Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Call of Duty: Ghosts has Kinect voice commands on Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-duty-ghosts-has-kinect-voice-commands-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-duty-ghosts-has-kinect-voice-commands-on-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/call-of-duty-ghosts-has-kinect-voice-commands-on-xbox-one/#comments Activision Publishing CEO Eric Hirshberg has confirmed that the Xbox One version of Call of Duty: Ghosts will have some form of Kinect voice commands. Speaking to VentureBeat, Hirshberg said, "I made a passing comment that you're going to see voice integration, voice commands via Kinect, which is something that we haven't done in the past with Call of Duty." He added that the improvements made to Kinect for Xbox One "really excite" the publisher.

Hirshberg also reassured fans that Kinect support won't be careless. "We've always made sure that we don't just use new technology for novelty's sake, he said. "We always make sure that it makes the gameplay better. In this case, we think it will."

He didn't elaborate on what the voice commands might be, but we imagine they will be something along the lines of, "Come here! Who's a good boy? Are you a good boy? Yes, you are. Yes, you are!"

JoystiqCall of Duty: Ghosts has Kinect voice commands on Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisioncall-of-duty-ghostsinfinity-wardkinectmicrosoftxboxFri, 24 May 2013 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[GRID 2 BAC Mono Edition is £125,000]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/grid-2-bac-mono-edition-is-125-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/grid-2-bac-mono-edition-is-125-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/grid-2-bac-mono-edition-is-125-000/#comments You might be thinking that some countries use commas instead of decimal points, but the headline above does indeed say one hundred and twenty-five thousand British Pounds ($188,700). You might also think that's awfully expensive for the special edition of a racing game (any game, really), but allow us to put things in perspective. The GRID 2 BAC Mono Edition isn't so much a special edition of a game as it is a luxury sports car that happens to come with a game.

Specifically, the BAC Mono Edition comes with the Mono, essentially a street legal formula racing car. Also included is a racing suit and helmet, a copy of GRID 2 and a PlayStation 3 on which to play it. According to BAC's website, a Mono with no frills has a base price of £96,495 ($145,919), and that's before throwing in VAT. Only one copy of the BAC Mono Edition is being manufactured, making it something a collector's item. You can place your pre-order exclusively with GAME. Oh, and shipping is free.

Not to be left out, Best Buy is hosting a special edition of GRID 2 in North America. It includes the IndyCar DLC pack and retails for $59.99.

GRID 2 comes out next week.

Gallery: Grid 2 (BAC Mono Edition)

Continue reading GRID 2 BAC Mono Edition is £125,000

JoystiqGRID 2 BAC Mono Edition is £125,000 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bacbac-monocodemastersgrid-2microsoftmonoplaystationps3ukxboxFri, 24 May 2013 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 for $18 at Best Buy today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/halo-4-for-18-at-best-buy-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/halo-4-for-18-at-best-buy-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/halo-4-for-18-at-best-buy-today/#comments If you've yet to experience John 117's latest adventure, you should know that Halo 4 is a mere $18 at Best Buy today. That deal is valid only for today, by the way, giving you a great excuse Forerunning to the nearest store.

[Thanks, Hank!]

JoystiqHalo 4 for $18 at Best Buy today originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>343-Industrieshalo-4microsoftmicrosoft-studiosxboxFri, 24 May 2013 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[N 2.0 is all the difficult running and jumping and dying you'll ever need]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/n-2-0-is-all-the-difficult-running-and-jumping-and-dying-youll/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/n-2-0-is-all-the-difficult-running-and-jumping-and-dying-youll/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/24/n-2-0-is-all-the-difficult-running-and-jumping-and-dying-youll/#comments Metanet Software's N, which the developer describes as " that game you played in high school but forgot about through college," has seemingly reached its pinnacle. The wall-jumping, pixelated ninja platformer has been officially stamped version 2.0 and is now available entirely for free. N 2.0 adds a number of extra features, including 100 new levels, 100 "legacy" levels pulled from N and the various console iterations of N+, 100 user-made levels, level sharing, local 2 player co-op and new "FUN-lockable" content.

You can play the game for free on Kongregate or download it directly from Metanet. And yes, in case you were wondering, N++ is still on the way

JoystiqN 2.0 is all the difficult running and jumping and dying you'll ever need originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 May 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metanetmetanet-softwarenn-2.0n-pluspcFri, 24 May 2013 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Contrast comes out of the shadows on PSN, XBLA, PC in Q4 2013]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/contrast-comes-out-of-the-shadows-on-psn-xbla-pc-in-q4-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/contrast-comes-out-of-the-shadows-on-psn-xbla-pc-in-q4-2013/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/contrast-comes-out-of-the-shadows-on-psn-xbla-pc-in-q4-2013/#comments
Contrast, the shadow-shifting puzzle platformer from Compulsion Games, will not be released in May as previously planned. After being Greenlit on Steam, the game has since been picked up by Focus Home Interactive for a wider release. Contrast will now be released on XBLA, PSN and PC in Q4 2013.

We think Constrast could be pretty cool. Here's a new trailer to help you endure the longer wait.

JoystiqContrast comes out of the shadows on PSN, XBLA, PC in Q4 2013 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>compulsion-studioscontrastfocus-home-interactivemicrosoftpcplaystationps3xboxThu, 23 May 2013 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Joystiq Podcast 051 Live: Xbox One]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-joystiq-podcast-051-live-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-joystiq-podcast-051-live-xbox-one/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/super-joystiq-podcast-051-live-xbox-one/#comments
This week's live Super Joystiq Podcast is all about the Xbox One. This is our second show on the topic, but a lot more info has trickled out in the last two days. We'll also get to hear the straight dope from our own Ludwig Kietzmann and Alexander Sliwinski, who both attended Microsoft's Xbox Reveal event in Washington.

And since we're on the subject of Xbox, we'll be giving away a very limited edition Xbox 360 controller - there's only one of them - featuring the Joystiq logo and long-lasting, built-in lithium-ion battery. Tune it to see how you can win.

The show goes live at 3:45 ET!

JoystiqSuper Joystiq Podcast 051 Live: Xbox One originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftsuper-joystiq-podcastxboxThu, 23 May 2013 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Nintendo eShop releases: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, Kirby sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-donkey-kong-country-returns-3d-kir/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-donkey-kong-country-returns-3d-kir/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/23/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-donkey-kong-country-returns-3d-kir/#commentsNew Nintendo eShop releases Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, Kirby sale It's all about Nintendo mascots on the eShop this week. First and foremost, we've got Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, the delightful 3DS port of the challenging Wii game from 2010. Next up, Kirby gets three, count 'em, three new games on the Wii U Virtual Console: Kirby Super Star, Kirby's DreamLand 3 and Kirby's Dream Course. The Kirby games are $7.99 apiece or, from now until May 30, if you buy two you'll get the third game free.

Also running until May 30, you can grab the 3DS eShop game The Denpa Men: They Came by Wave for 20 percent off.

Continue reading New Nintendo eShop releases: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, Kirby sale

JoystiqNew Nintendo eShop releases: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, Kirby sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 May 2013 12:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdonkey-kong-country-returns-3deshopnintendonintendoware-weeklywii-uThu, 23 May 2013 12:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Altered Beast 3D coming to eShop in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/altered-beast-3d-coming-to-eshop-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/altered-beast-3d-coming-to-eshop-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/altered-beast-3d-coming-to-eshop-in-japan/#comments Altered Beast is about to wise fwom its gwave on 3DS. Sega has announced that Altered Beast 3D will arrive on the eShop next week in Japan, bringing with it several new features, according to Tiny Cartridge. Like the Japanese eShop re-release of Sonic the Hedgehog, Altered Beast 3D will include both the Japanese and western versions of the game, button remapping and an optional mode that emulates CRT monitors.

None of Sega's 3DS re-releases have been confirmed for a North American release, including Space Harrier, Super Hang-On, Sonic the Hedgehog and, now, Altered Beast. Tiny Cartridge does note, however, that Space Harrier was recently confirmed for Europe, so there may be hope the game will be added to North America's growing Sega eShop library.

JoystiqAltered Beast 3D coming to eShop in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaltered-beastaltered-beast-3deshopjapannintendoWed, 22 May 2013 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Far Cry 3 map editor injected with Blood Dragon goodness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/far-cry-3-map-editor-injected-with-blood-dragon-goodness/#comments Cheesy-awesome retro news today, as Ubisoft has announced the release of a Blood Dragon asset pack for the Far Cry 3 map editor. The "Mark IV Style" pack for the editor allows players to create levels with the same neon-drenched visuals as Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon (pictured).

The pack is available now for free on Xbox 360 and PS3. We haven't spotted it on either Steam or Uplay, but we're checking with Ubisoft regarding a PC release.

JoystiqFar Cry 3 map editor injected with Blood Dragon goodness originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcfar-cry-3far-cry-3-blood-dragonmicrosoftplaystationps3ubisoftxboxWed, 22 May 2013 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA may be making Wii U games after all]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/ea-may-be-making-wii-u-games-after-all/#comments EA revealed some pretty significant news last week, with a spokesperson saying the company currently has no Wii U games in development. Now, it appears that EA may have some Wii U games in development after all, according to EA CFO Blake Jorgensen. The news comes by way of comments made by Jorgensen at the Stifel Nicolaus 2013 Internet, Media and Communications Conference.

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsnintendowii-uWed, 22 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A.N.N.E. Kickstarter concludes at over $100,000]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-n-n-e-kickstarter-concludes-at-over-100-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-n-n-e-kickstarter-concludes-at-over-100-000/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/a-n-n-e-kickstarter-concludes-at-over-100-000/#comments
After clearing its $70,000 goal more than a week in advance, the A.N.N.E. Kickstarter has concluded at $100,272. The total is enough to unlock three of ANNE's stretch goals, namely Mac & Linux versions, gender swap mode and achievements, and New Game+. While stretch goals for Ouya, PSN/Vita and Wii U versions were not met, creator Moise "Mo" Breton promised in a previous update that these versions will still be made, though it will take longer.

Mo, whom we interviewed back in April, also posted an inspirational thank you video on YouTube, which retells the whole experience and, more importantly, heavily features his adorable children. "From now on, it's all about making the game," said Mo, thanking supporters for allowing him to develop full-time. He is planning to make monthly updates throughout development. ANNE is planned to launch in early to mid 2014.

JoystiqA.N.N.E. Kickstarter concludes at over $100,000 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>annegamesbymokickstartermacpcWed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One won't let indies self-publish]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-wont-allow-indies-to-self-publish/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-wont-allow-indies-to-self-publish/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/xbox-one-wont-allow-indies-to-self-publish/#comments
Microsoft didn't have anything to say to smaller independent developers during its Xbox One announcement. Such studios might have been hoping for bigger news from the company's E3 press conference, but it looks like there out of luck. Unlike the PS3, Vita, Wii U and, soon, the PS4, indie devs will not be able to self-publish their games on Xbox One, reports Shacknews.

Matt Booty, general manager of Redmond Game Studios and Platforms, told the site that Microsoft will "continue to court developers in the ways that we have." He did add that the company will "explore new business models and new ways of surfacing content," but ultimately concluded that "Microsoft Studios is a publisher that works with a wide range of partners, as do a lot of other people, to bring digital content to the box."

Currently, the only way self-publish on the Xbox 360 is via Xbox Live Indie Games. While the niche channel has seen a few successful developers, most see greater success on other platforms like Steam and PSN. Furthermore, the XBLIG service is stagnating according to some developers, and its future remains unclear.

JoystiqXbox One won't let indies self-publish originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>indiemicrosoftxbligxboxxbox-oneWed, 22 May 2013 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Skullgirls to beat down Japanese arcades]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/skullgirls-to-beat-down-japanese-arcades/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/skullgirls-to-beat-down-japanese-arcades/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/22/skullgirls-to-beat-down-japanese-arcades/#commentsSkullgirls to beat down Japanese arcades Skullgirls, the little fighting game that could, just keeps on chugging. The magazine image above was discovered by NeoGAF, showing Skullgirls listed for release in Japanese arcades (7th from the bottom). That's a very big deal for an independently developed American fighting game. Developer Lab Zero Games acknowledged as much on NeoGAF, with studio head Peter "Ravidrath" Bartholow confirming the news saying, "We are stupidly excited for this, just because I can't think of a single other non-Japanese dev that can say they have a game out in Japanese arcades."

He added that a Japanese company is handling the port. Furthermore, the game will be out "as soon as possible," and the recently crowd-funded DLC characters will be added in future updates.

JoystiqSkullgirls to beat down Japanese arcades originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 May 2013 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanlab-zero-gamesskullgirlsWed, 22 May 2013 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dying: Sinner Escape absconding to Vita, iOS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dying-sinner-escape-absconding-to-vita-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dying-sinner-escape-absconding-to-vita-ios/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/dying-sinner-escape-absconding-to-vita-ios/#comments The Vita and iOS devices are set to receive a new dose of horror courtesy of Dying: Sinner Escape. The game is being made with help from the creator of Saw, according to developer Nekcom Entertainment, though the announcement neglects to name exactly which creator it's referring to. Neither Saw's director, James Wan, nor its screenwriter, Leigh Whannell, are mentioned specifically.

Regardless, Dying clearly has a Saw vibe. It's story revolves around characters being trapped in foreboding environments, forcing them to solve strange puzzles and try to escape. The game will be released episodically with the first episode, "Last Hour," slated to arrive on May 25.

Gallery: Dying: Sinner Escape

JoystiqDying: Sinner Escape absconding to Vita, iOS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 23:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dying-sinner-escapeiosipadiphonemobilenekcom-entertainmentplaystationplaystation-vitasawvitaTue, 21 May 2013 23:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One incorporates 'Smart Match' matchmaking, 'Living Game' tech]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-incorporates-smart-match-matchmaking-living-game-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-incorporates-smart-match-matchmaking-living-game-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-incorporates-smart-match-matchmaking-living-game-t/#comments Apart from its whiz-bang voice, motion and video capture features, the Xbox One also features some new tech under the hood to improve Xbox Live. In addition to a huge server boost and dynamic Achievements, the new Xbox Live will use a feature called Smart Match, which "uses advanced algorithms to pair players based on skill, language, and now reputation."

Microsoft hasn't provided further details, but it sounds like reputation is the biggest difference between Smart Match and TrueSkill, Xbox Live's current skill rating system. TrueSkill only takes player skill into account when creating matches.

Microsoft has also provided a little more info on the new persistent side of Xbox Live. Called "Living Games," the tech leverages cloud computing to create persistent worlds. The company adds that "your games stay in sync with the real world, which means the latest stats can be automatically fed into your sports games." Furthermore, "Advanced AI even allows your friends to play against your shadow when you're not available."

We're assuming Microsoft got the idea after a late night viewing of Michael Keaton's 1996 comedy smash, Multiplicity.

JoystiqXbox One incorporates 'Smart Match' matchmaking, 'Living Game' tech originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>living-gamesmicrosoftsmart-matchxboxxbox-liveTue, 21 May 2013 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One features NFL live broadcasts, Smartglass, fantasy football]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-features-nfl-live-broadcasts-smartglass-fantasy-footba/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-features-nfl-live-broadcasts-smartglass-fantasy-footba/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-features-nfl-live-broadcasts-smartglass-fantasy-footba/#comments Microsoft will build a new relationship with the NFL on Xbox One. On Microsoft's new console, users will be able to take advantage of numerous interactive features available only on Xbox. These include Smartglass integration and the ability for users to see their fantasy football stats updated automatically while watching live broadcasts of the latest NFL games. Users will also be able to call and taunt their fantasy football friends via Skype.

JoystiqXbox One features NFL live broadcasts, Smartglass, fantasy football originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kinectmicrosoftnflsmartglassxboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox One controller has new D-pad, integrated battery compartment]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-controller-has-new-d-pad-integrated-battery-compartmen/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-controller-has-new-d-pad-integrated-battery-compartmen/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/xbox-one-controller-has-new-d-pad-integrated-battery-compartmen/#comments While the new console and Kinect might get the lion's share of attention at the Xbox Reveal, the good ol' Xbox controller is getting some redesign love on the Xbox One as well. The control will feature an integrated battery compartment, Wi-Fi Direct, "impulse triggers" that incorporate extra feedback and, most important of all, a cross-shaped "precision" D-Pad.

JoystiqXbox One controller has new D-pad, integrated battery compartment originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>controllermicrosoftxboxxbox-onexbox-revealTue, 21 May 2013 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[BlazBlue Alter Memory transplants the game into anime]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/blazblue-alter-memory-transplants-the-game-into-anime/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/blazblue-alter-memory-transplants-the-game-into-anime/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/21/blazblue-alter-memory-transplants-the-game-into-anime/#commentsBlazBlue Alter Memory transplants the game into anime Finally, the complex and compelling story of BlazBlue is getting the anime treatment with BlazBlue Alter Memory. According to Anime News Network, the story centers on Ragna the Bloodedge - you might know him as "humongous sword guy" - and the ragtag gang of pugilists determined to collect the bounty on his head. Somehow, a fox lady, a little vampire girl and a weird, anthropomorphic cat person figure in there as well.

BlazBlue Alter Memory is set to launch this fall.

JoystiqBlazBlue Alter Memory transplants the game into anime originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 May 2013 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>animearc-system-worksblazblueblazblue-continuum-shift-extendTue, 21 May 2013 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo launches 'Crowdfarter' for Game & Wario]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/nintendo-launches-crowdfarter-for-game-and-wario/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/nintendo-launches-crowdfarter-for-game-and-wario/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/nintendo-launches-crowdfarter-for-game-and-wario/#comments
The crowd funding movement has reached an inevitable point in its trendiness arc: Parody. To promote the micro-game infused Game & Wario on the Wii U, Nintendo has launched (sigh...) Crowdfarter. The site pokes fun at services like Kickstarter and Indiegogo, asking fans to donate "coins" to help fund the project.

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

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

Continue reading Nintendo launches 'Crowdfarter' for Game & Wario

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crowdfartergame-and-warionintendowii-uMon, 20 May 2013 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Denis Dyack speaks up on X-Men: Destiny mismanagement allegations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/denis-dyack-speaks-up-on-x-men-destiny-mismanagement-allegation/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/denis-dyack-speaks-up-on-x-men-destiny-mismanagement-allegation/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/denis-dyack-speaks-up-on-x-men-destiny-mismanagement-allegation/#comments
It may not be the timeliest response, but Denis Dyack is speaking out against allegations that the very poorly received X-Men: Destiny was the result of catastrophic mismanagement on the part of developer Silicon Knights. Dyack recently left his role as the head of Silicon Knights to join Precursor games, developer of the coming Eternal Darkness spiritual successor, Shadow of the Eternals. As Precursor is seeking crowdfunding for the project, and Dyack is serving as its chief creative officer, it seems the company believes he has some 'splaining to do.

The allegations sprung from a Kotaku article penned by freelance writer Andrew McMillen last October. In a 30-minute YouTube response, Dyack categorically denies statements made in the article, saying that "there isn't any hard evidence whatsoever besides non-credible anonymous sources." Dyack added that Silicon Knights refused to submit any comments for the article in question, as it would have appeared to lend credence to what he sees as untrue allegations.

Dyack then reads a letter he alleges was written by McMillen to an anonymous source. The letter states that McMillen's article was initially refused by Wired games editor Chris Kohler, who cited a lack of facts and documentation, apart from the comments from anonymous ex-employees. Dyack goes on to say that "not only did Silicon Knights not divert funds from X-Men: Destiny to our other projects, which I can't talk about, we actually put more money into X-Men: Destiny than what we were paid." Dyack says he and Silicon Knights worked with Activision and Marvel to make Destiny as good as it could be and, while he's sorry for how it turned out, he says, "We put nothing but our best efforts" into the game.

Dyack also admitted to saying some things he "shouldn't have said in the press" regarding X-Men Destiny, adding, "I've learned my lesson." The same mistakes won't be made again, he says. The video goes on to address other concerns, such as Silicon Knights' relationship with Nintendo, and Dyack has also posted a litany of related references on Precursor's forums.

JoystiqDenis Dyack speaks up on X-Men: Destiny mismanagement allegations originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionmicrosoftplaystationprecursor-gamesps3shadow-of-the-eternalssilicon-knightsX-Men-DestinyxboxMon, 20 May 2013 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Coming soon to XBLM: Gunslinger, CastleStorm, D3Publisher deals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/coming-soon-to-xblm-gunslinger-castlestorm-d3publisher-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/coming-soon-to-xblm-gunslinger-castlestorm-d3publisher-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/coming-soon-to-xblm-gunslinger-castlestorm-d3publisher-deals/#comments
Major Nelson has posted the latest schedule for upcoming Xbox Live content. As previously announced, Call of Juarez: Gunslinger will be released this Wednesday. This week's Deal of the Week is a 50 percent off sale on lots of D3Publisher titles, including the new Karateka, the Puzzle Quest series, Pid and more. There's also an Alan Wake sale with games up to 83 percent off. Finally, Crysis 3 hits Games on Demand tomorrow.

Next week, Hunters Trophy 2 - Australia hits Xbox Live Arcade and, although not mentioned by Major Nelson, CastleStorm will arrive as well. Next week's deals include discounts on Ghost Recon: Future Soldier and its DLC, DarkStalkers Resurrection for $10. The Games on Demand version of Dark Souls will also be discounted, and it expansion, "Artorias of the Abyss" will be $7.50.

Continue reading Coming soon to XBLM: Gunslinger, CastleStorm, D3Publisher deals

JoystiqComing soon to XBLM: Gunslinger, CastleStorm, D3Publisher deals originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>call-of-juarez-gunslingercastlestormmicrosoftxblmxboxxbox-livexbox-live-marketplaceMon, 20 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft trademarks 'Forzavista']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/microsoft-trademarks-forzavista/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/microsoft-trademarks-forzavista/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/20/microsoft-trademarks-forzavista/#commentsMicrosoft trademarks 'Forzavista' Microsoft has filed a new trademark for the word "Forzavista." Using our detective-like intuition, we've determined it probably has something to do with the Forza Motorsport series, possibly something that will be revealed during tomorrow's "Xbox Reveal" event. Further speculation points to a renaming or expansion of the series' "Autovista" feature, which allows players to get up close and personal with many of the game's cars (including Halo 4's Warthog).

Okay, so it's not so much speculation as it is exactly what's described by the trademark itself. Specifically, the trademark refers to "A feature of interactive video game software which allows players to obtain statistical information of internal and external features of a vehicle and to virtually navigate and operate those vehicles."

Be sure to tune into Joystiq on Tuesday, May 21, for more live coverage of Microsoft's event than you can shake a stick shift at.

JoystiqMicrosoft trademarks 'Forzavista' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 20 May 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>forzaforza-motorsportforzavistamicrosofttrademarkxboxMon, 20 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ron Gilbert's Scurvy Scallywags gets trailer, screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/ron-gilberts-scurvy-scallywags-gets-trailer-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/ron-gilberts-scurvy-scallywags-gets-trailer-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/ron-gilberts-scurvy-scallywags-gets-trailer-screens/#comments
Scurvy Scallywags, the upcoming game from Ron Gilbert and DeathSpank co-creator Clayton Kauzlaric, is a little different from most match-three puzzlers. As we learned in March, players can influence the direction in which the board collapses after making a match. This, in turn, can move their character around the board and allow them to engage in combat with other characters.

The concept is a bit difficult to put down on paper, so thankfully there's a new trailer! Take note of the end of the video, as we're fairly certain this is the first sea shanty in history to feature a theremin.

Gallery: Scurvy Scallywags

JoystiqRon Gilbert's Scurvy Scallywags gets trailer, screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beep-gamesiosipadiphonemobilescurvy-scallywagsFri, 17 May 2013 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Deja Review: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/review-donkey-kong-country-returns-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/review-donkey-kong-country-returns-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/review-donkey-kong-country-returns-3d/#comments
In our 2010 review of Donkey Kong Country Returns for the Wii, our own JC Fletcher admitted a terrible truth: He had used the Super Guide. Nintendo gave us the nefarious innovation a few years ago, ostensibly a tool to help less experienced players navigate the trickier parts of its games. Seasoned players recognized it for what it really was: A taunt, a gently whispering devil on your shoulder.

Resisting the shiny, candy-like allure of the Super Guide is still a major component of Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, Monster Games' 3DS rendition of Retro Studios' Wii platformer. A new difficulty setting tries to soften the Wii version's sharp edges, but the brutal structure of its levels remains intact, and no amount of extra health is going to change that.

Gallery: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D (4/6/13)

Continue reading Deja Review: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D

JoystiqDeja Review: Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 May 2013 15:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdonkey-kong-country-returns-3dmonster-gamesnintendoretroretro-studiosFri, 17 May 2013 15:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Play unreleased Wii U games at Best Buy during E3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/play-unreleased-wii-u-games-at-best-buy-during-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/play-unreleased-wii-u-games-at-best-buy-during-e3/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/play-unreleased-wii-u-games-at-best-buy-during-e3/#comments In a "one more thing" moment on the latest Nintendo Direct, Big N president Reggie Fils-aime announced a special partnership with Best Buy. During the week of E3, the big box electronics store will be hosting playable demos of unreleased Wii U games. Presumably, these will be the games that Nintendo is showing off during the industry's annual trade show, but Fils-aime did not reveal specific titles.

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-summerPlatinum-Gamesproject-p-100the-wonderful-101wii-uFri, 17 May 2013 10:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games coming to Wii U]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mario-and-sonic-winter-games-coming-to-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mario-and-sonic-winter-games-coming-to-wii-u/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/17/mario-and-sonic-winter-games-coming-to-wii-u/#commentsMario & Sonic Winter games coming to Wii U A new Mario & Sonic game is headed to the Wii U. Mario & Sonic at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games reunites the members of the Mushroom Kingdom with Sonic and friends for a bit of snowy competition. Winter Games will offer lots of events that make use of both Wii Motion Plus and the Wii U GamePad, sometimes in combination. For example, the Biathlon uses the Wii Remote for skiing, while the GamePad is used as a scope for rifle sections. (Side note: The Biathlon is a weird event.)

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mario-and-sonic-winter-gamesnintendonintendo-directnintendo-direct-summerwii-uFri, 17 May 2013 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonic the Hedgehog speeds to Android today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonic-the-hedgehog-speeds-to-android-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonic-the-hedgehog-speeds-to-android-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonic-the-hedgehog-speeds-to-android-today/#comments Update: The game is now available on the Google Play store.

There are quite a few Sonic games available on Android, but today marks the first appearance of the Blue Blur's original adventure, Sonic the Hedgehog. Sonic's first adventure has been updated for mobile devices, adding widescreen support, a remastered soundtrack, leaderboards and more. Furthermore, a brand new addition will allow users to play as either Knuckles or Tails. This new feature is also being added to the iOS version of Sonic the Hedgehog via a free update.

The game hasn't appeared on the North American Google Play store as of this writing, but it's slated to arrive today for $2.99.

Continue reading Sonic the Hedgehog speeds to Android today

JoystiqSonic the Hedgehog speeds to Android today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidgoogle-playiosipadiphonemobilesegasonic-the-hedgehogThu, 16 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Joystiq Podcast 050 Live: Magic 2014, Zoombies, Richard & Alice [Update: Watch the replay!]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/super-joystiq-podcast-050-live-magic-2014-zoombies-richard-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/super-joystiq-podcast-050-live-magic-2014-zoombies-richard-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/super-joystiq-podcast-050-live-magic-2014-zoombies-richard-and/#comments
Update: The live broadcast is over, but you can replay the episode right here!

This week on the live edition of the Super Joystiq Podcast, join Richard, Jess and Mike (Schramm) as they discuss a handful of new games, including Magic 2014, Zoombies and the indie adventure game, Richard & Alice. And maybe they'll throw in a little bit more about Metro: Last Light.

Speaking of which, we'll be giving away a copy of Last Light on the show. Be sure to watch the episode to find out how you can win! Super Joystiq Podcast 050 will be broadcast right here, live starting at 4pm Eastern.

JoystiqSuper Joystiq Podcast 050 Live: Magic 2014, Zoombies, Richard & Alice [Update: Watch the replay!] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>richard-and-alicesuper-joystiq-podcastzoombiesThu, 16 May 2013 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Celebrate Diablo 3's birthday with Magic Find and EXP boosts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/celebrate-diablo-3s-birthday-with-magic-find-and-exp-boosts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/celebrate-diablo-3s-birthday-with-magic-find-and-exp-boosts/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/celebrate-diablo-3s-birthday-with-magic-find-and-exp-boosts/#comments One year ago, The Diablo 3 servers went public. In celebration of the Lord of Terror's re-birthday, Blizzard is granting Diablo 3 players some special in-game boosts. From now until May 21, all dungeon-crawlers will receive an extra 25 percent bonus to both Magic Find and EXP. In addition, this bonus will stack above the usual 300 percent cap.

In addition, many Diablo 3 Twitch streamers are holding celebrations of their own, hosting special streams and giveaways. You can find the schedule right here.

Last week, Blizzard implemented a boost of a different sort, massively expanding Diablo 3's in-game gold reserves, but that was an accident.

JoystiqCelebrate Diablo 3's birthday with Magic Find and EXP boosts originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionActivision-BlizzardblizzardDiablo-3macpcThu, 16 May 2013 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Horizon' is an E3 alternative from Venus Patrol and MOCAtv]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/horizon-is-an-e3-alternative-from-venus-patrol-and-mocatv/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/horizon-is-an-e3-alternative-from-venus-patrol-and-mocatv/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/horizon-is-an-e3-alternative-from-venus-patrol-and-mocatv/#comments'Horizon' is an E3 alternative from Venus Patrol and MOCAtv Venus Patrol, the website "in search of beautiful things from the world of video games," is hosting a special event called Horizon as an alternative to E3's usual bluster this year. The event will be held in partnership with the LA Museum of Contemporary Art's video channel, MOCAtv. Horizon will have "a lineup of beautiful games" on display, though that lineup is currently top secret.

Venus Patrol is promising projects from studios of all sizes, adding that Horizon will "showcase new looks at and details about some games you may have already heard of, as well as brand new games from some of your favorite developers, and very possibly some super secret new surprises that will be entirely unexpected." We're going to guess that none of those surprises involve Call of Duty DLC exclusivity agreements.

Horizon is slated to go down on Thursday, June 13, the last day of E3. Assuming the event goes well, Venus Patrol hopes the event will become an E3 tradition.

Joystiq'Horizon' is an E3 alternative from Venus Patrol and MOCAtv originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2013horizonindependentindiemocamocatvvenus-patrolThu, 16 May 2013 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New Nintendo eShop releases: Super Metroid, Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts, Mega Man 5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-super-metroid-super-ghouls-n-ghos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-super-metroid-super-ghouls-n-ghos/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/new-nintendo-eshop-releases-super-metroid-super-ghouls-n-ghos/#commentsNew Nintendo eShop releases Super Metroid, Super Ghouls 'N Ghosts, Mega Man 5 The ol' eShop gets a double dose of "super" this week with the release of both Super Metroid and Super Ghouls N' Ghosts on the Wii U. And, don't forget that Super Metroid is only $0.30 until June 12. The Blue Bomber continues his assault on the 3DS Virtual Console with the debut of Mega Man 5, along with the original Harvest Moon. Also available is a new 3DS port of Swords & Soldiers from Ronimo, creators of the excellent Awesomenauts.

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

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

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

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

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdseshopnintendonintendoware-weeklywii-uThu, 16 May 2013 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Retro-bit bringing wireless controllers to retro consoles]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/retro-bit-bringing-wireless-controllers-to-retro-conoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/retro-bit-bringing-wireless-controllers-to-retro-conoles/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/retro-bit-bringing-wireless-controllers-to-retro-conoles/#commentsRetrobit bringing wireless controllers to retro conoles Remember Retro-Bit, the company behind the nifty handheld NES / SNES, the RetroDuo Portable? Once again, the company is looking to make your outdated gaming habits a little more convenient, this time with a line of wireless controllers for vintage consoles.

There are three controllers in the Hypermode series, one for the Nintendo 64, a hybrid controller the NES and SNES, and finally one for the Sega Genesis. Each uses a 2.4GHz receiver to connect to its respective console, and all three have turbo functionality. The N64 controller also features a slot for a Rumble Pak. Furthermore, the NES / SNES and Genesis controllers can also be used on PC or Mac.

The N64 controller is slated to launch this summer, while the other two are planned for this fall. Each will cost $30. Distributor Innex will be showing the controllers at its booth during E3. We'll do our best to swing by and check them out.

In the meantime, we pose a simple question: Where's our wireless Saturn controller?

Gallery: Retro-bit Hypermode Controllers

Continue reading Retro-bit bringing wireless controllers to retro consoles

JoystiqRetro-bit bringing wireless controllers to retro consoles originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>genesisinnexn64nesnintendo-64peripheralsretro-bitsnesWed, 15 May 2013 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Zoombies is a fiesta of undead carnage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/zoombies-review-portabliss/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/zoombies-review-portabliss/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/zoombies-review-portabliss/#commentsThis is Portabliss, a column about downloadable games that can be played on the go.

Zoombies is a fiesta of undead carnage
Say the name High Voltage, and your first thought might be the Conduit series of first-person shooters (or this). While the studio is indeed known most recently for The Conduit, one of its other ideas has been languishing for quite some time, namely Animales de la Muerte. Originally slated for WiiWare, and then for XBLA and PSN, the game has finally found a home on iOS.

Renamed Zoombies: Animales de la Muerte, the game tells the story of two children who must save a Mexican zoo from being overrun by a horde of zombified animals. To do this, the kids utilize every available tool of destruction, ranging from axes to shotguns, roman candles and even the occasional dollop of guacamole.

Zoombies is the most festive zombie game I've ever played, and it's also one of the most immediately entertaining.

Gallery: Zoombies: Animales de la Muerte (5/15/2013)

Continue reading Zoombies is a fiesta of undead carnage

JoystiqZoombies is a fiesta of undead carnage originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>high-voltageHigh-Voltage-Softwareiosipadiphonemobileportablisszoombieszoombies-animales-de-la-muerteWed, 15 May 2013 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LEGO Friends coming to 3DS and DS this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/lego-friends-coming-to-3ds-and-ds-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/lego-friends-coming-to-3ds-and-ds-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/lego-friends-coming-to-3ds-and-ds-this-fall/#comments The never-ending march of LEGO games from Warner Bros. and Traveller's Tales continues with LEGO Friends. Based on the toy line of the same name, LEGO Friends is aimed at young girls and offers lots of activities as the titular friends explore Heartlake City.

Players can customize their character and living space - right down to the choice of pet and pet accessories - and work to build relationships with their friends, hoping eventually to reach "True Friend" status (aren't we all?). Activities include things like horse riding, photography, pet training, dancing and, our personal favorite, delivering cupcakes.

LEGO Friends heads to DS and 3DS this fall.

Continue reading LEGO Friends coming to 3DS and DS this fall

JoystiqLEGO Friends coming to 3DS and DS this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdslego-friendsnintendoTravellers-Talestt-gamesWarner-BrosWarner-Bros-Interactive-EntertainmentwbieWed, 15 May 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom VP explains why Ace Attorney: Dual Destinies is eShop only, Japanese demo now available]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/capcom-vp-explains-why-ace-attorney-dual-destinies-is-eshop-onl/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/capcom-vp-explains-why-ace-attorney-dual-destinies-is-eshop-onl/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/capcom-vp-explains-why-ace-attorney-dual-destinies-is-eshop-onl/#comments Capcom VP Christian "Sven" Svensson has shed some light on why Ace Attorney: Dual Destinies is destined solely for the 3DS eShop in the west. Responding to users on the Capcom-Unity forums, Svensson stated that while he understands "the value" of owning a physical copy of a game, "it is a sign of the times that increasingly our business is going digital and not everything is going to be in both formats."

"Not every game is appropriate for both formats given the economics involved," he wrote, pointing to games like Darkstalkers Resurrection, Resident Evil 4 HD and Okami HD, which were released physically in Japan but digitally in the west. "Their COGS (costs of goods sold) and retail margins and reserve issues are entirely different there given the market differences," wrote Svensson. "It's a sad fact, but it's still a fact."

He added Capcom's US operation "worked very hard" to see Dual Destinies released in the west. "If we'd said 'no, it's not coming', it would have triggered the inevitable 'please bring it to eShop, at least' cries. Instead we shortcutted that and brought it straight to eShop."

In other gavel-banging news, a playable browser demo of Dual Destinies is now available on the game's Japanese website. Just make sure your Kanji is up to snuff if you hope to make heads or tails of it. Finally, Gematsu reports that the latest Famitsu confirms that both Miles Edgeworth and Trucy Wright will make a return appearance in the game.

JoystiqCapcom VP explains why Ace Attorney: Dual Destinies is eShop only, Japanese demo now available originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsace-attorney-5capcomeshopnintendophoenix-wright-dual-destiniesWed, 15 May 2013 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Karateka Classic coming to iOS and Android tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/karateka-classic-coming-to-ios-and-android-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/karateka-classic-coming-to-ios-and-android-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/15/karateka-classic-coming-to-ios-and-android-tomorrow/#commentsKarateka Classic coming to iOS, Android History repeats itself in both video games and colas it seems. Years after releasing the original Karateka, Jordan Mechner revised the formula, giving the world "new" Karateka. Some people liked the new flavor - others, not so much. Hearing the demand of fans everywhere, Mechner has announced that Karateka Classic is coming back, specifically to iOS and Android.

Karateka Classic recreates the Apple II experience - right down to the disk drive noises - and offers a range of "monitor" choices, including color CRT, green or amber display. There are a couple of new additions, including gameplay tips and a rewind feature that can be earned, allowing players to reverse their mistakes.

Karateka Classic arrives on iOS and Android tomorrow for $0.99.

Gallery: Karateka Classic

JoystiqKarateka Classic coming to iOS and Android tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 May 2013 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidiosipadiphonejordan-mechnerkarateka-classicliquid-entertainmentmobileWed, 15 May 2013 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: Killer is Dead lives on August 1 in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/report-killer-is-dead-lives-on-august-1-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/report-killer-is-dead-lives-on-august-1-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/report-killer-is-dead-lives-on-august-1-in-japan/#comments Killer is Dead will slice up Japanese Xbox 360s and PS3s starting on August 1, according to Japanese site Hokanko-Alt. The site reports that the info comes courtesy of the latest issue of Dengeki Playstation. The game is also slated to arrive in Europe this August, though the North American launch is still a more nebulous "Summer 2013."

The latest from Grasshoper Manufacture and Kadokawa Games stars an elite assassin with a robot arm who hunts down and kills criminals. He also moonlights as a gigolo, apparently.

JoystiqReport: Killer is Dead lives on August 1 in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationps3xboxTue, 14 May 2013 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[ZombiU sequel being prototyped by Ubisoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/zombiu-sequel-being-prototyped-by-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/zombiu-sequel-being-prototyped-by-ubisoft/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/zombiu-sequel-being-prototyped-by-ubisoft/#comments Ubisoft is toying with the idea of developing a sequel to the surprising Wii U launch title, ZombiU. When asked about a possible sequel on Twitter, Ubisoft creative director Jean-Philippe Caro stated that "the team is working hard on a prototype." He added, however, that "it's too soon to tell you more." As IGN notes, the fact that Ubisoft is working on a prototype doesn't necessarily confirm a sequel. Still, it's nice to know that the publisher is at least considering the possibility.

Ubisoft hasn't shared ZombiU sales data, so it's hard to gauge the game's success. At the very least, Nintendo thought the game was good enough to include it in a special Wii U console bundle. We also know that Ubisoft had logged 300,000 deaths in the game as of mid-January. Of course, given how frequent death is in ZombiU - we died seven times while reviewing it - that number isn't as helpful as it may sound.

JoystiqZombiU sequel being prototyped by Ubisoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nintendoubisoftwii-uzombiuTue, 14 May 2013 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[The Howler is a voice-controlled game with hand-drawn art]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/the-howler-is-a-voice-controlled-game-with-hand-drawn-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/the-howler-is-a-voice-controlled-game-with-hand-drawn-art/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/14/the-howler-is-a-voice-controlled-game-with-hand-drawn-art/#comments
The Howler is a puzzle platformer with a twist. While it's possible to control the game with a good ol' mouse and keyboard, it can also be controlled entirely by voice. The goal is to guide a hot air balloon through wind currents in order to reach different objectives.

Players can raise and lower the balloon by modulating the volume of their voice, and even drop bombs by making short, loud noises (yelling "bomb" seems ideal). Watching the trailer, we think we might know where developer Marcelionis came up with the game's name. You can pick it up from Desura on PC or Mac for $5.

Side note: If you've been looking for a game to help you practice that one scene from Aimelie, The Howler is perfect.

JoystiqThe Howler is a voice-controlled game with hand-drawn art originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 May 2013 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>desuramacpcthe-howlerTue, 14 May 2013 12:45:00 EST