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[Battlefield 3: Aftershock pulled from App Store]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/battlefield-3-aftershock-pulled-from-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/battlefield-3-aftershock-pulled-from-app-store/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/23/battlefield-3-aftershock-pulled-from-app-store/#comments Battlefield 3: Aftershock is MIA from the iOS App Store due to a lack of quality. IGN got a hold of a communique from EA, in which the publisher stated it is committed to delivering quality mobile entertainment and, therefore, decided to remove the game.

An EA spokesperson said the company is "currently re-evaluating the app" in response to the consumer feedback. Sounds like the 2.5 star rated app, which suffered complaints about its controls and multiplayer, may not return to the app arena any time soon.

Gallery: Battlefield 3: Aftershock

JoystiqBattlefield 3: Aftershock pulled from App Store originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battlefield-3-aftershockEAEA-MobileElectronic-ArtsiosipadiphonemobileThu, 23 Feb 2012 00:45:00 EST<![CDATA['Aaaaa!!!' plummets onto iOS 'February 30']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/aaaaa-plummets-onto-ios-february-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/aaaaa-plummets-onto-ios-february-30/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/aaaaa-plummets-onto-ios-february-30/#comments
Dejobaan's AaaaaAAaaaAAAaaAAAAaAAAAA!!! for the Awesome drops into the iOS App Store next week as AaaaaAAaaaAAAaaAAAAaAAAAA!!! (Force = Mass x Acceleration). The game will launch on March 1 as a $2.99 universal app. Meaning, you pay once and play it on your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad.

Having had some hands-on time with the mobile version recently, the iPad experience can be particularly intense. The tilt controls are super intuitive -- since you're falling and trying to avoid buildings -- and I found myself tilting my head to avoid scraping against buildings. The size of the screen and focus on the experience started making everything else around me fade away.

For a less intense, but still enjoyable game, the iPhone version feels like guiding an object through space instead of yourself.

Gallery: Aaaaa...!!! - A Reckless Disregard for Gravity (iOS)

Joystiq'Aaaaa!!!' plummets onto iOS 'February 30' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa-a-reckless-disregard-for-gravitydejobaandejobaan-gamesiosipadiphonemobileowlchemy-labsWed, 22 Feb 2012 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New Assassin's Creed game, Gameloft's 'Gang Domination' coming to GREE platform]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/new-assassins-creed-game-gamelofts-gang-domination-coming-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/new-assassins-creed-game-gamelofts-gang-domination-coming-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/new-assassins-creed-game-gamelofts-gang-domination-coming-t/#comments A new Assassin's Creed mobile game will launch in December of this year for English and Japanese audiences. The title is being developed by Ubisoft and GREE. In the same breath, GREE is teaming up with Gameloft on Gang Domination, which will be available on various smartphone devices this coming June.

So, what's GREE? Beyond being a company with way too much money, it's a mobile publisher/platform that's huge in Japan and is moving into the global marketplace, launching the GREE Platform in the second quarter of 2012. The company bought mobile social network OpenFeint last year and has offices in Tokyo, San Francisco, London, Beijing, Sao Paulo and Dubai. The company states: "GREE will continue to aggressively expand worldwide."

"GREE will continue to focus on building relationships with third party game developers and publishers as it moves towards releasing its new platform."

So, if GREE wasn't on your radar before, it appears to be a company you're going to be hearing about a lot in the near future.

Continue reading New Assassin's Creed game, Gameloft's 'Gang Domination' coming to GREE platform

JoystiqNew Assassin's Creed game, Gameloft's 'Gang Domination' coming to GREE platform originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidassassins-creedGameloftgang-dominationGREEiosiphonemobileUbisoftWed, 22 Feb 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3 standard edition contains reversible FemShep cover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mass-effect-3-standard-edition-contains-reversible-femshep-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mass-effect-3-standard-edition-contains-reversible-femshep-cover/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/mass-effect-3-standard-edition-contains-reversible-femshep-cover/#comments Commander Shepard is a man? It was the greatest lie ever created in future history. BioWare sought to fix this, admitting the savior of Earth (and the galaxy at large) could be recast as female.

Well, it seems the developer has gone one step further and slipped in the female Shepard on the reverse cover of Mass Effect 3 (standard edition). Sure, she's not black yet, but we'll take a partial truth for the time being.

Check out BioWare's unboxing video after the break.

Continue reading Mass Effect 3 standard edition contains reversible FemShep cover

JoystiqMass Effect 3 standard edition contains reversible FemShep cover originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxWed, 22 Feb 2012 13:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo Direct trailer roundup! YEEHAW!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/nintendo-direct-trailer-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/nintendo-direct-trailer-roundup/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/nintendo-direct-trailer-roundup/#comments
Today's Nintendo Direct presentation shot out trailers and gameplay videos fast and furious. Once the coffee kicked in and we had a little time to organize, we got them together for you (yes, personally, for you!) in this handy-dandy post. Check out videos for Kid Icarus: Uprising, Mario Tennis Open, Spirit Camera and Dillon's Rolling Western here.

Continue reading Nintendo Direct trailer roundup! YEEHAW!

JoystiqNintendo Direct trailer roundup! YEEHAW! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dskid-icarus-uprisingmario-tennis-opennintendonintendo-direct-2012spirit-cameraspirit-camera-the-cursed-memoirWed, 22 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch the Nintendo Direct presentation from Reggie right here]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/nintendo-direct-presentation-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/nintendo-direct-presentation-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/nintendo-direct-presentation-videos/#comments
Check out Nintendo President and COO Reggie Fils-Aime get raw and uncensored in this Nintendo Direct presentation. It's all like "WHOA!" and "WOW!" and up in your grill faceplate! All these trailers are also available on the 3DS eshop for maximum in-your-face action.

JoystiqWatch the Nintendo Direct presentation from Reggie right here originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsnintendoNintendo-Directnintendo-direct-2012wiiwii-uWed, 22 Feb 2012 09:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom, Namco and Sega teaming up for mysterious 3DS collaboration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/capcom-namco-and-sega-teaming-up-for-mysterious-3ds-collaborati/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/capcom-namco-and-sega-teaming-up-for-mysterious-3ds-collaborati/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/capcom-namco-and-sega-teaming-up-for-mysterious-3ds-collaborati/#comments Nintendo CEO Satoru Iwata announced this morning a 3DS collaboration between publishers Capcom, Namco Bandai and Sega. The "impossible to predict" project also has a a teaser site.

Your guess is as good as ours...

Street Fighter x Tekken x Sonic & Friends?

JoystiqCapcom, Namco and Sega teaming up for mysterious 3DS collaboration originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscapcomjapannamco-bandainintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-2012segaWed, 22 Feb 2012 08:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Brain Age returns with devilishly difficult training]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/brain-age-returns-with-devilishly-difficult-training/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/brain-age-returns-with-devilishly-difficult-training/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/brain-age-returns-with-devilishly-difficult-training/#comments Nintendo has been criticized for not getting edgy with some of its franchises. Well, it's about to do just that in the most unexpected way. Nintendo CEO Satoru Iwata announced a follow-up to the Brain Age series this morning with a devilish Dr. Ryuta Kawashima.

As translated by Andriasang, the new title focuses on concentration and working memory, with some of the challenges so tough they are referred to as "Oni Training," which you can translate as devil or demon training.

The normal Kawashima will now be replaced by a devil form. Yup, this is going to go over well in the States with the firebrand crowd. Somehow we have a hard time imagining Nicole Kidman giggling through this Brain Age.

JoystiqBrain Age returns with devilishly difficult training originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsBrain-AgeBrain-Trainingnintendonintendo-direct-2012Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN releases: Touch My Katamari, Plants vs. Zombies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/psn-releases-touch-my-katamari-plants-vs-zombies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/psn-releases-touch-my-katamari-plants-vs-zombies/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/psn-releases-touch-my-katamari-plants-vs-zombies/#comments Another big Vita week for the PSN update. Last week's "early" launch saw the additions of Escape Plan, Hustle Kings, and Super Stardust Delta -- that last one being the free 3G game. This week we see the addition of Touch My Katamari, perennial favorite Plants vs. Zombies and several augmented reality. Of course, for further pertinent PS Vita information, head on over to our Joystiq Vita launch guide.

PSN Plus subscribers can pick up six classic Sega titles for free this week, which includes the first two Sonic the Hedgehog titles, Golden Axe (call dibs on dwarf!) and Altered Beast. Also, don't forget to check out the demos for SSX and Shank 2. Check out the full list of this week's content over on the PlayStation Blog.

JoystiqPSN releases: Touch My Katamari, Plants vs. Zombies originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Plants-vs-Zombiesplaystationplaystation-vitaps3psn-tuesdayvitaWed, 22 Feb 2012 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Starhawk Beta open to all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/psa-starhawk-beta-open-to-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/psa-starhawk-beta-open-to-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/22/psa-starhawk-beta-open-to-all/#comments
The Starhawk public beta went live last night in North America and is available today across Europe. No more caveats or purchases required to get into the sci-fi shooter's beta. Just head on over to the PSN and download the thing.

JoystiqPSA: Starhawk Beta open to all originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3starhawkWed, 22 Feb 2012 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rayman Origins leaps onto Vita with screens and trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/rayman-origins-leaps-onto-vita-with-screens-and-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/rayman-origins-leaps-onto-vita-with-screens-and-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/rayman-origins-leaps-onto-vita-with-screens-and-trailer/#comments
The surprisingly profitable Rayman Origins begins its 2012 hop from platform to platform on Vita, followed by 3DS on March 20, and PC on March 29. Yes, you should play it.

Continue reading Rayman Origins leaps onto Vita with screens and trailer

JoystiqRayman Origins leaps onto Vita with screens and trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitarayman-originsvitaTue, 21 Feb 2012 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Hitman: Absolution clips cover Diana Burnwood, actress profiles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/hitman-absolution-clips-cover-diana-burnwood-actress-profiles/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/hitman-absolution-clips-cover-diana-burnwood-actress-profiles/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/hitman-absolution-clips-cover-diana-burnwood-actress-profiles/#comments
Diana Burnwood is the female lead of the Hitman series, despite us rarely seeing her face. As Agent 47's handler, she's gone to great lengths to protect the hitman, going so far as to bring him back from the dead in a climactic act of vengeance. Now, she's the target. That's gratitude for you.

Continue reading Hitman: Absolution clips cover Diana Burnwood, actress profiles

JoystiqHitman: Absolution clips cover Diana Burnwood, actress profiles originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Diana-Burnwoodhitman-5hitman-absolutionIOIO-Interactivemicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxTue, 21 Feb 2012 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sins of a Dark Age announced, new team-based RTS from Sins of a Solar Empire dev]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/sins-of-a-dark-age-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/sins-of-a-dark-age-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/sins-of-a-dark-age-announced/#comments Ironclad announced Sins of a Dark Age today, its follow-up to the epic space armada strategy game, Sins of a Solar Empire. The new game will be a free-to-play project, blending classic real-time strategy with the MOBA genre (League of Legends, DOTA 2).

Players work in teams, which consist of one commander and up to four heroes, who can face off against other players or AI. The commander is responsible for building the base, directing units and positioning defenses. The commander can also call upon "Realm Powers" to turn the tide of battle. Heroes have their own set of powers, but are tasked with assisting the commander's units and capturing resources.

More details should shake out at the Game Developers Conference in two weeks. The game will begin its beta this summer.

Gallery: Sins of a Dark Age

JoystiqSins of a Dark Age announced, new team-based RTS from Sins of a Solar Empire dev originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>infinite-game-publishingIroncladironclad-gamespcsins-of-a-dark-ageTue, 21 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Witcher franchise sold 1.5 million copies in 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/witcher-franchise-sold-1-5-million-copies-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/witcher-franchise-sold-1-5-million-copies-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/witcher-franchise-sold-1-5-million-copies-in-2011/#comments CD Projekt RED announced this morning that The Witcher franchise sold over 1.5 million units in 2011. The breakdown is 1.1 million copies of The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings for the year, following its May launch, and another 400,000 sales of the original game, which launched in 2007.

"I have to admit, though, that the sales results for The Witcher, five years on from the game's premiere, are remarkable. If anything, they prove that the content we put into our games ages well," said Adam Badowski, head of the CD Projekt RED studio.

A surprising statistic about the sequel, given how entrenched we think digital distribution is in PC gaming, is that digital distribution only accounted for 24 percent of the sequel's sales. Digital distribution channels had 270,000 sales of The Witcher 2, with 40,000 of those through the DRM-free GOG.com.

The Witcher will also be introduced to new audiences this year when The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings Enhanced Edition makes its way to Xbox 360 on April 17.

Continue reading Witcher franchise sold 1.5 million copies in 2011

JoystiqWitcher franchise sold 1.5 million copies in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CD-Projektcd-projekt-redpcsalesThe-Witcherthe-witcher-2Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[SSX demo available now on Xbox 360, later today on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/ssx-demo-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/ssx-demo-available-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/21/ssx-demo-available-now/#comments It's time to return to SSX's pixel peaks and commit death-defying stunts from the comfort of your couch (hot cocoa optional). The demo for EA's SSX reboot is available now on Xbox 360, featuring classic SSX character Zoe Payne in "Race it" and "Trick it" events.

The demo also features some online functionality, allowing players to upload ghosts of their best runs in the "Explore mode." It's also possible to unlock Mac Fraser (pictured) by sending the demo to a friend.

PS3 owners itching to hit the slopes can join as soon as the PSN updates later today. The full tricky experience will be available February 28 in North America.

JoystiqSSX demo available now on Xbox 360, later today on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demoea-canadaea-sportselectronix-artsmicrosoftplaystationps3ssx-2012xboxTue, 21 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Co-Op Shade Survival mode coming to Uncharted 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/co-op-shade-survival-mode-coming-to-uncharted-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/co-op-shade-survival-mode-coming-to-uncharted-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/co-op-shade-survival-mode-coming-to-uncharted-3/#comments Uncharted 3 is getting a new "Co-Op Shade Survival" mode in March. Naughty Dog shared almost no information beyond the name, and expects us to extrapolate more from the screenshot above. If we had to guess, given the name, it's about making sure Drake and Elena stay out of the sun and wear proper sunblock while they're on holiday.

The tease for the new mode comes as the company preps the $10 "Multiplayer Flashback Map Pack #2" for tomorrow, February 21. Remember, you can get all the Uncharted DLC at a deep discount as part of the Fortune Hunters' Club -- it's like AAA membership for couch adventurers.

JoystiqCo-Op Shade Survival mode coming to Uncharted 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-op-shade-survivalnaughty-dogplaystationps3psnuncharted-3uncharted-3-drakes-deceptionMon, 20 Feb 2012 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Skyrim beta update 1.4.26 live on Steam]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/skyrim-beta-update-1-4-26-live-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/skyrim-beta-update-1-4-26-live-on-steam/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/skyrim-beta-update-1-4-26-live-on-steam/#comments Bethesda's approach to avoiding "latest patch does horrible thing," which is to publicly beta test its updates, is paying off. Skyrim version 1.4.26 is now downloadable from Steam, and the general working theory is: if it breaks the game, it's almost your fault for downloading it in the first place. (We jest!)

Bethesda warns that only players affected by the issues found after the break should download the update. Remember to back up any save files if you plan to go down the beta route.

Continue reading Skyrim beta update 1.4.26 live on Steam

JoystiqSkyrim beta update 1.4.26 live on Steam originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabethesdaBethesda-Softworkselder-scrolls-5pcskyrimthe-elder-scrolls-v-skyrimMon, 20 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Reign of Thunder' is F2P mech shooter from MechAssault dev]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/reign-of-thunder-is-f2p-mech-shooter-from-mechassault-dev/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/reign-of-thunder-is-f2p-mech-shooter-from-mechassault-dev/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/reign-of-thunder-is-f2p-mech-shooter-from-mechassault-dev/#comments
After a lengthy drought of mech games, it suddenly feels like armored mechanical behemoths are back en vogue, with Day 1 Studios adding Reign of Thunder to the roster. The game is a fast-paced, third-person free-to-play mech combat game. It will feature a new mech IP by the team that created MechAssault.

"It feels great to return to the Mech genre and community we've played games with and made games with, for almost two decades. Combining the customization and RPG elements of the early MechWarrior PC and board games with the fast paced arcade action of the MechAssault series and making it all Free-to-Play is an exciting opportunity to be part of," said Day 1 Creative Director and Executive Producer TJ Wagner. "I'm dying to get Thunder in the hands of new and old Mech pilots alike and battle it out. The best part is that time is very, very near."

Reign of Thunder will launch into the mech arena as MechWarrior Online and MechWarrior Tactics, two titles officially set in the BattleTech Universe, plan to bring back the glory of mega mech combat this year.

Joystiq'Reign of Thunder' is F2P mech shooter from MechAssault dev originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Day-1-StudiospcReign-of-ThunderMon, 20 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake PC recoups dev and marketing costs in 48 hours]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/alan-wake-pc-recoups-dev-and-marketing-costs-in-48-hours/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/alan-wake-pc-recoups-dev-and-marketing-costs-in-48-hours/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/alan-wake-pc-recoups-dev-and-marketing-costs-in-48-hours/#comments Alan Wake for PC took the road less traveled to launch, but all those yellow bricks are made of gold from here on out. Developer Remedy, which was also the publisher of the PC version, revealed the game recouped its development and marketing expenses during "the first 48 hours" after launch on February 16.

"We are very happy with the sales and hitting #1 on Steam at launch was nothing short of amazing," Remedy's Aki Järvilehto noted on the game's forum.

Alan Wake returns this week to Xbox Live Arcade in mini-sequel Alan Wake's American Nightmare, which fans of the series will want to pick up. Thankfully, American Nightmare won't be the end of Wake's adventures on consoles, PC or any other future platform the writer finds himself surviving on.

Gallery: Alan Wake PC (2/16/12)

JoystiqAlan Wake PC recoups dev and marketing costs in 48 hours originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alan-WakepcRemedyremedy-entertainmentsalessteamMon, 20 Feb 2012 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 3's 'Take Back Earth' trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/mass-effect-3s-take-back-earth-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/mass-effect-3s-take-back-earth-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/mass-effect-3s-take-back-earth-trailer/#comments
...yeah, but is the Earth worth taking back after the reapers are done with it? In case you missed it last night during The Walking Dead, here's the trailer for Mass Effect 3, revealing that we're going to need all the Commander Shepards the galaxy can spare to save our little rock.

JoystiqMass Effect 3's 'Take Back Earth' trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWaremass-effect-3microsoftpcplaystationps3xboxMon, 20 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UFC Undisputed 3 indisputably beats UK chart competition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/ufc-undisputed-3-indisputably-beats-uk-chart-competition/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/ufc-undisputed-3-indisputably-beats-uk-chart-competition/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/ufc-undisputed-3-indisputably-beats-uk-chart-competition/#comments THQ, currently trading at $0.62 a share, has some good news for investors as UFC Undisputed 3 grappled the top spot on the UK charts this past week. According to Chart-Track, it is the first top title for the publisher since Homefront in early 2011. The good news does come with a caveat, as the previous installment in the franchise may have debuted in second place, but performed better at launch in raw sales numbers.

With no other new combatants in the octagon making it into the top 40 last week, the UK top ten involved a lot of shufflin' and shifting based on retail promotions. FIFA 12 and Modern Warfare 3 moved into second and third, respectively. Last week's number one, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, dropped 63 percent in sales and out of the top ten into the 12 spot.

Mario and Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games, boosted by a new 3DS edition and discounts on the Wii version, saw the title up 94 percent to take the ... Rice-a-Roni? What do you receive at the olympics for fourth place?

Continue reading UFC Undisputed 3 indisputably beats UK chart competition

JoystiqUFC Undisputed 3 indisputably beats UK chart competition originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Britaincall-of-duty-modern-warfare-3Chart-Trackchart-track-weeklyFIFA-12microsoftModern-Warfare-3pcplaystationps3ufc-undisputed-3UKxboxMon, 20 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dungeon Defenders protect Mac on March 8; President's Day DLC features Obama, Romney]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/dungeon-defenders-protect-mac-on-march-8-presidents-day-dlc-fe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/dungeon-defenders-protect-mac-on-march-8-presidents-day-dlc-fe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/20/dungeon-defenders-protect-mac-on-march-8-presidents-day-dlc-fe/#comments
Dungeon Defenders will protect new digital realms when the indie hit makes its way to Mac on March 8. Those seeking to help the process along and revel in the squashing of bugs may rejoice, as beta testing for the Mac version begins today. Those seeking adventure on the new platform should email betatesters@trendyent.com with their name, computer specs and play history with Dungeon Defenders.

Also available sometime today for free on the Steam version of the game is the "Presidents Day Battle Royale" DLC. The content includes the Presidents Day Battle Royale Challenge Mission, punching gloves for the Squire and Monk, along with Democrat Donkey and Republican Elephant pets. There are also four unlockable character skins: President Obama Monk, Michelle Obama Huntress, Mitt Romney Squire and George Washington Apprentice.

The beta and DLC will be available sometime today, and we'll update as soon as it goes live.

Update: Both the DLC and (rolling) beta invites out now.

JoystiqDungeon Defenders protect Mac on March 8; President's Day DLC features Obama, Romney originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dungeon-defendersmacpcpresidents-dayreverb-publishingtrendy-entertainmentMon, 20 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexuiz gameplay trailer quakes with rockets, jetpacks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/nexuiz-gameplay-trailer-quakes-with-rockets-jetpacks/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/nexuiz-gameplay-trailer-quakes-with-rockets-jetpacks/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/18/nexuiz-gameplay-trailer-quakes-with-rockets-jetpacks/#comments
Nexuiz, a guest to the XBLA House Party on February 29 for 800 MS Points ($10), recently shot out a trailer featuring the most gameplay we've seen yet. We also have a preview of the twitch shooter if you're looking for more.

Continue reading Nexuiz gameplay trailer quakes with rockets, jetpacks

JoystiqNexuiz gameplay trailer quakes with rockets, jetpacks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>illfonicmicrosoftnexuizTHQxboxSat, 18 Feb 2012 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Playin' la Vita loca]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/wrup-playin-la-vita-loca/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/wrup-playin-la-vita-loca/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/wrup-playin-la-vita-loca/#comments The PlayStation Vita launched this week with the "First Edition" bundle, but the mainstream hardware launch will take place next Wednesday. Check out our Vita launch guide page for easy access to our reviews and other details regarding the PSVita.

What's everyone playing this weekend?

Continue reading WRUP: Playin' la Vita loca

JoystiqWRUP: Playin' la Vita loca originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-vitavitawhat-are-you-playingWRUPFri, 17 Feb 2012 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band Weekly: Megadeth]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/rock-band-weekly-megadeth/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/rock-band-weekly-megadeth/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/rock-band-weekly-megadeth/#comments Next week's Rock Band DLC pack from thrash metal rockers Megadeth may be called "Megadeth Pack 01," but they've been on the store before.. Previously available, full albums include "Peace Sells...But Who's Buying?" and "Rust in Peace."

Continue reading Rock Band Weekly: Megadeth

JoystiqRock Band Weekly: Megadeth originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DLCHarmonixMegadethmicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3Rock-Band-3rock-band-weeklywiixboxFri, 17 Feb 2012 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Far Cry 3 gameplay video lasts five minutes (Bonus: It's in German!)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/far-cry-3-gameplay-video-lasts-five-minutes-bonus-its-in-germ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/far-cry-3-gameplay-video-lasts-five-minutes-bonus-its-in-germ/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/17/far-cry-3-gameplay-video-lasts-five-minutes-bonus-its-in-germ/#comments German site VideoGamesZone.de has five minutes of gameplay footage featuring Ubisoft's upcoming Far Cry 3. The chatter and sound effects are in English (yes, the sound effects, too!), but we had to do some translation work on our two German voiceover hosts for some extra details.

One of them went to Montreal to play the game (on an 80 inch screen). He mentions that the game runs on an improved version of the Far Cry 2 engine (dubbed "Dunia"). The version shown in the video is for Xbox 360, though the PC version is said to have nicer visuals, as you'd expect.

Improvements to the game from the previous sequel include more intelligent AI, a fast travel system and the removal of constantly respawning enemies.

Later in the video we meet Dr. Earnhardt, who sends protagonist Jason Brody on a quest for special mushrooms. The mushrooms are poisonous and what follows is a tripped out, explosive fantasy island sequence where you can almost taste the purples. Head on over to VideoGamesZone.de to watch the whole thing.

JoystiqFar Cry 3 gameplay video lasts five minutes (Bonus: It's in German!) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>far-cry-3microsoftpcplaystationps3ubisoftxboxFri, 17 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass. Lt. Gov. wants game tax credits tied to job creation]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/mass-lt-gov-wants-game-tax-credits-tied-to-job-creation/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/mass-lt-gov-wants-game-tax-credits-tied-to-job-creation/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/mass-lt-gov-wants-game-tax-credits-tied-to-job-creation/#comments Massachusetts is the fifth largest state for game industry employment in spite of better developer incentives in other states. Nearly 1,300 industry jobs exist in the Commonwealth, but a recent profile of Irrational Games by The Improper Bostonian covers how the state's grip on gaming could slip if it doesn't step up studio stimulus.

A bill for game developer incentives has been floating around the Mass. legislature for about a year, but hasn't gained traction with lawmakers. The state currently provides heavy cuts for the movie industry, despite the game industry pumping more cash into local economies.

"It's ironic," Irrational Games' director of product development Tim Gerritsen said. "If you look at it, where do you want to put your money? We've got 120 permanent employees. They spend all their money here. They pay their rent here. They pay their taxes here. Do you want Dane Cook? He's here for two weeks doing a film, and he's gone."

"When you talk about tax incentives, that's less revenue that you're receiving, so I think any kind of incentive would have to be linked to hard commitments from the private sector," said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, who is coming off a win by keeping PAX East in Boston until 2023. The convention will also make donations totaling $325,000 over the next 11 years to MassDiGI.

The state did lose a major studio last year when former Red Sox player Curt Schilling's 38 Studios moved to neighboring Rhode Island for a $75 million loan. The state isn't likely to lose established studios like Harmonix, Demiurge and Turbine. The problem comes founding or incubating new studios without concessions.

JoystiqMass. Lt. Gov. wants game tax credits tied to job creation originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>38-Studiosbioshock-infiniteBostonDemiurgeHarmonixIrrationalIrrational-GamesMassachusettsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3TaxTax-incentivesTim-MurrayTurbinexboxThu, 16 Feb 2012 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MotoGP developer Monumental Games ends its run]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/monumental-games-ends/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/monumental-games-ends/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/monumental-games-ends/#commentsMonumental Games is no more, selling off all its intellectual property, office supplies and tech. Develop reports the Nottingham UK studio, developer of the MotoGP series, currently has "several parties interested in buying" the remains of the studio. It will be fully dissolved by the end of the year.

Monumental's final operating business was its Prime engine, which apparently didn't gain traction. Last month the company fired its remaining staff, after attempts to restructure since December 2010. Back then it committed massive cuts to the staff when an unannounced project for a major publisher didn't work out.

JoystiqMotoGP developer Monumental Games ends its run originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>monumentalmonumental-gamesMotoGP-0910Thu, 16 Feb 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Alan Wake's final dev diary before American Nightmare]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/alan-wakes-final-dev-diary-before-american-nightmare/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/alan-wakes-final-dev-diary-before-american-nightmare/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/alan-wakes-final-dev-diary-before-american-nightmare/#comments
If you've been trying to avoid story details about Alan Wake's American Nightmare, we'd strongly recommend skipping this developer diary. In it, Alan Wake writer Sam Lake fills in some of details about what happens after the first game and explains Mr. Scratch. Steer clear if you don't want to know!

Continue reading Alan Wake's final dev diary before American Nightmare

JoystiqAlan Wake's final dev diary before American Nightmare originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan-wakes-american-nightmaremicrosoftRemedyremedy-entertainmentxboxThu, 16 Feb 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Civilization 5: Gods & Kings expansion announced, available 'late spring 2012']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/16/civilization-5-gods-and-kings-expansion-announced-available-lat/#comments http://www.blogcdn.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2012/02/civexpansion530pxheaderimggodsandkings.jpgReligion and espionage return to the Civilization series when the fifth installment receives the "Gods & Kings" expansion before the summer solstice.

The expansion includes 27 new units, 13 new buildings and nine new Wonders. There's also nine new civilizations, including Carthage, the Netherlands and the Celts. Along with two new types of city-states: mercantile and religious.

Scenarios include the medieval period, the fall of the Rome and the (very cool sounding) Empires of the Smoky Skies, "a Victorian science-fiction scenario."Oooh!

Most importantly, however, is the return of religion and the salvation or subjugation of the populace through its means. As players enter the Renaissance, spies can be unlocked to change the course of history through surveillance, theft and the always good fun of a coup. Sounds like a missed opportunity for an Assassin's Creed crossover if you ask us.

Gallery: Civilization V: Gods and Kings

JoystiqCivilization 5: Gods & Kings expansion announced, available 'late spring 2012' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2K-Gamescivilization-5firaxisFiraxis-GamespcTake-TwoTake-Two-InteractiveThu, 16 Feb 2012 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Jak and Daxter Collection trailer gets deep, super nostalgic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/jak-and-daxter-collection-trailer-gets-deep-super-nostalgic/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/jak-and-daxter-collection-trailer-gets-deep-super-nostalgic/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/jak-and-daxter-collection-trailer-gets-deep-super-nostalgic/#comments
Here's a 20-minute behind-the-scenes video remembering the original Jak and Daxter game and delving into the development of the Jak and Daxter Collection, available now at retail and PSN. It's definitely a nice walk down memory lane, featuring interviews with the founders of Naughty Dog and artists on the series.

JoystiqJak and Daxter Collection trailer gets deep, super nostalgic originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jak-and-daxterjak-and-daxter-collectionNaughty-Dogplaystationps3Wed, 15 Feb 2012 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rayman Origins is actually profitable for Ubisoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/rayman-origins-is-actually-profitable-for-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/rayman-origins-is-actually-profitable-for-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/rayman-origins-is-actually-profitable-for-ubisoft/#comments Rayman Origins has been profitable for publisher Ubisoft and the company feels the title will be an evergreen success. Although the publisher didn't share sales figures or what the budget was for the title on today's investor call, Rayman Origins' apparent lack of sales success didn't make it a complete financial failure.

"Two successes more than compensated for the performance of Rayman: Origins, Tintin and the non-dance Kinect titles," said Alain Martinez, chief financial officer for Ubisoft on today's call. "We believe Rayman: Origins, which is rated 89 percent on Metacritic with enthusiast reviews and is already profitable, has the capacity to become a long-term seller for the company."

Rayman Origins, which has been a critical darling for combining classic platforming with lush visuals, is currently in process of being ported to every platform in existence. We keep hope alive for a sequel some day, but we'd be just as happy if UbiArt was widely available for indie designers to utilize.

JoystiqRayman Origins is actually profitable for Ubisoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmicrosoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3Q3rayman-originsUbisoftvitaxboxWed, 15 Feb 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PAX East commits to Boston until 2023]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/pax-east-commits-to-boston-until-2023/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/pax-east-commits-to-boston-until-2023/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/15/pax-east-commits-to-boston-until-2023/#comments
PAX East organizers and the Massachusetts Convention Center Authority (MCCA) announced this morning that the popular video game convention will remain in Boston until 2023. Show organizers are hoping to grow attendance of the three-day show to 100,000, making it easily one of the largest public gaming conventions in the world (behind Gamescom and TGS).

PAX East will also make a sizable donation to digital games education. Massachusetts Digital Games Institute (MassDiGI) will receive a $50,000 contribution this year, along with an annual $25,000, for a total of $325,000 over the next 11 years.

"Over the last year, MassDiGI has worked towards building a strong public-private partnership across industry, academia, and government in support of the state's digital games cluster," said Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray. "PAX East's commitment to bringing the largest East Coast video gaming convention to Boston and providing an annual donation to MassDiGI complements ongoing collaboration to increase economic activity within the state and foster knowledge-transfer between Massachusetts and the rest of the world."

Beyond the academic cash, PAX East naturally brings in buckets of cash to the city through hotels and dining.

"We're thrilled to host PAX East for at least 10 more years," said James E. Rooney, executive director of the MCCA. "Hosting an event for the next decade that draws gamers from around the globe to Boston is fantastic, but the international attention it brings to the incredible technological advancements coming out of the Commonwealth is a win-win."

JoystiqPAX East commits to Boston until 2023 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BostonPAX-EastPAX-East-2012penny-arcadepenny-arcade-expoWed, 15 Feb 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gazillion shutting down Fortune Online, focusing on Marvel properties]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/gazillion-shutting-down-fortune-online-focusing-on-marvel-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/gazillion-shutting-down-fortune-online-focusing-on-marvel-prope/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/gazillion-shutting-down-fortune-online-focusing-on-marvel-prope/#comments
Gazillion confirmed to Joystiq this afternoon that the MMO publisher will shut down its Diablo-esque Fortune Online. There's no announced timetable on when the company will shut down the project, nor how many employees will be laid off from the studio in San Mateo, California. Gazillion will try to shift the team to its two Marvel projects.

The publisher will continue focusing on its two Marvel-based MMOs, Marvel Super Hero Squad Online and Marvel Heroes (formerly known as Marvel Universe). A company spokesperson told Joystiq, "We will continue delivering and refining content for Super Hero Squad Online, along with building and developing the Marvel Heroes game."

After a series of moves that cut weight from the company, we had to ask if it was positioning itself for a Disney acquisition, considering its two remaining announced projects are Marvel (and therefore Disney) properties. The company denied that being the plan.

It's worth noting that Gazillion inked the rights to Marvel MMOs for ten years back in 2009, before the comic book company was purchased by Disney. At this point, Disney can either keep letting Gazillion hold the rights to what is surely a lucrative property or make it a Galactus-size buyout offer.

Update: A representative for Gazillion tells us, "Fortune Online is shutting down on February 29, however if our records show a player has made a purchase in the game at any point, they will be receiving a full refund to the payment method used."

JoystiqGazillion shutting down Fortune Online, focusing on Marvel properties originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fortune-OnlineGazilliongazillion-entertainmentlayoffsmarvel-super-hero-squadpcTue, 14 Feb 2012 15:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Vita's North American commercial has 'Bad Intentions']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/vitas-north-american-commercial-has-bad-intentions/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/vitas-north-american-commercial-has-bad-intentions/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/vitas-north-american-commercial-has-bad-intentions/#comments
For the Vita launch (psst, it's next week), the Europeans are receiving an extravagant big-budget looking ad, while North America gets something that could have been produced with handycams and a copy of iMovie. But, hey now, at least it shows off the Vita for more than 20 frames and promotes some functionality!

Also, as stated earlier today, the North American Vita ad would have to feature the #gamechanger Twitter hashtag -- it's a cornerstone of modern American marketing!

"You will find the television commercials featured during primetime programming on some of your favorite networks including Fox, Comedy Central and ESPN," Senior VP of PlayStation Brand Marketing Guy Longworth wrote on the PS Blog. "Residents of New York, LA, Chicago, Philadelphia and San Francisco will notice PS Vita on buildings and billboards. You'll find it on your favorite websites and on your favorite radio stations. Wherever you are, PS Vita aims to be."

Sony plans to spend $50 million on Vita marketing, "the largest platform launch in terms of marketing investment" it's ever had. #gamechanger

JoystiqVita's North American commercial has 'Bad Intentions' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcommercialgamechangerplaystationplaystation-vitavitaTue, 14 Feb 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 rides into retail on June 26]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-on-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-on-june-26/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-on-june-26/#comments THQ is doing all it can to keep Death away from its door, so it's hoping you'll welcome him into your home on June 26. The official Darksiders Twitter account recently revealed Darksiders 2's launch date. The company had previously only forewarned of the Grim Reaper approaching in June.

Gallery: Darksiders 2 (1/24/12)

JoystiqDarksiders 2 rides into retail on June 26 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiders-2microsoftpcplaystationps3q2-2012release-datexboxTue, 14 Feb 2012 12:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Metal Gear Solid 4's online offering ends this summer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/metal-gear-solid-4s-online-offering-ends-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/metal-gear-solid-4s-online-offering-ends-this-summer/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/metal-gear-solid-4s-online-offering-ends-this-summer/#comments Metal Gear Online, the multiplayer component to Metal Gear Solid 4 (which you likely haven't even thought about in three years), will go offline this summer.

Kotaku translated the end of operation details from Konami, which will begin with the MGO shop ceasing to be on March 21. By April, it will be impossible to make new characters. Finally, the whole thing comes to an end on June 21.

Some may quip that this sounds like the most convoluted and extended conclusion ever to a game's online component. To them we say: Would you expect anything less from Metal Gear?

JoystiqMetal Gear Solid 4's online offering ends this summer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsMGS-4MGS4MGS4-Guns-of-the-Patriotsplaystationps3Tue, 14 Feb 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA['The World is in Play' kicks off $50 million Vita ad campaign]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-world-is-in-play-kicks-off-50-million-vita-ad-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-world-is-in-play-kicks-off-50-million-vita-ad-campaign/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/the-world-is-in-play-kicks-off-50-million-vita-ad-campaign/#comments
Sony plans to spend $50 million on its Vita advertising campaign... and from this "The World is in Play" commercial, most of that budget went toward the fantastic visuals.

Given the accents -- and the soccer -- this would appear to be a European ad. It also doesn't feature the #gamechanger Twitter hashtag, a cornerstone of the North American campaign.

In case you're wondering when the hardware is actually available, the first batches of Vita are available tomorrow, with the official product launch on February 22. Well, somebody had to tell you. Can't expect Sony to do all the heavy lifting.

Joystiq'The World is in Play' kicks off $50 million Vita ad campaign originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingmarketingplaystationplaystation-vitavitaTue, 14 Feb 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[SOL: Exodus demo available now, update soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/sol-exodus-demo-available-now-update-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/sol-exodus-demo-available-now-update-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/sol-exodus-demo-available-now-update-soon/#comments SOL: Exodus, the $10 downloadable title that honorably brings the space combat sim into this generation, now has a demo available for test pilots. The demo covers the full prologue mission, which includes the basic tutorial and sets the stage for the "escape the solar system before it blows up" campaign.

Seamless Entertainment is also working on another update for the game, which will be available in the coming weeks. Version 1.12 adds mission checkpoints, difficulty levels, cockpit view, collision damage and "virtual joystick control."

So, go ahead and try out the demo, and consider supporting this genre that desperately screams in the vacuum of space to return.

JoystiqSOL: Exodus demo available now, update soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>demopcseamless-entertainmentsol-exodusupdateTue, 14 Feb 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Crimson Dragon rated in Australia, features markings of 'Project Draco']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/crimson-dragon-rated-in-australia-features-markings-of-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/crimson-dragon-rated-in-australia-features-markings-of-project/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/14/crimson-dragon-rated-in-australia-features-markings-of-project/#comments Neverending storiesIt would appear the final name of "Project Draco" will be Crimson Dragon, if the pieces of a recent Australian classification fit neatly together. The author of the classification is noted as Grounding Inc., with Microsoft as publisher. Also, the game is also called Crimson Dragon, which seems to perfectly describe the flying reptilian protagonist of the game.

Project Draco, a Kinect-based dragon shooter, is heavily inspired by the Panzer Dragoon series. This observation is totally cool since the game is under the direction of Panzer Dragoon creator Yukio Futatsugi and many of the game's original team members. Project Draco is expected to fly sometime this year.

JoystiqCrimson Dragon rated in Australia, features markings of 'Project Draco' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>australiaaustralian-classification-boardclassification-boardcrimson-dragongrounding-inckinectmicrosoftOFLCProject-DracoxboxTue, 14 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST