Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Wii Fanswag: And the Dragon Quest Swords winner is ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/wii-fanswag-and-the-dragon-quest-swords-winner-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/wii-fanswag-and-the-dragon-quest-swords-winner-is/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/wii-fanswag-and-the-dragon-quest-swords-winner-is/#commentsFiled under:


Well, folks, our latest giveaway has come to an end and it's time we hooked someone up with our review copy of Dragon Quest Swords. Many have entered, but only one can be crowned victorious. Let's all congratulate:
Well, Justin, that's about to change! Consider yourself a winner! So, congratulations and better luck next time to the rest of you. We've already got our next giveaway up and running, in case you're looking to try your luck again.

Gallery: Dragon Quest Swords

JoystiqWii Fanswag: And the Dragon Quest Swords winner is ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dqswordsdragonquestsquaresquare enixsquare-enixsquareenixMon, 17 Mar 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Screens for Valkyrie Profile you don't have to squint at]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/screens-for-valkyrie-profile-you-dont-have-to-squint-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/screens-for-valkyrie-profile-you-dont-have-to-squint-at/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/17/screens-for-valkyrie-profile-you-dont-have-to-squint-at/#commentsFiled under:


Famitsu has a small piece up on Square Enix's upcoming DS entry in their Valkyrie Profile series, providing us with some screens, as well as a small taste of the brilliant cutscenes that often get sprinkled liberally throughout the RPG kingpin's titles. And while we'd like to report on more of the game, we just cannot. We're not even sure when this is going to release in Japan right now.

Head on over to Famitsu to check out the screens (now with 100% less blur!).

[Via Go Nintendo]

JoystiqScreens for Valkyrie Profile you don't have to squint at originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>square enixsquare-enixsquareenixvalkyrievalkyrie profilevalkyrie-profileValkyrieProfileMon, 17 Mar 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square wins plagiarism case against Korean music video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/square-wins-plagiarism-case-against-korean-music-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/square-wins-plagiarism-case-against-korean-music-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/11/square-wins-plagiarism-case-against-korean-music-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Imitation isn't only the sincerest form of flattery, it's also the most legally actionable. At least it is to Square Enix, which recently won a plagiarism case against South Korean music video producer Fantom to the tune of 16 million won (approx. $17,400).

The case centers on the video for the song Temptation Sonata, in which live actors recreate a scene from Square Enix's animated movie, Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children. According to a judge for the Seoul Central District Court, the video "illegally used 80% of the storyline, setting, characters and their styles of dress and their demeanors," from the movie scene. We're not sure how the judge came to such an exact statistic, but who are we to argue with such an official sounding pronouncement?

A comparison of the videos (both viewable below the break) shows much more than a passing similarity between the two, and Square was definitely within its rights taking legal action. That said, we have to wonder what Square Enix felt it had to gain from a court case. Is this video really hurting the company's ability to milk insane amounts of money out off the Final Fantasy franchise? Does seeing the video makes someone less likely to buy a copy of Advent Children? What's next, a legal case against the makers of College Saga? We just hope the negative PR associated with this case is worth the massive $17,000 pay day Square Enix made off of it.

Continue reading Square wins plagiarism case against Korean music video

JoystiqSquare wins plagiarism case against Korean music video originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Dec 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advent childrenAdventChildrencourtenixfinal fantasyFinal Fantasy VIIfinal fantasy7FinalFantasyFinalFantasy7FinalFantasyViikorealawlegalplagiarismPS2PS3PSPsquaresquare enixSquareEnixTue, 11 Dec 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's most horrific video: Final Fantasy Cosplay Lip-synching]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/13/todays-most-horrific-video-final-fantasy-cosplay-lip-synching/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/13/todays-most-horrific-video-final-fantasy-cosplay-lip-synching/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/13/todays-most-horrific-video-final-fantasy-cosplay-lip-synching/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


In honor of the upcoming Halloween Holiday, we bring something cringe-inducing and nausea-causing: namely, cosplayers singing. Well, at least one of them is singing. The other one is lip-synching, complete with backup dancers. The only thing she's missing is a wind machine to toss her hair about in a sultry and sexy manner while she goes through the motions.

Well, you at least have to applaud their enthusiasm, and their willingness to make complete fools of themselves on the international internets. Plus, Rude actually looks fairly slick in his outfit, even if his acting skills make Pauly Shore look like Jude Law. And Cloud's sword looks, well ... authentic. We're just sayin'.

Anyhow, check out the vid. We hope you were scared because there are more to come as we countdown to Halloween. Don't say you weren't warned.

JoystiqToday's most horrific video: Final Fantasy Cosplay Lip-synching originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Oct 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cosplayFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy VIIPCPS2Square EnixSat, 13 Oct 2007 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Friday Video: Celebrating remakes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/friday-video-celebrating-remakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/friday-video-celebrating-remakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/friday-video-celebrating-remakes/#commentsFiled under:


Lately, we've had remakes on the brain, and foremost among them seems to be Final Fantasy IV. Maybe it's just because we're crazy about the franchise, but we also like the love and care that Square Enix puts into their remake efforts. Due to that, the trailer from this year's TGS just doesn't get old, which is why we've decided it deserves a place in this week's video spotlight.

JoystiqFriday Video: Celebrating remakes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>age-of-remakesFinal-Fantasy-IVFinalFantasyIVremakeSquare EnixSquareEnixtgs07trailerFri, 12 Oct 2007 19:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Austin GDC: Live at the Hiromichi Tanaka keynote]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/austin-gdc-live-at-the-hiromichi-tanaka-keynote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/austin-gdc-live-at-the-hiromichi-tanaka-keynote/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/austin-gdc-live-at-the-hiromichi-tanaka-keynote/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Hiromichi Tanaka is the executive officer of Square Enix and the producer of company's entry into the MMO market, Final Fantasy XI. This morning at the Austin Game Developer's Conference he's going to be talking to us about the challenges of cross-platform design with a design post-mortum of Final Fantasy XI.

11:06 AM CST: We were supposed to get started at 11AM CST, but the event seems to be running fashionably late.

11:08 AM CST: Introducing Hiromichi Tanaka speaking on Launching Final Fantasy XI on Multiple Platforms.

Continue reading Austin GDC: Live at the Hiromichi Tanaka keynote

JoystiqAustin GDC: Live at the Hiromichi Tanaka keynote originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agdcaustin game developers conferenceAustinGameDevelopersConferencefinal fantasyfinal fantasy xiFinalFantasyFinalFantasyXihiromichi tanakaHiromichiTanakaPCPS2square enixSquareEnixThu, 06 Sep 2007 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[E307: Front Mission DS interview and media galore]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/front-mission-ds-interview-and-media-galore/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/front-mission-ds-interview-and-media-galore/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/12/front-mission-ds-interview-and-media-galore/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've got a flood of Front Mission DS media for you today. In addition to the new screenshots viewable in the gallery below, there's also a minute-and-a-half-long trailer for the Square Enix SRPG past the post break. If you need more than just combat clips and menu hopping to get you going, scroll down a bit further for the original Japanese trailer.

Front Mission DS finally bring the series' first entry to the states, adding touchscreen controls, multiplayer battles (local only), and several new Wanzers to the mech-based title. While this release already includes the alternative UCS storyline from the PlayStation remake, five new missions specific to the DS version have also been added.

RPGamer had a chance to sit down with producer Koichiro Sakamoto to discuss the handheld port and his thoughts on bringing more Front Mission games to the DS. According to the interview, were it not for the campaigning of a particular team member, North America might not have received the game: "There was one [who] was very passionate about the game, and wanted to give players in the United States the chance to experience. He felt that Front Mission 3 and 4 proved that there is a userbase, and since the DS is currently very popular, the thinking went, 'Why not give it a try?'"

Continue reading E307: Front Mission DS interview and media galore

JoystiqE307: Front Mission DS interview and media galore originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dse3e307enixfront missionFrontMissionmechmechsnintendonintendo dsNintendoDsrobotrobotssquaresquare enixSquareEnixsrpgThu, 12 Jul 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix exec: PS3 price still "a bit expensive"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/square-enix-exec-ps3-price-still-a-bit-expensive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/square-enix-exec-ps3-price-still-a-bit-expensive/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/11/square-enix-exec-ps3-price-still-a-bit-expensive/#commentsFiled under: ,

While a lot of gamers are apparently very excited by the new lower price for the 60GB PS3, Square Enix's US and Europe President and CEO John Yamamoto is not one of them. In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, Yamamoto was asked about the recent remarks from Konami president Kazumi Kitue on the slow start for Sony's system. Yamamoto said that $500 for the PS3 is "still a bit expensive for most gamers. Most of them think that price is still high." Yamamoto went on to urge a price cut or Europe, saying €500 might be more appropriate in light of the new U.S. price.

Check out the full interview for Yamamoto's thoughts on oft-delayed European Square games, the strength of the DS and how the new E3 is changing Square's plans.

JoystiqSquare Enix exec: PS3 price still "a bit expensive" originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kituekonamiPS3squaresquare enixSquareEnixyamamotoWed, 11 Jul 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix still thinks PS3 price is high]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/square-enix-still-thinks-ps3-price-is-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/square-enix-still-thinks-ps3-price-is-high/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/square-enix-still-thinks-ps3-price-is-high/#commentsWe don't think $500 is cheap, either. But if you look at it from the angle of "price reduced $100," then it seems marginally more significant. We were thrilled about the PS3 price cut, but some of Sony's biggest devs are speaking out against it. Not so much against it, but they think it's not enough to make a difference. First was Konami, now we're getting a wag of the finger from Square Enix's European and North American subsidiaries president, John Yamamoto.

Yamamoto said "I think USD 500 for PS3 is still a bit expensive for most gamers. Most of them think that price is still high." In addition to that, he demanded a price cut for Europe as well. While we'd be all about that, the PS3 has only been launched there recently. Oh well, it might happen. Does this mean Final Fantasy XIII will go multiplatform? We doubt it. Don't you?

JoystiqSquare Enix still thinks PS3 price is high originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffxiiifinal fantasy xiiiFinalFantasyXiiiplaystation 3Playstation3ps3sonysquare enixSquareEnixTue, 10 Jul 2007 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix release dates: RoF due next spring?!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/square-enix-release-dates-rof-due-next-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/square-enix-release-dates-rof-due-next-spring/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/square-enix-release-dates-rof-due-next-spring/#commentsFiled under:

Square Enix spent the morning revealing its lineup of "fresh new faces and timeless classics" that the company plans to exhibit this week at E3, attaching US release dates to its upcoming titles:
We're jumping on our beds with glee over the fact that we'll be receiving Front Mission so early after the localization was announced, but several disappointing details failed to escape our attention -- Final Fantasy Tactics A2: The Sealed Grimoire, It's a Wonderful World, FFIV DS, and Dragon Quest IX's absence; and Ring of Fates' distant date. The multiplayer ARPG and its DS Lite bundle are scheduled to hit Japan this August 23rd.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqSquare Enix release dates: RoF due next spring?! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2007 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgcrystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesDQMDQMJDragon-Quest-MonstersDragon-Quest-Monsters-JokerDSe3Final-Fantasy-Tactics-A2Final-Fantasy-Tactics-A2-Grimoire-of-the-RiftfinalfantasyFinalFantasyCrystalChroniclesFinalFantasyTacticsfront missionFrontMissionheroes of manaHeroesOfManaiawwJRPGmanaNintendorevenant wingsRevenantWingsRingOfFatesRPGsquare enixSquare-EnixStrategyTurn-Based-StrategyMon, 09 Jul 2007 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Last Remnant video goes on an odyssey]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/last-remnant-video-goes-on-an-odyssey/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/last-remnant-video-goes-on-an-odyssey/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/last-remnant-video-goes-on-an-odyssey/#commentsFiled under:


Square Enix has released the first trailer for its upcoming RPG, Last Remnant. X3F readers will recall that Last Remnant is something of a first for Square Enix, in that it is being simultaneously released in both the U.S. and Japan. Not only that, but it includes two main characters, one designed to appeal to Japanese audience, and another made for western audiences. The trailer showcases some gameplay that looks a bit like Dynasty Warriors and suspiciously similar to Lost Odyssey (created by previous Square Enix employee, Hironobu Sakaguchi).

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqLast Remnant video goes on an odyssey originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enixlast remnantLastRemnantsquaresquare enixSquareEnixsqueenixthe last remnantTheLastRemnantThu, 05 Jul 2007 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix's Last Remnant trailer debuts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/square-enixs-last-remnant-trailer-debuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/square-enixs-last-remnant-trailer-debuts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/square-enixs-last-remnant-trailer-debuts/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Square Enix has unveiled its "debut" trailer for The Last Remnant. The trailer is certainly pretty, powered by the Unreal Engine 3, and the gameplay (for better and worse) is eerily reminiscent of Koei's Dynasty Warriors series.

The text serving as bookends to the one minute, 22 second trailer make a point to highlight that this is an RPG "for the world" that will see simultaneous release in North America and Japan (what about Europe?) on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The actual date of that simultaneous release is unknown. Video embedded after the break.

Continue reading Square Enix's Last Remnant trailer debuts

JoystiqSquare Enix's Last Remnant trailer debuts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 15:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last remnantLastRemnantPS3square enixSquareEnixunrealunreal engineunreal engine 3UnrealEngineUnrealEngine3Xbox-360Thu, 05 Jul 2007 15:44:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant: swords, kidnappers, and wars, oh my!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/the-last-remnant-swords-kidnappers-and-wars-oh-my/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/the-last-remnant-swords-kidnappers-and-wars-oh-my/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/04/the-last-remnant-swords-kidnappers-and-wars-oh-my/#commentsFiled under: ,


In addition to the nifty trailer we've embedded for you, we've got some more information regarding the Square Enix title Romancing SaGa Tactics The Last Remnant. No, we're not going to blab about the characters or basic plot (other than the kidnapping of your younger sister Irena). What we've learned is that there is only one main playable character, Rush Sykes, not two as previously rumored.

Even so, expect large-scale battles with numerous personalities instead of faceless infantry. If you played any of the old Ogre Battle games (which had subtitles named after many Queen songs -- March of the Black Queen, for example), imagine that. What we mean is a "main" character surrounded by some faceless infantry. With that, you'll imagine a fairly turn-based battle system with some more cinematic "realistic" experiences, such as the morale bar and some actions to take in the middle of something else (during a fight sequence, you may get some button cues to unleash a flurry of extra moves, increasing said morale bar). That's all we're going to say for now. Enjoy the trailer and we'll keep you up to date!

JoystiqThe Last Remnant: swords, kidnappers, and wars, oh my! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360microsoftplaystation 3Playstation3ps3sonysquare enixSquareEnixthe last remnantTheLastRemnantxbox 360Xbox360Wed, 04 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Ring of Fates video: Jumpin' Yuke Flash]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/new-ring-of-fates-video-jumpin-yuke-flash/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/new-ring-of-fates-video-jumpin-yuke-flash/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/new-ring-of-fates-video-jumpin-yuke-flash/#commentsFiled under: ,

Square Enix is keeping up its media push for Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates with yet another video, adding onto its bombardment of scans and screenshots to draw in anyone who hasn't already decided to pick up the game's special-edition DS Lite bundle.

This week's clip features Alhanarlem, one of the main characters from the ARPG's spellcasting tribe of Yukes, leaping from platform to platform in what looks like a competitive minigame in which players race through a stage to find a hidden blue switch. Power-ups are scattered around the field, but their effects aren't revealed until they're grabbed. Vault past the post break for the embedded movie.

Continue reading New Ring of Fates video: Jumpin' Yuke Flash

JoystiqNew Ring of Fates video: Jumpin' Yuke Flash originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jul 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgcrystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesffccfinal fantasyfinal fantasy crystal chroniclesFinalFantasyFinalFantasyCrystalChroniclesminigameminigamesring of fatesRingOfFatesrofsquaresquare enixSquareEnixvideovideosyukeyukesSun, 01 Jul 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Conjecture Countdown: 10 days to go]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/conjecture-countdown-10-days-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/conjecture-countdown-10-days-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/01/conjecture-countdown-10-days-to-go/#comments

Even with a diminished E3, there's no controlling the wave of rumors that hit the Internet every year before the show. Why fight it? From now until E3 hits, we'll be posting one piece of wild speculation every day. Some may be patently ridiculous, and others just might turn out to be true. Even some of the ridiculous ones might turn out to be true! Rest assured, everything will be totally made-up and unfounded. Except, of course, when we speak about all the ass Reggie is going to kick. That part? Totally true.

Rumor: Square Enix will announce remakes of games that have yet to be released!

JoystiqConjecture Countdown: 10 days to go originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 01 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3ccenixhumorremakesrumorsesquaresquare enixSquareEnixSun, 01 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Conjecture Countdown: 11 days to go]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/30/conjecture-countdown-11-days-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/30/conjecture-countdown-11-days-to-go/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/30/conjecture-countdown-11-days-to-go/#commentsFiled under:


Even with a diminished E3, there's no controlling the wave of rumors that hit the Internet every year before the show. Why fight it? From now until E3 hits, we'll be posting one piece of wild speculation every day. Some may be patently ridiculous, and others just might turn out to be true. Even some of the ridiculous ones might turn out to be true! Rest assured, everything will be totally made-up and unfounded. Except, of course, when we speak about all the ass Reggie is going to kick. That part? Totally true.

Rumor: Square Enix will announce their plans to remake some games for the DS!

JoystiqConjecture Countdown: 11 days to go originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 30 Jun 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3cchumorportremakerumorsquare enixSquareEnixSat, 30 Jun 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Opening FFTA2's Sealed Grimoire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/opening-ffta2s-sealed-grimoire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/opening-ffta2s-sealed-grimoire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/opening-ffta2s-sealed-grimoire/#commentsFiled under:

Jeux France has the goods on the races (as well as new images and scans) in the upcoming Final Fantasy Tactics Advance 2: The Sealed Grimoire: Human, Viera, Moogle, Bangaa, and Nu Moh. Sound familiar? They should, if you played Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. Hey, it's a sequel -- did you expect other furry animal-based races?

We know some of you are looking forward to the title (and others, not so much), and though the details are starting to shape up, we're as yet undecided on how we feel about this game. In the end, since it's Final Fantasy, and we're shameless addicts, we'll probably give it a go, despite the question of Tactics vs. Tactics Advance being just as polarizing, if not more so, than the idea of Tingle starring in his own games.

JoystiqOpening FFTA2's Sealed Grimoire originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bangaaffta2final fantasyFinalFantasyhumanmooglenu mohNuMohracesealed grimoireSealedGrimoiresquare enixSquareEnixsrpgvieraTue, 26 Jun 2007 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy II shows dualistic production]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-ii-shows-dualistic-production/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-ii-shows-dualistic-production/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-ii-shows-dualistic-production/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's no denying that Square Enix makes incredible CG with its games. The upcoming Final Fantasy remakes on PSP are no different. As one can see by the intro cinematic to Final Fantasy II (above), Square puts a lot of effort into making their cinematics look gorgeous. While we appreciate the added effort into movies like the one above, we'd much rather see the time and money go into completely revamping the game engine. When one considers how the actual gameplay looks (video after the cut), one can't help but be a little disappointed.

Continue reading Final Fantasy II shows dualistic production

JoystiqFinal Fantasy II shows dualistic production originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ff2ffiifinal fantasyfinal fantsy iiFinalFantasyFinalFantsyIisquare enixSquareEnixTue, 26 Jun 2007 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix loves the PS3's ability to express their imagination]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/square-enix-loves-the-ps3s-ability-to-express-their-imagination/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/square-enix-loves-the-ps3s-ability-to-express-their-imagination/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/square-enix-loves-the-ps3s-ability-to-express-their-imagination/#commentsWe'll be honest, a lot of the folks at Square Enix have different opinions about the PlayStation 3. Some guys love it, other guys aren't too fond of it, some are making exclusives and others are making multiplatform titles. The fact remains that the heavy hitters will never all agree, so as each cites their thoughts about each console, we'll talk about it. This time around, it's Tetsuya Nomura who gets the spotlight treatment.

In a recent interview in Dengeki magazine, Nomura shouted out to the sexy black box: "The PS3 is the machine that is closest to being able to express our imagination." He also mentions how pretty the graphics are and the unlimited amount of movement can be slapped in their games in one go. We're glad he thinks so, especially with the profound change Final Fantasy XIII will be for the franchise. He plans "to give people the taste of actually being part of that world. The assignment here is whether we can build an FF with the suspense and thrill of Third-Person-Shooting or not." What can we say? We want more Gunblade.

JoystiqSquare Enix loves the PS3's ability to express their imagination originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PlayStation 3Playstation3PS3SonySquare EnixSquareEnixTue, 26 Jun 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy party tonight in San Francisco]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-party-tonight-in-san-francisco/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-party-tonight-in-san-francisco/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/final-fantasy-party-tonight-in-san-francisco/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sonia Im, of Square Enix North America, has posted on the PlayStation.Blog today to remind people that tonight is the launch party of Final Fantasy I 20th Anniversary edition. Details for the party can be found here.

We wish we could be there, if only to gawk at all the people wearing funny clothes. Speaking of funny clothes, Sonia also mentions that due to the overwhelming reaction to the US boxart, there will be limited edition T-shirts available at the party. A sneak peek of the tee can be seen to the right. Shame we won't be there to get our hands on them ourselves. Hint hint.

If you're thinking of picking up Final Fantasy I for the PSP then be sure to check out our review coming out later.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy party tonight in San Francisco originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final fantasyfinal fantasy partyFinalFantasyFinalFantasyPartypartysan franciscoSanFranciscosquare enixSquareEnixTue, 26 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't expect any Square Enix games until April 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/dont-expect-any-square-enix-games-until-april-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/dont-expect-any-square-enix-games-until-april-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/26/dont-expect-any-square-enix-games-until-april-2008/#commentsA lot of people have been keeping their fingers crossed for an announcement by Sony and/or Square Enix about Final Fantasy XIII releasing this holiday season. We've said it before, we'll say it again: not happening. It's not just that -- don't expect to see any Square Enix game get a release before April 2008. That means everything, no exceptions, the end.

Is this really that hard for people to swallow? Final Fantasy XII hasn't even been out a year and people expect the next one to be coming out already? How long did it take to make XII again? Exactly. Don't expect Versus any sooner and despite what you may have heard, The Last Remnant is not that far in production! Star Ocean IV was barely announced, Kingdom Hearts 3 isn't even past the drawing board, and Parasite Eve 3 (that's right, Nick's gonna say it) is still a secret ... and not the supposed phone game. Basically, it's official that nothing from Square Enix is coming until the next fiscal year, but we're not torn up. We're going to have a packed holiday season.

JoystiqDon't expect any Square Enix games until April 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Jun 2007 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final Fantasy XIIIFinalFantasyXiiiKingdom Hearts 3KingdomHearts3Parasite Eve 3ParasiteEve3PlayStation 3Playstation3PS3SonySquare EnixSquareEnixStar Ocean 4Star Ocean IVStarOcean4StarOceanIvThe Last RemnantTheLastRemnantTue, 26 Jun 2007 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FF Crystal Chronicles DS Lite bundle, box art revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ff-crystal-chronicles-ds-lite-bundle-box-art-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ff-crystal-chronicles-ds-lite-bundle-box-art-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/ff-crystal-chronicles-ds-lite-bundle-box-art-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,

As with every Square Enix title that comes out on the Nintendo DS, the upcoming Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles: Rings of Fate has a limited edition DS Lite bundle coming for ¥21,840 (approximately US $177), according to Famitsu. The bundle comes with the above DS Lite and game.

Like Revenant Wings and Final Fantasy III before it, the bundle and console are sold in Japan only. By merit of having all games be region-free, these bundles are at least import-friendly if you want to continue playing games in languages you understand.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqFF Crystal Chronicles DS Lite bundle, box art revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesDSenixfinal fantasyFinalFantasyrings of fateRingsOfFatesquaresquare enixSquareEnixFri, 22 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates DS Lite]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/final-fantasy-crystal-chronicles-ring-of-fates-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/final-fantasy-crystal-chronicles-ring-of-fates-ds-lite/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/22/final-fantasy-crystal-chronicles-ring-of-fates-ds-lite/#commentsFiled under: ,


Another Square Enix game, another special-edition DS Lite. SE seems to have set up a template for these: logo on the left, line art on the right, money in the bank.

This time, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates gets the special-edition treatment on a Crystal White DS Lite. For Japan, obviously. We like the pseudo-stained-glass look, which can be found in full color on the box. This new DS variant is great news for people who were holding out on a DS purchase until the Japanese Ring of Fates came out. It's probably a little irritating for Square Enix fans who already have a plain DS.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates DS Lite originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesdsds liteDsLiteenixfatesffccfinal fantasyFinalFantasynintendoringring of fatesRingOfFatesspecial editionSpecialEditionsquaresquare enixSquareEnixFri, 22 Jun 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heroes, Mana-style]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/heroes-mana-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/heroes-mana-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/heroes-mana-style/#commentsFiled under: ,



Heroes of Mana may not be the Mana game that fans really want, but at least it's looking pretty nice -- and more strategy on the DS can never really be a bad thing. If only it had WiFi multiplayer, alas. We'll just have to make do with ratcheting up the ol' ranking so we can earn downloadable maps and items.

Heroes of Mana is scheduled for release in the US this August.

[Via press release]

JoystiqHeroes, Mana-style originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 17:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brownie brownBrownieBrownheroes of manaHeroesOfManaimagesmanarpgrtsscreenshotsquare enixSquareEnixWed, 20 Jun 2007 17:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix launching US online store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/square-enix-launching-us-online-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/square-enix-launching-us-online-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/20/square-enix-launching-us-online-store/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Role-playing game powerhouse Square Enix have put up a teaser site for an upcoming online merchandise store. Though we're not expecting software titles to be sold, figurines from Dragon Quest, Kingdom Hearts and Final Fantasy are likely (we saw a huge display of fine-crafted figures from those series at Tokyo Game Show last year) and probably clothing with various logos.

Our prediction for best-sellers? Anything with a Slime character on it: key chains, styluses, plush dolls, etc. Our prediction for worst-sellers? Anything sold with actual slime on it. Ew. No date has been given for the grand opening of the store.

[Via 1UP]

JoystiqSquare Enix launching US online store originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2007 15:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon questDragonQuestfinal fantasyFinalFantasykingdom heartsKingdomHeartsslimesquare enixSquareEnixWed, 20 Jun 2007 15:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: June 19, 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/today-in-joystiq-june-19-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/today-in-joystiq-june-19-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/today-in-joystiq-june-19-2007/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We made the above picture for a never-to-be-seen feature on Square Enix titles -- and by "we" I mean myself -- but I loved the image so much that I wanted it to see the light of day. We'd love to see this as a limited edition PSP when Dissidia is released. Check out the highlights for today, a say a word for Manhunt's harsh 24 hours:

Joystiquery
Joystiq interview: Sherry Floyd, producer, The Agency
Readers pick best webcomic: Pac-Man secrets
The Guessing Game: Microsoft's E3 Showing
Today's finally understandable video: Boogie

Manhunting
Rockstar's Manhunt 2 rejected by UK ratings board
ELSPA: Manhunt ban is good. Us: WTF?
Manhunt 2 under fire, watchdog demands AO rating for Wii version
No political influence in Manhunt decision says BBFC
Rockstar: We 'emphatically disagree' with UK's Manhunt 2 ban
Retail murder: ESRB rates Manhunt 2 'Adults Only'

News
Quake Wars public beta keys coming this week
Ace Combat 6 flight stick bundle
Microsoft invests in Chinese developer
Rock Band guitar shown in latest GameStop newsletter
Sony cans Connect, pumps up PlayStation
Ubisoft dates Haze, Splinter Cell, Raving Rabbids 2, more
Take-Two not explaining GTA $50 million exclusive
Epic's Mark Rein: No Gears of War 2 at Min-E3
Kutaragi officially retires from Sony
Fox will handle Halo licensing (yeah, just licensing)
Lego reveals more Batman info
Halo 3 achievements unlocked, here be spoilers
Indie dev Chair signs exclusive deal with Epic, new Undertow images
Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer unveiled
Team Fortress will not have cross-platform play, but Valve plays it that way
Quake Wars to have in-game ads
SingStar PS3 track list confirmed
Apple GameTap 'Lite' launches June 28, Intel Macs only
Red Octane says more Guitar Hero II songs coming in July
Warhammer 40K: Squad Command bound for DS, PSP
Gamespot oopsies about Katamari on XBLA

Culture & Community
Blogging through every Legend of Zelda
Computer plays Pong all by itself
Billy vs Steve in the new King of Kong trailer

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: June 19, 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daily recapDailyRecapdissidiafinal fantasyFinalFantasyPSPsonysquare enixSquareEnixTue, 19 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Save your gil for the Square Enix online shop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/save-your-gil-for-the-square-enix-online-shop/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/save-your-gil-for-the-square-enix-online-shop/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/save-your-gil-for-the-square-enix-online-shop/#commentsFiled under:


If there's one defining characteristic of the Square Enix fanbase, it's that they love buyin' stuff. How else would you explain the myriad re-releases of Final Fantasy games? Square Enix hopes to facilitate these fans' insatiable need to fill their inventories. They've set up a website that will, in the near future, be the home of an official Square Enix shop.

Will they have lots of expensive figurines? No doubt! Will you be able to buy the Potion drink there? Possibly! How about Tidus's pants, as seen above? Why, there's no end to the kinds of pants they could sell!

Not literally. If they never ended, there'd be no holes to put your feet through.

[Via 1up]

JoystiqSave your gil for the Square Enix online shop originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsenixnintendopantspotionshopsquaresquare enixSquareEnixtidusTue, 19 Jun 2007 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Members Only Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer shows gameplay footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/members-only-final-fantasy-dissidia-trailer-shows-gameplay-foot/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/members-only-final-fantasy-dissidia-trailer-shows-gameplay-foot/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/members-only-final-fantasy-dissidia-trailer-shows-gameplay-foot/#commentsFiled under: ,

Do you want to see the new Dissidia trailer? Of course you do. Then I hope you've got a Square-Enix.co.jp member's login. Currently the video is only available to people who do. We're not yet certain when it will be released on the official Dissidia website, which hasn't been updated since it opened last month. Check after the jump for screenshots of the trailer.

The trailer includes some very pretty CG footage (as is the norm for Square-Enix) of some rocks rising out of an ocean with storm clouds above. A ray of light shines through, illuminating a standing figure on one of the stones - the Warrior of Light. Cue some gameplay footage, showing the Warrior of Light, Garland, Zidane and Kuja. The latter two can both be seen going into Trance mode during the battle. Movement seems fairly unrestricted, as the characters are all flying around the levels quite effortlessly. The trailer ends with more CG footage, as the Warrior of Light watches the ground split apart, spewing lava into the air. Sephiroth steps out of the molten waterfall and gives us the look. You know. The look.

Exciting stuff, by all accounts. Though there's no new information as this is almost certainly what was shown at the Square-Enix Party. Though it's curious that Square-Enix would hide it away in the member's only area. We'll keep you up to date on any developments.

[Update] Trailer has been embedded, courtesy of Jeux-France.

Continue reading Members Only Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer shows gameplay footage

JoystiqMembers Only Final Fantasy Dissidia trailer shows gameplay footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 05:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dissidiafinal fantasyFinalFantasysquare enixSquareEnixtrailerTue, 19 Jun 2007 05:40:00 EST<![CDATA[New Ring of Fates video: The whole is greater than the sum of its parts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/17/new-ring-of-fates-video-the-whole-is-greater-than-the-sum-of-its-pa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/17/new-ring-of-fates-video-the-whole-is-greater-than-the-sum-of-its-pa/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/17/new-ring-of-fates-video-the-whole-is-greater-than-the-sum-of-its-pa/#commentsWe've been clamoring for a proper follow-up to the Seiken Densetsu series for over a decade now, and by the looks of the Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: Ring of Fates videos we've seen so far, we might finally be getting one. The first Crystal Chronicles entry on the GameCube was by no means disappointing, at least in our opinion, but hardware and link cable requirements made getting a group together much harder than we would've liked. Its handheld sequel seems free of those problems without losing that multiplayer ARPG's cooperative fun.

Square Enix's latest Ring of Fates clip demonstrates the teamwork involved in getting through the game's dungeon puzzles. Carrying around a huge block of wood can be difficult if someone isn't knocking back the enemies coming at you! Bring your crew past the post break for the short movie.

Continue reading New Ring of Fates video: The whole is greater than the sum of its parts

JoystiqNew Ring of Fates video: The whole is greater than the sum of its parts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgcoopcooperativecrystal chroniclesCrystalChroniclesdsffccfinal fantasyFinalFantasynintendonintendo dsNintendoDsring of fatesRingOfFatessquaresquare enixSquareEnixteamworkvideoSun, 17 Jun 2007 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Sylpheed demo warps onto Live]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/project-sylpheed-demo-warps-onto-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/project-sylpheed-demo-warps-onto-live/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/project-sylpheed-demo-warps-onto-live/#commentsFiled under: ,


"Okay, outer space shooting games for the Xbox 360, raise your hand. What ... no one? Not one outer space shooting game? Wait, you there, in the back, what's your name? Project Slip ... sliph ... Sylpheed? What does that even mean?"

Yes, the space shooter is somewhat underrepresented on the Xbox 360 (along with platformers and RPGs). Thankfully, Microsoft has decided to rectify that situation by bringing the Game Arts developed title, Project Sylpheed to American shores (published by Square Enix in Japan). As such, Microsoft has deemed it worthy to release a demo on Xbox Live Marketplace. We don't know much about the game, other than the fact that it does indeed involve shooting things in space. The demo clocks in at just over 600MB and is available now. Has anyone managed to take it for a spin yet?

JoystiqProject Sylpheed demo warps onto Live originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>game artsGameArtslive marketplaceLiveMarketplacemarketplacemgsmicrosoft game studiosMicrosoftGameStudiosproject sylpheedProjectSylpheedsquare enixSquareEnixxblmxbox live marektplaceXboxLiveMarektplaceThu, 14 Jun 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Project Sylpheed demo now on Xbox Live Marketplace]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/project-sylpheed-demo-now-on-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/project-sylpheed-demo-now-on-xbox-live-marketplace/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/14/project-sylpheed-demo-now-on-xbox-live-marketplace/#commentsFiled under: ,


Depicting a galaxy filled with armed spaceships that simply cannot get along, last year's Project Sylpheed attempted to address the Xbox 360's lack of Eastern-developed titles, as well as its critical non-abundance of space shooters. Developed by Game Arts and published by Square Enix then, the game is finally nearing Planet America under the Microsoft Game Studios flagship. Be thankful we didn't add a woeful "impulse speed" joke to that line.

If saucer-eyed pilots blasting each other to smithereens amidst the surprisingly colorful backdrop of space sounds like it'll float your cup of tea, be sure to check out the 613MB Project Sylpheed demo now available on the Xbox Live Marketplace. Update: The retail version is expected to arrive on July 10th at a pleasing $40 price.

JoystiqProject Sylpheed demo now on Xbox Live Marketplace originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Jun 2007 07:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Game ArtsGameArtsMicrosoft Game StudiosMicrosoftGameStudiosproject sylpheedProjectSylpheedshooterspace shooterspace simSpaceShooterSpaceSimSquare EnixSquareEnixXbox-360Thu, 14 Jun 2007 07:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today in Joystiq: June 12, 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/today-in-joystiq-june-12-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/today-in-joystiq-june-12-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/today-in-joystiq-june-12-2007/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Joystiq reader Mike Black, in purportedly his first tip ever (bless his heart), has drawn our attention to a custom Forza 2 design he made "after around 30 hours of work and over 2000 layers." We're impressed, especially given that it's one of our favorite RPGs of all time (full picture). Check out the highlights for today:

Joystiquery
Joystiq interviews Gamecock about EIEIO and E3 funeral
Readers pick best webcomic: extra baggage
Today's pitchiest video: Mega Turtle Cousins

News
Capcom gets Steam power
Speedball II in development for XBLA
Take-Two takes in about $50 million less
New GTA IV trailer coming June 28
Eight more tracks from Guitar Hero Encore: Rocks the 80s
New video from Chocobo's Dungeon Wii
Boy defends home from PS3 robbers with katana
America's Army exclusive to Xbox 360
EA employs Cider to bring games to Mac OS X
Adventure game Secret Files: Tunguska coming to Wii, DS
ESRB's censorship wound re-opened, user-made content to break the ratings system
Halo's Todd McFarlane controllers and wireless headset
Alone in the Dark releasing this November
Raiden IV port could hit the Dreamcast
Microsoft defends Pac-Man CE price
BioWare MMO planned for 2009
Telltale secures $6 million for multi-platform episodic content
See LotRO's Shores of Evendim in all their video glory
SimCity Societies officially building this November
Mad Tracks fills in pothole and gets patched
Soul Calibur 4 unveiled for Xbox 360, PS3 in this debut teaser
Square Enix chief: 360, PS3 too fancy for today's market
Insomniac staying out of Church vs. Sony scandal
Sony promises to 'aggressively pursue' PS3 pirates
Bungie's Marathon for 360 makes the grade in Germany

Rumors & Speculation
Crush producer considers multiplatform release, level editor
Pachter places prediction on May NPD numbers
Rumorang: Conflicting reports on PSP redesign
Rumor: New Bonk game headed to the Wii
Survey hints at PS3-PSP connectivity possibilities
Halo 3 will boost BlackSite sales, dev prays

Culture & Community
Every NES title screen in five minutes
Mega 64 to host premiere screening in San Diego
The face of Halo's Master Chief?
Massive videogame mosaics

JoystiqToday in Joystiq: June 12, 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrono triggerChronoTriggerdaily recapDailyRecapforzaforza 2Forza2square enixSquareEnixTue, 12 Jun 2007 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix chief: 360, PS3 too fancy for today's market]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-chief-360-ps3-too-fancy-for-todays-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-chief-360-ps3-too-fancy-for-todays-market/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-chief-360-ps3-too-fancy-for-todays-market/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Though the exact word used by the Financial Times article is "over-engineered," a word we deemed too complex for today's headline. Yoichi Wada, chief executive of Square Enix, feels that consoles such as the PS3 and 360 are over-engineered and out of place in today's gaming market, noting that handheld platforms will be the ones to dominate this year. After handing Dragon Quest IX (and thus the keys to Japan) to the Nintendo DS and inundating the PSP with remakes, Wada's belief should come as no surprise.

"There is a new breed of gamers in the market - we have to make games for all kinds of people," he says. "In the old days, we could just focus on the PlayStation or the GameBoy, but the environment has changed completely." It's the same story we've been hearing for months, that one filled with flailing grandmas and casual players shouting "Blue!" at the top of their lungs. Wada isn't giving up on the hardcore gamer just yet, though. Despite thinking that "there are too many specs" on the more advanced systems, he reckons they'll fare better in "a year or two years." Isn't that about the time Final Fantasy XIII comes out?

JoystiqSquare Enix chief: 360, PS3 too fancy for today's market originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 20:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brain AgeBrainAgeDragon QuestDragon Quest IXDragonQuestDragonQuestIxDSFinal FantasyFinalFantasyPS3PSPSquare EnixSquareEnixWii SportsWiiSportsXbox-360Tue, 12 Jun 2007 20:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix: 360, PS3 are over-engineered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-360-ps3-are-over-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-360-ps3-are-over-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-360-ps3-are-over-engineered/#commentsFiled under:

We've heard plenty of insults hurled at our beloved consoles. Too pricey. Not enough games. Games are too pricey. Unreliable. How about this one: over-engineered. According to Yoichi Wada, chief executive of Square Enix, new-gen consoles like the PS3 and Xbox 360 aren't catering to the current video game market. So what does cater to the current market? Handhelds of course, which Wada sites as the reason for Square Enix's choice to bring Dragon Quest IX exclusively to the DS. Wada believes that new generation consoles are too complicated, stating, "There are too many specs - and you also need a high-definition TV, a broadband connection and a deep knowledge of gaming - these consoles are mismatched to today's environment. In a year or two years they will fare better." He also adds that developing exclusives for the PS3 is a risky move for today's publishers.

Our question: why hasn't anyone at Square Enix applied this logic to the Final Fantasy series?

JoystiqSquare Enix: 360, PS3 are over-engineered originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>squaresquare enixSquareEnixsqueenixTue, 12 Jun 2007 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Chocobo's Mysterious Trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/chocobos-mysterious-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/chocobos-mysterious-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/chocobos-mysterious-trailer/#commentsFiled under:


Square Enix has released a new video of the Wii version of Chocobo's Mysterious Dungeon, and it looks a lot like its predecessors, in a good way! This series has a long history, and it's nice to see that this looks like it's going to be a real Mysterious Dungeon game and not some kind of dungeon-themed party minigame fest.

The best part of the whole trailer is how cozy the town looks: the little chocobo is seen walking down cobblestone streets, surrounded by butterflies, napping on a dock, playing on a swing set, and even having a nice cup of coffee at a cafe. Of course, this all serves to make it seem more cruel and horrible when he's trapped in a lava-filled dungeon. We laughed.

JoystiqChocobo's Mysterious Trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chocobodungeonenixfushigimysteriousnintendoroguelikesesquaresquare enixSquareEnixwiiTue, 12 Jun 2007 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix CEO calls PS3 and Xbox 360 "over-engineered"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-ceo-calls-ps3-and-xbox-360-over-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-ceo-calls-ps3-and-xbox-360-over-engineered/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/12/square-enix-ceo-calls-ps3-and-xbox-360-over-engineered/#commentsFiled under:

The CEO of Square Enix had some strong words about the state of console development recently. Speaking with the Financial Times about the company's recent decision to develop Dragon Quest IX only for Nintendo's DS system, Yoichi Wada believed certain consoles were "over-engineered for today's gaming environment," saying "there are too many specs." The CEO provided elaboration, stating "you also need a high definition TV, a broadband connection and a deep knowledge of gaming," and clarified that in "a year or two" the consoles would fare better when they are not as "mismatched."

We'd have to disagree, only because we're a part of the hardcore category of gamers that are always thirsting for faster and better hardware. Broadband has been a staple of our diet for the last ten years and most of us already have an HDTV in our living rooms, if not a second one for the bedroom. But Mr. Wada's statements were made about today's global gaming consumer, and we'd have to agree that in a year or two, the PS3 will likely come down in price and become more accessible to those that (still) haven't yet adopted to HDTV or broadband technologies. Again, Mr. Wada was elaborating on recent decisions for the company to focus on handheld development due to their widespread appeal and market share (units sold).

As always, we'd like to invite your thoughts and comments on Mr. Wada's recent statements as they pertain to our console of preference. Should the PS3 have been watered down, so as to cater more to a global audience immediately (aka, those without broadband or HDTV's right now)? One could assume that in doing so, the price point would be lower, making the entry a lot easier to swallow for non-hardcore types. Along that line of thought, a second and third assumption can be made in that PS3 sales might have been higher and third-party support might be increased due to the system's affordability and widespread appeal. What do you think?

[Via DS Fanboy]

JoystiqSquare Enix CEO calls PS3 and Xbox 360 "over-engineered" originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon questDragonQuestDShandheldmismatchednintendo dsNintendoDsover-engineeredsquare enixSquareEnixsqueenixyoichi wadaYoichiWadaTue, 12 Jun 2007 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Warm Up: All new (to you)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/wii-warm-up-all-new-to-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/wii-warm-up-all-new-to-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/11/wii-warm-up-all-new-to-you/#commentsFiled under: ,

All this week, we're celebrating retro goodness here at Wii Fanboy -- call it an extension of Virtually Overlooked -- and we thought we'd start right here with a question that's perfect to ponder while you're having that morning coffee. With over 100 games now available on the Virtual Console, many of you have probably played something this time around that you never got around to before. As new experiences, how do these games hold up? Or are you unwilling to buy anything you didn't already love in a past life?

So why is the ActRaiser box featured here? Because this blogger never played it back in the day, and after playing it now, pretty much considers the sixteen years without ActRaiser to be a mockery of life.

JoystiqWii Warm Up: All new (to you) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jun 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actraiserenixretrosnessquare enixSquareEnixvirtual consoleVirtualConsolevoweekwwuMon, 11 Jun 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy anniversary bash in SF on 26 June]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/final-fantasy-anniversary-bash-in-sf-on-26-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/final-fantasy-anniversary-bash-in-sf-on-26-june/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/09/final-fantasy-anniversary-bash-in-sf-on-26-june/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The "anniversary bash" referring to a celebration, not that thing you do in the comments section every time we talk about Square Enix's upcoming remakes. Indeed, the plan is to "commemorate 20 years of devotion, dedication and passion from the greatest fans in the gaming industry," so there won't be any place for you at the Metreon's PlayStation store in San Francisco come this June 26th.

The first 100 people to arrive promptly at 6PM (on the the day before, knowing hardcore Final Fans) will receive free items that are exclusive to the event, while everyone else will have to be satisfied with purchasing the PSP version of the first, err, Final Fantasy. Square Enix also promises a special showing of July's re-sequel, Final Fantasy II. I'll see you there -- look out for the guy dressed as eager ladies' man and last-minute quitter, Irvine.

That's not who I'm going as, but watch out for that guy. He's a creep.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy anniversary bash in SF on 26 June originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Jun 2007 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FFFinal FantasyFinal Fantasy remakesFinalFantasyFinalFantasyRemakesPSPSquare EnixSquareEnixSat, 09 Jun 2007 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Join the Final Fantasy 20th anniversary party]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/join-the-final-fantasy-20th-anniversary-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/join-the-final-fantasy-20th-anniversary-party/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/join-the-final-fantasy-20th-anniversary-party/#commentsFiled under: ,


Get your cosplay gear ready, folks. A Final Fantasy party is heading to the PlayStation Store at the Metreon in San Francisco. The date? Tuesday, June 26th. The time? 6PM. According to the press release, "the event will commemorate 20 years of devotion, dedication and passion from the greatest fans in the gaming industry."

Attendees of the party will be able to purchase the newly remade PSP version of Final Fantasy, in addition to get a hands-on experience with the upcoming Final Fantasy II. The first one hundred fans to arrive will receive items exclusive to the event. Considering how rabidly devoted Final Fantasy fans are, we recommend you get there early.

If any PSP Fanboy readers are planning on attending, let us know: we'd love to see pictures from the event!

JoystiqJoin the Final Fantasy 20th anniversary party originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final fantasyFinalFantasymetreonpartysquaresquare enixSquareEnixFri, 08 Jun 2007 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix still open to Final Fantasy on Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/no-final-fantasy-for-xbox-360-maybe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/no-final-fantasy-for-xbox-360-maybe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/no-final-fantasy-for-xbox-360-maybe/#commentsFiled under: , ,


A few days ago we reported that Square Enix had officially, without a doubt, and definitively closed the door on any possible iteration of a new Final Fantasy appearing on the Xbox 360 anytime soon. But it looks like they were quoted incorrectly in the source story. A Square Enix spokesperson contacted GamesIndustry.biz and set the record straight about the quote.

Apparently, what they meant was that there was no Final Fantasy title in development for the Xbox 360 at that moment, but that it did not mean there never would be. According to industry analyst Michael Pachter, "The series has always been single console and given the Xbox 360 sell through in Japan, it would be hard to put the next Final Fantasy instalment on the 360 only."

Well, that and the fact that alienating their PlayStation fanbase might cause a full-scale riot. Pachter goes on to imagine that they will most likely develop the next title as PS3 only, and "deal with the backlash from the west." So, get prepped and ready for disappointment, you backlashers. Besides, by the time there's a new Final Fantasy game out of development and ready for purchase, you'll either be playing it on a PlayStation 9, or directly on your cerebral cortex via all manner of implants.

JoystiqSquare Enix still open to Final Fantasy on Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final FantasyFinalFantasySquare EnixSquareEnixXbox-360Fri, 08 Jun 2007 17:01:00 EST