Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac reaches two million in sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/the-binding-of-isaac-reaches-two-million-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/the-binding-of-isaac-reaches-two-million-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/21/the-binding-of-isaac-reaches-two-million-in-sales/#comments Binding of Isaac reaches 2 million in salesTeam Meat co-founder Edmund McMillen recently revealed that The Binding of Isaac has reached 2 million in sales. McMillen noted his surprise at the game's steady success, having first launched in September 2011, on an episode of the Northernlion gaming channel on YouTube.

"In the first year we sold a million copies, and now we're already up to two million," McMillen said. He also discussed the Nicalis "demake" of the game, The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, and the definite inclusion of the Mystery Man unlockable character. The Mystery Man will use randomly-generated items and stats, offering a new challenge to players each time he's selected. McMillen also elaborated on the constraints that Flash presented in developing the game, and how Rebirth would benefit from fewer performance issues.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac reaches two million in sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demakeedmund-mcmillenpcsalesteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacthe-binding-of-isaac-rebirthSun, 21 Apr 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's Steam daily deal is nothing to cry over: Binding of Isaac 75% off]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/todays-steam-daily-deal-is-nothing-to-cry-over-binding-of-isaa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/todays-steam-daily-deal-is-nothing-to-cry-over-binding-of-isaa/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/28/todays-steam-daily-deal-is-nothing-to-cry-over-binding-of-isaa/#comments Today's Steam daily deal is nothing to cry over Binding of Isaac 75% offThe Binding of Isaac is Steam's Daily Deal for Monday, January 28, on sale for $1.25 through January 29 at 10 a.m. PST. Interested parties can snag the game and the soundtrack in one smooth bundle for $1.50 during the sale. Wrath of the Lamb, Isaac's massive expansion, is just $0.75 and the soundtrack on its own is $0.25.

Madness, depression and weeping babies have never been so cheap.

JoystiqToday's Steam daily deal is nothing to cry over: Binding of Isaac 75% off originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenmacpcSTEAMsteam-daily-dealthe-binding-of-isaacMon, 28 Jan 2013 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac in a 3D, first-person Team Fortress 2 mod]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/binding-of-isaac-in-a-3d-first-person-team-fortress-2-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/binding-of-isaac-in-a-3d-first-person-team-fortress-2-mod/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/06/binding-of-isaac-in-a-3d-first-person-team-fortress-2-mod/#comments

This is a busy season for video games. Not for the developers, necessarily, but for the players. All the big, end-of-the-year games are out, we're marathoning AAA titles and indie darlings alike, and our backlogs are on the verge of becoming sentient. It's about time you take a break, while simultaneously knocking out two games at once: Team Fortress 2 and The Binding of Isaac.

If you haven't spotted this mod that creates a 3D, first-person Binding of Isaac world within Team Fortress 2, give it a look now in the video above. It's even Edmund McMillen-approved.

The mod comes from YouTube user lampenpam, and while it isn't complete, US players can log into the Super Zombie Fortress server, where the Isaac map is in rotation. The server is run by Jonas "Mecha the Slag" Kærlev, the creator of Wind Waker-inspired indie game A Hat in Time.

Technically, with that final link, we've just given you three games to observe while letting your batteries recharge. Literally, we assume - the convenience of those wireless controllers can be such a pain.

JoystiqBinding of Isaac in a 3D, first-person Team Fortress 2 mod originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>modpcTeam-Fortress-2the-binding-of-isaacThu, 06 Dec 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nicalis wants your input on The Binding of Isaac's makeover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/01/nicalis-wants-your-input-on-the-binding-of-isaacs-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/01/nicalis-wants-your-input-on-the-binding-of-isaacs-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/01/nicalis-wants-your-input-on-the-binding-of-isaacs-makeover/#comments Nicalis wants your input on The Binding of Isaac's makeoverNicalis is proposing four different art styles for The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, the console remake of Team Meat's bizarre PC game. Fans can vote on the four mock-up 16-bit art styles seen in the gallery below to determine which direction Nicalis will take the remake in.

According to The Binding of Isaac creator Edmund McMillen's Tumblr blog, the game is getting a face lift "because I think the art is tired and I'm sick of looking at it." The survey also asks for input on which platforms the game should appear on, with 3DS and Wii U listed as options.

Nicalis will begin development on the project in January and hopes to launch PS3, Vita and PC (Steam) versions of The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth by the end of 2013, with Xbox 360, iOS and Nintendo console ports a possibility.

Gallery: The Binding of Isaac (Rebirth Mock-Up Art)

JoystiqNicalis wants your input on The Binding of Isaac's makeover originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 01 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16-bitart-styleedmund-mcmillenmicrosoftnicalispcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3remakesurveyteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacthe-binding-of-isaac-rebirthvitavotexboxSat, 01 Dec 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac: Rebirth PS3, Vita, PC ports in progress]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/binding-of-isaac-rebirth-in-process-of-ps3-vita-pc-ports-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/binding-of-isaac-rebirth-in-process-of-ps3-vita-pc-ports-mor/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/29/binding-of-isaac-rebirth-in-process-of-ps3-vita-pc-ports-mor/#comments Binding of Isaac Rebirth in process of PS3, Vita, PC ports, more detailsSurely Edmund McMillen didn't think 1 million Binding of Isaac fans would be satisfied with the scant details he provided about the game's console version, Rebirth, in yesterday's postmortem.

He's taken to Tumblr to clear up questions about Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, confirming that publisher Nicalis is working on ports for PS3, Vita and PC via Steam. Nicalis is talking to Microsoft and Nintendo, and even iOS is an option, "if it's not garbage."

Rebirth will include Wrath of the Lamb and a new, similarly sized expansion that features a fresh final chapter and ending, two new playable characters, and "tons more items, rooms, enemies, bosses and the like."

Rebirth will have local co-op only, and it will contain some "secret stuff" that couldn't be added to the Flash version. Composer Danny Baranowsky is mixing up some new songs for the console version. It's set to begin development on January 1 and be finished by the end of 2013, and McMillen wants to have a loyalty pre-order discount for anyone who owns Isaac already.

"The biggest thing to keep in mind here is that development is just starting with the remake, nothing is totally set in stone and a lot will change over time," McMillen cautions. "I'm currently in full-time development of Mew-Genics with Tommy and we have a few other little tricks in store for you next year, so my goal with Rebirth is to simply make sure the remake is top-quality and then detail out the expansion and updates once development is much farther along."

Yeah, yeah, whatever, McMillen - our eyes glazed over in glee right after reading "Vita."

JoystiqBinding of Isaac: Rebirth PS3, Vita, PC ports in progress originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Nov 2012 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>binding-of-isaac-rebirthedmund-mcmillennicalispcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3rebirththe-binding-of-isaacthe-binding-of-isaac-rebirthvitaThu, 29 Nov 2012 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth starts over on consoles with Nicalis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/the-binding-of-isaac-rebirth-starts-over-on-consoles-with-nical/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/the-binding-of-isaac-rebirth-starts-over-on-consoles-with-nical/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/28/the-binding-of-isaac-rebirth-starts-over-on-consoles-with-nical/#comments The Binding of Isaac Rebirth starts over on consoles with NicalisEdmund McMillen's postmortem of The Binding of Isaac may be a bit premature, since right at the end he discusses a new way that the game will live on, in a console version published by Nicalis. It's called The Binding of Isaac: Rebirth, and it will feature local co-op, revamped 16-bit graphics, and a second expansion, alongside Wrath of the Lamb, that didn't make it to the Flash version.

McMillen says he was hesitant to develop another console title, after Super Meat Boy on XBLA ate up two years of his life. One of his guidelines in working with Nicalis is that he won't "deal with anything when it came to business."

The Binding of Isaac has sold more than 1 million copies on PC and Mac in its first year on Steam, and 25 percent of those people bought the Wrath of the Lamb expansion as well. That's up from 700,000 full copies reported in June.

There's no consensus on which consoles will get Rebirth, but in February McMillen noted he was looking at "1-2 Sony platforms." In the postmortem, he names Microsoft and Sony's digital platforms, as well as a Nintendo eShop release for Wii U or 3DS, the last of which is a one-eighty from that relationship earlier this year.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac: Rebirth starts over on consoles with Nicalis originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsedmund-mcmillenmicrosoftmobilenicalisnintendoplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonythe-binding-of-isaacvitawii-uxboxWed, 28 Nov 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Steam sale this weekend on The Binding of Isaac (also Modern Warfare 3, Total War)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/steam-sale-this-weekend-on-binding-of-isaac-modern-warfare-tot/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/steam-sale-this-weekend-on-binding-of-isaac-modern-warfare-tot/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/09/28/steam-sale-this-weekend-on-binding-of-isaac-modern-warfare-tot/#comments To celebrate the first birthday of The Binding of Isaac, the game will be 75 percent off, as well as the game's The Wrath of the Lamb expansion. The sale begins at 10AM Pacific (1PM Eastern).

Also, as a reminder, both the Total War series and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 are on sale this weekend through the digital distribution service. Total War: Rome Gold is still only $1 for the next few hours.

JoystiqSteam sale this weekend on The Binding of Isaac (also Modern Warfare 3, Total War) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-duty-modern-warfare-3steamthe-binding-of-isaactotal-warFri, 28 Sep 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac in production for consoles, PC as a new game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/the-binding-of-isaac-in-production-for-consoles-pc-as-a-new-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/the-binding-of-isaac-in-production-for-consoles-pc-as-a-new-gam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/29/the-binding-of-isaac-in-production-for-consoles-pc-as-a-new-gam/#comments Binding of Isaac being remade for consoles and PCA revamped version of The Binding of Isaac is crawling to consoles and PC via a mystery publisher and a new team, Edmund McMillen reveals on his Formspring account. This is more than an update to the existing Binding of Isaac available on Steam - it's a brand new game.

"The remake will be more than just an expansion, it will be a new game with all new graphics, music, etc. It will also feature an expansion-sized pack of all new content, bosses, characters enemies, items etc.," McMillen writes. "And yes, in about a year if/when it comes out, the Flash version of the game will appear obsolete for sure. But a year is a long time and I'll do what I can to make sure the guys who remake it make it substantial enough for you to play through all over again."

The new Isaac will have local co-op and is aiming to launch on all platforms; McMillen even gives the 3DS a 50 percent chance. McMillen is "avoiding all the business BS," but the team has been talking to Microsoft for a while, and "they seem to also want Isaac a lot, but only time will tell if anything gets signed."

McMillen says he'll ask the investors about selling the new game at a discount for current Binding of Isaac and Wrath of the Lamb owners, but since he's not the one fronting the money he doesn't call the shots.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac in production for consoles, PC as a new game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Aug 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsedmund-mcmillenmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3remakerevampthe-binding-of-isaacwiixboxWed, 29 Aug 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac ties up 700,000 sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/the-binding-of-isaac-ties-up-700-000-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/the-binding-of-isaac-ties-up-700-000-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/20/the-binding-of-isaac-ties-up-700-000-sales/#comments "Who would have thought a game about an abused child fighting off his mother with his tears could ever sell 700k copies in less than a year?" The Binding of Isaac developer Edmund McMillen wrote in an email blast last night. "Not me, that's for f*cking sure."

Thanks to Isaac's Wrath of the Lamb DLC, released in late May, the game passed its latest sales milestone, with the expansion selling a fifth of the overall sales in less than three weeks, according to McMillen.

McMillen says the DLC's rocky launch left a bad taste in his mouth, so the team decided to do another content update. Wrath of the Lamb v1.3 adds more "items, bosses, enemies, music, secrets and a very hard to attain final ending cut scene that should shed some light on the games story even more."

The update is free to all owners of the expansion. McMillen concluded, "700k is a big number... maybe its time to bring this thing to console ;)"

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac ties up 700,000 sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenpcthe-binding-of-isaacWed, 20 Jun 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac's Wrath of the Lamb begins May 28]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-begins-may-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-begins-may-28/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/07/the-binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-begins-may-28/#comments
"Wrath of the Lamb," the enormous expansion to The Binding of Isaac, has been assigned a release date even more specific than the "late May" window it previously had: it'll be on Steam May 28, creator Edmund McMillen told Joystiq.

McMillen also reiterated his claim that Wrath will be the sole expansion for Isaac. "Development for Super Meat Boy: The Game has started full time and once it's moving I won't be looking back!" In the meantime, you should look up - at the new, terrifying trailer for Wrath of the Lamb.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac's Wrath of the Lamb begins May 28 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenmacpcq2-2012release-datesteamthe-binding-of-isaacwrath-of-the-lambMon, 07 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac's Wrath of the Lamb expansion is huge, due in late May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-expansion-is-huge-due-in-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-expansion-is-huge-due-in-l/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/26/binding-of-isaacs-wrath-of-the-lamb-expansion-is-huge-due-in-l/#comments ImageThe Binding of Isaac expansion we heard about back in January, titled The Wrath of the Lamb, is almost here. Creator Edmund McMillen announced in a series of tweets that the expansion will arrive in late May, and that it is jam-packed with content: new challenges and achievements, over ten new bosses, over 100 new items, a new character, a new ending, and tons of other new material. "What I'm getting at is there is a lot of extra shit in this damn thing," tweeted McMillen. "We have been working on it longer than the actual game."

The latest screens of The Wrath of the Lamb are in the gallery below. For all of that content, the expansion will only cost three bucks. McMillen also said there's a trailer on the way, but he's busy right now, working with Steam on release details and testing and polishing the game itself.

Gallery: The Binding of Isaac: The Wrath of the Lamb (PC)

JoystiqBinding of Isaac's Wrath of the Lamb expansion is huge, due in late May originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenexpansionpcpricerelease-datethe-binding-of-isaacwrath-of-the-lambThu, 26 Apr 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Meat looking to Sony platforms for Binding of Isaac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/team-meat-looking-to-sony-platforms-for-binding-of-isaac/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/team-meat-looking-to-sony-platforms-for-binding-of-isaac/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/team-meat-looking-to-sony-platforms-for-binding-of-isaac/#comments It was revealed earlier today that Nintendo has refused to allow The Binding of Isaac on the 3DS eShop. Team Meat's Edward McMillen tells Joystiq it's "a bit primitive to 'censor' something due to religion, but it's [Nintendo's] platform and their choice on what they want to support." He also noted on Twitter that the decision hasn't soured the team's relationship with Nintendo, and that it "won't effect any future games with them."

McMillen said Team Meat and its publisher are looking into bringing the game to "1-2 Sony platforms," while Team Meat's publisher determines if such a port is worth pursuing. And hey, didn't Sony just bring out some new thing with two analog sticks?

JoystiqTeam Meat looking to Sony platforms for Binding of Isaac originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendoplaystationplaystation-vitaps3the-binding-of-isaacvitaWed, 29 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac not coming to 3DS eShop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/binding-of-isaac-not-coming-to-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/binding-of-isaac-not-coming-to-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/29/binding-of-isaac-not-coming-to-3ds-eshop/#comments It seems talks to bring The Binding of Isaac to 3DS have broken down, according to Team Meat's Edmund McMillen. "After a long internal debate," tweeted McMillen, "Nintendo has decided not to allow The Binding of Isaac on the 3ds." He elaborated that the game's "questionable religious content" was the reason for Nintendo's decision.

For those who don't know, the story of Binding of Isaac involves a child running away after a godlike voice asks the child's mother to sacrifice him. We've reached out to Team Meat for further comment.

JoystiqBinding of Isaac not coming to 3DS eShop originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopnintendoteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacWed, 29 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac closing in on 450K sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/the-binding-of-isaac-closing-in-on-450k-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/the-binding-of-isaac-closing-in-on-450k-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/28/the-binding-of-isaac-closing-in-on-450k-sales/#comments Edmund McMillen's The Binding of Isaac, a dark, "Roguelike" exploration of childhood trauma, is close to selling 450,000 copies.

"It's just ridiculous, there's no reason for this game to have done well. It's nice for everyone involved," McMillen said in an interview with IndieGames.

"When I started development on Isaac, I wasn't even sure if I should charge for it, because I didn't think people would want it, in all honestly. I had to shop it around to a bunch of different developers, and say like 'Do you think I could sell this?', because I thought it was way too weird, I thought the content was too disturbing and creepy. I thought it would just rub too many people the wrong way and I thought the design was just too hardcore for any kind of mass amount of people to enjoy."

Due to the success of Isaac, McMillen and crew are currently working on The Wrath of the Lamb expansion, which will be $3 and launch "when it's done."

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac closing in on 450K sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Edmund-McMillenmacpcsalesthe-binding-of-isaacSat, 28 Jan 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac: Unholy Edition splats across UK retail shelves March 16 [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/the-binding-of-isaac-unholy-edition-splats-across-retail-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/the-binding-of-isaac-unholy-edition-splats-across-retail-shelve/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/27/the-binding-of-isaac-unholy-edition-splats-across-retail-shelve/#comments The Binding of Isaac: Unholy Edition is a DRM-free PC and Mac version that includes a free Steam gift key, the full soundtrack, a poster and a 40-page art book. Developed by Edmund McMillen of Super Meat Boy's Team Meat, The Binding of Isaac premiered on Steam in September along with an adorable plush from the Team Meat Shop on Etsy.

If you don't yet know why that darling doll is crying, go ahead and pick up The Binding of Isaac on Steam for $5, or wait for the Unholy Edition to launch in Europe at an unknown price. Or you can just listen to this song, whose recurring line is "To the basement, people, to the basement / Many surprises await you / In the basement, people, in the basement / You hid there last time, you know we're gonna find you."

Update: Merge Games, the publisher behind Isaac's Unholy Edition, is based in the UK. While it doesn't list the retail version specifically as UK-only, we assume that is, in fact, the case. All you North Americans can just crawl back into your basements now, thanks. We've reached out to Merge Games for clarification.

Update 2: Merge Games has confirmed The Binding of Isaac's retail launch for the following regions: UK, Ireland, the Nordic countries, the Benelux, Italy, the Czech Republic, Greece, Turkey and South Africa. Merge Games also handles publishing in Australia and New Zealand.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac: Unholy Edition splats across UK retail shelves March 16 [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenmacpcretailteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacThe-Binding-of-Isaac-Unholy-EditionFri, 27 Jan 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[A Diversity of Roguelikes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/a-diversity-of-roguelikes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/a-diversity-of-roguelikes/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/19/a-diversity-of-roguelikes/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

This is a weekly column focusing on "Western" role-playing games: their stories, their histories, their mechanics, their insanity, and their inanity.
Once upon a time, the "Roguelike" genre was a semi-hidden cache of secrets in gaming. Games like Rogue and NetHack were passed around from floppy to floppy, not sold in stores, not discussed in magazines, and certainly not treated as part of the same tradition as an Ultima or even a Gold Box game. Maybe it's because the genre name is just so stupid. We don't call first-person shooters "Doomlikes" or puzzle games "Tetrislikes."

Unfortunately, I don't have a better term for it. Perhaps over the course of describing them in a column we can think of something. Here are the consistent attributes of the genres: it involves a series of randomly generated levels, starting hard and getting progressively more difficult. They're usually stripped-down role-playing games, where you roll a quick character, pick a class, buy a couple items, and then get killed permanently by a slime and have do it again. They're also designed for short play sessions.

Continue reading A Diversity of Roguelikes

JoystiqA Diversity of Roguelikes originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desktop-dungeonsdungeons-of-dredmormacpcrowan-kaiserthe-binding-of-isaacwestern-rpgsThu, 19 Jan 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA['The Wrath of the Lamb' will be The Binding of Isaac's only expansion, planned for inclusion with 3DS release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/the-wrath-of-the-lamb-will-be-the-binding-of-isaacs-only-expa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/the-wrath-of-the-lamb-will-be-the-binding-of-isaacs-only-expa/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/06/the-wrath-of-the-lamb-will-be-the-binding-of-isaacs-only-expa/#comments Edmund McMillen anticipates a release of The Binding of Isaac's first and only expansion, "The Wrath of the Lamb," at some point in "the next 2 - 4 months." At least that's according to Mr. McMillen himself, speaking with Joystiq in an email exchange last evening. "If we land the 3DS port, it will include the expansion for sure," McMillen added.

As for the planned Nintendo 3DS version, McMillen doesn't have much in the way of solid news just yet, but the project is moving along. "The only news I have on the 3DS is that it seems possible but it's still going through higher ups to make sure there won't be an issue with the 'religious' aspect," he said. And if the 3DS version doesn't work out, there are apparently other plans in the books.

"If we don't land the 3DS, the publisher I'm talking to has expressed interest in other digital platforms and is currently contacting them as well about the port." Considering the game is already available on PC, Mac, and Linux, we're presuming that means ... somewhere else (XBLA, PSN, Vita, and mobiles come to mind).

He also offered some details on the upcoming expansion, including the news that it will contain "about 50 percent more content." McMillen said the content comprises, "enemies, alt chapters, bosses, items, characters, challenges, new happenings and mechanics as well as a ton of other little details," and after that "nothing else" can be done with the game, "so I'll close the book on it." Which is rather fitting, considering the game's thematic inspiration, no?

Joystiq'The Wrath of the Lamb' will be The Binding of Isaac's only expansion, planned for inclusion with 3DS release originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsedmund-mcmillenexpansionmacnintendopcthe-binding-of-isaacthe-wrath-of-the-lambFri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac expands with 'The Wrath of the Lamb']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-binding-of-isaac-expands-with-the-wrath-of-the-lamb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-binding-of-isaac-expands-with-the-wrath-of-the-lamb/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/05/the-binding-of-isaac-expands-with-the-wrath-of-the-lamb/#comments Tired of endlessly replaying Ed McMillen's latest title, The Binding of Isaac? You probably shouldn't be, as that's kind of the point, but there's an expansion on the way should that be the case. McMillen revealed the title of the update via Twitter, naming it "The Wrath of the Lamb," and offering roughly zero details about its content. He did note that he pulled the name from the Catholic Bible's Book of Revelations, and that "whoever wrote this part of the Bible has a profoundly epic imagination."

The only info we've got so far is that it'll cost $3 and will apparently feature a whole mess of new items (over 205), including something called "trinkets" that will passively buff your character. No specific release date is given either, but it's intended to launch at some point in 2012.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac expands with 'The Wrath of the Lamb' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenexpansionlinuxmacpcsteamthe-binding-of-isaacthe-wrath-of-the-lambThu, 05 Jan 2012 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[McMillen: Publisher in talks with Nintendo for Binding of Isaac on 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mcmillen-publisher-in-talks-with-nintendo-for-binding-of-isaac/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mcmillen-publisher-in-talks-with-nintendo-for-binding-of-isaac/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/30/mcmillen-publisher-in-talks-with-nintendo-for-binding-of-isaac/#comments You could live through exaggerated childhood trauma ... in 3D! Responding on his FormSpring to a question about a potential 3DS port of The Binding of Isaac, co-creator Edmund McMillen revealed that "A publisher i know is currently asking Nintendo if they would be OK with Isaac on the 3DS." If Nintendo approves, he's willing to "let them port it."

McMillen later said that the 3DS was the "only other system you might ever see Isaac on." Of course, acquiring Nintendo approval may be difficult considering the violent, grotesque imagery and overarching theme of infanticide.

JoystiqMcMillen: Publisher in talks with Nintendo for Binding of Isaac on 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsedmund-mcmillennintendothe-binding-of-isaacFri, 30 Dec 2011 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Humble Voxatron Debut adds Gish, three other games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/humble-voxatron-debut-adds-gish-three-other-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/humble-voxatron-debut-adds-gish-three-other-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/10/humble-voxatron-debut-adds-gish-three-other-games/#comments Once again patience pays off for the potential Humble Indie Bundle investor. The Humble Voxatron Debut -- the latest bundle packing together an Alpha version of Voxatron along with The Binding of Isaac and Blocks That Matter -- has added yet another title to its ranks: Gish.

But wait, there's more! Chocolate Castle, Zen Puzzle Garden and Jasper's Journeys have also been tossed in. And, as with previous Humble bundles, if you've already paid, you can download Gish and the others for free.

JoystiqHumble Voxatron Debut adds Gish, three other games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blocks-that-mattergishhumble-indie-bundlelinuxmacpcthe-binding-of-isaacvoxatronThu, 10 Nov 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Humble Voxatron Debut sweetened with Blocks that Matter, Binding of Isaac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/humble-voxatron-debut-sweetened-with-blocks-that-matter-binding/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/humble-voxatron-debut-sweetened-with-blocks-that-matter-binding/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/humble-voxatron-debut-sweetened-with-blocks-that-matter-binding/#comments You may not be able to muster genuine surprise at the fact that the latest Humble Bundle has been upgraded with bonus games, but we're pretty sure the delight will be real.

The Humble Voxatron Debut is now a true "bundle," with The Binding of Isaac and Dream Build Play winner Blocks that Matter tossed in for all previous buyers and everyone who pays higher than the average. That's three great indie games for the price of anything.

Though you're free to pay as little as you'd like, we'll remind you that this is first and foremost a charity drive. Keep that in mind when you're budgeting!

JoystiqHumble Voxatron Debut sweetened with Blocks that Matter, Binding of Isaac originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blocks-that-matterhumble-indie-bundlehumble-voxatron-debutlinuxmacpcthe-binding-of-isaacvoxatronWed, 02 Nov 2011 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac gets a big ol' Halloween update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/binding-of-isaac-gets-a-big-ol-halloween-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/binding-of-isaac-gets-a-big-ol-halloween-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/31/binding-of-isaac-gets-a-big-ol-halloween-update/#comments Edmund McMillen's slightly disturbing indie dungeon crawler Binding of Isaac has been extended and expanded on this, the most spookiest of days. Don't expect any seasonal additions, however: In lieu of Jack O' Lanterns and mutant candy corn monsters, the free update features new bosses, a new playable character, an additional ending and a fifth chapter, which, in a fittingly bizarre twist, is "unlocked after 10 mom kills." Check out all the new features after the jump.

The game will be updated on Steam by 3 p.m. ET today. It's probably not the scariest thing you could play today, though. If only it were as utterly horrifying as its launch trailer!

Continue reading Binding of Isaac gets a big ol' Halloween update

JoystiqBinding of Isaac gets a big ol' Halloween update originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenmacpcteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacupdateMon, 31 Oct 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Update bound for The Binding of Isaac, demo available on Newgrounds]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/update-bound-for-the-binding-of-isaac-demo-available-on-newgrou/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/update-bound-for-the-binding-of-isaac-demo-available-on-newgrou/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/09/update-bound-for-the-binding-of-isaac-demo-available-on-newgrou/#comments Edmund McMillen's biblically based body horror roguelike nightmare factory The Binding of Isaac is slated to receive a rather substantial and delightfully free update this Halloween, via Steam. THe update will provide over 20 new items, 3 new bosses, a new playable character, more achievements and a new "final chapter" for those who have already completed the game.

"This final chapter should be a much bigger challenge," McMillen said in an email to fans. "Isaac will become exactly what I wanted to release but didn't have the time to finish." McMillen has also released a flash demo of the game on Newgrounds, which features two levels and contains 60-plus items and 8 possible bosses.

It's good to see McMillen continue Team Meat's proud tradition of free, continual community support; we just hope he'll be able to patch out our night terrors, at some point.

Continue reading Update bound for The Binding of Isaac, demo available on Newgrounds

JoystiqUpdate bound for The Binding of Isaac, demo available on Newgrounds originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoedmund-mcmillenisaacmacnewgroundspatchpcsteamteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacupdateSun, 09 Oct 2011 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac and its soundtrack available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/the-binding-of-isaac-and-its-soundtrack-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/the-binding-of-isaac-and-its-soundtrack-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/28/the-binding-of-isaac-and-its-soundtrack-available-now/#comments
The Binding of Isaac, a side project by Team Meat's Edmund McMillen (Super Meat Boy) with programmer Florian Himsl (Coil, Triachnid, C word), is available now for $5 on Steam for PC and Mac. Although Super Meat Boy may have had some cheeky dark elements, Isaac comes from a more nightmarish place.

As evidence of Isaac's darker tone, give a listen to "In The Beginning" from the game's soundtrack. Composed by Danny Baranowsky (Super Meat Boy, Canabalt), the soundtrack is also available now for a minimum of $0.99 and features 64 minutes of music.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac and its soundtrack available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danny-baranowskyEdmund-McMillenFlorian-Himslmacpcthe-binding-of-isaacWed, 28 Sep 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Binding of Isaac dated, plush incoming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/binding-of-isaac-dated-plush-incoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/binding-of-isaac-dated-plush-incoming/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/19/binding-of-isaac-dated-plush-incoming/#comments The image above kind of tells the whole story, but for you those of you on 2400 baud modems who have turned images off: Edmund McMillen's Zelda-inspired shooter/RPG/roguelike, The Binding of Isaac, will hit Steam on Sept. 28 for five dollars.

Oh, and that adorable little plush? That'll be available on launch day too in Team Meat's Etsy shop. Crying hasn't been this adorable since we saw that miniature pony break its leg at the zoo!

JoystiqBinding of Isaac dated, plush incoming originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenmacpcrelease-datesteamthe-binding-of-isaacMon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac promoted with freaky trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/the-binding-of-isaac-promoted-with-freaky-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/the-binding-of-isaac-promoted-with-freaky-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/29/the-binding-of-isaac-promoted-with-freaky-trailer/#comments

The trailer for Edmund McMillen's The Binding of Isaac is about half gameplay footage, showing a top-down, single-screen shooter reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda. The other half is a montage of creepy puppets, screaming, and a naked man. The trailer was directed by James Id, also responsible for the legendary Super Meat Boy trailer.

The trailer confirms the September release window for the Mac/PC game (a Linux version is coming "eventually"); previously, McMillen called September a "safe" estimate, and aimed for late August. Also confirming that new release window: it's pretty much the end of August right now.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac promoted with freaky trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenjames-idmacpcrelease-datethe-binding-of-isaacMon, 29 Aug 2011 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac will cost $5; Steam preview page up now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/the-binding-of-isaac-will-cost-5-steam-pre-order-page-up-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/the-binding-of-isaac-will-cost-5-steam-pre-order-page-up-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/the-binding-of-isaac-will-cost-5-steam-pre-order-page-up-now/#comments Thrifty fans of roguelikes should be delighted to hear the latest on The Binding of Isaac, the current project of Super Meat Boy developer Team Meat's more artistic half, Edmund McMillen. Today, via Twitter, McMillen revealed that the game will cost $5 and that the Steam app page is now live.

Oddly enough, the Steam app page contradicts previous statements that the game would launch in August, instead pegging it for September 2011. McMillen says that's "to be safe" -- the goal is still late August.

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac will cost $5; Steam preview page up now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenpcsteamteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacWed, 10 Aug 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Binding of Isaac bound for Steam this August, new screens bound for right now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/16/the-binding-of-isaac-bound-for-steam-this-august-new-screens-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/16/the-binding-of-isaac-bound-for-steam-this-august-new-screens-bo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/16/the-binding-of-isaac-bound-for-steam-this-august-new-screens-bo/#comments

Team Meat's Edmund McMillen just loosed a few more details and screenshots for his recently announced rougelike The Binding of Isaac. McMillen had previously hinted that Isaac would take some of its design cues from his "favorite game of all time," and judging by these screens, he wasn't kidding.

Isaac will be a mix between roguelikes, twin-stick shooters of yore, and The Legend of Zelda. The player uses Robotron-esque controls to navigate randomly generated dungeons in a "semi RPG world" littered with power-ups and items. These items have replaced a traditional leveling system according to McMillen, and as your character progresses they will "change into a monstrous powerhouse not only in stats and abilities but also in appearance."

In its current iteration, the game spans "3 chapters, 6 bosses, 36 enemy types, 4 unlockable characters and tons of dynamic happenings," however the team hopes to push those figures even higher before the game hits Steam this August. While no price-point has been set, McMillen maintains that it won't break the bank.

Oh! And there are flies that poop blood at you. Sounds about right.

Gallery: The Binding of Isaac reveal (07/16/11)

JoystiqThe Binding of Isaac bound for Steam this August, new screens bound for right now originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 16 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenisaacpcSteamTeam-Meatthe-binding-of-isaacSat, 16 Jul 2011 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[First track from The Binding of Isaac soundtrack available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/first-track-from-the-binding-of-isaac-soundtrack-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/first-track-from-the-binding-of-isaac-soundtrack-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/12/first-track-from-the-binding-of-isaac-soundtrack-available-now/#comments Composer Danny Baranowsky (Super Meat Boy, Canabalt) has made the first track for upcoming indie game The Binding of Isaac available at the cost of "name your own price" (that means free if you're a lousy tipper). The song, "Sacrificial," is available in about every major format you could want.

Announced last week, The Binding of Isaac is a side project by Edmund McMillen, one half of Team Meat, the duo that created Super Meat Boy. McMillen is working on the project with programmer Florian Himsl (Coil, Triachnid, C word) and plans to share more details about Isaac this week.

JoystiqFirst track from The Binding of Isaac soundtrack available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danny-baranowskyedmund-mcmillenmusicpcsoundtrackthe-binding-of-isaacTue, 12 Jul 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Meat's McMillen working on new game, The Binding of Isaac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/the-binding-of-isaac-team-meats-mcmillen/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/the-binding-of-isaac-team-meats-mcmillen/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/08/the-binding-of-isaac-team-meats-mcmillen/#comments Edmund McMillen, one half of Team Meat (the dev duo behind Super Meat Boy), has been working on a secret undertaking called The Binding of Isaac. The side project, which has nothing to do with Team Meat's next "feature length" project, finds McMillen working with programmer Florian Himsl (Coil, Triachnid, C word), and a score by Danny Baranowsky (Canabalt, Super Meat Boy, Cave Story 3D).

McMillen plans to reveal release date and platforms when the title is finished in about a month. The only hints we get for now are, "It's a play on my favorite game of all time," and that it's a roguelike. He hopes to share more information next week.

JoystiqTeam Meat's McMillen working on new game, The Binding of Isaac originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>edmund-mcmillenpcsuper-meat-boyteam-meatthe-binding-of-isaacFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:15:00 EST