Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Slant Six outs first original IP, Strata Scavenger]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/slant-six-outs-first-original-ip-strata-scavenger/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/slant-six-outs-first-original-ip-strata-scavenger/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/slant-six-outs-first-original-ip-strata-scavenger/#commentsThe developer of Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City, Slant Six Games, isn't letting a few underwhelming reviews bring it down, boldly moving on with an announcement of its own original IP, Strata Scavenger. Strata is due out in 2013, according to its Slant Six product page, which features a single image, seen to the left, of a futuristic aerial device patrolling a fiery cityscape.

Strata is Slant Six's first original IP, backed in part by the Canadian Media Fund, who handed over $1 million to see the title created "based on its creative and technical innovation," its description reads. Slant Six worked previously on Socom Confrontation, Fireteam Bravo 3 and Tactical Strike, before tackling Operation Raccoon City -- into the ground, some would say.

There's a distinct berth between shooting zombies and participating in an interstellar, science-fictional universe, and perhaps Slant Six's new original title is the breakout we've all been waiting for.

JoystiqSlant Six outs first original IP, Strata Scavenger originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>announcementmicrosoftoriginal-ippcplaystationps3sci-fislant-sixStrata-ScavengerxboxWed, 21 Mar 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Serious Sam: The First Encounter (classic) now on GOG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/serious-sam-the-first-encounter-classic-now-on-gog/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/serious-sam-the-first-encounter-classic-now-on-gog/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/05/serious-sam-the-first-encounter-classic-now-on-gog/#comments What you may not know about Sam, resident evil-alien-thing-killer and titular hero of the Serious Sam series, is that he's a serious guy. No, we don't mean he can't take a joke -- he's serious about savings, whether it be a coupon on a can of Campbell's Chunky or the fate of the whole world, he's all about the savings. And now GOG is saving you from a meaningless existence by offering the original Serious Sam: The First Encounter for $10.

That Hamilton will not only net you the original shooter, but also the game's soundtrack, though we can't imagine why anyone would want that. We panic enough when we hear this in the game -- we don't need to start looking over our shoulder at every crosswalk for fear of kamikaze, combustible dudes running us down, you know?

JoystiqSerious Sam: The First Encounter (classic) now on GOG originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actioncroteamdevolver-digitaldigital-distributionfpsgogsci-fiserious-samSerious-Sam-HDSerious-Sam-HD-The-First-Encounterserious-sam-the-first-encountershooterThu, 05 Aug 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Transformers: War for Cybertron video shows Jazz, Demolishor and Shockwave in action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/transformers-war-for-cybertron-video-shows-jazz-demolishor-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/transformers-war-for-cybertron-video-shows-jazz-demolishor-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/28/transformers-war-for-cybertron-video-shows-jazz-demolishor-and/#commentsJoystiq would never condone violence; however, when it comes to robot-on-robot violence, we're all for it. It's not like they can feel anything, right? So we'd like to bring your attention to some pre-order bonuses for High Moon Studios' upcoming not-a-movie-game Transformers: War for Cybertron.

Should you decide to enlist in the robo-wars early, you can nab yourself an exclusive character: Jazz, if you pre-order through Best Buy, Demolishor, should you go through Amazon, and Shockwave, if you go the GameStop route. Check out a video of Demolishor above and be sure to head past the break to catch a glimpse of the other two.

Continue reading Transformers: War for Cybertron video shows Jazz, Demolishor and Shockwave in action

JoystiqTransformers: War for Cybertron video shows Jazz, Demolishor and Shockwave in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Apr 2010 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondemolishorhigh-moonhigh-moon-studiosjazzMicrosoftpre-ordersci-fitransformerstransformers-war-for-cybertronwar-for-cybertronXbox-360Wed, 28 Apr 2010 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Snap Judgment: Infinite Space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/snap-judgment-infinite-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/snap-judgment-infinite-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/snap-judgment-infinite-space/#comments
When we review a game without finishing it, we call it a Snap Judgment. Read why here.

Time played: 3 hours

Portable games are often expected to be light, short-session experiences that you can jump into at any time, understand immediately, and play for minutes at a time. Infinite Space is not that at all. It is a deeply complex RPG with several interacting systems, all wrapped in a not-too-friendly interface. In fact, it's pretty much as baroque as you would expect a game about leading fleets of spaceships of your own design to be.

Gallery: Infinite Space

Continue reading Snap Judgment: Infinite Space

JoystiqSnap Judgment: Infinite Space originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSinfinite-spaceNintendonude-makerPlatinum-Gamesrpgsci-fisegasnap-judgmentFri, 26 Mar 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Syfy Mass Effect 2 special premieres tonight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/syfy-mass-effect-2-special-premieres-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/syfy-mass-effect-2-special-premieres-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/19/syfy-mass-effect-2-special-premieres-tonight/#comments Syfy, the network formerly known as Sci-Fi before it experienced a tragic spelling accident, will broadcast Sci vs. Fi: Mass Effect 2 numerous times over the next week. The half-hour special is supposed to take an "in-depth look at both the science and fiction of Mass Effect 2" -- but you'd never be able to extrapolate that from the above fluffy marketing clip. The "documentary" features the game's voice actors, like Tricia Helfer (Battlestar Galactica) and Yvonne Strahovski (Chuck) saying whatever they want, along with industry perspective from "journalists Jessica Chobot and Adam Sessler."

The special premieres tonight at 11PM EST/PST and 10PM middle-time. Find a listing of additional airdates after the break. Find us contemplating Sci-Fi's name change for the rest of eternity.

Continue reading Syfy Mass Effect 2 special premieres tonight

JoystiqSyfy Mass Effect 2 special premieres tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effect-2Microsoftsci-fisyfyXbox-360Tue, 19 Jan 2010 21:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega: Aliens vs. Predator reclassified in Australia without edits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/sega-aliens-vs-predator-reclassified-in-australia-without-edit/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/sega-aliens-vs-predator-reclassified-in-australia-without-edit/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/18/sega-aliens-vs-predator-reclassified-in-australia-without-edit/#commentsSega has announced its victory in the fight over whether or not Australians will get to (legally) play Aliens vs. Predator. According to a statement given to Kotaku, Sega has successfully appealed the OFLC's decision to refuse classification to the FPS and has secured the game a rating of MA-15+, which has yet to be reflected in the OFLC database.

"We are particularly proud that the game will be released in its original entirety, with no content altered or removed whatsoever," Sega Australia general manager Darren Macbeth told Kotaku. "This is a big win for Australian gamers. We applaud the Classification Review Board on making a decision that clearly considers the context of the game, and is in line with the modern expectations of reasonable Australians".

We now urge our Australian friends not to do anything that might appear even the least bit inspired by this game. If you see a ravenous, monstrous alien, let it go unblasted.

JoystiqSega: Aliens vs. Predator reclassified in Australia without edits originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-vs-predatoraustraliaavpcensorshipfpsMicrosoftoflcratingrebellionsci-fisegaXbox-360Fri, 18 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Three different Aliens vs. Predator bundles dated in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/three-different-aliens-vs-predator-bundles-dated-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/three-different-aliens-vs-predator-bundles-dated-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/three-different-aliens-vs-predator-bundles-dated-in-europe/#commentsSega, Rebellion, some Aliens, Predators, and even Space Marines are all teaming up in February to get your money. Sega announced that Aliens vs. Predator will be released in Europe on February 19 of next year.

The game will arrive in three versions, each for three different levels of enthusiasm about the FPS. The Standard Edition is for the average gamer looking for a new game. The Survivor Edition comes in the requisite steel case and includes codes for extra multiplayer maps, to be released after the launch date. The Hunter Edition is for the collector who may not even be opening the game, as it includes a facehugger model, a lenticular postcard, and a "Weyland-Yutani sleeve badge."

How do we sign up for the bundle Lance Henriksen's getting -- the one with your own likeness in the game? That one's probably really expensive.

Gallery: Aliens vs. Predator (2010): Packshots [PAL]

JoystiqThree different Aliens vs. Predator bundles dated in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliensaliens-vs-predatoreuropeMicrosoftpredatorrebellionrelease-datesci-fisegaspecial-editionXbox-360Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 cast bolstered by Battlestar, Star Trek actors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/mass-effect-2-cast-bolstered-by-battlestar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/mass-effect-2-cast-bolstered-by-battlestar/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/10/mass-effect-2-cast-bolstered-by-battlestar/#comments Mass Effect 2 is bound to have some recognizable actors, what with 90 actors voicing 546 characters with 31,000 lines of dialogue. EA revealed today that the cast includes ... oh, by Grabthar's hammer, here's the list:
  • Martin Sheen (Charlie Sheen and Emilio Estevez's dad) -- Illusive Man commanding Cerberus
  • Shohreh Adhdashloo (sexy voice lady from FlashForward) -- Admiral Shala'Raan vas Tonbay
  • Seth Green (hand in your geek card if you don't know) -- Joker
  • Yvonne Strahovski (wiener lady, lust of Chuck) -- Miranda Lawson
  • Adam Baldwin (a man named Jayne... or the man they call Jayne) -- Kal 'Reegar
  • David Keith Keith David (Halo's Arbiter) -- Admiral David Anderson
  • Michael Dorn (Star Trek TNG's Worf) -- Gatatog Uvenk
  • Tricia Helfer (2020 Oscar winner after people stop treating her like meat) -- EDI, voice of the "new Normandy"
  • Michael Hogan (Colonel Saul Tigh) -- Captain Bailey
  • Carrie-Anne Moss (Trinity from The Matrix, singular, no sequels exist -- especially not Revolutions) -- Aria T'Loak
We also can't forget Jennifer Hale, who is reprising her role as the real Commander Shepard, nor Mark Meer, the male Shepard and known expert at cutting the council off at weird times.

JoystiqMass Effect 2 cast bolstered by Battlestar, Star Trek actors originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adam-baldwinbiowarecarrie-anne-mossmartin-sheenmass-effectmass-effect-2michael-dornmichael-hoganMicrosoftrpgsci-fiseth-greenshootertricia-helfervoice-actingXbox-360Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lance Henriksen reprises 'Bishop' role in Aliens vs. Predator]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/lance-henriksen-reprises-bishop-role-in-aliens-vs-predator/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/lance-henriksen-reprises-bishop-role-in-aliens-vs-predator/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/08/lance-henriksen-reprises-bishop-role-in-aliens-vs-predator/#comments Lance Henriksen, who was most memorably cleaved asunder as android (ahem, "artificial lifeform") Bishop, will see another continuation of his Aliens film role in Rebellion's Alien vs. Predator game. Henriksen plays Karl Bishop Weyland, the descendant of Weyland-Yutani corporation founder Charles Bishop Weyland. The 69-year-old actor is happy with his virtual likeness (seen above) and is quoted as saying, "I might score from this game!" Joystiq is quoted as saying, "Maybe if it's from a facehugger, Lance."

Considering Henriksen's appearance in one of the most gore-riffic scenes in film (at the time), we should reiterate that Aliens vs. Predator will release in February 2010 on PS3, Xbox 360 and PC -- in countries that don't require toned-down violence. Rebellion has stated that it will not be "releasing a sanitized or cut down version for territories where adults are not considered by their governments to be able to make their own entertainment choices." Sorry, Australia and Germany.

JoystiqLance Henriksen reprises 'Bishop' role in Aliens vs. Predator originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aliens-vs-predatorfpshorrorlance-henriksenMicrosoftrebellionsci-fishooterXbox-360Tue, 08 Dec 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Interstellar Marines still exists, has actual landsharks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/interstellar-marines-still-exists-has-actual-landsharks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/interstellar-marines-still-exists-has-actual-landsharks/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/28/interstellar-marines-still-exists-has-actual-landsharks/#commentsSo here's the thing: When you cross sharks with marines, things get hilarious and, ya know, kind of bloody. It gets even weirder when the title in question is a relic from 2006 -- a game we've only seen in trailers for three years now! -- named Interstellar Marines.

All joking aside, the game looks to be in good shape and seems to be distinctly more defined than in our last look at it. Seriously, what could be better than real landsharks? A giant robot ... maybe. And this video's got that too! Check out all the landsharkery just a couple inches up.

Gallery: Interstellar Marines

JoystiqInterstellar Marines still exists, has actual landsharks originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 May 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsigninterstellar-marinesMicrosoftpcsci-fitrailerXbox-360zero-point-softwareThu, 28 May 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FF7's Cloud spotted in BSG spin-off, Caprica]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/ff7s-cloud-spotted-in-bsg-spin-off-caprica/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/ff7s-cloud-spotted-in-bsg-spin-off-caprica/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/25/ff7s-cloud-spotted-in-bsg-spin-off-caprica/#comments
Battlestar Galactica and gaming culture seem to go together like carrots, celery and onion (what, mirepoix too fancy for ya?). And so it's with little shock that we bring you the screen you see above from the upcoming Battlestar Galactica spin-off series, Caprica, captured by a gracious Joystiq reader. Is that ... Cloud? Cloud Strife? It is! Well, sorta, kinda.

Though the show isn't set to air until the beginning of next year on the Sci-Fi Syfy Channel, the two-hour pilot premiered via DVD and non-analog download this past week. Clearly the show's writers and/or set designers ... err ... someone on the set, decided to show their love for the critically acclaimed game and drop an Easter egg into the pilot in the form of Final Fantasy VII's protagonist. And while the image is a cartoony representation of the sharp-haired young gentleman, we'd be hard-pressed to not recognize that stance anywhere.

[Thanks, Thomas P.!]

JoystiqFF7's Cloud spotted in BSG spin-off, Caprica originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticacapricacloud-strifeeaster-eggfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-viisci-fisquare-enixSat, 25 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica: The Complete Series coming to Blu-ray this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/battlestar-galactica-the-complete-series-coming-to-blu-ray-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/battlestar-galactica-the-complete-series-coming-to-blu-ray-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/20/battlestar-galactica-the-complete-series-coming-to-blu-ray-this/#comments
The hit Sci-Fi (er, SyFy) series, Battlestar Galactica, is finally coming to Blu-ray. The show made a brief appearance on the now-defunct HD DVD format, but Blu-ray fans have been left in the cold for quite some time. Online retailer amazon.com recently started taking pre-orders on the box set, which appears to include all four seasons, for a MSRP of $349.98 (thankfully, most retailers don't actually sell media at MSRP).

The Caprica DVD supposedly includes a promo for the complete series on Blu-ray. According to TheHDRoom, the box set is pegged for a July 28th date, so sci-fi geeks willl want to start saving up pretty soon.

JoystiqBattlestar Galactica: The Complete Series coming to Blu-ray this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestarbattlestar-galacticablu-raysci-fiMon, 20 Apr 2009 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinite Space hits Japanese shelf space in June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/infinite-space-hits-japanese-shelf-space-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/infinite-space-hits-japanese-shelf-space-in-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/30/infinite-space-hits-japanese-shelf-space-in-june/#commentsPlatinum Games' second project (the first to be released in Japan) is about as different from MadWorld as any game could be: it's Infinite Space, the epic sci-fi RPG for DS. Sega just announced that it'll be released in Japan on June 11. No international release dates have been announced yet, though GameStop suggests July 7. Infinite Space casts the player as a spaceship crew member who works his way up to captain, and features giant, customizable spaceships and wireless ship-to-ship battles.

Along with the announcement, Sega refreshed the Japanese website for the RPG with some animated story scenes, and released new screenshots. Hopefully as we approach release, we'll be able to see more gameplay stuff.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqInfinite Space hits Japanese shelf space in June originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Mar 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-lineinfinite-spacejapannudeplatinum-gamesrpgsci-fisegaMon, 30 Mar 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom informs of Spyborgs overhaul, already thinking about sequel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/capcom-informs-of-spyborgs-overhaul-already-thinking-about-sequ/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/capcom-informs-of-spyborgs-overhaul-already-thinking-about-sequ/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/05/capcom-informs-of-spyborgs-overhaul-already-thinking-about-sequ/#commentsFiled under:


While lobbying questions about Spyborgs and, uh, Zack & Wiki 2 (oh how we wish it wasn't such a pipe dream), Capcom's Corporate Officer/VP of Strategic Planning & Business Development, Christian Svensson, kind of explained why the game was missing from E3. You see, Capcom is "refining it considerably." Also, when asked about online co-op, Sven commented that it would only local multiplayer, because Capcom has to "save some features for the sequel." We guess they're planning a franchise around this!


JoystiqCapcom informs of Spyborgs overhaul, already thinking about sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bionic-gamesbrawlercapcomchristian-svenssonsci-fispyborgssvenTue, 05 Aug 2008 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: The Conduit, for your inner graphics whore]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-the-conduit-for-your-inner-graphics-whore/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-the-conduit-for-your-inner-graphics-whore/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-the-conduit-for-your-inner-graphics-whore/#commentsFiled under:



Look what we found while browsing GameTrailers for the best part of half an hour and being exposed to that awful yoof-oriented Extra Fusion gum advert far too many times: moar Conduit.

This footage was snapped on the E3 showfloor yesterday, and features a High Voltage developer (it's not revealed who) gushing about normal mapping and a "lot of effects usually seen on PS3 and 360" as his colleague navigates and blasts his way through alien-infested streets on easy mode. Die, scum! In truth, it's basically how The Conduit has always looked: really, really clichéd, but also really, really pretty as well.

A longer second video follows the break!

Continue reading E308: The Conduit, for your inner graphics whore

JoystiqE308: The Conduit, for your inner graphics whore originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308fpshigh-voltagesci-fishooterthe-conduitWed, 16 Jul 2008 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Infinity Ward 'definitely' working on sci-fi shooter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/xbox-world-360-infinity-ward-definitely-working-on-sci-fi-sho/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/xbox-world-360-infinity-ward-definitely-working-on-sci-fi-sho/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/10/xbox-world-360-infinity-ward-definitely-working-on-sci-fi-sho/#commentsFiled under:

When Infinity Ward recently re-negotiated its contract with Activision, hints of a new IP were floated about. Now comes word from Xbox World 360 magazine (via CVG) that the Call of Duty 1, 2 and 4 developer is "definitely" working on a new sci-fi shooter.

Although it's hard to imagine the COD series going into space or through multi-dimensional rifts, there is precedence for a sci-fi COD6 rumor. Call Of Duty sequel or original IP, either way, is this the new project they're "excited to be working on?" Until official confirmation (next week, perhaps?), we're definitely filing this under rumor.

JoystiqReport: Infinity Ward 'definitely' working on sci-fi shooter originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-6codcod6infinity-wardsci-fiThu, 10 Jul 2008 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyborgs not sneaking in to E3 this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/spyborgs-not-sneaking-in-to-e3-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/spyborgs-not-sneaking-in-to-e3-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/spyborgs-not-sneaking-in-to-e3-this-year/#commentsFiled under:


When it was first announced, we promised to keep an eye on the doin's and transpirin's of Spyborgs. The trailer is hilarious, the dev team is experienced, and Capcom is talking it up like it's going to be some kind of surprise hit. The sad truth -- everyone needs to wait a little longer before hearing more news about this silly sci-fi title.

Spyborgs won't be shown at E3, the biggest marketing and promotions event of the year. After being questioned about the game in the Capcom forums, the all-knowing Christian Svensson mentioned that there were limited details at Captivate 08 (yeah, we know), but it's still going to "lie low for a bit until we're ready for a bigger reveal." It makes sense in a way -- with the onslaught of overhyped bigger games coming up at E3, it might be best to sneak this smaller, hopefully good game under the radar, and bust out the details when we least expect it.


[Via Nintendo Everything]

JoystiqSpyborgs not sneaking in to E3 this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomchristian-svenssone3e3-2008e308sci-fispyborgsThu, 03 Jul 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[High Voltage already daydreaming of Conduit sequels]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/high-voltage-already-daydreaming-of-conduit-sequels/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/high-voltage-already-daydreaming-of-conduit-sequels/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/high-voltage-already-daydreaming-of-conduit-sequels/#commentsFiled under: ,


Ask most gamers -- or gamers like us, at least -- about sequels, and you'll be greeted with much eye-rolling. Here's one follow-up we can get behind, however: a sequel to High Voltage's promising sci-fi shooter, The Conduit. What's that you say? The Conduit isn't even out yet? Well, who cares? Certainly not High Voltage's Eric Nossinger!

Chatting to That Videogame Blog, Nossinger revealed that The Conduit has "enough story [...] and enough ideas" to justify making further The Conduit games, though admitted that sales would influence whether such follow-ups were developed. "We're building a brand with The Conduit," added colleague, Matt Corso (remember our interview with him?), dollar signs spinning in his eyes. Let's not forget to keep our eyes firmly on the first one, eh, chaps?


[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqHigh Voltage already daydreaming of Conduit sequels originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpshigh-voltagesci-fisequelshooterthe-conduitTue, 01 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Infinity Ward giving Call of Duty 6 a sci-fi setting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/rumor-infinity-ward-giving-call-of-duty-6-a-sci-fi-setting/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/rumor-infinity-ward-giving-call-of-duty-6-a-sci-fi-setting/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/rumor-infinity-ward-giving-call-of-duty-6-a-sci-fi-setting/#commentsFiled under:


Following the tremendous success of Infinity Ward's well-received Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, fans were generally disappointed to learn that the next installment in the wartime franchise would not only have a different developer, but would also be replacing their M4s with M1s, taking the series back to its World War II roots. If a recently uncovered rumor is credible, we're not entirely sure these same fans would approve of Infinity Ward's plans to throw the bullet-riddled franchise into the DeLorean, gun it to 88, and take it to where they don't need roads.

This rumor (and accompanying clumsy "Back to the Future" reference) finds its origins in a statement from an Infinity Ward insider, who mentioned the company is working on "a sci-fi title", and that further details concerning said title may or may not be made available during E3. It's extremely possible that Infinity Ward would get their hands back on the Call of Duty franchise once Treyarch has had its way with it, but would they really introduce elements of unrealism into such a history-steeped series, or could they be working on an entirely new, space marine-flavored franchise?

JoystiqRumor: Infinity Ward giving Call of Duty 6 a sci-fi setting originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-dutycall-of-duty-6CallOfDutyfpsfutureinfinity-wardrumorsci-fiSat, 21 Jun 2008 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Moon explorations were on the Game Boy Color]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/first-moon-explorations-were-on-the-game-boy-color/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/first-moon-explorations-were-on-the-game-boy-color/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/first-moon-explorations-were-on-the-game-boy-color/#commentsFiled under:

GamesRadar interviewed Renegade Kid's Jools Watsham about the company's upcoming DS sci-fi first-person shooter thing Moon, and about the DS in general. The Dementium creator, like other developers, sees too many cheap me-too DS games being thrown into the market, calling it "the inevitable cash-cow-console catastrophe." One bright spot in recent DS releases? Contra 4.

When the subject turns away from the awesome Contra 4 and toward Moon, Watsham reveals that Moon has been in the works in one form or another for a long time. It began its life as a Game Boy Color game, before going through "many changes since that original idea" and ending up as an FPS built on the technology used to create Dementium. Technology that other companies want, and that Renegade Kid is considering licensing.

While you're reading, you can also have a look at GamesRadar's new screens -- including a very special codec moment.

JoystiqFirst Moon explorations were on the Game Boy Color originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsmastiffmoonrenegade-kidsci-fiThu, 19 Jun 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Fresh art from The Conduit draws inevitable comparisons]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/fresh-art-from-the-conduit-draws-inevitable-comparisons/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/fresh-art-from-the-conduit-draws-inevitable-comparisons/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/19/fresh-art-from-the-conduit-draws-inevitable-comparisons/#commentsFiled under:



In our High Voltage interview last week, Lead Game Designer Rob Nicholls was frank enough to admit that the team making The Conduit has "looked at and stole shamelessly from mega-hits like Halo." Such honesty is probably advisable, because there's no mistaking it: artistically at least, The Conduit isn't afraid to borrow visual cues from other shooters. It kind of is Halo.

This point was rammed home by a bunch of art distributed this morning (delivered in one huge combined strip -- see the full loooong version after the break) that deals with everything from weapons to enemies to the backstory. Truth be told, it's overflowing with tired sci-fi clichés, but if the game ends up being half as absorbing as Bungie's classic shooter, we've a feeling most of you will be able to forgive it.

Continue reading Fresh art from The Conduit draws inevitable comparisons

JoystiqFresh art from The Conduit draws inevitable comparisons originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artfpshigh-voltagesci-fishooterthe-conduitThu, 19 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy interviews High Voltage on The Conduit (continued)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/wii-fanboy-interviews-high-voltage-on-the-conduit-continued/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/wii-fanboy-interviews-high-voltage-on-the-conduit-continued/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/wii-fanboy-interviews-high-voltage-on-the-conduit-continued/#commentsFiled under:


Stylistically, it's been compared to Half-Life and Perfect Dark. What games have inspired design choices in The Conduit?

Rob: One of our goals from the very start was to make a fast-paced accessible FPS. To that end we looked at and stole shamelessly from mega-hits like Halo and Half-Life, recent titles like Resistance: Fall of Man and Metroid Prime Corruption, as well as classics like Goldeneye for the N64. We wanted to pick the best features from these titles, the things that made them fun and memorable and have features like those in The Conduit.

Matt: We've done art direction for so many different titles, and we've learned a lot about establishing a strong and cohesive visual style. The Conduit's art direction has come mainly from taking real world styles and locations and combining them with our own alien technology concepts and aesthetic design preferences. I suppose that it looks similar to those other games, but in the end it's The Conduit's own unique premise that has largely driven the artistic vision. When combined with the features that are specific to our engine tech, The Conduit will look stunning by the time it reaches the player's hands.

Will there be a calibration option, so we can "aim down the sights?"

Rob: One of the things we learned in our development process was that customization of controls is essential to an enjoyable gameplay experience. To that end, we allow players to customize sensitivity, dead zone sizes, as well as control layouts. But, if you mean, can you actually use the iron-sights of your guns, that answer is "not exactly". The reason being that several of our weapons are alien in nature and don't even have iron-sights... but you will have sort of an alien vision mode with some of the weapons.

Matt: There'll be on-the-fly, in-game look sensitivity adjustments, as well as a fully map-able control scheme, down to the button, in the game's front end UI. Players will be able to map the game's controls completely to their own liking. There'll even be a couple of alternate control methods for those that don't care as much for the Wii pointer style of directional turning. There'll be lots of options for maximum playability.



There hasn't been much word on who the publisher for The Conduit is. Rumor has it, Nintendo is actually going to publish the game. Can you comment on that? Can you announce one at this time?

Matt: I can neither confirm nor deny this, senator. ;) All I will say is that thanks to the explosion of interest in this title, we've had a lot of publishers knocking on our door.

Control-wise, will there be options for other methods outside of the Wiimote and nunchuk? Will it support the GameCube controller? Classic controller?

Dan: There are movement and weapon functions in The Conduit that require the Wii Remote's pointer, accelerometer, depth, and cursor rotation functionality in order to perform. The Conduit isn't your standard ported-over-to-the-Wii style of game. Using the Classic or GC controller kind of defeats the purpose of what we are looking to do.

Matt: With The Conduit we want to redefine first person shooter controls. Hard core FPS gamers that have played the game have told me that they are now convinced that Wii is the best system for the genre. When you play it you'll realize very quickly that the Wii Remote is an incredible control device for this type of game. It just feels amazing to play.

Rob: I think if you are buying a Wii, you're buying it to make use of its motion sensitive controls, which are tailor made for an FPS game.


Aside from the controls, what are the game's strengths that separate it from other existing PC/console FPSes?

Rob: I would say that would be the ASE or "All Seeing Eye" device. In game, this piece of hardware allows a player to adjust the "phase state" of things. This makes invisible enemies and hazards not only visible, but able to take damage. It also makes invisible cover and platforms become solid, leading to more gameplay. We also reveal secret puzzle locks that must be solved to get to special weapons.

