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[Activision talks Skylanders Giants and the future of the franchise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/activision-talks-skylanders-giants-and-the-future-of-the-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/activision-talks-skylanders-giants-and-the-future-of-the-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/activision-talks-skylanders-giants-and-the-future-of-the-franchi/#comments Activision talks Skylanders Giants and the future of the franchise

We had a quick chat with Mike Graham, a design producer at Activision, about Toys for Bob's extremely popular Skylanders franchise, and the second release in the series, Skylanders Giants. Graham kindly let us in on the reasoning behind the new game and bigger toys, and what other possibilities might be in store for Skylanders.

We also hear a little bit about where Spyro now fits in the Skylanders universe (That purple dragon that the whole series is based on? Remember him?) Turns out he's still in there, even if his name has been taken off the title for now.

JoystiqActivision talks Skylanders Giants and the future of the franchise originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2012 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisione3e3-2012microsoftmike-grahamnintendoplaystationps3skylandersskylanders-giantsskylanders-spyros-adventurespyrovideowiixboxWed, 06 Jun 2012 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure review: Gotta buy 'em all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/skylanders-spyros-adventure-review-gotta-buy-em-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/skylanders-spyros-adventure-review-gotta-buy-em-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/21/skylanders-spyros-adventure-review-gotta-buy-em-all/#comments There's some primal need buried deep within the human psyche that's fulfilled by performing repetitive, simple acts and watching numbers rise slowly and compellingly as a consequence. Ask anyone who ever got hooked on a Blizzard game; it's powerful stuff. Now imagine combining that need with another that's just as enslaving ... say, collectible action figures. Like Pokémon, but with a $7.99 price tag on each 'mon. It's the kind of concept that makes rooms full of suited executives twirl their mustaches approvingly.

It's exactly what Activision -- together with veteran Star Control developers Toys for Bob -- have done with Skylanders. As much ecosystem as game, the full Skylanders launch range comprises 32 three-inch plastic action figures (most sold separately), a disc-shaped "Portal of Power" peripheral, an assortment of add-on toys that work like DLC, and enough flashy packaging to give your garbage collector a bad back. Oh, and there's a kid-friendly button-mashing videogame buried under all that, too.

Gallery: Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure (Xbox 360 - 8/23/11)

Continue reading Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure review: Gotta buy 'em all

JoystiqSkylanders: Spyro's Adventure review: Gotta buy 'em all originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsactivisionmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3skylanders-spyros-adventurespyrotoys-for-bobwiixboxFri, 21 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure preview: Babes in toyland]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/skylanders-spyros-adventure-preview-babes-in-toyland/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/skylanders-spyros-adventure-preview-babes-in-toyland/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/07/skylanders-spyros-adventure-preview-babes-in-toyland/#comments Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure is one of those things that's tough to explain in preview text, but easy to understand once you've seen it in action. It starts with a series of real-life plastic toy characters, 32 in all, molded in the style of Spyro the Dragon and his friends, old and new. These real-life toys can be placed on a drum-like device called a "portal," that then connects up to your gaming console (the Wii to start, though Activision promises more later on). Once you're all set up, the action is surprisingly easy: Place the toy on the portal, and instantly that character appears in your game, playable and ready to go. Switch toys, and your character switches, but retains all of the XP and loot it earns on the go.

"It's the easiest pitch in the world," says Paul Reiche, studio president of Toys for Bob, the developer behind Activision's new take on Spyro. "It's so emotional and primal. It's what you expect. You have a toy, it's in your imagination, it's alive, and the fact that it isn't is strange. So when you see it instantly come to life, it's a natural, pleasant experience."

He's right -- while the actual game behind Skylanders is clearly meant for younger players (we'll get to that in just a second), the technology is pretty amazing to children of all ages. Toys for Bob has made the transition between the real-world toys and the in-game characters almost seamless, and it makes this kids' game worth a look.

Gallery: Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure (Toys)

Continue reading Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure preview: Babes in toyland

JoystiqSkylanders: Spyro's Adventure preview: Babes in toyland originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisiondragonhack-and-slashnintendoskylanders-spyros-adventurespyrotoystoys-for-bobwiiTue, 07 Jun 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Qore Episode 13 includes free Spyro, removes PSP Go feature]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/qore-episode-13-includes-free-spyro-removes-psp-go-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/qore-episode-13-includes-free-spyro-removes-psp-go-feature/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/17/qore-episode-13-includes-free-spyro-removes-psp-go-feature/#comments
Qore's first year is coming to an end with Episode 13. The delayed anniversary issue will focus on inFamous, Fight Night Round 4 and the PSPgo. Wait! It looks like the leaked feature has been removed from this upcoming issue. Strange, considering the damage has already been done.

Digital bonuses included with this month's issue include a free Qore t-shirt for PlayStation Home, and a free download of the PSone classic, Spyro (playable on both PS3 and PSP). Episode 13 will be available on the PlayStation Store this Thursday. Check out a trailer after the break.

Continue reading Qore Episode 13 includes free Spyro, removes PSP Go feature

JoystiqQore Episode 13 includes free Spyro, removes PSP Go feature originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homeplaystation-homeps1psp-goqorespyroWed, 17 Jun 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB rates Spyro sequels for PS3, PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/esrb-reveals-spyro-sequels-coming-to-the-us-psn-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/esrb-reveals-spyro-sequels-coming-to-the-us-psn-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/04/esrb-reveals-spyro-sequels-coming-to-the-us-psn-store/#commentsThe ESRB ratings site has once again let slip a couple of upcoming PS1 releases for the US PSN Store. Spyro 2 and Spyro: Year Of The Dragon are both listed as being approved for the PlayStation 3 and PSP. However, judging from the fact that the listings don't include rating summaries, we can assume these weren't added to the database at any point since November 2008.

With titles like WipEout XL, Street Fighter Alpha 2 and 3 -- not to mention European titles on the PEGI like Vib Ribbon and Klonoa -- having been listed for months and, in some cases, over a year, we're not expecting to see these Spyro games soon. If at all. Still, it's nice to know they're already rated and ready to arrive at any time. Possibly.

[Thanks, Darkdrium777]

JoystiqESRB rates Spyro sequels for PS3, PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 May 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ps1ps1-gamespsnSpyroMon, 04 May 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyro the Dragon ... the Movie?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/spyro-the-dragon-the-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/spyro-the-dragon-the-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/spyro-the-dragon-the-movie/#commentsFound in a smattering of random spots around the web (including a Legend of Spyro fan site, whose existence alone is enough to bring us to our knees) is the poster you see to the right advertising an upcoming film titled, "The Legend of Sypro 3D." Apparently set for release sometime this winter (according to the aforementioned fan site) "The Legend of Spyro 3D" is based on the "hugely popular video game series" -- you know, the series that Activision picked up over Brütal Legend and Ghostbusters -- and is brought to us by the producer of 2006 film "Eragon."

Little is known at this time about the film other than conjecture and as such, we've reached out to Velvet Octopus (the film's financier) for, well, any information at all. We do know one thing for certain: The poster for it looks totally sweet.

Update: Commenter CannabisPrime has pointed out that there is most certainly an IMDB.com page for this movie listing Elijah Wood as the voice of Spyro and Gary Oldman as the voice of Ignitus. So there's that!

JoystiqSpyro the Dragon ... the Movie? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 13:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionfilmlegend-of-spyrolegend-of-spyro-3dmoviespyrovelvet-octopusMon, 13 Apr 2009 13:13:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of October 20th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-october-20th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-october-20th/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-october-20th/#commentsFiled under:


There are a lot of games out this week. In fact, it makes other heavy weeks look absolutely empty, and yet, this blogger only has eyes for one game. In the shadow of Castlevania, there is so little room for anything else. Luckily, even with such a big list, there aren't a lot of contenders even trying for the spotlight.
  • Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?: Make the Grade
  • Back at the Barnyard: Slop Bucket Games
  • Backyard Football 2009
  • Barbie Horse Adventures: Riding Camp
  • Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia
  • Dancing With the Stars: We Dance!
  • Disney Fairies: Tinker Bell
  • Ener-G: Dance Squad
  • Ener-G: Gym Rockets
  • Ener-G: Horse Rider
  • High School Musical 3: Senior Year
  • The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon
  • Lovely Lisa
  • Master of the Monster Lair
  • Mechanic Master
  • My Baby Girl
  • The Naked Brothers Band: The Video Game
  • Pass the Pigs
  • Smart Girls: Party Game
  • Spider-Man: Web of Shadows
  • SpongeBob Squarepants: Nicktoons Globs of Doom
  • Tornado
  • TouchMaster 2
  • Transformers: Animated
  • What's Cooking with Jamie Oliver

Continue reading DS releases for the week of October 20th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of October 20th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>castlevaniajamie-olivermaster-of-the-monster-lairoctoberreleasesspider-manspyrotransformerswhats-cookingMon, 20 Oct 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: indecision edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/shipping-this-week-indecision-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/shipping-this-week-indecision-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/20/shipping-this-week-indecision-edition/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Oh boy. Not only are there eight new games hitting the Xbox 360 this weeks (and Portal on XBLA, lest we forget), but several of them look to be good games. Heavy hitters like Far Cry 2 and Fable II undoubtedly top the list, but there are some other big names in there as well. Check 'em out:
Now, the question is are there any "must have" games on this list for you, or are you strategically withholding your funds for something else?

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqShipping this week: indecision edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dance-dance-revolutionddr-universe-3disney-sing-itfable-2far-cry-2legendarymidnight-clubshipping-this-weekspider-manspider-man-web-of-shadowsspyroMon, 20 Oct 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Interview: Griptonite's J.C. Connors on Spore Creatures and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/ds-fanboy-interview-griptonites-j-c-connors-on-spore-creature/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/ds-fanboy-interview-griptonites-j-c-connors-on-spore-creature/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/15/ds-fanboy-interview-griptonites-j-c-connors-on-spore-creature/#commentsFiled under: ,


Spore has been much more than a game over the years - years! -- that we've been talking about it, and it's tough to produce a companion piece in the shadow of such an epic project. From the reception of Spore and the DS crony, it's sadly clear the two were destined to sink or swim together. But Spore Creatures deserves its own time in the sun, despite what you may have heard; for a handheld title, it's certainly ambitious, and the amazing development team at Griptonite Games has done more with less.

Griptonite Games has worn several nametags in the past few years. When last we spoke with them, they were Amaze Entertainment, and their own identity as Griptonite was shelved. Now, Amaze is a part of Foundation 9 and the Griptonite name has been dusted off. In all the chaos of nomenclature, one thing has remained a constant: this little corner of the development world has been responsible for some real gems. We recently sat down with studio head J.C. Connors to discuss Spore Creatures, our Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night (GBA) withdrawals, and the unexpected excellence of Disney Friends (yeah, man, Disney Friends).

DS Fanboy: Spore Creatures is an interesting companion to the main title. What can you tell us about the best aspects of the DS game?

J.C. Connors: Hands down, the creature creator. It's one of the coolest features ever seen on the DS.

Gallery: Spore Creatures


NEXT >>

JoystiqDS Fanboy Interview: Griptonite's J.C. Connors on Spore Creatures and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crash-bandicootdisney-friendseagriptonitejoystiqfeaturesmaxisspider-mansporespore-creaturesspyroMon, 15 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[We ain't afraid of no ghosts, just cancellation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/we-aint-afraid-of-no-ghosts-just-cancellation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/we-aint-afraid-of-no-ghosts-just-cancellation/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/we-aint-afraid-of-no-ghosts-just-cancellation/#commentsFiled under:

If there's something strange in your neighborhood, who ya gonna call? Ghostbust ... er ... well, maybe not.

With the Blizzavision merger, a few Sierra titles (like Ghostbusters) may get the axe. When it comes to efficiency, Sierra has been deemed a "non-strategic business unit," which (we're sure we don't have to tell you) is not good. While the recently merged publisher reports that Sierra franchises like Crash Bandicoot and Spyro will be safe, the fate of Ghostbusters is still up in the air.

Offering a bit of reassurance, Sierra claims, "[Ghostbusters] is not cancelled and will not be cancelled." Some words from the people with the money, though, would probably make us feel better.

JoystiqWe ain't afraid of no ghosts, just cancellation originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionblizzardbusinesscrash-bandicootghostbustersmergerred-flysierrasierra-entertainmentspyrovivendivivendi-gamesTue, 29 Jul 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[ActiBlizz drops Ghostbusters, Brutal Legend in favor of Spyro, Crash & Prototype]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/actiblizz-drops-ghostbusters-brutal-legend-in-favor-of-spyro-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/actiblizz-drops-ghostbusters-brutal-legend-in-favor-of-spyro-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/actiblizz-drops-ghostbusters-brutal-legend-in-favor-of-spyro-c/#commentsFiled under:

We have a love-hate relationship with Activision-Blizzard; we love Blizzard and their games, but really rather hate Activision. This confusing dichotomy was further cemented today with the announcement that the company is streamlining their output by holding on to a few key Sierra franchises. Namely, Spyro, Crash Bandicoot, Prototype, Ice Age and an as-yet unannounced property, leaving Tim Shafer's Brutal Legend, Ghostbusters: The Video Game, WET, and Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena abandoned at the side of the road.

However, there's still hope for these games if another publisher swoops in and picks them up. Actiblizz will also be shaking up its Sierra-based internal development studios, with plans to "realign staffing at Radical Entertainment and High Moon Studios" (Prototype and Bourne) and to explore "options regarding Massive Entertainment and Swordfish Studios" (Wold in Conflict and 50 Cent). For the full skinny check out the Yahoo Business report.

It's sad to see interesting games like Ghostbusters and, particularly, Brutal Legend get poor treatment in favor of dead franchises such as Crash Bandicoot and Spyro. It's a world gone topsy-turvy, where EA are developing interesting and innovative new IPs and Activision is "streamlining" anything that stands out in favor of safe, boring franchises.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqActiBlizz drops Ghostbusters, Brutal Legend in favor of Spyro, Crash & Prototype originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activision-Blizzardbrutal-legendcrash-bandicootghostbustersprototypespyroTue, 29 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyro and Guilty Gear Originals now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/spyro-and-guilty-gear-originals-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/spyro-and-guilty-gear-originals-now-available/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/16/spyro-and-guilty-gear-originals-now-available/#commentsFiled under: ,

Hopefully you are prepared (we did give you enough of an advance warning), because today it's time for another amazing Xbox Originals release! Celebratory vanilla cake and party poppers for all! And this week's Xbox Originals are none other than Arc System Works' Guilty Gear X2 #Reloaded and Krome Studios' The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning. Each will cost you 1200 Microsoft points and some hard drive gigage, but also a cautionary note. Those who decide to jump into the Xbox Originals mix, be on the look out for "some minor irregularities with audio/video for brief periods" while playing. Hey, we're just saying.

Source - Guilty Gear X2 #Reloaded
Source - The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning

JoystiqSpyro and Guilty Gear Originals now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arc-system-worksguilty-gear-x2-reloadedkrome-studiosspyrothe-legend-of-spyroxblmxbox-originalsMon, 16 Jun 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Originals welcomes Guilty Gear X2 #Reload & Spyro's New Beginning]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/xbox-originals-welcomes-guilty-gear-x2-reload-and-spyros-new-beg/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/xbox-originals-welcomes-guilty-gear-x2-reload-and-spyros-new-beg/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/xbox-originals-welcomes-guilty-gear-x2-reload-and-spyros-new-beg/#commentsFiled under: ,

Major Nelson announced this morning that Guilty Gear X2 #Reload and The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning will release will become Xbox Original titles on Monday, June 16. As usual with all Xbox Originals, each title will set virtual wallets back 1200 MS space-bucks and offer the same interactivity as the original retail release.

Guilty Gear X2 #Reload, which we reported would see life as an Xbox Original in February, was a critically acclaimed fighting title when it hit retail and includes full Xbox Live support. Fighting game fans should take note as GGX2#R is one of the better titles the genre saw last generation. The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning is a Spyro game. So, make of that what you will. As always we recommend poking around your local game stores and compare prices if either title is something you'd like to add to your gaming collection.

JoystiqXbox Originals welcomes Guilty Gear X2 #Reload & Spyro's New Beginning originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guilty-gear-x2-reloadspyrothe-legend-of-spyroxbox-originalsWed, 11 Jun 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyro, Guilty Gear coming to Xbox Originals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/spyro-guilty-gear-coming-to-xbox-originals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/spyro-guilty-gear-coming-to-xbox-originals/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/11/spyro-guilty-gear-coming-to-xbox-originals/#commentsFiled under:


We'd love to meet the person who's choosing what games to re-release as Xbox Originals. Because, to be perfectly honest, we just don't get how they're deciding which games will get the treatment and in what order. Take, for example, this new coupling, arriving on your 360 on June 16:
  • Guilty Gear XX #Reload (1200 Microsoft Points, WW except Europe): "Guilty Gear X2 #Reload makes its Xbox(R) debut, and, for the first-time ever, introduces online play with head-to-head Xbox Live[TM] support! Play over 20 different combatants and hidden characters, and devastate your opponents with an arsenal of eye-popping, jaw-dropping moves and combos-it's good to beat each other!"
  • The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning (1200 Microsoft Points, WW except Germany, Japan, and Korea): "Explore the origins of the one and only powerful purple dragon in The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning. Uncover Spyro's secret history as you embark on a dangerous quest to face off against the ultimate creation of the Dark Master, Cynder."
Really guys? Spyro and Guilty Gear? We've only got two questions -- well, no, we have dozens, but here are the two we're dying to ask: Just how big does a dartboard have to be to fit all the Xbox games on it? And which blindfolded intern is chucking the darts?

JoystiqSpyro, Guilty Gear coming to Xbox Originals originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsguilty-gearspyroXbox-360xbox-originalsWed, 11 Jun 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon features surprising graphics, voice talent]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon-features-surprising-graphics-voice-ta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon-features-surprising-graphics-voice-ta/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/29/spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon-features-surprising-graphics-voice-ta/#commentsFiled under:


Click for high-resolution image.

Gamers of the PS1 era might remember Spyro rather fondly in their hearts. The original titles were developed by Insomniac (Ratchet & Clank series, Insomniac) and they featured some impressive visuals, animation and voice acting for its time. Since then, Spyro was picked up by a few other developers and faded into obscurity.

Well, could the fire-breathing dragon be making a comeback? We were surprised (we still are) by the startling transformation the series is experiencing with its upcoming PS3/360 game. Like many, we didn't know that Dawn of the Dragon is the end of a trilogy. Who knew that this supposed children's series could look so inspired?

The production values extend to far beyond the visuals. Elijah Wood, Gary Oldman, Cristina Ricci, Blair Underwood, Mark Hamill, and Wayne Brady all have voice roles in the upcoming game. With such star power, and incredible visuals, it seems like Spyro is ready to return to its PS1-era glory. Let's hope Dawn of the Dragon can make Insomniac Games proud when it releases later this year.

JoystiqSpyro: Dawn of the Dragon features surprising graphics, voice talent originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dawn-of-the-dragonspyroTue, 29 Apr 2008 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[No GBA version planned for Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/no-gba-version-planned-for-spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/no-gba-version-planned-for-spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/no-gba-version-planned-for-spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon/#commentsFiled under: ,

Despite its fanboy following and favorable reviews from critics, the GBA adaptation for The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night will not see a follow-up on single-screen portable, according to Sierra's 2008 Spring Event held over the weekend.

Interestingly, of all the platforms The Eternal Night released on (PS2/Wii/DS/GBA), the GBA version, a 2D platformer/brawler some described as Devil May Cry meets Astro Boy: Omega Factor, has the highest average review score by a large margin. Quality doesn't equal quantity sold, however, especially on a dying console, and we're not surprised that Sierra opted to not complete its The Legend of Spyro trilogy on the GBA.

Dawn of the Dragon for the DS is scheduled to ship in fall 2008. Based on the screenshots released so far, it looks to be another 3D action platformer with occasional sidescrolling stages. Mark Hamill will reportedly lend his voice to one of the game's characters, and Elijah Wood will return to voice Spyro. Christina Ricci will take over Mae Whitman's role as Cynder. We can imagine her disbelief over the replacement : "Her?"

For reference, we gave the DS version of The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night a 5.0/10 in our review (GBA version: 9.5).

JoystiqNo GBA version planned for Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2damaze-entertainmentbrawlerdawn-of-the-dragonlegend-of-spyrosierraspyrothe-eternal-nightMon, 28 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq impressions: The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon (360/PS3/PS2/Wii/DS)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/joystiq-impressions-the-legend-of-spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/joystiq-impressions-the-legend-of-spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon-36/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/28/joystiq-impressions-the-legend-of-spyro-dawn-of-the-dragon-36/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Few games appeal to adults and kids, but The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon could please both audiences. The younger group gets its beloved purple dragon and familiar platforming. The older crowd will like the depth in gameplay; among other changes, Spyro can now fly at any time.

After recently seeing a demo of the game, I was most impressed by its style and art; adults will find a lot of nuance here, too. Spyro mixes a lot of brightness and darkness in its style, reminding me of Fantasia or other old-guard Disney animations. Grasses leaned back as the wind raked over them, in a saccharine outdoor scene. But in another moment, sharp, muted stones matched the danger from an attacking monster.

Due in Fall, 2008 for 360, PS3, Wii, PS2, and DS, Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon could even interest players who know nothing of the character.

Gallery: The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon

Continue reading Joystiq impressions: The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon (360/PS3/PS2/Wii/DS)

JoystiqJoystiq impressions: The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon (360/PS3/PS2/Wii/DS) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Apr 2008 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dawn-of-the-dragonDSPS2PS3sierrasierra-spring-event08spyrospyro-the-dragonthe-legend-of-spyroWiiXbox-360Mon, 28 Apr 2008 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The best and worst (that we've reviewed)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/28/the-best-and-worst-that-weve-reviewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/28/the-best-and-worst-that-weve-reviewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/28/the-best-and-worst-that-weve-reviewed/#commentsFiled under: ,

2007 is almost over, and the end of the year brings joyous tidings of List Season. It's the time for taking stock of the last 12 months of gaming, and trying to make sense of it by putting things in numerical order. Join DS Fanboy for our best-ofs, worst-ofs, and other categories-ofs.

We cranked up our review quotient in 2007 (and hope to do even more in 2008!), but we still can't review everything that comes out, to our chagrin. We wouldn't have time for anything else! However, we did try to hit a wide variety of titles this year, from the biggies like Pokémon Diamond and Pearl and Phantom Hourglass, to some smaller titles, like WordJong and Duck Amuck. We even worked to review some more off-the-wall things, like the Nintendo Fan Network at Safeco Field -- you know, in case you happened to find yourself in the Northwest with a hankering for a day of DS and baseball.

Continue reading The best and worst (that we've reviewed)

JoystiqThe best and worst (that we've reviewed) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bestcontra-4eoyfullmetal-alchemistgallerygbahannah-montanajohn-deerejoystiqfeaturesmy-french-coachphantom-hourglassspyroworstzeldaFri, 28 Dec 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanswag: End of the Year Blowout!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/ds-fanswag-end-of-the-year-blowout/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/ds-fanswag-end-of-the-year-blowout/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/12/ds-fanswag-end-of-the-year-blowout/#commentsFiled under:


It's been a good year, but sadly, like all those other years, it must come to an end. Before we roll out the red carpet for 2008, however, we wanted to give 2007 the send-off it deserves -- and what better way to do that than by offering up huge prize packs for our loyal readers? All you have to do is leave a comment on this very post telling us which DS model(s) you own, between now and December 26. The giveaway closes that night at 11:59 p.m. EST, and we'll announce the winners, chosen in a random drawing, on December 27. You may only enter once per day, and as usual, entries are limited to legal U.S. residents age 18 and older. Please check the official rules for any other questions.

But enough of the details -- let's get to the prize packages!

DS Fanboy's End of Year Fanswag Blowout
Grand Prize
  • Limited Edition Gold DS Lite + The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (bundle) ($149.99)
  • Nintendo DS headset ($9.99)
  • Custom Robo ($29.99)
  • Dementium ($29.99)
  • Drawn to Life ($29.99)
  • Fullmetal Alchemist: Trading Card Game ($19.99)
  • John Deere: Harvest in the Heartland ($29.99)
  • Mega Man ZX ($29.99)
  • Pokémon Diamond ($34.99)
  • The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night (GBA) ($19.99)
  • Geometry Wars: Galaxies swag
  • Dementium skin
  • Pokémon Diamond stylus
Cruise on past the break to see the rest of the prizes!

Continue reading DS Fanswag: End of the Year Blowout!

JoystiqDS Fanswag: End of the Year Blowout! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2007 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcontra-4dementiumdiamonddragladeduck-amuckeoyffxiifullmetal-alchemistgeometry-wars-galaxiesgiveawayhannah-montanaholidashjoystiqfeaturesmy-french-coachmy-word-coachpearlpokemonrevenant-wingsspyrotouch-detectiveWed, 12 Dec 2007 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Gifts for us (or people like us)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/gifts-for-us-or-people-like-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/gifts-for-us-or-people-like-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/06/gifts-for-us-or-people-like-us/#commentsFiled under:



Gaming sites are inundated with holiday gift guides at the end of the year, listing the best and most popular games that everyone pretty much already has (or knows about). Well, we're not going in for that this year. Our gift guide will help you find the best gifts in categories the other sites won't cover -- because we just made them up.

Of course we recommend buying DS games and accessories for everyone on your shopping list -- whether they want them or not. But, ironically, the hardest people to give the gift of DS are the people who love the DS the most -- people who live the DS. In a word, us. Game bloggers. Well, not us specifically, but people like us who are far too enthusiastic about the Nintendo DS.

We're so nuts about the DS that we devote most of our lives to talking about it. We know pretty much everything out there, and we spend entirely too much time building our collections. We're emblematic of exactly the kind of brutally insane people for whom it's nearly impossible to shop. That's why we've put together this handy guide to the kind of stuff we would love, but wouldn't necessarily think to buy ourselves. Not because we want you to buy gifts for us, although we certainly won't stop you if you think we deserve a little token of appreciation.

See what we did there? We've given you the gift of an obvious opening through which to insult us! 'Tis the season!

Continue reading Gifts for us (or people like us)

JoystiqGifts for us (or people like us) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Actionanti-guideContraContra-4contra4dokidokimajoshinpangame-center-cxhardcoreholidashjoystiqfeaturesKonamiRun-and-GunshockspyroWayForward-TechnologieszeldaThu, 06 Dec 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanswag: Give thanks with this three-pack!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/ds-fanswag-give-thanks-with-this-three-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/ds-fanswag-give-thanks-with-this-three-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/21/ds-fanswag-give-thanks-with-this-three-pack/#commentsFiled under:


What with the holiday this week, it seemed fitting to show a little gratitude to you -- yes, you, over there, in the back -- by offering up a pack of games for the grabbing. One lucky DS Fanboy reader can take home Crash of the Titans ($29.99) and The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night ($29.99) for the DS, as well as our beloved GBA version of The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night ($19.99), for you to cherish (and compare to the DS title). In order to win, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post about giving thanks between now and next Monday, the 26th of November. The contest will end that day at 11:59 PM EST, so get cracking! You can only enter once per day, and as usual, the contest is limited to U.S. citizens over the age of 18. We'll announce the winner on Tuesday, November 27 -- and it could be you!

Don't forget to check out the official rules if you have questions.

JoystiqDS Fanswag: Give thanks with this three-pack! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Nov 2007 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestcrash-of-the-titansgbagiveawayjoystiqfeaturesspyroWed, 21 Nov 2007 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night (GBA)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/ds-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night-gba/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/ds-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night-gba/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/13/ds-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night-gba/#commentsFiled under:


Considering that the game has been on shelves for a bit now, you'll have to excuse us how long it took to find time to get our hands on what could very well be the last great GBA game. And, you know what? Based on our findings, this is the last great GBA game. Well, probably the last great GBA game we'll ever get to play.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night (GBA)

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night (GBA) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-platformeramaze-entertainmentlegend-of-spyrosierraspyrothe-eternal-nightTue, 13 Nov 2007 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: And the Eternal Night winner is ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/fanswag-and-the-eternal-night-winner-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/fanswag-and-the-eternal-night-winner-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/09/fanswag-and-the-eternal-night-winner-is/#commentsFiled under:


Well, another week has come to a close and so has another giveaway. The winner of this will, as you already know, receive our review copy of The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night and some goodies from the fine folks over at RedBeard. It's a fairly sweet prize pack that will bring happiness to the winner, we hope. And, let' get to choosing one!

Our winner, chosen at random, is:
  • Diana Lindeman, who said she wanted to win because "A new game means new ideas and fun."
Well, we couldn't agree more, Diana! Congratulations on your win and thanks to the rest of you for entering! Better luck next time!

JoystiqFanswag: And the Eternal Night winner is ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classiccontrollerfanswagredbeardskinsspyrowiimoteFri, 09 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanswag: Eternal Night and more RedBeard goodies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/wii-fanswag-eternal-night-and-more-redbeard-goodies/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/wii-fanswag-eternal-night-and-more-redbeard-goodies/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/wii-fanswag-eternal-night-and-more-redbeard-goodies/#commentsFiled under:


Following our review of The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night, we must do what any responsible blogging outfit should do: give it away. We may not have given it the best review score imaginable, but we know that there are Spyro junkies out there who would love to give the game a try. If you don't like it, sell it or trade it for something else. To sweeten the deal, the fine folks at RedBeard have provided us with the Wiimote and nunchuk skin, along with the classic controller skin, you see above.

So, what must you do before you can get your hands on all of this? Well, first off you need to be 18 years of age and a legal resident of the United States. Second, you need to leave a comment before 11:59PM EST on Thursday, November 8th, telling us why you think you deserve this prize pack. And third, you need to sit back and wait to see if you won. We'll select a winner (by random, of course) come Friday, November 9th. Before entering, you'll have to be sure to read the rules, however.

Just to make things clear:
  • One grand prize winner will receive The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night ($50), one RedBeard Wiimote and nunchuk skin ($10) and one classic controller skin ($10).
Best of luck to all of you and thanks for reading Wii Fanboy!

JoystiqWii Fanswag: Eternal Night and more RedBeard goodies originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Nov 2007 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>classiccontrollerfanswagredbeardskinsspyrowiimoteTue, 06 Nov 2007 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Retro Reviews round-up: Spyro & Twisted Metal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/retro-reviews-round-up-spyro-and-twisted-metal/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/retro-reviews-round-up-spyro-and-twisted-metal/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/06/retro-reviews-round-up-spyro-and-twisted-metal/#commentsFiled under: ,


PSP Fanboy has been reviewing all of the PS1 re-releases from the PS Store. They recently added three more games, all of which are playable (upscaled!) on the PS3. Here are a few excerpts, but to check them all out, visit PSP Fanboy.

Wipeout - Ultimately, the game's true shortcoming is well ... how short it is. With so few tracks and ships to choose from, one can't help but think that $6 is the absolute most you should pay for this trip down memory lane. A solid game -- but there's far better options. 6.5

Spyro the Dragon - With frequent save points, fast load times, and generally solid gameplay, Insomniac's early platformer still manages to impress. The gameplay is admittedly on the simplistic side, but there is no doubt that nearly a decade ago, Insomniac was pushing some truly impressive tech. The graphics are silky smooth, and the Sypro character lives with animation akin to that of the Ratchet series. The game looks as good as an average PSP game (albeit running in 4:3). 7.5

Twisted Metal 2 - There's a reason why Twisted Metal was so beloved: it had a lot of personality, with its apocalyptic levels and crazed vehicle designs. The relentless difficulty of the game and simplistic presentation take a lot away from this re-release, but at $6, it's still a fairly solid retread to invest in, especially for portable gamers. 6.0

JoystiqRetro Reviews round-up: Spyro & Twisted Metal originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>psp-fanboyretroreviewspyrotwisted-metalwipeoutTue, 06 Nov 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Retro Review: Spyro the Dragon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/retro-review-spyro-the-dragon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/retro-review-spyro-the-dragon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/05/retro-review-spyro-the-dragon/#commentsFiled under:


Spyro the Dragon
Price: $5.99
Original Release Date: September 10, 1998

Recommended.
Of all the retro re-releases on the PS Store so far, this is the most ideally suited for the PSP. With frequent save points, fast load times, and generally solid gameplay, Insomniac's early platformer still manages to impress. The gameplay is admittedly on the simplistic side, but there is no doubt that nearly a decade ago, Insomniac was pushing some truly impressive tech. The graphics are silky smooth, and the Sypro character lives with animation akin to that of the Ratchet series. The game looks as good as an average PSP game (albeit running in 4:3).

Make sure you switch to control type 4 on the PSP. You'll be surprised at how well Spyro can be controlled. Platforming is a breeze, and the camera (controlled by the D-Pad) works surprisingly well (provided you switch to the Active camera system). Gliding and shooting flames comes with such ease that navigating the expansive colorful worlds is quite charming. Don't expect the game to get difficult, though. This is clearly a children's game, and the platforming (and especially combat) rarely test the player's mettle.

Save points do come every five minutes making it the ideal PSP game to download. At $6, this is a fantastic value for a classic. Fans of Insomniac's other games will do well in picking up this piece of PlayStation history.
Retro Review: 7.5

JoystiqRetro Review: Spyro the Dragon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>retroreviewspyroMon, 05 Nov 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ds-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ds-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/31/ds-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night/#commentsFiled under:

Earlier this month, we took a look at Amaze Entertainment's take on Crash of the Titans, and were pleasantly surprised to find an excellent, old-school style entry into the series. So now, with Spyro the Dragon, it seemed reasonable to expect something truly special, particularly considering the wondrous job they've done with the GBA title.

Unfortunately, what should be just ain't. Not this time. While Spyro: The Eternal Night for the DS has its moments, overall, the game is blandly disappointing and has some real problems that prevent it from feeling nearly as polished as the studio's other recent developmental efforts.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 31 Oct 2007 23:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amaze-entertainmentjoystiqfeaturesplatformsierraspyrothe-eternal-nightWed, 31 Oct 2007 23:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/wii-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/wii-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/wii-fanboy-review-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-night/#commentsFiled under:


I'm going to be honest with you: this is the first Spyro game I've actually completed. I remember playing a friend's copy of the original Spyro back on the original Playstation in bits and pieces, here and there, but never sitting down to actually play through the entire title. Platformers were never my favorite genre, so at a time where my age limited my game selection (developers didn't want to send me copies for review when I was a teenager, sadly), I often overlooked titles that were considered good or great by the mainstream.

And, based on what I've read and heard of past Spyro games, I can confidently say that The Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night fails to fill the shoes left by its predecessors.

Continue reading Wii Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night

JoystiqWii Fanboy Review: The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>sierraspyrospyro-eternal-nightvivendiwiimoteMon, 29 Oct 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Purple dragon meets silver screen for Spyro movie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/purple-dragon-meets-silver-screen-for-spyro-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/purple-dragon-meets-silver-screen-for-spyro-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/29/purple-dragon-meets-silver-screen-for-spyro-movie/#commentsFiled under:


While playing The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night, all we could think was, "What would Spyro look like if he was 100,000 times bigger?" Okay, so the thought never actually crossed our minds. We only wish we could say the same for everyone else.

The Animation Picture Company apparently decided to option the rights to the Spyro franchise, allowing them to bring the purple guy to the big screen. The company plans to make a 3-D computer animation feature of the game, written by the guys who scripted Dr. Dolittle 4: First Dog. To that, we say ... there was a Dr. Dolittle 4?!?

Adding further credit to the "stay the hell away from this movie" argument, APC is also responsible for subjecting us to bringing us Garfield Get's Real and Garfield's Fun Fest.

Movies and video games generally don't mix well. Unfortunately, we don't see Spyro's foray into Hollywood ending up differently.

JoystiqPurple dragon meets silver screen for Spyro movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Oct 2007 13:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Animation-Picture-CompanyMovieSpyroThe-Eternal-NightMon, 29 Oct 2007 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy interviews The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night's Sean Epperson]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/ds-fanboy-interviews-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-nights-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/ds-fanboy-interviews-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-nights-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/15/ds-fanboy-interviews-the-legend-of-spyro-the-eternal-nights-se/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With the holiday season and its big-ticket games approaching like a bullet train, threatening to deafen all with its passing roar, we're not surprised that most people haven't thought to pick up The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night. The GBA version of the multiplatform release, in particular, received very little promotion or attention when it hit stores two weeks ago.

It really is a shame, as, barring any surprise localizations for Rhythm Tengoku or Mother 3, The Eternal Night could be the last great GBA game. Available at GameStop for only $15 (with Wendy's $5-off coupon), there's no excuse for any fan of polished action platformers to pass on this title. Some are calling its combat system a 2D interpretation of Devil May Cry; as you'll see in the trailer past the break, that comparison hasn't been made in jest.

We sat down with Amaze Entertainment's Sean Epperson, The Eternal Night's producer, to talk about why the game shouldn't be left ignored. Read on to learn more about this GBA gem and its features.

Continue reading DS Fanboy interviews The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night's Sean Epperson

JoystiqDS Fanboy interviews The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night's Sean Epperson originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Oct 2007 19:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action-platformeramaze-entertainmentjoystiqfeaturessean-eppersonsierraspyrothe-eternal-nightthe-legend-of-spyroMon, 15 Oct 2007 19:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyro heats up Wendy's Kids' Meals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/spyro-heats-up-wendys-kids-meals/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/spyro-heats-up-wendys-kids-meals/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/spyro-heats-up-wendys-kids-meals/#commentsFiled under: ,


Get it? He breathes fire-- and fire makes things hot! Now that Spyro: The Eternal Night on the Game Boy Advance (and on DS too) has us caring about the little purple dragon for the first time since ... ever, we find ourselves vaguely interested in these Wendy's Kids' Meal toys. Plus if we went looking for them, we could go eat deliciously unhealthy fast food and pretend it was Important Work. And we'd get a $5 coupon good for any version of the new Spyro game! This isn't the first excuse we've had to go to Wendy's in the name of Nintendology, either.

You have your choice of a maze game, a spinning Sparx copter, a flapping Spyro, a checkers game, and ... a keychain. Nothing's more fun for kids than organizing keys!

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqSpyro heats up Wendy's Kids' Meals originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>spyrotoyswendysFri, 12 Oct 2007 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Gee, we wonder what you're playing edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/wrup-gee-we-wonder-what-youre-playing-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/wrup-gee-we-wonder-what-youre-playing-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/wrup-gee-we-wonder-what-youre-playing-edition/#commentsFiled under:

Let's think of a release that most of you are probably knee-deep in? Tough one, right? Well, we're fairly confident that it's none other than ... The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night. Yup, out of the long list of games that released, we're absolutely certain that's the game you're playing. If we had to bet body parts on it, we would be rich in organs.

So, tell us of your adventures with Spyro and how much fun you're having with it. Because, you are. That's what you're playing. We know it is.

JoystiqWRUP: Gee, we wonder what you're playing edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chibirobophantom-hourglassphantomhourglassspyrozeldaFri, 05 Oct 2007 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of October 1st]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-october-1st/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-october-1st/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/01/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-october-1st/#commentsFiled under:


Hmm ... isn't there something spectacular hitting this week? Maybe we're thinking of another week ... no, it must be Holly Hobbie & Friends, right? You know you want it!

Seriously, folks, DS fans have loads to be pleased about this week. Not only are we getting what may end up being our game of the year, but there are tons of other options if you happen to not be a Zelda fan (gasp!) or if you want to pick up a second or third title. What's on your shopping list?
  • Chibi-Robo: Park Patrol
  • Crash of the Titans
  • Holly Hobbie & Friends
  • Kurupoto Cool Cool Stars
  • The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night
  • The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
  • Master Jin Jin's IQ Challenge
  • Spider-Man: Friend or Foe
For the releases in other major markets, sail past the break. Importers especially take note: Mistwalker's Archaic Sealed Heat debuts this week in Japan.

Continue reading DS releases for the week of October 1st

JoystiqDS releases for the week of October 1st originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chibi-roboLegend-of-SpyrolegendofspyroOctoberPhantom-HourglassPhantomHourglassreleasesspyrozeldaMon, 01 Oct 2007 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Preorder Spyro for the GBA or we'll make fun of your mom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/preorder-spyro-for-the-gba-or-well-make-fun-of-your-mom/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/preorder-spyro-for-the-gba-or-well-make-fun-of-your-mom/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/preorder-spyro-for-the-gba-or-well-make-fun-of-your-mom/#commentsFiled under: ,

You already know from our video spotlight last month that Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night for the GBA is the bee's knees, the cat's pajamas, and the dog's bollocks, all wrapped into one game -- making it some sort of strange hybrid of insect joints, sleepwear, and gonads. Wow, that's really grotesque when you think about it.

Never mind all that. In fact, erase every one of those images from your memory. The only thoughts you need to have in your head right now are that the upcoming Spyro 2D platformer/beat-em-up looks fantastic and that Amazon has listed preorders for it at $19.99, likely reflecting a budget price that other retailers will soon recognize as well. Don't even bother showing your face around here after October 2nd, the GBA title's release date, if you don't have a copy of the game in hand. That is, unless you want your mother's private matters brought to public light.

JoystiqPreorder Spyro for the GBA or we'll make fun of your mom originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 10:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2damaze-entertainmentbeat-em-upeternal-nightlegend-of-spyroplatformerpreordersierraspyroTue, 18 Sep 2007 10:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyro Eternal Night less awesome on DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/spyro-eternal-night-less-awesome-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/spyro-eternal-night-less-awesome-on-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/21/spyro-eternal-night-less-awesome-on-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

Remember how we lauded The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night on Game Boy Advance for being a beautifully drawn side-scrolling brawler with a nice combo system? Yeah, that's not happening on DS. Eternal Night on DS is a regular Spyro game, which for the DS means a PlayStation-looking 3D platformer for children. Which is fine for children. 1UP has new screens of all the polygons and such.

There are plenty of 3D platformers in the world. What we need more of is Metroidvania-style free-roaming 2D action games.

JoystiqSpyro Eternal Night less awesome on DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Aug 2007 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kromelegendofspyroplatformersierraspyroTue, 21 Aug 2007 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night looks awesome, seriously]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/legend-of-spyro-eternal-night-looks-awesome-seriously/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/legend-of-spyro-eternal-night-looks-awesome-seriously/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/16/legend-of-spyro-eternal-night-looks-awesome-seriously/#commentsFiled under: ,

Our eyes must've been glazed over by Phantom Hourglass previews and Contra 4 face-rocking to have missed this Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night E3 Trailer. Forget whatever negative preconceptions you might have for the Spyro series; this game looks hotter than a June bride on a featherbed.

If you've been hoping for a platformer/beat-em-up to lay it down on the GBA, then look to this title for your down-laying needs. Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night has it all -- gorgeous backgrounds, slick physics, and a badical combo system. We would describe the combat as Devil May Cry meets Astro Boy: Omega Factor. Think we're pulling your leg? Swoop past the post break for a 50-hit combo clip. We had no idea games like this we're still being made for the dying handheld!

Continue reading Legend of Spyro: Eternal Night looks awesome, seriously

JoystiqLegend of Spyro: Eternal Night looks awesome, seriously originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Aug 2007 18:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazeentertainmentbeatemuplegendofspyroplatformersierraspyroThu, 16 Aug 2007 18:10:00 EST<![CDATA[More E3 footage turns up: Spyro gameplay action]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/more-e3-footage-turns-up-spyro-gameplay-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/more-e3-footage-turns-up-spyro-gameplay-action/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/more-e3-footage-turns-up-spyro-gameplay-action/#commentsFiled under:

Despite E3 being smaller-scale this year, more and more trailers and videos just keep turning up, particularly for games that didn't get a lot of attention amongst the crush of news from higher profile titles. The Legend of Spyro: The Eternal Night certainly seemed to slip through the cracks, and from the reactions of some of you to the game's announcements, there may not be a lot of love left for the little dragon. Can this one redeem the series? We're not sure about that, but the video is at least worth a watch.

Continue reading More E3 footage turns up: Spyro gameplay action

JoystiqMore E3 footage turns up: Spyro gameplay action originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jul 2007 18:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307kromestudiossierraspyroTheEternalNightWed, 18 Jul 2007 18:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor alert: Pretty much everything you could think of]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/rumor-alert-pretty-much-everything-you-could-think-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/rumor-alert-pretty-much-everything-you-could-think-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/29/rumor-alert-pretty-much-everything-you-could-think-of/#commentsFiled under:

Hey, rumors are fun! We see two possibilities regarding this list of Wii games that "will be coming out" according to WiiYou.com. First: they scooped the entire world and got an exclusive look at a list of unannounced Wii games that nobody has heard anything at all about. Second, they didn't.

We're looking at the list, and it seems to be about half educated guessing and half dreaming. Call us cynics, but we're going to wait for verification before we go put our money down on F-Zero or Metroid Xterme.

Of course Sega Nerds latched on to the listing for Shadow the Hedgehog 2, but, in our minds, that's not the biggest news item on the list. We'd be more interested in hearing about the two Zelda games. Check after the post break for the full list.

Continue reading Rumor alert: Pretty much everything you could think of

JoystiqRumor alert: Pretty much everything you could think of originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 May 2007 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>donkeykongfzerokirbymariometroidnintendonintendo wiiNintendoWiipaper marioPaperMariopokemonrumorrumorsshadowsonicsoul caliburSoulCaliburspyrostarfoxwiizeldaTue, 29 May 2007 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Spyro swooping down on the Wii this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/24/spyro-swooping-down-on-the-wii-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/24/spyro-swooping-down-on-the-wii-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/24/spyro-swooping-down-on-the-wii-this-year/#commentsFiled under:


Apparently the purple dragon is going to be making an appearance on the Wii in Spyro: The Eternal Night. Currently slated for a release on the console this October, it was initially believed to be a port of another Spyro game, but is being confirmed as a new title by Codename Revolution. Personally, we haven't played many of the Spyro games, but even considering that, we don't want a port, even if it is of one of the franchise's best games. No, we're sick of ports, give us something fresh.

Is anyone excited about this? Any Spyro friends out there?

JoystiqSpyro swooping down on the Wii this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Apr 2007 13:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonintendowiispyrowiiTue, 24 Apr 2007 13:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony, Vivendi sued after 'infant' suffers seizure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/sony-vivendi-sued-after-infant-suffers-seizure/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/sony-vivendi-sued-after-infant-suffers-seizure/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/sony-vivendi-sued-after-infant-suffers-seizure/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

spyro: enter the dragonflyNews has trickled out that last month a New York woman filed a lawsuit against Vivendi, Sierra, Sony, and now defunct rental store Hiawatha Video. The suit alleges that the defendants were "negligent, careless, and reckless with regard to the design and manufacture" of the PlayStation 2 version of Spyro: Enter the Dragonfly. The woman's beef with this particular purple Puff adventure stems not from the widely held opinion that Enter the Dragonfly is the worst in Spyro's prolonged console run, but rather, from a more serious matter: while playing the game, her "infant" son suffered what's known as a tonic-clonic seizure -- or put colloquially, an "epileptic fit."

According to the suit, the boy has sustained severe and permanent injuries that will require costly, lifelong medical care. The mother is seeking an unspecified amount of damages, which she requested be determined by a jury. Sony has since asked that the woman specify a clear total, perhaps indicating that a settlement could be reached.

A warning about the possibility of epileptic seizure is published on the inside front cover of Enter the Dragonfly's instruction manual. But, as the game was apparently a rental, there's a good chance that the woman never received the booklet, which if the case, might see a court rule in favor of the plaintiff.

JoystiqSony, Vivendi sued after 'infant' suffers seizure originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2007 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>epilepsylawsuitps2seizuresonyspyrovivendiThu, 29 Mar 2007 19:25:00 EST