Weekend Essentials – Issue 12

It’s time to choose your faction: MAG is out on PlayStation 3.

S.V.E.R., Raven or Valor?

That's the question PS3 owners will be asking themselves this weekend. That and "why are so many people shooting at me?" now that MAG is available on PS3.

For the first time, 256 online players can take to the battlefield in a persistent Shadow War, where three Private Military Companies fight over lucrative contracts. Team up with your friends and join the ongoing conflict today - 128 PMCs are locked, loaded and waiting for you.

The good, the bad and Zeke

Another PS3 blockbuster, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, welcomes a few special guests this week with the PlayStation Heroes Skin Pack. This means you can jump into the game's multiplayer modes as good Cole, evil Cole or Zeke from inFamous; Sgt Nathan Hale or a Chimera Hybrid soldier from the Resistance series; and a Helghast Trooper or Tomas 'Sev' Sevchenko from Killzone 2.

If you still not tried Uncharted 2: Among Thieves then give yourself a slap on the wrist and report directly to PlayStation Store, where a new demo is waiting to give you a taste of the single player mode, absolutely free.

This week in PlayStation Store

On PlayStation Store, PS3 owners can now download Thexder Neo, an updated version of the 1985 shoot 'em up featuring slick graphics and new gameplay additions.

On PSP, you can pick up The Gardens Theme Pack and The Gardens Theme - Costume for LittleBigPlanet and kit your Sackperson out for their very own garden party.

Be a winner

At eu.playstation.com/competitions there's always something up for grabs and this week is no exception. You can win yourself an HD TV, a PS3 and a Dark Void goodie back by answering three questions on the rocket-powered shooter.

In the minis competition, one lucky winner will get a PSPgo and a 50 voucher so you can fill it with the latest games, movies, comics and much more from PlayStation Store.

Also, be sure to check out the first impressions article on Red Dead Redemption - Rockstar Games' take on the spaghetti western - at eu.playstation.com. It's one not to be missed!

‘Avatar’ Wins Fifth Straight Weekend At Box OfficeAssassin’s Creed II expansion pack

Dreaming of 3D on PS3

Having glimpsed at the wonders of 3D gaming on PlayStation 3, the official PlayStation community joins the discussion.

Following on from International CES 2010 where Sony revealed the new range of BRAVIA televisions that will support 3D gaming and movies, the official PlayStation community allowed itself a moment to dream of which classic PS3 titles they would like to see using this innovative technology.

1. Killzone 2
"Just because it's the best FPS and most of my collection are FPS titles." (GigaBowser007, Belgium)

2. Uncharted 2: Among Thieves
"This game is already jaw-dropping, its beauty, the detail on its landscapes; in 3D it would certainly be spectacular." (blueyes25, Portugal)

3. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
"MGS4 already has all of the dramatic camera angles that would work very well in 3D and would work perfectly in my opinion." (PheoniX-J-five, United Kingdom)

4. Flower
"A very interesting game and the transformation into 3D would bring a greater feeling of real flight; the fields could sort of spread out from the screen, and the petals could fly into the room." (RX12hidro, Russia)

5. Gran Turismo 5
"Gran Turismo 5, because you'd be part of the action with a steering wheel and first person, in-car view." (mrfight67, United Kingdom)

6. WipEout HD
"I had the chance to look at WipEout HD in 3D at the last IFA [International radio exhibition in Berlin] and it looked amazing. Unfortunately, I couldn’t play it on my own but I would really like to do so one day." (Tsukasa2k7, Germany)

7. Modern Warfare 2
"Shooters in general but if I have to choose, it has to be Modern Warfare 2. I want to feel what it's like to be shot at, bullets flying around you, debris flying off with every explosion." (IperBELGIUM, Belgium)

8. LittleBigPlanet
"Just imagine Sackboy getting in and out of your TV and running around a world you could see in your own room." (erprimo10, Spain)

9. Motorstorm Pacific Rift
"It's based on pure adrenaline and would be super fun to see it in 3D. Water everywhere! Mud! Clashing doors! Crashes!" (hikomun, Italy)

10. Grand Theft Auto IV
"Imagine sitting on your sofa and being inside a great Metropolis such as Liberty City." (Zascaaaaaa, Spain)

So there you have it. The official PlayStation community has spoken and even though eu.playstation.com can’t promise that any of these titles will end up in 3D, watch this space for more updates in 2010 and visit community.eu.playstation.com to share your views with the rest of the community.

‘Creation’: Natural Man, By Kurt LoderSingStar for everyone

Enter MAG 256

Find out what happens when 256 players go head-to-head at the massive MAG European launch event.

Bullets fly from every angle; orders are barked for the sake of survival; grim determination lingers on faces. "Everywhere you look there are people!" says PlayStation Network user Steven_sfst. "You go right and there's this huge battle going on, you turn left, behind and in front of you and it's the same! It's something you've never seen before in a game... it's just awesome."

Welcome to the blistering battlefield of MAG - or more accurately, the MAG 256 event, where 128 players from all corners of Europe are gathered to take on another 128 from the game's development team in North America, Zipper Interactive.

The setting for this transatlantic theatre of war? The P3 exhibition hall at Westminster University, UK, turned into an industrial complex style bunker, decked out with projectors showing the game, Twitter feeds displaying people's thoughts and, most importantly, televisions and PlayStation 3 systems all simultaneously playing the high-octane shooter. Even the stands holding the TVs and PS3 systems form the shape of a giant 256 when seen from a bird's-eye view, each number bathed in hues of red, blue and green.

"It's immense"

It's a unique event for a unique game. And it's clear MAG succeeds in impressing the gathered players (or operatives, as they are soon labelled), who buzz from battle to battle, eager to jump into the next match even when briefing sessions and intermissions offer a break from the fray.

"It's been a lot of fun," says journalist DolphGB. "With 256 players I wondered how they were going to keep everyone together and work as a team. Playing it and seeing the incentives they have to make sure that you work as a unit, they've certainly done a good job... it's going to be interesting once everyone starts going into some of the bigger campaigns."

"It's been great," says RedH3lix. "Once you get into it, it's simple to go for the objectives - and as the day progressed you could tell the teamwork was coming together a bit more." Fellow operative, Yoni_pl agrees. "It's immense. Everywhere you go you meet other players, so you have to know what you have do - it's really intense."

Ain't got time to bleed

The intensity only increases with the main showdown between the European operatives and the stateside Zipper Interactive, which sees the grand total of 256 players going for glory. It ends up being an honourable draw, Zipper well beaten in the first round before destroying the visitors in a heated second. Not that anyone minds too much - a sign that the frantic fun offered by MAG has worked its magic, something the on-site members of Zipper are more than happy to see.

"From the first session people seemed to pick it up quickly," says Nate Klee, MAG's lead programmer. "We gave them some tips on game-queuing and resuscitating their teammates, and they didn't really need help after that. People's eyes were glued to the TVs - I'd come by and see if they needed any questions answered and they wouldn't even respond!" he laughs. "They were too busy!"

"It's been great," says Phil Knowles, MAG's art director. "It's been fun to see the whole thing come together. We're really lucky to be here and see [our concept realised] - I wish we could have got the whole development team to see it too, because we've been working towards this for quite a long while and it really is a nice reward to see everybody playing."

