Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension multiplayer DLC gets primordial]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-dlc-gets-primordial/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-dlc-gets-primordial/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-dlc-gets-primordial/#comments
God of War: Ascension has two new pieces of multiplayer DLC, with the Typhoon Armor and Mercenary Sword available on the PS Store now for $2.99 each, Multiplayer deities should prepare to feel the wrath of Sony Santa Monica via some new maps, coming "soon."

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension multiplayer DLC gets primordial originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3PSNsony-santa-monicaWed, 15 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: God of War: Ascension]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/metareview-god-of-war-ascension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/metareview-god-of-war-ascension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/12/metareview-god-of-war-ascension/#comments Metareview God of War AscensionGod of War: Now With Multiplayer is what Ascension could have been called. Much like our review, other outlets found the single-player campaign satisfactory. It's in the multiplayer portion of Ascension where opinions begin to differ and scores diverge based on how much importance was placed on this evolution of the franchise.
  • Destructoid (90/100): "God of War has never looked or played better than this. Kratos has never been as deep or interesting as this. They've set the bar so high that I have no idea how they'll be able to follow this one up. Sony Santa Monica should be proud. Series fans should be proud."
  • Gamespot (80/100): "The single-player is where you should spend your time. No, it doesn't quite reach the audacious and rage-filled moments of God of War: Ascension's predecessors, nor does it move the series forward in any way, but it's skilfully put together, and wonderfully satisfying to play."
  • GamesRadar (70/100): "Also somewhat disappointing are the newly added multiplayer features, which are held up by clever level design and strong game modes, but smacked down by uninteresting gameplay. It sounds great in theory, but in practice it turns out there's nothing less fun than being beat up by someone as powerful as Kratos."
  • VideoGamer (70/100): "The multiplayer component is as fresh as the single-player is familiar. Ask yourself what you're after from a God of War game: if you desire only to step into the boots of gaming's most brutish, then you may find Ascension wanting. If, however, you're open to the idea of taking on the mantle of another Spartan hero, you'll find it a limb-lopping, head-popping delight. Just don't tell Kratos, eh?"
  • Edge (70/100): "Consider our expectations defied: this is the star of the show. While this series' singleplayer template is showing its age, there's plenty in Ascension's multiplayer that deserves to survive the transition to PS4."

JoystiqMetareview: God of War: Ascension originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Mar 2013 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionMetareviewmetareviewsplaystationps3sony-santa-monicaTue, 12 Mar 2013 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Controversial God of War: Ascension trophy altered in upcoming patch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/controversial-god-of-war-ascension-trophy-altered-in-upcoming-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/controversial-god-of-war-ascension-trophy-altered-in-upcoming-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/controversial-god-of-war-ascension-trophy-altered-in-upcoming-p/#comments DNPPatch changes controversial God of War Ascension trophy nameIn a statement sent to Joystiq, developer Sony Santa Monica has confirmed it will change the name of a controversial God of War: Ascension trophy in a patch that should be available alongside the game on Tuesday. Once the patch is applied, the name of the trophy will be "Bros Before Foes."

Originally named "Bros Before Hos" (as seen above), the trophy pops up soon after you help God of War's anti-hero, Kratos, brutally pummel a Fury, one of a trio of female antagonists in the game. (Though it's not a spoiler in light of the fact that Kratos beats everyone up, we've omitted the trophy description.) The change comes after negative reaction from early reviews to the jarring scene on and the attached award, which is perceived as misogynistic.

"We have created and will soon push out a patch for God of War: Ascension that alters the title of one of the game Trophies. The text was offensive to some members of our community and impacted their enjoyment of the game," Sony Santa Monica's statement noted. "We are endlessly committed to ensuring that our community can fully enjoy the experiences the team has created. As such, we've addressed the feedback and amended the Trophy in question."

Players will be instructed to download the update once God of War: Ascension has been inserted into an internet-connected PlayStation 3. No other aspect of the game is affected by the patch.

God of War: Ascension launches exclusively for the PlayStation 3 on March 12, 2013. For more on the game, check out Joystiq's review.

JoystiqControversial God of War: Ascension trophy altered in upcoming patch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Controversygod-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3Santa-Monica-StudioSony-Santa-MonicaTrophiesTrophyMon, 11 Mar 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension review: Spectacle slipstream]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/god-of-war-ascension-review-spectacle-slipstream/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/god-of-war-ascension-review-spectacle-slipstream/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/god-of-war-ascension-review-spectacle-slipstream/#comments God of War Ascension review Everything that rises must convergeIn the race for spectacle, Sony Santa Monica's God of War franchise is constantly attempting to lap itself. From striking down a god to tearing down giants, it would seem there are few bodies - human, mythical being, god or behemoth - left for Kratos to shatter. In response to the angry protagonist's bloody evolution, Santa Monica has ventured to the only place left for Kratos to wage war: the past.

God of War: Ascension tells the story of Kratos before the events of his all-out war against Ares, the Greek God of War. But the narrative fabric woven throughout the franchise has begun to split, and Ascension's thinly constructed premise does little to enhance its characters in any meaningful way.

Its narrative issues aside, Ascension provides the distinct God of War flair required to eradicate all that stands in Kratos' way. Wielding a familiar set of chained blades, the popular anti-hero fluidly works his murder-pinwheel magic to perfection. The combat system, however, is less complicated than before, abandoning an arsenal of collected weaponry in favor of sticking with Kratos' trusty, sharp sidekicks. It's Kratos at his least materialistic, eschewing the pack-rat mentality of previous entries in favor of simplicity.

Gallery: God of War: Ascension (3/11/13)

Continue reading God of War: Ascension review: Spectacle slipstream

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension review: Spectacle slipstream originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3Santa-Monica-StudioSony-Santa-MonicaMon, 11 Mar 2013 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop adds All-Stars pre-order perk for God of War: Ascension]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/gamestop-adds-all-stars-pre-order-perk-for-god-of-war-ascension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/gamestop-adds-all-stars-pre-order-perk-for-god-of-war-ascension/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/10/gamestop-adds-all-stars-pre-order-perk-for-god-of-war-ascension/#comments GameStop adds AllStars preorder perk for God of War AscensionGod of War: Ascension adds a voucher for two PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale characters with pre-orders from GameStop. The dueling duo is Zeus from the God of War series and Isaac Clarke of Dead Space fame, both of whom we met in February for PS All-Stars. The characters will unlock on March 19.

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

[Thanks, Bradley!]

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3SCEAsony-santa-monicatrailerSun, 10 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension 'Trials of the Gods' co-op time trial mode revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/god-of-war-ascension-trials-of-the-gods-co-op-time-trial-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/god-of-war-ascension-trials-of-the-gods-co-op-time-trial-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/god-of-war-ascension-trials-of-the-gods-co-op-time-trial-mode/#comments
You and a buffed-up, half-naked friend can get your ancient WWE on thanks to a newly revealed co-op mode in God of War: Ascension. As developer Sony Santa Monica spilled on the PlayStation Blog, the brawler includes a mode called 'Trials of the Gods' in which you and a pal have to take down hordes of enemies as quickly as possible, since there's a time limit and all.

Each kill puts more seconds on the clock, while each wave of beasts grants you bonus time based on how quickly you clear it; there are five waves to fend off, with an "epic boss" as numero cinco. Trials of the Gods will be supported by four maps when Ascension launches next week, and Sony Santa Monica says there are more on the way. Also, any XP you earn in the mode goes towards upgrading champions across all multiplayer modes.

If that hasn't satiated your bloodthirst for bloody content, check out new videos for the multiplayer maps and Poseidon champion allegiance after the break.

Continue reading God of War: Ascension 'Trials of the Gods' co-op time trial mode revealed

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension 'Trials of the Gods' co-op time trial mode revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3sony-computer-entertainmentsony-santa-monicaFri, 08 Mar 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension includes King Leonidas DLC with GameStop pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/god-of-war-ascension-includes-king-leonidas-dlc-with-gamestop-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/god-of-war-ascension-includes-king-leonidas-dlc-with-gamestop-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/god-of-war-ascension-includes-king-leonidas-dlc-with-gamestop-p/#comments

This is: a clip of the King Leonidas multiplayer skin for God of War: Ascension. This is: a timely tie-in with the 2007 film 300. This is: what you get when you pre-order from GameStop. This is: a sigh.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension includes King Leonidas DLC with GameStop pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3sony-santa-monicaWed, 06 Mar 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension 'Mythological Heroes' DLC gets real in this trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/god-of-war-ascension-mythological-heroes-dlc-gets-real-in-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/god-of-war-ascension-mythological-heroes-dlc-gets-real-in-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/05/god-of-war-ascension-mythological-heroes-dlc-gets-real-in-thi/#comments
Those who pre-order God of War: Ascension will unlock a few famous mythological characters for multiplayer raging: Achilles, Odysseus, Orion and Perseus. They all come with their own unique weapons, though we half expected Orion to keep his around his waist.

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcgod-of-war-ascensionmythological-heroesplaystationps3sceasony-santa-monicaTue, 05 Mar 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension showcases Empusa]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/god-of-war-ascension-showcases-the-buggy-empusa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/god-of-war-ascension-showcases-the-buggy-empusa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/28/god-of-war-ascension-showcases-the-buggy-empusa/#comments

"Izzy concepts some of the best boobs in the industry." And that's certainly a prominent feature of the Empusa, one of Kratos' speed-bumps to vengeance in God of War: Ascension. Now, please pardon us while we scrub the sex minigame portion of this video from our minds.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension showcases Empusa originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3sony-santa-monicaThu, 28 Feb 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension demo hits PSN alongside new trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/play-the-god-of-war-ascension-demo-on-psn-watch-the-trailer-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/play-the-god-of-war-ascension-demo-on-psn-watch-the-trailer-he/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/play-the-god-of-war-ascension-demo-on-psn-watch-the-trailer-he/#comments
The single-player demo for God of War: Ascension is available now for all users on the PlayStation Network. There's also a launch trailer out for the game, as seen above. Turns out the pre-divine Kratos is just as popular with the ladies as the fully-powered one was. Oh, and he's plenty angry, too.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension demo hits PSN alongside new trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demodownloadfreegod-of-wargod-of-war-ascensiongowkratoslaunch-trailerplaystationps3psnreleasesingleplayersonysony-santa-monicatrailerTue, 26 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Join God of War: Ascension social challenge, get the single player demo early]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/join-god-of-war-ascension-social-challenge-get-the-single-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/join-god-of-war-ascension-social-challenge-get-the-single-play/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/16/join-god-of-war-ascension-social-challenge-get-the-single-play/#comments While we knew a single player demo for God of War: Ascension was coming in late February, we didn't know that February 26 would be the exact date of its arrival. What's more, those that participate in the Rise of the Warrior "social challenge" have the opportunity to gain early access to that demo on February 20.

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3rise-of-the-warriorSCEAsocial-challengeSONYsony-santa-monicaSat, 16 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension Best Buy pre-order bonus is a big 'ol hammer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/god-of-war-ascension-best-buy-pre-order-bonus-is-a-big-ol-hamm/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/god-of-war-ascension-best-buy-pre-order-bonus-is-a-big-ol-hamm/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/14/god-of-war-ascension-best-buy-pre-order-bonus-is-a-big-ol-hamm/#comments God of War Ascension Best Buy preorder bonus is a big frickin' hammerThose who pre-order God of War: Ascension through Best Buy will be able to wield the mythical hammer, Mjölnir, during multiplayer matches. On top of the hammer, Best Buy pre-orders also net the Mythological Heroes multiplayer DLC pack, a series of characters available for use in multiplayer.

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buygod-of-war-ascensionplaystationpre-orderps3sceasonysony-santa-monicaThu, 14 Feb 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Go behind the scenes of the God of War Super Bowl ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/go-behind-the-scenes-of-the-god-of-war-super-bowl-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/go-behind-the-scenes-of-the-god-of-war-super-bowl-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/09/go-behind-the-scenes-of-the-god-of-war-super-bowl-ad/#comments
This video shows the folks at Quantum Creation FX creating Kratos for the God of War: Ascension live-action Super Bowl commercial. If you're sick of eating buffalo wings after watching the finished ad, kick back, grab a burrito and watch this trailer and the other making-of video.

JoystiqGo behind the scenes of the God of War Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Feb 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>behind-the-scenesgod-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionmaking-ofplaystationps3SONYsony-santa-monicaSat, 09 Feb 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension white PS3 bundle unveiled for UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/god-of-war-ascension-white-ps3-bundle-unveiled-for-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/god-of-war-ascension-white-ps3-bundle-unveiled-for-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/god-of-war-ascension-white-ps3-bundle-unveiled-for-uk/#comments God of War Ascension white PS3 bundle unveiled for httpwwwjoystiqcom20130117classicwhiteps3instantgamecollectionbundlecomingtoameUKSony announced a God of War: Ascension PS3 bundle for British would-be deities today, featuring the sparkling-white 500GB Super Slim PS3. Unlike us American prime movers , our friends across the ocean get a tailored gold controller in their GoW: Ascension bundle, along with the special edition of the game which features everything in the collector's edition minus the eight-inch Kratos statue and DLC pass.

Sony didn't price the bundle in its announcement, but a search on Amazon UK suggests a tag of £249.99 (around $391). What is confirmed is when it's out, which, surprise-surprise, is the same as Ascension's launch date in the country: March 15.

Continue reading God of War: Ascension white PS3 bundle unveiled for UK

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension white PS3 bundle unveiled for UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3sonysony-santa-monicaukWed, 06 Feb 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony and Superbot part ways, Superbot 'excited' about its future]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/sony-and-superbot-part-ways-superbot-excited-about-its-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/sony-and-superbot-part-ways-superbot-excited-about-its-future/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/04/sony-and-superbot-part-ways-superbot-excited-about-its-future/#comments HIT 1ST Sony and Superbot part ways, all future PS AllStars DLC done internallySony and Superbot Entertainment, the developer behind PS3 and Vita brawler PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, are no longer an item. Sony confirms in a statement to Kotaku that its business relationship with Superbot is over:

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

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

Superbot's complete statement reads as follows:

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3SCEASONYsony-santa-monicasuperbot-entertainmentvitaMon, 04 Feb 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War's live-action Super Bowl ad]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/god-of-wars-live-action-super-bowl-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/god-of-wars-live-action-super-bowl-ad/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/01/god-of-wars-live-action-super-bowl-ad/#comments

Sony will spend between $3.7 million and $3.8 million to air this God of War: Ascension ad during Super Bowl XLVII this Sunday. Watch it now with a serious lack of buffalo wings and jalapeno poppers digesting in your stomach. Mmm, buffalo wings.

JoystiqGod of War's live-action Super Bowl ad originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3sony-santa-monicasuper-bowl-2013Fri, 01 Feb 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension single-player demo coming late February [Update: multiplayer beta open to all this weekend]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/god-of-war-ascension-single-player-demo-coming-late-february/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/god-of-war-ascension-single-player-demo-coming-late-february/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/19/god-of-war-ascension-single-player-demo-coming-late-february/#comments
A "full-fledged" single-player demo for God of War: Ascension is coming in late February, according to a recent PlayStation blog. With the multiplayer beta scheduled to end next week, fans only have the above 30-second teaser trailer to watch for the next month in preparation for the game's March 12 release date.

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Demogod-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3SCEASONYsony-santa-monicatrailerSat, 19 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension dev diary goes online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/god-of-war-ascension-dev-diary-goes-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/god-of-war-ascension-dev-diary-goes-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/16/god-of-war-ascension-dev-diary-goes-online/#comments
God of War: Ascension's online component has one goal. Make it feel right to attack your friends - or attack with your friends. The latest dev diary explores how developers at Sony Santa Monica are making sure to hit the perfect balance of carnage and compassion.

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-war-ascensiononlineplaystationps3SCEAsony-santa-monicaWed, 16 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension's multiplayer trailer is straight-up gross]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/god-of-war-ascensions-multiplayer-trailer-is-straight-up-gross/#comments
This God of War: Ascension multiplayer trailer and the ending of Apocalypse Now! have more in common than we'd generally like, except instead of a cow this has a beefy guy, and there's some Southern rock/railroad building blues playing in the background. Greece has a "South," right?

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betagod-of-war-ascensionmultiplayer-betaplaystationplaystation-plusps-plusps3sceasony-santa-monicaWed, 12 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension, Power Stone, and paying allegiance to the gods]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/god-of-war-ascension-power-stone-and-paying-allegiance-to-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/god-of-war-ascension-power-stone-and-paying-allegiance-to-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/god-of-war-ascension-power-stone-and-paying-allegiance-to-the/#comments God of War AscensionWhen asked about how he and the team at Sony Santa Monica are bringing multiplayer into the God of War series with God of War: Ascension, game director Todd Papy digs deep for inspiration. The single-player side of the game is obviously an influence, he says, as multiplayer side of the game attempts to enhance the always cinematic world of Kratos with a new character called the Avatar.

But then things get a little nuts. "You can look at Allegiance levels," says Papy, referring to the mode's customization choices defined by the four gods Zeus, Hades, Poseidon, and Ares, "and you can look at Diablo and Call of Duty and other games that have skill trees that you basically level up.

"And then you can look at Power Stone," says Papy, "as far as that old school melee feel to it." Yes. That's the one. Playing God of War: Ascension's renamed "Favor of the Gods" mode, and running around with up to eight other players flipping switches, executing combos, and earning favor points does feel a whole lot like the Dreamcast classic. In a strange way, to be honest. But a good one nevertheless.

Gallery: God of War: Ascension (Multiplayer)

Continue reading God of War: Ascension, Power Stone, and paying allegiance to the gods

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension, Power Stone, and paying allegiance to the gods originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>allegianceascensionavatardirectorfavor-of-the-godsgod-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionkratosplaystationpreviewps3screenshotssony-santa-monicatodd-papyThu, 06 Dec 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation All-Stars adding Kat and Emmett Graves, plus Heavenly Sword/Wipeout level]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/playstation-all-stars-adding-kat-and-emmett-graves-plus-heavenl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/playstation-all-stars-adding-kat-and-emmett-graves-plus-heavenl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/playstation-all-stars-adding-kat-and-emmett-graves-plus-heavenl/#comments PlayStation AllStars gets Kat and Emmett Graves, along with a Heavenly SwordWipeout levelSuperBot Entertainment showed off a new pair of fighters in PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale at the Sony Santa Monica studio recently: Kat from Gravity Rush and Emmett Graves from Starhawk will be the first two DLC characters to join the fracas. The character pack containing both will be free for a limited time when it arrives sometime early next year.

SuperBot's director Omar Kendall also premiered a brand new level for the game, combining the worlds of Heavenly Sword and Wipeout into a beautiful but precarious environment. The actual pricing (and release date) for the level hasn't yet been decided.

While letting us play a little bit with each character, Kendall talked to us about the reaction to PlayStation All-Stars, why these two characters are the first to make the DLC cut, and what else SuperBot has planned.

Gallery: PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale: Kat and Emmett Graves

Continue reading PlayStation All-Stars adding Kat and Emmett Graves, plus Heavenly Sword/Wipeout level

JoystiqPlayStation All-Stars adding Kat and Emmett Graves, plus Heavenly Sword/Wipeout level originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charactersdlcemmett-gravesheavenly-swordinterviewkatomar-kendallplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps-all-starsps3sony-santa-monicasuperbot-entertainmentvitaTue, 04 Dec 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension making-of video covers two years of development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/god-of-war-ascension-making-of-video-covers-two-years-of-develo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/god-of-war-ascension-making-of-video-covers-two-years-of-develo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/24/god-of-war-ascension-making-of-video-covers-two-years-of-develo/#comments
This video from Sony Santa Monica details two years of development time for God of War: Ascension. The developer video shows the creation of a monstrous cyclops creature from its initial design phases. God of War: Ascension will launch on March 12, 2013 for PS3.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension making-of video covers two years of development originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 24 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3SONYsony-santa-monicaSat, 24 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale review: Smashing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/21/playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-review/#comments Nintendo's presence looms large in the fledgling category of game mascot fighters. For years, the company has had a monopoly on the concept with its Smash Bros. series, essentially making it a genre of one. Sony may be the only other publisher with a large enough bench to support such a concept, and as a result PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale has been subject to many comparisons with Nintendo's beloved franchise (not all of them favorable).

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3santa-monica-studiosceasonysony-santa-monicasuperbot-entertainmentvitaWed, 21 Nov 2012 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation All-Stars final boss is mathematical]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/playstation-all-stars-final-boss-is-mathematical/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/playstation-all-stars-final-boss-is-mathematical/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/08/playstation-all-stars-final-boss-is-mathematical/#comments

PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale is polished off and ready to ship, and Sony Santa Monica marks this glorious occasion with a video of the complete opening cinematic, which teases the game's final boss. Brace yourselves - it's Polygon Man.

Polygon Man was Sony's mascot for the PlayStation in mid-90s North America, but was replaced before the actual console launch. With that in mind, he probably holds a fair bit of resentment for the PlayStation franchises popular enough to make it into Battle Royale.

Check out the complete opening cinematic above, with Polygon Man looming over everything right at the end. Battle Royale launches on November 20.

JoystiqPlayStation All-Stars final boss is mathematical originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-bossplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitapolygon-manps3SONYsony-santa-monicavitaThu, 08 Nov 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS All-Stars Battle Royale live-action TV ad, the European take]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/ps-all-stars-battle-royale-live-action-tv-ad-the-european-take/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/ps-all-stars-battle-royale-live-action-tv-ad-the-european-take/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/06/ps-all-stars-battle-royale-live-action-tv-ad-the-european-take/#comments
This European TV ad for PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale is an interesting take on the live-action vid rolled out by Sony last month. The guy supposed to be Drake looks like the one person who didn't dress up at a Halloween party.

JoystiqPS All-Stars Battle Royale live-action TV ad, the European take originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluepoint-gamesplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3sonysony-santa-monicasuperbot-entertainmentvitaTue, 06 Nov 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Unfinished Swan is totally done, here's a launch trailer to prove it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/the-unfinished-swan-is-totally-done-heres-a-launch-trailer-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/the-unfinished-swan-is-totally-done-heres-a-launch-trailer-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/28/the-unfinished-swan-is-totally-done-heres-a-launch-trailer-to/#comments

This launch trailer for The Unfinished Swan guides you through some of the intriguing scenery in the serene game. The Giant Sparrow-developed game is out now on PSN, and our review indicates that it's not one to be missed.

JoystiqThe Unfinished Swan is totally done, here's a launch trailer to prove it originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giant-sparrowmoveplaystationps3PSNsony-santa-monicathe-unfinished-swantrailerunfinished-swanSun, 28 Oct 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[This is madness: GameStop God of War: Ascension pre-order perk is '300' DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/this-is-madness-gamestop-god-of-war-ascension-pre-order-perk-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/this-is-madness-gamestop-god-of-war-ascension-pre-order-perk-i/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/24/this-is-madness-gamestop-god-of-war-ascension-pre-order-perk-i/#comments GameStop's God of War Ascension preorder bonus is '300' DLCGamestop's God of War: Ascension pre-order bonus is an exclusive multiplayer costume taken from Zack Snyder's 2007 movie 300, because nothing says "brand-new video game based on Greek pseudo-mythology" like a random costume from a five-year-old movie based on Greek pseudo-history.

Specifically, the costume replicates King Leonidas' red cape, helmet and "armor," which we assume is what they're calling his tiny little baby man-shorts. The costume also includes a spear that provides new moves and abilities, as well as a double-sided God of War: Ascension poster. It does not, however, include a pit for disposing of foreign dignitaries or a bottle of chest grease.

JoystiqThis is madness: GameStop God of War: Ascension pre-order perk is '300' DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Oct 2012 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300gamestopgod-of-war-ascensionking-leonidasplaystationpre-orderpre-order-bonusps3SCEASony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaWed, 24 Oct 2012 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension beta seeks vengeance this winter; new social game offers early access]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/god-of-war-ascension-beta-seeks-vengeance-this-winter-new-soci/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/god-of-war-ascension-beta-seeks-vengeance-this-winter-new-soci/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/22/god-of-war-ascension-beta-seeks-vengeance-this-winter-new-soci/#comments
Sony has finally revealed that this winter will be when PlayStation Plus users will be able to get their hands on the God of War: Ascension beta. Plus subscribers will be able to sample the multiplayer side of God of War: Ascension gratis, but frugal fans still have an option: early access through a new social game called Rise of the Warrior.

Rise of the Warrior is not available at the moment, but playing the social game between its launch and March 2013 offers rewards of in-game unlocks, exclusive items, early beta access and 30-day subscriptions to PlayStation Plus. And, hey, if there's one thing an angry man on a path of vengeance can't deny, it's the smile-inducing power of free stuff.

Continue reading God of War: Ascension beta seeks vengeance this winter; new social game offers early access

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension beta seeks vengeance this winter; new social game offers early access originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betagod-of-war-ascensionmultiplayer-betaplaystationps3sceasony-santa-monicaMon, 22 Oct 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Unfinished Swan review: Palette cleanser]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/the-unfinished-swan-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/the-unfinished-swan-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/15/the-unfinished-swan-review/#comments Video games are good at a lot of things. Typically, they appeal to our baser instincts - usually the desire for power, in whatever form that may take, be it blasting aliens, slaying dragons or scoring touchdowns. What they do particularly well that isn't explored often enough, is rekindle our childhood capacity for amazement.

I think this is something that most invested players realize, whether they've ever articulated it or not. More than books or movies, games engage us, and the good ones pull us in. They can remind us what it was like to lift a rock in a garden, discovering the creatures that live underneath, or how it felt to dribble paint on a sheet of paper, fold it in half and reveal a butterfly.

The Unfinished Swan is the story of a child, Monroe. Its ability to plant players firmly in his shoes, to help us see the world as he does, is what makes it special.

Gallery: The Unfinished Swan

Continue reading The Unfinished Swan review: Palette cleanser

JoystiqThe Unfinished Swan review: Palette cleanser originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giant-sparrowmoveplaystationps3psnsony-santa-monicathe-unfinished-swanMon, 15 Oct 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Gravity Rush's Kat in PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/08/rumor-gravity-rushs-kat-in-playstation-all-stars-battle-royal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/08/rumor-gravity-rushs-kat-in-playstation-all-stars-battle-royal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/08/rumor-gravity-rushs-kat-in-playstation-all-stars-battle-royal/#comments Rumor Gravity Rush's Kat in PlayStation AllStars Battle RoyaleThere isn't a lot to go on with this latest PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale character rumor, but if we've learned anything from the last few, it's that we should probably pay attention to leaks and speculation.

The above picture (full-sized and uncropped here) appears to show the PlayStation All-Stars character bio of Kat of Gravity Rush fame. The style is consistent with the official site's existing bios, but we were unable to locate Kat's bio ourselves through clever URL manipulations or otherwise. For now, we're keeping this in the "maybe" pile, but we'll also keep our ear to the ground and will update with any new information that surfaces.

JoystiqRumor: Gravity Rush's Kat in PlayStation All-Stars: Battle Royale originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 08 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gravity-RushKatplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3sony-santa-monicasuperbot-entertainmentvitaSat, 08 Sep 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension Euro dates announced, along with Special / Collector's Editions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/god-of-war-ascension-euro-dates-announced-along-with-special/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/god-of-war-ascension-euro-dates-announced-along-with-special/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/god-of-war-ascension-euro-dates-announced-along-with-special/#comments God of War: Ascension will be available on March 13, 14 or 15, depending on whether you plan on buying it in greater Europe, Australia/New Zealand, or the UK/Ireland, respectively. Meanwhile, North American folk can still expect to rain bloody death down upon their enemies on March 12.

Non-North American revenge aficionados looking for something a little more substantial than just the game itself will have both Special and Collector's editions to choose from, which each contain varying levels of goodies, both in-game and out. The Collector's Edition is identical to the North American version and includes a steelbook case, eight-inch Kratos figure, digital copy of the soundtrack, a PS3 theme and avatars, a double multiplayer XP boost and a voucher for all future DLC.

Special Edition, on the other hand, includes everything listed above except for the statuette and the DLC pass. No pricing information or pictures of the packs have been released as of yet, thought details are expected in the "near future," according to the European PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension Euro dates announced, along with Special / Collector's Editions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editionDLCeuropegod-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3release-dateSCEAseason-passSony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaspecial-editionThu, 30 Aug 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a look at the Journey: Collector's Edition mini-games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/take-a-look-at-the-journey-collectors-edition-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/take-a-look-at-the-journey-collectors-edition-mini-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/28/take-a-look-at-the-journey-collectors-edition-mini-games/#comments Take a look at the Journey Collector's Edition minigames
Journey: Collector's Edition is out today. The collection bundles together thatgamecompany's Flow, Flower and, of course, Journey into a single package - but that's not all. It also includes three never-before-seen mini-games from internal "24hr Game Jams." We put together a short video showcasing all three of these new games: Gravediggers, Duke War and Nostril Shot.

If that isn't enough to entice you, know that there are cat ninjas at one point.

JoystiqTake a look at the Journey: Collector's Edition mini-games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Aug 2012 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>duke-wargravediggersjourneyjourney-collectors-editionnostril-shotplaystationps3sceasony-computer-entertainment-americasony-santa-monicaThatGameCompanyTue, 28 Aug 2012 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension multiplayer beta coming to PS Plus members]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-beta-coming-to-ps-plus-members/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-beta-coming-to-ps-plus-members/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/14/god-of-war-ascension-multiplayer-beta-coming-to-ps-plus-members/#comments
PlayStation Plus subscribers will get first crack at a God of War: Ascension beta "soon," game director Todd Papy has revealed on the PlayStation Blog. Don't have a PS Plus subscription? Papy says "there may [be] a few other secret inroads" to access the beta.

When you boot up multiplayer for the first time, you'll have to pledge allegiance to one of four gods: Hades, Ares, Poseidon or Zeus. Once you've got an affiliation, you can dive into the four-vs-four combat and earn XP, which is used to progress and fine-tune your character in pursuit of becoming your favored god's best pet.

"Each of our unique multiplayer maps and gameplay modes will have a variety of objectives and interactive multi-leveled environments," Papy says. "We'll be sharing more details as we get closer to our March 12, 2013 release."

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension multiplayer beta coming to PS Plus members originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Aug 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betagod-of-war-ascensionmultiplayerplaystationps3sony-santa-monicaTue, 14 Aug 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Twisted Metal sold 'fine,' was 'not a dud,' says Jaffe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/twisted-metal-sold-fine-was-not-a-dud-says-jaffe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/twisted-metal-sold-fine-was-not-a-dud-says-jaffe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/01/twisted-metal-sold-fine-was-not-a-dud-says-jaffe/#comments Last year's Twisted Metal reboot "sold fine," says creative director David Jaffe. "Not a dud, not a hit," he adds. "It was not a mega blockbuster or even a big hit (was it even a 'hit'?...not sure what is in between 'dud' and 'hit' but I think TM PS3 falls into that category)." He stops short of offering any specific sales numbers, but notes, "I hope Sony will be satisfied that it made a decent investment in the game and in us."

It's unclear how large of a financial investment Sony made in the Twisted Metal reboot, but it apparently wasn't enough to keep Jaffe's Eat Sleep Play studio from facing cuts following the launch last year. Jaffe himself also left the company; he is now pursuing free-to-play games.

Jaffe also outlines eerily specific plans for another Twisted Metal franchise entry, saying it'd be digital-only and aggressively truncated. "But again, this is just me pie in the sky thinking out loud," he notes. "None of this is planned." Mmmmhmmmm, Mr. Jaffe. We've heard that song before.

JoystiqTwisted Metal sold 'fine,' was 'not a dud,' says Jaffe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-jaffeeat-sleep-playplaystationps3salessceasony-computer-entertainment-americasony-santa-monicatwisted-metal-2011twisted-metal-2012Wed, 01 Aug 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension dev 'pulls back' from in-game violence against women]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/god-of-war-ascension-dev-pulls-back-from-in-game-violence-aga/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/god-of-war-ascension-dev-pulls-back-from-in-game-violence-aga/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/19/god-of-war-ascension-dev-pulls-back-from-in-game-violence-aga/#comments God of War Ascension dev 'pulls back' from ingame violence against womenIn an interview with IGN, Sony Santa Monica's David Hewitt admitted the team's scaled back on the violence towards women in God of War: Ascension. The team is of the mind that showing such a thing would make a statement and define the character in a way that doesn't befit Kratos. "There are some things we've pulled back from. I think where this has been an issue is with violence against women - the team's pulled back from some of that and assessed that a little more carefully," Hewitt admitted. "There are certain things that carry has a different kind of resonance that we don't want to get into. This isn't about statement-making in that regard. It's about fleshing out this character."

The overall interview focuses not just on violence on women, but violence in general. As one of the most criticized games of E3 in this regard, Hewitt justifies God of War: Ascension's body count by saying Kratos doesn't languish in the slaughter, nor does he particularly enjoy it. Kratos is constantly pushing forward, moving toward his goal of revenge, so Hewitt doesn't feel the violence is particularly glorified.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension dev 'pulls back' from in-game violence against women originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>god-of-wargod-of-war-ascensionkratosplaystationps3sony-santa-monicaviolenceThu, 19 Jul 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Street Fighter's Seth Killian is now lead game designer at Sony Santa Monica]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/street-fighters-seth-killian-is-now-lead-game-designer-at-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/street-fighters-seth-killian-is-now-lead-game-designer-at-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/street-fighters-seth-killian-is-now-lead-game-designer-at-sony/#comments Street Fighter's Seth Killian is now lead game designer at Sony Santa MonicaSeth Killian, former Capcom strategic marketing director of online and community, has taken the role at Sony Santa Monica as lead game designer, working on PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale and with other outside studios.

Killian is best known for his work in the fighting game community - he co-founded the EVO championships and handled Capcom's fighting games during his six-year employment - and he says that experience will help him at Sony Santa Monica.

"Fighting games are very close to my heart, and as someone that's spent much of my life with traditional fighters, All-Stars has been a great opportunity to take a step back and rethink fighting fundamentals from the ground up," Killian writes on the PlayStation Blog. "All-Stars is also a total love-letter to Sony fans. From the characters, to their special moves, to the incredible level 3 supers, and the stages themselves, I'm not sure there's ever been such a giant dose of fan-service in Sony history."

Did we mention Killian used to be in PR? He will be working with third-party studios such as Fun Bits Interactive, Queasy Games, thatgamecompany, Giant Sparrow, and of course All-Stars' SuperBot Entertainment. Killian will be bringing All-Stars to EVO this weekend, as part of PlayStation's first official presence at the tournament.

JoystiqStreet Fighter's Seth Killian is now lead game designer at Sony Santa Monica originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 12:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CapcomEvofighting-gamelead-game-designerplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3seth-killiansony-santa-monicavitaMon, 02 Jul 2012 12:25:00 EST<![CDATA[God of War: Ascension E3 demo pits Kratos against the animal collective]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/god-of-war-ascension-e3-demo-pits-kratos-against-the-animal-col/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/god-of-war-ascension-e3-demo-pits-kratos-against-the-animal-col/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/18/god-of-war-ascension-e3-demo-pits-kratos-against-the-animal-col/#comments God of War Ascension E3 demonstration pits Kratos against the animal collective
Well, okay, maybe not that Animal Collective, but this God of War: Ascension walkthrough from Sony's E3 press conference does predominantly pit Kratos against a cadre of half-man, half-animal manimals. The demo also showcases Kratos' newly acquired reconstructive abilities, as well as the quick-time events we've all come to expect from the series.

As far as creature design is concerned, we have to admit that we're pretty enthused by what we see here -- we're quite partial to the elephant man, ourselves. No, not that Elephant Man.

JoystiqGod of War: Ascension E3 demo pits Kratos against the animal collective originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2012 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3-2012god-of-war-ascensionplaystationps3Sony-Computer-Entertainment-Americasony-santa-monicaMon, 18 Jun 2012 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Smattering of PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Vita domains registered by Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/smattering-of-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-vita-domains-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/smattering-of-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-vita-domains-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/29/smattering-of-playstation-all-stars-battle-royale-vita-domains-r/#comments ImageHey, in case you didn't know, that Smash Bros.-esque PlayStation 3 game, PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale, is very likely also heading to PlayStation Vita. How likely? Pretty freakin' likely, especially considering the recently discovered group of domain registrations from Sony Computer Entertainment of America tied to URLs like "PlaystationAllStarsVita.com," "PS-AllStarsVita.com," and "PSAllStarsBattleRoyaleVita.com."

As with so many of these discoveries, Superannuation spotted the URLs - URLs that pretty clearly identify a Vita-based version of the brawler. We'll be saying this a lot this week, so get used to it: we've reached out to Sony for more info, but only got "we don't comment on rumor or speculation" in return. We expect more info next week during E3.

JoystiqSmattering of PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale Vita domains registered by Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domaindomain-registrationdomainsplaystationplaystation-all-stars-battle-royaleplaystation-vitaps3sceasony-computer-entertainment-americasony-santa-monicasuperbotsuperbot-entertainmenturlurlsvitaTue, 29 May 2012 15:00:00 EST