Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[New Dead Space video pops up, signs point to Dead Space 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/new-dead-space-video-pops-up-signs-point-to-dead-space-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/new-dead-space-video-pops-up-signs-point-to-dead-space-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/new-dead-space-video-pops-up-signs-point-to-dead-space-3/#comments Image
Like some errant Necromorph, a new video has suddenly popped up on the Dead Space website. Entitled "Dead Space Graphic Novel Short," the video showcases the story of John Carver, an Earthgov Seargent, as he "witnesses an attack on the Marker Site he guards which changes his life forever." There's also a countdown on the site - coded in Dead Space's alien language - set to expire in six days. Electronic Arts' E3 press conference, meanwhile, is set to take place on Monday, curiously only five days away.

Despite the video's title, there's reason to believe this is all tied to Dead Space 3. As noticed by fans on the Dead Space Facebook page, the website's source code contains numerous references to "ds3." The site adds that this is "just the start of John Carver's saga in the Dead Space Universe," implying that something grander than merchandising is on the way. Perhaps Carver is a new protagonist? One way or another, we'll find out next week.

JoystiqNew Dead Space video pops up, signs point to Dead Space 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-3Electronic-Artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxWed, 30 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Look at this incredible, fan-made Isaac Clarke figurine]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/look-at-this-incredible-fan-made-isaac-clarke-figurine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/look-at-this-incredible-fan-made-isaac-clarke-figurine/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/04/13/look-at-this-incredible-fan-made-isaac-clarke-figurine/#comments ImageWe tried making our own custom figure of Isaac Clarke from Dead Space, but it wound up looking like exactly what it was: a twisted mass of rainbow-colored pipe cleaners. This figure is much, much better.

JoystiqLook at this incredible, fan-made Isaac Clarke figurine originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artdead-space-2eaelectronic-artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3toysvisceral-gamesxboxFri, 13 Apr 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[All clues point to concept art for Visceral's canned Jack the Ripper title]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/all-clues-point-to-concept-art-for-viscerals-canned-jack-the-ri/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/all-clues-point-to-concept-art-for-viscerals-canned-jack-the-ri/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/24/all-clues-point-to-concept-art-for-viscerals-canned-jack-the-ri/#comments The rumors began in 2009 -- whispers of a game from EA and Visceral based on one of the most notorious serial killers of all time, Jack the Ripper. Visceral was said to be seen hunched over its work table, working on its downloadable title The Ripper and laughing manically until some time in 2010, when the project faded away without a trace.

Finally, in 2012, we may have cracked The Ripper wide open. Former Visceral concept artist Joey Spiotto has a batch of concept art for an unnamed game on his website, and it leads to one obvious conclusion -- The Ripper. Spiotto lists work on his LinkedIn profile on an unannounced project for Visceral from 2008-2009, and directly after for EA, where he says the project was canceled in 2009.

The screens depict shadowy figures, bloody vampire-esque characters, acrobatics, a leading lady and a cane katana of some kind. Check out the full run of screens on Spiotto's website.

JoystiqAll clues point to concept art for Visceral's canned Jack the Ripper title originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-Artsjack-the-ripperJoey-Spiottomicrosoftplaystationps3PSNthe-rippervisceralvisceral-gamesXBLAxboxFri, 24 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 1 and 2 sliced down to $5 on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/dead-space-1-and-2-sliced-down-to-5-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/dead-space-1-and-2-sliced-down-to-5-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/12/dead-space-1-and-2-sliced-down-to-5-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments Isaac Steam has taken the ol' plasma cutter to the price of the Dead Space series, offering one monster of a deal. This weekend you can pick up -- using telekinesis, preferably -- the original Dead Space or Dead Space 2 for five bucks each. You can use the money you've saved for some fresh underpants. You'll need them.

JoystiqDead Space 1 and 2 sliced down to $5 on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2eaelectronic-artspcsteamvisceral-gamesThu, 12 Jan 2012 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Visceral Melbourne vets form mobile dev 'Playside']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/visceral-melbourne-vets-form-mobile-dev-playside/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/visceral-melbourne-vets-form-mobile-dev-playside/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/14/visceral-melbourne-vets-form-mobile-dev-playside/#comments PlaySide is a new mobile-focused Australian studio, founded from the remains of EA's Visceral Melbourne. Former Visceral game designer Gerry Sakkas founded PlaySide with other former staffers of the shuttered studio. PlaySide is looking to begin development of its first game next month.

"We are all about making a completely tailored experience for the mobile platform, with the added quality and polish of a console game," Sakkas told Kotaku AU. "Our biggest goals are to create unique and loveable characters and to make a real impact on the mobile games industry."

Australia's development scene has definitely taken a turn for the small and scrappy, following the closure or severe downsizing of the mega studios. Even massive publishers like EA are focusing on quality mobile development with Australian developers.

JoystiqVisceral Melbourne vets form mobile dev 'Playside' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Dec 2011 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaEAElectronic-ArtsPlaySideVisceral-GamesVisceral-MelbourneWed, 14 Dec 2011 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumors: Dead Space expands into FPS and flight, Dragon Age goes multiplayer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/rumors-dead-space-expands-into-fps-and-flight-dragon-age-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/rumors-dead-space-expands-into-fps-and-flight-dragon-age-goes/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/30/rumors-dead-space-expands-into-fps-and-flight-dragon-age-goes/#comments Kotaku cites an anonymous "insider" on two new rumors regarding two of Electronic Arts' biggest "new" franchises: Dead Space and Dragon Age. Though Dead Space 2 managed to ship over two million units in its first six months of release, EA wants to "make the series bigger and better," says the insider. The plan: A Dead Space first-person shooter, a Dead Space "flight game" and, lastly, a Dead Space "Uncharted-like game."

Apparently, that recent EA management shift in August "brought in new brass that nearly killed off Dead Space 3," if this insider is to be believed. But it's not dead and, as previous rumors suggested, Dead Space 3 takes place on ice planet Tau Volantis and will feature co-op.

Now for Dragon Age ... this one is good. Kotaku's insider says that, like BioWare's other major RPG brand, Dragon Age will get a multiplayer offering, reportedly powered by DICE's Frostbite 2 engine. This could be part of a future Dragon Age installment, let's call it Dragon Age 3, or a separate downloadable title; the gameplay will be arena-based, and feature both PvE and PvP combat, as well as ... dragons. Because Dragon Age, and all that.

Here's our advice, EA: If you want to increase awareness of the Dead Space brand, making games that aren't like Dead Space seems like a poor strategy. Also, a flight game? Are you trying not to sell games? And the problem with Dragon Age isn't a lack of multiplayer. The (extraordinarily) fast turnaround on Dragon Age 2 resulted in a rushed RPG that was dwarfed (and, frankly, embarrassed) by productions like The Witcher 2 and Skyrim (which managed to ship a not-so-shabby seven million units at launch).

JoystiqRumors: Dead Space expands into FPS and flight, Dragon Age goes multiplayer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowaredead-spacedead-space-2dead-space-3dragon-agedragon-age-3eaelectronic-artsmicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxWed, 30 Nov 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Writer teases Dante's Inferno sequel]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/rumor-writer-teases-dantes-inferno-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/rumor-writer-teases-dantes-inferno-sequel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/24/rumor-writer-teases-dantes-inferno-sequel/#comments Sharp-eyed rumor hunter @supererogatory brings word that we might not have seen the last of EA's goofy Dante's Inferno franchise, despite the lukewarm reception of the first game. The official bio page for writer Joshua Rubin, who worked on Assassin's Creed 2, says he was "the sole writer for a Major Unannounced Sequel from Visceral Studios at EA Games."

Visceral is, of course, the EA label behind the Dead Space series and the first Dante's Inferno. Just to really rile up the rumormongers, Rubin's bio then links to a "hint" ... that leads to the Super Bowl trailer for Dante's Inferno.

The obvious implication is that Visceral's working on Dante's Inferno 2, which would be a sequel to an action game based on a 14th-century epic poem. We should probably start thinking up subtitles now. Dante's Back? Hell to Pay? Luciforever? Beatwice? Have at it.

JoystiqRumor: Writer teases Dante's Inferno sequel originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dantes-infernodantes-inferno-2eajoshua-rubinmicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxThu, 24 Nov 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video reveals 'Blood Dust,' a canned multiplayer shooter from Visceral Melbourne]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/video-reveals-blood-dust-a-canned-multiplayer-shooter-from-vi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/video-reveals-blood-dust-a-canned-multiplayer-shooter-from-vi/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/video-reveals-blood-dust-a-canned-multiplayer-shooter-from-vi/#comments
The use of historical or chronologically irregular locales in multiplayer games still feels novel, even if your activities tend to fall predictably between stabbing or shooting strangers. Visceral's Melbourne studio, which was shuttered by EA earlier this year, was reportedly working on "Blood Dust," an eccentric multiplayer shooter set in the 1930s.

According to a report on Kotaku AU -- which we're pairing with leaked game footage above -- Blood Dust was to be a class-based "run and gun experience" for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Visceral and other EA studios had been working on the game for three years, furnishing it with upgradeable weapons and special abilities spread amongst three factions (including gentlemen and gangly monsters). And we just love Ye Olde Hulke Hogan at 0:17 in the video!

Another rumor suggests that Blood Dust was initially envisioned as a multiplayer add-on to "The Ripper," Visceral's rumored reinterpretation of England's infamous yet unidentified serial killer, Jack the Ripper. That project supposedly remains alive as a single-player game, left behind in the 19th century (when Jack did his nasty business).

Kotaku AU writes that the project's cancellation was handled with enough consideration for its creators -- a source claims departing staff were "well taken care of and treated respectfully," and offered positions at other EA locations.

[Thanks, Anon.]

JoystiqVideo reveals 'Blood Dust,' a canned multiplayer shooter from Visceral Melbourne originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood-dustcancelleddubstepeamicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesvisceral-melbournexboxFri, 11 Nov 2011 11:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Dead Space 3 gets weird in new plot details]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/rumor-dead-space-3-gets-weird-in-new-plot-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/rumor-dead-space-3-gets-weird-in-new-plot-details/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/10/04/rumor-dead-space-3-gets-weird-in-new-plot-details/#comments Siliconera's mystery mole has provided more details about the premise of Dead Space 3, including one new character whose presence sounds like it will change the tone of the game significantly.

We'll put the specifics after the break in the interest of protecting your delicate eyes from (unconfirmed) spoilers, but we're pretty sure this will be a central (read: widely advertised) aspect of this still-unannounced game anyway.

Continue reading Rumor: Dead Space 3 gets weird in new plot details

JoystiqRumor: Dead Space 3 gets weird in new plot details originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Oct 2011 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-3electronic-artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxTue, 04 Oct 2011 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Dead Space 3 plot details leaked]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/rumor-dead-space-3-plot-details-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/rumor-dead-space-3-plot-details-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/26/rumor-dead-space-3-plot-details-leaked/#comments There's not much surprise to be found in the rumored existence of another Dead Space sequel, is there? According to purported plot details published by Siliconera, however, you're in for less of a shock and more of a creeping, unshakeable chill. (Dead Space 3 has not been announced, so beware of potential spoilers beyond this point.)

According to the site's mole, Dead Space 3 dumps perennially imperiled engineer Isaac Clarke on Tau Volantis, a frigid planet blanketed in snowstorms. Donning a snowsuit (with temperature indicated inconveniently on the back?), he attempts to locate lost friends and other signs of humanity. And we can't imagine a bit of unpleasant weather deterring those despicable necromorphs.

The change of location (if accurately reported) sounds intriguing, though we won't hear more until EA decides to announce Dead Space 3 officially. Last we heard, Dead Space 2 had shipped over 2 million copies -- enough to be deemed one of EA's "strong, growing franchises."

JoystiqRumor: Dead Space 3 plot details leaked originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Sep 2011 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-3eaisaac-clarkemicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxMon, 26 Sep 2011 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EA confirms closure of Visceral Melbourne, reaffirms support for Melbourne-based mobile studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ea-confirms-closure-of-visceral-melbourne-reaffirms-support-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ea-confirms-closure-of-visceral-melbourne-reaffirms-support-for/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/20/ea-confirms-closure-of-visceral-melbourne-reaffirms-support-for/#commentsFollowing reports last Friday that EA shuttered its Visceral Melbourne studio, the International Game Developer's Association Melbourne tweeted on Sunday, "Confirmation of EA closing Visceral has been received :( our best wishes to the 21 devs now out of a job #EAVisceral." Electronic Arts has finally weighed in on the matter, telling MCV, "With no active project in development at that location, we've decided to close the Visceral Melbourne office. They are talented individuals and may find other roles elsewhere in EA, if they choose."

The EA rep added, "EA continues to maintain its mobile studios in Melbourne which are both thriving and hiring." Those studios include the recently acquired Firemint, makers of Flight Control and Real Racing, and Iron Monkey Studios, the team behind the excellent Dead Space for iOS and Xperia Play.

Of course, this follows just weeks after LA Noire developers Team Bondi entered administration, a month after THQ shuttered two Australian studios, and less than a year after Krome severely downsized. We'll pour a Foster's out for you, Australian game devs.

JoystiqEA confirms closure of Visceral Melbourne, reaffirms support for Melbourne-based mobile studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessdead-space-2eaelectronic-artslayoffsvisceral-gamesvisceral-melbourneTue, 20 Sep 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order Battlefield 3 on Origin, get Dead Space 2 for free]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/pre-order-battlefield-3-on-origin-get-dead-space-2-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/pre-order-battlefield-3-on-origin-get-dead-space-2-for-free/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/pre-order-battlefield-3-on-origin-get-dead-space-2-for-free/#comments That free game that Origin is offering for a Battlefield 3 pre-order? It's totally Dead Space 2! So now on top of early beta access and a host of DLC, EA is offering even more incentive by offering a great game.

Of course, there's a catch: there's only a limited number of copies of Dead Space 2 available. It's really silly, considering the free copy is a download. What's the matter, EA? No more storage space in the old digital warehouse?

If you want to go with Origin, you've got until September 19 to pre-order Battlefield 3 for your free ticket to the nightmarish space-romp.

JoystiqPre-order Battlefield 3 on Origin, get Dead Space 2 for free originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3dead-space-2dicedigital-distributioneaoriginpcvisceralvisceral-gamesFri, 16 Sep 2011 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: EA closing Visceral Melbourne on Monday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/report-ea-closing-visceral-melbourne-on-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/report-ea-closing-visceral-melbourne-on-monday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/16/report-ea-closing-visceral-melbourne-on-monday/#comments Electronic Arts' Visceral Studios in Melbourne will reportedly shut down this Monday. Kotaku reports that it has a source claiming as much, and the IGDA chapter in Melbourne is "happy to help all affected" in any way it can. The Age's Screen Play Blog is hearing the same rumors.

Kotaku's source states Patrick Soderland of DICE, now a VP at EA's Games Label, decided the console game the team had been working on for the past few years wouldn't be profitable and pulled the plug on the project and studio.

EA Visceral Melbourne assisted on Dead Space, Godfather 2 and Dante's Inferno. We've contacted the publisher for comment.

JoystiqReport: EA closing Visceral Melbourne on Monday originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAElectronic-ArtsLayoffsmicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesVisceral-MelbournexboxFri, 16 Sep 2011 15:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Ex-Battlefield lead Gordon Van Dyke joins Paradox Interactive as senior producer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/ex-battlefield-lead-gordon-van-dyke-joins-paradox-interactive-as/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/ex-battlefield-lead-gordon-van-dyke-joins-paradox-interactive-as/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/01/ex-battlefield-lead-gordon-van-dyke-joins-paradox-interactive-as/#comments After exiting the dev battlefield of DICE back in 2010, Gordon Van Dyke recently left his second EA gig at Visceral Games in favor of a different Swedish game company: Paradox Interactive. Before wild accusations start flying, know that his reason for leaving was rather heartwarming. "During my time back in California [with Visceral], I married my girlfriend from Sweden and we had a baby. We decided it was best to raise her in Sweden," Van Dyke told Joystiq this afternoon.

In the process of moving, a friend of Paradox CEO Fred Wester put he and Gordon in contact. The rest is Swedish history. "I got an email from a friend introducing me to Gordon. Two days later he was hired," Wester explained of his rapid hiring process. Van Dyke, unsurprisingly, had nothing but nice things to say about his new employer, explaining that the studio "offers me more room to explore, take risk, and work on creative niche IPs."

Continue reading Ex-Battlefield lead Gordon Van Dyke joins Paradox Interactive as senior producer

JoystiqEx-Battlefield lead Gordon Van Dyke joins Paradox Interactive as senior producer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Jun 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diceeaea-diceelectronic-artsfat-sharkfatsharkfredrik-westergordon-van-dykemagickaparadoxparadox-interactiveproject-postmanvisceral-gamesWed, 01 Jun 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 adding free multiplayer maps]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/dead-space-2-adding-free-multiplayer-maps/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/dead-space-2-adding-free-multiplayer-maps/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/23/dead-space-2-adding-free-multiplayer-maps/#comments EA is adding two new multiplayer maps for free to Dead Space 2 in a couple weeks. The "Outbreak Map Pack," which includes The Academy and The Concourse, will send players back to survive multiplayer evisceration in The Sprawl on May 31 and June 3 for Xbox 360 and PS3, respectively.

The sci-fi horror sequel has done well for EA, shipping over 2 million units and the DS2:Severed DLC mentioned as a digital sales highlight for the publisher. EA makes no mention of the Outbreak Map Pack for the PC version of the game.

JoystiqDead Space 2 adding free multiplayer maps originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 May 2011 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2DLCEAElectronic-Artsmicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxMon, 23 May 2011 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space series' price dismembered on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/dead-space-series-price-dismembered-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/dead-space-series-price-dismembered-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/dead-space-series-price-dismembered-on-steam/#comments Steam's week of Electronic Arts franchise discounts continues today with big reductions on the prices of its interstellar Necromorph surgery series. If you've never indulged in Dead Space or Dead Space 2, you can grab both on Steam for $4.99 and $23.99, respectively.

Continue reading Dead Space series' price dismembered on Steam

JoystiqDead Space series' price dismembered on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 May 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2ea-weekElectronic-Artspcsteamvisceral-gamesSat, 07 May 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA Store offers scary good discount on Dead Space series for PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/ea-store-offers-scary-good-discount-on-dead-space-series-for-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/ea-store-offers-scary-good-discount-on-dead-space-series-for-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/07/ea-store-offers-scary-good-discount-on-dead-space-series-for-pc/#comments The EA Store has taken a plasma cutter to the price of the Dead Space series. The downloadable PC versions of Dead Space and Dead Space 2 can be had for $12 and $24, respectively. The sale runs through Sunday, at which point prices will regenerate to their more terrifying original forms.

Continue reading EA Store offers scary good discount on Dead Space series for PC

JoystiqEA Store offers scary good discount on Dead Space series for PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 May 2011 03:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2eapcvisceral-gamesSat, 07 May 2011 03:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Replica Dead Space plasma cutter filled with deadly lasers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/replica-dead-space-plasma-cutter-filled-with-deadly-lasers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/replica-dead-space-plasma-cutter-filled-with-deadly-lasers/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/06/replica-dead-space-plasma-cutter-filled-with-deadly-lasers/#comments Is your interplanetary mining platform infested with swarms of horrific, mutated Necromorphs? We've got nothing for you, sadly. However, if it's filled with swarms of helpless balloons, YouTube user Kipkay's got the tool you need: a super-powered replica Dead Space 2 plasma cutter.

Continue reading Replica Dead Space plasma cutter filled with deadly lasers

JoystiqReplica Dead Space plasma cutter filled with deadly lasers originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 May 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2electronic-artslaserplasma-cuttervisceral-gamesFri, 06 May 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Visceral Montreal studio staffing up for Army of Two, Dead Space franchises]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/visceral-montreal-studio-staffing-up-for-army-of-two-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/visceral-montreal-studio-staffing-up-for-army-of-two-dead-space/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/14/visceral-montreal-studio-staffing-up-for-army-of-two-dead-space/#comments A series of job openings in EA Montreal's Visceral Games division point unsurprisingly to ongoing projects associated with the studio's homegrown Army of Two franchise, as well as for Dead Space. Positions for a senior producer, art director and lead environmental artist for Army of Two have been posted on the EA jobs site, in addition to a number of non-franchise-specific roles.

Also of note, the studio is looking for a senior development director for the Dead Space franchise, in addition to a lead writer (in English) and senior AI programmer for a "new action adventure IP."

The EA Montreal location includes Visceral Games Montreal, EA Mobile, BioWare Montreal and other groups. The now Visceral-branded studio is best known for its pair of Army of Two games, which have sold millions -- fist bump! -- despite mixed critical reception. Additionally, the Montreal studio collaborated with EA's Redwood Shores outfit to develop Dead Space 2.

While EA has made no official statement about new iterations of these franchises, we clearly haven't seen the last of them. And you can put your bro on that!

JoystiqVisceral Montreal studio staffing up for Army of Two, Dead Space franchises originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>army-of-twoarmy-of-two-3dead-spacedead-space-3ea-montrealhiringjob-listingvisceral-gamesvisceral-games-montrealThu, 14 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Scott Amos leaves Visceral for Crystal Dynamics, will help develop new IP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/scott-amos-leaves-visceral-for-crystal-dynamics-will-help-devel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/scott-amos-leaves-visceral-for-crystal-dynamics-will-help-devel/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/29/scott-amos-leaves-visceral-for-crystal-dynamics-will-help-devel/#comments Aside from giving Lara a fresh pair of pants (and a full-on reboot), Crystal Dynamics has something else in the works, it appears. According to Gamasutra, Scott Amos, executive producer at Dead Space creator Visceral Games, has joined on with the developer to lead a new team tasked with developing this new IP.

Prior to his work with Visceral, Amos also handled The Sims franchise at EA Maxis, developing the series for consoles. Amos will be relocating to Crystal Dynamics' Redwood-based studio, but we've heard he's got to make it all the way through The Angel of Darkness before he can start work. That's something we wouldn't wish on anyone.

JoystiqScott Amos leaves Visceral for Crystal Dynamics, will help develop new IP originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Mar 2011 20:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Crystal-Dynamicseamicrosoftpcplaystationps3scott-amostomb-raider-2011visceral-gamesxboxTue, 29 Mar 2011 20:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Visceral seeking producer for work on 'bold new IP']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/visceral-seeking-producer-for-work-on-bold-new-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/visceral-seeking-producer-for-work-on-bold-new-ip/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/02/visceral-seeking-producer-for-work-on-bold-new-ip/#comments Dead Space 2 is finished. So, what's next for Visceral Games? Dead Space 3? Dante's Inferno 2? The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King 2: The Returnening? Anything is possible, it seems, as a new job listing on Gamasutra reveals that the studio is hiring for an executive producer to lead a "bold new IP," one that is "heavily backed by EA leadership." (So, anything but Mirror's Edge 2.)
Our best guess? It's that Macbeth game Dante's Inferno producer Jonathan Knight has "been thinking about for years." Of course, Knight is no longer with Visceral nor EA, so perhaps he took his idea with him.

[Image mock-up incorporates art from a 2007 production of MacBeth staged by the Workshop Theatre Company; source: andycomusic.com]

JoystiqVisceral seeking producer for work on 'bold new IP' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Mar 2011 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eajob-listingjobsmicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxWed, 02 Mar 2011 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 PC patch released, adds more suits and buttons]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/dead-space-2-pc-patch-released-adds-more-suits-and-buttons/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/dead-space-2-pc-patch-released-adds-more-suits-and-buttons/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/25/dead-space-2-pc-patch-released-adds-more-suits-and-buttons/#comments Oh dear Dead Space 2 PC players, don't be jealous of your console colleagues clad in all that fresh attire. A patch for your particular version of the game has been released, adding the weapon and armor packs that are available as premium DLC for the Xbox 360 and PS3 versions. These new armaments will simply show up in the in-game store for free; a sweet little bonus, and perhaps a minor act of contrition, considering the "Severed" expansion won't be coming to your native platform.

The patch also fixes an error with the limited save function of Hardcore mode and adds support for input binding for up to eight mouse buttons. Wait, eight mouse buttons? What kind of monstrosity are you guys clicking that has eight mouse buttons?

JoystiqDead Space 2 PC patch released, adds more suits and buttons originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2eaelectronic-artspatchpcupdatevisceral-gamesFri, 25 Feb 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2: Severed DLC lopping off limbs on March 1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/dead-space-2-severed-dlc-lopping-off-limbs-on-march-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/dead-space-2-severed-dlc-lopping-off-limbs-on-march-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/23/dead-space-2-severed-dlc-lopping-off-limbs-on-march-1/#comments We know that, following a week of intense psychotherapy, the shaken nerves and disturbed dreams you developed after playing through Dead Space 2 have started to disperse -- which is why we hate to share this news with you. Visceral Games has announced that the game's two-chapter-long expansion, Severed, will be available on the North American Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store on March 1 for 560 Microsoft Points ($6.99), and will arrive in Europe the following day. Check out a trailer after the jump to see the brand of horrors waiting for the pack's purchasers.

Sure, you could heed the advice of your thereputic advisor and pass on the add-on altogether -- but aren't you curious exactly whose and which limbs are going to get titularly dismembered? We certainly hope they don't belong to our dear, dear Dead Space Girl. You hear us, Necromorphs? Not a finger.

Continue reading Dead Space 2: Severed DLC lopping off limbs on March 1

JoystiqDead Space 2: Severed DLC lopping off limbs on March 1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dead-space-2-severeddlceamicrosoftplaystationps3release-datevisceral-gamesxboxWed, 23 Feb 2011 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[The Demise of Dead Space 2's Franco Delille: How Visceral Killed a Man in One Minute]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/the-demise-of-dead-space-2s-franco-delille-how-visceral-killed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/the-demise-of-dead-space-2s-franco-delille-how-visceral-killed/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/21/the-demise-of-dead-space-2s-franco-delille-how-visceral-killed/#comments
Joystiq interviews Visceral Games and finds out how one gruesome minute of Dead Space 2 was made.

In the future, our starship captains won't be as blindly heroic as their television counterparts. Their years of virtual training -- inside holo-capsule games like Dead Space 13: Amputheater -- will impart every single reason to avoid stranded ships and suspect space colonies. Even here, in 2011, Dead Space 2 provides an uncomfortable glimpse at the scary doors, inadequate fluorescent lighting and snarling horrors that await us off-planet. And that's before you die and come back to vicious near-life as a necrotized bag of flesh, running around wildly with scissors for hands.

The inhospitable world of Dead Space 2 and the creatures that make a rickety existence within it hardly seem worthy of care or devotion, yet it's all you see in every fuggy, expertly lit scene. There's no better way to see the detail-driven efforts of developer Visceral Games than by narrowing your focus to just one minute of the game, in which you're forced to watch a man shed every semblance of humanity and transform into a grotesque mess of flesh.

It's probably not as painful as it looks, I found out, because the poor guy doesn't have a brain.

Continue reading The Demise of Dead Space 2's Franco Delille: How Visceral Killed a Man in One Minute

JoystiqThe Demise of Dead Space 2's Franco Delille: How Visceral Killed a Man in One Minute originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Feb 2011 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animationdead-space-2franco-delilleisaac-clarkemicrosoftmodelingpcplaystationps3sloughingtony-gialdiniveronique-garciavisceralvisceral-gamesxboxMon, 21 Feb 2011 17:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Why Dead Space Aftermath is like a Kurosawa film]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/video-why-dead-space-aftermath-is-like-a-kurosawa-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/video-why-dead-space-aftermath-is-like-a-kurosawa-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/17/video-why-dead-space-aftermath-is-like-a-kurosawa-film/#comments Comparing the Dead Space Aftermath to the works of Akira Kurosawa might seem strange but, believe it or not, this video explains that the animated film borrows from Kurosawa's Rashomon. Specifically, it's told through flashbacks. Also, it totally rips off the space zombie scene.

Continue reading Video: Why Dead Space Aftermath is like a Kurosawa film

JoystiqVideo: Why Dead Space Aftermath is like a Kurosawa film originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dead-space-aftermatheamicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxThu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Play with Dead Space 2 devs this weekend, earn special in-game suit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/play-with-dead-space-2-devs-this-weekend-earn-special-in-game-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/play-with-dead-space-2-devs-this-weekend-earn-special-in-game-s/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/11/play-with-dead-space-2-devs-this-weekend-earn-special-in-game-s/#comments The gore buffs of Visceral Games will play a few multiplayer rounds of Dead Space 2 this Saturday. Two sessions are scheduled for both PSN and Xbox Live, one beginning at 11:00am PST and another at 3:00pm. To make things more interesting, the developers will wear special "viral" suits. Any player that manages to kill a developer will unlock that suit and from that point, the suit will start spreading. In other words, anyone who kills another player who unlocked the suit will also unlock it.

Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP on the Dead Space Facebook page. Xbox.com has also listed the gamertags Visceral will be using. Those wishing to play on Xbox should send friend requests to the listed tags. Find them after the break.

Continue reading Play with Dead Space 2 devs this weekend, earn special in-game suit

JoystiqPlay with Dead Space 2 devs this weekend, earn special in-game suit originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2eamicrosoftplaystationps3viral-suitvisceral-gamesxboxFri, 11 Feb 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Visceral Games hears disabled gamer, adding customizable controls to Dead Space 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/visceral-games-hears-disabled-gamer-adding-customizable-control/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/visceral-games-hears-disabled-gamer-adding-customizable-control/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/visceral-games-hears-disabled-gamer-adding-customizable-control/#comments Spooky cathedrals, fun technology and lots of slimy necromorphs to dismember at will -- is there anything else you could possibly want in Dead Space 2? Well, Gareth Garratt, a gamer living with cerebral palsy, would like to see customizable controls implemented in the game. Garratt is trying to play the horror sequel on PC, partly by pushing a mouse with his chin, and is unhappy that he can't assign the "walk forward" command to a mouse button. Plenty of games allow for customizable controls, he says, so why can't Dead Space 2?

Over 20,000 fellow players agree, and they've signed an online Internet petition asking video game publishers to make sure that all games offer customization for their controls. Here's the good news: Dead Space 2 dev Visceral Games has already heard them loud and clear. Executive Producer Steve Papoutsis tells Joystiq that a patch for the PC version of the game enabling full control remapping is on the way, and that "a number of folks on our team are so passionate about getting this fix done that they are currently working hard" on it. Papoutsis says the patch will fix a few other issues with the PC version, and that a release date will be announced "when the patch is fully tested." You can read his remarks in full after the break.

Continue reading Visceral Games hears disabled gamer, adding customizable controls to Dead Space 2

JoystiqVisceral Games hears disabled gamer, adding customizable controls to Dead Space 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controlscustomcustomizabledead-space-2disabilitydisabledeagamergarethpcpetitionvisceralvisceral-gamesMon, 07 Feb 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2: Severed screenshots are Lexine-less]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/dead-space-2-severed-screenshots-are-lexine-less/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/dead-space-2-severed-screenshots-are-lexine-less/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/dead-space-2-severed-screenshots-are-lexine-less/#comments Don't get your hopes up, dear readers -- though EA recently uploaded a handful of screens for Dead Space 2's upcoming DLC expansion, Severed, none feature the scream-faced protagonist, Lexine Murdoch. They only show Gabe Weller, who is not known for his outrageous facial expressions.

Continue reading Dead Space 2: Severed screenshots are Lexine-less

JoystiqDead Space 2: Severed screenshots are Lexine-less originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dead-space-2-severeddlceamicrosoftplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxMon, 07 Feb 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Get Dead Space 2 dead cheap today [Update: PS3 version back in stock]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/get-dead-space-2-dead-cheap-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/get-dead-space-2-dead-cheap-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/07/get-dead-space-2-dead-cheap-today/#commentsLooking for a discount on spacefaring scares? Amazon is offering Dead Space 2 on Xbox 360 today for $39.99 (the PS3 version has already sold out is back for now!), and $39.95 on PC, allowing you to get a sensible cost-per-unit on "holy craps." The retailer is also offering the Collector's Edition for $59.95 -- what you'd normally pay for the standard edition. PS3 copies of this edition are still available, and include a free Move-compatible Dead Space Extraction (as all first-run PS3 copies do), boosting the pants-wetting/money ratio even further.

This deal will expire at the end of the day or until Amazon runs out of copies, so if you're interested get it now or face the terrifying proposition that you'd have to pay more. That's the bad kind of scare.

JoystiqGet Dead Space 2 dead cheap today [Update: PS3 version back in stock] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondead-space-2deal-of-the-dayelectronic-artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxMon, 07 Feb 2011 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 creative director denies satirizing Scientology]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/dead-space-2-director-denies-satirizing-scientology/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/dead-space-2-director-denies-satirizing-scientology/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/dead-space-2-director-denies-satirizing-scientology/#comments Unitology, the kind-of-creepy religion that appears in Dead Space and its sequel, is based on a science fiction story, has lots of money collected from members moving up through ranks and ends in "-tology" -- ring any bells? Yes, a lot of players are making comparisons to the real life Church of Scientology, which was incorporated by science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard and has gained a lot of press as a church for rich celebrities. But any comparisons are strictly coincidental, says Dead Space 2's creative director Wright Bagwell.

Speaking to MTV Multiplayer, Bagwell says that the in-game church was "never really intended to be a jab at any particular religion." Instead, it's about "people's illogical thinking about things they don't understand." Even in our own world, technology has gotten incredibly complex in the last 30 years, and while much of humanity's superstition and myth was disproven by the Scientific Revolution, Bagwell says that science has brought the people in Dead Space 2 back around to ritual and faith. "In this complex, futuristic world, people are looking for ways to simplify their lives and put their faith in something that they don't have to think too much about."

That, and the Church of Scientology is notoriously litigious.

JoystiqDead Space 2 creative director denies satirizing Scientology originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2eaElectronic-Artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3scientologyunitologyvisceral-gamesxboxWed, 02 Feb 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 devs reflect on improved 'smoke and mirrors']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/dead-space-2-devs-reflect-on-improved-smoke-and-mirrors/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/dead-space-2-devs-reflect-on-improved-smoke-and-mirrors/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/dead-space-2-devs-reflect-on-improved-smoke-and-mirrors/#comments Looking for something to remind you that the blood-curdling horror of Dead Space 2 isn't real? Might we suggest this behind-the-scenes video, in which the developers expose all the game's visual tricks? See -- just smoke and mirrors, that's all ...

Continue reading Dead Space 2 devs reflect on improved 'smoke and mirrors'

JoystiqDead Space 2 devs reflect on improved 'smoke and mirrors' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dev-diaryeaElectronic-Artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxTue, 01 Feb 2011 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 outselling first game '2-to-1,' EA says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/dead-space-2-outselling-first-game-2-to-1-ea-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/dead-space-2-outselling-first-game-2-to-1-ea-says/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/01/dead-space-2-outselling-first-game-2-to-1-ea-says/#comments Despite an overwhelmingly positive critical reception, the first Dead Space was a launch dud when it hit retail in mid-October of 2008. Reporting on its life-to-date sales through that November, Gamasutra described it, along with fellow EA newcomer Mirror's Edge, as having "failed miserably" -- NPD data showed that Dead Space was below 500K unit sales more than a month after launch. The following February, EA would quietly confirm that the game had become a million-seller by the end of 2008.

Fast-forward two Februaries later and EA is bringing back up that bleak launch, but this time in new light: "Dead Space 2 launched last week [...] outscoring the original Dead Space and outselling it two-to-one," the publisher trumpeted in its latest list of business highlights (without revealing specific figures). Putting the Dead Space 2 commercial launch in such stark terms sounds impressive, but in reality it's more like "a pretty good start" for a deserving sequel.

So, EA, when are you gonna give Mirror's Edge its second chance?

JoystiqDead Space 2 outselling first game '2-to-1,' EA says originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2eamicrosoftpcplaystationps3salesvisceral-gamesxboxTue, 01 Feb 2011 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Visceral: 'A lot of discussion' over live-action Dead Space film]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/visceral-a-lot-of-discussion-over-live-action-dead-space-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/visceral-a-lot-of-discussion-over-live-action-dead-space-film/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/28/visceral-a-lot-of-discussion-over-live-action-dead-space-film/#comments Though there are plenty of jollies to be had from the uber-gory Dead Space Aftermath animated feature, we've got a powerful desire in our heart-of-hearts to lay eyes upon a live-action film set in the Dead Space universe. We're not the only ones. In a recent interview with BBC News, Visceral Games art director Ian Milham explained, "We would love to have a live action film and we've had a lot of discussion. But one of the reasons Dead Space still exists and is popular is because we've made sure to do everything right. So we're doing the same with the film, not just a cheap cash-in but to do something really worthwhile, so we'll see."

We appreciate how much thought you're putting into this -- an unprecedented amount of thought, you might say -- though, really, we can't think of an easier game to adapt to film. Here's our simple plan for how we're gonna make this work:
  1. Give the rights to adapt the game over to the guys who make the Saw movies.
  2. Book two tickets on the 10 o' clock money train to Cashtown.

JoystiqVisceral: 'A lot of discussion' over live-action Dead Space film originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Jan 2011 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adaptationdead-space-2eafilmian-milhammicrosoftmobilemovienintendopcplaystationps3visceralvisceral-gameswiixboxFri, 28 Jan 2011 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 Hazard, Martial Law and Supernova DLC packs available now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/dead-space-2-hazard-martial-law-and-supernova-dlc-packs-availab/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/dead-space-2-hazard-martial-law-and-supernova-dlc-packs-availab/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/dead-space-2-hazard-martial-law-and-supernova-dlc-packs-availab/#comments The odds are well-stacked against Isaac as he traverses the Necromorph-stuffed hallways of The Sprawl -- which, typically, is the way that real heroes like to do they business. If unassisted survival is proving too hard a task, you can now capitulate and download Dead Space 2's "Hazard," "Martial Law" and "Supernova" downloadable pack. They're available today, each adding a handful of powerful suits and weapons to Isaac's inventory for $5 a pop.

Check out the full list of these items after the jump as you try to decide which one sounds like a thing you'd like to own. And don't even say all of them, because if you've got $15 to spend on virtual power tools, then we have some prime Florida swampland to sell you.

Continue reading Dead Space 2 Hazard, Martial Law and Supernova DLC packs available now

JoystiqDead Space 2 Hazard, Martial Law and Supernova DLC packs available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dlceaelectronic-artsmartial-law-packmicrosoftoccupational-hazard-packplaystationps3supernova-packvisceral-gamesxboxThu, 27 Jan 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview: Dead Space 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/metareview-dead-space-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/metareview-dead-space-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/metareview-dead-space-2/#comments Galactic handyman Isaac Clarke is back to cut the implements of death off Necromorphs before stomping on their heads. If you can keep your eyes open for the action-oriented horror, you'll have as good a time with the game as we did. But, we aren't the only voice in the interverse. Here's what others thought of the Visceral experience:
  • Giant Bomb (5/5): "Just like its predecessor, Dead Space 2 doesn't do anything especially new, it just does everything exceedingly well."
  • CVG (95/100): "Polished, sickening, satisfying and occasionally heart-testing, Dead Space 2 is undoubtedly the best horror adventure on Xbox 360 and PS3. It's the Resident Evil of this generation - and it'll leave you an emotional wreck."
  • Eurogamer (90/100): "The linearity and reliance on set-piece shocks can often make Dead Space 2 feel like a multi-million dollar Ghost Train ride at a funfair. Overuse of 'mash-the-A-button-to-escape-the-monster' moments jars with the more distinguished mechanics elsewhere."
  • IGN (90/100): "The shocking moments, the gruesome deaths, and the fun of playing through this experience again and again are what I took away from this one."
  • Game Informer (90/100): "Dead Space 2 is a monster of a sequel, offering bigger scares and more excitement than I expected. I enjoyed Isaac as a silent protagonist in the original game, and I find I like him even more now that he's found his voice."
  • Gamespot (85/100) "a campaign that simultaneously leaves you satisfied and eager for more, and intense multiplayer that gives you a great reason to keep coming back to this terrifying universe. Unless you're just plain chicken, this is a sci-fi horror adventure you definitely want to suit up for"

Gallery: Dead Space 2 (1/25/11)

JoystiqMetareview: Dead Space 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2eaElectronic-Artsmetareviewmicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxWed, 26 Jan 2011 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Dead Space 2 DLC workaround for non-Gold members]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/psa-dead-space-2-dlc-workaround-for-non-gold-members/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/psa-dead-space-2-dlc-workaround-for-non-gold-members/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/26/psa-dead-space-2-dlc-workaround-for-non-gold-members/#comments If you're an Xbox Live "free" member ready to "strategically dismember" bits of EA because you can't redeem the DLC included in the Dead Space 2 "Collector's Edition", just go ahead and put away the plasma cutter. The redemption card (pictured) gives instructions that won't work for those who aren't Gold members -- but there is a workaround.

An EA rep tells Joystiq that Live free members should go to the "Extras" menu and input the code in the "redeem code" section. This will unlock the single-player Zealot Suit and Zealot Force Gun without the need for a Gold membership. The problem with going through the Online Pass screen is that it's used for multiplayer, which you can't access without a Gold membership. This isn't the first (and likely not the last) time that DLC insert cards have caused confusion.

[Thanks, Dayton W.]

JoystiqPSA: Dead Space 2 DLC workaround for non-Gold members originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dlcEAElectronic-Artsmicrosoftonline-passvisceral-gamesxboxWed, 26 Jan 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shedding light on the lighting in Dead Space 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/shedding-light-on-the-lighting-in-dead-space-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/shedding-light-on-the-lighting-in-dead-space-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/shedding-light-on-the-lighting-in-dead-space-2/#commentsDead Space 2's scares aren't dependent only on space monsters and creepy noises. You also have to see what's going on, or, at least, see the eerie shadow of what's going on. This developer diary introduces DS2's dedicated lighting team -- and shows lots of atmospherically lit in-game shots.

Continue reading Shedding light on the lighting in Dead Space 2

JoystiqShedding light on the lighting in Dead Space 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2eaelectronic-artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3visceral-gamesxboxTue, 25 Jan 2011 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 DLC 'Severed' adds two single-player chapters, brings back DSG]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/dead-space-2-dlc-severed-adds-two-single-player-chapters-brin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/dead-space-2-dlc-severed-adds-two-single-player-chapters-brin/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/25/dead-space-2-dlc-severed-adds-two-single-player-chapters-brin/#commentsDead Space 2 DLC While Dead Space 2 has only been on retail shelves for about ... oh, a couple hours, that hasn't stopped EA from announcing more Dead Space 2 in the form of "an all-new digital download pack that extends the Dead Space 2 story with the addition of two standalone chapters in the single-player game." Most notably, "Dead Space 2: Severed" features the return of some nobody named Gabe Weller and ... Lexine "Dead Space Girl" Murdoch! Some of you may recall a certain blog's fondness for DSG ... we still remember seeing her for the first time (and haven't gotten her out of our heads since).

The only other details we have on Severed include a release window of "soon" for both the Xbox 360 and PS3. And yes, PC gamers, we realize that means your platform of choice isn't included and, since we wouldn't want anyone to miss out on an opportunity to be reunited with Ms. Murdoch, we've asked the publisher to clarify what's going on.

[Update: An EA rep got back to VG247 and said, simply, "Dead Space 2: Severed will not be available on the PC." So, we guess that's that?]

JoystiqDead Space 2 DLC 'Severed' adds two single-player chapters, brings back DSG originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Jan 2011 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2Dead-Space-2-SeveredDLCDSGLexine-Murdochmicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnSeveredvisceral-gamesxboxxbox-liveTue, 25 Jan 2011 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space marked down 66 percent on Steam this weekend]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/dead-space-marked-down-66-percent-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/dead-space-marked-down-66-percent-on-steam-this-weekend/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/22/dead-space-marked-down-66-percent-on-steam-this-weekend/#comments Are you hoping to get caught up on the events of Dead Space before its sequel drops next week? Okay, then: A whole bunch of people got murdered by monsters in space. Oh, you wanted something a bit more comprehensive? Well, then, you should grab the game on Steam at 66 percent off this weekend.

Continue reading Dead Space marked down 66 percent on Steam this weekend

JoystiqDead Space marked down 66 percent on Steam this weekend originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Dead-Spaceeapcsteamvisceral-gamesSat, 22 Jan 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Dead Space Extraction explained on video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/ps3-dead-space-extraction-explained-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/ps3-dead-space-extraction-explained-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/20/ps3-dead-space-extraction-explained-on-video/#comments If our preview of the PS3 version of Dead Space Extraction was too stationary for you, PlayStation Blog has posted a new video interview with producer Zach Mumbach. The interview briefly touches on the improved visuals, which Mumbach notes are now "full HD." It also explains the new Move controls, which obviate the need for the Wii version's Nunchuk, leaving your other hand free to recoil in terror. Head over to PlayStation Blog to see it for yourself.

JoystiqPS3 Dead Space Extraction explained on video originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-space-2dead-space-extractioneaplaystationPlayStation-Moveps3visceral-gamesThu, 20 Jan 2011 21:30:00 EST