Dan: We've put a solid amount of effort into enemy AI for The Conduit. A pet peeve of mine is single player FPS games where the enemies just stand there getting blasted, and don't seem to be reacting to the world around them. In The Conduit, our bad guys can hear and see, understand the use of cover, have variable levels of aggression, use grenades effectively, advance and retreat, and can determine when the player is susceptible to attack (i.e. reloading, exposed and moving in their firing cone). I think focusing a higher than normal amount of the dev time on AI makes our single player experience better than most other FPS titles out there. Of course, the overall look we're able to achieve with our advanced engine tech is also something the makes The Conduit a superior FPS game IMO.

Matt: I think that going back to the Wii Remote, The Conduit has a unique control system that feels more like a VR experience than the typical spring loaded joystick controlled videogame. I also agree that the ASE device offers a unique style of gameplay that hasn't really been seen before in other games. Having the ability to discover and phase useful objects into the environment to assist with combat is a lot of fun. Beyond that, it's just rock solid action all throughout the game. There'll be fierce enemies, bad ass weapons, and white knuckle battles. It's going to be a hell of a lot of fun.

Does the game run at 60fps? 30fps?

Matt: If we can hit closer to 60, then that will be great! But for right now we are shooting for a steady 30fps, with zero drops in framerate. The whole team swears by the fact that a solid 30fps still feels great. Even our studio's most hard core PC FPS gamers think that The Conduit feels just right at 30fps. The quality will be there, and the game will look and run amazing by the time that it ships.

Dan: The game will run absolutely solid at 30fps. For HVS, choice is either to have less visual splendor and run at 60fps or achieve the look we want for the game and run at 30fps. 30fps is a frame rate that is plenty responsive for FPS gaming and we are valuing the increased visual detail we can offer over the slightly smoother gameplay we might otherwise get by scaling this back.

High Voltage has made an adventure game/minigame collection for the Xbox (Leisure Suit Larry: Magna Cum Laude, also on PS2 and PC), and now they're making an FPS for the Wii. Is this ironic or strategy?

Rob: I like to think it's beautiful strategy. At the time Magna Cum Laude came out, the Adventure game market was woefully barren. So we found a title and a publisher willing to take the risk to revitalize that genre. Now we're trying to do the same thing with FPS's on the Wii. We feel that The Conduit will be like rain in the desert, which seems to be the case judging by the online response.

Matt: Diversity is key. We don't like to sell ourselves short by sticking with one genre or style of game. High Voltage knows that it's okay to try new things. We've learned a lot after 15 years working with so many different publishers, developers, and licensors. I could go on about how licensed game restrictions, publisher mandates, and drop dead unmovable release dates ultimately affect the quality of your game, but this project is very different. The Conduit is something completely new for our studio. This game will rock!


The company seems very (vocally) confident about the ability of The Conduit to revolutionize Wii gaming. Was it always in the plan to build up so much hype, or was the hype a natural product of enthusiasm? Has the hype been more than expected?

Rob: The hype has certainly been more than I expected and I am grateful for it. However, it is a two-edged sword. While the hype has helped give us the pick of litter for a publisher, it does mean we have a LOT to live up to. But I think we are up for the challenge. =)

Dan: There aren't many large scale multiplayer games for the Wii at this point, nor any that push the Wii graphics HW to the extent we are. So, from these standpoints - The Conduit will be revolutionary for the Wii gaming market. It is HVS's belief that although there are great FPS games on the 360 and PS3 - what they all lack is the kind of unique motion sensing based control schemes that makes The Conduit for the Wii more fun to play. Giving gamers a great looking, great playing, great controlling FPS title is something we feel is worth hyping!

Matt: The plan all along was to maximize the potential of the system, and then build a game that showcases the engine tech and the fun of the Wii Remote. Every developer talks big about their own game, but no one at High Voltage could say for sure how well our audience would react to the screenshots and gameplay video release. We've always just been focused on making a great game, and the result is that The Conduit seems to be building its own hype. And we're very appreciative of all the kind words and support we've received from the Wii community.

Is The Conduit sharing tech with Animales de la Muerte? Where did the concept for that one come from? Is it still on track? Really, anything we could learn about Animales de la Muerte would be wonderful.

Dan: Animales is using the same engine tech as The Conduit, but in a much different way since it's a 'toon shaded game.

Matt: I don't want to say too much more about the title until it's closer to completion, but I will say that it's going to be bloody fun. By the way, much respect to our friends in Mexico. However, screw PETA...no animal in this game is safe!

Anything about multiplayer? Many of the folks interested in the game are looking to have some kind of online multiplayer, preferably something on-par with Medal of Honor: Heroes 2. Are you trying to implement Wi-Fi compatibility? Local multiplayer?

Dan: We are working closely with Nintendo to be able to provide the kind of multiplayer gameplay that we know the market wants.

Matt: Nintendo has been really helping us out with technical support but we still have more questions that will need be answered before we can release any specifics about our multiplayer modes. Obviously we want to be competitive with the other online console games, but we'd rather wait until we've got something great to show off before we make any announcements about this very important feature.

Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions!

When not writing about games, we enjoy talking to the people that make them. Be sure to check out our interview with Wii mastermind Johnny Lee, as well as our chat with Didian Malenfant from Ready at Dawn on Okami for Wii. Oh, and don't forget our chat with Hudson's Mike Samachisa on Deca Sports.

JoystiqWii Fanboy interviews High Voltage on The Conduit (continued) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fpsgoldeneyehalf-lifehalohigh-voltageleisure-suit-larrymagna-cum-laudemicrosoftn64pcps2ps3rareresistance-fall-of-mansci-fisonythe-conduitxboxxbox-360xbox360Mon, 16 Jun 2008 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Counting Rupees: The MMO-TV hybrid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/14/counting-rupees-the-mmo-tv-hybrid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/14/counting-rupees-the-mmo-tv-hybrid/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/14/counting-rupees-the-mmo-tv-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Each week Jeff Engel and Geoff Brooks contribute Counting Rupees, a column on the business behind gaming:

Can a game spin off into a successful TV series?

Many of us still remember waking up early on Saturday mornings to catch the latest episode of "Captain N: The Game Master" or rushing home after school to watch "The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!" (or if we were lucky enough to be watching on a Friday, "The Legend of Zelda"). While these shows weren't exactly something to write home about, it was certainly exciting to see some of our favorite Nintendo characters come alive in the form of a cartoon. In the last few years the wildly popular Pokemon games have spawned a long-lasting TV show and more recently, a Viva Piñata TV series was launched side-by-side with the game, in what was a moderately successful cross-marketing strategy (the kid's show is still running today and the game posted slow but steady sales, developing somewhat of a cult following). Clearly, there's some precedence for games to become the basis for a TV series, but these have all lacked one basic element that all the games required: interactivity.

So it is with some interest that the LA Times reports that Sci-Fi channel is teaming up with Trion World Network to create (simultaneously!) an MMO and a TV show based on it. Sci-Fi channel president Dave Howe says that it's the "Holy Grail". A subscription-based MMO and a successful television series that are able to successfully leverage each other could certainly be a potential windfall. However, while the details are somewhat scarce at the moment, from what I can glean, there are some major hurdles that this joint venture will need to overcome.

Continue reading Counting Rupees: The MMO-TV hybrid

JoystiqCounting Rupees: The MMO-TV hybrid originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Age-of-ConanCounting-RupeesMMOMMORPGPCSci-FiTVWorld-of-WarcraftWoWSat, 14 Jun 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exclusive The Conduit screens, just for Wii Fanboy readers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/exclusive-the-conduit-screens-just-for-wii-fanboy-readers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/exclusive-the-conduit-screens-just-for-wii-fanboy-readers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/exclusive-the-conduit-screens-just-for-wii-fanboy-readers/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click image to enlarge

High Voltage loves the readers of Wii Fanboy. Following up the package of screens they hooked us up with recently, they've just now sent over four new exclusive screens. That's right, folks, you can only get these screens here at Wii Fanboy. Even better, you're the first to see the new enemy variant above. How awesome is that?

So, head on into the gallery and check them out. The first image starts here!

JoystiqExclusive The Conduit screens, just for Wii Fanboy readers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivefpshigh-voltagesci-fithe-conduitFri, 13 Jun 2008 15:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom reveals sci-fi Spyborgs [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/capcom-reveals-sci-fi-spyborgs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/capcom-reveals-sci-fi-spyborgs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/capcom-reveals-sci-fi-spyborgs/#commentsFiled under:

[Update: trailer!]

What's this? A Wii exclusive from Capcom? Our spherical future-predictin' device indicates that IGN's Matt Casamassina will go nuts for the newly-announced Spyborgs, and that it will not do as well as it probably should, and may perhaps be too difficult for some. Oh, wait -- that's not a crystal ball, it's last year's news!

At last week's Captivate 08, Capcom did in fact announce a new game, exclusively for Wii, that does feature bright, cartoonish graphics, but is nothing at all like Zack & Wiki: Quest for Barbaros' Treasure. First, there's nary a pirate present (that we've seen, but there is a pirate-y sort of ship), and instead of a puzzle/adventure, Spyborgs looks to be a sci-fi action title with a dollop of brawler blood. Since we love us some brawlers around here, you can bet we'll be keeping an eye on Bionic Games' effort. For now, you'll have to be satisfied with the first screens tucked away in our gallery below.

JoystiqCapcom reveals sci-fi Spyborgs [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionbionic-gamesbrawlercapcomCaptivate-08sci-fispyborgsTue, 03 Jun 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[VC Friday: Taking a breather]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/vc-friday-taking-a-breather/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/vc-friday-taking-a-breather/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/23/vc-friday-taking-a-breather/#commentsFiled under: ,

After the joy/expense of WiiWare's Euro and Aussie launch, Nintendo has put its feet up and given us just the one game this Friday: the Commodore 64's Paradroid. We're totally okay with that! As our credit cards have already endured a thorough battering this week, they could do with the break. Breathe easy again, our little plastic friends.

Not massively familiar with Paradroid myself, though its Wikipedia page makes it sound like the ideal preparation for the inevitable war between humans and robots. One thing I am aware of is that Paradroid is discussed in hushed, reverent tones by those in the know, so if any of my fellow Old People would like to enthuse about it in the comments, be my guest. The rest of you can take in some footage of the game past the break.
  • Paradroid -- Commodore 64 -- 500 Wii Points*
* Only in Europe. Sucks to be Australia.

Continue reading VC Friday: Taking a breather

JoystiqVC Friday: Taking a breather originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 May 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-braybrookcommodore-64europefridaygraftgoldhewsonpalparadroidsci-fiFri, 23 May 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Infinite Line RPG announced for DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/infinite-line-rpg-announced-for-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/infinite-line-rpg-announced-for-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/infinite-line-rpg-announced-for-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

infinite line
click to enlarge

Infinite Line director Hifumi Kouno of Nudemaker showed up at last night's Platinum Games event (fully clothed, to our surprise) to debut the studio's forthcoming sci-fi RPG for DS. The game is built around two key concepts: Players command (1) a "highly-customizable" spaceship through (2) a "large and expansive" world that encompasses two galaxies. The team has prepared over 150 ship models, as well as more than 150 potential crew members that can be stationed around the ships. The insides of the crafts are modular, so players can place the bridges, engineering rooms, fire control rooms, etc. as they see fit.

As per The Space Opera Mandate(R) of 1941, Infinite Line will explore "what it means to be human" in this touching adventure around the stars. Nudemaker plans to show off some actual screenshots -- that will apparently "blow you away" -- in the near future.

Gallery: Infinite Space

JoystiqInfinite Line RPG announced for DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSinfinite-linenudemakerplatinum-gamessci-fisegaThu, 15 May 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect PC requires 'processor,' 'memory' and 'video card']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/mass-effect-pc-requires-processor-memory-and-video-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/mass-effect-pc-requires-processor-memory-and-video-card/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/mass-effect-pc-requires-processor-memory-and-video-card/#commentsFiled under: , ,


While scouring the Mass Effect forums for a guide on how to place our girl, Beyoncé, into BioWare's space epic (found one!), we stumbled across the "system requirements" of the PC version. Not only will you require a PC, but one filled with the following rams, gigabytes and geforces:

Minimum System Requirements
  • Operating System: Windows XP or Vista
  • Processor: 2.4+GHZ Intel or 2.0+GHZ AMD
  • Memory: 1 Gigabyte Ram (XP); 2 Gigabytes Ram (Vista)
  • Video Card: NVIDIA GeForce 6 series(6800GT or better); ATI 1300XT or better (X1550, X1600 Pro and HD2400 are below minimum system requirements)
  • Hard Drive Space: 12 Gigabytes
  • Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c compatible sound card and drivers
Recommended Real System Requirements
  • Operating System: Windows XP or Vista
  • Processor: 2.6+GHZ Intel or 2.4+GHZ AMD
  • Memory: 2 Gigabytes Ram
  • Video Card: NVIDIA GeForce 7900 GTX or higher; ATI X1800 XL series or higher
  • Hard Drive Space: 12 Gigabytes
  • Sound Card: DirectX 9.0c compatible sound card and drivers - 5.1 sound card recommended
Mass Effect PC is out on May 28th.

Gallery: Mass Effect (PC)

JoystiqMass Effect PC requires 'processor,' 'memory' and 'video card' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareEAElectronic-ArtsMass-EffectPCRPGSci-FiSpecsXbox-360Wed, 16 Apr 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Renegade Kid says Moon will rock harder than Dementium]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/renegade-kid-says-moon-will-rock-harder-than-dementium/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/renegade-kid-says-moon-will-rock-harder-than-dementium/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/14/renegade-kid-says-moon-will-rock-harder-than-dementium/#commentsFiled under:


You all know we dug Dementiunm. It was a fine title and a decent FPS on a handheld that is seriously lacking in that department. Now, Renegade Kid is preparing their second FPS for Nintendo's handheld in Moon. What should we expect?

Well, Renegade Kid's owner and creative director, Jools Watsham, spoke with Joystiq about the new project and reassured us it's going to be something we'll want to play. It's a pretty interesting read, if we may say so. Head on over and check it out already!

JoystiqRenegade Kid says Moon will rock harder than Dementium originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dementiumfpsmastiffmoonrenegade-kidsci-fiMon, 14 Apr 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Battlestar Galactica XBLA price frak-ed on Saturday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/battlestar-galactica-xbla-price-fraked-on-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/battlestar-galactica-xbla-price-fraked-on-saturday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/battlestar-galactica-xbla-price-fraked-on-saturday/#commentsFiled under: , ,


This Friday marks the debut of the final season of Battlestar Galactica, and while we have no delusions that the 60 minutes of commercial interrupted TV will leave us any more stupefied than we were at the end of last season wondering what in the frak is going on, we nonetheless cannot wait to pick our jaws up off the floor.

To celebrate the premiere, Sierra has chopped the price of its casual BSG-themed XBLA shooter in half to 400 points, and while playing the game still just serves as a painful reminder that we still lack a real Battlestar Galactica game, the new price is nonetheless a welcome treat. But get it while it's hot; the toasters are going to jack the price back up to 800 points 24 hours later. So say we all!

Gallery: Battlestar Galactica (XBLA, PC)


[Via Press Release]

JoystiqBattlestar Galactica XBLA price frak-ed on Saturday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlestar-galacticabattlestargalacticabsgcasualcylonssci-fiscifishooterstarbuckxblaXbox-360Thu, 03 Apr 2008 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rob Yascombe dreams about Haze being 'awesome']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/15/rob-yascombe-dreams-about-haze-being-awesome/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/15/rob-yascombe-dreams-about-haze-being-awesome/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/15/rob-yascombe-dreams-about-haze-being-awesome/#commentsFiled under:

Rob Yascombe is a name PS3 fans may want to remember. His performance in this stunning Sci-Fi channel promo is one for the books -- the crazy books, that is. The video is all about Haze, the upcoming PS3 FPS game (ignore the Xbox 360 dev kits in the background, please!). While his explanation of Nectar and Mantel are familiar, he reveals a few tidbits, such as the massive length of the script: over 1000 pages long. The Royal Shakespeare Company is also partaking in the voice acting and they only go where there's either: a) a lot of money, or b) a great script. Supposedly, they didn't have too much money.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqRob Yascombe dreams about Haze being 'awesome' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Mar 2008 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>free-radicalhazerob-yascombesci-fiSat, 15 Mar 2008 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Moon on collision course with DS [Update: First trailer]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/moon-on-collision-course-with-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/moon-on-collision-course-with-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/14/moon-on-collision-course-with-ds/#commentsFiled under:




Renegade Kid, they of Dementium: The Ward fame, have whipped the covers off of their next DS project. Moon is a series of minigames centered entirely around revealing one's backside in an assortment of hilarious scenarios is the new name for the game formerly known as "Project M," and will take the form of a first-person, sci-fi, action-adventure set in 2058.

Featuring isolated lunar bases and mysterious alien hatches, publisher Mastiff describes the experience as "dark, twisted, heart-pounding, frequently violent and always disturbing." We like! Incidentally, Moon will be built on the same engine that powered Dementium. That's good news, because for all of its flaws, Dementium was one heck of a technical achievement.

Update: The first Moon trailer just touched down in our inboxes. We've embedded it for your viewing pleasure above.

[Via press release]

JoystiqMoon on collision course with DS [Update: First trailer] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionadventurefirst-personmastiffmoonrenegade-kidsci-fiFri, 14 Mar 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space dev wants PS3, 360 versions dead even]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/dead-space-dev-wants-ps3-360-versions-dead-even/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/dead-space-dev-wants-ps3-360-versions-dead-even/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/06/dead-space-dev-wants-ps3-360-versions-dead-even/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Toaster-headed space horror news now, with EA outlining its intentions to get Dead Space running equally well on both of its intended console platforms. When asked if the PlayStation 3 version would suffer any Madden-ing technical shortcomings (as we've sadly come to expect from certain publishers), executive producer Glen Schofield told Videogamer.com, "The plan has to be, and it will be, on parity with the 360."

EA Redwood Shores is currently developing the sci-fi screamfest with the Xbox 360 as lead platform, with a shift to the PS3 following in the next few months. "That is so that you're not downgrading the PS3 later," said Schofield. "We're putting all our engineering muscle into making the PS3 great, and then we'll know that the 360 will be great."

Great news, especially if Dead Space turns out ... great.

JoystiqDead Space dev wants PS3, 360 versions dead even originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2008 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dead-SpaceEAElectronic-ArtsHorrormultiplatformPCPS3Sci-fiXbox-360Wed, 06 Feb 2008 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sci Fi Channel is loving the Mass Effect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/30/sci-fi-channel-is-loving-the-mass-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/30/sci-fi-channel-is-loving-the-mass-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/30/sci-fi-channel-is-loving-the-mass-effect/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mass Effect fever is taking over, spreading like an African jungle virus hell bent on using your body as a host to spread itself in an ultimate effort to secure its longevity as an inter-species virus. Uhh, ... maybe that's a bit of an exaggeration, but Mass Effect fever is real and the Sci Fi Channel has caught it.

Airing on November 20th and re-airing numerous times thereafter is a special Mass Effect: Sci vs. Fiction episode where they'll probably talk about the game's science and fiction themes ... or something (work with us here). Also, Sci Fi is running a giveaway that'll open up soon'ish where you'll have a chance to win a Limited Edition copy of Mass Effect. Keep your eyes glued to this page and enter when the giveaway goes live. Anyway, consider yourself warned. Because if the Mass Effect fever is anything like the Halo 3 fever then we advise hiding your newborns, plastic wrapping your house and eating only frozen peas.

[Via Game Stooge]

Read - Mass Effect: Sci vs. Fiction air times
Read - Mass Effect Sci Fi Channel giveaway

JoystiqSci Fi Channel is loving the Mass Effect originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 30 Oct 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaremass-effectmicrosoftsci-fitvTue, 30 Oct 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect prequel novel announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/mass-effect-prequel-novel-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/mass-effect-prequel-novel-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/25/mass-effect-prequel-novel-announced/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

mass effectMass Effect lead writer Drew Karpyshyn has been working overtime, penning two novels that will tie into the Xbox 360 action-RPG trilogy. The first, Mass Effect: Revelation, is described as a prequel novel following Alliance Commander David Anderson as he uncovers a "sinister conspiracy" that spans a galaxy of uncharted worlds. Ooh, nothing like a lil' cliché sci-fi lit to get you in the mood...

The Mass Effect novels will be published by Del Rey, an imprint of Random House. Revelation is due in May, followed by the second book Mass Effect: Revolution (TBD).

JoystiqMass Effect prequel novel announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 25 Feb 2007 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareBookDelReyMassEffectNovelRandomHouseRevelationRevolutionSci-FiScienceFictionSciFiXbox-360Sun, 25 Feb 2007 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect release date spotted on official Xbox site [update 2]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/mass-effect-release-date-spotted-on-official-xbox-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/mass-effect-release-date-spotted-on-official-xbox-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/02/mass-effect-release-date-spotted-on-official-xbox-site/#commentsFiled under: ,

Update: Microsoft sent us another statement, this time ruling out the date entirely. "An incorrect release date for Mass Effect was inadvertently posted on Xbox.com Australia and has since been removed. We will keep you posted on the ongoing development of Mass Effect, however, we have no announcements regarding the game's release date at this time."

According to the Australian section of the official Xbox website, we may be finding ourselves incinerating aliens and threatening suspicious bartenders before the year reaches its midpoint. A product blurb dedicated to BioWare's galaxy-spanning sci-fi RPG, Mass Effect, currently lists a release date of 18 May 2007, a bit more specific than the "2007" placeholder appended to the likes of Forza Motorsport 2 (which is set to arrive sometime in May).

It's worth noting that Microsoft has yet to announce an official release date. At the time of writing, they had not yet responded to our request for comment.

[Thanks, Thomas]

Continue reading Mass Effect release date spotted on official Xbox site [update 2]

JoystiqMass Effect release date spotted on official Xbox site [update 2] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Feb 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BiowareKOTORMass EffectMassEffectRole-playingSci-FiXbox-360Fri, 02 Feb 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alien games to burst out of Sega's chest]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/11/alien-games-to-burst-out-of-segas-chest/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/11/alien-games-to-burst-out-of-segas-chest/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/11/alien-games-to-burst-out-of-segas-chest/#commentsFiled under: ,

A despicable creature gnawing at your insides, slowly growing in size and voracity until it shoves its hideous head right through your rib cage and causes splintery bone to pierce your flesh.

So, a lot like playing the new Sonic the Hedgehog, then. Indeed, a more appropriate company than Sega could not be found for a recent deal struck by Fox Licensing with regards to their lucrative Alien film franchise. The new agreement, as detailed by The Hollywood Reporter, allows Sega to develop multiple games for new generation consoles and PCs. With a first-person shooter and a role-playing game already under development, an elaborate and somewhat sinister music-and-rhythm title can't be far behind.

Mike Gallo, senior producer of the Alien series at Sega, promises that the developers will go out of their way to "tie the games into the films in unique ways." He also says they'll look at source materials and the films for inspiration, which is nice. The first title is due in 2008 -- that's when Sega will be "taking licensing to the next level," it says here.

[Via Pro-G | Image credit: "That's saying a mouthful" -- VG Cats]

See also: Firefly returns as MMORPG

JoystiqAlien games to burst out of Sega's chest originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Dec 2006 10:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20th Century Fox20thCenturyFoxAlienAliensLicenseMovie gameMovie licenseMovieGameMovieLicenseSci-FiSegaMon, 11 Dec 2006 10:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Sci-Fi columnist slams Wii channels]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/sci-fi-columnist-slams-wii-channels/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/sci-fi-columnist-slams-wii-channels/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/22/sci-fi-columnist-slams-wii-channels/#commentsFiled under: ,


Adam Frucci, who writes a weekly column called Shift, recently took some time to catalogue his opinions on the Wii's Channels. Stating that the Channels were "half-baked" and asking if they could be done better, Adam clearly hasn't seen the videos we have seen of it in action. As if this weren't preposterous enough, he then lays into the Mii Channel.

Adam's views of the Mii channel clearly lack any knowledge of the service itself, claiming that it is solely for the benefit of Wii Sports and "so cute it would draw in grandma and grandpa." Clearly he overlooked our blog, which reported that Miis would be implemented into WarioWare: Smooth Moves. This kind of oversight could have easily been avoided.

[Via Codename Revolution]

JoystiqSci-Fi columnist slams Wii channels originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Sep 2006 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>channelsmiinintendosci-fiwiiFri, 22 Sep 2006 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Master Chief's armor to be revised for Halo film]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/10/master-chiefs-armor-to-be-revised-for-halo-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/10/master-chiefs-armor-to-be-revised-for-halo-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/10/master-chiefs-armor-to-be-revised-for-halo-film/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Newly anointed Halo director, Neill Blomkamp, has indicated that the iconic armor housing Master Chief will be slightly altered for its appearance in the 2008 film adaptation. Speaking to Ain't It Cool News, a confident Mr. Blomkamp successfully justifies a decision which, in the hands of a typical Hollywood hotshot, could quickly become a nightmarish reimagining of a beloved character into something supposedly more enticing to mainstream sensibilities.

"Master Chief is certainly something that I do not want to change too much at all, there are certain things inside the Halo universe that are sacred and he's the main one. Having said that, there is a need to revise certain parts of him, just from a purely technical standpoint, he has to actually be able to move, like a human, and the game design right now does not allow for full motion freedom, which we will have to achieve."

The interview sees the director affirming his love for the games, for the universe they depict and for "infected humans and covenant." He fails to provide definitive answers regarding the removal of Master Chief's helmet or the use of Bungie's original soundtracks in the film, but the inclusion or exclusion of either one is likely to fuel fan debate until well after the movie has come and gone.

Rejected (and generally horrid) titles for this post:
  • Master stroke: Master Chief armor changing
  • Master Chief suit changing: oh no they didn't
  • Master Chief: borg to be wild
  • Master Chief armor change: Massive damage
  • Master-ious costume change for Chief
  • Master Chief says Halo to new armor
  • Halo movie chief masters armor change
  • Halo armor to be remastered
[Thanks for the image, Ross. You'll go to hell for this one.]

JoystiqMaster Chief's armor to be revised for Halo film originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Aug 2006 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bungiegame adaptationGameAdaptationHaloHalo 2Halo moviehalo-armorHalo2HaloMovieHollywoodMaster ChiefMasterChiefMSFTNeill-Blomkampsci-fiXboxXbox-360Thu, 10 Aug 2006 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 impressions: Mass Effect]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/11/xbox-360-impressions-mass-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/11/xbox-360-impressions-mass-effect/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/11/xbox-360-impressions-mass-effect/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It really is a testament to the quality of Bioware's Knights of the Old Republic when, years after its release, we still want to compare it to some of  the best parts of Mass Effect. The game clearly represents Bioware's desire to create involving and highly cinematic story-driven games, as it features some of the most lifelike characters we've yet seen in a video game. Upon entering a futuristic seedy bar with two of your squad mates, you strike up some conversations with patrons in the nearby vicinity. Much like KOTOR and some of Bioware's past games, the conversations are written in such a way so as to prompt the player for frequent input. Your potential responses are now mapped to different directions on the analogue stick and, because they appear on-screen before the NPC has even finished his or her (or its) line of dialogue, the exchanges between the game characters come off as extremely fluid and cinematic.

Bioware really went to town with the facial animations, something which immediately becomes obvious when you start whipping out your gun and shoving it in people's faces in your efforts to get information. NPCs become visibly frightened when threatened, their eyes widening in terror and their brows crumpling up. There's a certain sadistic quality to it, though your squad mates will quickly share their opinions on your behavior, sometimes even squabbling amongst themselves about how well or poorly you handled a given situation. Unlike many RPGs which require you to navigate large chunks of cutscenes in-between dungeons, the character interaction and plot advancement in Mass Effect appears to be really natural, cinematic and above all, fun.

Continue reading Xbox 360 impressions: Mass Effect

JoystiqXbox 360 impressions: Mass Effect originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 May 2006 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BiowareE3E32006FuturisticKOTORSci-FiXbox-360Thu, 11 May 2006 14:30:00 EST