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[Wii U Direct tomorrow covers summer, autumn details around E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-direct-tomorrow-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-direct-tomorrow-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-direct-tomorrow-may-17/#commentsWii U summer Nintendo Direct coming tomorrow Nintendo of America tell us it's got a Direct for tomorrow that's focused on summer Wii U and 3DS games. The company's Euro division also has a Wii U-focused Direct scheduled for the same time. Just to be different, its Direct is on spring and summer Wii U games. We've no confirmation of one for Japan yet, but chances are tomorrow's another worldwide triforce of Directs.

Nintendo of Europe also announced there'll be a Direct broadcast around the time of next month's E3 conference, and that one will cover Wii U games for "autumn and beyond." Nintendo recently revealed it'll have two closed events at E3 in lieu of the traditional presentation. The company noted "Nintendo Direct videos in the run up to E3," so there may be more pre-E3 broadcasts beyond the autumn one.

As ever, you'll be able to tune in to tomorrow's streams here on Joystiq, so we recommend you move precisely no muscles for the next day or so. Well, the streams will be in a new post, so you'll have to move some muscles. Apart from that, we'll see you right here(-ish) at 10AM ET (7AM PT, 3PM UK) tomorrow.

JoystiqWii U Direct tomorrow covers summer, autumn details around E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dse3-2013europenintendonintendo-directnorth-americawii-uThu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix posts $134M fiscal net loss, projects profit for coming year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/square-enix-posts-134m-fiscal-net-loss-projects-profit-for-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/square-enix-posts-134m-fiscal-net-loss-projects-profit-for-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/square-enix-posts-134m-fiscal-net-loss-projects-profit-for-com/#comments As approximately projected, Square Enix posted a net loss of ¥13.7 billion for the fiscal year ending March 31 2013, that converting to around $134 million. Back in March, Square Enix announced it was implementing major restructuring that would produce an "extraordinary loss". Today the company further detailed its new strategy for the next fiscal year, in which it projects a return to profit.

"The business environment surrounding the [Square Enix] Group is in the midst of major changes, where smart devices such as smartphones and tablet PCs are spreading rapidly," Square Enix stated in today's results, "while the console game markets in North America and Europe are increasingly competitive and oligopolistic. In light of such environmental changes, the Group is focusing all efforts on a substantial earnings improvement through driving reforms of business structure in order to establish new revenue base."

Square Enix previously noted "weak" sales of "big console titles" in North America and Europe, including Sleeping Dogs, Hitman: Absolution, and even Tomb Raider. Today the company said it will increasingly target smartphones and tablets, citing Final Fantasy Airborne Brigade and Kaku-San-Sei Million Arthur as satisfactorily profitable. Square Enix also noted Dragon Quest X as "showing steady performance."

As such, the restructuring brings overhauls to Square Enix's larger-scale development,with the company looking to improve turnover and produce content better tailored for different regions. Square Enix was clearly dissatisfied with the performance of its western portfolio, and layoffs were incurred in the company's North American and European divisions.

Square Enix believes these changes will be the platform for profit in the coming fiscal year, projecting net income of between ¥3.5 billion and ¥6 billion, or $34.4 million to $59 million.

JoystiqSquare Enix posts $134M fiscal net loss, projects profit for coming year originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europefinancialsjapannorth-americarestructuringsquare-enixMon, 13 May 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix plays NA on Sep. 10, EU Sep. 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/kingdom-hearts-hd-1-5-remix-release-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/kingdom-hearts-hd-1-5-remix-release-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/kingdom-hearts-hd-1-5-remix-release-dates/#commentsKingdom Hearts HD 15 Remix plays Europe on Sep 13 Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix is lined up for North America on September 10, and Europe on September 13. The upgrade to the autumn release window came courtesy of a Square Enix post on the PlayStation Blog, which also outlined the pre-order bonus for both regions, namely a limited edition artbook.

The PS3 compilation includes HD versions of PS2 games Kingdom Hearts Final Mix and Re:Chain of Memories; Final Mix is the formerly Japan-only re-release of the original Kindgom Hearts, while Re:Chain of Memories is the PS2 remake of GBA entry Chain of Memories. HD 1.5 Remix also features the cutscenes from DS game 358/2 Days (in HD too!).

JoystiqKingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix plays NA on Sep. 10, EU Sep. 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europekingdom-hearts-15-hd-remixnorth-americaplaystationps3release-datesquare-enixTue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo is selling refurbished 3DS, DSi through its online store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/nintendo-is-selling-refurbished-3ds-dsi-through-its-online-stor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/nintendo-is-selling-refurbished-3ds-dsi-through-its-online-stor/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/nintendo-is-selling-refurbished-3ds-dsi-through-its-online-stor/#comments It's hard to get more credible than "authentic refurbished Nintendo products" from Nintendo's official store. Nintendo of America is selling refurbished 3DS and DSi consoles, starting at $100 for Metallic Rose and Midnight Blue DSi XLs, and $130 for the 3DS in Aqua Blue and Midnight Purple.

Nintendo's blurb says its line represents "the only refurbished products in the market that have been cleaned, tested, and inspected to meet Nintendo's high standards." Well then. The portables have a one year warranty and are guaranteed to work, even if there are any "minor cosmetic blemishes."

Alas, Eurofriends, it seems this one's a NoA thing. "We currently have no plans and have made no announcements for this type of activity in Europe," Nintendo UK told Eurogamer.

JoystiqNintendo is selling refurbished 3DS, DSi through its online store originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsdsinintendonorth-americarefurbishedMon, 29 Apr 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shin Megami Tensei 4 hits North America July 16, EU arrival confirmed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/shin-megami-tensei-4-coming-to-north-america-july-16-europe-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/shin-megami-tensei-4-coming-to-north-america-july-16-europe-con/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/shin-megami-tensei-4-coming-to-north-america-july-16-europe-con/#comments Shin Megami Tensei 4 is coming to North America on July 16, and the game is confirmed to be coming to Europe too, although there's no release date for the region yet.

