Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[New image from Master Chief's Monday Night invasion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/master-chief-invades-monday-night-football/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/master-chief-invades-monday-night-football/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/master-chief-invades-monday-night-football/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Master Chief invades Monday Night Football
Let's see, he's got the crouched position down pat, and that armor could probably withstand a direct hit from Joey Porter or Richard Seymour. Heck, even the guy's name is synonymous with the sport (in Kansas City, anyway). But is Master Chief -- cue Hank Williams, Jr. -- really ready for some football?!!

Bungie seems to think so, which is why they've released this image from a new Halo 3 commercial that will appear during ESPN's next Monday Night Football broadcast. The ad was produced by visual effects studio Digital Domain using Halo assets, so don't expect to see any in-game footage. Still, it looks pretty sweet, and it just might make sitting through Tony Kornheiser more bearable (note to ESPN: first TV timeout, please).

JoystiqNew image from Master Chief's Monday Night invasion originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Nov 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bungieDigital DomainESPNhaloHalo 3Master ChiefMonday Night Footballvistawindows vistaxbox 360xbox liveXbox-360Thu, 30 Nov 2006 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Empire at War coming to the Mac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/empire-at-war-coming-to-the-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/empire-at-war-coming-to-the-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/empire-at-war-coming-to-the-mac/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Empire at War coming to the Mac
The Mac version of Star Wars: Empire at War won't be ready for Santa's sleigh, but Aspyr Media reports they've entered the testing phase, and the Petroglyph strategy port should be available in February. MacBook and Mini owners with integrated graphics won't have to worry about the game's performance, either. According to lead programmer Brad Oliver, Aspyr's goal is to make sure Empire plays well on ALL Macs. That is, until the expansion pack is ported and Tyber Zann assumes control of your hard disk.

See also:

JoystiqEmpire at War coming to the Mac originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleAspyr MediaBrad OliverEmpire at Warintegrated graphicsmacmac gamesmac gamingmacbookmacbook propetroglyphrtsStar WarsstrategyTyber ZannThu, 30 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare's MMO team just wants to be competitive]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/bioware-mmo-team-just-wants-to-be-competitive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/bioware-mmo-team-just-wants-to-be-competitive/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/30/bioware-mmo-team-just-wants-to-be-competitive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

BioWare MMO team just wants to be competitiveCan't we all just get along? At least that's the attitude of BioWare Austin director Gordon Walton regarding his upcoming MMO and its assumed rivalry with Blizzard's industry-dominating World of Warcraft. Walton insists that it is not BioWare's goal to dethrone the champ, but to simply provide a little healthy competition: "Will some people who play WoW play our game? Of course. But we'd be better off if we got new customers, too. It's not a zero-sum game out there."

As always, BioWare's designers will rely on their ability to spin a good yarn, and also try to avoid the FedEx-style quests that have helped define the MMO genre. Creative director James Ohlen explains: "We want to bring a level of storytelling that's equal to the single-player box games that BioWare has done. I think we can do that. One of the big challenges will be making our storytelling work in an environment that has multiple players."

The name and estimated release date for BioWare's MMO are still MIA, so Blizzard and its bloodthirsty orcs can rest easy for now.

JoystiqBioWare's MMO team just wants to be competitive originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 30 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWareBioWare AustinBioWare mmoGordon WaltonmmommorpgPCRich VogelWorld of WarcraftwowThu, 30 Nov 2006 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/metareview-untold-legends-dark-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/metareview-untold-legends-dark-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/metareview-untold-legends-dark-kingdom/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Metareview - Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom
You have to wonder if Sony Online Entertainment was so co-dependent during the development of the Champions of Norrath games that they had to abandon the successful series when partner Snowblind Studios was bitten by the superhero bug. Instead of leveraging EverQuest's popularity for the launch of the PlayStation 3, SOE decided to stick with their more generic Untold Legends setting, which debuted on the PSP nearly two years ago. But with its paltry 18-20 hours of gameplay, lack of SIXAXIS support, and all of three pre-customized characters to choose from, Dark Kingdom ends up being little more than a rushed launch title, not the next-gen Norrath many people were hoping for.
  • IGN (65/100) wants more PS3 and less PSP: "Apart from the repetitive combat system, there's a ton of gameplay issues that you'd hope would've been fixed with the transition over to the PS3. Load times are surprisingly long when you're accessing new levels. Rocks and boxes, as well as hills or background objects can cause your character to freeze in mid-jumping animation for at least five or six seconds. You'll also run into a lot of camera problems during combat, where the camera will unexpectedly zoom in or out during a fight."
  • GameSpot (60/100) thinks Dark Kingdom is ill-suited for looters: "Gear lust is one of the more prominent driving forces in dungeon crawlers, and it's here that Dark Kingdom comes up short. Pieces of armor with different names and radically different effects look identical on your character, limiting the joy of equipping new gear and seeing how it looks on your increasingly badass adventurer. Your character will use the same basic weapon, as well as most of the same combo attacks, from beginning to end."

  • GameSpy (60/100) hopes Sony is planning to make better use of the PS3's storage capacity: "What surprises me the most about the whole pre-formed character shtick is how confining it seems for a next-gen console with the power of the PS3. Look at the character customization options in Oblivion and you might understand where I'm coming from with this. All that power and I only have three options to choose from?"

JoystiqMetareview - Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Nov 2006 20:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action rpgDark Kingdomhack and slashlaunch titleplaystation 3ps3rpgsixaxissoesony online entertainmentUntold LegendsWed, 29 Nov 2006 20:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Trek writer encourages more storytelling in games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/trek-writer-encourages-more-storytelling-in-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/trek-writer-encourages-more-storytelling-in-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/29/trek-writer-encourages-more-storytelling-in-games/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Trek writer encourages more storytelling in gamesAfter Bethesda Softworks acquired the rights to make Star Trek games last year, they hired famed screenplay writer D. C. Fontana (Trek, Babylon 5, Earth: Final Conflict) and her writing partner Derek Chester to script the storylines for Star Trek Legacy and Star Trek: Tactical Assault. Fontana's participation in these projects underscores a growing trend in game development, where top writing talent is being brought in to supplement next generation production values. She believes this is healthy for the industry: "Today, the games have to have more going on in them--story, character, crisis or conflict, goals. Because of that, I believe writers will begin to see the possibilities in this form of storytelling."

Fontana also penned Activision's well-received Bridge Commander, and Legacy has promising previews. However, the valuable experience that Hollywood writers and bestselling authors bring to the table doesn't always guarantee a successful game. While R. A. Salvatore's Demon Stone may have been a decent platformer, not even Chris Claremont could save X-Men: The Official Game, and Dungeons & Dragons writer Keith Baker's efforts weren't enough to overcome the uninspired gameplay of Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom. Still, it's refreshing to see a focus on narrative that has served companies like BioWare so well.

Star Trek Legacy will be released next week for the PC and Xbox 360, and will feature the voice talent of all five starship captains from Archer to Janeway. Hopefully, it will fare better than its handheld sibling Tactical Assault, which has suffered a Khan-like wrath from gaming critics.

