Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 ditching elevators for ... load screens]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/mass-effect-2-ditching-elevators-for-load-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/mass-effect-2-ditching-elevators-for-load-screens/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/mass-effect-2-ditching-elevators-for-load-screens/#comments Expanding upon statements from BioWare's Casey Hudson earlier this year, associate programmer Thomas Roy took to the developer's forums (requires login) recently to explain how Mass Effect 2 would be handling the promised lack of elevators (used in place of loading screens). As it turns out, rather than executing on BioWares's promise of "a completely new system" that's "part of the game experience," the studio will be implementing "loading screens and movies."

Though the game will still ask players to walk into an elevator, it will apparently cue up a loading screen that offers "interesting visuals and information." We'd like to point out that before Mr. Roy explains any of this, he says that the first game used elevators "so we [BioWare] didn't have to show boring loading screens" and they only made it into the second due to "a lot of complaints."

We're so broken up here -- on one hand, the developer is caving to the demands of the fans and critics. Score! On the other hand, Mr. Roy is telling us that loading screens are totally boring. If we demanded it, does that mean we're boring? Great, now we've got a total complex.

[Via Kotaku]

Gallery: Mass Effect 2

JoystiqMass Effect 2 ditching elevators for ... load screens originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowarecasey-hudsoneaelevatorforumsload-screensmass-effectmass-effect-2pcthomas-roySun, 06 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Okay, for serious this time, DiRT 2 is coming to PC on December 8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/okay-for-serious-this-time-dirt-2-is-coming-to-pc-on-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/okay-for-serious-this-time-dirt-2-is-coming-to-pc-on-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/okay-for-serious-this-time-dirt-2-is-coming-to-pc-on-december/#comments After suffering from a series of delays, Codemasters rallycross racer DiRT 2 is arriving on PCs this December 8. As confirmed by Codies community man "Ice" on the developer's forums, the game will be arriving a week late to the PC due to a reason that is "far too boring to go into." He assures fans that it's not a "technical issue in any way, shape, or form," and that he has assurance from the US office that the game's ship date is confirmed for December 8. Just a few more days, PC-owning DiRT fans! We promise this time!

Gallery: DiRT 2

JoystiqOkay, for serious this time, DiRT 2 is coming to PC on December 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>codemastersdelaydirtdirt-2pcracingrallyrally-crossrelease-dateSun, 06 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Conan O' Brien thinks Avatar: The Game was rushed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/conan-o-brien-thinks-avatar-the-game-was-rushed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/conan-o-brien-thinks-avatar-the-game-was-rushed/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/conan-o-brien-thinks-avatar-the-game-was-rushed/#comments There's a good reason why we never went into late-night comedy: We really didn't want to compete against lanky comic genius Conan O' Brien. We thought writing about (and, more often than not, making fun of) video games would be a career path where we'd never have to compete with the gargantuan Irish host -- unfortunately, in a recent episode of Late Night, Conan managed to encroach on our territory, making a joke at the expense of the recently released (and tepidly received) Avatar: The Game.

Check out the video of Conan's gag after the jump while we consider another career choice -- one that will definitely be devoid of Conan competition. (We're thinking about horse whispering. Seems pretty safe, right?)

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading Conan O' Brien thinks Avatar: The Game was rushed

JoystiqConan O' Brien thinks Avatar: The Game was rushed originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avatarcomedyconanconan-o-brienlate-nightubisoftvideoSun, 06 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fight Night Round 4 DLC pulled due to freezing issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/fight-night-round-4-dlc-pulled-due-to-freezing-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/fight-night-round-4-dlc-pulled-due-to-freezing-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/fight-night-round-4-dlc-pulled-due-to-freezing-issues/#comments Boxing fans who were hoping to enhance their sweet, sweet scientific exploits in Fight Night Round 4 for the Xbox 360 were recently stricken with disappointment -- the game's latest DLC, the "Champions Pack 2," hit the Xbox Live Marketplace with a fairly problematic issue which caused the system to freeze up while downloading the content. This is doubly troubling, because as we understand it, downloading is actually a pretty important step in the DLC process.

EA Sports commented on the error on its official forums, stating that the DLC has been pulled from the Marketplace until a non-glitched version can be rolled out, hopefully "before the Christmas holidays." People who managed to download the DLC without freezing can still play the game, but won't be able to access the pack's locked content until the revised DLC is released. People who managed to download half of the DLC pack before freezing can play as Evander Holyfield's torso.

JoystiqFight Night Round 4 DLC pulled due to freezing issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boxingchampions-pack-2dlcEAea-sportsfight-nightfight-night-round-4freezingglitchxbox-live-marketplaceSun, 06 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Capcom employee recreates Fable II's Fortune's Tower pub game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/capcom-employee-recreates-fable-iis-fortunes-tower-pub-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/capcom-employee-recreates-fable-iis-fortunes-tower-pub-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/capcom-employee-recreates-fable-iis-fortunes-tower-pub-game/#comments This has to be the most endearing display of cross-developer love we've seen during our games writing careers. Capcom's Shawn Baxter (a.k.a. "Snow,") recently posted on the company's community blog about his latest D.I.Y. project -- a real-life version of Fortune's Tower, one of the pub games featured in Fable II. Oh, and in Fable II Pub Games, though you probably didn't need us to tell you that.

Words can't really describe this two-month, $400 project as well as pictures, so hop on over to Capcom's blog and check out the delectable fruits of Baxter's labor. If you're of a crafty ilk, the post also contains a few blueprints you can follow to make your own Fortune's Tower set. We probably won't post about yours, though. This is a one-time thing.

JoystiqCapcom employee recreates Fable II's Fortune's Tower pub game originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>board-gamecapcomcraftsdiyfablefable-2fable-2-pub-gameslionheadSun, 06 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 possibly teased by Necromorphic ink blot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/dead-space-2-possibly-teased-by-necromorphic-ink-blot/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/dead-space-2-possibly-teased-by-necromorphic-ink-blot/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/dead-space-2-possibly-teased-by-necromorphic-ink-blot/#comments What do you see in the ink blot above? A butterfly with cattails attached to its wings? Well, that probably means you're insane. The popular theory is that the image, which was linked to on the recently relocated official Dead Space Twitter page, is actually a teaser for Dead Space 2. This much is supported by the strange script featured at the bottom of the image (visible in the full picture, posted after the jump), which, when translated using this helpful guide (via horror game news blog Hell Descent), reads "the nightmare is over but it will not end."

There's also a few Necromorphs hidden in the ink blot, including Mr. "I'm going to stab you with these sharp tentacles" and Mr. "I'm just a baby but I'll bite your face off." (Disclaimer: Those probably aren't their Christian names.) We feel we can confidently add this to the growing pile of evidence for an upcoming announcement for the follow-up to last year's dismemberment simulator.

Continue reading Dead Space 2 possibly teased by Necromorphic ink blot

JoystiqDead Space 2 possibly teased by Necromorphic ink blot originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dead-spacedead-space-2eaink-blotrorschachteaservisceral-gamesSun, 06 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tomb Raider studio seeking multiplayer devs for 'AAA title development']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/tomb-raider-studio-seeking-multiplayer-devs-for-aaa-title-devel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/tomb-raider-studio-seeking-multiplayer-devs-for-aaa-title-devel/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/06/tomb-raider-studio-seeking-multiplayer-devs-for-aaa-title-devel/#comments Crystal Dynamics isn't exactly known for its wide array of game franchises -- since around 2003, the company has been pumping out nothing but Tomb Raider games. Normally we wouldn't lead a job listing post with such information, but when Crystal Dynamics says it's looking for developers who are "able to effectively create and lead the multiplayer vision and design effort," it gets us thinking that we could be tomb raiding with (against?) other actual human beings!

Considering this year's layoffs, we're not convinced that the developer could be working on another "AAA title" in addition to the Tomb Raider franchise. Given the leaked images of a "reboot" and assurance from Eidos "Life President" Ian Livingstone that Lara's next installment will "reinvigorate the franchise," we're pretty confident that Crystal Dynamics is hard at work on whatever the next game in the TR series will be. For now though, we have a job listing and plenty of educated guesses.

[Via CinemaBlend]

JoystiqTomb Raider studio seeking multiplayer devs for 'AAA title development' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crystal-dynamicsdevelopmentjob-listingmultiplayertomb-raiderSun, 06 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Weekly Webcomic Wrapup wraps up the 'aughts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/weekly-webcomic-wrapup-wraps-up-the-aughts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/weekly-webcomic-wrapup-wraps-up-the-aughts/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/weekly-webcomic-wrapup-wraps-up-the-aughts/#comments Twenty-six days stand between us and a brand new decade, so we thought we'd use this time to not only ask you guys your favorite webcomic from this past week, but to also learn what your favorite webcomic from the past ten years is. Go on, take some time to think. We know there have been a lot. We're going to go with Bigger Than Cheeses' "This is basically his entire day," which has brought more joy to our lives than anything or anyone else, ever. Share a link to your favorite webcomic of the 'aughts in the comments section!

On a more immediate note, here's our seven favorite gaming-related webcomics from this past week. Check them out, then vote for the best one in the poll after the jump!

A Mushroom Kingdom Carol Part 1 (Brawl in the Family)
Witchblades (Penny Arcade)
Assassin's Creed II (Another Video Game Webcomic)
The Princess Factor (Dipswitch)
Assassin's Edge (Virtual Shackles)
Rise From Your Grave (Nerf Now)
Thank You (It's-A-Me)

Continue reading Weekly Webcomic Wrapup wraps up the 'aughts

JoystiqWeekly Webcomic Wrapup wraps up the 'aughts originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 23:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>webcomicSat, 05 Dec 2009 23:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Swag Saturday: Soul Calibur / Kingdom Hearts travel pack (DS/PSP)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/swag-saturday-soul-calibur-kingdom-hearts-travel-pack-ds-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/swag-saturday-soul-calibur-kingdom-hearts-travel-pack-ds-psp/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/swag-saturday-soul-calibur-kingdom-hearts-travel-pack-ds-psp/#comments
[Image credit: mrlerone]
If you're anything like us, you'll be spending a decent part of your holiday stuck in the seat of a train, bus, automobile, or aeroplane, heading towards wherever "home" is for the upcoming holidays. We know how nice it can be to pick up a new game or two for the travels ahead, and in the spirit of that we're giving out a DS/PSP travel pack for this week's Swag Saturday including both Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny and Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days. Tell us your best (gaming or non-gaming) holiday travel story (keep it clean, folks! -- no "mile high club" stories!) and we'll pick one winner at random to receive the travel pack early this week. As always, keep an eye on the email address tied to your commenting name to find out if you've won!
  • Leave a comment telling us your best (gaming or non-gaming) holiday travel story.
  • You must be 18 years or older and a resident of the US or Canada (excluding Quebec -- which may have to do with the Ubisoft Petz franchise)
  • Limit 1 entry per person per day
  • This entry period ends at 9:31PM ET on Sunday, December 6
  • At that time, we'll randomly select one winner to receive one copy of Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days for Nintendo DS ($35 ARV) and one copy of Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny for Sony PSP ($40 ARV).
  • For a list of complete rules, click here

JoystiqSwag Saturday: Soul Calibur / Kingdom Hearts travel pack (DS/PSP) originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>giveawayjoyswagkingdom-heartskingdom-hearts-3582-dayssoul-calibursoul-calibur-broken-destinyswag-saturdaySat, 05 Dec 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Brazilian senator hopes to ban sale of violent games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/brazilian-senator-hopes-to-ban-sale-of-violent-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/brazilian-senator-hopes-to-ban-sale-of-violent-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/brazilian-senator-hopes-to-ban-sale-of-violent-games/#comments
[Rondonia Digital]
Though Brazil is no stranger to banning video games, a recently proposed bill from Senator Valdir Raupp certainly seems pretty drastic. Raupp's bill, which was recently passed by the Education Commission of the Senate, and will now go to vote in the Committee on Constitution and Justice, seeks to "curb the manufacture, distribution, importation, distribution, trading and custody, storage [of] the video games that affect the customs [and] traditions of the people, their worship, creeds, religions and symbols."

According to Brazilian news site UOL, if the bill passes, folks caught violating the law could be subject to one to three years imprisonment. That's quite a bit of jail time to serve for just importing a copy of Grand Theft Auto IV, dont'cha think?

[Via GamePolitics]

JoystiqBrazilian senator hopes to ban sale of violent games originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>banbillbrazillawmaturepoliticssenateviolenceSat, 05 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo's Aonuma: Majora's Mask the result of Miyamoto challenge]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/nintendos-aonuma-majoras-mask-the-result-of-miyamoto-challeng/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/nintendos-aonuma-majoras-mask-the-result-of-miyamoto-challeng/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/nintendos-aonuma-majoras-mask-the-result-of-miyamoto-challeng/#comments
[Image credit: Rich Lem]
Eiji Aonuma has spent a lot of time developing Legend of Zelda games. In fact, he's been in a managerial role on the franchise ever since the series' arguably most popular installment, The Ocarina of Time. So when Mario creator (and his boss) Shigeru Miyamoto asked Aonuma and his team to develop an "Ura Zelda" (a flipped version of Ocarina of Time -- what would eventually become the Master Quest), Aonuma protested. Miyamoto's compromise, though, instead turned out to be a much greater challenge -- produce a sequel to OoT within one year.

"We were supposed to make its sequel in a year ... at first, we had absolutely no idea what sort of thing we were supposed to make, and we just kept expanding our plans," Aonuma told Nintendo prez Satoru Iwata during a recent Iwata Asks column."in the beginning, it was all trial and error ... ultimately, we adopted the 'three-day system,' and made it so that, if you couldn't clear the game inside of three days, the world was destroyed." Aonuma claims this concept was what allowed Majora's Mask to be created and released just 18 months after OoT came out. He also adds that lessons he learned from the development of Majora's Mask -- from having to remember a sequence of events in order to proceed, to "deep, compact play" -- helped to shape the development of the most recent Zelda release, The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks.

We'd like to say that Aonuma will have a break from the series after serving as producer on Spirit Tracks, but he's the man in charge of the upcoming LoZ game for the Wii. We're sorry, Mr. Aonuma! Keep on truckin'!


[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqNintendo's Aonuma: Majora's Mask the result of Miyamoto challenge originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eiji-aonumalegend-of-zeldamajoras-maskocarina-of-timeshigeru-miyamotospirit-tracksthe-legend-of-zeldathe-legend-of-zelda-spirit-trackszeldaSat, 05 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker character art's got style]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-character-arts-got-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-character-arts-got-style/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-character-arts-got-style/#comments
Click to sneak through the full gallery
Though we still don't know much about Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker's cast of characters, Konami sent out a batch of glamour shots for a few of the assumed super spies you'll be cavorting with during your time with the game. Our personal favorite? Definitely Chico. It takes a special breed of man to pull off an Ascot that expertly.

Check out all the portraits, as well as a bunch of new screenshots, in the gallery below.

Gallery: Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (12-05-09)

JoystiqMetal Gear Solid: Peace Walker character art's got style originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gallerykojimakojima-productionskonamimetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-peace-walkerpeace-walkerSat, 05 Dec 2009 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tim Schafer talks Brutal Legend, critical response, and DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/tim-schafer-talks-about-brutal-legend-critics-response-and-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/tim-schafer-talks-about-brutal-legend-critics-response-and-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/tim-schafer-talks-about-brutal-legend-critics-response-and-dlc/#comments
 Brütal Legend may have had a smaller-than-expected impact during the game's first month on shelves, but Double Fine head Tim Schafer remains nonplussed. In fact, he hasn't even seen the numbers yet, instead choosing to wait "'til after Christmas," he recently told GamePro. "I like to give it time, you know? I think many people look too soon but a lot of games I've worked on have succeeded based on word of mouth," he explained. And despite somewhat disappointed responses from critics, Schafer said he was happy "for the most part" with how the game was received.

While he's still not talking specifics, the idea of more downloadable content is clearly one Schafer's interested in. "We definitely want to do more DLC for both single-player and multiplayer, as well as some tuning patches," he said, and added that the developers are still watching multiplayer online to see what needs fixing. We're betting it won't be too long before we hear what the folks at Double Fine have in mind.

Gallery: Brutal Legend (10-13-09)

JoystiqTim Schafer talks Brutal Legend, critical response, and DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brutal-legendbugsdlcdownloadable-contentinterviewpatchtim-schaferSat, 05 Dec 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Aion's banhammer system includes volcano-summoning rabbits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/aions-banhammer-system-includes-volcano-summoning-rabbits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/aions-banhammer-system-includes-volcano-summoning-rabbits/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/aions-banhammer-system-includes-volcano-summoning-rabbits/#comments As anyone who's ever played an MMORPG probably already knows, in-game gold sellers are a complete blight on the genre. Nothing is more disruptive to your personal, epic fantasy tale than frequent private messages informing you that "GOLD4CASH $5/500 $10/1200 $20/3000 buy now msg plz!!!!" That's why we were so pleased to hear that the GMs in Aion go above and beyond when it comes to banning these currency-hocking players from the game. They don't just suspend their accounts, you see -- they utterly decimate their avatars.

Check out the video after the jump to see the game's unique brand of justice-serving in action.

[Via Kotaku]

Continue reading Aion's banhammer system includes volcano-summoning rabbits

JoystiqAion's banhammer system includes volcano-summoning rabbits originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aionbanmmommorpgncsoftSat, 05 Dec 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[More Green Day headed to Rock Band]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/more-green-day-headed-to-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/more-green-day-headed-to-rock-band/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/more-green-day-headed-to-rock-band/#commentsIn simple terms, Green Day and Rock Band are friends. There have already been several Green Day tracks released for Harmonix's musically inclined baby and it was announced today that even more are on their way later this month. Starting December 15 on the Wii and Xbox 360 - and December 17 on the Playstation 3 - players will be able to grab three new Green Day tracks from the band's 21st Century Breakdown album: "Christian's Inferno," "Last of the American Girls," and "¡Viva La Gloria!". The tracks will be available individually for $1.99 / 160 / 200 Wii points. The full track pack will be available on PS3 and Xbox 360 for $5.49 / 440.

JoystiqMore Green Day headed to Rock Band originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>21st-century-BreakdownDLCeaelectronic-artsgreen-dayharmonixmtv-gamesrock-bandSat, 05 Dec 2009 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA dragging Dragon's Lair to iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/ea-dragging-dragons-lair-to-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/ea-dragging-dragons-lair-to-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/ea-dragging-dragons-lair-to-iphone/#comments
click to cross the drawbridge into Screenshots' LairFollowing the well-received (by us, anyway) iPhone version of Space Ace, another, better-known Bluth-animated FMV classic is headed to the platform -- a game that, unlike Heavy Rain, is Dragon's Lair. This time, EA Play is publishing the 1983 Cinematronics arcade game, with an expected December release date. We'll get to watch Dirk the Daring die over and over again in a convenient portable format!

Dragon's Lair features both an "arcade mode" with the game as originally presented, and a "home mode" with extra scenes not used in the coin-op version. Our gallery features some new screens of the iPhone version, which look exactly like the game looked in 1983. Which is kind of the point.

There's supposedly a DSiWare version on the way as well, though EA doesn't seem to be involved with that one.

Gallery: Dragon's Lair (iPhone)


JoystiqEA dragging Dragon's Lair to iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dragons-lairea-playfmvretroSat, 05 Dec 2009 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Child's Play raises over $1 million so far]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/childs-play-raises-over-1-million-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/childs-play-raises-over-1-million-so-far/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/childs-play-raises-over-1-million-so-far/#comments It was announced today that the Child's Play charity has raised over $1 million so far this year. The charity, created by Penny Arcade to aid children in hospitals all over the world, has already raised a total of $1,010,680.28. Said Child's Play project manager Kristin Lindsay, "With so may people out of work, we've been amazed at the huge response this year." The charity hopes to surpass $1.4 million by year's end, which would be on par with what it brought in during 2008.

Several events for Child's Play have been planned or have already taken place this year. Notably, the Desert Bus for Hope marathon pulled in over $130,000 in November, while Harmonix will be throwing the Ümloud Rock Band night fundraiser on December 9. Readers can find out more about Child's Play at the official website.

JoystiqChild's Play raises over $1 million so far originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>childs-playchilds-play-2009childs-play-charityculturepenny-arcadeSat, 05 Dec 2009 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Halo Legends delivers third free episode, titled 'The Package']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/psa-halo-legends-delivers-third-free-episode-titled-the-packa/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/psa-halo-legends-delivers-third-free-episode-titled-the-packa/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/psa-halo-legends-delivers-third-free-episode-titled-the-packa/#comments Another Saturday has arrived, and with it another free episode of Halo Legends on the Xbox Live Marketplace. For 24 hours only (of course it won't be on the internet afterward!), you can catch an anime'd up Master Chief delivering "The Package" with four "specially selected Spartans."

Today's episode is the first half of a two-parter (concluding on December 12), so be sure to catch it or be left lonely and confused when next week arrives. Or you could always just wait until the whole shebang arrives on Blu-ray this February 9.

JoystiqPSA: Halo Legends delivers third free episode, titled 'The Package' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 02:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halohalo-legendsmaster-chiefpsathe-packagexblmxbox-livexbox-live-marketplaceSat, 05 Dec 2009 02:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MMO Roundup: Massively's week in review]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/mmo-roundup-massivelys-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/mmo-roundup-massivelys-week-in-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/mmo-roundup-massivelys-week-in-review/#comments
 When it comes to MMO news and special features, Joystiq sister site Massively.com has you covered. Whether you're looking for info on the hottest new MMO, or you're just curious about an old favorite, you'll find it at Massively. Check out our biggest features of the week:
Analyzing the newest Guild Wars 2 trailer
ArenaNet has a very early, very wonderful holiday gift for Guild Wars fans this morning: a brand new Guild Wars 2 trailer. (Take a moment to cheer, then we'll move on.) The trailer is amazingly beautiful, something we've come to expect from ArenaNet and particularly Guild Wars 2.
Massively's End-of-the-Year Reader's Choice Awards
The end of 2009 is almost upon us, and Arthur C. Clarke's dreams are all about to come true in less than a month. It's been an interesting year for MMOs, including everything from Tabula Rasa's official closure to the launch of LotRO's second paid expansion. While it's inevitable that the Massively staff all have their own favorite games in several different categories, we figured it would be best to get the readers involved this year.
Hands-on with Star Trek Online's space combat
Space battles in Star Trek Online are going to be a big selling point for many a Trek fan. I recently got some hands-on time with the closed beta and found several interesting talking points to deliver like hot fresh delicious phasered pizza. I imagine some of you are quite up to snuff on the basics of combat in Star Trek Online, so if you find your interest waning I suggest skipping ahead into the analytical aspect of this feature.
MMO developers speak on the state of betas
Is beta testing something of a mystery to you? Do you wonder about the how and why of a developer's beta process? Well, you're in for a treat! We recently got in touch with several MMO developers to ask them each a series of questions about MMO beta testing. In this feature you'll find opinions from Cryptic Studios, Fallen Earth LLC, Mythic Entertainment, Turbine, Runic Games and Hi-Rez Studios.

Continue reading MMO Roundup: Massively's week in review

JoystiqMMO Roundup: Massively's week in review originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>massivelymassively-week-in-reviewmmoroundupweekly-recapSat, 05 Dec 2009 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LGJ: IP Police, Arrest this man, He talks in torrents]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/lgj-ip-police-arrest-this-man-he-talks-in-torrents/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/lgj-ip-police-arrest-this-man-he-talks-in-torrents/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/05/lgj-ip-police-arrest-this-man-he-talks-in-torrents/#commentsFiled under:

Mark Methenitis contributes Law of the Game on Joystiq ("LGJ"), a column on legal issues as they relate to video games:
[Image Source]
I would imagine anyone reading this column has seen the coverage of the UK government's plan to create a "Pirate Finder General" and other new anti-piracy activities. The Pirate Finder General would have exceptionally broad powers to find and punish pirates with little supervision in an almost Judge Dredd-esque "I am the law!" kind of way. Of course, the whole matter is couched as a necessary measure to protect rights holders, ignoring what impact the ability to permanently revoke use of the internet might have on the average household. To me, this is just another sign of the times in the constantly tumultuous intellectual property ecosystem. While the situation could certainly turn out poorly for our friends in the UK, could something like this ever happen in the United States? The answer might not be as clear cut as you think.

We have been over intellectual property topics of all shapes and sizes in the history of LGJ, and the one universal truth is that intellectual property rights exist for one reason: to balance the rights needed by IP producers to be able to profit from their work with the rights needed by IP consumers to be able to enjoy those works. The concept of intellectual property has never been about granting unlimited power to rights holders, nor unrestricted access to consumers. However, since the advent of the Internet, we have been in the middle of a digital arms race between pirates and various parts of the entertainment industry, which we have seen to have substantial resources and connections given some of the legal changes like the UK law cited above or the infamous Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement. Both sides have, at times, taken unsustainable or unrealistic positions, be that utopian unrestricted access to all intellectual property or draconian restrictions to simple use, like the position that ripping a CD you purchased to your iPod is copyright infringement.

Continue reading LGJ: IP Police, Arrest this man, He talks in torrents

JoystiqLGJ: IP Police, Arrest this man, He talks in torrents originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 05 Dec 2009 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>copyrightintellectual-propertylawlaw-of-the-gamelgjpiracypiracy-solutionsSat, 05 Dec 2009 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Readers pick best webcomic: SkiFree]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/readers-pick-best-webcomic-skifree/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/readers-pick-best-webcomic-skifree/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/readers-pick-best-webcomic-skifree/#comments Long-running webcomic xkcd is at its best when it manages to combine humor, philosophy and references to old, old Windows games into a single strip. This much is clear when reading "SkiFree," the winner of last week's Webcomic Wrapup. Not only does it make its reader laugh while contemplating the harsh reality of death, but it also inspires them to find a copy of SkiFree on the internet, which they can spend the next five hours playing. (Oh, hey. There's one right now!)

Second and third place went Nerf Now's "Super Blue Toad Bros." and Penny Arcade's "Delicioso," respectively. If you've got a favorite gaming-related strip from this week you'd like to see in tomorrow's Wrapup, make sure you drop a link to it in the comments, or send in a tip!

JoystiqReaders pick best webcomic: SkiFree originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>webcomicFri, 04 Dec 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[FTC commends ESRB and gaming industry for self-regulation practices]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ftc-commends-esrb-and-gaming-industry-for-self-regulation-practi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ftc-commends-esrb-and-gaming-industry-for-self-regulation-practi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ftc-commends-esrb-and-gaming-industry-for-self-regulation-practi/#comments The Federal Trade Commission recently published a report which should simultaneously flatter the video game industry and stymie adversaries of the medium's terribly corruptive properties. In the report, the FTC says the gaming industry "outpaces" all other channels of entertainment in regards to its self-regulatory policies on marketing and advertising products which feature mature content.

The report praises the ESRB's ratings system, stating that 80 percent of M-rated games sales to minors are prevented by retailers. In addition, the report found that no ads for mature games were being run before 10 p.m., adding that the Commission found little evidence of M-rated game advertisements being targeted towards minors. The only exception? That episode of Hannah Montana where Hannah traveled back in time to 15th century Italy to become a professional assassin. Admittedly, that was kind of ethically dubious.

JoystiqFTC commends ESRB and gaming industry for self-regulation practices originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingesrbFederal-Trade-CommissionftcmarketingmatureratingFri, 04 Dec 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Scivelation dev explains title, story motivations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/scivelation-dev-explains-title-story-motivations/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/scivelation-dev-explains-title-story-motivations/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/scivelation-dev-explains-title-story-motivations/#comments Ever since we first picked up word about TopWare Interactive's upcoming shooter Scivelation, we've been puzzled on how to speak about the game. Sure, we didn't know a ton about Scivelation itself other than a scant few words on the game's premise and a vague release window of Q3 2010, but we were much more troubled by the fact that we couldn't actually pronounce the title. So we asked TopWare Interactive managing director James Seaman to clarify the title's pronunciation, as well as to tell us a bit more about the game itself.

"Scivelation (Sigh-vuh-ley-shun) is a contraction of two words; Science and Revelation. Thus, Scivelation deals with a Scientific Revelation within the universe that we've created," Seaman told Joystiq. And while the setting (a "post-Apocalyptic" world) has been done a few times recently, he promised us a different take on the backdrop with Scivelation, and even cited Phillip K. Dick and Robert Heinlein as inspiration. "Though Scivelation deals with issues of societal breakdown and the world in chaos, humanity has reached the pinnacle of technological advancements. This combination of science fiction and dystopian society comes from our great love of many classic literary works." It remains to be seen whether or not TopWare Interactive's upcoming game will impress us, but at least now we know how to say its name correctly. Read Seaman's whole explanation of Scivelation after the break.

Continue reading Scivelation dev explains title, story motivations

JoystiqScivelation dev explains title, story motivations originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>black-wing-foundationjames-seamanpronunciationscivelationshooterthird-person-shootertopware-interactiveFri, 04 Dec 2009 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Resident Evil chopper isn't as violent as it sounds]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/the-resident-evil-chopper-isnt-as-violent-as-it-sounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/the-resident-evil-chopper-isnt-as-violent-as-it-sounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/the-resident-evil-chopper-isnt-as-violent-as-it-sounds/#commentsYou might hear the phrase "Resident Evil chopper" and think of some brutal weapon designed to make a zombie into two half-zombies, but it actually refers to the latest spinoff for the franchise -- and the first with the ability to literally spin off. Capcom has partnered with Savage Cycles to produce an officially licensed Resident Evil motorcycle, to be sold in "an extremely limited number." It'll have a bunch of fake weapons and health sprays and stuff attached, and the expected S.T.A.R.S. and Capcom logos. The shot above is of an in-progress model.

Capcom didn't mention a price for it, but we suspect that Resident Evil completists unable to let an official piece of merchandise pass are crying right now. Sure, $100 for a Japanese limited edition game or something is doable every now and then, but now you have to buy a vehicle. And if you drive it, it won't be mint condition anymore!

JoystiqThe Resident Evil chopper isn't as violent as it sounds originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomchoppermotorcycleresident-evilsavage-cyclesFri, 04 Dec 2009 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[JBO: Joystiq Box Office, November 30 - December 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/jbo-joystiq-box-office-november-30-december-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/jbo-joystiq-box-office-november-30-december-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/jbo-joystiq-box-office-november-30-december-4/#comments

We can't be gaming all the time, despite our best efforts, and from time to time we'll actually take advantage of the movie-playing abilities on our gaming systems. JBO features our top picks for XBL, PSN, Netflix's Watch Instantly and Blu-ray each week.

Recommendation of the Week:

Star Trek: The Original Series (Blu-ray, all three seasons, prices vary)
All three seasons of Star Trek: The Original Series will be available as of December 15, which is when Season Three comes out. Besides the awesome bloopers and flubs, it also has the entire unaired original Trek pilot in the set. Bizarrely, this was the original opening monologue: "Enterprise log, Captain James Kirk commanding. We are leaving that vast cloud of stars and planets which we call our galaxy. Behind us, Earth, Mars, Venus, even our sun are specks of dust. A question: What is out there in the black void beyond? Until now, our mission has been that of space law regulation, contact with Earth colonies and investigation of alien life. But now, a new task. A probe out into where no man has gone before." Seems like a good thing they changed it. "A probe out into" is a bit much. Trek has never, ever looked or sounded (there's a new 7.1 mix!) better, and you can pick this up in a box set, or get the individual seasons. Beam us up.


Read on for the rest of the recommendations, and as usual, we'll see you at the popcorn sta -- well, actually, we won't see you at all. But you catch our drift. Plus, be sure to tell us what you'll be watching, or what you've seen recently that bowled you over.

Continue reading JBO: Joystiq Box Office, November 30 - December 4

JoystiqJBO: Joystiq Box Office, November 30 - December 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-rayDVDfilmsJBOJoystiq-Box-OfficemoviesNetflixFri, 04 Dec 2009 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Medal of Honor name-a-thon edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/wrup-medal-of-honor-name-a-thon-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/wrup-medal-of-honor-name-a-thon-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/wrup-medal-of-honor-name-a-thon-edition/#comments EA's modern warfare reboot of the Medal of Honor series features a special forces operative with a whole lot of beard on its cover. This rugged individual - with massive amounts of flavor saver and crumb storage - may be based on an actual soldier codenamed "Cowboy," but where's the fun in that? Our very own Ludwig Kietzmann wondered aloud on Twitter: what should the cover model's name be (hashtag: #needsmohrnames)? Some suggestions:
  • @LudwigK: Bike McGrisslename
  • @SlamVanderhuge: Nails McBeefballs
  • @Roblink: Shampoo "Bubbles" McBride
  • @jcfletcher: Sausage "Egg" McMuffin
  • @Gamerbrood: Toothbrush McLaughlin or Floss McKenzie
Drop some more name ideas in the comments and let us know what you're playing this weekend.

Continue reading WRUP: Medal of Honor name-a-thon edition

JoystiqWRUP: Medal of Honor name-a-thon edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>what-are-you-playingwrupFri, 04 Dec 2009 20:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Mike Capps answers 10 Questions from the Academy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/mike-capps-answers-10-questions-from-the-academy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/mike-capps-answers-10-questions-from-the-academy/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/mike-capps-answers-10-questions-from-the-academy/#comments And now, 10 Questions from the Academy: A weekly feature from the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences wherein significant figures in the video game industry provide their input on past trends, current events, and future challenges and goals for the entertainment software community.
Mike Capps is a member of the Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences where he serves as one of its board directors. He is the President of North Carolina-based Epic Games, the developers behind the Unreal and Gears of War series, and the seemingly ubiquitous Unreal Engine.

AIAS: What's the biggest challenge you see facing the industry?
Mike Capps: Game development has grown so fast as a business, but not nearly so fast as a profession, and you see the growing pains regularly.

What's your favorite part of game development?
I love the people; so many fascinatingly cool people are in game development. I really enjoy playing a game, and then meeting the people behind the game, and understanding how they think. Shipping a game, developing a game engine, and running a company... they're all insanely complex maximization problems. What do you with your time and your money, every day, to make the best game, the most profitable company, the best technology? It's a blast.

Continue reading Mike Capps answers 10 Questions from the Academy

JoystiqMike Capps answers 10 Questions from the Academy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>10-Questions-from-the-AcademyAIASEpic-GamesMike-CappsFri, 04 Dec 2009 20:20:00 EST<![CDATA[8 million played Modern Warfare 2 in its first week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/8-million-played-modern-warfare-2-in-first-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/8-million-played-modern-warfare-2-in-first-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/8-million-played-modern-warfare-2-in-first-week/#comments There's not really much more to say, is there? Publisher Activision notes that the 8 million folks dabbled in Modern Warfare 2 during its first week of release, which outnumbers basically every major organized army on the planet, Activision gloats. Obviously, the publisher forgot to factor in Antarctica's Grand Army of the Penguins' Republic, currently numbering in the tens of millions but, in the interest of celebration, we're willing to overlook this oversight.

On a side note, this is good news for Electronic Arts, because there's obviously a market for these newfangled war games.

Joystiq8 million played Modern Warfare 2 in its first week originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionCall-of-Dutycall-of-duty-modern-warfare-2modern-warfaremodern-warfare-2Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ already planning Homefront 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/thq-already-planning-homefront-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/thq-already-planning-homefront-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/thq-already-planning-homefront-2/#comments We have a hard enough time remembering which FPS Homefront is (it's the one that is basically Red Dawn, if you're curious) and THQ is apparently already thinking about the followup. According to Gamespot, THQ's core gaming chief Danny Bilson told the FBR Capital Markets 2009 Fall Investor Conference "It's the beginning of a story. We're going to tell this like a serial, with cliff-hangers. And then we intend to continue the story in [downloadable content], until we go to Homefront 2."

The question that will remain unanswered until Homefront ships is, of course, will we be willing to go with them?

Gallery: Homefront

JoystiqTHQ already planning Homefront 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>homefronthomefront-2kaos-studiosthqFri, 04 Dec 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Assassin's Creed 2 glitch breaks the game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/rumor-assassins-creed-2-glitch-breaks-the-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/rumor-assassins-creed-2-glitch-breaks-the-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/rumor-assassins-creed-2-glitch-breaks-the-game/#comments Now that Assassin's Creed II has been out amongst the crowds, slinking its way into millions of consoles, gamers are stumbling upon some of its secrets. While you may be stuck tracking down those last few feathers, others are discovering ancient beasts and, according to CVG, game-breaking glitches.

Some gamers apparently found themselves stuck controlling Desmond in the Hideout after DNA Sequence 11, a direct result of shutting off their system after the game autosaved. When they later booted the game back up, they were unable to return to the Animus and continue Ezio's 15th century adventure. CVG didn't comment on whether this was affecting Xbox 360 or PS3 gamers, or both.

We've contacted Ubisoft to see if this is the first it's heard of the issue and also urge you to contact us if you've encountered it.

JoystiqRumor: Assassin's Creed 2 glitch breaks the game originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 19:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>assassins-creedassassins-creed-2glitchubisoftubisoft-montrealFri, 04 Dec 2009 19:05:00 EST<![CDATA[BioWare's Facebook game gives to charity, takes $10 off Dragon Age for PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/biowares-facebook-game-gives-to-charity-takes-10-off-dragon-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/biowares-facebook-game-gives-to-charity-takes-10-off-dragon-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/biowares-facebook-game-gives-to-charity-takes-10-off-dragon-a/#comments
BioWare has launched a browser-based game on Facebook that benefits charity ... and gamers looking to save some scratch on the PC version of Dragon Age: Origins. Called Gift of the Yeti, it's a simple yet surprisingly fun arcade-style dash to deliver presents ... as a yeti subbing for Santa Clause.

Outside of the game, BioWare is playing the part of old St. Nick for hospitalized children, donating $10,000 to the Child's Play charity. And by simply loading up the game, players are presented with a link to the EA Store, where they're automagically given a $10 discount off of Dragon Age for Windows.

The press release announcing the game indicates that it's just the tip of the iceberg for the company's foray into social gaming. BioWare co-founder, Dr. Ray Mazuyka, said of the endeavor, "Gift of the Yeti is a fun, engaging holiday present from BioWare to our fans, the first in a series of compelling social experiences from BioWare Labs." Sure, they likely won't be for consoles -- but who are we to look a gift yeti in the mouth?

JoystiqBioWare's Facebook game gives to charity, takes $10 off Dragon Age for PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BioWarebrowser-basedcharitychilds-playeaElectronic-Artsfacebookflash-gamegift-of-the-yetiFri, 04 Dec 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop lets you be the N64 Xmas kid]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/gamestop-lets-you-be-the-n64-xmas-kid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/gamestop-lets-you-be-the-n64-xmas-kid/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/gamestop-lets-you-be-the-n64-xmas-kid/#comments While the above headline is true, you'll probably have to squint your eyes a bit to see it. You see, someone at GameStop had the particularly brilliant idea of making an application that can plaster your face directly over the famous (infamous?) Nintendo 64 kid. What kid, you ask? You know the one. Yeah, that one. Or, if you're like us, you can always use a picture of a cat. Apart from the video being holiday themed, we're not sure how the application will help GameStop sell games. But, then again, we don't really care. We just put a cat face on N64 Kid's face. What more could you want?

[Via GoNintendo]

JoystiqGameStop lets you be the N64 Xmas kid originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>culturegamestopn64-kidnintendo-64nintendo-sixty-foooooooooourFri, 04 Dec 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Mass Effect 2 goes for challenge and sophistication, not pampering]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/mass-effect-2-goes-for-challenge-and-sophistication-not-pamperi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/mass-effect-2-goes-for-challenge-and-sophistication-not-pamperi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/mass-effect-2-goes-for-challenge-and-sophistication-not-pamperi/#comments Mass Effect 2 producer Adrien Cho thinks developers are pampering players, making games much easier now than in previous generations. "It goes back to that learning mechanism of "Well, I tried this - it didn't work. I'm going to try something different." And I think that's going to be something in Mass Effect 2, we don't want it to be a cakewalk, you want a challenge," he told Video Games Daily.

Using the brutally difficult From Software title Demon's Souls as an example, Cho says hardcore players today want to earn progress in games. "I think gamers want a more sophisticated game, they don't want a breezy game where you see all the cinematics and just put in your hours and play it through." According to Cho, Mass Effect 2 aims to give players a healthy dose of challenge and sophistication when it launches early next year. We're all for hard work and challenge, but our idea of sophistication doesn't include the ancient mechanic of trial and error.

JoystiqMass Effect 2 goes for challenge and sophistication, not pampering originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biowareeaelectronic-artsmass-effect-2Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Charity XBLA game Chime's gameplay explained in latest trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/charity-xbla-game-chimes-gameplay-explained-in-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/charity-xbla-game-chimes-gameplay-explained-in-latest-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/charity-xbla-game-chimes-gameplay-explained-in-latest-trailer/#comments What's the only thing more satisfying than aligning colorful blocks on a rectangular grid while simultaneously recreating pleasant ambient tunes from musical artists such as Moby? Simple -- doing so while simultaneously donating to charity. That's the package that OneBigGame and Zoe Mode will offer on XBLA at some point this winter, when their music/puzzle game Chime lands on the XBLA.

Though we've known about this non-profit puzzler for a month now, we've yet to see the title in action. Fortunately, OneBigGame dropped a gameplay demonstration video earlier today, which we've posted above. Yeah, sure, it's got a few aesthetic similarities to Lumines, but considering all the proceeds from the game go to Save the Children and Starlight Children's foundation, we're not going to raise a stink about it. We think saving children is like, the coolest thing you can possibly do.

JoystiqCharity XBLA game Chime's gameplay explained in latest trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charitychimemusiconebiggamepuzzlerhythmxblazoe-modeFri, 04 Dec 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Pandemic's California location 'significant' in decision to close studio]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ea-pandemics-california-location-significant-in-decision-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ea-pandemics-california-location-significant-in-decision-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/ea-pandemics-california-location-significant-in-decision-to/#comments EA CEO John Riccitiello claims there were multiple factors in the decision to shutter Pandemic Studios, but one of the most significant was the studio's California base of operations. In an interview with Kotaku, Riccitiello blamed a combination of regulatory changes that affect technology and entertainment companies in California, as well as the tax incentives offered in other countries as major factors in the company's decision. "For good or for bad, we are taking down headcount in California because it is really expensive," Riccitiello said.

Another factor in the decision is the rapid growth of digitally delivered titles and browser-based games, leading Riccitiello to believe that the industry is quickly moving away from a focus on "packaged" software. "In a world that used to be all PC, then used to be all console, now it's neither." Riccitiello's comments echo those of Square Enix boss Yoichi Wada, who recently advised publishers to prepare for the "exponential growth" of digital delivery and server-based games following the announcement the studio would restructure its Eidos London offices, resulting in layoffs.

Pandemic Studios' closure comes at an interesting time, as the announcement was made just weeks before the studio's final title: The Saboteur. However, Riccitiello reiterated that the company's brand and franchises will live on.

JoystiqEA: Pandemic's California location 'significant' in decision to close studio originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsJohn-riccitiellolayoffsPandemic-Studiosstudio-closurethe-saboteurFri, 04 Dec 2009 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Guild Wars 2 trailer introduces us to the game's races]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/guild-wars-2-trailer-introduces-us-to-the-games-races/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/guild-wars-2-trailer-introduces-us-to-the-games-races/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/guild-wars-2-trailer-introduces-us-to-the-games-races/#comments Let's see, there's the human race, the nomadic warrior race, the mystical forest people race, the big ugly race, and the miniature race. Looks like all the MMORPG archetypes are covered! Fine, there's a bit more lore contained within the above trailer for Guild Wars 2, which explains all the motivations and backstories for each of the game's five races. Still, who cares about that stuff? Where's all the loot?

For a comprehensive breakdown of the trailer's plot elements, and some speculation on how the story of the sequel will unfold, we suggest checking out our sister site, Massively. This kind of thing is right in their wheelhouse.

JoystiqGuild Wars 2 trailer introduces us to the game's races originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arenanetguild-warsguild-wars-2mmommorpgncsofttrailerFri, 04 Dec 2009 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker steps onto US soil May 25]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-steps-onto-us-soil-may-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-steps-onto-us-soil-may-25/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/metal-gear-solid-peace-walker-steps-onto-us-soil-may-25/#comments
We found out yesterday that the PSP sequel to Metal Gear Solid 3 will hit shelves in the UK on May 28 -- following a March 18 debut in japan -- and today Konami has announced that Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker will arrive (via cardboard box, fittingly) at US retail three days earlier on May 25.

Although Kojima Productions is at work on a localized English language Peace Walker demo, the Japanese demo, released during Tokyo Game Show '09 (and later improved for release on PSN Japan) is pretty easy to pick up on -- and definitely worth playing. We've contacted Konami in hopes of confirming a digital release of the game for the same week the physical copies hit shelves, and maybe -- just maybe -- we'll get la-li-lu-le-lucky and score a special / limited edition for the States.

JoystiqMetal Gear Solid: Peace Walker steps onto US soil May 25 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hideo-kojimakojima-productionskonamimetal-gear-solidmetal-gear-solid-peace-walkerpeace-walkerrelease-dateFri, 04 Dec 2009 15:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Podcast 119 - Simply2Chaotic edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/joystiq-podcast-119-simply2chaotic-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/joystiq-podcast-119-simply2chaotic-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/joystiq-podcast-119-simply2chaotic-edition/#commentsFiled under:

The video game release schedule may be winding down, but we're most certainly not, with all the Saboteur, Assassin's Creed 2 and Bayonetta impressions that you crave. Oh, and there's a Blueberry Muffin Tops contest you have to get involved in.

Also, we're in debt to Christopher Schons who made the above totally radical, Dragon Age-inspired artwork. You should go to his site right now and pay him to do things. Here's a bigger version, suitable for framing.

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Hosts: Christopher Grant (@chrisgrant), Justin McElroy (@justinmcelroy) and Ludwig Kietzmann (@LudwigK)

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See all of this week's links (and what games we played) after the jump.

Continue reading Joystiq Podcast 119 - Simply2Chaotic edition

JoystiqJoystiq Podcast 119 - Simply2Chaotic edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiq-podcastjoystiqpodcastpodcastsFri, 04 Dec 2009 15:15:00 ESTJoystiq Podcast 119Chris Grant, Ludwig Kietzmann and Justin McElroy1:52:41podcasts<![CDATA[Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute plays successfully in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/professor-layton-and-the-devils-flute-japan-likes-what-it-hear/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/professor-layton-and-the-devils-flute-japan-likes-what-it-hear/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/professor-layton-and-the-devils-flute-japan-likes-what-it-hear/#comments
[GAME Watch]
Japan's infatuation with quaint, puzzle-filled villages has yet to wane. The second Professor Layton trilogy has started off on a positive note, with Professor Layton and the Devil's Flute topping the Media Create sales charts. The latest in Level-5's adventure series sold 306,000 copies in its first week at retail.

The rest of the weekly bestsellers list is almost entirely dominated by Wii and DS games, like Tomodachi Collection, Wii Fit Plus and another debut, Momotaro Dentetsu 2010!, the latest Wii release of Hudson's Japan-only, train-themed board game series. The sole exception: Winning Eleven 2010, charting at number 7 with 20,000 copies sold. (The soccer sim's life-to-date sales of 312,000 isn't that far off from Layton's first week!) Additionally, Cave's region-free Xbox 360 shmup Mushihime-sama Futari just missed the top ten.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqProfessor Layton and the Devil's Flute plays successfully in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurejapanlevel-5media-createprofessor-laytonprofessor-layton-and-the-devils-fluteFri, 04 Dec 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No More Heroes: Heroes' Paradise footage is light on gameplay, heavy on badassery]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/no-more-heroes-heroes-paradise-footage-is-light-on-gameplay-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/no-more-heroes-heroes-paradise-footage-is-light-on-gameplay-h/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/04/no-more-heroes-heroes-paradise-footage-is-light-on-gameplay-h/#commentsJapanese publisher Marvelous just uploaded a quite lengthy and quite new trailer for the Xbox 360 and PS3 port of No More Heroes. It's all in Japanese, but it speaks the universal languages of crazy bosses and near-naked-babe quite well.

Aside from that, it also shows how much better the game looks compared to its Wii counterpart -- all of those Ps really make a difference. Be sure to check out the last few seconds of the trailer, which show us the Japanese version of the game just may not be censored after all. The original censored Wii game certainly didn't have that much blood in it!

JoystiqNo More Heroes: Heroes' Paradise footage is light on gameplay, heavy on badassery originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grasshopper-manufacturemmvno-more-heroessuda-51suda51Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:30:00 EST