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[Analyst: GTA V will launch in Q1 2013, sell 14 million copies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/analyst-gta-v-will-launch-in-q1-2013-sell-14-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/analyst-gta-v-will-launch-in-q1-2013-sell-14-million-copies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/26/analyst-gta-v-will-launch-in-q1-2013-sell-14-million-copies/#comments ImageSterne Agee analyst Arvind Bhatia is predicting big numbers for Grand Theft Auto V something fierce. Bhatia projects Grand Theft Auto V will debut during the first three months of 2013 and will pull in $700 million in revenue for Take-Two Interactive with 14 million copies sold over its launch window - though Bhatia didn't say just how long he considers this launch window to be.

This $700 million figure is close to the $775 million earned by Modern Warfare 3 in its first five days of launch back in November, which is an entertainment record that has yet to be bested. Rockstar's previous effort, Grand Theft Auto IV, has shipped over 22 million copies worldwide.

JoystiqAnalyst: GTA V will launch in Q1 2013, sell 14 million copies originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystarvind-bhatiagrand-theft-auto-5gta5rockstarRockstar-Gamessterne-ageetake-twotake-two-interactiveSat, 26 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two ends fiscal '12 with loss, high '13 projection raises eyebrows]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/take-two-ends-fiscal-12-with-loss-high-13-projection-raises-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/take-two-ends-fiscal-12-with-loss-high-13-projection-raises-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/take-two-ends-fiscal-12-with-loss-high-13-projection-raises-e/#comments Take-Two Interactive's revenues for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2012, were $825.8 million, short of last year's $1.14 billion, because it didn't have Red Dead Redemption in it. Last year's breakout star, L.A. Noire, did well with 5 million units shipped, but that doesn't compare to the more than 13 million units (8.5 million at that time) done by Red Dead Redemption.

Overall, the publisher had a net loss of $108.8 million for the year, compared to the $48 million profit in the previous year.

Here's where things get interesting: During this afternoon's investor call, CEO Strauss Zelnick reiterated a point from earlier in the call that there are "titles yet to be announced for fiscal 2013." This is significant because the company expects revenues of $1.75 - $1.85 billion for the fiscal year ending next March. Look back at that blockbuster Red Dead Redemption year, and note that revenues reached $1.14 billion. So, what's the deal?

Officially, at this time, Take-Two plans to launch Borderlands 2 in September, NBA 2K13 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown in October and, finally, BioShock: Infinite in February. Although any one of those could be a runaway hit, there's still $600-$700 million missing over that impressive Red Dead year to hit the projection. Either Grand Theft Auto 5 is secretly on the docket for this year or Take-Two is expecting blockbusters from more than one of the announced games.

JoystiqTake-Two ends fiscal '12 with loss, high '13 projection raises eyebrows originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fy-2012microsoftpcplaystationps3Take-TwoTake-Two-InteractivexboxTue, 22 May 2012 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[NBA 2K13 slotted for October 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/nba-2k13-slotted-for-october-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/nba-2k13-slotted-for-october-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/nba-2k13-slotted-for-october-2/#comments ImageNBA 2K13 is set to launch on October 2 for Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PSP and PC, Take-Two Interactive announced today. This is in line with the October precedence set by previous NBA 2K titles. Developer 2K Sports has yet to reveal any details about the game, but our best guess is that it will feature an orange ball and some tall dudes.

2K13's direct predecessor, NBA 2K12, shipped 5 million units, Take-Two said.

JoystiqNBA 2K13 slotted for October 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Sportsfinancialsfy-2012microsoftNBA-2K13nintendopcplaystationps3pspsonyTake-TwowiixboxTue, 22 May 2012 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3 ships 3 million units, PC launch pushed worldwide June 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/max-payne-3-ships-3-million-units-pc-launch-pushed-worldwide-ju/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/max-payne-3-ships-3-million-units-pc-launch-pushed-worldwide-ju/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/max-payne-3-ships-3-million-units-pc-launch-pushed-worldwide-ju/#comments ImageMax Payne 3 has shipped 3 million units since hitting shelves last week, publisher Take-Two Interactive revealed in its FY 2012 financial report.

Take-Two also announced Max Payne 3 is now scheduled with an international PC release date of June 1. Rockstar initially planned to launch Max Payne 3 for North American PCs on Tuesday, May 29, but has pushed that back to meet the standard European launch day of Friday that week. All's fair in love and gritty, noir-style war.

JoystiqMax Payne 3 ships 3 million units, PC launch pushed worldwide June 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 16:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>financialsfy-2012Max-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3RockStarTake-TwoxboxTue, 22 May 2012 16:52:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM delayed again, beyond Q1 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-delayed-again-to-fiscal-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-delayed-again-to-fiscal-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/22/xcom-delayed-again-to-fiscal-2014/#comments ImageXCOM: Enemy Unknown, the strategy game, is still coming on October 9, but XCOM the shooter is growing ever more distant. Take-Two's latest earnings report gives the game a "fiscal year 2014" date, which puts it between April 1, 2013 and March 31, 2014.

The previous release window announcement put it in the previous fiscal year - and that announcement was, itself, a delay from a proposed March 6, 2012 release date. At this point, 2K is racing against science; if engineers of the future develop a method to contact and interact with alien life for real, this game will suddenly seem less exotic.

JoystiqXCOM delayed again, beyond Q1 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 May 2012 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-marindelaysmicrosoftpcplaystationps3release-datetake-twoxboxXCOMTue, 22 May 2012 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne is moving forward (mostly toward next week's launch)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/max-payne-is-moving-forward-mostly-toward-next-weeks-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/max-payne-is-moving-forward-mostly-toward-next-weeks-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/max-payne-is-moving-forward-mostly-toward-next-weeks-launch/#comments Image
Despite Max Payne 3 not launching at retail until next Tuesday, Rockstar went ahead and released the "launch" trailer this afternoon. And despite Max's crippling addiction to painkillers and booze, he seems to be moving forward with his life, as seen in the clip. Where he's going ... that's another story entirely.

JoystiqMax Payne is moving forward (mostly toward next week's launch) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplaylaunch-trailerMax-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivetrailerxboxThu, 10 May 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wedbush thinks Grand Theft Auto 5 will launch in October]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/wedbush-thinks-grand-theft-auto-5-will-launch-in-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/wedbush-thinks-grand-theft-auto-5-will-launch-in-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/wedbush-thinks-grand-theft-auto-5-will-launch-in-october/#comments ImageWith this morning's announcement that BioShock Infinite will now launch in February 2013, publisher Take-Two Interactive altered more than a game's launch date. Take-Two is a publicly traded company, and one fewer gigantic product launch during the holiday season - arguably Take-Two's only holiday product launch, unless you count fall launches of Borderlands 2 and XCOM: Enemy Unknown as "holiday" - means that shareholders will want to know what's up. That worry is reflected in Take-Two's stock price, which took a five percent hit since the market opened this morning.

But when Infinite got pushed out of the holiday season, it opened the slot up for another high-profile Take-Two-published title: Grand Theft Auto 5. "In our view, the delay opens the window for Grand Theft Auto V to be released in October 2012," Michael Pachter of Webush Securities wrote in an email this morning, echoing a release window leak from earlier this year.

In his eyes, Infinite wasn't just delayed to make it "something even more extraordinary," as Ken Levine put it, but because the folks at Rockstar, "notified Take-Two that GTA V would be ready for October." He believes this resulted in Take-Two offering Irrational Games an extra few months to prepare BioShock Infinite. His logic? "The studio [Rockstar Games] has scheduled every prior GTA release during that month (with GTA IV delayed to April 2008, due to bugs in the PS3 version)."

Furthermore, Pachter and co. speculate we could hear more about GTA 5's launch date "as early as May 22" during a scheduled quarterly investor call, or perhaps in a few more weeks at E3 2012. We've yet to hear back from Irrational, Rockstar, or Take-Two on the subject.

JoystiqWedbush thinks Grand Theft Auto 5 will launch in October originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bioshock-infinitedelaygrand-theft-auto-5gta5irrationalirrational-gamesmichael-pachtermicrosoftpcplaystationps3q4-2012release-daterockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivewedbush-morganwedbush-morgan-securitieswedbush-securitiesxboxWed, 09 May 2012 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3's multiplayer footage gets us all nostalgic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/max-payne-3s-multiplayer-footage-gets-us-all-nostalgic/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/max-payne-3s-multiplayer-footage-gets-us-all-nostalgic/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/03/max-payne-3s-multiplayer-footage-gets-us-all-nostalgic/#comments Image
The gangs of Max Payne 3's multiplayer setting make us forget all about the balding alcoholic star of Rockstar's upcoming game. Instead, they're more reminiscent of a film classic from 2002 set in Rio de Janeiro's poorest neighborhood, City of God. Take a look at the new multiplayer trailer above, then compare with a trailer for the film below the break. We think you'll see more than a few similarities.

Continue reading Max Payne 3's multiplayer footage gets us all nostalgic

JoystiqMax Payne 3's multiplayer footage gets us all nostalgic originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 May 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>city-of-godgameplayMax-Payne-3microsoftmultiplayerpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivetrailerxboxThu, 03 May 2012 16:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3 DLC plans laid out, grab all with Rockstar pass]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/max-payne-3-dlc-plans-laid-out-grab-all-with-rockstar-pass/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/max-payne-3-dlc-plans-laid-out-grab-all-with-rockstar-pass/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/01/max-payne-3-dlc-plans-laid-out-grab-all-with-rockstar-pass/#comments ImageMax Payne 3's multiplayer and co-op offerings won't thin as quickly as Max's hair. Rockstar today announced plans for seven separate DLC packs spanning June through next fall, following the game's launch in May. June's "Local Justice Map Pack" kicks off the content expansions, adding three new multi maps, including one that works with the game's "Gang Wars" mode (Police Precinct), as well as the others (Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, and Payne Killer).

This summer will see four additional map packs dropping, and the fall will bring two more. Should all of this be conflicting with your good budget sense, Rockstar's season pass is returning from LA Noire, this time offering a 35 percent discount over buying each pack individually. The pass costs $30.

Continue reading Max Payne 3 DLC plans laid out, grab all with Rockstar pass

JoystiqMax Payne 3 DLC plans laid out, grab all with Rockstar pass originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 May 2012 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contentMax-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxTue, 01 May 2012 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Extensive Max Payne 3 PC download pre-order incentives on Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/extensive-max-payne-3-pc-download-pre-order-incentives-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/extensive-max-payne-3-pc-download-pre-order-incentives-on-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/18/extensive-max-payne-3-pc-download-pre-order-incentives-on-amazon/#comments Amazon hopes to make an awfully compelling argument for your Max Payne 3 purchase. Pre-ordering the PC download version not only nets some in-game incentives, but some money that goes toward other Rockstar games.

First, Amazon is giving all pre-orderers a $10 voucher for an immediate download of Max Payne 2, which just so happens to cost $10 on Amazon, so that's free. Amazon will knock down the price for both L.A. Noire and GTA IV to $4.99 up until April 15. You'll be able to grab those gratis with another $10 voucher if you want, or spend it on other Rockstar wares.

On top of the free games, a pre-order will also grant you several pieces of in-game content: a classic skin pack for multiplayer that includes characters from past games; a multiplayer weapons pack; increased painkiller capacity; and a "Max Payne Retro Avatar."

Update: Whoops, as you probably noticed, it's April 18. Amazon just got in touch to say they are extending the deal on GTA IV and L.A. Noire until April 20.

JoystiqExtensive Max Payne 3 PC download pre-order incentives on Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondigital-distributionMax-Payne-3pcpc-downloadpre-orderRockStarrockstar-gamestake-twoWed, 18 Apr 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Max Payne slowly dive into groups of henchmen whilst shooting]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/watch-max-payne-slowly-dive-into-groups-of-henchmen-whilst-shoot/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/watch-max-payne-slowly-dive-into-groups-of-henchmen-whilst-shoot/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/12/watch-max-payne-slowly-dive-into-groups-of-henchmen-whilst-shoot/#comments
We wouldn't call it the smartest move out there, but Max Payne seems hellbent on jumping head first into groups of thugs who're firing guns directly at him. The latest trailer from Rockstar Games for Max Payne 3 portrays our balding hero as even more psychotic than we'd guessed!

JoystiqWatch Max Payne slowly dive into groups of henchmen whilst shooting originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bullet-timegameplayMax-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxThu, 12 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[An Irrational fear of monsters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/an-irrational-fear-of-monsters/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/an-irrational-fear-of-monsters/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/09/an-irrational-fear-of-monsters/#comments Image"A good monster is a monster you can imagine in repose."

That was the advice acclaimed horror writer and director Guillermo del Toro gave Ken Levine, the creator of the BioShock franchise, during a conversation on the Irrational Games podcast. Levine takes those words to heart in his own creative direction, and before building any terrifying monsters, he makes sure Irrational develops a rich, empathetic backstory that places each of the deformed, viciously homicidal creatures in routine settings, where they perform the most base of actions: contributing to society, petting a dog, relaxing, mourning.

Four Irrational members - Levine, art director Nate Wells, lead artist Shawn Robertson, and sound man Pat Balthrop - gave the PAX audience a glimpse into the secret lives and creation of five major BioShock Infinite villains: the Motorized Patriot, Handyman, Siren, Boys of Silence and Songbird.

Continue reading An Irrational fear of monsters

JoystiqAn Irrational fear of monsters originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesbioshock-infiniteguillermo-del-toroHeavy-HittersirrationalIrrational-GamesKen-Levinemicrosoftmonstersnate-wellspat-balthroppax-eastpax-east-2012pcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3rob-watersshawn-robertsontake-twotake-two-interactivevitaxboxMon, 09 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar North employee CV gives Grand Theft Auto V an October launch window [update: CV pulled]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/rockstar-north-employee-cv-gives-grand-theft-auto-v-an-october-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/rockstar-north-employee-cv-gives-grand-theft-auto-v-an-october-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/08/rockstar-north-employee-cv-gives-grand-theft-auto-v-an-october-l/#comments ImageLike several major games in the franchise, Grand Theft Auto V is being developed by Rockstar's Edinburgh, Scotland-based Rockstar North studio. Character animator Alex O'Dwyer is an employee at Rockstar North, according to both his LinkedIn page and his CV, and he seems to think that Grand Theft Auto V will launch this October.

As seen in the image above, O'Dwyer's CV puts GTA V's launch window firmly in the holiday season - not exactly a bizarre concept considering Rockstar's history of launching GTA titles during the holidays (with the exception of Grand Theft Auto IV, that is). It would also put sufficient time between Rockstar's May launch of Max Payne 3, but would totally buck the trend of Rockstar releasing more than one title in any given year. It's worth noting that Rockstar's parent company, Take-Two Interactive, may not be keen on launching GTA V in the same month as BioShock Infinite.

Regardless, we've reached out to Rockstar and O'Dwyer for comment, but, well ... it's Easter. Hopefully we'll hear something soon. For now, we're putting this squarely in the "rumor" column.

Update: Mr. O'Dwyer's CV was pulled down. We still haven't heard from Rockstar, nor have we heard from Mr. O'Dwyer regarding the date.

JoystiqRockstar North employee CV gives Grand Theft Auto V an October launch window [update: CV pulled] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesalex-odwyergrand-theft-auto-5gta5microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamesrockstar-northtake-twotake-two-interactivexboxSun, 08 Apr 2012 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two's Zelnick regrets THQ quote]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/take-twos-zelnick-regrets-thq-quote/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/take-twos-zelnick-regrets-thq-quote/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/06/take-twos-zelnick-regrets-thq-quote/#comments Friday 6 April

175 lbs (That's 170 of muscle and five pounds of delicious Legal Seafood New England Clam Chowder.)

Food consumed today: Chowdah! Chowdah! Chowdah!

Early morning. Boston. I watched the sun rise this morning, contemplating regret and its place in business ... and the universe.

Oh, Diary,

I made a faux pas yesterday, which I understand is also known as a gaffe to those whose offices reside below the 20th floor of any office building. I was asked about the difference between that wandering camp of nomads at THQ and the Empire of Take-Two (and its kingdoms of Rockstar and 2K Games), and gave what I think was a very measured response. I may have overstepped when I said, "THQ won't be around in six months."

Oh boy, did I stir up the hornet's next. THQ understandably wasn't too happy and reflexively responded that my "perception of THQ is outdated and inaccurate." Blurgh, Diary, I have to see THQ CEO Brian 'Feral' at the corporate mixers, so I had to play nice and offer up a cheese plate of mea culpa.

"While discussing our strategy I spoke out of turn about someone else's. It was inappropriate and I regret it," I told Game Informer.

But, Diary. Come on ... between you and me. We both know the truth.

XOXO,
Nostradamuss

JoystiqTake-Two's Zelnick regrets THQ quote originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>strauss-zelnick-diaryTake-Twotake-two-interactivethqFri, 06 Apr 2012 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ: Take-Two CEO's perception is 'outdated']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/thq-take-two-ceos-perception-is-outdated/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/thq-take-two-ceos-perception-is-outdated/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/thq-take-two-ceos-perception-is-outdated/#comments
THQ has contacted Joystiq with a response to Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick's dire prediction from this afternoon: "Obviously, Mr. Zelnick's perception of THQ is outdated and inaccurate. His comments are irresponsible and false. Perhaps he would be better off commenting on his own business."

JoystiqTHQ: Take-Two CEO's perception is 'outdated' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Strauss-ZelnickTake-TwoTHQThu, 05 Apr 2012 18:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Spec Ops: The Line narrative trailer ripped from the headlines]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/spec-ops-the-line-narrative-trailer-ripped-from-the-headlines/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/spec-ops-the-line-narrative-trailer-ripped-from-the-headlines/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/spec-ops-the-line-narrative-trailer-ripped-from-the-headlines/#comments
In fairness, the trailer above for Spec Ops: The Line was likely cut and produced over the course of a few months. As such, its "ripped from current headlines" nature isn't really 2K Games or Yager's fault, but it does make for an awkward juxtaposition against recent news.

JoystiqSpec Ops: The Line narrative trailer ripped from the headlines originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesgameplaymicrosoftnarrativepcplaystationps3Spec-Ops-the-Linestorytake-twotake-two-interactivetrailerxboxyageryager-developmentThu, 05 Apr 2012 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock Infinite's 'Boys of Silence' are awfully loud (also: terrifying)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioshock-infinites-boys-of-silence-are-awfully-loud-also-te/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioshock-infinites-boys-of-silence-are-awfully-loud-also-te/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/20/bioshock-infinites-boys-of-silence-are-awfully-loud-also-te/#comments
A motorized George Washington with a machine gun is worrisome, sure. And that dude with his giant porcelain hands? More menacing than Washington, no doubt. We think you'll agree, however, that BioShock Infinite's latest "heavy hitter," the "Boys of Silence" are by far the creepiest of the game's big boss dudes.

JoystiqBioShock Infinite's 'Boys of Silence' are awfully loud (also: terrifying) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesbioshock-infiniteirrationalirrational-gamesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3take-twotake-two-interactivexboxTue, 20 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne takes his shootdodge to the streets of New York]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/max-payne-takes-his-shootdodge-to-the-streets-of-new-york/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/max-payne-takes-his-shootdodge-to-the-streets-of-new-york/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/19/max-payne-takes-his-shootdodge-to-the-streets-of-new-york/#comments It's no secret that Max Payne leaves his New Yorker past behind in Max Payne 3 as he heads for Brazil, but perhaps you didn't realize that chunks of the game will explore Max's history in the Big Apple. That history, unsurprisingly, involves leaping through the air while firing two handguns.

Continue reading Max Payne takes his shootdodge to the streets of New York

JoystiqMax Payne takes his shootdodge to the streets of New York originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesgameplayMax-Payne-3microsoftnew-york-citypcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxMon, 19 Mar 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock Infinite's sad men with giant hands, exposed!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/bioshock-infinites-sad-men-with-giant-hands-exposed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/bioshock-infinites-sad-men-with-giant-hands-exposed/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/14/bioshock-infinites-sad-men-with-giant-hands-exposed/#comments
BioShock Infinite's version of Big Daddies sometimes resemble George Washington, and other times they're terrifying giants with exposed hearts and enormous porcelain hands. Take a look at the latter group in the latest trailer, just above.

JoystiqBioShock Infinite's sad men with giant hands, exposed! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k2k-gamesbioshock-infinitegameplayhandy-manhandymanirrationalirrational-gamesmicrosoftmovepcplaystationps3take-twotake-two-interactivexboxWed, 14 Mar 2012 08:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Learning how to 'shootdodge' with Max Payne 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/learning-how-to-shootdodge-with-max-payne-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/learning-how-to-shootdodge-with-max-payne-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/01/learning-how-to-shootdodge-with-max-payne-3/#comments Did you know that "bullet time" is a term copyrighted and owned by Warner Bros.? It was news to me when I went looking up the term this morning, searching for a way to contextualize the evolution of Max Payne that I experienced when playing Rockstar's Max Payne 3 recently. According to Wikipedia -- which totally has its own listing for the term, of course -- the "word" was copyrighted alongside the first Matrix film. That film came out in 1999, two years before Remedy would reappropriate the concept for its first Max Payne game.

No similarly bizarre history can be applied to the term "shootdodge," the portmanteau a Rockstar rep used to describe "Max's classic dive move." In Max Payne 3, the maneuver plays as crucial a role as ever. The majority of the time during my demo I spent with Max leaping in slow motion, or shooting in slow motion, or shooting and leaping in slow motion, all the while desperately trying to shoot dudes in their domes. Yes, fans, bullet time is still here, ready for use in tandem with the newly minted "shootdodge."

Max Payne 3 didn't hold my hand during that hour, though I'm pretty sure I wouldn't want it to given the whole "addicted to painkillers/alcoholism" thing. Like Max's life during the setting of Max Payne 3, my playthrough was all sink or swim. But despite some initial skepticism over the difficulty, I walked away excited about the design choices Rockstar has made, such as taking the safety off of shooting and forcing precision from players conditioned to aim-assisted console offerings. (Which describes me, by the way.)

Gallery: Max Payne 3 (3/1/12)

Continue reading Learning how to 'shootdodge' with Max Payne 3

JoystiqLearning how to 'shootdodge' with Max Payne 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hands-onMax-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxThu, 01 Mar 2012 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3 trailer turns up the volume]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/max-payne-3-trailer-turns-up-the-volume/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/max-payne-3-trailer-turns-up-the-volume/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/max-payne-3-trailer-turns-up-the-volume/#comments
If you think that Mini-30 Rifle is loud, you should check out that floral print shirt Max is wearing.

Continue reading Max Payne 3 trailer turns up the volume

JoystiqMax Payne 3 trailer turns up the volume originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Max-Payne-3microsoftmini-30-riflepcplaystationps3rockstartake-twoweapons-of-max-payneweapons-of-max-payne-3xboxFri, 24 Feb 2012 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA['GTA TV' and 'Rockstar TV' trademarked by Take Two]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/gta-tv-and-rockstar-tv-trademarked-by-take-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/gta-tv-and-rockstar-tv-trademarked-by-take-two/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/gta-tv-and-rockstar-tv-trademarked-by-take-two/#comments As OXM UK has discovered, Take-Two has filed trademark applications for "Rockstar TV" and GTA TV" within the past week at the United States Patent and Trademark Office, though neither has been approved just yet (nor will either be until an examining attorney is assigned "approximately three months after filing date").

Each trademark filing features identical product descriptions, denoting the filings as for (breath), "computer game programs and software; animated motion picture films featuring entertainment, namely, action, adventure, dramatic, comedic, children's and documentary themes; pre-recorded video discs and other pre-recorded digital and electronic media in the field of live action programs, motion pictures, or animation featuring entertainment, namely, action, adventure, dramatic, comedic, children's and documentary themes."

Additionally, each filing was assigned "pseudo marks" by the USPTO, referring to the "TV" part of each as "television" -- pseudo marks are not seen as definitive, but as identification marks for easing USPTO database searches. In other words, it's possible "TV" stands for something else, but we're betting against that. We've reached out to Rockstar and Take-Two for comment, but have yet to hear back as of publishing.

Joystiq'GTA TV' and 'Rockstar TV' trademarked by Take Two originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gta-tvrockstar-gamesrockstar-tvtake-twotake-two-interactivetrademarktrademark-filingusptoTue, 21 Feb 2012 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar explains the research behind the posh clubs and helipads of Max Payne 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/rockstar-explains-the-research-behind-the-posh-clubs-and-helipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/rockstar-explains-the-research-behind-the-posh-clubs-and-helipad/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/rockstar-explains-the-research-behind-the-posh-clubs-and-helipad/#comments There's a good reason for the prominence of helicopters in the latest Max Payne 3 trailer, and it's not just because "super rich people have choppers." Alright, well, that's part of the reason, but helicopters are apparently extra prevalent in Sao Paolo, Brazil -- the setting for at least part of Max Payne 3 -- and the devs at Rockstar discovered this while touring the city by air. As it turns out, since traffic is a huge problem in the Brazilian megacity, rich folks have taken to helicopters as a main means of travel. Oh, also, there are motorcycle gangs that take advantage of the traffic, making it extra dangerous. Sounds like a good excuse to become a helicopter pilot! Max will apparently be wrestling with the wealth disparity he discovers in Brazil -- a reality he feels uncomfortable with regardless of what continent he's on.

And when those devs were looking for an authentic nightclub experience, they hobnobbed their way into exclusive nightclubs like the "rooftop lounge scene at the chic Hotel Unique," and pushed their way into parties along Avenue Morumbi. Per the trailer, we're gonna guess that the Rockstar devs didn't extend that same search for realism to allowing themselves to be kidnapped by one of Sao Paolo's many street gangs, but in the interest of their safety we're keen to let that one slide.

Today's info dump is the second in an ongoing research series that the developer is publishing in the lead up to this May's launch of MP3. Rockstar offered Joystiq an early look at several comparison shots ahead of a worldwide premier later today on the company's own newswire website, which we've dropped into a perusable gallery just below.

Gallery: Max Payne 3 (2/20/12)

JoystiqRockstar explains the research behind the posh clubs and helipads of Max Payne 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Max-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxTue, 21 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DirectX 11 support added to L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition on PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/directx-11-support-added-to-l-a-noire-the-complete-edition-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/directx-11-support-added-to-l-a-noire-the-complete-edition-on/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/directx-11-support-added-to-l-a-noire-the-complete-edition-on/#comments You went out and set up your fancy rig, with all of its shaders and its pixel core density modifiers -- you want to play games that will take full advantage of your hardware. We hear you.

So has Rockstar. DirectX 11 support headlines the latest title update for L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition, which should hopefully help you better decide the fates of the game's virtual persons of interest. You'll be able to switch between DirectX 9 and DirectX 11 renderers on the fly through the game launcher.

JoystiqDirectX 11 support added to L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition on PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>directx-11directx11LA-Noirela-noire-the-complete-editionpatchpcrockstartake-twowindowsMon, 20 Feb 2012 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3's latest trailer introduces Max's expensive motives]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/max-payne-3s-latest-trailer-introduces-maxs-expensive-motives/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/max-payne-3s-latest-trailer-introduces-maxs-expensive-motives/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/max-payne-3s-latest-trailer-introduces-maxs-expensive-motives/#comments
Max Payne's tumultuous journey through Sao Paolo, Brazil isn't looking any easier in the latest trailer for Max Payne 3. And as it turns out, he'll be busting through favelas in search of a particularly expensive trophy ... wife. See for yourself just above.

JoystiqMax Payne 3's latest trailer introduces Max's expensive motives originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplayMax-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxThu, 16 Feb 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Gods & Kings expansion announced, available 'late spring 2012']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/#comments http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2012/02/civexpansion530pxheaderimggodsandkings.jpgReligion and espionage return to the Civilization series when the fifth installment receives the "Gods & Kings" expansion before the summer solstice.

The expansion includes 27 new units, 13 new buildings and nine new Wonders. There's also nine new civilizations, including Carthage, the Netherlands and the Celts. Along with two new types of city-states: mercantile and religious.

Scenarios include the medieval period, the fall of the Rome and the (very cool sounding) Empires of the Smoky Skies, "a Victorian science-fiction scenario."Oooh!

Most importantly, however, is the return of religion and the salvation or subjugation of the populace through its means. As players enter the Renaissance, spies can be unlocked to change the course of history through surveillance, theft and the always good fun of a coup. Sounds like a missed opportunity for an Assassin's Creed crossover if you ask us.

Gallery: Civilization V: Gods and Kings

JoystiqCivilization 5: Gods & Kings expansion announced, available 'late spring 2012' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5firaxisFiraxis-GamespcTake-TwoTake-Two-InteractiveThu, 16 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More LA Noire a possibility, Rockstar not in a 'rush' for sequel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/more-la-noire-a-possibility-rockstar-not-in-a-rush-for-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/more-la-noire-a-possibility-rockstar-not-in-a-rush-for-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/more-la-noire-a-possibility-rockstar-not-in-a-rush-for-sequel/#comments Even following the closure of developer Team Bondi, Rockstar isn't necessarily giving up on more LA Noire. In a recent Q&A session, a Rockstar rep noted that while there won't be any more content released for LA Noire, fans shouldn't "count out the possibility of a new game in the LA Noire franchise in the future." The studio added that it is "considering what the future may hold for LA Noire as a series," and that it doesn't "always rush to make sequels, but that does not mean [it] won't get to them eventually." This isn't the first time LA Noire has been referred to as a franchise. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick called it "a powerful new franchise" shortly after LA Noire's release last year, though that was before Team Bondi was shuttered.

That Rockstar is still bullish on LA Noire is particularly noteworthy considering the fate of Team Bondi. In other words, if Rockstar pursues an LA Noire sequel, it will do so without the developer that made it a success. Then again, that's not anything new for Rockstar -- it's currently developing Max Payne 3, part of a series originally created by Alan Wake developer Remedy.

JoystiqMore LA Noire a possibility, Rockstar not in a 'rush' for sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LA-Noiremicrosoftpcplaystationps3rockstartake-twoteam-bondixboxTue, 14 Feb 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3 shots pit Max against gravity, despicable pickup trucks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/max-payne-3-shots-pit-max-against-gravity-despicable-pickup-tru/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/max-payne-3-shots-pit-max-against-gravity-despicable-pickup-tru/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/10/max-payne-3-shots-pit-max-against-gravity-despicable-pickup-tru/#comments Max Payne's seen a lot in his day: Bull Bullets, garish Hawaiian shirts, delays. And now he's got a few more items to cross of his list, such as "angry man in pickup truck" and "face off against gravity -- and win," as you'll see in the latest volley of screens, just below.

Continue reading Max Payne 3 shots pit Max against gravity, despicable pickup trucks

JoystiqMax Payne 3 shots pit Max against gravity, despicable pickup trucks originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Max-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxFri, 10 Feb 2012 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Buy MLB 2K12 alone or bundled with NBA 2K12]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/buy-mlb-2k12-alone-or-bundled-with-nba-2k12/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/buy-mlb-2k12-alone-or-bundled-with-nba-2k12/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/09/buy-mlb-2k12-alone-or-bundled-with-nba-2k12/#comments You know, baseball's been missing something as of late, wouldn't you agree? Good thing 2K Games has come to the rescue by adding more sports to our sports!

When MLB 2K12 launches in March, you'll be able to pick it up for the annual asking price of $60. If you spend $10 more, you can snag a combo pack including NBA 2K12, a game we're totally comfortable telling you is not too shabby. Outside of the inclusion of NBA 2K12, there are no differences between the separate SKUs.

2K Games has also announced the return of the annual perfect game pitching challenge, awarding one lucky virtual hurler (professional wrestler or not) a cool $1 million check. Hit the break for more details on this year's contest.

Continue reading Buy MLB 2K12 alone or bundled with NBA 2K12

JoystiqBuy MLB 2K12 alone or bundled with NBA 2K12 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-games2k-sportsmicrosoftmlb-2k12nba-2k12playstationps3take-twoxboxThu, 09 Feb 2012 05:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Take-Two Q3 financials down year-over-year, still within predictions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/take-two-q3-financials-down-year-over-year-still-within-predict/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/take-two-q3-financials-down-year-over-year-still-within-predict/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/take-two-q3-financials-down-year-over-year-still-within-predict/#comments Take-Two Interactive has released its financial figures for the third quarter of fiscal 2012, which ended on December 31, 2011. While "in line" with the publisher's predictions, results are down when compared year-over-year to the same period in fiscal 2011.

During Q3 2012, Take-Two's net revenue of $236.3 million was $97.7 million less than its net revenue of $334.3 million in Q3 2011. Operational income for the period was $14.2 million, down $22.6 million from the same quarter last fiscal year. Take-Two attributes this disparity to the fact that fiscal 2011 benefitted from the launch of Red Dead Redemption and its Undead Nightmare DLC more so than fiscal 2012 was able to.

When looking at the entirety of Take-Two's fiscal 2012 performance so far, the downward year-over-year trend continues with an overall net revenue of $677.7 million (compared to 2011's $954.6 million), and an operating loss of $76.2 million (compared to 2011's operating income of $76.2 million).

The company has also adjusted its outlook on Q4 in response to moving Max Payne 3's release date into the first quarter of fiscal 2013. It now expects net revenue for the period ending on March 31, 2012 to land between $112 million and $162 million, with its prediction for all of 2012 adjusted accordingly to a range of $790 million to $840 million.

JoystiqTake-Two Q3 financials down year-over-year, still within predictions originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>max-payne-3microsoftpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Q3Q3-2012red-dead-redemptionTake-TwoTake-Two-Interactiveundead-nightmarevitaxboxThu, 02 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[NBA 2K12 ships four million units to date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/nba-2k12-ships-four-million-units-to-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/nba-2k12-ships-four-million-units-to-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/nba-2k12-ships-four-million-units-to-date/#comments Following the success of last year's entry, NBA 2K12 has demonstrably done well for Take-Two. Cited as one of the "strongest contributors to net revenue" during the third quarter of Take-Two's fiscal year, NBA 2K12 has managed to ship four million copies to date.

NBA 2K12 has the highest review scores in the history of the franchise -- we were certainly impressed with the title -- and its continued fortune leaves us with one question: will EA be able to snag a healthy slice of the pie when it brings its basketball sim back to market this fall?

JoystiqNBA 2K12 ships four million units to date originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesmicrosoftnba-2k12playstationps3take-twoxboxThu, 02 Feb 2012 16:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Rockstar lives up to its name in Q3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/rockstar-lives-up-to-its-name-in-q3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/rockstar-lives-up-to-its-name-in-q3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/02/rockstar-lives-up-to-its-name-in-q3/#comments Rockstar Games should be partying like, well, itself, according to the stats released in Take-Two's Q3 fiscal report. Rockstar has sold through more than 13 million units of Red Dead Redemption worldwide and more than 5 million units of L.A. Noire since launch. The mobile version of Grand Theft Auto 3 beat all the odds and reviews to become Take-Two's best-selling mobile title to date.

JoystiqRockstar lives up to its name in Q3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidfinancialsgrand-theft-auto-3iosipadiphoneLA-Noiremicrosoftmobilepcplaystationps3q3-2011Red-Dead-RedemptionTake-TwoxboxThu, 02 Feb 2012 16:34:00 EST<![CDATA[XCOM: Enemy Unknown shares its gas-station strategy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xcom-enemy-unknown-shares-its-gas-station-strategy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xcom-enemy-unknown-shares-its-gas-station-strategy/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/26/xcom-enemy-unknown-shares-its-gas-station-strategy/#comments Firaxis' XCOM: Enemy Unknown will require a specific blend of strategy, turn-based and action-title abilities -- even with a team of three against a unit of Mutons holed up in a 1950s diner across the lot from a gas station. Such is the new preview provided by Game Informer, describing the turn-based steps and tactical placement of a three-person squad assaulting a team of Mutons, told through in-game screens.

The piece outs a perk for the sniper, who earns "Damn Good Ground" after grappling to the top of the gas-station canopy, and the "Run & Gun" ability for the Assault soldier, which allows her to run across the diner's roof and still open fire at the end of her turn. Firaxis has yet to release video footage of this fall's XCOM game, but if you scroll really fast through these pictures, it's almost like a stop-motion movie. Almost.

JoystiqXCOM: Enemy Unknown shares its gas-station strategy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-GamesfiraxisFiraxis-GamesgameplaymicrosoftMutonspcperksplaystationps3screensscreenshotstake-twotake-two-interactivexboxxcom-enemy-unknownThu, 26 Jan 2012 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock Infinite to include tougher '1999 Mode']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/bioshock-infinite-to-include-tougher-1999-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/bioshock-infinite-to-include-tougher-1999-mode/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/bioshock-infinite-to-include-tougher-1999-mode/#comments BioShock Infinite is gonna hurt you like it's 1999. Developer Irrational Games announced the "1999 Mode" for the upcoming RPG slash FPS this morning, and it appears to go beyond just messing with health stats for a more challenging game experience.

"I'm an old school gamer. We wanted to make sure we were taking into account the play styles of gamers like me," said Irrational's creative director Ken Levine. "So we went straight to the horse's mouth by asking them, on our website, a series of questions about how they play our games."

Levine continued, "94.6 percent of respondents indicated that upgrade choices enhanced their BioShock gameplay experience; however, 56.8 percent indicated that being required to make permanent decisions about their character would have made the game even better."

The 1999 Mode will include unnamed tweaks and features that won't exist in the standard BioSchock Infinite experience. It will also "feature demanding weapon, power, and health management," along with a "Game Over" screen if the player lacks the resources for a respawn. The company is unlikely to cover incidental damages to property caused by playing 1999 Mode.

For a look at a roughed up version of Elizabeth from the newly revealed mode, head past the jump.

Continue reading BioShock Infinite to include tougher '1999 Mode'

JoystiqBioShock Infinite to include tougher '1999 Mode' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>19991999-mode2k-gamesbioshock-infiniteirrationalirrational-gamesken-levinemicrosoftpcplaystationps3take-twoTake-Two-InteractivexboxThu, 19 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3's latest vid diverolls into the gun behind the man]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/max-payne-3s-latest-vid-diverolls-into-the-gun-behind-the-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/max-payne-3s-latest-vid-diverolls-into-the-gun-behind-the-man/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/18/max-payne-3s-latest-vid-diverolls-into-the-gun-behind-the-man/#comments
When Max Payne 3 arrives at retail later this year, its main protagonist will be equipped especially well for handling the flood of dudes shooting bullets at him over the course of the game's globetrotting campaign. And you will be as well, apparently, as the latest trailer aims to clarify.

JoystiqMax Payne 3's latest vid diverolls into the gun behind the man originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesgameplaygunsMax-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxWed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[ESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/sopa-list-esa/#comments Rock, Paper, Shotgun collaborated in obtaining responses.
The Entertainment Software Association's support of the "Stop Online Piracy Act" has led us to ask every member of the video game industry's lobbying and political group to publicly declare its stance on the bill. The ESA's continued support means every member, by proxy, is a supporter of the bill.

Some companies have pulled their logos from supporting SOPA documentation to dodge ire, while others are hiding behind rhetoric, as you'll see below. Joystiq contacted every member of the ESA and requested a declarative statement on SOPA. After the break we've listed the responses we've received, along with others we found. We continue to seek clarity on this issue from every member of the ESA.

This will become the page we update as we receive responses and clear declarative statements, so feel free to bookmark.

(Joystiq does not support SOPA, nor does our parent company.)

Continue reading ESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond

JoystiqESA members asked individually about SOPA, some respond originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>345-games38-studios505-gamescapcomdeep-silverdisneydisney-interactiveeaeidoseidos-interactiveelectronic-artsEntertainment-software-associationepic-gamesESAfutureher-interactiveignition-entertainmentkonamilevel-5microsoftnamconatsumenexonnintendonivalnvidiao-gamesperfect-worldperfect-world-entertainmentpoliticssegaslangsonysony-online-entertainmentSOPAsquare-enixstop-online-piracy-acttake-twotake-two-interactivethqtrionubisoftwarner-bros-interactivewbieFri, 06 Jan 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne would like to offer you a ticket to the gun show]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/max-payne-would-like-to-offer-you-a-ticket-to-the-gun-show/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/max-payne-would-like-to-offer-you-a-ticket-to-the-gun-show/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/06/max-payne-would-like-to-offer-you-a-ticket-to-the-gun-show/#comments Hey, do you like guns? How about guns paired with different types of facial hair? These latest Max Payne 3 screens have both boxes checked and would love for you to take a look.

Continue reading Max Payne would like to offer you a ticket to the gun show

JoystiqMax Payne would like to offer you a ticket to the gun show originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Dec 2011 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-gamesMax-Payne-3microsoftpcplaystationps3rockstarrockstar-gamestake-twotake-two-interactivexboxTue, 06 Dec 2011 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[2K Australia is 2K Australia again and is working on BioShock Infinite, Levine confirms]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/2k-australia-is-2k-australia-again-and-is-working-on-bioshock-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/2k-australia-is-2k-australia-again-and-is-working-on-bioshock-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/27/2k-australia-is-2k-australia-again-and-is-working-on-bioshock-in/#comments So we don't run the risk of burying the lede, let's start with the news: MVC Pacific reports that the Canberra, Australia-based arm of developer 2K Marin is once again known as 2K Australia and is now working with former sister studio Irrational Games on BioShock Infinite. When asked for comment, Irrational boss man Ken Levine said, "We had a number of open positions on BioShock Infinite. When we found out our former sister studio 2K Australia was becoming available, we thought they would perfectly fill those roles."

He added, "If every decision was this easy..."

Now, some history. In 2007, after Irrational Games was purchased by Take-Two and just before the release of the original BioShock, the studio was split apart and renamed 2K Boston and 2K Australia. Since then, 2K Boston has become Irrational Games, once again, but 2K Australia hasn't had it so easy.

After working with 2K Marin on BioShock 2, it was decided that 2K Australia would lose its name and become a part of 2K Marin (which is a tad geographically misleading, no?) and help develop the XCOM reboot. Less than a year later, the 2K Australia studio head Martin Slater resigned and just last month it was reported that 15 employees were cut from the studio.

And now, over four years after the creation of 2K Australia, 2K Australia is back and once again working with Levine's team in Boston. We've reached out to 2K Games for any additional commentary on the shuffle and whether or not 2K Australia has any more involvement in XCOM. But while we're waiting, we wanted to say "welcome back" to the team in Canberra. Oh, and enough navel gazing. BioShock Infinite isn't going to make itself.

Joystiq2K Australia is 2K Australia again and is working on BioShock Infinite, Levine confirms originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Australiabioshock-infiniteIrrational-GamesKen-Levinemicrosoftplaystationps3Take-TwoxboxSun, 27 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spec Ops: The Line now arriving in 'Spring 2012']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/spec-ops-the-line-now-arriving-in-spring-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/spec-ops-the-line-now-arriving-in-spring-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/spec-ops-the-line-now-arriving-in-spring-2012/#comments
After Spec Ops: The Line had its launch window unceremoniously realigned during publisher Take-Two Interactive's quarterly earnings call last May, the only thing we knew for sure about its eventual release was that it'd be some time after March 2012. As it turns out, the game's gearing up for a spring 2012 launch window (so, like, between March and summer of 2012, then), and there's even a new trailer to prove it.

If the trailer doesn't quite do it for you, might we suggest checking out our brand new preview of next spring's shooter? It's light on devastating natural disasters, unlike the game.

Continue reading Spec Ops: The Line now arriving in 'Spring 2012'

JoystiqSpec Ops: The Line now arriving in 'Spring 2012' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 10:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplaymicrosoftpcplaystationps3q2-2012release-dateSpec-Ops-the-Linetake-twotake-two-interactivexboxyageryager-developmentTue, 22 Nov 2011 10:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Max Payne 3 gets $100 Special Edition, pre-order only until January 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/max-payne-3-gets-100-special-edition-pre-order-only-until-janu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/max-payne-3-gets-100-special-edition-pre-order-only-until-janu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/max-payne-3-gets-100-special-edition-pre-order-only-until-janu/#comments \ If you're absolutely certain you'll want Max Payne 3 in a really bad way, and you're already financially and emotionally prepared to drop a Benjamin on it, has Rockstar got the deal for you! Between now and January 15, roughly two months before the game's March release window, you'll be able to order the Max Payne 3 Special Edition, "while supplies last."

What will your $100 pre-buy you, besides the game itself? Ready? Here goes: A 10" tall Max Payne statue; "game-inspired Original Still Life Art Prints," for your art collection; a bullet-shaped keychain with screw-off back (for your drugs!); the obligatory multiplayer character pack, including Max Payne favorites like Mona Sax and Vladimir Lem; the similarly obligatory multiplayer weapons pack; and lastly, the game's original soundtrack.

Curiously, this Special Edition really is special, in that it actually is limited ("while supplies last") and won't be available after release. If you want to wait, be warned that eBay scalpers are probably circling the waters already.

Gallery: Max Payne 3 (Special Edition)

JoystiqMax Payne 3 gets $100 Special Edition, pre-order only until January 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>limited-editionMax-Payne-3Rockstar-Gamesrockstar-studiosrockstar-vancouverspecial-editiontake-twoMon, 21 Nov 2011 12:12:00 EST