Get more from online gaming on PS3

System software update 2.40 lets you access the PS3 Home Menu (XMB) while playing games as well as letting you show off your Trophies.

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has announced new online gaming functionality for PLAYSTATION 3 with system software update 2.40, an automatic update that delivers several of the features most requested by PS3 fans. Combined with PLAYSTATION Network’s unique service of free* online gaming, the enhancement makes PS3 an even more attractive platform of choice for the online gamer.

Firstly, system software 2.40 allows PS3 Home Menu (XMB) access in-game. This means that you can access the PS3 Home Menu (XMB) at any time while playing most games, simply by tapping the PlayStation button on your controller. With 2.40, you can check if any of your friends are online (thanks to their own user profile), read and send messages, change some settings for games, all without having to quit the game you are playing. While you can’t pause an online multiplayer game involving other people, you can rejoin play at any time when you’ve finished browsing.

System software update 2.40 also delivers trophies to recognise players’ achievements in the online arena. Other competitive activities recognise winners with trophies – so why not gaming on PS3? Many online games will have gold, silver and bronze trophies – with platinum available for those who snag all three – all displayed on the PS3 Home Menu (XMB) for everyone to see. Complementing these enhanced communications features, the Friends list capacity will double to 100 Friends so you can stay in touch with even more PS3 owners around the world.

The 2.40 enhancement is just one more reason to join PLAYSTATION Network, the online network for PS3 users that lets you play online for free*. All you need to do to join is connect your PS3 to broadband and register, or go to the connection guide at eu.playstation.com to find out more. Once in, you’ll find online matches and leagues for all of your favourite games absolutely free (although users are responsible for paying their broadband fees) and at any time of the day or night.

You’ll also find PLAYSTATION Store, where you can download entire games as well as extra levels, content for your existing games plus Internet browsing, video chat thanks to PLAYSTATION Eye and much, much more.

There’s never been a better time to join PLAYSTATION Network. Sign up now to make the most of system software update 2.40.

* No subscription required, broadband fees apply.

New PLAYSTATION 3 system software updates on the way
Valve Announces Steam Cloud

Deal of the Day: 2 for $30 Blu-ray at Best Buy online

Best Buy is having another special on Blu-ray films: 2 for $30 this time. Need movie recommendations? Enjoy one of the movies on the list but not sure what else to get? Do you just like being told what to do? Here is a humble classification of the movies on sale:

Must-haves:
The Usual SuspectsBlade RunnerPan's LabyrinthTerminator 2: Judgment Day More after the jump.

Must-haves if you enjoy the genre:
28 Days LaterThe RockBlack Hawk DownGoodFellasCon Air300GattacaA Few Good MenThe DepartedTotal Recall
Middle-of-the-road:
Behind Enemy LinesStargateHostelHappy FeetBram Stroker's DraculaHellboyThe PunisherRemember the TitansThe Patroit50 First DatesResident Evil
You-might-want-your-money-back:
Tears of the SunMemoirs of a GeishaResident Evil: ApocalypseThe TransporterA Knight's TaleTroyThe Legend of Zorro(we are well aware Catherine Zeta-Jones is in this)Scary Movie Avoid-like-the-plague:
Fantastic Four (you can find Jessica Alba pictures online, okay?)Hitch We haven't seen these, so make your own judgments:
The RookieDonnie BrascoRentCrimson TideAppleseed Ex Machina Feel free to agree or disagree. Sale expires July 5th. We've read that this deal is also in stores, but why not order online and use local pickup and save on shipping?


Largest physics engine provider signs deal with 2K Games
Deal of the Day: 2-for-price-of-1 sale at Best Buy
Movies coming to iTunes UK, Canada

DualShock 3's available this Friday in Europe

Yes, you read that correctly. We've just received word from Sony that the long-awaited European release of the DualShock 3 is coming soon. We'll have our hands clasped around the buzzing wonders from Friday the 4th of July and they will cost 39.99 (we've requested a price in Euros too, because we know how much you love those).

There's no word on whether any different colours will be available, so we're going to assumed that you'll have a choice between black and black. You can count on SCEE to announce something so long-awaited without a modicum of pomp or ceremony. Despite the lack of a fanfare, we're happy to see DualShock 3s finally becoming standard everywhere in the world. All that's left is to phase out the SIXAXIS models and start bundling DS3s with all PS3s. Here's hoping.

[UPDATE] To clarify: DualShock 3s will be made available on the 2nd of July on the Continent and on the 4th of July in the UK.

[Via Press Release]


Welcome to Movement
WiiWare launch titles in Europe
Goo for retail in Europe
PS3 platinum range dons yellow in Spain

Cutting to the core

Two of the Square Enix team behind Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII talk about the game and its development.

Yoshinori Kitase, Executive Producer, and Hideki Imaizumi, Producer, talk about some of the challenges they faced and the decisions they made.

How does the storyline of Crisis Core on PSP relate to the much loved FFVII on PlayStation 2?

Hideki Imaizumi: Crisis Core starts seven years before the events of the original Final Fantasy VII. This time, the story revolves around Zack, the main character of this title. It depicts how his wishes are inherited by Cloud, the main character of the original Final Fantasy VII.

What was your experience of developing Crisis Core, given the strong history and fan following of FFVII?

Yoshinori Kitase: The original VII was released ten years ago. That means the fans have had a decade to nurture this work. Although we felt that we couldn't betray this, emphasizing existing aspects and putting together a compilation would mean a game that only covers what's already been imagined. The result would be a title that's disappointing to users.

How have you achieved a balance between consistency for existing fans and accessibility for newcomers?

YK: To do a story based on the characters from the previous Final Fantasy VII would assume that everybody knows the original story. Zack is the lead character here, but in the original VII, very little was mentioned about this character. In that respect, he's a character that most people will get to know for the first time. And then there's the appearance of new characters such as Genesis and Angeal...

The story woven from these new characters is intended to attract new users. And of course there are returning characters like Cloud and Aerith, not to mention Cloud's mystery being revealed. Given all that, we've balanced everything out so the game would satisfy fans of Final Fantasy VII.

Can you explain the battle system used in Crisis Core and the thinking behind it?

YK: Crisis Core features a command based battle system that incorporates action aspects such as moving and dodging. A particularly major element is the DMW, a system in which matching slot numbers changes the situation of a battle. It's quite a concept wherein the battle situation could drastically change depending on the matching numbers. In a way, it's a system dominated by luck.

As to why we did this, in the original game, you had three characters such as a warrior or mage with different attacks that allowed for tactical variations. This time, there's only a single character, Zack, and one character on their own will not produce much variation in a battle. It's a difficult point to address when designing a battle system. That's where the DMW comes in to suddenly change the battle situation. How the player responds to the change, I believe, is one of the interesting factors in this game.

What sort of emotions did you want to evoke with the Takeharu Ishimoto's soundtrack?

HI: The music was handled by Ishimoto who created several compositions. Of course, since it's the core story of the original Final Fantasy VII, there are several unique and familiar scenes. For those scenes, Ishimoto arranged the music written by Mr. Uematsu at the time. He used those compositions in events and in several of the backdrops. I think fans of the original will enjoy that nostalgic aspect.

Intel Squeezes Six-core Processor Into 65 Watt Power Envelope
Silver service
Minimum and recommended system requirements for Mass Effect
Solid to the core

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm trailer is full of cel-shaded goodness

A new HD gameplay trailer from Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm is now being shown at Gametrailers.com. It really is hard to believe that the majority of this trailer is actual gameplay; the cel-shaded graphics are fluid and emulates the Naruto anime almost perfectly. The game will follow the first 135 episodes of the anime, which itself is an adaptation of the first 27 volumes of the manga. A highlight of this trailer is that it showcases a mechanic in the game, where pressing L1 or R1 allows you to summon a pre-determined assist character and he/she can string combos or land extra hits onto your opponent. We can't wait for this PS3 exclusive when it arrives in the fall. Meanwhile, those who subscribe to Qore will get a demo a little earlier on July 3rd, whereas the rest of you will have to wait till July 17th.

