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[Theatrhythm soundtracks are really Final Fantasy 1-13 albums, out now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/theatrhythm-soundtracks-are-really-final-fantasy-1-13-albums-ou/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/theatrhythm-soundtracks-are-really-final-fantasy-1-13-albums-ou/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/theatrhythm-soundtracks-are-really-final-fantasy-1-13-albums-ou/#comments Square Enix released four Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy soundtracks onto iTunes today, each comprising songs from a particular mode of the 3DS and iOS game. There's a soundtrack each for the game's Event, Field, and Battle gameplay modes, each one priced $8.97, along with one for the Chaos Shrine mode, priced $9.99.

The game aside, what these essentially represent are Final Fantasy 1-13 compilations, with the Event, Field, and Battle soundtracks each including one song in its original version from each of the first 13 main FF games. Take the Battle one, which includes a piece of battle music from each game, though not always the main one; FF7 and FF10 are represented by "One Winged Angel" and "Fight With Seymour," for example.

The Field soundtrack comprises a mixture of the games' main themes and songs you hear in particular locations, while the Event soundtrack picks some of the iconic songs (mostly) from the 13 games, like "Celes's Theme" from FF6 and "Waltz for the Moon" from FF8.

Finally, the 15 songs of the Chaos Shrine are much more scattered. Nonetheless, there are some excellent ones in there such as the melancholy "Zanarkand" of FF10 and the rousing "Blinded by Light" of FF13.

JoystiqTheatrhythm soundtracks are really Final Fantasy 1-13 albums, out now originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsiosipadiphoneitunesmobilenintendosoundtracksquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyFri, 29 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: JC's picks of 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/03/best-of-the-rest-jcs-picks-of-2012/#comments Joystiq is revealing its 10 favorite games of 2012 throughout the week. Keep reading for more top selections and every writer's personal, impassioned picks in Best of the Rest roundups.

Best of the Rest JC's picks of 2012
Kid Icarus Uprising
I tried not to push Kid Icarus Uprising on my coworkers, despite enjoying it more than anything else I played this year. It's ... not the friendliest game, and requires an investment to enjoy that maybe I wouldn't have put in, had I not reviewed the game. I hated it until I loved it.

The insane, uncomfortable control scheme is a massive turnoff for the first few hours of gameplay, though I swear it clicks later (and is deeply customizable). The script is goofy to the point of being embarrassing, though it also swung to "hilarious" as the game went on. And the multiplayer takes a lot of "training," being based on the same weird control scheme as the ground battles from the single-player game - and it became the only online multiplayer game I cared to put hours of my own time into in 2012.

Kid Icarus Uprising's high barrier to entry makes it very un-Nintendo-like, and the kind of game I usually wouldn't deem worthy of a second look. I'm the kind of person who doesn't want to play a game if I have to wait for it to get fun. But Uprising's payoff is so worth it.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: JC's picks of 2012

JoystiqBest of the Rest: JC's picks of 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsbest-of-2012best-of-the-rest-2012kid-icarus-uprisingmicrosoftnew-super-mario-bros-unintendopersona-4-goldenplaystationplaystation-vitaps3sound-shapestheatrhythm-final-fantasytokyo-junglevitawii-uxboxThu, 03 Jan 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of the Rest: Sinan's picks of 2012]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/best-of-the-rest-sinans-picks-of-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/best-of-the-rest-sinans-picks-of-2012/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/01/best-of-the-rest-sinans-picks-of-2012/#comments Joystiq is revealing its 10 favorite games of 2012 throughout the week. Keep reading for more top selections and every writer's personal, impassioned picks in Best of the Rest roundups.

Best of the Rest Sinan's picks of 2012
Dragon's Dogma
There are so many things wrong with Dragon's Dogma, as noted in Joystiq's scathing review. For starters, its unwillingness to offer guidance makes the Souls games look helpful, its dialogue repetition is nothing short of maddening - yes I freaking know wolves hunt in packs - and no game has ever made fast travel more of a chore. But when it's good, oh how good it is. Combining in harmony with my troupe of automated pawns to take down giant foes in simplistic yet epic, challenging combat is just too delectable to exclude Dragon's Dogma from mention, flaws or no.

