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Dragon Age: Origins coming to Mac as a digital download December 21st
Gamepro's got the news that Electronic Arts is fast-tracking Dragon Age: Origins for release on the Mac -- they're now saying that it'll be out as a download as soon as next week, on December 21st. I've been playing the game on PC (it came out for both PC and consoles in November), and it is excellent -- an instant Bioware classic, and definitely the best roleplaying game of the year, especially if you enjoy good Baldur's Gate-style epic. Of course, you can pick up the PC version right now and play it in Boot Camp, but given that we've been needling developers to hurry up with their Mac versions, we have to give EA credit for this one. A month late is much better than, say, a few years late. We'll also point out that this version will use Transgaming's Cider wrapper technology for the port, and they don't exactly have the best track record for quality Mac releases. But again, an A for effort on the release date. If you want to play it natively on the Mac, you'll be able to buy the game in either standard or deluxe versions, with the deluxe including extra bonus content and the "Warden's Keep" downloadable content pack (both versions come with the "Stone Prisoner" pack already, and the content packs open up more quests and items in the game itself). December 21st is the listed date: look for a link on their website then.
Warrior Epic MMO releases iPhone tie-in
This is an interesting trend: Warrior Epic, an MMO game by True Games, has announced that they've released an iPhone app [iTunes link] version for free, featuring "a small portion of the strategy, role-playing and battles found in the online MMORPG," kind of like a taster for the actual PC game. The game itself isn't a 3D action game like the full game, but rather a "stat game," much like many of the minigames being released on Facebook and other social platforms (in fact, Warrior Epic is releasing this game as a Facebook game as well). Unfortunately, the only real tie between the games seems to be having the same name and being set in the same universes -- we don't have any characters to test, but it doesn't seem that you can transfer your actual characters or items from the PC game across to the iPhone. But this will be a trend to watch -- two other major MMOs have started work on official iPhone apps, and of course the 800 lb. gorilla of the MMO world, Blizzard, maker of World of Warcraft, has shown a strong interest in the iPhone as a platform, even though they haven't quite released any games on it yet. In the future, you can probably expect to see platforms like the iPhone host access (if limited) to your favorite persistent online games even while you're away from your computer. Should be exciting.
Nintendo dates Endless Ocean 2, Pokemon HeartGold, more
Nintendo's Q1 release schedule is as packed with new information as all Nintendo release schedules are. In addition to the announcements we've already covered, Nintendo confirmed the March 14 date for Pokémon HeartGold and SoulSilver. Endless Ocean 2, another game Nintendo has been silent about since E3, is now called Endless Ocean: Blue World, and e-divers will be able to start exploring it on February 22. Some big WiiWare indies are on the way in Q1, including And Yet It Moves and Super Meat Boy. See the full list of releases, including a series of unannounced, Nintendo-published DSiWare games, after the break.
Schiller defends App Store approval process
Well here we go. Up until now, we've heard a lot from developers about how much of a mess the App Store's approval process is, from people who've been rejected outright to people who've been forced to resubmit to people who've just given up completely. But we haven't heard much from Apple, and now Phil Schiller has spoken with Business Week about what it is about the App Store's approval process that has devs pulling their hair out. The verdict? Schiller says the process is in place for a reason. About 90% of the apps submitted merely have bugs or technical issues, and he says for the most part that devs are happy to get that feedback (though TechCrunch doesn't buy that for one second). But the other 10% of the apps Apple denies are simply what they deem "inappropriate," which could be anything from problematic coding (code that steals passwords or other private information), or app content that doesn't belong on the store, from porn to apps that help break the law or steal in some way. Apple is also vicious about trademark defense -- Schiller says that "if you don't defend your trademarks, in the end you end up not owning them." That all sounds fine and dandy (ok, well, the "inappropriate" label is a little unclear -- that's broad enough that Apple could fit almost anything under that umbrella, which is a bit troubling), but what about all of those angry devs? Unfortunately, Schiller doesn't address at all the idea that Apple might someday allow devs to release apps that haven't been through their approval process, on the App Store or anywhere else. As far as Apple is concerned, it seems like they're keeping their grip on what gets released, and anyone who doesn't like it is welcome to go elsewhere. [via TheAppleBlog]
Leeroy-related extras on recent DVD releases
Recently two different movies have included their own versions of the world famous Leeroy Jenkins video in their DVD extras. Year One is the first -- the video, which you can watch after the link below, isn't a perfect reproduction, but it is funny to see Vinnie Jones and the other actors (including McLovin as Leeroy) try to wrap all of the WoW jargon and nonsense jokes from the original into their idea of a scene that makes sense. There's another Leeroy Jenkins related extra on the Monsters vs. Aliens DVD -- this one's just a set of storyboards, but it does feature the voice cast, including Kiefer Sutherland and Seth Rogen, doing their own little version of the scene. It's not quite as faithful as the Year One version, but it does feature Rogen doing the Leeroy yell, and that's worth watching by itself. You can watch that video after the break as well. Both are worth a chuckle -- it's wild to see a meme like Leeroy sneak out into mainstream media.
Digital Chocolate: We're owning single-digit search on the App Store
We've mentioned Digital Chocolate and their App Store releases before, of course, and we've even mentioned just how prevalent they are -- they've been extremely prolific in releasing new titles, and as a result, they've posted on their website that they are more or less ubiquitous in search results. They say on their official blog that any search of a "single digit" on the App Store search window has about a 20% chance of pulling up a Digital Chocolate release. If you search for "D," "H" or "3," they're the number one hit. I don't actually know anyone that searches "D" anywhere ("You know what I really want to play tonight? A 'D' related game!"), but it just shows how many releases they've got out there. That does get them plenty of downloads -- they also say that they're number one in downloads on the platform as a whole, with 40 million downloads already of their software, with 1.5 million reviews (!) total -- but I think it says more about the App Store in general, and that we're not quite as far along as it might seem. If one company could so easily own, say, Amazon's search, you'd just say that Amazon needed a bigger catalog, no? 85,000 is certainly a lot of apps (especially in the realm of mobile software), but in terms of the platform's progress as a whole, it's still in its infancy. So we're definitely in for more growth. Even Digital Chocolate sounds a little surprised that they're so prevalent, and I think as the App Store ecosystem grows and we get more and more companies with popular titles in different areas, we'll see the search results become more diverse.
Call of Duty for the iPhone will track your World at War kills
Activision has released Call of Duty for the iPhone... but don't get too excited, it's not exactly what you think. The first-person shooter hasn't quite been ported yet. Instead, they've released a "Call of Duty: World at War companion," which instead lets you track the activity on the popular World War II shooter game. You can track all of your ingame stats, and even follow your friends in the game and what they've done with their characters as well. And the app also comes with a news browser, to keep you up to date on the latest map releases and updates with the game. It's completely free, though you of course need a Call of Duty: World of War game for Xbox 360 or Playstation to actually get anything out of it.In that sense, this app isn't quite so notable for what it is (World at War wasn't nearly as popular as Call of Duty 4, and this app is specifically about Treyarch's game), as what it portends: with Blizzard releasing their Armory app and a few other game companies releasing "companion" apps like this, we could be in for a very interesting holiday videogame season this year. Ports or translations of games don't do much to sell copies of the real games (as they tend to be either too similar or too different to the parent games), but "companions" like this can represent added functionality, and thus can do a lot to help and promote games on other platforms (imagine a Halo ODST app that sent you a push notification when your friend was playing or got a higher XP score than you did). This is far from the last we'll see of "companion" apps like this.
The Daily Grind: Is a fall release really such a good idea?
As many of our summer releases get pushed back to September and October, we can't help but wonder if this is such a good idea. MMO players are already notoriously picky when it comes to grabbing their attention in the long-term, but for school-age players, September and October are a time to concentrate on the new school year and new studies. Theoretically.This is one of the main points in a recent blog post by Inktomi over at MMOCrunch. In addition to explaining dissatisfaction with both Aion and Champions Online for grinding or business decisions, Inktomi brings up a good point that may hurt these upcoming games in the long run. If you had to make the decision to only play one game this fall -- due to time constraints from school or otherwise -- would any of the projected releases (Aion, CrimeCraft, Champions Online, Fallen Earth, DDO Unlimited, CitiesXL) interest you enough to be your one game?
PSN Thursday: Fat Princess gains weight, Joystiq loses writer
Just another American PSN update today. A little better than normal updates perhaps, thanks to the inclusion of Fat Princess, but it's also a red letter day. As I'll be moving on next week, it's the last time this blogger will be handling the weekly PSN updates -- both American and European -- after over two years. Wow, updates were different back then. Don't worry, though, you'll be in the safe hands of Alexander Sliwinski, who I took over this very post from back when Joystiq underwent restructuring in January. Anyway, what are you still doing here? You've got weighty princesses to rescue! Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
European PSN releases for July 30
Do not adjust your computer internet monitor screens! Yes, today is Wednesday. We know, it's confusing, but you'd best get used to it. SCEE intends on giving us a head's up on the week's PSN content drop a day ahead of release from now on, allowing us 24 hours to get our wallets prepped. This week we're sure you've got your sights firmly set on Fat Princess, but there's also the second episode of Watchmen: The End is Nigh, a Numblast demo and a couple of full PSP titles. Not to mention all the usual rhythm-game DLC for both PS3 and PSP. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
PSN Thursday: Comic-Con Edition
Yeah, the PSN update's a little late today. You can blame Comic-Con Craziness for that, but the sheer amount of content should be enough to calm you down, now that it's out. As if Killzone 2 and WipEout HD DLC wasn't enough, Shatter sees a release today, alongside some PS1 games. As for PSP owners, you've got two Tomb Raider games to grab. Not to mention that Dissidia demo and some more Rock Band Unplugged DLC. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
European PSN releases for July 23
There's plenty of content to nom on in this latest PSN update. WipEout HD Fury and the Killzone 2 pack make up for the fact that there's no LittleBigPlanet DLC this week. Not only that, but Shatter is now available and has been joined by a surprise addition in the form of Final Fantasy: Crystal Defenders. PSP owners have much less content to choose from, and if you don't own Rock Band Unplugged or Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce, there's nothing for you here. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
European PSN releases for July 9
Battlefield 1943 is obviously the big news this week, but there are also a few demos that might also keep you entertained, namely Ghostbusters and Fuel. Not only that, but there's a load of DLC for MotorStorm Pacific Rift, Skate 2 and the usual rhythm games. PSP owners have a bumper crop of games to pick from, plus some more Rock Band Unplugged DLC. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
PSN Thursday: The Punisher will shock you to your Qore
The American PSN update today isn't quite as interesting as the European one, but it's still got an okay amount of content. Punisher: No Mercy has been released, alongside the latest episode of Qore and the normal amount of DLC. PSP fans can choose from a selection of new games, including Capcom Classics Collection Remixed. There are also some more PS3 and PSP themes and some Rock Band Unplugged DLC. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
European PSN releases for July 2
Okay Sony, we forgive you for the last couple of weeks. Today's PSN update is chock full of content, with particular emphasis on downloadable games. Punisher and Topatoi are joined by James Pond 2 and Numblast, plus a demo for Red Baron. There's also the usual amount of DLC for those rhythm games you kids love so much, along with a new MotorStorm Pacific Rift expansion. PSP owners can grab Monster Hunter Freedom Unite, a PSP version of Numblast and some other games, but if none take your fancy at least there's some new Rock Band Unplugged DLC. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
Fluent Mobile releases the first news aggregator iPhone app
Fluent Mobile has released an innovative news oriented iPhone app that may be a game changer. The Fluent Mobile app aggregates mobile ready content from multiple content providers. According to M:Metrics in January of this year, mobile news sites were visited over 63 million times and the number is growing. This is a huge market. Currently 1.5% of all web content is Google optimized and nicely formatted for mobile devices and the number is increasing. Fluent Mobile takes advantage of this content and aggregates it, creating a news portal with content from Bloomberg for business, ESPN for sports, The Washington Post, CNN, Fox News and USA Today, among others, for news. Upon launch, content will be provided by 32 separate sources and more will be added as relevant sites become mobile enhanced. For the first time an app provides one-stop shopping for news.The information is organized well, allowing you to choose from a number of categories including U.S. News, Entertainment, Sports, Business, and Travel.
PSN Thursday: Droplitz, Mobile Light Force and DLC aplenty
North America wins the prize for Best PSN Update again this week. Droplitz emerges alongside a new PS1 game -- Mobile Light Force -- and some DLC for High Velocity Bowling, LittleBigPlanet and Cuboid. There's also a BIGS 2 demo and PSP fans can grab one of four full games, or some DLC for Rock Band Unplugged. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
European PSN releases for June 25
There's not a whole lot of new content this week, but better than last, at least. Another PopCap game makes its way across the Atlantic today, in the form of Zuma. There's also the delayed Summer Solstice LittleBigPlanet DLC alongside the Jon Burgerman sticker pack, and PSP fans can grab Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and some Rock Band Unplugged DLC. Finally, to celebrate the two-year anniversary of the release of Super Stardust HD, the price for the game has been dropped to just £1.59. Go get!Oh, also -- Final Fantasy VII has been fixed and re-released in France. Just thought you might like to know. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)
PSN Thursday: MGS1 infiltrates the PSOne Classics' ranks
Similarly to the European PSN Store update, this week's content is a little lean. ! But what's this? Solid Snake infiltrates the store in his original PS1 adventure, Metal Gear Solid. Yours for the premium PS1 price of $9.99. Sure you can probably find a cheaper copy in a bargain bin somewhere, but really you're paying for the ability to play this classic on your PSP. Anywhere. Other than that, there's a new episode of Qore and an NCAA Football 10 demo. PSP owners can grab GRAW 2 and some themes, too. Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list: (Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.) %Gallery-66286%
iPhone 3G S update: UPS places hold on shipments
Reports are coming in from readers that UPS is placing a hold on iPhone 3G S deliveries. Several readers submitted the above screenshot or e-mails detailing tracking information, all referring back to the delivery hold. The original tracking information indicated that these phones were originally scheduled to be delivered on Thursday, one day before the iPhone 3G S goes on sale. Edit (12:30 a.m. PT): Just to note that the delay on this is most likely U.S. Customs-related and not Apple. If you do get your phone in hand before the 19th, be sure to let us know! Thanks to all who submitted this!