Following on from the announcement in this morning's Nintendo Direct, Nintendo of America revealed each copy in the first shipment of the Atlus JRPG will be a Limited Edition Box Set. Included in the box set are the 176-page Strategy & Design Book, which features the starter guide and a range of artwork, a soundtrack that covers the breadth of the SMT series, and a slipcase with key art by Atlus graphic artist Masayuki Doi.

JoystiqShin Megami Tensei 4 hits North America July 16, EU arrival confirmed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsatlusnintendonintendo-direct-aprilnorth-americarelease-dateshin-megami-tensei-4Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate Wii U cross-region, off-TV patch hits April 15 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/monster-hunter-3-ultimate-wii-u-cross-region-off-tv-patch-hits/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/monster-hunter-3-ultimate-wii-u-cross-region-off-tv-patch-hits/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/monster-hunter-3-ultimate-wii-u-cross-region-off-tv-patch-hits/#comments Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate is getting patched up as promised next week, with off-TV play and cross-region interaction for transatlantic hunters coming to the Wii U game on April 15. Capcom announced the patch back in February, admitting it was going back on its decision to regionally restrict online play following "community feedback."

Update: Capcom clarified the patch is coming to North America on April 15 at 5PM PT, 8PM ET. The European patch is coming at the same time, but on the continent it will already be April 16 - 1AM in the UK, 2AM CEST.

JoystiqMonster Hunter 3 Ultimate Wii U cross-region, off-TV patch hits April 15 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomeuropemonster-hunter-3-ultimatenintendonorth-americarelease-datewii-uWed, 10 Apr 2013 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 'Siberian Strike' DLC hits XBLA/PSN/PC next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/sniper-ghost-warrior-2-siberian-strike-dlc-hits-xbla-psn-pc-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/sniper-ghost-warrior-2-siberian-strike-dlc-hits-xbla-psn-pc-n/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/22/sniper-ghost-warrior-2-siberian-strike-dlc-hits-xbla-psn-pc-n/#comments Sniper Ghost Warrior 2 'Siberian Strike' DLC hits XBLAPSNPC next weekSniper: Ghost Warrior 2's first injection of single-player DLC will be chambered into North American and European copies of the game this Wednesday, March 27, when "Siberian Strike" goes live on Xbox Live, PSN and Steam for 800 MS Points/$9.99 respectively, or £8.99/€9.99 for those scouting from the other side of the Atlantic.

The DLC pack drops players in a remote Siberia town called Birsovik, and tasks them with completing a mission without help from spotters, meaning that all terrain navigation and target acquisition must be done manually, with maps, which is how cavemen snipers used to do it back in Victorian England.

... Okay so, we may not know a whole lot about sniper history.

Gallery: Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 - Siberian Strike

Continue reading Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 'Siberian Strike' DLC hits XBLA/PSN/PC next week

JoystiqSniper: Ghost Warrior 2 'Siberian Strike' DLC hits XBLA/PSN/PC next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-interactiveDLCeuropemicrosoftnorth-americapcplaystationps3release-dateSiberian-Strikesniper-ghost-warrior-2xboxFri, 22 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/pikachu-3ds-xl-sparks-into-north-america-on-march-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/pikachu-3ds-xl-sparks-into-north-america-on-march-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/14/pikachu-3ds-xl-sparks-into-north-america-on-march-24/#comments Pikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24Pika! It's been a long time coming, but the much-traveled Pikachu 3DS XL is on its way to North America, and it arrives next weekend on March 24. The yummy yellow edition comes with a 4GB SD memory card, and is priced $199.99.

Nintendo is also incentivizing a buy with one of the two 3DS games coming out on the same day, namely Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: Gates to Infinity and Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon. If you register the Pika-portable and one of those two games before April 30, you'll receive a bonus download code for one of five 3DS games.

The five games up for grabs are Super Mario 3D Land, Professor Layton and the Miracle Mask, Star Fox 64 3D, Freakyforms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive, and everyone's favorite college of craft, Art Academy: Lessons for Everyone!

Continue reading Pikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24

JoystiqPikachu 3DS XL sparks into North America on March 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds3ds-xlluigis-nintendonorth-americapikachu-yellow-3ds-xlpokemon-mystery-dungeon-gates-to-infinityThu, 14 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost Planet 3 orbits over NA June 25, EU June 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/lost-planet-3-orbits-into-na-june-25-eu-june-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/lost-planet-3-orbits-into-na-june-25-eu-june-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/lost-planet-3-orbits-into-na-june-25-eu-june-28/#comments
Capcom tells us the release dates for Lost Planet 3 are June 25 in North America, and June 28 in Europe. The game was previously earmarked for early 2013, but early 2013 has all but come and gone, so a delay isn't too surprising. Spark Unlimited's third-person shooter is a prequel to the events of the first game, despite it being called Lost Planet 3.

Check out all of the North American retailer-specific pre-order bonuses on the Capcom blog.

Gallery: Lost Planet 3 (3/6/13)

JoystiqLost Planet 3 orbits over NA June 25, EU June 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomeuropelost-planet-3microsoftnorth-americapcplaystationps3release-datespark-unlimitedxboxWed, 06 Mar 2013 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory processes slight delay to March 21]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/hyperdimension-neptunia-victory-processes-slight-delay-to-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/hyperdimension-neptunia-victory-processes-slight-delay-to-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/hyperdimension-neptunia-victory-processes-slight-delay-to-march/#comments Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory hits North America slightly later than expected, shifting the numbers of its original March 12 release date into a new one of March 21. That means the screwball PS3 JRPG releases on a Thursday, which seems appropriately odd.

Europeans waiting for their dose of consoles embodied as voluptuous ladies can enjoy getting a game first for once, with the region's March 15 release date unaffected... unless they live in the UK, in which case they'll still get it last of all on March 22 - typical.

Continue reading Hyperdimension Neptunia Victory processes slight delay to March 21

JoystiqHyperdimension Neptunia Victory processes slight delay to March 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compile-heartdelayeuropehyperdimension-neptunia-victoryidea-factorynis-americanorth-americaplaystationps3release-dateukFri, 01 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metro: Last Light flickers in NA May 14, EU May 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/metro-last-light-flickers-in-na-may-14-eu-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/metro-last-light-flickers-in-na-may-14-eu-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/metro-last-light-flickers-in-na-may-14-eu-may-17/#comments Metro: Last Light is coming to North and Latin America on May 14, and Europe three days later on May 17, publisher Deep Silver announced this morning. The PS3, Xbox 360, and PC sequel to Metro 2033 was, last we heard, expected to be released this month, but that was always uncertain following original publisher THQ's troubles and the horror/shooter's acquirement by Deep Silver.

Continue reading Metro: Last Light flickers in NA May 14, EU May 17

JoystiqMetro: Last Light flickers in NA May 14, EU May 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4A-gamesdeep-silvereuropemetro-2033-last-lightmetro-2034metro-last-lightmicrosoftnorth-americapcplaystationps3release-datexboxFri, 01 Mar 2013 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch the Valentine's Day Nintendo Direct right here [Update: It's over!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/watch-the-valentines-day-nintendo-direct-right-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/watch-the-valentines-day-nintendo-direct-right-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/watch-the-valentines-day-nintendo-direct-right-here/#comments
If you're still stuck this Valentine's on what to get the special someone who has everything, you could do far worse than a Nintendo Direct presentation. Is there anything cuter than Nintendo president Satoru Iwata's 'Direct' gesture? It there anything sweeter than hearing about new 3DS and Wii U games? It's the perfect Valentine's gift to show that you care.

And, because we care, you can watch your choice of this morning's Direct broadcasts right here on Joystiq. The North American Direct, focused on upcoming Wii U and 3DS games, is above, while the 3DS-centric European and Japanese ones are below the break. They all start at the same time, which is 9AM ET (6AM PT, 2PM Brit-time).

Update: Nintendo's various regional love letters have ended, but anyone that missed the live broadcast can watch the whole shebang in the YouTube embed above.

Continue reading Watch the Valentine's Day Nintendo Direct right here [Update: It's over!]

JoystiqWatch the Valentine's Day Nintendo Direct right here [Update: It's over!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseuropejapannintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-2013north-americawii-uThu, 14 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch today's Nintendo Direct with new Wii U games right here [update: it's over!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/watch-todays-nintendo-direct-with-new-wii-u-games-right-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/watch-todays-nintendo-direct-with-new-wii-u-games-right-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/23/watch-todays-nintendo-direct-with-new-wii-u-games-right-here/#comments
Update: It's over, and it was a biggie. The Wii U will get an HD remake of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker by this fall, followed by a new game that promises to rethink series conventions. Nintendo's home console also gets new Mario Kart and 3D Mario games, and they'll be playable at E3. There's a new Yoshi game by the Kirby's Epic Yarn team, then a crossover between Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem, and a new Monolift Soft game to boot. Oof ... feel free to take a few to catch your breath.

Continue reading Watch today's Nintendo Direct with new Wii U games right here [update: it's over!]

JoystiqWatch today's Nintendo Direct with new Wii U games right here [update: it's over!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jan 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europejapannintendonintendo-directnorth-americawii-uWed, 23 Jan 2013 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Project X Zone crashes US, Europe, Australasia this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/21/project-x-zone-crashes-us-europe-australasia-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/21/project-x-zone-crashes-us-europe-australasia-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/21/project-x-zone-crashes-us-europe-australasia-this-summer/#comments Project X Zone comes to North America, Europe, Australasia this summerProject X Zone is slated to hit the 3DS in North America, Europe and Australasia this summer, Namco Bandai announced.

Project X Zone launched in Japan in October with more than 50 playable characters of 29 franchises from Namco Bandai, Sega and Capcom. The game has more than 200 characters total, including protagonists, enemies and those in cutscenes only. In September, Tekken producer Katsuhiro Harada tweeted that he would push Namco Bandai to localize Project X Zone, and it seems his confidence wasn't for naught.

To supplement the good news, check out a gallery of fresh Project X Zone images right here.

Gallery: Project X Zone

Continue reading Project X Zone crashes US, Europe, Australasia this summer

JoystiqProject X Zone crashes US, Europe, Australasia this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jan 2013 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsAustralasiaCapcomeuropelocalizedNamco-BandainintendoNorth-Americaproject-x-zonerelease-windowSegasummer-2013Mon, 21 Jan 2013 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hakuoki: Warriors of the Shinsengumi drops Feb. 19]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/hakuoki-warriors-of-the-shinsengumi-drops-feb-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/hakuoki-warriors-of-the-shinsengumi-drops-feb-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/hakuoki-warriors-of-the-shinsengumi-drops-feb-19/#comments Hakuoki Warriors of the Shinsengumi drops Feb 19Hakuoki: Warriors of the Shinsengumi, the hack-and-slash PSP action game based on Hakuoki: Demon of the Fleeting Blossom (itself a PSP otome visual novel about getting hunky samurai to fall in love with you), will be available on February 19 in North America, Aksys has announced. Folks that pre-order the game through Amazon will receive a bandanna featuring the game's eight playable samurai.

Not so concerned with the heart's capacity to love as much as with its ability to be stabbed by swords, Warriors of the Shinsengumi follows young maiden Chizuru and her accompanying Shinsengumi on their quest to find her father. Players will be able to play through two versions of the game, one that follows Demon of the Fleeting Blossom's storyline and a second, alternate version.

Gallery: Hakuoki: Warriors of the Shinsengumi

Continue reading Hakuoki: Warriors of the Shinsengumi drops Feb. 19

JoystiqHakuoki: Warriors of the Shinsengumi drops Feb. 19 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysAksys-GamesHakuoki-Demon-of-the-Fleeting-Blossomidea-factorynorth-americaotomeplaystationpsprelease-datesonyWed, 16 Jan 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Free BioShock offer with PS3 copies of Infinite is North America-only]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/free-bioshock-offer-with-ps3-copies-of-infinite-is-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/free-bioshock-offer-with-ps3-copies-of-infinite-is-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/free-bioshock-offer-with-ps3-copies-of-infinite-is-north-america/#comments Free BioShock with PS3 BioShock is USonlyIn June 2011 we learned that BioShock Infinite for PS3 comes with a free copy of the original BioShock - this is still true, but only for US customers, 2K Games tells Videogamer.

"I can confirm that the PS3 version of BioShock Infinite in North America contains a copy of the original BioShock," 2K says. "This is not the case in UK as it's a local promotion in North America."

The second half of that promise made in June last year is still completely true, at least: BioShock Infinite includes Move support, as solidified by the North American PS3 box art. It doesn't, of course, have a separate, new peripheral for Move.

JoystiqFree BioShock offer with PS3 copies of Infinite is North America-only originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockbioshock-infinitefreemoveNorth-Americaplaystationps3ukusTue, 04 Dec 2012 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus on North American PSN Dec. 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/guilty-gear-xx-accent-core-plus-on-north-american-psn-dec-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/guilty-gear-xx-accent-core-plus-on-north-american-psn-dec-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/27/guilty-gear-xx-accent-core-plus-on-north-american-psn-dec-4/#comments Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus on PSN Dec 4Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus will arrive on the PlayStation Network in North America on December 4 for $14.99, according to Arc System Works' Takeshi Yamanaka over on Twitter. The game (which was originally released on the PS2 back in 2008) has quite a few different versions floating around, including one for the PSP, another on the Wii, and an XBLA version earlier this year. The PSN version has only been released in Japan thus far.

Europeans: you'll need to "wait a bit more" for your release, says Yamanaka.

Update: This post originally listed Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus' price on PSN as $4.99, which is incorrect. The body of this article has been updated to accurately reflect its real price of $14.99.

JoystiqGuilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus on North American PSN Dec. 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Nov 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arc-system-workseuropefighting-gameguilty-gear-xx-accent-core-plusjapannorth-americaplaystationps3psnreleaserereleaseretroTue, 27 Nov 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No midnight launch for Wii U at EB Games Canada]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/no-midnight-launch-for-wii-u-at-eb-games-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/no-midnight-launch-for-wii-u-at-eb-games-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/16/no-midnight-launch-for-wii-u-at-eb-games-canada/#comments Before you pack up the 3DS, blankets and folding chair to go wait in line for Wii U in the Great White North, know that EB Games Canada has decided not to hold midnight openings for Nintendo's new console. Rather than opening in the evening for the Wii U launch, locations in five provinces across Canada plan to open early - at 9am or 10am local time - on Sunday, November 18.

Joystiq has reached out to GameStop for clarification on its Wii U launch strategy stateside after several U.S. readers sent word that their local stores will not open at midnight for the console's arrival. We know of at least 500,000 people here who are directly affected by the uncertainty.

JoystiqNo midnight launch for Wii U at EB Games Canada originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadaeb-gamesgamestopmidnight-launchnintendonorth-americaunited-statesusawii-uFri, 16 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: New PlayStation Store now live in UK, across Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/psa-new-playstation-store-now-live-in-uk-across-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/psa-new-playstation-store-now-live-in-uk-across-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/psa-new-playstation-store-now-live-in-uk-across-europe/#comments PSA New PlayStation Store now love on UK, across EuropeThe new-look PlayStation Store is now live in the UK, after its initial launch stuttered last week. Sony UK revealed the makeover went temporarily up and then quickly down again following technical issues.

Those issues are now apparently resolved, with a tweet on the PlayStation Europe account confirming the new store is now live across all EU territories. The new-look PlayStation Store was expected to arrive in North America tomorrow, but has since been postponed.

[Thanks, Cristian L.]

JoystiqPSA: New PlayStation Store now live in UK, across Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europenorth-americaplaystationplaystation-storeps3PSNsonyUSMon, 22 Oct 2012 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U WiiPads won't be sold separately at launch in US, will be later on]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/wii-u-wiipads-wont-be-sold-separately-at-launch-in-us-will-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/wii-u-wiipads-wont-be-sold-separately-at-launch-in-us-will-be/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/wii-u-wiipads-wont-be-sold-separately-at-launch-in-us-will-be/#comments Wii U WiiPads won't be sold separately at launch in USWe've known the Wii U can support the simultaneous usage of two WiiPads for as long as we've known that no launch titles will support such madness. Japanese Wii U owners will eventually be able to purchase extra WiiPads for ¥13,440 ($173), while Americans have not been given a price or separate release date yet.

"Through the launch window, there are no games that leverage a second controller," Nintendo of America CEO Reggie Fils-Aime told Engadget. "And so, during the launch window here in NOA territories, we will not be selling at retail a second gamepad. But certainly, when the games come out, we'll be making that accessory available."

We suppose that wanting to future-proof your living room against the inevitable games that will support two WiiPads could be a valid reason for buying one right now, but a more likely scenario is one involving children, permanent markers and that stylus-driven touchscreen. Anyone looking to replace a damaged or otherwise undesirable WiiPad will need to contact Nintendo customer support when the times comes.

JoystiqWii U WiiPads won't be sold separately at launch in US, will be later on originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 18:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>extragamepadnintendonorth-americareplacementsalestabletwii-uwiipadThu, 13 Sep 2012 18:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U priced, launching November 18 in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/wii-u-north-america-launch-date-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/wii-u-north-america-launch-date-price/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/13/wii-u-north-america-launch-date-price/#comments Wii U priced, launching November 18 in US
Nintendo's Wii U console will launch November 18 in the United States, with a price of $300 for the white 8GB Basic set and $350 for a black 32GB Deluxe version. Nintendo announced pricing for Japan earlier today, with Europe not receiving a price, but penciling in a November 30 launch date.

The 8GB Basic set includes a white console, matching white GamePad, AC adapters for both console and GamePad, Sensor Bar and an HDMI cable. Meanwhile, the black 32GB Deluxe set includes Nintendo Land, stands for both the console and the GamePad, a GamePad charging cradle and everything else that normally comes in the Basic set. Purchasing the Deluxe set also includes membership in the "Deluxe Digital Promotion," which rewards points for digital purchases that can later be used to buy eShop wares.

Continue reading Wii U priced, launching November 18 in US

JoystiqWii U priced, launching November 18 in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Sep 2012 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadanintendonorth-americapricerelease-dateunited-stateswii-uThu, 13 Sep 2012 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's 'Cross Buy' promo headed to North America and Europe, Japan undecided]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/sonys-cross-buy-promo-headed-to-north-america-and-europe-jap/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/sonys-cross-buy-promo-headed-to-north-america-and-europe-jap/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/20/sonys-cross-buy-promo-headed-to-north-america-and-europe-jap/#comments Sony's "Cross Buy" promotion isn't just for Europe - SCE president of Worldwide Studios Shuhei Yoshida took to Twitter to clarify that the PlayStation 3/Vita promo is also headed to the United States. Japan, however, isn't so lucky. At least not yet. " PS Vita-PS3 Cross Buy price promo is coming to both Europe and North America. My quote by Famitsu was meant as 'not decided for Japan yet,'" Yoshida said. A piece from Famitsu was picked up yesterday (via Andriasang) that was misunderstood to mean the promo is exclusive to Europe.

PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale was revealed during Gamescom 2012 to be the first retail game from Sony launching with the Cross Buy promo - if you buy either version of the game, you get the other version for free. Sound Shapes and Motorstorm RC already employ the promo, albeit on PSN. A variety of other upcoming first-party Sony games also support the promotion. Incidentally, we also support the promotion, because it's super boss.

JoystiqSony's 'Cross Buy' promo headed to North America and Europe, Japan undecided originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Aug 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cross-buyeuropefamitsujapannorth-americaplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3sceshuhei-yoshidasony-computer-entertainmentvitaworldwide-studiosMon, 20 Aug 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed 3 gets Limited Edition in North America, with colonial flag, statue, and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/assassins-creed-3-gets-limited-edition-in-north-america-with-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/assassins-creed-3-gets-limited-edition-in-north-america-with-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/assassins-creed-3-gets-limited-edition-in-north-america-with-c/#comments Assassin's Creed 3 gets Limited Edition
Just in time for Independence Day, Ubisoft has offered up a way to show a little national pride, Assassin's Creed 3 style. The company has announced the Assassin's Creed 3 Limited Edition, which will retail for $119.99 and come with extra goods, including a huge 24" by 48" Assassin's Creed-inspired colonial American flag. Ubisoft sent a flag fitting this description to the press last week, and we've placed a picture of it after the break. (see update)

There's also a 9.44" statue of new assassin Connor, and a metal belt buckle, presumably used for holding up your pants while carrying out cold-blooded murders. The Limited Edition is an exclusive to retailers in North America and Latin America, so Europeans are out of luck on this one.

There's also a Digital Deluxe Edition available straight from Ubisoft for the PC. For $64.99 you'll get a notebook featuring "George Washington's true story" (we hope wooden teeth are involved), three extra single-player missions, two extra in-game outfits, and an Assassin's Creed soundtrack collection.

Gallery: Assassin's Creed 3: Limited Edition



Update: Ubisoft has confirmed that the flag in our picture below is not the flag available in the Limited Edition.

Continue reading Assassin's Creed 3 gets Limited Edition in North America, with colonial flag, statue, and more

JoystiqAssassin's Creed 3 gets Limited Edition in North America, with colonial flag, statue, and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creed-3contentdigitalexclusiveflaglimited-editionmicrosoftnorth-americapcplaystationps3soundtrackxboxMon, 02 Jul 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's 'wacky' Tokyo Jungle headed to North America and Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/sonys-wacky-tokyo-jungle-headed-to-north-america-and-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/sonys-wacky-tokyo-jungle-headed-to-north-america-and-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/sonys-wacky-tokyo-jungle-headed-to-north-america-and-europe/#comments Sony's 'wacky' Tokyo Jungle headed to North America and EuropeDespite the absence of a pomeranian guest appearance at Sony's E3 2012 press conference, the company's delightfully bizarre-looking Tokyo Jungle is indeed headed to PlayStation Network in North America and Europe. A press release this week confirmed the EU release, and Sony VP of product development and worldwide studios Scott Rohde told us in an interview this week that the "wacky" internally developed PSN game will indeed arrive in North America as well.

"It'll ship here, it'll ship everywhere," Rohde said. To him, Tokyo Jungle's worldwide release is emblematic of Sony's "crazy innovative" approach. "That game is just wacky, but in a good way, because we like to show that there's still an art form, and you can still experiment," he said. "Is everyone gonna love a game like Tokyo Jungle? Absolutely not, but there's a whole bunch of people it's gonna make really happy. Specifically for the fact that it's so different, and so unexpected. That's a key part of the culture of Worldwide Studios and how our games are developed."

Though he couldn't name one specific person internally who championed the previously Japan-only game, Rohde extolled the internal culture that allows games like that to be created. "Someone has a key vision in our [Japan Studios] about Tokyo Jungle, they wanted to build this game. And so we're gonna embrace that. And of course we discuss it, and if it doesn't make sense, we can walk away. We walk away from dozens and dozens of titles every year. But the difference is, we actually build them out to a certain extent. And when they hit a point where we think, 'You know what? This is pretty interesting and it's gonna make some people happy,' we're gonna build it."

Frankly, we're pretty darn happy this one made it through the wringer. Tokyo Jungle doesn't have a release date or price just yet.

Gallery: Tokyo Jungle (E3 2012)

JoystiqSony's 'wacky' Tokyo Jungle headed to North America and Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crispyse3-2012europejapan-studionorth-americaplaystationplaystation-campplaystation-networkps3psnscott-rohdesony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japantokyo-jungleFri, 08 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Anarchy Reigns US/EU release date pushed once again, this time to 'TBC']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/anarchy-reigns-us-eu-release-date-pushed-once-again-this-time-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/anarchy-reigns-us-eu-release-date-pushed-once-again-this-time-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/anarchy-reigns-us-eu-release-date-pushed-once-again-this-time-t/#comments ImagePlatinum Games told fans on its latest podcast episode that upcoming brawler Anarchy Reigns no longer has a US/EU release date. According to Platinum, "Sega has decided to change the date to TBC [to be confirmed]." A note clarified the situation further: "While our work on the game is finished, localized, and ready to go, as publisher, Sega gets to make the final decision as to when it is released."

For its part, Sega hasn't announced the delay or even acknowledged it as far as we can tell. Given that the game is still planned for a July 5 launch in Japan, and Platinum's statement suggests the game is "finished, localized, and ready to go," we expect to hear an updated launch date for US/EU territories pretty soon. The game already got pushed out seven months, though, so you never know.

JoystiqAnarchy Reigns US/EU release date pushed once again, this time to 'TBC' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anarchy-reignsdelaydelayseuropemicrosoftnorth-americaplaystationps3release-datexboxFri, 25 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vita's MGS HD Collection listed with June 12 launch in America, 'late June' in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/vitas-mgs-hd-collection-listed-with-june-12-launch-in-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/vitas-mgs-hd-collection-listed-with-june-12-launch-in-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/30/vitas-mgs-hd-collection-listed-with-june-12-launch-in-america/#comments ImageMetal Gear Solid HD Collection for Vita has a launch window of "late June" for European markets, Eurogamer reports. This coincides nicely with the North American release date of June 12 listed on GameStop and Amazon.

Metal Gear Solid HD does not include PSP's Peace Walker, as the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions do.

JoystiqVita's MGS HD Collection listed with June 12 launch in America, 'late June' in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europejunemetal-gear-solid-hd-collectionNorth-Americaplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-datevitaMon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Super Mario Bros. 2 also hits North America this August]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/21/new-super-mario-bros-2-also-hits-north-america-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/21/new-super-mario-bros-2-also-hits-north-america-this-august/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/21/new-super-mario-bros-2-also-hits-north-america-this-august/#comments The Japanese release of New Super Mario Bros. 2 this August will be mirrored by a semi-simultaneous release here in the colonies, according to a press release issued by Nintendo of America after last night's Nintendo Direct event.

The full PR, available after the break, calls New Super Mario Bros. 2 a "traditional side-scrolling adventure game" designed "specifically as a pick-up-and-play experience." Judging from these new screenshots below, "traditional" seems like a very apt description - granted, we're intrigued by what appears to be the return of Raccoon Mario, the original flying power up.

Gallery: New Super Mario Bros. 2 (Announcement)

Continue reading New Super Mario Bros. 2 also hits North America this August

JoystiqNew Super Mario Bros. 2 also hits North America this August originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaugust-2012marionew-super-mario-bros-2nintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-2012north-americanorth-americanrelease-daterelease-windowsuper-marioSat, 21 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pandora's Tower gets an English trailer from Nintendo of Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/28/pandoras-tower-gets-an-english-trailer-from-nintendo-of-europe/#comments
Don't get too excited -- there's still no North American release of Pandora's Tower to speak of. But in the meantime you can still enjoy this (kind of gross) English trailer for the Japanese export, coming out April 13 on the Wii in Europe.

JoystiqPandora's Tower gets an English trailer from Nintendo of Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>englisheuropenintendonorth-americapandoras-towertrailerwiiWed, 28 Mar 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake busts into box form on April 3 in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/alan-wake-busts-into-box-form-on-april-3-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/alan-wake-busts-into-box-form-on-april-3-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/11/alan-wake-busts-into-box-form-on-april-3-in-north-america/#comments Remedy Entertainment and Nordic Games have snagged Legacy Interactive to distribute the boxed PC version of Alan Wake in North America and will begin shipping the title on April 3. This deal took some careful planning, it appears, as Remedy previously extended the Steam collector's edition launch deal for an extra week while North American fans waited for a physical launch announcement.

Similarly to the Steam version, the boxed PC edition of Alan Wake includes two DLC packs, The Writer and The Signal, and supports stereoscopic 3D and multiple screens.

Continue reading Alan Wake busts into box form on April 3 in North America

JoystiqAlan Wake busts into box form on April 3 in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan-Wakeboxedlegacy-interactivenordic-gamesNorth-Americapcremedy-entertainmentshippingSun, 11 Mar 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ridge Racer skids onto Vita March 13, free DLC in tow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/ridge-racer-skids-onto-vita-march-13-free-dlc-in-tow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/ridge-racer-skids-onto-vita-march-13-free-dlc-in-tow/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/03/ridge-racer-skids-onto-vita-march-13-free-dlc-in-tow/#comments It wouldn't be the launch of a new PlayStation device without a new Ridge Racer game, and while Ridge Racer for the Vita may have missed launch day, it'll be making making up for its zero-to-retail time with free cars, music and tracks when it launches on March 13.

Initial retail copies of Ridge Racer ($29.99) will include a "Ridge Racer Gold Pass," which nets the buyer five additional cars, three bonus courses, two new songs and an extended remix of an existing song. PSN copies of the game ($24.99) also include the Gold Pass goodies, provided they're purchased before April 30. An additional "Silver Pass" DLC pack will also be available in April, albeit at an undisclosed price.

Aside from free DLC, Ridge Racer's North American launch also includes a system update, which improves the game's frame rate and adds "crisper graphics." It's fitting, since the only other thing more "PlayStation" than Ridge Racer is a system update.

JoystiqRidge Racer skids onto Vita March 13, free DLC in tow originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>celliusnamco-bandainorth-americaplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-dateridge-racerridge-racer-vitavitaSat, 03 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tales of Graces F gracing American shores March 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/tales-of-graces-f-gracing-american-shores-march-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/tales-of-graces-f-gracing-american-shores-march-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/10/tales-of-graces-f-gracing-american-shores-march-13/#comments
It's been a long time coming, but it looks like the wait is nearly over. Well, by "nearly" we mean "three months from now," but that's better than nothing, right? The Namco Bandai localization of Tales of Graces F will bring purple pigtails and J-Pop to North American PS3s on March 13, according to the latest trailer above.

Now, there will be several points during this trailer where you will instinctively reach for the mute button on your keyboard, but we beg that you try and tough it out. Not because it's ultimately worth it, but because we had to listen to the whole thing, and we want you to suffer like we did.

JoystiqTales of Graces F gracing American shores March 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 10 Dec 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>americanj-popjpopnamco-bandainorth-americanorth-americanpigtailsplaystationps3release-datetales-of-gracestales-of-graces-fSat, 10 Dec 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Professor Layton 3DS to arrive in Europe next year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/professor-layton-3ds-to-arrive-in-europe-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/professor-layton-3ds-to-arrive-in-europe-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/17/professor-layton-3ds-to-arrive-in-europe-next-year/#comments The Professor Layton titles traditionally take their sweet time heading across the continent from Japan to the EU, and the series' first 3DS entry, called Professor Layton and the Mask of Miracle in Japan, is no exception. It arrived in the land of the Rising Sun last February, and hasn't been released in Europe or North America yet. But it looks like one of those releases is planned: The end of a trailer for Professor Layton and the Spectre's Call in Europe teases that players should "get ready for an all-new Layton next year."

Presumably, that's the 3DS title (though the name usually changes on the trip over), and that tease means we'll see it out sometime in 2012. We haven't seen quite as much confirmation on a North American release, but since the last title hit Europe this week and North America last month, 2012 is a good bet for us 'mericans as well. After all, it's not like Level-5 doesn't want to release it here, it's just that translation can take time.

JoystiqProfessor Layton 3DS to arrive in Europe next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Nov 2011 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseueuropejapanlevel-5nintendonorth-americaprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-and-the-last-specterprofessor-layton-and-the-mask-of-miracleprofessor-layton-and-the-miracle-maskreleaserelease-dateThu, 17 Nov 2011 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Network's 'Welcome Back' content now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/playstation-networks-welcome-back-content-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/playstation-networks-welcome-back-content-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/03/playstation-networks-welcome-back-content-now-available/#comments Sony is currently rolling out the content previously detailed in its "Welcome Back" package in North America. A post on the US PlayStation Blog details as much, and dishes out a lengthy FAQ on the offerings. First and foremost, if you weren't a PlayStation Network user before April 20, 2011, you're out of luck.

For the rest of us, PS3 owners can choose two free games from a list of five, while PSP owners can choose two free games from a list of four. To do so, head to the PlayStation Store and then to the "Welcome Back" area where you'll see the selection of titles (seen above).

There's also a new free version of PlayStation Plus, which is the one free month everyone gets as part of the "Welcome Back" program. And finally, the promised free "On Us" films are also currently being offered, and will remain so throughout the coming weekend. You'll have one month to grab your free games and other content, as the Welcome Back tab will disappear after July 3, 2011.

PlayStation Plus users will automatically have 60 extra days added to their subscriptions, Sony says. And though no details have yet been provided, "posts over the coming days" will apparently explain how the past month of missing content will be added to PSN.

Update: The European "Welcome Back" content is now also rolling out, according to the EU PlayStation Blog.

Update 2: As you might expect, things are a tad bumpy (especially on the PSP side of things, which isn't even showing a "Welcome Back" option for us), so maybe waiting an hour or two would be a good idea.

Update 3: If you can't get your free games even though you used to be able to see them, we've got the fix from the EU PS Blog after the break!

Continue reading PlayStation Network's 'Welcome Back' content now available

JoystiqPlayStation Network's 'Welcome Back' content now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europeeuropean-unionnorth-americaplaystationplaystation-storeps3psnpsn-outage-2011pspsonywelcome-backFri, 03 Jun 2011 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrono Trigger travels to Virtual Console next Monday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/chrono-trigger-travels-to-virtual-console-next-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/chrono-trigger-travels-to-virtual-console-next-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/12/chrono-trigger-travels-to-virtual-console-next-monday/#comments It sure feels like we've waited an eternity for Square's timeless Super Nintendo RPG to come to Virtual Console. Begrudgingly, we suppose it's true -- good things do come to those who wait. Next Monday, May 16, marks Chrono Trigger's long overdue release on Virtual Console in North America.

Following its press release, Square Enix confirmed that the game will be sold at the standard 800 Wii Points ($8) price for SNES ports on VC (as opposed to the 900-point premium being charged in Japan). That's quite a bargain for pretty much the best game ever.

[Image source: Chronopedia]

Continue reading Chrono Trigger travels to Virtual Console next Monday

JoystiqChrono Trigger travels to Virtual Console next Monday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 May 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrono-triggernintendonorth-americaq2-2011release-datesnessquare-enixvirtual-consolewiiThu, 12 May 2011 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tales of Graces F coming to North America and Europe in 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/tales-of-graces-f-coming-to-north-america-and-europe-in-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/tales-of-graces-f-coming-to-north-america-and-europe-in-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/11/tales-of-graces-f-coming-to-north-america-and-europe-in-2012/#comments During Namco Bandai's "Level Up Dubai 2011" press event last night, the publisher announced some welcome news for the very patient Tales fans in Europe: The PS3 version of Tales of Graces F will be released in that region. Community manager Rich Bantegui live-tweeted news from the event, revealing that the "mothership" Tales RPG will be out in Europe in 2012. In addition, the newly opened page for the game on the company's North American site shows a 2012 date.

Bantegui also confirmed reports that the 3DS remake of Tales of the Abyss would be released in Europe, though no date was provided.

Gallery: Tales of Graces F (PS3)

Gallery: Tales of the Abyss (5/11/11)

JoystiqTales of Graces F coming to North America and Europe in 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 May 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20123dsdseuropelevel-up-2011namco-bandainintendonorth-americaplaystationps3release-datetales-of-graces-ftales-of-the-abyssWed, 11 May 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MotorStorm Apocalypse crashing down May 3 in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/motorstorm-apocalypse-crashing-down-may-3-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/motorstorm-apocalypse-crashing-down-may-3-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/15/motorstorm-apocalypse-crashing-down-may-3-in-north-america/#comments The indefinite delay that struck the North American release of MotorStorm Apocalypse has become specific: Sony has announced that the game is delayed until May 3. The game's launch date was shaken up in all regions in an effort to distance the racer's eye-catching urban destruction from the recent events in Japan.

As compensation for the delay, Sony is offering up a Premier Pack DLC voucher -- which enables two exclusive in-game vehicles -- in "every new copy of the game."

JoystiqMotorStorm Apocalypse crashing down May 3 in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evolution-studiosmotorstorm-apocalypsenorth-americaplaystationps3q2-2011release-datesceaFri, 15 Apr 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Direct2Drive bringing game rentals to UK, Europe this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/direct2drive-bringing-game-rentals-to-uk-europe-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/direct2drive-bringing-game-rentals-to-uk-europe-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/08/direct2drive-bringing-game-rentals-to-uk-europe-this-year/#comments Direct2Drive's downloadable game rentals kicked off in North America this past January, and the program has been so popular that it's coming to Europe later on this year. That's the word from head of international digital distribution Paul Herron, who says that "publishers are positive and gamers love the service, with the conversion from rental to purchase remaining extremely high."

It's not clear yet which games will be available for rental in the regions. North America still only has about six titles on tap, and Herron says the publisher is "securing content" for the European launch. In many European countries, the company doesn't even have the download service up and running yet, so, yeah: first things first, guys.

JoystiqDirect2Drive bringing game rentals to UK, Europe this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Apr 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>direct-2-driveeuropegamegames-on-demandignnorth-americapcrentalsalesFri, 08 Apr 2011 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MotorStorm Apocalypse delayed indefinitely in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/motorstorm-apocalypse-delayed-indefinitely-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/motorstorm-apocalypse-delayed-indefinitely-in-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/18/motorstorm-apocalypse-delayed-indefinitely-in-north-america/#comments Sony has put the brakes on the North American release of MotorStorm Apocalypse, delaying the game indefinitely in the wake of last week's devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The delay, announced on the PlayStation Blog, doesn't exactly come as a surprise, given that the title's launch had previously been postponed in Japan and the UK.

Set in an earthquake-ravaged costal city, the Evolution Studios developed racer had been scheduled for release on April 12. Sony told Joystiq earlier this week that the date still stood. When contacted today, SCEA confirmed the delay and added that there is "no new date at the moment."

JoystiqMotorStorm Apocalypse delayed indefinitely in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Mar 2011 14:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydelaysevolution-studiosmotorstormmotorstorm-apocalypsenorth-americaplaystationps3release-datesonyusaFri, 18 Mar 2011 14:22:00 EST<![CDATA[We Dare not daring US release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/we-dare-not-daring-us-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/we-dare-not-daring-us-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/we-dare-not-daring-us-release/#comments We assumed as much when we first disovered Ubisoft's kinky We Dare title, but IGN confirms that the game is not planned for release in the US. In IGN's words, Ubisoft "emphatically" declared that We Dare "absolutely" would not be released in the US. The real question is: Do We Care?

The Europe-bound PS3 and Wii minigame collection turned a few heads last week with the debut of its "sexy" advertising campaign on YouTube, which more or less painted the title as a one-way ticket to group sexual encounters (despite the game's PEGI 12 rating). Ubisoft quickly blocked US-based browers from accessing the official trailer on YouTube, though not fast enough to prevent users from remixing it and mocking it with games of their own.

JoystiqWe Dare not daring US release originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonorth-americaplaystationps3release-dateubisoftusawe-darewiiMon, 28 Feb 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Catherine conquers Japanese sales charts, Atlus sends mixed messages]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/catherine-conquers-japanese-sales-charts-atlus-sends-mixed-mess/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/catherine-conquers-japanese-sales-charts-atlus-sends-mixed-mess/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/27/catherine-conquers-japanese-sales-charts-atlus-sends-mixed-mess/#comments The extraordinarily weird and difficult Catherine was finally released in Japan this week, and -- go figure -- they loved it. The title topped the sales charts, selling more than two times the amount of the next most popular game, which was no slouch itself: Marvel vs. Capcom 3. Catherine was the top title on both the PS3 and the Xbox 360 over there, picking up two slots in the overall top ten. Quite a debut.

Despite the success, Atlus released a statement this week that the game isn't coming to North America any time soon. "Catherine is a Japan-only game," the statement reads, "and there are no plans for a NA release at this time. Sorry about that!" The company subsequently sent an email out to its "Atlus Faithful" mailing list, containing only the above image, whose background looks suspiciously similar to the color of the Catherine box art.

JoystiqCatherine conquers Japanese sales charts, Atlus sends mixed messages originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluscatherinejapanmicrosoftnorth-americaplaystationps3salesxboxSun, 27 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST