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[Nippon Ichi shows off improved Disgaea 4 art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/nippon-ichi-shows-off-improved-disgaea-4-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/nippon-ichi-shows-off-improved-disgaea-4-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/nippon-ichi-shows-off-improved-disgaea-4-art/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you're a fan of Nippon Ichi's twisted strategy RPG series, Disgaea, you've likely spent a ludicrous number of hours staring at illustrator Takehido Harada's charming 2D character art. You'll get to do so again with Disgaea 4, with the benefit of higher-resolution artwork. By the looks of things (check out Andriasang for some neat comparison and screenshots), the new sprites have lost none of their personality in the long-awaited upgrade.

Disgaeaeaeaea 4 will launch on PlayStation 3 in February 2011 with a limited edition package, including a Nendoroid Petit figure, art book and soundtrack CD. It'll also retain all the original illustrations, allowing you to toggle between the old and new characters. It's nice that the old art is sticking around, but couldn't Nippon Ichi have shipped their used goods to a less fortunate soul, like IGA?

JoystiqNippon Ichi shows off improved Disgaea 4 art originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disgaeadisgaea-4nippon-ichiplaystationps3spritessrpgThu, 07 Oct 2010 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Disgaea 4 coming to PS3 in Japan February 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/disgaea-4-coming-to-japan-for-ps3-in-february-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/disgaea-4-coming-to-japan-for-ps3-in-february-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/disgaea-4-coming-to-japan-for-ps3-in-february-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Nippon Ichi Software introduced a project that "holds the fate of our company" -- Disgaea 4. The president of Nippon Ichi took the stage of a TGS press conference to announce the game wearing a Prinny suit to show "how serious we are."

Like previous entries in the series, Disgaea 4 is a hardcore SRPG with a comedic twist. NIS is promising "stupidity to the MAX" in this upcoming endeavor. Taking place in hell, the story will have a political theme, with players building their own political cabinets. "I'd love to have questionable politicians play this game," he joked.

New features for Disgaea 4 are the addition of network features which will allow you to invade other player's worlds, and vice versa. However, the primary new feature is the revamped focused on graphics. While the game will still retain its trademark 2D look, the resolution of the sprite art has been bumped significantly, and will look more like illustrator Takehito Harada's original drawings. "Wow, that must have cost a lot," the NIS host joked during the presentation.

Disgaea 4 will be releasing exclusively on PS3 on February 24, 2011 in Japan. A US release should follow afterwards.

Continue reading Disgaea 4 coming to PS3 in Japan February 2011

JoystiqDisgaea 4 coming to PS3 in Japan February 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disgaea-4nippon-ichiNippon-Ichi-Softwareplaystationps3srpgtgs-2010Fri, 17 Sep 2010 03:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Record of Agarest War on PSN this week, requires 18GB of free space]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/record-of-agarest-war-on-psn-this-week-requires-18gb-of-free-sp/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/record-of-agarest-war-on-psn-this-week-requires-18gb-of-free-sp/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/record-of-agarest-war-on-psn-this-week-requires-18gb-of-free-sp/#comments Aksys' not-actually-very-erotic-but-being-marketed-that-way SRPG Record of Agarest War is finally coming to the North American PlayStation Store this week. Available this Thursday for $44.99, the only way you'll be able to play this game on PS3 is to download the game via PSN. However, don't expect to play the game right away. As promised, it's a hefty download: 10GB.

However, while the download is 10GB, you'll need 18GB of free space on your hard drive in order to complete the installation. To see how much free space you have, go to System Settings -> System Information on the XMB. If you plan on having the game download and install overnight, go to Users -> Turn Off System once you queue up the download, so that your PS3 can automatically shut down after installing the game.

JoystiqRecord of Agarest War on PSN this week, requires 18GB of free space originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksyspsnrecord-of-agarest-warsrpgTue, 27 Apr 2010 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[VC in Brief: Ogre Battle 64 (N64)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/vc-in-brief-ogre-battle-64-n64/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/vc-in-brief-ogre-battle-64-n64/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/29/vc-in-brief-ogre-battle-64-n64/#comments This week's VC in Brief can be described with one word: epic. Seriously, Ogre Battle 64 is one of the more huge games on the N64 console. It's a traditional fantasy title -- a SRPG, if you want to go all technical on it -- and relies upon many of the genre's staples. As such, the above video weighs in at over 10 minutes. It's without a doubt the longest video we've done yet.
  • Ogre Battle 64: Person of Lordly Caliber (Nintendo 64, 1 player, 1,000 Wii Points)
Every week, we like to check out what's new on the Virtual Console. We offer VC in Brief 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: Ogre Battle 64 (N64) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusn64ogre-64-person-of-lordly-caliberogre-battleogre-battle-64rpgsrpgvc-in-briefMon, 29 Mar 2010 20:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Record of Agarest War is largest PSN game ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/record-of-agarest-war-is-largest-psn-game-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/record-of-agarest-war-is-largest-psn-game-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/record-of-agarest-war-is-largest-psn-game-ever/#comments If you managed to get into the MAG beta and thought that was a lot of downloading, Aksys' Record of Agarest War is going to blow your mind. The PSN title will weigh in "somewhere around 8 - 10 gigs," an Aksys employee posted on the game's forums. Obviously, eight to ten gigabytes isn't going to be much space for your PS3's big and burly hard drive and it's definitely understandable considering the game was originally a disc-based release in Europe; however, the time it'll take to download all of those gigglebytes is another story.

We suggest starting the download before you go to bed or -- considering the "100 hour" adventure isn't actually out yet -- taking the Delorean up to 88MPH.

[Via Siliconera]

Gallery: Record of Agarest War

JoystiqRecord of Agarest War is largest PSN game ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysanimejrpgpsnrecord-of-agarest-warsrpgFri, 04 Dec 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Valkyria Chronicles 2 gameplay footage looks as good as we want it to be]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/valkyria-chronicles-2-gameplay-footage-looks-as-good-as-we-want/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/valkyria-chronicles-2-gameplay-footage-looks-as-good-as-we-want/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/10/valkyria-chronicles-2-gameplay-footage-looks-as-good-as-we-want/#comments Don't be a hater. Valkyria Chronicles 2 may not be on the PS3 (or 360) as many had wished, but it certainly looks fine as-is on the PSP. Sega has done a remarkable job of recreating the look and, more importantly, gameplay of the original game. Considering the limited power of the PSP, we're positively surprised by the results.

With a brand new branching class system, and the promise of multiplayer, VC2 is shaping up to be the sequel we've all clamored for. Sure, it may not be in HD, but when was the last time you were able to play Valkyria Chronicles while on the toilet seat ... of an airplane? Check out another clip after the break.

Gallery: Valkyria Chronicles 2


[Via PSPHyper]

Continue reading Valkyria Chronicles 2 gameplay footage looks as good as we want it to be

JoystiqValkyria Chronicles 2 gameplay footage looks as good as we want it to be originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jrpgsegasrpgvalkyria-chroniclesvalkyria-chronicles-2Thu, 10 Sep 2009 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch a few minutes of Record of Agarest War's '100 hour' adventure]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/watch-a-few-minutes-of-record-of-agarest-wars-100-hour-advent/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/watch-a-few-minutes-of-record-of-agarest-wars-100-hour-advent/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/28/watch-a-few-minutes-of-record-of-agarest-wars-100-hour-advent/#comments Niche RPG Record of Agarest War is coming to the States (in English!) courtesy of Aksys Games this fall. Considering the limited appeal of oldschool 2D sprite-based RPGs, the publisher has opted to distribute the game exclusively through the PlayStation Network. While it may be a "mere" downloadable title, Aksys is promoting the game's supposed "100 hours" of gameplay, making it easily one of the lengthiest PSN titles ever.

Record of Agarest War is known for its use of anime fanservice and this initial clip shows us why. Apparently, girls have trouble covering the entirety of their chests in the world of Agarest. While that may prove to be problematic in battle, the video (after the break) shows that real warriors have no need for appropriate attire.

Gallery: Record of Agarest War

Continue reading Watch a few minutes of Record of Agarest War's '100 hour' adventure

JoystiqWatch a few minutes of Record of Agarest War's '100 hour' adventure originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aksysanimejrpgpsnrecord-of-agarest-warsrpgFri, 28 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Adventures to Go brings ... adventures to go on PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/adventures-to-go-brings-adventures-to-go-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/adventures-to-go-brings-adventures-to-go-on-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/19/adventures-to-go-brings-adventures-to-go-on-psp/#comments
We love straightforward titles. That's why we approve of Natsume's newly announced Adventures to Go for PSP. It's yet another addition to PSP's expansive SRPG library, but Natsume plans on taking a more humorous approach than traditional strategy games. Players will take control of Finn Courtland and his "band of misfits" on a quest to fight demons and save the world (real original, right?). Players will be able to set up the game's randomized dungeons by choosing the terrain, the size of the dungeon and the types of monsters players will face. The riskier dungeons will provide even larger rewards.

Adventures to Go has a planned summer release, and will make its first public appearance at E3. You can check out the first screenshots in our gallery below:

JoystiqAdventures to Go brings ... adventures to go on PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 May 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventures-to-godungeonnatsumesrpgTue, 19 May 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days coming to PSP this year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/disgaea-2-dark-hero-days-coming-to-psp-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/disgaea-2-dark-hero-days-coming-to-psp-this-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/disgaea-2-dark-hero-days-coming-to-psp-this-year/#commentsThe PSP enhanced port of Disgaea 2 will be getting a US release this year. Dark Hero Days will feature all the content of the original SRPG, but will add new story chapters, a new main character and additional skills, items and side characters. New battle features introduced in Disgaea 3 will also be transplanted into this portable game.

While the game's trailer specifically states a Summer release, the press release says the game will release in the Fall. Either way, you'll be able to play the game this year. Keen observers will see a PlayStation Network icon at the end of the trailer -- could this title be digitally distributed?

JoystiqDisgaea 2: Dark Hero Days coming to PSP this year originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 May 2009 00:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dark-hero-daysdisgaeadisgaea-2Disgaea-2-Dark-Hero-Daysnippon-ichiNippon-Ichi-Softwarenis-americasrpgStrategy-RPGFri, 08 May 2009 00:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Sakura Wars: So Long, My Love coming to Wii, PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/sakura-wars-so-long-my-love-coming-to-wii-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/sakura-wars-so-long-my-love-coming-to-wii-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/08/sakura-wars-so-long-my-love-coming-to-wii-ps2/#comments Nippon Ichi is finally bringing the Sakura Wars series to the US. The cult anime series will be hitting US audiences as a SRPG destined for Wii and PS2. So Long, My Love promises a unique battle system divided into two parts: ground combat and air combat. In the Sakura Wars universe, it appears mechs don't just fight on the ground. No, they transform into jets that fight in the sky as well! Players will have to keep sharp as they battle enemies on these two vastly different fronts.

Developed by Idea Factory, Sakura Wars is scheduled for a US release this Fall.

JoystiqSakura Wars: So Long, My Love coming to Wii, PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 May 2009 00:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>idea-factorynippon-ichinis-americasakura-warssrpgFri, 08 May 2009 00:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days PSP trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/disgaea-2-dark-hero-days-psp-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/disgaea-2-dark-hero-days-psp-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/27/disgaea-2-dark-hero-days-psp-trailer/#comments
We thought we saw everything there was to see regarding the upcoming PSP version of Disgaea 2, recently subtitled: Dark Hero Days. Little did we know a trailer for the portable upgrade was hiding up someone's sleeve at developer Nippon Ichi's home office. After giving the trailer a good once over, we've come to the conclusion that ... well, it's Disgaea -- plus more stuff. An additional storyline starring the dark hero Axel, new game play features and easier pickup-and-play ability on the go are just a few of the enhancements made to Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days. Check out the trailer after the break.

Continue reading Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days PSP trailer

JoystiqDisgaea 2: Dark Hero Days PSP trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Feb 2009 22:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>disgaea-2-pspnippon-ichinis-americasrpgFri, 27 Feb 2009 22:01:00 EST<![CDATA[A Luminous Gold Box from Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/a-luminous-gold-box-from-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/a-luminous-gold-box-from-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/12/a-luminous-gold-box-from-amazon/#commentsFiled under:


One of Amazon's all-video-game Gold Box Deals today, scheduled for 6PM PST, features the teaser text "Get bonus goodies with this radiant crescent." We puzzled out the completely transparent clue all by ourselves, guessing that it was Luminous Arc 2 with its included soundtrack CD. Then, just as we were congratulating ourselves for our moderate riddle-solving skills, Atlus totally spoiled the ending with an email to their "Atlus Faithful" mailing list, confirming the identity of the offer. It must have felt nice for them to reveal something early after all the ESRB spoilers.

Now all we don't know is the price drop the game will temporarily receive -- but at least it's getting one. The $36.99 that Amazon currently charges for the SRPG is painful.

JoystiqA Luminous Gold Box from Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonatlusgold-boxluminous-arc-2srpgMon, 12 Jan 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Koei strategy pair rated by ESRB]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/koei-strategy-pair-rated-by-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/koei-strategy-pair-rated-by-esrb/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/27/koei-strategy-pair-rated-by-esrb/#commentsFiled under: ,


The ESRB has rated a pair of Koei games that aren't Dynasty Warriors for release on the Virtual Console. Both are historical strategic RPGs, though with very different settings. The first, Nobunaga's Ambition (top screens above), tasks players with conquering feudal Japan, while Uncharted Waters: New Horizons is based more on life at sea, and lets you indulge in sailing, trading, and even piracy.

We assume these are the NES versions, though could be wrong -- there were versions of each on the Genesis and SNES. Considering a boxed of copy of either goes for about $20 or $25 on eBay, we could be in for a bargain when these appear.

JoystiqKoei strategy pair rated by ESRB originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>esrbgenesiskoeinesnobunagas-ambitionrpgsnessrpgstrategyuncharted-watersThu, 27 Nov 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: Luminous Arc 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/ds-fanboy-review-luminous-arc-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/ds-fanboy-review-luminous-arc-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/ds-fanboy-review-luminous-arc-2/#commentsFiled under:

There's a lot of strategy available on the DS. Whatever your strategy-flavor preference, you can get it (almost), so it takes a lot for these newer faces to stand out. If all you saw of the Luminous Arc series was the ads and the occasional screenshot, you might think the burgeoning franchise was all about boobs and butts, and while they play an important part, of course, there's a lot more to Luminous Arc than itty-bitty witch costumes.

The other thing working against (or maybe for some, for) the glut of strategy-style games on the DS is the inherent sameness of titles in the genre. You've got some dudes, a grid, and a lot of battles, once the good guys run into the bad on said grid. Because of that, everything else about the game is scrutinized heavily; after we've established that combat isn't broken and the game works in a strategic sort of sense, we're left studying controls, scripting, presentation, and just plain fun factor. Luckily, Luminous Arc 2 does manage to shine in those categories.

Gallery: Luminous Arc 2

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: Luminous Arc 2

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: Luminous Arc 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusimageepochluminous-arc-2luminousarcsrpgTue, 25 Nov 2008 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Valkyrie Profile: Localization of the Game [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/valkyrie-profile-localization-of-the-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/valkyrie-profile-localization-of-the-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/11/valkyrie-profile-localization-of-the-game/#commentsFiled under:


Valkyrie Profile: The Accused One shipped in Japan just a few days ago, racking up 80,000 sales in its first week and finishing in second place in the charts (to, um, Grand Theft Auto IV).

With a triumphant Japanese launch under its belt, Square Enix is now turning its attention to us, and has opened an understated teaser site to announce the localization and release date of the game in the U.S. As previous evidence has hinted, it'll be known as Valkyrie Profile: Covenant of the Plume in North America, and will release on March 17th. Is the DS the greatest system for RPGs since the SNES or what? That's rhetorical, because it clearly is.

Also, the beautiful Japanese boxart would be welcome here, if anybody from Square Enix is reading!

[Update: A Square Enix press release informs us Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride will reach the States on February 17th! Too. Much. RPG. Goodness.]

Gallery: Valkyrie Profile: The Accused One


[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqValkyrie Profile: Localization of the Game [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>covenant-of-the-plumelocalizationsquare-enixsrpgthe-accused-onetri-acevalkyrie-profileTue, 11 Nov 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Atlus's Devil Survivor revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/atluss-devil-survivor-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/atluss-devil-survivor-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/atluss-devil-survivor-revealed/#commentsFiled under: ,


The mysterious game Megami Ibunroku Devil Survivor that Atlus teased in last week's Famitsu has been revealed (in this week's Famitsu, obviously). It turns out that the "wait seven days to see it" thing was thematically appropriate: Devil Survivor, like The World Ends With You, gives players seven days to save Tokyo from destruction. Unlike Square Enix's well-received action RPG thing, this is a strategy RPG.

The game, due out in January, will feature monsters designed by well-known Atlus character designer Kazuma Kaneko, who also did character designs for the last Trauma Center.

JoystiqAtlus's Devil Survivor revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusdevil-survivormegami-tenseisrpgThu, 06 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Preview: Luminous Arc 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/ds-fanboy-preview-luminous-arc-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/ds-fanboy-preview-luminous-arc-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/06/ds-fanboy-preview-luminous-arc-2/#commentsFiled under: ,

We like to poke fun at Luminous Arc and its successor due to all the boobs-and-butts shots, but we do it out of love. Despite the first title's somewhat lackluster overall review scores, it's looked on a little more fondly in the DS Fanboy offices. The first game had a lot working for it, and a major thing working against it: the controls. So when we sat down for a little quality time with the sequel, Luminous Arc 2, we paid particular attention to that aspect. And guess what?

It's better, and not only that, but the ability to do things your way is great. D-pad or stylus control? It's up to you. Tap through the cutscenes, play them automatically, or skip them altogether? Make it your game. For those reasons alone, Luminous Arc 2 is worth a go.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Preview: Luminous Arc 2

JoystiqDS Fanboy Preview: Luminous Arc 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>imageepochjoystiqfeaturesluminous-arc-2srpgThu, 06 Nov 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[See the singing shocktrooper of Valkyria Chronicles, Rosie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/see-the-singing-stormtrooper-of-valkyria-chronicles-rosie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/see-the-singing-stormtrooper-of-valkyria-chronicles-rosie/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/30/see-the-singing-stormtrooper-of-valkyria-chronicles-rosie/#commentsFiled under:

We're pretty excited for Valkyria Chronicles. The PS3-exclusive SRPG from Sega has been getting great early reviews. And why wouldn't it? Not only does it look good, but it has a cabaret girl singing while kicking ass. Who could possibly dislike a game like that?

JoystiqSee the singing shocktrooper of Valkyria Chronicles, Rosie originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>segasrpgvalkyria-chroniclesThu, 30 Oct 2008 19:17:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS08: Rising Star reveals four for Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/tgs08-rising-star-reveals-four-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/tgs08-rising-star-reveals-four-for-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/13/tgs08-rising-star-reveals-four-for-europe/#commentsFiled under: ,


Rising Star Games just unfurled an official list of Marvelous games that it plans to localize for Europe, including Luminous Arc 2, Avalon Code, Rune Factory 2, and a fourth game that is yet to be announced for North America: Steal Princess. We expected most (if not all) of these to reach us at some point, mainly because Rising Star Games is totally awesome and we love them.

Previous evidence has suggested that Steal Princess and Luminous Arc 2 won't be appearing before the end of March 2009, but we can't be mad at Marvelous. The company has had an action-packed Tokyo Game Show, and this is the cherry on top of a whole pile of other excellent announcements for Nintendo fans. Make the jump for screens, screens, and more screens!

Gallery: Steal Princess

Continue reading TGS08: Rising Star reveals four for Europe

JoystiqTGS08: Rising Star reveals four for Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arpgatlusavalon-codeclimaxeuropeharvest-moonimage-epochlocalizationluminous-arc-2marvelousmatrix-softwarenatsumepuzzlerising-star-gamesrpgrune-factory-2srpgsteal-princessMon, 13 Oct 2008 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[VC Friday: Thursday edition [Update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/vc-friday-thursday-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/vc-friday-thursday-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/vc-friday-thursday-edition/#commentsFiled under: ,

And the Nintendo of Europe site leaks another morsel of info! Not long ago, news of Nintendo selling music appeared in our RSS feed weeks early, only to lead to a dead link after it was hastily pulled by Nintendo. And now another slippage has occurred, with Nintendo accidentally revealing (what we suspect are the contents of) tomorrow's PAL Virtual Console update: Earthworm Jim and Shining Force II.

Once again, the news appears in our RSS feed (as seen here) while the story itself has been yanked from Ninty's site. All being well then, tomorrow's VC update for Europe and Australia should read something like this:
These aren't set in stone yet, so we'll label this as a rumor, but it looks likely. Also: "Hurray!" for both of these.

Update: And it's confirmed: those are your titles for this week, PAL people! [Thanks, Lanceh!]

JoystiqVC Friday: Thursday edition [Update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaearthworm-jimeuropefridaygenesismega-driveplatformrun-and-gunsegashining-forceshining-force-iishinysrpgThu, 02 Oct 2008 18:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverland Card Battles debut trailer is J-Poppy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/neverland-card-battles-debut-trailer-is-j-poppy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/neverland-card-battles-debut-trailer-is-j-poppy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/05/neverland-card-battles-debut-trailer-is-j-poppy/#commentsFiled under:


Download to PSP

You know, we just don't have enough strategy RPGs on the PSP. With the exception of Disgaea, Final Fantasy Tactics, Wild Arms, R-Type Command, and Yggdra Union, there's certainly a dearth of games to choose from. Thankfully, Neverland Card Battles will fill in this sorely under-represented genre on PSP. Coming this fall, this very anime SRPG combines: cards AND strategy (shock!). Certainly, PSP owners will be totally unfamiliar with this innovative genre of gameplay.


JoystiqNeverland Card Battles debut trailer is J-Poppy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>neverland-card-battlessrpgFri, 05 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Shining Force to light up the DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/shining-force-to-light-up-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/shining-force-to-light-up-the-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/03/shining-force-to-light-up-the-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's been over four years since any Shining Force title graced a Nintendo system (not counting the Virtual Console), since which the series has been mostly limited to remakes for Japanese mobile phones.

So thank the heavens for Sega, which just announced a totally new entry, titled Shining Force Feather, in the pages of Famitsu. An all-2D strategy RPG, the game is due out in Japan next spring, and features a combination of isometric viewpoints (while out in the field) and a side-on view for battles (as seen in the scan snippet above). Best of all, it's in the talented hands of Flight Plan, who last developed Summon Night: Twin Age, which we really liked. Hit the "Source" link for the full, glorious scans and join us in squealing.

Update: Corrected factual error.

JoystiqShining Force to light up the DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Sep 2008 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flight-plansegashining-forceshining-force-feathersrpgWed, 03 Sep 2008 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy hands-on: Yggdra Union]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/psp-fanboy-hands-on-yggdra-union/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/psp-fanboy-hands-on-yggdra-union/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/psp-fanboy-hands-on-yggdra-union/#commentsFiled under:


Wow, Yggdra Union is tough. That's probably the first thing you'll say after getting through a few matches of Atlus' upcoming PSP SRPG. It'll take a few battles to wrap your head around the unique mechanics of the card game, and although the game does an excellent job of holding your hand, don't expect an easy romp, even in the second battle in the game.

Yggdra Union is a tactical card RPG that will test your tactical capabilities through and through -- there's no grinding here to be found. Battles are typically multi-tiered: just when you think you're done with a level, a new set of increasingly difficult reinforcements appear. However, because your character's morale (essentially, their HP) carries over from battle to battle, across every level, each battle is decisive. If you make too many mistakes with one character, you'll notice that they'll be at a serious disadvantage in upcoming battles. And don't think about grinding to level up your characters: you can't. The story moves at such a brisk pace that your success depends solely on your ability to choose the right cards, and decide exactly how to move your characters through the map.

The basics of battle are easy to explain, but the full ramifications won't truly make sense until you get the game in your hands. Before each conflict, players can choose a certain number of cards. Cards will grant players special abilities, but also have important stats like number of spaces players can move, card strength and weapon affinity. Quite possibly the most important thing to pay attention to is the weapon affinity: certain weapons are stronger than others, and these will be one of the primary factors of a battle's success. For example, swords are stronger than axes, but axes are stronger than spears. Spears, on the other hand, are stronger than swords. This circle gets more complicated with the introduction of magic users and archers.

Continue reading PSP Fanboy hands-on: Yggdra Union

JoystiqPSP Fanboy hands-on: Yggdra Union originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlushands-onjoystiqfeaturespreviewsrpgyggdra-unionMon, 18 Aug 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Neverland Card Battles brings even more SRPG action to PSP this Fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/neverland-card-battles-brings-even-more-srpg-action-to-psp-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/neverland-card-battles-brings-even-more-srpg-action-to-psp-this/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/07/neverland-card-battles-brings-even-more-srpg-action-to-psp-this/#commentsFiled under:


PSP really is THE system for SRPG fans, with classics like Disgaea and Final Fantasy Tactics taking center stage last year. This year, the trend continues with R-Type Tactics and now ... Neverland Card Battles. Coming this Fall, this SRPG comes from the folks at YUKES (with distribution being handled by Atlus).

A war between human and demons wages on in Neverland, and players must control the Dominators to prevent an evil god from awakening. By using special Spectral Cards, players will be able to banish the evil Hellgaia and save Neverland from certain doom.

"The original Japanese version of Neverland Card Battles was extremely well-received and caught our attention as the best trading card game out there," said Ken Koyama, Manager of Product Development at YUKE'S Company of America. "We have enhanced and optimized NCB for the portable experience, and will offer one of the finest card-strategy games ever created for the PSP this fall."

JoystiqNeverland Card Battles brings even more SRPG action to PSP this Fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusneverland-card-battlessrpgyukesThu, 07 Aug 2008 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Get a glimpse of Disgaea DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/get-a-glimpse-of-disgaea-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/get-a-glimpse-of-disgaea-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/30/get-a-glimpse-of-disgaea-ds/#commentsFiled under:


Both veteran Disgaea fans and new fans who want to experience the series for the first time are getting ready for the release of Disgaea DS. The strategizing won't begin until September 23rd, but until then, it's a good idea for us to know exactly what we're getting into by observing some gameplay action.

We think that the presentation is pretty nice on the DS, and although the graphics may have toned down in the translation, the visuals aren't wanting for anything. As for the gameplay, Disgaea virgins will notice from the videos that while the grid-based style is familiar, the actual execution differs from many other strategy games.

Come September, we're ready to sacrifice hundreds of hours of our lives playing this title. Are you with us?

More battle footage lies after the break!

Continue reading Get a glimpse of Disgaea DS

JoystiqGet a glimpse of Disgaea DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DisgaeaDisgaea-DSnippon-ichinippon-ichi-softwarenisNIS-AmericasrpgstrategyStrategy-RPGWed, 30 Jul 2008 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hope for long-lost Jagged Alliance DS?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/hope-for-long-lost-jagged-alliance-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/hope-for-long-lost-jagged-alliance-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/21/hope-for-long-lost-jagged-alliance-ds/#commentsFiled under:


Way back in 2005, Strategy First announced a DS version of Jagged Alliance 2 Gold, which became increasingly vaporous as time passed. Gamefly now lists a Jagged Alliance game coming October 9, from publisher Empire Interactive. It may be a sign of renewed life for the Pocket PC Studios-developed port, or it could be the work of a new development team to whom the rights were granted after prolonged inactivity.

Jagged Alliance is a military strategy game series that originated on PC in 1994, involving player-controlled squads of mercenaries. Not only do the mercs have different skills, they interact differently with one another when teamed up. The player's actions lend a reputation that also affects the mercenaries' willingness to work.

[Update: Eric pointed out that Strategy First officially cancelled all their projects. Either Empire has picked up the pieces or this is an unrelated project.]

JoystiqHope for long-lost Jagged Alliance DS? originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>empire-interactivejagged-alliancesrpgstrategystrategy-firstMon, 21 Jul 2008 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Impressions: Valkyria Chronicles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/impressions-valkyria-chronicles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/impressions-valkyria-chronicles/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/impressions-valkyria-chronicles/#commentsFiled under:


Click for high-resolution image.

Sega's upcoming Valkyria Chronicles has everything a PS3 fan could want: not only is is pretty, it sports a unique artstyle, innovative gameplay ... and it's exclusive to PS3. We stopped by the Sega booth at E3 and was treated to a fun experience that will attract strategy and shooting fans alike.

The fundamentals of battle have us excited. Players must take out a swarm of enemy soldiers, and to do so they must be incredibly resourceful. Each turn grants players the ability to move characters around a map and attack enemies. Players must use each character's unique abilities wisely, as they only have a limited amount of turns to use before the enemies attack. For example, player may want to use a scout to move ahead forward and scout out enemy positions. Unlike other SRPGs, players have direct control over the characters they select; players will move the characters using the analog stick and must quickly find appropriate cover. Positioning is key: players will want to not only get a vantage over enemies, but they'll want to be in a position where return fire will not affect them.

Continue reading Impressions: Valkyria Chronicles

JoystiqImpressions: Valkyria Chronicles originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e308joystiqfeaturessegasrpgvalkyria-chroniclesFri, 18 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: Luminous Arc 2 screens add a dose of hilarity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-luminous-arc-2-screens-add-a-dose-of-hilarity/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-luminous-arc-2-screens-add-a-dose-of-hilarity/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/16/e308-luminous-arc-2-screens-add-a-dose-of-hilarity/#commentsFiled under: ,

Just last week, we found out Luminous Arc 2 was slated for localization (at last!), and since then we've been on the receiving end of a few fresh new English-language screens. We've already slipped in a little humor of our own in our coverage of the title, but conveniently, this time they've done all the work for us. Check out the latest screens while we kick back and relax.

Atlus has also put up the game's official English-language site (move your mouse around the front page for some motiion-sickness-causing lulz), as well as a trailer. Hit it up after the break to learn all about the horrors of anti-witch prejudice, battles, and rings.

Continue reading E308: Luminous Arc 2 screens add a dose of hilarity

JoystiqE308: Luminous Arc 2 screens add a dose of hilarity originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atluse3-2008e308image-epochluminous-arc-2marvelous-interactivesrpgWed, 16 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Luminous Arc 2 radiates to the U.S.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/luminous-arc-2-radiates-to-the-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/luminous-arc-2-radiates-to-the-u-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/11/luminous-arc-2-radiates-to-the-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Clearing up doubts on whether Image Epoch's bootytastic SRPG sequel, Luminous Arc 2: Will, would ever come stateside, Atlus has announced that it is localizing the game for this fall.

Why would you want to buy a lower budget Final Fantasy Tactics Advance knock-off, especially when you could just get Song Summoner for the iPod instead, you ask? We have an easy answer for that: online multiplayer battles. Also, big butts.

Luminous Arc 2 will retail for $39.99, significantly higher than most other DS titles, but each copy will come in an oversized box containing a CD with selected songs from the soundtrack. Presumably, it's the same CD that was released with the SRPG's preorders in Japan.

Enjoy three video clips from the English-translated game after the break! Interestingly, the voices are still in Japanese; we wonder if Atlus will leave the Japanese audio track intact?

Continue reading Luminous Arc 2 radiates to the U.S.

JoystiqLuminous Arc 2 radiates to the U.S. originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusimage-epochluminous-arcluminous-arc-2luminousarcmarvelous-interactivemitsudasoundtracksrpgyasunori-mitsudaFri, 11 Jul 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Archaic Sale Heat: SRPG import for $11]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/archaic-sale-heat-srpg-import-for-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/archaic-sale-heat-srpg-import-for-11/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/archaic-sale-heat-srpg-import-for-11/#commentsFiled under: ,


Now might not be the best time to order a Japanese copy of Archaic Sealed Heat, what with E3 right around the corner and a U.S. localization likely, but Play Asia is doing its best to convince us otherwise! The import online shop is selling copies of the gorgeous Mistwalker-developed title for only $11.90 (plus s/h). The deal lasts until next Monday, too, so they're giving us a lot of time to talk ourselves into it.

As far as SRPGs go, you really can't find anything cheaper! Well, unless you pick up Square Enix's iPod-exclusive Song Summoner for $4.99.

JoystiqArchaic Sale Heat: SRPG import for $11 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>archaic-sealed-heatashmistwalkerplay-asiaracjinsrpgWed, 09 Jul 2008 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod's new Square Enix SRPG better than FFTA2?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/ipods-new-square-enix-srpg-better-than-ffta2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/ipods-new-square-enix-srpg-better-than-ffta2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/08/ipods-new-square-enix-srpg-better-than-ffta2/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Out of nowhere, Square Enix has simultaneously announced and released Song Summoner: The Unsung Heroes, a new SRPG exclusive for the iPod challenging players to rescue their brother from the Mechanical Militia.

The game has you controlling Ziggy, a Conductor that can create Tune Trooper warriors out of your iPod's music tracks, similar to Monster Rancher's CD-generated creatures. Further integrating your All-4-One MP3s, Song Summoner will boost the "groove level" of your Tune Troopers every time you listen to the songs that birthed the units. Now you actually have an excuse for listening to "I Swear" several dozen times a day!

So, why are we talking about this iPod game on DS Fanboy? We thought it would be interesting to compare this new title against the other portable strategy RPG Square Enix recently released (in the U.S.), Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift.

As we're sure you'll let us know, there are some features that Song Summoner can't compete with, such as FFTA2's 400+ quests and other multitudinous offerings, but, for the purpose of outlining what publishers can learn from a game release such as this, let's look at the five points in which the iPod title outshines the DS epic.

Continue reading iPod's new Square Enix SRPG better than FFTA2?

JoystiqiPod's new Square Enix SRPG better than FFTA2? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distributionfftaffta2final-fantasy-tacticsipoditunesjoystiqfeaturessong-summonersquare-enixsrpgthe-unsung-heroesTue, 08 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DS Fanboy Review: Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ds-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-tactics-a2-grimoire-of-the-rift/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ds-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-tactics-a2-grimoire-of-the-rift/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/ds-fanboy-review-final-fantasy-tactics-a2-grimoire-of-the-rift/#commentsFiled under:


If you have a taste for strategy gaming at all and are looking for a way to spend the entire summer, then Square Enix's latest, Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift is not only a game with a very long title, but it might just be the answer to all your handheld gaming needs.

But length and depth aren't the only measure of a game. For some the latest Tactics may be a great way to while away the month(s), but others will find the paper-thin story and the hand-holding approach a turn-off. In a field of excellent Square Enix titles, Grimoire of the Rift isn't exactly a stand-out, but mediocre Square Enix still tends to be pretty good in the long run.

Continue reading DS Fanboy Review: Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift

JoystiqDS Fanboy Review: Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tactics-a2grimoire-of-the-riftjoystiqfeaturessquare-enixsrpgMon, 07 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Bleach: The Third Phantom poisons everyone with new trailers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/bleach-the-third-phantom-poisons-everyone-with-new-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/bleach-the-third-phantom-poisons-everyone-with-new-trailers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/03/bleach-the-third-phantom-poisons-everyone-with-new-trailers/#commentsFiled under: ,

Bleach is cool. It's like the cool kid in a playground of anime, and the fansubbers go mental at the slightest hint of a burnt DVD collection. Hey, nothing wrong with that, it's just some bloggers feel left out, having not caught a single episode in their life. So, it's no surprise that the latest trailers for Bleach: The Third Phantom have already been downloaded thousands of times.

The above video is the opening cinematic, which is pretty low-budget and lame. It's a DS game, but maybe the tiniest bit of animation wouldn't go astray. Either way, the trailer after the break shows the real meat-and-potatoes of Bleach, and you can check out the unexpected strategy gameplay in action. Fighting game, schmighting game -- this has evil flying clown things.

Continue reading Bleach: The Third Phantom poisons everyone with new trailers

JoystiqBleach: The Third Phantom poisons everyone with new trailers originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bleachbleach-the-third-phantomrpgsegasrpgthe-third-phantomThu, 03 Jul 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody release date announced, Disgaea date confirmed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/rhapsody-release-date-announced-disgaea-date-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/rhapsody-release-date-announced-disgaea-date-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/01/rhapsody-release-date-announced-disgaea-date-confirmed/#commentsFiled under:

The release date for one of Nippon Ichi's SRPG remakes has been announced, and another one officially backed up, by a somewhat unexpected source. Atlus announced yesterday that they would handle the distribution for three of NIS America's upcoming games, including Disgaea DS and Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure. Before the American branch of NIS was founded, Atlus published the company's games, including, appropriately enough, the original releases of both Rhapsody and Disgaea. The games will be their own worst competition, being released simultaneously on September 23.

The American boxarts for both games have also been revealed. While the Rhapsody art (found after the break) is a simplified version of the original, Disgaea uses a different piece of artwork and a baffling "CAUTION: PLAYERS XING" road sign.

Continue reading Rhapsody release date announced, Disgaea date confirmed

JoystiqRhapsody release date announced, Disgaea date confirmed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlusDisgaeaDisgaea-DSNippon-Ichi-SoftwareNIS-AmericarhapsodysrpgStrategy-RPGTue, 01 Jul 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nippon Ichi duo dated for North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/nippon-ichi-duo-dated-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/nippon-ichi-duo-dated-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/nippon-ichi-duo-dated-for-north-america/#commentsFiled under:

We learned of Disgaea's delay in the States earlier this month, but for those of you who demand greater specificity in your release dates, Nippon Ichi's most recent financial statement has exact dates in the US and A for both its popular SRPG and reference-dropping puzzler, Puchi Puchi Virus.

Apparently, Disgaea will be sending us crazy with its complexity on September 23rd, while the latter will be in U.S. stores from July 22nd. That's really soon and sudden, especially considering how many delays Puchi Puchi has suffered! The question is: did you remember to pick up your free Anti-Virus Stress Reliever?

JoystiqNippon Ichi duo dated for North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DisgaeaDisgaea-DSNippon-Ichi-SoftwareNIS-Americapuchi-puchi-viruspuzzlesrpgStrategy-RPGMon, 30 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody: A Stack of Screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/rhapsody-a-stack-of-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/rhapsody-a-stack-of-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/27/rhapsody-a-stack-of-screens/#commentsFiled under:

Nippon Ichi seems determined to show us as much of Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure while it still can. Impress Watch now has an update of 69 screens (some of which we have seen previously, but plenty of which are new) and pieces of character art, which follows other screenshot-heavy previews here and here. At this rate, recreating a flip book of the entire game by the time it hits Japan in August might not be out of the question.

Actually ... holy crap, that's a great idea. While we head out to the store for scissors and glue sticks, check out the latest avalanche of images at the "Source" link below.

JoystiqRhapsody: A Stack of Screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nippon-ichinisrhapsodyrhapsody-a-musical-a...rpgsrpgFri, 27 Jun 2008 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rhapsody: A Musical Minigame]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rhapsody-a-musical-minigame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rhapsody-a-musical-minigame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/rhapsody-a-musical-minigame/#commentsFiled under: ,

NIS is including extra stuff with the DS version of Rhapsody, in addition to the inevitable Etna/Prinny cameos that will ensure that PS2-era NIS nerds will desire this PS1-era NIS remake. Cornet's trumpet-playing has been expanded into a minigame in which Cornet plays trumpet in the town square to earn Imotium chips from the townspeople. This takes the form of a minigame in which you blow into the microphone in time with an onscreen indicator.

Other new stuff includes a "Kansatsu Notes" feature, in which not only does the game provide a database of information about its characters and monsters, but the main characters offer commentary as well. Dengeki has posted tons of screens of these modes and other parts of Rhapsody.

JoystiqRhapsody: A Musical Minigame originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventureminigamesmusicnippon-ichinisrhapsodysrpgMon, 23 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Promotional Consideration: Tactical advertisements]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/promotional-consideration-tactical-advertisements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/promotional-consideration-tactical-advertisements/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/22/promotional-consideration-tactical-advertisements/#commentsFiled under: ,



Did you forget that Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift ships in North America this week? We wouldn't be surprised if you did, as, aside from two magazine advertisements, Square Enix hasn't done much to promote the SRPG sequel.

In fact, unless we've missed something, the only two handheld game commercials Square Enix has aired in the U.S. since the GBA were for the Final Fantasy III remake and Dragon Quest Monsters: Joker -- Mario Hoops 3-on-3 doesn't count. That's a shame considering how creative the original Final Fantasy Tactics Advance commercial was!

Bring your mages, ninjas, and gunners past the break for the GBA clip and the two FFTA2 magazine pieces we mentioned above!

Continue reading Promotional Consideration: Tactical advertisements

JoystiqPromotional Consideration: Tactical advertisements originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adadsadvertisingcommercialfftaffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsgrimoire-of-the-riftivalice-alliancesquare-enixsrpgSun, 22 Jun 2008 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rondo of Sales: SRPG, Crosswords bargains]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/rondo-of-sales-srpg-crosswords-bargains/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/rondo-of-sales-srpg-crosswords-bargains/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/rondo-of-sales-srpg-crosswords-bargains/#commentsFiled under:



Like the purple-haired sword dudette above, Amazon has slashed away at its pricing for Atlus's quirky SRPG, Rondo of Swords. Until midnight tonight (or however long the retailer's stock lasts), you should be able to get the game and its innovative combat system for only $17.99.

Of course, if you can bring the total of your order to $25, you can also receive free shipping. If you haven't picked it up yet from the dozens of other sales we've featured, Amazon also has a New York Times Crosswords "lightning deal" planned for 1:00 PM EST today, though the product page hasn't revealed yet how much the game will be discounted.

You could always add that to your SRPG cart if you need some filler! Presumably, the New York Times Crosswords sale will be up for four hours (or while stock lasts).


[Via CAG]

Read - Amazon product page for Rondo of Swords
Read - Amazon product page for New York Times Crosswords

JoystiqRondo of Sales: SRPG, Crosswords bargains originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonatlusrondo-of-swordssrpgFri, 20 Jun 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Train for next week's release with FFTA2 screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/train-for-next-weeks-release-with-ffta2-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/train-for-next-weeks-release-with-ffta2-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/20/train-for-next-weeks-release-with-ffta2-screens/#commentsFiled under:

You know a game is epic when the publisher can release dozens of screens -- dozens -- and you still feel as though you're only getting the barest glimpse of the depth that awaits. We've seen so much of Final Fantasy Tactics A2: Grimoire of the Rift, from videos to screens, and previews of jobs to boot, and none of that is even a patch on the hours of gameplay that awaits. For once, we're not even upset about the Square Enix "tax" that elevates the price of their games; here, we'll know where those extra dollars went. Sometime next year, we might have finally finished everything there is to finish.

Maybe.

If we're lucky.


[Via press release]

JoystiqTrain for next week's release with FFTA2 screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffta2final-fantasyfinal-fantasy-tacticsfinal-fantasy-tactics-a2grimoire-of-the-riftsquare-enixsrpgFri, 20 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST