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[Square Enix explains The Last Remnant's technical shortcomings]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/square-enix-explains-the-last-remnants-technical-shortcomings/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/square-enix-explains-the-last-remnants-technical-shortcomings/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/17/square-enix-explains-the-last-remnants-technical-shortcomings/#comments The Last Remnant represented a major experiment for Square Enix. Not only was it one of the company's first Xbox 360 games, it utilized the Unreal Engine, a first for the Japanese publisher. Unfortunately, the experiment wasn't quite successful, with critics calling it "a technical mess." Thankfully, the company isn't simply ignoring its mistakes, with Square Enix's new chief technology officer explaining how the misuse of the Unreal Engine led to such disappointing results. "One of the traps with middleware (like Unreal) is that some game teams believe that, because they got this middleware, maybe they need less programmers on their team, or maybe they don't need that many skilled programmers," Julien Merceron told Gamasutra.

By relying too much on middleware, teams face precarious situations when issues arise that can't be solved internally. "You don't have anyone that is able to solve the problem on your team," Merceron explained. In the case of The Last Remnant, the "problem" happened to be a wildly inconsistent framerate.

Merceron isn't advising against using middleware, noting "it won't be possible anymore to work without middleware because of time, talent, and cost reasons." Hopefully, under the new guidance of Merceron, Square Enix won't repeat the same mistakes it made with The Last Remnant.

JoystiqSquare Enix explains The Last Remnant's technical shortcomings originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Microsoftmiddlewaresquare-enixsquare-enix-europethe-last-remnantunreal-engineXbox-360Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Yoichi Wada suggests The Last Remnant may never make it to PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/yoichi-wada-suggests-the-last-remnant-may-never-make-it-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/yoichi-wada-suggests-the-last-remnant-may-never-make-it-to-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/24/yoichi-wada-suggests-the-last-remnant-may-never-make-it-to-ps3/#comments
We hope you're not holding your breath for a PS3 release of The Last Remnant, Square Enix's uneven attempt at creating a game using Unreal Engine 3. The company's CEO, Yoichi Wada, made some choice comments during a recent shareholder meeting which lead us to believe it may never make it out on Sony's system. AndriaSang.com has summarized his comments, in which he states that "it's tough on the development side of things to say that you'll release a game on multiple platforms but end up not doing so, Square Enix has to think about profitability."

"If there's a gap in the release of multiple versions of a game, and if the first version didn't necessarily see such great success, they have to think that there won't be a change in performance on a new platform." No games in particular were mentioned, but only one really fits the bill. The Last Remnant was announced as a multiplatform title, saw low sales on the Xbox 360 in November 2008, and there's been no sign of a PS3 release since then. In the interest of "profitability" this game may simply be put to pasture, instead.

JoystiqYoichi Wada suggests The Last Remnant may never make it to PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>rpgsquare-enixthe-last-remnantyoichi-wadaWed, 24 Jun 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: The Last Remnant sold better in the West, poorly in general]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/20/report-the-last-remnant-sold-better-in-the-west-poorly-in-general/#comments
It seems as though Square Enix's attempt to reach out to Western gamers with The Last Remnant has done little in the way of olive branch extension, with the title selling 220,000 units since its release last year. According to Siliconera (and corroborated with info from VGChartz.com), the game sold even worse in Japan, where 360 saturation is notably low, moving only 160,000 units, making the game a relative success with Western audiences.

That being said, combined worldwide sales for the game totaled just over half of a million units, with 560,000 selling altogether (more than 400k of which were sold in North America and Europe). Hopefully the acquisition of Eidos will do more for the Japanese company in the west than The Last Remnant did.

JoystiqReport: The Last Remnant sold better in the West, poorly in general originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 May 2009 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesseconomyeidosMicrosoftsiliconerasquare-enixthe-last-remnantwestern-developmentXbox-360Wed, 20 May 2009 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC09: No comment on PS3 version of The Last Remnant]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/gdc09-no-comment-on-ps3-version-of-the-last-remnant/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/gdc09-no-comment-on-ps3-version-of-the-last-remnant/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/26/gdc09-no-comment-on-ps3-version-of-the-last-remnant/#comments Square Enix first announced The Last Remnant, its Unreal Engine-powered RPG, as a multiplatform title for Xbox 360, PC and PS3. With both 360 and PC versions out, some are wondering what happened to the PS3 version.

Hiroshi Takai from Square Enix spoke at GDC, commenting on his experiences working with an externally produced engine for a project targeted at a global market. Lackluster reviews in America led Takai to admit that the game was "scored too high" in Japan.

According to Gamasutra, Takai was asked about the PS3 version of The Last Remnant. Though noting that the PC version had just shipped, he said, "I can't answer for the PlayStation 3," We've requested an official comment from Square Enix, and will update when we get a response.

JoystiqGDC09: No comment on PS3 version of The Last Remnant originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc-2009last-remnantsquare-enixthe-last-remnantThu, 26 Mar 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix summons development studio in LA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/square-enix-summons-development-studio-in-la/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/square-enix-summons-development-studio-in-la/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/21/square-enix-summons-development-studio-in-la/#comments
In a move that we'd have considered entirely out of the ordinary just a few years ago, Japanese developer Square Enix has shored up on the west coast of the US and opened shop. According to Ars Technica, this new development studio plans to cater to a western audience not by changing the type of games they make, but by employing western developers.

"It's not a good idea to make a game for people you don't understand," game development manager Fumi Shiraishi told AT." According to the piece, this new studio won't set out to develop "another FPS" but will push the envelope with regards to traditional Square Enix-developed titles. Considering the tepid reviews The Last Remnant received in the States, we're hoping this new studio can bring the signature Square Enix style to us with some much needed fresh ideas.

Shiraishi wouldn't reveal what the studio will be working on next, though he did say it falls under the "western niche" banner. So, an Infinite Undiscovery RTS, eh? Well played, Shiraishi. Well played indeed.

JoystiqSquare Enix summons development studio in LA originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Mar 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ars-technicabusinessfumi-shiraishiinfinite-undiscoverysquare-enixthe-last-remnantwestern-developmentSat, 21 Mar 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Last Remnant PC unplayable due to Steam activation [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/last-remnant-pc-unplayable-due-to-steam-activation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/last-remnant-pc-unplayable-due-to-steam-activation/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/20/last-remnant-pc-unplayable-due-to-steam-activation/#comments
European PC gamers got their hot little hands on the Games for Windows version of Square Enix's The Last Remnant today. Don't be too jealous, Americans -- the PCified RPG is coming stateside next Tuesday. Actually, don't get jealous at all -- according to a number of consumer reports via Eurogamer, the game refuses to accept the activation codes printed on the title's manual. Any attempt to install the game is met with a prompt informing the user the game hasn't been unlocked on Steam yet. More troubling, Steam's separate launch isn't coming until April 9.

Hopefully, Square Enix will rectify this verification blunder before the Steam launch date rolls around. We heard a rumor that most folks don't appreciate not being able to install the games they've rightfully purchased. Weird, right?

[Update: Square Enix reports that copies of the game should now be activating just fine, saying, "This issue was actually fixed early this morning so any technical glitches were resolved within a few hours."

JoystiqLast Remnant PC unplayable due to Steam activation [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Mar 2009 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>installpcrpgsquare-enixsteamthe-last-remnantverificationFri, 20 Mar 2009 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant on PC March 24, Steam in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/the-last-remnant-on-pc-march-24-steam-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/the-last-remnant-on-pc-march-24-steam-in-april/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/24/the-last-remnant-on-pc-march-24-steam-in-april/#comments
Square Enix has set a March 24 date for the PC release of its cross-platform RPG The Last Remnant. The Games for Windows title will offer new features not available in the Xbox 360 version, including the ability to choose between English or Japanese dialogue. Enhancements and fixes are also planned, such as improved character animation and faster battles.

In a separate announcement, Valve and Square Enix have confirmed a partnership to bring the latter's catalog of PC titles to the former's Steam service, starting with The Last Remnant on April 9. The game will be the digital distribution platform's first major Japanese RPG offering. Pricing has not yet been announced.

Square Enix president and CEO, John Yamamoto, said of the deal, "We are excited to offer the millions of Steam customers online access to Square Enix titles beginning with our major action RPG, The Last Remnant," adding that, "Square Enix is committed to delivering the best quality titles to PC gamers and distribution on Steam is one of the many steps we are taking to increase accessibility for fans in North America and PAL territories."

JoystiqThe Last Remnant on PC March 24, Steam in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pcsquare-enixsteamthe-last-remnantvalveTue, 24 Feb 2009 13:50:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant PC hitting Japan in April]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/the-last-remnant-pc-hitting-Japan-in-April/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/the-last-remnant-pc-hitting-Japan-in-April/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/29/the-last-remnant-pc-hitting-Japan-in-April/#comments
If you believe most reviews, The Last Remnant's outing on the Xbox 360 was mired in technical issues, evoking the kind of strain and unexpected farting more closely associated with the plane-pulling segment of a strong man competition. The most obvious solution, then, is to get a bigger man or perhaps a better metaphor.

According to Japan's Famitsu magazine (via 1UP), the PC version of Square Enix's strategic RPG is set to arrive in the region on April 9 for the hefty price of ¥8,190 ($90). That heft nabs you the ability to speed up battle animations, include more leader-class characters in a union, preview equipment in the menu and switch between Japanese and terrible voice acting.

And, provided your rig has enough muscle, the Unreal-powered graphics should look (and hopefully perform) more in line with The Last Remnant's rampant epicness.

JoystiqThe Last Remnant PC hitting Japan in April originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jan 2009 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FamitsuJapanSquare-EnixThe-Last-RemnantThe-Last-Remnant-PCThu, 29 Jan 2009 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy Canada: Last Remnant, Infinite Undiscovery $40 each ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/best-buy-canada-last-remnant-infinite-undiscovery-40-each/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/best-buy-canada-last-remnant-infinite-undiscovery-40-each/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/18/best-buy-canada-last-remnant-infinite-undiscovery-40-each/#commentsFiled under:


It's a slow week for sales in the Great White North, but role-playing fans are in for a treat this week at Best Buy Canada. For a limited time, Infinite Undiscovery and The Last Remnant have been discounted to $39.99 each. Both published by famed developer Square Enix, each title has been a staple in Microsoft's role-playing game push, over the last year. The Last Remnant was developed by the powerhouse Square Enix using Epic's Unreal Engine 3 and Infinite Undiscovery was developed by JRPG fan favorite tri-Ace and offer two very different game play experiences. Canadians looking to spend some quality time with two popular Japanese role-playing games should take notice to this promotion.

[Sale Links: Infinite Undiscovery | The Last Remnant]

JoystiqBest Buy Canada: Last Remnant, Infinite Undiscovery $40 each originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 18 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buy-canadacanada-dealscanadian-dealsinfinite-undiscoverythe-last-remnantSun, 18 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Grab free The Last Remnant DLC 'unlocks']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/grab-free-the-last-remnant-dlc-unlocks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/grab-free-the-last-remnant-dlc-unlocks/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/08/grab-free-the-last-remnant-dlc-unlocks/#commentsFiled under: ,


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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


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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantlive-marketplacemarketplacesquaresquare-enixthe-last-remnantxblmxbox-live-marketplaceSat, 29 Nov 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - The Last Remnant (Xbox 360)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/metareview-the-last-remnant-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/metareview-the-last-remnant-xbox-360/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/25/metareview-the-last-remnant-xbox-360/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Well, so much for that fancy "platinum" score from Famitsu. Western critics have passed judgment on role-playing epic The Last Remnant, deeming it an intriguing turn-based affair that's unfortunately mired in plodding pacing and abundant technical issues. Did nobody think to send Square Enix the Unreal Engine's instruction manual?
  • Gametrailers (80/100): "The Last Remnant is a hard game to judge. A person's enjoyment of it will be directly related to how much they can tolerate persistent graphical issues. If you can get past it, there's a lot to enjoy in the smart design decisions and its unique battle system."
  • Gamespot (65/100): "How unfortunate that such a renowned RPG developer has buried a potential classic under a humiliating technical fiasco."
  • Eurogamer (60/100): "It's a unique and compelling combat system buried beneath choppy pacing, too much wandering around, disappointing presentation problems and an awful lot of loading, and whether that's worth accepting depends largely on your tolerance or affection for long-winded self-indulgence, and whether you think 40 quid is a reasonable amount to pay for one superb idea cushioned by hours of grinding mediocrity."
  • IGN (53/100): "The Last Remnant is a technical mess, but it's also behind the curve in so many ways."

JoystiqMetareview - The Last Remnant (Xbox 360) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>MetareviewSquare-EnixThe-Last-RemnantUnrealXbox-360Tue, 25 Nov 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shipping this week: Braaaains edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/shipping-this-week-braaaains-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/shipping-this-week-braaaains-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/17/shipping-this-week-braaaains-edition/#commentsFiled under: , ,


You've read the headline and you're probably thinking, "Oh, great. Just what we need. Another article effusing praise for Left 4 Dead. Thanks. Thank you so much." In truth, yes, we're excited that Left 4 Dead is coming out this week, but the reality of the headline is best understood by glancing at the list below. There are twelve, twelve new games being released this week. If that's not enough to metamorphose every respectable gamer into a gibbering, cash-starved zombie, we're not sure what is. Now, if you'll excuse us, we have suddenly developed an irresistible craving for braaains gaaames.

JoystiqShipping this week: Braaaains edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Nov 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boltleft-4-deadlipsmortal-kombat-vs-dc-universeneed-for-speed-undercovershaun-white-snowboardingsonic-unleashedthe-last-remnanttomb-raider-underworldyoure-in-the-moviesMon, 17 Nov 2008 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant receives 'platinum' score from Famitsu]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/the-last-remnant-receives-platinum-score-from-famitsu/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/the-last-remnant-receives-platinum-score-from-famitsu/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/12/the-last-remnant-receives-platinum-score-from-famitsu/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


If the Unreal-powered RPG sits as well with gamers as it did with reviewers at Japan's Famitsu, The Last Remnant will be the first of more, er, remnants to come. According to a post on NeoGAF, the magazine's four-person Cross Review team lauded Square Enix's Western-focused title, scoring it 10/10/9/9 (38/40) - high enough to earn its Platinum Award.

For comparison, the mag scored Infinite Undiscovery 9/8/8/6 (31/40) - it averaged a 68/100 metascore here in the States. Of course, Famitsu has been known to exhibit some ... questionable taste in the past. Take, for example, its 9/8/9/8 (34/40) score for Ubisoft's Haze.

JoystiqThe Last Remnant receives 'platinum' score from Famitsu originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famitsuPCPS3review-scoressquare-enixthe-last-remnantXbox-360Wed, 12 Nov 2008 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[70 screenshots for The Last Remnant plus battle mechanics details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/70-screenshots-for-the-last-remnant-plus-battle-mechanics-detail/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/70-screenshots-for-the-last-remnant-plus-battle-mechanics-detail/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/27/70-screenshots-for-the-last-remnant-plus-battle-mechanics-detail/#commentsFiled under:


We really haven't heard anything about The Last Remnant for a while now -- the game's PS3 version still lacks a release date (the delay is attributed to the Unreal Engine while the 360 version will be out this November) and details on the game mechanics are fuzzy at best.

Luckily for fans, Siliconera has unearthed some information on the battle mechanics for the multiplatform RPG. It is being summarized as a "turn-based RPG with multiple parties" -- you control several parties of up to five characters each. Instead of issuing direct commands to the members of the party, you issue more generalized directions such as "time to get physical/mystical" (physical/magical attacks on enemies) or "attack, but stay healthy" (attack close-ranged enemies while healing) to the entire party. Finally, there's also a morale meter on the top of the battle screen: high morale means you deal more damage while damage received will be reduced and vice versa.

This whole system doesn't sound especially innovative to us. So instead of controlling 4-5 members of your party in a typical RPG, you control 4-5 parties that work in a similar fashion? We'll reserve our final judgment for the game when it comes out though, not that we know when that will happen. Check out the latest screenshots for the game -- you can find all 70 of them in the gallery below.

Joystiq70 screenshots for The Last Remnant plus battle mechanics details originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantsquare-enixthe-last-remnantSat, 27 Sep 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu corrects its Last Remnant PS3 release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/famitsu-corrects-its-last-remnant-ps3-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/famitsu-corrects-its-last-remnant-ps3-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/18/famitsu-corrects-its-last-remnant-ps3-release-date/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Famitsu has posted a correction on its website (via IGN) about an incorrect The Last Remnant release date that appeared in the latest Famitsu PS3 publication. The issue, dedicated to Square Enix's recent DKΣ3713 event, incorrectly listed the PlayStation 3 version of the game as coming November 20, the same day as the Xbox 360 release. The PS3 version's actual release date is, as they say, TBA for both Japan and the rest of the world. As far as we know, the Xbox 360 version is still poised to make that November 20 "worldwide" release.

JoystiqFamitsu corrects its Last Remnant PS3 release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DK3713famitsulast-remnantPS3square-enixthe-last-remnantXbox-360Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant roundtable discussion: still no PS3 release date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/the-last-remnant-roundtable-discussion-still-no-ps3-release-dat/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/the-last-remnant-roundtable-discussion-still-no-ps3-release-dat/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/18/the-last-remnant-roundtable-discussion-still-no-ps3-release-dat/#commentsFiled under: ,

Don't let the subject line fool you -- while there's still no firm release date set for The Last Remnant on the PS3, it's coming and it's about time we learned a little more about the game. A bunch of press members sat down with the game's producer, Nobuyuki Ueda, then tried to get some information about the game's battle system and storyline. We'll summarize the important bits and let you decide if you want to read the whole thing.

The game is supposed to appease both Western and Japanese gamers. English development is ahead of Japanese, so the English dub is proceeding along smoothly, Ueda says. The battles are as large-scale or as small-scale as you'd like. You have control over five "unions" with five members in each union, but it seems like you directly control either one at a time or the leader of each union during battles.

Once battle starts, a timer is in place that'll signify when more enemy units will join in the brawl. The greater the number of enemies you choose to encounter, the greater the reward. Think of the DS title The World Ends With You to get an idea what they're going for. The morale meter does not indicate rewards; it helps you see how well other units will pay attention to your orders. While the game sounds like it keeps many traditional RPG elements, it also sounds like it may be more hands-off than expected. We don't know for sure, so we'll not make any judgments until we play it for ourselves.

JoystiqThe Last Remnant roundtable discussion: still no PS3 release date originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308last-remnantsquare-enixthe-last-remnantFri, 18 Jul 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant chiseled in for Nov. 20 release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/the-last-remnant-chiseled-in-for-nov-20-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/the-last-remnant-chiseled-in-for-nov-20-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/14/the-last-remnant-chiseled-in-for-nov-20-release/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The Last Remnant, which given Square Enix's typical grasp of words like "final" is probably the first remnant on top a great pile of discarded remnants, will be found on the Xbox 360 on November 20th. In an announcement that was almost swept away by multiplatform Final Fantasy XIII hysteria, Square Enix president Yoichi Wada confirmed at Microsoft's E3 press conference that the pointy-haired, teary-eyed RPG would arrive on Microsoft's system first, just in time for the end-of-year purchasing frenzy. A Games For Windows version will follow at a later stage.

Be sure to view the trailer posted after the break!

Continue reading The Last Remnant chiseled in for Nov. 20 release

JoystiqThe Last Remnant chiseled in for Nov. 20 release originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jul 2008 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Breaking-Newse3-2008Last-RemnantPCPS3Square-EnixThe-Last-RemnantXbox-360Mon, 14 Jul 2008 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix E3 lineup loaded with sequels, remakes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/square-enix-e3-lineup-loaded-with-sequels-remakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/square-enix-e3-lineup-loaded-with-sequels-remakes/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/09/square-enix-e3-lineup-loaded-with-sequels-remakes/#comments
With 2008's edition of E3 just days away, the role-playing steam engine that is Square Enix has revealed what titles that it will spring on press types as they shuffle past. Of the eleven titles on display, the company's lineup this year is noticeably remake and sequel heavy, with over half of the games representing a return to the well for another drink. Boasting "simultaneous global releases for several platforms," the company has also re-confirmed dates for much of its lineup as well, with the following games also noted as being playable during the show:
 In addition, the remainder listed below will be shown in non-playable form:
And coming soon to a grocery store near you, Star Ocean: Whole Wheat Clusters.

JoystiqSquare Enix E3 lineup loaded with sequels, remakes originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrono-triggerchronotriggerdragon-questdragon-quest-ive3-2008exitfinal-fantasyfinal-fantasy-ivinfinite-undiscoverylegend-of-kagesong-summonersquare-enixsquareenixstar-oceanstaroceanthe-last-remnantWed, 09 Jul 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant official Japanese website now open]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/the-last-remnant-official-japanese-website-now-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/the-last-remnant-official-japanese-website-now-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/30/the-last-remnant-official-japanese-website-now-open/#commentsFiled under:

The official site of the The Last Remnant is now online. There's a trailer, a prologue, information on the battle system, 4 characters with voices and 12 screenshots. You can even choose between three different songs as your background music. The game prologue mentions Remnants as ancient artifacts of awesome power but unknown origins, and that mankind's usage of them has caused "a rift in the world's balance." Isn't there always a rift in the world's balance in every Square game?

The game is to be a 360 timed-exclusive supposedly because of a delay caused by the Unreal Engine the game is using. The screenshots seems to focus on the environment, landscape and building architecture of the game. The style also reminds us of Final Fantasy XII. So, still looking forward to The Last Remnant or bitter over the delay?

JoystiqThe Last Remnant official Japanese website now open originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>screenshotssquare-enixsquareenixthe-last-remnantMon, 30 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Last Remnant enthusiasts will enjoy concept art, screenshots]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/last-remnant-enthusiasts-will-enjoy-concept-art-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/last-remnant-enthusiasts-will-enjoy-concept-art-screenshots/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/21/last-remnant-enthusiasts-will-enjoy-concept-art-screenshots/#commentsFiled under:

Even though Unreal Engine 3 troubles are hindering the development of this multi-platform title on the PS3, we're still looking forward to The Last Remnant. Given this new stream of screenshots featuring battles as well as a lot of excellent concept art from Famitsu, our anxiety for a firm PS3 release rises further. Check them out and keep your fingers crossed for more information soon.

JoystiqLast Remnant enthusiasts will enjoy concept art, screenshots originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jun 2008 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>square-enixthe-last-remnantSat, 21 Jun 2008 02:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Last Remnant dev says Unreal Engine cause behind PS3 delay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/last-remnant-dev-says-unreal-engine-cause-behind-ps3-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/last-remnant-dev-says-unreal-engine-cause-behind-ps3-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/18/last-remnant-dev-says-unreal-engine-cause-behind-ps3-delay/#commentsFiled under:


Once again, another Unreal Engine-related delay strikes again. The Last Remnant is one of the timed exclusive RPGs from Square Enix on the Xbox 360, but that wasn't because Microsoft shelled out the big bucks. According to an interview with Gamespy, the delay was "mainly for development reasons." The Unreal Engine has been difficult to work with on PS3, and that's been the cause of the delay. "We're developing the game using the middleware Unreal Engine, and the Unreal Engine has a slower development on the PS3 side."

Thankfully, ever since Epic worked on the PS3 with Unreal Tournament III, things have been running more smoothly on Sony's platform. "It was only really workable after Unreal Tournament was published, so this was mainly a development decision."

Square Enix's other PS3 RPG games, Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy Versus XIII, utilize Square Enix's in-house Crystal Tools engine.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqLast Remnant dev says Unreal Engine cause behind PS3 delay originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>last-remnantsquare-enixthe-last-remnantunrealunreal-engineunreal-engine-3Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[See screens of Microsoft's JRPG lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/see-screens-of-microsofts-jrpg-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/see-screens-of-microsofts-jrpg-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/12/see-screens-of-microsofts-jrpg-lineup/#commentsFiled under: ,


Microsoft held a press conference on Tuesday morning Joystiq Time to show off its upcoming Japanese RPGs, including Star Ocean: The Last Hope (just announced for Xbox 360), The Last Remnant (launching "on the Xbox 360 first" this Winter), Infinite Undiscovery (whose "worldwide" release isn't quite simultaneous), and Namco Bandai's Tale of Vesperia (reaching North America in August with an Xbox demo this month). Hit up the galleries below to get a peek at each of these four titles.

Continue reading See screens of Microsoft's JRPG lineup

JoystiqSee screens of Microsoft's JRPG lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jun 2008 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Infinite-UndiscoveryStar-Ocean-The-Last-HopeTales-of-VesperiaThe-Last-RemnantXbox-360Thu, 12 Jun 2008 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Ocean 4 currently Xbox exclusive, Last Remnant delayed on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/star-ocean-4-currently-xbox-exclusive-last-remnant-delayed-on-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/star-ocean-4-currently-xbox-exclusive-last-remnant-delayed-on-p/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/star-ocean-4-currently-xbox-exclusive-last-remnant-delayed-on-p/#commentsFiled under: ,

Fans of Square Enix RPGs may have assumed PS3 was the safe bet this generation of consoles. However, during a press conference in Japan today, the famed RPG maker announced its plans to support Xbox 360, with at least one exclusive, and two timed exclusives for Microsoft's current generation platform.

Star Ocean: The Last Hope, the fourth iteration of the popular RPG series, has been announced for Xbox 360 only. The official website makes it clear that the game will be a 360 title, but plans for a PS3 version haven't been completely ruled out yet. "We cannot announce anything on that. We can say that it will be released first [on the Xbox 360]. Whether we'll release it on the PS3 is undecided. We may release it, we may not." [Source]

Another Square Enix game, The Last Remnant, will be multiplatform. However, the game will debut on Xbox 360 first this year, with a PS3 version to come some time after, perhaps next year. This continues Microsoft's aggressive push to secure the Japanese RPG market, with Square Enix's Infinite Undiscovery being an Xbox 360 exclusive as well. PS3 fans need not fret too much, because at the very least, the Final Fantasy XIII games are still exclusive on PS3. For now.

[Via Joystiq]

Continue reading Star Ocean 4 currently Xbox exclusive, Last Remnant delayed on PS3

JoystiqStar Ocean 4 currently Xbox exclusive, Last Remnant delayed on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-undiscoverylast-remnantsquare-enixstar-oceanstar-ocean-4star-ocean-last-hopethe-last-remnantxbox-360Tue, 10 Jun 2008 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant: New details and trailer [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/the-last-remnant-new-details-and-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/the-last-remnant-new-details-and-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/the-last-remnant-new-details-and-trailer/#commentsFiled under: ,


Update: An English language version of the trailer embedded above is now available on the Xbox Live Marketplace.

Originally touted as the first multiplatform, simultaneous multi-region release from developer Square Enix, The Last Remnant is now planned to release on the Xbox 360 first. At the recent Xbox 360 RPG event in Japan, Square Enix confirmed that The Last Remnant will release on the Xbox 360 in North America, Europe and Japan simultaneously with a PS3 version planned for a later date. Announced in 2007, the Unreal Engine 3 based role-playing game includes two playable characters; one aimed at Eastern audiences while the other was modeled to appeal more to Western audiences. No release date for the title has been confirmed as of yet, but it appears Microsoft has found itself some newfound love with the popular Japanese developer, Square Enix.

[via Famitsu]

JoystiqThe Last Remnant: New details and trailer [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 07:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>square-enixthe-last-remnantTue, 10 Jun 2008 07:35:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last Remnant hitting Xbox 360 first this Winter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/the-last-remnant-hitting-xbox-360-first-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/the-last-remnant-hitting-xbox-360-first-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/10/the-last-remnant-hitting-xbox-360-first-this-winter/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Though we're certain Square Enix's interpretation of words like "final" and "last" differs greatly from ours (o hai Final Fantasy XIX!), we think we're all in the same boat when it comes to "first," as in, "The Last Remnant will launch on the Xbox 360 first." Speaking at a Japanese Xbox 360 press conference (liveblogged by IGN), Square Enix revealed that the Unreal-powered RPG would be arriving on Microsoft's system first this Winter, with the PlayStation 3 version following at a later date.

The Last Remnant is still set to enjoy one of those newfangled worldwide releases, with North America, Europe and Japan receiving the Xbox 360 version simultaneously -- or at least, close to simultaneously.

[Trailer via X3F]

JoystiqThe Last Remnant hitting Xbox 360 first this Winter originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jun 2008 07:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsJapanJRPGLast-RemnantPS3Square-EnixThe-Last-RemnantUnrealXbox-360Tue, 10 Jun 2008 07:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix considering stakes in competing developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/square-enix-considering-stakes-in-competing-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/square-enix-considering-stakes-in-competing-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/20/square-enix-considering-stakes-in-competing-developers/#commentsFiled under: ,


Speaking at the Reuters Global Technology, Media and Telecoms Summit in Tokyo, Square Enix president Yoichi Wada has said that his company may decide to get cozy with rival developers. "Economies of scale and breadth of scope are getting important," he said. "It may be a business alliance or it may be us taking a stake in others, but we need to go beyond traditional Square Enix." In moving "beyond" the company's traditional situation, Wada also hopes to move farther beyond the borders of Japan and boost international games sales. Out of total software revenue, overseas sales currently comprise 50 percent -- and he'd rather have them at 80 percent.

By forming alliances with other companies and better heeding the desires of the international market (MOAR GUNZ PLZ), Square Enix would be better equipped to deal with steep competition, "not only from Japanese videogame companies but from game companies worldwide." Square Enix's The Last Remnant, which is planned for simultaneous release in the East and West, may be the first step towards that goal.

JoystiqSquare Enix considering stakes in competing developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 May 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JapanSquare-EnixThe-Last-RemnantYoichi-WadaTue, 20 May 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix aiming for simultaneous worldwide releases]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/square-enix-aiming-for-simultaneous-worldwide-releases/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/square-enix-aiming-for-simultaneous-worldwide-releases/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/10/square-enix-aiming-for-simultaneous-worldwide-releases/#commentsFiled under:

Here's a slice of news pie that we wouldn't mind gulping down with a tall glass of awesome. Everyone in the RPG business knows the rule: Japan gets the game about six months before any other area. Right? Maybe that won't be the case anymore. Square Enix's Yoichi Wada went on record recently, stating that they plan to start "making simultaneous releases the norm."

Does this include PS3-exclusive Final Fantasy XIII, or the multi-plat Last Remnant? It might. Due to the overwhelming strength of the gaming market outside of Japan, we're seeing a shift in game release ideology. Either this means the US and Europe will get the aforementioned games earlier than expected, or Japan will get them later than anticipated. Who knows -- maybe Square Enix really will start opening up development offices outside of Japan.

JoystiqSquare Enix aiming for simultaneous worldwide releases originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ffxiiifinal-fantasy-xiiisquare-enixthe-last-remnantMon, 10 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS07: The Last Remnant trailer displays new characters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/tgs07-the-last-remnant-trailer-displays-new-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/tgs07-the-last-remnant-trailer-displays-new-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/tgs07-the-last-remnant-trailer-displays-new-characters/#commentsFiled under:

Okay, first, off, if Xenogears were getting a next-gen makeover, the dude with the eye patch in this trailer would be a pretty spot-on recreation of Bartholomew Fatima. Minus the really long ponytail. That random observation aside, this new trailer for The Last Remnant is exactly what we expected from Square Enix -- awesomeness, mostly. We've all heard the phrases "one young man's adventure begins" and "it's time to awaken" before, but that's all right. We can discount a few cliches here and there. The game looks to be a blast and getting a simultaneous release across two consoles and two countries ... well ... that's pretty cool, too. Still no solid release date, so we expect a fairly vague mid-2008 date to crop up somewhere.

JoystiqTGS07: The Last Remnant trailer displays new characters originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>square-enixthe-last-remnantThu, 20 Sep 2007 18:00:00 EST