Continue reading Best of the Rest: Sinan's picks of 2012

JoystiqBest of the Rest: Sinan's picks of 2012 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jan 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsasuras-wrathbest-of-the-restBest-of-the-Rest-2012borderlands-2dragons-dogmamicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3sound-shapestheatrhythm-final-fantasyvitaxboxTue, 01 Jan 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy shows up on iOS App Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-shows-up-on-ios-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-shows-up-on-ios-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-shows-up-on-ios-app-store/#comments Theatrhythm Final Fantasy shows up on iOS App StoreAn unannounced iOS port of the 3DS music game Theatrhythm Final Fantasy has shown up on New Zealand's iOS App Store, which usually portends a worldwide release throughout the day.

The iOS game adds a "Quest Medley" mode, which puts you through a random pairing of "field" and "battle" levels, different each time you play. It also adds some kind of composition mode, along with the ability to share creations via Twitter.

Unlike the 3DS version, the iOS release is free to download. As reported by NeoGAF users, it comes with just two songs, with the rest purchased as in-app bundles. Even additional characters are sold via IAP. In fact, user Goli notes that, when the NZ release of the game is opened in a US account, the prices for in-app purchases show up in US denominations ... and add up to around $150.

In any case, Theatrhythm is worth a try if you have even the slightest appreciation for Final Fantasy music. The 3DS version retails for $30.

JoystiqTheatrhythm Final Fantasy shows up on iOS App Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Dec 2012 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosipadiphonemobilenew-zealandtheatrhythm-final-fantasyWed, 12 Dec 2012 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Theatrhythm demo, Toki Tori]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/nintendoware-weekly-theatrhythm-demo-toki-tori/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/nintendoware-weekly-theatrhythm-demo-toki-tori/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/30/nintendoware-weekly-theatrhythm-demo-toki-tori/#comments NintendoWare Weekly Theatrhythm demo, Toki ToriMaybe you don't think you like Final Fantasy all that much. You should still try Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy, a suggestion made easier by the arrival of a demo on the 3DS eShop today. And while you're there, you can pick up Two Tribes' original Game Boy Color version of Toki Tori.

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Theatrhythm demo, Toki Tori

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Theatrhythm demo, Toki Tori originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Aug 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdemodseshopnintendonintendoware-weeklytheatrhythm-final-fantasytoki-toriThu, 30 Aug 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Plan your nostalgia with Theatrhythm DLC schedule]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/plan-your-nostalgia-with-theatrhythm-dlc-schedule/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/plan-your-nostalgia-with-theatrhythm-dlc-schedule/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/12/plan-your-nostalgia-with-theatrhythm-dlc-schedule/#comments Theatrhythm DLC scheduleThe first Theatrhythm DLC (and, by extension, the first 3DS DLC) arrived in North America last week. Square Enix continues to support the rhythm-playing game with four weekly tracks, announcing the releases for today and the following two weeks.

Today's DLC brings something truly special: "Somnus" from Final Fantasy Versus 13, a game that basically doesn't exist yet. It's accompanied by "Desperate Struggle" from Final Fantasy 13, "Sarutabaruta" from Final Fantasy 11, and "Battle" from Final Fantasy 6. Each song is 99 cents.

The next two weeks will see DLC from Final Fantasies 3, 7, 9, 10, 11, 13, and 13-2. Find the list after the break. These are occuring in a different order from the Japanese releases, so we can't predict which songs will arrive after these.

Gallery: Theatrhythm Final Fantasy (DLC)

Continue reading Plan your nostalgia with Theatrhythm DLC schedule

JoystiqPlan your nostalgia with Theatrhythm DLC schedule originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdlcnintendotheatrhythm-final-fantasyThu, 12 Jul 2012 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Why Theatrhythm is a celebration of not only Final Fantasy, but an entire genre]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/why-theatrhythm-is-a-celebration-of-not-only-final-fantasy-but/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/why-theatrhythm-is-a-celebration-of-not-only-final-fantasy-but/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/11/why-theatrhythm-is-a-celebration-of-not-only-final-fantasy-but/#commentsThis is a column by Kat Bailey dedicated to the analysis of the once beloved Japanese RPG sub-genre. Tune in every Wednesday for thoughts on white-haired villains, giant robots, Infinity+1 swords, and everything else the wonderful world of JRPGs has to offer.
When I put together my Mt. Rushmore of Japanese RPG developers a few months ago, one of the more controversial picks was Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu. The general argument was that Hironobu Sakaguchi, the guy who actually created Final Fantasy, should be up there instead. I don't think that argument is wrong exactly - Sakaguchi has certainly done a lot for RPGs in his time - but it felt wrong to have a JRPG Rushmore without a top composer.

At the time, it was hard to really put my finger on why that was, other than that I've always found good music to be an especially important quality in RPGs. Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, however, has crystallized things for me. How many established franchises can you think of that can support a rhythm game of this magnitude? I can think of only a handful, most of which are RPGs: Dragon Quest and The Legend of Zelda could manage the same feat (though the latter isn't a traditional RPG, it's close).

Of them, Final Fantasy is the series best suited for its own rhythm game. The genre jump makes sense with a franchise packed with such a dense library of memorable tunes, but it's also Final Fantasy's longevity as a series that makes it a prime candidate for the rhythm genre.

Gallery: Theatrhythm Final Fantasy

Continue reading Why Theatrhythm is a celebration of not only Final Fantasy, but an entire genre

JoystiqWhy Theatrhythm is a celebration of not only Final Fantasy, but an entire genre originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendoOpinionSquare-Enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyWed, 11 Jul 2012 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[First Theatrhythm DLC for North America includes eight new old songs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/first-theatrhythm-dlc-for-north-america-includes-eight-new-old-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/first-theatrhythm-dlc-for-north-america-includes-eight-new-old-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/03/first-theatrhythm-dlc-for-north-america-includes-eight-new-old-s/#comments
Theatrhythm Final Fantasy launches today, and Square Enix has already revealed the first round of DLC for North America. Eight songs will be available for 99 cents each (the list is after the break), with the purchase option available from a link in the 3DS game's title screen.

Square Enix did not date the release of the DLC, and it doesn't appear to be up yet. We'll find out when the songs are officially expected online. This is officially the first 3DS downloadable content in North America (or it will be when it actually shows up).

While you wait for that - and you probably don't have your copy yet anyway - enjoy the new launch trailer above.

Continue reading First Theatrhythm DLC for North America includes eight new old songs

JoystiqFirst Theatrhythm DLC for North America includes eight new old songs originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdlcdownloadable-contentgameplaynintendosquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasytrailerTue, 03 Jul 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy review: More fun to play than to say]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-review-more-fun-to-play-than-to-say/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-review-more-fun-to-play-than-to-say/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/07/02/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-review-more-fun-to-play-than-to-say/#comments Theatrhythm Final Fantasy reviewI'm probably alone in feeling this way, but for me Final Fantasy is at its best when it puts the melodrama aside and embraces a sense of fun. Sometimes - not often - a Final Fantasy will acknowledge the ridiculousness of its characters and setting, and just give you a quest about chocobos or a pop-star protagonist, and it feels much more appropriate than being asked to take the usual group of overdressed, snotty amnesiacs seriously as they wander the forest fighting timid cacti and Bedazzling their armor.

Theatrhythm Final Fantasy represents that whimsy in concentrated form - a celebration of the barest essence of Final Fantasy. More than that, of course, it's a celebration of the series' musical legacy, which is something worth celebrating.

Gallery: Theatrhythm Final Fantasy (E3 2012)

Continue reading Theatrhythm Final Fantasy review: More fun to play than to say

JoystiqTheatrhythm Final Fantasy review: More fun to play than to say originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsindies-zeronintendotheatrhythm-final-fantasyMon, 02 Jul 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm franchise could cross Square Enix properties]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/theatrhythm-franchise-could-cross-square-enix-properties/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/theatrhythm-franchise-could-cross-square-enix-properties/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/06/theatrhythm-franchise-could-cross-square-enix-properties/#comments Theatrhythm franchise could cross Square Enix propertiesThere's a reason Theatrhythm received top billing in Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy, as the game could expand into a series beyond the Final Fantasy franchise. Ichiro Hazama, producer at Square Enix's 1st Production Department, told us the publisher has plenty of intellectual properties where the formula could be applied.

"Our company has so many other IPs that create great music, so if you ask if I want to do it? I want to do it, but nothing is determined yet," said Hazama. "In my mind, it was my intention that if it expands to other franchises that would be great. That's why this title carries Theatrhythm first and Final Fantasy comes next."

Hmm, that opens up the series to possibilities like Theatrhythm: Kingdom Hearts... or Theatrhythm: Hitman.

Gallery: Theatrhythm Final Fantasy (E3 2012)

JoystiqTheatrhythm franchise could cross Square Enix properties originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jun 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dse3-2012nintendoSquare-Enixtheatrhythmtheatrhythm-final-fantasyWed, 06 Jun 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Direct time travels with news tonight, tomorrow, yesterday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/nintendo-direct-time-travels-with-news-tonight-tomorrow-yester/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/nintendo-direct-time-travels-with-news-tonight-tomorrow-yester/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/20/nintendo-direct-time-travels-with-news-tonight-tomorrow-yester/#comments ImageNintendo Direct, the all-Nintendo-news, some-of-the-time video series from official Nintendo headquarters, is hitting the airwaves tonight. Technically, it's noon EST tomorrow, April 21, but folks in the US can expect announcements from the Japanese feed starting at 8:30 p.m. PST tonight, Friday, April 20. The European announcements will hit at 1 p.m. CET (4 a.m. PST), April 21.

Nintendo hasn't revealed what it will discuss tonight, but it has left us a trail of clues. CEO Satoru Iwata sent out invitations to this weekend's Nintendo Direct on 3DS' Spot Pass, showing him with a giant, suspicious Kirby plushie. Kid Icarus: Uprising's Masahiro Sakurai tweeted to expect Uprising news and Theatrhythm Final Fantasy's Masanobu Suzui suggested fans should watch the feed, Andriasang translates.

We'll have our eyes and fingertips ready to roll for any breakout Kirby-Kid-Icarus-Theatrhythm crossover news tonight, because really, it's not like we had any plans on a Friday night or anything.

JoystiqNintendo Direct time travels with news tonight, tomorrow, yesterday originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskid-icarus-uprisingkirbynintendonintendo-directSatoru-Iwatatheatrhythm-final-fantasywiiwii-uFri, 20 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order Theatrhythm for adorable stylus, and adorable stickers to put on it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/pre-order-theatrhythm-for-adorable-stylus-and-adorable-stickers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/pre-order-theatrhythm-for-adorable-stylus-and-adorable-stickers/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/19/pre-order-theatrhythm-for-adorable-stylus-and-adorable-stickers/#comments ImageTo assist with the intense Active Keeping-Time Battle system (you can have that for free, Square) in Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, Square Enix is bundling the lovely "gripped stylus" seen above with pre-orders in North America.

To adorn the disc at the top of the stylus, you also get a set of 17 stickers, each featuring a cute version of a Final Fantasy character, including Cloud, Squall, Lightning, and a tiny, tiny Moogle. You may want to reserve the stickers for use on your Trapper Keeper or anywhere else you'd be looking at them constantly.

Continue reading Pre-order Theatrhythm for adorable stylus, and adorable stickers to put on it

JoystiqPre-order Theatrhythm for adorable stylus, and adorable stickers to put on it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendopre-orderstylustheatrhythm-final-fantasyThu, 19 Apr 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy taps in July 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-taps-in-july-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-taps-in-july-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/05/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-taps-in-july-3/#comments Theatrhythm (pronounced as two words: theater and rhythm): Final Fantasy (also, two words) will make its way to North American shelves on July 3. Square Enix reiterated that the title will launch with 70 scores spanning 25 years of the Final Fantasy franchise.

PAX East attendees can check the 3DS game out by heading over to booth 850.

Gallery: Theatrhythm Final Fantasy

Continue reading Theatrhythm Final Fantasy taps in July 3

JoystiqTheatrhythm Final Fantasy taps in July 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendorelease dateReleaseDateSquare-Enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyThu, 05 Apr 2012 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sample Final Fantasy Versus XIII music in Theatrhythm DLC form]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/sample-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-music-in-theatrhythm-dlc-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/sample-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-music-in-theatrhythm-dlc-form/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/02/sample-final-fantasy-versus-xiii-music-in-theatrhythm-dlc-form/#comments
Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy isn't just about celebrating Final Fantasy games of the past. New DLC coming to Japan this week features a song from a game that isn't even out yet. One of the four songs coming April 4 is "Somnus" from Final Fantasy Versus XIII -- making that song the first actual part of that game that can be played.

Square Enix announced a localization of Theatrhythm for this summer. We feel a bit better talking about DLC, knowing that you'll eventually have the opportunity to experience it for yourself.

JoystiqSample Final Fantasy Versus XIII music in Theatrhythm DLC form originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdlcfinal-fantasy-versus-xiiinintendotheatrhythm-final-fantasyMon, 02 Apr 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy serenades the west this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-serenades-the-west-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-serenades-the-west-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-serenades-the-west-this-summer/#comments The adorable Final Fantasy rhythm-action game for 3DS is coming to North America and Europe. And yes, it's still called Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy ("pronounced 'theater rhythm,'" Square Enix explains.) The publisher announced plans to localize the franchise-celebrating music game today, bringing along "more than 70 musical scores spanning 25 years."

Players will tap and drag to the beat of classic Final Fantasy music in modes inspired by "battle," "event" (cutscene), and "field" sequences. Square Enix has dated the release for Summer in both North America and PAL regions. You can relax in the sun this summer, tapping glowing icons over Tidus's face.

Gallery: Theatrhythm Final Fantasy

Continue reading Theatrhythm Final Fantasy serenades the west this summer

JoystiqTheatrhythm Final Fantasy serenades the west this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsindieszeronintendorelease-datesquare-enixsummer-2012theatrhythm-final-fantasyThu, 22 Mar 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm box reveals paid DLC, 'Nintendo Network' logo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/theatrhythm-box-reveals-paid-dlc-nintendo-network-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/theatrhythm-box-reveals-paid-dlc-nintendo-network-logo/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/20/theatrhythm-box-reveals-paid-dlc-nintendo-network-logo/#comments The Japanese box art for Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy, spotted in the wild by Twitter user joshua_x_ (probably on a retail poster) notes that the game features downloadable content, and, in fine print, that this downloadable content is paid. If you were wondering which game would be the first to support the 3DS's new DLC infrastructure, there you go.

The front of the box also features a "Nintendo Network" logo, which hasn't been used elsewhere before. This is likely some kind of rebranding for the Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, rather than a completely new service, but we'll certainly find out before the game's mid-February release.

Finally, the box identifies the genre as "Theatrhythm Action." That's just a bit on the nose.

JoystiqTheatrhythm box reveals paid DLC, 'Nintendo Network' logo originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdlcnintendonintendo-networktheatrhythm-final-fantasyFri, 20 Jan 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[3DS demos available in Japan today, including RE: Revelations, MGS 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/3ds-demos-available-in-japan-today-including-re-revelations-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/3ds-demos-available-in-japan-today-including-re-revelations-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/26/3ds-demos-available-in-japan-today-including-re-revelations-m/#comments The Nintendo Direct conference was ... light on news. However, Nintendo did announce that the first downloadable demos for retail 3DS games are hitting the Japanese eShop today! The selection includes Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy, Resident Evil: Revelations, Rhythm Thief, and Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater 3D.

All of those games are expected to launch in the US around the same time as their Japanese releases, save Theatrhythm, which hasn't been announced stateside. We're just going to be optimistic and believe demos are on the way soon. Of course, we were optimistic about the amount of news we thought would come out of this thing, as well, and that didn't get us very far.

Joystiq3DS demos available in Japan today, including RE: Revelations, MGS 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Dec 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdemoeshopjapanmetal-gear-solid-snake-eater-3dnintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-2011resident-evil-revelationsrhythm-thief-and-the-emperors-treasuretheatrhythm-final-fantasyMon, 26 Dec 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A 'Special Trailer' for Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/a-special-trailer-for-theatrhythm-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/a-special-trailer-for-theatrhythm-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/20/a-special-trailer-for-theatrhythm-final-fantasy/#comments
With over three minutes of footage of the 3DS's Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy (triple-check that spelling), this trailer certainly is "special." We leave it up to you to define that word.

JoystiqA 'Special Trailer' for Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendoSquare-Enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyTue, 20 Dec 2011 06:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy dated, overpriced in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-dated-overpriced-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-dated-overpriced-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/16/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-dated-overpriced-in-japan/#comments Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy, Square Enix's cutesy Final Fantasy omnibus music game, will arrive in Japan on February 16, the company announced today. There has yet to be an announcement of a release for the 3DS game outside of Japan.

Considering the criticism Theatrhythm has received for looking too simplistic to be a full-price retail game, you might be surprised to hear that Square Enix has priced it at ¥6,090 ($79). Games are more expensive in Japan than in America, but that's ¥1,290 more than Super Mario 3D Land costs in Japan. The Square Enix Tax is in full effect.

JoystiqTheatrhythm: Final Fantasy dated, overpriced in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Nov 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsjapannintendorelease-datesquare-enixsquare-enix-taxtheatrhythm-final-fantasyWed, 16 Nov 2011 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aeris returns to life as Theatrhythm bonus character]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/aeris-returns-to-life-as-theatrhythm-bonus-character/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/aeris-returns-to-life-as-theatrhythm-bonus-character/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/14/aeris-returns-to-life-as-theatrhythm-bonus-character/#comments It should come as no surprise that Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy, which features music from throughout the series, also features more characters for your onscreen party, drawn from a variety of Final Fantasies. It's even less surprising that Final Fantasy VII's iconic, dead Aeris would be among those redone in the music game's signature style (originally found in character art for Kingdom Hearts Mobile).

The latest issue of Jump revealed this information, Andriasang reports, along with the following: Snow (FFXIII), Prishe (FFXI), Vivi (FFIX), Faris (FFV), Cid (FFIII), and Princess Sara (FF). They'll be unlockable as "sub characters," and can be swapped into your party. Not that it really matters who walks along the bottom of the screen as you tap icons rhythmically!

JoystiqAeris returns to life as Theatrhythm bonus character originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Nov 2011 13:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaerisfinal-fantasyindies-zeronintendosquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyMon, 14 Nov 2011 13:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Welcome to the Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy theater]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/welcome-to-the-theatrhythm-final-fantasy-theater/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/welcome-to-the-theatrhythm-final-fantasy-theater/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/18/welcome-to-the-theatrhythm-final-fantasy-theater/#comments
To help explain how the different modes in Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy work, Square Enix posted three new gameplay videos to its site, each showing one of the three gameplay modes: event, battle, and field. YouTube user FinalandMedia then compiled them into a single embeddable video.

Check it out if you want to see Final Fantasy VIII's ballroom dancing sequence finally made playable ... sort of. You're also welcome to trace a stylus on your screen and pretend this video is a demo.

JoystiqWelcome to the Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy theater originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendosquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyTue, 18 Oct 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fine fanservice in Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/fine-fanservice-in-theatrhythm-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/fine-fanservice-in-theatrhythm-final-fantasy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/22/fine-fanservice-in-theatrhythm-final-fantasy/#comments People give Square Enix trouble for Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy, saying that the graphics are too simple and the gameplay too limited for a retail 3DS game. To those people, I say whatever. Well, I might (conditionally) agree on the second point. But mostly, whatever.

Even if it is a simple implementation, it's a game that the series has needed basically since the beginning: a celebration of its memorable music. Plus, it's super cute! And fun to play!

Continue reading Fine fanservice in Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy

JoystiqFine fanservice in Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendosquare-enixtgs-2011theatrhythm-final-fantasyThu, 22 Sep 2011 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy looks pretty Flashy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-looks-pretty-flashy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-looks-pretty-flashy/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/12/theatrhythm-final-fantasy-looks-pretty-flashy/#comments
Square Enix is known for making games that use their platforms to the highest possible graphical potential, often redefining what gaming hardware is visually capable of. In this fairly low-quality YouTube clip, Theatrhythm: Final Fantasy looks ... well, it it has Moogles, and that ain't nothing.

JoystiqTheatrhythm: Final Fantasy looks pretty Flashy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendorhythmsquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyMon, 12 Sep 2011 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Theatrhythm Final Fantasy coming from Electroplankton devs, features characters from I - XIII]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/final-fantasy-theatrhythm-coming-from-electroplankton-devs-feat/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/final-fantasy-theatrhythm-coming-from-electroplankton-devs-feat/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/11/final-fantasy-theatrhythm-coming-from-electroplankton-devs-feat/#comments The plot description for Square Enix's upcoming 3DS rhythm game, Theatrhythm Final Fantasy, goes beyond the regular "suspension of disbelief" requirements. According to the game's official site (as translated by Andriasang), "the space between the gods Chaos and Cosmos is known as 'rhythm,'" and as "the forces of chaos have disrupted the peace" the music-controlling crystal birthed by the aforementioned space ("Rhythm") is losing its luster. If that weren't enough, it seems that in order to return that shine "the music wave 'Ripzo' must be increased." Okay Square, you win! We give up!

In a related but significantly less confusing bit of news, the game is apparently being developed by indieszero, best known for its work on Electroplankton and Retro Game Challenge. Gameplay still hasn't been defined in the strictest sense, but it seems that players will be able to choose characters from Final Fantasy I through XIII in stages based on the baker's dozen of primary FF titles released over the past quarter century.

Each stage is said to be divided into three distinct pieces ("field," "event," and "battle") with three unique gameplay systems, though those systems have yet to be explained. Long time FF fans will be happy to hear that the four-person party system of past titles will return in Theatrhythm, and "major songs" from the series' history will accompany the gameplay. "The Sunleth Waterscape" from FFXIII and "One Winged Angel" from FFVII are specifically named, among several others.

Beyond that, well, there's a chibi Behemoth (seen above). We've dubbed him "Purpular," mostly because he's adorable, but also, ya know, he's purple.

JoystiqTheatrhythm Final Fantasy coming from Electroplankton devs, features characters from I - XIII originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Jul 2011 09:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsindieszeroindieszero-corporationmusicnintendorhythmrhythm-gamesquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyMon, 11 Jul 2011 09:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Final Fantasy 3DS rhythm game, Theatrhythm, revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/final-fantasy-3ds-rhythm-game-theatrhythm-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/final-fantasy-3ds-rhythm-game-theatrhythm-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/final-fantasy-3ds-rhythm-game-theatrhythm-revealed/#comments We've interacted with the world of Final Fantasy in so many ways. We've stabbed guys, changed outfits, even made Chocobos have sex with each other, but we're still waiting on the Final Fantasy game where battles are conducted by rhythmically tapping on the screen along with prompts. (Actually, that might have been in a Final Fantasy game at some point. We've not been so diligent about finishing them lately.)

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

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

[Thanks, Dean]

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsfinal-fantasyjapanjumpnintendosquaresquare-enixtheatrhythm-final-fantasyWed, 06 Jul 2011 08:45:00 EST