Joystiq

Bear McCreary explains inspiration for Dark Void score

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST

The pangs of despair we felt upon seeing the recent delay of Dark Void came in two distinct, yet equally heartbreaking flavors. For one, we became that much further removed from the title's jetpack-infused gameplay we've come to know and love. However, almost as upsetting was the fact that we'd have to wait even longer to hear the game's seemingly breathtaking musical score, created by former Battlestar Galactica composer Bear McCreary.

Machinima.com recently helped ease the pain by releasing a video interview (posted after the break) with McCreary conducted at San Diego Comic Con '09. It doesn't really feature any of the game's musical accompaniment, but provides us with an interesting look into Bear's creative process -- a process that thankfully extends further than "learn title of game, write entire score in one sitting, give music to developer, earn check, cash check, buy Jet Ski."

[Via Capcom Unity]

Continue reading Bear McCreary explains inspiration for Dark Void score

Bear McCreary explains inspiration for Dark Void score originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Uncharted Comic-Con panel video features voice talent, creators, Walken

Griffin McElroy — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST

If you're an Uncharted superfan (and really, you should be) who didn't get to make the pilgrimage to San Diego Comic-Con this year, you should really check out the highlight reel from Naughty Dog's panel at the event. There's a rogue's gallery of recognizable voices and faces sounding off about their experiences with the franchise, as well as a few discussions about the making of Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.

If you don't feel like watching the entirety of the lengthy video, we at least recommend that you jump to 13:15 to see Nolan North's spot-on Christopher Walken impression. See that? That's why he's been in every video game released over the past five years.

Continue reading Uncharted Comic-Con panel video features voice talent, creators, Walken

Uncharted Comic-Con panel video features voice talent, creators, Walken originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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White Knight Chronicles screens are eye-searingly gorgeous

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST

Level-5's made some aesthetically pleasing games in the past, but none have been quite as jaw-droppingly beautiful as White Knight Chronicles. A recent deluge of screenshots from the game appeared around the end of the San Diego Comic Con -- we've wrangled them, and slapped them in the gallery below.

Oh, sure, we've been seeing content from this massive RPG since the game came out in Japan last Christmas. Still, these shots are from the American version of the game -- that's the most beautiful thing of all, in our humble opinion. Woo! Go America!

Gallery: White Knight Chronicles (Comic-Con)

White Knight Chronicles screens are eye-searingly gorgeous originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PixelJunk Shooter walkthrough showcases new gameplay, features

Xav de Matos — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST

Using Comic-Con as its stage and the PlayStation Blog as its host, SCEA Santa Monica's Matt Morton showcased a new ice level in the upcoming PSN exclusive, PixelJunk Shooter, as well as changes to the game's art and controls. Tweaks weren't the only thing on display, as Morton also showcased new elements in the game, like the ability to transform your ship into a lava spewing powerhouse, melting away the level encased in ice (and our hearts in the process). The more we see of PixelJunk Shooter. the more our excitement grows ... and the more we forget the game's boring name. The full walkthrough is served chilled, after the break.

Continue reading PixelJunk Shooter walkthrough showcases new gameplay, features

PixelJunk Shooter walkthrough showcases new gameplay, features originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sideshow Collectibles releasing 'premium format' Kratos figure, God of War dioramas

Randy Nelson — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 03:01:00 EST

The show may be over, but more video game related news continues to emerge from this year's San Diego Comic-Con. This time it's word that Sideshow Collectibles has secured the rights to produce one of its trademark premium format figures based on God of War's Kratos. For those not familiar with them, Sideshow'sPremium Figures -- like these Star Wars ones -- are prized by collectors, stand more than 15" tall in most cases and usually sell in the $300-400 range. If the same holds true for Sony's property, that's a lot of money -- but also a whole lot of Kratos.

Sideshow is also working on God of War dioramas -- sculpted multi-character scenes, such as this upcoming offering based on The Clone Wars. They're typically priced in line with the Premium Figures. Specific details on these have not been announced, nor has a time frame within which to expect any of Sideshow's God of War items. Given that God of War III hits next March, we can only imagine that Sideshow would want to ride the massive anticipation for the title and time its lineup accordingly.

[Via Shogun Gamer]

Sideshow Collectibles releasing 'premium format' Kratos figure, God of War dioramas originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dark Void figure lights up our eyes

JC Fletcher — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST

Dark Void looks like a pretty good video game or whatever, but its real contribution to the world is this figurine. Sold at Capcom's Comic-Con booth, the figure depicts protagonist Will taking off on his totally sweet jetpack. One detail that probably netted Capcom a few impulse buys: both the helmet and the flames light up.

