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[Killzone: Mercenary deployment moved up to September 10, pre-order goods revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/killzone-mercenary-deployment-moved-up-to-september-10-pre-ord/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/killzone-mercenary-deployment-moved-up-to-september-10-pre-ord/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/killzone-mercenary-deployment-moved-up-to-september-10-pre-ord/#comments
Killzone: Mercenary, the upcoming PS Vita installment in Sony's shooter series from Guerrilla Cambridge, has had its release bumped up a week. Previously pegged for a September 17 launch in North America, Killzone: Mercenary is now due on September 10.

In addition to moving up the date, Sony has revealed some pre-order incentives for Killzone: Mercenary over on the PlayStation Blog. The first perk is a 48-hour double XP boost, which spans all in-game contracts, bonuses and payouts. Joining that is additional in-game cash at the outset and a pre-order exclusive machine gun, the M224-A1.

JoystiqKillzone: Mercenary deployment moved up to September 10, pre-order goods revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Guerrilla-Cambridgekillzone-mercenaryplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-datesceavitaFri, 17 May 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[It's a sabotage: CounterSpy set to infiltrate PS3, PS Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/its-a-sabotage-counterspy-set-to-infiltrate-ps3-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/its-a-sabotage-counterspy-set-to-infiltrate-ps3-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/its-a-sabotage-counterspy-set-to-infiltrate-ps3-ps-vita/#commentsCounterSpy is a stylish Cold War sidescroller for PS3Vita Sony will publish CounterSpy, the first game from developer Dynamighty, a San Francisco outfit comprised of former LucasArts and Pixar talent, on PS3 and PS Vita. CounterSpy (working title) is a 2D action and stealth game set during the Cold War, in which you infiltrate Soviet and US military installations and sabotage war efforts to prevent the destruction of mankind. And just maybe set it straight, this Watergate.

Lead designer David Nottingham calls CounterSpy "primarily" a single-player game in the PlayStation Blog announcement, though he adds Dynamighty is "working on some interesting ways to let you compete with friends that go a little beyond traditional high scores." In an interview with Game Informer, Nottingham says an endless mode with procedurally generated levels is also in the works for the extended replay crowd.

There is no launch timeframe for CounterSpy at the moment. All we know is that the game will launch on PS3, PS Vita and mobile platforms - no mention of PS4.

JoystiqIt's a sabotage: CounterSpy set to infiltrate PS3, PS Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>counterspydynamightymobileplaystationplaystation-vitaps3sceavitaTue, 07 May 2013 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[IGF finalist Hohokum launching next year for PS4, PS3, PS Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/igf-finalist-hohokum-launching-next-year-for-ps4-ps3-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/igf-finalist-hohokum-launching-next-year-for-ps4-ps3-ps-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/igf-finalist-hohokum-launching-next-year-for-ps4-ps3-ps-vita/#commentsIGF finalist Hohokum launching next year for PS4, PS3, PS Vita Sony Santa Monica is working with artist Richard Hogg and Frobisher Says! developer Honeyslug to produce Hohokum, an upcoming title for the PlayStation 4, PS3, and PS Vita.

Hogg describes Hohokum as a "whimsical colorful game with an emphasis on playful exploration and creativity." Players control a wormish, kite-like flying creature as they navigate a virtual playground and ferry around its inhabitants. It resembles Keita Takahashi's Noby Noby Boy in premise, and Hogg notes that the experience is free from the "usual pressures" common to video games, such as persistent hand-holding and failure states.

Hohokum was named as a finalist in the Excellence in Visual Arts category of 2011's Independent Games Festival. Hogg expects the game to launch in 2014.

Gallery: Hohokum

JoystiqIGF finalist Hohokum launching next year for PS4, PS3, PS Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hohokumhoneyslugindieplaystationplaystation-4playstation-vitaps3ps4sceascea-santa-monicavitaTue, 07 May 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice review: Escapism encapsulated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/soul-sacrifice-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/soul-sacrifice-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/01/soul-sacrifice-review/#comments Soul Sacrifice is a steady ascent to superiority over your captor, a mad sorcerer named Magusar. You can provoke and challenge him from within your fetid cage at any time, but ultimate victory requires toil, repetition and mastery of the same magic that imprisons you. You'll have to play the game to get out, which makes you wonder what the real trap is.

Freedom through power is your goal in the game's fiction and function, with progression framed in a living, speaking journal covered by a contorted face. The cheeky diary, named Librom, recalls the inner turmoil and exploits of Magusar's former partner, from whom you acquire magic and memories packaged as short, perfect-for-portable quests. Discovering the author's identity and exploits is an intriguing, incremental accompaniment to your own gestation as a powerful conjurer.

Soul Sacrifice is a game you play more for the beach than for the sand. Like other sagas that spin around the aggressive acquisition of beastie bits, there is less reward in the act of fighting than the result - and in the case of bigger battles, "epicness" is often conflated with "duration." Soul Sacrifice has no pretense of exploration or towns, just a distilled drip-feed of enclosed arenas and creature extermination that enables new spells, augmented magical prowess or a greater life expectancy for the next challenge.

Gallery: Soul Sacrifice

Continue reading Soul Sacrifice review: Escapism encapsulated

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice review: Escapism encapsulated originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptkeiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitarpgsceasoul-sacrificevitaWed, 01 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB rates 'Sly Collection' for Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/esrb-rates-sly-collection-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/esrb-rates-sly-collection-for-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/20/esrb-rates-sly-collection-for-vita/#comments The Entertainment Software Ratings Board has issued an "E" classification to the PlayStation Vita version of The Sly Collection, which is interesting since that game hasn't been announced for that platform - insert dramatic musical sting here.

As is typically the case with these sorts of ESRB leaks, the rating summary gives very little pertinent information beyond the fact that the port exists, and that one of the games briefly shows a barrel marked "ale." We've reached out to Sony for more information and will update with any official word we receive. In the meantime, we're going to follow the ESRB's lead and see if anything in our fridge is also marked "ale."

JoystiqESRB rates 'Sly Collection' for Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ESRBplaystationplaystation-vitasanzaru-gamesSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americathe-sly-collectionvitaSat, 20 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Superbot 'substantially' smaller after Sony split, working on new IP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/superbot-substantially-smaller-after-sony-split-working-on-ne/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/superbot-substantially-smaller-after-sony-split-working-on-ne/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/15/superbot-substantially-smaller-after-sony-split-working-on-ne/#comments Superbot, the developer behind PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, is a smaller studio following its split with Sony earlier this year, which saw the Culver City-based outfit make a number of positions redundant. Its next step is to work on a new property.

"We have substantially shrunk down our operations but are still going strong while we work on a new IP," director of operations David Yang told Edge.

Superbot was formed in 2009 as Broodworks, a studio focusing on developing video games for Sony handhelds. The studio was later renamed Superbot Entertainment and made its debut with PlayStation All-Stars.

JoystiqSuperbot 'substantially' smaller after Sony split, working on new IP originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Apr 2013 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-yangplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3sceasuperbotsuperbot-entertainmentvitaMon, 15 Apr 2013 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Grandia: How a forgotten JRPG solved the problem of repetitive combat]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grandia-how-a-forgotten-jrpg-solved-the-problem-of-repetitive-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grandia-how-a-forgotten-jrpg-solved-the-problem-of-repetitive-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/grandia-how-a-forgotten-jrpg-solved-the-problem-of-repetitive-c/#commentsThis is a weekly column from freelancer Rowan Kaiser, which primarily focuses on "Western" role-playing games: their stories, their histories, their mechanics, their insanity, and their inanity. This week, however, Rowan focuses on a forgotten JRPG: Grandia.

Grandia How a forgotten JRPG solved the problem of repetitive combat
One of the core issues facing most role-playing games is how they deal with repetitive combat. Since RPGs tend to be so much longer than normal games, with a wider scope, it's much more difficult for them to create unique battles like a shorter action game can. So RPGs tend to have constant, similar, repetitive fights. These are often derided by players and critics under umbrella terms like "random battles," "grinding," or in massively multiplayer games, "trash."

Yet RPGs need those regular battles to keep the games interesting. With rare exceptions, the player skills are unlikely to be tested in terms of skill outside of combat, and most RPG stories depend on violence and its consequences. This makes combat an integral component of the pacing of RPGs. Successful RPGs tend to strike a balance between combat, exploration, and storytelling. When one of those three part is left unchecked, the game can become boring - and it's usually excessive repetitive fighting that's the issue.

For decades now, RPGs have attempted to make their regular battles more interesting, and less likely to be described as trash or grinding. Japanese RPGs have historically tended to experiment with different combat forms more aggressively than their Western counterparts. Some games, like the Suikoden series, tries to avoid the combat issue by making combat smooth and unobtrusive, as I wrote about in a prior column. But not every RPG can, or should, de-emphasize combat. When combat works, even in common random battles, it can be the best part of an RPG. How can RPGs avoid having combat be too repetitive and meaningless?

Continue reading Grandia: How a forgotten JRPG solved the problem of repetitive combat

JoystiqGrandia: How a forgotten JRPG solved the problem of repetitive combat originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Game-ArtsgrandiaJRPGOpinionplaystationps3PSXSCEAUbisoftFri, 12 Apr 2013 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension's 'Trial of Archimedes' patch out now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/god-of-war-ascension-patch-to-tweak-trial-of-archimedes-diffi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/god-of-war-ascension-patch-to-tweak-trial-of-archimedes-diffi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/god-of-war-ascension-patch-to-tweak-trial-of-archimedes-diffi/#comments God of War Ascension patch to tweak 'Trial of Archimedes' difficulty unleashedA promised patch to adjust the difficulty found during a late game combat sequence in God of War: Ascension has been deployed. Santa Monica Studio Community Strategist Aaron Kaufman posted on the PlayStation Blog to explained the changes introduced by the game's patch.

Found in Chapter 28 of the game's single-player campaign, the 'Trial of Archimedes' pits Kratos against waves of enemies as he ascends a tower toward Ascension's final chapter. The tweak will now provide players across all difficulties with a slew of "green health orbs and a nominal amount of blue magic orbs" after each successive wave, of which there are three.

"In every God of War game, establishing a well-paced difficulty ramp towards the end of the game is paramount to us. Based on player response, the degree of challenge offered here was short of our goal of being perfectly balanced," Kaufman wrote.