"Massive action event"

The sheer size of preparation around the MAG 256 event posed obvious challenges, yet the end result saw smiles all-round from those who made the game as well as those who played it. "I think the day went remarkably well," says Klee. "It took a long time to prepare the whole venue, and everything seems to have clicked and come together, everyone seems to have enjoyed the game - that makes me very happy."

"It's been a good experience," says RedH3lix. "It's nice to attend a launch event - I've never been to one before and it's been really good." For Belgium operatives Steven_sfst and Yoni_pl, a long journey back home awaited them after an early start and late finish - has it been worth it? "Oh yeah," they agree with a smile.

"It's been a massive action event," finished Yoni_pl. "Great fun with lots of people playing together."

For a first hand account of what it was like to be on the front line of MAG 256, check out the official PlayStation Forum.

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Red Dead Redemption first impressions

eu.playstation.com climbs into the saddle of Rockstar Games’ take on the spaghetti western.

It's 1908 and the Wild West is changing. The lawless days of the American Frontier are all but over while, to the South, the Mexican Revolution is about to melt into civil war.

In Red Dead Redemption, you control John Marston, a relic from those bad old days. A reformed outlaw, his family is threatened by officials and he is forced to aid in the capture of his old gang. There begins a tale of desperation and revenge in a world where the only thing worth trusting is the speed of your trigger finger.

It's an open world action game, much like the Grand Theft Auto series which is also developed by Rockstar Games. However, here you don't have the metropolis of Liberty City as your playground - much of the environment is barren so the developer has gone to great lengths to ensure there's plenty to do across the vast, rural game world.

While you can ride on horseback for miles and not see another person, you're rarely alone. Various animals lurk in the rocks and the trees, ranging from snakes, to coyotes, to grizzly bears. They look and behave realistically, so a lone wolf might run if you walk towards it but a pack is more likely to attack you.

You'll also encounter randomly generated events, such as shoot-outs between outlaws and officials, out in the wilderness. In this instance, you can choose which side to fight for; taking out the lawbreakers might boost your Morality score, while fighting the law will have its own rewards. Morality ensures that each murderous rampage and saloon brawl has a consequence. It works a little like inFamous, released in 2009 on PlayStation 3, in that people react to you differently in the street depending on how mischievous you have been, and each path yields its own rewards.

The developer is striving to ensure that there's plenty to do out there in the desert, mountains and ghost towns. If you see a cliff or mountain on the horizon, chances are you can climb it and there will be something there waiting for you, be it a new gun or a deserted building. Exploration is at the centre of Red Dead Redemption. However, missions are what drive the story forward and they are action-packed.

One sees you infiltrate a mine, blasting away enemies with an array of weapons before hanging from the side of a speeding mine cart, using your free arm to fire your revolver. A second mission has you riding out on horseback to a heavily defended house where a woman is held hostage. If you burst into the room quickly enough to save her then your Morality score receives a boost.

There's so much to talk about from only briefly seeing Red Dead Redemption. There are the beautifully animated horses; people going about their days in the towns, working during the day and hitting the bar at sundown; the lively saloons with their volatile customers and fun mini-games; and stumbling across a campfire to hear people telling stories of your exploits earlier in the game, much like the radio news bulletins in Grand Theft Auto.

With a beautiful game world, plenty to see and do and the level of production value that Rockstar Games is renowned for, it's one to watch in 2010. Look out for more updates on eu.playstation.com ahead of the game's release.

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Assassin's Creed II expansion pack

Battle of Forli expansion pack available to download now from PlayStation Store.

Ezio and Machiavelli make their way to Forli. As they approach something goes wrong: Forli is under attack! Borgia guards are laying siege to the city to retrieve the Templar Treasure Ezio carries.

After the attack, a strange monk lifts up the package. The monk has the apple and is using it to recruit followers to his religious order.

This pack contains five missions, which make up one hour of additional gameplay for the acclaimed action adventure title from Ubisoft and is priced at 3.19, available to download now from PlayStation Store.

‘Creation’: Natural Man, By Kurt LoderSingStar for everyone

SingStar for everyone

Become immersed in the magic of SingStar with the SingStar Viewer.

You can now check out the SingStar community from your PS3 with the SingStar Viewer, which is free to download from PlayStation Store.

If you’re new to SingStar, this is the ideal way to see what you have been missing out on. You can view performances, and browse the SingStores’ new downloads to see if any of the tracks make you want to pick up a microphone.

If you’re already a member of the SingStar community, you can upload your own videos if you want to show your singing talent to the world. You can also rate performances once you’ve viewed them, then drop by the SingStore and add some more songs to your ever growing collection of classic hits.

There is no need for a SingStar disc to use the SingStar Viewer, and it couldn’t be easier to use. To download it now, go to PlayStation Store on the PlayStation 3 XMB (XrossMediaBar) to access the ever growing and exciting SingStar action.

Get ready to enter the world of SingStar.

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SingStar for everyone

Become immersed in the magic of SingStar with the SingStar Viewer.

You can now check out the SingStar community from your PS3 with the SingStar Viewer, which is free to download from PlayStation Store.

If you’re new to SingStar, this is the ideal way to see what you have been missing out on. You can view performances, and browse the SingStores’ new downloads to see if any of the tracks make you want to pick up a microphone.

If you’re already a member of the SingStar community, you can upload your own videos if you want to show your singing talent to the world. You can also rate performances once you’ve viewed them, then drop by the SingStore and add some more songs to your ever growing collection of classic hits.

There is no need for a SingStar disc to use the SingStar Viewer, and it couldn’t be easier to use. To download it now, go to PlayStation Store on the PlayStation 3 XMB (XrossMediaBar) to access the ever growing and exciting SingStar action.

Get ready to enter the world of SingStar.

FIFA 10 Ultimate Team is coming

The downloadable mode for FIFA 10 makes its return for the new season with more players and enhanced features.

Fans of Ultimate Team will be pleased to hear that a new instalment for FIFA 10 is coming soon to PlayStation Store. FIFA 10 Ultimate Team boasts 7,000 players from 27 leagues, a refined tournament system and a series of improvements aimed at making the game more authentic.

If you missed it last time around, Ultimate Team is all about collecting packs of in-game trading cards and using them to create your ultimate fantasy football team. You'll have to manage contracts, deal with injuries and work on tactics, and then take your squad onto the pitch in online and offline tournaments.

Card packs can be purchased using in-game coins, earned by winning matches, and from PlayStation Store, and come in bronze, silver and gold varieties.

In FIFA 10 Ultimate Team, the Team Chemistry system, which rewards you for using players in their preferred positions and playing them alongside their compatriots, has been overhauled. Now, Team Chemistry will be boosted if you use players from the same division or club in similar areas of the pitch. This will be more important than ever as you can now build multiple squads, based around different criteria.

Tournaments have been enhanced, so you can now earn more coins by reaching the latter stages of some competitions. The development team has also promised weekly Featured Tournaments that are only available for a limited time and have higher coin rewards.

FIFA 10 Ultimate Team is coming to PlayStation Store in February 2010. You need a copy of FIFA 10 on PlayStation 3 to use it and you can play a five-match free trial before you purchase.

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Weekend Essentials – Issue 11

Heavy Rain and Just Cause 2 bring some exclusive fun and games to your PlayStation 3 screens this weekend.