JoystiqTrek writer encourages more storytelling in games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Nov 2006 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benjamin siskoBethesda SoftworksD. C. FontanaDerek ChesterDorothy Catherine Fontanaenterprisejames kirkjanewayjonathan archermad doc softwarePCpicardStar TrekStar Trek LegacystarfleetTactical AssaultXbox-360Wed, 29 Nov 2006 14:35:00 EST<![CDATA[KotOR franchise to continue, says LucasArts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/kotor-franchise-to-continue/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/kotor-franchise-to-continue/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/kotor-franchise-to-continue/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

KoTOR franchise to continue, says LucasArts Not sure how I missed this one last week. All that turkey and football must have conspired with the dark side to cloud my awareness of all things Star Wars. In an interview with Next Generation's Colin Campbell, LucasArts VP Nancy MacIntyre mapped out her company's plans to continue delivering Star Wars goodness to Force-sensitive geeks like me over the next few years.

"Our fans want a logical progression of the Star Wars story line, so we are committed to only two Star Wars experiences a year," says MacIntyre. This must be a new policy moving forward because there have been no fewer than 25 Star Wars titles released in the past seven years (not counting handhelds), and at least one of those games had some serious continuity problems.

Still, the best news is the continuation of an old favorite, as MacIntyre confirms: "We've also got Star Wars franchises like Knights of the Old Republic ... that we will not leave behind. It's very important to us that we grow those franchises." It's important to us too, Nancy! The big question now is, will Obsidian return to helm the Ebon Hawk? Feargus Urquhart indicated earlier this year they would be happy to work on KotOR 3, but whomever LucasArts selects, let's hope enough time is allocated to finish the next installment properly.

See also: Mod community strikes back, restoring KotOR2

JoystiqKotOR franchise to continue, says LucasArts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Nov 2006 19:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ebon-HawkFeargus-UrquhartKnights-of-the-Old-RepublickotorLucasArtsNancy-MacIntyreObsidianPCStar-WarsXbox-360Tue, 28 Nov 2006 19:40:00 EST<![CDATA[BusinessWeek's Wildstrom: "PS3 is a winner"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/businessweeks-wildstrom-ps3-is-a-winner/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/businessweeks-wildstrom-ps3-is-a-winner/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/28/businessweeks-wildstrom-ps3-is-a-winner/#commentsFiled under: ,

BusinessWeek's Wildstrom: BusinessWeek's Stephen Wildstrom has one of the best jobs in the world -- he gets to play with the latest high tech gadgets and then talk about them in his Tech&You column every week. For the Dec. 4 issue, Wildstrom reviews what has become the envy of early adopters, hardcore fanboys, and extortion artists everywhere: the PlayStation 3.

While he states up front that it will take months to determine the success of PS3, Wildstrom declares Sony's new console a winner on the gaming front -- a verdict I take exception with because of a simple admission he makes halfway through his write-up: "I'm not much of a gamer." During his short time with the PS3, he experienced how the controls work for Tiger Woods 07, Resistance: Fall of Man, and Genji: Days of the Blade -- and not much else.

I enjoy reading Wildstrom's weekly columns, as he spends a lot of time reviewing personal media products that focus on movies, music, and photos. Ironically enough, he says the PS3 comes up short in these areas, and he's not impressed with it as a home entertainment device. Instead, his praise for the system is based solely on its gaming prowess.

Even recommending the PS3 for consumers who "have the budget", and are willing to pay "at least $100 more than an Xbox 360", has faulty logic. First off, if you expect to have a PS3 before the end of the year, the difference will be significantly greater than just a few hundred dollars (and the cost has been even higher for those who've been mugged, beat up, and shot). Secondly, how can a system be considered a winner on gaming merits alone when it's currently "a bit short on games"?

So, does the PS3 really "got game"? Potentially, but people that don't (like Mr. Wildstrom) are not really qualified to decide.

From the same BW issue: Can the "Father of the Xbox" make Microsoft hip?

JoystiqBusinessWeek's Wildstrom: "PS3 is a winner" originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Nov 2006 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BusinessWeekPlayStation 3ps3sonyStephen Wildstromtech and youTue, 28 Nov 2006 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[PepsiCo to sponsor Guild Wars in China]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/pepsico-to-sponsor-guild-wars-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/pepsico-to-sponsor-guild-wars-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/pepsico-to-sponsor-guild-wars-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

PepsiCo to sponsor Guild Wars in ChinaThe cola wars took an interesting turn today, and Chinese online gaming host The9 showed they have flexible loyalties when it comes to carbonated beverages. The Shanghai-based developer successfully partnered with Coca-Cola (and pop group S.H.E.) in 2005 to promote the launch of World of Warcraft, and now PepsiCo wants a piece of China's MMO action.

As part of a new marketing agreement, Pepsi and The9 will co-sponsor a national Guild Wars tournament and pimp over 10,000 Internet Cafes using decor based on NCsoft's popular fantasy setting. Cafe chaperones will now have to work twice as hard to keep sticky soft drinks away from the PCs. Beta testing for Guild Wars China begins in two days.

JoystiqPepsiCo to sponsor Guild Wars in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Nov 2006 17:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetchina gamingchinese gamerscola warscompetitive gamingGuild Warsmmommorpgncsoftonline gamingPCpepsiPepsiCothe9tyriaMon, 27 Nov 2006 17:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Holiday 2006 best bets for Mac gamers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/holiday-2006-best-bets-for-mac-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/holiday-2006-best-bets-for-mac-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/27/holiday-2006-best-bets-for-mac-gamers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

Holiday 2006 best bets for Mac gamersWith Apple's transition to Intel processors completed earlier this year, and emerging technologies such as Cider promising full compatibility with Windows games, the Mac platform is seeing even fewer native releases these days. But there are still some gems for dedicated Mac gamers this holiday season:
  • Age of Empires III
  • Big Bang Brain Games
  • Call of Duty 2
  • Cars: The Videogame
  • Civilization IV
  • Dominions 3: The Awakening
  • Quake 4
  • Sims 2: Nightlife
  • Spongebob Squarepants Diner Dash
  • WingNuts 2: Raina's Revenge
  • World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade (coming in Jan.)
  • X-Plane 8.5
Apple's gaming page has additional information, and check out last year's holiday recommendations for a little more variety on your Mac.

JoystiqHoliday 2006 best bets for Mac gamers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Nov 2006 14:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Age of Empires IIIBig Bang Brain GamesCall of Duty 2Cars The VideogameciderCivilization IVDiner DashDominions 3: The Awakeningholiday game guideMacmac gamesmac gamingQuake 4Raina's RevengeSims 2 NightlifeSpongebob SquarepantsThe Burning CrusadetransgamingWingNuts 2World of WarcraftX-Plane 8.5Mon, 27 Nov 2006 14:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Obsidian patches Neverwinter Nights 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/obsidian-patches-neverwinter-nights-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/obsidian-patches-neverwinter-nights-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/25/obsidian-patches-neverwinter-nights-2/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Obsidian patches NWN2Obsidian Entertainment has wasted little time getting Neverwinter Nights 2 into ship-shape this month. But when you consider the game already shipped at the end of last month, suffered a controversial critique, and was built by a bunch of talented Black Isle veterans, their efforts may not seem so surprising. The new 1.03 beta patch includes several multiplayer and toolset updates, in addition to some much-needed camera adjustments (fans of the first game will appreciate the modified "chase cam" view).

In case these fixes aren't reason enough to consider picking up the game, then how about a 50% discount? Through the end of Saturday, Best Buy is selling Neverwinter Nights 2 for $25.

[via GameBanshee]

JoystiqObsidian patches Neverwinter Nights 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Nov 2006 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Atariblack isle veteransdungeons and dragonsForgotten RealmsNeverwinter Nights 2nwn2ObsidianPCroleplayingrpgSat, 25 Nov 2006 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Gothic 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/23/metareview-gothic-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/23/metareview-gothic-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/23/metareview-gothic-3/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Metareview - Gothic 3
Piranha Bytes is frequently credited as the originator of the vast, living worlds showcased in their RPG series Gothic. Unfortunately, this German developer's roleplaying adventures also carry the stigma of non-intuitive interface design, a flawed combat system, and production values that are inconsistent at best. Having just been released in the States, Gothic 3 once again finds the series lost in translation with poor (and sometimes nonexistent) voice acting, and a host of bugs that make it difficult to recommend. Still, those willing to struggle with the controls and wait for patches will find a well-implemented faction influence system that hints at Gothic's still unrealized potential.
  • EuroGamer (80/100) was willing to overlook many of Gothic 3's shortcomings: "This time, however, by concentrating on evolving in its own niche, number three succeeds on its own terms: an interface that actually works, a modern lick of paint, and an (albeit misfiring) attempt to revise its fighting system; now's as good an opportunity as ever to step onto that carousel of orc-bashing familiarity."

  • Pro-G (60/10) suggests waiting for updates, but was fascinated nonetheless: "So, what have I listed up so far for Gothic 3? Terrible graphics, dialogue and narration, and a needlessly resource-hungry engine that renders a large amount of the game unplayable? Yep, check all those. But, ludicrous as it sounds, Gothic 3 has some strangely addictive and compelling qualities that I really have no explanation for."

  • GameSpy (30/100) drew many comparisons to Oblivion: "The difference is that while the basic design of the Gothic games is equal (and occasionally even superior) to Bethesda's offerings, they've also labored under terrible coding, a god-awful number of bugs and weird design decisions that make the releases (including Gothic 3) fail to even come close to fulfilling their potential."
See also: Metareview - Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

JoystiqMetareview - Gothic 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Nov 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aspyrGothic 3JoWoodopen-endedPCpiranha bytesrpgThu, 23 Nov 2006 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Knights of the Nine screens, availability update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/knights-of-the-nine-screens-availability-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/knights-of-the-nine-screens-availability-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/22/knights-of-the-nine-screens-availability-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Knights of the Nine available this week
Bethesda's Oblivion download site is listing Dec. 4 as the availability date for Knights of the Nine, the latest mini expansion for Elder Scrolls IV. However, RPGDot is reporting that Knights is now available on Xbox Live. A sneak attack to be sure, given today is the busiest travel day of the year and many 360 owners are away from their precious console. Anyone download it yet? If not, you can still scope out over 20 new screen shots at ElderScrolls.net.

JoystiqKnights of the Nine screens, availability update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Nov 2006 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k gamesbethesda softworkselder scrollselder scrolls ivknights of the nineoblivionPCrpgtamrielxbox liveXbox-360Wed, 22 Nov 2006 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars beta testing to begin in China]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/guild-wars-beta-testing-to-begin-in-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/guild-wars-beta-testing-to-begin-in-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/guild-wars-beta-testing-to-begin-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Guild Wars beta testing to begin in ChinaAs if Chinese gamers didn't have enough online gaming to occupy their leisure (and work) time, The9 has announced Guild Wars China will begin closed beta testing on Nov. 29. One of the most anticipated games on the mainland, Guild Wars attracted 200,000 applicants on the first day of beta registration last week. Maybe an aspiring Chinese clan will unseat South Korea's reigning Guild Wars champs The Last Pride at the next world tournament.

The9 also hosts World of Warcraft and Webzen's Soul of the Ultimate Nation, but it is unknown if the Shanghai-based developer's Guild Wars deal with NCsoft also includes the Factions and Nightfall expansions.

See also: Nightfall world premiere sets Guild Wars record

JoystiqGuild Wars beta testing to begin in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Nov 2006 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetbeta testingchina gamingchinese gamersclosed betafactionsGuild WarsGuild Wars ChinammommorpgNCsoftnightfallPCpropheciesthe last prideThe9Mon, 20 Nov 2006 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[CNNMoney picks 10 best gifts for gamers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/cnnmoney-picks-10-best-gifts-for-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/cnnmoney-picks-10-best-gifts-for-gamers/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/20/cnnmoney-picks-10-best-gifts-for-gamers/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

CNNMoney picks 10 best gifts for gamersHaving already advised gamers to hold off from buying a PlayStation 3, it's not surprising that CNN's Chris Morris has no PS3 goods on his holiday shopping list. Besides, only a few brave (and crazy) souls have managed to procure Sony's "non-competitive" new console. Instead, Morris recommends the following titles for CNNMoney's game gift guide:
Not a very sports-friendly list (no Hawk or Madden?), and PSP owners are also left out in the cold. Anything else missing?

JoystiqCNNMoney picks 10 best gifts for gamers originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Nov 2006 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Brain AgeChris MorrisDSElder Scrolls IVExcite Truckgame guideGears of WarGuitar Hero 2Half-Life 2holiday gaming listKingdom Hearts 2Legend of ZeldaNew Super Mario BrothersOblivionOkamiPCPS2Twilight PrincessWiiXbox-360Mon, 20 Nov 2006 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhammer Online updated screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/warhammer-online-updated-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/warhammer-online-updated-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/19/warhammer-online-updated-screens/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

New Warhammer Online screensGames Workshop's Warhammer franchise has provided the setting for multiple PC strategy titles over the past ten years including Shadow of the Horned Rat, Dark Omen, and the recently released Mark of Chaos. Next year, Electronic Arts plans to bring the popular fantasy realm into the MMO market with Warhammer Online: Age of Reckoning.

Speaking with GameSpot earlier this month, lead designer Steve Marvin said Reckoning will be the "best-looking massively multiplayer RPG out there". See if you agree with him by checking out developer Mythic Entertainment's (Dark Age of Camelot) massive gallery, which was just updated with over a dozen new screen shots.

JoystiqWarhammer Online updated screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 19 Nov 2006 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Age of ReckoningDark Omenea gamesElectronic ArtsGames WorkshopmmommorpgMythic EntertainmentPCShadow of the Horned RatSteve MarvinWarhammer OnlineSun, 19 Nov 2006 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinese gamers compete for free design courses]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/chinese-gamers-compete-for-free-design-courses/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/chinese-gamers-compete-for-free-design-courses/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/chinese-gamers-compete-for-free-design-courses/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Chinese gamers compete for free design courses
Beginning this week, Chinese gamers who log in to the popular Japanese MMO Cronous will have more to compete for than just bragging rights. Beijing-based Mudgame Technology, host of Cronous, is teaming up with New Oriental Education & Technology Group, the China Center for International Educational Exchange, Game College, and Yanjing Brewery to provide academic assistance for aspiring game designers.

