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[FFXIII-2 first week sales roughly a third of FFXIII's first week sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/ffxiii-2-first-week-sales-roughly-a-third-of-ffxiiis-first-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/ffxiii-2-first-week-sales-roughly-a-third-of-ffxiiis-first-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/ffxiii-2-first-week-sales-roughly-a-third-of-ffxiiis-first-week/#comments Final Fantasy XIII-2, the latest sequel-sequel from the androgyny JRPG veterans at Square Enix, has closed its first week of sales in the land of the rising sun, with somewhat mixed results. The PS3 version of the title has sold 524,000 units according to Andriasang's translation of Media Create's extremely Japanese sales data, making it the number 1 selling title for the period. This is in stark contrast to the 360 version of the game, which entered the charts at number 48 with a comparatively minuscule 10,000 units sold.

Having the number 1 game in Japan is definitely nothing to be ashamed of, but the accomplishment seems somewhat less impressive when compared to Final Fantasy XIII's combined first-week sales of 1,502,000 copies, nearly three times XIII-2's combined 525,000. Media Create attributes the drop in sales to a drop in interest among Japanese female gamers: 22.2 percent of women surveyed were interested in XIII-2, down nearly ten points from XIII's 31.3 percent Japanese female interest rate.

It's also possible that the interest decline among Japanese women was negligible at best, considering that the game was the best selling release in the country.

JoystiqFFXIII-2 first week sales roughly a third of FFXIII's first week sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>enixFFXIIIFFXIII-2final-fantasy-xiii-2first-weekjapanjapanesemicrosoftplaystationps3salessquaresquare-enixxboxMon, 26 Dec 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII-2 trailer shows off combat system improvements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/final-fantasy-xiii-2-trailer-shows-off-combat-system-improvement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/final-fantasy-xiii-2-trailer-shows-off-combat-system-improvement/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/01/final-fantasy-xiii-2-trailer-shows-off-combat-system-improvement/#comments
Final Fantasy XIII-2 won't just append an additional number and some monster-collecting mechanics to the (thirteenth) original, you know. Check out the trailer above to see the "Enhanced" combat system in action. (Read: Quick-Time Events!)

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIII-2 (12/1/11)

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII-2 trailer shows off combat system improvements originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasy-xiiifinal-fantasy-xiii-2microsoftplaystationps3rpgsquaresquare-enixxboxThu, 01 Dec 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy 3DS rhythm game, Theatrhythm, revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/final-fantasy-3ds-rhythm-game-theatrhythm-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/final-fantasy-3ds-rhythm-game-theatrhythm-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/final-fantasy-3ds-rhythm-game-theatrhythm-revealed/#comments We've interacted with the world of Final Fantasy in so many ways. We've stabbed guys, changed outfits, even made Chocobos have sex with each other, but we're still waiting on the Final Fantasy game where battles are conducted by rhythmically tapping on the screen along with prompts. (Actually, that might have been in a Final Fantasy game at some point. We've not been so diligent about finishing them lately.)

Regardless, our odd itch will soon be scratched by the just-announced Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, a 3DS game that includes dungeons and towns, and has you tapping on the screen to conduct battles. Other details are light in the report (found in Japanese mag Jump and translated by Andriasang), but we know the game will include music and chibi-style versions of characters like Lightning and Cloud from throughout the franchise.

After the break, you'll find a screen from Jump that, while fuzzy, sends the perfectly clear message that this is unlike any Final Fantasy game before it ... as far as we know.

[Thanks, Dean]

Continue reading Final Fantasy 3DS rhythm game, Theatrhythm, revealed

JoystiqFinal Fantasy 3DS rhythm game, Theatrhythm, revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfinal-fantasyjapanjumpnintendosquaresquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyWed, 06 Jul 2011 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Vagrant Story re-told on PlayStation Network tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/vagrant-story-re-told-on-playstation-network-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/vagrant-story-re-told-on-playstation-network-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/28/vagrant-story-re-told-on-playstation-network-tomorrow/#comments Xenogears last week ... Vagrant Story tomorrow ... and Parasite Eve soon. It seems the gears are finally in motion to bring all of Square's beloved "PSone Classics" to the PlayStation Network. (Still, North America has a long way to go before reaching Japan's lofty 600-game benchmark.)

Vagrant Story will be available for $6 on the PlayStation Store once the PSN Tuesday update goes live tomorrow.

JoystiqVagrant Story re-told on PlayStation Network tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps1ps3psnpsone-classicspsprelease-datesonysquaresquare-enixsquaresoftvagrant-storyMon, 28 Feb 2011 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESRB rates Parasite Eve for PS3 and PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/esrb-rates-parasite-eve-for-ps3-and-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/esrb-rates-parasite-eve-for-ps3-and-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/esrb-rates-parasite-eve-for-ps3-and-psp/#comments It looks like the North American PSOne Classics selection will get a little closer to catching up to the Japanese store soon -- and in the category that really counts: vintage Square RPGs. An ESRB rating has popped up for a PlayStation 3 and PSP release of Parasite Eve.

Square Enix hasn't said when the action RPG will be available; however, the mitochondria in our brains are telling us that we can likely expect it around the March 29 release of The 3rd Birthday on PSP. It was released about a month in advance of that PSP game in Japan.

[Thanks, Brian]

JoystiqESRB rates Parasite Eve for PS3 and PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esrbparasite-eveplaystationps3psnpsone-classicspspsonysquaresquare-enixthe-3rd-birthdayFri, 25 Feb 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square's unreleased Aliens game for Famicom Disk System uncovered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/15/squares-unreleased-aliens-game-for-famicom-disk-system-uncovere/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/15/squares-unreleased-aliens-game-for-famicom-disk-system-uncovere/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/15/squares-unreleased-aliens-game-for-famicom-disk-system-uncovere/#comments Man, what is it about the Aliens franchise that makes its video game adaptations so easily cancelable? Long, long before Obsidian's Aliens RPG ended up on the cutting room floor, Square had its own unreleased entry into the franchise: A 1987 side-scrolling action game for the Famicom Disk System (the disk-loading NES attachment which never quite made it stateside).

A ROM for the canned title recently appeared online; you can check out some footage from an emulated version of the game over at 1UP. It actually doesn't look too terrible -- though back in 1987, we really only had room in our hearts for one unstoppable, alien-obliterating heroine, and that room was totally already spoken for.

JoystiqSquare's unreleased Aliens game for Famicom Disk System uncovered originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alienscanceledfamicomfamicom-disk-systemnessquareSquare-EnixSat, 15 Jan 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IX confirmed for release on Japanese PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/03/final-fantasy-ix-confirmed-for-release-on-japanese-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/03/final-fantasy-ix-confirmed-for-release-on-japanese-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/03/final-fantasy-ix-confirmed-for-release-on-japanese-psn/#comments If you're wondering who you need to talk to in order to get your beloved PS1 RPGs onto the PlayStation Store, we're thinking Shinji Hashimoto is the man who gets things done. Last week, he said he was planning on "proposing" bringing Final Fantasy IX to the PSN -- this week, Square Enix CEO Yoichi Wada confirmed that the game would soon join FFVII and FFVIII on the PS3's Japanese digital storefront. No release date or pricing details have been released so far.

Impressive, Mr. Hashimoto. Most impressive. But we bet you can't do it again for Chrono Cross. Oh, and while you're at it, we bet you can't get Vagrant Story localized for U.S. release. C'mon. We dare you.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IX confirmed for release on Japanese PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ixplaystation-storepsnrpgshinji-hashimotosquaresquare-enixyoichi-wadaSat, 03 Apr 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy IX could hit PlayStation Store soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/final-fantasy-ix-could-hit-playstation-store-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/final-fantasy-ix-could-hit-playstation-store-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/26/final-fantasy-ix-could-hit-playstation-store-soon/#commentsWe have a bit of evidence now suggesting that Final Fantasy IX might be headed to the PSOne Classics selection of the PlayStation Store -- besides the fact that Final Fantasy VII, VIII, and Tactics are already available on the store. Square Enix producer Shinji Hashimoto Tweeted (translation by Andriasang) that "Regarding an FF9 download release, everyone is so passionate about it that I'll be proposing it at the next board meeting. Look forward to next week!"

To those of you out there constantly discussing how awesome Quina is on Twitter, in Japanese, it looks like you might be victorious. Of course, this kind of statement is more likely to make fans feel engaged in a process that is going on independent of their participation -- by which we mean this was totally going to happen anyway.

JoystiqFinal Fantasy IX could hit PlayStation Store soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 22:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ixpsone-classicsrpgshinji-hashimotosquaresquare-enixFri, 26 Mar 2010 22:40:00 EST<![CDATA[VC in Brief: Final Fantasy II (SNES)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/vc-in-brief-final-fantasy-ii-snes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/vc-in-brief-final-fantasy-ii-snes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/08/vc-in-brief-final-fantasy-ii-snes/#commentsFinal Fantasy II (actually Final Fantasy IV) is one of the most important role-playing games of all time. Not only was it the first to introduce the ATB system (Active Time Battle), but it also had an incredibly ambitious plot and, frankly, a downright great opening sequence. It would help bring the world to the JRPG (and vice versa), so however you choose to play through this bit of classic gaming, do it. You owe it to yourself to do that at least once in your life.
  • Final Fantasy II (SNES, 1 player, 800 Wii Points) (actually FFIV)
Every week, we like to check out what's new on the Virtual Console. We offer these videos as a sort of taste to help you decide whether or not you would want the game in question. We also toss in our own two cents because we're pushy jerks like that.

JoystiqVC in Brief: Final Fantasy II (SNES) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-2rpgsnessquaresquare-enixsquare-softvc-in-briefvirtual-consoleMon, 08 Mar 2010 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Back of FFXIII box for 360 mentions DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/back-of-ffxiii-box-for-360-mentions-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/back-of-ffxiii-box-for-360-mentions-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/07/back-of-ffxiii-box-for-360-mentions-dlc/#comments It looks like that entire game's worth of removed content might be making it into Final Fantasy XIII after all. GameStop has posted the box art for the Xbox 360 version of the game and, more importantly, it has also posted the art for the back of the box. As you can see above, the box mentions that Final Fantasy XIII will support downloadable content after all, though there is no mention of what the DLC actually is. It's worth noting that the content could be something as simple as Avatar outfits or accessories, though it would certainly make sense for Square Enix to supply its most well-known franchise with post-launch DLC.

The news comes after producer Yoshinori Kitase was rumored to have stated that no DLC had been planned for the game, though he noted it was still "possible." Final Fantasy Union, however, notes that Kitase apparently confirmed DLC during a recent interview with the Dutch Official Playstation Magazine. The box art certainly seems to confirm that, though we've reached out to Square for clarification. As of this writing, GameStop has yet to post the art for the back of the PS3 version, so it's unclear if both platforms will support said content.

[Via Final Fantasy Union]

JoystiqBack of FFXIII box for 360 mentions DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 07 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributiondlcfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiiigamestopMicrosoftsquareSquare-EnixXbox-360yoshinori-kitaseSun, 07 Feb 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix mobile title Kuni Yaburete Sanga Ari coming to DSiWare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/square-enix-mobile-title-kuni-yaburete-sanga-ari-coming-to-dsiwa/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/square-enix-mobile-title-kuni-yaburete-sanga-ari-coming-to-dsiwa/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/26/square-enix-mobile-title-kuni-yaburete-sanga-ari-coming-to-dsiwa/#comments
Here's the thing about Square Enix bringing its mobile games to DSiWare -- we want the games over here! (Anything but the clocks and calendars, please!) Andriasang has news that the Japanese publisher will be offering Kuni Yaburete Sanga Ari (translated as "Hills and Rivers Remain") via Nintendo's DSiWare digitial distribution platform starting this week. Unfortunately for those on this side of the Pacific, the game will remain exclusive to Japan for the time being.

Four-player wireless gameplay will be added for Nintendo's handheld, as well as updated stylus controls and "some exclusive maps" in multiplayer. For those of you able to pick it up, the game will run you 800 DSi points ($8) when it's made available this Wednesday. For everyone else, TinyCartridge points out the recent trademark filing by Square Enix for the game's English title. Keep hope alive!

JoystiqSquare Enix mobile title Kuni Yaburete Sanga Ari coming to DSiWare originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andriasangdigital-distributiondsiwarehills-and-rivers-remainjapankuni-yaburete-sanga-arirtssquaresquare-enixMon, 26 Oct 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No install for Final Fantasy XIII on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/no-install-for-final-fantasy-xiii-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/no-install-for-final-fantasy-xiii-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/22/no-install-for-final-fantasy-xiii-on-ps3/#comments If you were planning on making yourself a nice sandwich for your first session of Final Fantasy XIII, it looks like you'll have to make it before you pop the disc in your PS3. According to IGN, director Motomu Toriyama told Famitsu that FFXIII will not require an install on PS3. Furthermore, other than the transition between town and field segments, the game won't feature any loading screens at all. Toriyama stated that loading time was one of the biggest concerns from the beginning of development.

We're sure there were at least a few folks out there looking forward to watching a Chocobo take a smoke break. Alas, it just wasn't meant to be.

JoystiqNo install for Final Fantasy XIII on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiiisquaresquare-enixThu, 22 Oct 2009 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[VC in Brief: Final Fantasy (NES)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/vc-in-brief-final-fantasy-nes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/vc-in-brief-final-fantasy-nes/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/05/vc-in-brief-final-fantasy-nes/#comments
Final Fantasy (NES, 1 player, 500 Wii Points)
We say: A classic that everyone should at least try once

The first Final Fantasy needs no introduction. It's a timeless classic and influential in countless ways, so it definitely deserves a playthrough. We'd say more, but there isn't really much else to say about one of the most important games ever.

Every week, we like to check out what's new on the Virtual Console. We offer these videos as a sort of taste to help you decide whether or not you would want the game in question. We also toss in our own two cents because we're pushy jerks.

JoystiqVC in Brief: Final Fantasy (NES) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 22:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyrpgsquaresquare-enixvc-in-briefMon, 05 Oct 2009 22:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Square Enix Japan axes 200-300 positions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/rumor-square-enix-japan-axes-200-300-positions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/rumor-square-enix-japan-axes-200-300-positions/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/28/rumor-square-enix-japan-axes-200-300-positions/#comments
Given there are no official sources named whatsoever, we're placing today's news that Square Enix Japan will be cutting 200 to 300 employees from its staff squarely in the rumor pile.

Kotaku heard that the Japanese publisher will supposedly be making cuts to its Japanese branches, leaving the recently acquired Eidos studios untouched. This rumor comes just days after Mega Man creator Keiji Inafune declared, "Japan is over. We're done. Our game industry is finished."

JoystiqRumor: Square Enix Japan axes 200-300 positions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanlayoffsrumorsquaresquare-enixsquare-enix-japanMon, 28 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix near to announcing another Nier game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/square-enix-near-to-announcing-another-nier-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/square-enix-near-to-announcing-another-nier-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/square-enix-near-to-announcing-another-nier-game/#commentsIt might not be the game we were most excited by at E3 2009, but upcoming action game Nier is apparently already getting the franchise treatment. According to a two-page ad spotted by 1UP in the most recent Famitsu, "Nier Replicant" is set to be detailed in next week's issue of the Japanese magazine.

The spread features a scantily clad white-haired lady with a single line of text that reads, "Beyond revenge lies crazed desperation." Given the absolute dearth of information we have on the Nier franchise, we're sorry to say we can offer little more than our furrowed brow to assuage your confusion over Replicant's tagline. We do know that the name could very well change before it's formally announced on Western shores, as Nier was recently announced in the same edition of Famitsu as "Nier Gestalt" -- known as to us as just Nier. It appears as though at least some of our questions will be answered in next week's issue.

Gallery: Nier


[Image credit]

JoystiqSquare Enix near to announcing another Nier game originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upadvertisemente3-2009famitsuniernier-replicantsquaresquare-enixThu, 10 Sep 2009 00:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Square reboot Thexder NEO revealed by ESRB listing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/square-reboot-thexder-neo-revealed-by-esrb-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/square-reboot-thexder-neo-revealed-by-esrb-listing/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/24/square-reboot-thexder-neo-revealed-by-esrb-listing/#comments
Square Enix has its finger in a whole lot of pies right now -- but if a recent ESRB listing is any indication, the developer might be preparing to sully its digits in yet another pastry. Said listing is for a PS3 and PSP title called Thexder NEO -- a new entry in a classic Square-developed franchise, which first appeared on the prehistoric NEC PC-8801 platform before making its way to PC and NES. Considering Square held the reins of this IP back in 1985, we're assuming the company will develop this new title -- but until we get more details, there's no way to be sure.

According to the ESRB listing, Thexder NEO is "a side-scrolling action game in which players control a transforming robot through a series of maze-like levels." Stop right there, ESRB listing. You had us at "robot."

JoystiqSquare reboot Thexder NEO revealed by ESRB listing originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esrbmazenesrebootrobotsquaresquare-enixthexderthexder-neoMon, 24 Aug 2009 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[XVII new screenhots of Final Fantasy XIV ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/xvii-new-screenhots-of-final-fantasy-xiv/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/xvii-new-screenhots-of-final-fantasy-xiv/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/22/xvii-new-screenhots-of-final-fantasy-xiv/#comments
click to massive-size If you're feeling ye olde fashioned and footage of Final Fantasy XIV in action is just too newfangled for you, don't fret. Square-Enix has released a fresh batch of perfectly still images from the game during GamesCom -- and they're very, very ... green. Hey, at least they're more exciting than the previously released scenery shots. These are full of the good stuff: menus, characters and -- most of all -- action. Well, as much action as there can be in a static picture.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIV (GamesCom 2009)

JoystiqXVII new screenhots of Final Fantasy XIV originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Aug 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xivgamescom-2009squaresquare-enixSat, 22 Aug 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan gets first DQ IX 'Story Quest' DLC July 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/japan-gets-first-dq-ix-story-quest-dlc-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/japan-gets-first-dq-ix-story-quest-dlc-july-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/22/japan-gets-first-dq-ix-story-quest-dlc-july-24/#commentsAndriasang.com reports that Japan will receive the first "Story Quest" DLC for Dragon Quest IX this Friday, July 24. While there aren't specific details as to what a Story Quest actually is, it certainly sounds fairly self-explanatory. The DLC is entitled "Rikka's Dream Treasure" and tasks players with snagging a specific treasure map for Rikka the innkeeper. Andria Sang notes that treasure maps are distributed randomly, which could make the quest a bit more difficult than it sounds.

Another standard quest will also be available, "Wonderful Birthday," in which a character is searching for an item available on the Dragon Quest IX Wi-Fi shopping system. So, we guess you have to buy someone something? Doesn't seem like much of a quest, really.

Still, if you've already cleared Dragon Quest IX -- which is actually a requirement for playing the DLC -- you're probably ready for more.

JoystiqJapan gets first DQ IX 'Story Quest' DLC July 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Jul 2009 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcDQ9Dragon-QuestDragon-Quest-9-Sentinels-of-the-Starry-Skiesdragon-quest-ixjapanJRPGLevel-5NintendoRPGsquaresquare-enixWed, 22 Jul 2009 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Square targeting spring 2010 release for Final Fantasy XIII on 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/square-targeting-spring-2010-release-for-final-fantasy-xiii-on-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/square-targeting-spring-2010-release-for-final-fantasy-xiii-on-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/01/square-targeting-spring-2010-release-for-final-fantasy-xiii-on-3/#comments
It's sad when we hear "around a year away" as a release window and it sounds fairly close, but that's Square for you. The company says it's targeting a spring 2010 release for the Final Fantasy XIII on the Xbox 360.

We just got a look at the game running on the 360, and it looks gorgeous.

JoystiqSquare targeting spring 2010 release for Final Fantasy XIII on 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2009final-fantasy-xiiimicrosoftrelease-datessquaresquare-enixXbox-360Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:13:00 EST<![CDATA[New Final Fantasy XIII screens are purdy (duh)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-final-fantasy-xiii-screens-are-purdy-duh/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-final-fantasy-xiii-screens-are-purdy-duh/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/09/new-final-fantasy-xiii-screens-are-purdy-duh/#commentsFiled under:


click to enlargenate
There's a couple of things you can count on with any Final Fantasy title. Big hair, very long spell animations, and gorgeous graphics. The latest batch of direct-feed screenshots -- 30 in all -- from Final Fantasy XIII keep up the tradition, with insanely detailed backgrounds and characters. Granted, most of the shots are pre-rendered, but they're still real purdy, right? Besides, there are some real time shots in there. You'll just have to dig them out. We suggest you do so right now by perusing the gallery below.

If you look at just one screenshot every month, the game might actually be available by the time you're done with the gallery.

Gallery: Final Fantasy XIII (01/9/09)



[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqNew Final Fantasy XIII screens are purdy (duh) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-xiiisquaresquare-enixFri, 09 Jan 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy hands-on: Star Ocean: Second Evolution]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/psp-fanboy-hands-on-star-ocean-second-evolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/psp-fanboy-hands-on-star-ocean-second-evolution/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/psp-fanboy-hands-on-star-ocean-second-evolution/#commentsFiled under: ,


Star Ocean: Second Evolution, as the title implies, is a remake of the second Star Ocean game released back in 1999 on the original PlayStation. It is a direct sequel to another PSP remake released earlier this year, Star Ocean: First Departure. Besides the updated graphics, what other new elements can RPG lovers expect? Read on to find out.

Gallery: Star Ocean: The Second Evolution

Continue reading PSP Fanboy hands-on: Star Ocean: Second Evolution

JoystiqPSP Fanboy hands-on: Star Ocean: Second Evolution originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeaturessquaresquare-enixstar-oceanstar-ocean-second-evolutiontri-aceWed, 24 Dec 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Secret of Mana, Sonic 2 on PAL Virtual Console this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/secret-of-mana-sonic-2-on-pal-virtual-console-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/secret-of-mana-sonic-2-on-pal-virtual-console-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/22/secret-of-mana-sonic-2-on-pal-virtual-console-this-week/#commentsFiled under: ,

As a Christmas treat to its impeccably-behaved PAL region fans, Nintendo of Europe unveiled this week's Euro/Aussie Virtual Console offerings early, and holy crap it's Secret of Mana. Square's classic three-player RPG has been available in Japan and North America (in Virtual Console form) since September and October respectively, and will make the trip to PAL land on Boxing Day. The toys we excitedly unwrap in front of our parents on Christmas Day morning will be swiftly cast aside!

Less thrillingly, Secret of Mana will be joined by the Master System version of Sonic the Hedgehog 2; and because this is essentially VC Friday on a Tuesday, you can see footage of both beyond the break!

Gallery: Secret of Mana (SNES)

Continue reading Secret of Mana, Sonic 2 on PAL Virtual Console this week

JoystiqSecret of Mana, Sonic 2 on PAL Virtual Console this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Dec 2008 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaeuropemaster-systempalplatformrpgsecret-of-manasegasnessonicsonic-the-hedgehog-2squareMon, 22 Dec 2008 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix: 360 easier to develop on than the PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/square-enix-360-easier-to-develop-on-that-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/square-enix-360-easier-to-develop-on-that-the-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/16/square-enix-360-easier-to-develop-on-that-the-ps3/#commentsFiled under:


In the latest issue of OXM, Square Enix developer Hiroshi Takai has admitted the unimaginable ... the Xbox 360 is easier to develop on than the Playstation 3. Even admitting that he hopes his next project is on the 360. Gasp! Shock! Awe!

"It's been the team's first time working with Xbox 360 and the Unreal Engine," said Takai who worked on the currently 360 exclusive Last Remnant, adding that the Xbox is "a lot easier to work with than PlayStation 3." But really, didn't we already know that? Here's to hoping that our Final Fantasy is OMG jaw-droppingly more amazing than the PS3 version. Because we're selfish and that's just how we roll.

JoystiqSquare Enix: 360 easier to develop on than the PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Dec 2008 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantplaystation-3sonysquaresquare-enixTue, 16 Dec 2008 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Grab free The Last Remnant DLC 'unlocks']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/grab-free-the-last-remnant-dlc-unlocks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/grab-free-the-last-remnant-dlc-unlocks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/grab-free-the-last-remnant-dlc-unlocks/#commentsFiled under: ,


Square Enix just released new The Last Remnant downloadable content to the Marketplace today, but we do use the term "downloadable content" ever so liberally because the content is nothing more than 108KB game unlocks. No matter, it's new content even if it's already on the game disc.

The two FREE downloads include Challenge Pack 1: Purgatory's Sins which we're informed requires "adequate game progression" (whatever that may be) and The Key of Ancient Ruins which should unlock some pretty spiffy stuff. Remember too that more DLC is headed down the pipeline, so watch for it and keep hope that it isn't just an unlock code.

JoystiqGrab free The Last Remnant DLC 'unlocks' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantsquaresquare-enixthe-last-remnantxblmMon, 08 Dec 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant getting four DLC packs in December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/the-last-remnant-getting-four-dlc-packs-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/the-last-remnant-getting-four-dlc-packs-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/the-last-remnant-getting-four-dlc-packs-in-december/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you thought you've seen the last of The Last Remnant, Square's recent East-meets-West RPG, you've got another thing coming -- actually, you've got four things coming. Throughout December, Square will be releasing four downloadable expansions to the already expansive title. The first two will drop simultaneously on Dec. 1 for Gold Xbox Live members (Silver members will have to wait until Dec. 8) -- "Challenge Pack 1: Purgatory's Sins" will add difficult new guild tasks to the game, while "The Key of Ancient Ruins" will... unlock some in-game Ancient Ruins.

On Dec. 22 (Dec. 29 for Silver members), Square will release "Challenge Pack 2: The Price of Lies", which will bestow even tougher guild tasks upon the game's more masochistic players. Finally, the "March to War" set, which unlocks three new battle formations and was rewarded to pre-orderers of the title, will be available for everyone to download Dec. 15. It will run players 100 -- the other three expansions will be totally free.

JoystiqThe Last Remnant getting four DLC packs in December originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcsquaresquare-enixthe-last-remnantXbox-360xbox-live-marketplaceSat, 29 Nov 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Four DLC packs for Last Remnant in December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/four-dlc-packs-for-last-remnant-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/four-dlc-packs-for-last-remnant-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/29/four-dlc-packs-for-last-remnant-in-december/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you've been able to look past the numerous reported technical issues with The Last Remnant, you should be happy to hear that that three downloadable content packs are on the way for the game. The first, Challenge Pack 1: Purgatory's Sins, will be available to Xbox Live Gold members on December 1 and Silver members on December 8. This pack includes new guild tasks. Also available on these dates will be The Key of Ancient Ruins which, appropriately enough, unlocks the Ancient Ruins in the game. The third bit of DLC, Challenge Pack 2: The Price of Lies, which includes more guild tasks, will be available to Gold members on December 22 and Silver members on the 29th. All three of the above content packs will be completely free.

Finally, March to War, which was previously available only to those who had pre-ordered the game, will be made available to both Gold and Silver members on December 15 for 100 Microsoft Points. March to War adds three more formations for the game: Scatterswarm, Goblet and Catapult.

JoystiqFour DLC packs for Last Remnant in December originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantlive-marketplacemarketplacesquaresquare-enixthe-last-remnantxblmxbox-live-marketplaceSat, 29 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: A swordy Last Remnant launch trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/video-a-swordy-last-remnant-launch-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/video-a-swordy-last-remnant-launch-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/21/video-a-swordy-last-remnant-launch-trailer/#commentsFiled under:


After the break we used our blogging powers to embed a new Last Remnant trailer, its big launch trailer, which is brimming with ego, long hair and swords. You know, Square Enix really loves their swords. Square Enix also loves their long blond locks of hair and kitty beasts with four arms. Square Enix also loves to ... love.

Continue reading Video: A swordy Last Remnant launch trailer

JoystiqVideo: A swordy Last Remnant launch trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantsquaresquare-enixFri, 21 Nov 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon Gold Box: Infinite Undiscovery for $30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/amazon-gold-box-infinite-undiscovery-for-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/amazon-gold-box-infinite-undiscovery-for-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/amazon-gold-box-infinite-undiscovery-for-30/#commentsFiled under:


After a day of Playstation 3 lightning deals, Amazon.com has seen the video game light by offering Square's Infinite Undiscovery for $29.98 as its daily Gold Box deal. Free shipping too! Possibly tax free!

As with all Gold Box offers, they're only good until the end of the day or until quantities exhaust. So, there you have it fellow deal seekers. A Japanese action-RPG for the Xbox 360, developed by Square Enix and purchasable for under $30. You know you want it.

[Thanks, Doug B.]

JoystiqAmazon Gold Box: Infinite Undiscovery for $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazoninfinite-undiscoverysquaresquare-enixThu, 30 Oct 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Ocean: The Last Hope comes to Japan Feb. 19, NA on Mar. 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/star-ocean-the-last-hope-comes-to-japan-feb-19-na-on-mar-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/star-ocean-the-last-hope-comes-to-japan-feb-19-na-on-mar-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/08/star-ocean-the-last-hope-comes-to-japan-feb-19-na-on-mar-3/#commentsFiled under: ,


You might want to add space trunks to your Christmas lists this year, because according to the Microsoft press conference at Tokyo Game Show, you'll be taking a dip in the Star Ocean: The Last Hope on Mar. 3, just a couple of weeks after our friends in Japan on Feb. 19.

We're really sorry about that "space trunk" gag, by the way. We're still shaking jet lag.

JoystiqStar Ocean: The Last Hope comes to Japan Feb. 19, NA on Mar. 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Oct 2008 23:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>squarestar-oceanstar-ocean-the-last-hopetgs-2008Xbox-360Wed, 08 Oct 2008 23:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon Quest IX coming March 2009 in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/dragon-quest-ix-coming-march-2009-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/dragon-quest-ix-coming-march-2009-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/dragon-quest-ix-coming-march-2009-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,

After almost two years of waiting, Square Enix has dated Dragon Quest IX. Sort of. Staying true to its previous promise of the fiscal year ending March 31, 2009, the company plans to launch the game in Japan sometime next March (Protip: If you don't know Japanese, just keep an eye out for 2009?). No international release has been set, but we're willing to bet the game will see a US release before the impending 2012 apocalypse. Square Enix is hosting a 90-minute Dragon Quest session each day at this month's Tokyo Game Show.

[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqDragon Quest IX coming March 2009 in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsdq9dqixdragon-questdragon-quest-9Dragon-Quest-9-Sentinels-of-the-Starry-Skiesdragon-quest-ixDSenixJRPGLevel-5NintendoRPGsquaresquare-enixWed, 01 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy hands-on: Star Ocean: First Departure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/psp-fanboy-hands-on-star-ocean-first-departure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/psp-fanboy-hands-on-star-ocean-first-departure/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/19/psp-fanboy-hands-on-star-ocean-first-departure/#commentsFiled under: ,


Having played all the Star Ocean titles officially available in North America, I was more than eager to try out Square-Enix's remake of the game that started it all. As most Star Ocean fans know, the original title was released on the Super Famicom in 1996 but never saw the light of day in the US, so this PSP-exclusive remake is the first time many of us will be playing the game. Read on to find out my thoughts after spending a couple of hours with the game.

Continue reading PSP Fanboy hands-on: Star Ocean: First Departure

JoystiqPSP Fanboy hands-on: Star Ocean: First Departure originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>first-departurejoystiqfeaturessquaresquare-enixstar-oceanstar-ocean-first-departuretri-aceFri, 19 Sep 2008 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII demo to be over 90 minutes long]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/final-fantasy-xiii-demo-to-be-over-90-minutes-long/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/final-fantasy-xiii-demo-to-be-over-90-minutes-long/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/16/final-fantasy-xiii-demo-to-be-over-90-minutes-long/#commentsFiled under:


The latest issue of Famitsu PS3 is all about the recent Square Enix DKΣ3713 event, and FinalFantasyXIII.net has a few juicy scans from the magazine. One of the more interesting things to point about the upcoming FFXIII demo bundled with Advent Children Complete: the demo will be on a separate Blu-ray disc (meaning it will unlikely be region locked), and the amount of gameplay is promised to be longer than the length of Advent Children. That means the FFXIII demo should be at least 90 minutes long, if not longer. That's huge! The demo will supposedly come from the very beginning of the game, so players won't have to worry about spoiling the later parts of the game.

[Thanks, Monkey!]

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII demo to be over 90 minutes long originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Aug 2008 09:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advent-childrenadvent-children-completeff13ffxiiifinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-13final-fantasy-xiiisquaresquare-enixSat, 16 Aug 2008 09:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix pres Yoichi Wada preaches platform neutrality]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/square-enix-pres-yoichi-wada-preaches-platform-neutrality/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/square-enix-pres-yoichi-wada-preaches-platform-neutrality/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/29/square-enix-pres-yoichi-wada-preaches-platform-neutrality/#commentsFiled under: ,


Really, anyone old enough to remember Square's 1997 PlayStation debut with Final Fantasy VII - a franchise that had only existed on Nintendo platforms - shouldn't have been that shocked to see Square president Yoichi Wada sneak back onto the stage during Microsoft's E3 press conference to announce "one more thing": Final Fantasy XIII would be multi-platform.

Speaking with GamesIndustry.biz, Wada said, "We always consider the territory and hardware for titles, and I just want to make sure that we're neutral about dealing with companies." Though he conceded that "in Japan ... the Xbox 360 isn't really that strong yet" he acknowledged that in "North America Microsoft is doing very well with its hardware." Sounds about right to us.

Throw in escalating development costs, and you've got a no-brainer. Wada sums it up: "We're now in the age of the multi-platform ... in order to offer our product to the vast majority of gamers we need to deal with multiple companies and platforms." Multiplatform third-party games are increasingly the norm; however, with certain "now-gen" Square Enix titles remaining selectively exclusive (think Infinite Undiscovery), we're not quite ready to call it for Final Fantasy Versus XIII.

JoystiqSquare Enix pres Yoichi Wada preaches platform neutrality originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jul 2008 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Final-Fantasy-XIIIPS3SquareSquare-EnixXbox-360Yoichi-WadaTue, 29 Jul 2008 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Neil Goldman wants you to sign a Final Fantasy XIII petition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/neil-goldman-wants-you-to-sign-a-final-fantasy-xiii-petition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/neil-goldman-wants-you-to-sign-a-final-fantasy-xiii-petition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/neil-goldman-wants-you-to-sign-a-final-fantasy-xiii-petition/#commentsFiled under:

A Neil Goldman-lookalike and soundalike has posted a video on Youtube expressing his ... dissatisfaction with yesterday's announcement that Final Fantasy XIII will be go multiplatform. This "expert" in Japanese culture offers to the "gaming community" the consequences of Square-Enix's actions. He encourages us all to sign an online petition requesting an apology from Square-Enix and changing FFXIII back to a PS3 exclusive. Watch especially for the toast he offers at 1:38! Some real comedy gold here.

[Yes, we are aware this is Kevin Bowen of Something Awful. It doesn't make it any less hilarious. Apparently the people at PetitionOnline.com caught on as well, as the petition has been taken down.]

JoystiqNeil Goldman wants you to sign a Final Fantasy XIII petition originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffxiiifinal-fantasy-xiiipetitionsquaresquare-enixTue, 15 Jul 2008 20:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy XIII petition video is an instant comedy classic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/final-fantasy-xiii-petition-video-is-an-instant-comedy-classic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/final-fantasy-xiii-petition-video-is-an-instant-comedy-classic/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/final-fantasy-xiii-petition-video-is-an-instant-comedy-classic/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

[Update: Apparently this is a video of Kevin Bowen of Something Awful fame (infame?), making us 99.999% sure that it's a joke. Thanks, commenters.]

We can't really decide whether or not the ridiculously over-the-top mad genius in this Final Fantasy XIII petition video (some slightly NSFW language) is for real or not. On the one hand, the know-it-all, spittle-flecked delivery and lines like "I personally do not admire this game any more," seem like a satire of every fanboy stereotype in the book. On the other hand, the final few minutes of the video are delivered with such passion ("I don't think you realize how emotionally invested some of your fans are!") that it feels almost real.

Regardless of its veracity, the video is an instant comedy classic, intentionally or not. If there's any justice in the world, references to"public sue-de-ku" and "Final Fantasy [making] its final sale" will live on as inside jokes in the gaming community for years to come.

Continue reading Final Fantasy XIII petition video is an instant comedy classic

JoystiqFinal Fantasy XIII petition video is an instant comedy classic originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffxiiifinal-fantasy-xiiimad-geniuspetitionPS3squaresquare-enixvideoXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Tue, 15 Jul 2008 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[How to justify buying expensive SNES games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/how-to-justify-buying-expensive-snes-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/how-to-justify-buying-expensive-snes-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/29/how-to-justify-buying-expensive-snes-games/#commentsFiled under:


Do you crave awesome, quite rare SNES games? Do you wish you could buy said games without feeling guilty about coughing up the kind of money that would go a long way on the Virtual Console? Then we have a solution, dear reader -- head over to one of the two auctions we've linked below and bid away on whichever takes your fancy.

The first lot consists of Square duo Chrono Trigger and Secret of Mana auction (current price: $68), while the second consists of Super Mario RPG and Super Mario All-Stars (currently at $57). Even though they lack boxes, all four are quality games, and will serve a worthy cause -- every cent spent will go to Goodwill Industries of Central Indiana-West, a non-profit provider of training, career services, and education for people with disadvantages, including homelessness, lack of education, and physical, mental and emotional disabilities.

Go on, do it! It'll make you feel all fuzzy inside, and may even assuage the guilt of the thousands you wasted on Stadium Events. But probably not.

Read: Chrono Trigger and Secret of Mana
Read: Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars and Super Mario All-Stars

[Via GamerTell]

JoystiqHow to justify buying expensive SNES games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auctioncharitychrono-triggermarioplatformrarerpgsecret-of-manasnessquaresquare-enixsuper-mario-all-starssuper-mario-rpgsuper-nintendoSun, 29 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix CEO gifts sweet DS Lite to XSEED CEO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/square-enix-ceo-gifts-sweet-ds-lite-to-xseed-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/square-enix-ceo-gifts-sweet-ds-lite-to-xseed-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/square-enix-ceo-gifts-sweet-ds-lite-to-xseed-ceo/#commentsFiled under: ,


You're looking at the gift. See, XSEED's CEO is Jun Iwasaki, who used to run Square Enix before he left to found his current company. The head honcho over at Square Enix now, Tetsuya Nomura, decided to hook him up with the custom It's a Wonderful World (The World Ends With You) handheld in what we can only hope is an example to others in the future. We have to break down these barriers!

We want to see a Coca Cola truck driver letting a Pepsi truck driver merge during heavy traffic. We want to see DS and PSP enthusiasts swapping consoles, sharing great experiences with each other. It's ... it's just such a feel good moment.

JoystiqSquare Enix CEO gifts sweet DS Lite to XSEED CEO originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coca-colagiftjun-iwasakipepsiplaystation-portablepspsonysquaresquare-enixtetsuya-nomurathe-world-ends-with-youworld-ends-with-youxseedThu, 26 Jun 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dissidia: Final Fantasy website updated with story and characters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/dissidia-final-fantasy-website-updated-with-story-and-character/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/dissidia-final-fantasy-website-updated-with-story-and-character/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/26/dissidia-final-fantasy-website-updated-with-story-and-character/#commentsFiled under: ,


The Japanese website of Dissidia: Final Fantasy has just been updated with new material. The story, characters, screenshots, credits, and general game information are now available for viewing. Clicking on Story will lead you to a short scene of the Warrior of Light from the original Final Fantasy readying his sword followed by a synopsis of the story. Under Characters you can view characters from Final Fantasy I, II, VII VIII, and IX and their corresponding screenshots. Noticeably absent are the most popular characters, those from Final Fantasy VII and X. Under Info you will find credits and general information about the game. Come check out everything here.

[Thanks, salika!]

JoystiqDissidia: Final Fantasy website updated with story and characters originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jun 2008 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dissidiafinal-fantasysquaresquare-enixsquareenixThu, 26 Jun 2008 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Mario OFLC: Legend of the Green G]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/super-mario-oflc-legend-of-the-green-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/super-mario-oflc-legend-of-the-green-g/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/13/super-mario-oflc-legend-of-the-green-g/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Australian and European gamers were forced to watch even more wistfully than us as we rejoiced of the news that Nintendo of Japan was planning Super Mario RPG for release this month. Because the game also came out in the U.S., it offered the possibility of a future Virtual Console release. Well, now, in an even more unlikely turn of events, the Australian OFLC has rated the game before the American ESRB!

You may have to wait for the next Hanabi Festival to roll around (because Super Mario RPG never came out in Australia or Europe!), but soon, you could (potentially) be enjoying Square and Nintendo's bizarre isometric RPG. As usual, we must remind you that an OFLC rating is no guarantee of a speedy, or even real, release. However, the news makes it seem even more likely that Super Mario RPG will actually come out worldwide.

[Via Cubed3; thanks, velocitySTRIKE!]

JoystiqSuper Mario OFLC: Legend of the Green G originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaoflcrpgsquaresuper-mario-rpgFri, 13 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See the first trailer from Square's new MMO, Concerto Gate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/see-the-first-trailer-from-squares-new-mmo-concerto-gate/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/see-the-first-trailer-from-squares-new-mmo-concerto-gate/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/see-the-first-trailer-from-squares-new-mmo-concerto-gate/#commentsFiled under: ,

Wow, talk about being of two minds. On the one hand, this first trailer from Square's new free MMORPG Concerto Gate is breathtakingly attractive, though it's gameplay-free. On the other hand, we spent the entire duration of the trailer fighting the urge to give ourselves purple nurples. The game, as you may not know, is the forthcoming sequel to Cross Gate, an MMO that's been kicking around Japan since 2001, and it sports a style that could kindly be described as "whimsical."

All that aside, we have to admit Square's got us for now. But if we end up jamming our own heads in a toilet and finding a locker to stuff ourselves in, it's on their heads.

JoystiqSee the first trailer from Square's new MMO, Concerto Gate originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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