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[SoulCalibur 5 hits up PSN, Games on Demand on April 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/soul-calibur-5-hits-up-psn-games-on-demand-on-april-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/soul-calibur-5-hits-up-psn-games-on-demand-on-april-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/17/soul-calibur-5-hits-up-psn-games-on-demand-on-april-23/#comments Soul Calibur 5 hits up PSN, Games on Demand on April 23SoulCalibur 5 takes on PSN and Xbox Live Games on Demand on April 23, for $20 on each system, direct from Namco Bandai.

SoulCalibur 5 launched in January of 2012, and we found it to be "simultaneously one of the best Soul Calibur games ever made, as well as the worst Soul Calibur game ever made." It makes sense in the context of the review, we promise - that's what all the text above those stars is for.

Gallery: SoulCalibur V (Games on Demand / PSN)

Continue reading SoulCalibur 5 hits up PSN, Games on Demand on April 23

JoystiqSoulCalibur 5 hits up PSN, Games on Demand on April 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>games-on-demandmicrosoftNamco-Bandaiplaystationps3PSNsoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vXBLxboxWed, 17 Apr 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco Bandai game business up 32% in fiscal quarter, Soulcalibur 5 leads sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/namco-bandai-game-business-up-32-in-fiscal-quarter-soulcalibur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/namco-bandai-game-business-up-32-in-fiscal-quarter-soulcalibur/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/03/namco-bandai-game-business-up-32-in-fiscal-quarter-soulcalibur/#comments Namco Bandai's Game Software Division brought in 13.8 billion yen ($176.3 million) in its fiscal Q1 (ended June 30), up over last year's 10.4 billion yen. Overall, the "Content Business" that includes game software brought in 57 billion yen ($728.18 million), a 60% increase over the 35.6 billion from the same time last year.

The success of Namco's game business is partly due to just brute force - Namco released 46 games worldwide in the quarter, versus 27 last year. Its best selling game for the quarter was Soulcalibur 5, which added 680,000 worldwide sales to its total, for a life-to-date 1.38 million. Its other named best sellers include Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm Generations, which sold 440,000 in the quarter, and the Japan only Toriko Gourmet Survival 2 for PSP, which sold 100,000.

JoystiqNamco Bandai game business up 32% in fiscal quarter, Soulcalibur 5 leads sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfy-2012microsoftnamco-bandainintendoplaystationps3pspq1sonysoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vwiixboxFri, 03 Aug 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Here comes the 'Bridal Costume' DLC in Soulcalibur 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/here-comes-the-bridal-costume-dlc-in-soulcalibur-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/here-comes-the-bridal-costume-dlc-in-soulcalibur-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/19/here-comes-the-bridal-costume-dlc-in-soulcalibur-5/#comments Soul Calibur wedding outfits in JapanNamco Bandai cordially invites you to celebrate the union of its child, Soulcalibur 5, and ... "Bridal Costume" DLC, today. The ceremony will be held on the Xbox Live Marketplace, with a reception on the PlayStation Network later (PSN weather permitting). Punches will be served.

The couple has requested that, in lieu of gifts, attendees donate $3 to the console marketplace of their choice.

JoystiqHere comes the 'Bridal Costume' DLC in Soulcalibur 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcmicrosoftplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxTue, 19 Jun 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SoulCalibur 5's story mode is one-fourth its originally planned size]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/soulcalibur-5s-story-mode-is-one-fourth-of-planned-size/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/soulcalibur-5s-story-mode-is-one-fourth-of-planned-size/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/31/soulcalibur-5s-story-mode-is-one-fourth-of-planned-size/#comments SoulCalibur 5's lackluster single-player offerings majorly stuck in my craw when I reviewed it last January, and while the game's combat is primarily excellent, I couldn't overlook the fact that its story mode is, as I said in my review, "a 3-hour hodgepodge of indecipherable, confusing storyboard panels punctuated by random (although admittedly gorgeous) cinematics."

As it turns out, I wasn't the only one who wanted more from the game's story mode: "Our first plan on the storyboard was that we had every characters' story, and actually we do have it in the studio, but time-wise, man power-wise we weren't able to do it and only one fourth of what we planned to do is in the game," said SC5 director Daishi Odashima during an interview with Train2Game.

In its current form, SC5's story mode follows the adventures of Sophitia's children Pyrrha and Patrokolos. Similar story modes would have existed for every character, but developmental restrictions prevented that from happening. Voice overs for some characters' canned stories exist in a finished, usable state, but Namco Bandai currently has no plans for how (or if) they'll ever be used.

JoystiqSoulCalibur 5's story mode is one-fourth its originally planned size originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Daishi-Odashimamicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3SC5soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vstory-modexboxSat, 31 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Namco summons the eight best SoulCalibur 5 players for World Championship]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/namco-summons-the-eight-best-soulcalibur-5-players-for-world-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/namco-summons-the-eight-best-soulcalibur-5-players-for-world-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/30/namco-summons-the-eight-best-soulcalibur-5-players-for-world-cha/#comments Are you one of the eight best SoulCalibur 5 players in the world? Then you already know about Namco Bandai's World Championship event, because you've been invited to it. For everyone else: Namco Bandai has gathered the eight best players from around the world, and will have them compete in Las Vegas on April 10 for a $10,000 prize pool.

If you want to see the absolute highest-level SC5 play, and how it differs from your constant attempts to ring out your friends, you'll be able to watch a stream brought to you by Team Spooky. Check Facebook for more details on how you can go see the event -- it appears some kind of party bus is involved.

JoystiqNamco summons the eight best SoulCalibur 5 players for World Championship originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vtournamentxboxFri, 30 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SoulCalibur 5 title update trailer plays dress-up]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/soulcalibur-5-title-update-trailer-plays-dress-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/soulcalibur-5-title-update-trailer-plays-dress-up/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/21/soulcalibur-5-title-update-trailer-plays-dress-up/#comments
Soon Google image search won't be the only place you can see SoulCalibur 5's cast in short-shorts.

JoystiqSoulCalibur 5 title update trailer plays dress-up originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2012 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costumecostume-dlccostumesdlcmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vtitle-updatexboxWed, 21 Mar 2012 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SoulCalibur 5's upcoming DLC has maid costumes, more swimsuits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/soulcalibur-5s-upcoming-dlc-has-maid-costumes-more-swimsuits/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/soulcalibur-5s-upcoming-dlc-has-maid-costumes-more-swimsuits/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/18/soulcalibur-5s-upcoming-dlc-has-maid-costumes-more-swimsuits/#comments
So, remember how SoulCalibur 5 is getting monthly costume DLC starting next month, and how we were absolutely positive it wouldn't be what we were expecting? Well, turns out this first pack is actually exactly what we expected, in that it's mostly random goofiness and fanservice.

The new array of costumes will be available for purchase through the "Cepheus Store," which will presumably be added during the game's March 21 system/balance update. The store is divided into categories, the ones listed in the video being "Classic Headgears," "SCV Character Equipment," "Maid Costumes," "Active Wear," Ancient Armor" and "Modern Costumes."No word yet on pricing, or whether the costumes will be sold as complete outfits or individual pieces.

The above trailer also teases costumes and accessories coming in future updates, which appear to include fishing regalia, flight attendant outfits, the equipment needed to make King from Tekken, and ... a Pac Man head?

JoystiqSoulCalibur 5's upcoming DLC has maid costumes, more swimsuits originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>costumesDLCmicrosoftnamco-bandaipac-manpatchplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxSun, 18 Mar 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SoulCalibur 5 getting balance patch March 21, monthly costume DLC starting in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/soulcalibur-5-getting-balance-patch-march-21-monthly-costume-dl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/soulcalibur-5-getting-balance-patch-march-21-monthly-costume-dl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/15/soulcalibur-5-getting-balance-patch-march-21-monthly-costume-dl/#comments The secret to a successful modern fighting game isn't so much the launch as it is the post-launch support. It's kind of like an MMO, in that patching and re-balancing based on community input adds refinement and longevity to the platform. Namco Bandai seems to get this, as it'll be updating SoulCalibur 5's ranked match matchmaking algorithms and character balance next Wednesday, March 21. Specifics on those balance changes are forthcoming, according to the SC5 Facebook page.

The curators of the Stage of History have also announced that SC5 will receive monthly costume DLC packs, the first of which will arrive on April 3 for the 360 and April 4 for the PS3. No word yet on costume pack pricing or content, but we've got a sneaking suspicion that whatever we're expecting, we're probably way off.

JoystiqSoulCalibur 5 getting balance patch March 21, monthly costume DLC starting in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>balanceDLCmatchmakingmicrosoftnamco-bandainetcodepatchplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vupdatexboxThu, 15 Mar 2012 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[SoulCalibur 5's price slashed to $40 on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/soulcalibur-5-price-slashed-to-40-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/soulcalibur-5-price-slashed-to-40-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/27/soulcalibur-5-price-slashed-to-40-on-amazon/#comments Hey, we'd all like to have our own little place on the stage of history, but do you have any idea how desirable that real estate is? It's only so big a stage, you guys.

Thankfully, this year's stay won't set us back the full price: Amazon currently has SoulCalibur V on sale for $39.99 on both Xbox 360 and PS3.

JoystiqSoulCalibur 5's price slashed to $40 on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonmicrosoftNamco-Bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxMon, 27 Feb 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Original Hip-hop: Welcome Back (To The Stage of History)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/joystiq-original-hip-hop-welcome-back-to-the-stage-of-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/joystiq-original-hip-hop-welcome-back-to-the-stage-of-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/25/joystiq-original-hip-hop-welcome-back-to-the-stage-of-history/#comments
Anyone who's listened to my long, incoherent rambles on The Joystiq Show knows that I love fighting games more than most things that exist. What you may not know, however, is that my love for a good combo is rivaled only by my desire to spit sick verses over fly jams. So, when Joystiq's Alexander Sliwinski and Steven Wong suggested that I marry my two passions into one creation, how could I resist?

The end result (embedded above) is a SoulCalibur 5 rap song written and performed by yours truly. The destructively sick beat was lovingly crafted by tanner4105, an incredibly talented producer and electronica artist who donated his services out of the goodness of his own heart. Full lyrics are available after the break!

Continue reading Joystiq Original Hip-hop: Welcome Back (To The Stage of History)

JoystiqJoystiq Original Hip-hop: Welcome Back (To The Stage of History) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hip-hopjoystiq-original-hip-hopJPHONICmicrosoftnamco-bandainerdcoreplaystationproject-soulps3rapsoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vtanner4105xboxSat, 25 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video review: Mad Catz Arcade FightStick Soul Edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/video-review-mad-catz-arcade-fightstick-soul-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/video-review-mad-catz-arcade-fightstick-soul-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/video-review-mad-catz-arcade-fightstick-soul-edition/#comments
A few weeks ago, Mad Catz sent me one of its latest arcade sticks, the SoulCalibur 5 branded Soul Edition arcade fightstick. After daily testing on SC5, Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 and Mortal Kombat, the Soul Edition not only met my expectations, but exceeded them, as you can tell from the review video above.

The company's Tournament Edition sticks have always been excellent pieces of hardware, and the Soul Edition is no exception. It's solidly constructed from arcade-quality parts and is heavy enough to stay in place, regardless of whether you fight on a table-top or your lap. The stick's striking motif and subtle design elements set it apart from every other mass-produced arcade stick on the market; if you want to stand out at your local Ranking Battles without incurring the cost of a custom-made stick, you'd be hard pressed to find a piece of fighting tech that's this unique, right out of the box.

JoystiqVideo review: Mad Catz Arcade FightStick Soul Edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickfightstickjoystickmad-catzmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3sanwasanwa-denshisoul-editionsoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxFri, 03 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SoulCalibur 5 review: The old flame still burns]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/soulcalibur-5-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/soulcalibur-5-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/31/soulcalibur-5-review/#comments Soul Calibur 2 and I used to be "an item," back in the day. We spent every evening together, laughing over the ridiculous ring outs we shared and taking special pride in infuriating my friends, together. It was rare to ever find us apart for more than a few hours at a time; I loved Soul Calibur 2 with all of my heart.

Things change, though, and as time marched on we realized that staying together wasn't the best thing for the both of us. The world had moved on, my needs had changed, and Soul Calibur 2 understood that it was time for me to go. Despite trying to reconnect a couple of times, we haven't really talked much since the old days.

So imagine my surprise when SoulCalibur 5 showed up at my apartment, looking better than ever and wanting to go a few rounds. We've been spending a lot of time together, and it's been a pretty intense emotional rollercoaster, truth be told. I've rediscovered all the little things I used to love, as well as the reasons why we broke up in the first place.

It's hard, because when you get back with an old flame, you want things to go back to the way they used to be, and that's rarely (if ever) possible. SoulCalibur 5 is a far cry from the game I used to love, and it's got more than its fair share of problems, but deep down, the soul still burns.

Gallery: Soulcalibur V (1.18.11)

Continue reading SoulCalibur 5 review: The old flame still burns

JoystiqSoulCalibur 5 review: The old flame still burns originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Jan 2012 12:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3SC5SCVsoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxTue, 31 Jan 2012 12:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur 5 DLC lets you buy bikinis and animal heads in Feb.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/soulcalibur-5-dlc-lets-you-buy-bikinis-and-animal-heads-in-feb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/soulcalibur-5-dlc-lets-you-buy-bikinis-and-animal-heads-in-feb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/soulcalibur-5-dlc-lets-you-buy-bikinis-and-animal-heads-in-feb/#comments If you pick up Soulcalibur 5 next week, and find that your custom character just isn't looking right without, say, a bikini, wings, and face paint, Namco's got you covered (in bikinis, wings, and face paint). The publisher has announced three DLC packs for Europe, each running 160 Microsoft Points or €1.99, and each loaded with basically insane things to put on your characters. As a nice bonus, they all include in-game music tracks from previous Caliburs, which can also be purchased individually.

On February 3, you can buy the aforementioned bikinis, wings, and face paints as part of a bundle of "nine exotic customization items." This comes with music from Soul Blade and Soul Calibur. February 14 includes "fearsome" items like "breast plate, kimono, and animal heads." Animal heads. This set is bundled with SC2 and 3 music. Finally, on February 28, you can get nine more items, including "mask, face paint, camouflage and skull." Along with your download, you get music from Soulcalibur IV and Soulcalibur Broken Destiny.

No announcement has been made for a North American release, but we're confident Namco will let you buy that kimono and skull soon enough.

Continue reading Soulcalibur 5 DLC lets you buy bikinis and animal heads in Feb.

JoystiqSoulcalibur 5 DLC lets you buy bikinis and animal heads in Feb. originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlceuropemicrosoftplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxFri, 27 Jan 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Soulcalibur 5 trailer is like four trailers in one]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/new-soulcalibur-5-trailer-is-like-four-trailers-in-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/new-soulcalibur-5-trailer-is-like-four-trailers-in-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/new-soulcalibur-5-trailer-is-like-four-trailers-in-one/#comments
Soulcalibur 5 comes out in less than a week; why waste time with separate trailers when you can slam them all into one super convenient video? Check out Algol, Edge Master and Devil Jin's Custom Character fighting style (!), as well as character poses narrated by SC5's obligatory gruff guy.

JoystiqNew Soulcalibur 5 trailer is like four trailers in one originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>algoldevil-jinedge-mastergameplaymicrosoftnamconamco-bandaiplaystationproject-soulps3SC5soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxFri, 27 Jan 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A tale of two hidden blades, eternally retold: Ezio v Ezio in Soulcalibur 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/a-tale-of-two-hidden-blades-eternally-retold-ezio-v-ezio-in-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/a-tale-of-two-hidden-blades-eternally-retold-ezio-v-ezio-in-so/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/24/a-tale-of-two-hidden-blades-eternally-retold-ezio-v-ezio-in-so/#comments
We're pretty sure if Ezio really fought Ezio, he'd just mirror his own moves identically and get caught in a stalemate. But when two different people pilot the master assassin from the Assassin's Creed series within the confines of Soulcalibur 5, that's a whole other story.

[Thanks, Nederob.]

JoystiqA tale of two hidden blades, eternally retold: Ezio v Ezio in Soulcalibur 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ezio-auditoreezio-auditore-da-firenzegameplaymicrosoftnamconamco-bandaiplaystationproject-soulps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxTue, 24 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why Soul Calibur Still (Quietly) Burns After More than a Decade]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/why-soul-calibur-still-quietly-burns-after-more-than-a-decade/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/why-soul-calibur-still-quietly-burns-after-more-than-a-decade/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/23/why-soul-calibur-still-quietly-burns-after-more-than-a-decade/#comments Soul Calibur has always been the everyman fighter. Of all the major fighting game series on the market, Soul Calibur is the game that you would probably feel most comfortable playing with your non-gaming friends or significant other. And a lot of that has to do with the weapons.

The Soul series wasn't the first fighting game to feature weapons, of course. In the early days of the genre, Samurai Shodown distinguished itself with its detailed sprites, gore, and katanas. Battle Arena Toshinden, meanwhile, distinguished itself as the first 3D weapons fighter, close to a year before the original Soul Edge hit the arcades.

Soul Edge, for its part, was Namco's way of testing uncharted waters. It was positioned as an alternative to Tekken and Virtua Fighter, which dominated 3D fighting at that time, and its weapons were a big part of its appeal. Apart from feeling smoother than the stiff Tekken, the strategic concept of weapon range was more intuitive than the combo-heavy 3D fighters that had preceded it.

The reason it's so easy to understand is that the concept is built into the visual vocabulary of the game. When you look at Siegfried, you see a large knight with a gigantic blade. It's instantly apparent that he has longer reach than, say, the lightweight ninja Taki. And a good player knows how to put that advantage to good use, or to minimize it in its turn.

Today, Soul Edge is largely forgotten outside of a small cadre of dedicated fans, but it did its part to lay down the foundation for the series by introducing the story as well as familiar characters like Mitsurugi. Soulcalibur V director Daishi Odashima certainly seems to have some affection for the original game. He even argued in favor of naming the upcoming sequel "Soul Edge 2," but was overruled.

Continue reading Why Soul Calibur Still (Quietly) Burns After More than a Decade

JoystiqWhy Soul Calibur Still (Quietly) Burns After More than a Decade originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibursoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxMon, 23 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Kilik and Elysium added to Soulcalibur 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/rumor-kilik-and-elysium-added-to-soulcalibur-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/rumor-kilik-and-elysium-added-to-soulcalibur-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/rumor-kilik-and-elysium-added-to-soulcalibur-5/#comments SoulCalibur 5's character roster has, historically, been chock-full of leaks. Clandestine screenshots were responsible for revealing Ezio and Raphael, and now it looks as though three new fighters may have been uncovered in an extremely similar fashion.

Two images, culled from NeoGAF's depths, show the most hated man in the world fan-favorite Kilik (sporting a shiny new bird hat), as well as newcomer Elysium, an angelic female of some kind who sports very little of anything. Speculation suggests that both characters will be "mimic characters" who are able to emulate the fighting styles of any other character, but at this point that appears to be unfounded.

Considering SC5's track record with character selection screenshots, however, we're cautiously optimistic regarding the validity of these photos. Check out the gallery below for high-resolution versions.

Gallery: SoulCalibur 5 (Elysium and Kilik leak, Ultra-HR)

JoystiqRumor: Kilik and Elysium added to Soulcalibur 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>characterelysiumkilikleakedmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3SC5soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxWed, 18 Jan 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a look at the gorgeous and gory roster of Soulcalibur V]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/take-a-look-at-the-gorgeous-and-gory-roster-of-soulcalibur-v/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/take-a-look-at-the-gorgeous-and-gory-roster-of-soulcalibur-v/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/take-a-look-at-the-gorgeous-and-gory-roster-of-soulcalibur-v/#comments SoulCalibur V is similar to previous entries in one crucial aspect: There are some very pretty fighters on the roster who are more than happy to slice each other up. Even gory ol' Nightmare seems to have received some tips directly from Tim Gunn. Major wow factor, people!

Continue reading Take a look at the gorgeous and gory roster of Soulcalibur V

JoystiqTake a look at the gorgeous and gory roster of Soulcalibur V originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnamconamco-bandaiplaystationproject-soulps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vted-allenxboxWed, 18 Jan 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Relax and watch this Namco X Capcom London Fight Club video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/relax-and-watch-this-namco-x-capcom-london-fight-club-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/relax-and-watch-this-namco-x-capcom-london-fight-club-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/relax-and-watch-this-namco-x-capcom-london-fight-club-video/#comments

Some of you will enjoy a nice, extra day off on Monday, and we would hate for you to get bored while you sit around in your pajamas, not working. If at any point you feel as if you've moved or thought too much tomorrow, go ahead zone out with the above recap video from the Namco X Capcom Xmas Fight Club, where some lucky Londoners partied with SoulCalibur 5 and Tekken Tag Tournament 2.

And don't worry about the site -- we'll be right here, working, all day. Although we'll probably be wearing pajamas too.

JoystiqRelax and watch this Namco X Capcom London Fight Club video originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fight-clublondonmicrosoftNamco-X-Capcom-Fight-Clubplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxSun, 15 Jan 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Theater of History: SoulCalibur 5 story mode trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/the-theater-of-history-soulcalibur-5-story-mode-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/the-theater-of-history-soulcalibur-5-story-mode-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/15/the-theater-of-history-soulcalibur-5-story-mode-trailer/#comments
Namco Bandai is really ramping up its trailer output ahead of SoulCalibur 5's January 31 arrival in North America. This time, we get a look at the cinematics contained within the game's story mode, and from what we can tell the whole experience can be summed up in three words: Glowing bloom filters.