Capcom-Unity says to "stay tuned for more info on these guys," suggesting that there will be some way to obtain one outside of the Comic-Con setting. Either that or the site will offer more info about how awesome it is, which could honestly fill a few additional blog posts.

It has lights.

Dark Void figure lights up our eyes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Microsoft says Halo Chronicles is 'on hold' - doesn't use the 'C' word

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST

While Microsoft wouldn't say that Halo Chronicles was "canceled" - Peter Jackson told us during the San Diego Comic-Con that the ambitious episodic series was "no longer happening" - it did confirm to us that the project was "on hold." Today, Microsoft hasn't outright confirmed the partnership's end, but clarified the project's current status.

"Microsoft Game Studios is deeply committed to supporting and strategically growing the Halo franchise, and our relationship with Peter and his team is something that we greatly value. Given the bandwidth of both of our companies we've decided to put this joint effort on hold and prioritize resources against other projects like Halo 3: ODST, Halo: Reach and Halo Legends."

Jackson's manager re-confirmed to the Company Town blog that the collaboration between Microsoft and Jackson had ended allegedly as early as last January. Microsoft has yet to comment on what role it plays in Wingnut Interactive, Jackson's game production company, said to be "still working on new IP."

Microsoft says Halo Chronicles is 'on hold' - doesn't use the 'C' word originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Interview: Ace Attorney Investigations producer Motohide Eshiro

Kevin Kelly — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST

Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth will finally be legislating onto North American shelves in February of 2010, letting players take up the prosecuting side for the first time in the series. Luckily, you'll still be able to shout OBJECTION! in Phoenix Wright fashion as much as you want.

Joystiq met up with game producer Motohide Eshiro at in Capcom's booth at Comic-Con, which featured playable versions of the game and some very sweet swag. We asked him what else we can expect from the game, when we'll be able to play as the judge, and what his thoughts were on all the crazy fans in San Diego. Read on for the full interview.

Update! Be sure and check out the photo at the end of the interview where Eshiro-san meets up with a cosplaying Miles Edgeworth at Comic-Con.

Gallery: Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth

Continue reading Interview: Ace Attorney Investigations producer Motohide Eshiro

Interview: Ace Attorney Investigations producer Motohide Eshiro originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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That's a wrap: Comic-Con 2009

David Hinkle — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:15:00 EST

Last week's San Diego Comic-Con was one crazy ride. The Joystiq representatives in attendance were trained in advanced interrogation tactics and managed to extract information on a variety of subjects. We've got an update from Peter Jackson himself on the Halo happenings, first footage of South Park Let's Go Tower Defense Play! and a new game mode for Uncharted 2! Friend, you missed one heck of a week.

But, that's okay! You can get caught up right here, right now. Simply head past the break for a complete summary of all the headlines.

[image]

Gallery: Comic-Con 2009: BioShock 2 is real

Continue reading That's a wrap: Comic-Con 2009

That's a wrap: Comic-Con 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: BioShock 2 gets real

Kevin Kelly — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST

Ever been to the mysterious BioShock 2 website, www.somethinginthesea.com? We first heard about it in March, and it is randomly updated from time to time with new bits of information from an obsessed searcher looking for clues about mysterious lights in the sea, and the disappearance of young girls from villages and cities near the ocean.

2K Games decided to take things one step further by recreating the entire website in real life at Comic-Con by letting fans actually read the papers on the desk, follow the clues on the bulletin board, check out the mysterious glowing symbols inside the box on the desk, and rummage through the filing cabinet. It was incredibly detailed, right down to the roller skates.

It was a bit hard to focus on details when you're getting jostled left and right by people dressed as Spider-man and Wonder Woman, but you can check out all the details in the gallery below.

Gallery: Comic-Con 2009: BioShock 2 is real

Comic-Con 2009: BioShock 2 gets real originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Green Lantern PSP spotted at Comic-Con

Andrew Yoon — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:15:00 EST

Sony isn't giving up on the not-expensive PSP-3000 series. In fact, Siliconera spotted this special Green Lantern themed system at San Diego Comic-Con not too long ago. Inspired by the upcoming "First Flight" animated feature, this PSP-3000 stands out due to its unique glossy green color -- something you won't find on American retail shelves. Less exciting is Comic-Con's Caprica-themed PSP, if only because the idiotic "SyFy" brand stands so large on it. Yuck.