The 1.03 patch also adds new, visual multiplayer customization options called "Marks" that players can obtain based on a number of criteria, including selected allegiance. For more details, check the PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension's 'Trial of Archimedes' patch out now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionPatchplaystationps3Santa-Monica-StudioSCEAUpdateTue, 26 Mar 2013 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted 3 free multiplayer downloaded over 350,000 times]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/uncharted-3-free-multiplayer-downloaded-over-350-000-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/uncharted-3-free-multiplayer-downloaded-over-350-000-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/uncharted-3-free-multiplayer-downloaded-over-350-000-times/#comments At the end of February, Sony and Naughty Dog flipped the freebie switch on Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception multiplayer. Since then, over 350,000 individuals worldwide have downloaded the free client.

The news comes as part of a DLC announcement over on the PlayStation Blog, where Naughty Dog reveals it will offer new DLC every month until June, starting first with "Oddball" avatar accoutrements celebrating Extraterrestrial Abductions Day. Some "Oddball" items include a duct tape mask, a bag for your avatar's head and a burlap sack, also for your head - because nothing celebrates alien abductions quite like a sombrero.

JoystiqUncharted 3 free multiplayer downloaded over 350,000 times originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-to-playnaughty-dogplaystationps3sceasonyuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionTue, 19 Mar 2013 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop adds All-Stars pre-order perk for God of War: Ascension]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/gamestop-adds-all-stars-pre-order-perk-for-god-of-war-ascension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/gamestop-adds-all-stars-pre-order-perk-for-god-of-war-ascension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/gamestop-adds-all-stars-pre-order-perk-for-god-of-war-ascension/#comments GameStop adds AllStars preorder perk for God of War AscensionGod of War: Ascension adds a voucher for two PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale characters with pre-orders from GameStop. The dueling duo is Zeus from the God of War series and Isaac Clarke of Dead Space fame, both of whom we met in February for PS All-Stars. The characters will unlock on March 19.

This DLC joins the previous Ascension pre-order perk at GameStop, the Champions Pack that includes a skin of King Leonidas from 300, a 48-hour multiplayer XP boost and the Mythological Heroes Multiplayer Pack. The Champions Pack also includes a poster, but that's less "DLC" and more "reality."

[Thanks, Bradley!]

JoystiqGameStop adds All-Stars pre-order perk for God of War: Ascension originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gamestopgod-of-war-ascensionplaystationPlayStation-All-Stars-Battle-Royalepre-orderps3SCEAsony-santa-monicaSun, 10 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Creating God of War: Ascension's 'elephantaur']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/creating-god-of-war-ascensions-elephantaur/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/creating-god-of-war-ascensions-elephantaur/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/creating-god-of-war-ascensions-elephantaur/#comments
This behind-the-scenes video of God of War: Ascension shows the creation of the game's unique elephant-like creature. The final version of the "elephantaur" can be seen soon, as the game will be available for PS3 on March 12.

JoystiqCreating God of War: Ascension's 'elephantaur' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3SCEAsony-santa-monicatrailerSun, 10 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension enables The Last of Us demo May 31]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/buy-god-of-war-ascension-get-access-to-the-last-of-us-demo-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/buy-god-of-war-ascension-get-access-to-the-last-of-us-demo-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/buy-god-of-war-ascension-get-access-to-the-last-of-us-demo-may/#comments Synergy! The demo for Naughty Dog's upcoming fungi-fueled survival game, The Last of Us, will be accessible on May 31, 2013, through copies of God of War: Ascension. The demo will be accessible through the front menu of God of War: Ascension, as Sony has previously revealed.

We've contacted Naughty Dog for further clarification as to whether this demo will ever be available to those without God of War: Ascension. The Last of Us was originally due on May 7, until it was pushed back to June 14 worldwide.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension enables The Last of Us demo May 31 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demogod-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionnaughty-dogplaystationps3psnsceathe-last-of-usFri, 08 Mar 2013 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension 'Mythological Heroes' DLC gets real in this trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/god-of-war-ascension-mythological-heroes-dlc-gets-real-in-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/god-of-war-ascension-mythological-heroes-dlc-gets-real-in-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/god-of-war-ascension-mythological-heroes-dlc-gets-real-in-thi/#comments
Those who pre-order God of War: Ascension will unlock a few famous mythological characters for multiplayer raging: Achilles, Odysseus, Orion and Perseus. They all come with their own unique weapons, though we half expected Orion to keep his around his waist.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension 'Mythological Heroes' DLC gets real in this trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Mar 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcgod-of-war-ascensionmythological-heroesplaystationps3sceasony-santa-monicaTue, 05 Mar 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[See Zeus, Isaac Clarke throw down in PlayStation All-Stars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/see-zeus-isaac-clarke-throw-down-in-playstation-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/see-zeus-isaac-clarke-throw-down-in-playstation-all-stars/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/see-zeus-isaac-clarke-throw-down-in-playstation-all-stars/#comments
Sony will release downloadable characters Zeus and Isaac Clarke for PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale on March 19, along with a new stage that is a cross-over of MediEvil and The Unfinished Swan. According to a post on the PlayStation Blog from newly appointed Sony lead game designer Seth Killian, the stage will be free to play in online ranked matches, $1.99 to own.

Both Zeus and Isaac are being offered gratis to those who purchase God of War: Ascension, available through an included voucher; or you can buy each combatant for $4.99 through PSN on March 19. Above, you can see Isaac battle back the madness - hop past the break if you want to see Zeus choke Sackboy.

Gallery: PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale (Zeus and Isaac Clarke DLC)

Continue reading See Zeus, Isaac Clarke throw down in PlayStation All-Stars

JoystiqSee Zeus, Isaac Clarke throw down in PlayStation All-Stars originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2dead-space-3dlceagod-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionisaac-clarkemedievilplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3sceasuperbot-entertainmentthe-unfinished-swanvisceral-gamesvitazeusThu, 28 Feb 2013 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Uncharted 3 multiplayer going free-to-play]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/25/rumor-uncharted-3-multiplayer-going-free-to-play/#comments It seems the competitive world of Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception is expanding to the realm of free-to-play.

According to a post on the official PlayStation Blog detailing upcoming PSN releases, a heading revealed the multiplayer component of the latest Uncharted title would be free-to-play; information found under the apt heading "Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception Multiplayer (Free to Play)."

No further details were revealed and the section has since been removed from the official PlayStation blog's post. In a year-end post on Naughty Dog's official blog, the company promised "very exciting information about multiplayer" was coming in 2013.

Joystiq has contacted Sony for comment and will update this story as more information becomes available.

JoystiqRumor: Uncharted 3 multiplayer going free-to-play originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F2PFree-to-PlayNaughty-Dogplaystationps3SCEASonyuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionMon, 25 Feb 2013 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sound Shapes DLC landing March 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sound-shapes-dlc-landing-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sound-shapes-dlc-landing-march-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sound-shapes-dlc-landing-march-12/#comments Queasy Games has announced that a new bundle of Sound Shapes DLC has had its debut performance scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, and that said DLC will indeed be Cross-Buy enabled. It's sort of like when you buy a modern album on vinyl, but it also comes with a code for a digital copy.

Unfortunately, Queasy neglected to mention what the DLC actually is, and instead only revealed its release date, saying that more information will be forthcoming. Personally, we're hoping for an "all MIDI dog sounds" pack.

JoystiqSound Shapes DLC landing March 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Queasy-GamesSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasound-shapesvitaSat, 23 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony patent would combat piracy by comparing load times]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sony-patent-would-combat-piracy-by-comparing-load-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sony-patent-would-combat-piracy-by-comparing-load-times/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/23/sony-patent-would-combat-piracy-by-comparing-load-times/#comments Sony files patent that would combat piracyA patent describing a "method for validating legitimate media products" attributed to Sony Computer Entertainment America surfaced earlier this week. Originally filed in August 2011, the patent elaborates on a process by a which a piece of media could be detected as legitimate (not pirated) by comparing two load times against a benchmark for the media.

As seen in the flow chart above, the patent also describes a secondary validation stage in which a serial number and "user identification information" are checked against "reliable data, such as that sourced from the manufacturer or developer of the media title." Examples of the user information could include account names, location, IP addresses, the speed of the user's connection and product license numbers.

The secondary validation cycle would account for load time errors due to hardware issues, but would also be skipped entirely if the first cycle (the load time benchmark comparisons) checks out. Whether the "load time" method for combating piracy is used in future hardware efforts by Sony is unknown.

JoystiqSony patent would combat piracy by comparing load times originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 23 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>load-timespatentpiracySCEASONYSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSat, 23 Feb 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tretton: PS4 game prices range from $.99 to $60]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tretton-ps4-game-prices-range-from-99-to-60/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tretton-ps4-game-prices-range-from-99-to-60/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tretton-ps4-game-prices-range-from-99-to-60/#comments Tretton PS4 game prices range from $99 to $60PlayStation 4 game prices will run the gamut from one dollar to sixty, SCEA CEO Jack Tretton has revealed. "We're going to welcome free-to-play models, games from $.99 up to those $60 games," Tretton revealed in a CNBC interview.

Tretton also responded to the fact that we didn't actually get to see the PS4 during the unveiling event earlier this week, even though Sony told us all about the innards. Tretton says it was more important for Sony to show the concepts behind the system than to make a big deal out of the hardware itself - excluding the DualShock 4, obviously.

"You're going to see some of the greatest games ever created and the consumer is going to have more ease of use, the ability to sample games before they buy them and have more breadth of games than they've ever seen before," Tretton said of the PlayStation 4 during the segment. He also clarified that while Holiday 2013 is the official launch window for the PS4, "the promise is out for Holiday 2013, so pre-Christmas."

JoystiqTretton: PS4 game prices range from $.99 to $60 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dualshock-4jack-trettonplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4sceaFri, 22 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Persona 2: Eternal Punishment rated for PS3, PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/persona-2-eternal-punishment-rated-for-ps3-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/persona-2-eternal-punishment-rated-for-ps3-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/17/persona-2-eternal-punishment-rated-for-ps3-psp/#comments Persona 2: Eternal Punishment, the original PlayStation game and second chapter in the Persona 2 saga, has a new ESRB rating for the PS3 and PSP, suggesting a launch on PSN.

The first Persona 2 installment, Innocent Sin, made the trek to PSP in 2011, with nary a word on Eternal Punishment following suit. An ESRB rating, however, is a fairly solid indication of an impending launch. Eternal Punishment received the same rating on PS3 and PSP as it did on PS1 all those years ago, T for Teen. Eternal Punishment on PS3 and PSP is published by SCEA, rather than Atlus, which published the PS1 version and Innocent Sin's iterations.

JoystiqPersona 2: Eternal Punishment rated for PS3, PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ESRBpersona-2-eternal-punishmentPersona-2-Innocent-Sinplaystationps3pspratingsSCEAsonySun, 17 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Join God of War: Ascension social challenge, get the single player demo early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/join-god-of-war-ascension-social-challenge-get-the-single-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/join-god-of-war-ascension-social-challenge-get-the-single-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/join-god-of-war-ascension-social-challenge-get-the-single-play/#comments While we knew a single player demo for God of War: Ascension was coming in late February, we didn't know that February 26 would be the exact date of its arrival. What's more, those that participate in the Rise of the Warrior "social challenge" have the opportunity to gain early access to that demo on February 20.

The social challenge has players picking sides between the Spartans and Trojans, teaming up to net 10 million points first as a team when perusing through an online graphic novel that details the events leading up to the game's story. By completing the riddles contained in the challenge, players also unlock weapon and armor DLC for the game. God of War: Ascension will launch March 12 on PS3.

JoystiqJoin God of War: Ascension social challenge, get the single player demo early originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3rise-of-the-warriorSCEAsocial-challengeSONYsony-santa-monicaSat, 16 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Patapon 3 comes to Vita next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/patapon-3-comes-to-vita-vita-vita-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/patapon-3-comes-to-vita-vita-vita-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/patapon-3-comes-to-vita-vita-vita-next-week/#comments Patapon 3 will become a PS Vita-compatible game next week. The news comes via the latest PlayStation Blogcast, episode number 62, wherein social media manager Sid Shuman and crew confirm the new PS Vita compatibility will be available alongside next week's PSN update.

Predecessors Patapon and Patapon 2 are both compatible with PS Vita. A multiplayer demo for Patapon 3 was issued ahead of its launch a few years back, though our quick check on PSN shows that free demo is no longer available.

JoystiqPatapon 3 comes to Vita next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>patapon-3playstationplaystation-vitapspSCE-Japan-StudiosceascejsonyvitaFri, 15 Feb 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension Best Buy pre-order bonus is a big 'ol hammer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/god-of-war-ascension-best-buy-pre-order-bonus-is-a-big-ol-hamm/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/god-of-war-ascension-best-buy-pre-order-bonus-is-a-big-ol-hamm/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/god-of-war-ascension-best-buy-pre-order-bonus-is-a-big-ol-hamm/#comments God of War Ascension Best Buy preorder bonus is a big frickin' hammerThose who pre-order God of War: Ascension through Best Buy will be able to wield the mythical hammer, Mjölnir, during multiplayer matches. On top of the hammer, Best Buy pre-orders also net the Mythological Heroes multiplayer DLC pack, a series of characters available for use in multiplayer.

Last month Sony announced a 500GB special edition console bundle with God of War: Ascension, available for $349 on March 12 alongside the launch of Ascension. The bundle also includes every other God of War game ever (minus the mobile game) and a 30-day subscription to Sony's premium PlayStation Plus service.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension Best Buy pre-order bonus is a big 'ol hammer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buygod-of-war-ascensionplaystationpre-orderps3sceasonysony-santa-monicaThu, 14 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Twisted Metal series on sale this week on PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/twisted-metal-series-on-sale-this-week-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/twisted-metal-series-on-sale-this-week-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/twisted-metal-series-on-sale-this-week-on-psn/#comments To celebrate the one year anniversary of Twisted Metal on the PS3, the entire series is discounted on PSN for the next week. It all starts with the PS3 entry, which has had its price shot, run over and exploded down to a manageable $29.99 for the next week.

PS One Classics Twisted Metal and Twisted Metal 2 are both on sale for $4.99 each; Twisted Metal Black, the PS2 entry in the series, is on sale for $7.99 - you may recall it was included in first edition copies of 2012's Twisted Metal gratis. If purchasing piecemeal isn't your idea of a good deal, you can get everything together in the Twisted Birthday Bundle for $39.99.

Last year's Twisted Metal made its PSN debut in October for $40 - if you missed out on Eat Sleep Play's entry in the long-running series, be sure to read our review.

JoystiqTwisted Metal series on sale this week on PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eat-sleep-playplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnsceatwisted-metaltwisted-metal-2twisted-metal-2011twisted-metal-2012twisted-metal-blackTue, 12 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony and Superbot part ways, Superbot 'excited' about its future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/sony-and-superbot-part-ways-superbot-excited-about-its-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/sony-and-superbot-part-ways-superbot-excited-about-its-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/sony-and-superbot-part-ways-superbot-excited-about-its-future/#comments HIT 1ST Sony and Superbot part ways, all future PS AllStars DLC done internallySony and Superbot Entertainment, the developer behind PS3 and Vita brawler PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, are no longer an item. Sony confirms in a statement to Kotaku that its business relationship with Superbot is over:

"Sony Computer Entertainment can confirm that the working agreement with developer Superbot Entertainment has amicably ended. We have had a positive working relationship with this talented studio, and wish them the best of success in their next endeavor. PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale and the title's forthcoming DLC releases will continue to be fully supported by Santa Monica Studio."

Superbot's director of operations David Yang provides a statement on the split, noting that the studio doesn't have plans to reduce its staff now, but that could change soon. "It is unlikely we can continue with our current work force for an extended period of time," Yang says. "We are still working things out and hope to continue on with as many of us as possible."

Superbot's complete statement reads as follows:

"Superbot Entertainment can confirm that the relationship with SCEA has ended on good terms. We are extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work on with Sony on Playstation All-Stars Battle Royale, and are extremely proud of the work we have done. Superbot Entertainment will continue working on projects that reflect our passion for games and our commitment to creating award winning titles. We are very excited about beginning the next chapter of our future and invite all of our fans and supporters to follow our journey."

On January 25, Sony confirmed layoffs at Superbot and promised to support any future All-Stars DLC. A character pack for Battle Royale including Gravity Rush's Kat and Starhawk's Emmett Graves is due on February 12.

JoystiqSony and Superbot part ways, Superbot 'excited' about its future originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3SCEASONYsony-santa-monicasuperbot-entertainmentvitaMon, 04 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice being given up to NA April 30, EU May 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/29/soul-sacrifice-being-given-up-to-na-april-30-eu-may-1/#comments Soul Sacrifice given up to NA April 30, EU May 1Keiji Inafune's Comcept is relinquishing Vita action-RPG Soul Sacrifice to North America on April 30, and to Europe the day after on May 1. It'll be in both stores and on PSN on its day of release. The game received its Japanese release date of March 7 last month.

Both regions get the same pre-order bonuses, such as the two character costumes and three magical aids for battle. Those aids are the Spirits' Flamepike, which spears a fiery five-hit combo attack, the Spirits' Blightstone, which stirs up a poisonous explosion, and Spirits' Fulgurwood, which can both track enemies and cast a thunder spell.

The most curious bonus is that of Japanese voice-overs. It's always great to have the option, but tying it to pre-orders is certainly unusual. If you're not gonna sacrifice your dosh for the pre-order, take note that the voice-over pack will be sold separately.

Gallery: Soul Sacrifice

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice being given up to NA April 30, EU May 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>comceptkeiji-inafuneplaystationplaystation-vitarelease-dateSCEASCEESony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-Europesoul-sacrificevitaTue, 29 Jan 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time animated prequel steals our hearts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-animated-prequel-steals-our-hearts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-animated-prequel-steals-our-hearts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/26/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-animated-prequel-steals-our-hearts/#comments
This animated prequel for Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time brings players up to speed on the mishaps of Sly and the gang. The game is coming to PS3 and Vita February 5, and a demo is available now for PS Plus members.

JoystiqSly Cooper: Thieves in Time animated prequel steals our hearts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animatedplaystationplaystation-vitaps3sanzaru-gamesSCEAsly-coopersly-cooper-thieves-in-timeSONYvitaSat, 26 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS All-Stars dev SuperBot lays off unknown number of employees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/report-ps-all-stars-dev-superbot-hit-with-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/report-ps-all-stars-dev-superbot-hit-with-layoffs/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/25/report-ps-all-stars-dev-superbot-hit-with-layoffs/#comments Superbot Entertainment, the Sony-owned developer responsible for PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, has suffered layoffs today, IGN reports.

"SCEA can confirm that SuperBot Entertainment did make a reduction in their workforce today," a Sony representative told IGN. "The studio and SCEA remain committed to supporting PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale post launch, including developing the title's forthcoming DLC releases in the coming months."

Currently, the number of employees affected by the downsizing remains unknown, though we have reached out to both Sony and Superbot for more information about the situation and will update as details become available.

Update: Sony has confirmed to us that layoffs have indeed hit Superbot, though no further information was given. Its full statement on the matter can be found after the break.

Continue reading PS All-Stars dev SuperBot lays off unknown number of employees

JoystiqPS All-Stars dev SuperBot lays off unknown number of employees originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Jan 2013 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>downsizinglayoffsplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3SCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasuperbotsuperbot-entertainmentvitaFri, 25 Jan 2013 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension single-player demo coming late February [Update: multiplayer beta open to all this weekend]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/god-of-war-ascension-single-player-demo-coming-late-february/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/god-of-war-ascension-single-player-demo-coming-late-february/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/god-of-war-ascension-single-player-demo-coming-late-february/#comments
A "full-fledged" single-player demo for God of War: Ascension is coming in late February, according to a recent PlayStation blog. With the multiplayer beta scheduled to end next week, fans only have the above 30-second teaser trailer to watch for the next month in preparation for the game's March 12 release date.

Unless you bought the Total Recall remake film on Blu-ray of course, which came with the E3 single-player demo that is exclusive through 3/8/13. While we'd assume those are two different demos by virtue of February and March being two different months, we've contacted Sony to be sure.

Update: God of War: Ascension's closed multiplayer beta testing initiative is officially open to all PSN users for the duration of the holiday weekend, Sony has informed us. Get in on that action by clicking here.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension single-player demo coming late February [Update: multiplayer beta open to all this weekend] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Demogod-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3SCEASONYsony-santa-monicatrailerSat, 19 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MLB 13: The Show video details Diamond Dynasty improvements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/mlb-13-the-show-video-details-diamond-dynasty-improvements/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/mlb-13-the-show-video-details-diamond-dynasty-improvements/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/mlb-13-the-show-video-details-diamond-dynasty-improvements/#comments
This video for MLB 13: The Show notes improvements on the series' Diamond Dynasty mode this year, in which players create their own teams comprised of a mixture of real-life and fictitious players. MLB The: The Show is slated to arrive March 5 for PS3 and Vita.

JoystiqMLB 13: The Show video details Diamond Dynasty improvements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baseballMLBmlb-13-the-showplaystationplaystation-vitaps3SCEASCEA-san-diegoSONYvitaSat, 19 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kat, Emmett join PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Feb. 12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/kat-emmett-join-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/kat-emmett-join-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-feb-12/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/18/kat-emmett-join-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-feb-12/#comments
Gravity Rush's Kat and Starhawk's Emmett Graves will be joining the fray as PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale's first DLC characters on February 12, Sony has announced. Both characters will be free for their first two weeks of availability, though their price point after the fact remains unknown.

As we learned during their initial reveal last December, both characters make heavy usage of the abilities their own games are based on, with Kat (above) manipulating gravity and Emmett summoning mining equipment, as seen after the break. Both characters sport the same amenities as the original cast: extra costumes, full arcade stories and trial modes, etc.

The previously announced Heavenly Sword/Wipeout stage has also been slated for February, though a specific release date or price was not provided. We're still holding out for a ship from Wipeout as a playable character.

Continue reading Kat, Emmett join PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Feb. 12

JoystiqKat, Emmett join PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Feb. 12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>emmett-gravesgravity-rushkatplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3release-dateSCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americastarhawksuperbot-entertainmentvitaFri, 18 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension dev diary goes online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/god-of-war-ascension-dev-diary-goes-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/god-of-war-ascension-dev-diary-goes-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/god-of-war-ascension-dev-diary-goes-online/#comments
God of War: Ascension's online component has one goal. Make it feel right to attack your friends - or attack with your friends. The latest dev diary explores how developers at Sony Santa Monica are making sure to hit the perfect balance of carnage and compassion.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension dev diary goes online originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensiononlineplaystationps3SCEAsony-santa-monicaWed, 16 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time pre-orders for $40, includes bonus]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-pre-orders-for-40-includes-bonus/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-pre-orders-for-40-includes-bonus/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/15/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-pre-orders-for-40-includes-bonus/#comments It looks like Sly Cooper will be sneaking in well below the usual $60 retail price for PS3 games. The listings on Walmart, Amazon and GameStop all currently have Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time available for pre-order at $40. Not quite a five-finger discount, but certainly better than nothing.

Both Amazon and GameStop's pre-orders also include some in-game bonuses, notably new skins for Sly's para glider and a playable Seal Team Murray. It's also probably worth reiterating that Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time features Cross-Buy, meaning those who pick up the PS3 version get the Vita version for free.

[Thanks, Michael!]

JoystiqSly Cooper: Thieves in Time pre-orders for $40, includes bonus originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jan 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitaps3sanzaru-gamessceasly-cooper-thieves-in-timesonyvitaTue, 15 Jan 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pirates' Andrew McCutchen wins MLB 13 The Show cover athlete vote]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/pirates-andrew-mccutchen-wins-mlb-13-the-show-cover-athlete-vot/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/pirates-andrew-mccutchen-wins-mlb-13-the-show-cover-athlete-vot/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/12/pirates-andrew-mccutchen-wins-mlb-13-the-show-cover-athlete-vot/#comments Pirates' Andrew McCutchen wins MLB 13 The Show cover athlete votePittsburgh Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen was announced as the winner of the MLB 13: The Show cover athlete vote held on the MLB's official site. McCutchen garnered over 100,000 votes in the five-day poll.

Second place went to New York Yankees pitcher C.C. Sabathia, who received just under 90,000 votes, while Detroit Tigers third baseman and triple crown winner Miguel Cabrera got third with 76,000 votes.

MLB 13: The Show is set to launch March 5 for PS3 and Vita.

JoystiqPirates' Andrew McCutchen wins MLB 13 The Show cover athlete vote originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jan 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-mccutchencover-athletecover-voteMLBmlb-13-the-showplaystationplaystation-vitaps3SCEASCEA-san-diegosony-san-diegovitaSat, 12 Jan 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time sneaks to Europe March 27]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-sneaks-to-europe-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-sneaks-to-europe-march-27/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/15/sly-cooper-thieves-in-time-sneaks-to-europe-march-27/#comments
We knew that Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time would launch February 5 on PS3 and Vita in North America, but even Sly Cooper can't be in two places at once. We can now expect his arrival across the pond on March 27, according to the PlayStation Blog.

To top it off, we have a nifty new story trailer for the game, which is great. Suspiciously great.

Gallery: Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time (5/18/12)

JoystiqSly Cooper: Thieves in Time sneaks to Europe March 27 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitaps3PSNsanzaru-gamessceSCEAsly-cooper-thieves-in-timestory-trailertrailervitaSat, 15 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension's multiplayer trailer is straight-up gross]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/#comments
This God of War: Ascension multiplayer trailer and the ending of Apocalypse Now! have more in common than we'd generally like, except instead of a cow this has a beefy guy, and there's some Southern rock/railroad building blues playing in the background. Greece has a "South," right?

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension's multiplayer trailer is straight-up gross originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensiongross-dudemultiplayerplaystationps3SCEASony-Computer-EntertainmentSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaWed, 12 Dec 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension PS Plus beta takes a stab at January 8 launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascension-ps-plus-takes-a-stab-at-january-8-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascension-ps-plus-takes-a-stab-at-january-8-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascension-ps-plus-takes-a-stab-at-january-8-launch/#comments That PlayStation Plus-exclusive multiplayer beta for God of War: Ascension has been dated for January 8. Those who participated in the Rise of the Warrior social game and were on the winning Spartan team for the game's first team challenge can check out the beta starting today. Losers on the Trojan team can check out the beta starting on December 16.

The multiplayer beta for God of War: Ascension is composed of two modes: team Favor of the Gods and free-for-all Favor of the Gods. These modes task teams and individuals with reaching a certain requisite number of points, "earning points via kills, bonus brutal kills, opening chests, capturing domination points, and, if you're skillful enough, performing executions using the Spear of Olympus," the PlayStation Blog reports. The map featured in the beta will be the Desert of Lost Souls, seen above.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension PS Plus beta takes a stab at January 8 launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betagod-of-war-ascensionmultiplayer-betaplaystationplaystation-plusps-plusps3sceasony-santa-monicaWed, 12 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last of Us pre-order bonuses detailed, trailer unveiled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-last-of-us-pre-order-bonuses-detailed-trailer-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-last-of-us-pre-order-bonuses-detailed-trailer-unveiled/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/10/the-last-of-us-pre-order-bonuses-detailed-trailer-unveiled/#comments
Naughty Dog revealed the pre-order bonuses for The Last of Us this weekend, hot on the trail of the new trailer from the VGAs, which you can watch above. As for the pre-orders, they're split into the stuff all participating retailers are offering and the additional in-game content GameStop is bundling in.

All participating pre-orders include the game's official soundtrack, a PS3 dynamic theme based on the box art, and 'Winter Joel' and 'Winter Ellie' PSN avatars. That sounds perfect for a game confirmed for late spring - May 7, 2013, to be specific.

Pre-order at GameStop and you'll also get multiplayer goodies on top of the soundtrack, theme, and avatars. Those goodies include bonus XP, a melee attack booster, customizable character items, bonus skins, and a bit of extra in-game cash to help you on your way. Naughty Dog confirmed earlier this year that multiplayer would be coming to The Last of Us, but not in the form of campaign co-op.

JoystiqThe Last of Us pre-order bonuses detailed, trailer unveiled originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>naughty-dogplaystationps3SCEAsony-computer-entertainment-americathe-last-of-usvga-2012Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MLB 13: The Show winds up to hit on March 5 for PS3 and Vita]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/mlb-13-the-show-winds-up-to-hit-on-march-5-for-ps3-and-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/mlb-13-the-show-winds-up-to-hit-on-march-5-for-ps3-and-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/mlb-13-the-show-winds-up-to-hit-on-march-5-for-ps3-and-vita/#comments MLB 13 The Show winds up to hit on March 5 for PS3 and VitaMLB 13: The Show is wisely staying out of public places until we get some beautiful spring weather, now scheduled to launch on March 5, 2013, for PS3 and Vita.

MLB 13 includes a few new features, such as a stadium setting with Playoff mode, a new beginner mode and improved Play Now, Franchise and Road To The Show modes. Franchise, Season and Road To The Show game saves can be synced among devices, whether PS3, Vita or that other PS3 you break out for special occasions.

JoystiqMLB 13: The Show winds up to hit on March 5 for PS3 and Vita originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mlb-13-the-showplaystationplaystation-vitaps3sce-san-diego-studioSCEASONYvitaMon, 26 Nov 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale review: Smashing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-review/#comments Nintendo's presence looms large in the fledgling category of game mascot fighters. For years, the company has had a monopoly on the concept with its Smash Bros. series, essentially making it a genre of one. Sony may be the only other publisher with a large enough bench to support such a concept, and as a result PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale has been subject to many comparisons with Nintendo's beloved franchise (not all of them favorable).

All-Stars certainly wears its influences on its sleeve, but thanks to some clever ideas, it also earns its keep. This isn't just a carbon copy, but a well-designed game that could go toe-to-toe with Nintendo's fighters.

Gallery: PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale (11/20/12)

Continue reading PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale review: Smashing

JoystiqPlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale review: Smashing originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3santa-monica-studiosceasonysony-santa-monicasuperbot-entertainmentvitaWed, 21 Nov 2012 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Resistance Collection invades retail on Dec. 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/resistance-collection-invades-retail-on-dec-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/resistance-collection-invades-retail-on-dec-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/20/resistance-collection-invades-retail-on-dec-5/#comments The Resistance Collection, a bundle of all three of Insomniac's Resistance games for the PS3 will be available at retail starting on December 5.

On top of the three Resistance games, there's some DLC in the package - the Aftermath multiplayer DLC pack, Skin bundle and Wraith skin multiplayer weapon for Resistance 2, plus the Brutality and Survival DLC packs for Resistance 3. All said and done, the Resistance Collection will set you back $39.99. (Or, about 14 Chiktumbs in Chimeran currency.)

JoystiqResistance Collection invades retail on Dec. 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>insomniacinsomniac-gamesplaystationps3resistanceresistance-2resistance-3resistance-collectionsceaTue, 20 Nov 2012 22:30:00 EST