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[Everything Tomb Raider 50 percent off on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/02/everything-tomb-raider-50-percent-off-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments Steam is offering a 50 percent discount on assorted Tomb Raider games this weekend. The sale drops the price of the latest Tomb Raider game to $25, with the Survival Edition knocked down to $28.

The Tomb Raider Collection, which features 10 games from the series (including this year's entry), is also part of this weekend's deal. That sizable bundle of games can be bought for $35. Steam's weekend sale ends at 10am Pacific time on Monday, May 6. PS3 owners can still pick up Lara Croft's recent adventure on PSN for $30 this weekend.

JoystiqEverything Tomb Raider 50 percent off on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 May 2013 23:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicspcsaleSquare-Enixsteamsteam-weekend-dealTomb-Raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013tomb-raider-collectionThu, 02 May 2013 23:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider $30 on PSN this weekend, $20 on GMG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/26/tomb-raider-30-on-psn-this-weekend-20-on-gmg/#comments There are some killer deals on Tomb Raider this weekend. On the console front, the downloadable PSN version has been chopped to $30. The deal runs until this Monday at noon PT.

On PC, you can snag the Steam version of Lara's latest adventure for $25 from Green Man Gaming. What's more, applying the code "GMG20-GGN5D-FC3NA" will knock another five bucks off the price, dropping it down to $20.

That's like a penny for every arrow-related fatality in Tomb Raider.

JoystiqTomb Raider $30 on PSN this weekend, $20 on GMG originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicspcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Japanese voiceover pack coming to Tomb Raider PC ... for $30]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/japanese-voiceover-pack-coming-to-tomb-raider-pc-for-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/japanese-voiceover-pack-coming-to-tomb-raider-pc-for-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/12/japanese-voiceover-pack-coming-to-tomb-raider-pc-for-30/#comments Square Enix charging $30 for Tomb Raider Japanese VO packRather than waiting to localize Tomb Raider into Japanese, Square Enix will sell a Japanese voiceover pack for the Steam version already available in Japan through the Western stores. That part is cool and kind of forward-thinking.

The part that's less cool: the pack costs $30, on top of the full-price purchase of the game. The massive upcharge brings the US Steam version into price parity with the Japanese retail release, which shares an April 25 release date with the VO pack, and retails for ¥7,980 ($80). Yes, video games are always too expensive in Japan. And Square Enix is artificially ensuring that's the case for Tomb Raider.

It's hard to figure out who this Japanese Language Pack is for, if it comes out the same day as the localized PC release for the same effective price. We suppose it's for people in Japan who want to play Tomb Raider now, but don't mind missing out on all the dialogue for a couple of weeks.

JoystiqJapanese voiceover pack coming to Tomb Raider PC ... for $30 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanjapanese-language-packpcsteamtomb-raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 12 Apr 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/tomb-raider-1939-multiplayer-maps-out-now-other-dlc-dated/#comments
Tomb Raider is bolstered by more multiplayer DLC today: the 1939 multiplayer map pack, a pair of maps including Dogfight - a concrete bunker forgotten since World War 2 - and the open spaces of hunting ground Forest Meadow. The map pack costs 320 MS Points ($4) and is available for download on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC right now.

Last month's Cave and Cliffs map pack was a timed Xbox 360 exclusive. Today, Square Enix revealed that it's coming to PS3 and PC mid-April, while the Shipwrecked multiplayer map pack will debut on all platforms in early May. On top of that, some of the exclusive launch DLC for Tomb Raider is available for download across all platforms now, including those Hitman: Absolution guns and other retailer-specific content.

Continue reading Tomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated

JoystiqTomb Raider 1939 multiplayer maps out now, other DLC dated originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicsdlcmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 02 Apr 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[BioShock Infinite goes sky-high in this week's UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/bioshock-infinite-goes-sky-high-in-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/bioshock-infinite-goes-sky-high-in-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/02/bioshock-infinite-goes-sky-high-in-this-weeks-uk-charts/#comments It's infinitesimally surprising BioShock Infinite debuts at #1 in the UK charts, but more unexpected is that it's the country's second biggest launch of the year, despite being the biggest in the franchise's history with 9000 more sales than BioShock 2. The 2013 crown, however, still belongs to Tomb Raider. Crystal Dynamics' reboot makes it four weeks now in the UK top two - albeit helped by a 45 percent sales boost on the back of price promotions.

Gears of War: Judgment, last week's number one, slips back to third. Below it, three other new releases join BioShock Infinite in the top ten to close what's been a busy March. 3DS exclusive Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon takes fifth spot, while Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14 come in sixth and eighth respectively.

Outside the top ten, the Wii U release of Lego City Undercover debuts at 12th, while Sly Cooper: Thieves of Time, which arrived for Vita and PS3 in Europe on March 27, is 31st.

Continue reading BioShock Infinite goes sky-high in this week's UK charts

JoystiqBioShock Infinite goes sky-high in this week's UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k-games3dsbioshock-infinitechart-trackchart-track-weeklyirrational-gamesmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3tomb-raider-2013ukvitawii-uxboxTue, 02 Apr 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Dynamics: Tomb Raider had best week one sales in franchise history]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/crystal-dynamics-tomb-raider-had-best-week-one-sales-in-franchi/#comments Tomb Raider nets best week one sales in franchise history, biggest launch of 2013Tomb Raider has achieved the highest week one sales in the franchise's history, according to Crystal Dynamics studio head Darrell Gallagher. Speaking at a GDC panel alongside creative director Noah Hughes, Gallagher also revealed that Tomb Raider had the most successful launch of any game this year.

"It's been the biggest week one sales in franchise history, and we're only a few weeks into that launch right now, and it's been the biggest opening so far in 2013," said Gallagher. "So, we're happy with the outcome. It's certainly in a place where we feel like we're on the road to achieving everything we wanted to."

The claim seems to be at odds with the feelings of Tomb Raider's publisher, Square Enix, which recently cited "weak sales" of its major titles, including Tomb Raider, as a reason for the company undergoing restructure. When asked about the apparent disconnect between Square Enix and Crystal Dynamics regarding Tomb Raider's performance, Hughes told us, "Certainly we're proud of what we achieved, and I think for the most part, the whole organization is happy with what we did." And for Gallagher, "Actuals and expectations, I guess, are two slightly different things. What I'm telling you is the actuals, and they're communicating expectations."

That raises the question of just what Square Enix was expecting. To put things in perspective, Tomb Raider had higher initial sales than the 1996 original, a game that went on to sell over 6 million units in its lifetime. And yet, despite receiving critical acclaim and breaking franchise records, it would appear that Tomb Raider just isn't number one enough.

JoystiqCrystal Dynamics: Tomb Raider had best week one sales in franchise history originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 29 Mar 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider £20 this weekend on PSN EU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/29/tomb-raider-20-this-weekend-on-psn-eu/#comments If all of the short-burst Easter Egg deals are as good as this one, then PlayStation Europe's PSN spring sale is one to watch. According to the PlayStation Blog, Tomb Raider is just £19.99/€29.99 on PSN in the continent until the end of March 31, making it comfortably one of the cheapest, if not the cheapest PS3 version in the UK at the moment.

Dozens of other games are discounted on Europe's PSN until April 9, including Persona 1-3, Child of Eden, and Driver: San Francisco.

JoystiqTomb Raider £20 this weekend on PSN EU originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsplaystationps3PSNsquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon lines up another gaming Gold Box today; Tomb Raider $42]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/26/amazon-lines-up-another-gaming-gold-box-today-tomb-raider-42/#comments Amazon would like to relieve your wallets of any heaviness with another one of its all-day video game Gold Box events. A number of lightning deals will run throughout the day, and you can check out the line-up here. In terms of what's confirmed or obvious thanks to Amazon's clues, Black Ops 2 is going for $35 on Xbox 360 and PS3 at 11AM PT/2PM ET, while Need for Speed: Most Wanted and Dance Central 3 are likely contenders for later time-sensitive discounts.

The all-day deal might be the one to grab your fancy, though. Crystal Dynamics' high-octane Tomb Raider reboot is down to $41.99 on Xbox 360 and PS3, and $34.99 on PC. We reckon that's decent, but if you'd prefer a chunkier version then there's still time (as of writing) to get in on the game's Collector's Edition lightning deal, which ends at 9AM ET. The CE includes a 8-inch tall Play Arts Kai figurine of Lara Croft, steel tin packaging, a 15 by 19 inch double-sided island map and poster, a lithographic print, CD soundtrack, three iron-on badges, and the Weapons Pack DLC, all for $76 instead of $100 in Amazon's deal.

JoystiqAmazon lines up another gaming Gold Box today; Tomb Raider $42 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon-gold-boxcrystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 26 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider single-player DLC isn't in Crystal Dynamics' current plans]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/20/tomb-raider-single-player-dlc-isnt-in-crystal-dynamics-current/#comments Tomb Raider's DLC will be multiplayer-orientated only, based on developer Crystal Dynamics' current plans. Speaking in a Reddit AMA, director Noah Hughes and global brand director Karl Stewart said there are no planned single-player DLC expansions.

"Currently there are no plans regarding single-player DLC," said Hughes when first asked about upcoming DLC. "Now that Lara is more experienced, we are excited to take her on new adventures that challenge her new strength and confidence. It is important that even as Lara grows as a character, so do the challenges she must face."

"There are currently no plans in place for any single-player expansions." Stewart later followed up. "All of our DLC is based around the multiplayer experience for now."

Tomb Raider received its first expansion this week in the form of the 'Caves and Cliffs' pack, which added three new arenas to the game's multiplayer. That arrived on Xbox 360 yesterday for 400 MSP, and remains as yet undated for PS3 and PC.

JoystiqTomb Raider single-player DLC isn't in Crystal Dynamics' current plans originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 20 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Tomb Raider gets another patch, Nvidia updates beta drivers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/psa-tomb-raider-gets-another-patch-nvidia-updates-beta-drivers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/psa-tomb-raider-gets-another-patch-nvidia-updates-beta-drivers/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/psa-tomb-raider-gets-another-patch-nvidia-updates-beta-drivers/#comments PSA Tomb Raider gets another patch, Nvidia updates beta driversTomb Raider on PC got another patch this weekend, launched in conjunction with new beta drivers from Nvidia for GeForce GPUs. Download the latest GeForce 314.21 drivers direct from Nvidia.

Since its launch, GeForce Tomb Raider players have seen "major performance and stability issues" trying to play the game at max settings. Complaints include problems with TressFX and tessellation tripping the game up, at least for those with 600-series cards.

There are more Tomb Raider patches incoming from Crystal Dynamics, based on ongoing player feedback.

JoystiqPSA: Tomb Raider gets another patch, Nvidia updates beta drivers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 21:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicsGeForcenvidiapatchpcpsatomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013tressfxupdateMon, 18 Mar 2013 21:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider sees off three new releases to retain UK charts top spot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/tomb-raider-sees-off-three-new-releases-to-retain-uk-charts-top/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/tomb-raider-sees-off-three-new-releases-to-retain-uk-charts-top/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/18/tomb-raider-sees-off-three-new-releases-to-retain-uk-charts-top/#comments Tomb Raider is the UK's No. 1 for a second week, holding strong against a three-pronged challenge of new releases including God of War: Ascension. After storming to the country's biggest launch of the year last week, a rebooted Croft hangs tough to ensure Tomb Raider becomes the second 2013 game to retain its crown, despite a 72 percent sales drop.

That means the PS3-exclusive God of War: Ascension only manages the runner-up spot in its debut week, swinging ahead of fellow new releases StarCraft 2: Heart of the Swarm and Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 in third and fourth place. SimCity deconstructs into fifth in its second week, while Crysis 3 makes it four weeks in the top ten, down now in eighth. Sharp drops for Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance and Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 see the Japanese-developed duo prop up the top 20 in 19th and 20th.

Continue reading Tomb Raider sees off three new releases to retain UK charts top spot

JoystiqTomb Raider sees off three new releases to retain UK charts top spot originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dschart-trackchart-track-weeklycrystal-dynamicsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3square-enixtomb-raider-2013ukvitawii-uxboxMon, 18 Mar 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix dishes some Tomb Raider stats]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/square-enix-dishes-some-tomb-raider-stats/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/square-enix-dishes-some-tomb-raider-stats/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/17/square-enix-dishes-some-tomb-raider-stats/#comments Square Enix dishes some Tomb Raider statsSquare Enix recently shared some interesting stats it gathered on the way gamers are playing Tomb Raider. As of the developer's posting, players have killed 5,294,879 deer and 1,417,750 crabs.

Lara Croft has narrowly avoided death 13,742,891 times and has dodged the attacks of 11,067,764 enemies, killing 147,675,058 enemies with a bow. Roughly 13.95 percent of those kills were with fire arrows (20,601,083 to be exact). Keeping with the game's namesake, Croft has also raided 3,570,956 tombs in total. That's a lot of tombs.

JoystiqSquare Enix dishes some Tomb Raider stats originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 17 Mar 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infographiclara-croftmicrosoftpcplaystationps3Square-Enixstatstomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxSun, 17 Mar 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider PC patch addresses hairy Nvidia issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-pc-patch-addresses-hairy-nvidia-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-pc-patch-addresses-hairy-nvidia-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-pc-patch-addresses-hairy-nvidia-issues/#comments Tomb Raider received a PC patch this weekend, with fixes for the Nvidia-associated stability issues high on the agenda. The patch notes mention corrections for "some stability and startup issues on machines that have both Intel and Nvidia graphics hardware" and "some small improvements to TressFX hair rendering." These chief issues led to Nvidia apologizing for the game's unstable performance at maximum settings on its GeForce cards.

Going by the Steam and Eidos forums, the patch does provide significant improvement for some of the stability issues, although by the sounds of it TressFX is still somewhat flaky.

JoystiqTomb Raider PC patch addresses hairy Nvidia issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsgeforcenvidiapatchpcsquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013tressfxMon, 11 Mar 2013 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider ascends to the peak of this week's UK charts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-ascends-to-the-peak-of-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-ascends-to-the-peak-of-this-weeks-uk-charts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/11/tomb-raider-ascends-to-the-peak-of-this-weeks-uk-charts/#comments Lara Croft is the leader of the UK pack for the first time in nearly seven years, and she's there in some style too. Not only does Tomb Raider slot into the top spot in this week's UK charts, but it's easily the country's biggest launch of the year so far. True, the game's first week sales are boosted by arriving on a Tuesday rather than the typical Friday, but the same can be said for Aliens: Colonial Marines, the UK's previous biggest first-week seller in 2013. Tomb Raider's opening week beats that of Colonial Marines' by over double, which is particularly telling. After all, according to Crystal Dynamics, Lara's reboot notched up a million sales in under two days.

SimCity is the week's other big name release. Despite releasing on a Friday and, more pertinently, all its troubles across the ocean, the city builder installs itself in second place. On that Sim-note, the newly released University Life expansion for Sims 3 provides a timely reminder of the franchise's selling power by scoring fourth place, beaten by fellow new release Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3, which arrives in at a very respectable third place.

That means after two weeks at the top, it's down to sixth for Crysis 3, while Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance clings onto the top ten in ninth place. Tumbling their ways out are Colonial Marines and Dead Space 3, down in 15th and 19th respectively.

Continue reading Tomb Raider ascends to the peak of this week's UK charts

JoystiqTomb Raider ascends to the peak of this week's UK charts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dschart-trackchart-track-weeklycrystal-dynamicsEAea-maxismicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3simcity-2013square-enixtomb-raider-2013ukvitawii-uxboxMon, 11 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crystal Dynamics: 1 million playing Tomb Raider two days after launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/crystal-dynamics-1-million-playing-tomb-raider-two-days-after/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/crystal-dynamics-1-million-playing-tomb-raider-two-days-after/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/08/crystal-dynamics-1-million-playing-tomb-raider-two-days-after/#comments One million raiders are already exploring rebooted tombs, developer Crystal Dynamics revealed last night. Global brand director Karl Stewart tweeted that a million people were playing Tomb Raider less than 48 hours after the game's launch on March 5.

We're not taking that in the literal sense, though; a million concurrent players would be very impressive, but the game selling one million units in two days is a tad more likely, albeit still impressive.

It's also surely sweet music to the ears of Crystal Dynamics and publisher Square Enix following the performance of the series' last major entry, Tomb Raider: Underworld. That game took over a month to sell a disappointing (apparently) 1.5 million units, with layoffs at Crystal Dynamics occurring soon after. At this rate, the Tomb Raider reboot will hit that figure by the end of the week.

JoystiqCrystal Dynamics: 1 million playing Tomb Raider two days after launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3salessquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 08 Mar 2013 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider gets 'Caves and Cliffs' multiplayer maps on March 19, on Xbox first]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/tomb-raider-gets-caves-and-cliffs-multiplayer-maps-on-march-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/tomb-raider-gets-caves-and-cliffs-multiplayer-maps-on-march-19/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/tomb-raider-gets-caves-and-cliffs-multiplayer-maps-on-march-19/#comments Tomb Raider is getting its first batch of DLC later this month. Alas, rather than giving Lara some new puzzles to solve, the DLC offers up new multiplayer maps. Titled "Caves and Cliffs" the pack adds three new multiplayer arenas to Tomb Raider: Scavenger Caverns, Cliff Shantytown and The Burning Village. Presumably, Cliff Shantytown is different from the Shanty Town map already available.

As promised at E3 last year, this first piece of DLC will launch first on Xbox Live. Specifically, Cliffs and Caves will hit the Xbox on March 19 for $5. No release date has been announced for PS3 or PC.

JoystiqTomb Raider gets 'Caves and Cliffs' multiplayer maps on March 19, on Xbox first originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 06 Mar 2013 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nvidia, Crystal Dynamics looking into Tomb Raider PC performance issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/nvidia-crystal-dynamics-looking-into-tomb-raider-pc-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/nvidia-crystal-dynamics-looking-into-tomb-raider-pc-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/nvidia-crystal-dynamics-looking-into-tomb-raider-pc-performance/#comments Graphics powerhouse Nvidia is working with developer Crystal Dynamics to address the "major performance and stability issues" occurring with GeForce cards playing Tomb Raider on max settings. A number of users on the Nvidia, Steam, and Tomb Raider forums complained about a range of GeForce-related issues, with common complaints including the game repeatedly crashing to desktop on 600-series cards, and AMD's TressFX hair rendering tech taking a chunky toll on performance.

Following no mention of Tomb Raider in its post on the latest GeForce beta drivers, Nvidia's Andrew Burnes took to the comments to explain the situation, revealing the company only received a final version of the game a few days ahead of launch.

"Unfortunately, Nvidia didn't receive final code until this past weekend which substantially decreased stability, image quality and performance over a build we were previously provided," said Burnes. "We are working closely with Crystal Dynamics to address and resolve all game issues as quickly as possible. In the meantime, we would like to apologize to GeForce users that are not able to have a great experience playing Tomb Raider, as they have come to expect with all of their favorite PC games."

JoystiqNvidia, Crystal Dynamics looking into Tomb Raider PC performance issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsgeforcenvidiapcsquare-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Wed, 06 Mar 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Store update: Tomb Raider, MGR: Revengeance, Runner2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/psn-store-update-tomb-raider-mgr-revengeance-runner2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/psn-store-update-tomb-raider-mgr-revengeance-runner2/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/06/psn-store-update-tomb-raider-mgr-revengeance-runner2/#comments This week's PlayStation Store update is truly conducive to the reclusive, enabling downloadable versions of Tomb Raider, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance and MLB The Show 13 . There's no need to leave your cave, cut your way through other consumers and then do some kind of baseball thing.

Bit.Trip's auto-running champ, Runner2: Future Legend of Rhythm Alien, is also available for $15 (or $12 on PS Plus), as is a cross-buy special edition of When Vikings Attack.

Check out the full list of updates over at PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqPSN Store update: Tomb Raider, MGR: Revengeance, Runner2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonytomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013vitaWed, 06 Mar 2013 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/metareview-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/metareview-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/metareview-tomb-raider/#comments There's nothing quite like the word 'reboot' to stir the catcalls of cynicism. Based on the critical acclaim. including that from our own Richard Mitchell. the latest adventure for one of gaming's oldest series is more than just a reboot; it's a rebirth.
  • Digital Spy (100/100): "With a well written cast of characters, mightily impressive production techniques, sumptuous visuals, tight platforming and surprisingly enjoyable combat, Tomb Raider is most definitely a release to be treasured."
  • GamesRadar (90/100): "Its expert sense of pacing, captivating setting, and dark tone create a truly memorable experience that's further enhanced by an immense level of detail. Lara Croft, the old Lara Croft, is dead. In place of a dolled-up gunslinger is a do-what-it-takes survivor - and we hope she hasn't had her fill of adventuring just yet."
  • Polygon (90/100): "It's easy to point out the many ways that Tomb Raider borrows bits and pieces from other popular games of the last five years, but Crystal Dynamics has blended these disparate strengths into something remarkable. It's cinematic yet open, intense yet laid-back, fresh yet polished."
  • GameSpot (85/100): "The single-player campaign here is the main attraction, and it is excellent. It doesn't try to rewrite the book on third-person action adventure games. But with its excellent controls, engaging heroine, thrilling combat, and fascinating setting, it doesn't need to."
  • Edge (80/100): "Whether she's huddled up against the cold or sending five men to their doom with an explosive arrow, this is still Lara Croft, one of gaming's most distinctive heroes - and now she has a personality that extends far beyond the bounds of her bra straps. If the purpose of a reboot is to redefine a character and set them up for the future, then this is a job well done."

JoystiqMetareview: Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmetareviewmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 04 Mar 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider review: A believer is born]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/tomb-raider-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/tomb-raider-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/04/tomb-raider-review/#comments Tomb Raider is important to me. The 1996 original blew my 13-year-old mind, and it showed me what video games could be. It gave me a world ripe for exploration and begged me to suss out all its secrets, something the recent Crystal Dynamics games have also done with aplomb. Tomb Raider, to me, is a series about traveling the world, uncovering the plans and schemes of dead civilizations. It's about spending the better part of an hour to get ancient machinery rumbling again, all in service of opening a massive stone door.

There are no such doors in the new Tomb Raider. Grandiose puzzles have been excised in favor of smaller brainteasers. Globe-trotting has been replaced with a single, open world. Lara Croft spends more time mowing (and bowing) down bad guys than she ever has before.

It was hard for me to come to grips with these facts, and I spent many hours questioning Crystal Dynamics' new direction. That was until I realized the truth: It's all just a long con.

Gallery: Tomb Raider (2/25/13)

Continue reading Tomb Raider review: A believer is born

JoystiqTomb Raider review: A believer is born originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 04 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 04 Mar 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider's 'The Final Hours' webseries concludes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/tomb-raiders-the-final-hours-webseries-finally-reaches-its-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/tomb-raiders-the-final-hours-webseries-finally-reaches-its-fi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/03/01/tomb-raiders-the-final-hours-webseries-finally-reaches-its-fi/#comments
This is the second, really final part of the last piece of the "Final Hours" Tomb Raider documentary. You can tell because there's footage of empty offices and retrospective piano music.

JoystiqTomb Raider's 'The Final Hours' webseries concludes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Mar 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 01 Mar 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Find your inner Lara Croft in Tomb Raider trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/your-inner-lara-croft-is-born-in-tomb-raider-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/your-inner-lara-croft-is-born-in-tomb-raider-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/27/your-inner-lara-croft-is-born-in-tomb-raider-trailer/#comments
This trailer for the new Tomb Raider highlights Lara's harrowing adventure as a universal story. Because everyone has days where they just can't stop running from explosions on a distant island.

JoystiqFind your inner Lara Croft in Tomb Raider trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 27 Feb 2013 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Conan loves but loses Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/conan-loves-but-loses-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/conan-loves-but-loses-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/26/conan-loves-but-loses-tomb-raider/#comments
Jimmy Fallon may have gotten the PS4 demo, but Conan 'Clueless Gamer' O'Brien seems happy enough with trying out Tomb Raider. Conan's commentary is unsurprisingly puerile - the video is probably NSFW - and things come to a head when Lara tries to navigate rapids.

JoystiqConan loves but loses Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>clueless-gamerconan-o-brienconan-obriencrystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 26 Feb 2013 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider fires up combat trailer, PC specs published]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tomb-raider-fires-up-combat-trailer-pc-specs-published/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tomb-raider-fires-up-combat-trailer-pc-specs-published/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/22/tomb-raider-fires-up-combat-trailer-pc-specs-published/#comments
The third Tomb Raider Guide to Survival webisode focuses on something that's always been something of a pitfall for Ms Croft: combat. Clearly Crystal Dynamics hopes to address that with this reboot, and thankfully we've not seen any evidence of shark-punching (yet).

Square Enix also sends us the game's newly revealed PC specs, which we've published over the break. PC stalwarts may be pleased to see Tomb Raider bucks the growing trend of dropping XP support.

Continue reading Tomb Raider fires up combat trailer, PC specs published

JoystiqTomb Raider fires up combat trailer, PC specs published originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 22 Feb 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider - The Final Hours closing episode captures that endgame panic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tomb-raider-the-final-hours-closing-episode-captures-that-endg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tomb-raider-the-final-hours-closing-episode-captures-that-endg/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/13/tomb-raider-the-final-hours-closing-episode-captures-that-endg/#comments
Putting that final rubber stamp on a game and sending it off to be shipped and sold is not a mere formality, as this first part of the closing episode of Tomb Raider's "The Final Hours" webseries shows.

JoystiqTomb Raider - The Final Hours closing episode captures that endgame panic originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 13 Feb 2013 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GameFly deals: Tomb Raider PC for $36, Civ 5 for $6, 20% off PC downloads]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/gamefly-deals-tomb-raider-pc-for-36-civ-5-for-6-20-off-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/gamefly-deals-tomb-raider-pc-for-36-civ-5-for-6-20-off-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/12/gamefly-deals-tomb-raider-pc-for-36-civ-5-for-6-20-off-pc/#comments Not unlike an ancient conqueror, GameFly has slashed and burned the price of its Civilization V PC download. Usually $30, the game can now be had for a mere $7.49. The deal expires at midnight PT on February 14, a day when you should probably pay attention to your significant other and not global diplomacy.

But wait, there's more! Using another GameFly deal, you can actually knock the price down to only six bucks. All you have to do is use the coupon code GFDFEB20, which takes an additional 20 percent off the price of PC downloads. Of course, if you're not in the mood for Civilization, you could always apply it to a different PC download, say, a pre-order of Tomb Raider. Already discounted to $45, the coupon drops it down to $36.

JoystiqGameFly deals: Tomb Raider PC for $36, Civ 5 for $6, 20% off PC downloads originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Civilization-5civilization-vgameflypctomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider Minimates debut at Toy Fair]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/tomb-raider-minimates-debut-at-toy-fair/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/tomb-raider-minimates-debut-at-toy-fair/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/tomb-raider-minimates-debut-at-toy-fair/#comments Diamond Select Toys debuts new Tomb Raider Minimates at Toy Fair
At Toy Fair, Diamond Select Toys showed off six new Tomb Raider Minimate figures, based on the upcoming reboot. The Minimates, which look like Lego figures with more points of articulation, are slated to hit shelves this summer, as two-packs sold in comic and specialty stores.

The six figures shown include: a basic Lara Croft, a Lara Croft with battle damage, Captain Conrad Roth (Lara's mentor), two enemy scavengers and a figure who appeared to look like a priest. Diamond Select wasn't at liberty to share the names of the characters but suggested that the figure with the hood was a type of priest.

The Art Asylum-designed figures excellent details, right down to Captain Conrad's chiseled eyebrows and five o'clock shadow. Each figure comes with accessories. The basic Lara Croft has a more generic hatchet, while the battle damaged, mud soaked Lara Croft has the stylized hatchet we've seen from Tomb Raider concept art. The Molotov cocktail scavenger comes with just that - a Molotov cocktail. The second scavenger had a shield and an iron mask. The designs are still pending licensor approval.

JoystiqTomb Raider Minimates debut at Toy Fair originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftminimatespcplaystationps3tomb-raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013toy-fair-2013toysxboxMon, 11 Feb 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch 11 minutes of Tomb Raider with developer commentary]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/watch-11-minutes-of-tomb-raider-with-developer-commentary/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/watch-11-minutes-of-tomb-raider-with-developer-commentary/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/11/watch-11-minutes-of-tomb-raider-with-developer-commentary/#comments
Since there's no pre-launch demo, it's worth checking out this 11-minute walkthrough of Tomb Raider with creative director Noah Hughes. While the footage might get you interested in the game, it's completely put us off ever descending a mountain. Which is fortunate, as ascents aren't our bag either.

JoystiqWatch 11 minutes of Tomb Raider with developer commentary originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsEAmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 11 Feb 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider: Guide to Survival's second episode gets on board with fast travel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/tomb-raider-guide-to-survivals-second-episode-gets-on-board-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/tomb-raider-guide-to-survivals-second-episode-gets-on-board-wi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/06/tomb-raider-guide-to-survivals-second-episode-gets-on-board-wi/#comments
The second episode of the Tomb Raider webseries Guide to Survival acts a bit like it's just invented the concept of 'Fast Travel.' As with many things in the reboot, it is something fresh for the series, as is backtracking to unlock locations with new gear.

JoystiqTomb Raider: Guide to Survival's second episode gets on board with fast travel originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxWed, 06 Feb 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[No pre-launch Tomb Raider demo for sake of story, says Crystal Dynamics]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/no-pre-launch-tomb-raider-demo-for-sake-of-story-says-crystal-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/no-pre-launch-tomb-raider-demo-for-sake-of-story-says-crystal-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/17/no-pre-launch-tomb-raider-demo-for-sake-of-story-says-crystal-d/#comments Tomb Raider prerelease demo isn't in plans, says Crystal DynamicsCrystal Dynamics is not planning to release a Tomb Raider demo before the game launches on March 5.

"For all those @tombraider fans asking. There are no plans to release a demo of the game pre-launch. We don't want to spoil the story," tweeted Global Brand Director Karl Stewart. "We've weaved such an personal story we don't believe spoiling it by having you wait a week or so to play on, delivers on our promise."

While pre-release demos are typical, it's not rare to see them pop up after the game arrives on retail shelves. Nonetheless, the news and the reasons given by Stewart are somewhat surprising given how much exposure the game's opening act has already received. A different part of the game may make for a better demo, but would lack the context Crystal Dynamics has crafted in this story-driven reboot.

JoystiqNo pre-launch Tomb Raider demo for sake of story, says Crystal Dynamics originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsdemomicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxThu, 17 Jan 2013 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Borrowing campaign-crafted viciousness for Tomb Raider's multiplayer mode]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/borrowing-campaign-crafted-viciousness-for-tomb-raiders-multipl/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/borrowing-campaign-crafted-viciousness-for-tomb-raiders-multipl/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/14/borrowing-campaign-crafted-viciousness-for-tomb-raiders-multipl/#comments Tomb Raider multiplayer and how to do itWe caught wind of rumors that the latest Tomb Raider might include multiplayer late last month, right before the rumors were officially confirmed by Square Enix. During the 2013 Consumer Electronics Show, the shrink wrap officially came off, and Square Enix allowed members of the press to sit down and play the two multiplayer modes they're currently willing to reveal from the upcoming Lara Croft reboot.

Team Deathmatch was the first, but its clash of warring sides offered nothing fresh on the staple multiplayer mode. The other mode, however, offered much more promise. In the mode dubbed Rescue, two teams are tasked with separate goals. Lara Croft's faction, the Scavengers, is sent after a medpack item in the level, and given a goal zone to bring it back to, scoring five times to win. The opposing team, called the Solarii, is given a kill goal (20 in the current build, though that may change), with the trick being that shooting the other side will only down them, making it necessary for the trigger-happy team to run to and finish off their wounded enemy in order to score a point.

While Team Deathmatch is more or less standard multiplayer chaos, the balance of goals in Rescue makes the mode vastly more interesting. And while the screenshots will probably bring plenty of suggestions that Eidos is borrowing a page from the Uncharted playbook, the complexity hints that there's something new here.

Gallery: Tomb Raider (2013) multiplayer

Continue reading Borrowing campaign-crafted viciousness for Tomb Raider's multiplayer mode

JoystiqBorrowing campaign-crafted viciousness for Tomb Raider's multiplayer mode originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-DynamicsEidos-Montrealmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 14 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider 360 controller is rough, tumble, rumbles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/tomb-raider-360-controller-is-rough-tumble-rumbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/tomb-raider-360-controller-is-rough-tumble-rumbles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/10/tomb-raider-360-controller-is-rough-tumble-rumbles/#comments
You know how they make those designer jeans that look like you've owned 'em for 30 years, despite being brand new and insanely expensive? Well, this is like that, but for an Xbox 360.

Launching in March, the official Tomb Raider Limited Edition Wireless Controller will cost $60 and come bundled with a code for exclusive character DLC; a hooded, goggled archer that can be seen in the video above. The controller itself features multiple layers of paint and laser etching, so not only does it look beat to hell but it'll feel that way too.

As per usual with special edition Xbox 360 pads, it's also equipped with one of those nifty transforming D-pads, though whether the D-pad has been artificially aged like a too-expensive guitar replica is unknown.

JoystiqTomb Raider 360 controller is rough, tumble, rumbles originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Jan 2013 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agedcontrolllerCrystal-Dynamicsdesignerdistressedlimited-editionmicrosoftspecial-editionSquare-Enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxThu, 10 Jan 2013 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider survives with friends in first multiplayer footage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tomb-raider-survives-with-friends-in-first-multiplayer-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tomb-raider-survives-with-friends-in-first-multiplayer-footage/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/08/tomb-raider-survives-with-friends-in-first-multiplayer-footage/#comments
The groundwork for Tomb Raider's multiplayer was laid some time ago with Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light. This episode of The Final Hours of Tomb Raider explores that and how multiplayer was an afterthought that eventually snowballed into a realized game mode.

JoystiqTomb Raider survives with friends in first multiplayer footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicseidos-montrealmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 08 Jan 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Tomb Raider to include multiplayer [Update: Confirmed!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/rumor-tomb-raider-to-include-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/rumor-tomb-raider-to-include-multiplayer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/27/rumor-tomb-raider-to-include-multiplayer/#comments Rumor Tomb Raider to include multiplayerLara Croft's upcoming adventure may have a multiplayer component, reports All Games Beta. A product listing on the UK retailer GAME listed multiplayer as a key feature in the new Tomb Raider, specifically stating that players will be able to "play a variety of multiplayer modes as Lara's Shipmates or Yamatai's Scavengers." The description has since been removed from the product page.

Square Enix recently teased a "special secret announcement" in a video released earlier this year, promising that it would "change the way you play Tomb Raider forever." Assuming GAME's info was accurate, a multiplayer mode would certainly be new territory for the Tomb Raider series. We just hope there isn't a "Lara vs. Exotic Animals" mode. The animals wouldn't stand a chance.

Update: Official Xbox Magazine's latest issue confirms the existence of multiplayer, though specifics are still in short supply. We'll keep our ear to the ground for official details as they surface.

JoystiqRumor: Tomb Raider to include multiplayer [Update: Confirmed!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxThu, 27 Dec 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara goes camping in first episode of Tomb Raider's 'Guide to Survival']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/lara-goes-camping-in-first-episode-of-tomb-raiders-guide-to-su/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/lara-goes-camping-in-first-episode-of-tomb-raiders-guide-to-su/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/17/lara-goes-camping-in-first-episode-of-tomb-raiders-guide-to-su/#comments
A video series focused on Tomb Raider will dive deeper into the mechanics and story of Crystal Dynamics' reboot. Guide to Survival's first episode focuses on Basecamps, which Lara uses to apply skill points to upgrade her skills and equipment. She also uses fire to survive because tank top.

JoystiqLara goes camping in first episode of Tomb Raider's 'Guide to Survival' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basecampcrystal-dynamicslara-croftmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 17 Dec 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Surviving and learning to fight back as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/surviving-and-learning-to-fight-back-as-lara-croft-in-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/surviving-and-learning-to-fight-back-as-lara-croft-in-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/12/04/surviving-and-learning-to-fight-back-as-lara-croft-in-tomb-raider/#comments A lot can happen in the span of two hours. In Tomb Raider, I witnessed a young Lara Croft change from unsure archaeologist assistant to a survivor, willing to do whatever it takes to save her friends and protect herself.

Tomb Raider is a reboot of the iconic series and heroine therein, and the story of a world-class explorer coming into her own. After being stranded on an island seemingly lost to the world since World War II, the naive youngster grows into the confident and strong Lara Croft we've known all along.

Gallery: Tomb Raider (12/4/12)

Continue reading Surviving and learning to fight back as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider

JoystiqSurviving and learning to fight back as Lara Croft in Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicslara-croftmicrosoftpcplaystationps3square-enixtomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxTue, 04 Dec 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider scored by Dead Space composer Jason Graves]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/tomb-raider-scored-by-dead-space-composer-jason-graves/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/tomb-raider-scored-by-dead-space-composer-jason-graves/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/30/tomb-raider-scored-by-dead-space-composer-jason-graves/#comments
Jason Graves is composing the score for Lara Croft's upcoming reboot, Tomb Raider. Graves has composed music for several games, recently winning a BAFTA for his nerve-racking Dead Space score. A behind-the-scenes video has been released alongside the announcement, providing a sneak peek at Graves' approach to the soundtrack.

More importantly, it introduces us all to "the Instrument." You'll just have to watch to find out what it is.

JoystiqTomb Raider scored by Dead Space composer Jason Graves originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 30 Nov 2012 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jason-gravesmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxFri, 30 Nov 2012 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Lara Croft won't be swimming in next year's Tomb Raider]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/lara-croft-wont-be-swimming-in-next-years-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/lara-croft-wont-be-swimming-in-next-years-tomb-raider/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/26/lara-croft-wont-be-swimming-in-next-years-tomb-raider/#comments Lara Croft won't be swimming in the 2013 rebootGlobal Brand Director for Crystal Dynamics, Karl Stewart, did a quick Q&A session on the official Tomb Raider twitter account this morning, and revealed an interesting design decision that will affect fans of aquatic exploration. The Tomb Raider reboot won't have any underwater shenanigans during gameplay - though not because the new Lara Croft has forgotten how to swim, thankfully.

Video game characters often have issues with the backstroke; Grand Theft Auto: Vice City protagonist Tommy Vercetti could famously survive gunshots, but wouldn't last more than a second in waist-deep water. In contrast, some of our fondest memories of Lara Croft involve diving through secret, watery passages.

Stewart said we'll see more about the game's other traversal gameplay soon, leading up to Tomb Raider's release in March next year.

JoystiqLara Croft won't be swimming in next year's Tomb Raider originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Nov 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lara-croftmicrosoftpcplaystationps3tomb-raidertomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 26 Nov 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider Collector's Edition runs $100, strolls to Steam for pre-order]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/tomb-raider-collectors-edition-runs-100-strolls-to-steam-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/tomb-raider-collectors-edition-runs-100-strolls-to-steam-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/11/12/tomb-raider-collectors-edition-runs-100-strolls-to-steam-for/#comments Tomb Raider Collector's Edition hits $100 targetThe North American Tomb Raider Collector's Edition costs $100 and includes an "Endurance Survival Kit" tin, an 8-inch Lara Croft figurine that comes with three sets of extra hands (creepy), a 15-by-19-inch reversible map and poster, a 5-by-7-inch art print and three iron-on badges, and that's just the stuff you can put on your shelf. The Collector's Edition also includes the soundtrack CD and the weapons pack DLC.

European fans can get the Survival Edition, which has an art book and waterproof survival pouch alongside the map, soundtrack and DLC. The European Collector's Edition includes the Survival goodies, and adds the North American figurine and Endurance tin.

Additionally, Tomb Raider is available for pre-order on Steam today, for 10 percent off ($45) and with the chance to unlock reward tiers.

JoystiqTomb Raider Collector's Edition runs $100, strolls to Steam for pre-order originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>collectors-editionmicrosoftpcplaystationps3survival-editiontomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013xboxMon, 12 Nov 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Enix online store discounts FF7, more [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/square-enix-online-store-discounts-tomb-raider-hitman-absolutio/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/square-enix-online-store-discounts-tomb-raider-hitman-absolutio/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/10/26/square-enix-online-store-discounts-tomb-raider-hitman-absolutio/#comments Square Enix 72 hour sale in online storeWe don't expect much from publishers' official online stores. Pricing tends to be a little on the high side. That's why it's such a surprise to see what appears to be a legitimately great sale on the Square Enix Online Shop, from today through October 28.

Discounts range from 30 to 50 percent on games - including pre-orders on Tomb Raider and Hitman: Absolution, which sell for $41.99 each plus shipping. Update: those pre-order items have been changed back to regular price. Theatrhythm Final Fantasy is $27.99. Shipping is free if you manage to find $100 worth of stuff to buy.

Separate from this 72-hour sale, the publisher has put the PC version of Final Fantasy VII on sale through November 4. It's discounted $5, to $6.99.

JoystiqSquare Enix online store discounts FF7, more [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pcsquare-enixsquare-enix-online-storetomb-raider-2011tomb-raider-2012tomb-raider-2013Fri, 26 Oct 2012 13:00:00 EST