While you may not be able to get this Green Lantern PSP any time soon (or ever), you can still get some free Green Lantern digital swag off the PlayStation Store. For a limited time, you can download a 16 minute sneak preview of the upcoming animated film on your PSP or PS3. Simply visit the video section of the PlayStation Store to download.

Green Lantern PSP spotted at Comic-Con originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: A real-life Flynn's Arcade

Kevin Kelly — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST

One of the most buzzed about things at the San Diego Comic-Con this year was the viral Flynn's Arcade that Disney created to plug the upcoming Tron: Legacy. In the teaser trailer they showed at the Con, Flynn's son (Garrett Hedlund) revisits his father's now-dusty and cobwebbed arcade, and steps up to the actual Tron arcade game from the 1980s. In the world of Tron: Legacy, Flynn actually went on to create to Tron game, and several others, before disappearing. He hasn't been seen for the past 20 years.

Of course, that's where the computer world comes in. At Flynn's Arcade, they replicated the teaser, complete with neon signs for all the the games Flynn created (covered in dust and faux cobwebs, natch), and a Tron cabinet standing by itself on the back wall. After allowing about 10 minutes of open play on dozens of arcade machines, the lights flicker, there's an electrical surge, and ... the entire Tron cabinet swings away from the wall revealing a dark tunnel beyond.

Inside there were plasma screens showing off light cycle generation 2 sketches, and ... a complete cycle itself around the corner. Head on after the break for some videos from the event (that include said cycle), and you can check out the gallery of images below.

Gallery: Comic-Con 2009: Flynn's Arcade

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: A real-life Flynn's Arcade

Comic-Con 2009: A real-life Flynn's Arcade originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dante's Inferno team apologizes for 'Sin to Win' booth babe contest

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST

A lot of folks were understandably upset by EA and Visceral Games' San Diego Comic Con contest promoting Dante's Inferno. It probably had something to do with the fact that it objectified women in a brutish, almost caveman-esque manner. Your protests were heard -- the game's creators recently published a clarification of the contest rules, and apologized for "any confusion and offense that resulted from our choice of wording."

It's nice that they responded to the negative sentiment this stupid, stupid promotional stunt created, but this kind of undercuts their whole "Circles of Hell" marketing campaign, doesn't it? Apologies just aren't very hellish. We can't imagine Beelzebub begs pardon from those he makes swim through a sea of fire and brimstone for all eternity. "Oh, man. That looks like it hurts. I'm like, really sorry about this, guys. Do you want some aloe?"

[Via Kotaku]

Dante's Inferno team apologizes for 'Sin to Win' booth babe contest originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gears of War director passing on The Rock due to 'Doom connection'

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST

As you may have heard, yesterday's Gearsiverse panel at San Diego Comic Con was light on news regarding the film adaptation of Epic's Gears of War franchise, save for one small detail -- it wouldn't feature Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson in any capacity. Director Len Wiseman forthrightly explained why, and in the process, likely hurt the wrestler-turned-actor's (so, basically actor-turned-actor's) feelings -- he told the crowd that "a Doom connection would not be smart for us."

We highly doubt that most people immediately associate Mr. Johnson's body of work with that first-person romp/cinematic nightmare -- regardless, Wiseman said he's "looking for an actor for the role and then [I'll] put him into shape." Why waste all that time and effort? Dwayne Johnson is already the only human being on Earth that actually looks like one of the space marines featured in Epic's blockbuster franchise. Scar his face up a bit and you're good to go, man.

Gears of War director passing on The Rock due to 'Doom connection' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 26 Jul 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The Clone Wars: Republic Heroes pushed back to October 6

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 22:30:00 EST

While certainly not the most anticipated Star Wars title coming down the pipe, there's plenty of folks looking forward to the release of Krome Studios' Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic Heroes -- folks who are about to be somewhat disappointed. During yesterday's Star Wars panel at San Diego Comic Con, LucasArts Senior Marketing Manager Matt Shell talked about the game, and mentioned an October 6 release date for the title. That's a bit of a delay from the initial launch date of September 15.

The crowd at the Comic Con panel didn't react unfavorably to the release bump, however. Perhaps they were placated by Olivia Munn, who was apparently cosplaying as "short-shorts Leia."

[Via Big Download]

The Clone Wars: Republic Heroes pushed back to October 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gears of War COG and Locust Armor coming to Xbox Live Avatars

Kevin Kelly — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 21:10:00 EST

During the Gearsiverse panel at Comic-Con, Epic's Cliff Bleszinski and Ron Fergusson revealed that there will be Gears of War-themed armor of both the COG and Locust variety coming to XBL Avatars soon. One rule that Microsoft imposes on Avatar clothing and models is that they "can't look inhuman," according to Bleszinski. So they pieced together a workaround set of Locust armor that you can check out beyond the break.

Look for these new Avatar upgrades to be available when the next Xbox Live dashboard update becomes available soon. Meanwhile, we're going to scurry out to our preview builds to see if they're already available. Be sure and peep the Locust image, just around the corner.

Continue reading Gears of War COG and Locust Armor coming to Xbox Live Avatars

Gears of War COG and Locust Armor coming to Xbox Live Avatars originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 21:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Producer: Wesker not returning to Resident Evil (yeah, right)

Xav de Matos — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST

It's going to be difficult to be completely spoiler-free for this one, so fair warning. During a panel at Comic-Con, Resident Evil 5 producer Masachika Kawata was asked if Albert Wesker would return in a future Resident Evil title, considering Resident Evil 5 leaves you believing he's gone. According to SIliconera, Kawata says Wesker's days in Resident Evil are over.

"Even if you want Albert Wesker to come back there is no chance of that happening," Kawata told the audience. Of course, Kawata forgets that Wesker will be seen in the upcoming Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles, which takes place in Raccoon City during Resident Evil 2's storyline. As for Wesker going the way of the Dodo, we'll believe that when we see it. Or don't see him, we should say.

Producer: Wesker not returning to Resident Evil (yeah, right) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Scott Pilgrim game tackled by Ubisoft

Xav de Matos — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 05:00:00 EST

Bryan Lee O'Malley's Scott Pilgrim is making the leap from indie comic page to video game in 2010. Ubisoft Montreal is in the early stages of developing Pilgrim's video game debut, proving almost nothing can take O'Malley's Canadian indie-hero out of the Great White North.

According to IGN, the Scott Pilgrim game will follow the story of the comic series where an unmotivated Pilgrim falls for "the perfect girl," Ramona Flowers, and in order to win her heart he must battle her seven evil exes. While details of the game are scarce, O'Malley expects it to resemble a side-scrolling beat-em-up -- as the creator is a big fan of classic video games. Pilgrim-purists should be happy to hear the game will be modeled after the "cartoony" look of the comic series. No console platforms were revealed.

Scott Pilgrim's movie debut is currently filming in-and-around Toronto and stars Canadian Michael Cera. For a teaser of what to expect from the film, watch anything Cera is in. He pretty much acts the same in everything.

Scott Pilgrim game tackled by Ubisoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Jul 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Blomkamp: 'I probably wouldn't do Halo if it was offered to me'

Christopher Grant — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:29:00 EST

In case the news - straight out of Peter Jackson's mouth to your earholes - that the episodic Halo Chronicles project was "no longer happening" wasn't enough to confirm the wreckage of Microsoft's (impossibly?) ambitious plan, here comes word from the other half of the Halo movie project, Neill Blomkamp, who tells Slashfilm, "I probably wouldn't do Halo if it was offered to me."

It's not that Mr. Blomkamp has had a change of heart when it comes to the subject matter - "Creatively, it's very compelling. I love it," he says - but having poured "a lot of ... sweat and blood into Halo" only to have it "bottom out and collapse" is sure to leave one jaded. On the other hand, the collapse of the Halo project paved the way for District 9 - the feature adaptation of his short film "Alive in Joburg" - which the South African-born director calls "more of a personal film." (More personal than a story about cyborg super soldiers on a ring-shaped planet?) For what it's worth, most video game adaptations haven't been stellar, and if early buzz on District 9 is to be believed, Blomkamp may have lucked out.

Oh, by the way, now's your big chance, Stuart Beattie!

Blomkamp: 'I probably wouldn't do Halo if it was offered to me' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Next Resident Evil movie will be in 3D, will spawn new film trilogy

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:00:00 EST

Anyone who's seen one of the live-action films based on Capcom's Resident Evil franchise are aware of how in-your-face the movies' terribleness tends to be. However, horror film news site Shock 'Til You Drop recently got a terrifying piece of news from producer Paul W.S. Anderson at San Diego Comic Con -- the next film in the series, titled Resident Evil: Afterlife, will be presented in 3D. We're thrilled about the stereoscopic Jovovichian action -- we're somewhat less enthusiastic about the bump in ticket prices that'll come about to provide the necessary eyewear.

