Joystiq Wii-U http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq Wii http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[EA may be making Wii U games after all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/#comments EA revealed some pretty significant news last week, with a spokesperson saying the company currently has no Wii U games in development. Now, it appears that EA may have some Wii U games in development after all, according to EA CFO Blake Jorgensen. The news comes by way of comments made by Jorgensen at the Stifel Nicolaus 2013 Internet, Media and Communications Conference.

"I'll let the consumers ultimately vote on PS versus Xbox," said Jorgensen, weighing in on the major console players. "I think Nintendo's business was more [an] extension of their last console. We are building titles for the Nintendo consoles but not anywhere near as many as we are for PS or Xbox." Jorgensen's comments would seem to indicate that EA is, in fact, still developing Wii U titles, though it's possible he's referring to the slate of already available games.

If there are Wii U games in development at EA, it's hard to say what they might be. The publisher has definitively stated that many of its biggest 2013 games are not planned for Wii U, including Battlefield 4, Madden 25 and, most recently, FIFA 14. We've contacted EA to see if we can clear things up.

JoystiqEA may be making Wii U games after all originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsnintendowii-uWed, 22 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U 3.0.1 system update released]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wii-u-3-0-1-system-update-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wii-u-3-0-1-system-update-released/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/wii-u-3-0-1-system-update-released/#comments Nintendo released what looks like a minor system update for the Wii U this week, and it's available to download now. Going by the patch notes, 3.0.1 U offers "further improvements to overall system stability and software compatibility."

We've downloaded the update and can't see any obvious changes. Maybe the Wii U just wanted to make itself heard over the clamor of a certain other box.

JoystiqWii U 3.0.1 system update released originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendosystem-updatewii-uWed, 22 May 2013 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U Basic going for $240 at Target]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/wii-u-basic-going-for-240-at-target/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/wii-u-basic-going-for-240-at-target/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/wii-u-basic-going-for-240-at-target/#comments Target is currently offering the 8GB Wii U Basic at $239.99, one of the lowest prices if not the lowest price we've seen from a major North American retailer. Put your calculators away: that's 20 percent off the normal price of $300. Back in March, Best Buy put the Wii U Basic on sale at $250 for a couple of days.

The Wii U fell below targets In Nintendo's year-end financials, coming in at 3.45 million shipped worldwide as of March 31. According to the estimates of Wedbush analyst Michael Pachter, aka the Pachter-tron, the Wii U sold 55,000 units in the US last month.

JoystiqWii U Basic going for $240 at Target originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 08:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendotargetwii-uTue, 21 May 2013 08:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo launches 'Crowdfarter' for Game & Wario]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/nintendo-launches-crowdfarter-for-game-and-wario/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/nintendo-launches-crowdfarter-for-game-and-wario/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/nintendo-launches-crowdfarter-for-game-and-wario/#comments
The crowd funding movement has reached an inevitable point in its trendiness arc: Parody. To promote the micro-game infused Game & Wario on the Wii U, Nintendo has launched (sigh...) Crowdfarter. The site pokes fun at services like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, asking fans to donate "coins" to help fund the project.

What that really entails is liking the site on Facebook or sharing it on Twitter. Doing so will unlock "stretch goals" that grant access to things like wallpapers, a new trailer and a ringtone spoken by Wario himself. If you don't feel like "donating," you can at least look around the site, which has a few little Easter eggs to discover.

Whether it gets "funded" or not, Game & Wario hits Wii U in America on June 23 and Europe on June 28.

Continue reading Nintendo launches 'Crowdfarter' for Game & Wario

JoystiqNintendo launches 'Crowdfarter' for Game & Wario originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfartergame-and-warionintendowii-uMon, 20 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sniper Elite V2 scopes out Wii U tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/sniper-elite-v2-scopes-out-wii-u-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/sniper-elite-v2-scopes-out-wii-u-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/sniper-elite-v2-scopes-out-wii-u-tomorrow/#comments
An enhanced Wii U version of Rebellion's sniping sim, Sniper Elite V2, is headed to retailers tomorrow, offering up a collection of platform-exclusive tactical options.

Announced back in February, the Wii U edition of Sniper Elite V2 uses the console's GamePad by giving players an in-game map and quicker access to weapons and equipment. Players can additionally use the GamePad to tag and track enemies, mark traps, and predict the blast radius of planted explosives.

The Wii U port also features off-TV GamePad mirroring, in case the rest of your family doesn't want to watch you shatter skulls.

Gallery: Sniper Elite v2 (Wii U)

JoystiqSniper Elite V2 scopes out Wii U tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>505-gamesnintendorebellionsniper-elite-v2wii-uMon, 20 May 2013 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Now Playing: May 20-26, 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/now-playing-may-20-26-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/now-playing-may-20-26-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/now-playing-may-20-26-2013/#commentsNow Playing May 2026, 2013
Shoot up the old west this week with Call of Juarez: Gunslinger...

Choose your platform to jump to a specific release list:

Continue reading Now Playing: May 20-26, 2013

JoystiqNow Playing: May 20-26, 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdskinectmacmicrosoftmovenintendonow-playingpcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsonyvitawiiwii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil: Revelations review: Any port in a storm]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/resident-evil-revelations-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/resident-evil-revelations-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/resident-evil-revelations-review/#commentsResident Evil Revelations review Any port in a storm The 3DS is no graphical slouch. Aside from the glasses-free 3D feature, the system can kick out some impressive scenery, and it did so with last year's Resident Evil Revelations, a well-made little horror shooter in a series that's been looking for a lifeboat lately. After launching Resident Evil 6 fewer than six months ago, Capcom seems to think HD platforms need even more Resident Evil love, and so this week Revelations hits Xbox 360, PS3, Windows PCs, and the Wii U.

Playing it in enhanced form on an HD console, however, feels just a little goofy. The textures do look excellent, but the game's models are clearly made for a more lightweight graphics engine, which means you get characters with hair frozen in place and enemies with just a few animations to use over and over again. Revelations was made for a handheld machine, and its designers cut corners that the other platforms would have let them curve around more gracefully.

But Revelations' saving grace is that it's a Resident Evil game, and it's a good Resident Evil game at that. For that reason, fans of the series who missed out the first time around will probably appreciate the chance to see it for themselves.

Gallery: Resident Evil: Revelations (5/20/13)

Continue reading Resident Evil: Revelations review: Any port in a storm

JoystiqResident Evil: Revelations review: Any port in a storm originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consoleshandheldmicrosoftnintendonintendo-3dspcplaystationportps3raid-moderesident-evilresident-evil-revelationsreviewwii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch Dogs GameStop, Amazon pre-order goods have eyes on you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/watch-dogs-gamestop-amazon-pre-order-goods-have-eyes-on-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/watch-dogs-gamestop-amazon-pre-order-goods-have-eyes-on-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/watch-dogs-gamestop-amazon-pre-order-goods-have-eyes-on-you/#comments North American retailers GameStop and Amazon are offering up their own pre-order incentives for Watch Dogs, Ubisoft announced today.

Those who commit early through GameStop will receive an additional single-player mission, with a perk that unlocks "exclusive investigation opportunities inside of the network" and bonus cash when hacking into bank accounts, plus an exclusive poster designed by Alex Ross. Amazon pre-orders also get an exclusive mission that, upon completion, unlocks a special biometric assault rifle and an outfit.

Watch Dogs launches on the Xbox 360, PS3, PC and Wii U on November 19. A port is also planned for next-generation consoles.

Gallery: Watch Dogs (Pre-Order Bonuses)

Continue reading Watch Dogs GameStop, Amazon pre-order goods have eyes on you

JoystiqWatch Dogs GameStop, Amazon pre-order goods have eyes on you originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazongamestopmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3ubisoftubisoft-reflectionswatch-dogswii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil: Revelations DLC characters, upgrades outlined]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/resident-evil-revelations-dlc-characters-upgrades-outlined/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/resident-evil-revelations-dlc-characters-upgrades-outlined/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/resident-evil-revelations-dlc-characters-upgrades-outlined/#comments
Resident Evil: Revelations launches this week and Capcom has promised some DLC. It starts on June 4 with the Resistance and Enhancement sets for 160 MS Points ($2), each including six different weapon upgrades. Then, on June 11, Capcom will issue two additional characters for use in Raid mode: Rachel Ooze and Lady Hunk. Each character costs 240 MS Points ($3).

Resident Evil: Revelations is a remake of the 3DS game bearing the same name launched by Capcom in early 2012. Bridging the story between Resident Evil 4 and Resident Evil 5, Revelations follows series regulars Jill and Chris, and takes place aboard a derelict cruise liner called the SS Queen Zenobia. A free demo has been available to all on Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U and Steam since last week.

Gallery: Resident Evil: Revelations (5/20/13)

Continue reading Resident Evil: Revelations DLC characters, upgrades outlined

JoystiqResident Evil: Revelations DLC characters, upgrades outlined originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdlcmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3resident-evilresident-evil-revelationswii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Deadpool listed for Wii U by Amazon Canada [Update: Activision responds]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/deadpool-listed-for-wii-u-by-amazon-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/deadpool-listed-for-wii-u-by-amazon-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/deadpool-listed-for-wii-u-by-amazon-canada/#comments Irreverent Marvel antihero Deadpool may be gracing the Wii U, at least according to a listing by Amazon Canada. Spotted by NeoGAF over the weekend, the retailer has High Moon Studios' madcap action game pinned for the Nintendo console.

Unlike other platforms listed by the retailer, the release date is apparently a placeholder (December 31 2013) and the listing is minus details and box art. Even if a Wii U version is on the way, given the timing it seems unlikely it'll launch alongside the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC ones on June 25.

We've reached out to Deadpool himself (and Activision) to clear things up. Update: Activision reps got back to us and have said, "There are currently no plans for DEADPOOL to come to Wii-U."

JoystiqDeadpool listed for Wii U by Amazon Canada [Update: Activision responds] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Activisionactivision-blizzarddeadpoolhigh-moon-studiosmarvelnintendowii-uMon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Splinter Cell: Blacklist trailer features stealthy co-op]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/splinter-cell-blacklist-trailer-features-stealthy-co-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/splinter-cell-blacklist-trailer-features-stealthy-co-op/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/splinter-cell-blacklist-trailer-features-stealthy-co-op/#comments
Ubisoft has released a new trailer for Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Blacklist, showcasing gameplay from its co-op narrative campaign and some gruff banter between Sam Fisher and his partner-in-stealth Isaac Briggs.

Splinter Cell is beefing up its multiplayer offerings for the latest series entry, as Blacklist will feature both a two-player co-op campaign and the returning Spies vs. Mercs multiplayer mode. We had a chat with Blacklist's lead co-op designer Richard Carrillo earlier this month, in which he confirmed that teammates will need to adapt to multiple playstyles in order to survive.

Blacklist's co-op element spans four mission types and 14 maps, and is playable online and in local split-screen. Splinter Cell: Blacklist is set to launch for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii U, and PC platforms on August 20.

JoystiqSplinter Cell: Blacklist trailer features stealthy co-op originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3splinter-cell-blacklistubisoftwii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Yakuza 1 and 2 HD to paint the Wii U red in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/yakuza-1-and-2-hd-to-paint-the-wii-u-red-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/yakuza-1-and-2-hd-to-paint-the-wii-u-red-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/yakuza-1-and-2-hd-to-paint-the-wii-u-red-in-japan/#comments
The first Yakuza entry for a non-Sony console is Yakuza 1 and 2 HD. Nintendo announced the Wii U port in last week's Nintendo Direct. Going by this vid, the gangster classics are compatible with off-TV play. The HD combo roughs up Wii U in Japan on August 8.

Gallery: Yakuza 1 and 2 HD (Wii U)

JoystiqYakuza 1 and 2 HD to paint the Wii U red in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendosegawii-uyakuza-1yakuza-1-and-2-hdyakuza-2Mon, 20 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Batman: Arkham Origins stars Roger Craig Smith as Batman, Troy Baker as Joker]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/batman-arkham-origins-stars-roger-craig-smith-as-batman-troy-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/batman-arkham-origins-stars-roger-craig-smith-as-batman-troy-b/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/batman-arkham-origins-stars-roger-craig-smith-as-batman-troy-b/#commentsArkham Origins stars Roger Craig Smith as Batman, Troy Baker as Joker Warner Bros. revealed Batman: Arkham Origins is fronted by two of gaming's most prominent voice actors. Roger Craig Smith is confirmed as the caped crusader, and Troy Baker is his nemesis, the Joker.

If you don't recognize the names, you'll definitely recognize their previous work. Craig Smith's immense portfolio includes Ezio Auditore from Assassin's Creed, Chris Redfield from Resident Evil, and he's the current voice of Sonic. While he's never starred in anything Batman related, he does have superhero experience. It is for the other side, however; he's played Captain America in both games and animations.

Baker is similarly prolific. While he recently graced our screens as Booker DeWitt in BioShock Infinite, his past work includes Sgt. Matt Baker in Gearbox's Brothers in Arms, Snow from the Final Fantasy 13 line, Kai Leng from Mass Effect 3, and Vincent from Catherine. When we profiled Baker around this time last year, he shared his love for all things Batman on the back of starring in Arkham City.

"Being a part of Arkham City was just incredible - because I'm a huge Batman fan," Baker told us, "And to play Two-Face and Robin after growing up watching The Animated Series was a banner moment for me."

The news follows apparent confirmation long-time Batman vocalist Kevin Conroy does star in Origins, but how he features remains to be seen. We know Origins deals with Batman's "initiation into that insane world" of the other Arkham games, so perhaps Conroy's role is something retrospective. Even if Conroy doesn't play the dark knight in any sense in Origins, to fans he's still the goddamn Batman.

Bat-click here to check out our preview and the new trailer.

JoystiqBatman: Arkham Origins stars Roger Craig Smith as Batman, Troy Baker as Joker originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batman-arkham-originsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3roger-craig-smithtroy-bakerwarner-brosWarner-Bros-Interactivewarner-bros-montrealWBIEwii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Year Wane: The challenges facing Batman in Arkham Origins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/batman-arkham-origins-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/batman-arkham-origins-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/batman-arkham-origins-preview/#comments
Batman: Arkham Origins follows the world's most enduring vigilante after just two years on the job. The developers at Warner Bros. Montreal, taking over from Rocksteady Studios and their critically acclaimed construction of Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, want to convey a "rawer, scarier Batman." He's all growl and grimace in the cutscenes, dangling squirming henchmen from clock towers until they turn verbose, but in play his rookie temper is more difficult to detect.

The prequel is a tricky proposition, especially when it concerns history that's been dissected again and again across comics, movies and games. It's harder to conjure narrative tension while it's colored by the inevitable outcome, and that draws greater scrutiny on mechanical expansion and refinement. Why does this younger Batman make for a better Batman game?

Gallery: Batman: Arkham Origins (5/20/13)

Continue reading Year Wane: The challenges facing Batman in Arkham Origins

JoystiqYear Wane: The challenges facing Batman in Arkham Origins originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batman-arkham-originse3-2013microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3warner-bros-montrealwii-uxboxMon, 20 May 2013 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Smash Bros, 3D Mario, Mario Kart in pre-E3 Nintendo Direct]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/smash-bros-3d-mario-mario-kart-in-pre-e3-nintendo-direct/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/smash-bros-3d-mario-mario-kart-in-pre-e3-nintendo-direct/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/smash-bros-3d-mario-mario-kart-in-pre-e3-nintendo-direct/#comments In lieu of an E3 press conference, Nintendo is going to present a Nintendo Direct before E3, showcasing the "new Smash Bros., 3D Mario game, Mario Kart and other Wii U titles."

The company previously announced that all three games would be playable at E3. This means for those not attending the show, the games may be playable at Nintendo's special Best Buy E3 demo extravaganza (note: fullness of "extravaganza" is TBD).

The most recent Nintendo Direct held last week covered the company's summer plans and Hedgehog snuggles.

JoystiqSmash Bros, 3D Mario, Mario Kart in pre-E3 Nintendo Direct originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmario-3dmario-kartnintendosuper-smash-broswii-uMon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham Origins stars Deathstroke in some playable capacity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/arkham-origins-stars-deathstroke-in-some-playable-capacity/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/arkham-origins-stars-deathstroke-in-some-playable-capacity/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/arkham-origins-stars-deathstroke-in-some-playable-capacity/#commentsAmazon listing shows Deathstroke playable in Arkham Origins A Batman: Arkham Origins pre-order image on Amazon offers Deathstroke as a playable character via DLC. Check it out in a rolling image header here.

Batman and Deathstroke went head-to-head in last week's teaser video, but there was no word on how the striker of mortality would be incorporated into Arkham Origins. This could be a Catwoman in Arkham City situation, where she got an entire spin-off campaign, or it might be something entirely new.

One aspect of Arkham Origins is confirmed today - Kevin Conroy will return as a voice actor.

JoystiqArkham Origins stars Deathstroke in some playable capacity originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonbatman-arkham-originsDeathstrokeDLCmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxSun, 19 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kevin Conroy returns for Batman: Arkham Origins [Update: But not as Batman]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/kevin-conroy-returns-for-batman-arkham-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/kevin-conroy-returns-for-batman-arkham-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/19/kevin-conroy-returns-for-batman-arkham-origins/#comments

Update: Kevin Conroy will be in Arkham Origins, but not as Batman, despite his storied career with that character. Arkham Origins stars Roger Craig Smith as Batman and Troy Baker as the Joker, Warner Bros. announced on May 20.

Original story: Kevin Conroy will be in Batman: Arkham Origins, and he's already spent 10 months in the studio recording those gruff-yet-dulcet tones. Conroy confirmed his involvement at Dallas Comic-Con, but didn't specify if he plays The Bat himself - not that he has to. He opened the panel with, "I am vengeance. I am the night. I am Batman." Because, you know, he is.

NAG magazine reported in April that Warner Bros. had passed on Conroy for Arkham Origins.

Conroy voiced Batman in both Arkham Asylum and Arkham City, and he was the man behind Bruce Wayne in Batman: The Animated Series, Batman: Beyond and subsequent DC universe cartoon spin-offs. Arkham Origins is scheduled to launch on October 25 for Xbox 360, PS3, PC and Wii U.

JoystiqKevin Conroy returns for Batman: Arkham Origins [Update: But not as Batman] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 May 2013 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Batmanbatman-arkham-originskevin-conroymicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3wii-uxboxSun, 19 May 2013 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil: Revelations adds Pirate Jill, Sailor Chris, Ninja Keith]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/resident-evil-revelations-adds-pirate-jill-sailor-chris-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/resident-evil-revelations-adds-pirate-jill-sailor-chris-ninja/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/18/resident-evil-revelations-adds-pirate-jill-sailor-chris-ninja/#commentsResident Evil Revelations adds Pirate Jill, Sailor Chris, Ninja Keith The upcoming console/PC iteration of Resident Evil: Revelations will include a trio of confusing new costumes for Jill Valentine, Chris Redfield and Keith Lumley, Capcom has announced. As can be seen in the gallery, Jill and Chris both sport equally leggy nautical-themed outfits, while Keith channels his inner One Piece character as a shirtless sword-guy in hammer pants.

Costumes are unlocked by playing through the game's Campaign and Raid modes, in addition to "other unlocking mechanisms" that Capcom is keeping a secret. We're just hoping Capcom eventually rides this train of thought all the way to its logical extreme: Pretty Soldier Sailor Claire Redfield.

Gallery: Resident Evil: Revelations (New costumes)

JoystiqResident Evil: Revelations adds Pirate Jill, Sailor Chris, Ninja Keith originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Capcomchris-redfieldcostumesjill-valentineKeith-Lumleymicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3resident-evil-revelationswii-uxboxSat, 18 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA 14 not coming to Wii U due to poor FIFA 13 sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/fifa-14-not-coming-to-wii-u-due-to-poor-fifa-13-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/fifa-14-not-coming-to-wii-u-due-to-poor-fifa-13-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/fifa-14-not-coming-to-wii-u-due-to-poor-fifa-13-sales/#comments With this morning's revelation that EA does not have any Wii U games in development comes the outright confirmation that FIFA 14 will not be appearing on the system as well.

"Although FIFA 13 on Wii U featured our award-winning HD gameplay and innovative new ways to play, the commercial results were disappointing," an EA representative told Joystiq. "We have decided not to develop FIFA 14 on Wii U. We have a strong partnership with Nintendo and will continue to evaluate opportunities for developing FIFA for Nintendo fans in the future."

The game was initially announced for PC, Xbox 360 and PS3, so while Wii U was never in the picture for the game, it still marks a noticeable absence for a series that launches on every major platform each year. It's not the only EA Sports title to avoid the system, as EA confirmed earlier this month that the Madden series will not see a release in 2013 on Wii U either.

JoystiqFIFA 14 not coming to Wii U due to poor FIFA 13 sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAEA-CanadaEA-Sportsfifa-13fifa-14fifa-soccer-14nintendosaleswii-uFri, 17 May 2013 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Direct roundup: Multiple Sonics, Luigi and Best Buy E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nintendo-direct-summer-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nintendo-direct-summer-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nintendo-direct-summer-roundup/#commentsNintendo Direct roundup post This morning's Nintendo DIrect, hosted by the ever gracious Satoru Iwata, covered NIntendo's plans for the summer. The company has another Nintendo Direct planned closer to E3, since it isn't holding a press conference at the mega show. Here's the highlights from this morning:

JoystiqNintendo Direct roundup: Multiple Sonics, Luigi and Best Buy E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendonintendo-direct-summersuper-luigi-uwii-uFri, 17 May 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Play unreleased Wii U games at Best Buy during E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/play-unreleased-wii-u-games-at-best-buy-during-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/play-unreleased-wii-u-games-at-best-buy-during-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/play-unreleased-wii-u-games-at-best-buy-during-e3/#comments In a "one more thing" moment on the latest Nintendo Direct, Big N president Reggie Fils-aime announced a special partnership with Best Buy. During the week of E3, the big box electronics store will be hosting playable demos of unreleased Wii U games. Presumably, these will be the games that Nintendo is showing off during the industry's annual trade show, but Fils-aime did not reveal specific titles.

The week of E3, incidentally, begins June 9. Your friendly Joystiq staff will probably be too busy to make it to Best Buy though.

JoystiqPlay unreleased Wii U games at Best Buy during E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buye3-2013nintendonintendo-direct-summerwii-uFri, 17 May 2013 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Wonderful 101 arrives on Wii U September 15 in NA, August 23 in EU]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/wonderful-101-arrives-on-wii-u-september-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/wonderful-101-arrives-on-wii-u-september-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/wonderful-101-arrives-on-wii-u-september-15/#comments Nintendo has revealed that Wonderful 101 will land on the Wii U on September 15 in North America and on August 23 in Europe. Coming from Platinum Games, Wonderful 101 sees players wielding ordinary citizens as weapons. It's as nutty as it sounds.

JoystiqWonderful 101 arrives on Wii U September 15 in NA, August 23 in EU originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-summerPlatinum-Gamesproject-p-100the-wonderful-101wii-uFri, 17 May 2013 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Luigi U arrives as DLC June 20, packaged standalone August 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/super-luigi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/super-luigi/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/super-luigi/#commentsSuper Luigi U arrives as DLC , packaged standalone The Super Luigi U DLC for New Super Mario Bros. U is being released as a digital download for the game on June 20 in both North America and Europe. However, it's also coming to retail as a packaged standalone. It'll be available August 25 in North America, and July 26 in Europe. The DLC will be priced at $19.99, while the standalone is $29.99. You won't need NSMB U to play the packaged game.

This morning's Nintendo Direct also revealed that Nabbit, a little critter who you chased in the first game, is a playable character in the new content. He'll be available in multiplayer games as an easier alternative to Luigi and the Toads. He won't take damage when he touches enemies, but to balance that he won't be able to use power-ups.

Super Luigi U makes changes to NSMB U's campaign to make every course "all-new" - it's essentially a new Luigi campaign.

JoystiqSuper Luigi U arrives as DLC June 20, packaged standalone August 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>new-super-mario-bros-unintendonintendo-direct-summerrelease-datesuper-luigi-uwii-uFri, 17 May 2013 10:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games coming to Wii U]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mario-and-sonic-winter-games-coming-to-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mario-and-sonic-winter-games-coming-to-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mario-and-sonic-winter-games-coming-to-wii-u/#commentsMario & Sonic Winter games coming to Wii U A new Mario & Sonic game is headed to the Wii U. Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games reunites the members of the Mushroom Kingdom with Sonic and friends for a bit of snowy competition. Winter Games will offer lots of events that make use of both Wii Motion Plus and the Wii U GamePad, sometimes in combination. For example, the Biathlon uses the Wii Remote for skiing, while the GamePad is used as a scope for rifle sections. (Side note: The Biathlon is a weird event.)

Other events shown include bobsledding, snowboarding, skiing, skating and more.

Launch timing was not announced, though winter seems like a good bet.

JoystiqMario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games coming to Wii U originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-and-sonic-winter-gamesnintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-summerwii-uFri, 17 May 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic: Lost World announced, launches 'exclusively' for Wii U, 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/sonic-lost-world-confirmed-for-wii-u-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/sonic-lost-world-confirmed-for-wii-u-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/sonic-lost-world-confirmed-for-wii-u-3ds/#commentsSonic Lost World announced 'exclusively' for Wii U, 3DS Sega and Nintendo have entered into a "worldwide partnership" on three upcoming Sonic games, and the first fruit borne from it is Sonic: Lost World. It's coming to Wii U and 3DS, and there'll be more news on it prior to E3.

Nintendo president Satoru Iwata said on this morning's Nintendo Direct: "Sonic: Lost World is a brand new action-adventure platforming game that will launch exclusively on Wii U and Nintendo 3DS."

JoystiqSonic: Lost World announced, launches 'exclusively' for Wii U, 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendonintendo-direct-summersegasonic-lost-worldwii-uFri, 17 May 2013 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch this morning's summery Nintendo Direct right here [update: and it's done]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nintendo-direct-summer-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nintendo-direct-summer-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/nintendo-direct-summer-may-17/#comments
We're not sure today's Nintendo Direct will announce much in the way of new Wii U games. Well, it' unlikely to reveal any new EA ones, anyway. What we do know is that the North American broadcast covers Wii U and 3DS games coming in the summer.

As ever, the North American stream intertwines with simultaneous ones from Europe and Japan. Ninty's Euro division says its stream is about spring and summer Wii U games. Should you prefer, you can find both those streams after the break.

We hope you're ready to rumble, because this summer party gets started at 10AM ET (7AM PT, 3PM UK) right here on this post, right here on this Joystiq. We'll have all the news for you as it's revealed, like lots of little suns peeking out from behind an Iwata-shaped cloud.

Update: It's all over, friends. And there was a new game...

Continue reading Watch this morning's summery Nintendo Direct right here [update: and it's done]

JoystiqWatch this morning's summery Nintendo Direct right here [update: and it's done] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsnintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-summerwii-uFri, 17 May 2013 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[EA has no Wii U games in development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/ea-has-no-wii-u-games-in-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/ea-has-no-wii-u-games-in-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/ea-has-no-wii-u-games-in-development/#commentsEA No Wii U games in development Mega publisher Electronic Arts has no games currently in development for Nintendo's Wii U. EA recently confirmed the detail to Kotaku, following mounting evidence the publisher was no longer planning to make games for the struggling console.

It was previously revealed that some of EA's biggest franchises would not make their way to the Wii U this year, including Madden NFL or Battlefield 4. The final sign of something being terribly wrong would have been EA's top-selling FIFA franchise ditching out. That's a certainty now.

JoystiqEA has no Wii U games in development originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsnintendowii-uFri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[April NPD: Injustice: Gods Among Us reigns supreme]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/april-npd-injustice-gods-among-us-reigns-supreme/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/april-npd-injustice-gods-among-us-reigns-supreme/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/april-npd-injustice-gods-among-us-reigns-supreme/#comments Another hot, fresh loaf of financial data has been pulled out of The NPD Group's analytical oven, and its buttery goodness contains sales information for the four week period between April 4 and May 7, 2013. During that time, the physical retail sector of the games industry was down 25 percent when compared with its performance over the same four weeks in 2012, pulling in a grand total of $495.2 million. It's worth noting, however, that this figure does not include the sale of PC games.

Hardware sales brought in $109.5 million, a 42 percent decrease from the $187.8 million seen last year, with the Xbox 360 once again enjoying the highest sales with 130,000 units moved. Meanwhile, the brief reprieve from year-over-year decline seen by the Accessories segment last month was short lived, as in April it by dropped 19 percent to a total of $131.4 million.

Software sales (including PC games) topped out at $267.8 million, with NetherRealm Studios' Injustice: Gods Among Us taking top honors as the best-selling game for the period, the first time a fighting game has finished in first since 2011's Mortal Kombat. Dead Island: Riptide and BioShock Infinite rounded out the podium in spots two and three respectively - meanwhile MMO/Syfy series Defiance debuted in fifth. As always, scope the full list after the break.

Continue reading April NPD: Injustice: Gods Among Us reigns supreme

JoystiqApril NPD: Injustice: Gods Among Us reigns supreme originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20133dsapril-npdbioshock-infinitedead-island-riptidefinancialinjustice-gods-among-usmicrosoftnintendoNPDpcplaystationps3saleswiiwii-uxboxThu, 16 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Injustice: Gods Among Us' Red Son pre-order DLC available to all next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/injustice-gods-among-us-red-son-pre-order-dlc-available-to-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/injustice-gods-among-us-red-son-pre-order-dlc-available-to-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/injustice-gods-among-us-red-son-pre-order-dlc-available-to-all/#commentsInjustice Gods Among Us' Red Son preorder DLC available to all next week Hey, remember that bundle of Red Son Injustice: Gods Among Us DLC that GameStop had as an exclusive pre-order bonus? In a fitting turn of events, said bundle will no longer be the privileged purview of the bourgeois and will instead be available to the sweaty, overworked proletariat masses as of next Tuesday.

No word yet on how much the DLC will cost, or whether it includes the pre-order's 20 bonus challenge missions in addition to the costumes seen above. The game's official twitter account has also asked which other characters from Red Son we'd like to see; we think the answer should be obvious.

JoystiqInjustice: Gods Among Us' Red Son pre-order DLC available to all next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCEarth-30injustice-gods-among-usmicrosoftNetherrealm-Studiosnintendoplaystationps3Red-SonSolomon-GrundySupermanWarner-Bros-Interactive-Entertainmentwii-uWonder-WomanxboxThu, 16 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo mass-claims revenue from YouTube 'Let's Play' videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-mass-claims-revenue-from-youtube-lets-play-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-mass-claims-revenue-from-youtube-lets-play-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-mass-claims-revenue-from-youtube-lets-play-videos/#commentsNintendo massclaims revenue from YouTube 'Let's Play' videos A number of YouTube members report that Nintendo is issuing "Content ID Match" copyright claims en masse for videos featuring gameplay from its published titles.

The move appears to target the "Let's Play" community, in particular. Let's Play series authors often produce full video walkthroughs of featured games, with voiced or subtitled commentary accompanying gameplay.

When a "Content ID Match" is claimed for a YouTube clip, the claimant is given the right to place an advertisement at the beginning or the end of the video. Content ID Matches differ from DMCA takedown notices or outright video removals, in that matched videos remain viewable by the public and do not count as a copyright strike against their producers. All revenue earned from views, however, will go to the content's copyright owner, rather than the video uploader. The act is common for publishers like Activision, Electronic Arts, and Square Enix, but it's only recently that Nintendo has joined in the practice.

Multiple affected authors have come forward on Reddit to confirm Nintendo's new policy. To date, Nintendo's Content ID Matching spree seems to focus on recent releases like Super Mario 3D Land, Luigi's Mansion: Dark Moon, and New Super Mario Bros. U. Currently, Let's Play videos for older Nintendo-published games are unaffected.

Nintendo explains its position in a statement issued to GameFront: "As part of our on-going push to ensure Nintendo content is shared across social media channels in an appropriate and safe way, we became a YouTube partner and as such in February 2013 we registered our copyright content in the YouTube database.

"For most fan videos this will not result in any changes, however, for those videos featuring Nintendo-owned content, such as images or audio of a certain length, adverts will now appear at the beginning, next to or at the end of the clips. We continually want our fans to enjoy sharing Nintendo content on YouTube, and that is why, unlike other entertainment companies, we have chosen not to block people using our intellectual property."

JoystiqNintendo mass-claims revenue from YouTube 'Let's Play' videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscopyrightlets-playnew-super-mario-bros-unintendowii-uyoutubeThu, 16 May 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Putty Squad bounces onto pretty much everything this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/putty-squad-bounces-onto-pretty-much-everything-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/putty-squad-bounces-onto-pretty-much-everything-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/putty-squad-bounces-onto-pretty-much-everything-this-summer/#comments
British publisher/developer System 3 has announced an enhanced remake of its blue-blob-based action platformer Putty Squad, available sometime this summer on Xbox 360, Wii U, PlayStation 3, Vita, 3DS and Windows 8.

The original Putty Squad was initially released on Super NES back in 1994, as a sequel to 1992's Putty for the Amiga. A demo was also released for Amiga and DOS systems, but the full game never dropped for either of those platforms. This new version, beyond offering obvious graphical improvements, will also include free downloadable levels and "location-based services used for extra content."

Continue reading Putty Squad bounces onto pretty much everything this summer

JoystiqPutty Squad bounces onto pretty much everything this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3putty-squadSystem-3vitawii-uxboxThu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii U Direct tomorrow covers summer, autumn details around E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-direct-tomorrow-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-direct-tomorrow-may-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/nintendo-direct-tomorrow-may-17/#commentsWii U summer Nintendo Direct coming tomorrow Nintendo of America tell us it's got a Direct for tomorrow that's focused on summer Wii U and 3DS games. The company's Euro division also has a Wii U-focused Direct scheduled for the same time. Just to be different, its Direct is on spring and summer Wii U games. We've no confirmation of one for Japan yet, but chances are tomorrow's another worldwide triforce of Directs.

Nintendo of Europe also announced there'll be a Direct broadcast around the time of next month's E3 conference, and that one will cover Wii U games for "autumn and beyond." Nintendo recently revealed it'll have two closed events at E3 in lieu of the traditional presentation. The company noted "Nintendo Direct videos in the run up to E3," so there may be more pre-E3 broadcasts beyond the autumn one.

As ever, you'll be able to tune in to tomorrow's streams here on Joystiq, so we recommend you move precisely no muscles for the next day or so. Well, the streams will be in a new post, so you'll have to move some muscles. Apart from that, we'll see you right here(-ish) at 10AM ET (7AM PT, 3PM UK) tomorrow.

JoystiqWii U Direct tomorrow covers summer, autumn details around E3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dse3-2013europenintendonintendo-directnorth-americawii-uThu, 16 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Nintendo eShop releases: Super Metroid, Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts, Mega Man 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-super-metroid-super-ghouls-n-ghos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-super-metroid-super-ghouls-n-ghos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-super-metroid-super-ghouls-n-ghos/#commentsNew Nintendo eShop releases Super Metroid, Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts, Mega Man 5 The ol' eShop gets a double dose of "super" this week with the release of both Super Metroid and Super Ghouls N' Ghosts on the Wii U. And, don't forget that Super Metroid is only $0.30 until June 12. The Blue Bomber continues his assault on the 3DS Virtual Console with the debut of Mega Man 5, along with the original Harvest Moon. Also available is a new 3DS port of Swords & Soldiers from Ronimo, creators of the excellent Awesomenauts.

Meanwhile, the Wii gets some love this week with a Virtual Console release of King of Fighters '99.

Finally, there are a couple of sales. Runner 2 is available for 25 percent off its usual $14.99 price. Also, those who purchase (or already own) Super Mario World on the Wii U Virtual Console can pick up Super Mario Bros. 2 for half price.

Continue reading New Nintendo eShop releases: Super Metroid, Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts, Mega Man 5

JoystiqNew Nintendo eShop releases: Super Metroid, Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts, Mega Man 5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdseshopnintendonintendoware-weeklywii-uThu, 16 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Arkham Origins tease features Deathstroke ballet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/arkham-origins-tease-features-deathstroke-ballet/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/arkham-origins-tease-features-deathstroke-ballet/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/arkham-origins-tease-features-deathstroke-ballet/#comments

This Batman: Arkham Origins tease features no gameplay, no real concept of how the game will differ from the excellent Arkham Asylum and Arkham City. What it does feature is grizzled Batman in a CGI fight ballet with Deathstroke, and that's good enough for this morning.

JoystiqArkham Origins tease features Deathstroke ballet originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batman-arkham-originsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationps3Warner-BrosWarner-Bros-Interactivewarner-bros-montrealwii-uxboxThu, 16 May 2013 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Assassin's Creed 4 retailer pre-order bonuses revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/assassins-creed-4-retailer-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/assassins-creed-4-retailer-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/assassins-creed-4-retailer-pre-order-bonuses-revealed/#commentsAssassin's Creed 4 preorder bonuses, y'all Though Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag launches later this year, North American retailers are vying for your dollars today by announcing a slew of retailer-specific pre-order bonuses.

GameStop has the 'Black Island' pack, which includes the deadly black ship, a Captain Morgan costume and his silver flintlock pistol. Amazon.com will offer the 'Hidden Mystery' pack, an extra treasure-hunting mission on Mystery Island, Stede Bonnet's ship and Sted Bonnet costumes and multiplayer items. Walmart gets the 'Sacrificed Secrets' pack, a collection centered around Captain Drake that includes his dual-wield swords and pistols, plus his picture, title and relics. Best Buy has the 'Lost Treasures' pack, an ivory wheel and spyglass relic, and Target gets the 'Trove of Mystery' pack, which includes an iron wheel and astrolab relic.

Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag launches on the PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U and PC on October 29. Next-generation console ports of Assassin's Creed 4 are also planned. All UK pre-orders get access to "The Watch" app.

JoystiqAssassin's Creed 4 retailer pre-order bonuses revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonassassins-creed-4-black-flagbest-buygamestopmicrosoftnext-xboxnintendopcplaystationplaystation-4preorderps3ps4targetubisoftwalmartwii-uxboxWed, 15 May 2013 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA puts an end to its Online Pass program]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ea-online-pass-ends/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ea-online-pass-ends/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ea-online-pass-ends/#comments EA has announced it will discontinue its Online Pass program. "Yes, we're discontinuing Online Pass," EA's senior director of corporate communications John Reseburg told GamesBeat in an e-mail. "None of our new EA titles will include that feature."

Reseburg added that "many players didn't respond to the format," despite EA going on record months after instituting Online Passes, reporting it had not seen a "significant" backlash. "We've listened to the feedback and decided to do away with it moving forward."

The Online Pass, a one-time use code required for online play, was first introduced in 2010 with the intent of being exclusive to EA Sports games, though it quickly escalated from there. Online Pass revenue generated between $10-$15 million for EA in its first year alone.

JoystiqEA puts an end to its Online Pass program originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 20:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-online-passea-sportsmicrosoftnintendoonline-passpcplaystationps3wiiwii-uxboxWed, 15 May 2013 20:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Get Super Metroid for 30 cents on Wii U Virtual Console right now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/get-super-metroid-for-30-cents-on-wii-u-virtual-console-right-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/get-super-metroid-for-30-cents-on-wii-u-virtual-console-right-no/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/get-super-metroid-for-30-cents-on-wii-u-virtual-console-right-no/#commentsGet Super Metroid for 30 cents on Wii U Virtual Console right now Super Metroid (SNES) is on sale for $0.30 through the Wii U Virtual Console right now, as part of the Trial Campaign promotion celebrating the Famicom.

Super Metroid is fourth on a list of discounts that kicked off back in February - predecessors include Kirby's Adventure, Punch-Out!!! Featuring Mr. Dream and F-Zero. Super Metroid will be $0.30 for 30 days, until Yoshi comes in and takes over on June 12.

The Virtual Console launched on Wii U late last month. The initial launch list included Balloon Fight, Donkey Kong Jr., Excitebike, Ice Climbers, Kirby's Adventure, Punch Out, F-Zero and Super Mario World. This week, Super Mario Bros. 2 will be available for $5.

JoystiqGet Super Metroid for 30 cents on Wii U Virtual Console right now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famicomnintendosuper-metroidtrial-campaignvirtual-consolewii-uwii-u-virtual-console-trial-campaignWed, 15 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Powering beyond 100 hours in Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/powering-beyond-one-hundred-hours-in-monster-hunter-3-ultimate/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/powering-beyond-one-hundred-hours-in-monster-hunter-3-ultimate/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/powering-beyond-one-hundred-hours-in-monster-hunter-3-ultimate/#commentsIn his weekly column, writer Bob Mackey will alternate between two of his passions: the Japanese RPG genre and classic games. This week, Bob returns to the world of Monster Hunter.

Since I don't play MMOs, it's a rare occasion to see the timer on any of my games roll past that magical 99:59 mark. Still, it's happened more times than I'd like to admit; whenever an especially deep or content-rich RPG hits me during a particularly inactive time in my life, I'll focus on it and it alone. Since I've chosen a career path laden with vast periods of inactivity, RPGs Fallout 3, the Persona and Dragon Quest franchises, and Dark Souls have done a fine job of soaking up free time that would have otherwise gone to waste on frequent power naps or community service.

Chalk it up to fate if you want, but Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate found me in the familiar condition of "nothing better to do," and for the past six weeks, Capcom's hardcore action-RPG has given me a whole new set of complex mechanics and arcana to obsess over with thousands of my fellow monster-hunting fans. Now that I've reached that monumental 100-hour mark, it's time to ask myself one question: Did I invest my time wisely?

Short answer: no, but I'll save regrets over playing too many video games for my death bed.

Gallery: Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate (1/17/13)

Continue reading Powering beyond 100 hours in Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate

JoystiqPowering beyond 100 hours in Monster Hunter 3 Ultimate originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsCapcommonster-hunter-3-ultimatenintendoOpinionwii-uWed, 15 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft ends fiscal 2013 with €64.8 million in profit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ubisoft-ends-fiscal-2013-with-64-8-million-in-profit/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ubisoft-ends-fiscal-2013-with-64-8-million-in-profit/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/ubisoft-ends-fiscal-2013-with-64-8-million-in-profit/#comments Ubisoft has released its financial information for the 12 month period ending March 31, 2013, which by all accounts seems to have been a pretty legit fiscal year for the publisher/developer conglomerate. The company crossed the finish line with €1.256 billion ($1.615 billion) in revenue and €64.8 million ($83.3 million) in profit, an 18.3 and 73.7-percent year-over-year increase, respectively, when compared to the €1.061 billion ($1.364 billion) in revenue and €37.3 million ($47.9 million) in profit recorded at the end of 2012.

Ubisoft contributes its stellar year to the continued success of its main three franchises, Assassin's Creed, Just Dance and Far Cry, the latest entries in which have all sold between six and 12 million copies.

JoystiqUbisoft ends fiscal 2013 with €64.8 million in profit originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20133dsAssassins-Creedassassins-creed-3far-cryfar-cry-3financialsfiscal-2013just-dancejust-dance-4macmicrosoftmobilenintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3ubisoftvitawii-uxboxWed, 15 May 2013 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Scribblenauts Unmasked amasses thousands of DC Comics characters]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/scribblenauts-unmasked-amasses-thousands-of-dc-comics-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/scribblenauts-unmasked-amasses-thousands-of-dc-comics-characters/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/scribblenauts-unmasked-amasses-thousands-of-dc-comics-characters/#comments
The creators of Scribblenauts have ceaselessly documented and cutely illustrated nearly everything in the known universe, so why not turn to the parallel worlds of DC Comics? Scribblenauts Unmasked: A DC Comics Adventure contains a number of heroes, villains and weirdos - that number being over 2,000.

Developer 5th Cell claims to have scrutinized every single superpower, series and universe in DC Comics history, all to serve the game's trick of summoning whatever or whoever the player commits to a magical notepad. Maxwell returns as jotting protagonist, joined this time by his twin sister Lily.

If Scribblenauts Unmasked doesn't have the best Batmans (Batmen?), it certainly has the most at 33 pairs of pointy ears in total, joined by an extravagant 130 Green Lanterns. That emerald grouping includes Mogo, a sentient planet with a lot of gravitational pull in the Green Lantern Corps.

Scribblenauts Unmasked is hinged on using adjectives and objects to complete "heroic feats," a bombastic term for puzzles procedurally generated from a dynamic list of DC characters, locations and potential tasks. Custom-built characters can also be thrown into the mix, though only DC's official figures get a written biography on the Batcomputer.

Scribblenauts Unmasked will be available on 3DS, Wii U and PC this fall.

Gallery: Scribblenauts Unmasked

JoystiqScribblenauts Unmasked amasses thousands of DC Comics characters originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3ds5th-celldc-comicsnintendopcscribblenauts-unmaskedwarner-broswii-uWed, 15 May 2013 09:00:00 EST