Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogobig.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Steam enables remote downloads from web or mobile]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/steam-enables-remote-downloads-from-web-or-mobile/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/steam-enables-remote-downloads-from-web-or-mobile/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/steam-enables-remote-downloads-from-web-or-mobile/#comments ImageIt's now even easier to buy too many games from Steam. Valve has implemented remote downloading, allowing you to manage your PC's Steam collection remotely, from anywhere you can access the website or mobile app.

Remote downloading lets you start a download on your computer from any of these other sources, and have them "installed and ready to play on your arrival." In other words, you can buy a game from the mobile app and have it download automatically to your home PC, or reinstall something else from your Steam collection remotely.

The Store will even ask you upon purchase if you'd like to remotely install your new game, if it notices you're shopping from away from your computer.

JoystiqSteam enables remote downloads from web or mobile originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macpcremote-downloadingremote-downloadssteamWed, 16 May 2012 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[You can Dream Drop more cash for a 'Mark of Mastery' edition of Kingdom Hearts 3D]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/you-can-dream-drop-more-cash-for-a-mark-of-mastery-edition-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/you-can-dream-drop-more-cash-for-a-mark-of-mastery-edition-of/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/you-can-dream-drop-more-cash-for-a-mark-of-mastery-edition-of/#comments ImageThere's no better way to flaunt your mastery of the art of having $55 than with the Kingdom Hearts 3D "Mark of Mastery" edition. The newly announced special edition comes with a clear 3DS case and a set of art cards that look like they can be slipped into said case, and five AR cards to unlock in-game Dream Eaters. All of this comes in a big box with a magnetic clasp.

This edition shows one of the advantages of portable games: the limited edition boxes don't cost quite as much as those for console games.

Continue reading You can Dream Drop more cash for a 'Mark of Mastery' edition of Kingdom Hearts 3D

JoystiqYou can Dream Drop more cash for a 'Mark of Mastery' edition of Kingdom Hearts 3D originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dskingdom-hearts-3dkingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distancelimited-editionmark-of-masterynintendospecial-editionWed, 16 May 2012 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Cave Vita games reportedly canceled as COO resigns]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/cave-vita-games-reportedly-canceled-as-coo-resigns/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/cave-vita-games-reportedly-canceled-as-coo-resigns/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/cave-vita-games-reportedly-canceled-as-coo-resigns/#commentsImageMikio Watanabe, Cave's executive vice president and COO, is leaving the company as of May 31 for personal reasons, according to a press release issued by the company today. Watanabe will continue as representative director until the next shareholder meeting in August. Following his departure, CEO Ito Masahito will become the only remaining representative director.

At the same time, the latest Famitsu magazine (reported by Andriasang) lists two Vita games by the publisher as canceled. One of the games is a Vita release of its casual/social castle building game Shirotsuku; the other is an unspecified shooter.

If you're feeling worried about the seemingly vulnerable company, now might be a good time to remind you that Akai Katana Shin, the company's latest Xbox 360 shooter, is out in North America this week.

JoystiqCave Vita games reportedly canceled as COO resigns originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Akai-Katanacavemikio-watanabeplaystationplaystation-vitashirotsukuvitaWed, 16 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Halo 4 Limited Edition includes multiplayer map DLC, videos]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4-limited-edition-includes-multiplayer-map-dlc-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4-limited-edition-includes-multiplayer-map-dlc-videos/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4-limited-edition-includes-multiplayer-map-dlc-videos/#comments ImageMicrosoft revealed Halo 4's Limited Edition today, and there's not a cat helmet to be found. Instead, the $100 package gets you a fancy box, a "UNSC Infinity Briefing Packet," and a host of in-game bonuses, expanding the multiplayer experience.

The LE includes the "War Games Map Pack," a voucher for "three future competitive multiplayer map packs, each including three locations, available for download post-launch on Xbox Live." It also includes early access to six multiplayer Specializations, which will only be released at launch in this package; they'll be "released over time" to the general audience.

Other digital bonuses include an exclusive armor and weapon skin, an in-game emblem, and an Avatar prop. The LE also includes an "extended 90-minute version" of the Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn video series, extra featurettes, and making-of videos.

Continue reading Halo 4 Limited Edition includes multiplayer map DLC, videos

JoystiqHalo 4 Limited Edition includes multiplayer map DLC, videos originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>halo-4limited-editionmicrosoftxboxWed, 16 May 2012 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EX Troopers: a Lost Planet spinoff for ... 3DS and PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/ex-troopers-a-lost-planet-spinoff-for-3ds-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/ex-troopers-a-lost-planet-spinoff-for-3ds-and-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/ex-troopers-a-lost-planet-spinoff-for-3ds-and-ps3/#comments ImageWe certainly didn't expect a 3DS spinoff of Lost Planet ... and we definitely didn't expect a 3DS-slash-PS3 spinoff. EX Troopers, revealed in this week's Famitsu magazine, is also unexpectedly anime styled, featuring manga panel cutscenes and a theme by Jpop star May'n.

EX Troopers takes place on EDN-3rd, in some kind of academy. Bren Turner is new in school, and seems to jump right into the Akrid fighting in what producer Shintaro Kojima describes as a beginners' action shooter.

No official images have been released yet (above is Lost Planet 3), but expect to see a lot of this, as Capcom indicated plans to use this IP outside of games, like its other "Single Content Multiple Usage" initiatives.

JoystiqEX Troopers: a Lost Planet spinoff for ... 3DS and PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dscapcomex-trooperslost-planetnintendoplaystationps3Wed, 16 May 2012 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Mario Kart 7 patch fixes Maka Wuhu exploit]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/psa-mario-kart-7-patch-fixes-maka-wuhu-exploit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/psa-mario-kart-7-patch-fixes-maka-wuhu-exploit/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/psa-mario-kart-7-patch-fixes-maka-wuhu-exploit/#comments ImageAlong with a 3DS firmware update (which doesn't do anything interesting), a new patch sent to 3DSes yesterday closes up the Maka Wuhu shortcut, in Mario Kart 7. The patch is required for online play, so you will no longer see miraculous leaps forward on that particular course. The glitch still shows up in time trials.

Now you have only your own driving skill to rely on in Mario Kart. Well, that and blue shells. Actually, mostly blue shells. Now, you have only the random chance that you'll get a blue shell and not be hit by a blue shell to rely on.

JoystiqPSA: Mario Kart 7 patch fixes Maka Wuhu exploit originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsmaka-wuhumario-kart-3dsmario-kart-7nintendopatchpsaupdateWed, 16 May 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock lands on PSN May 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/doctor-who-the-eternity-clock-lands-on-psn-may-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/doctor-who-the-eternity-clock-lands-on-psn-may-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/doctor-who-the-eternity-clock-lands-on-psn-may-23/#comments ImageLike the TARDIS, the PS3 is "bigger on the inside," capable of holding an entirely new Doctor Who adventure within its slim casing. The BBC announced today that Doctor Who: The Eternity Clock will be released "globally" on PlayStation Network Wednesday, May 23, and in UK retail the following Friday. "We really appreciate your patience as we've been making sure the game is perfect for all you eager fans," said executive producer Simon Harris, referencing the two-month delay of the game, which made the title unfortunately ironic.

The brief announcement on the PlayStation Blog did not offer any release dates for the announced PC or PlayStation Vita versions. It also doesn't tell us if the game will finally reveal the fate of the Doctor's daughter Samantha.

JoystiqDoctor Who: The Eternity Clock lands on PSN May 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 May 2012 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>doctor-who-the-eternity-clockplaystationps3psnq2-2012release-dateWed, 16 May 2012 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Welcome to Pokemon Black/White Version 2's scenic Aspertia City]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/welcome-to-pokemon-black-white-version-2s-scenic-aspertia-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/welcome-to-pokemon-black-white-version-2s-scenic-aspertia-city/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/welcome-to-pokemon-black-white-version-2s-scenic-aspertia-city/#comments ImageNew screenshots released today introduce the new starting point in Pokemon Black Version 2 and White Version 2. Aspertia City is a location new to the series, though of course "new" is relative in the world of Pokemon. From that location, you'll begin your investigation of how the Unova setting has changed since the events of two years ago. And you'll catch lots of Pokemon and fight gym leaders and stuff.

Nintendo also sent out the new box arts, allowing you to see Black Kyurem and White Kyurem facing each other down just as they will on retail shelves. Unless they're shelved in a different order, in which case they'll be defiantly facing away from each other.

Gallery: Pokemon Black 2 and White 2 (5/15/12)

JoystiqWelcome to Pokemon Black/White Version 2's scenic Aspertia City originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsnintendopokemon-black-2-white-2pokemon-black-version-2pokemon-white-version-2Tue, 15 May 2012 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Darksiders 2 rides into retail August 14]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-august-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-august-14/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/darksiders-2-rides-into-retail-august-14/#comments Image"We look forward to launching Darksiders [2] beginning on August 14 in North America," announced THQ CEO Brian Farrell during an investor conference call today. Farrell said that the delay from the previous June date was a "demonstration of our commitment to quality" - and that, after discussions with retailers, the publisher determined that "mid-August is a more favorable release window."

Pre-orders for Darksiders 2 are more than five times what they were for the first game at the equivalent point before release, Farrell noted. THQ is accompanying this release with double the marketing spend of the first game as well - it needs a hit game, and badly.

JoystiqDarksiders 2 rides into retail August 14 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 17:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darksiders-2microsoftnintendopcplaystationps3q3-2012release-datewii-uxboxTue, 15 May 2012 17:39:00 EST<![CDATA[THQ: WWE franchise rebranding boosted performance]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/thq-wwe-franchise-rebranding-boosted-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/thq-wwe-franchise-rebranding-boosted-performance/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/thq-wwe-franchise-rebranding-boosted-performance/#comments ImageWhich would you be more likely to walk into a store and ask for? Something called "WWE 12" or something called "WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011?" THQ reports that common sense has won out, as it attributes increased sales of the new title, in part, to the new naming convention.

"The successful rebranding of this annual franchise has led to higher sell-through to date," the company notes in its latest earnings release, "which is up approximately 20 percent on like-for-like platforms in North America versus the year-ago title." THQ didn't share the sell-through number, but it did disclose that it shipped more than 2.2 million copies since November. It sounds like a much more successful rebranding than "Hollywood Hogan."

JoystiqTHQ: WWE franchise rebranding boosted performance originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnintendoplaystationps3thqwiiwwe-12wwe-2012xboxTue, 15 May 2012 16:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft expects next-gen consoles to integrate 'item based model']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/ubisoft-expects-next-gen-consoles-to-integrate-item-based-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/ubisoft-expects-next-gen-consoles-to-integrate-item-based-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/ubisoft-expects-next-gen-consoles-to-integrate-item-based-model/#comments Ubisoft likely knows more about the next generation of consoles than we all do, thanks to working on games for them and stuff, and it sees them going in a social gaming-oriented direction. The company's earnings release features an outlook for the next year, in which Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot expects to see an increase of 25-61% in operating income.

Beyond that, Guillemot expects growth due to two trends: first, "the forthcoming arrival of the next generation of consoles which will be increasingly connected and will strongly boost the market thanks to a new qualitative leap and the integration of social games benefits and the item based model," and free-to-play games.

The "item based model" sounds like a trend bleeding over from free-to-play games, in which games are sold for free (or cheap) and microtransactions bring in revenue through the sale of in-game items. We have seen this outside of the free-to-play world in this generation, in the form of costume sales and the occasional weapon unlock; however, if Guillemot expects it to be a significant source of income on consoles, it's likely to be even more emphasized in the next generation.

JoystiqUbisoft expects next-gen consoles to integrate 'item based model' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earningsfree-to-playMicrotransactionsnext-generationubisoftyves-guillemotTue, 15 May 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Lightning's story finally hits Final Fantasy XIII-2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/lightnings-story-finally-hits-final-fantasy-xiii-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/lightnings-story-finally-hits-final-fantasy-xiii-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/lightnings-story-finally-hits-final-fantasy-xiii-2/#comments ImageIt seems to come up in every announcement of other FFXIII-2 DLC - and it's about the person on the game's box - so we're glad to finally see "Lightning's Story: Requiem of the Goddess" arrive today in North America.

In this episode, you play out a battle between Lightning and Caius, and get the opportunity to unlock Lightning for use in the main game ... which Square recommends you finish before playing the DLC. It's a bit of a catch-22. Also out today is "Snow's Story: Perpetual Battlefield," a Coliseum battle with Snow that also unlocks him.

These two episodes mark the end of Final Fantasy XIII-2 DLC, but Square is ending on a high note by releasing them alongside a set of 16 new costumes for Mog.

JoystiqLightning's story finally hits Final Fantasy XIII-2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcfinal-fantasy-xiii-2lightnings-story-requiem-of-the-goddessmicrosoftplaystationps3release-datexboxTue, 15 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PixelJunk 4am launch trailer is here to inspire you]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pixeljunk-4am-launch-trailer-is-here-to-inspire-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pixeljunk-4am-launch-trailer-is-here-to-inspire-you/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pixeljunk-4am-launch-trailer-is-here-to-inspire-you/#comments Image
PixelJunk 4am arrives on PlayStation Network this week, allowing any Move owner to turn his or her living room into an audiovisual, experimental performance space and look just ... almost ... okay, nowhere near as cool as Baiyon doing it. There are still some things that require a professional.

JoystiqPixelJunk 4am launch trailer is here to inspire you originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>movepixeljunk-4amplaystationps3psnTue, 15 May 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pokemon Dream Radar, Pokedex 3D Pro coming to North American 3DS this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pokemon-dream-radar-pokedex-3d-pro-coming-to-north-american-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pokemon-dream-radar-pokedex-3d-pro-coming-to-north-american-3ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/pokemon-dream-radar-pokedex-3d-pro-coming-to-north-american-3ds/#comments ImageThe two eShop-based Pokemon games announced during the last Nintendo Direct are coming to 3DSes in North America this fall. Pokemon Dream Radar is a pseudo-shooting game in which players move their 3DSes around to find Pokemon hiding in augmented-reality environments, then catch them by shooting. Pokemon caught in this game, including "some hard-to-get Pokemon," can be transferred into Black 2 and White 2.

Pokedex 3D Pro is an upgraded version of the free Pokedex 3D app, with "detailed information about the more than 600 Pokémon featured in the history of the Pokémon video game series." Unlike Pokedex 3D, which hid many of its contents behind AR markers, everyone is unlocked from the start.

Pricing information was not announced for North America, but Dream Radar and Pokedex 3D Pro sell for 300 yen ($3.75) and 1,500 yen ($18.77) in Japan respectively. Is ultimate Pokemon knowledge worth $18 to you?

Gallery: Pokedex 3D Pro (3DS eShop)

Gallery: Pokemon Dream Radar (3DS eShop)

Continue reading Pokemon Dream Radar, Pokedex 3D Pro coming to North American 3DS this fall

JoystiqPokemon Dream Radar, Pokedex 3D Pro coming to North American 3DS this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopfall-2012nintendopokedex-3dpokedex-3d-propokemonpokemon-dream-radarrelease-dateTue, 15 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Activision pays $42 million to Infinity Ward Employee Group]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/activision-pays-42-million-to-infinity-ward-employee-group/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/activision-pays-42-million-to-infinity-ward-employee-group/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/15/activision-pays-42-million-to-infinity-ward-employee-group/#comments Activision has paid out $42 million to the "Infinity Ward Employee Group," which sued Activision in 2010 seeking profits from Modern Warfare 2. A source speaking to Polygon said that the payment was not a settlement; rather, Activision's discovery phase (for its own lawsuit against former Infinity Ward leads Jason West and Vince Zampella) found no evidence that the Employee Group members were complicit in the breach-of-contract issues for which Activision is suing, and so Bobby Kotick and Activision agreed to pay them.

That group sought $75 million to $125 million, plus punitive damages. IWEG attorney Bruce Isaacs told Polygon that "although it is a meaningful payment it is only a small portion of what we are seeking in litigation." And it is still going forward with said litigation. Isaacs said the payment was a "cynical attempt to look good before the jury trial."

JoystiqActivision pays $42 million to Infinity Ward Employee Group originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 May 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsinfinity-wardinfinity-ward-employee-grouplawsuitmicrosoftModern-Warfare-2nintendopcplaystationps3wiixboxTue, 15 May 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Free DLC brings Arkham Asylum into Gotham City Impostors]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/free-dlc-brings-arkham-asylum-into-gotham-city-impostors/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/free-dlc-brings-arkham-asylum-into-gotham-city-impostors/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/free-dlc-brings-arkham-asylum-into-gotham-city-impostors/#comments Image
Prepare to be slightly, mildly confused. Gotham City Impostors, the non-Batman Batman game, is getting a free map based on Arkham Asylum, setting for a different recent Batman game. There's probably a way we could present that information that would be confusing, like "Batman game to be set in Arkham Asylum" or "You've never been to Arkham in this Batman game" but really it's not a big deal. Can you tell we started this post planning to play up the confusion angle and then stopped ourselves?

Speaking of confusion, this free map launched on the North American PSN last week by accident, in place of the Rodeo Pirate Pack. It will launch as planned on Xbox May 16, and PC at an unspecified date soon after.

JoystiqFree DLC brings Arkham Asylum into Gotham City Impostors originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 22:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arkham-asylumdlcgotham-city-impostorsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnxblaxboxMon, 14 May 2012 22:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon shelves Silent Hill: Book of Memories until October]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/amazon-shelves-silent-hill-book-of-memories-until-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/amazon-shelves-silent-hill-book-of-memories-until-october/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/amazon-shelves-silent-hill-book-of-memories-until-october/#comments ImageWayForward's strange top-down multiplayer Vita game Silent Hill: Book of Memories appears to have been delayed again, with Amazon changing the release date from May 31 to the distant (but thematically appropriate) October 31. Other retailers don't yet agree: GameStop says May 22, and GameFly has a terrifying "TBD" date.

At least Amazon's $5 credit offer is active, if you pre-order the game in advance of its eventual release. And in other sort of good news, the soundtrack was released last month, so you can listen to that while you wait. We're checking with Konami for an accurate release window.

Gallery: Silent Hill: Book of Memories (Vita)

JoystiqAmazon shelves Silent Hill: Book of Memories until October originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazondelayskonamiplaystationplaystation-vitasilent-hill-book-of-memoriesvitawayforwardMon, 14 May 2012 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Blizzard explains why it's hiring for console Diablo, but not making console Diablo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/blizzard-explains-why-its-hiring-for-console-diablo-but-not-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/blizzard-explains-why-its-hiring-for-console-diablo-but-not-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/blizzard-explains-why-its-hiring-for-console-diablo-but-not-ma/#comments The situation around the potential console release of Diablo 3 has been strangely half-secret. Blizzard has openly hired for console development, and company representatives have said that they are "investigating" and "exploring" console Diablo projects. They've talked about console controllers and their advantages. But it never got to the point of actually announcing anything.

"Yeah. We haven't officially announced it, because we're not 'experimenting,'" Diablo 3 director Jay Wilson told Gamasutra. "We tell people that basically we're experimenting, because it helps us hire people. The better people we hire, the better chance we have to actually make it."

In other words, there's no concrete plan, but Blizzard is bringing in people to try things to see if they will work - which, yes, sounds a lot like experimenting. "That's why we haven't kept it super secret, but we also haven't confirmed it, because we're not sure yet whether we think it will work, and whether we think we have the resources to do it," Wilson said.

This bit comes at the end of a lengthy interview, during which Wilson also provides a lot of background on the development process - like how a PowerPoint presentation substituted for a design document.

JoystiqBlizzard explains why it's hiring for console Diablo, but not making console Diablo originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blizzardconsoleDiablo-3jay-wilsonmacpcMon, 14 May 2012 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Rez/Lumines vets release iOS game 'Kotomon']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rez-lumines-vets-release-ios-game-kotomon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rez-lumines-vets-release-ios-game-kotomon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/rez-lumines-vets-release-ios-game-kotomon/#comments ImageIt's hard to imagine a job with more creative freedom than working on games like Rez and Child of Eden, but some former Q? Entertainment staffers have found it, breaking off to form their own indie developer.

Monstars Inc., a company founded by Rez programmer, Lumines designer, and Child of Eden programming lead Osamu Kodera, just released its first game, Kotomon for iOS. Despite breaking with Q?, Kotomon shows that Kodera and co. haven't broken with everything they know - Kotomon promises "Dancing! Monsters! Shooting! Action!" as you slide to collect monsters and then fire them at enemies, with each attack creating new beats in the music.

Kotomon is out today at a promotional $2.99 price; it'll go up to $3.99 after May 31.

JoystiqRez/Lumines vets release iOS game 'Kotomon' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iosipadiphonekotomonmobilemonstars-incMon, 14 May 2012 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown due June 5 on PSN, June 6 on XBLA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/virtua-fighter-5-final-showdown-due-june-5-on-psn-june-6-on-xbl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/virtua-fighter-5-final-showdown-due-june-5-on-psn-june-6-on-xbl/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/virtua-fighter-5-final-showdown-due-june-5-on-psn-june-6-on-xbl/#comments Image
We can't see the title of the new XBLA/PSN release of Virtua Fighter 5 and not think of "The Final Countdown." And now, we are in the final countdown before Final Showdown's release. Sega announced today that the 3D fighter will arrive on PSN June 5 and on XBLA June 6.

Should you want to make the delightfully budget-priced fighter less budget-priced, the release will be accompanied by a bunch of character customization DLC. Individual character packs (containing "600-950" items!) will be released for $5/400 MS Points; or you can buy two bundle packs (one with 9 characters' items and one with 10) for $15/1,200 points, also on release day.

Continue reading Virtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown due June 5 on PSN, June 6 on XBLA

JoystiqVirtua Fighter 5 Final Showdown due June 5 on PSN, June 6 on XBLA originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftplaystationps3psnq2-2012release-datesegavirtua-fighter-5-final-showdownxblaxboxMon, 14 May 2012 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Pikmin 2, Mario Power Tennis on US Wii June 10, DKC Returns and Brawl discounted]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/pikmin-2-mario-power-tennis-on-us-wii-june-10-dkc-returns-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/pikmin-2-mario-power-tennis-on-us-wii-june-10-dkc-returns-and/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/14/pikmin-2-mario-power-tennis-on-us-wii-june-10-dkc-returns-and/#comments ImageDespite never having been released for Wii in North America, the Wii's "New Play Control" version of Pikmin 2 will be released as part of the "Nintendo Selects" line June 10, alongside fellow GameCube port Mario Power Tennis. Rather than question the logistics of a budget re-release of a game that was never released in the first place, we'll celebrate the $19.99 price point under which it's coming out.

Also joining the Nintendo Selects line are two bona fide Wii games, Super Smash Bros. Brawl and the excellent Donkey Kong Country Returns, at $30 each. It's about (two years past) time for Brawl to be made cheaper, though it's unusual that these two games will sell for $10 above the normal Nintendo Selects price.

Gallery: Nintendo Selects (Mario Power Tennis and Pikmin 2)

Continue reading Pikmin 2, Mario Power Tennis on US Wii June 10, DKC Returns and Brawl discounted

JoystiqPikmin 2, Mario Power Tennis on US Wii June 10, DKC Returns and Brawl discounted originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2012 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Donkey-Kong-Country-Returnsmario-power-tennisnintendonintendo-selectsPikmin-2q2-2012release-datesuper-smash-bros-brawlwiiMon, 14 May 2012 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega earnings down in fiscal 2011, Mario & Sonic sell 3 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/sega-earnings-down-in-fiscal-2011-mario-and-sonic-sell-3-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/sega-earnings-down-in-fiscal-2011-mario-and-sonic-sell-3-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/sega-earnings-down-in-fiscal-2011-mario-and-sonic-sell-3-million/#comments Sega's earnings are down in the year ended March 31, 2012, which shouldn't come as a surprise given the company's recent extreme restructuring measures. Sega reported net sales of 395.5 billion yen ($5 billion), down 0.3 percent from 2011; net income dropped 47.4 percent to 21 billion yen.

In the "consumer business" division (the one that deals with home video games), Sega reported a year-over-year drop in unit sales. Its best-performing game was Mario & Sonic at the London 2012 Olympic Games, of course, at 3.28 million copies. Sonic Generations followed at 1.85 million; Virtua Tennis 4 sold 1.04 million across five platforms. Sega listed sales for Football Manager 2012 (710,000) and Yakuza: Dead Souls (550,000), but nothing else -- so we don't know how well Binary Domain did, except to guess that it probably didn't do very well.

JoystiqSega earnings down in fiscal 2011, Mario & Sonic sell 3 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsearningsfy-2011microsoftnintendopcplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspsegasonyvitawiixboxFri, 11 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Aqua Blue 3DS washing out of Nintendo's lineup in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/aqua-blue-3ds-washing-out-of-nintendos-lineup-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/aqua-blue-3ds-washing-out-of-nintendos-lineup-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/aqua-blue-3ds-washing-out-of-nintendos-lineup-in-japan/#comments ImageThe Aqua Blue 3DS, one of two launch colors for the handheld, is going out of production, according to a tiny note on Nintendo's Japanese site. That leaves five variants in that region, including a different blue.

Nintendo of America senior director of corporate communications Charlie Scibetta told Joystiq that "We have nothing to announce about the Aqua Blue Nintendo 3DS in our territory at this time." Still, we can't help but worry for the future of what is clearly the best 3DS variation to put a Slime sticker on.

JoystiqAqua Blue 3DS washing out of Nintendo's lineup in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsaqua-bluenintendoFri, 11 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[You can still buy into Double Fine Adventure through PayPal]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/you-can-still-buy-into-double-fine-adventure-through-paypal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/you-can-still-buy-into-double-fine-adventure-through-paypal/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/you-can-still-buy-into-double-fine-adventure-through-paypal/#comments
The Kickstarter may have ended, but you still have a chance to throw money into Double Fine's impressive coffers, and guarantee yourself access to both the game and its ongoing documentary. Double Fine has opened up a PayPal account to which you can contribute now -- you can find it on this very slow-loading page.

For $15, you get a Steam code for the PC or Mac version (when it's done), beta access, backer forum access, and HD streaming documentary videos as they finish. Double Fine graciously released the first episode of the documentary, which we've placed at the top of this post so you can have something to do while the PayPal page loads.

JoystiqYou can still buy into Double Fine Adventure through PayPal originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-finedouble-fine-adventureiosipadiphonemobilepcFri, 11 May 2012 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Pre-order Kingdom Hearts 3D for 'Dream Eater' AR cards]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/pre-order-kingdom-hearts-3d-for-dream-eater-ar-cards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/pre-order-kingdom-hearts-3d-for-dream-eater-ar-cards/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/pre-order-kingdom-hearts-3d-for-dream-eater-ar-cards/#comments ImageKingdom Hearts 3D is taking a page from Kid Icarus: Uprising's book ... or a card from its album, maybe? Square Enix is handing out a semi-random selection of AR cards with pre-orders in North America.

Every pre-order gets the card that unlocks the "R&R Seal Dream Eater" and the card that unlocks a viewing stand for 3D Dream Eater images. A third card will unlock one of three other Dream Eaters: Ursa Circus, Sudo Neku, or Meowjesty. These characters can be recruited to join you in battle.

You can see the Dream Eaters for yourself in the gallery below (they're the cute monster things), along with character art of The World Ends With You's Neku and others, and some shots of Traverse Town.

Gallery: Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (Traverse Town and Character Art)

Continue reading Pre-order Kingdom Hearts 3D for 'Dream Eater' AR cards

JoystiqPre-order Kingdom Hearts 3D for 'Dream Eater' AR cards originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsar-cardskingdom-hearts-3dkingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distancenintendoFri, 11 May 2012 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Join Rockstar club on Steam, get free Midnight Club 2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/join-rockstar-club-on-steam-get-free-midnight-club-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/join-rockstar-club-on-steam-get-free-midnight-club-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/join-rockstar-club-on-steam-get-free-midnight-club-2/#comments ImageJoin the Midnight Club 2 Club! That's the organization we just invented whose sole membership requirement is ownership of Midnight Club 2. It's exceptionally easy to join right now, as Rockstar is handing out free copies to anyone who joins the Rockstar Community on Steam. Hey, that's two clubs you'd be part of, one of which is even real!

Your account must have at least one purchase or gift in it - basically, proof that you're a real person who really plays games. And you can't already have Midnight Club 2. Double-dipping is not allowed in the MC2C. You should probably make sure you have a Windows PC capable of running the game, too.

[Thanks, Jesse C.]

JoystiqJoin Rockstar club on Steam, get free Midnight Club 2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>midnight-club-2pcrockstarsteamsteam-communityFri, 11 May 2012 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[You did a great job making Jet Set Radio graffiti]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/you-did-a-great-job-making-jet-set-radio-graffiti/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/you-did-a-great-job-making-jet-set-radio-graffiti/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/you-did-a-great-job-making-jet-set-radio-graffiti/#comments Image
There is, strictly speaking, new content to be found in the HD update of Jet Set Radio. It's limited to user-created graffiti designs, but it's new content nonetheless! In the video above, Sega introduces the winning designs in its graffiti contest, all of which look like legitimate graffiti designs and not just Rage Comics and QR codes linking to petitions about Sonic voice actors.

We're sure those were submitted - they just didn't win.

JoystiqYou did a great job making Jet Set Radio graffiti originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>contestgraffitijet-grind-radiojet-set-radiomicrosoftpcplaystationps3psnsegaxblaxboxFri, 11 May 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Portal 2 Perpetual Testing Initiative success leads to Workshop sale]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/portal-2-perpetual-testing-initiative-success-leads-to-workshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/portal-2-perpetual-testing-initiative-success-leads-to-workshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/11/portal-2-perpetual-testing-initiative-success-leads-to-workshop/#comments ImageValve's "Perpetual Testing Initiative" has already been yielding results, and they provide evidence for the hypothesis that people still like playing Portal 2. Since the DLC's release on May 8, the company reports that over 35,000 user-created maps have been uploaded, which have been downloaded over 1.3 million times.

To celebrate this successful experiment, Valve has discounted several items on Steam, including, of course, Portal 2, which costs just $6.79 right now! Fellow Steam Workshop title Skyrim is on sale for $40.19, and several Workshop items within Team Fortress 2 can be found for 50 percent off.

Continue reading Portal 2 Perpetual Testing Initiative success leads to Workshop sale

JoystiqPortal 2 Perpetual Testing Initiative success leads to Workshop sale originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>macpcperpetual-testing-initiativeportal-2salesskyrimTeam-Fortress-2Fri, 11 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kickstart Steam/XBLA/PSN shmup Redux to get a Dreamcast version]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/kickstart-steam-xbla-psn-shmup-redux-to-get-a-dreamcast-version/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/kickstart-steam-xbla-psn-shmup-redux-to-get-a-dreamcast-version/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/kickstart-steam-xbla-psn-shmup-redux-to-get-a-dreamcast-version/#comments Image
Redux: Dark Matters is the sequel to Dux, a 2009 shooter you may not have played ... because it came out on Dreamcast. However, developers Rene Hellwig and KTX Software want to bring the side-scrolling followup to PSN, XBLA, and Steam, and have posted a $25,000 Kickstarter drive toward that goal.

But the developers haven't forgotten their insane drive to keep the Dreamcast alive. If you contribute $65 or more, you'll get a limited-edition Dreamcast copy of Redux, exclusive to the Kickstarter campaign. This is all we needed to clear up our mixed feelings about the Kickstarter phenomenon; anything that leads to more Dreamcast games can only be a good thing.

JoystiqKickstart Steam/XBLA/PSN shmup Redux to get a Dreamcast version originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreamcastiosiphonekickstartermicrosoftmobilepcplaystationps3reduxxboxThu, 10 May 2012 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[NintendoWare Weekly: Monster World IV]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nintendoware-weekly-monster-world-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nintendoware-weekly-monster-world-iv/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/nintendoware-weekly-monster-world-iv/#comments ImageWhile we wait for Sega's "Monster World Collection" to debut the previously Japan-only (and acclaimed!) Monster World IV on PSN and XBLA, Sega went ahead and deposited the game on Wii Virtual Console today, causing even more surprise than other, increasingly rare, VC releases.

If you have the Wii Points kicking around, you can build a pseudo-complete Wonder Boy collection now - bolstered by Sega's simultaneous release of the arcade version of Wonder Boy in Monster Land. At least one version of each game in the series is available.

In non-interactive news, Dinosaur Office returns to Nintendo Video tomorrow.

Continue reading NintendoWare Weekly: Monster World IV

JoystiqNintendoWare Weekly: Monster World IV originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dsdsdsiwareeshopmonster-world-ivnintendonintendoware-weeklypauls-shooting-adventure-2sudoku-by-nikoliwiiwiiwarewonder-boywonder-boy-in-monster-landThu, 10 May 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Kinect-enabled Internet Explorer browser coming to Xbox 360]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/rumor-kinect-enabled-internet-explorer-browser-coming-to-xbox-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/rumor-kinect-enabled-internet-explorer-browser-coming-to-xbox-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/rumor-kinect-enabled-internet-explorer-browser-coming-to-xbox-3/#comments Good news: the Xbox 360 will finally have a web browser in the near future, according to a Verge source. Bad news: It's Internet Explorer.

The source tells The Verge that the new web browser is based on Internet Explorer 9, and features Kinect functionality, allowing users to search with voice input just like the Bing search tech used in the current dashboard. Users will also be able to browse the web without talking to it, reportedly.

JoystiqRumor: Kinect-enabled Internet Explorer browser coming to Xbox 360 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>internet-explorerkinectmicrosoftweb-browserxboxThu, 10 May 2012 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Jason Rohrer trusting Kickstarter for Diamond Trust of London pre-orders]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/jason-rohrer-trusting-kickstarter-for-diamond-trust-of-london-pr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/jason-rohrer-trusting-kickstarter-for-diamond-trust-of-london-pr/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/jason-rohrer-trusting-kickstarter-for-diamond-trust-of-london-pr/#comments
Jason Rohrer's DS board game, now known as Jason Rohrer With Music By Tom Bailey: Diamond Trust of London, was finally officially approved for publishing as of last week. With Nintendo no longer a hurdle, Rohrer is now seeking Kickstarter-based pre-orders to actually manufacture the game, a first for a retail DS game.

"As I faced Nintendo's large manufacturing minimum, a serious question arose: how many people in the world would want to play it?" Rohrer said in the explanation of his Kickstarter drive. "Kickstarter is a perfect way to answer that question."

To get the game, you must contribute at least $35. At $55, you get one of 1,000 limited-edition copies, with mysterious special items included. "I've decided to keep the nature of these special inclusions secret as a surprise," Rohrer said, "since every package will have a unique collection of special items in it." As always, the bonuses get ever more extravagant from there.

All you need, though, is one copy of the game. You can play multiplayer from a single cartridge using Download Play. "There is one minor benefit to playing with two cartridges," Rohrer noted: "both players can hear their own, separate, generated music (the music is too big to send to the downloading player during DS Download Play)."

JoystiqJason Rohrer trusting Kickstarter for Diamond Trust of London pre-orders originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamond-trust-of-londondsindiepubjason-rohrerkickstarternintendoThu, 10 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Marvel Avengers: Battle for Earth on Kinect and Wii U from Ubisoft]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/marvel-avengers-battle-for-earth-on-kinect-and-wii-u-from-ubiso/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/marvel-avengers-battle-for-earth-on-kinect-and-wii-u-from-ubiso/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/marvel-avengers-battle-for-earth-on-kinect-and-wii-u-from-ubiso/#comments ImageUbisoft and Marvel are partnering on an Avengers game for ... Kinect and Wii U? It's an unlikely pairing - the controller-free format and the format with a giant controller and an extraneous screen; but for a franchise that pairs a half-naked monster man with an armored plutocrat, perhaps it's appropriate.

Marvel Avengers: Battle for Earth is in the works at Ubisoft Quebec, and will allow players to use motion controls to fight off the alien Skrull. "The idea that we're making a motion-control version of 'The Avengers' is a unique proposition if you compare that to superhero games of the past," said Ubisoft marketing VP Tony Key, as reported by the Washington Post. "This is the perfect type of game for that because these characters are very action oriented. They're always fighting and throwing things." Those rowdy kids.

As suggested by the Skrull invasion storyline, the game deviates from the movie, instead drawing from the "Secret Invasion" comic crossover event, which featured Skrulls posing as Earth superheroes.

JoystiqMarvel Avengers: Battle for Earth on Kinect and Wii U from Ubisoft originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avengerskinectmarvel-avengers-battle-for-earthnintendothe-avengersubisoftubisoft-quebecwii-uxboxThu, 10 May 2012 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[DSi drops to $100, DSi XL drops to $130 May 20]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/dsi-drops-to-100-dsi-xl-drops-to-130-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/dsi-drops-to-100-dsi-xl-drops-to-130-may-20/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/10/dsi-drops-to-100-dsi-xl-drops-to-130-may-20/#comments ImageThe DSi line of handhelds is about to get cheaper. Starting May 20, Nintendo is dropping the MSRP of the DSi to $99.99 (from $150), and the DSi XL to $129.99 (from $170). Finally, the DSi XL will be cheaper than the 3DS - which launches in a new color the same day!

If you don't have a device that can play DSiWare, a $100 DSi opens you up to a variety of great games - especially now that the platform has had a few years to slowly build a library. Yes, there are worthwhile games on DSiWare - like Shantae: Risky's Revenge, Cave Story, Pictobits, and Antipole, to name a few.

Continue reading DSi drops to $100, DSi XL drops to $130 May 20

JoystiqDSi drops to $100, DSi XL drops to $130 May 20 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 May 2012 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dsdsidsi-xlnintendoprice-cutprice-dropThu, 10 May 2012 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Find Ryu in Asura's Wrath DLC now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/find-ryu-in-asuras-wrath-dlc-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/find-ryu-in-asuras-wrath-dlc-now/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/find-ryu-in-asuras-wrath-dlc-now/#comments ImageCapcom gives you another excuse to let the spectacle of Asura's Wrath consume you, releasing the "Lost Episode 1" DLC on PSN and XBLA for $2. This is the one that brings Street Fighter's Ryu into the sci-fi/Buddhist world of Asura's Wrath, to duel with the ever-growling Asura.

During the fight, which takes place in side view, Asura attacks both to deplete Ryu's health and to fill his own "Burst" gauge. Ryu is overcome with the Satsui no Hadou, bringing the "Evil Ryu" version of the character into the battle.

You can download the episode now to experience the dramatic duel for yourself; if you'd like to see what you're in for first, Shoryuken recorded the whole scene, which you can watch after the break.

Continue reading Find Ryu in Asura's Wrath DLC now

JoystiqFind Ryu in Asura's Wrath DLC now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asuras-wrathdlcmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxWed, 09 May 2012 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[NECA introduces P-body style Portal gun replica]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/neca-introduces-p-body-style-portal-gun-replica/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/neca-introduces-p-body-style-portal-gun-replica/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/neca-introduces-p-body-style-portal-gun-replica/#comments Image
All right, maybe we didn't really notice that the Portal gun used by P-body in Portal 2 co-op looked different. But NECA did, and designed a replica of that attractive, striped gun. The lights for this one, of course, are different from the original (we noticed that much!), glowing in orange and red.

NECA plans to make 5,000 of these, "and we'll do our best to make sure it reaches those who were not able to purchase the [previous] replica," the company said. Retailers will be announced next week.

JoystiqNECA introduces P-body style Portal gun replica originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>microsoftnecapcplaystationportal-2ps3replicatoysxboxWed, 09 May 2012 18:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Portabliss: Ketzal's Corridors (3DS eShop)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/portabliss-ketzals-corridors-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/portabliss-ketzals-corridors-3ds-eshop/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/portabliss-ketzals-corridors-3ds-eshop/#commentsDid you know that you can download handheld games now? That's amazingly convenient! The only inconvenient part of it is finding the right games to buy -- and that's where we come in, with our Portabliss column. In each installment, we'll tell you about a downloadable game on the iPhone, iPad, Android device, DSi, 3DS, PSP, etc. Today: Ketzal's Corridors.
Image
Ketzal's Corridors is an unusual puzzle game, in that the task you're asked to perform is pretty simple - you rotate a single 3D shape to fit through matching shapes cut out of walls. No big deal, right? You just rotate it until all the blocks form the correct profile.

The difficulty, at least for me, is entirely in the controls. Normally, that wouldn't be a good thing, but it forms the entire basis of the challenge, forcing you to think quickly about what you're doing in order to navigate a 3D space. You're flying toward those walls at a high speed, and trying to rotate the block in three dimensions in time. Translating three-dimensional movement into presses of the d-pad and R button is as hard as it sounds. It is not intuitive at all, forcing you to practice before you can acquire the skill.

Or maybe that's just me. Maybe I have bad spatial skills. I can imagine the kind of person who rotates Tetris pieces in both directions, instead of hitting a single button over and over again every time, picking this up. I'm certain even those geniuses will find something to like here, as there are challenges beyond the basic fitting-in. Often, a hole will have heart-shaped items in it, which you collect by touching it with the block, further influencing your movements and giving you another rapid-fire decision to make. In addition, there are moving obstacles to deal with.

Oh, and you're timed. A timer counts down constantly, encouraging you to hold the L button to speed through each consecutive wall, and adding another layer of pressure.

A game very much like this one, also developed by accessory maker Keys Factory (baffling!), came out on WiiWare under the title ThruSpace, but it works better as a portable game. Not because it's divided into bite-sized challenges, though it is - simply because it's a lot more effort to put down a Wii game in a hurry and pick it back up when you've calmed down. You have to turn the TV back on and everything, instead of just opening the 3DS up again.

Ketzal's Corridors is available on the 3DS eShop for $6.99. We're always looking for new distractions. Want to submit your game for Portabliss consideration? You can reach us at portabliss aat joystiq dawt com.

JoystiqPortabliss: Ketzal's Corridors (3DS eShop) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3dseshopketzals-corridorsnintendoportablissWed, 09 May 2012 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Cryptic Metal Gear Rising trailer lets you not understand the story right now]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/cryptic-metal-gear-rising-trailer-lets-you-not-understand-the-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/cryptic-metal-gear-rising-trailer-lets-you-not-understand-the-st/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/cryptic-metal-gear-rising-trailer-lets-you-not-understand-the-st/#comments Image
Just a quick warning: you won't see any cyborg ninja guys slicing robots in twain in this Metal Gear Rising video. This is the other part of Metal Gear - the part in which shadowy "authority" types deliver long speeches you won't understand.

It looks like Konami is setting up some kind of political intrigue backstory for Revengeance, with political machinations going on behind all the fighting and an entity called "Desperado" causing trouble. We're glad to see that not everything has changed in the transition to a new sub-series and a new developer.

JoystiqCryptic Metal Gear Rising trailer lets you not understand the story right now originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>konamimetal-gear-rising-revengeancemetal-gear-solid-risingmicrosoftplaystationps3xboxWed, 09 May 2012 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Dragon's Dogma features asynchronous co-op 'Ur-Dragon' slaying]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/dragons-dogma-features-asynchronous-co-op-ur-dragon-slaying/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/dragons-dogma-features-asynchronous-co-op-ur-dragon-slaying/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/dragons-dogma-features-asynchronous-co-op-ur-dragon-slaying/#comments Image
Dragon's Dogma will feature a dragon so big, so dogmatic (why not) that it'll take the collective efforts of everyone playing to kill it. The "Ur-Dragon" is an event in which every player party will be able to fight the giant beast in their own games, with all damage dealt to it worldwide contributing to the depletion of its health.

The person to strike the final, decisive blow will get the "maximum reward," but players who cause damage will also receive item drops. Of course, if hacking away at a big old dragon weren't rewarding enough on its own, nobody would ever play Dragon's Dogma.

Gallery: Dragon's Dogma (The Ur-Dragon)

Continue reading Dragon's Dogma features asynchronous co-op 'Ur-Dragon' slaying

JoystiqDragon's Dogma features asynchronous co-op 'Ur-Dragon' slaying originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdragons-dogmamicrosoftplaystationps3ur-dragonxboxWed, 09 May 2012 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Soul Sacrifice is Keiji Inafune's Vita game, features gruesome magic]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/soul-sacrifice-is-keiji-inafunes-vita-game-features-gruesome-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/soul-sacrifice-is-keiji-inafunes-vita-game-features-gruesome-m/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/09/soul-sacrifice-is-keiji-inafunes-vita-game-features-gruesome-m/#comments ImageWhile Sony's Japan Studio is the only listed name on the teaser video for Soul Sacrifice, a new Famitsu story adds some other names to the roster. Former Capcom exec, current Comcept/Intercept head, and Neptunia mk2 weapon Keiji Inafune is in charge of planning on the Vita game for his company Comcept.

That would mean Soul Sacrifice is the Vita game he semi-accidentally announced, and then attempted to unannounce, earlier this year. Inafune is working with developer Marvelous AQL, with composers Yasunori Mitsuda and Wataru Hokoyama providing music.

The game allows players to cast powerful magic spells, but requires a payment ("Sacrifice") for each. You can sacrifice objects, but the most powerful spells require you to give up parts of your character's body - in an example given, you give up an eye to summon a Gorgon. The player has been enslaved by a sorcerer, and captured in a small cell, when a demonic book appears that allows the player to experience past magical battles - which you can do with up to four players.

Head to Famitsu now to see many, many screenshots and pieces of Comcept concept art.

JoystiqSoul Sacrifice is Keiji Inafune's Vita game, features gruesome magic originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 May 2012 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Keiji-Inafunemarvelousmarvelous-aqlplaystationplaystation-vitasoul-sacrificevitaWed, 09 May 2012 12:15:00 EST