Anderson went on to explain the film would kick off an entirely new trilogy of Resident Evil films, saying he regards it "as a re-tooling and rebirth of the entire franchise." We know what you're thinking -- does this mean the films will finally remotely follow the plot of the games? Oh, don't be silly. It's Anderson, man.

[Via VideoGamer]

Next Resident Evil movie will be in 3D, will spawn new film trilogy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 Swamp Fever hands-on

Kevin Kelly — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST

Electronic Arts hosted a studio showcase in San Diego yesterday, just before the start of Comic-Con. Inside the Onyx Lounge were bright cheerful lights, colorful pastel colors, fresh-baked cookies and ... The Littlest Pet Shop. However, if you headed downstairs to the basement, it was very dark, mysterious and crammed with things like Brütal Legend and Left 4 Dead 2. We couldn't resist the siren call of more zombie slaying, so we plunged straight into the new Swamp Fever level being shown off.

Head on beyond the break for our writeup. Later, look for our interview with Chet Faliszek, writer for L4D2 at Valve, where, according to him, "everyone is a designer!" But for now, it's time to find out why you'll want to catch "Swamp Fever."

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2: Swamp Fever

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 Swamp Fever hands-on

Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 Swamp Fever hands-on originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Scribblenauts towers over everything

Kevin Kelly — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:30:00 EST

Just back in June at E3, we barely noticed Scribblenauts, tucked away in the far reaches of WB's space, tucked behind potted plants and up against the back walls of the convention center. Thankfully we did notice it -- everyone at Joystiq now has an extreme case of Scribblenauts fever.

It seems like WB got the hint as well. In the middle of the main Comic-Con floor hall, WB has a towering booth touting every film, tv, and video game it has coming out. Of course, prominently featured is Batman: Arkham Asylum, with trailers playing on a ginormous WB water tower surrounded by video screens. However, also showing on that same screen is a Scribblenauts teaser urging players to "Write anything. Solve everything."

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Comic-Con 2009: Scribblenauts towers over everything originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bungie says Halo: Reach is its last Halo game, working on new IP with new publisher

Ben Gilbert — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:14:00 EST

Let's face it, folks -- ten years is a long time to be working on a single franchise. That ten years could feel like a lot more when you're rarely on break, back in the development seat for another new Halo nearly every two years. Such is the tale for ex-Microsoft developer Bungie Studios, who told IGN UK at this week's San Diego Comic-Con, "After Reach that's it for us." Meaning that after next year's Halo: Reach ships to stores, Bungie is out of the alien killin', FPS genre -- at least those starring members of the UNSC, that is.

Though Bungie's Lars Bakken doesn't go into tons of detail about the studio's next game, he does say, "We're already working on a new IP that we can't talk about yet ... we've done a lot of different styles - first person to third person to RTS - so it could be anything." Eurogamer found out earlier in the day from Bakken that the upcoming game has yet to find a publisher, though Bungie is currently in talks with various companies and he says, "those talks are, I guess, close." Future Halo titles (you thought Reach was the last?) will be handled by 343 Industries, the recently trademarked, Microsoft-owned studio.

We contacted Bungie for comment on Mr. Bakken's comments and were told, "While it's great to see so much public interest over what the future holds for Bungie, we're not ready to talk about any plans or games beyond Halo 3: ODST or Halo: Reach. It's no secret that we've had multiple projects in development nor that we've also been working on original IP in tandem to our Halo titles but our focus right now is on our two upcoming releases. We'll have more to say when the time is right."

Source 1 - IGN UK
Source 2 - Eurogamer

Bungie says Halo: Reach is its last Halo game, working on new IP with new publisher originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: The Tim Schafer chat

Ben Gilbert — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 17:13:00 EST

With only three short months until the ~~October~~ Rocktober 13 release of upcoming Double Fine game Brütal Legend, Tim Schafer and co. are out at the San Diego Comic Con in full force this week promoting their game. Lucky for us (and you!), he took time out of his busy schedule to talk with us about not just his upcoming game, but how he feels about the re-release of various LucasArts adventure titles, how much of a role he plays in the current lawsuit with Activision (spoilers: almost none), and even Gwar! Check out the whole thing after the break.

