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[Jack the Reaper harvests all the souls, looks adorable while doing it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/jack-the-reaper-harvests-all-the-souls-looks-adorable-while-doi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/jack-the-reaper-harvests-all-the-souls-looks-adorable-while-doi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/jack-the-reaper-harvests-all-the-souls-looks-adorable-while-doi/#comments
Jack the Reaper, from indie developer Dream's Bell, is a SNES-inspired platformer for Windows PC with an anime art style where you vanquish enemies and harvest their souls for health and power. The actual harvesting is reminiscent of Kirby's gobble-and-clone mechanic.

In Jack the Reaper, the moon has suddenly fallen and crashed into the Earth, discarding its souls all over the planet. Jack, as a reaper, answers a call from God and goes about harvesting all of the errant souls. Simple.

Jack the Reaper is a work in progress, with creator Rakugaki-Otoko having recently shared a demo (.zip link) with the public. He's also been sharing his incremental improvements and changes over on TIGForums, if you want a more granular look at the development process.

JoystiqJack the Reaper harvests all the souls, looks adorable while doing it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreams-belljack-the-reaperpcplatformerwork-in-progressThu, 09 May 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 gets a retro 2D platformer, thanks to an April Fools' joke]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/guild-wars-2-gets-a-retro-2d-platformer-thanks-to-an-april-fool/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/guild-wars-2-gets-a-retro-2d-platformer-thanks-to-an-april-fool/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/24/guild-wars-2-gets-a-retro-2d-platformer-thanks-to-an-april-fool/#comments Guild Wars 2 gets a retro 2D platformer, thanks to an April Fools' jokeArenaNet, the developer behind Guild Wars 2, has released a 2D platformer called Rytlock's Critter Rampage, available to play for free in your browser.

The game's derived from an '80s-style commercial the company made as an April Fools' joke earlier this month. The commercial itself was for a 3D platformer called Super Adventure Box, which ArenaNet also created for real inside its popular MMO.

ArenaNet says Rytlock's Critter Rampage was going to be cobbled together from a few sprites for the sake of the joke, but cinematic artist Delly Sartika had wanted to build a retro platformer and did the whole thing in about three weeks.

JoystiqGuild Wars 2 gets a retro 2D platformer, thanks to an April Fools' joke originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Apr 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>april-fools-jokearenanetcinematic-artistfreefunGuild-Wars-2pcplatformerreleaserytlocks-critter-rampagesuper-adventure-boxWed, 24 Apr 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Castle of Illusion teaser trailer is all dark and stormy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/castle-of-illusion-teaser-trailer-is-all-dark-and-stormy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/castle-of-illusion-teaser-trailer-is-all-dark-and-stormy/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/11/castle-of-illusion-teaser-trailer-is-all-dark-and-stormy/#comments
Sega sent out a teaser trailer for what could only be a re-release of Castle of Illusion, the classic Disney platformer developed by Sega's Shinobi Team for the Sega Genesis. Ratings for the re-release surfaced last month, a mere week before Capcom announced WayForward's remake of another classic Disney platformer, Ducktales Remastered.

In the trailer above, we can spot the same wind-up soldier toy enemies from the original, not to mention Mizrabel herself, the main shape-shifting villain of Castle of Illusion. The teaser trailer ends with "summer 2013," presumably as a launch window and not the time when Sega plans to announce what we already know.

JoystiqCastle of Illusion teaser trailer is all dark and stormy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castle-of-illusioncastle-of-illusion-2013mickey-mousemizrabelplatformersegaThu, 11 Apr 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Robotoki's platformer starring a narcoleptic child, The Adventures of Dash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/robotokis-platformer-starring-a-narcoleptic-child-the-adventur/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/robotokis-platformer-starring-a-narcoleptic-child-the-adventur/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/robotokis-platformer-starring-a-narcoleptic-child-the-adventur/#comments

Robotoki is keeping busy: It's working on a zombie survival romp called Human Element, a prequel to that game for the Ouya, and now has a Kickstarter for a cute 2D platformer, The Adventures of Dash. The Kickstarter has 30 days to raise $400,000. If it reaches its goal, Robotoki wants to launch the game in seven months, in November of this year.

Led by former Infinity Ward man Robert Bowling, Robotoki's The Adventures of Dash is a side-scrolling puzzle platformer - for PC, Mac, Linux, Ouya, iOS, Android and consoles - starring Dash, a 9-year-old boy with narcolepsy.

Dash falls asleep anywhere and for any reason, including at school, in his lunch, while on a walk and in all manner of slightly dangerous situations. When he dreams, the art style of the game changes along with the gameplay. The Adventures of Dash pulls art from a range of 2D artists and throws it all into one game under a semi-seamless plot device.

Robotoki hopes to launch Dash on PC, Mac, Linux and Ouya in November, and will then work on building touchscreen controls for mobile. Profit from these initial sales will fund console development, though if the Kickstarter raises more than $400,000, the extra cash will be used to develop and ship console versions day-and-date with the first group.

Gallery: The Adventures of Dash

JoystiqRobotoki's platformer starring a narcoleptic child, The Adventures of Dash originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2dandroidchild-endangermentcrowdfundingiosipadiphonekickstartermacmicrosoftmobilenarcolepsypcPlatformerplaystationps3robert-bowlingrobotokithe-adventures-of-dashxboxMon, 04 Mar 2013 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Fez going half-off on XBLA for one day only]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/19/fez-going-half-off-on-xbla-for-one-day-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/19/fez-going-half-off-on-xbla-for-one-day-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/19/fez-going-half-off-on-xbla-for-one-day-only/#comments Fez is halfoff tomorrow on XBLAPhil Fish's mysterious, beautiful puzzle platformer, Fez, will be available for half off on Xbox Live tomorrow, for one day only.

That means it's down from the usual 800 Microsoft point price to 400 Microsoft points, or $5. At that price, you'd be crazy to pass up the game we said "burns with a brilliant, red-hot, yellow-tasseled flame."

JoystiqFez going half-off on XBLA for one day only originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Dec 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2d3dFezmicrosoftphil-fishplatformerpolytronpuzzlexboxWed, 19 Dec 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Party of Sin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-party-of-sin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-party-of-sin/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/05/the-joystiq-indie-pitch-party-of-sin/#comments Indie developers are the starving artists of the video-game world, often brilliant and innovative, but also misunderstood, underfunded and more prone to writing free-form poetry on their LiveJournals. We believe they deserve a wider audience with the Joystiq Indie Pitch: This week, Crankshaft Games' Daniel Menard talks about his PC co-op puzzle-platformer about breaking out of Hell and storming Heaven, Party of Sin.
The Joystiq Indie Pitch Party of Sin

What's your game and what's it about?

Our game is called Party of Sin. It's a puzzle-platformer where you get to embody the Seven Deadly Sins. The Sins are locked in a prison deep in hell after an angel sting operation lead by the arch-angel Michael. You must use the Sins' seven unique powers to solve puzzles and battle your way out of hell and take the fight to the angels in Heaven. You can swap sins at any time (much like Lost Vikings or Trine) and must combine their powers in interesting ways to overcome the challenges that await.

The game also has a coop mode, and in coop the Sins can directly interact with each other. They can use their to help the team, or fall to the other side of morality and backstab / grief each other. Two players can't have the same sins, so there is a lot of social interaction involved in solving the puzzles.

Gallery: Party of Sin

Continue reading The Joystiq Indie Pitch: Party of Sin

JoystiqThe Joystiq Indie Pitch: Party of Sin originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opcrankshaft-gamesjoystiq-indie-pitchparty-of-sinpcplatformerpuzzleFri, 05 Oct 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mutant Mudds coming to PC on August 30, starting at $7.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/mutant-mudds-coming-to-pc-on-august-30-starting-at-7-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/mutant-mudds-coming-to-pc-on-august-30-starting-at-7-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/17/mutant-mudds-coming-to-pc-on-august-30-starting-at-7-99/#comments Mutant Mudds coming to PC on August 30, starting at $799
Renegade Kid's indie platformer Mutant Mudds has gotten itself a PC launch trailer, a price ($7.99 as an introductory discount, usually $9.99), and a PC launch date, according to the official website. The game was previously seen on the 3DS eShop, and will arrive on the PC on August 30, with that introductory price lasting until September 5.

On the 3DS, Mutant Mudds made copious use of the 3D screen to transfer its hero in between the various platform levels, but on the PC version, there's an elegant blur effect instead. The retro graphics and tunes are still there, however. You'll be able to grab the game directly from Renegade Kid, or on Good Old Games, Gamers Gate, or Desura at the end of the month.

JoystiqMutant Mudds coming to PC on August 30, starting at $7.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Aug 2012 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2d3dseshopmutant-muddsnintendopcplatformerreleaserelease-dateFri, 17 Aug 2012 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deadlight story trailer explains the saving powers of fear]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/deadlight-story-trailer-explains-the-saving-powers-of-fear/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/deadlight-story-trailer-explains-the-saving-powers-of-fear/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/25/deadlight-story-trailer-explains-the-saving-powers-of-fear/#comments
Image

"The only thing we have to fear is to fear yourself." We're pretty sure that's what president Franklin D. Roosevelt said to galvanize the American public when he took office in 1933, in the thick of the Great Depression. Nothing says "We can do it!" quite like "You're a monster!"

Thankfully Deadlight, which uses the tagline "Fear yourself" in its latest story trailer, isn't a historical-reenactment title, though it may be a simulator of potential future circumstances. If so, we may have a bit more to fear than metabolic reactions or mere humans.

Deadlight is set to launch this summer on XBLA.

JoystiqDeadlight story trailer explains the saving powers of fear originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 May 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deadlightfearmicrosoftPlatformersummertequila-worksXBLAxboxzombieFri, 25 May 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VVVVVV arrives on the 3DS eShop on December 29]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/vvvvvv-arrives-on-the-3ds-eshop-on-december-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/vvvvvv-arrives-on-the-3ds-eshop-on-december-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/24/vvvvvv-arrives-on-the-3ds-eshop-on-december-29/#comments Terry Cavanagh's great platformer VVVVVV is heading to a 3DS near you as promised: The game has been set for release on the Nintendo eShop next week. Starting December 29, you'll be able to grab the game (published by Nicalis, the company behind Cave Story and its various iterations) for a price of $7.99 on your 3DS, and take on the game's many frustrating yet ingenious challenges for yourself.

Or, if you've never played the title before, you could go try out the free Flash version, or play it on PC or Mac as you wish. It's a great and well-made experience for sure, but bring all of the patience you have. You'll need it.

Gallery: VVVVVV 3DS (10/07/2011)

JoystiqVVVVVV arrives on the 3DS eShop on December 29 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopindienicalisnintendonintendo-eshopplatformerreleaseterry-cavanaghvvvvvvSat, 24 Dec 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Blossom Minds teases 'Walter,' a platformer starring ... liquid?!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/blossom-minds-teases-walter-a-platformer-starring-liquid/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/blossom-minds-teases-walter-a-platformer-starring-liquid/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/blossom-minds-teases-walter-a-platformer-starring-liquid/#comments Indie studio Blossom Minds has ecology on the brain with its new game, "Walter." The titular protagonist appears to be composed of two parts hydrogen, one part oxygen and a pair of eager-looking eyeballs. Walter's "uneven fight against an evil oil company" takes the form of a vibrant platformer.

No further details have been announced, but we do know that Blossom Minds is targeting PSN, XBLA and Steam for its games. "It's a technically advanced game and can only be done on those platforms," studio co-founder Jérôme Braune told us in July. "We are not making games for phones or Facebook. Nothing can beat the feeling of having a gamepad in hand." Hey, that didn't stop us from befriending a courageous dolphin in EcoQuest: The Search for Cetus, did it?

JoystiqBlossom Minds teases 'Walter,' a platformer starring ... liquid?! originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blossom-mindsmicrosoftpcplatformerplaystationps3psnsteamwalterxblaxboxFri, 18 Nov 2011 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Tool-assisted speedrun shows Super Mario 64 beaten in five minutes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/tool-assisted-speedrun-shows-super-mario-64-beaten-in-five-minut/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/tool-assisted-speedrun-shows-super-mario-64-beaten-in-five-minut/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/tool-assisted-speedrun-shows-super-mario-64-beaten-in-five-minut/#comments A group of five speedrunners has beaten Super Mario 64 with no stars in just five minutes. To do so, they used a whole bag of tricks, including glitches, weird jumping macros, and shortcuts. It's not pretty, but if you have 18274 frames of time to spare, you can see the whole video below.

Continue reading Tool-assisted speedrun shows Super Mario 64 beaten in five minutes

JoystiqTool-assisted speedrun shows Super Mario 64 beaten in five minutes originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsframesnintendonintendo-64platformerspeedrunsuper-mario-64Super-Mario-64-DStool-assistedvideowiiSun, 02 Jan 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis' NightSky coming to Windows on January 6]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/nicalis-nightsky-coming-to-windows-on-january-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/nicalis-nightsky-coming-to-windows-on-january-6/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/02/nicalis-nightsky-coming-to-windows-on-january-6/#comments Nicalis, best known for releasing Daisuke Amaya's Cave Story on the Wii and DSi, has announced that it will be bringing the 2D physics-based platformer NightSky to Windows on January 6. The title, by Sweden's Nifflas, was originally scheduled for release on WiiWare as well. Nicalis says it hasn't "given up on consoles" for the game, but the PC and Mac releases will arrive first.

The game looks intriguing -- you can see a short launch trailer after the break. There's no word on price yet (or where you'll be able to get it, other than the official website), but assuming the game arrives as planned, those who want to get their hands on this 2009 IGF finalist will finally be able to do so.

Continue reading Nicalis' NightSky coming to Windows on January 6

JoystiqNicalis' NightSky coming to Windows on January 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 02 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macnicalisnifflasnight-gamenightskypcphysicsplatformerrelease-datewindowsSun, 02 Jan 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Disney Epic Mickey review: A brush with greatness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/disney-epic-mickey-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/disney-epic-mickey-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/29/disney-epic-mickey-review/#comments The unlikely creation of Deus Ex designer and industry legend Warren Spector and his imagineers at Junction Point, Disney Epic Mickey is the single most ambitious Wii exclusive outside of Nintendo's own releases. "Epic" is not a misnomer -- from the quality of the art and animation, to the level design, scale and even score of the game, it's clear that massive amounts of resources, both of the creative and financial variety, were lavished on it. There are moments in Epic Mickey that are so good, so polished and so full of charm I would have sworn that I was playing a game Shigeru Miyamoto had a hand in.

If only the whole game was like that.

Gallery: Disney Epic Mickey

Continue reading Disney Epic Mickey review: A brush with greatness

JoystiqDisney Epic Mickey review: A brush with greatness originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disneyDisney-InteractiveEpic-Mickeyjunction-point-studiosmickey-mousenintendoplatformerwarren-spectorwiiMon, 29 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shift Extended trailer explains the game in plain black-and-white]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/shift-extended-trailer-explains-the-game-in-plain-black-and-whit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/shift-extended-trailer-explains-the-game-in-plain-black-and-whit/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/25/shift-extended-trailer-explains-the-game-in-plain-black-and-whit/#comments Here's a brand new trailer for Shift Extended, a black-and-white platformer coming to PSN Minis next month. You could watch the video below to see how the game works, combining an interesting perception-shift mechanic with some clever platforming challenges, or you could just go play the Flash version of the game for yourself.

The "extended" version is supposed to have double the content of the Flash game, which means there will be new gameplay mechanics, new levels and even new scoring features. Look for it on PSN sometime in December.

Continue reading Shift Extended trailer explains the game in plain black-and-white

JoystiqShift Extended trailer explains the game in plain black-and-white originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Nov 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-and-whiteminisplatformerplaystationps3psnpspshiftshift-extendedsonyzallagThu, 25 Nov 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic Colors review: A bolt from the blue]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/sonic-colors-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/sonic-colors-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/10/sonic-colors-review/#comments
Believe me, I'm as surprised about this as you are.

Sega has shoved its mascot character into so many wretched games over the past dozen or so years that the phrase "good Sonic game" may as well be akin to saying "don't touch that fire; it'll freeze your hand." Yet here I am, trying to make the muscles in my hands type the words, "Sonic ... Colors ... is ... is ... good." Not just good for Sonic, but good good.

Gallery: Sonic Colors (E3 2010)

Continue reading Sonic Colors review: A bolt from the blue

JoystiqSonic Colors review: A bolt from the blue originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendoplatformersegaSonicsonic-colorssonic-teamwiiWed, 10 Nov 2010 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Adult Swim's latest Flash game climbs the corporate ladder]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/23/adult-swims-latest-flash-game-climbs-the-corporate-ladder/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/23/adult-swims-latest-flash-game-climbs-the-corporate-ladder/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/23/adult-swims-latest-flash-game-climbs-the-corporate-ladder/#comments Continuing its tradition of putting out quality, humorous browser-based games, Adult Swim recently launched its latest pixelated onus: Corporate Climber. The game's a simple platformer where the player ascends through the ranks of a major, criminally unsafe business by literally ascending through said business' corporate headquarters. Basically, it's like an episode of The Office, only it's way more violent, and way, way less awkward.

Check it out over on Adult Swim's game portal -- that is, assuming you can resist the siren call of Robot Unicorn Attack. You're playing it right now, aren't you? You monster.

JoystiqAdult Swim's latest Flash game climbs the corporate ladder originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Oct 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adult-swimbrowser-basedcorporate-climberflash-basedpcplatformerSat, 23 Oct 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone's Pix'n Love Rush hurries to PlayStation Minis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/iphones-pixn-love-rush-hurries-to-playstation-minis/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/iphones-pixn-love-rush-hurries-to-playstation-minis/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/28/iphones-pixn-love-rush-hurries-to-playstation-minis/#commentsThe iOS twitch platformer Pix'n Love Rush is being ported to systems with actual buttons -- namely, the PSP and PS3, for which it's being released as a Mini. The stylish side-scroller, a collaboration between developer Pastagames and the French zine publisher Pix'n Love, combines bite-sized coin-collecting platformer challenges with a variety of eye-catching visual styles, including Virtual Boy and Game Boy color schemes. The game's look is based on the Xbox Live Indie Games release Pixel (the third game in the Arkedo Series), which was a joint effort by Arkedo Studios and Pastagames.

Publisher Sanuk Games plans to release the Minis version "soon," though no specific date or price has been announced.

Continue reading iPhone's Pix'n Love Rush hurries to PlayStation Minis

JoystiqiPhone's Pix'n Love Rush hurries to PlayStation Minis originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Sep 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkedoarkedo-studiominispastagamespix-n-love-rushplatformerplaystationps3psppsp-minissanuk-gamessonyTue, 28 Sep 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Live's 'Game Feast' serves up Super Meat Boy on Oct. 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/game-feast-super-meat-boy-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/game-feast-super-meat-boy-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/31/game-feast-super-meat-boy-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Team Meat's manic and mercilessly tenderized hero, Super Meat Boy, is set to make his debut on Xbox Live Arcade on October 20. The developer announced the date via Twitter, and indicated that the well-done platformer would be part of "Game Feast," a new promotion from Microsoft Game Studios that should be detailed later today.

With Super Meat Boy making up the main course, Game Feast might just be burger, better and more badass than the recently concluded Summer of Arcade. See the full poster after the break.


Continue reading Xbox Live's 'Game Feast' serves up Super Meat Boy on Oct. 20

JoystiqXbox Live's 'Game Feast' serves up Super Meat Boy on Oct. 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Aug 2010 05:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game-feastmicrosoftplatformersuper-meat-boyteam-meatxblaxbla-game-feastxboxxbox-live-arcadeTue, 31 Aug 2010 05:38:00 EST<![CDATA[DSiWare's Furo Jump: Guilty Gear Gaiden claims the 'weirdest Guilty Gear game' prize]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/dsiwares-furo-jump-guilty-gear-gaiden-claims-the-weirdest-gui/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/dsiwares-furo-jump-guilty-gear-gaiden-claims-the-weirdest-gui/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/26/dsiwares-furo-jump-guilty-gear-gaiden-claims-the-weirdest-gui/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Okay, so it was pretty odd when Guilty Gear 2: Overture turned out not to be a 2D fighter, but a 3D action game with strategy elements. That was nothing compared to Furo Jump!!: Guilty Gear Gaiden!? for DSiWare.

Furo Jump (literally Bath Jump) stars Chimaki, a hidden character from Guilty Gear 2, in a quest to visit a hot spring for relief from back pain. To get to his dream bath, Chimaki must spin on a bar of soap and whip a towel at pink elephants. Sounds totally like Guilty Gear to us, right?

Furo Jump will make its splash on Japanese DSiWare September 1 for 500 DSi Points. Head past the break for the trailer with the world's most annoying narration. You can also play a Furo Jump Flash minigame here.

Continue reading DSiWare's Furo Jump: Guilty Gear Gaiden claims the 'weirdest Guilty Gear game' prize

JoystiqDSiWare's Furo Jump: Guilty Gear Gaiden claims the 'weirdest Guilty Gear game' prize originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arc-system-worksdsdsiwareFuro-Jump-Guilty-Gear-GaidenGuilty-GearjapannintendoplatformerThu, 26 Aug 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halfbrick follows up Fruit Ninja with Monster Dash chaser]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/halfbrick-follows-up-fruit-ninja-with-monster-dash-chaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/halfbrick-follows-up-fruit-ninja-with-monster-dash-chaser/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/halfbrick-follows-up-fruit-ninja-with-monster-dash-chaser/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Australian dev Halbrick Studios is running with the success of its iOS produce-slicing action game Fruit Ninja, releasing its latest game for the platform, Monster Dash, on the App Store late last night after introducing the world to it last week. Similar to Semi Secret Software's hit Canabalt, the title features similar "run for as long as possible while avoiding pits and walls" gameplay, with the addition of enemies and weapons.

As its name suggests, the game's bad guys are mummies, vampires, zombies and the like, and weapons range from a shotgun to the clever (and deadly) machinegun jetpack, which propels you skyward while raining bullets on baddies below. We've been having a lot of fun with this polished $0.99 release. Hit the App Store link below to see more.

Continue reading Halfbrick follows up Fruit Ninja with Monster Dash chaser

JoystiqHalfbrick follows up Fruit Ninja with Monster Dash chaser originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionapp-storehalfbrick-studiosiOSiphonemobilemonster-dashplatformerThu, 19 Aug 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DSiWare's Reflection out August 16 under new title 'Divergent Shift']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/dsiwares-reflection-out-august-16-under-new-title-divergent-sh/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/dsiwares-reflection-out-august-16-under-new-title-divergent-sh/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/13/dsiwares-reflection-out-august-16-under-new-title-divergent-sh/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Konami-published DSiWare platformer Reflection, which sends players through two different, mirror-imaged worlds simultaneously (one on each screen), will be released on the North American DSi Shop this Monday, August 16, according to a tweet from developer Intrinsic Games.

Continue reading DSiWare's Reflection out August 16 under new title 'Divergent Shift'

JoystiqDSiWare's Reflection out August 16 under new title 'Divergent Shift' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Aug 2010 23:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Divergent-ShiftdsDSiWareKonaminintendoPlatformerReflectionRelease-DateFri, 13 Aug 2010 23:40:00 EST<![CDATA[D3 putting Yogi Bear game in our pic-a-nic baskets]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/d3-putting-yogi-bear-game-in-our-pic-a-nic-baskets/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/d3-putting-yogi-bear-game-in-our-pic-a-nic-baskets/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/d3-putting-yogi-bear-game-in-our-pic-a-nic-baskets/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you haven't heard about this, we hate to be the ones to have to tell you: there's a live-action/CG Yogi Bear movie on the way, starring Dan Aykroyd as Yogi and Justin Timberlake as Boo Boo. Why are we burdening you with this information? Because D3 Publisher announced a video game based on it, also starring Dan Aykroyd.

Yogi Bear: The Video Game for Wii and DS, coinciding with the movie's holiday release, puts players in the collar and tie of Yogi Bear as he attempts to save Jellystone Park from being shut down. As you navigate through the park you'll be expected, of course, to steal pic-a-nic baskets without drawing the ranger's attention.

D3, a company owned by Namco Bandai, secured an agreement with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment for the license to this game, which Monkey Bar Games is developing. A lot of companies are working together to make sure you have this Yogi Bear game.

JoystiqD3 putting Yogi Bear game in our pic-a-nic baskets originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3-publisherdsjustin-timberlake-kind-of-nails-itnintendoplatformerwarner-bros-interactivewiiyogi-bearyogi-bear-the-video-gameWed, 04 Aug 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joyswag: Castlevania: Harmony of Despair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/joyswag-castlevania-harmony-of-despair/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/joyswag-castlevania-harmony-of-despair/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/joyswag-castlevania-harmony-of-despair/#comments Since we've already reviewed Castlevania: Harmony of Despair -- check it out! -- there won't be an XBLA in Brief preview this week. In its place is this giveaway, in which five entrants will receive a code.

To enter:
  • Leave a comment telling us your favorite Castlevania game ever.
  • You must be 13 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec).
  • Limit 1 entry per person.
  • This entry period ends at 6:00PM ET, Thursday, August 5th.
  • At that time, we'll randomly select five grand prize winners to each receive a download code for Castlevania: Harmony of Despair (ARV $15). [Code requires an Xbox Live account to redeem.]
  • For a list of complete rules, click here.
What is Joyswag? Since we don't keep the games and merchandise we receive for review or promotional purposes, it becomes "Joyswag," which is passed along to our readers. Please note that Joyswag may be in "used" condition.

For more info on our policy, click here.

JoystiqJoyswag: Castlevania: Harmony of Despair originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actioncastlevaniacastlevania-harmony-of-despairkonamimicrosoftplatformerxboxWed, 04 Aug 2010 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[And Yet It Moves to WiiWare August 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/and-yet-it-moves-to-wiiware-august-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/and-yet-it-moves-to-wiiware-august-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/04/and-yet-it-moves-to-wiiware-august-23/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This week, Nintendo leaked the release date for Broken Rules' world-rotating WiiWare platformer And Yet It Moves before changing it back to "TBD." Today, Broken Rules sent out a press release confirming that the stylish game will be available on the Wii Shop in North America on August 23 for 1,000 Wii Points.

And Yet It Moves, already available on PC, is a side-view platformer that forces players to periodically rotate the view by 90 degrees, turning walls into floors. If you haven't seen it -- and want to be unexpectedly charmed by Wii control demonstrations -- check out the trailer after the break. Actually, even if you've already played the PC version, you should watch this trailer. It looks like a lot of work went into it.

Gallery: And Yet It Moves (WiiWare)

Continue reading And Yet It Moves to WiiWare August 23

JoystiqAnd Yet It Moves to WiiWare August 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 14:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>And-Yet-It-MovesBroken-RulesnintendoPlatformerpuzzle-platformerwiiWiiWareWed, 04 Aug 2010 14:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Please publish Fractured Soul on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/please-publish-fractured-soul-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/please-publish-fractured-soul-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/30/please-publish-fractured-soul-on-ds/#commentsFiled under: , ,

This message is for the many Joystiq readers who are also in charge of business development at game publishing companies -- or for those few impulsive, wealthy Joystiq readers eager to start a new business venture at the drop of a hat.

You see, there's this DS game Fractured Soul. It takes the "two worlds on two screens" concept (as seen in titles like Reflection and Chronos Twins) and makes a fast-paced arcade experience out of it, with the player shifting back and forth at high speed in both platforming and shmup levels. Unfortunately, we can't play it, because developer Endgame Studios needs a publisher. N3V Games has already signed on for Australia, so that leaves ... everywhere else in the world.

That's where you come in. Watch the trailer after the break and give it some thought.

Continue reading Please publish Fractured Soul on DS

JoystiqPlease publish Fractured Soul on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsendgame-studiosfractured-soulnintendoplatformershmupFri, 30 Jul 2010 11:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Lost in Shadow lights up retail in January]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/lost-in-shadow-lights-up-retail-in-january/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/lost-in-shadow-lights-up-retail-in-january/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/28/lost-in-shadow-lights-up-retail-in-january/#commentsHudson is doing its best to make sure that its very pretty Wii platformer Lost in Shadow doesn't get lost in the typically crowded holiday game release season. Unfortunately for those of us who want to play it now now now, the company is accomplishing this by waiting it out. Lost in Shadow, first revealed in August 2009, won't be in stores in North America until January 4, 2011.

It's nice, then, that there's still more to learn about the game to keep us occupied. The latest trailer (after the break) and screens reveal mysterious gates that allow the player character, normally just a shadow, to take shape as some kind of light being, and move in 3D space.

Gallery: Lost in Shadow (7/28/10)

Continue reading Lost in Shadow lights up retail in January

JoystiqLost in Shadow lights up retail in January originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jul 2010 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hudsonlost-in-shadownintendoplatformerrelease-dateTower-of-ShadowwiiWed, 28 Jul 2010 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 passes 1 million sold in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-passes-1-million-sold-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-passes-1-million-sold-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/super-mario-galaxy-2-passes-1-million-sold-in-us/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Super Mario Galaxy 2 was the best-selling non-cowboy game in the United States last month. The 548,000 copies sold during June put the spacefaring platformer above the one-million mark in US sales, as proclaimed by Nintendo in a triumphant announcement. In kind of a bummer of a month in terms of general software sales, Super Mario Galaxy 2 was one of the few success stories for June.

While one million copies in two months (41 days of NPD reporting time) is impressive, it doesn't approach the level of success enjoyed by the first Super Mario Galaxy, which broke a million in its first month on the market, only 12 days of which counted for NPD. (The fact that its first month was November may have had something to do with that strong start.)

Nintendo also announced that DS hardware sales have reached "nearly 42 million," with Wii sales "closing in on a cumulative milestone of 30 million units sold in the United States alone." Both systems enjoyed sales spikes last month.

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 passes 1 million sold in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendoNPDPlatformersalesSuper-Mario-GalaxySuper-Mario-Galaxy-2wiiFri, 16 Jul 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[La-Mulana on WiiWare trades equippable retrogames for apps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/la-mulana-on-wiiware-trades-equippable-retrogames-for-apps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/la-mulana-on-wiiware-trades-equippable-retrogames-for-apps/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/la-mulana-on-wiiware-trades-equippable-retrogames-for-apps/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Developer Nigoro checked in via its blog to let the world know that work continues on the WiiWare remake of the PC action-adventure La-Mulana. The latest update gives us a look at ... the menu interface! It's more interesting than it sounds.

The developer showed off the new version of the item menu, containing a rather exciting (to Metroidvania lovers) number of in-game items. The MSX menu, which in the original game allowed you to "equip" real MSX games for status boosts, has been replaced with a "software" menu that allows you to equip EXE files to do the same thing. This changes the gameplay by allowing you to equip as much software as your RAM limit permits, instead of a hard limit of two "cartridges."

In addition, Nigoro revealed that the game will support control schemes for the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, GameCube controller, and Classic Controller.

JoystiqLa-Mulana on WiiWare trades equippable retrogames for apps originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>la-mulanaNicalisNigoronintendoPlatformerwiiWiiWareWed, 07 Jul 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rayman Origins slapped on XBLA, PSN this Christmas, other platforms possible]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/rayman-origins-slapped-on-xbla-psn-this-christmas-other-platfo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/rayman-origins-slapped-on-xbla-psn-this-christmas-other-platfo/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/06/rayman-origins-slapped-on-xbla-psn-this-christmas-other-platfo/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Rayman and Globox will be slapping everything in sight as soon as this holiday season. The "about" page for Rayman Origins, the new 2D Rayman revival, reveals that the first episode is scheduled for a Christmas release, with "the rest" to follow in 2011. Ubisoft specified releases on "HD Consoles" for the platformer, with Wii, PC, iPad, and 3DS in consideration as well.

The page also reveals that the Ubiart framework used by Origins' five-person team to create the game will be released open-source next year, allowing users to design levels and characters. Not only is Ubisoft making a convincingly indie-style game, it's going to release tools to let you make indie games.

Gallery: Rayman Origins (XBLA, PSN)


JoystiqRayman Origins slapped on XBLA, PSN this Christmas, other platforms possible originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftPlatformerplaystationps3Q4-2010RaymanRayman-OriginsRelease-dateUbiartUbisoftxboxTue, 06 Jul 2010 11:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Jett Rocket ending announces Jett Rocket 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/jett-rocket-ending-announces-jett-rocket-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/jett-rocket-ending-announces-jett-rocket-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/jett-rocket-ending-announces-jett-rocket-2/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jett Rocket was released on WiiWare yesterday, so we're sure you've all seen the ending by now. Even if not, we don't think this constitutes a spoiler: the ending provides a pretty strong hint that developer Shin'en is planning a sequel. How strong? "To be continued in Jett Rocket 2."

Shin'en is probably hard at work adding extreme new vehicles and new areas of the planet Yoroppa right now. The developer can't know yet if the game sold well enough to justify a sequel (because it's been out for a day). Pong Toss achieved sufficient sales for a sequel, so it's entirely possible. Actually, if there are two games about throwing ping-pong balls into plastic cups, we're going to go ahead and say that anything is possible.

JoystiqJett Rocket ending announces Jett Rocket 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jett-rocketnintendoplatformersequelShinenwiiWiiWareWed, 30 Jun 2010 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Preview: Monster Tale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/preview-monster-tale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/preview-monster-tale/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/23/preview-monster-tale/#commentsDeveloper Dreamrift, a company formed by the creators of Henry Hatsworth and the Puzzling Adventure, has partnered with Majesco for its next game, a DS title called Monster Tale, intended for younger audiences. The core Hatsworth concept of performing one action on one screen to affect the gameplay on the other screen remains, but the hyper-British Empire theme has been swapped out for an exaggerated version of childhood, complete with villainous neighborhood bullies. More importantly, the bottom screen, which hosted a falling-block puzzle game in Hatsworth, is now home to a "virtual pet" called Chomp.

At least, that's how Majesco puts it. I think the use of the term "virtual pet" does a disservice to the game. People who are into virtual pet games would likely find the interactions with Chomp too limited and the platformer on the top screen too distracting; and while those who like action-platformers would probably really like the upgrading system Chomp provides, they might never know it due to their instinctual evasion of pet sims.

Gallery: Monster Tale (DS)

Continue reading Preview: Monster Tale

JoystiqPreview: Monster Tale originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dreamriftdse3-2010MajescoMonster-TalenintendoPlatformerProject-MonsterVirtual-PetWed, 23 Jun 2010 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Trine 2 conjures online co-op for XBLA, PSN and PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/trine-2-conjures-online-co-op-for-xbla-psn-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/trine-2-conjures-online-co-op-for-xbla-psn-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/trine-2-conjures-online-co-op-for-xbla-psn-pc/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Trine 2
While failing to materialize on Xbox Live Arcade, whimsical puzzle platformer Trine found critical success on the PlayStation Network (even including a Platinum Trophy) and PC. Online co-op was a notable omission from the game -- and it's one Atlus and Frozenbyte's reforged partnership hopes to correct with Trine 2, coming to XBLA, PSN and PC in spring 2011.

The iconic trio of playable characters returns in Trine 2, each with a new ability to complement the game's more directed approach to puzzle design. Atlus claims that the physics-based challenges will be more difficult to break or avoid outright, but will still accommodate multiple solutions. Hopefully, experimentation -- or "messing around" in gaming parlance -- will still be encouraged, especially now that three friends can tackle puzzles together online.

We get dibs on the wizard, by the way.

Gallery: Trine 2 (E3)

Continue reading Trine 2 conjures online co-op for XBLA, PSN and PC

JoystiqTrine 2 conjures online co-op for XBLA, PSN and PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AtlusAtlus-USAe3-2010Frozenbytemicrosoftpcplatformerplaystationps3PSNtrine-2XBLAxboxFri, 18 Jun 2010 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[de Blob 2: The Underground rolls out on PS3, 360, Wii and DS in Spring 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/de-blob-2-the-underground-rolls-out-on-ps3-360-wii-and-ds-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/de-blob-2-the-underground-rolls-out-on-ps3-360-wii-and-ds-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/14/de-blob-2-the-underground-rolls-out-on-ps3-360-wii-and-ds-in/#commentsFiled under: , ,

As THQ CEO Brian Farrell indicated in February, de Blob's amorphous antics will be spreading to multiple platforms in de upcoming sequel, de Blob 2: the Underground. THQ has announced that de game will launch in Spring 2011 on de Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii and DS. The move to HD consoles will also enable support for 3D, just in case you felt that Blob's paint-splattering antics should extend beyond your screen and into your living room.

THQ also noted that de Blob would make further appearances through a partnership with the Syfy channel and additional "de Blob-branded consumer products." Like ... squishy de Blob stress balls? You can have that one for free, THQ.

Joystiqde Blob 2: The Underground rolls out on PS3, 360, Wii and DS in Spring 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3Dde-blobde-Blob-2-The-Undergrounddse3-2010microsoftnintendoplatformerplaystationps3puzzleTHQwiixboxMon, 14 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Comic Jumper packs in free 'Splosion Man DLC (plus: new trailers!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/comic-jumper-packs-in-free-splosion-man-dlc-plus-new-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/comic-jumper-packs-in-free-splosion-man-dlc-plus-new-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/10/comic-jumper-packs-in-free-splosion-man-dlc-plus-new-trailers/#commentsFiled under: , ,

You know, we thought we couldn't want need Twisted Pixel's Comic Jumper any more than we already do, but the announcement that two new levels for 'Splosion Man will be included with the game offers almost too much value for us to handle. And that's not even taking into account the two new trailers developer Twisted Pixel has sent along with the news.

You can check out an overview of the game above and find the good gameplay stuff just beyond the break.

Continue reading Comic Jumper packs in free 'Splosion Man DLC (plus: new trailers!)

JoystiqComic Jumper packs in free 'Splosion Man DLC (plus: new trailers!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beat-Em-UpComic-JumperE3-2010Microsoft-Game-StudiosPlatformerTwisted-PixelTwisted-Pixel-GamesXBLAXbox-Live-ArcadeThu, 10 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PC 'deluxe edition' of Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands includes Sands of Time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/pc-deluxe-edition-of-prince-of-persia-the-forgotten-sands-inc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/pc-deluxe-edition-of-prince-of-persia-the-forgotten-sands-inc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/26/pc-deluxe-edition-of-prince-of-persia-the-forgotten-sands-inc/#commentsIf you're considering a purchase of Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands on PC, why not get a version that comes with one or two extra games? A pre-ordered copy of the Digital Deluxe Edition, available on Steam, includes a map, a soundtrack, two extra skins, and, most importantly, a free copy of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time to play while you wait for the June 8 release of Forgotten Sands.

You'll also get a free copy of Sands of Time's sequel, Prince of Persia: Warrior Within. In fact, you'll get that freebie on Steam whether you buy the $60 deluxe version or the $50 regular version. The only reason you may not want to jump on either of these deals is that playing these games right before Forgotten Sands may make the new game seem even more lackluster.

JoystiqPC 'deluxe edition' of Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands includes Sands of Time originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 May 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurecollectors-editiondigital-deluxe-editionplatformerprince-of-persiaprince-of-persia-the-forgotten-sandsprince-of-persia-the-sands-of-timeprince-of-persia-warrior-withinsteamubisoftWed, 26 May 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Super Mario Galaxy 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/metareview-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/metareview-super-mario-galaxy-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/21/metareview-super-mario-galaxy-2/#commentsEveryone expects a Mario game to be good -- and it's even easier to expect quality when the new game is a direct follow-up to a game as universally adored as Super Mario Galaxy.

However, even given the high expectations, the reception Super Mario Galaxy 2's getting is startling. There are, as of right now, eight scores equivalent to 100 percent on the game's Metacritic page, a range befitting the title our own Randy Nelson called "the best Mario game ever." We've only quoted one of the 100-percenters below, in the interest of variety.
  • Edge (10): "This is a game that refuses to bore you, that can take you to the 60-star mark before asking you to do the same thing twice. It reuses assets, but almost never recycles ideas; you'll never see another title so thrifty, or so gratuitous."
  • Game Informer (93/100): "Sure, it's not the total reinvention of the genre we've come to expect from a new Mario title, but as a platformer fan I'm happy to get more Mario to tide me over. This game is a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre, as well as Nintendo's ability to create fresh new gameplay out of a decades-old formula."
  • Game|Life (9/10): "Super Mario Galaxy 2 is thus simultaneously more and less than its predecessor. It expands and elaborates on the gameplay in unpredictable ways, but the last one felt like a bigger, more complete adventure. That said, better core gameplay with less window dressing is infinitely preferable to the reverse."

Gallery: Super Mario Galaxy 2

JoystiqMetareview: Super Mario Galaxy 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 May 2010 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EADmariometareviewNintendonintendo-ead-tokyoplatformersuper-mariosuper-mario-brossuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiFri, 21 May 2010 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Scribblenauts unpacking adjectives this Fall on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/super-scribblenauts-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/super-scribblenauts-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/17/super-scribblenauts-ds/#comments Start flexing those ... whatever muscles you would use to exercise your imagination. Warner Bros. Interactive today announced Super Scribblenauts, the sequel to last year's similarly titled puzzle-platformer. The DS game will hit store shelves sometime this fall. Check out the first three (tiny, tiny) screenshots from the game in the gallery below.

As hinted at by the April issue of Nintendo Power, players will be able to modify the game's catalog of summonable items using adjectives, leading to complex creations such as "gentlemanly, flaming, flying zombies and purple, obese, winged elephants." That sounds wonderful, but we're more excited by the announcement's surreptitious reference to "upgraded controls." Does that mean we'll actually be able to walk to said lavender pachyderm without accidentally jumping into that adjacent pit of lava? We can only hope!

Gallery: Super Scribblenauts

JoystiqSuper Scribblenauts unpacking adjectives this Fall on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 May 2010 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>5th-cellDSNintendoplatformerpuzzlerelease-datescribblenautssuper-scribblenautswarner-brosWarner-Bros-InteractiveMon, 17 May 2010 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Henry Hatsworth devs crafting Monster Tale on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/henry-hatsworth-devs-crafting-monster-tale-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/henry-hatsworth-devs-crafting-monster-tale-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/12/henry-hatsworth-devs-crafting-monster-tale-on-ds/#commentsDreamrift, the new studio formed by Henry Hatsworth designer Peter Ong and programmer Ryan Pijai, is working on a new DS game that, once again, involves two distinct genres of running simultaneously across both screens. Instead of Hatsworth's weird mashup of platformer and falling-block puzzle, however, the new Monster Tale combines platforming and ... a pet simulation. The result is something reminiscent of A Boy and his Blob.

In Monster Tale, Ellie fights her way through the Monster World in order to free its denizens from the control of the "Kid Kings." Acquired items can be sent to the bottom screen, home of a monster named Chomp. The items Chomp eats or plays with in the bottom screen boost his abilities, or even transform him into one of around 30 forms when summoned to the top screen to protect Ellie. Will a cup of tea transform him into a dashing British adventurer? Probably not!

Majesco plans to release Monster Tale this December.

Gallery: Monster Tale (DS)


JoystiqHenry Hatsworth devs crafting Monster Tale on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 May 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreamriftDSmajescomajesco-entertainmentmonster-taleNintendopet-simplatformerWed, 12 May 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[American Super Mario Galaxy 2 commercial debuts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/american-super-mario-galaxy-2-commercial-debuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/american-super-mario-galaxy-2-commercial-debuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/11/american-super-mario-galaxy-2-commercial-debuts/#comments Pfft, "debuts?" More like soars across a whimsical landscape directly into our hearts. We were pressed for space, okay? Maybe that's why we're so keen to stare at yet another snippet of Super Mario Galaxy 2 -- if we watch this commercial (embedded after the break) carefully, the perpetually cheerful plumber might impart some lessons on space usage. Where does he find all that breathing room?

Continue reading American Super Mario Galaxy 2 commercial debuts

JoystiqAmerican Super Mario Galaxy 2 commercial debuts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>commercialmarioNintendoplatformersuper-mariosuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiTue, 11 May 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario Galaxy 2 trailer features bird racing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-features-bird-racing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-features-bird-racing/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/10/super-mario-galaxy-2-trailer-features-bird-racing/#commentsNintendo's viral-esque series of Super Mario Galaxy 2 promotional videos continues with a brief look at an odd flying minigame. In this racing segment, Mario woo-hoos through a course as he holds onto the legs of a "Fluzzard." The challenge, of course, is to win the race against a bunch of birds who aren't weighted down by husky plumbers.

Perhaps this particular Fluzzard flies faster, though, boosted by the assurance that its talents are useful to Mario. There are really only two fates for animals in the Mario universe, after all. If you can't be used as a vehicle in some way (like Yoshi, who is born wearing a saddle), you are doomed to being stomped to death. See the trailer after the break.

Continue reading Super Mario Galaxy 2 trailer features bird racing

JoystiqSuper Mario Galaxy 2 trailer features bird racing originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 May 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eadfluzzardmarioNintendoplatformerracingsuper-mario-galaxysuper-mario-galaxy-2WiiMon, 10 May 2010 18:30:00 EST