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Prinny Game Now Available.

Ryan Fulton — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 18:43:07 -0600

NIS's game about explosive blue demon penguins who consider fanny packs to the the pinnacle of modern fashion has been released to wreak havoc on non-believers. Feel free to pick up this maddeningly hard gem for the PSP at your local retailer or hit up NISA's awesomely named Rosenqueen.com. Enjoy.

Playstation Store Update: Flower, Motorstorm: Pacific Rift Demo

Zach Lott — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:36:22 -0600

As usual, Sony has released the weekly Playstation Store update today, and this week marks the long-awaited release of thatgamecompany's latest project, Flower. There's also a demo of Motorstorm: Pacific Rift and some DLC for Guitar Hero and Rock Band along with the usual extras.

Check out the list of additions after the jump.

Qore

Qore Annual Subscription ($24.99)
Qore: Presented by the PlayStation Network is a monthly interactive video production covering the world of PlayStation. Qore provides its audience with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to developers and their games, from both the SCE Worldwide Studios and the third-party community, where the audience member can freely navigate through the content.
File size: 1.17 GB

Qore Episode 09: February, 2009 ($2.99)
Episode 09 of Qore: Presented by the PlayStation Network kicks off Spring training with an inside look at MLB 09 The Show and demonstrates Resident Evil 5s co-op gameplay with new QoreVision technology.
File size: 1.17 GB

PULSE

Pulse 2/12 Edition (free) (also available from PSP storefront)
PULSE presented by the PlayStation Network is a free high definition video showcase of whats happening right now on PlayStation. Featuring new game releases, demos, movie and television arrivals available for your PS3 and PSP systems, PULSE is a fast-paced new source to keep you connected and informed about the world of PlayStation.
Hosted by Christina Lee.
File size: 269 MB (HD) 446 MB (1080)

Downloadable Games

Flower ($9.99)
Flower lets you take control of the wind as you explore and navigate beautiful, lush environments using only the SIXAXIS motion controls. This is an interactive escape that takes you on an emotional journey like no other game youve ever experienced.
ESRB Rated E
File size: 628 MB

Add-on Game Content

NBA Live 09 All Star Weekend (free)
Get up-to-date for NBA All-Star Weekend 2009 from Phoenix, Arizona with the official jerseys and court. This free update pack includes the official All-Star Weekend Court and official East and West All-Star game jerseys for All-Star 2009.
File size: 39 MB

LUMINES Supernova Classic Pack ($4.99)
This LUMINES Supernova download pack contains special classic skins!
File size: 136 MB

Disgaea 3 - Disgaea 2 Sacrebleu Set with Free Theme! ($5.99)
This package file adds new custom characters Tink, Yukimaru, and Priere. The download pak also comes with a free bonus item, a Priere theme for your PLAYSTATION 3!
File size: 1.23 MB

Disgaea 3 - Priere ($1.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Priere. Purchase the Disgaea 2 Sacrebleu Set and get a free Priere theme!
File size: 1.22 MB

Disgaea 3 - Tink ($1.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Tink from Disgaea 2. Purchase the Disgaea 2 Sacrebleu Set and get a free Priere theme!
File size: 1.22 MB

Disgaea 3 - Yukimaru ($1.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Yukimaru from Disgaea 2. Purchase the Disgaea 2 Sacrebleu Set and get a free Priere theme!
File size: 1.22 MB

Rock Band

Creepin Up the Backstairs - The Fratellis ($1.99)
Flathead - The Fratellis ($1.99)
Henrietta - The Fratellis ($1.99)
The Fratellis Pack 01 ($5.49) - Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack: The Fratellis Pack 01. This pack includes: Creepin Up the Backstairs, Flathead, and Henrietta by The Fratellis.

File sizes: 26 MB - 35 MB (singles), 90 MB (track pack)

Guitar Hero World Tour

Wonderwall by Ryan Adams ($1.99)
New Slang by The Shins ($1.99)
Drive by Incubus ($1.99)
Acoustic Track Pack ($5.49) - Downloadable Track Pack for Guitar Hero World Tour featuring Drive by Incubus, New Slang by The Shins, and Wonderwall by Ryan Adams. Please Note: Many songs are available both as singles and as part of a Track Pack, so please carefully consider your purchases before downloading.

File sizes: 40 MB - 41 MB (singles), 119 MB (track pack)

Game Demos (free)

MotorStorm: Pacific Rift
This new MotorStorm: Pacific Rift demo offers both a single player and a split screen multiplayer race, but this time we let the veterans of MotorStorm.com choose their favorite track, Razorback.
File size: 673 MB

Game Videos (free)

Flower Trailer
File size: 93 MB (HD)

Flower Developer Diary
File size: 231 MB (HD)

LocoRoco 2 Launch Trailer
File size: 66 MB (HD)

Gran Turismo 5 Prologue - The Ride Of Your Life
File size: 172 MB (HD)

Tekken 6 Call To Arms Trailer
File size: 12 MB (SD) 48 MB (HD)

GTI Club+ Trailer
File size: 48 MB (HD)

Brain Challenge Expansion Pack
File size: 86 MB (1080)

50 Cent: Blood On The Sand Trailer #1
File size: 45 MB (HD)

50 Cent: Blood On The Sand Trailer #2
File size: 34 MB (HD)

50 Cent: Blood On The Sand Trailer #3
File size: 37 MB (HD)

Movie Trailers (free)

Rent: Live on Broadway Blu-ray Disc Trailer
File size: 38 MB (1080)

PS3 Themes

Flower Theme (free)
File size: 1.79 MB

LocoRoco 2 The Planet Theme (free)
File size: 2.04 MB

PAIN: The Hoff Theme (free)
File size: 1.97 MB

Prier Custom Theme free with Disgaea 2 Sacrebleu Set ($0.99)
File size: 1.43 MB

Magic Ball Theme (free)
File size: 2.20 MB

Mahjong Tales: Ancient Wisdom Theme (free)
File size: 3.11 MB

Cuboid Theme (free)
File size: 1.99 MB

Anime MBM Theme ($0.99)
File size: 3.48 MB

Valentine Hearts Theme ($1.49)
File size: 5.18 MB

Fractal Hearts Theme ($1.49)
File size: 5.63 MB

Valentine Angels Theme ($1.49)
File size: 6.60 MB

PS3 Wallpaper (free)

Flower Wallpaper
File size: 220 KB (SD) 504 KB (1080)

Game Love Wallpaper
File size: 414 KB (1080)

PlayStation Store for PSP Game Videos(free)

* Pulse 2/12 Edition (free) (also available from PS3 storefront)
PULSE presented by the PlayStation Network is a free high definition video showcase of whats happening right now on PlayStation. Featuring new game releases, demos, movie and television arrivals available for your PS3 and PSP systems, PULSE is a fast-paced new source to keep you connected and informed about the world of PlayStation.
Hosted by Christina Lee.
File size: 269 MB

* LocoRoco 2 Trailer
File size: 9.73 MB

PSP Themes

* LocoRoco 2 Planet Theme (free) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File size: 372 KB

* Anime MBM 1 ($0.99) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File size: 443 KB

* Anime MBM 2 ($0.99) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File size: 494 KB

* Valentine Hearts ($1.49) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File size: 310 KB

Playstation Store Update: MLB 09 The Show Demo, Guitar Hero/Rock Band DLC

Zach Lott — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 19:50:37 -0600

Thursday has arrived, and that means that Sony has once again updated the Playstation Store. The latest batch of content includes a demo for MLB 09 The Show, new songs for both Guitar Hero World Tour and Rock Band, and a new pack of costumes and stickers for LittleBigPlanet.

Hit the jump to check out the full list of additions.

Downloadable Games3 on 3 NHL Arcade ($9.99)
EA SPORTS welcomes you to the fast paced world of arcade hockey. From the same team that brought you NHL 09 comes a 3 on 3 experience that throws conventional hockey, and its rules, out the window. Choose from 40 of the NHLs top players and bring them into this no rules hockey game where big heads and big hits rule the day. With loads of power-ups falling on the ice to the ability to level a guy clear out of the rink, this is definitely not your typical simulation. This full version of the game offers online play, achievements, leaderboard tracking, and more features that will have you coming back for more.

ESRB Rated E
File size: 188 MB

Burnout Paradise - The Ultimate Bundle ($29.99)
Get the full version of Burnout Paradise - 2008s Racing Game of the Year - and get the brand new Pass the Pad Party Pack as well. Paradise City is the ultimate driving playground, set in a vast open-world, filled with gameplay that will push your driving and riding skills to the limit.
ESRB Rated E10
File size: 3.25 GB

Add-on Game Content

Burnout Paradise Party ($9.99)
Want to play Burnout Paradise at home with your friends in some offline multiplayer action? Burnout Paradise Party introduces fun, quick-fire challenges around Paradise City that can be played by 2-8 players of all skill levels.
File size: 100 KB

High Velocity Bowling: Dwayne ($0.99)
Its time to bowl High Velocity style! Add Dwayne Harper to your High Velocity Bowling roster. It aint easy being a gangsta thug bowla, but Dwyane manages by combining good aim and power for an awesome shot. Download includes Dwaynes special Urban Assault ball, plus the new Inner City Alley lane, set in a back alley of a major city with unique audio.
File size: 48 MB

High Velocity Bowling: Candy ($0.99)
Its time to bowl High Velocity style! Add Candy Lincoln to your High Velocity Bowling roster. Candys a clash of old school and new tattoos. Her aim is great, but her ball is a bit too heavy for her. Download includes Candys special Candied Cherries ball, plus the new Jumpin Joes Diner lane, with a rockin retro atmosphere and unique audio.
File size: 42 MB

Hot Shots Golf New Course ($4.99)
Download the new Golfasaurus-Rex B.C.C. course now available for play in Hot Shots Golf Out Of Bounds. Take your favorite players and caddies and tee it up on this new, beautifully designed course and see if you have what it takes your game to a new level of play.
File size: 100 KB

LittleBigPlanet Valentine's Day Mini-Pack ($2.99)
New costumes and stickers to spread some love in LittleBigPlanet!
File size: 1.04 MB

NARUTO: Ultimate Ninja STORM Pack 8 (free)
Download Storm Pack 8 and unleash the legendary Sound Ninja Kidoumaru as your support character in battle. The Storm Pack 8 also contains new Ultimate Mission to engage!
File size: 100 KB

Rock Band
Build your Rock Band library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.

Cowboy Song (Live) - Thin Lizzy ($1.99)
Jailbreak (Live) - Thin Lizzy ($1.99)
The Boys Are Back in Town (Live) - Thin Lizzy ($1.99)
Thin Lizzy Track Pack 01 ($5.49) - Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack: Thin Lizzy Pack 01. This pack includes: The Boys Are Back in Town (Live) (Live), Cowboy Song (Live), and Jailbreak (Live) by Thin Lizzy.
Precious - The Pretenders ($1.99)
Hit Me With Your Best Shot - Pat Benetar ($1.99)
Dont Tell Me - Nikko ($0.99)
Break My Heart - Nikko ($0.99)

File sizes: 21 MB - 36 MB (singles), 101 MB (track pack)

Guitar Hero World Tour
For all song credits please visit www.guitarhero.com.

Gimme All Your Lovin as made famous by ZZ Top, covered by Wavegroup ($1.99)
Commotion by Creedence Clearwater Revival ($1.99)
Black Betty as made famous by Ram Jam, covered by Wavegroup ($1.99)
Southern Rock Track Pack ($5.49) - Downloadable Track Pack for Guitar Hero World Tour featuring Commotion by Creedence Clearwater Revival, Black Betty as made famous by Ram Jam, covered by Wavegroup, and Gimme All Your Lovin as made famous by ZZ Top, covered by Wavegroup.

File sizes: 27 MB - 41 MB (singles), 106 MB (track pack)

Game Demos (free)

MLB 09 The Show Demo
In 08, ESPN called the the game the most realistic baseball game ever created and IGN dubbed it Sports Game Of The Year. If youre a baseball fan, you owe it to yourself to get hands-on experience with the MLB 09 The Show. See for yourself why Nothing Gets You Closer. For more details, visit www.MLB09TheShow.com.
ESRB Rated E
File size: 1.56 GB

3 on 3 NHL Arcade Trial
EA SPORTS welcomes you to the fast paced world of arcade hockey. From the same team that brought you NHL 09 comes a 3 on 3 experience that throws conventional hockey, and its rules, out the window. This trial version of the game lets you get a taste of the power-ups, NHL stars, and outrageous gameplay that is definitely not your typical simulation experience.
ESRB Rated E
File size: 188 MB

Game Videos (free)

LocoRoco 2 Pre-Launch Trailer
File size: 106 MB (HD)

F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin EPA Trailer
File size: 52 MB (HD)

PAIN: Darts Trailer
File size: 63 MB (HD)

PAIN: Fortress Trailer
File size: 42 MB (HD)

Winter Dew Tour: Kevin Pearce in Japan
File size: 101 MB (HD)

Winter Dew Tour: Colby West
File size: 98 MB (HD)

Winter Dew Tour: Breckenridge Ridin Highlights
File size: 124 MB (HD)

Winter Dew Tour: Breckenridge Recap
File size: 94 MB (HD)

Winter Dew Tour: Breckenridge Freeskiing Thrills
File size: 95 MB (HD)

Winter Dew Tour: Breckenridge Athletes
File size: 101 MB (HD)

Winter Dew Tour: PlayStation Pro Moments - Breckenridge
File size: 63 MB (HD)

Movie Trailers (free)

2012 Trailer
File size: 15 MB (SD) 49 MB (HD) 75 MB (1080)

Open Season 2 Blu-ray Disc Trailer
File size: 80 MB (HD) 106 MB (1080)

PS3 Themes

LocoRoco 2 MuiMui Theme (free)
File size: 1.12 MB

Evil Clowns Theme ($1.49)
File size: 5.2 MB

Gothic Girlz Theme ($1.49)
File size: 4.41 MB

Polar Bears Theme ($1.49)
File size: 5.56 MB

PlayStation Store for PSP Game Demos (free)

* Phantasy Star Portable
Check out the long awaited demo of Phantasy Star Portable and experience what others have been enjoying for years. Up to four friends will team up to unravel the exclusive new storyline that picks up where Phantasy Star Universe ends and before the start of PSU: Ambition of the Illuminus.
ESRB Rated E
File size: 272 MB

Game Videos (free)

LocoRoco 2 Pre-Launch Trailer
File size: 18 MB

PSP Wallpaper (free)

LocoRoco 2 Wallpaper (x4)
File sizes: 129 KB - 185 KB

Square Announces Dissidia Final Fantasy for mid-2009

Zach Lott — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:18:13 -0600

Square Enix announced today that Dissidia Final Fantasy, the PSP fighter featuring famous Final Fantasy characters, will be hitting North American shores in mid-2009.

The game will feature a lengthy story mode along with a new battle system that incorporates classic Final Fantasy battle features such as overdrives and limit breaks and RPG-based character development.

In addition, Dissidia Final Fantasy Trading Arts figures will be available through the North American online store around the time of the release.

Sony talks portable LittleBigPlanet, Guitar Hero/Rock Band

Zach Lott — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:20:01 -0600

Rumors that LittleBigPlanet is getting a PSP iteration have been around since April and were recently strengthened by a rumor found within the pages of the latest Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM), so MTV's Multiplayer Blog asked Sony's John Koller about the rumors during a phone interview yesterday.

Koller's comments from the story:

"'LittleBigPlanet is so expansionary. I think the developers really concentrating on right now making sure that the launched product is everything it could be and can be. Were watching the UGC [user generated content] and seeing how thats playing out. But for the future, I think certainly, wed look at a wide variety of opportunities. Whether thats the PSP or not, I cant really say. We certainly look at LittleBigPlanet franchise as a going forward franchise for us, and that speaks to the PlayStation brand overall.

Multiplayer also asked Koller about the possibility of Rock Band or Guitar Hero hitting the PSP, as well:

Its of huge interest to us. Thats something youd really have to talk to the developers on that side [if] its going to happen or not. For us, we look at the music area as being critical for PSP and the social area of interest as well. PSP is a lot different than your traditional handheld product and music is the number two use on the PSP, behind gaming. So, the marrying of those two concepts is of huge interest to us, and if theres that opportunity to launch a title like that or even a new title that utilizes music in some way, then obviously were very interested.

Sounds like there may be something to these rumors. Stay tuned, we'll let you know if anything is announced.

Nihongo Patapon 2 Demo, Yorokonde!

Ryan Fulton — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 22:07:45 -0600

Those of you blessed with Japanese PSN accounts and PSPs may wish to check out the recently released Patapon 2 demo. It's very much so out, very much so involving rhythm, and very much so about making little genocidal black and white eyes kill to the beat of your magic drums. What more could you possibly want for free?

Prinny: Can I Really Be the Hero?

Ryan Fulton — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 18:29:21 -0600

Remember that Prinny game that I posted the screens of? Remember how it the date was unknown? If not, it's less than 10 posts down... And more importantly, you can forget the part about the date being unknown! NISA released a statement today announcing that the demonically hard semi-2D platformer will be hitting the states, hard, in February of 2009. Please, kindly, hit the jump for a full press release.

Santa Ana, CA NIS America announced today that Prinny: Can I Really Be the Hero? will be heading to the PlayStation® Portable System in late February 2009.
As Nippon Ichi Softwares first pure action game, Prinny will be the most heartpounding
and challenging sidescrolling action game ever. Players will control an unlucky
penguin dude called a Prinny and slash their way through various Netherworlds.
For this tough‐as‐nails action game, youre given 1000 units to accomplish your mission,
but even with those 1000 units you will have to use everything you find on the
battlefield to survive. Lift and throw objects, stomp enemies, even pilot tanks and
planes to bombard whatever gets in your way!

MULTIPLE DIFFICULTIES: Standard mode allows you to take damage up to 3 times
before losing a life, giving mere mortals a chance to beat the game. We also have Hell
mode, where one means instant death! Good luck!

KEY FEATURES

1000 Units: Players will get 1000 lives to beat the toughest action sidescroller!
Lift & Throw: Prinnies are able to lift and throw objects on the battlefield.
Vehicles: Steal and control powerful vehicles, like tanks and UFOs.

Hip Pound: Jump and pound enemies to stun them. Then you can inflict multiple combo
attacks for extra damage.

3D World with 2D Characters: In Prinny, character art is created using fluid 2D sprites,
giving it a classic look with a comical tone. Battlefields and backgrounds, however, are
created with 3D models. This allows for a smooth and unique combat action where certain attacks are rendered in a 3‐dimensional view.

Prinny: Is It Okay If I'm the Protagonist? Screens.

Ryan Fulton — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 16:08:40 -0600

Dengeki Online has posted quite a few screenshots from the upcoming NIS game Prinny: Is It Okay If I'm the Protagonist. So far the game is confirmed for US release, but no word on a release date. Rumor has it that it's one of the harder games that you'll come across. If you like what you see, you can always try out the demo that's available on the Japanese PSN Store.

Launch Gallery: Prinny: Protagonist

(41 images)

Parasite Eve Third Birthday Semi-confirmed

Shiva Stella — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:20:44 -0500

Remember Parasite Eve, the "cinematic RPG" from the bygone days of PlayStation? Remember the Japanese-onry PE cell-phone games that we didn't get?

Now you can stop being ridiculously angry. Take a peek at the video below.

Just in case you missed it, that's a leaked trailer for Parasite Eve 3, tentatively titled PE: Third Birthday, in the works at Square Enix and HexaDrive. As of now the word is that it's being labeled as a "cinematic action RPG", putting it in line with PE2's Resident Evil-like gameplay, with a slew of heavily customizable weapons and (one can only assume) lots of gross monsters.

And did I mention that it's a PSP exclusive...?

Firmware Alert: PS3 2.50 and PSP 5.0 Due Up Soon.

Ryan Fulton — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:09:06 -0500

Today is a momentous occasion for those of you who were waiting on baited breath for the newest firmware releases on Sony's systems. For today, marks the day, when most of the features for the new updates were announced. While there is no hard release date given, we can assume that the PS3 update, at least, will be sometime this week due to the inclusion of the PS3 headset with SOCOM which releases this week.

For a list of notable features for both systems, hit the jump.

PS3:

Support for the new PS3 Bluetooth Headset.
The ability to take your stalking to a new level and spy on your friends playing habits, or at least see when they last played.
Trophy improvements, for the 3 games that you have which support trophies.
A more upfront manner for redeeming PSN codes to coincide with the advent of PSN cards being available at more retailers.
A welcome sleep-mode for both the PS3 and controllers.
A screenshot function. Allow me to be the first to thank Sony for this awesome feature. I don't know how this is the first time that it has been introduced to a system.

PSP:

You can now access the PlayStation Network and PSN Store by way of your PSP.
I suppose I didn't need a bullet list.

Sony's Jack Tretton, "[Numbers and Stuff]."

Ryan Fulton — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 18:07:45 -0500

SCEA's big man on campus, Jack Tretton, recently announced that the PlayStation brand as a whole is selling like half-priced Ensure at a retirement community. Numbers are up from estimates and everything is going well.

The PlayStation 3 has been selling at a rate that's over 30% better than originally estimated and is on track to hit 10 million units by March '09. That's an increase of over 100% versus last year's sales. So that means, that over the same period of time, Sony managed to sell 100% more consoles than last year which is 30% more than what they were expecting to so that works out to roughly... Ok, we can assume that they're pretty happy with the sales; math was never my strong suit.

The PSP is also said to be selling at somewhere between 20 and 30% over their estimates. All told, things are going pretty well, or at least better than planned.

Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images.

SCEA's John Koller: PSP's Got Games in 2009, Really. Probably?

Ryan Fulton — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 21:46:09 -0500

On Tuesday Edge Online posted a feature detailing the decline of third party games for the PSP. Backed with data the findings seemed almost damning despite the last years increase in PSP sales. Within two days, John Koller, SCEAs hardware marketing head, responded to this report.

In the short, boring, and abstract, the answer is that somewhere around two years ago businesses decided that the PSP wasnt selling super well and decided to push their resources elsewhere, specifically into the then emerging current-gen consoles.

Where the article gets interesting is when Koller mentions that, [Sony has] a number of very strong franchise games on the docket that will be launching next year. We havent gone public with those, and many third-parties have not yet either because theyre concentrating on holiday, but we have a number of very strong titles coming. As to what those titles may be is anyones guess. Needless to say, this is a welcome sign for PSP owners and an open invitation for those who were on the fence about the system.

New Spider-Man: Web of Shadows Screenshots

Tim Grube — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:44:45 -0500

Activision and Treyarch are hard at work on the next Spider-Man game entitled, Spider-Man: Web of Shadows and today we were treated to three new screenshots. Peep them below. The title is expected to be released late October on the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, PC, PSP, DS, and PlayStation 2.

Launch Gallery: Spider-Man: Web of Shadows

(3 images)

Monster Jam: Urban Assault Debut Trailer

Tim Grube — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:35:39 -0500

Activision is almost set to release Monster Jam: Urban Assault and today they released the debut trailer showing off some of the visuals and gameplay. The game is due out in stores October 28 for the Wii, PSP, DS, and PS2.

PlayStation Store Update: The Last Guy, Warhawk DLC, NHL 09 Demo

Zach Lott — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 23:40:20 -0500

Thursday is here, and thus the Playstation Store has received another update. As always, there's plenty of content to be had, including the new game The Last Guy, some fresh DLC for Warhawk, and a demo of NHL 09. Check out the list of additions after the jump.

Downloadable Games

The Last Guy ($9.99)

Add-On Game Content

Warhawk Fallen Star Pack ($7.99)

Warhawk Booster Combo ($15.99)

Rock Band

She Does - Locksley ($0.99)

Dont Make Me Wait - Locksley ($0.99)

Dont Make Me Wait - Locksley ($0.99)

All Over Again - Locksley ($0.99)

Locksley Pack 1 ($2.99) - includes: All Over Again, Dont Make Me Wait, and She Does by Locksley.

Game Demos (free)

NHL 09

Soulcaliber IV

Game Videos (free)

SOCOM Confrontation Extraction Trailer

LittleBigPlanet Leipzig "Sackzilla" Trailer

Motorstorm Pacific Rift Leipzig Trailer

PAIN Trauma Mode Trailer

GT5 Prologue Play With The Pros! With Tanner Foust

Brothers in Arms: Hell's Highway Machine Gun and Bazooka Trailer

Brothers in Arms: Hell's Highway Sqaud Gameplay Trailer

Facebreaker Audition # 1

Facebreaker Audition # 2

Facebreaker Audition # 3

Madden NFL 09 Gameplay Trailer

Madden NFL 09 Madden Moments Trailer

Madden NFL 09 Play Call Trailer

Top Spin 3 Player Creator Trailer

Movies and Blu-Ray Trailers (free)

Quantum of Solace Trailer

Prom Night Trailer

PS3 Wallpapers (free)

The Last Guy Wallpaper (x2)

PSP Themes (free)

Cake Mania: Bakers Challenge Theme

PSP Wallpapers (free)

PSP Wallpapers Series 1 Wallpaper (x3)
Hot Shots Golf Open Tee 2 Wallpaper (x2)
Cake Mania: Bakers Challenge Wallpaper (x3)

PlayStation Store Update: Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest For Booty, Force Unleashed Demo

Zach Lott — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 19:14:15 -0500

Sony has once again updated the Playstation Store, with the main additions being the release of Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty and a demo for Star Wars: The Force Unleashed. There are plenty of other demos, trailers, and such, so check out the list of new content after the jump.

Downloadable Games

Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty ($14.99)

EA Sports Live Score Tracker ($.99)

Add-On Game Content

Hot Shots Golf Out of Bounds: Kratos Character ($1.99)

HAZE Domination Pack (free)

Guitar Hero III

Dragonforce Track Pack ($6.25)

"Heroes of Our Time"

"Revolution Deathsquad"

"Operation Ground and Pound"

Rock Band

Individual Songs

Through Being Cool - Devo ($1.99)

Girl U Want - Devo ($1.99)

Rio - Duran Duran ($1.99)

Girls on Film - Duran Duran

Get Your Rock On 1 The Janitors ($0.99)

Game Demos (free)

The Last Guy

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed

NFL Head Coach 09

Leipzig Game Videos (free)

SCEE Leipzig Software Compiliation

Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty Launch Trailer

inFamous Leipzig Trailer

Warhawk Fallen Star Video

Game Videos (free)

The Last Guy Cities Trailer

PAIN Clown Toss Mode Trailer

PAIN Hot 'n Cold Mode Trailer

Vampire Rain Altered Species Trailer 5

Vampire Rain Gameplay Trailer #2

BiA Hell's Highway Making Of #1: Operation

BiA Hell's Highway Making Of #2: Roll Call

Madden NFL 09 Backtrack Video

Madden NFL 09 Replay Video

Madden NFL 09 Virtual Trainer Video

PS3 Themes (free)

Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty Theme

inFamous Theme

PS3 Wallpapers (free)

Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty Wallpaper
Motorstorm Pacific Rift Leipzig Wallpaper
TNA iMPACT! Wrestling Wallpaper (x3)

Playstation Store For PC

Jeanne DArc ($22.99)
Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty Launch Trailer
Jeanne DArc trailer
Yggdra Union official trailer
Hot Shots Golf Open Tee 2 Wallpaper (x2)
Yggdra Union Wallpaper (x3)

New PSP Model In The Works

Zach Lott — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:52:53 -0500

Rumors of a new PSP model have been floating around for a few months now, but you can finally place them in the "Confirmed" column, as the folks at Gizmodo have uncovered the FCC filing for the "PSP-3001."

The documents show that the redesign is largely focused on the internal components, meaning that Sony is probably trying to reduce the cost and make the system more resilient to hacking instead of improving the aesthetics. If you're a homebrewer, you might want to wait to see how hackable the new system will be before you switch over.

PlayStation Store Update: Siren Blood Curse, Summer Game Sale

Zach Lott — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 20:04:44 -0500

It's time yet again for Sony's weekly update to the Playstation Store, and this week features a couple of new games in the form of Siren: Blood Curse and 1942: Joint Strike in addition to discounts on existing titles and more. Check out the list of additions after the jump.

PS3 Store Sale

For one week, the following titles will be offered for $4.99 (regularly priced at $9.99)

PAIN
PixelJunk Monsters
High Velocity Bowling
High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition
Rocketmen: Axis of Evil

Downloadable Games

Siren: Blood Curse (3 bundles of 4 episodes @ $14.99/ea & full game SKU for $39.99)

1942: Joint Strike ($9.99)

Add-On Game Content

Guitar Hero III: Guitar Virtuoso Pack ($6.25)

Surfing with the Alien - Joe Satriani

"Soothsayer" - Buckethead

"For the Love of God" - Steve Vai

Rock Band

Devour - Shinedown ($1.99)

Junkies for Fame - Shinedown ($1.99)

Nine Inch Nails Track Pack 02 ($5.49 includes songs below or songs available individually)

Last - Nine Inch Nails ($1.99)

Burn - Nine Inch Nails ($1.99)

Capital G - Nine Inch Nails ($1.99)

Game Demos (free)

PixelJunk Eden Demo

Game Videos (free)

PixelJunk Eden Trailer

Street Fighter IV: E3 2008 Gameplay Trailer

Street Fighter IV: PS3 Special Trailer

Bionic Commando Rearmed The Making of Part 1

PS3 Themes (free)

Killzone 2 Wallpapers (2 for PS3, 2 for PSP)

PixelJunk Eden Wallpaper

Fracture Wallpapers (x4)

Siren Wallpapers (x5)

Playstation Store for PC

Parappa the Rapper ($22.99)
Parappa the Rapper Trailer (free)
Killzone 2 Wallpapers (x2 for PSP) (free)
Parappa the Rapper Wallpapers (x4) (free)

E3 2008: Sony Confirms New PSP Titles

Shiva Stella — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:42:59 -0500

Here's a quick list of PSP titles being announced at the Sony conference at E3.

Resistance Retribution (Spring 2009)
Patapon 2
The Force Unleashed
Super Stardust Portable
Madden 09
LocoRoco 2
NBA 09
The Inside
Lego Batman
Buzz Master Quiz

E3 2008: Duke Nukem Trilogy Announced

Tim Grube — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:01:14 -0500

Deep Silver and Apogee Software today announced an agreement to co-publish the Duke Nukem Trilogy episodes for the Nintendo DS and Sony PSP in North America and Europe.

"We were seeking a strong global publishing partner to herald the eagerly-anticipated return of Duke Nukem," said Terry Nagy, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Apogee. "We have indeed found that partner in Deep Silver."

"Since we launched the Deep Silver label, we've aggressively pursued the best properties to bring to market," said Dr. Klemens Kundratitz, CEO of Koch Media. "Apogee has produced some of the greatest franchises in the history of gaming, none of them more popular than Duke Nukem."

Deep Silver is exhibiting at the 2008 E3 Media & Business Summit on July 14 - 17 at the Los Angeles Convention Center in the Showcase Pavilion, Booth #401.

Playstation Store Update: Hot Shots Golf Out Of Bounds Demo, New Album For Rock Band

Zach Lott — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:21:59 -0500

It's time for another Playstation Store update, and this week brings plenty of content for you guys, including a new downloadable album for Rock Band and demos of the latest Hot Shots Golf game and Top Spin 3.

Check out the full list of additions after the jump.

Add-On Game Content

MediEvil: Resurrection (PSP, $16.99)

PAIN Nigel Character ($0.99)

Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock I am Murloc World of Warcraft Single (free)

Rock Band

Individual Tracks

Crackity Jones - the Pixies ($1.99)
Dead - the Pixies ($1.99)
Debaser - the Pixies ($1.99)
Gouge Away - the Pixies ($1.99)
Here Comes Your Man - the Pixies ($1.99)
Hey - the Pixies ($1.99)
I Bleed - the Pixies ($1.99)
La La Love You - the Pixies ($1.99)
Monkey Gone to Heaven - the Pixies ($1.99)
Mr. Grieves - the Pixies ($1.99)
No. 13 Baby - the Pixies ($1.99)
Silver - the Pixies ($1.99)
Tame - the Pixies ($1.99)
There Goes my Gun - the Pixies ($1.99)
Dreamin - Weezer ($1.99)
The Greatest Man That Ever Lived - Weezer ($1.99)
Troublemaker - Weezer ($1.99)

Song Packs

Doolittle album ($18.99)
Weezer Pack 1 ($5.49)

Game Demos (free)

Hot Shots Golf Out of Bounds Demo

Top Spin 3 Demo

Game Videos (free)

Battlefield: Bad Company Accolades TV Spot

Battlefield: Bad Company Prestons Blog

Brothers in Arms: Hells Highway - Ubidays Trailer

Call of Duty: World at War Trailer

The Incredible Hulk Trailer

HAZE Launch Trailer

HAZE Song Trailer

Medievil Resurrection interview trailer

Movie and Blu-Ray Trailers (free)

The House Bunny Trailer

So I Married An Axe Murderer Blu-Ray Disc Trailer

Men in Black Blu-Ray Disc Trailer

PS3 Themes (free)

PAIN: Nigel Theme
Playstation Network Theme

PSP Wallpaper (free)

Medievil Resurrection wallpaper (x3)

Secret Agent Clank Released For PSP

Tim Grube — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 15:40:00 -0500

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today the North American release of Secret Agent Clank for the PSP. The time around, Clank's gameplay will be more like Ratchet's. In past titles, playing him was more about solving puzzles; now, he is a full on action character with weapons and gadgets of his own.

"Ratchet and Clank has proven to be a witty, well produced franchise with a long lasting legacy of action packed gameplay, out-of-this world weapons, and family friendly humor," said Jeff Reese, director, software marketing, SCEA. "Developer High Impact Games bolsters that legacy with Secret Agent Clank, again bringing innovation to the platform while poking fun at the spy movies we all know and love."

The title is rated "E" for Everyone by the ESRB.

SCEA: PSP Is A Gateway Drug

Zach Lott — Tue, 27 May 2008 16:52:51 -0500

Nintendo may think that they're the masters of expanding the market, but Sony believes that they just may have the secret weapon to taking people from handhelds to consoles: The PSP.

As reported by Gamesindustry, Sony initially marketed the PSP towards a 28-40 year-old demographic, but they soon discovered that it was a hit among youth. Calling the handheld a "gateway drug," SCEA senior marketing manager John Koller believes that younger people who started gaming on a PSP will naturally become PS3 gamers.

"It's become, from a gaming perspective, a lot different than I think we even envisioned it when we first launched it," he said at a Wedbush Morgan Securities conference. "That's a very good thing. It's expansionary. For us, the PSP is a very high growth, high margin business and something that is a very good product for us."

Indeed, the PSP has been doing well for Sony among the younger crowd, as Japanese children's obsession with the Monster Hunter series has helped the PSP jump to the top of the Japanese hardware charts. It has also done quite well in North America, as it frequently outsells the Xbox 360 and PS3.

Even with this success, the question arises of whether or not sales the PS3 are really being affected by the PSP. Sony may make these claims, but for now the truth of the matter is still unclear.

PlayStation Store Update: Crisis Core, R-Type Command

Shiva Stella — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 14:50:34 -0500

Two interesting bits have been added to Sony's PlayStation Store today, including a nice blue theme for Square Enix's Crisis Core - Final Fantasy VII and a demo of Atlus's R-Type Command.

Both free items are for the PSP; do note that Sony requires you to be logged into your PlayStation Store account to access the content.

You'll also need to have the free PlayStation Network Downloader software installed prior to downloading the content. You can check that out here if you don't already have it.

GB Review: Wipeout Pulse (PSP)

Shiva Stella — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 23:37:59 -0500

Though it's perhaps not the definitive Wipeout experience, Wipeout Pulse is definitely an improvement on its PSP predecessor in almost every way, offering online multiplayer, customizable music options, seven race types, and even the ability to design your own ship, limited though it may be. It starts slow, and you might be perturbed by the campaign mode now and then as well as a few graphical and acoustic slips, but on the whole it retains the franchise's almost zen-like quality during high-speed, weapons-intense races along with the same futuristic style that fans love.

Click here for an explanation of our review and scoring format.

Wipeout Pulse maintains the feel of the Wipeout universe complete with a futuristic presentation, plenty of techno beats, and fun high-speed races that completely defy a storyline or setting. The essential gameplay aspects of Pulse are strikingly similar to those of its predecessors; the player's objective still being to survive an onslaught of vicious attacks while en route to the finish line for a medal. No significant tweaking has been given to the standard single-race - if you spent more than five minutes with the PlayStation's Wipeout XL then you'll feel right at home, which is a boon for franchise veterans looking for the same thrills they encountered in previous Wipeout games. The dark side of Wipeout racing has also been left intact, with players still blasting each other with three-pronged missile attacks, bomb trails, and the infamous earthquake while nudging opponents into walls or soaring across chasms.

While Pulses basic gameplay aspects might have been overlooked, Sony still managed to differentiate Pulse from its Wipeout brethren by updating the franchises mode offerings. The traditional campaign mode for single-player features the usual seven base race teams vying for supremacy of 12 distinct tracks, with each anti-gravity vehicle sporting its own stats (speed, handling, thrust, etc) and now a loyalty bar that players fill each time they ride with a certain team; obtain enough loyalty points and the game rewards you with a bonus, though other than this free skin gift the bar serves no purpose. The campaign mode is much less linear than in past Wipeout games, though this admittedly comes with some caveats. The mode is split into sixteen sectors, each with four grids, while each grid contains anywhere from eight-sixteen blocks or "racing events" that are unlocked by completing an initial one or two events for that grid. A racing event may contain the usual single-race, zone (in which you fly through a track until you explode, attempting to hit a certain zone count), tournament (short series of single-races), or time trial or it could feature a head-to-head round, speed lap (in which you beat the single best lap time), or eliminator match.

The eliminator race type is a great addition to the series and has players racing to a kill-count instead of the finish line, and while the usual campaign eliminator round has a kill-count of 10, it is possible to up that to 25 for a gold in the game's racebox mode, which enables players to create their own instant matches or additional campaigns (other than that, though, it's practically useless). While the campaign mode is slightly different from what fans are used to, and therefore a bit refreshing, it does get annoying when you're forced to play through events you dislike just to open up the next single-race, zone, or eliminator match, as that amounts to a waste of time for those of us who'd rather race as opposed to perfecting our time trial records. Add to this the fact that the game starts off very slowly for the first four hours and you can accurately estimate the level of frustration you're in for.

The control scheme is carried over from Wipeout Pure and is still as simplistically designed and easy to grasp for newcomers, with D-pad/analog controls managing turning, L/R the left/right airbrakes, X acceleration, and square weapon usage. The absorb ability that allows you to replenish your vehicle's shield (life) is yet another carry-over, followed by the weapon/item (turbo) speed pads that should be recognized instantly by fans as they sport the same X-weapon and arrow-speed design elements, while track design contains the standard loops, tight corners, gaps, and tunnels that you'd expect from almost any racing game.

Sony's biggest sell-point for Pulse is that it features a multiplayer mode that meets Pure's ad-hoc offering and then bests it with online (infrastructure) play, but that's not by very much. The primary hitch is that there are few race customization options here, especially when compared to the almost pointless racebox mode. The only race types for infrastructure include single-race and tournament, which is a shame considering what fun it would be to slaughter opponents online during 25 laps of eliminator. The lack here is a huge missed opportunity and is highlighted by the other "customization options" for infrastructure, which include the ability to select from a handful of tracks and to turn weapons on/off. The attention that racebox received over infrastructure is mind-boggling. Another key issue is that there are very few people playing online, which is sad for a game that's been out for less than a month. Pulse's replay value, which could have been raised significantly by a decent infrastructure, takes another hit from the limited track offerings; the game boasts 12 unique tracks, and while it also utilizes a "black" and a "white" version of each for a touch of variety, that doesn't necessarily up the count to 24 as most of the variations come in race direction and the inclusion of "hidden" areas.

Though most of Pulse's presentation is on par with the rest of the series, showcasing a smooth framerate, mediocre visuals and race tracks heavy on the gray palette, there are some graphical and audio catches during explosions or when a lot of action is occurring on-screen at once, which appears to be more than the game can handle. Additionally there are some clipping issues when the player gets caught in an earthquake attack or lands on his vehicle's nose and has to wait patiently for the game to set him right-side up, after which hes probably lost the race. There's also not a lot of graphical flash except for weapons fire and the destruction of enemy ships, but while that's bearable it's a little more difficult to come to terms with the lag that rears its ugly head precisely as the player approaches a barrage of ships blasting each other into bits. Fortunately the lag is minimal during online play, and in fact its more common in offline races, but this might be because I've yet to play through an eight-person match.

Wipeout Pulse does contain one saving grace: its soundtrack customization. Pulse moves light-years beyond Pure in this area, as it enables gamers to include up to 30 of their own mp3s (depending on card size, of course) in the track list. This absolutely saves the game for those with low tolerance levels for electronica, as track offerings are less than inspiring and pale in comparison to song lists from previous installments. The ambient noises - the hovering of your anti-gravity craft, the thump and skid sounds as you dance near the edge of the track - are intact and functional for most of the gameplay, with the highlight being weapons fire, but there are a few audio catches during intense ship battles as noted above, as well as times when your ship will silently explode to poor background music.

Sony included two other incentives, a free skin editor available on wipeout-game.com and a photo mode, both equally unimpressive. The photo mode is an unnecessary trinket only accessible from the pause menu while the skin editor is plain and cumbersome; its much easier to just download skins from the site than to bother with the online editor. There are also several expansion packs available (or soon to be) for those craving new vehicles, skins, and tracks, but while they add some variety and replay value to Pulse, an expanded infrastructure mode would have made them a greater asset.

Publisher: SCEA
Developer: Studio Liverpool
Release: Feb 12, 2008
MSRP: $29.99
E10+

GB Review: Patapon (PSP)

Shiva Stella — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 22:34:35 -0600

Get ready to drum to the beat.

Patapon is a great musically-geared PSP game from several of the creative minds behind the popular LocoRoco and sports the same simple flair, highlighted by a colorful world, straightforward mechanics, intricate visual details, and a fantastically catchy beat that'll make this an addictive treat for Sony and music-genre fans. But even if LocoRoco let you down, Patapon comes with some improvements: it relies on an actual storyline that gives the game purpose, the "characters" have a touch more depth, and the amount of army tweaking, hunting areas, bosses, and mini-game diversions should offer enough motivation for you to finish it. For $20, you simply cannot go wrong.

Click here for an explanation of our review and scoring format.

As is often the case with deities, you - the 'All-mighty' god of the adorable patapons - have been too preoccupied with the business of the universe to cast them an endearing glance. Completely neglected by their patron deity, the patapons - tiny, bloodthirsty, giant-eyed creatures with a serious knack for rhythm - have been forced to deal with an incursion of the malignant zigotons, ugly suckers that, in the ignorance of the divine, have walled their way between Patapolis, the patapon capital, and the object of the patapons' desire a great, mysterious gift that you conveniently placed at the end of the world. In your absence the patapons have suffered defeat after defeat at the hands of the foul zigotons and in a final act of desperation the sole survivor of the patapons' once magnificent army raises the war banner and cries out for your aid.

Should you answer the call, all of Patapolis will rejoice as you enter the world of Patapon, Sony's mix of real-time strategy and rhythm for the PSP from almost the same folks who brought you LocoRoco, the cute musical puzzle game that had you tapping your toes while sliding colorful blobs throughout the trappings of a rainbow paradise. Though LocoRoco was definitely a delight and a great boon for Sony's handheld, it lacked a certain quality and the player felt like he was maneuvering gelatinous globs for the sole purpose of hearing the next song. Patapon, refreshingly, does more than feature adorable music; it actively incorporates it into the gameplay via a very simplistic control mechanism. The player taps out a command in line with the music and the pulsating edges of the screen, a great help for beginners, and the patapon army behaves accordingly, either advancing (pata-pon), attacking (pon), defending (chaka), or performing the occasional miracle (it's good to see you living up to your reputation).

On the surface, it almost seems too simple; there are no thousand command combo variations that'll trigger some fancy cutscene, no "special" power-ups that'll teach your patapons how to fly, and no healing magic to get your troops back on track. There aren't even items - just four basic commands, yet the music and pounding drums makes them incredibly addictive. The proverbial icing is that each command operates as a strategy, such that "attack" has patapons throwing spears from a wider distance while "defend" orders the patapons to bunch up on the flag carrier, attacking only what approaches the army and therefore narrowing the archer's arch; this is a great maneuver for when bosses are attacking the area immediately in front of them and not the army's flank, where the tightly packed patapons are huddling safely out of reach. Nevertheless, a backup maneuver is sorely missing. When a patapon that isn't the flag carrier dies it leaves a "cap" (its head) behind for the army to collect so the player can resurrect the unit, but patapons at the rear (mostly archers) can get left behind due to the army's inability to retrace a few steps. The lack seems almost silly.

Pon, pon, pata, pon!

While the basic gameplay consists of leading your patapon army throughout the 30+ main missions, Sony threw in some boss battles and lighter hunting areas, enabling the player to collect source materials (rocks, sticks, etc), money (ka-chi), and "legendary" weapons. Admittedly the enemy design is redundant: the first boss the player encounters is a giant turquoise-spotted, fire-breathing dragon while the second is a giant red-spotted, fire-breathing dragon (and yes, both dragons require the same strategy to defeat). The patapons' prey receive the same treatment, boasting black birds, pink birds, gold birds, and the like. However, there is just enough variation and the bosses are just difficult enough to keep the gameplay interesting. For additional diversity there are some nasty environmental aspects including excruciatingly painful lightning strikes and annoying wind changes to watch out for as well as animals that actually fight back, but again, the sole purpose of Patapon is to lead those adorable bug-eyed killers into battle with your significant drumming abilities. As a final touch, the highly important fever mode, which you activate by staying true to the beat for ten commands, is the key to success, sending the patapons into a blood-frenzy that crushes everything in its path; one troop type in particular, the kibapon (cavalry), relies entirely on fever mode and is less than useless without it, though with it the kibapon become war deities that rival the All-mighty Himself. The only downside to the fever mode is that most levels appear designed to encourage the gamer to reach fever by walking forward; this amounts to a lot of empty space and needless repetition, as you can reach fever by standing in-place and defending, if need be. Another annoyance is that the music changes as you initiate fever, so you can easily miss a beat and lose fever if you're distracted by patapon singing and the acoustic switch.

Singing, dancing, and drumming your one-eyed soldiers to success - while the highlight of the gameplay - is only half the story in Patapon, as any great army unleashed by any great civilization requires plenty of bureaucratic management. To this end Patapolis awaits the All-mighty's use, boasting many convenient features, the foremost of which is the life-tree for patapon creation and/or reincarnation (nobody's perfect). At the life-tree you can bring forth many a new patapon by mixing ingredients, usually minerals, meats, and tree branches, for specific race and troop types. If you're looking to create an archer (yumipon), for example, you throw in a rock and a stick and viola - instant bow-and-arrow buddy. To "adjust" the yumipon you simply increase the quality of the ingredients, this time mixing a tytanium ore with hinoki wood to create a tikulee (blue) yumipon, read: an archer with improved stats (HP, damage, speed, crit, etc). There are four basic troop types: yumipon (archers), yaripon (spearmen), kibapon (cavalry), and tatepon (infantry), and each unit within each type my be either a regular (white) patapon or, with a little genetic tweaking, achieve that extra special rank: pyokola (red), gekolos (green), mofeel (purple), or tikulee (blue).

Though the life-tree is the heart of Patapolis, Sony added some elements of the mini-game variety for fun and musical relaxation. As the player completes missions he'll collect "unique" items that can be utilized by the life-tree to create "hero" patapons - the great patapons of lore who kept the troops fed and the altar flooded with resources. The mini-games have you repeat tunes in a 'Simon-says' manner for four lines and, depending on your timing, reward you with prize goods for patapon creation. The rest of Patapolis - the "gateway" to the world map, the base camp (led by the priestess patapon, Meden) - serve as nice perches from you can view plot progression, but otherwise they exist to make the city feel less vacant.

Patapon's presentation is on par with LocoRoco's and is about what you'd expect if you played its pseudo-predecessor: the environs are colorful, the patapons and zigotons are detailed from their helmets down to their very tiny feet, and all character and object design features a simplistic structure and color palette. What differentiates it the most from LocoRoco, besides its "puzzles" (most of which include the obtaining and usage of the proper miracle needed to proceed) and gameplay mechanics, is the inclusion of an actual storyline and characterization, shallow though both may be. The player feels as though there is a real goal to obtain for helping the struggling patapons succeed and not just another level filled with cute little musical "events" that may eventually bore him. This drive to finish the game nicely compliments its replayability and keeps the gamer coming back for more of this unique musical experience, often hunting for kicks or creating patapons to form the "ultimate" army. Perfectionists beware: with more than 100 weapons/armor and plenty of source materials to tweak your darling soldiers, you can spend a few hours doing nothing but gaining goodies and improving stats. Unfortunately all 100+ of those weapons/armor must be obtained by completing missions: you can't take the source materials you already have and turn them into weaponry, which is a missed opportunity that could have added countless hours and much depth to the gameplay. On the whole, however, Patapon is yet another fantastic title on the PSP, perfect for short or lengthy mobile gaming sessions and full of endless acoustic delight. You'll be pleasantly surprised by this one.

Publisher: Sony Computer Ent.
Developer: Sony Computer Ent./Japan Studio/Pyramid
Release: Feb 26, 2008
MSRP: $19.99
Everyone

Sony Hooks GameBump Up With Pursuit Force Swag

Tim Grube — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 10:19:32 -0600

So I've been in the video game industry for almost ten years now and being a video game reviewer, companies like to send out promotional swag along with the reviewable game every now and then. Sony being one of our close friends, sent us yesterday Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice for the PSP along with some crazy promo items to go along with it.

Pursuit Force gloves, a "bling bling" pimp cup persay, and the game was part of this special package. It's a pretty cool setup they sent and was quite impressed. Check out some of the pictures that I snapped on the jump.

Sony Delays Skype for PSP in Japan, Cites Microphone Issues

Shiva Stella — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 14:20:00 -0600

News is now hitting the Web that Sony has delayed its Skype PSP update announced earlier this month at CES 2008. The company is citing compatibility issues as cause for the delay in Japan, claiming that the feature is on-hold until the microphones Sony designed for its use earn Skype's approval.

You can view the full press release (it's a quickie) at the jump.

SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT JAPAN TO POSTPONE THE RELEASE OF MICROPHONE PRODUCTS FOR PSP® (PLAYSTATION®PORTABLE)

Tokyo, January 23, 2008 Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ), a division of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) responsible for business operations in Japan, today announced that it would postpone the release of two microphone products for PSP® (PlayStation®Portable), SINGLE PACK (with one microphone, PSPJ-15010) and TWIN PACK (with two microphones, PSPJ-15011), scheduled to be released in Japan on Thursday, January 24th, 2008.

SCEJ planned to release the microphone along with the introduction of Skype features for the new slim and light PSP (PSP-2000). However, it was found that the microphone did not meet the Skype specifications in part to obtain certification and SCEJ has determined to postpone the release of the microphone. New release date will be announced as soon as decided.

With this, SCEJ has also reached a decision to postpone the introduction of the Skype features and services in Japan, scheduled in late January as part of the system software update for PSP. Solutions to enable users to start using Skype features and services on their PSP are being sought for and will be announced in due course.

Ubisoft's Early 2008 Release Schedule

Tim Grube — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 12:53:07 -0600

Way down deep in the recent press release showing the 2007 earnings for Ubisoft, they unveiled their 2008 title release schedule which includes a few notable titles. Peep the full list below.

Fourth Quarter (January March 2008)

Anno 1701
Assassin's Creed
Brain Challenge
Petz® : Bunnyz
Chessmaster® The Art Of Learning
Csi: Crime Scene Investigation: Hard Evidence
Dark Messiah Of Might And Magic: Elements
Dragonquest® Monster: Joker
Imagine(Tm) : Figure Skater
Final Fantasy Revenant Wings
Final Fantasy Crytal Chronicles® : Ring Of Fates
Lost(Tm): Via Domus
Maths Play
Miami Nights: Singles In The City
Nitrobike
No More Heroes
Puppy Palace
Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six® Vegas 2
Real Soccer 2008
Settlers 6 Add On
Silent Hunter®: Wolves Of The Pacific U-boat Missions Add On
Petz®: Wild Animals: Tigerz
The Dog Island
Totally Spies Totally Party
Victorious Boxers Challenge

Game Sales to Top $10 Billion in 2008?

Tim Grube — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 12:03:23 -0600

We all know the game industry is a huge money maker. Over the past years, several companies including Electronic Arts, Blizzard, Activision, and several others have released key titles that helped the industry move quite faster then expected.

A softening consumer spending environment won't stop annual US software sales exceeding $10 billion for the first time in 2008, says Colin Sebastian of Lazard Capital Markets.

According to Sebastian, historically, videogame industry sales are driven by product cycles rather than by consumer spending and GDP growth.

"We note that over the 1990-91 and 2001-02 recessionary periods, new consoles launched successfully and became significant drivers of growth for several years. As such, we believe it is unlikely that decreasing consumer confidence and economic growth would meaningfully impact video game sales in 2008."

With many titles coming out from various companies such as Blizzard's new World of Warcraft expansion, Electronic Art's Army of Two, and Konami's Metal Gear Solid 4--you kind of have to believe that 2008 will be a big year for everyone involved in the video game industry. Do you agree?

Sony and ESPN Team Up For X Games

Tim Grube — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 11:25:09 -0600

This is nothing new for Sony, but Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA), will enable attendees to experience their own extreme gaming experience at the worlds premier action sporting event. Fans will be able to play upcoming PlayStation 3 and PSP titles at all the PlayStation marked tents.

The titles that will be on hand for playable action include:

Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
Pursuit Force
wipEout PULSE
Burnout
NFL Tour
Demo of AOL Shoutcast for PSP

ESPNs 12th annual Winter X Games begins January 24-27 in Aspen, Colorado. Here is the broadcast schedule for your viewing pleasure.

Patapon: Just a Really Good Deal for the PSP

Shiva Stella — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 16:04:37 -0600

Recently I reported an apparent price-drop for Sony's Patapon, the company's very Locoroco-esque and next promising hit for the PSP. Though the game was originally listed with an MSRP of $29.99, the game's cost remains lowered to $19.99.

Today Sony updated its popular PlayStation blog with the reason for the drop: the cost has been lowered to the Greatest Hits price point in order to attract gamers that might otherwise pass it up or lose it in the barrage of upcoming PSP titles.

Here's the official word from Jeff Reese, director software marketing.

Patapon is really different and highly creative, a new kind of PSP experience we dont want anyone to miss. So to make it more accessible to everyone, we are happy to officially announce that we are releasing it at $19.99, lower than other new PSP games. Its a game that shouldnt get lost with some other big titles launching on the platform. It deserves your attention because its very cool.

Totally called it. You can look for the game on February 26.

PlayStation 4 Development Farther Along than We Thought?

Shiva Stella — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 13:37:45 -0600

Though the dust has yet to settle on this current generation of consoles (all three have only experienced one holiday season together on store shelves), rumors of next-generation development inevitably spring up here or there.

Popular German site, Gamefront, is reporting that Sony (Japan) is currently seeking a software engineer to work on backward compatibility for the PlayStation 3 and an un-named next-generation system (which as far as we know would be the PlayStation 4). The engineer would implement and improve emulation of PS1, PS2, PS3, and PSP (also for PS3) for this next-generation hardware.

If one believes the rumor then PS4 development must be much farther along than seems reasonable, as all three companies have expressed a desire to extend this generation's life-span as long as possible (remember that ten-year mark that Sony set for the PS3?)

One would also have to believe that it'd be a great bonus for the PS4 to feature backwards compatibility all the way back to the original PlayStation, taking advantage of Sony's extensive lineup throughout the years. Of course, it's just as likely that this is a mistranslation blown out of proportion.

The rumor follows a recent Microsoft rumor regarding the Xbox 3.

You can check out an image of the job listing text here.

New God of War: Chains of Olympus Trailer

Shiva Stella — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:48:50 -0600

Here's a new trailer of Sony's God of War: Chains of Olympus for the PSP, and it's just as bloody as ever. The game still has a release date of March 4, 2008.

What's the Deal with Patapon?

Shiva Stella — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 13:29:03 -0600

Hmm. You look familiar.

While bouncing around on Gamestop's latest price-drop listings page today I happened to come across Sony's Patapon, a PSP game that looks very similar to the popular PSP hit, Locoroco (and that's not a coincidence).

While it's customary for price-drops to occur for really old games you should already have played and really bad games you should never touch, why is there a $10 drop for a game that isn't even out yet? Is it so horrible that they're dying to rid themselves of stock they currently don't have or are they just trying to solicit pre-orders? Or maybe it's merely a really nice deal?

I am become confused...

Sony's CES 2008 Presentation

Shiva Stella — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 12:36:55 -0600

If you haven't already seen it, here's the video of Sony's presentation given at CES 2008 as provided by Sony. It's 51 minutes long and includes content on (in order):

The Rolly (a dancing music player with 2GB flash memory)
PSP (at 8:00 minutes)
The Mylo 2 (now redesigned to look almost exactly like the PSP)
VAIO (a new Hi-Def "entertainment center" option that allows for recording in Blu-ray format)
Digital noise canceling headphones
The Sony Reader (which now supports Adobe PDFs unlike some new readers...)
GPS devices
Sony Ericsson (at 14:00 minutes covering Walkman phones, even a gaming version with "tilt controls")
Various Sony camera recorders and cameras along with wireless imaging transfer devices
Blu-ray, Blu-ray players, and Blu-ray drives (at 27:00 minutes; this gets interesting if you've been following recent developments)
New Bravia technology
Standard sales talk (at 38:00 minutes), recycling, McDonalds' hotspots for Mylo 2 (funny given yesterday's comment), and various other company alliances (Ford, CBS)
OLED televisions (at 47:00 minutes)

Sadly there was only limited talk of the PlayStation 3 (I think the PSP was mentioned more), but if you're into fancy gadgets it's a go. You can view it at the jump.

From Crackle: CES 2008: Sony Electronics Press Conference

PlayStation Portable, Now Minty Fresh

Shiva Stella — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:45:12 -0600

Sony has confirmed that beginning February 28 Japan will receive another version of the PlayStation Portable, this time in a lovely light mint green shade, for 19,800 yen (roughly $180 USD). Naturally there has been no announcement regarding a US or UK release in the new color.

I guess US and UK gamers should just be happy the PSP comes in white and black. More images at the jump.

Some Hands On Reports of Skype Running on PSP

Shiva Stella — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 18:36:13 -0600

In more Skype on the PSP news, Engadget had a chance to test it out on the show floor at CES 2008 and reports that the audio quality is "pretty decent - certainly comparable to what we experience when using Skype either on a PC or on the receiving end of one."

There is a tiny lag issue in the audio transmission, though, but Engadget claims it's less than a second and that the overall interface is "super simple... [you] just select the Skype icon and you can see your buddy list of who's online; select someone to ring them up."

Sony Finally to Release PSP Keyboard... in 2009

Shiva Stella — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 15:57:21 -0600

Just in case you missed it, reports are surfacing that Sony is indeed working on a keyboard for the PSP and that the accessory will be available sometime in 2009.

There's no word on what sort of design Sony is looking at, but the company admits to "looking at several" of them, but refuses to give specifics. At least we won't have to suffer for too much longer.

Blu-Ray to PSP Official!

Akshay Masand — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:27:48 -0600

Sony recently made an announcement confirming that Playstation 3 and PSP users will be able to directly transfer Blu-Ray content onto the PSP memory stick's for portable viewing. It was shown at the company's CES booth where they demonstrated step by step this new method of disc-copying. They put the Blu-Ray disc into the Playstation 3 and were able to copy the film onto the memory stick duo for their PSP.

One thing left unmentioned was the size of the copied film. Will it be suitable for the small memory stick sizes now? It isn't surprising that Sony also released a new 16GB Memory Stick Pro Duo. Hopefully the size isn't too big because it might hamper the usage of this newly announced feature.

PSP Not the Only Sony Device to Score Skype...

Shiva Stella — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:17:32 -0600

The PlayStation Portable isn't the only device getting Skype (Internet phone) access from Sony, as a quick check on Sony's CES 2008 blog reveals that its Mylo 2 (looks familiar, doesn't it?) will also utilize Skype for free.

So if you're crazy about Skype, own a "phat" PSP, and don't want to upgrade to the newer model of the same thing, a Mylo 2 might be an option. The Mylo 2 contains features for instant messaging and Web access along with Skype.

Sony Made the Money this Holiday, 1.2M PS3s Sold in NA

Shiva Stella — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:07:15 -0600

In more "I sold more units than you" news, Sony has confirmed that it has sold 1.2 million PlayStation 3 consoles in North America alone during the holidays; the company is quick to remind us that every PlayStation 3 sold also equates to a purchased Blu-ray player that helps consolidate Sony's base in the Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD format war.

Summarizes Jack Tretton, president and chief executive of Sony Computer Entertainment America, "The PlayStation brand ended the year in a very strong position and clearly indicates more positive momentum going into 2008. The strong PS3 sales also further establish Blu-ray's dominant position as the high-definition medium of choice for games and movies."

Talking numbers, the PlayStation Portable has reached the 1.4 million mark in North America (receiving a nice sales boost over the holidays, no doubt) while the PlayStation 2 clocked in at 1.3 million units; all totaled, that's 3.9 million Sony machines discovered under trees this Christmas.

Skype Comes To PSP

Tim Grube — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 21:15:18 -0600

Are you a fan of Skype? Personally, I've used Skype a couple of times back in the day, but it seems as if more and more of my close friends are using this new technology. To jump aboard the train, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. unveiled today that it would integrate Skype into the PSP later this month.

The features include:

Free voice calls between Skype users
Skype contact list management (view existing contacts, add new ones)
Skype presence (see which friends are online and available to talk)
SkypeOut(TM) calls to make calls to landlines and mobile phone anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
Optional SkypeIn(TM) number that lets users receive calls on Skype from landlines and mobiles anywhere in the world (requires the purchase of Skype credit)
View and modify Skype settings and account details (including username creation, SkypeOut settings, voicemail settings and call forwarding)

Skype has more than 246 million members and will be free of charge. The software update will occur at the end of January.

Bomberman Land Gone Gold

Solomon Lee — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 15:06:07 -0600

Hudson Entertainment has announced that Bomberman Land for the Wii and PSP as well as Bomberman Land Touch! 2 for the DS have both gone gold respectively. The games are scheduled to ship to North American retailers on January 29 with a price tag of $29.99.

Check the link to visit the official site.

New Patapon Screens

Solomon Lee — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 12:23:32 -0600

Sony Computer Entertainment America has released new screenshots of Patapon for the PSP. The game is scheduled to arrive on North American shores in February.

Hit the jump to view more images.

GB Review: Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions (PSP)

Shiva Stella — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 16:27:20 -0600

War of the Lions: The PlayStation classic in a whole new light.

It's the same fantastic game you played in 1998 with some positive adjustments, including more mature dialogue and some lovely animated cutscenes. While a few other elements - character names, job ability names, etc - were changed for unknown reasons, the whole package comes together just as nicely as the original, though a few might have qualms with the cutscene voiceacting or missing infrastructure battles. All in all, the same Square masterpiece you've played before, only on the PlayStation Portable with a storyline that'll make more sense to newcomers than the original's.

Click here for an explanation of our review and scoring format.

I might as well admit to a bias on Square Enix's updated Final Fantasy Tactics, as the original game is quite possibly my most favorite title, topping the likes of Super Mario Brothers 3, Mario Kart, Sunset Riders, Knights of the Old Republic I/II, the Elder Scrolls series, The Lion King (SNES - don't hate) and even Final Fantasy VII and VIII. Final Fantasy Tactics remains the king of all strategy RPGs, the title to which they all inevitably compare themselves as they struggle to balance pure strategy based gameplay with leveling up, magical spells, pretty graphics, and an enchanting plot - a feat that most in its genre fail to accomplish.

The same crew you know and love.

As you can imagine, when I first heard that Square was re-releasing FFT for its 20th Anniversary celebration I was both thrilled at the prospect and concerned that Square would butcher it by adjusting the gameplay mechanics, thereby making it "easier" for those accustomed to a simpleton's handheld games. This has always been a point of contention for me and hot handheld titles that tend to amount to nothing more than a whimsical collection of mini-games - such things are nice if they interest you and/or you're fresh out of entertainment options on-the-go, but for "real games" I've always preferred a console or a PC. Interestingly this is one of FFT: War of the Lions's primary criticisms: that it boasts a high learning curve and is more involving than the average handheld gamer would like. I say "interestingly" because critics appear to be lamenting the fact that War of the Lions is a real game as opposed to a 15 minute mini-game.

Those of us who enjoyed the original (or prefer to spend more than 15 minutes on a game here or there), however, will be pleased with most of what Square has done for War of the Lions, beginning with some much-needed dialogue adjustments. Gone are the childish, sometimes nonsensical comments poorly translated from the Japanese script; the dialogue is now much more mature and befitting of the game's setting. Compare three samples I took at random from both the original and PSP version:

"Take care of Ramza. He may be your half brother but he is my own flesh."
"Though he be not the issue of the womb that bore you, my sons, still my blood courses his veins. Watch after him."

"He will be killed if we don't act fast! I don't know what I would do if..."
"We must act quickly if he is to remain so. Should he be killed, I will lose everything..."

"Highness. Please let me have 100 soldiers!"
"I beg of you, Lord Beoulve! Lend me a hundred men that I might hunt the whoresons down!"

Some might complain that the dialogue loses its directness and childlike charm in the update, but Square scores points from me for taking the time to modify the script line by line, making the game's plot significantly easier to follow. This polishing was also applied to the game's tutorial/chronicle, which now sounds less like thrown-together biographies and a brief note on the zodiac role and more like elements meant to help the player follow the narrative and understand the strategic aspects of the gameplay. Gamers unfamiliar with the battle system's charge time (CT) gauge, how the zodiac compatibility feature operates, the party roster's organization, or how characters acquire abilities for use in battle will find the cleaner tutorial much simpler to understand in comparison to the original's. The game does, however, still operate on the notion that nothing quite teaches like experience, and so introduces gameplay elements by tossing the player into the fray with his party and letting him take charge of his unit step by step, but this is one of the game's perks unless you'd rather read through instructions before you're allowed to play.

A black mage can save the world.

These subtle presentation enhancements were also applied to the game's spell/ability naming scheme as well as character names and titles. The infamous Algus has been upgraded to Argath; Rad, that coward NPC from the very first battle, has been switched to Ladd (though he's just as useless); the Death Corps has been renamed the Corpse Brigade; and Ramza's home at Igros is now Eagrose. The spell naming system, which had healing spells listed as cure, cure 2, cure 3, etc., has been modified to fit into the familiar Final Fantasy realm of cures, curas, curagas, and so on. The auto-attack option is now aptly displayed as "AI" while priests have become white mages and wizards, black mages.

Fans of the original will find that most of the content in the PSP version is the same, a plus considering its predecessor's high quality. The music, one of the game's greatest features, contains the same powerful songs looped during battles and menu navigation and supported by cute ambient sounds (the drawing of swords, the cries of the dying, the blowing of wind, and so on) during cutscenes and gameplay; most of the cutscenes are still presented with in-game graphics, though "important" scenes have been updated with more visually appealing animations that combine the title's sprite character graphics with its new maturity. The cutscene voiceacting could use a bit of work - I'm still of the mind that voicework should have been eliminated altogether here as subtitles would have carried the animation along just as well, if not better - and the UMD will freeze for half a second during cutscene play (usually once or twice a scene), but it is a treat to see Square breathe fresh life into Ramza and Delita after a decade since the original.

To commemorate the title's re-release Square also added two new gameplay features for fans, these being ad-hoc battles and jobs (now labeled as "errands") available in every tavern. If you'd rather fight against a human opponent or enlist job aid from a person with a more experienced squad, you can finally do so, and Square has even modified some of the gameplay rules for these ad-hoc options. Now if your favorite black mage dies in a battle against a friend and also crystallizes after his counter reaches zero (which would normally mean that this black mage is gone forever), you can get him back after the battle. Any equipment you lose is also returned after ad-hoc carnage, while bonus gil and equipment rewards are kept. The ad-hoc feature is of tremendous value to gamers with access to multiple PSPs and at least two copies of the game, but it means zilch to the rest of us. An infrastructure (online) mode that pitted players from across the globe against each other would have made War of the Lions the RPG for the PSP (and would have kept me too busy to write another review, ever), but sadly the feature is sorely lacking.

Always the perfectionist.

The Lions War does port very well over to the PSP, though the color palette is toned down somewhat, giving the game a more realistic look, and the handheld isn't capable of producing the same quality of sound that your HDTV paired with its surround sound routinely emits, however the title still looks, sounds, and plays almost exactly the same as its predecessor. The only other quirk I noticed in the PSP version is that some spells (like protect, shell, etc) have slightly slower animations than the PlayStation original's, though this is hardly noticeable unless you (like me) have both your PSP and PlayStation 3 simultaneously running the same game.

While some fans are going to be annoyed at the new cutscenes and the lack of online (infrastructure) play, most - as well as those who missed out on a true gaming experience in the late 90's - will find that Final Fantasy Tactics: War of the Lions is not to be skipped.

Also available on: PlayStation (if you can find it)
Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Release: Oct 9, 2007
MSRP: $39.99
Teen | Ad-hoc play | News
Won runner up for GameBump's Best Portable Game of 2007

Free PSN Points... if you Live in Japan

Shiva Stella — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 14:20:23 -0600

Here's some good news if you happen to live in the land of gaming goodness (that being Japan).

Sony has given one hundred customers of the Japanese PlayStation Network service a "PSN ticket" valued at 5,000 yen (roughly $44 USD), provided that said customers use those points toward the purchase of a new game or classic title from the PSN from 12/26/07-01/07/08.

If you're listening, Sony, I'd like some free points too...

Score Some PlayStation Gear this Christmas? Get Down with Some Tricks

Shiva Stella — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 14:07:48 -0600

If you scored yourself a PlayStation 3 this holiday season then you might be interested to know that Sony has updated its PlayStation blog with convenient PS3 tips for new (or just confused) owners. Every day Sony will update its blog with a new tip, so keep checking back for more insider "suggestions."

Tip #1: PlayStation Portable Podcast RSS
If youre reading the PlayStation.Blog, youre probably also a frequenter of sites like IGN, Kotaku, Destructoid, PS3Fanboy and others who cater to those of us with an insatiable thirst for gaming news. And if youre anywhere near as hungry for up to the second info as I am, RSS is your friend. But what about those few, unfortunate minutes of the day when youre outside of a Wi-Fi hot spot? Enter the PSPs RSS channel.

Tip #2: Folding@home
How about helping conduct advanced biological research over this holiday season? No, you dont need to be a scientist to do that, the researchers over at Stanford University already have came up with software that can operate on your PLAYSTATION 3 console and perform multitude of complex operations that will help their research against diseases like Alzheimers, Mad Cow (BSE), Parkinsons disease and many types of cancer-related syndromes.

Tip #3: Remote Play/PS Store download head start
Lets say its a Thursday, the PLAYSTATION Store was just updated, and you cant wait to get your hands on a new PS3 demo. The only problem is youre not home. With the PS3/PSP Remote Play feature, you can get a jump start to your download from the road.

New Visuals for Wipeout Pulse on PSP

Shiva Stella — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 15:33:37 -0600

Sony has published some new screenshots of its Wipeout Pulse for the PlayStation Portable, and while that might not appear immediately intriguing all the images were taken with an in-game screenshot capture feature (photo mode) that'll enable players to snag their own shots and share them with friends.

Hit the link or the jump to view the imagery.

GB Review: Sonic Rivals 2 (PSP)

Brian Mohr — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 14:42:45 -0600

Sonic Rivals 2 is mixed bag. On one hand it can be quite a frustrating experience due to the heavy focus on battle throughout the races, but on the other hand elements of it are enjoyable. Its a real pity, as the game would actually be rather good if you were just judging by visuals and racing mechanics.

Click here for an explanation of our review and scoring format.

You can almost set it like clockwork: another Sonic game at least every year. This fall Sonic returns to racing in Sonic Rivals 2 for the PlayStation Portable. Is the Hedgehog racer worth a run?

First off, let me break it down as to what this game features: a story mode and racing mode. In race mode, all you do is pick one of eight characters and battle it out through a bunch of different levels. This is essentially what the game is all about - you racing against opponents. Its a fun and engaging experience.

The same can not be said for the story mode which is poor to say the least. Sonic games arent about the story at all, they're about speed and moving as fast as you can through a level.

In the story mode, you pick one of four teams to race with, with each team featuring two racers. There are several issues with this, the first being the game's combat. There is too much of a focus on combat and not nearly as much on the actual racing.

In regards to combat, once you get close to an opponent you can press the circle button to pass or jump over them. You also can acquire items throughout the level to utilize in order to attack your opponent. In addition, characters are given unique abilities if they collect enough rings in a board. This is unfair to say the least as some characters are given a significant advantage over others like Tails's ability to fly compared to Silvers power.

The focus of combat in the races continues when youll have to face off against the other characters in a one-on-one battle. To put it mildly, its not the most exhilarating experience because whoever gets hit twice loses.

That is followed up by another race and then you come to a boss battle. The ending battle features the same kind of gameplay that was popular in the original Sonic series in the 90s. The difference here is that youre also battling your rival in the boss fight to be the first one to hit the boss. The focus on battling your rival and a boss at the same time is utterly irritating to say the least.

Thats not to say that Sonic Rivals 2 doesnt have its fun parts. The race mode isnt bad as stated above because its not focused on the rival aspect.

Also, the graphics in Sonic 2 are phenomenal particularly for a handheld game. The game moves incredibly fast. In fact you do get the sense of speed youre supposed to. In addition, the characters and environments explode off the screen.

While that is nice, the story and sound are quite poor. The game features typical bland Sonic music and horrible voice acting.

Overall Sonic Rivals 2 isnt a terrible game, the problem is that it focuses too much on battle. In fact, the racing is pretty fun and you do really get a feel for the speed and pace of the game and its worth a run through.

Publisher: Sega
Developer: Sega
Release: Nov 13, 2007
MSRP: $39.99
Everyone