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: The Tim Schafer chat

Comic-Con 2009: The Tim Schafer chat originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 17:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Peter Jackson tells Joystiq about the Halo movie, video game project

Kevin Kelly — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:59:00 EST

We caught up with Peter Jackson himself last night, after a screening of District 9 - the feature-length debut of director Neill Blomkamp who had previously been attached to helm the Halo movie that fizzled out. Jackson explained that they felt like they had an amazing director in Blomkamp and they didn't want to lose the opportunity to work with him so, instead of bringing Halo to the big screen, they created an entire film based on his Alive in Joburg short. (See the rest of Blomkamp's work here, in our roundup).

District 9 - which Jackson produced and is coming to theaters on August 14 - is seriously amazing. There's a wide array of alien weapons that would make Ratchet & Clank jealous, CGI aliens that look better than Avatar, walking mech suits, and a really amazing performance from lead actor Sharlto Copley. Clear your calendars and make plans to see this one. But back to the Halo movie that never was: After the screening, we got to sit down with Jackson to ask him about just that. Read on to find out where the Halo movies stands, and if we'll ever see the long-rumored Halo Chronicles video game project.

Continue reading Peter Jackson tells Joystiq about the Halo movie, video game project

Peter Jackson tells Joystiq about the Halo movie, video game project originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Blackjack game may decide producer of Resident Evil 6

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:45:00 EST

Curious about the direction the next entry in the Resident Evil will follow? By the sound of things, so are the franchise's tried-and-true creators. During Capcom's San Diego Comic Con panel, Resident Evil 5 producer Jun Takeuchi responded to a fan's query about the possibility of a series reboot with a startling answer -- he's apparently playing a long-running game of Blackjack with fellow RE5 producer Masachika Kawata to see who will be in charge of the next Resident Evil title. Seriously.

We're not sure if Takeuchi's response was sincere -- after all, he later explained that "it doesn't appear as though either of us is going to be in charge." Still, we wouldn't be surprised if he was telling the truth. There's certainly precedent for this kind of thing. Remember when Satoru Iwata won the presidency of Nintendo from Hiroshi Yamauchi in a high-stakes Cribbage game?

Blackjack game may decide producer of Resident Evil 6 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Microsoft's Frankie talks Halo Waypoint

Kevin Kelly — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST

Pictured: enthusiasts living the Halo lifestyle

And by "talks," we mean "briefly mentions." Yesterday during the Halo Comic-Con panel, which was almost entirely focused on the upcoming anime series, Halo Legends, consummate Halo shepherd Frank O'Connor spoke about Waypoint and what it means. "Halo Waypoint is something you can experience on your couch, then early next year, on DVD and digital formats. It will be the digital hub for all things Halo, [to] look at your Halo career, and enjoy your Halo lifestyle."

Halo lifestyle? What does that even mean? An Xbox Live version of Home, where you're outfitting your own Master Chief's digital den with photos and Covenant couches? We'll have to wait and see.

Comic-Con 2009: Microsoft's Frankie talks Halo Waypoint originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Gordon Freeman and Ezio cosplay

Kevin Kelly — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST

During Preview Night at Comic-Con, we spotted two of the best video game costumes so far: Half-Life's Gordon Freeman, complete with Gravity Gun, and Ezio from Assassin's Creed 2. For a minute we thought we'd miraculously spotted former Joystiq blogger (and amateur Gordon Freeman lookalike) Ross Miller, and were set to pounce on him, but thankfully we noticed at the last minute and averted disaster. Click Gordon for a larger version, which includes his employee ID, and head beyond the break for Ezio.

There's more cosplay going on here than at a LARP convention, and we'll be bringing you a lot more. Click through for Ezio and his blades, and stay tuned.

Gallery: Comic-Con 2009: Costumes

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Comic-Con 2009: Gordon Freeman and Ezio cosplay originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Jul 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles videos shamble forth

David Hinkle — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 EST

Capcom has come out in full force for Comic-Con 2009 and brought along with it several new juicy tidbits to savor for each of its upcoming games. In this post, we're highlighting a pair of new gameplay trailers for upcoming Wii sequel Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles. The first bit of footage above focuses on Leon and Claire's time in the Raccoon City police station as they gun down everything in sight, while the second video (after the break) showcases Claire and her young companion, Steve, navigating the dark halls and disgusting enemies of Rockfort Island. Enjoy!

Gallery: Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles (Wii)

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles videos shamble forth

Comic-Con 2009: Resident Evil: The Darkside Chronicles videos shamble forth originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: South Park Let's Go Tower Defense Play! in action

Justin McElroy — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 19:15:00 EST

Update: Above, we've added our own footage form the Comic-Con show floor!

Whatever you've been doing for the past 15 minutes, we promise you it's been more productive than us. See, we've been trying to make heads or tails of UGO's gameplay footage for South Park Let's Go Tower Defense Play! you'll find after the break.

It looks sort of like a typical tower defense game, except the kids seem to be building the towers themselves. Also, they're sort of like mobile towers of their own, and it seems that several people are playing cooperatively. It's all very puzzling, but at least it can't be worse than Chef's Luv Shack.

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: South Park Let's Go Tower Defense Play! in action

Comic-Con 2009: South Park Let's Go Tower Defense Play! in action originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Thar's 'Gold Rush' in that thar Uncharted 2 video

James Ransom-Wiley — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST

Much to our relief, the great Gold Rush of Aught-Nine will not be spent sifting through a day's worth of meager mine pickings and cursing the celebratory eruptions echoing from upstream. (Darned Jarvis, ye lucky ol' snaggletooth.) No, we'll be hiking up our trousers for a much more rousing mission, hauling tail from a hail of bullets as we simultaneously pillage the old world of yummy treasure with our friends. Oh, and murder lots of ~~pirates~~ Serbian militia dudes ... with our friends.

Above, Uncharted 2's "Gold Rush" co-op mode is revealed. Watch as Naughty Dog's Arne Meyer narrates the action -- and his own grisly demise -- from the Comic-Con show floor. Additionally, we've contacted Arne to verify whether or not Gold Rush will make it into the upcoming multiplayer demo. We'll let you know just as soon as he respawns.

Comic-Con 2009: Thar's 'Gold Rush' in that thar Uncharted 2 video originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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See stills from Assassin's Creed 2: Lineage short film

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:58:00 EST

We kinda lied to you in that headline -- how do you feel about just one still from the three, upcoming live-action Assasin's Creed short films? The LA Times got a shot from the in-production Assassin's Creed II: Lineage just before some of the developers working on AC2 (the game) sat down for a panel at this week's San Diego Comic-Con.

Ubisoft said in the past that the upcoming PSP Assassin's Creed iteration, titled Assassin's Creed: Bloodlines, would be the only "game" to tie together the story from the first one to its sequel. Clearly those words were chosen carefully, as these films are intended to "focus on the story of Ezio's father, Giovanni Auditore da Firenze" and delve into the history of "the Assassin's Creed 2 storyline and characters" when they release this winter.

Us? We're just hoping someone will explain all that crazy writing on the walls from the first game.

[Via Big Download]

See stills from Assassin's Creed 2: Lineage short film originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: New Lost Planet 2 screens are educational

Justin McElroy — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:02:00 EST

The best screenshots don't just show off a game, they teach you something. For instance, from these new Lost Planet 2 screens that Capcom just dropped at ComiC-Con, we learned that we don't really have any Lost Planet experts on staff.

So you'll have to bear with us if we don't know exactly what it is we're showing you. There's definitely a robot suit or two and ... are those trains in that one? Really hard-ass trains? It's anyone's guess.

Gallery: Lost Planet 2 (7/23/09)

Comic-Con 2009: New Lost Planet 2 screens are educational originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Splinter Cell: Conviction Comic-Con trailer is packed with action, accolades

Randy Nelson — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:36:00 EST

Now this is how you cut a trailer for a video game starring a spy out for revenge. Sure, it might not be bursting with new footage, but wow if it doesn't convey the spirit and -- from what we've seen first-hand -- the impact of Splinter Cell: Conviction. "Badass: The Game," indeed. We'd also like to consider the above video a public service announcement ... one with the message of, "Don't piss off Sam Fisher. No, really. Don't."

Splinter Cell: Conviction Comic-Con trailer is packed with action, accolades originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Tatsunoko vs. Capcom arcade stick mockups from Mad Catz

JC Fletcher — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:15:00 EST

Don't get too excited: the lovely Mad Catz Tatsunoko vs. Capcom Standard Edition FightStick above isn't real. It's a "non-playable mockup" that Mad Catz is showing off at Comic-Con. Capcom-Unity reports that Mad Catz is soliciting feedback about the stick -- presumably not only about the design, but about the level of interest among Wii owners for a high-end arcade stick. Yes, please!

We were wondering if Mad Catz would step up to support Tatsunoko vs. Capcom. Currently, our only arcade stick option in the US is the Hori Fighting Stick Wii, and that's getting hard to find. We'd love to be able to, like, go to a store and buy a nice arcade stick.

Comic-Con 2009: Tatsunoko vs. Capcom arcade stick mockups from Mad Catz originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: James Wan whipping up Castlevania film

Ludwig Kietzmann — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:59:00 EST

James Wan would like to play a game -- and then convert it into a film. Bloody Disgusting reports that the writer and director - who helped construct the "Saw" horror movie factory - will bring Konami's storied Castlevania series to the big screen for producer Paul W.S. Anderson. "I'll be working on the script with a writer to give it a new spin, different to the previous versions," said Wan. "This will have my stamp on it which Konami is very excited about."

Though we worry that Wan's stamp will be so large as to obscure all the cool action in the movie, he at least exhibits some familiarity with the franchise's androgynous protagonists. "For once, the human hero is as sexy and dangerous as the vampire villain, and his weapon of choice was what attracted me to the project in the first place - The Vampire Killer Whip." Oh yes, the whip, that's important.

No matter how the project turns out (if it even turns up), we at least hope to be in the cinema when it's revealed to general audiences that "Alucard" is really "Dracula" backwards. What a twist!

[Image: Bloody Disgusting]

Comic-Con 2009: James Wan whipping up Castlevania film originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 'Swamp Fever' footage

David Hinkle — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:44:00 EST

Attendees of the ongoing San Diego Comic-Con likely already know Valve is showing off a new campaign from Left 4 Dead 2. Instead of checking out boring old stills, we're happy to report that 1UP has uploaded some footage direct from Comic-Con showing off the new campaign. It's shaky cam footage, which can be creepy (in this case, just mildly dizzying), but we do get to see the cricket bat in action, among other things, so it's definitely worth a watch.

Head past the break for the videos.

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 'Swamp Fever' footage

Comic-Con 2009: Left 4 Dead 2 'Swamp Fever' footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Comic-Con 2009: New details on The Behemoth's third game

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:14:00 EST

We'll give it to you straight: we're still not entirely sure what The Behemoth's next game is. It's sort of a platformer, it's sort of a multiplayer brawler, but what is it really? We're one step closer to understanding today, as GameSpot got a chance to preview the game this week at the San Diego Comic-Con, and says the game "falls beneath the umbrella of the platformer genre."

Of what they played, only mutliplayer was available and it featured a handful of game types -- coin collection, territories and kill the carrier, in so many words. Players choose a single weapon before each game (from fireballs to portable fans) and employ it liberally to their enemies, all the while avoiding environmental pitfalls (water, radioactive ooze, etc.) and trying to win the game mode. Do yourself a favor and check out the videos embedded after the break for a better idea of what The Behemoth's third game will look like when it's released sometime in 2010.

Continue reading Comic-Con 2009: New details on The Behemoth's third game

Comic-Con 2009: New details on The Behemoth's third game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 12:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ace Attorney Investigation: Miles Edgeworth coming stateside February 16

Griffin McElroy — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:44:00 EST

Capcom's in a fairly generous mood this morning! Its spirits are seemingly bolstered by the opening of the San Diego Comic-Con -- in tandem with the convention's kickoff, they sent a press release full of announcements. The most exciting of which is, of course, the revelation of the February 16 release date for Ace Attorney Investigation: Miles Edgeworth.

You may object to the amount of time now standing between you and the highly animated Law & Order sim -- but if you happen to be attending the Con this year, you can get an early look at the game at Capcom's booth, you lucky, lucky so-and-so.

Gallery: Ace Attorney Investigations: Miles Edgeworth

Ace Attorney Investigation: Miles Edgeworth coming stateside February 16 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Catch Left 4 Dead 2's 'Swamp Fever' campaign

Randy Nelson — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:15:00 EST

click to enlaaaarge

Valve has revealed another new campaign set to appear in Left 4 Dead 2 at San Diego Comic-Con. It's called "Swamp Fever," and, as the lovely lobby poster you can view in the gallery below states, "The Only Cure Is Dying." Harsh! It's packed with Mudmen, Spitters and all sorts of nastiness you'd expect from a zombie-filled swamp. We've spent some quality time trudging through the level on the convention floor and will have a full writeup on the bone-rattling experience soon.

Gallery: Left 4 Dead 2: Swamp Fever

Catch Left 4 Dead 2's 'Swamp Fever' campaign originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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