picks of 2009

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Ludwig's Picks of 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-the-rest-2009bit-trip-beatdirt-2house-of-the-dead-overkillMicrosoftninja-gaiden-sigma-2Nintendopsnratchet-and-clank-a-crack-in-timered-faction-guerrillaresident-evil-5shattersilent-hill-shattered-memoriestrials-hdWiiwiiwarexblaXbox-360Fri, 01 Jan 2010 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[First Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC released, revealing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/first-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-released-revealing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/first-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-released-revealing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/13/first-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-released-revealing/#comments Listen, it's scientific fact that as ninjas shed their clothes, they become better at executing their ninja duties. So, if you see us purchase the Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 costume pack, which was released on the PlayStation Store yesterday for $3.99, it's not because we're pervs or anything. It's because the skimpy outfits you see above were meticulously engineered to maximize our capacity for flipping out and killing people.

Also, we realize Ryu's new costume (which was previously handed out as a pre-order bonus) isn't more revealing than his standard duds. See, the above rule only applies to female ninjas. Hey, don't look at us like that. We didn't write the ninja rulebook, okay?

JoystiqFirst Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC released, revealing originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costumesdlcninjaninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 13 Nov 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2's changes in excruciating technical detail]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2s-changes-in-excruciating-technical-detail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2s-changes-in-excruciating-technical-detail/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2s-changes-in-excruciating-technical-detail/#commentsThere are a few extremely obvious differences between Ninja Gaiden 2 and Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. They work in different consoles, and one's got the word "Sigma" in the title. Oh, and there's the boob thing. Beyond that, however, we must turn to the experts.

Digital Foundry reports that the resolution has changed between the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 games. Sigma runs at 1280x718, effectively 720p, while the Xbox version ran at 1120x585. The resolution boost comes with some cuts: DF says the PS3 version loses some polygons, or rather some whole collections of polygons: Sigma 2 maintains a limit of six enemies or fewer in most situations, while Ninja Gaiden 2 "revels in throwing seven or eight opponents at you at any given point." Things that didn't get cut: The lighting effects, which are noticeably more advanced in the PlayStation 3 game.

DF also has a video demonstrating a stress test of sorts (forcing as many enemies onto the screen as possible). For some reason, we don't mind the idea of having slightly fewer ninja enemies stabbing us in the back at any time. These games are at their best when Ryu is juggling a few enemies, not when he's buried in them.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2's changes in excruciating technical detail originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoMon, 26 Oct 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[European PSN releases for September 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/european-psn-releases-for-september-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/european-psn-releases-for-september-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/24/european-psn-releases-for-september-24/#comments
There's some nice content in this week's PSN update -- namely, the demo for Lost Planet 2 and Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, and a whole slew of discounted tracks for Guitar Hero: World Tour. Still, we can't shake the feeling that we've somehow been cheated. Maybe it's because Japan got another Square Enix-developed PSOne Original last night, while the rest of the world got Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs. Here's a hint: There's a pretty high chance of sour grapes as well.

Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list:


(Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)

Continue reading European PSN releases for September 24

JoystiqEuropean PSN releases for September 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lost-planet-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2psn-thursdayThu, 24 Sep 2009 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden characters to appear in Dynasty Warriors, vice versa]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/ninja-gaiden-characters-to-appear-in-dynasty-warriors-vice-vers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/ninja-gaiden-characters-to-appear-in-dynasty-warriors-vice-vers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/23/ninja-gaiden-characters-to-appear-in-dynasty-warriors-vice-vers/#comments Merged game companies rarely fuse their franchises together, but when the two partnered entities' action-genre focus overlaps as much as Koei and Tecmo's do, inter-brand cameos come naturally. That's why we weren't shocked to hear that Ninja Gaiden's Ryu Hayabusa and Warriors Orochi's Nu Wa would make appearances in the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions, respectively, of Dynasty Warriors Multi Raid. In addition, Multi Raiid's Sun Shang Xiang and Zhao Yun will appear as costumes in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2.

At this rate, we expect the many, many ninjas from Koei and Tecmo's respective properties will soon be thrown into a "ninja pool," which players of any their titles will be able to choose from. For the record, we're strong advocates for this ninja unionization. Fairer wages for our shiruken-slinging brethren!

JoystiqNinja Gaiden characters to appear in Dynasty Warriors, vice versa originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dynasty-warriorsdynasty-warriors-multi-raidkoeikoei-tecmoMicrosoftninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2ninjasnu-waryu-hayabusasynergytecmowarriors-orochiXbox-360Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 interview (plus: screenshot comparisons)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/video-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-interview-plus-screenshot-comparisons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/video-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-interview-plus-screenshot-comparisons/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/18/video-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-interview-plus-screenshot-comparisons/#comments
Given an extra year of development, it's no wonder why the Sigma version of Ninja Gaiden 2 is so far improved over the original. The upcoming PS3 exclusive adds a ton of new features, ranging from awesome to downright ridiculous. GamesWire took screenshots of the original Xbox 360 Ninja Gaiden 2 and compared them with the new Sigma edition, noting, "The lighting and textures are just so much better this time around and there's much more detail to be seen now too."

Additionally, the PlayStation.blog took some time (10 minutes, actually) to show off the various features of Sigma. You'll get to see the Ultimate Ninpo in action, as well as an extended look at the new co-op mode -- and yes, you'll even see the franchise's notorious Game Over screen. Check that out after the break.

[Thanks, Jeremy B.!]

Source - Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 - PlayStation 3 vs Xbox 360 Comparison
Source - Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 Interview and Walkthrough with Team Ninja's Yosuke Hayashi

Continue reading Video: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 interview (plus: screenshot comparisons)

JoystiqVideo: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 interview (plus: screenshot comparisons) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comparisonninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoyosuke-hayashiFri, 18 Sep 2009 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 demo hitting US PSN on Sept. 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-hitting-us-psn-on-sept-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-hitting-us-psn-on-sept-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-hitting-us-psn-on-sept-24/#comments
We've just received word from Tecmo that Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2's demo will be gracing the US PSN one week after Japan gets it on September 24. Unfortunately, Tecmo wouldn't offer anything on what the demo would entail; the company did not confirm any co-op for the demo, let alone which part of the game it would take place in. But hey, it's a free demo and we certainly aren't complaining -- mostly because we don't want to be on that Ryu cat's bad side.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 demo hitting US PSN on Sept. 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2psnteam-ninjatecmoWed, 16 Sep 2009 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[You'll shake your head at this Ninja Gaiden ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/youll-shake-your-head-at-this-ninja-gaiden-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/youll-shake-your-head-at-this-ninja-gaiden-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/16/youll-shake-your-head-at-this-ninja-gaiden-ad/#comments Tecmo's creative team has certainly been churning out memorable ads for the upcoming PS3 release of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. The videos have shifted focus from sex to violence to ... more sex. The latest ad promotes the unique SIXAXIS motion controls exclusive to the PS3 version. Like the stars of this commercial, we're certain you'll be shaking your head -- we'll leave it up to you whether it's in approval or disapproval.

[Thanks, Sean!]

Continue reading You'll shake your head at this Ninja Gaiden ad

JoystiqYou'll shake your head at this Ninja Gaiden ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 05:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adboobsbreastscommercialjapanninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2sixaxistecmoWed, 16 Sep 2009 05:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Tecmo: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 demo in Japan September 17, news on other regions coming 'very soon']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/tecmo-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-in-japan-september-17-news-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/tecmo-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-in-japan-september-17-news-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/11/tecmo-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-demo-in-japan-september-17-news-on/#comments Japanese news site Andriasang reported today that those anxious to wet their sword (or gigantic scythe) with demon blood in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 would get a chance through a demo on September 17. We wanted to find out when other regions would get the demo, as well as what would actually be in the demo (we're crossing our fingers for some booby bouncing co-op gameplay), so we hit up Tecmo.

A Tecmo representative said that, while the company plans to release a demo "very soon in the US, Europe and Japan," there's no guarantee the demo will hit regions outside Japan on September 17. Tecmo did say that we "should have news very, very soon." So, mark very, very soon on your calendars, kids. As for content, Tecmo remained tight-lipped.