Hunt in the rain

PlayStation 3 action thriller Heavy Rain is set to immerse you in a murky world of crime and mystery, and now you have the chance to dip in before its February release with the launch of heavyrainps3.com and the Four Days Challenge.

By registering at heavyrainps3.com you can enter the Four Days Challenge, which tests your ability to analyse documents for clues, delve into the mind of the potential Origami Killer and uncover surprises that will tantalise you in the run-up to Heavy Rain's launch. The first email from the Four Days Challenge starts on 26 January 2010, so keep checking your inbox...

Start your journey into the intense world of Heavy Rain now by heading over to heavyrainps3.com.

Capture your best Just Cause 2 moments exclusively with PlayStation

Ever wanted to show off some of your more spectacular videogame stunts? Just Cause 2 - an open world action adventure by Square Enix London Studios - will give you that chance when it launches on 23 March 2010, thanks to a built-in video capture feature.

Exclusive to the PlayStation 3 version of Just Cause 2, you'll be able to use the video capture feature to record your favourite moments from the game and upload them directly to video sharing website, YouTube. With up to ten minutes of possible recording time, you'll be able to create in-game mission walkthroughs, speed-run competitions and more, with the greatest videos linked from justcause.com so you can vote on your favourites. Prizes will even be awarded to the best ones.

So from 23 March 2010 you'll be able to show off your best BASE jump, capture the moment where you parachuted off a cliff onto a passing jetfighter before crashing it into an oil rig, or any other mad stunt you may concoct.

Whatever it is, you can save, upload it and publish it for the world to see in Just Cause 2.Have you raced ahead of the pack?

Have you raced ahead of the pack?

Were you fast enough to be among the lucky few who got into the free ModNation Racers Public Beta Trial? The Trial launched on 22 January 2010, and ends on 14 February 2010, with only 100,000 slots getting the chance to play the fun filled karting game early.

Don't worry if you missed out - there will be other beta trials for many exciting PlayStation 3 titles within 2010, so keep checking eu.playstation.com for information as it comes to make sure you're up to date on the latest opportunities.

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Get ahead of the pack in ModNation Racers

Drive your friends crazy by being one of the lucky few to get a slot in the ModNation Racers Public Beta Trial.

Want to get a head start on forthcoming PlayStation 3 racing game, ModNation Racers? Then strap yourself in for the free Public Beta Trial and rev up for a fun filled course of creative karting. The Beta Trial gives you the chance to craft your own character, kart and tracks and share them with other Beta Trial testers. You'll also be able to race on four pre-made tracks.

The Public Beta Trial begins on 22 January 2010, and ends on 14 February 2010. There are only 100,000 slots available which are sure to go fast, so don't miss your chance to get behind the wheel of one of the most creative racers going - speed over to PlayStation Store now and download the Beta Trial for free.

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Experience the Four Days Challenge of Heavy Rain

Join the hunt for the Origami Killer – Heavy Rain’s Four Days Challenge awaits. Are you sharp enough to survive?

Listen closely... can you hear the gentle, yet ominous patter of Heavy Rain? A new adventure game sure to make a big splash on PlayStation 3 when it's released on 26 February 2010 , Heavy Rain is a mature and noir-tinged title which envelops you in a dark story of mystery and murder.

And from 26 January 2010 you can immerse yourself in its remarkable world with the Four Days Challenge, which puts your powers of deduction and observation to the test. If you're good enough, there will be more to your reward than just the glowing pride of success...

Budding detectives should head over to heavyrainps3.com and register for the Four Days Challenge, which will start your journey. From there on you will be contacted via email with further details on what your next step will be and what your tasks are.

Each challenge will test the skills you'll be using in Heavy Rain on PS3 as you unravel the fractured mind and motives of an emerging killer. Some trails will lead you down false paths, others will take you straight to the most likely suspect. Your choices will shape the success of your investigation. Remember to keep your wits about you and question everything - just try not to drown in the murky depths of a deranged intellect.

By registering, you'll also gain an exclusive Heavy Rain T-shirt for your avatar in PlayStation Home, which may start an entirely different journey to explore - try it and keep your eyes open...

Are you good enough to find the Origami Killer? Enter the Heavy Rain Four Days Challenge on 26 January 2010 at heavyrainps3.com and start the hunt...

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Imagine the ultimate entertainment experience

PS3 owners move one step closer to the thrill of immersive 3D games and movies.

PlayStation 3 will open the door to exciting new worlds in 2010 thanks to the introduction of Full HD 3D BRAVIA television sets.

With their snazzy new Active Shutter glasses, Full HD 3D TVs such as the LX900 series, announced by Sony at International CES 2010, will help you banish the memories of fuzzy images and flimsy cardboard specs.

Full HD 3D will work for games and movies and, best of all, every PlayStation 3 system will be 3D capable thanks to a system software update coming later in 2010.

A number of games have already been shown using the 3D technology, including WipEout HD, and there will be more to come in 2010.

As well as a minimalist Monolithic Design, some BRAVIA models will boast built-in Wireless Internet access and advanced motion technology.

Visit the official PlayStation Forums at community.eu.playstation.com to find out which classic titles the community would like to see recreated in 3D and head over to www.sony.co.uk/bravia to find out more about the new BRAVIA TV features.

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PSP Essentials: LocoRoco 2

More music and more bouncing: save the LocoRoco from the dastardly Moja.

Those bouncy, squishy LocoRoco are in trouble yet again. The evil Moja have returned and this time they've brought with them a terrible song that sucks the life out of every living thing. The LocoRoco must fight to save their planet - this time by making lots of spectacularly catchy music.

LocoRoco 2 features 25 new stages, hidden challenges, a colourful cast of new characters and brand new actions such as climbing inside shells to destroy thorns. Easy to play, instantly addictive and guaranteed to make you feel all warm and fuzzy while you hum along to the soundtrack, LocoRoco 2 is a must for fans of puzzle games, cuddly characters and great gameplay.

Best Bit:
Battling a friend in addictive four player Ad Hoc Mode for those all important high scores!

What you said:
“Sony’s latest is pure madness! Proof that the best things come in the smallest packages; the artistic design and music in LocoRoco 2 go hand in hand.” (Fegarur, Spain)

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Weekend Essentials – Issue 10

Co-op mayhem, jetpacks and plenty of snow feature in this week’s big PS3 releases.

New releases to get your teeth into

Salem and Rios touch fists once again as Army of Two: The 40th Day arrives on PlayStation 3 and PSP. Boasting the next evolution of co-operative play on the streets of Shanghai, it features unparalleled weapon customisation and an explosive story that's best experienced with a friend, either online or offline.

From China to the Bermuda Triangle, Dark Void on PS3 straps you into the jetpack of William Augustus Grey as he is transported to a parallel universe and is caught up in a conflict between The Survivors and an alien race known as The Watchers. Expect high-octane action as you switch seamlessly between combat and graceful flight, thanks to your rocket pack.

You don't need rockets to fly in the third PS3 release of the week; two planks of wood, a warm coat and a huge ramp are all it takes in Vancouver 2010 - the official game of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Hit the slopes to take part in a variety of alpine disciplines and challenge for world records online.

A pair of portable classics

PSP owners can download two blasts from the past from PlayStation Store this week. PS one Classic Constructor lets you take control of a building company as you try to undermine the competition using any means possible, while Star Wars Battlefront II lets you battle it out on Coruscant, Endor, Hoth and more, wherever you are.

On eu.playstation.com, there's a fantastic Darksiders competition in which one lucky winner will get their hands on an exclusive white PlayStation 3, customised by artist Joe Mad, and one of only 10 in existence.

Also, check out the current Obsession Confessions feature running on eu.playstation.com and the official PlayStation Forums. Join the discussion over which upcoming games you're excited about in 2010 and find out which PlayStation Store downloads have most impressed the community.

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Obsession Confessions: welcome to the future

Tell the PlayStation community which games you think will define 2010.

Judging from the line-up of games already announced for PlayStation 3 and PSP, 2010 already looks like a fat slab of gaming birthday cake with a creamy layer of World Cup football in the middle.

MAG, Heavy Rain, Gran Turismo 5, Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, God of War III, ModNation Racers and many more blockbusters will be launched over the next 12 months - which games are you most looking forward to?

Or is your highlight of the year so cutting-edge it doesn't even know it exists yet?

Start talking at community.eu.playstation.com.

In a fortnight's time, the top ten selections will be listed here on eu.playstation.com with quotes from you, the community.

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Unleash Hell in Dante’s Inferno

Take a journey into the depths of Hell with Electronic Arts’ Jonathan Knight, Executive Producer of Dante’s Inferno.

Can you describe the basic concept of Dante's Inferno?

The concept is a videogame adaptation of The Divine Comedy by Middle Ages poet Dante Alighieri. It's pretty difficult to overstate the influence The Divine Comedy has on western culture, especially on the European worldview of the afterlife, which it's essentially responsible in shaping in a very fantastical way.

It's an amazing story of a guy who travels to the afterlife to get to his love, Beatrice, who died quite young. The epic love story and journey to get to a girl, combined with the vivid description of Hell, seemed to be perfect for a game. Dante basically maps Hell with the nine Circles and if you open any edition of the book you'll always find a map, so bringing that to life in a videogame is part of the creative impulse.

There's not a tremendous amount of story, action or drama in the text - Dante thinks and talks a lot, so our Dante is definitely more of an action hero. We've written a new story that layers on top of the basic elements of the poem [in regards to] that - Beatrice has been kidnapped by Lucifer, and Dante's fighting through the nine Circles of Hell to save her.

Was there a lot of debate over the look and style of how Dante should appear in the game, especially with his change into an action hero?

Yeah. The look of Dante is actually inspired by his author. In terms of his weapons, he is killed in the opening of the game but fights back, killing Death himself and taking his scythe. So once we had that story detail we started investing in the scythe as a weapon.

We also wanted him to have a duality, so we gave him a cross which gains more power as you cruise through Hell - so between the scythe and the holy cross he has these two sides that define him. He's also a Crusader and did some horrible things in his past which will haunt him in Hell, so rather than just keeping him in a classic Crusader tunic, Dante ends up ripping off the tapestry and sears it into his chest as a way of expressing this guilt. He literally carries his sins on his chest.

How big a role does the element of morality play in the game?

It's something that's really within the heart of the game and what defines Dante. One way that manifests is through the various damned souls who have backstories and dialogue, some of which are abridged from the poem. With those characters you're given the choice of absolving or punishing them, and the more holy things you do the more powerful his cross will become, while the more unholy things you do the more powerful Death's scythe becomes.

We really think players will want to go back and play again to see the holy path versus the unholy path and see all the upgrade, weapons, magic and collectibles based on those paths.

Does each Circle of Hell have its own distinctive look and style that reflects its particular theme?

That's what will probably be the most exciting thing about the game and will keep people playing. The nine Circles of Hell are really unique and from a gameplay standpoint we don't want to repeat the same patterns so you're going to see different designs, big over the top action sequences, thoughtful puzzles, sub-bosses and mini-bosses, new enemies and minions for each Circle...

We've put a lot of effort into making each level unique, with big, epic cinematic moments. It also gets darker the further into Hell, so the punishments are more severe because the sins become more offensive. And the lower Circles such as Heresy, Violence, Fraud and Treason are the sins of malice, the sins that only humankind can commit because they require a capacity to reason, plot and harm. So just like in the poem, you can expect those Circles to be more terrifying and grim.

What were the hardest parts to recreate and capture from the source material?

Everything was probably harder than we thought it was going to be. Going from high concept to actual designs was a big leap. For example, you choose something like Lust and you then have to decide what it's going to look like. And then we went into the poem and realised there's not a lot of description of Lust - it's pitch black, which wasn't going to work for a videogame!

But the toughest part is that it's set in a place no one has been to or able to come back from to tell us about it. There's no reference material and everyone has a different idea on how Hell should look. So figuring out the environments has been a challenge, along with the story, as we had to write a tale which would work for a videogame but also still be very much feel like Dante's Inferno but more pumped up.

Were there any other sources which helped inspire the game?

Yeah - the developer studio is a bit like a Dante museum and has these fake gates of Hell which frame the entrance. We researched a lot of artists, painters, sculptors and writers who have done various interpretations of Dante or of Hell. We also worked with an artist called Wayne Barlowe, who has a series of paintings called Barlowe's Inferno which have a particular take on Hell, and also designed some of the creatures for the Hellboy movies. He was a big part of influencing the look of the characters and environments.

Are there any differences between the PlayStation 3 and PSP versions of Dante's Inferno?

The PSP version is very much the PlayStation 3 version, but on the go, and that's the main focus - to recreate the PS3 experience, especially in terms of the combat. It's a high quality action adventure, and to be able to bring that epic scale to the system is cool - all the cinematics are there and it's essentially the same game.

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PSP Essentials: Monster Hunter Freedom

Own a PlayStation 3 and want to explore the massive open-ended online world of PlayStation Home? Let eu.playstation.com show you around…

PlayStation Home is a vast 3D environment where you can interact and engage with other members of the PlayStation community, create your very own character and then decorate a personal apartment for it to live in.

And barely after a year of its launch in PlayStation Home is only getting bigger. In December 2009, it celebrated its first birthday along with the achievement that over 10 million PlayStation 3 owners have accessed PlayStation Home since it first opened its virtual doors. Which means there are a lot of people out there you can meet, communicate with and play games with - as well as enjoy a number of other engaging activities.

Interactive spaces have become a popular feature of PlayStation Home, allowing you to journey into areas where you can enjoy the distinct flavours of a specific game or act, hang out with other fans, play exciting mini-games and even check out some fresh video footage.

Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time and Uncharted 2: Among Thieves are two of the latest titles to have a space in PlayStation Home. A batch of related mini-games are available to play for both PS3 games, as well as the chance to revel in the Ratchet & Clank Grummelnet Superstore for items which you can buy and personalise your own apartment space with.

In January 2010, LocoRoco also gets its chance to shine with a space dedicated to the loveable PSP game, showing off a number of interactive elements to play with, including characters from the LocoRoco universe, swings, hammocks, a slide and other fun features.

Fans of creative platformer LittleBigPlanet won't feel left out either, as a range of exclusive clothing and furniture is available to purchase from PlayStation Home's Shopping Centre (in both Threads and the Furniture Store) for your personal space.

If you're feeling a little more funky, PlayStation Home's music spaces are sure to get you moving. After the popular question and answer session with UK grime artist, Dizzee Rascal, big beat duo Groove Armada blasted off an exclusive music event in PlayStation Home on the Presentation Podium, with performances of their tracks and an interview with the group. The whole feature is available on VidZone, the free music video application on PS3, so if you missed out, you can relive the magic and prepare yourself for the next big music event happening in PlayStation Home.

Fancy jumping straight into some action? Then Sodium One may be the thing for you. An evolving online multiplayer game space, Sodium One transports you to a futuristic environment where you must fight for survival. Completing a number of objectives assigned by an Artificial Intelligence avatar named VICKIE, you take part in combat based games for credits and rewards. As time goes on, new games, items and events will emerge to keep you on your toes.

Start your journey to new frontiers now with PlayStation Home - there's a whole world of entertainment waiting to be explored...

PlayStation Home is where the heart isMTV News Picks The Best ‘Twilight’ Fan Q&As Of 2009

PlayStation Home is where the heart is

Own a PlayStation 3 and want to explore the massive open-ended online world of PlayStation Home? Let eu.playstation.com show you around…

PlayStation Home is a vast 3D environment where you can interact and engage with other members of the PlayStation community, create your very own character and then decorate a personal apartment for it to live in.

And barely after a year of its launch in PlayStation Home is only getting bigger. In December 2009, it celebrated its first birthday along with the achievement that over 10 million PlayStation 3 owners have accessed PlayStation Home since it first opened its virtual doors. Which means there are a lot of people out there you can meet, communicate with and play games with - as well as enjoy a number of other engaging activities.

Interactive spaces have become a popular feature of PlayStation Home, allowing you to journey into areas where you can enjoy the distinct flavours of a specific game or act, hang out with other fans, play exciting mini-games and even check out some fresh video footage.

Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time and Uncharted 2: Among Thieves are two of the latest titles to have a space in PlayStation Home. A batch of related mini-games are available to play for both PS3 games, as well as the chance to revel in the Ratchet & Clank Grummelnet Superstore for items which you can buy and personalise your own apartment space with.

In January 2010, LocoRoco also gets its chance to shine with a space dedicated to the loveable PSP game, showing off a number of interactive elements to play with, including characters from the LocoRoco universe, swings, hammocks, a slide and other fun features.

Fans of creative platformer LittleBigPlanet won't feel left out either, as a range of exclusive clothing and furniture is available to purchase from PlayStation Home's Shopping Centre (in both Threads and the Furniture Store) for your personal space.

If you're feeling a little more funky, PlayStation Home's music spaces are sure to get you moving. After the popular question and answer session with UK grime artist, Dizzee Rascal, big beat duo Groove Armada blasted off an exclusive music event in PlayStation Home on the Presentation Podium, with performances of their tracks and an interview with the group. The whole feature is available on VidZone, the free music video application on PS3, so if you missed out, you can relive the magic and prepare yourself for the next big music event happening in PlayStation Home.

Fancy jumping straight into some action? Then Sodium One may be the thing for you. An evolving online multiplayer game space, Sodium One transports you to a futuristic environment where you must fight for survival. Completing a number of objectives assigned by an Artificial Intelligence avatar named VICKIE, you take part in combat based games for credits and rewards. As time goes on, new games, items and events will emerge to keep you on your toes.

Start your journey to new frontiers now with PlayStation Home - there's a whole world of entertainment waiting to be explored...

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Half-time in the FIFA Interactive World Cup

There are still Grand Final places up for grabs as the FIWC moves into its second phase.

It's a very happy New Year indeed for 10 FIFA 10 players - they've secured their places in Barcelona in May 2010 for the FIFA Interactive World Cup Grand Final, via the online leaderboard.

More than 400,000 players fought online for those precious positions and competition is set to get fiercer as the second online qualification phase begins and 11 more Grand Final berths are up for grabs. The leaderboard has been wiped clean so start your copy of FIFA 10 on PlayStation 3, head to the FIFA Interactive World Cup menu and register in-game for your chance at virtual football glory.

The overall winner will follow in the footsteps of reigning champion, Bruce Grannec of France, in collecting a cheque for 20,000 USD at the Grand Final in Barcelona's Port Olympic, May 2010. They will also get the chance to stand alongside football glitterati and collect their trophy at the 2010 FIFA World Player Gala.

It's a prize that money can't buy and only the nimblest thumbs and the most agile tactical minds will earn a trip to Barcelona.

Online qualification isn't the only way to get there: an additional nine Grand Final spots can be won at live qualifier events in major cities around the world. Check fifa.com/fiwc for the latest details of when these events are happening in your country.

In the meantime, start up FIFA 10 and begin your online qualification campaign. With 10 of the best players already through to the Grand Final, this is the best chance yet to book your place among the elite of virtual footballers.

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Weekend Essentials – Issue 9

Begin 2010 with an early play of massive online shooter MAG, a brilliant blast of Bayonetta and some dark drama in Darksiders.

Being bad never felt so good

Action adventure reaches magical new heights with Sega's Bayonetta, which transports you to a world where you can perform extraordinary acrobatics with ease. Take control of the graceful and powerful Bayonetta, last survivor of an ancient witch clan keeping the balance between light, dark and chaos.

MAG opens its doors

Massive online multiplayer shooter MAG invites you to test its bullet-laden stomping grounds before its release on PlayStation 3 in January 2010. An open beta is now available to play until 10 January 2010, where you can get blasting in the 64-player Sabotage and 256-player Domination modes.

Fire yourself into the revolutionary experience of MAG early with the beta on PlayStation Store - and keep reading eu.playstation.com and blog.eu.playstation.com for some more exciting MAG news as its January 2010 release date draws ever closer.

Your last days await

Take the role of War, one of the four legendary Horsemen of the Apocalypse, in the rip-roaring action adventure of Darksiders where an epic conflict between Heaven and Hell has prematurely caused the end of the world. As the warring first Horseman, you have been accused of inciting this catastrophic incident and now you must find out who is truly responsible. Can you survive the Hell-destroyed wasteland of Darksiders?

As a taster to this dark fantasy romp, why not take part in the Darksiders Competition where you can win a limited edition PlayStation 3 featuring artwork from the game's creative director and popular comic book artist, Joe Madureira? Head over to eu.playstation.com/psn/competitions and get involved.

You can still be a winner

Fancy your luck in the early days of 2010? Then why not try your hand at the popular Digital Comics competition at eu.playstation.com/psn/competitions which still has a few weeks left before closing. If your comic book knowledge is up to scratch you can win a PSPgo and other great prizes - why not start 2010 with a brand new PSP?

What's your obsession confession?

Find out what has the PlayStation community buzzing with excitement - Obsession Confessions is a feature that gives you the chance to reveal which games you've spent ages plugging away at until the small hours. Check it out and see what the community in the official PlayStation Forums voted as the most time-absorbing PlayStation Network titles they've played - maybe yours is sitting proudly at the top?

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Obsession Confessions: delicious downloads

Discover which PlayStation Network games have most impressed the PlayStation community.

After two weeks of discussion over which games have proved the most addictive, the official PlayStation Forum regulars moved onto the next Obssession Confessions topic - their favourite PlayStation Store downloads. Here are their picks in order of popularity, with quotes from contributors across Europe.

1. Flower

"Flower is not just a game: it's a story. The story of flowers telling their dreams in a universe of beauty and enchanting melodies. With exceptional SIXAXIS handling, it transports you to an adventure with no equal." (aat08, France)

2. WipEout HD

"It has to be one of the most breathtaking games - it looks amazing in full HD and for the price it's one heck of a bargain. Nothing out there can beat it for pure enjoyment. The visuals should be the benchmark for any game." (Chris_D, UK)

3. Burnout Paradise

"Challenge your limits with stunning speed!" (fashion23gta, Portugal)

4. Fat Princess

"It's a cool game... I liked it!" (TUHTA_1994, Russia)

5. Battlefield 1943

"Epic battles in Iwo Jima, Guadalcanal or the Wake Island; team game, tanks, jeeps, boats, planes, bombers and destruction. There's nowhere for the enemy to hide!" (tabunet, Spain)

6. Warhawk

"Warhawk was number one when I bought my PS3. It's a great game which everyone should play at least once. It may not be realistic but it's loads of fun... I've spent many hours playing and they were all worth it." (patrick1991groot, Netherlands)

7. Metal Gear Solid

"Simply because it is THE PS one Classic game par excellence and shouldn't be missed. Since it is now available from PlayStation Store, it is a must-have." (gamer4online, Germany)

8. Trine

"This game's beauty, playability and originality make it one of the most attractive of the last year." (elmosca, Spain)

9. Zen Pinball

"The file size makes it easy to download and it's a well made game. It takes you back to the past when we used to play real pinball, and everybody in my house likes it." (AlexTheStampede, Italy)

10. Bomberman Ultra

"There are many delicious downloads in PlayStation Store and, like in life, one candy is never enough. The one that nobody appreciates is Bomberman Ultra. That game is great and provides a lot of laughter." (rabsonek, Poland)

Thanks to everyone that participated in the discussion. There will be more Obsession Confessions threads in the coming weeks; in the meantime, join the hundreds of conversations happening right now at the official PlayStation Forums.

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Coming attractions on PlayStation

Take a look at some of 2010’s most anticipated games on PlayStation 3 and PSP.

Heavy Rain
Heavy Rain is a thrilling, cinematic and evolving game from Quantic Dream, the developer behind the critically acclaimed Fahrenheit on PlayStation 2. With a plot that revolves around the mysterious Origami Killer, you assume the role of multiple characters, each with very different backgrounds, motivations and skills. Your actions and decisions, whatever they may be, shape this dark tale and its ultimate outcome.

MAG
Are you tough enough to command a 128-strong army into battle with this huge, online first person shooter? In MAG, you experience a world of online warfare on an unprecedented scale, where 256 players take to the battlefield to win glory and the right to command their troops. Choose the force that reflects your fighting style and prove yourself to move through the chain of command to lead a squad, then a platoon, and ultimately an entire army.

God of War III
God of War III thrusts Kratos into an epic adventure filled with carnage and destruction, as he seeks revenge against the gods who have betrayed him. This final chapter of the trilogy allows you to take on the climactic role of the ex-Spartan warrior, Kratos, as he treads through the intimidating heights of Mount Olympus and the dark depths of Hell. Armed with double-chained blades, Kratos must take on mythology's darkest creatures while solving intricate puzzles throughout his merciless quest to destroy Olympus.

Gran Turismo 5
Are you prepared for the race? Gran Turismo 5 takes the acclaimed racing series to a whole new level with over 950 cars that can be raced on 20 courses. Featuring 70 variations, including the newest hybrid and electric cars, a new physics engine and a new in-cockpit view, Gran Turismo is a must for real racing fans. When you have conquered the racing tracks and honed your skills you can take the race online and compete against friends and other players across the globe via PlayStation Network.

Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker
Snake is back in an all new Metal Gear Solid tale exclusively on PSP. Developed by the legendary Hideo Kojima - the mastermind behind the Metal Gear Solid series on PlayStation - Peace Walker puts you in control of the famed Naked Snake at a critical point in modern history. Peace Walker features advanced co-operative techniques where multiple players sneak into enemy territory and accomplish gripping missions together. With breathtaking graphics on PSP, a thrilling storyline and everything else you've come to expect from a Metal Gear Solid game, this is a must for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

Brink
Brink is an immersive shooter that blends single player, co-op and multiplayer gameplay into one seamless experience, allowing you to develop your character as you play through each of the missions. Pick a specific role and fight to save yourself and the Ark, a floating city and mankind's last refuge. With a mix of dynamic battlefields, extensive customisation options, and an innovative control system, Brink is set to take multiplayer action on PS3 to all new heights.

BioShock 2
Set approximately 10 years after the events of BioShock, this highly anticipated sequel begins along the Atlantic coastline where a monster has been snatching little girls and bringing them back to the undersea city of Rapture. In an amazing twist, you play as the very first Big Daddy, travelling through the decrepit and beautiful fallen city in search of an unseen foe and some answers to the mystery. The sequel also features multiplayer missions, adding a whole new layer of action to the BioShock experience on PlayStation 3.

Red Dead Redemption
The makers of Grand Theft Auto IV have gone back to the Wild West to bring you Red Dead Redemption, the sequel to the action-packed PlayStation 2 game. Set in America during the early 1900s, Red Dead Redemption tells the story of John Marston, a former outlaw who is sent across the American frontier to help usher in law and order. Be prepared for gun battles, train robberies and epic pistol duels in a stunning open world as Marston struggles to bury his bloodstained past, one man at a time.

Final Fantasy XIII
One of the most beloved gaming series on PlayStation is coming to PS3 in 2010. In Final Fantasy XIII, you'll get the chance to embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the floating city of Cocoon and the savage lower world of Pulse, encountering a diverse band of would-be allies along the way. With seamless transitions between real time gameplay and in-game cinematics, and an evolved Active Time Battle system, Final Fantasy XIII is one of the year's most epic adventures on PS3.

White Knight Chronicles
Become the White Knight - a warrior capable of becoming seven metres tall - and escape to a vast medieval world in the first RPG for PS3 to blend offline and online questing. Setting off on your epic adventure you explore mountains, castles, mines and jaw-dropping moving cities in a world filled with honour, adventure and imagination. Already a smash hit in Japan where it was released in 2009, White Knight Chronicles is a must for fans of RPG games in 2010.

ModNation Racers
Get ready for ModNation Racers, the latest game in the creative gaming genre where you can build your own vehicles, characters and tracks using the simple to master tools provided. Once you've built something, you can share your creation with the whole world on PlayStation Network, as well as download new content created by other users in the ModNation community. In the world of ModNation Racers, the race is just the start.

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Coming in 2010 on PlayStation

Discover the titles and innovations on PlayStation that game industry figures are looking forward to in 2010.

"2010 will continue to see great innovations from PlayStation, and a highlight will be the launch of the Motion Controller [working title] for PlayStation 3. With the never before available, super accurate 3D spatial recognition of the controller, coupled with the use of camera features such as video and audio input, the Motion Controller will provide intuitive, quick fun as well as a deeper experience for both casual and experienced gamers. 2010 will also see more big title launch from WWS, starting with MAG from online shooter veteran Zipper Interactive, God of War III and Gran Turismo 5. ModNation Racers will bring a full Create, Play, Share experience to the kart racing genre; it is another family fun favourite waiting to be born."
Shuhei Yoshida, President, SCEE Worldwide Studios

"Obviously God of War III. The previous incarnations blew me away with their high impact visceral combat, towering enemies and imaginative level design. I'm certain this instalment will deliver the same thrills, but will take it to the next level."
Paul Rustchynsky, Lead Designer, Evolution Studios

"2010 promises to be a year of back-to-back AAA releases on PS3. PlayStation Home provides perhaps the most compelling proposition for new entrants to the platform, prompted by the new model and the price drop, who will discover a social and immersive environment that is unique to PS3 and a welcome alternative to the core gaming experience. SEGA intend to engage and amaze Home residents throughout the course of 2010."
Mike Hayes, Managing Director, SEGA Europe

"Can I pick three? I'm excited by Final Fantasy XIII - I've fallen out with JRPGs in recent years, but if any game can pull me back in, it'll be this. I'm also a big God of War fan, so I'm obviously looking forward to the third in the series. Having said all that, the game I'm most looking forward to would have to be The Last Guardian. Nobody makes games like Fumito Ueda, and this looks to be no exception. I'm utterly convinced it'll end in tragedy, but then I guess that's always been part of his games' charm."
Simon Barlow, Design Manager/Assistant Game Director, Evolution Studios

"I’m looking forward to more Honeyslug games on PlayStation platforms in 2010! And, like the two previous Team Ico games, The Last Guardian will almost certainly be one of my games of the year."
Ricky Haggett, Designer and CEO, Honeyslug

"I'm a big believer that, over the coming years, games will increasingly grow in sophistication and popularity, eventually eclipsing movies and TV. As a result I'm really looking forward to Heavy Rain. I've been lucky enough to get a preview and it will definitely be one of those titles that advances our cause, making videogames as a whole a more mature, deep and moving art form. Then I'm going to embark on some serious neck snapping with Kratos."
Matt Southern, Game Director, Evolution Studios

"No question - Star Wars: The Force Unleashed 2 on the PlayStation 3. Given the depth of the platform with the game we're building, it's going to be an awesome experience. I'm also really interested in seeing what publishers develop with Sony's new wand technology. It will make for some exciting gameplay."
Darrell Rodriguez, President, LucasArts

"Very few attempts to re-imagine that classic Thrust gameplay have worked, but I'm pretty excited to see how Gravity Crash weighs up. It looks awesome and appeals to the part of me that wishes I was still a kid shovelling coins into arcade machines in Southport."
Mark Inman, COO, Honeyslug

"For next year, I am really excited about some of the new features we are releasing for SingStar. I wish I could talk about them now, but suffice to say, they will be pushing the PS3 SingStar technology and community significantly."
Dave Ranyard, Senior Manager, SCE London Studio

"MGS Peace Walker - we like the MGS games, especially Ac!d, and DC Universe Online looks fun - Tomas has secretly always wanted to be Batman, Ana has always wanted to be Storm!"
Ana Kronschnabl, Producer, Fluffy Logic

"Now that external developers have had a while to get to grips with developing for PlayStation Home, I'm really looking forward to seeing how and where they are going to push the Home platform next year. I'm expecting big things from them, and I'm sure they won't disappoint. On the games front I can't wait to get hold of MAG, 256 player battles FTW! Also I loved Fahrenheit [by the same developer Quantic Dream] on PS2 and I think Heavy Rain is going to be great."
David Evans, Senior Programmer, PlayStation Home

"We are really excited about the new minis channel, and we are looking forward to it becoming the premiere venue for top indie developers to share their titles with gamers around the world."
Jamie Gotch, CTO, Subatomic Studios

"I’m looking forward to the next instalment of BF1943, as I loved the first one and spent far too many hours on it. Of course I’m also looking forward to the announcement of whatever ThatGameCompany is working on, and if we are lucky they might release something in 2010 too. It’s going to be an exciting year I think!"
Dylan Cuthbert, President and Managing Director, Q-Games

"Obviously I'm looking forward to seeing God of War III and Gran Turismo 5 really push PlayStation 3 from strength to strength, and all signs suggest they will raise the bar just as their predecessors did on PlayStation 2. Other than that, I'm really excited to see if Final Fantasy XIII can deliver a true next generation experience."
Dan Durnin, Communications Manager, PlayStation Home

"I am looking forward to seeing the nurturing of the PlayStation community around the games and applications where you see your favourite characters making cameo appearances in other titles or even full levels based on the original game. I think that we all have our favourite games and characters so when you get the opportunity to find them in another title, it brings something special to that game and it is a fantastic way of making the PlayStation community feel more connected to each other. There is a lot to offer on the PlayStation platforms providing us with rich entertainment experiences and in many ways, it has the ability to unite different people with different interests and opinions and as such is a social enabler bringing friends together and making new friends with similar interests."
Mark Bunting, Producer PlayTV, SCE Cambridge Studio

"Well, 2010 brings the release of MAG, which is going to wow PlayStation owners. The team at Zipper has really pulled out all the stops to bring a new kind of multiplayer experience to players, and I'm excited to see it on shelves at the beginning of 2010. Beyond that, I'm enjoying the convergence of games and social networking platforms like Twitter, PlayStation Home and Facebook. It creates a much deeper, immersive experience when your favourite games bleed out into your own world in creative and compelling ways, and I'm looking forward to seeing developers take advantage of that even more next year."
Ed Byrne, Creative Director, Zipper Interactive

"Motion Controller and innovative new games on PlayStation 3. I can't wait to be surprised and entertained in new ways."
David Hamblin, Principal Artist, PlayStation Home

"Undoubtedly The Last Guardian. Both Ico and Shadow of the Colossus filled me with unforgettable memories and I am certain Ueda-san and his team will do it all over again. Respect."
Nicolas Doucet, Senior Producer, SCE London Studio (EyePet)

"We've got a great line-up of games to look forward to in 2010 including Heavy Rain, but what's going to be really interesting for me is that we have a new price point, movies, music videos, Blu-ray and PlayStation all in one package and watching how this gives PlayStation 3 more momentum. That will mean that Relentless can entertain users with more stuff like Blue Toad Murder Files!"
Andrew Eades, Executive Director, Relentless Software

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PlayStation highlights 2009

A selection of games industry figures nominate their PlayStation highlights of 2009.

"My biggest highlight for 2009 has to be Uncharted 2: Among Thieves. When I saw the live demo in the SCEA E3 Press Conference, my jaw dropped to the floor and my eyes were glued to the big screen. Playing the game through was the smoothest, most unputdownable experience as well. It was a truly remarkable achievement by the Naughty Dog team, and a benchmark for future game development. We were able to release many exciting, innovative titles in 2009 like Killzone 2, inFamous, EyePet and Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time. Big PSP titles hit the market to celebrate the launch of PSPgo like Resistance: Retribution, Gran Turismo, MotorStorm Arctic Edge, Invizimals and LittleBigPlanet too. 2009 was really a great, fruitful year for PlayStation fans!"
Shuhei Yoshida, President, SCE Worldwide Studios

"2009 was a stand-out year for me with titles like Flower, Demon's Souls and inFamous but Uncharted 2 stood tall above the competition. Never have I played a game that was paced as well, looked so amazing, or had such a wide variety of jaw-dropping set pieces. And to back all that up it had an extremely strong multiplayer component featuring both competitive and co-operative play. Uncharted 2 is not only my favourite game of last year, it's also my favourite game on PS3 to date!"
Paul Rustchynsky, Lead Designer, Evolution Studios

"2009 saw PS3 really hit its stride. Releases like Uncharted 2: Among Thieves raised the bar for the games industry as a whole and showed that cinematic storytelling need not come at the expense of truly immersive gameplay. A milestone in gaming that will stand the test of time. 2009 saw PS3 emerge as a fully convergent media device that delivers compelling movie content, alongside music through the VidZone application, whilst PlayStation Home continued to grow and evolve into a unique connected social space in the living room. In 2009 PlayStation Network started to deliver download-only experiences that were comparable to those found elsewhere on the platform; Fat Princess and Trine provided diverse gaming experiences that showed the power and imagination of the platform developers."
Mike Hayes, Managing Director, SEGA Europe

"I'm likely not the only person to pick this one, but I have to say that Uncharted 2 was a real stand-out, and a true landmark in gaming. The quality of the presentation, the rich storytelling and the variety of gameplay marks it out as a modern classic. It's one of those games that appeals to gamers and non-gamers alike. Even my wife couldn't help but become embroiled in the escapades of Nathan Drake!"
Simon Barlow, Design Manager/Assistant Game Director, Evolution Studios

"Flower and Noby Noby Boy – a one-two punch of gaming wonderment which kept me occupied for weeks, filling my lounge with their swirling colours and sumptuous sound."
Ricky Haggett, Designer and CEO, Honeyslug

“My highlight is essentially fourfold. This fall we brought out four great games to Sony platforms – Star Wars The Clone Wars: Republic Heroes, LEGO Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues, Star Wars The Force Unleashed: Ultimate Sith Edition and Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron. Each game is incredibly different on the platforms, from being able to relive the excitement of the Clone Wars television series, getting reacquainted with everyone’s favourite archeologist, experiencing a new and much darker side of the force, and taking a beloved franchise in new directions on the PSP. We’ve been extremely happy to put these titles in the hands of Sony gamers and to see how excited they’ve been to play them.”
Darrell Rodriguez, President, LucasArts

"My highlight of 2009 was FIFA 10, which narrowly beat Batman: Arkham Asylum. FIFA 09 was the title that made me switch from an old favourite, and the latest version takes what was great in 09 and overdelivers on it. For me it's all about Be A Pro mode, which I play more than any other mode. The brilliant introduction of mechanics that you would normally find in an RPG mean I can now have a career as a footballer, growing in strength, skill and success, which is thrilling."
Matt Southern, Game Director, Evolution Studios

"I drummed, strummed and sung my way through Beatles Rock Band this year. The visuals look great with a strong '60s vibe reminiscent of Yellow Submarine and Magical Mystery Tour. I also found myself truly creeped out by Rocksteady’s Batman: Arkham Asylum - I was pleased to see they stayed true to the comics and kept the dark DC vibe!"
Nat Marco, Lead Designer, Honeyslug

"I'll tell you what I loved this year... EyePet - it's such a good experience to sit down with my family and play. The kids love it! Such a different experience. I'm also very proud of SingStar: Take That! A perfect SingStar! And they were fab at Wembley too!"
Dave Ranyard, Senior Manager, SCE London Studio (SingStar)

"We were really pleased with Savage Moon: Waldgeist and the fan reaction to it has been great; makes all the late nights worth it! The Death Blossom bugs were our favourite - they look great then they explode. We've also been wowed by Resident Evil 5 - an amazing looking game, the two player mode was great fun. Plus, it is hard not to comment on Modern Warfare 2, it looks amazing and is packed full of great ideas. It just shows what developers can do when given the space to create. We also think the new PSP is very pretty. The oddly named but fun Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman! on PSP has been really addictive."
Ana Kronschnabl, Producer, Fluffy Logic

"Being hand-picked by Sony Computer Entertainment to be featured in the minis programme and having our game Fieldrunners selected as a launch title was a great experience for us. Everyone we worked with at SCEE was very professional. They helped us every step of the way from development to launch."
Ash Monif, COO, Subatomic Studios

"For me the highlight of the year was seeing the growth of new content in PlayStation Home, with lots of cool new spaces to explore, SingStar, Ratchet & Clank and inFamous to name just a few. And in particular the success of special events such as the SingStar Dizzee Rascal party and Halloween which show a glimpse of the potential of the platform. I am really excited to see how PlayStation Home continues to evolve and grow next year and beyond."
David Hamblin, Principal Artist, PlayStation Home

"My 2009 highlight was probably inFamous – it’s the first game in which I experienced true gut-wrenching vertigo (the prison on the second island). Considering I’ve been playing games for about 30 years it’s great to know I can still experience new emotions with games. I also thought the enemy guys were kind of cute, in fact the whole game didn’t have blood and guts and was still a superb game. I think games just don’t need so much gratuitous stuff. For example, Fallout 3 for me would have been better without the splatter – still loved the game though!"
Dylan Cuthbert, President and Managing Director, Q-Games

"I am split about what has been the greatest highlight this year. The new model of PlayStation 3 is more accessible to people and I like the shape and style. I also think that we are all trying to push more out of both platforms with non-gaming media like PlayTV and VidZone through to ground-breaking titles like Uncharted 2: Among Thieves on PS3 and LittleBigPlanet on PSP. In pushing our own imagination we are making the whole entertainment experience richer for our community."
Mark Bunting, Producer, SCE Cambridge Studio (PlayTV)

"Naughty Dog won my heart again with Uncharted 2, which is every bit as awesome as the first one. Along with Modern Warfare 2, these games represent the pinnacle of AAA entertainment. Flower, which I played until I'd unlocked every trophy, was a joy to experience, incredibly emotive and at the same time great fun."
David Evans, Senior Programmer, PlayStation Home

"2009 was the year where we saw PlayStation 3 really come into its own. With the announcement of the new model at a lower price point and a year's worth of extremely diverse titles from Fat Princess to Killzone 2. I think the popularity and quality of the system is undeniable and very encouraging for PS3 developers. Really though, my PlayStation highlight was travelling home to Ireland to promote Zipper's next game MAG to the media there recently. After a 12-year absence, it was a trip that was both personally and professionally gratifying, especially seeing how dedicated the gaming community there has become."
Ed Byrne, Creative Director, Zipper Interactive

"While Uncharted 2 and Modern Warfare 2 really broke new ground in terms of cinematic gameplay and production values, I was completely hooked on Batman: Arkham Asylum, which nailed so many key elements for me, from the free flowing combat to a great story and clever riddles. The sheer quality of PlayStation 3 titles this year has been extraordinary, across so many different genres. PlayStation Store also grew in leaps and bounds, and really opened my eyes to some amazingly original games like Flower and Fat Princess."
Dan Durnin, Communications Manager, PlayStation Home

"My PlayStation highlight of the year was the launch of the new PlayStation 3 model. It gives families a great reason to join the PlayStation community: Dad can go on the most amazing action ride with Uncharted 2 while the kids will feel the magic with EyePet."
Nicolas Doucet, Senior Producer, SCE London Studio (EyePet)

"As a gamer, I loved playing an Infinity Ward shooter on PlayStation 3 for the first time. Modern Warfare 2 was an intense and awesome experience. Uncharted 2 is also amazing and a visitor to my house asked what film I was watching when they poked their head into the sitting room! As a developer, I'm so proud of the Relentless team who have delivered the excellent Buzz!: Quiz World and I'm excited about the release of Blue Toad Murder Files on PlayStation Network."
Andrew Eades, Executive Director, Relentless Software

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