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[Square Enix announces 'live' E3 video shows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/square-enix-announces-live-e3-video-shows/#comments
You know Nintendo Direct - now meet Square Enix Presents. That's the name of the company's live-at-E3 video series, which it'll be broadcasting via YouTube.

Square Enix Presents promises coverage on the company's E3 line-up, which is expected to include the new Final Fantasy for PS4. It'll also feature dev interviews, game demos, and presentations on upcoming content. And, apparently, lots of chocobo music.

The shows will run across all three main days of the conference, which are June 11-13.

JoystiqSquare Enix announces 'live' E3 video shows originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013microsoftplaystationplaystation-4ps3ps4square-enixsquare-enix-presentsxboxThu, 23 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Square Enix America CEO leaves, joins Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/report-square-enix-america-ceo-leaves-joins-amazon/#commentshit 1st Report Square Enix America president is out Square Enix America CEO Mike Fischer left the company this month and is now vice president of digital music and video for Amazon in Japan, Polygon reports. This follows news in April that Square Enix America eliminated "a number of positions" and Fischer was expected to leave in May. Those same reports said the head of marketing should be gone after E3, along with other employees in public relations.

In March, Square Enix President Yoichi Wada stepped down and the company announced widespread restructuring that it expected to cost $106 million. Square Enix posted a net loss of $134 million for fiscal year 2013, citing "weak" sales of major console games, including Sleeping Dogs, Hitman: Absolution and Tomb Raider, the last of which sold 3.4 million in its first month.

JoystiqReport: Square Enix America CEO leaves, joins Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dslay-offslayoffsmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonySquare-Enixvitawiiwii-uxboxThu, 23 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Thief sneaks onto Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/thief-sneaks-onto-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/thief-sneaks-onto-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/thief-sneaks-onto-xbox-one/#commentsThief coming to Xbox One Eidos Montreal confirmed through its official Tumblr today that Thief will be coming to Xbox One. The game, first announced in 2009, was confirmed for PS4, PC and other next-gen consoles in March, which we can now take to mean the next-generation Xbox revealed today.

The Thief reboot reportedly suffered many setbacks during its five-year development period, including significant turnover in staff at Eidos Montreal. The developer included a "glimpse" at the next-gen game in its Tumblr post in the form of a screen with an alarming amount of fire in it.

JoystiqThief sneaks onto Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 17:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eidos-MontrealmicrosoftscreenSquare-Enixthiefthief-2014thief-4xboxxbox-oneTue, 21 May 2013 17:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Remastered Final Fantasy VIII coming to PC in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/report-remastered-final-fantasy-viii-coming-to-pc-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/report-remastered-final-fantasy-viii-coming-to-pc-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/report-remastered-final-fantasy-viii-coming-to-pc-in-japan/#commentsReport Remastered iFinal Fantasy VIIIi coming to PC in Japan [Rough translation of the above dialogue: "...whatever."]

The ever-sullen Squall and his friends are set to make a high-resolution return, as Famitsu reports that Square Enix is developing a remastered PC version of Final Fantasy VIII.

Final Fantasy VIII was originally released for the PlayStation in 1999, and PC players saw a no-frills Windows port one year later. News of Final Fantasy VIII's forthcoming rerelease follows up on last year's upgraded PC port of Final Fantasy VII, which added cloud saving and unlockable achievements. While the new version of Final Fantasy VIII boasts a graphical update, no further details are known, and a release date has not been announced.
[Image Credit: Famitsu]

JoystiqReport: Remastered Final Fantasy VIII coming to PC in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-viiipcportrpgsquare-enixwindowsFri, 17 May 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII-2 DLC Collection announced for Japan, coming in July]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/final-fantasy-xiii-2-dlc-collection-announced-for-japan-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/final-fantasy-xiii-2-dlc-collection-announced-for-japan-coming/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/final-fantasy-xiii-2-dlc-collection-announced-for-japan-coming/#comments A DLC-stuffed version of Final Fantasy XIII-2 is headed for Japanese retail shelves on July 18. Square Enix released a ton of additional content for the JRPG sequel, and the 'Digital Contents Collection,' going for around $50, offers most of it.

The bundle features the Snow, Lightning, and Sazh episodes, as well as three weapons, seven costumes, and six Coliseum opponents. Gematsu has the full list. Also, the DLC from the Collection is coming in its own bundle to PSN and XBLM.

Square Enix is also re-releasing the game in the country under the 'Ultimate Hits' label. That version arrives in stores on the same day, but also on PSN and XBLM two days prior.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII-2 DLC Collection announced for Japan, coming in July originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCfinal-fantasy-xiii-2japanmicrosoftplaystationps3square-enixxboxMon, 13 May 2013 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix posts $134M fiscal net loss, projects profit for coming year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/square-enix-posts-134m-fiscal-net-loss-projects-profit-for-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/square-enix-posts-134m-fiscal-net-loss-projects-profit-for-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/square-enix-posts-134m-fiscal-net-loss-projects-profit-for-com/#comments As approximately projected, Square Enix posted a net loss of ¥13.7 billion for the fiscal year ending March 31 2013, that converting to around $134 million. Back in March, Square Enix announced it was implementing major restructuring that would produce an "extraordinary loss". Today the company further detailed its new strategy for the next fiscal year, in which it projects a return to profit.

"The business environment surrounding the [Square Enix] Group is in the midst of major changes, where smart devices such as smartphones and tablet PCs are spreading rapidly," Square Enix stated in today's results, "while the console game markets in North America and Europe are increasingly competitive and oligopolistic. In light of such environmental changes, the Group is focusing all efforts on a substantial earnings improvement through driving reforms of business structure in order to establish new revenue base."

Square Enix previously noted "weak" sales of "big console titles" in North America and Europe, including Sleeping Dogs, Hitman: Absolution, and even Tomb Raider. Today the company said it will increasingly target smartphones and tablets, citing Final Fantasy Airborne Brigade and Kaku-San-Sei Million Arthur as satisfactorily profitable. Square Enix also noted Dragon Quest X as "showing steady performance."

As such, the restructuring brings overhauls to Square Enix's larger-scale development,with the company looking to improve turnover and produce content better tailored for different regions. Square Enix was clearly dissatisfied with the performance of its western portfolio, and layoffs were incurred in the company's North American and European divisions.

Square Enix believes these changes will be the platform for profit in the coming fiscal year, projecting net income of between ¥3.5 billion and ¥6 billion, or $34.4 million to $59 million.

JoystiqSquare Enix posts $134M fiscal net loss, projects profit for coming year originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europefinancialsjapannorth-americarestructuringsquare-enixMon, 13 May 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Final Fantasy X-2 HD could include 'Last Mission']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/report-final-fantasy-x-2-hd-could-include-last-mission/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/report-final-fantasy-x-2-hd-could-include-last-mission/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/13/report-final-fantasy-x-2-hd-could-include-last-mission/#commentsReport Final Fantasy X2 HD ruminating on 'Last Mission' inclusion Final Fantasy X-2 HD could feature content never previously released outside of Japan, although Square Enix is reportedly "undecided" about including it. According to Famitsu (via Yahoo Japan), the publisher is considering the "Last Mission" content from the Japan-only 'International Version.' It features an extra mission set after the original's ending.

Extra content would definitely make the HD remaster more enticing for western fans - although some might argue X-2's perfect ending (spoilers) tinkered with the storyline quite enough thank you. In any case (we're not bitter honestly) the remasters of X and X-2 come west (really we're not) later this year, arriving together on PS3 but separately on Vita.

Gallery: Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster

JoystiqReport: Final Fantasy X-2 HD could include 'Last Mission' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-x-2final-fantasy-x-2-hd-remasterplaystationplaystation-vitaps3square-enixvitaMon, 13 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The troubled history of Kingdom Hearts reflects Square Enix's own]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/the-troubled-history-of-kingdom-hearts-reflects-square-enixs-ow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/the-troubled-history-of-kingdom-hearts-reflects-square-enixs-ow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/the-troubled-history-of-kingdom-hearts-reflects-square-enixs-ow/#commentsIn his weekly column, writer Bob Mackey will alternate between two of his passions: the Japanese RPG genre and classic games.

The troubled history of Kingdom Hearts reflects Square Enix's own
This Tuesday brought the announcement of Kingdom Hearts 1.5 HD Remix's American release date, and with it, feelings of ambivalence from people like me who once thought the strange pairing of Square and Disney would do more than tread water for a decade. I worked at a mall GameStop when the first installment launched in the fall of 2002, and even though I'd outgrown Disney (and had begun to outgrow Square), Kingdom Hearts felt like the first true RPG of the PS2 era, outclassing the at-the-time-recent Final Fantasy X, which relied on the same pre-rendered - albeit prettier - backgrounds that evoked the previous console generation's limitations.

Regardless of how you felt about the characters on display, turning away from our in-store TV during the Kingdom Hearts demo reel proved nearly impossible; Square's technical wizards worked overtime to ensure that an army of 2D Disney characters would look and move perfectly in real-time 3D - and they still do nearly 11 years later. For fans of Japanese RPGs and classic animation, the tag-team of Square and Disney felt like some impossible dream that somehow came true, despite the odds against it. After leaving the Capcom legacy behind in the mid-90s, the existence of Kingdom Hearts seemed like a second chance for Disney to make their games more than just cheap tie-ins sold on marketing alone.

Gallery: Kingdom Hearts 1.5 HD Remix (2/25/13)

Continue reading The troubled history of Kingdom Hearts reflects Square Enix's own

JoystiqThe troubled history of Kingdom Hearts reflects Square Enix's own originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DisneyKingdom-Heartskingdom-hearts-15-hd-remixOpinionplaystationps3Square-EnixFri, 10 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Sniper Challenge, Gyromancer line up on Core Online]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/hitman-sniper-challenge-gyromancer-line-up-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/hitman-sniper-challenge-gyromancer-line-up-on-core-online/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/10/hitman-sniper-challenge-gyromancer-line-up-on-core-online/#comments PopCap puzzler Gyromancer and Hitman: Sniper Challenge are the latest targets for Square Enix's browser-based Core Online service. Sniper Challenge, if you remember, was a pre-order bonus for Hitman: Absolution.

What both games coming to Core Online does alert us to are changes to the service's payment structure. It was originally completely free-to-play, albeit with intermittent ads. However, free play is limited now to 20 minutes each day (still with ads). At 20 minutes a day, it's going to take about a month to complete Tomb Raider: Underworld.

You can pay $2.99 per month to get full access to Core Online's library, which at present includes Hitman: Blood Money, Hitman: Sniper Challenge, Gyromancer, Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, Tomb Raider: Underworld, and Mini Ninjas. Alternatively, each game can be bought individually for $4.99.

JoystiqHitman: Sniper Challenge, Gyromancer line up on Core Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 May 2013 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coreonlinegyromancerhitman-5hitman-absolutionHitman-Sniper-ChallengeIO-Interactivepcpopcaprelease-datesquare-enixFri, 10 May 2013 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Grab Hitman: Absolution PC for $7.49 at Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/grab-hitman-absolution-pc-for-7-49-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/grab-hitman-absolution-pc-for-7-49-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/09/grab-hitman-absolution-pc-for-7-49-at-amazon/#comments You can snag a PC download of Hitman: Absolution from Amazon right now for just $7.49. And by "snag," we don't mean with garrote wire. Use your mouse, silly.

JoystiqGrab Hitman: Absolution PC for $7.49 at Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoshitman-5hitman-absolutionIO-Interactivepcsquare-enixThu, 09 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix plays NA on Sep. 10, EU Sep. 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/kingdom-hearts-hd-1-5-remix-release-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/kingdom-hearts-hd-1-5-remix-release-dates/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/07/kingdom-hearts-hd-1-5-remix-release-dates/#commentsKingdom Hearts HD 15 Remix plays Europe on Sep 13 Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix is lined up for North America on September 10, and Europe on September 13. The upgrade to the autumn release window came courtesy of a Square Enix post on the PlayStation Blog, which also outlined the pre-order bonus for both regions, namely a limited edition artbook.

The PS3 compilation includes HD versions of PS2 games Kingdom Hearts Final Mix and Re:Chain of Memories; Final Mix is the formerly Japan-only re-release of the original Kindgom Hearts, while Re:Chain of Memories is the PS2 remake of GBA entry Chain of Memories. HD 1.5 Remix also features the cutscenes from DS game 358/2 Days (in HD too!).

JoystiqKingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix plays NA on Sep. 10, EU Sep. 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europekingdom-hearts-15-hd-remixnorth-americaplaystationps3release-datesquare-enixTue, 07 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sleeping Dogs yips onto PlayStation Plus May 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/sleeping-dogs-yips-onto-playstation-plus-may-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/sleeping-dogs-yips-onto-playstation-plus-may-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/03/sleeping-dogs-yips-onto-playstation-plus-may-7/#comments PlayStation Plus breaches the Eastern crime zone of Sleeping Dogs in North America on May 7. As revealed on this week's PlayStation Blogcast, PS Plus subscribers get express tickets for some murder on the Orient in next week's store update.

Also joining the Instant Game Collection in May are Pinball Arcade on the PS3, which comes with the Tales of the Arabian Nights, Ripley's Believe It or Not, Black Hole, and Theater of Magic tables, as well as subterranean side-scroller Knytt Underground and enhanced fighter BlazBlue: Contiuum Shift Extend.

JoystiqSleeping Dogs yips onto PlayStation Plus May 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 May 2013 08:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-plusplaystation-vitaps3psnrelease-datesleeping-dogssquare-enixunited-front-gamesvitaFri, 03 May 2013 08:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Everything Tomb Raider 50 percent off on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments Steam is offering a 50 percent discount on assorted Tomb Raider games this weekend. The sale drops the price of the latest Tomb Raider game to $25, with the Survival Edition knocked down to $28.

The Tomb Raider Collection, which features 10 games from the series (including this year's entry), is also part of this weekend's deal. That sizable bundle of games can be bought for $35. Steam's weekend sale ends at 10am Pacific time on Monday, May 6. PS3 owners can still pick up Lara Croft's recent adventure on PSN for $30 this weekend.

JoystiqEverything Tomb Raider 50 percent off on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 May 2013 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicspcsaleSquare-Enixsteamsteam-weekend-dealTomb-Raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013tomb-raider-collectionThu, 02 May 2013 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix releasing 'Remaster' soundtracks for SNES Final Fantasy games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/square-enix-releasing-remaster-soundtracks-for-snes-final-fant/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/square-enix-releasing-remaster-soundtracks-for-snes-final-fant/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/square-enix-releasing-remaster-soundtracks-for-snes-final-fant/#comments Square Enix remixing SNES Final Fantasy musicSquare Enix is dipping into its back catalog to offer remastered versions of its SNES Final Fantasy soundtracks, starting with Final Fantasy 4 on July 3. The Japanese release of the CD will come in a special box with art by character designer Yoshitaka Amano.

While the CD soundtrack likely won't see official release in North America, you can purchase it from an importer like CDJapan. And Square Enix is surprisingly good about digitally releasing soundtracks.

JoystiqSquare Enix releasing 'Remaster' soundtracks for SNES Final Fantasy games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-4japansoundtracksoundtrackssquare-enixMon, 29 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix lays off staff in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/square-enix-lays-off-staff-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/square-enix-lays-off-staff-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/29/square-enix-lays-off-staff-in-europe/#comments According to a statement given to UK press (including MCV and CVG) by Square Enix, the publisher is instituting an unspecified number of layoffs in Europe. "We do expect changes to the UK office, which will affect personnel," the publisher said. "We will update you when the time is right, but our priority right now is for the people within the business." We've reached out to Square Enix for more information.

These cuts follow layoffs in Square Enix's North American division, during which the company warned of cuts coming in Europe and Japan. Square Enix is undergoing massive restructuring, due in part to the fact that its Western console games only sold excellently, and failed to meet the company's stratospheric expectations.

JoystiqSquare Enix lays off staff in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europelayoffssquare-enixsquare-enix-europeMon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider $30 on PSN this weekend, $20 on GMG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/#comments There are some killer deals on Tomb Raider this weekend. On the console front, the downloadable PSN version has been chopped to $30. The deal runs until this Monday at noon PT.

On PC, you can snag the Steam version of Lara's latest adventure for $25 from Green Man Gaming. What's more, applying the code "GMG20-GGN5D-FC3NA" will knock another five bucks off the price, dropping it down to $20.

That's like a penny for every arrow-related fatality in Tomb Raider.

JoystiqTomb Raider $30 on PSN this weekend, $20 on GMG originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicspcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Japanese trademark suggests Dragon Quest Monsters 2 remake]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/rumor-japanese-trademark-suggests-dragon-quest-monsters-2-remak/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/rumor-japanese-trademark-suggests-dragon-quest-monsters-2-remak/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/rumor-japanese-trademark-suggests-dragon-quest-monsters-2-remak/#comments Rumor Japanese trademark suggests Dragon Quest Monsters 2 remakeA recently registered trademark in Japan hints that Square Enix may be planning to remake its 2001 creature-battling RPG Dragon Quest Monsters 2.

The trademark for "Iru to Ruka no Fushigi na Fushigi na Kagi" - yes, that's two fushigis - translates to "Iru and Luca's Wonderful Mysterious Keys." Iru and Luka were the stars in the Game Boy Color's Dragon Quest Monsters 2.

Dragon Quest Monsters 2 was originally released as a set of two cartridges, as was the popular thing to do back when the Pokemon craze was at its peak. Each cart featured a different playable protagonist and its own unique set of collectible monsters, which players could trade with others via the Game Boy's link cable. Both versions were later released in North America as Dragon Warrior Monsters 2: Tara's Adventure and Cobi's Journey.

A remake of 1998's Dragon Quest Monsters: Terry's Wonderland launched for the Nintendo 3DS in Japan last year and met with stellar sales. The remade sequel will likely join its predecessor on the Nintendo 3DS, and the trademarked subtitle indicates that it will consolidate content from the two Game Boy Color releases.

A U.S. release for Dragon Quest Monsters: Terry's Wonderland 3D has not been announced.

JoystiqRumor: Japanese trademark suggests Dragon Quest Monsters 2 remake originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragon-questdragon-quest-monsters-2japansquare-enixtrademarkFri, 26 Apr 2013 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman Absolution coming to EU PS Plus May 1, PSN sale begins today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/hitman-absolution-coming-to-eu-ps-plus-may-psn-sale-begins-tod/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/hitman-absolution-coming-to-eu-ps-plus-may-psn-sale-begins-tod/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/10/hitman-absolution-coming-to-eu-ps-plus-may-psn-sale-begins-tod/#comments Hitman Absolution is the latest coup for PlayStation Plus in Europe. Agent 47's latest adventure sneaks onto the service on May 1, joining four other as-yet-unrevealed games next month. Considering it only came out in November 2012, Absolution's impending arrival marks another strong entry in PS Plus's European line-up, with Dead or Alive 5, Sleeping Dogs, Mass Effect 3 and Batman: Arkham City all coming to the subscription service in recent months.

In the meantime, both Plus subscribers and others can take advantage of a new PSN sale for the region. The 'Declassified' sale starts today and runs until April 24, bringing savings to Crysis, Hitman, Metal Slug, and Tom Clancy games among others. Standout discounts include Hitman Trilogy HD for €11.99/£9.69, and €19.99/£15.99 for the Splinter Cell Complete Pack, which includes SC Trilogy HD, SC: Essentials, and SC: Double Agent. As usual, those prices and all the others in the sale drop a further 10 percent with Plus.

You can snoop a full list of discounts on the PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqHitman Absolution coming to EU PS Plus May 1, PSN sale begins today originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europehitman-absolutionio-interactiveplaystationplaystation-plusplaystation-vitaps3psnsquare-enixvitaWed, 10 Apr 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Thief's new voice actor gets chatty]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/thiefs-new-voice-actor-gets-chatty/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/thiefs-new-voice-actor-gets-chatty/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/05/thiefs-new-voice-actor-gets-chatty/#comments
Perhaps you noticed, but Garrett has a new voice actor in Eidos' upcoming Thief. He goes by the name of Romano Orzari. For a guy portraying a master thief, ostensibly someone who spends most of his time being vewy quiet, he sure talks a lot.

JoystiqThief's new voice actor gets chatty originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidosEidos-Montrealmicrosoftpcsquare-enixthief-2014thief-4Fri, 05 Apr 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix's Million Arthur mobile series hits Vita in Japan this April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/square-enixs-million-arthur-mobile-series-hits-vita-in-japan-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/square-enixs-million-arthur-mobile-series-hits-vita-in-japan-th/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/04/square-enixs-million-arthur-mobile-series-hits-vita-in-japan-th/#comments Square Enix's Million Arthur mobile series hits Vita in Japan this AprilSquare Enix's Million Arthur series, out on Japanese smartphones, is heading to Vita in Japan on April 11, Siliconera reports. Million Arthur is a card battling game that draws inspiration from the Knights of the Round Table lore, and it will be free-to-play on Vita, just as its mobile version is.

JoystiqSquare Enix's Million Arthur mobile series hits Vita in Japan this April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Apr 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>million-arthurplaystationplaystation-vitaSquare-EnixvitaThu, 04 Apr 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Square Enix president undertaking full review of company]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/new-square-enix-president-undertaking-full-review-of-company/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/new-square-enix-president-undertaking-full-review-of-company/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/new-square-enix-president-undertaking-full-review-of-company/#comments Square Enix fundamental company reviewNew Square Enix president Yosuke Matsuda plans to go over his company with a fine-toothed comb following Square Enix's recent losses and restructuring efforts, which include layoffs.

"After having succeeded the important role as the president, I plan on reviewing all Square Enix duties, business and assets on a zero-based budgeting standpoint," Matsuda told investors, as translated by Siliconera. "Due to the radical change of environment, I'd like to fundamentally review what works and what doesn't work for our company, then cast all of our resources towards extending what makes us successful and thoroughly squeezing out what doesn't."

Matsuda will appoint Square Enix Europe CEO Phil Rogers as director of Square Enix Holdings. Rogers will work with Matsuda on the restructuring efforts. The Final Fantasy Versus XIII team is currently sitting quietly in their office with all the lights off until Matsuda's review is over.

JoystiqNew Square Enix president undertaking full review of company originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>phil-rogersrestructuringsquare-enixyosuke-matsudaWed, 03 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix Los Angeles layoff details, CEO rumored to be out by May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/square-enix-los-angeles-layoff-details-ceo-rumored-to-be-out-by/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/square-enix-los-angeles-layoff-details-ceo-rumored-to-be-out-by/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/03/square-enix-los-angeles-layoff-details-ceo-rumored-to-be-out-by/#comments
Last night we received word Square Enix's Los Angeles office had "a number of positions" eliminated, and we've since been filling in the details. Square Enix America mostly handled marketing, public relations and other logistics for the region. Two sources, who asked we not use their names out of fear it would affect their severance package, shared some more information.

Half of marketing has been cut, which is estimated at 10 people. Public relations, which we understand is approximately seven people, will stick around until late June (post E3) - after that only three or four will remain. One source notes more were let go in accounting, IT and events, alongside another five to 10 people who left community and support last week.

We've also been informed that Mike Fischer, president and CEO at Square Enix America, will be let go around May. The head of marketing will be let go right after E3.

Employees at the Los Angeles office were apparently informed they weren't singled out by corporate and that layoffs will occur at Square Enix's European and Japanese divisions as well, which is all part of the corporate restructuring currently going on at the company.

JoystiqSquare Enix Los Angeles layoff details, CEO rumored to be out by May originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Apr 2013 07:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffsrestructuringsquare-enixsquare-enix-los-angelesWed, 03 Apr 2013 07:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Layoffs hit Square Enix Los Angeles, part of 'corporate restructuring']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/layoffs-square-enix-los-angeles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/layoffs-square-enix-los-angeles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/layoffs-square-enix-los-angeles/#comments Joystiq has confirmed with Square Enix that "a number of positions" in its Los Angeles office have been eliminated today. Below, a statement from a Square Enix representative:
We can confirm that Square Enix's Los Angeles office has eliminated a number of positions as part of the corporate restructuring announced last week. This is an unfortunate situation and we are offering assistance and severance packages to any employees affected by this, we want to thank them for their hard work and sincerely wish them well in the future.
We're currently hunting down information regarding the exact number of individuals let go. We'll be sure to update as the story develops - of course, if you were one of the employees affected or know something we don't, feel free to drop us a line. Anonymity assured!

Update: More details.

JoystiqLayoffs hit Square Enix Los Angeles, part of 'corporate restructuring' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>layoffslos-angelessquare-enixsquare-enix-los-angelesTue, 02 Apr 2013 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/#comments
Tomb Raider is bolstered by more multiplayer DLC today: the 1939 multiplayer map pack, a pair of maps including Dogfight - a concrete bunker forgotten since World War 2 - and the open spaces of hunting ground Forest Meadow. The map pack costs 320 MS Points ($4) and is available for download on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC right now.

Last month's Cave and Cliffs map pack was a timed Xbox 360 exclusive. Today, Square Enix revealed that it's coming to PS3 and PC mid-April, while the Shipwrecked multiplayer map pack will debut on all platforms in early May. On top of that, some of the exclusive launch DLC for Tomb Raider is available for download across all platforms now, including those Hitman: Absolution guns and other retailer-specific content.

Continue reading Tomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated

JoystiqTomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicsdlcmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Thief cinematic trailer leaps into view]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/thief-cinematic-trailer-leaps-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/thief-cinematic-trailer-leaps-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/thief-cinematic-trailer-leaps-into-view/#comments

The premiere trailer for Thief breaks down the best ways to be a successful person in the occupation of stealing and stealth, before pulling down Garrett's ninja mask and revealing a distinctive five-o'clock shadow (and what sounds like a new voice actor). We're no experts in thievery, but that seems like a bold move for someone who makes a living ripping off rich people.

Thief is due out for PC, PS4 and "other next-gen platforms" in 2014.

JoystiqThief cinematic trailer leaps into view originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EidosEidos-MontrealpcSquare-Enixthief-2014thief-4Mon, 01 Apr 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex Facebook page: Human Defiance is a game, reveal tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/deus-ex-facebook-page-human-defiance-is-a-game-reveal-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/deus-ex-facebook-page-human-defiance-is-a-game-reveal-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/31/deus-ex-facebook-page-human-defiance-is-a-game-reveal-tomorrow/#comments Deus Ex Human Defiance is a game, reveal tomorrowThe official Deus Ex Facebook page announced a "world's first look" at Deus Ex: Human Defiance tomorrow, disclosing in the comments the property is in fact a game, and not a movie. Square Enix trademarked the name last month, but registered web domains by CBS Films pointed towards the Deus Ex film currently in production.

Of course, this should be tempered by tomorrow being none other than April Fools' Day, although a false alarm for what sounds like a follow-up to Deus Ex: Human Revolution would be quite the stunt to pull. Either way, tomorrow just got a little more interesting.

JoystiqDeus Ex Facebook page: Human Defiance is a game, reveal tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 31 Mar 2013 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deus-exdeus-ex-human-defiancesquare-enixSun, 31 Mar 2013 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Dynamics: Tomb Raider had best week one sales in franchise history]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/#comments Tomb Raider nets best week one sales in franchise history, biggest launch of 2013Tomb Raider has achieved the highest week one sales in the franchise's history, according to Crystal Dynamics studio head Darrell Gallagher. Speaking at a GDC panel alongside creative director Noah Hughes, Gallagher also revealed that Tomb Raider had the most successful launch of any game this year.

"It's been the biggest week one sales in franchise history, and we're only a few weeks into that launch right now, and it's been the biggest opening so far in 2013," said Gallagher. "So, we're happy with the outcome. It's certainly in a place where we feel like we're on the road to achieving everything we wanted to."

The claim seems to be at odds with the feelings of Tomb Raider's publisher, Square Enix, which recently cited "weak sales" of its major titles, including Tomb Raider, as a reason for the company undergoing restructure. When asked about the apparent disconnect between Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics regarding Tomb Raider's performance, Hughes told us, "Certainly we're proud of what we achieved, and I think for the most part, the whole organization is happy with what we did." And for Gallagher, "Actuals and expectations, I guess, are two slightly different things. What I'm telling you is the actuals, and they're communicating expectations."

That raises the question of just what Square Enix was expecting. To put things in perspective, Tomb Raider had higher initial sales than the 1996 original, a game that went on to sell over 6 million units in its lifetime. And yet, despite receiving critical acclaim and breaking franchise records, it would appear that Tomb Raider just isn't number one enough.

JoystiqCrystal Dynamics: Tomb Raider had best week one sales in franchise history originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 29 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider £20 this weekend on PSN EU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/#comments If all of the short-burst Easter Egg deals are as good as this one, then PlayStation Europe's PSN spring sale is one to watch. According to the PlayStation Blog, Tomb Raider is just £19.99/€29.99 on PSN in the continent until the end of March 31, making it comfortably one of the cheapest, if not the cheapest PS3 version in the UK at the moment.

Dozens of other games are discounted on Europe's PSN until April 9, including Persona 1-3, Child of Eden, and Driver: San Francisco.

JoystiqTomb Raider £20 this weekend on PSN EU originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsplaystationps3PSNsquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm soundtracks are really Final Fantasy 1-13 albums, out now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/theatrhythm-soundtracks-are-really-final-fantasy-1-13-albums-ou/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/theatrhythm-soundtracks-are-really-final-fantasy-1-13-albums-ou/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/theatrhythm-soundtracks-are-really-final-fantasy-1-13-albums-ou/#comments Square Enix released four Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy soundtracks onto iTunes today, each comprising songs from a particular mode of the 3DS and iOS game. There's a soundtrack each for the game's Event, Field, and Battle gameplay modes, each one priced $8.97, along with one for the Chaos Shrine mode, priced $9.99.

The game aside, what these essentially represent are Final Fantasy 1-13 compilations, with the Event, Field, and Battle soundtracks each including one song in its original version from each of the first 13 main FF games. Take the Battle one, which includes a piece of battle music from each game, though not always the main one; FF7 and FF10 are represented by "One Winged Angel" and "Fight With Seymour," for example.

The Field soundtrack comprises a mixture of the games' main themes and songs you hear in particular locations, while the Event soundtrack picks some of the iconic songs (mostly) from the 13 games, like "Celes's Theme" from FF6 and "Waltz for the Moon" from FF8.

Finally, the 15 songs of the Chaos Shrine are much more scattered. Nonetheless, there are some excellent ones in there such as the melancholy "Zanarkand" of FF10 and the rousing "Blinded by Light" of FF13.

JoystiqTheatrhythm soundtracks are really Final Fantasy 1-13 albums, out now originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsiosipadiphoneitunesmobilenintendosoundtracksquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyFri, 29 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Final Fantasy 5 out now on iOS, priced $15.99]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/psa-final-fantasy-5-out-now-on-ios-priced-15-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/psa-final-fantasy-5-out-now-on-ios-priced-15-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/28/psa-final-fantasy-5-out-now-on-ios-priced-15-99/#comments
Not that its impending arrival was much of a secret, but Final Fantasy V arrived on the App Store today and is available now for iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad devices for $15.99.

As this trailer neatly shows, this version is based on the 2006 Game Boy Advance release, and so includes the additional Sealed Temple dungeon and optional Enuo boss. It also features new character designs and graphical tweaks, courtesy of veteran FF sprite artist Kazuko Shibuya.

An Android version comes to Japan this summer. Going by recent history, that indicates it'll arrive in western territories around the same time.

JoystiqPSA: Final Fantasy 5 out now on iOS, priced $15.99 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-viosipadiphonemobilerelease-datesquare-enixThu, 28 Mar 2013 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix notes 'weak sales of big console titles' Tomb Raider, Hitman: Absolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/square-enix-weak-sales-tomb-raider-hitman-absolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/square-enix-weak-sales-tomb-raider-hitman-absolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/square-enix-weak-sales-tomb-raider-hitman-absolution/#comments Image

Square Enix announced a massive restructuring today, which included the dismissal of president Yoichi Wada, but we really hope the company takes a long look in the mirror about its sales projections. Buried within the briefing of the consolidated results forecast, the company had a slide expressing the "weak sales" of three of its games.

These allegedly anemic sales involve three games that will have sold millions of units by the end of the company's fiscal year on March 31. It seriously raises the question: how broken is Square Enix's business if Tomb Raider's expected 3.4 million units sold (not including digital distribution) is considered "weak?"

"Despite the high critical acclaim, [the games listed] failed to meet each target," the briefing notes. "In particular, North America sales force was ineffective, ending up with 2/3 of number of units sold in Europe."

Oddly - beyond this being a clear sign Square Enix North America is being thrown under the bus - this is the second time we've had to scratch our heads about Eidos/Square Enix sales projections. In 2009, the company was disappointed by the sales of Tomb Raider: Underworld, which launched in November and sold 1.5 million copies by the end of 2008. Soon after the publisher did a round of layoffs at Tomb Raider developer Crystal Dynamics.

JoystiqSquare Enix notes 'weak sales of big console titles' Tomb Raider, Hitman: Absolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eidoshitman-absolutionmicrosoftpcplaystationps3sleeping-dogssquare-enixtomb-raiderxboxTue, 26 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon lines up another gaming Gold Box today; Tomb Raider $42]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/#comments Amazon would like to relieve your wallets of any heaviness with another one of its all-day video game Gold Box events. A number of lightning deals will run throughout the day, and you can check out the line-up here. In terms of what's confirmed or obvious thanks to Amazon's clues, Black Ops 2 is going for $35 on Xbox 360 and PS3 at 11AM PT/2PM ET, while Need for Speed: Most Wanted and Dance Central 3 are likely contenders for later time-sensitive discounts.

The all-day deal might be the one to grab your fancy, though. Crystal Dynamics' high-octane Tomb Raider reboot is down to $41.99 on Xbox 360 and PS3, and $34.99 on PC. We reckon that's decent, but if you'd prefer a chunkier version then there's still time (as of writing) to get in on the game's Collector's Edition lightning deal, which ends at 9AM ET. The CE includes a 8-inch tall Play Arts Kai figurine of Lara Croft, steel tin packaging, a 15 by 19 inch double-sided island map and poster, a lithographic print, CD soundtrack, three iron-on badges, and the Weapons Pack DLC, all for $76 instead of $100 in Amazon's deal.

JoystiqAmazon lines up another gaming Gold Box today; Tomb Raider $42 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon-gold-boxcrystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 26 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix president Wada to step down, $106M 'restructuring' loss [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/square-enix-president-wada-to-step-down-106m-restructuring-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/square-enix-president-wada-to-step-down-106m-restructuring-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/square-enix-president-wada-to-step-down-106m-restructuring-l/#comments Square Enix president Wada to step down, $106M 'restructuring' lossYoichi Wada is leaving his post as Square Enix president and representative director, Square Enix announced this morning. Wada, who became the company's president and CEO in December 2000, is to be replaced by former company director and CFO Yosuke Matsuda. According to Square Enix's announcement, the change is "subject to a resolution" at the company's annual shareholders meeting in June, and a board of directors meeting held afterwards.

The news coincides with Square Enix announcing further major revisions to its fiscal year forecasts, which the company attributes to its decision to implement major restructuring in the wake of "the rapidly changing environment of the game businesses." Square Enix expects the changes, which it noted as affecting development policy, organizational structure, and business models, to incur a total "extraordinary" loss of ¥10 billion, or around $106 million.

However, Square Enix says the primary reason for the company's lower-than-expected results is the "sluggish" sales performance of its major games in western territories. When Square Enix announced its nine-month fiscal year net loss of just over ¥5 billion, the company said then it hadn't recovered the losses from earlier in the year because of "the increasingly difficult condition of the worldwide console game market."

Today's forecast revisions show a dramatic turnaround for the company's yearly financials. For the fiscal year ending March 31, Square Enix is projecting now a net loss of ¥13 billion, or around $138 million, compared to initial forecasts of a net profit of ¥3.5 billion, around $37 million. The previous fiscal year, Square Enix posted a net profit of just over ¥6 billion.

Update: GamesBeat is reporting Square Enix sold a number of its free-to-play games to privately funded start-up Sleepy Giant, with sources "familiar with the matter" saying four unannounced games were included in the deal. Neither party has announced the deal, with a Square Enix representative telling GamesBeat it doesn't "comment on any details for external development deals."

JoystiqSquare Enix president Wada to step down, $106M 'restructuring' loss [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>financialsjapanlossrestructuringsquare-enixyoichi-wadayosuke-matsudaTue, 26 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster trailer tells its story]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/final-fantasy-x-x-2-hd-remaster-trailer-tells-its-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/final-fantasy-x-x-2-hd-remaster-trailer-tells-its-story/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/25/final-fantasy-x-x-2-hd-remaster-trailer-tells-its-story/#comments
Final Fantasy X and X-2 take us back to the reverie of Spira, Seymour, and Sin sometime this year. The two HD remasters are bundling into one disc on PS3, and releasing separately on Vita. And look, here's a trailer to prove it's really happening.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster trailer tells its story originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-xfinal-fantasy-x-2final-fantasy-x-2-hd-remasterfinal-fantasy-x-hd-remasterplaystationplaystation-vitaps3square-enixvitaMon, 25 Mar 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy V coming to iOS in Japan this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/final-fantasy-v-coming-to-ios-in-japan-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/final-fantasy-v-coming-to-ios-in-japan-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/final-fantasy-v-coming-to-ios-in-japan-this-month/#comments Final Fantasy V coming to iOS in Japan this monthOh my stars and comets, Final Fantasy V is on its way to iOS and Android devices in Japan! Well, it's not news that should surprise given the previous four main FFs' appearance on smartphones, and especially given this blatant tease late last year, but hey.

As Famitsu reports, a remake based on the GameBoy Advance version of the 1992 JRPG, with redesigned sprites, comes to iOS by the end of this month, with an Android release around the summertime. It's priced ¥1,800, which is around $19. There's no word yet regards outside of Japan, but previous entries have had same-day worldwide releases. It's not unlikely we'll see FFV hit the App Store by the end of the month.

When approached about a western release, a Square Enix representative told Joystiq, "We don't comment on rumor or speculation."

JoystiqFinal Fantasy V coming to iOS in Japan this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-5final-fantasy-viosipadiphonejapanmobilerelease-datesquare-enixWed, 20 Mar 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut announced for Wii U, 'coming soon' [Update: Straight Right developing]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/deus-ex-human-revolution-directors-cut-announced-for-wii-u-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/deus-ex-human-revolution-directors-cut-announced-for-wii-u-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/deus-ex-human-revolution-directors-cut-announced-for-wii-u-c/#comments Deus Ex Human Revolution Director's Cut announced for Wii U, 'coming soon'Eidos Montreal officially announced Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut for the Wii U this morning, noting it as "coming soon" to the Nintendo console. The Wii U version includes Tong's Rescue mission and The Missing Link DLC, which the Square Enix studio says are integrated into the Director's Cut narrative.

Today's announcement reveals the Director's Cut employs a selection of GamePad features, such as "touchscreen hacking, interactive map editing, augmented sniping, grenade throwbacks, and many other neural hub enhancements." Eidos Montreal also says the Wii U version brings improvements to the game's boss fights, balance, combat, AI, and visuals, along with developer commentaries, in-game guides, and Miiverse integration.

DX:HR Director's Cut was leaked by Amazon yesterday, which listed the game's release date in the United States as May 7. While today's announcement comes via Eidos Montreal, the developer isn't yet specified. Australian studio Straight Right is reportedly bringing a major Square Enix game to the Wii U, so it may well be involved.

Update: According to a piece on Eurogamer, Straight Right - the same studio who ported Mass Effect 3 over to the Wii U - is co-developing this along with Eidos Montreal. Some more information is also provided about the retooled boss fights, which players can now overcome without having to fire a single bullet - alternate strategies and such will be put in place to offer players variety beyond direct conflict in Deus Ex: Human Revolution's three boss battles.

Gallery: Deux Ex: Human Revolution - Director's Cut

Continue reading Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut announced for Wii U, 'coming soon' [Update: Straight Right developing]

JoystiqDeus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut announced for Wii U, 'coming soon' [Update: Straight Right developing] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deus-ex-human-revolutioneidos-montrealnintendosquare-enixwii-uWed, 20 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Quest X Wii U listing spotted on Amazon France]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/dragon-quest-x-wii-u-listing-spotted-on-amazon-france/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/dragon-quest-x-wii-u-listing-spotted-on-amazon-france/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/dragon-quest-x-wii-u-listing-spotted-on-amazon-france/#comments An Amazon France listing for Dragon Quest X on Wii U suggests the Square Enix MMORPG may be coming to the west. As spotted by NeoGAF, the listing includes official screenshots and denotes a price of €70 (around $90), but doesn't mention a release date.

The Wii U game hits Japan on March 30. It gets its own Premium console bundle which includes a ¥1000 pre-paid card for the game, and five in-game orbs which double XP and gold collection for 30 minutes. Square Enix hasn't announced a release outside of Japan.

When approached, a Square Enix rep said "We don't comment on rumor or speculation."

This isn't the first leaky Amazon listing for a Square Enix game this week. Amazon US listed Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut as coming to the Wii U on May 7, which Square Enix also declined to comment on.

JoystiqDragon Quest X Wii U listing spotted on Amazon France originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon-francedragon-quest-xnintendosquare-enixwii-uWed, 20 Mar 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider single-player DLC isn't in Crystal Dynamics' current plans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/#comments Tomb Raider's DLC will be multiplayer-orientated only, based on developer Crystal Dynamics' current plans. Speaking in a Reddit AMA, director Noah Hughes and global brand director Karl Stewart said there are no planned single-player DLC expansions.

"Currently there are no plans regarding single-player DLC," said Hughes when first asked about upcoming DLC. "Now that Lara is more experienced, we are excited to take her on new adventures that challenge her new strength and confidence. It is important that even as Lara grows as a character, so do the challenges she must face."

"There are currently no plans in place for any single-player expansions." Stewart later followed up. "All of our DLC is based around the multiplayer experience for now."

Tomb Raider received its first expansion this week in the form of the 'Caves and Cliffs' pack, which added three new arenas to the game's multiplayer. That arrived on Xbox 360 yesterday for 400 MSP, and remains as yet undated for PS3 and PC.

JoystiqTomb Raider single-player DLC isn't in Crystal Dynamics' current plans originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Final Fantasy X HD includes FFX-2 HD, PS Vita versions separate downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/rumor-final-fantasy-x-hd-includes-ffx-2-hd-ps-vita-versions-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/rumor-final-fantasy-x-hd-includes-ffx-2-hd-ps-vita-versions-se/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/rumor-final-fantasy-x-hd-includes-ffx-2-hd-ps-vita-versions-se/#comments Report Final Fantasy X HD includes FFX2 HD on PS3, separate purchases on PS VitaRumors from Japan suggest the upcoming remaster of Final Fantasy X - remember, it's not a remake - will come bundled with another game on PS3: a remastered version of its direct sequel, Final Fantasy X-2. Though each will supposedly be sold on a single PS3 disc, the latest issue of Japanese mag Shonen Jump says they'll be separately available on Vita.

The remaster of Final Fantasy X was first announced back in late 2011, only for Square Enix to go silent for almost the next two years. The HD version resurfaced last month, when Square Enix producer Shinji Hashimoto gave us a brief glimpse at the game running on PS Vita. Square Enix has said an announcement with further details regarding the Final Fantasy X remaster is coming "soon."

[Thanks, Draco.]

JoystiqRumor: Final Fantasy X HD includes FFX-2 HD, PS Vita versions separate downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-xfinal-fantasy-x-2playstationplaystation-vitaps3remasterreportrpgsquare-enixvitaTue, 19 Mar 2013 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut listed for Wii U by Amazon [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-directors-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-directors-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/19/deus-ex-human-revolution-directors-cut/#comments Deus Ex Human Revolution Director's Cut listed for Wii U by AmazonAn Amazon listing indicates a Director's Cut version of Deus Ex: Human Revolution is coming to the Wii U, with the release date for the United States denoted as May 7.

The listing notes the game features "additional content," including using the GamePad with a new augmentation called the "Neural Hub." While Square Enix is listed as the publisher, the listing doesn't mention which developer is behind the port, but it may well be Straight Right. The Australian developer ported Mass Effect 3 to the system, and has been reported as bringing a major Square Enix game the Wii U's way too.

Update 1: When approached, a Square Enix representative told Joystiq, "We don't comment on rumor or speculation."

Update 2: The Amazon page has now been taken down, but you can see a screencap of the listing below the break, along with the featured box art.

[Thanks, Steven]

Continue reading Deus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut listed for Wii U by Amazon [update]

JoystiqDeus Ex: Human Revolution Director's Cut listed for Wii U by Amazon [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondeus-ex-human-revolutioneidos-montrealnintendorelease-datesquare-enixstraight-rightwii-uTue, 19 Mar 2013 05:30:00 EST