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 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sony accepting claims on 2011 PSN data breach settlement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/sony-accepting-claims-on-2011-psn-data-breach-settlement/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/sony-accepting-claims-on-2011-psn-data-breach-settlement/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/sony-accepting-claims-on-2011-psn-data-breach-settlement/#comments If you were a PSN, Qriocity or Sony Online Entertainment user at the time of the April 2011 Sony hack that disrupted the PlayStation Network for nearly a month and compromised 70 million user accounts, now's your chance to get a piece of the class action settlement levied against Sony last year.

To qualify, you must have held a PSN, Qriocity or Sony Online Entertainment account on or before May 14, 2011. Each service is eligible to receive different claims, but PSN users are able to receive either one or two games - if you already received a free game in Sony's 2011 "Welcome Back" promotion, you're only eligible for one; if not, you're eligible to choose two - from a list that includes standouts like LittleBigPlanet and God of War HD. Notably, none of the games on offer are for the PlayStation 4. If none of the games tickle your fancy, you can instead choose free dynamic themes for your PlayStation 3 or free PlayStation Plus subscription time.

After wading through multiple pages of bureaucratic legalese, you'll find everything you need to make your claim at the PSN-SOE settlement website.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqSony accepting claims on 2011 PSN data breach settlement originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LBPlegalLittleBigPlanetplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnpspsettlementsonyvitaMon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation TV price cut at major US retailers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/playstation-tv-price-cut-at-major-us-retailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/playstation-tv-price-cut-at-major-us-retailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/08/playstation-tv-price-cut-at-major-us-retailers/#comments The PlayStation TV's price tag has been reduced to Black Friday levels by several major US retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy and Gamestop. Gamespot took note of the unofficial reduction, which sees the core PS TV unit reduced to $80 ($20 off) and the controller-included bundle at $100 ($40 off).

Sony's official site still has the device regularly priced. Positioned as PS Vita system alternative that plugs into any HDMI-equipped television, the system does feature some compatibility issues with games. Here is the latest list of compatible titles.

JoystiqPlayStation TV price cut at major US retailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-TVplaystation-vitapspsonyvitaThu, 08 Jan 2015 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Add $60 from PayPal to your PSN wallet, get bonus cash back]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/add-60-from-paypal-to-your-psn-wallet-get-bonus-cash-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/add-60-from-paypal-to-your-psn-wallet-get-bonus-cash-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/10/add-60-from-paypal-to-your-psn-wallet-get-bonus-cash-back/#comments Got a PayPal account? Here's an easy way to get some free PlayStation Network cash: Just add $60 to your SEN wallet via PayPal between now and December 16 and you'll get an additional $10 in credit by the end of the month.

Eligible shoppers will receive a PSN code for $10 in wallet credit by December 23, which can then be used to buy games, movies, or anything else featured in the PlayStation Store. You may want to spend your newfound fortune on Strider, Valiant Hearts: The Great War, and other games offered in this week's PSN sale lineup, or you can put it toward new releases like Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris and Suikoden 2. Codes expire on January 22.

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqAdd $60 from PayPal to your PSN wallet, get bonus cash back originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>paypalplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyvitaWed, 10 Dec 2014 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Sale of the Dead is 2 weeks of spooky game discounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/psn-sale-of-the-dead-is-2-weeks-of-spooky-game-discounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/psn-sale-of-the-dead-is-2-weeks-of-spooky-game-discounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/psn-sale-of-the-dead-is-2-weeks-of-spooky-game-discounts/#comments PSN is a scary place right now. The Sale of the Dead starts today, offering discounts of up to 65 percent - and 80 percent for Plus members - on a lineup of games over two weeks. On sale in the first week's round is Dante's Inferno ($6.50, $3.90 for Plus), Dead Space 2 ($6.50, $3.90 for Plus), Dead Nation Apocalypse Edition ($7.50, $6 for Plus), Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare on PS4 ($26.50, $19.90 for Plus) and Tiny Brains on PS4 ($5, $4 for Plus), among others.

Week two begins on October 28 and includes Castlevania: Symphony of the Night ($5, $4 for Plus), Catherine ($10, $7 for Plus), Corpse Party: Book of Shadows ($10, $9 for Plus), Guacamelee: Super Turbo Charged Edition ($10.50, $7.35), Manhunt ($5, $4 for Plus), Outlast ($10, $5 for Plus) and Silent Hill Book of Memories ($15, $12 for Plus).

Week one of the sale concludes on October 27, and week two ends on November 3. There's also a lineup of horror movies and television shows on sale during both weeks.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSN Sale of the Dead is 2 weeks of spooky game discounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2014 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halloweenhorrorplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4PSNpspsonyvitaTue, 21 Oct 2014 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: PSN currently offline, no word on when it will return [update: it's back]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/16/sony-psn-currently-offline-no-word-on-when-it-will-return/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/16/sony-psn-currently-offline-no-word-on-when-it-will-return/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/16/sony-psn-currently-offline-no-word-on-when-it-will-return/#comments In a brief statement posted to its official support page, Sony notes that the PlayStation Network is currently down.

"PSN is currently offline, and we are hard at work to resume service," the message reads. "At this time an estimate as to when PSN will be online is unavailable; however, we will update this article as soon as there's additional information." Those affected by the outage are urged to follow the @PlayStation Twitter account for updates on when service has resumed.

Anecdotally, reports we've received suggest that the PSN Store is available to some players, while connecting to an online match results in a server error. Internal testing reveals that Joystiq staffers are unable to connect to Destiny's multiplayer Crucible mode.

Update: As commenter Mule points out, Sony's Twitter suggestion isn't quite accurate. For updates on the status of PSN, follow @AskPlayStation. The @PlayStation account may let you know once the service is back up, but for now is just angry PlayStation owners complaining en masse.

Update 2: PSN is once again online.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqSony: PSN currently offline, no word on when it will return [update: it's back] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Oct 2014 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnpspsonyvitaThu, 16 Oct 2014 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation TV launches stateside with last-minute compatibility changes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/14/playstation-tv-launches-stateside-with-last-minute-compatibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/14/playstation-tv-launches-stateside-with-last-minute-compatibility/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/14/playstation-tv-launches-stateside-with-last-minute-compatibility/#comments
The PlayStation TV launches today in North America boasting compatibility with a large number of PSP, PS Vita, and PS minis games, but users at NeoGAF point out that a last-minute compatibility update renders several major titles unplayable on Sony's new hardware.

Just prior to the system's stateside launch, Sony updated its PlayStation TV compatibility list, removing entries for notable PSP games like Twisted Metal: Head-On, Valkyria Chronicles 2, and WipeOut Pure. Several Konami-published PSone games are also no longer compatible with the PlayStation TV, including Metal Gear Solid, Silent Hill, and Suikoden.

The lack of omitted games that begin with the letters A through L suggests that Sony may be sorting out cross-platform rights issues alphabetically. While SNK-published PS minis games like Time Soldiers and Vanguard didn't make the cut, fellow SNK Arcade Classics 0 ports like Athena and Guerrilla War remain listed, hinting that further compatibility updates may be in store.

Positioned as a non-portable alternative to Sony's PS Vita system, the PlayStation TV plugs into any HDMI-equipped television and plays games and movies downloaded from the PlayStation Network. The system is available today as a $99.99 standalone package and bundled with a DualShock 3 controller and memory card for $139.99.

[Video: Sony]

JoystiqPlayStation TV launches stateside with last-minute compatibility changes originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Oct 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-tvplaystation-vitaps-minisps-vitapspsonyvitaTue, 14 Oct 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vib-Ribbon launching in North America via PSN tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/06/vib-ribbon-launching-in-north-american-via-psn-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/06/vib-ribbon-launching-in-north-american-via-psn-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/06/vib-ribbon-launching-in-north-american-via-psn-tomorrow/#comments At last, Vibri is free. Sony announced today that PaRappa the Rapper creator Masaya Matsuura's vector-graphics rhythm game Vib-Ribbon will hit the PlayStation Network tomorrow, marking its long-awaited North American debut.

Released for the original PlayStation in 1999, Vib-Ribbon puts players in control of Vibri, a bizarre rabbit-like creature who must vault on-screen obstacles in time to a backing music track. In a novel twist at the time, Vib-Ribbon allowed players to insert their own music CDs and create playable levels based on individual tracks, often upping the game's challenge far beyond the difficulty of its default soundtrack.

Though Vib-Ribbon was released in Japan and Europe, a North American version never surfaced. This week's PSN release will be the first time Vib-Ribbon is officially available in the United States, and Sony notes that its CD-scanning feature will arrive on the PlayStation 3 fully intact.

[Image: Sony / NanaOn-sha]

JoystiqVib-Ribbon launching in North America via PSN tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Oct 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>masaya-matsuurananaon-shaplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psonepsone-classicspspsceasonyvib-ribbonvitaMon, 06 Oct 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spend $100 on PSN in October, get $15 back]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/spend-100-on-psn-in-october-get-15-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/spend-100-on-psn-in-october-get-15-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/spend-100-on-psn-in-october-get-15-back/#comments Sony's latest promotion is dishing cash back to those that buy goods on PSN this month. As of October 1, players that spend at least $100 using their Sony Entertainment Network wallets will receive $15 in credit. The credit will be delivered to those taking advantage of the offer "on or before November 7" via email or PS4, PS3 or Vita system notification in redemption code form.

The promotion runs through Tuesday, October 28. Players will have until December 5 to redeem their $15 credit codes. Now the question is: What ever shall you spend that $100 on? PS4 players may consider the recently-launched and excellent Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, or may choose to pre-order Alien: Isolation via PSN. Or you could just blow it all on repeated rentals of Hocus Pocus. Your call.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqSpend $100 on PSN in October, get $15 back originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creditplaystationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitapromotionps3ps4psnpspsceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Entertainment-NetworkvitawalletThu, 02 Oct 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Strider 2, original arcade Strider team up on PSN next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/strider-2-original-arcade-strider-team-up-on-psn-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/strider-2-original-arcade-strider-team-up-on-psn-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/strider-2-original-arcade-strider-team-up-on-psn-next-week/#comments Capcom's over-the-top arcade side-scroller Strider 2 will launch for the PlayStation Network next week as a PSone Classic, the publisher confirmed yesterday.

Released in arcades in 1999, Strider 2 chronicles the unlikely acrobatic adventures of its ninja star Strider Hiryu, who scales gigantic structures and battles robotic creatures within a futuristic cityscape. The latest series entry, Strider, premiered earlier this year as a downloadable console and PC release. Hiryu also appears in the Marvel vs. Capcom series, most recently returning in 2011's Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3.

The PSone version of Strider 2 includes a port of 1989's Strider arcade game, which will be bundled with next week's downloadable PSN release. Strider 2 will be available for the PlayStation 3, PSP, and PS Vita on October 7.

[Image: Capcom]

JoystiqStrider 2, original arcade Strider team up on PSN next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2014 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcadecapcomplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psonepsone-classicspspsonystriderstrider-2vitaThu, 02 Oct 2014 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation TV explained in one family-friendly video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/01/playstation-tv-explained-in-one-family-friendly-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/01/playstation-tv-explained-in-one-family-friendly-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/01/playstation-tv-explained-in-one-family-friendly-video/#comments

PlayStation TV isn't an actual television, in case anyone was still wondering. It's a teeny tiny console that plays Vita, PSP and PSOne games, and streams PS3 and PS4 games. Sony recently revealed that PlayStation TV would play "nearly 700" Vita games, to be precise.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPlayStation TV explained in one family-friendly video originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Oct 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-TVplaystation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyvitaWed, 01 Oct 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom slashes prices on PSN, from Okami to Street Fighter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/17/capcom-slashes-prices-on-psn-from-okami-to-street-fighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/17/capcom-slashes-prices-on-psn-from-okami-to-street-fighter/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/17/capcom-slashes-prices-on-psn-from-okami-to-street-fighter/#comments Capcom fans with access to the PlayStation Network have good reason to be excited, as the publisher has unleashed a deluge of discounts on games ranging from classic 2D fighters to modern survival horror epics.

Highlights of the sale include fan-favorite PlayStation 2 crossover fighter Capcom vs SNK 2: Mark of the Millennium 2001 at $5 and Lost Planet 3 at $13.49. The Resident Evil games are likewise discounted, with Resident Evil 4 HD at $6.80, Resident Evil 5 Gold Edition at $15 and the HD remake of Resident Evil: Revelations at a mere $13.49, among other sizable survival horror discounts. Capcom's discounts on Street Fighter Alpha 3 Max and Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen are especially tempting, as both the classic 2D fighter and the uneven but compelling third-person fantasy adventure can be purchased together for less than $10.

For full details on all of Capcom's newly-announced discounts, visit Capcom Unity. Not only are all of the discounted games listed in an easy to read format, but Capcom also links directly to the Sony Entertainment Network, saving potential customers the hassle of looking up each game individually on their Sony console of choice.
[Image: Capcom]

JoystiqCapcom slashes prices on PSN, from Okami to Street Fighter originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Sep 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomOkamiplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspresident-evilsonystreet-fightervitaWed, 17 Sep 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: PSP users in Europe, Asia lose PSN access on September 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/11/report-psp-users-in-europe-asia-lose-psn-access-on-september-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/11/report-psp-users-in-europe-asia-lose-psn-access-on-september-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/11/report-psp-users-in-europe-asia-lose-psn-access-on-september-1/#comments Sony is closing off PlayStation Network access for its PlayStation Portable console in multiple regions starting this week, IGN reports.

A Sony representative told IGN that the shutdown affects PSP owners in Europe, Asia, Oceania, and select regions in Africa. North American PSPs will still be able to access the PlayStation Network while Sony "evaluates market trends" to determine if it should expand its service shutdown plans.

While affected regions will be unable to directly access the PlayStation Network from PSP hardware starting on September 15, Sony notes that users will still be able to buy PSN marketplace content and redownload previous purchases via the Sony Entertainment Network Online Store. Sony halted PSP production in Japan in June, and discontinued North American hardware shipments in January.

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqReport: PSP users in Europe, Asia lose PSN access on September 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discontinuedhardwareplaystationplaystation-networkpsnpspservice-shutdownshutdownsonyThu, 11 Sep 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New discounts join EU PSN Summer Sale: FIFA 14, Just Cause 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/13/new-discounts-join-eu-psn-summer-sale-fifa-14-just-cause-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/13/new-discounts-join-eu-psn-summer-sale-fifa-14-just-cause-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/13/new-discounts-join-eu-psn-summer-sale-fifa-14-just-cause-2/#comments Sony's European division has rolled out a swath of new discounts now available from the ongoing PlayStation Network Summer Sale including a massive price cut on FIFA 14 and lesser but still impressive discounts on Just Cause 2, Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon and 1942: Joint Strike.

The aforementioned FIFA 14 discount is the highlight of the sale, as the PlayStation 3 soccer simulation's price has dropped from £59.99 to £19.99. Meanwhile, retro-futuristic shooter Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon has gone from £11.99 to £6.49, open-world action adventure Just Cause 2 has been reduced from £10.99 to £3.99 and arcade shoot 'em up 1942: Joint Strike now bears a £1.69 price in lieu of its previous £7.99 tag. With the exception of FIFA 14, each of these games also receives an additional 10 percent discount for anyone with a valid PlayStation Plus subscription.

Though no PlayStation 4 games are included in this swath of new bargains, there are a massive number of discounts available for the PlayStation 3, Vita and PSP handhelds. Pay a visit to the European PlayStation.blog for a full rundown and regional pricing details.
[Image: EA]

JoystiqNew discounts join EU PSN Summer Sale: FIFA 14, Just Cause 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Aug 2014 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fifa-14playstationplaystation-vitaps3PSNpspsonySony-europesummer-salevitaWed, 13 Aug 2014 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Library of Congress discovers unreleased Duke Nukem game, chews bubblegum]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/07/library-of-congress-discovers-unreleased-duke-nukem-game-chews/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/07/library-of-congress-discovers-unreleased-duke-nukem-game-chews/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/07/library-of-congress-discovers-unreleased-duke-nukem-game-chews/#comments Hail to the king of unlikely archival discoveries, baby. David Gibson, a moving image technician with the Library of Congress, stumbled upon a diamond in the rough while scouring through hundreds of games and game-related media artifacts submitted to the library by game publishers: a complete, playable, but never-released game. Duke Nukem: Critical Mass for PSP, a wholly different game than a version released on Nintendo DS in 2011, was discovered on an innocuous DVD-R.

Far from a piece of random archival material, Gibson found the actual source disc that would have been used for writing the game onto UMDs, the ill-fated proprietary media Sony used for retail PSP games. This led to further complications, though, as he had to find ways to access information locked inside of Sony's proprietary files. While Gibson hasn't found way to make the game fully playable at this point, he was able to access game code and view 3D models for not just the series' iconic Pig Cops but also Duke himself. Duke riding a jetpack, no less.

Gibson's complete report on the discovery is fascinating as both a document of a lost piece of lore in one of gaming's most infamous series, but also as a view inside the challenge of archiving gaming's history. Even with the discovery of the game, sharing the data hidden on that DVD-R remains a challenge due to the proprietary files within.
[Images: 3D Realms]

JoystiqLibrary of Congress discovers unreleased Duke Nukem game, chews bubblegum originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2014 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsduke-nukemduke-nukem-critical-massnintendoplaystationplaystation-vitapspsonyvitaThu, 07 Aug 2014 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky lands on Steam, out today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/29/legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-lands-on-steam-out-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/29/legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-lands-on-steam-out-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/29/legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-lands-on-steam-out-today/#comments
If you're unfamiliar with Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky, that may be because Nihon Falcom's acclaimed PSP JRPG only headed West towards the end of the system's life cycle. The good news is there's now a new way of playing it, with the trilogy's first chapter coming to Steam later today, courtesy of XSEED.

XSEED is also bringing follow-up Trails in the Sky: Second Chapter to North America on PSP and Steam, but that's gonna take a bit more time to arrive. According to the publisher, the best fans should hope for is "the end of the year."

As for Trails in the Sky, its regular Steam price is $20 but there's a 15 percent first-week sale if you fancy dipping in early. For more on why it's worth a look, read this.

[Thanks, Jason K!]
[Image: XSEED]

JoystiqLegend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky lands on Steam, out today originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2014 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>falcomnihon-falcomnorth-americapcplaystationpsprelease-datesonysteamthe-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-skythe-legend-of-heroes-trails-in-the-sky-scxseedTue, 29 Jul 2014 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Court approves settlement over Sony's 2011 PSN breach]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/24/court-approves-settlement-over-sonys-2011-psn-breach/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/24/court-approves-settlement-over-sonys-2011-psn-breach/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/24/court-approves-settlement-over-sonys-2011-psn-breach/#comments The US District Court for the Southern District of California approved a settlement for the class action lawsuit resulting from Sony's 2011 PSN data breach. The settlement may result in Sony doling out as much as $17.75 million, which includes an offer for one free game (PS3 or PSP only), three PS3 themes or credit for three months of PlayStation Plus membership (valid only for new subscribers).

The claimant groups are divided based on whether PSN account holders prior to May 15, 2011 took advantage of the "Welcome Back" program following the intrusion. Those that did not accept the PSN Welcome Back offer can claim two of the benefit options among the games, themes and PS Plus membership credit on a first come, first served basis until a $6 million allocation from Sony is reached. For those that did take advantage of the program, they will receive one of the benefits above until a $4 million allocation is reached.

Continue reading Court approves settlement over Sony's 2011 PSN breach

JoystiqCourt approves settlement over Sony's 2011 PSN breach originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Jul 2014 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>claimsclass-actionclass-action-lawsuitcourtlawsuitplaystationPlayStation-Networkps3PSNpsn-outage-2011pspsettlementsonywelcome-backThu, 24 Jul 2014 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix squashes Final Fantasy Type-0 fan translation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/18/square-enix-squashes-final-fantasy-type-0-fan-translation/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/18/square-enix-squashes-final-fantasy-type-0-fan-translation/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/18/square-enix-squashes-final-fantasy-type-0-fan-translation/#comments Publisher Square Enix has issued a cease and desist order to a romhacker calling his or herself "Sky," effectively ending work on an English-language patch for the PSP's Japan-exclusive Final Fantasy Type-0.

"Unfortunately I'm forced to remove my posts and pages related to the popular Final Fantasy Type-0 fan translation project," Sky wrote in a recent blog update. "That's right, certain game company thinks that threats and false accusations are the way to treat its biggest fans."

Despite Sky's outrage, this move should come as no surprise. Square Enix recently revealed plans to launch Final Fantasy Type-0 in the West on the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. A free patch for a PSP game solely available to importers and software pirates would hinder sales of the new-generation game, which will undoubtedly be a more lucrative release for the publisher than its original incarnation.
[Image: Square Enix]

JoystiqSquare Enix squashes Final Fantasy Type-0 fan translation originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jul 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-agito-xiiifinal-fantasy-type-0microsoftplaystationps4pspsonysquare-enixxbox-oneFri, 18 Jul 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Dogs bites back at Sniper Elite 3 in this week's UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/14/watch-dogs-bites-back-at-sniper-elite-3-in-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/14/watch-dogs-bites-back-at-sniper-elite-3-in-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/14/watch-dogs-bites-back-at-sniper-elite-3-in-this-weeks-uk-charts/#comments Watch Dogs wins the latest round of musical chairs in this week's UK charts, ending Sniper Elite 3's two-week tenure at No. 1. The open-world gruff man sim makes it four weeks in total at the top, and Ubisoft says it's shipped 8 million copies since the game's May launch.

With not one new release in the top 40, there's barely any significant change in this week's top 10 outside of Tomodachi Life and Battlefield 4 sneaking back in.

Since it's so quiet, we're continuing where we left off in the last charts round-up and posting some super-awesome music below the break, in the spirit of kicking the week off the right way. This week, we're commemorating Germany's triumph in the World Cup Final with the country's brightest young pop sensation.

Continue reading Watch Dogs bites back at Sniper Elite 3 in this week's UK charts

JoystiqWatch Dogs bites back at Sniper Elite 3 in this week's UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2014 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dschart-trackchart-track-weeklymicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyubisoftukvitawatch-dogswii-uxboxxbox-oneMon, 14 Jul 2014 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Valiant Hearts, BlazBlue, Farming Simulator]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/24/psn-tuesday-valiant-hearts-blazblue-farming-simulator/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/24/psn-tuesday-valiant-hearts-blazblue-farming-simulator/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/24/psn-tuesday-valiant-hearts-blazblue-farming-simulator/#comments The PlayStation Store is packed with pre-orders and releases this week, headlined by the launch of Valiant Hearts: The Great War on PS4 and PS3, and BlazBlue: Chrono Phantasma and Farming Simulator 14 on Vita.

Sniper Elite 3 is up for pre-order on PS4, while Dynasty Warriors: Gundam Reborn is available for pre-order on PS3. Transformers: Rise of the Dark Spark is out now for PS3 and PS4, while Vita gets Atelier Rorona Plus with 3 DLCs, XBlaze Code: Embryo, Z-Run and End of Serenity. That last one is also out for PSP today.

We can't speak for all of these games, but Valiant Hearts is truly a breathtaking and brilliant game about the people and heroes of war.
[Image: Ubisoft]

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Valiant Hearts, BlazBlue, Farming Simulator originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jun 2014 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitaps3ps4PSNpsn-tuesdaypspsonyvitaTue, 24 Jun 2014 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Xseed to bring Brandish, Corpse Party to North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/06/xseed-to-bring-brandish-corpse-party-to-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/06/xseed-to-bring-brandish-corpse-party-to-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/06/xseed-to-bring-brandish-corpse-party-to-north-america/#comments Publisher Xseed has unveiled plans to bring English-speaking gamers two quirky Japanese hits, the PSP's Brandish: The Dark Revenant and PC survival horror epic Corpse Party.

For those unaware, Brandish: The Dark Revenant is a modern remake of the Super Nintendo cult hit Brandish, a roleplaying game developed by Falcom. Players star as Ares, a warrior who must battle his way through a multi-tiered, labyrinthine dungeon while being stalked by a sorceress who is as magical as she is half-naked.

Though the title Corpse Party might suggest a dope rave populated entirely by undead club kids, the game is actually a pixelated horror adventure with roleplaying game elements. Players control a hapless group of five people who must band together to survive the supernatural horrors of Heavenly Host Elementary School - an institute of learning where nap time has been replaced by imminent death.

Xseed has yet to determine a release date (or even window) for either Corpse Party or Brandish: The Dark Revenant, though the publisher claims that it will unveil trailers for each at the upcoming E3 conference.
[Image: Xseed]

Continue reading Xseed to bring Brandish, Corpse Party to North America

JoystiqXseed to bring Brandish, Corpse Party to North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2014 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brandishbrandish-the-dark-revenantcorpse-partyjapanlocalizationpcplaystationpspsonyxseedFri, 06 Jun 2014 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP discontinued in Japan just shy of its 10th birthday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/03/psp-discontinued-in-japan-just-shy-of-its-10th-birthday/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/03/psp-discontinued-in-japan-just-shy-of-its-10th-birthday/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/06/03/psp-discontinued-in-japan-just-shy-of-its-10th-birthday/#comments And now the end is near, and so the PlayStation Portable faces the final curtain. The Sony handheld says sayonara to Japan later this month, when shipments to the country's stores will officially end.

Sony announced the news today, noting it discontinued North American shipments back in January. The company told Associated Press the PSP is to continue in Europe until later this year, while The Verge adds there are no discontinuation plans yet for lines in Latin America and other Asian countries.

The PSP's farewell to its homeland comes nine and a half years after it launched there on December 12, 2004. While history will remember it as second-best to the uber-popular DS, the Sony handheld's numbers ain't to be sniffed at. As of March 2012 it had shipped 76.3 million units worldwide, a figure that's probably closer to 80 million now if not beyond. The PSP also brought us the sheer joy of Patapon as well as the resultant joy of Pata-puns, and for that alone it'll always pata-pata-pata-pon in our hearts.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSP discontinued in Japan just shy of its 10th birthday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2014 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiadiscontinuedeuropejapanlatin-americanorth-americaplaystationplaystation-portablepspsonyTue, 03 Jun 2014 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Transistor, Wolfenstein on PS4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/20/psn-tuesday-transistor-wolfenstein-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/20/psn-tuesday-transistor-wolfenstein-on-ps4/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/20/psn-tuesday-transistor-wolfenstein-on-ps4/#comments Happy Tuesday, everyone! The PSN Store update packs a punch this week, with Transistor and Wolfenstein: The New Order out on PS4, and Destiny up for pre-order on PS4 and PS3. Wolfenstein is also available on PS3, along with Drakengard 3 and it's collector's edition, Mugen Souls Z and R-Type Dimensions.

Sparkle 2 is out for Vita and PS4 as a Cross-Buy, and Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga is this week's PS2 Classic. There's also a lineup of PS1 Imports playable on PS3 and PSP (plus one also on Vita, Dragon Beat Legend of Pinball). A bunch of apps also get updates, including HBO GO on PS3 and MLB.TV Premium on PS3 and PS4.

This week, PlayStation Plus members get Puppeteer and Surge Deluxe for free.

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Transistor, Wolfenstein on PS4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2014 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>destinydrakengard-3playstationplaystation-vitaps3ps4PSNpsn-tuesdaypspsonytransistorvitawolfensteinTue, 20 May 2014 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony forecasts fifth annual loss in six years]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/14/sony-forecasts-fifth-annual-loss-in-six-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/14/sony-forecasts-fifth-annual-loss-in-six-years/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/14/sony-forecasts-fifth-annual-loss-in-six-years/#comments Sony expects to post a 50 billion yen net loss (around $490 million) in the current fiscal year, making it five annual losses across the last six years. The projection is a significant improvement from the 128.4 billion yen loss ($1.26 billion) Sony posted today for the year ending March 31, 2014, but it still sees the Japanese company languishing in the red.

The projected loss is tied to Sony's ongoing restructuring, and the costs of that bleeding into this year. Despite recording 177.4 billion yen ($1.74 billion) in "impairment charges" last fiscal year, Sony expects approximately 135 billion yen ($1.32 billion) in remaining costs this year, with 80 billion yen of that ($783 million) related to losses from exiting the PC business back in February.

As far as the PlayStation division goes, the outlook is rosier for the newly segmented "Game and Network Services" (Sony used to report the results of the "Game" division on its own). Sales rose by nearly 40 percent in the last fiscal year thanks to the PS4, but launching a new console contributed to an operating loss of 18.8 billion yen ($184 million), as did the closure of several MMOs. However, Sony expects to turn that loss into a gain this year.
[Image: Sony]

Continue reading Sony forecasts fifth annual loss in six years

JoystiqSony forecasts fifth annual loss in six years originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2014 03:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>financialslossplaystationplaystation-vitaps4pspsonyvitaWed, 14 May 2014 03:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Six more import PS1 games slated for PSN release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/13/six-more-import-ps1-games-slated-for-psn-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/13/six-more-import-ps1-games-slated-for-psn-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/13/six-more-import-ps1-games-slated-for-psn-release/#comments Publisher GungHo Online America continues its campaign to bring under-the-radar, import-only classics to North America, announcing that six more Japanese-language PSOne games will hit the PlayStation Network soon.

The company's upcoming re-releases include the Recettear-like item shop RPG Dungeon Shoutenkai: Densetsu no Ken Hajimemashita, pinball game Dragon Beat Legend of Pinball, terrain-shaping planetary simulation Neo Planet, oddball rock-paper-scissors action-RPG Tokyo 23ku Seifuku-Wars and idol-raising strategy games Heroine Dream and Heroine Dream 2.

GungHo hopes to "bring over as many PSOne Classics as possible," and previously spearheaded North American releases for games like Zanac X Zanac and Makeruna Makendo 2. GungHo's PSOne import games are priced at $5.99 apiece.

[Image: GungHo]

JoystiqSix more import PS1 games slated for PSN release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2014 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gunghoplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3psonepsone-classicspsone-importspspsonyvitaTue, 13 May 2014 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dark Souls 2 ships 1.2 million to West in first three weeks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/08/dark-souls-2-ships-1-2-million-to-west-in-first-three-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/08/dark-souls-2-ships-1-2-million-to-west-in-first-three-weeks/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/05/08/dark-souls-2-ships-1-2-million-to-west-in-first-three-weeks/#comments Death factory Dark Souls 2 shipped out 1.2 million copies to North America and Europe in its three weeks at retail. From Software's action-RPG launched in early March, just ahead of Bandai Namco's fiscal year-end, so the shipping figures published today are as of March 31, 2014. That means they don't include last month's PC release, nor do they include sales in Japan because From self-published the game over there.

With all that in mind, the third Souls game is showing good progress compared to its direct predecessor; Dark Souls took around a month to ship 1.5 million units worldwide. Around this time last year, From revealed total Dark Souls sales had risen to just under 2.4 million.

Looking at Bandai's Namco's end-year report, Dark Souls 2 was Bandai Namco's strongest software performer across the 12 months, although Vita and PSP entry God Eater 2 proved a strong hit in Japan with 700,000 units shipped. Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Z shifted 620,000 units worldwide, while JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: All Star Battle hit 500,000 units ahead of its Western arrival last month.

Bandai Namco's retail and arcade games contributed 155.5 billion yen to net sales, which converts to around $1.5 billion, and the company expects to hit similar numbers this fiscal year. Overall, Bandai Namco posted a net profit of 25 billion yen ($246 million), although that is down 22.6 percent year-on-year. However, the company expects that figure to rise by 11.8 percent for the coming fiscal year.
[Image: Bandai Namco]
​

JoystiqDark Souls 2 ships 1.2 million to West in first three weeks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 May 2014 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bandai-Namcodark-souls-2dragon-ball-z-battle-of-zeuropefinancialsfrom-softwaregod-eater-2jojos-bizarre-adventure-all-star-battlemicrosoftNamco-BandaiNorth-Americapcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsalesshipmentssonyvitaxboxThu, 08 May 2014 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GTA 4, Red Dead multiplayer gameplay unaffected by GameSpy closure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/30/gta-4-red-dead-multiplayer-gameplay-unaffected-by-gamespy-closu/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/30/gta-4-red-dead-multiplayer-gameplay-unaffected-by-gamespy-closu/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/30/gta-4-red-dead-multiplayer-gameplay-unaffected-by-gamespy-closu/#comments Rockstar's collection of games are some of the many to be affected by GameSpy's closure next month, although for the most part the studio's latest releases won't suffer. Rockstar plans to transition out of GameSpy's matchmaking service when it closes on May 31, and for some of the studio's older games, that will signal the end for their online features.

The closure means Rockstar is removing all the online features from Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition and Dub Edition Remix, Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars on DS and PSP, and Beaterator. The racers are losing all online multiplayer as a result, while Chinatown Wars and Beaterator are dropping their Social Club features. The music mixing game is also ditching track uploading and downloading.

No surprises: Grand Theft Auto 5 is totally unaffected, and online multiplayer gameplay remains intact in GTA 4, too. However, GTA 4 is dropping multiplayer leaderboards on PS3, while all platforms are parting with Social Club stat tracking and leaderboards. By the by, all of that also goes for the Complete version of GTA 4 and the Episodes from Liberty City.

Continue reading GTA 4, Red Dead multiplayer gameplay unaffected by GameSpy closure

JoystiqGTA 4, Red Dead multiplayer gameplay unaffected by GameSpy closure originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Apr 2014 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beateratordsepisodes-from-liberty-citygamespygrand-theft-auto-5grand-theft-auto-iviosipadiphonemacmax-payne-3microsoftmidnight-club-3-dub-editionmidnight-club-3-dub-edition-remixmobilenintendoonlinepcplaystationps3pspred-dead-redemptionrockstar-gamessonyxboxxbox-oneWed, 30 Apr 2014 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Natsume gets nostalgic in US, plans End of Serenity for PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/26/natsume-gets-nostalgic-in-us-plans-end-of-serenity-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/26/natsume-gets-nostalgic-in-us-plans-end-of-serenity-for-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/26/natsume-gets-nostalgic-in-us-plans-end-of-serenity-for-psp/#comments
Natsume will localize End of Serenity, KEMCO's classicly-styled JRPG, sometime this summer on the PlayStation Network. Hold off on adding another RPG to your Vita's schedule though - End of Serenity is planned to go back a generation and land on the PSP.

End of Serenity's world is littered with objects called Atomigems, which are used for everything from family heirlooms to items of elevated status worthy of worship. A group known as the Underworld has begun hoarding Atomigems for itself however, regardless of the importance placed in each item by previous owners.

Although the PSP version is End of Serenity's first North American appearance on handhelds, IGN noticed that the RPG began on mobile platforms as End of Aspiration. If you're okay with trading physical buttons for the chance to explore KEMCO's RPG right now, that version is currently available in the North American Google Play store for $4.99.

There's a chance you've played Natsume's last mobile-to-PSP JRPG port, too - the publisher also brought KEMCO's Mystic Chronicles to the PSP last year.
[Image: Natsume]

Continue reading Natsume gets nostalgic in US, plans End of Serenity for PSP

JoystiqNatsume gets nostalgic in US, plans End of Serenity for PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Apr 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>end-of-serenitynatsumepsprelease-dateSat, 26 Apr 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed series tops 73 million in sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/21/assassins-creed-series-tops-73-million-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/21/assassins-creed-series-tops-73-million-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/21/assassins-creed-series-tops-73-million-in-sales/#comments
Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed series reached a total of 73 million in sales according to the publisher's corporate website, which lists its "worldwide best-selling franchises." Assassin's Creed, which has featured six releases in the main series since its 2007 debut and eight additional games on browser and portable platforms, leads Ubisoft's second-best-selling property Just Dance (48 million) by 25 million units.

Assassin's Creed will likely continue to sell by the millions given that the next game, Assassin's Creed: Unity, will arrive on PS4, Xbox One and PC this holiday season. Unity was just announced in March and takes place in Paris during the French Revolution of the 18th century, a setting that was vaguely foretold at the end of Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood.

The next three series in the publisher's top five in sales bear the late Tom Clancy's name: Splinter Cell (30 million), Rainbow Six (26 million) and Ghost Recon (25 million). Head past the break to see the rest of Ubisoft's sales list.

Continue reading Assassin's Creed series tops 73 million in sales

JoystiqAssassin's Creed series tops 73 million in sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Apr 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidAssassins-Creedassassins-creed-2assassins-creed-3assassins-creed-4-black-flagassassins-creed-5assassins-creed-unitydsiosipadiphonemacmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsalessonyUbisoftvitawii-uxboxMon, 21 Apr 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 99-cent sale discounts Tokyo Jungle, Super Stardust, more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/18/playstation-99-cent-sale-discounts-tokyo-jungle-super-stardust/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/18/playstation-99-cent-sale-discounts-tokyo-jungle-super-stardust/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/18/playstation-99-cent-sale-discounts-tokyo-jungle-super-stardust/#comments The PlayStation Network Store is hosting a flash sale for dozens of games this weekend, each discounted to 99 cents. The sale spans PS3, Vita and PSP games as well as both PS2 and PSOne Classics, such as the Crash Bandicoot and Spyro the Dragon series.

The sale features standout gems like PopCap's Plants vs Zombies, Jonathan Blow's Braid, Sony's own Tokyo Jungle and Housemarque's Super Stardust HD. It also includes full seasons of episode Telltale-developed games Back to the Future and Jurassic Park as well as the adventure studio's five-game Tales of Monkey Island bundle. The full list of games included in this weekend's sale can be found after the break.
[Image: Sony Online Entertainment]

Continue reading PlayStation 99-cent sale discounts Tokyo Jungle, Super Stardust, more

JoystiqPlayStation 99-cent sale discounts Tokyo Jungle, Super Stardust, more originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Apr 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>back-to-the-futurebraidflash-saleHousemarquejurassic-parkplants-vs-zombiesplaystationplaystation-vitaps2-classicsps3PSNPSN-Storepsone-classicspspsalesonySuper-Stardust-HDtokyo-junglevitaweekendFri, 18 Apr 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Bust-A-Move 4 on the PlayStation Network this spring]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/16/bust-a-move-4-busting-up-the-playstation-network-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/16/bust-a-move-4-busting-up-the-playstation-network-this-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/04/16/bust-a-move-4-busting-up-the-playstation-network-this-spring/#comments Natsume announced that it will release a digital PSone Classics version of Taito's Bust-a-Move 4 this spring, bringing the classic bubble-bursting puzzler to the PlayStation 3, PSP, and PS Vita.

Bust-a-Move 4 expands on the color-matching gameplay of Taito's arcade-born Puzzle Bobble series with new pulley mechanics, challenging players to balance bubble clusters throughout its single-player Puzzle mode. The game also includes a friendship-straining competitive Versus mode, along with an Edit mode that allows players to create and save up to 25 custom level layouts.

A specific release date for Bust-a-Move 4 was not announced.

[Image: Natsume / Taito]

Continue reading Bust-A-Move 4 on the PlayStation Network this spring

JoystiqBust-A-Move 4 on the PlayStation Network this spring originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bust-a-move-4natsumeplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psonepsone-classicspspsonytaitovitaWed, 16 Apr 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Streams: A graveyard smash in Castlevania: Symphony of the Night [Relive the stream!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/joystiq-streams-a-graveyard-smash-in-castlevania-symphony-of-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/joystiq-streams-a-graveyard-smash-in-castlevania-symphony-of-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/27/joystiq-streams-a-graveyard-smash-in-castlevania-symphony-of-t/#comments


True story: Joystiq Streams was going to broadcast Shovel Knight, the pixel-y, Metroidvania-y, Mega Man-y game coming to Wii U, PC, and Mac this spring, with Yacht Club Games today. Unfortunately those plans fell through at the last minute, leaving the Streams crew desperately thirsty for 2D art and the exploration of interconnected, lushly animated environments. We crave double jumps and locked doors and wacky save rooms! Only one thing could possibly slake our thirst: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.

Starting at 4PM EST on the Joystiq Twitch channel, Joystiq's Richard Mitchell will play Castlevania: Symphony of the Night from the beginning, right when Richter Belmont and Dracula are in the thick of Aaron Sorkin-style banter. Anthony John Agnello will hang in the chat, feeding your questions to him. Some other guests may join us as we play. Dracula's castle is unpredictable. Crazy things happen.

Joystiq Streams broadcasts every Tuesday and Thursday at 4PM EST on the Joystiq Twitch channel.
[Images: Konami]

JoystiqJoystiq Streams: A graveyard smash in Castlevania: Symphony of the Night [Relive the stream!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Mar 2014 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevania-symphony-of-the-nightjoystiq-streamsKoji-Igarashimicrosoftpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitaxboxThu, 27 Mar 2014 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Thief, Lightning Returns headline Square Enix sale, save up to 50%]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/21/thief-lightning-returns-headline-square-enix-sale-save-up-to-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/21/thief-lightning-returns-headline-square-enix-sale-save-up-to-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/21/thief-lightning-returns-headline-square-enix-sale-save-up-to-5/#comments From now until March 30, Square Enix is hosting a buy more, save more sale through their official store. Customers who pick up one game or official Square Enix merchandise will save 20 percent off their order, those who pop for a second item will save 30 percent, and those who scoop up three or more products will save 50 percent.

The sale is only available on certain items, and pre-orders don't count. That being said, there are some stand-out items that qualify, such as the recently-released Thief and Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy 13. If you long to return to the world of Spira but like your definition less "high" and more "standard," the PS2 version of Final Fantasy 10 is also eligible.
[Image: Square Enix]

JoystiqThief, Lightning Returns headline Square Enix sale, save up to 50% originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Mar 2014 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4pspsalesonysquare-enixvitaxboxFri, 21 Mar 2014 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[European PlayStation Store slashes prices on Rockstar games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/20/european-playstation-store-slashes-prices-on-rockstar-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/20/european-playstation-store-slashes-prices-on-rockstar-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/20/european-playstation-store-slashes-prices-on-rockstar-games/#comments From now until April 2, the European version of Sony's PlayStation Network Store is hosting two sales both focused on massively discounting the prices attached to games bearing the Rockstar Games logo.

The core of the sale is aimed at Max Payne 3 and Grand Theft Auto 4, though these particular discounts only last until March 26. Max Payne 3 was originally £15.99 but is now £5.99 while Grand Theft Auto 4 has seen a similarly impressive price drop from £19.99 to £5.49. The sale also offers sizable discounts on the Max Payne 3 season pass, as well as the two Liberty City Stories released as DLC for Grand Theft Auto 4.

The remainder of the PSN discounts are valid until April 2 and include games like Canis Canim Edit (aka Bully), Red Dead Revolver and all three of the Grand Theft Auto games released for the PlayStation 2. Grand Theft Auto 4 is again the highlight here, as the game's Complete Edition, which was originally priced at £24.99, can be purchased for £7.99.

For full details and pricing information, visit the European PlayStation.blog.
[Image: Rockstar Games]

JoystiqEuropean PlayStation Store slashes prices on Rockstar games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Mar 2014 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Grand-Theft-Auto-4GTA4playstationps3pspRockStarRockstar-GamessalesonyThu, 20 Mar 2014 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Class of Heroes 2G gets PS3/Vita dual-screen play in the US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/13/class-of-heroes-2g-gets-ps3-vita-dual-screen-play-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/13/class-of-heroes-2g-gets-ps3-vita-dual-screen-play-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/13/class-of-heroes-2g-gets-ps3-vita-dual-screen-play-in-the-us/#comments

For those that missed Class of Heroes 2 last year -- which is understandable, since it was a PSP game released in 2013 -- it was a particularly thorny dungeon crawler in the Etrian Odyssey mold made by Acquire. Class of Heroes 2G is a PlayStation 3 remake of that game, adding new art, dungeons, and characters on top of the original weird story of demons and adventurers attending a magic school.

2G was originally released in Japan back in 2010 so it's strange enough that GaijinWorks is bringing it to the US now, and stranger still that it comes with brand new features. This trailer demonstrates how players can use their PSP or PS Vita as a second screen for character maintenance and dungeon maps via he portables' Remote Play feature. For an exploration-centric RPG, better access to maps is always welcome.

GaijinWorks and publisher MonkeyPaw will release Class of Heroes 2G will be available on PSN "soon." It also may get an extremely limited print run depending on the results of an upcoming poll on GaijinWorks' website.
[Images: GaijinWorks]

JoystiqClass of Heroes 2G gets PS3/Vita dual-screen play in the US originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>class-of-heroes-2class-of-heroes-2gplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitaThu, 13 Mar 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Spring Fever franchise deals include Call of Duty, GTA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/03/psn-spring-fever-franchise-deals-include-call-of-duty-gta/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/03/psn-spring-fever-franchise-deals-include-call-of-duty-gta/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/03/03/psn-spring-fever-franchise-deals-include-call-of-duty-gta/#comments If the seven games debuting on PSN this month at discounted rates don't spice up Sony's Spring Fever sale enough for your liking, the sale will also include sales on four different franchises. Games and DLC in the Call of Duty, Need for Speed, BioShock and Grand Theft Auto series are on sale at varying points in March for all PSN users.

The sale spans five games in the Need for Speed series, each down to $9.99 ($5 for PS Plus subscribers) tomorrow through March 10. Those games include Need for Speed: Most Wanted on both PS3 and Vita, Hot Pursuit on PS3, The Run on PS3 and Carbon on PSP and Vita. The Call of Duty series continues on March 11 through March 17 and features a variety of game and DLC bundles for Modern Warfare, Modern Warfare 2, Modern Warfare 3, Black Ops and Black Ops 2. Both Black Ops games can be purchased together for $69.99 ($62.99 on PS Plus) as well as all three Modern Warfare games for $64.99 ($58.49 for PS Plus members).

Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto series rolls in next on March 18 with sales lasting through March 24. The sale knocks GTA 5 down to $39.99, GTA 4 to $5.99 ($4.79 on PS Plus) as well as a handful of other PS3 and PSP games in the series ranging from $5.99 each ($4.79 for PS Plus) to $2.99 each ($2.39 on PS Plus). Lastly, the first two games in the BioShock series will also be $9.99 ($5 for PS Plus members) March 25 through March 31. Those games are joined by BioShock Infinite's Burial at Sea Episode 1 DLC for $10.40 ($7.34 on PS Plus) as well as Columbia's Finest Pack and Clash in the Clouds for $3.49 each ($2.44 on PS Plus).
[Image: Rockstar Games]

JoystiqPSN Spring Fever franchise deals include Call of Duty, GTA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 03 Mar 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshockbioshock-2bioshock-infinitecall-of-duty-4call-of-duty-black-opsCall-of-Duty-Black-Ops-2call-of-duty-modern-warfare-2call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3DLCgrand-theft-auto-5grand-theft-auto-ivGTAgta-ivgta5Need-for-SpeedNeed-for-Speed-Hot-Pursuitneed-for-speed-most-wanted-2012playstationplaystation-vitaps3PSNpspsalesonyspring-feverspring-fever-2014vitaMon, 03 Mar 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Four in February: Readers triumph over the Joystiq crew]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/28/four-in-february-readers-triumph-over-the-joystiq-crew/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/28/four-in-february-readers-triumph-over-the-joystiq-crew/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/28/four-in-february-readers-triumph-over-the-joystiq-crew/#comments Put down your buzzers, turn off your engines, sheathe your swords: Four in February has come to a close. The great 4iF challenge brought the Joystiq crew to their knees over the past four weeks. Joystiq Community members, on the other hand, rose to the occasion. Our heroes over on the 4iF Facebook page played through literally hundreds of games, and while not all of them went the distance, they played well.

While a few members of the staff managed to dig into their lists, finishing off entries here and there, not one of us managed to complete all four selections. Richard Mitchell, Joystiq Reviews Content Director, toppled two big ones including Silent Hill: Shattered Memories and Risk of Rain on the maddening Monsoon difficulty. Danny Cowan completed Virtual Hydlide on Sega Saturn while 4iF founder Mike Suszek conquered Tearaway and Toukiden: Age of Demons (though Toukiden wasn't on his original list.) Xav de Matos, Jess Conditt, Anthony John Agnello, and others? Couldn't beat nary a one.

That's okay, though! In fact, failure is just another form of success in Four in February. The point isn't to beat all four, but to encourage diversity in your game playing palette. We all love video games. That's why we're here. Four in February is an event that reminds us of the vast creative richness waiting in the folds of gaming. It's easy to get caught up in the rush of all that's new. 4iF is a conscious effort to slow down and take in our surroundings, to explore what's out there we may have missed. Just playing the game means you've won, even if you didn't see four sets of credits roll.

Still, special honors go to these players. They came, they saw, they kicked four games in the butt. Then "Like" our Facebook page to get in on the next community event, when you can trounce us all over again.

Continue reading Four in February: Readers triumph over the Joystiq crew

JoystiqFour in February: Readers triumph over the Joystiq crew originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Feb 2014 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfour-in-februarymacmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxxbox-oneFri, 28 Feb 2014 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Thief, Pac-Man Museum, Lords of Shadow 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/psn-tuesday-thief-pac-man-museum-lords-of-shadow-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/psn-tuesday-thief-pac-man-museum-lords-of-shadow-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/25/psn-tuesday-thief-pac-man-museum-lords-of-shadow-2/#comments The PlayStation Store updated today with new games across every platform, led by the launches of Thief and Basement Crawl on PS4. Thief joins another new release in Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 on PS3 this week.

PS3 owners can pick up The Batman Bundle, which includes Batman: Arkham Origins and the Batman: The Dark Knight Returns animated film as well as the Tales of Symphonia Chronicles bundle that comprises both Tales of Symphonia and Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World. Rounding out this week's PS3 additions is Magus and Pac-Man Museum, the latter being a $20 pack of games spanning the yellow gobbler's series.

Vita owners only get one new game this week: Mahjong 2 World Contest, as well as PSOne Classic Herc's Adventures, also available on PS3 and PSP. Though Vita owners can now download the Crackle app to watch movies and TV shows, the marquee media streaming addition this week is the WWE Network app on PS3 and PS4.
[Image: Square Enix]

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Thief, Pac-Man Museum, Lords of Shadow 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Basement-Crawlbatman-arkham-originscastlevania-lords-of-shadow-2Eidos-Montrealmagusmahjong-2-world-contestpac-man-museumplaystationPlayStation-Storeplaystation-vitaps3ps4PSNpsn-tuesdaypsone-classicspspsonySquare-EnixTales-of-SymphoniaTales-of-Symphonia-Chroniclesthief-2014thief-4vitawwewwe-networkTue, 25 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: February 24 - March 2, 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/24/now-playing-february-24-march-2-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/24/now-playing-february-24-march-2-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/24/now-playing-february-24-march-2-2014/#comments
Hide your valuables, Thief is on the loose this week ...

Choose your platform to jump to a specific release list:
[Image: Square Enix]

Continue reading Now Playing: February 24 - March 2, 2014

JoystiqNow Playing: February 24 - March 2, 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Feb 2014 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxxbox-oneMon, 24 Feb 2014 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: February 17-23, 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/18/now-playing-february-17-23-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/18/now-playing-february-17-23-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/18/now-playing-february-17-23-2014/#comments
Use lightning-fast moves to mow down enemies this week with Strider...

Choose your platform to jump to a specific release list:
[Image: Capcom]

Continue reading Now Playing: February 17-23, 2014

JoystiqNow Playing: February 17-23, 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ps4pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxxbox-oneTue, 18 Feb 2014 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Tiny Streams: Catching big '90s air in Cool Boarders 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/17/joystiq-tiny-streams-catching-big-90s-air-in-cool-boarders-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/17/joystiq-tiny-streams-catching-big-90s-air-in-cool-boarders-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/02/17/joystiq-tiny-streams-catching-big-90s-air-in-cool-boarders-2/#comments

Presidents Day, son! Today the Joystiq crew is dreaming of a winter break atop a mountain and enjoying the excess snow we seem to have on our hands. In fact, the heavy precipitation has gotten Mike Suszek, Joystiq's Contributing Editor, itching to hit the slopes.

The roughly rendered, low-polygon slopes of Cool Boarders 2. Cool Boarders was Sony's own snowboarding series back on the PS1 and, while the series didn't have the same wild magic as SSX, it was still something special. Behold Mike's shredding skills. If you're feeling inspired, you can download Cool Boarders 2 yourself on PS Vita, PlayStation 3 and PSP Go... because why not.

Joystiq Tiny Streams air every Monday and Friday at 4PM EST right here on Joystiq.com. Anyone who wants to enjoy more of Mike's streams can follow his Twitch channel. Full Joystiq Streams broadcast live on the Joystiq Twtich channel every Tuesday and Thursday at 4PM EST.
[Image: Moby Games/Daniel Hawks]

JoystiqJoystiq Tiny Streams: Catching big '90s air in Cool Boarders 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Feb 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiq-streamsjoystiq-tiny-streamsplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitaMon, 17 Feb 2014 16:00:00 EST