Players will be tasked with finding specified items (textbooks? Yanjing beer kegs?) throughout the virtual landscape of Cronous. The top 20 treasure hunters will be invited to particpate in Game College courses valued at over US$1.25 million, while the top player will earn the opportunity to study game design abroad in Korea. It's refreshing to know that even in China beer and college share a special connection (like yin and yang).

See also: Shaiya, Guild Wars most anticipated in China

JoystiqChinese gamers compete for free design courses originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Nov 2006 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CCIEEChina Center for International Educational Exchangechinese gamingchinese online gamingCronousGame Collegejapanese mmommommorpgMudgame TechnologyNew Oriental EducationNew Oriental Education and Technology Groupon gamePCYanjing BreweryFri, 17 Nov 2006 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Warhammer: Mark of Chaos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/metareview-warhammer-mark-of-chaos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/metareview-warhammer-mark-of-chaos/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/16/metareview-warhammer-mark-of-chaos/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Metareview - Warhammer: Mark of Chaos
Still smarting from the disappointing Mage Knight Apocalypse, Namco Bandai really needed a hit with Warhammer: Mark of Chaos. Adding to the pressure was the success of THQ's Warhammer series (the excellent Dawn of War), and competition from other fantasy-themed strategy titles such as Battle for Middle-earth II and Heroes V. The good news is that Hungarian developer Black Hole Entertainment delivered the dark and gritty aesthetics of the Warhammer universe, and the scores reflect their efforts. However, like many publishers of late, Namco Bandai may have compromised quality assurance to stay within the all-important holiday launch window.
  • IGN (80/100) enjoyed the game's deep customization and attention to detail: "The visuals in general are very good. All of the unit models are finely crafted pieces of art. The modeling is great and the textures on top are excellent. They do some nice things with lighting and heat shimmer effects that make magic come alive. All of this comes with a price. The framerate can drop substantially in large battles."

  • 1UP (70/100) is holding out for the first patch: "It's a real mess sorting things out when you get into scrums where unit overlap turns organized regiments into brawling blobs. In short, you get plenty of detail under the hood, but too few helpful barometers. It's hard not to fall under Mark of Chaos' 'almost-there' spell. Prize-winning? No, but certainly promising...if we can hold our breath for fixes."

  • Game Informer (68/100) thinks the combat system could use some tweaking: "Lacking any sort of base-building or resource-gathering, Mark of Chaos has to get by on the RTS combat that makes up the majority of the gameplay. Unfortunately, the battles fail to distinguish themselves in any meaningful way from what we've seen in the genre for years. Hero duels (no armies allowed) invariably go to the person who spent more points in their 'dueling' skill tree - which, of course, gimps them in terms of leading an army."

JoystiqMetareview - Warhammer: Mark of Chaos originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Black Hole EntertainmentBlack Hole GamesMark of ChaosNamco BandaiPCrtsstrategy gamesWarhammerThu, 16 Nov 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Titan Quest: Immortal Throne update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/titan-quest-immortal-throne-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/titan-quest-immortal-throne-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/titan-quest-immortal-throne-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Titan Quest expansion updateThe holiday issue of PC Gamer has some exclusive details on Titan Quest: Immortal Throne, the first official expansion pack for Iron Lore's epic action-RPG. Due early next year, this new campaign serves as a continuation of the original game's storyline, and moves the action to an underworld environment inhabited by 20 new monster types. A ninth skill mastery will also be available, as well as 250 unique weapons and pieces of armor. No pricing has been announced, but Immortal Throne is expected to provide 10-15 hours of additional gameplay.

If you already have the core campaign, don't forget to check out the growing list of mods available over at the Titan Quest Vault.

See also: Metareview: Titan Quest

JoystiqTitan Quest: Immortal Throne update originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Nov 2006 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action rpgdiablo cloneImmortal ThroneIron LorePCTHQTitan QuestWed, 15 Nov 2006 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Wars PC collection ships next week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/star-wars-pc-collection-ships-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/star-wars-pc-collection-ships-next-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/star-wars-pc-collection-ships-next-week/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Star Wars PC collection ships next weekWhile browsing the LucasArts store yesterday, I noticed a new collection that brought back fond memories of the LucasArts Archives from ten years ago. Star Wars: The Best of PC will be available starting next Tuesday (11/21), and will include the following titles:
  • Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast (2002)
  • Knights of the Old Republic (2003)
  • Battlefront (2004)
  • Republic Commando (2005)
  • Empire at War (2006)
  • Star Wars Galaxies 14-day trial
Hardcore Star Wars fans may scoff at the "Best of" title when classics such as Tie Fighter, Rogue Squadron, and Shadows of the Empire are absent from the box. But this isn't a bad assortment at $40, and it offers a little bit of everything for PC gamers on your holiday shopping list who enjoy different genres. How many of you plan on picking this up, either for yourself or someone else?

JoystiqStar Wars PC collection ships next week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Nov 2006 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BattlefrontEmpire at WarJedi Knight IIJedi OutcastKnights of the Old RepublickotorLucasArtsLucasArts ArchivesPCRepublic CommandoStar WarsStar Wars GalaxiesThe Best of PCWed, 15 Nov 2006 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Age of Empires 3 goes gold for Mac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/age-of-empires-iii-goes-gold-for-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/age-of-empires-iii-goes-gold-for-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/age-of-empires-iii-goes-gold-for-mac/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Age of Empires III goes gold for MacIt's already been a year since the PC version of Age of Empires III shipped, and now Mac strategy enthusiasts can finally look forward to conquering the New World in glorious 3D. MacSoft has announced that their conversion of AoE3 has gone gold and will be available before the end of the month for both PowerPC and Intel Macs. The AoE series is developed for the PC by Microsoft-owned Ensemble Studios (Halo Wars, Age of Mythology), and the latest entry received heavy praise for its new graphics engine and balanced gameplay. Check out MacSoft's product page and the Inside Mac Games preview for more details.

See also:

JoystiqAge of Empires 3 goes gold for Mac originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Age-of-Empires-3AoEaoe3Ensemble-StudiosMacmac gamingMacSoftMicrosoft-Game-StudiosrtsTue, 14 Nov 2006 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[1UP zings Neverwinter Nights 2 (again)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/1up-trounces-nwn2-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/1up-trounces-nwn2-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/1up-trounces-nwn2-again/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1UP zings Neverwinter Nights 2 (again)It looks like the final chapter has been written in the ongoing saga of 1UP's Neverwinter Nights 2 review controversy. An updated review is now available at the Ziff Davis-owned gaming portal, and the new score is a 6/10 (upgraded from 5/10). Only this time, the review was written by Games for Windows editor Jeff Green, who just last week explained the decision to pull writer Matt Peckham's original review.

Green echoes Peckham's sentiments about D&D-based roleplaying adventures -- "success is largely determined by the understanding of a rule set that only a genius or a 13-year-old could fully comprehend" -- but he takes great care not to bash the genre with the same reckless abandon that tainted Peckham's analysis. Instead, more emphasis is placed on NWN2's performance issues, problematic camera, and faulty A.I. -- all valid criticisms. Still, you have to wonder if this is the score Green would've given Obsidian's RPG before the events of two weeks ago, or if he was somehow influenced by the score Peckham gave the game. Like the editor said last week, "there was no way to 'win' here."

See also: Metareview - Neverwinter Nights 2

Joystiq1UP zings Neverwinter Nights 2 (again) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Nov 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1upGames for WindowsGames for Windows magazineJeff GreenMatt PeckhamNeverwinter Nights 2nwnnwn2obsidianPCrpgTue, 14 Nov 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3 = 4,000 yuan (plus airfare)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/playstation-3-4-000-yuan-plus-airfare/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/playstation-3-4-000-yuan-plus-airfare/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/13/playstation-3-4-000-yuan-plus-airfare/#commentsFiled under: , ,


...surprising Sony's Ken Kutaragi = priceless. Even though the PC is the preferred gaming platform in China, there are still a few Chinese gamers willing to go the extra mile to obtain a shiny new console. Or an extra thousand miles in the case of this adventurous young man and his pursuit of a PlayStation 3. The gung ho gamer somehow managed to circumvent the mob of Japanese fanboys and ended up being first in line at a BIC Camera store on launch day. The reward for his efforts was a hand-off from Kutaragi-san himself. Does this remind anyone else of the Grinch carving and distributing the Who roast beast?

While this event is unlikely to ease historical tensions between the two Asian nations, it is reminiscent of a similar scene during the PlayStation Portable launch. On a flight from Narita to Shanghai in January of last year, I sat next to two Chinese teenagers who were on the return leg of a one-day trip to Tokyo. The reason for their visit? To snag a pair of new PSPs that had launched just a few weeks earlier. They played them the entire flight and didn't look up once.

[Thanks, DarkMirage]

JoystiqPlayStation 3 = 4,000 yuan (plus airfare) originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Nov 2006 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinese gamerKen KutaragiPlayStation 3ps3ps3 launchMon, 13 Nov 2006 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Heroes V: Hammers of Fate goes gold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/11/heroes-v-hammers-of-fate-goes-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/11/heroes-v-hammers-of-fate-goes-gold/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/11/heroes-v-hammers-of-fate-goes-gold/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Heroes V: Hammers of Fate goes gold
Strategy fans will have no shortage of new releases to pick from this holiday season with expansions available for Empire at War, Battle for Middle-earth II, and Dawn of War. If dwarves are your preferred faction, you'll be pleased to know that Hammers of Fate -- Ubisoft's first expansion pack for Heroes of Might and Magic V -- has gone gold and is on target for a Tuesday release. Independent fan site Age of Heroes has some unofficial details about our bearded friends, as well as the new renegades for hire and neutral units that debut in Hammers. Which strategy title is at the top of your list?

See also: Metareview - Heroes of Might and Magic V

JoystiqHeroes V: Hammers of Fate goes gold originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 11 Nov 2006 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Hammers of FateHeroes of Might and Magichomm 5Might and Magicnival interactivePCrtsstrategyUbisoftSat, 11 Nov 2006 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Guild Wars: Nightfall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/10/metareview-guild-wars-nightfall/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/10/metareview-guild-wars-nightfall/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/10/metareview-guild-wars-nightfall/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Metareview - Guild Wars: Nightfall
Nightfall represents the third entry in NCsoft's successful Guild Wars series, and provides the most compelling reason yet for fans of single-player RPGs to try out this subscription-free MMO. While developer ArenaNet continues to push the franchise forward with new professions and exotic locales, some critics expressed concerns over the aging graphics engine and the fact that party formation in the virtual towns remains needlessly difficult. However, there's still the addictive gameplay, and the flexibility of self-contained expansions means you can jump in (or jump out) at any time. How many of you plan on picking up Nightfall?
  • 1UP (90/100) thinks Nightfall will appeal to the NWN-Oblivion crowd: "The most noteworthy addition comes in the form of 14 new nonplayer hero characters who -- unlike the addlebrained henchmen of campaigns past -- offer complete customization options to players. It saves a lot of headaches, and makes Guild Wars feel more like a single-player RPG than ever before."

  • Gamespot (82/100) appreciates the enhanced enemy AI: "Nightfall introduces many impressive-looking, powerful new enemies to fight, and it also seems to have updated their artificial intelligence to make them even more ruthless -- they'll happily go after your party's soft targets, like your monks and elementalists, not just attack the frontline."

  • GameDaily (70/100) had some issues with Nightfall's pacing: "It takes a long time for the story to get started. Unlike previous games, players can't select a secondary profession until level 5. Even so, many players will have made it halfway to level 20 (the game's maximum level) before the story starts to pick up any real momentum. Of course, Guild Wars has never been a game that has put strong emphasis on levels, but it's the only marker players have to see if they've outgrown a particular area."

JoystiqMetareview - Guild Wars: Nightfall originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Nov 2006 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArenaNetGuild WarsmmommorpgNCsoftNightfallPCFri, 10 Nov 2006 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gothic 3 demo available tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/09/gothic-3-demo-available-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/09/gothic-3-demo-available-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/09/gothic-3-demo-available-tomorrow/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gothic 3 demo available tomorrowGothic 3 won't be released until Monday, but you can give it a test drive this weekend, courtesy of Aspyr Media and JoWood Productions. According to a post at Blue's News, the North American demo will include the entire beginning area of the game, with all available quests, weapons, spells and NPCs (and no time limits imposed on players). For more details, visit Aspyr's Gothic 3 site, and stay tuned for a metareview next week.

See also: Free Gothic 3 soundtrack clips available

JoystiqGothic 3 demo available tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Nov 2006 18:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aspyr mediademo downloadGothic 3jowoodPCpiranha bytesrpgThu, 09 Nov 2006 18:40:00 EST<![CDATA[D&D Tactics coming soon to PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/09/dandd-tactics-coming-soon-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/09/dandd-tactics-coming-soon-to-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/09/dandd-tactics-coming-soon-to-psp/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

D&D Tactics coming soon for PSP
If you're a PSP owner looking for a deeper roleplaying experience than the Untold Legends series provides, you might want to check out what GameSpot has to say about Atari's Dungeons & Dragons Tactics. While not quite Neverwinter Nights, D&D Tactics includes character customization similar to its PC-based big brother. Race, class, alignment, skill points, and even body style and portrait selections are all here, in addition to 40 quests that each require you to assemble a small party beforehand. The dungeon crawling takes place in a generic Dungeons & Dragons world (similar to the Xbox's D&D Heroes), although it would be nice if Atari had leveraged the unique appeal of one of the franchise's many realms. D&D Tactics ships in February and is being developed by Kuju Entertainment (Battalion Wars, Crash Twinsanity).

See also: Metareview - The Lord of the Rings Tactics

JoystiqD&D Tactics coming soon to PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Nov 2006 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action strategyAtariBattalion WarsDungeons and DragonsDungeons and Dragons TacticsKuju Entertainmentplaystation portablepsprpg strategysony pspwizards of the coastThu, 09 Nov 2006 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA updates LOTR White Council site]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/ea-updates-lotr-white-council-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/ea-updates-lotr-white-council-site/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/08/ea-updates-lotr-white-council-site/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

EA updates LOTR White Council site
Now that Electronic Arts is dual wielding the Tolkien movie and literary rights, we can expect plenty of return trips to Middle-earth from the über developer. So far, we've seen two action platformers, a turn-based RPG, a portable tactics entry, and an RTS series that have each incorporated the look and feel of The Lord of the Rings films.

Scheduled for a late 2007 release, The White Council promises to deliver an Oblivion-style roleplaying experience from the perspective of a human, hobbit, dwarf, or elf. Only this time, the adventure is set 100 years prior to events depicted in the books and films, which puts EA in the precarious position of inventing some believable derivative fiction that won't upset the Tolkien fan base. To see how things are progressing, check out the relaunched web site that features new details on some of White Council's characters.

See also: Steve Gray discusses LOTR: The White Council

JoystiqEA updates LOTR White Council site originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Nov 2006 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ea gamesElectronic ArtsLord of the Ringslotrlotr rpgPCpeter jacksonPS3rpgsteve grayTolkienWhite CouncilXbox-360Wed, 08 Nov 2006 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Editor explains retracted NWN2 review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/07/editor-explains-retracted-nwn2-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/07/editor-explains-retracted-nwn2-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/07/editor-explains-retracted-nwn2-review/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Editor explains retracted NWN2 reviewGames For Windows magazine editor Jeff Green has posted a lengthy explanation on why Matt Peckham's now infamous review of Neverwinter Nights 2 was pulled from 1UP last week. Green's commentary offers some detailed insight into the new editorial process that will unify 1UP.com and GFW product reviews -- a system that seemingly left all parties involved with their backs up against the wall. In this excerpt, Green discusses his gut reaction after reading Peckham's review:

"...when I read it, I was unhappy. I felt that right from the start, it read more like a bashing of the genre rather than a review of this specific game. I could see valid criticisms of NWN2 in the text, but I felt that the overall tone made it seem that [Matt] was just so sick of turn-based D&D RPGs that the game never had a chance on its own. I felt, if I was a reader, my first question would be: 'Why the heck did they let him review it then?' I felt that what he was saying in general was perfectly valid -- but just not for this piece."

In summary, the GFW editor reaffirms 1UP's commitment to gamers, which is what drove the decision to remove the NWN2 review. Nothing like a little controversy to help kick off a publication relaunch, but in choosing to share the lessons learned by his organization, Green's retelling of these unfortunate events can benefit other trade publications.

JoystiqEditor explains retracted NWN2 review originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Nov 2006 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1updungeons and dragonsGames For Windowsgfw editorJeff GreenMatt PeckhamNeverwinter Nights 2nwn2PCrpgTue, 07 Nov 2006 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard launches Warcraft encyclopedia]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/06/blizzard-launches-warcraft-encyclopedia/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/06/blizzard-launches-warcraft-encyclopedia/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/06/blizzard-launches-warcraft-encyclopedia/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Blizzard launches Warcraft encyclopedia
If you've ever wondered about the true meaning of immortality, or have the compelling urge to brush up on your Darnassian, Blizzard has a new resource for you. The Warcraft Encyclopedia is now available to provide comprehensive details on the story and lore of the Warcraft universe. As of right now, only the elven races of Azeroth are featured, but Blizzard is planning frequent updates to the online compendium. Whether or not this project is intended to supplement or compete with the useful WoW Wiki is unknown, but fans can expect some unique content to go along with the Encyclopedia's fancier window dressing.

JoystiqBlizzard launches Warcraft encyclopedia originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Nov 2006 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AzerothBlizzardburning legionDarnassianMacmmommorpgnight elvesPCrtsstrategyWarcraftWorld of WarcraftwowMon, 06 Nov 2006 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Shaiya, Guild Wars most anticipated in China]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/06/shaiya-guild-wars-most-anticipated-in-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/06/shaiya-guild-wars-most-anticipated-in-china/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/06/shaiya-guild-wars-most-anticipated-in-china/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Shaiya, Guild Wars most anticipated in ChinaAccording to new research from Chinese gaming portal 17173.com, Guangdong-based distributor Optisp (EVE Online) is home to the most anticipated online game in China, the Korean import Shaiya: Light and Darkness. WoW distributor The9 is hosting two of China's other highly anticipated Korean titles, Guild Wars and Soul of the Ultimate Nation.

The fever over Shaiya is reportedly due to some racy ads that prompted Chinese censors to request less suggestive promos. I'm sure the two half-naked women prominently featured in the game's propaganda had nothing to do with that. 17173 has collected some in-game screen shots and wallpapers of Shaiya's physical embodiments of "light" and "darkness" (can you guess who's who?).

See also: China online gaming trends

JoystiqShaiya, Guild Wars most anticipated in China originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Nov 2006 15:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>china gamingchinese gamersGuild WarsLight and DarknessmmommorpgncsoftPCShaiyaSoul of the Ultimate Nationthe9webzenMon, 06 Nov 2006 15:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Titan Quest expansion announced, modders interviewed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/04/titan-quest-expansion-announced-modders-interviewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/04/titan-quest-expansion-announced-modders-interviewed/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/04/titan-quest-expansion-announced-modders-interviewed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Titan Quest modding on the riseTHQ has announced that a Titan Quest expansion pack will be released before the end of Q1, but there are other options for extending your mythical adventures beyond the game's core campaign. Aspiring developers have started showcasing their mods at the Titan Quest Vault, and have offered some insight into their creative process through a series of interviews.

German modder Toh Klidan, for example, is the author of Andromeda's Sacrifice, a retelling of the classic tale of the Aethiopian princess and her savior Perseus (of Clash of the Titans fame). According to Klidan, the Titan Quest tools appear more confusing than they actually are, so we should be seeing more independent campaigns and maps in the near future. There are over 40 available now. Let us know if you've tried any of them.

See also: Metareview - Titan Quest

JoystiqTitan Quest expansion announced, modders interviewed originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Nov 2006 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action rpgAndromeda's Sacrificediablo cloneIron Loremod communitymoddingPCrpgthqTitan QuestSat, 04 Nov 2006 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Neverwinter Nights 2 [Update 1]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/03/metareview-neverwinter-nights-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/03/metareview-neverwinter-nights-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/03/metareview-neverwinter-nights-2/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Metareview - Neverwinter Nights 2
Obsidian Entertainment and dungeon masters the world over can breathe a collective sigh of relief now that the scores for Neverwinter Nights 2 are in. The single player campaign has been well received by the gaming press, and the revamped toolset is expected to afford NWN2 a shelf life comparable to its predecessor. However, not all is well in the Forgotten Realms. The 1UP reviewer seems to have overlooked the fact that Oblivion and NWN represent different styles of roleplaying. Bethesda emphasizes aesthetic presentation and open-ended adventuring, while BioWare and Obsidian have focused on a tighter combat system (hence the rules) and an extendable architecture befitting of the classic Dungeons & Dragons experience. Keeping this in mind, both franchises excel at what they were designed for.
  • GameDaily (100/100) cites several improvements over the original NWN: "There are plenty of things about NWN2 that are different from its precursor. Better graphics, a much more robust and option-filled character creation process, plus deeper plotlines, with more twists and better villains help add to an already stellar feature list. Neverwinter Nights 2 is truly one of the most epic adventures found on a PC, and it should be purchased without hesitation."

  • GameSpot (86/100) considers NWN2 the most authentic D&D experience to date: "If you're willing to look past a few relatively minor technical issues, you'll have a great time exploring the world of NWN2. The excellent story, characters, and quests will appeal to your sense of adventure without getting overly convoluted. When you factor in the multiplayer and the editing tools, you'll find that NWN2 is a fantastic value and a thoroughly enjoyable game."

  • 1UP (50/100) fired a 3d6 Melf's Acid Arrow right at the heart of the D&D community: "With all the added rule-shuffling, NWN2 seems like it's working twice as hard to accomplish half as much. Worse -- and blame this on games like Oblivion -- NWN2's levels feel pint-sized. As if the pencil and paper 'module' approach were a virtue that computers -- by now demonstrably capable of simulating entire worlds with considerably more depth -- should emulate."
Update 1: 1UP has pulled their damning review of NWN2, so I guess there is justice in the world. Here are a few new scores: Yahoo! Games (90/100), IGN (85/100).

JoystiqMetareview - Neverwinter Nights 2 [Update 1] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Nov 2006 12:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure rpgataribiowaredungeon masterdungeons and dragonsfaerunforgotten realmshasbroNeverwinter Nights 2nwnnwn2ObsidianPCrpgtsrwizards of the coastFri, 03 Nov 2006 12:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sacred 2 expected in October 2007]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/sacred-2-expected-in-october-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/sacred-2-expected-in-october-2007/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/02/sacred-2-expected-in-october-2007/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sacred 2 arrives in October 2007
Ascaron Entertainment has announced that Sacred 2: Fallen Angel will launch next October. The German developer's follow-up to the cult classic RPG has an updated engine under the hood, and six playable characters (with good and evil storylines) for plenty of replay value. The timing couldn't be better. By the end of next year, you should have completed every quest in Oblivion, fought for both the orcs and humans in Gothic 3, and conquered countless Neverwinter Nights 2 campaigns. Of course, you'll still have Assassin's Creed, Elveon, and The White Council to contend with.

See also: Sacred 2 web site goes live

JoystiqSacred 2 expected in October 2007 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Nov 2006 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action rpgAscaron Entertainmentdiablo cloneFallen AngelPCrpgSacred 2Thu, 02 Nov 2006 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Boo! Scariest moments in gaming history]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/31/boo-scariest-moments-in-gaming-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/31/boo-scariest-moments-in-gaming-history/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/31/boo-scariest-moments-in-gaming-history/#commentsFiled under: ,

Boo! Scariest moments in gaming historyIt's customary at this time of year to pay tribute to all things that go bump in the night, so the GameSpy staff has indulged us with a list of their scariest experiences in gaming. The classic Resident Evil and Silent Hill entries are mentioned, along with the more recent Fatal Frame, Call of Cthulu, and sweet little Alma from F.E.A.R.

My personal scariest moment comes courtesy of Rebellion Software, circa 1994. The original Alien vs. Predator on the Atari Jaguar was one of the first shooters I had ever played (along with Marathon, but that wasn't very scary). I recall creeping around the empty corridors of the Space Marine base with the ambient sounds of machinery in the background, and no warning that you're about to have company. Suddenly, you turn around, hear that familiar screech, and see a pack of Aliens approaching -- which really sucked when I was entering a turbolift and had nowhere to run. The Predator's trademark rattling sound also scared the bejeezus out of me because you never knew when he was going to decloak and start whaling on you.

Let's hear your scariest moments.

JoystiqBoo! Scariest moments in gaming history originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Oct 2006 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Survival-HorrorTue, 31 Oct 2006 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Empire at War: Forces of Corruption]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/metareview-empire-at-war-forces-of-corruption/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/metareview-empire-at-war-forces-of-corruption/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/30/metareview-empire-at-war-forces-of-corruption/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Metareview - Empire at War: Forces of Corruption
This is turning out to be the season of strategy expansions, with AoE III: The War Chiefs and Dawn of War: Dark Crusade already available, and BFME2: Rise of the Witch-king shipping in four weeks. The just-released Forces of Corruption extends your Star Wars: Empire at War experience by adding a third playable faction, the Zann Coalition, to the galactic struggle. Much like the Hutts, it's all about profit for crime lord Tyber Zann, and he intends to plunder the considerable resources of the Empire and the Rebellion with the help of IG-88 and a new rancor-summoning Force witch. Yoda joins the ranks of the rebels, while the Empire now has Dark Troopers.
  • Yahoo! Games (90/100) enjoyed blowing up Ewoks, but also appreciates the authentic environments: "Some maps, like the one set on Cloud City on Bespin, or the scene of Zann's infiltration of Coruscant, are genuinely creative, occasionally approaching a Diablo-like focus on one or two main units without a wider force to distract you."

  • GameSpot (81/100) likes the new criminal element, but warns of performance issues: "There's a price to be paid for some of the huge battles and missions that you'll undertake. Even with most of the graphical detail settings set to low, the expansion had frame rate issues running on a midrange machine that ran Empire at War just fine with the details set to high."

  • Game Informer (75/100) recommends this expansion for extended universe fans: "If you're one of those guys (or gals) that can quote every line from every movie, but you've never heard of Grand Admiral Thrawn, then Forces of Corruption isn't for you. Meanwhile, if you know the details of how Darth Maul was trained, or who exactly Aayla Secura is, then come on in to the pool. The water's fine!"
See also: Metareview - Star Wars: Empire at War

JoystiqMetareview - Empire at War: Forces of Corruption originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Oct 2006 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Empire at WarForces of CorruptionlucasartsPCrtsStar WarsstrategyMon, 30 Oct 2006 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Dark Messiah of Might and Magic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/29/metareview-dark-messiah-of-might-and-magic/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/29/metareview-dark-messiah-of-might-and-magic/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/29/metareview-dark-messiah-of-might-and-magic/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Metareview - Dark Messiah of Might & Magic
If you're debating whether or not to purchase Ubisoft's Dark Messiah of Might and Magic, the extreme range of reviews for the new RPG-shooter may leave you even more confused. A few things to consider: IGN issued their score without reviewing Dark Messiah's multiplayer, and Game Informer didn't seem to experience any of the technical glitches that marred GameSpot's and GameSpy's sessions. If you haven't done so already, you might want to download the demo, then wait a few weeks and see what other customers are saying.
  • Game Informer (93/100) enjoyed the Arx Fatalis-style atmosphere: "The ancillary aspects of the game - exploring Dark Messiah's fantastic world, enjoying the plotline, and simply basking in the great ambiance that Arkane Studios has created - are savory distractions that never get in the way of the core gameplay."

  • IGN (88/100) loved the combat system: "The mix of brute force, spell casting and blade-work work well together. Combined with the ability to lift boxes, barrels, crates and a host of inanimate objects, you're never short of something to hurl or a clever way of inflicting pain."

  • GameSpot (67/100) did not love the combat system: "All told, the game's single-player has its moments but is often really repetitive. It's certainly not bad, but the story never ropes you in, the combat isn't very satisfying, and you never get the feeling that Sareth is growing more powerful as you play."

  • GameSpy (60/100) had issues with just about everything: "Unfortunately, things like shaky enemy AI, meandering and unintuitive level designs, and a paper-thin plot make the game's brilliant moments seem way too infrequent. The biggest inherent problem with Dark Messiah's multiplayer is that all the cool Source physics elements have been gutted from it."
See also: Metareview - Heroes of Might and Magic V

JoystiqMetareview - Dark Messiah of Might and Magic originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Oct 2006 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action rpgarkaneDark Messiahfps rpgMight and MagicPCsarethsource engineUbisoftSun, 29 Oct 2006 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jade Empire's grand PC makeover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/27/jade-empires-grand-pc-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/27/jade-empires-grand-pc-makeover/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/27/jade-empires-grand-pc-makeover/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jade Empire's grand makeover for PC
BioWare's three-year absence from the PC (not counting those fine Neverwinter premium mods) is about to come to an end in January when the revamped Jade Empire ships. According to project director Diarmid Clarke, the 3 million-strong fan community asked for some overdue PC love, and the Canadian developer responded. Speaking with FiringSquad, Clarke discusses Jade's new levels and fighting styles, reveals a few new enemies, and explains the decision to recruit Gray Matter (Return to Castle Wolfenstein, Call of Duty: United Offensive) to assist with the port from Xbox.

The high-res coat of paint and enhanced effects are evident in the latest batch of screens, but it will be interesting to see if fans take their Chinese kung fu mythology with the fully customizable mouse and keyboard controls, or the more familiar Xbox controller. Which will you choose?

See also:

JoystiqJade Empire's grand PC makeover originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Oct 2006 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2k gamesaction rpgBioWareChinese mythologyDiarmid ClarkefantasyGray MatterJade Empiremartial artsPCFri, 27 Oct 2006 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metareview - Marvel Ultimate Alliance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/metareview-marvel-ultimate-alliance/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/metareview-marvel-ultimate-alliance/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/26/metareview-marvel-ultimate-alliance/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Metareview - Marvel Ultimate Alliance
The ongoing debate over which superhero universe reigns supreme may never be settled, but Marvel Comics is looking like the clear winner in the gaming space with Activision's release of Marvel Ultimate Alliance. There's no Incredible Hulk (he's in Vivendi's game), but just about everyone else from the House of Ideas makes an appearance, which amounts to at least 20 playable characters on each platform. Where Ultimate Alliance really shines over Justice League Heroes is in the stronger focus on teamwork, not to mention a more impressive cast of villains. <Your team name here>, assemble!
  • Game Informer (93/100) likes the new transparent rejuvenation system: "In this game, you no longer need to stock potions. When an enemy is slain, there's a chance that the fallen will gift you with a cluster of healing orbs that automatically zoom to your character. This change not only removes the clunky system of healing, it makes you feel more like a hero. Your focus is always on the battlefield, not a meter."

  • GamePro (90/100) appreciates the challenging enemy AI: "The major boss battles are head and shoulders above anything you've seen in the past. The roster of villains changes with such frequency that you never get a chance to get sick of them. Stronger ones boast talents like healing and immunity to certain attacks, while others carry shields that force your active crew of four to work as a team."

  • TeamXbox (88/100) was dazzled by the production quality: "The opening cinematic by Blur Studios is perhaps the finest I have witnessed in a videogame...but it's worth mentioning that the in-game footage cut scenes by Raven are no slouches either. Raven's in-game work is really nice too. Characters all have that comic book look, but have been updated to have their own edge. The backgrounds are just as sweet, flexing a bunch of post-production effects and lots of animations."

JoystiqMetareview - Marvel Ultimate Alliance originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Oct 2006 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>action rpgActivisionavengersbladeblur studioscaptain americadr. doomelektrafantastic fourgalactusghost rideriron manlokimarvel comicsMarvel Ultimate AlliancePCPS2Ravensilver surferspider-mansuperherothorultronwolverinex-men legendsXboxXbox-360Thu, 26 Oct 2006 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Shelley on the history of Civilization]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/shelley-on-the-history-of-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/shelley-on-the-history-of-civilization/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/25/shelley-on-the-history-of-civilization/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Shelley on the history of Civilization Ensemble Studios' Bruce Campbell Shelley has been a force in strategy gaming for over 20 years (PC Gamer proclaimed him a "Game God" in 1999). Anyone who's ever played Civilization I and II, the original Railroad Tycoon, or the Age of Empires and Age of Mythology titles should be familiar with his work. What you may be less familiar with is the iterative design process he and former MicroProse colleague Sid Meier used to craft the very first Civilization game.

In a recent interview, Shelley offered a little history lesson on the "design by playing" methodology -- a process he and his design teams still use at Ensemble today. The strategy pioneer fondly recalls being the second person ever to play the first Civilization prototype on a 5 &frac14;" floppy disc, and also describes how working with Sid Meier is like going to a game design university. In discussing the influence of Civilization on AoE, Shelley had this to say: "There is certainly some Civilization in the Age of Empires series. The vision for the original Age of Empires game was something like the historical and economic aspects of Civilization merged with the gameplay of Warcraft and Command & Conquer."

See also: Metareview - Age of Empires III vs. Civilization IV

JoystiqShelley on the history of Civilization originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Oct 2006 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Academy of Interactive ArtsAge of EmpiresAge of MythologyaoeBruce Campbell ShelleyCivilizationEnsemble StudiosMacMicroProsePCRailroad TycoonrtsSid Meierstrategy gameturn-based strategyWed, 25 Oct 2006 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[One more Neverwinter Nights 2 tease]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/one-more-neverwinter-nights-2-tease/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/one-more-neverwinter-nights-2-tease/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/10/24/one-more-neverwinter-nights-2-tease/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

One more Neverwinter Nights 2 teaseT-minus seven days until Obsidian's Neverwinter Nights 2 hits the shelves, and Russian web site CRPG has posted over a dozen updated screens that highlight the shiny new interface. GameSpot also has some excellent screen grabs of the enhanced NWN toolset, which at least one enthusiastic developer is already putting to good use. How many of you depleted your Halloween candy budgets to order the limited edition?

See also: NWN2 elite races, prestige classes previewed

JoystiqOne more Neverwinter Nights 2 tease originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 24 Oct 2006 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ataribiowaredungeons and dragonshasbroNeverwinter NightsNeverwinter Nights 2nwnnwn2obsidianPCrpgwizards of the coastTue, 24 Oct 2006 21:30:00 EST