[Thanks, Noshino!]




Motorstorm Pacific Rift gameplay vids surface
Naruto demo available exclusively in Qore next month
Deer Hunter Tournament Announced
Ninja Gaiden II Available Now in North America

Sony MMO DC Universe Online first details

The latest issue of Edge magazine has some details concerning DC Universe Online straight out of executive creative director Jim Lee's mouth. DC Universe Online, which will be released on the PS3 and PC, is a MMO that will include the cast of heroes and villains of the DC universe -- that's Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Darkseid, to name a few. Lee describes the genre as a "kick-ass hybrid between a traditional MMO and a first-person action console game" where you create a unique superhero or villain and choose his/her/its superpowers. Abilities named so far include attacking with fire or ice, acrobatics, flight, speed-running and teleportation. Unfortunately, you can't be the Flash or Poison Ivy or any of the famous (or infamous) DC characters for obvious reasons.
You then level up, improving your powers and learning new tricks; for example, flying becomes attacking while flying. Eventually you get to interact with famous DC characters, and Lee cites a mission/quest for a hero where you save Superman from Lex Luthor or, for a villain, attacking Metropolis and battling the Man of Steel. Gotham City is another place you can attack.

There is also less of an emphasis on instances and raids compared with other MMOs, and the focus will be on action rather than grinding. PvP details include arenas where you can use your superpowers against others and interact with multiple players: "someone might freeze your character in a block of ice, then pick up the block and chuck it at another player" and these arenas can also become "giant PvE boss battles." Lee also hinted at story events in DC Universe Online happening simultaneously with comic book DC Universe.

We are actually pretty stoked about this; with a well-known and well-established franchise behind this MMO, Sony might just have a fighting chance. We'll see how it is marketed and whether the gameplay elements live up to expectations when the game comes "next year."

[Via Kotaku]


Street Fighter IV online mode, exclusive characters confirmed
USN-612-10: OpenVPN regression

Be like water, young grasshopper

Get the insight on the greatest spy in the universe, as former sidekick Clank breaks free in his own espionage adventure on PSP.

As Secret Agent Clank prepares to infiltrate PSP, the development team at High Impact Games reveals how one little robot got himself into some really big trouble...

What was it about Clank that made you feel he deserved his own title?
Lesley Mathieson, Design Director: Clank has always been one of the most beloved characters in the Ratchet & Clank universe. Ever since Ratchet & Clank: Up Your Arsenal, fans have been asking to see Secret Agent Clank make a reappearance, and we felt this would be the perfect title to have Clank step out on his own. The little robot's always been a favourite at the studio, so making a game revolving around him was an easy and popular decision.

What new aspects of Clank’s personality will we see in Secret Agent Clank?
Avery Bennet, Designer: One thing I enjoyed seeing is a scene where Clank sticks up for Ratchet. After all they've been through together, it really shows how much of a bond and friendship they've formed.

What is Clank’s greatest spy gadget and what new abilities will we see?
Travis Sanchez, Gameplay Programmer: The gadget that I think is Clank’s greatest prize is a simple, yet classy, monocle that is actually a high-tech 3D scanner that allows Clank to acquire vital information on any enemy target. The monocle can then sheath him inside a perfect holographic clone of his unsuspecting target, thus fooling security scanners and enemies alike. He can then hide in plain sight and burst out unexpectedly to take on goons.

What are the basics of Clank-Fu?
Alex Hampton, Gameplay Programmer: The basics of Clank-fu is a statement: Be like water, young grasshopper. In Secret Agent Clank, Clank-Fu takes the form in an array of martial arts moves that can be strung together to unleash a world of hurt on an opponent. Besides the basic punches, kicks (and rocket-kicks), Clank has advanced Clank-Fu moves such as a Smoke Bomb attack and ninja-like stealth grapple moves designed to take opponents down without raising so much as a whisper.

What is the biggest difference players will see from previous Ratchet & Clank titles?
Ken Strickland, Designer: The biggest difference will be the sheer variety. Ratchet games do incredible robot carnage and do it incredibly well. To that, though, we’ve added stealth for Clank, puzzles for Gadgebots, whimsy from Qwark, the thrill of vehicle challenges... the list goes on and on.

What will players of Ratchet & Clank titles recognise?
Ricardo Hernandez, User Interface Programmer: The players will recognise many of their
returning favourite characters, and the Ratchet Arenas will reprise many of Ratchet’s gadgets, weapons, crates, and other cool stuff. Oh, and the humour, too.

Why does Secret Agent Clank suit PSP over other platforms?
Dave Goodrich, Lead Designer: Secret Agent Clank's action comes in bursts; a player can complete a single bite-size bit of action and adventure while on the go, something that only the portable nature of the PSP can provide.

What were the key challenges in keeping true to the franchise whilst developing Secret Agent Clank as an independent title in its own right?
KS: Usually the challenge is in balancing the number of familiar elements against the new gameplay so that players returning to the series feel like they’re seeing an exciting new part of a universe they already know. The Ratchet & Clank universe, though, is incredibly expansive, and we had no trouble coming up with new avenues to explore for all our favourite characters, especially Qwark.

How much fun was it developing Clank’s bizarre arsenal of spy gadgetry? Was anything too outlandish to include?
AB: Brainstorming ideas for weapons and gadgets is some of the most creative work I get to do as a designer. Levels always have restrictions everywhere; they have to fit within certain sizes, and can't have too many polygons, and so on. But with weapons, you can really go wild… blowing things up, or turn enemies into pigs, or stunning them. Something that was a bit too outlandish was a hat for Clank that could make a hole anywhere. We tried to simplify it so that it just made him infinitely flat to hide from enemies, but ultimately opted for the Holo Monocle and Blackout Pen instead.

How did you keep the trademark Ratchet & Clank humour when moving to handheld? Any standout funny moments in the game for you?
Leviticus Davis, Production: The trademark Ratchet & Clank humour was maintained by our talented group of designers and animators. Our designers created amusing scenarios that really play on the spy theme, and the animators did a great job in bringing the cast of characters to life. As for standout moment, I don't want to reveal too much, but there are a lot of great moments when Ratchet tries to defend himself in jail... especially in the showers.

What opportunities were opened up to you by developing the title for PSP?
AB: The PSP is a really great platform, and we got to build upon our experience having made Size Matters. I was a lot more confident with what we could and couldn't do for Secret Agent Clank, and I think that experience helped make an even better sequel.

And finally, how do you think Ratchet feels about handing the spotlight over to Clank?
Adam Yeager, Environment Lead: Ratchet's publicist keeps him in line and acting humble in public, but somewhere deep down he’s considering re-wiring Clank into a coffee maker. A few more showers in prison with the Amoeboids though, and he'll be begging his little knight-in-shining-armor to bust him out.

Not shaken but stirred
Kung Fu Panda Available Now
Here’s another two new characters for Street Fighter IV

Naruto demo available exclusively in Qore next month

Doesn't Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm look absolutely stunning? Namco Bandai's PS3 exclusive anime fighter brings cel-shaded graphics to a whole new level. While the game isn't scheduled for release until the end of this year, subscribers to Qore will be able to get their hands on an exclusive playable demo next month. Even this early on, the game looks beautiful, with full 3D fights -- new to the Ultimate Ninja series.

Unfortunately, it doesn't appear the game will ship with online multiplayer. But, that's what the inevitable sequels are for, right?

[Thanks, Noshino!]

Gallery: Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm

Ninja Gaiden II Available Now in North America
Penny Arcade Adventures: Episode 1 Demo
Sony trademarks Qore, an “interactive magazine”

SOCOM Confrontation: new videos [Update]

Our friends at GameTrailers are furiously uploading new video content from SOCOM: Confrontation. So far, we have two on display. The first (seen above), showcases the great Crossroads map, one of the five maps that can support full 32 player matches. Check after the jump to see more of SOCOM.

More gameplay footage added.

New Spore Video Dev Diary
Battlefield: Bad Company vids remind us war is not pretty

Get fit for summer

Look and feel your best for the summer months ahead with two EyeToy: Kinetic titles – the original interactive fitness experience.

It's finally time to shed the winter coats and open your arms to the glorious sunshine, so shake off the winter cobwebs and get in shape this summer with EyeToy: Kinetic Total Fitness and EyeToy: Kinetic Total Combat on PlayStation 2.

Using the EyeToy USB Camera (for PlayStation 2) to detect the user's movement, these titles turn your PS2 into an interactive personal trainer, providing individually tailored workout programmes, personalised feedback and fun exercise games for all the family.

Whether you want to tone up for the beach or get ready for a summer of sport, the EyeToy Kinetic titles offer an enjoyable workout in the comfort of your own home, and without the need for a gym membership.

EyeToy: Kinetic Total Fitness

Let personal trainers Matt and Anna create your individual 12-week workout routine across four fitness zones - cardio, combat, mind & body and toning. They appear on-screen to guide you through the 16 different exercise routines and offer feedback and encouragement based on your performance.

The Cardio Zone provides routines to increase your heart rate and improve aerobic fitness; Toning targets a specific muscle group, improving strength and flexibility; Mind & Body features low impact movements from Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates; and the Combat Zone uses postures and techniques from Karate and Taekwondo to develop balance and agility.

You can also construct your own programme using your favourite routines, set to your choice of music. So whether you want to warm up gently before going for a run or devise a schedule for increasing flexibility, you'll find everything you need here.

EyeToy: Kinetic Total Combat

Martial arts instructor Leon joins Matt and Anna to help you fight your way to fitness, using Hung Gar - a variant of Kung Fu originating from 18th century southern China.

This title uses state-of-the-art Motion Matching technology to compare the user's movements to those of martial arts experts as they embark on a tailor-made 16-week exercise regime across four workout zones - Dragon, Tiger, Mantis and Phoenix.

Dragon Zone introduces the basics of Hung Gar; Tiger Zone develops strength and endurance through kicking and punching exercises; Mantis Zone improves agility and stamina; and Phoenix Zone brings everything together, focusing on accuracy and fluidity of movement.

Within each zone is a tutorial, a sparring session against an on-screen opponent, a boss fight and a series of breathing exercises, ensuring routines are varied and enjoyable. You can even assemble your own regime using Freestyle mode, or compete against friends and family in the fun Co-operative Tag Team mode.

If you want to improve your fitness this summer, these EyeToy: Kinetic titles offer convenient personalised workouts in a relaxed atmosphere. They're perfect for the whole family, and a lot of fun.

Wii Fit to Keep Americans Moving at $89.99 MSRP
EA wants you to get fit too
World of PlayStation: Creation

The Boss Extreme, beaten in under three hours [!]

The most hardcore MGS4 players are going to go for the Big Boss achievementtrophy emblem, which requires masterful play with no deaths, no alerts, no kills, no recovery items, no stealth suit and no special items. To get the emblem, the entire game must be completed in 5 hours, but Tyndis from YouTube has managed to do it in less than three hours.

Obviously, because the entire game can be seen in these videos, it should be obviously that this is one giant spoiler. If you haven't beaten the game yet, come back to watch it later. But for those that want to see Metal Gear greatness, enjoy.

[Via Joystiq]

Introducing Pyroblazer
Lost Planet Colonies Edition Akrid Hunt Video
See Resistance 2 in action
Lengthy new Metal Gear Solid 4 video preview

American PSN Store update for June 26th

Little bit more content here than in today's European update, but still nothing particularly compelling. Our pick of the week has to go to the Rock Band DLC. A full album plus a few Weezer songs? Yes please. Golfers and tennis players have a couple of demos to enjoy too. Here's the full release list:
Playable content
Hot Shots Golf demoTop Spin 3 demo
Add-on content
PAIN Nigel Character ($1)Guitar Hero III "I am Murloc" (Free)Rock Band DLC (posted after the break)
Videos
Battlefield: Bad Company Accolades TV SpotBattlefield: Bad Company Preston's BlogBrothers in Arms: Hells Highway - Ubidays TrailerCall of Duty: World at War TrailerThe Incredible Hulk TrailerHAZE Launch and Song TrailerThe House Bunny movie Trailer
So I Married An Axe Murderer movie Trailer
Men in Black Blu-ray Trailer
PS3 Themes
PAIN: Nigel ThemePSN ThemeRock Band DLC
Weezer Pack ($5.49) -- All songs are also sold individually ($2)
"Dreamin""The Greatest Man That Ever Lived""Troublemaker"
The Pixies' Doolittle ($19) -- All songs are also sold individually ($2)
"Crackity Jones""Dead""Debaser""Gouge Away""Here Comes Your Man""Hey""I Bleed""La la Love You""Monkey Gone To Heaven""Mr Grieves""No 13 Baby""Silver""Tame""There Goes My Gun"


European PSN Store PlayStation Day 2008 update
Europe Invades Rock Band
Rock Band Invades Europe
New content at PLAYSTATION Store

The world at war

Activision announces the fifth instalment in the definitive military action shooter series.

Call of Duty®: World at War completely changes the rules of engagement by redefining WWII gaming and thrusting players into the final tension-filled, unforgiving battles against a new ferocious enemy in the most dangerous and suspenseful action ever seen in WWII.

Powered by Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare technology, Call of Duty: World at War brings an uncensored edge to combat, as soldiers face the most harrowing and climactic European and Pacific battles in which an enemy, who knows no surrender and no retreat, will fight to the last breath, unleashing an arsenal of lethal surprising tactics. Peril and danger lurk throughout the battlefield as players combat the unknown risk of the new chaos of battle.

From the remains of Russia and the ruins of Berlin, to the beach and jungles of the deadly Pacific Theatre, the volatile action takes on added depth as players employ new features that previously were only available in multiplayer, including perks, rankings and online stats in up to full four-player co-operative gameplay. New infantry and vehicle-based weapons, such as the potent flamethrower, bring the battlefield ablaze.

Look out for more information coming soon at eu.playstation.com.

Call of Duty 5 anyone?
Twenty-nine stunning MotorStorm Pacific Rift images
Call of Duty: World at War Debut Trailer
Double your firepower with Warhawk

Yahtzee takes on Solid Snake and loses

Sometimes you have to wonder whether Yahtzee enjoys playing any games. This week he predictably lays into Metal Gear Solid 4 for exactly the reasons we expected. He dislikes the amount and length of the cutscenes , which are fair points. We know a lot of people can't get passed the heavy story. He goes on to label the gameplay cluttered and says that the entire series is badly written. Strong words.

Obviously we don't agree with what Yahtzee says, but the video is still hilarious -- and in the end, that's what Zero Punctuation is all about. Ignore the complaints for what they are, vehicles for his unique brand of humor. Our favorite part of this week's episode has to be the insinuation that Snake and Otacon are more than just good friends. We must say, it crossed our mind at times while we were playing through the game, too.

[Thanks Outinthedark & konungr]


MGS4 may be end of Snake, but not the end of series
Nike patent illustrates advanced iPod fitness gear
Metal Gear Solid 5 in talks

PSN friends list now capped at 100? [Update]

[Update: It's true. We've reached a maximum of 100. Thanks everyone who participated. Your effort is greatly appreciated!]

We put a question mark at the end of the headline because we're not entirely sure if this is true. We haven't heard anything officially confirmed. The thought nonetheless is intriguing, so we want to see if there is any truth to this.

To find out, we're going to put our PSN ID: PSFanboy out there and see how many friends we can hold in our list. Want to help out in our pursuit of truth and statistically counting our popularity? Then add us up! We'll update later in the day with our findings.

[Thanks Patrick F. and everyone who sent this in!]


Firmware update blocks Freeloader
Rumor: List of features accessible via in-game XMB
Apple posts 1.1.2 update for iPod nano

PSP to go

Get connected to a world of exciting online entertainment with PSP when you step out this summer.

When it comes to keeping you and your friends amused away from home, PSP opens up a world of entertainment opportunities. Whether it’s sharing great game experiences, discovering new places, or staying in touch, PSP has got it covered.

Games to share
Summer 2008 sees the arrival of everyone’s favourite quizmaster on PSP, as the irrepressible Buzz presents Buzz!: Master Quiz in his own inimitable style. Packed with 3,000 brain-teasing questions, sharpen your reflexes in one of 15 fun-filled single player quiz challenges, before taking on up to six friends on a single PSP in Pass Around mode

For something less frantic, though no less engaging, give your brain a mental workout with echochrome; this brand new puzzler will have you and your friends scratching your heads as you tackle the fabled five laws of visual perspective.

If you have a PLAYSTATION 3 too, why not check out SingStar Vol.2 which for the first time features harmony duet mode, a new way of playing that allows two players to sing different lines to a song at the same time, showing off their harmonising skills. This is really your chance to showcase your talent and adds a new dimension to the SingStar experience!

Thanks to Remote Play, you’ll be able to connect your PSP to your PS3 to access the SingStore and My SingStar Online, or create a playlist on the move which you can then tackle when you get back home with your singing partners.

Discover new places
Turn every journey into an adventure with PSP and Go!Explore. No matter where you travel, you’ll never get lost thanks to the nifty GPS attachment that slots into the USB connector on the top of the PSP system. Choose from a range of country-themed UMDs, each containing points of interest, 3D maps, route finder and much more.

If you find yourself needing even more information, use the PSP system’s in-built Wireless capabilities to access the Internet on the move and view a range of websites.

Wish you were here?
Stay in touch with friends when you’re out on your travels with Go!Messenger; add the PSP camera for video as well as voice calls, or leave a message which they can pick up the next time they switch on their PSP.

Nintendo Enters a World of Riddles with Professor Layton and the Curious Village
Quiz vision
PlayStation Day transcript - part 1

New Japanese Street Fighter IV posters are stunning

These posters are such beauties, and we want them. Unfortunately, they are in Japan. A black one with an orange IV logo features Ryu with new characters Crimson Viper, Abel, El Fuerte and Rufus. An orange one with a black IV logo features old favorites Guile, Ken and Chun-Li. Capcom-Unity blogger Kramez has two pictures of the Street Fighter IV posters held up by SFIV producer Yoshinori Ono. Another one after the jump. Check them out and drool.

[Via Capcom-Unity]


Here’s another two new characters for Street Fighter IV
Street Fighter IV online mode, exclusive characters confirmed
Street Fighter IV Epic Trailer
Capcom spying on Wii users

Rumor: List of features accessible via in-game XMB

More 2.40 rumors today as CVG claims they have some new information from a very anonymous, very inside source. This information comes in the form of a list of accessible features for the in-game XMB. We know a lot of you are pining for some sort of in-game music and, if this list is true, your wishes may have come true. Additional details aren't available, unfortunately, so make of this list what you will. We've put it after the jump for your perusal.

CVG also claim their source reckons that 2.40 will drop in about three weeks, during E3. We've a couple of reasons to think it might come earlier than that, but nothing concrete. Regardless of when it appears, 2.40 is looking to be the greatest firmware update yet.
Features accessible via the in-game XMB will (if the rumor is correct) include:
Friend categoryView, send, receive messagesManage downloadsSet the vibration feature of the controllerSign in to PlayStation NetworkRegister friendsManage Bluetooth devicesTerminate the gameMusic categoryUse the system BGMWork the system BGM operation panelSettings categoryAssign controllersView profilesGame categorySet audio devicesUse the voice changer


Rumor: PS3 may see Wii Fit-esque balance board for Tony Hawk
Iwata Microsoft’s Wiimotelike Controller Is Not a Threat

Catching up with Ramos

A month after lifting the FIFA Interactive World Cup in Berlin, Spain’s Alfonso Ramos Cuevas chats to eu.playstation.com.

A month has passed since you won the Interactive World Cup. What have you done with the $20,000 prize money?

A large portion of it is still sitting in the bank, but I did buy myself a new TV. As for the rest of it, I plan to take my friends and family for a nice meal and then go on holiday this summer.

Are you expecting to retain the title next year?

All I know is that it will be a lot more difficult next year; I'm assuming the standard of play will be higher because the competition is growing in popularity. People are training harder to be the best.

What were your training methods leading up to the final?

I usually practice for around one hour a day, from Monday to Friday. In the week leading up to the Interactive World Cup Finals I played for two hours a day.

If next year's competition is played on a new version of FIFA, do you worry that you may not be able to adapt to it?

It doesn't concern me because I'm sure I'll be able to adapt to it. I have been playing FIFA games since 1997 and I have always been fairly good at them, so getting used to a new one isn't really a worry.

Many players in the Interactive World Cup finals chose to play as FC Barcelona, what makes them so desirable?

Barcelona have an incredible attack, with four players capable of making a difference - Ronaldinho, Messi, Eto'o and Henry.

After the competition, UK competitor Chris Bullard said that you deserved to win. How do you get along with the other competitors? Do you ever play each other online?

This year, the atmosphere at the competition was very good and everyone seemed to get along. And yes, I have been playing online with all of the other competitors.

Does winning the Interactive World Cup make you more popular at parties?

Only slightly. Sometimes people stop me to say congratulations.

Have you been enjoying EURO 2008?

Yes, I am thoroughly enjoying it. I'm particularly happy with the performance of Spain, and I was also impressed with Holland.

Could you give us your dream starting XI of all the players in the tournament?

Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas

Defence: Sergio Ramos, Carles Puyol, Pepe

Midfield: Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder, Gennaro Gattuso, Andrea Pirlo

Attack: Cristiano Ronaldo, David Villa, Ruud Van Nistelrooy

Finally, do you have any advice for those hoping to make it to next year's final?

The only and best advice I can give is to train. As me winning the Interactive World Cup proves, a little bit of training can lead to extraordinary things with a game like FIFA.

CGS Announces North American Training Camp
Sony trademarks Qore, an “interactive magazine”
Ramos claims Interactive World Cup crown

Media Molecule co-founders talk about LittleBigPlanet at GDC Paris

Alex Evans and Mark Healey, co-founders of Media Molecule, revealed some information on the development of LittleBigPlanet and how the idea came to fruition at a keynote at the Game Developers Conference in Paris. Healey remarks on how he doesn't believe one needs a team of 200 or more people to make a "great, fresh and successful" game, naming Brain Age for the DS as such an example. Profits from games, Healey believes, will be increased by adopting a model of "user-generated content and a willingness to release early and often, combined with people accepting change, accepting patches." Server access to LPB was also revealed to be free and it was even hinted that gamers can potentially sell self-generated content.

Later, Evans sat down for an interview with Gamesindustry.biz and said influences on LBP were drawn from "this interesting timeline of user-generated content" such as the God game genre and games like Shoot-'em-up Construction Kit. Evans was "amazed" that people in the industry resonated with their idea of "creative gaming", commenting that Media Molecule had a "much more open and transparent process with the publisher (Sony)" and this was for them, "defining features of the development process."

Currently, the LBP team at the stage of "improving the quality and the polish" and promoting LBP; the pressure on them is a double-edged sword -- driving them forward at the same time while putting a large weight on their shoulders, especially with their relatively small team of about 30 people. Finally, the co-founder sounded rather modest about LBP being seen as a lead title on the PS3, claiming he had "no expectation(s)" in the beginning and it was "just ... ambition ... we didn't know we'd succeed", and that the "ultimate test" is "when the game is shipped, that's the best time to judge it."

Sony unveils the ‘Media and Events’ Home venue
A LittleBig look
The Incredible Hulk Media
Too Human PreOrder Bonus

New Dead Space video looks pretty hot

This new gameplay video for this year's Halloween release, Dead Space, shows some of the game's combat and exploration. Frankly, it looks pretty good, but we don't feel particularly scared. From the look of things the protagonist is quite well armed, so monsters are only an inconvenience, and not a threat. Hopefully the story and will offer a few scares, instead.

Things that impressed us in this video include the wall-jumping, which allows you to walk on seemingly any surface you can see. We also appreciate the sci-fi elements that pop up. The way the HUD elements pop up in mid-air, leaving the screen uncluttered is quite stylish. Check out the video above and you, like us, could soon be looking forward to Halloween for reasons other than dressing up like a prat.


Lengthy new Metal Gear Solid 4 video preview
New Spore Video Dev Diary
Battlefield: Bad Company vids remind us war is not pretty
Team Fortress 2 - Meet The Sniper Trailer

“It’s basically about kicking the tar out of anything else on the track”

Racing is about to get even more extreme with MotorStorm Pacific Rift – so eu.playstation.com asked Evolution Studios’ Game Director, Nigel Kershaw, for a speedy tour around some of the game’s finer points.

Can you describe the new island setting in MotorStorm Pacific Rift?

The new setting is pretty much the pinnacle of what we want to achieve in MotorStorm Pacific Rift. The desert was brilliant for MotorStorm, it's beautiful, it's iconic, but it only did one thing: it was dry... with the odd bit of mud. What we really wanted to do with MotorStorm Pacific Rift was find a location that had all the elements to give us a much wider diversity of racing tracks but still feel plausible. Coming from our rally heritage, we're not in the game of making racing titles with big Aztec heads that spit fire and things like that - we really wanted to have a lot of racing diversity in there, but make it in a plausible location.

Also, we tried looking up what we could do with the location. We're really keen on ensuring that everything we put into the world has some kind of interactive element to it. Painting a beautiful picture is all well and good, but making it interactive is the really hard bit - so it's not just a beautiful, diverse place but you also look at things like the vegetation, the water, the lava, all those kind of things and give feedback to the players in different ways and they get a real visceral, entertaining in-your-face experience.

How destructible is the environment?

As destructible as we can stretch it. You can't destroy everything, but as much as we can let you destroy, you can.

Can you go into more detail about the new vehicles?

The monster truck is one of those things we were quite precious about in terms of the whole balance we had with MotorStorm, so there was a lot of science involved to make sure we had that fine balance. But we always wanted to have a monster truck in there, it was a natural thing to stick in because it's big and fast and you can do stupid things. So we spent a long time prototyping the monster truck, where it would sit [in the game] and what it would do. And what we realised was what we didn't have in MotorStorm was something that sat at the top of the food chain.

The monster truck isn't about driving really fast or being really manoeuvrable or outperforming anyone - it's basically about kicking the tar out of anything else on the track. The way we've developed it and the way they drive is that you can go very easily over other vehicles, or crush them or push them out of the way. And when you're playing with the monster truck it's quite a different experience because it's all about hunting down those little weedy guys in the fast things and making sure they're out of the competition.

What were the things you wanted to change from the original MotorStorm?

With the time that we got to develop the first game we did everything we could. But we want to refine it in every single area, and also move the whole thing on. It's almost a new way of [approaching] racing games, in terms of multivehicle balance and stuff like that but we really want to take it to new places and do something different with it. Split screen is obviously the big one. That was one of the things we just physically couldn't do with the technology at the time, so we went back to the drawing board with all our rendering techniques and really went to town on making sure that split screen forms an essential part of what this is all about. Online is still there for hardcore and for those who want to be the best, but when you just want to have a play around with a few buddies there's nothing better [than playing split screen]. 

The online experience is also easy and accessible, we've got matchmaking, people can jump straight into a race with no waiting around, we've got a Time Attack from the start, completely re-written a lot of the low level stuff to make it run faster, more vehicles online, more vehicles on the track... all around [it's] a much more refined and playable experience.

 

 

There's much more to come on MotorStorm Pacific Rift, so keep checking eu.playstation.com as the game races towards its launch. 

Twenty-nine stunning MotorStorm Pacific Rift images
Making Computex Green. Literally.

New Dead Space trailer advises Strategic Dismemberment

EA's upcoming survival-horror title Dead Space, whose lead platform was switched from the Xbox 360 to the Playstation 3 several months back, is coming out on Halloween. The previoustrailers gave us a glimpse at the story and visual style of the game, but this new trailer, titled Strategic Dismemberment, features almost all gameplay. It has a voice-over narration which explains to you how you deal with the antagonists of the game, called the Necromorphs, with unusual weapons like a stasis or telekinesis gun. The video highlights the unique nature of the villians of this game, as simply shooting them won't be enough. Rather, one needs to "rip them to shreds" and "completely tear them apart" using various "creative" methods. Being big fans of the film Event Horizon, from which the developers drew inspiration, we can't wait to try this game out ourselves.

Sony unveils the ‘Media and Events’ Home venue
Policenauts storms Japanese PS Store
New Dead Space Screenshots

Grand Theft Auto IV patch finally here

Well, finally. We were hoping this would come sooner, but better late than never, no? The widely reported problems of "freezes during certain modes" and "multiplayer connectivity issues" finally have a remedy -- a patch has just been released by Rockstar for Grand Theft Auto IV. An apology was also included in the patch notes, along with details of each problem resolved.

[Via Joystiq]

A brief history of crime
‘Grand Theft Auto IV’ Could Lure Fans Away From ‘Iron Man’ — Or To ‘Made Of Honor’
Rockstar Games Announces GTA IV Available Worldwide
PS3 Poll Police: Voice your opinion on the GameTrailers debacle

Platinum download

Three of the best Platinum titles for PSP have now arrived on PLAYSTATION Store.

Games that receive a Platinum release do so because they're innovative, immersive titles that have often received accolades and awards. They're also some of the best-selling games available on PlayStation.

Three PSP favourites are now being re-released online for download at PLAYSTATION Store (PC): Killzone: Liberation, MediEvil Resurrection and WipEout Pure.

Killzone: Liberation

Developer Guerrilla's dramatic reinvention of Killzone on PSP as a third person action-strategy game goes beyond the UMD with killzone.com offering a 6-player Infrastructure Mode and an additional single player episode as a single free download!

MediEvil: Resurrection

A cowardly knight who died in the first Battle of Gallowmere has been resurrected and now has a chance to become the hero he never was in life! Bludgeon your way through a variety of amazing battlefields, using masses of weapons and combat moves.

WipEout Pure

Hurtle along the racetracks of the future in this speedy, stylish racer that features beats from artists such as Aphex Twin, Photek and Phil Hartnoll.

If you missed their original releases it is unfortunate, if you missed their Platinum release the first time it is a shame, but if you miss them this time it will be a crime.

Visit PLAYSTATION Store (PC) to get hold of these Platinum downloads and other great content.

PlayStation Day video
New content at PLAYSTATION Store
GNOME 2.23.4 Released

Soulcalibur IV Limited Edition Fighting Stick available for pre-order

We've reported on this before, but those of you who are impatiently waiting for Soulcalibur IV can curb their anticipation slightly by pre-ordering this official Soulcalibur Limited Edition Fighting Stick 3 by Hori. This limited edition peripheral will be released on June 24th and retails for $49.99, which is the same as the regular ol' Fighting Stick, so if you are a fan of Soul Calibur IV or fighting games in general, we'd say this is a must-have. Though you are going to have to play other fighting games with it for now, since Soulcalibur IV itself won't be released till a little over a month later, on July 29th.



Here’s a look at three new Soulcalibur IV femme fatales
Apple Japan sells limited-edition Touch, Nano cases

Blu-ray movie releases for the week of June 22

If Russian composer Tchaikovsky were to get into a brawl with Italian Stallion Rossini, who would win? Perhaps Tchaikovsky would lull Rossini to sleep with a soothing tune and then pound him with an out-of-nowhere melody. Maybe Rossini could call upon a choir of opera singers and gang up on Tchaikovsky. It's a really interesting thought. It's hard to decide who to bet on. Oh, and here's this week's Blu-ray flicks ... almost forgot:
10,000 B.C.House of FuryOver AlaskaPersepolisRossini: La CenerentolaSea Monsters: A Prehistoric AdventureStep Into LiquidTchaikovsky: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 3The Spiderwick ChroniclesWashington the BeautifulZZ Top: Live from Texas Hmm, it seems this week is a time machine ride through history. The trip begins with prehistoric creatures, to the beginnings of man's civilization, a look back at prominent music composers, and then to more modern times and the Iranian Revolution. We only wished we'd see some Bill & Ted this week. That would've been "excellent."


Blu-ray movie releases for the week of May 18
The Political Machine 2008 Screenshots
Apple confirms same-day iTunes/DVD releases
Worldwide PS3 releases for the week of June 1st

New PLAYSTATION 3 system software updates on the way

There are a couple of new system updates coming for your PLAYSTATION 3… want to get a glimpse at what’s around the corner?

New system software updates will be heading your way for PLAYSTATION 3 soon, offering a batch of goodies for your system.

Update 2.36 will touch down first, improving system stability for select PlayStation software titles. Following that will be the 2.40 system software update for PLAYSTATION 3, which will include a number of extras to enhance your games experience.

Included in the update will be PS3 Home Menu (XMB) access in-game, which will allow you to venture into the PLAYSTATION 3 system's menu without having to quit your current game, support for trophies so your unlocked achievements in certain games will never go unnoticed, and a range of other features to make sure your gaming experience stays as sharp as your skills.

Keep your eyes on eu.playstation.com for more information as these exciting new updates arrive.

PlayStation Day video
Major Day of Defeat: Source Update
Mac clone maker PsyStar ships OS updates

PS3 platinum range dons yellow in Spain

We knew Europe was getting a Platinum budget range for PS3 games. However, we didn't know they'd be donning such cheap-looking box art. The Spanish line of box art (which may expand to the rest of Europe) features a heavy coat of yellow paint. It reminds us a lot of Japan's budget line of games. Budget repackaging of popular games have always featured less-than-ideal box work. But, how can we complain when we're getting excellent games at lower prices? If some yellow ink is the price to pay for cheap prices, we say bring it on.

[Via Kotaku]


Welcome to Movement
Ramos claims Interactive World Cup crown
OCZ Intros 4 GB, 2 GHz DDR3 Memory Kit

PS3 set to beat PS2 lifetime sales says Reeves

It's a bit hard to imagine that the PS3 will eventually beat out the PS2's nearly 130 million units lifetime sales, but SCEE president David Reeves believes this is going to happen. Backing up the claim, Reeves stated: "The PS3 install base is growing faster than the PS2's was at this point in its lifecycle." Currently, the PS3 is around the 13 million mark in worldwide sales after having launched back in late 2006 -- that's ten percent of the PS2's current lifetime sales and six years to play catch up.

"The next five years are going to be turbulent. But I think it is going to be the most exciting period that we have ever seen in the past ten years of videogames," he added. With a recent big exclusive just released and many more on the way, we're not surprised by Mr. Reeves' confidence. However, that confidence isn't cockiness, "We welcome all competition. Whatever happens, we are all going to do well. We should celebrate the growth of the industry." We're happy to see such optimism and goodwill, and we'd like to see Mr. Reeves' predictions come true. We still think, however, the PS3 has a long way to go in proving itself to its older brother the PS2.


Piper: iPod sales may make unusual gains in Q2
Official Sony external hard drives a possibility
Needham & Co. predicts 30m iPhone sales in 2009

A brief history of crime

From small time crook to kingpin, the Grand Theft Auto series has come a long way.

It is fitting that Grand Theft Auto, released on PlayStation in 1997, should begin in Liberty City - a name synonymous with freedom - as the opportunity to explore the city and undertake missions how and when the player chose was a truly liberating experience. The loose plot progressed at whichever pace the player decided, and could be disregarded in favour of discovering the game's many secrets or simply hopping into a car and causing trouble.

And trouble was easy to find, as the local police force looked to clamp down on the vehicle theft and murder required to complete missions, ensuring the game was only available to adults. Police chases were by no means new to gaming, but the feeling that the player had initiated them through their own choice of action, and then had to make another set of choices in order to escape, added to the overwhelming sense of freedom. This idea of each action bringing about realistic consequences has become one of the strongest running threads in the GTA series.

In 1999 the sequel arrived, albeit after an expansion pack to the original set in 60s London. And while it looked a lot like its predecessor, Grand Theft Auto 2 contained a host of enhancements that gave the city - this time an unspecified location in the near future - an even more diverse population than before. SWAT and army troops were called in to bring an abrupt end to crime sprees and rival gangs controlled areas of the map and could be turned against each other.

The first two games featured relatively simple 2D graphics and many thought that a move to 3D was too ambitious for a game so dependent on freedom of movement and non-linear mission progression. When Grand Theft Auto III arrived on PlayStation 2 in 2001, the naysayers were roundly hushed.

An added dimension

The move to 3D resulted in a more realistic game in terms of visuals, one that retained not only the dark humour and satire of previous titles, but crucially, the sense of freedom and the feeling that Liberty City was constantly evolving around the player's actions.

A year later, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City was released to universal acclaim. Using the same game engine as GTA III, it captured the sights and sounds of Miami in 1986 and featured a much larger playing area than its predecessor. In a move that typifies both the series and the decade that taste forgot, everything about Vice City was bigger and bolder; new weapons and vehicles were added and the storyline twisted like a Hollywood blockbuster.

Rockstar Games' reputation for slick presentation and some of the best satirical humour since The Simpsons grew with each game - by this stage Grand Theft Auto titles contained pastiches of everything from The Godfather, to Quadrophenia, to Miami Vice. However, its third release on PlayStation 2 redefined what was possible in the sandbox genre that it had practically invented.

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas more than topped Vice City by taking place in an entire state as opposed to a single city. Its enormous map contained the cities Los Santos, San Fierro and Las Venturas - Los Angeles, San Francisco and Las Vegas respectively - as well as the countryside, desert and mountain ranges in-between.

Set in the early nineties and loosely inspired by films such as Boyz n the Hood, it was a gritty departure from the purple velvet and disco lights of Vice City, which had been noted for its resemblance to the film Scarface.

A return to Liberty City

While Vice City and San Andreas are both too impressive in their own right to be considered expansion packs, Rockstar refused to regard them as full sequels to GTA III; the public would have to wait until 2008 to see what Grand Theft Auto IV - the first in the series on PLAYSTATION 3 - could do to live up to its own rapidly accelerating hype.

In the meantime, Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories appeared on PSP, both featuring brand new stories and missions based around the settings and characters of GTA III and Vice City respectively. Critics hailed the titles for fully realising the Grand Theft Auto experience on PSP and they were so popular that they were also released on PlayStation 2.

Then in April 2008, following months of speculation and excitement, GTA IV launched to an unprecedented level of commercial success and critical hyperbole.

The epic tale of Niko Bellic's life in Liberty City improved on almost every aspect of its predecessors and featured incredibly detailed High Definition graphics, thanks to the power of PLAYSTATION 3, and wonderful creative flourishes such as the incorporation of mobile phones, television channels and a fictional Internet.

A decade later

In the 11 years between the original Grand Theft Auto and its third sequel (or eighth, depending on how you look at it), a lot has changed in Liberty City. Increasingly powerful hardware, larger storage devices and increasing production budgets have all contributed towards better looking games with cutting-edge character animation and Artificial Intelligence.

However, revisit the original and you'll see how many crucial elements have been there from the start. Dark, satirical humour littered both spoken and radio dialogue; missions were inventive and varied, often parodying popular films; and most importantly, the player constantly felt that their character was only as important as the evolving world around them.

Rockstar's latest is a stunning achievement both technically and creatively, setting a new gaming benchmark in terms of visual detail, freedom of action and storytelling flair. And in two of these aspects, it resembles the original Grand Theft Auto more than many people realise. At the core of both games is the idea that in a chaotic world, the player's actions still bring about logical consequences.

GTA IV is the perfect tribute to its oldest ancestor; to a brilliantly realised concept that, more than a decade later, still captures the imaginations of gamers.

Rockstar Games Announces GTA IV Available Worldwide
PlayStation Day video
Peerless Insurance re-enters Massachusetts

Prince of Persia devs have 'planned something special' for PS3 owners

You may or may not be aware that there's a vote taking place on the official Prince of Persia website. This poll allows people to pick one of three Xbox 360 achievements for the final game. Not much use to PS3 owners, but Ubisoft has done its best to keep us sweet. The poll itself states that PS3 fans need not take umbrage and that they have "planned something special" for us too.

Whether this will have anything to do with the upcoming trophies for the game, or something else entirely, there's no real indication. Needless to say, however, we're looking forward to seeing whatever it is Ubisoft comes up with. What can we say, we love surprises.

[Via 1Up]


Link crowned most popular Brawler
Prince of Persia speed art video reveals Elika as a character
The rules of gaming

Silent Hill: Homecoming preview discusses combat, branching conversations

Are you still worried about Silent Hill: Homecoming being in the hands of a Western developer instead of Team Silent? Konami producer William Oertel put it pretty well: "Much of it is very deliberate. You don't have to go into every single detail. You leave it to the fans to decipher...In a sense, the whole game is like a puzzle." This is part of the ideology of the development staff -- to keep the game more on the psychological level like the legendary Silent Hill 2 and less on the literal side, like the first and third installments. We support this move.

A preview of the game doesn't go into the storyline very much, since they claim it is quite on-track with previous titles and wish to refrain from spoiling anything. However, they do comment on the new battle system and how it, actually, works in favor of the Silent Hill style of play. Every weapon as a finishing move, dodging is challenging ... combat is, essentially, more difficult. Enemies detect sound and light pretty viciously now -- they reacted before, but now it's clear when you knock over any of the surrounding stuff, the enemy comes running.

Conversations branch, too. During some of the games discussions between characters, you can choose from a couple of different answers that will yield different reactions or get you a little more background information. It doesn't sound overly complex, but it'll be interesting to see if these branches actually influence the type of ending you get. All in all, it's sounding pretty well done.


Silent Hill Homecoming Screenshots
‘Wanted’ Star Angelina Jolie Discusses Passing On The Action Torch, ‘Rolling Around On The Floor’ With Brad Pitt
Solid to the core

New content at PLAYSTATION Store

This week’s PLAYSTATION Store update includes a demonstration in world domination and a brand new golf course down under.

There's a host of brand new content available to download from PLAYSTATION Store this month.

The birth of an empire

Develop a taste for world domination with a free demo of Civilization Revolution, the first game in the popular strategy series to appear on PLAYSTATION 3. The demo allows you to assume the role of either Cleopatra or Julius Caesar and lead your chosen nation from the dawn of mankind right up until 1250 AD; you can even take on a friend in multiplayer mode.

From the ancient world to the near future, another demo available from PLAYSTATION Store is Dark Sector; a gritty first person shooter. You play Hayden Tenno, a lethal assassin who contracts a mysterious infection and gains superhuman powers. The demo lets you try out the first few levels and wield Tenno's bladed projectile - the Glaive.

Koalas, kangaroos and clubs

Drawing inspiration from the Australian outback, The Oceania Course for Everybody's Golf World Tour features a challenging set of holes, requiring solid approach play and accurate reading of greens. Download this expansion pack today, and remember to keep an eye out for kangaroos and koala bears when you're teeing off...

The Combo Booster Pack for Warhawk combines the new battlefields and vehicles from the Operation: Omega Dawn and Operation: Broken Mirror Packs, bringing an all new level of teamwork and strategy to the PLAYSTATION 3 hit. Download it today for the full Warhawk experience.

Play along with your heroes

Guitar Hero III: Legends fans get the chance to strum along with British pop group Coldplay, with the Coldplay Track Pack available for download from PLAYSTATION Store. The download contains three of the band's most popular songs: Violet Hill, Yellow and God Put A Smile Upon Your Face.

Speaking of faces, a new download for High Stakes: Poker Edition lets you work on your poker face in one of three new game styles - Omaha, Pineapple and Crazy Pineapple. Completing this month's update are four new themes for your PLAYSTATION 3, based around two popular PLAYSTATION Store games - High Velocity Bowling and PAIN.

Head over to PLAYSTATION Store now for these great downloads and much more.

Double your firepower with Warhawk

Criterion Collection heading to Blu-ray

How did we miss this news? Thankfully, reader Simstim sent us a tip about the esteemed Criterion Collection moving to Blu-ray. Film buffs know the Criterion Collection houses some of the most treasured films, and each volume in the collection is handled with meticulous care. The quality of the packaging and video transfer is something true videophiles can appreciate.

Expect the first discs to begin rolling out in October:
The Third ManBottle RocketChungking ExpressThe Man Who Fell to EarthThe Last EmperorEl NorteThe 400 BlowsGimme ShelterThe Complete Monterey PopContemptWalkabout For All MankindThe Wages of Fear


Resistance 2 playable at PlayStation Day

Mirror's Edge video interview describes city, couriers

Because we love the style of the game -- from graphics to gameplay, we thought you'd also enjoy this Mirror's Edge video interview. The senior producer for the game, Owen O'Brien, talks a bit about Faith and the construction of the city she gets to run around in. Apparently, the city is very "monitored" and the citizens don't like that. So, they've gone back to the courier system of sending messages to one another. That puts the running in perspective and why you should probably make your way to your client as quickly as possible. It's a pretty excellent interview as it clears up a lot of mysterious bits about the game, so even if you're vaguely interested, check it out!


PlayStation Day video
PlayStation Day: PS3 game round-up

Silver service

Limited edition Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII PSP bundle announced for European release.

The chain of events which set the epic adventure of Final Fantasy into motion is revealed this summer with the release of Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII a prequel to Final Fantasy VII, the biggest selling Final Fantasy of all time.

The eagerly anticipated game will be available for the European market in a special PSP bundle coinciding with the game’s release and will include a limited edition, Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII engraved silver PSP and a copy of the game.

As one of the greatest series in gaming history, the arrival of Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII on PSP makes this the perfect time for all RPG fans and adventure game players to pick up the handheld system.

A must-have title, the only way to complete this chapter in Final Fantasy history is on PSP and this bundle offers the opportunity for gamers to take another step into one of the best loved game worlds in history.

Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII makes the most of the power of PSP, with stunning graphics and CG cutscenes, state-of-the-art voice acting and widescreen presentation.

Developed by Square Enix, Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII ups the action from previous Final Fantasy titles with an all-new dynamic battle system with real-time action, while retaining the immersive storytelling expected from a game with such heritage.

Return to this unforgettable tale once more with the special PSP and Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII bundle, on June 20, 2008.

Solid to the core
Versus XIII suspended, Final Fantasy XIII is priority

Silver service

Limited edition Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII PSP bundle announced for European release.

The chain of events which set the epic adventure of Final Fantasy into motion is revealed this summer with the release of Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII a prequel to Final Fantasy VII, the biggest selling Final Fantasy of all time.

The eagerly anticipated game will be available for the European market in a special PSP bundle coinciding with the game’s release and will include a limited edition, Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII engraved silver PSP and a copy of the game.

As one of the greatest series in gaming history, the arrival of Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII on PSP makes this the perfect time for all RPG fans and adventure game players to pick up the handheld system.

A must-have title, the only way to complete this chapter in Final Fantasy history is on PSP and this bundle offers the opportunity for gamers to take another step into one of the best loved game worlds in history.

Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII makes the most of the power of PSP, with stunning graphics and CG cutscenes, state-of-the-art voice acting and widescreen presentation.

Developed by Square Enix, Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII ups the action from previous Final Fantasy titles with an all-new dynamic battle system with real-time action, while retaining the immersive storytelling expected from a game with such heritage.

Return to this unforgettable tale once more with the special PSP and Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII bundle, on June 20, 2008.

Versus XIII suspended, Final Fantasy XIII is priority

In the latest issue of Famitsu, an interview with Tetsuya Nomura revealed that Final Fantasy Versus XIII is currently being put on hold. Nomura, the game's director, said that the majority of the team working on Versus XIII is now helping out on Final Fantasy XIII. The main title in the Fabula Nova Crystallis compilation is top priority at the moment.

While both games will appear at the upcoming August Square Enix party (in non-playable form), Nomura hints at a bigger reveal and more info to come at Tokyo Game Show in October. Knowing Square Enix, this means a minute of ambiguous footage in a closed theater. Let's hope we're wrong about that last speculative statement and see if a playable demo comes in October.


Silver service
Solid to the core

Fallout 3's Todd Howard discusses RPG elements, implementation

Ever wonder what Todd Howard is thinking about when moving from Oblivion to Fallout 3? The executive producer from Bethesda Softworks speaks with Adam Sessler from X-Play about the ambitious title and covers the difference between Oblivion and Fallout 3 (besides the obvious, of course). Howard says Fallout 3 is "far ahead" in terms of technology from Oblivion. We'll figure out the truth behind those words when we get our hands on Fallout 3, we guess. Otherwise, Howard speaks a bit about the trials and errors involved in getting RPG elements into the game when the use of guns and futuristic weapons is a gameplay must-have. Enjoy the video!

[via PS3Forums]


Re-balancing Super Street Fighter II Turbo HD Remix

Testing your Metal – a brief history of Metal Gear

As Solid Snake’s saga slithers to an end, eu.playstation.com takes a look at how his epic journey started, up until the day where the videogame legend passed on his bandana...

No one saw it coming. The way Konami's Metal Gear series steadily sneaked its way into the hearts of videogame fans has become something of a phenomenon, single-handedly revolutionising the stealth action genre with one of the medium's most pervasive characters, Solid Snake.

Before his bandana and beard became visual staples for the Hideo Kojima created hero, Solid Snake was a fresh faced rookie for elite special-forces unit FOXHOUND. Having made his mark on the original 2D action game, Metal Gear, released on the MSX2 system way back in 1987, Snake moved on to a more expansive 1990 sequel in Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake. Again primarily on the MSX2 system, Metal Gear 2 boasted improved stealth mechanics and the recognition of noise that allowed guards to hear you if you fired a non-silenced shot or did other typically boisterous activities.

These titles introduced the idea of non-direct confrontation within the action genre, encouraging sneaking rather than out and out shooting to achieve successful infiltration into target areas. The foundation of what helped make the series so popular was created here (both on a gameplay and visual level such as conversations on Snake's CODEC radio transceiver, the giant mechanical Metal Gear weapons the title is based on, and the iconic exclamation marks that hover over enemies' heads when they spot you), as indeed were the successive storylines that followed not only Solid Snake but other prominent characters in the Metal Gear universe.  

As modestly successful as these titles were, it was the rebirth of Metal Gear on PlayStation that truly pushed Konami's mainstay into a global sensation...

"Metal Gear?! It can't be!"

Metal Gear didn't truly re-emerge to a main format until 1998, when PlayStation was graced with Metal Gear Solid, which took the gameplay elements from its predecessors and threw them into a 3D world for the first time. Now a retired solider, Snake adopted a visual form that's become well known, albeit a little more fresh faced than now.

With Kojima's flair for gameplay innovation and imagination given free reign within more complex technology, the designer gave a stronger focus to storytelling that complimented the on-screen action. CODEC conversations play a large part in progressing the plot as well as offering hints on the game, even breaking the fourth wall of narrative and chastising you for not saving your progress often enough, while variation allowed for a wider range of situations which had you resisting torture, engaging in first person perspective firefights and even switching your controller from one port to another during an ingenious boss battle.  

Metal Gear Solid was a massive hit, selling over six million units globally, and its influence rippled through the industry creating a surge of similar games. But it was left to the title's sequel before players experienced a perfect blend of stealth, movie style production values and innovation once more.

"Solid Snake! The perfect warrior!"

Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty splashed down on PlayStation 2 in 2001, bringing with it improved squad based Artificial Intelligence in enemies, a wider range of moves and weapons, and bombastic presentation that was lauded for its Hollywood style brashness. Most surprising of all was that for much of the game you didn't assume the role of Snake, but a rookie agent of FOXHOUND called Raiden - which dovetailed into the main themes of the story which included an examination of control, free will and reality versus perception.

Not to say the game didn't also have memorable moments of gameplay genius to compliment its socio-political navel gazing. MGS2 was blessed with some sterling set pieces and confrontations just as original as its predecessor, requiring more out-the-box thinking.

Metal Gear Solid 2 outsold its prequel and went on to birth an updated version in the shape of Metal Gear Solid 2: Substance, which contained slight changes to the original as well as a batch of additional missions. This was the spiritual successor to Metal Gear Solid: Integral, which did the same for Metal Gear Solid on PlayStation.

"Time for the snake to shed his skin."

The 2005 follow-up to Sons of Liberty was Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, acting as a chronological prequel to the entire series. Konami and Kojima again played with expectations, leading some to believe you once again controlled Solid Snake, but in reality you were Naked Snake AKA Big Boss; the genetic template for Solid Snake and Solid's sibling nemeses, Liquid and Solidus (all three being clones of Big Boss). Set in 1964, Snake Eater follows Big Boss' story as a field operative to the newly formed FOX unit, showing some of the events that would lead to an eventual confrontation with protégé Solid Snake come the first Metal Gear game.

The strong elements of stealth, fourth wall breaking satire and extravagant presentation remained, although this time use of camouflage was key to remaining undetected in the open jungle setting, through different uniforms and facepaints. Close combat was made to be even more extensive, and in a novel touch, Snake required sustenance from flora and fauna to survive - with poor hunting and gathering causing problems such as bad aiming and stomach aches. Then there was the amusing cameo appearance by Ape Escape styled monkeys in the Snake vs. Ape mini-game. Don't ask. Just enjoy.

"I'm used to hiding in cardboard boxes."

Like MGS2, Snake Eater was also given an updated, extra-mission rich version in Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence, which also featured an online component for up to eight player deathmatches, while PSP also got a piece of the action through Metal Gear Acid and Acid 2 in 2005 and 2006 respectively. These side-story games had a more turn-based strategy and trading card battle slant rather than the stealth action of their predecessors, and multiplayer features.

But it wasn't until 2007 that the main storyline canon left by MGS3 was picked up again, with PSP getting the gift of Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops, featuring the returning Naked Snake six years after the events of Snake Eater. Konami also brought the game back to its roots by eschewing the trading card strategy angle of Acid and returning to an action styling that resembled the PlayStation and PlayStation 2 titles, albeit with four-unit squad based gameplay.

A wireless multiplayer mode and stand alone expansion pack (Portal Ops Plus, released in 2008) rounded off the PSP Metal Gear experience nicely, with Konami promising more in the range for the future.

"War has changed..."

Which brings us to the here and now. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots signals the first outing for the series on PLAYSTATION 3 and the last outing for our hero, Solid Snake. Suffering from premature aging caused by the cloning process used to create him, Snake's journey ends with Guns of the Patriots, which will be his final canonical Metal Gear game regardless of the series' future.

He promises to go out with a bang, though, as MGS4 offers a wealth of improved elements from all the PlayStation prequels, with the ability to play in first person, use a high-tech camouflage suit to blend in with any surface, take advantage of a revamped close quarters combat system, and partner with a robotic drone for communication and reconnaissance.

Being victim to the ravages of cellular degeneration and age isn't just a visual quirk either, as the gameplay is directly affected with the presence of two new on-screen meters that signal Snake's stress and psyche levels - the former allows Snake temporarily to increase his accuracy and combat efficiency, albeit at the cost of momentary mental crash and physical collapse once the effect wears off. The latter reflects how his mind reacts to the battlefield around him, slowly reducing over time from the intensity of battle and limiting Snake's precision.

Evil is powerful... but courage is Solid

The story of everybody's favourite bandana-wearing stealth operative may well be nearly over, but there are ample iterations of Metal Gear in both its history - and future - to enjoy. And unlike Kojima's legendary protagonist, they're easy to find.

Solid Snake and Metal Gear... we salute you.

MGS4 may be end of Snake, but not the end of series