While you wait on that demo, you can pass the time ogling the new screens in our gallery below:

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 (9/11/09)

JoystiqTecmo: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 demo in Japan September 17, news on other regions coming 'very soon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 11 Sep 2009 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 ad takes a stab at liberty]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-ad-takes-a-stab-at-liberty/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-ad-takes-a-stab-at-liberty/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-ad-takes-a-stab-at-liberty/#comments And by liberty, we mean the Statue of Liberty. This Japanese ad for Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 finally focuses less on breasts and more on what the series is iconic for: ninja action. A mysterious ninja (with absolutely filthy feet!) scampers around town, until he gets to his surprising goal. It's funny, yes, but the ending will undoubtedly make the mainstream media uncomfortable. "Video games teach kids to be terrorists" on CNN? "New PS3 game hates America" on FOX News? We can totally see it happening.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 ad takes a stab at liberty originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcommercialjapanninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2statue-of-libertyWed, 09 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 has the breast use of SIXAXIS ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-has-the-breast-use-of-sixaxis-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-has-the-breast-use-of-sixaxis-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/09/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-has-the-breast-use-of-sixaxis-ever/#comments Ever since the fall of Lair, Sony has been reluctant to tout the SIXAXIS functionality of the PS3 wireless controller. It's no longer a marketing bullet point, and even if developers offer support for motion control, it's usually turn off as a default. (Most recently, Batman: Arkham Asylum let players use SIXAXIS to control Batman's glide.)

While other developers ignore the SIXAXIS, Team Ninja isn't afraid to highlight its unique implementation of motion controls. In the first Ninja Gaiden Sigma game, players were able to cast magic by shaking the controller violently. This time around, the shaking has an entirely different (but equally important!) effect. You probably should have figured it out from the headline and IGN's cleverly constructed image. If not, there's a video after the break.

[Thanks, Sean!]

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 has the breast use of SIXAXIS ever

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 has the breast use of SIXAXIS ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boobsbreastjiggleninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2shakesixaxisWed, 09 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 includes Chapter Challenge, Ninja Records modes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-includes-chapter-challenge-ninja-records-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-includes-chapter-challenge-ninja-records-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/11/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-includes-chapter-challenge-ninja-records-m/#comments
If there's one thing ninjas love more than totally sweet acts of acrobatic violence, it's -- no, wait. There's nothing they love more than totally sweet acts of acrobatic violence. However, high up on the list, sandwiched between guitar solos and dead pirates, is competition. Fortunately, it seems Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 will possess this quality in spades -- a recent Playstation.Blog update revealed the game's two new competitive modes, titled Chapter Challenge and Ninja Records.

Chapter Challenge is unlocked once you finish the single-player campaign, and allows you to replay your favorite levels, ultimately measuring your final "Karma" score against other players on a global leaderboard. Ninja Records will supply an exhaustive list of statistics based on your play style -- highest score, largest combo, fastest time, number of sweet guitar solos -- that sort of thing.

In addition, the post reveals the design for the GameStop pre-order bonus costume, the addition of a soundtrack to the game's limited edition, and the second Japanese advertisement for the game, which we've posted after the jump. Sorry to disappoint, but it doesn't contain any plaster lady chests.

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 includes Chapter Challenge, Ninja Records modes

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 includes Chapter Challenge, Ninja Records modes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionchapter-challengeninjaninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2ninja-recordsteam-ninjatecmoTue, 11 Aug 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 limited edition is HMV exclusive in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-limited-edition-is-hmv-exclusive-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-limited-edition-is-hmv-exclusive-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/10/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-limited-edition-is-hmv-exclusive-in-europe/#commentsThe announcement of the European version of the Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 limited edition, releasing on October 2, reveals bonuses mostly identical to the North American version -- by which we mean "that one book." The Ninja Gaiden Treasury , as it's called, includes the same strategy guide, comic, and art sections advertised with the American release, though Tecmo Koei Europe offers a bit more detail about it. The comic, for example, is a "prologue comic" designed by Team Ninja. The downloadable costume is also part of the LE.

Europe's version includes one thing the American release doesn't: a complete soundtrack. Other than that, it's identical -- right down to the exclusivity to a single retailer. The Sigma 2 limited edition will only be sold at HMV, for £39.99, though Tecmo's announcement says the RRP is £49.99.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 limited edition is HMV exclusive in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europehmvninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2tecmotecmo-koeitecmo-koei-europeMon, 10 Aug 2009 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Bizarre Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 marketing features wall molestation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/bizarre-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-marketing-features-wall-molestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/bizarre-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-marketing-features-wall-molestation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/30/bizarre-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-marketing-features-wall-molestation/#comments
A recent piece of marketing for Tecmo's Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is catching a lot of attention, because -- well, because it features people groping breasts that are mysteriously jutting out of a wall. No need to beat around the bush, folks. We got a video with people grabbing walljugs after the break. Enjoy.

The plaster mammaries assumedly belong to Sigma 2's Ayane or Momiji -- both are playable in this iteration of the game (the text which appears at the end of the video actually says "a female ninja appears"). Oh, sorry -- did we explain that like we thought it made a lick of sense? We apologize.

Continue reading Bizarre Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 marketing features wall molestation

JoystiqBizarre Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 marketing features wall molestation originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>marketingninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoThu, 30 Jul 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 slices and dices North America this September]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-slices-and-dices-north-america-this-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-slices-and-dices-north-america-this-sept/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-slices-and-dices-north-america-this-sept/#comments
You read that right, folks. The co-op compatible, new and improved Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 will (Izuna) drop into stores on September 29th. Arriving just in time for the busy holiday rush, this updated version of the 2008 Xbox 360 exclusive features two three extra playable characters, along with a puzzling reduction in violent displays.

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 slices and dices North America this September originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmotecmo-koeiTue, 28 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: See Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 co-op in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/video-see-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-co-op-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/video-see-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-co-op-in-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/27/video-see-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-co-op-in-action/#comments Tecmo has dropped some new screens and video highlighting the new co-op feature in Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. With Ryu Hayabusa's recent outings having been exclusively solo affairs, the opportunity to play co-op is definitely a welcome one, even if it is reserved only for special challenge stages. The two videos show off both the online and offline co-op. Co-op offers some neat new gameplay twists, like the ability to resurrect a dead partner -- which we're guessing will happen a lot -- and co-op Ninpo magic maneuvers.

It certainly looks like a good deal of fun, though we can't help but notice that player two seems to spend an awful lot of time off screen during the offline co-op video (find it after the break). Looks like online is the best way to go.

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 (7/21/09)

Continue reading Video: See Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 co-op in action

JoystiqVideo: See Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 co-op in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>koeininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoMon, 27 Jul 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop getting exclusive Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/gamestop-getting-exclusive-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/gamestop-getting-exclusive-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/10/gamestop-getting-exclusive-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-edition/#comments GameStop has updated its site with a listing for a limited edition of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 exclusive to the retailer. The product page lists the $69.99 premium release as including an 80-page book divided into three sections: art from the game, a color Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 comic and a strategy guide. There's no mention of special packaging for the edition, which is dated for September 29.

We contacted Tecmo for more info and were told that additional details will be disclosed within the next two weeks. The book sounds alright, but we're hoping for some additional goodies to sweeten the deal.

JoystiqGameStop getting exclusive Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestoplimited-editionninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 10 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 moves away from violence]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-moves-away-from-violence/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-moves-away-from-violence/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/07/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-moves-away-from-violence/#comments
Puzzling Moments In Gaming Sequel History

Sven Karrlsnod, lead producer on Tetris 3: The Blockening: "Sure, I love Tetris, you love Tetris. But what our team had to ask ourselves was this: Could we make Tetris work without all the blocks? We knew we had to try."

Trina Schwinn, design lead on Super Mario Universe: "In retrospect, making a Mario game set in Compton circa 1992 that didn't actually include Mario was a little ... brazen. But we had to follow our bliss."

Yosuke Hayashi, director and producer of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 to GamesRadar: "Each game has its own concept and with Ninja Gaiden 2, the focus was on extreme violence. But with Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, we really questioned whether violence is a necessity for a game, so we decided to move away from that trend. So the violence 'approach' is not the way we approached the development of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. Being able to unlock higher levels of gore would be out of kilter with the concept of the game."

[Via What They Play]

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 moves away from violence originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jul 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaiden-sigma-2violenceYosuke-hayashiTue, 07 Jul 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Sigma 2-exclusive Momiji slash up some ninjas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/watch-sigma-2-exclusive-momoji-slash-up-some-ninjas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/watch-sigma-2-exclusive-momoji-slash-up-some-ninjas/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/03/watch-sigma-2-exclusive-momoji-slash-up-some-ninjas/#comments
You've probably read the laundry list of all the things that are new to the PS3-exclusive version of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. Among the list of three new playable characters is Momiji, first introduced in Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword on Nintendo DS. Check out the footage after the break and watch as a proficient player (ie. not us) slashes through a horde of ninjas -- and don't miss her sweet bow & arrow.

We're still a bit miffed that his version is missing the gore that made the original Ninja Gaiden 2 notorious. Guess we'll have to stick with this improved -- and artsier -- version.

Continue reading Watch Sigma 2-exclusive Momiji slash up some ninjas

JoystiqWatch Sigma 2-exclusive Momiji slash up some ninjas originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>momijininja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjaFri, 03 Jul 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 gets Japanese release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-gets-japanese-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-gets-japanese-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-gets-japanese-release-date/#comments
Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is set to hit stores on October 1 in Japan. Once an Xbox 360 exclusive, Ninja Gaiden's PS3 return combines the 2008 Xbox 360 sequel with new features, including online co-op, two new playable characters and planned fixes to a laundry list of issues found in the original game. Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is priced at ¥7,800 ($80 US). According to Kotaku, pre-order bonuses for the game include a "starter guide book" and download code for the original Ryu Hayabusa character costume. Better get a good stain remover, getting blood out of a Gi is hellacious.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 gets Japanese release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japankotecninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoWed, 01 Jul 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 box art revealed, Only For PlayStation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-box-art-revealed-only-for-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-box-art-revealed-only-for-playstation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-box-art-revealed-only-for-playstation/#comments
Click to see the PS3 box in high resolution.
My, my how things have changed. The former Xbox 360-exclusive Ninja Gaiden 2 is now the PS3-exclusive Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. Is this the first game that's been able to wear the "Only On" stickers for both the PS3 and 360? Perhaps. While Sigma 2 may be an enhanced port of the original Ninja Gaiden 2, it features a number of new features that are, as the box says, "only on PlayStation."

Most exciting of the new features are the new playable characters: Ninja Gaiden's Rachel, Dead or Alive's Ayane, and Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword's Momiji. The PS3 version will also feature a new online co-op mode not found in the original that lets you and a friend take on ten different stages. Finally, the game is touting "variable AI," which allows "the gameplay [to differ] each time you appear in a level as enemies engage in a variety of different actions as they assess the situation." Whatever that means.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 box art revealed, Only For PlayStation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>box-artninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-2ninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoFri, 26 Jun 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tecmo assaulting E3 with ninjas, zombies ... basketball?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/tecmo-assaulting-e3-with-ninjas-zombies-basketball/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/tecmo-assaulting-e3-with-ninjas-zombies-basketball/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/02/tecmo-assaulting-e3-with-ninjas-zombies-basketball/#comments Dear Koei,

Things are great, and so far infection-free here at E3. Sure, we miss your quirky style, who wouldn't? Still, we're keeping ourselves busy readying games for the show, including Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, which ships for the PlayStation 3 this fall.

Other games we've got at our booth this year include Family Fun Football on the Wii, action game Undead Knights for the PSP, and -- oh -- did you know we were making a basketball game? It's true! We've got several downloadable titles this year, including a "contemporary retro" arcade-style basketball game called NBA Unrivaled and an action puzzler named Puzzlegeddon, both we hope to hit XBLA and PSN later this year.

Team Ninja's PS3-exclusive "art nouveau" shooter, Quantum, and the musical 2D platformer Fret Nice will also be on hand, though neither are expected to ship until sometime next year. All in all, we've got a lot of games to show off -- plus without any Dynasty Warriors games blocking our view we've got a clear shot those Ninja Gaiden models. Oo la la!

Wishing you were here,

Tecmo

JoystiqTecmo assaulting E3 with ninjas, zombies ... basketball? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009family-fun-footballfret-nicekoeikotecMicrosoftninja-gaiden-sigma-2Nintendopsnquantumquantum-theorytecmoundead-knightsWiixblaXbox-360Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 trailer is wet and wild]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-trailer-is-wet-and-wild/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-trailer-is-wet-and-wild/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-trailer-is-wet-and-wild/#commentsTecmo once again proves that sex sells through its latest trailer for Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2. Rachel, the buxom, barely clothed hammer-wielding warrior returns in this trailer, putting evil demons in their place during a rain storm. It's like a Sports Illustrated swimsuit shoot without the beaches and heavy breathing.

Okay, maybe some heavy breathing.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 trailer is wet and wild originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigmaninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoMon, 01 Jun 2009 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Ninja 'bored' of hyper violence, wants Gaiden to evolve]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/team-ninja-bored-of-hyper-violence-wants-gaiden-to-evolve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/team-ninja-bored-of-hyper-violence-wants-gaiden-to-evolve/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/10/team-ninja-bored-of-hyper-violence-wants-gaiden-to-evolve/#comments
Team Ninja wants Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 to be "sleek and sexy," rather than focused on ultra violence, a major selling point for the original Xbox 360 sequel. Speaking with CVG, Sigma 2 producer and director Yosuke Hayashi said the team working on the upcoming PlayStation 3 revamp wants to shy away from retreading the waters of the Xbox version because the team is "kind of egoistic" and gets "bored with the same continuous concept."

That doesn't mean Hayashi wants to turn Sigma 2 into Flower, but that the team would rather pursue a different direction for the franchise and "start evolving this game." As long as the first piece of the evolutionary Ninja Gaiden puzzle is a working camera, we're all in.

JoystiqTeam Ninja 'bored' of hyper violence, wants Gaiden to evolve originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>interviewninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoyosuke-hayashiFri, 10 Apr 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Ninja's new lead wants to explore new IPs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/team-ninjas-new-lead-wants-to-explore-new-ips/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/team-ninjas-new-lead-wants-to-explore-new-ips/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/team-ninjas-new-lead-wants-to-explore-new-ips/#comments
If we said Team Ninja's path since Ninja Gaiden 2 has been increasingly onerous, the industry would toss us the coveted Understatement of the Year award. Speaking with Gamasutra, new Team Ninja lead, Yosuke Hayashi, said the pressure is on for his team to prove themselves following the exit of long-time leader, Tomonobu Itagaki.

Hayashi realizes Team Ninja is "most well-known" for the Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive franchises and knows fans have certain "expectations" but the team would like to move onto new properties. The new Team Ninja lead says it's one of Team Ninja's "goals and missions" in a post-Itagaki regime -- which begins with the release of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, a move we know Itagaki would not approve of. According to the article, Team Ninja is already in the process of developing a new IP.

During a quick word exchange with Joystiq at GDC, Hayashi delicately sidestepped questions regarding the former Team Ninja boss. Yeah! He totally was gracious and respectful toward someone who talked mess about his previous work. This guy is nothing like Tomonobu!

JoystiqTeam Ninja's new lead wants to explore new IPs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoyosuke-hayashiWed, 25 Mar 2009 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC09: Tecmo talks Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC, exclusivity, 'loss of face']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/gdc09-tecmo-talks-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-exclusivity-loss/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/gdc09-tecmo-talks-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-exclusivity-loss/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/gdc09-tecmo-talks-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-dlc-exclusivity-loss/#comments
At Tecmo's totally super secret game unveiling (yeah, it was Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2) at the soon-to-be-no-more PlayStation Store in San Francisco, Joystiq got the opportunity to ask Team Ninja's fresh new face, Yosuke Hayashi (who, with his buttoned-down appearance, can be thought of as the Richie Cunningham to Itagaki's Fonzie) some hard-hitting questions.

First up, the 800-lb ninja in the room: Is Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 "a loss of face for everyone involved," as Itagaki said it would be? Hayashi-san carefully sidestepped directly addressing Itagaki's inflammatory remark, instead focusing on the game's development origins. As if to defuse Itagaki's pre-release remark, Hayashi explained though a translator, "Development began only after we read and heard about fan feedback ... after Ninja Gaiden 2 came out last summer." To add some street cred, he explained that the game's development team was "comprised of the Ninja Gaiden 2 team as well as the [original Ninja Gaiden] Sigma team."

As for DLC, we broached the topic two ways. First, will the PS3 release have any? Hiyashi said they were "very serious about coming up with new content to be available as DLC" and that he hopes to share "more details soon." And second, can current owners of Ninja Gaiden 2 on Xbox 360 expect to find any of the new enhancements - notably the "refined camera" and new multiplayer co-op functionality - available as DLC in the future? Hiyashi didn't need the translation for this one. Sorry, early adopters, but Tecmo's "ultimate" Ninja Gaiden experience is "only on PlayStation."

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2

Continue reading GDC09: Tecmo talks Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC, exclusivity, 'loss of face'

JoystiqGDC09: Tecmo talks Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 DLC, exclusivity, 'loss of face' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>GDC-2009Ninja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-Sigma-2Team-NinjaTecmoYosuke-HayashiWed, 25 Mar 2009 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 adds multiple playable characters, online co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-adds-multiple-playable-characters-online-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-adds-multiple-playable-characters-online-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/24/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-adds-multiple-playable-characters-online-c/#comments
When Famitsu sent word of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2's existence, we thought it would be a simple port of the Xbox 360 sequel with a few additional bells and whistles. Team Ninja slashed (see what we did there?) those thoughts and have revealed that Sigma 2 will include a large chunk of content, including two new playable characters and online cooperative play.

Team Ninja fans will immediately recognize the two playable additions noted in a Gamespot preview: Dead or Alive's purple-haired ninja, Ayane, and Ninja Gaiden Dragon Sword's female warrior, Momiji. Each character's tale will be woven into the existing Ninja Gaiden 2 story and branch off at certain points. That's all well and good but the freshly announced online co-op is what has our interest piqued. Unfortunately, the co-op skips the main campaign and offers 30 challenge areas that are playable on four difficulty settings (presumably, Ninja Dog to ZOMGWTHBBQ!). Still, it's a surprising (and welcome) addition to what could have ostensibly been considered a simple re-release.

And for those who prefer the simpler additions, Tecmo says they're in there too. New enemies, weapons, and tweaks to the camera and gameplay are all included. Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 is set to land on the PlayStation 3 this fall -- the trailer is embedded after the break.

Gallery: Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2

Continue reading Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 adds multiple playable characters, online co-op

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 adds multiple playable characters, online co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fall-releaseninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoTue, 24 Mar 2009 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 coming this fall, new info March 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-coming-this-fall-new-info-march-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-coming-this-fall-new-info-march-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/18/ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-coming-this-fall-new-info-march-24/#comments
We knew it was coming -- Tecmo has just made official Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 (though our photochopped "logo" is admitedly far from legit). According to a release issued by the publisher, the game is set to hit North America and Japan this fall, with a European debut to follow.

More details on the spruced-up PS3 version of Team Ninja's befitting ninja action game are coming next Wednesday, March 24. Joystiq will be on-hand at the Sigma sequel's Game Developers Conference unveiling, being held at the Metreon's soon-to-be-closed PlayStation Store in San Francisco, CA.

JoystiqNinja Gaiden Sigma 2 coming this fall, new info March 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Mar 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ninja-gaidenninja-gaiden-sigma-2team-ninjatecmoWed, 18 Mar 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu reveals Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/famitsu-reveals-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/famitsu-reveals-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/famitsu-reveals-ninja-gaiden-sigma-2-for-ps3/#comments
Though Ryu Hayabusa and his reckless vendetta against all manner of attached limbs might be contrary to the more ... subtle approaches employed by a traditional ninja, we don't recall anybody complaining too vehemently while they were jumping off a wall and decapitating a hundred demonic spider things. According to a recent issue of Japanese mag Famitsu, PlayStation 3 owners are set to get another taste of Team Ninja's action franchise, in the form of Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2.

Much like the original Sigma reworked the Xbox's Ninja Gaiden (to former Team Ninja designer Tomonobu Itagaki's chagrin), Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 appears to be a modified version of the Xbox 360's Ninja Gaiden 2. Images depict several familiar environments and characters, along with some new shots of Dead or Alive's Ayane, who may be a playable character.

Expect more details to be formally announced over the next week, including confirmation on whether this is "a loss of face for everyone involved." We certainly expect monster faces to get the worst of it.

[Thanks, Robert]

JoystiqFamitsu reveals Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FamitsuJapanNinja-GaidenNinja-Gaiden-2Ninja-Gaiden-Sigma-2Team-NinjaTecmoTue, 17 Mar 2009 07:30:00 EST