JoystiqThe Theater of History: SoulCalibur 5 story mode trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 15 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3SC5soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vstory-modetrailerxboxSun, 15 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Soulcalibur 5 trailer shows online lobby system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/new-soulcalibur-5-trailer-shows-online-lobby-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/new-soulcalibur-5-trailer-shows-online-lobby-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/14/new-soulcalibur-5-trailer-shows-online-lobby-system/#comments
Soul Calibur 4's online VS. modes were adequate from a netcode perspective, but like most fighting games they lacked any sort of well-developed lobby or chat system. SoulCalibur 5, on the other hand, will allow spectators to chat about matches as they happen, as seen in this latest trailer.

JoystiqNew Soulcalibur 5 trailer shows online lobby system originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chatlobbymicrosoftNamco-Bandainetcodeonlineplaystationps3SC5soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxSat, 14 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz now shipping Soulcalibur 5 fight sticks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/mad-catz-now-shipping-soulcalibur-5-fight-sticks/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/mad-catz-now-shipping-soulcalibur-5-fight-sticks/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/mad-catz-now-shipping-soulcalibur-5-fight-sticks/#comments It may not be as curvaceous as the fighters of Soulcalibur V, but at least you need not feel ashamed ogling the game's official Mad Catz stick.

As one of two officially licensed fight sticks (the other being a Hori model), Mad Catz's offering will set consumers back $159.99 and is already off to retail as you read this post. Sticks are available in both Xbox 360 and PS3 flavors, but you already knew that because those are the only two platforms on which you can buy Soulcalibur V.

Continue reading Mad Catz now shipping Soulcalibur 5 fight sticks

JoystiqMad Catz now shipping Soulcalibur 5 fight sticks originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fight-stickmad-catzmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxMon, 09 Jan 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur V advertisement debunked, junked]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/soulcalibur-v-advertisement-debunked-junked/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/soulcalibur-v-advertisement-debunked-junked/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/09/soulcalibur-v-advertisement-debunked-junked/#comments Following Namco's release of a controversial, crass Soulcalibur V ad focusing on ... non-fighting-related aspects of the game, the above image started going around of a subsequent ad that had reportedly been deemed too controversial and removed. The first post we've seen about it was on Digital Battle, but it's been picked up by a few others.

However, we don't believe Namco Bandai even attempted to use Voldo's codpiece as a selling point. Try to contain your surprise: as far as we can tell, the ad is a fake.

We don't know who's responsible for its creation, but we do know that the Voldo image used for the ad comes from a screenshot of Soul Calibur IV, released in 2007. Compare the two images above, and try not to think about how much time you've just spent concentrating on Voldo's business.

JoystiqSoulcalibur V advertisement debunked, junked originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingdebunkmicrosoftnamco-bandaiphotoshopplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxMon, 09 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Edge Master and Algol return to the stage of history in Soulcalibur V]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/edge-master-and-algol-return-to-the-stage-of-history-in-soulcali/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/edge-master-and-algol-return-to-the-stage-of-history-in-soulcali/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/29/edge-master-and-algol-return-to-the-stage-of-history-in-soulcali/#comments Sometimes you want to fight against a certain Soul Calibur character, but you'd rather their moveset be performed by an old bearded guy. For that, there's Edge Master. Concept art posted by Famitsu shows he'll be returning in Soulcalibur V, as will Soul Calibur IV final boss Algol, who now follows the Street Fighter III boss dress code.

Famitsu also revealed the ability to create "Devil" style characters (like Tekken's Devil Jin) in SCV's character creator. Namco Bandai demonstrated this with a "Devil" version of Tekken producer Katsuhiro Harada.

JoystiqEdge Master and Algol return to the stage of history in Soulcalibur V originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Dec 2011 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>algoledge-mastermicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxThu, 29 Dec 2011 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order a deluxe Soulcalibur 5 soundtrack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/pre-order-a-deluxe-soulcalibur-5-soundtrack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/pre-order-a-deluxe-soulcalibur-5-soundtrack/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/15/pre-order-a-deluxe-soulcalibur-5-soundtrack/#comments In order to properly get in the mood for an Italian assassin vs. evil animated sword monster fight -- to set the stage of history, so to speak -- you'll need the right music. You can start your preparations for a more Soulcalibur 5-friendly home by pre-ordering the four-disc (!) Soulcalibur 5 Original Soundtrack Limited Edition from Eminence Music Production.

In addition to 56 tracks from composers Junichi Nakatsuru, Hiroki Kikuta, Tomoki Miyoshi, Andrew Aversa, Cris Velasco, and Inon Zur, you get a DVD that goes behind the scenes of the soundtrack's creation, and "character cards" of the new fighters.

If you're on the fence about whether to spend ¥4,980 ($64) on Soul Calibur music, you can hear a few samples at Eminence's site. The soundtrack will ship on January 31.

JoystiqPre-order a deluxe Soulcalibur 5 soundtrack originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creative-intelligence-artseminence-music-productionmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vsoundtrackxboxThu, 15 Dec 2011 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur V trailer peers into the past]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/soulcalibur-v-trailer-peers-into-the-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/soulcalibur-v-trailer-peers-into-the-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/07/soulcalibur-v-trailer-peers-into-the-past/#comments
We can hardly blame you for being so obsessed with the Soulcalibur series. The drama of big dudes with bigger swords, screaming and fighting, and a power dormant for so many years, thought lost -- man, you just can't get that kind of drama anywhere else.

JoystiqSoulcalibur V trailer peers into the past originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxWed, 07 Dec 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur 5 getting costumes from Bayonetta designer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/soulcalibur-5-getting-costumes-from-bayonetta-designer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/soulcalibur-5-getting-costumes-from-bayonetta-designer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/soulcalibur-5-getting-costumes-from-bayonetta-designer/#comments Furry. Soulcalibur isn't exactly known for down-to-earth costumes, and now 1UP reports that Soulcalibur 5's wardrobe is about to get just a touch stranger. Namco has announced that Mari Shimazaki, character designer for Bayonetta, has designed three costumes for Soulcalibur 5. Specifically, Shimazaki has clothed Ivy, Tira and the series' newest sword dancer, Leixia.

As one might expect, the costumes are flamboyant to say the least. Check out some images and design sketches in the gallery below.

Gallery: SoulCalibur V (Mari Shimazaki Costumes)

Continue reading Soulcalibur 5 getting costumes from Bayonetta designer

JoystiqSoulcalibur 5 getting costumes from Bayonetta designer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxTue, 22 Nov 2011 17:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur 5 screens carry a big stick]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/soulcalibur-5-screens-carry-a-big-stick/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/soulcalibur-5-screens-carry-a-big-stick/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/18/soulcalibur-5-screens-carry-a-big-stick/#comments Talk about a splitting headache. Look, we should be telling you about the screens of Xiba, Soulcalibur 5's new staff-wielding fighter, but we just can't. Why? Yoshimitsu is why. Just look at him! Frankly, our favorite ninja-demon-robot-thing has never looked better. Check out the gallery for more images (including Xiba, we guess).

Continue reading Soulcalibur 5 screens carry a big stick

JoystiqSoulcalibur 5 screens carry a big stick originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxFri, 18 Nov 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Hori making Soulcalibur 5 branded fight sticks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/hori-making-soulcalibur-5-branded-fight-sticks/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/hori-making-soulcalibur-5-branded-fight-sticks/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/13/hori-making-soulcalibur-5-branded-fight-sticks/#comments Remember how Mad Catz is going to make those gorgeous, dynamically styled Soulcalibur 5 themed fight sticks? Well, if shiny bevelled edges and an LED-ready see-through plastic casing aren't your jam, accessories manufacturer Hori has a rather minimalistic alternative: The Soulcalibur 5 Joystick.

The stick's fancy name matches the rest of its aesthetic, and is slated for a January 2012 release, with versions being made for both the 360 and PS3. While Hori has yet to announce pricing or parts information, the size of the stick suggests that it will be similar to their Sanwa-packing $140 Real Arcade Pro. That's wild speculation on our part, of course, so while we're speculating let's go ahead and say that the stick is also filled with molasses. Gross, Hori!

JoystiqHori making Soulcalibur 5 branded fight sticks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fight-stickfightstickHORImicrosoftmolassesnamco-bandaiplaystationps3sanwasc5scvsoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxSun, 13 Nov 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Play dress-up with this new Soulcalibur 5 character creation trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/play-dress-up-with-this-new-soulcalibur-5-character-creation-tra/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/play-dress-up-with-this-new-soulcalibur-5-character-creation-tra/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/05/play-dress-up-with-this-new-soulcalibur-5-character-creation-tra/#comments
After you've acquired that snazzy branded Soulcalibur 5 fight stick and modded it out fresh with LEDs and Sanwa/Seimitsu parts, you'll need a customized character to compliment your rogue individuality. Luckily for you, Soul Calibur's character creation mode is returning for the series' fifth installment, and it looks as, uhm, robust as ever.

It really looks like Namco Bandai has tried to include the whole package this time around, allowing players to change fabric patterns, add additional models to pieces of armor, and layer decals to create their own designs. Obviously custom characters will never be allowed at tournaments, but who hasn't always wanted their very own Corrupted Soul Barbie?

JoystiqPlay dress-up with this new Soulcalibur 5 character creation trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>character-creationmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3pspSC5sonysoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vthe-soul-still-burnsxboxSat, 05 Nov 2011 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ezio brings a hidden gun to a knife fight in Soulcalibur 5 footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/ezio-brings-a-hidden-gun-to-a-knife-fight-in-soulcalibur-5-foota/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/ezio-brings-a-hidden-gun-to-a-knife-fight-in-soulcalibur-5-foota/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/ezio-brings-a-hidden-gun-to-a-knife-fight-in-soulcalibur-5-foota/#comments
Namco has posted a very long video discussing the features in Soulcalibur 5, complete with plenty of footage of everyone's favorite assassin, Ezio Auditore da Firenze. There's also a lot of talking to get through, so you may want to skip to 26:55 (as in the twenty-six minute mark) to get to the in-game action. Oh, and yes, Ezio brought his hidden gun.

Siliconera notes that the video discusses the game's customization systems. Adjusting a character's physique, for example, could allow for longer reach. Furthermore, Namco does have plans for downloadable content, though the developers weren't ready to discuss whether those plans include more characters. We've still got our fingers crossed for Spawn making a glorious comeback.

JoystiqEzio brings a hidden gun to a knife fight in Soulcalibur 5 footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedezioezio-auditore-da-firenzemicrosoftNamco-Bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxMon, 31 Oct 2011 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur 5 fight stick coming courtesy of Mad Catz]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/soulcalibur-5-fight-stick-coming-courtesy-of-mad-catz/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/soulcalibur-5-fight-stick-coming-courtesy-of-mad-catz/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/27/soulcalibur-5-fight-stick-coming-courtesy-of-mad-catz/#comments You'll be able to 8-way-run in style next year, as Mad Catz is introducing a Soulcalibur 5-themed version of its Tournament Edition FightStick, shipping for Xbox 360 and PS3 to coincide with the launch of Namco's latest. Fittingly, it's called the "Soul Edition," though it thankfully doesn't claim to take the soul of its user in exchange.

Like the Soul Edge, however, SC5's fight stick is composed of mythical, unknown parts (Mad Catz isn't telling just yet). The "Soul Edition" fight stick will launch in January 2012 alongside Soulcalibur 5, though we've yet to receive an official price.

Gallery: Soulcalibur 5 "Soul Edition" Fight Stick

Continue reading Soulcalibur 5 fight stick coming courtesy of Mad Catz

JoystiqSoulcalibur 5 fight stick coming courtesy of Mad Catz originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arcade-stickfightstickmad-catzmicrosoftplaystationps3q1-2012release-datesoul-editionsoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxThu, 27 Oct 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur 5's pre-order character Dampierre is ... interesting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/soulcalibur-5s-pre-order-character-dampierre-is-interesting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/soulcalibur-5s-pre-order-character-dampierre-is-interesting/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/soulcalibur-5s-pre-order-character-dampierre-is-interesting/#comments
The Soul Calibur series has a long and storied history for inserting extra-IP characters into its weapon-based brand of 3D fighting, but hidden beneath the glitz and glamour of big-name cameos lurks a world of truly bizarre weirdos.

Take Lord Geo Dampierre, for example: We're still not entirely sure which major retailer will include the Soulcalibur: Broken Destiny alumni with pre-ordered copies of Soulcalibur 5, but we are entirely sure that his fighting style can be classified as both "goofy" and "incredible," thanks to the above trailer. It'll be interesting to see how this self-proclaimed "World's Greatest Assassin" will fair in combat against the world's actual greatest assassin; they both have wrist-mounted blades, seems pretty even to us!

JoystiqSoulcalibur 5's pre-order character Dampierre is ... interesting originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dampierremicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soul-calibur-5soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-broken-destinysoulcalibur-vxboxSat, 22 Oct 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur V Collector's Edition: the pages of history]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/soulcalibur-v-collectors-edition-the-pages-of-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/soulcalibur-v-collectors-edition-the-pages-of-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/22/soulcalibur-v-collectors-edition-the-pages-of-history/#comments You know the biggest news related to Soulcalibur V; and now you can see the game's biggest box. Namco Bandai revealed the book-style collector's edition for the game, which includes the usual soundtrack and art book, along with a making-of video and exclusive downloadable White Knight and Dark Knight (not that Dark Knight!) armor sets for the character creation mode.

The CE will be available alongside the standard edition on January 31. No price was given, but it looks classy, which no doubt adds a couple dollars to the total.

Speaking of class, Namco also unveiled a pre-order bonus from an as-yet-unspecified retailer: Dampierre, the Waluigi-looking fellow from Soulcalibur: Broken Destiny. You'll find lots of images of him, along with Ezio, new character Leixia, and returning characters Raphael and Nightmare, in our gallery.

Gallery: Soulcalibur V (10/21/11)

Continue reading Soulcalibur V Collector's Edition: the pages of history

JoystiqSoulcalibur V Collector's Edition: the pages of history originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 04:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editionmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxSat, 22 Oct 2011 04:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur V launches on January 31, 2012; Ezio sneaks into the game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/soulcalibur-v-launches-on-january-31-2012-ezio-sneaks-into-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/soulcalibur-v-launches-on-january-31-2012-ezio-sneaks-into-the/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/soulcalibur-v-launches-on-january-31-2012-ezio-sneaks-into-the/#comments
The rumors are true! Assassin's Creed: Revelations protagonist Ezio Auditore de Firenze is the secret guest character in Soulcalibur V, the latest trailer reveals, and it looks like he's coming packed with all of his trusty pointy objects. And a crossbow!

Namco Bandai also revealed a January 31, 2012 launch date for Soulcalbur V, and handed over the above trailer. Hidden wrist-blade Soul Edge, anyone?

JoystiqSoulcalibur V launches on January 31, 2012; Ezio sneaks into the game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 03:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedassassins-creed-2assassins-creed-brotherhoodassassins-creed-revelationsmicrosoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3q1-2012release-datesoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vubisoftxboxFri, 21 Oct 2011 03:09:00 EST<![CDATA[How CyberConnect2 became a Soulcalibur 5 collaborator]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/how-cyberconnect2-became-a-soulcalibur-5-collaborator/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/how-cyberconnect2-became-a-soulcalibur-5-collaborator/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/how-cyberconnect2-became-a-soulcalibur-5-collaborator/#comments CyberConnect2 has movie-making experience from working on a CG .hack movie, and it's that experience -- including motion capture expertise -- that drew Namco Bandai to the developer for Soulcalibur V. "I was approached by Namco almost two years ago," CEO and Naruto cosplayer Hiroshi Matsuyama told Gamasutra. "I knew they were working on Soulcalibur V, and they asked for help in the visual side of the game. The fighting gameplay was handled by their own team, and they just needed help in the visuals of the game, because they wanted to add more to the dramatization of the game."

CyberConnect 2 did storyboarding and motion capture for the fighter. Matsuyama said that the motions have a CC2 look. "The actions look a little like in Naruto, in the sense that the motion doesn't look like we used motion-capture," he said. "In that sense, I think the game looks like it's been done by us."

Matsuyama also said that Epic is surprised by CC2's use of Unreal Engine 3 for Asura's Wrath. He said it's "difficult" to make a cinematic action game in an engine designed primarily for shooters, but there's something like that for every engine. "I think the tools don't matter," he said. "And, a perfect engine doesn't exist. There's always something that's difficult to do with every tool."

JoystiqHow CyberConnect2 became a Soulcalibur 5 collaborator originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asuras-wrathcyberconnect2hiroshi-matsuyamamicrosoftplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vunreal-engine-3xboxTue, 18 Oct 2011 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Leaked Soulcalibur 5 screen shows mysterious character (and it's not Ezio)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/possible-leaked-soulcalibur-5-screen-potentially-reveals-new-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/possible-leaked-soulcalibur-5-screen-potentially-reveals-new-cha/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/possible-leaked-soulcalibur-5-screen-potentially-reveals-new-cha/#comments We know, we know, the big story here is that Assassin's Creed sneakster Ezio Auditore da Firenze may have infiltrated Soulcalibur 5's dramatic tale of swords and souls, but look! There's totally another dude up there, completely unaccounted for.

We've been over our tipster's image with the finest fine-toothed combs money can buy, and every single character on this screen can be quickly and verifiably identified, except for the dude to the right of Ezio. Head past the break for a breakdown of the menu and let the wild, rampant speculation begin.

Continue reading Leaked Soulcalibur 5 screen shows mysterious character (and it's not Ezio)

JoystiqLeaked Soulcalibur 5 screen shows mysterious character (and it's not Ezio) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftNamco-Bandaiplaystationps3soul-calibursoulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxMon, 17 Oct 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Assassin's Creed protagonist Ezio coming to Soulcalibur 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/rumor-assassins-creeds-ezio-coming-to-soulcalibur-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/rumor-assassins-creeds-ezio-coming-to-soulcalibur-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/17/rumor-assassins-creeds-ezio-coming-to-soulcalibur-5/#comments
The picture above was provided to us by an anonymous tipster, which we're told comes from a beta version of the upcoming Soulcalibur 5 appearing at recent fighting game tournament. If this shot is real, Assassin's Creed protagonist Ezio Auditore de Firenze will be a playable character in Soul Calibur 5, set to launch next year.

Unfortunately, we don't have confirmation just yet, and there's no information about whether Ezio is limited to a certain version of the game, or available to anyone playing it. But one thing is for sure: The Hidden Blade would look pretty nice decked out with Soul Edge finery.

JoystiqRumor: Assassin's Creed protagonist Ezio coming to Soulcalibur 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 20:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedezio-auditore-da-firenzemicrosoftplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxMon, 17 Oct 2011 20:37:00 EST<![CDATA[French SoulCalibur 5 match videos prove that you're already unprepared]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/french-soulcalibur-5-match-videos-prove-that-youre-already-unpr/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/french-soulcalibur-5-match-videos-prove-that-youre-already-unpr/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/01/french-soulcalibur-5-match-videos-prove-that-youre-already-unpr/#comments
One of the universal truths of the fighting-game world is that at all times, someone out there is better than you, no exceptions. It's a sure thing, so much so that this cosmic natural law even applies to games that aren't even out yet, as is evident by the SoulCalibur 5 Astaroth v. Ivy match video above.

It's nice to know that even though the bright, cheerful announcer we've come to know and love has been replaced by a gruff, melancholy fellow, matches are still followed by confusing and non-sequitur one-liners about justice and victory. Slide past the break for a few more videos showcasing the new fighters and reworked mechanics. Welcome back to the Stage of History; now eat it!

Continue reading French SoulCalibur 5 match videos prove that you're already unprepared

JoystiqFrench SoulCalibur 5 match videos prove that you're already unprepared originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnamco-bandaiplaystationproject-soulps3soul-calibursoul-calibur-5soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vteam-soulxboxSat, 01 Oct 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Soulcalibur 5 story mode crafted by Asura's Wrath dev CyberConnect2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/soulcalibur-5-story-mode-crafted-by-asuras-wrath-dev-cyberconn/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/soulcalibur-5-story-mode-crafted-by-asuras-wrath-dev-cyberconn/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/23/soulcalibur-5-story-mode-crafted-by-asuras-wrath-dev-cyberconn/#comments The story mode in Soulcalibur V has been elevated in importance, at least on the developer's side. Namco Bandai is working on the narrative component of its upcoming fighter alongside CyberConnect2, the exuberant studio behind Asura's Wrath and the Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm series.

Andriasang relays the information from Namco Bandai, which claims that CyberConnect2 has been involved with the project since its inception, providing the storyboards and the motion-capture shoots that -- presumably -- explain all the eternally immolated souls and so forth. We imagine CyberConnect2's taken Namco Bandai's draft script and done a find-and-delete on anything that seemed even vaguely plausible. (You have seen Asura's Wrath, right?)

If it's crazy enough, it could be even be a hit for Hollywood and its bizarre compulsion to adapt the game genre where story is of least importance. C'mon, they even did King of Fighters.

JoystiqSoulcalibur 5 story mode crafted by Asura's Wrath dev CyberConnect2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cyberconnect2microsoftnamco-bandaiplaystationps3soulcalibur-5soulcalibur-vxboxFri, 23 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST