Joystiq

Creative Assembly gets Warhammer license in multi-title deal, first game in 2013

Sinan Kubba — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST

The Creative Assembly is going from legionaries to Lizardmen, having obtained the rights to develop Warhammer fantasy games. Sega announced today that it and subsidiary Creative Assembly have entered into a multi-title licensing deal with miniature makers Games Workshop, with a dev team already working to get the studio's first Warhammer game out for next year. Creative Assembly's license is only for the Warhammer fantasy line and not for the Warhammer 40K universe, as clarified to Eurogamer by both Sega and Warhammer 40K license holder THQ.

The last decade saw THQ pump out a swathe of Warhammer 40K games, but outside of two Namco-published real-time strategies and EA's Warhammer Online, it's been all quiet on the fantasy front. That's something Creative Assembly must hope to rectify, although it's not like the studio is desperate for pies to cram its fingers into. The British developer says it's working on Total War: Rome 2, the as yet unnamed Alien game, the first Warhammer game, and two other unannounced projects.

Continue reading Creative Assembly gets Warhammer license in multi-title deal, first game in 2013

Creative Assembly gets Warhammer license in multi-title deal, first game in 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Dec 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Comic-Con video extravaganza continues with Warhammer 40K: Space Marine

Jordan Mallory — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST

Despite being classified as a comic book convention, Comic-Con continues to hemorrhage gaming news, the latest interesting tidbit being this Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine gameplay video. Speaking with Gamespot, THQ's Daniel Isaac outlines how Captain Titus' jump-pack and Thunder Hammer will allow players to effortlessly murder tens of thousands of severely out-classed and under-prepared orcs. Isaac also details the title's class-based multiplayer, which we previewed last week, as well as Space Marine's one-billion possible armor customizations.

Comic-Con video extravaganza continues with Warhammer 40K: Space Marine originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Dawn of War 3 further detailed by THQ's Danny Bilson

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:45:00 EST

THQ executive vice president Danny Bilson is known for his many things -- his gorgeous shock of graphite hair, his devil-may-care attitude, a movie star daughter. But in the game industry, he's best known for speaking loosely and passionately about his company's yet-to-be-revealed projects. A recent interview with Eurogamer is no exception, with Bilson offering a small brigade of details on Dawn of War 3.

Bilson says that the sequel to 2009's Dawn of War 2 is in development "right now," and is a mix of new elements with features from the first two titles. He also admitted that his company will be making a game announcement at GamesCom in the PC gamer-friendly country of Germany, which we're taking a wild guess is the official reveal of DoW3. We'll be on the ground in Cologne this August to bring you more details.

[Pictured: Dawn of War 2]

Dawn of War 3 further detailed by THQ's Danny Bilson originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer: Dawn of War 2 soundtrack available May 24

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 02:15:00 EST

If you were distracted from the fast-paced real-time strategy action of Warhammer: Dawn of War 2 by its own catchy ditties, you can soon allow the game's soundtrack to preoccupy you during your other, non-virtual tasks. THQ has teamed up with Sumthing Else Music Works to release the title's orchestral score on a two-CD collection, all composed by delightfully-named maestro Doyle Donehoo. Oh, that's fun. Doy-le! Done-hoo!

The soundtrack will be available in tangible form at select retail outlets, as well as intangible forms on Amazon MP3, iTunes and Sumthing Digital's official site, on May 24. Until then, just keep humming that melody in your head as you shuffle your troops around. Or as you wash your dog. Or as you carry out the recycling.

Continue reading Warhammer: Dawn of War 2 soundtrack available May 24

Warhammer: Dawn of War 2 soundtrack available May 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 02:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

THQ extends Warhammer 40K licensing deal

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 19:42:00 EST

THQ and Games Workshop are happy with the sweet war they're making together and have agreed to extend their Warhammer 40,000 license agreement. The "multi-year" extension gives THQ exclusive rights to publish games based on the franchise for all platforms and demographics (core, social and mobile).

THQ reiterated that it's currently working on two new IPs based in the futuristic fantasy universe: Warhammer 40K: Space Marine, a third-person shooter, is expected "later this year" (Note: the company previously stated "August"); and then there's the MMO, Warhammer 40K: Dark Millennium, which is expected ... sometime in the future. We hope it won't become a contemporary piece for the year 40,000.

We've followed up with THQ for a more detailed definition of "multi-year." We figure it's longer than a year but shorter than the amount of time one can safely store an Ork's head in a breadbox.

THQ extends Warhammer 40K licensing deal originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Apr 2011 19:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Dawn of War 2: Retribution 'Last Stand' mode to be offered as standalone game

Mike Schramm — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 03:00:00 EST

Relic has announced that it's taking the popular Last Stand mode (a real-time strategy take on Horde-style multiplayer) from Dawn of War 2: Retribution and offering it as a completely standalone game. The resulting title will be released as Steam download for $10 on April 20, and players who want to upgrade to the full Dawn of War 2 will be able do so in-game for a reduced price.

The name of this experimental paid demo/downloadable title? "The Last Standalone." We see what you did there, Relic.

Dawn of War 2: Retribution 'Last Stand' mode to be offered as standalone game originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer 40K: Space Marine dev diary brings the greenskins

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST

Orcs and goblins, man. It seems like no matter where (or when) you are, they always seem to crop up, ready to barbarically dismantle the human race. Check out the grim objectives and brutal methods of Warhammer 40K: Space Marine's emerald-tinted foes in the dev diary posted after the jump.

Continue reading Warhammer 40K: Space Marine dev diary brings the greenskins

Warhammer 40K: Space Marine dev diary brings the greenskins originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Apr 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine still exists, still looks the same

Randy Nelson — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 16:05:00 EST

Look, THQ, we understand that you want folks to know that Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine is still in development. Releasing new screens like you did today is a good idea, but they look just like the ones from our preview in August. How about some shots of the Space Marine in, say, a snow level?

Continue reading Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine still exists, still looks the same

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine still exists, still looks the same originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Dec 2010 16:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer 40K: Space Marine also storming PCs next year

Griffin McElroy — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 19:40:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

A THQ press release has announced that upcoming third-person shooter Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine, formerly slated to land only on the PS3 and 360, will also arrive on the PC when the game launches early next year.

We'd worry about PC gamers getting this particular installment in the franchise confused with all the other Warhammer titles currently available on their platform. However, considering this one has you mowing down wave after wave of orcs using novelty-sized guns and swords, rather than ... doing strategy game stuff, we don't think you guys will have any problem seeing the distinction.

Warhammer 40K: Space Marine also storming PCs next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jul 2010 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

THQ: Warhammer 40K MMO will profit with 'anywhere near' a million subs

Mike Schramm — Wed, 05 May 2010 19:31:00 EST

Speaking during a financial earnings call, THQ CEO Brian Farrell said that the publisher is making a big investment with the upcoming Warhammer 40k MMO, but that if the game nets "anywhere near" a million subscribers, it will pay off. Farrell suggested that the company must spend "at the high-end of what it costs to build a core game" just to get the online title launched. But the return could be high, too: "Presuming that the MMO is successful," he said, "we could have a three-, five-, seven-year-long term revenue and profit driver with that very, very exciting brand."

Even if development costs continue to climb as expansion packs and additional post-release content is created, Farrell believes that spending more money on the project is a good sign. Farrell said that "if we're investing a lot over the next five to seven years of the MMO" by adding content, "that means it's doing very, very well."

Success doesn't mean you need to reach World of Warcraft numbers, either, according to Farrell. "We don't need the kind of subscriber levels that people throw around, like a million subscribers, to make a lot of money on this title. If we get anywhere near this level, we'll be making a lot of money."

The EA and Mythic-developed Warhammer Online peaked out at around 300,000 subscribers by last count, so THQ has a steep hill to climb. But Farrell is convinced the company can do it. "I love the game," he told listeners on the call. "Please come by the booth at E3. I think you'll like what you see."

THQ: Warhammer 40K MMO will profit with 'anywhere near' a million subs originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Blood Bowl: Legendary Edition coming to PC in 2010

Mike Schramm — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 03:15:00 EST

Blood Bowl, you'll remember, is the wacky little mash-up between fantasy and American football that's based on the Games Workshop turn-based board game, taking place in the Warhammer setting. It's been tearing up the field since last year, but at the end of 2010, Cyanide and Focus Home Interactive are upping the ante with the newly announced Legendary Edition for the PC.

The Legendary Edition will add 12 new races to the current eight, so Undead, Amazons, Ogres and others will all get to toss the boarskin around in new stadiums and tournaments. The game will also include a story mode in which players will assume the role of a freelance coach tasked with rising up through the ranks. Sounds like fun.

Blood Bowl: Legendary Edition coming to PC in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 03 Apr 2010 03:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer Online endless free trial now instantly upgradeable

Griffin McElroy — Sat, 27 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST

EA Mythic is making an even stronger push to try to hook trial players on Warhammer Online, allowing them to upgrade their copy of the game without requiring them to visit a tangible, brick-and-mortar retailer. Now, players who partake in the "endless" free trial can access the title's full portfolio of quests, areas, and baddies by simply subscribing to the game -- purchasing the client itself is no longer necessary.

Of course, the retail version of the game comes with a free month-long subscription, so it's not that huge a savings. Still, you now have the option of upgrading your account without interrupting your zealous Realm vs. Realm campaign.

[Via Massively]

Warhammer Online endless free trial now instantly upgradeable originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 27 Mar 2010 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Dawn of War II's 'Chaos Rising' expansion shows multiplayer chaos

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:35:00 EST

Alright, look folks, if you have any intention of purchasing the upcoming Dawn of War II expansion Chaos Rising, we once again urge that you jump on the pre-order deal and get yourself a free copy of Saints Row 2. So when you're done getting chaos all risen up, you can spend some time shooting poo onto buildings. Seriously, that's really a gameplay option. In fact, you might wanna just go grab that joint right now.

Oh, and there's a trailer above for the DoW2 expansion's multiplayer additions, if you're into that kinda thing. But you can only watch it if you're an adult -- so clearly we couldn't watch it.

Dawn of War II's 'Chaos Rising' expansion shows multiplayer chaos originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

SouthPeak bringing Blood Bowl to 360, PSP in 2010

Justin McElroy — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 10:45:00 EST

The spectrum of available games distribution is wider than ever before, but we're not sure we've ever seen this exact configuration. After previously appearing as a downloadable PC game, fantasy footballer Blood Bowl will come to Xbox 360 and PSP, with an additional retail version on PC, courtesy of SouthPeak. The Warhammer-inspired game will take the field in January on 360 and PC, followed by the PSP in the more nebulous "Spring."

Now's the time we turn the post over to your comments, and we can't wait to see what you have to say. We're sure someone has to be offended by this release constellation.

Gallery: Blood Bowl (360, PSP, PC)

SouthPeak bringing Blood Bowl to 360, PSP in 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Dec 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Dawn of War II's free 'The Last Stand' DLC released

Randy Nelson — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 01:00:00 EST

THQ and Relic have released "The Last Stand," a free update for the Warhammer 40k RTS Dawn of War II. As we reported during PAX 2009, the DLC adds a Horde/Firefight style survival mode to the game. In addition, the pack contains two new maps and what THQ describes as "numerous balance updates and bug fixes."

The publisher has also mentioned that Dawn of War II is receiving what we can only imagine is a limited time price cut to $20 on Steam, effective immediately. It should last 'til at least dawn.
[Via VG247]

Dawn of War II's free 'The Last Stand' DLC released originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Dawn of War II's 'The Last Stand' mode detailed

Griffin McElroy — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST

It seems the increasingly popular "Horde" mode first presented in Gears of War 2 (before spreading to other popular FPS titles in some form) isn't just proliferating through the shooter genre -- GameSpy recently revealed details for "The Last Stand," a similar gametype which will soon be introduced into Dawn of War II.

The new mode, which will come as a free download for those who own the full game, lets three players select either the Space Marine, Ork or Eldar hero classes, then face off cooperatively against wave after wave of computer-controlled adversaries. Between waves, players will be able to level up their heroes and manage their equipment. The series' strategic roots aren't being thrown out the window -- players will need to work together to stay alive and capture score-multiplying control points.

We'll undoubtedly learn more about this intriguing expansion to the well-received strategy title during Relic's panel at PAX 2009.

[Via Big Download]

Dawn of War II's 'The Last Stand' mode detailed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer cake bites into Food Network

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:00:00 EST

A post about a game-related cake can only mean one thing, right? It's a slow news day. Normally, we would agree, but this one is special for a couple of reasons. First of all, Joystiq was actually contacted by a PR company about this cake, so we're guessing it must be a slow PR day, too. Second, this particular cake pretty much leaves all others in the dust.

Modeled after a squig and created for Warhammer Online's Baltimore Games Day booth, the cake is to be featured on Food Network's Ace of Cakes this Thursday, August 27. According to chef Duff Goldman, it's the best cake ever made on the show. Goldman also contributed to the world of strange size comparisons, noting that the cake is "about the size of large sheepdog." Frankly, the cake looks like it could eat a large sheepdog.

Only one question: How do you cut it?

Warhammer cake bites into Food Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Aug 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

THQ moving Vigil studios to new office

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:00:00 EST

Along with working on two major current-gen games in Darksiders: Wrath of War and a Warhammer: 40K MMO, THQ-owned Vigil Games is packing up its stuff and moving to a brand new 33,000-square foot studio in another part of Austin, TX. Unsurprisingly, in confirming the move to Kotaku, THQ reiterates its desire to attract new employees as development ramps up on the aforementioned titles.

Though the move was likely decided well before UFC 2009 Undisputed hit store shelves -- and quickly went flying right off those same shelves -- the 1.01 million unit sales of the game couldn't hurt the moving situation. Plusher couches at the new offices, perhaps? If it happens, remember: you heard it here first!

Gallery: Darksiders

THQ moving Vigil studios to new office originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Mythic talks Warhammer Online's Land of the Dead

David Hinkle — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 17:15:00 EST

Last week, Mythic unleashed info regarding several "live events" for its MMO, Warhammer Online. One of these live events is titled Land of the Dead, a zone that features new public quests, instances, items and a pyramid housing the Tomb King (the dungeon's focal point). With the event set for a June release, we'd thought Mythic told us everything it possibly could about the upcoming expansion. Well, not the case, as Jeff Hickman and creative director Paul Barnett revealed some new details to the folks at Eurogamer.

We now know that the Land of the Dead will include content from level 25 onto endgame raiding and that the "Land" mentioned in the title is a place where the Order and Destruction factions constantly wage war. Once in, players can find themselves under attack by a rival faction at any time, even when in an instance. Jeff explains that the Land of the Dead will include two areas: The Necropolis and the Tomb of the Vulture Lord, and that since it's RVR-gated, each faction must fight for ownership of the dungeon. He fully expects the dungeon "to change hands nightly," so if you're in there raiding and a different faction gains ownership, you could suddenly find yourself under attack. This place isn't for rookies, however, as Jeff emphasizes this really is for levels 25 and up and "designed to supplement our end game content after Lost Vale."

Before the zone is opened to the public in June, Mythic will hold a race allowing one of the factions early access to the zone for a short while before release.

Mythic talks Warhammer Online's Land of the Dead originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Feb 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Dawn of War II beta now available to all

Justin McElroy — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:24:00 EST

Filed under: PC

Just a quick reminder that the Dawn of War II beta is now available to all people for the low, low price of nothing. With just a click, a little free time and 5.5 gigglebytes of hard drive space you could be well on your way to pitting orcs against space marines in the most stunning visual metaphor for the state of the video game industry ever.

Sure, you've read our thoughts on the game, but now we're dying to see what you think. Let us know in the comments below.

Dawn of War II beta now available to all originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 Jan 2009 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 2 beta on Jan. 21

Kevin Kelly — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:44:00 EST

Filed under: PC, Online, Simulations, Strategy

click for hugeness

Relic Entertainment's Mark Noseworthy has confirmed with Joystiq that the Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 2 closed beta will begin January 21st if you purchased the original Dawn of War expansion, Soulstorm. Procrastinators, take note: you'll be introduced into the public beta just a week later on January 28th. Or, break the cycle of lethargy and pick up the expansion in order to grab an early beta spot.

We got a closer look at Dawn of War 2 during CES, and fans of real-time strategy games will not be disappointed ... unless you don't own a PC (but c'mon, how could you be an RTS buff without owning a PC?). Dawn of War 2 will be a PC-only release with Games for Windows Live features like voice chat and Achievements.

Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War 2 beta on Jan. 21 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Joystiq hands-on: Dawn of War 2

Kevin Kelly — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: PC, CES

We learned a valuable lesson at CES last week: Don't demo an RTS game on a trade show floor. Why? Because it's nigh-impossible to hear a developer's instructions over the deafening noise of geek-outs. It turns into something like this dialogue snippet from our hands-on experience with Warhammer 40000: Dawn of War 2:

Relic: "So, you'll quickly want to set a rally point here." *taps screen*
Joystiq: *clicks on random units* [units march off-screen]
Relic: "Okay, so if you look at this icon, you'll see that your character is earning zeal. You might want to build some heavy firepower units for support."
Joystiq: *attacks enemy power generator* [cue: bad move!]

It was just too darn loud at CES to get good instructions, and Relic only had one demo station on hand, which obviously did not feature any PVP gameplay. Naturally, we had StarCraft 2 in mind as we fooled around with Dawn of War 2, measuring Relic's RTS against what we've played of Blizzard's next blockbuster. We can say that Dawn of War 2 is currently winning in the looks department. As we watched an Imperial Tank literally roll through walls and crush them into powder while Space Marines jumped over the action with jetpacks, we were remiss to have left our drool bib back home in the hamper.

We've embedded a pair of videos from our session after the break, including producer Mark Noseworthy blowing stuff up!

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: Dawn of War 2

Joystiq hands-on: Dawn of War 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

What's the difference between WAR and WoW?

Kyle Horner — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:02:00 EST

Filed under: Features, Online, RPGs, MMO, Galleries

Despite appearances of similarities, Warhammer Online and World of Warcraft are very different games. Looking at screenshots and videos will only tell you so much, because it's under the hood where you'll find the differences. That's where this handy guide comes into play. It's here to explain why certain quests in WAR are considered "public" and what "instances" are really all about. Unlike our previous guide, this is for the total MMO newb.

The MMO genre has been slow to evolve. A primary reason being that games take a long time to come to market. So what's so special about these two games that you'd actually want to know the differences between them? Click on through to find out.

START >>

Gallery: What's the difference between WAR and WoW?

What's the difference between WAR and WoW? originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2008 09:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer Online, through the eyes of a WoW player

Ross Miller — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, Online, RPGs, MMO

Sure, it may not be poised to rival World of Warcraft, but Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning is attracting the same audience. Given WoW's install base rivals that of medium-sized nation-states, it serves as a rather handy metric for comparing all other MMOs.

Our friends at Massively have done just that (as they have previously with Age of Conan and Guild Wars), presenting a WoW-based primer for the world of Warhammer Online. World, characters, questing, crafting, user-interface, PvP and more are covered, so if you're interested in WAR and have at least passable knowledge of WoW, check out the guide.

Warhammer Online, through the eyes of a WoW player originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Sep 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Rumor: Warhammer 40K shooter in the works

Richard Mitchell — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Rumors

With Warhammer: Battle March just released on Xbox 360, it's time for a new Warhammer rumor to start circulating. The rumor in question is that an unnamed developer is currently hard at work on a Warhammer 40K third-person shooter by the name of Warhammer 40K: Space Marine. It's not really a rumor so much at this point, as the video embedded after the break pretty much confirms it. The only question is who is developing the game. Joystiq has contacted THQ, the license holder of the Warhammer 40K name. We'll be sure to post any revelations they receive.

The Warhammer 40K universe is really perfect for this kind of game, and the video footage shows real promise. We're digging the "up close and personal" nature of the game, as well as the Gears of War-esque finishing moves. Check out the (very lengthy) video after the break. Oh, and be sure to take note of the Xbox 360 logo at the beginning.

Continue reading Rumor: Warhammer 40K shooter in the works

Rumor: Warhammer 40K shooter in the works originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Shipping this week: Oh no you didn't edition

Richard Mitchell — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 17:30:00 EST

Filed under: Viva Pinata: Trouble in Paradise

Have you been dreaming of an open world game with massive firepower and fully destructible environments without all the pesky legal repercussions in GTAIV? Mercenaries 2 just might be your game. You get to blow things up ... a lot ... with cruise missiles. Let's not forget online co-op either, which means you can blow things up with cruise missiles ... with friends.

As though Mercenaries 2 wasn't enough, we also have all of these:

Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise
Warhammer: Battle March
Rapala Fishing Frenzy
Infinite Undiscovery
FaceBreaker
NFL Head Coach 2009

Viva Piñata: Trouble in Paradise? Infinite Undiscovery? FaceBreaker? Yeah, so apparently "Holiday 2008" is already upon us.

Shipping this week: Oh no you didn't edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Sep 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Why you buggin? Tyranids playable in Dawn of War II

Jason Dobson — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 05:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, Strategy

It's time to load your storm bolter and wrap up your last prayer to the Emperor, cuz we're huntin' Tyranids! IGN has confirmed that everyone's favorite galactic bugs will be clawing their way onto Relic's forthcoming Dawn of War sequel, not only as an opponent but as a playable race as well.

The blood news was spilled during the Leipzig Games Convention by Dawn of War II senior designer Philippe Boulle, who noted that the space insects behave as "a single organism, not an army of individuals," and that the swarm is composed of disposable "meat shields" and more specialized alien troops serving the Tyranid Hive Mind. For more, check out the pre-rendered pure awesome below while we wait for the bugs to digest their fill of Space Marine, Ork and Eldar in early 2009.

[Thanks Damn Lucky]

Continue reading Why you buggin? Tyranids playable in Dawn of War II

Why you buggin? Tyranids playable in Dawn of War II originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer Online open beta starts Sept. 7

Justin McElroy — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:45:00 EST

Filed under: PC, MMO

If you can't wait to get your hands on Warhammer Online, EA announced today that an open beta for the game will kick off Sept. 7, giving you a whole 11 days to play before the general populace sullies it on Sept. 18.

So, how do you get in? Just pre-order the game with one of EA's "select retail partners." (We don't know who they are yet, but even money says GameStop is one of them.) Also, those who are already in the closed beta will automagically be invited. So, are you getting in on the ground floor? Or have you been burned one too many times by start-up MMOs?

Warhammer Online open beta starts Sept. 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Aug 2008 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer Online team developed 250 classes, kept 20

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, MMO

As one can tell by frequenting the World of Warcraft class forums, one of the trickiest parts of MMO development is making sure that your game's classes are perfectly balanced. If your paladins can walk all over your warriors, or your druids can outheal your priests, you're going to hear about it. For this very reason, many MMO developers choose to keep their catalog of classes fairly limited -- however, Mythic Entertainment's design team reportedly decided upon the classes in their upcoming MMO Warhammer Online after plotting out nearly 250 careers for the title.

This report comes from an interview with Mythic's Creative Director, Paul Barnett, on Videogaming247. Barnett explains that the Warhammer team got a little out of hand when developing certain aspects of the title, and that the team decided to cull their expansive career roster to the 20 classes available at launch. A wise choice, considering the countless months it would have taken to make sure that the Treasure Hunter, Gymnast, Dermatologist, Pastry Chef, Assistant Dermatologist, Chimney Sweep, and Librarian classes were all evenly matched.

Warhammer Online team developed 250 classes, kept 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Aug 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

WAR to be waged on Sept. 18

Justin McElroy — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST

Filed under: MMO

We were a bit concerned when Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning (or WAR, on the streets) had its release date changed from the comfortingly specific "Sept. 23" to the vague and unsettling "Sept. 08." Little did we know, that change was just a chrysalis from which a new, just as specific but even earlier date could emerge: Sept. 18.

EA would also like you to start referring to Sept. 18 as the "Day of Reckoning," and that's fine, if you want to help drum up some extra interest among friends or family. Just do us a favor and put the kibosh on that when you go out into public, OK?

WAR to be waged on Sept. 18 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Aug 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer Online release date changed to more vague 'Sept 08'

Ross Miller — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Online, RPGs, MMO

The Electronic Arts website for Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning has been updated, and the release date has changed from September 23 to the less precise "September 2008." If you were planning to take off work and level grind all day, you may want to reconsider until a more concrete date arrives. Given the MMO's penchant for delays, we don't expect September to be set in stone, either.

Warhammer Online release date changed to more vague 'Sept 08' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Jul 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Warhammer Online launches Sept 23, says EA website

Ross Miller — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, Online, RPGs, MMO

We already knew Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning was pretty much done, but now the Electronic Arts website has updated with a release date. The day of reckoning? September 23. There's been no official press release from EA or developer Mythic, so someone has either jumped the gun on updating the site or this won't be the official launch. In the meantime, check out Massively's extensive WAR coverage.

[Via Massively]

Warhammer Online launches Sept 23, says EA website originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 Jul 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

E308: Warhammer: Battle March is dark, moody

Xav de Matos — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:38:00 EST

Filed under: Videos, X3F TV

Making its way to the Xbox 360 for the first time is the famed Warhammer series. Warhammer: Battle March, from Namco Bandai, is a real-time strategy game set in the Warhammer universe. Battle March on the Xbox 360 includes the original PC released Warhammer: Mark of Chaos, in addition to the upcoming Battle March expansion pack. Warhammer: Battle March includes a single-player campaign and skirmish modes and online support for up to 4 players and the game has ditched resources in favor of keeping it action oriented for console gamers.

E308: Warhammer: Battle March is dark, moody originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Dawn of War II E3 teaser introduces the Eldar

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, Strategy

While it's difficult to make out the guttural baritone voice of the above trailer's narrator, we're pretty sure that this is an E3 teaser for Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II. Those already invested in the series will be glad to know that the svelte Eldar will be making an appearance in the the RTS franchise's latest installment, and that they will apparently wield neat glowing swords. At least, we think they're swords. For all we know, the Eldar might just be on their way to a futuristic fantasy-themed rave -- after all, they are well-known among their contemporaries for being the galaxy's official party race.

Dawn of War II E3 teaser introduces the Eldar originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 13 Jul 2008 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Major features cut from Warhammer Online

Ross Miller — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, Online, RPGs, MMO

The world of Warhammer just got a bit smaller. In an interview with with MMORPG.com, Mythic Entertainment VP and General Manager Mark Jacobs (not to be confused with fashion designer Marc Jacobs) has revealed some big cuts for the Warhammer Online's launch. Namely, the capital cities for the Dark Elf, High Elf, Orc, and Dwarf factions are gone. That leaves two capital cities, Altdorf and the Chaos Inevitable City.

Additionally, four classes have been cut: Choppa (Greenskin), Hammerer (Dwarf), Blackguard (Dark Elf) and Knight of the Blazing Sun (Empire). Jacobs explained the cuts were made for quality reasons and expressed dismay over having to nix the classes. Also, to seemingly curtail any conspiracy theories, he said, "This has nothing to do with EA ... they had zero input in this ... They don't even know about it. It's not a discussion we would have with them."

The MMO-obsessed at Massively have provided explanations for the ramifications of these cuts. No indication on if any of these features will return in an update or expansion pack.

[Via Massively]

Major features cut from Warhammer Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Riccitiello: Warhammer won't rival World of Warcraft

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: PC, MMO

Serving as the CEO for a high-profile game publisher means having responsibilities beyond just attending the occasional meeting or PR function. Many gaming industry executives also find themselves moonlighting as Flavor Flav-esque hype men (and women) for their company's blockbuster releases. Then again, some leaders take a different approaching to promoting their big titles, replacing boisterous claims with cautious, realistic optimism. Then there's a third group of leaders, who etch their upcoming games into their flesh.

Electronic Arts CEO John Riccitiello fits neatly into group number two, as his comments to a group of investors concerning EA Mythic's upcoming Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning demonstrates. Riccitiello plainly stated that "Warhammer Online [will be] a strong entry in the MMORPG space," but will not "rival WoW." We appreciate Riccitiello's candor, but with Warhammer out of the running, we're beginning to wonder what it will take for a title to knock Blizzard's billion-dollar baby from its position atop the crest of the MMO dogpile.

Riccitiello: Warhammer won't rival World of Warcraft originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Let's Pilates cheaply, thanks to Amazon (and more!)

Alisha Karabinus — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST

Filed under: Sales

If Let's Pilates is as good as Let's Yoga, then it's a real steal at Amazon today at under $15. Looking for something a little less active? No problem -- tons of games are on sale, and accessories, too. We're not guaranteeing they're all great, but they do have one thing in common: they're cheap as hell.

Let's Pilates -- $14.28
Magical Starsign -- $14.18
Warhammer 40k: Squad Command -- $9.45
Avatar: Burning Earth -- $9.45
Brain Boost: Gamma Wave -- $9.45
The Golden Compass -- $9.45
Interactive Storybook DS -- $9.45
Elements of Destruction -- $9.45

Let's Pilates cheaply, thanks to Amazon (and more!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 22 Jun 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Glimpse some Dawn of War II gameplay footage

Alexander Sliwinski — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, Strategy

Cleanse the heretics and long live the Emperor! The latest Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War II video gives us an amuse bouche of in-game footage to check out until we (cross-fingers) get to see at lot more at E3 next month. With the series back in the hands of Relic studios, hopefully the game will help THQ's bottom line when it releases early next year.

For those who missed out on the original Warhammer 40K: Dawn of War series (which is three games -- four, if you count Soulstorm), it still holds up well and can be found in a boxed Platinum Set, and on Steam, for around $30. For the sake of DoW II's sales, we hope Starcraft II isn't released anywhere close to the same time.

Glimpse some Dawn of War II gameplay footage originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Massively.com's exhaustive coverage of Warhammer Online

Michael Zenke — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EST

Filed under: Features, Interviews, MMO

All week long, Massively.com has been offering up feature after feature on EA Mythic's in-development MMO, Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning. The Massively goes to WAR feature series takes you front to back through almost every moment of our time at Mythic's Virginia headquarters. To wrap it all up, we've got a handy-dandy clickable guide to the series. Whether you're into hardcore PvP, dungeon delving, crafting, or are a total MMO newb, we've got you covered. Click on through, and explore the world of Warhammer.

Gallery: Warhammer Online Screenshot Gallery

Continue reading Massively.com's exhaustive coverage of Warhammer Online

Massively.com's exhaustive coverage of Warhammer Online originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Vigil Games details Warhammer 40K MMO

Jason Dobson — Tue, 13 May 2008 09:00:00 EST

Filed under: PC, MMO

While what we know about the game is barely knee-high to a gretchin, PC Gamer magazine recently had the opportunity to speak with a pair of folks behind Vigil Games' upcoming Warhammer 40,000 MMO, specifically general manager David Adams and studio creative director Joe Madureira. Both shed a few details on what we can expect while we wait patiently to kill rats aboard space hulks for the emperor.

Says Adams, the game will be "much more intense" and combat-focused than the traditional fantasy MMOs upon which we've cut our teeth, giving us all the more reason to want to trade up our broadsword for a storm bolter. However, the dev notes that the MMO "will be an RPG," adding that "Relic has the RTS angle covered with the awesome Dawn of War series - we are making an RPG." Other interesting tidbits from the article include note that the game will include all of the tabletop game's "important" races, customizable characters, a variety of solo, party-based, and PvP missions, and the possibility of in-game vehicles as well. We can't wait to see how the tabletop war game makes the leap to MMO, but as it stands, in the grim darkness of the far future ... there is only waiting.

[Via Massively]

Vigil Games details Warhammer 40K MMO originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 May 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments