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Weekly Webcomic Wrapup goes Beyond the Sword
Here at Joystiq, we pride ourselves on being like that father who always made his kids compete for his affection. Except these aren't our kids, so it's even crueler. Firaxis joined forces with a handful of webcomics to create strips based on Civilization IV: Beyond the Sword. So it's with an evil but loving grin that we throw all the participating webcomics we could find (if we missed one, let us know and we'll throw our hands in the air say "oops!") and have our beloved readers vote on who did the best job with the source material. Fashion Faux Pas Technological gaps Deal or no Deal (also: there can only be one) "We've got pointy sticks." Self-referential three-parter (Zero, One, Two) Starving, indeed
Civilization Revolution not coming to PSP due to "lack of resources"
Firaxis, devlopers of the upcoming Civilization Revolution, has given a statement to Eurogamer to explain why there is going to be no PSP version. Put simply, they simply don't have a big enough team. The entire development staff is currently working on versions for the PS3, Xbox 360 and Nintendo DS. They have even delayed the Wii version to Autumn 2008, while the other versions are out in the Spring, because of resource shortages.Firaxis seems to be very proud of the fact that the game is being developed in-house. The only way a PSP version would be possible would be if they "farmed it out", which they are seemingly unwilling to do. Barry Caudill, of Firaxis, made sure to defend the handheld, saying that "it's not like we're dissing the platform - I use a PSP. We put Pirates out on it." The official word, then, is that there will be no PSP version. However Caudill's wording certainly leaves room for that to change in the future.
Firaxis wouldn't be against Alpha Centauri II
While talking with Firaxis about Civilization: Beyond the Sword and its space scenarios, it had to be asked whether we'll ever see the return of Alpha Centauri and its cast of characters bent on controlling the living planet. Producers from Firaxis and some representatives from 2K weren't opposed to the idea.Yes, Brian Reynolds (Big Huge Games), who designed the original game with Sid Meier has moved on and then there is the tricky issue that EA owns the rights. However, the Firaxis crew said if EA wouldn't be opposed to giving that up, there might be an opportunity for a sequel. It's the best and only chance for Firaxis to ever return gamers to Alpha Centauri. One producer for Firaxis turned around and said, "We could make 'Sid Meier's Space-something,' we have a great group to do that, but it just wouldn't be the same." No, it really wouldn't. Come on EA, it's not like you're doing anything with the series, work out a deal.
Joystiq impressions: Civilization Revolution
Sid Meier didn't just put his name at the top of this game, he's actually involved, and the producers made sure to point that out. Civilization Revolution has had a rough time with the hardcore Civ players who mock it for being cartoonish and the simple fact that it's designed for consoles. It's a legitimate Civilization game with a more playful and cartoony feel. The producers who showed the game said this is a Civ Sid Meier really wanted to make. They say it's a mash-up of a bunch of different Civilizations, the best elements brought together for a new game. It's not Civilization 5 and they're quite clear to point out it isn't Civilization Lite. It's just different. The character models are playful looking and upgrade over battle. The interface is completely streamlined and every major event is represented by a full character model animations. The map we saw was very small and packed with cute animations. The whole game seems streamlined for consoles but they say a regular game should last three hours. There are four ways to win the game which are standard for Civ players (Space Race, Military, Economic and Culture). When you win all your troops dance (big butch medics do a conga) and even the battleships do a little dance while shooting off canons. The game seems very different but familiar to any Civ player. It looks to be another version of the well known franchise trying to open up the game to players who want a strategy game, but don't want the implied weight that the PC version of Civ brings. The game will be out spring of 2008.
Joystiq impressions: Civilization: Beyond the Sword
Firaxis flat out says that Civilization IV's expansion, Beyond the Sword, is so huge, that it's actually more like Civilization IV.V (4.5). Much of the information was already known. The regular game looks fine, they're adding more non-military options and corporations in the game have a similar effect as religion. They also introduce spys which act in a similar way to diplomats in the original Civilization.What they did show off which was interesting was the scenarios. Unlike the previous Civ expansion Warlords, Beyond the Sword has a whole outer space scenario with completely new graphics and a alien-style game called Afterworld. The expansion comes with many different scenarios that don't really change the game as much as they are completely different games just using the Civ engine as a springboard..The actual Civ IV game looks like it's going to get some fresh air by allowing players to start later in the game if they want to experience the new content which is designed to make the end of the game more exciting and not feel like you're just pushing through it. Let's face it, most people know whether they can win or lose by the time the B.C. to A.D. switch happens. Beyond the Sword is expected to give peaceful players (an ironic) fighting chance to win the game. The game will release July 23 and it just looks like anybody still playing Civ IV might find the game worth getting, especially if it cleans up the end of the game.
Civilization Revolution coming to Wii, maybe not for PSP
The saga of Civilization coming to consoles and portables via Civilization Revolution has been marred by one particularly vexing question, namely: which consoles and portables is it actually coming to? When the game was first announced a few weeks ago, 2K's press release ambiguously said it was coming to "next generation consoles and handhelds" in Spring 2008. Then word broke that it might not be coming to Wii. Now, a new press release on 2K Games' E3 lineup lists a Wii version of the game coming in Fall 2008, well after Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and DS versions in Spring 2008. A PSP version was not listed in the release. What in the name of all civilization is going on? A spokesperson for 2K Games said a PSP version has not been announced and could not confirm either way whether one was in development. As for the Wii version, the spokesperson confirmed that it is coming but had no comment on why it would be so late. Who knows how many more system permutations will be speculated before the game finally comes out. %Gallery-4355%
Sid Meier's Civilization never announced for PSP
Contrary to an earlier report, the new Civilization Revolution is not coming out on PSP. The original press release mentioned the game's release on handheld systems -- it appears that 2K Games actually meant handheld system, singular.A recent E3 press release shows the title arriving on PS3, Xbox 360, Wii and DS. However, no PSP version was mentioned. When we conatcted a 2K Games representative, they simply said that a PSP version is not announced. Considering how the game's E3 debut will avoid PSP, we believe that the title will never appear on the system. Hopefully, we're wrong.
Civ Revolution headed Wii-ward after all
Turns out that the Wii wasn't forgotten when Firaxis decided to roll out Civilization Revolution -- we're just getting the game a few months later than the other guys. Is it too much to hope that the delay means we're getting online multiplayer, and it takes a little more time to work out the kinks with Nintendo's new system? Maybe we'll find out at E3, but we wouldn't bet on an answer coming that quickly. However, since 2K Games will be discussing the game with (and demonstrating for?) lucky attendees, at least a few juicy details are likely. %Gallery-4694%[Via Joystiq]
2K Games' (Bio)shocking E3 2007 lineup
Watch out for the 2K Games lineup for this week's E3 2007; it's mighty massive. Despite the appearance of an already-released title (The Darkness), Irrational's BioShock will more than make way with Big Brother demanding your full attention ... or else. The lineup, and attached release dates: BioShock (Xbox 360; August 21) Civilization Revolution (Xbox 360, PS3, and DS in Spring 2008; Wii in Fall 2008) The Darkness (Xbox 360, PS3) All-Pro Footbal 2K8 (Xbox 360, PS3; July 2007) NHL 2K8 (Xbox 360, PS3, PS2; Fall 2007) Those holding out to see (or have us see, rather) Manhunt 2 need not worry, as this does not include 2K parent publisher Take Two's E3 lineup. %Gallery-3725%%Gallery-4355%
No Civilization Revolution for the Wii
While we reported on DS Fanboy that the franchise was coming, we were a bit skeptical as to its validity on the Wii. Turns out, our apprehension to report the game was coming on the Wii was like some kind of awesome spider sense, because it definitely isn't coming to the system. Why? Who knows, but we can't even begin to fathom a reason as to why it shouldn't.Control scheme? Just about perfect for the game. Graphics? The Civilization series was never all that graphically demanding. Online multiplayer? OK, maybe that's a valid point of concern in bringing the franchise to the Wii, but hardly one that would cause the console to be excluded.[Via Game Stooge]
Civilization Revolution trailer released
Just a few hours after the good news hit, Take 2 has released a trailer for the upcoming Civilization Revolution game our handheld and console systems are already salivating for. Ok, so no actual gameplay is shown, just a bunch of orchestral music, pre-rendered cut scenes, and marketing speak reminding us why Civilization is one of the coolest franchises we've ever played. But come on ... this is Civilization. On your DS. On your Xbox 360. How great is that? %Gallery-4355%
Video: Civilization Revolution debut trailer
Announced just this morning, the first trailer for Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution has appeared online. The trailer relies solely on cinematics, so don't get your hopes up for any gameplay. Still, we do get a peek at some of the various groups and technologies you'll be controlling. More or less, think of this as a video version of the press release. It is there merely to whet the appetites of strategy-hungry gamers everywhere. Mission accomplished fellas. Now let's see some gameplay.%Gallery-4369%
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution coming to PSP
Not to be left out of the Civ lovin', the PSP is getting a Civ fix in the form of the brand new rendition, Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution. The official press release is a bit loose on exactly which handhelds will be getting this title, saying only that Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution will be coming to "next gen consoles and handhelds." We think we can safely assume a Nintendo DS version will be dropping in tune with the Sony PSP's release but hey, why get the Nintendo version? (wink, wink). The game is said to have "extensive multiplayer capabilities" with "integrated video and voice chat." Voice chat on the PSP? Maybe not, but at least having "extensive multiplayer capabilities" and "downloadable content" should prove a worthwhile venture on the PSP, especially for Civ gamers on the go. 16 civilizations are making the grade here, with Sid Meier himself in the hotseat as lead designer. Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution is set for a Spring 2008 release, so we imagine it won't be much longer before we can share some screen shots. Stay tuned.[Via Joystiq]
Sid Meier's Civilization coming to the DS
And we couldn't be happier the rumor from long ago has come true!See, we're huge fans of the Civilization series, so when we caught an eye full of the press release stating that a new game was being designed by Sid for "next-generation consoles and handhelds," we almost let loose a brick from the seat of our pants. We were surprised. "Civilization Revolution is the game I've always wanted to make!" says Sid Meier. He goes on further to hype up Civilization Revolution, stating that they are "excited to take advantage of the power of next generation consoles and the ingenuity of handhelds, to create a great and unique strategy game for newcomers to the series, as well as the millions of fans around the world who enjoy Civilization on the PC." The touch-screen controls are going to be perfect for this game, so let's hope it doesn't have to be too stripped to fit on that DS cartridge.[Via Game Stooge]
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution is coming to PS3 [Update]
2K Games, courtesy of Take-Two Interactive, dropped a Civ bomb today, announcing their publishing deal for Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution for both PS3 and Xbox 360. As of yet, no announced plans for a PC release. That's because consoles rule and PC's drool. (/Humor) In all seriousness, this endeavor should pose quite a challenge, as the console audience is vastly different in control and appeal (especially considering the plethora of trigger-happy preteens from FPS overload). This marks the first time Sid Meier actually has a hand in producing a Civilization console release, which we hope will bear significance on its quality and polish. Sixteen civilizations will be available for player control with real-time interaction with leaders and advisors, packed with "extensive multiplayer capabilities" featuring "integrated video and voice chat." No screenshots as of yet, but that should change as the sands of time bear down on us. According to Sid Meier, "Civilization Revolution is the game I've always wanted to make! We are excited to take advantage of the power of next generation consoles and the ingenuity of handhelds, to create a great and unique strategy game for newcomers to the series, as well as the millions of fans around the world who enjoy Civilization on the PC." We guess he wasn't kidding when he professed his love for Sony. Welcome to the party, Sid. Glad you came aboard.[Via Joystiq][Update: Added the newly-released trailer, embedded for your enjoyment.]
Civilization Revolution to revolutionize 360
2K has announced plans to bring a brand new Civilization title to new-gen consoles, including our beloved Xbox 360. Title Civilization Revolution, the game is reportedly the game that Sid Meier has always wanted to make. We're inclined to agree with him, since he's already made it four times. Joking aside, Civilization Revolution looks to bring a console level of "action-packed" goodness to the series, which has traditionally been a relatively slow affair on PCs. The new console iteration promises to streamline the experience, giving console gamers the instant gratification to which they've become accustomed. Civilization Revolution will also include multiplayer with integrated video and voice chat. Of course, the big question on everyone's mind is whether or not the game can appeal to both console gamers and a loyal PC following. We'll find out when the game releases in Spring 2008. [Via Joystiq]
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution coming to new-gen consoles and handhelds
Take-Two has announced that strategic mastermind Sid Meier intends to embrace the playthings of our fairly uncivilized age and build Civilization Revolution, the designer's first "next generation" game. Scheduled for a Spring 2008 release on modern consoles and handheld platforms, the strategy game promises to build the widely appreciated Civilization gameplay "from the ground up" for consoles. According to the press release, that means "an all new accessible, visually immersive, and action-packed world" with a "streamlined time scale for quicker games, intense combat, and constant action." Yes, we checked twice to make sure we were reading the correct document. It's also the game Sid Meier's always wanted to make, you know. "Civilization Revolution is the game I've always wanted to make!" he says. "We are excited to take advantage of the power of next generation consoles and the ingenuity of handhelds, to create a great and unique strategy game for newcomers to the series, as well as the millions of fans around the world who enjoy Civilization on the PC." Since the PC's Civilization almost seems like the shushing librarian compared to console gaming's heavily armed macho man, this "Revolution" faces quite a challenge in getting the two to shake hands and appeal to both sets of gamers. Mr. Meier had best prepare himself for an initial torrent of "it's being dumbed down" accusations. You might choose to save those for your fellow player, as Civilization Revolution will support online multiplayer matches along with integrated video and voice chat. We can't wait to don togas and wave our scepters about as we crush the feeble armies of General H@xinat0rr 3K. %Gallery-4355%
Slate: Serious games are seriously boring
For all the bluster about serious games being the wave of the future, most examples of the form thus far are missing that key element of ... what's the word ... oh yeah, fun! Slate takes a withering look at the state of the serious games industry by asking the simple question: "Can a game still be called a game if it isn't any fun?"It's a good question, and one that doesn't reflect kindly on many of the serious games out there. The author is especially derisive of training games that mirror the repetitive, mindless nature of the workplace -- games that are "less alluring to people who love games and more alluring to people who don't. Your boss, for example."The author suggests that developers who want to make learning fun should focus on the fun first and the learning second. We couldn't agree more. We learned more about urban planning from SimCity than we ever learned about arithmetic from Math Blaster -- mainly because we kept playing SimCity long after Math Blaster got donated to the secondhand store. In other words: you can lead a player to an educational game, but you can't make them play. They have to want to do that.
Sid Meier loves his PS3 so much he's going to develop for it
The PlayStation 3 has been garnering some surprising defenders these days, and we can now add another developer the list. In an interview posted on PlayStation.com, legendary game designer Sid Meier exposed at length about his love for the PlayStation 3 and the PlayStation brand in general. According to the article, Meier owns a PlayStation 2, a PSP, and a PlayStation 3 and actively uses them all (with Resistance being one of his recent favorite titles). Most interestingly though is that he feels that with the arrival of the PlayStation 3, it's time for him and Firaxis (his development group) to move into console gaming. While Meier has dabbled in console gaming before, most famously with Pirates! and it's recent sequel, this appears to be a major paradigm shift for him. He explains his reasoning behind the shift a little more in-depth:"Computers no longer have the edge on set-top systems. The technology is there; the audience is ready for deeper and more gripping experiences; and the bar's formally been raised in terms of enthusiasts' expectations. I hate to use the word convergence, but I don't know how else to describe the situation... The timing couldn't be more perfect."Now, before people take to the streets and start screaming about how Civilization couldn't work with a controller, keep in mind that he has not specified at all what his next-gen projects are. Also keep in mind that the PlayStation 3 supports bluetooth keyboards/mice as well as the obvious USB support. So if Civilization did come out for the PS3, there's no reason to automatically assume he would 'dumb it down' for consoles. Still, it's much more likely that we'll see entirely new games released, though you can pretty much be guaranteed sure they'll carry at least a shred of the classic tactical style gameplay he's known for.
Civilization III mod teaches Canadian history
Ten years in the making, a million-dollar project funded by Telefilm Canada and supported by Canada's National History Society has finally come to fruition. HistoriCanada: The New World is a Civilization III mod designed to help students learn about Canadian history. Gamers take control of the English, French, or one of over half a dozen native peoples and play through the years of 1525 and 1762, shaping the country as the game plays out in Civ III-style.The chair of the Queen's University Centre for the Study of Democracy says Canadian history is sometimes portrayed as "dull as dishwater", but when experienced through Civ III players can see the "complex interaction of economic, religious, social and military choices" that have shaped the country's past. The mod is available for download on the HistoriCanada website (you must have Civ III and the Conquests expansion) and will be packaged with copies of Civ III and donated to over 100,000 Canadian high school students.Edutainment can go horribly wrong, but sprinkling a little history lesson in with Civilization is a great idea in our book. Just one question: why Civ III and not Civ IV?[Thanks, Bryon S.]
