PS3 ON THE WEB

THIS BLOG IS MOVING!

2009-10-15T15:48:00.001+01:00

DUE to the overwhelming success of my PlayStation 3 blog, I am now expanding to cover ALL the latest games consoles - at my new home echogamingguide.blogspot.com.
I will bring you the latest news, previews and reviews, as well as top tips and insights into what gamers really want to hear.
So, thanks for your support, please visit my new website - and bookmark it for future use!

Flashing yellow light of death!

2009-10-11T15:50:00.002+01:00

AS A former Xbox 360 owner, who finally gave up the ghost with the console after suffering 4 red rings of death, I turned to the PS3 as my salvation.
But now I have suffered the Sony equivalent - the yellow flashing light of death.
My 60gb console just stopped working, I repeatedly tried to start it up, to no avail, but luckily I was covered by warranty and have now said goodbye to my 60gb model - along with 4 usb ports, ps2 compatibility and card reader - and had it replaced with a slimline 250gb model, which is quieter, less obtrusive and still quite stylish.
But as this could happen to anyone, here are a couple of tips to follow in case the worst happens:
* Regularly back up your saved game files - if your console goes wrong, chances are you won't be able to boot it back up, along with all your saved games
* Take your discs out - again, if it won't start, you're disc will be stuck inside and if it is under warranty, it may still takes weeks for the game to be recovered and returned
* Change your password - if it is repaired or not, when you get a replacement console, it is best for security's sake just to change your password on your account, so there is no concern over the login details being copied.

250Gb PS3 is too late for me!

2009-09-25T10:41:00.003+01:00

SONY has finally confirmed the rumours are true about a 250Gb PS3 - but that won't really affect me, as I've just upgraded my original 60Gb version to a 250Gb!

Sony said: “Following the great success of the new, smaller, 120GB PS3, which sold over one million units in its first three weeks on sale, the 250GB model has the same hardware specifications as the current model, but with greater storage space, to offer consumers even more choice.”

From October 1, fans can spend £284.99 for a bundle containing a choice of two Platinum Hits or a copy of the PS3 exclusive superhero outing, inFamous. T
But from October 16, the bundle initiative will be expanded to include Naughty Dog’s hotly anticipated sequel, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.

As a long-time PS3 user, I would certainly recommend that the bigger the hard drive, the better. That's why I upgraded my 60Gb version (something that was easier than I thought it would be), as you soon use up space.

I was down to my last gig and a half, so the upgrade was worth it!

Rock on with Brutal Legends

2009-09-15T08:13:00.002+01:00

ACCORDING to VG247, BRUTAL LEGENDS will be making its demo debut on PSN this week.

BRUTAL LEGENDS is in development by Double Fine Production with developer Tim Schafer at the helm. BRUTAL LEGENDS has been in development for quite a while but is now getting ready to rock the gaming world.

Starring Jack Black as Eddie Riggs, a legendary roadie summoned to a heavy metal world where he must fight for the liberation of humanity from the demon Emperor Doviculus. It has been said that once the demo has been completed, millions of gamers worldwide will experience what is known as face-melting from so much ROCK! Yes literally.

PS3 sales go through the roof

2009-09-08T08:16:00.004+01:00

GREAT News for PS3 sales - they are rocketing!

I picked this bit of news from Playstation ThEvolution website, which will be great for everyone who wants to see the PS3 finally catch up the Xbox 36o and Wii:

"According to Gameindustry.biz, since the release of the PS3 Slim, sales have skyrocketed to over 1000%, no we did not make a mistake and add an extra zero, you read that correctly.

Not only has Sony been moving PS3’s at a frantic pace, PS3 software sales have also experienced a boost. Software sales have increased by 17 per cent and this is evident with the recent release of BATMAN: Arkham Asylum which shows the PS3 versions edging out it Xbox 360 counterpart in total units sold.

Despite the recent Xbox 360 price drop of the Elite model which has experienced sales to increase by 43%, Sony’s PS3 has still managed to outsell the Xbox 360 and also Nintendo’s Wii and DS units by approximately 3:1.

“I think what I’ve heard anecdotally is that this is the point people were waiting for - a redesigned model and, in Euros, a significant price reduction,” said Andrew House, president of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. “That’s people’s cue to jump into the business.”

These current sales numbers bold well for Sony going into the holiday months. With the upcoming release of exclusive titles in the form of UNCHARTED 2: Among Thieves, DEMONS SOUL’S, GRAN TURISMO 5 and the re-release of GOD OF WAR 1 & 2 on Blu-ray for the PS3, not to mention the highly anticipated multiplatform shooter MODERN WARFARE 2, the holiday are looking very exciting on the PS3 front."

Fantastic!

System Update tomorrow.....

2009-08-31T21:34:00.003+01:00

SO, IT'S the big system update tomorrow - let's hope it is as good as we are all hoping it will be.....

European PlayStation Store update August 27

2009-08-28T11:39:00.001+01:00

WELL, it looks like they sorted the problems yesterday, here is the latest update:

Price Reduction

Crash Commando (£3.99/€4.99)
In celebration of all the extra Crash Commando goodness released this week, you can take advantage of this reduced price for the full game until the 10th of September.
PEGI 12+

Downloadable Games

Smash Cars (£11.99/€14.99)
PEGI 3+

Battle Tanks (£7.99/€9.99)
PEGI 7+

Topatoi – (AU$15.95, $18.90 NZD) Has been added to the Australian and New Zealand Stores.
OFLAC 3

Demos (free)

NHL 10
PEGI 3+

F.E.A.R. 2: Reborn
PEGI 18+

Add-On Game Content

Fight Night Round 4

* Champions Pack (£3.99/€4.99)
* Content Pack 1 (free)

PEGI 16+

Batman: Arkham Asylum – Play As Joker (free)
PEGI 16+

Crash Commando

* Combo Pack (this combines the four packs below) (£3.99/€4.99)
* Heist Map Pack (£2.39/€2.99)
* Colonel Chaos and Army Chick Pack (£1.19/€1.49)
* Gangsta Rapper and Reggae Rasta Pack (£1.19/€1.49)
* Nukem Ninja and Maid Mayhem Pack (£1.19/€1.49)

PEGI 12+

Disgaea 3

* Action Prinny (£1.59/€1.99)
* Adell (£1.59/€1.99)
* Class World Command Attack (£3.19/€3.99)
* Curtis (£1.59/€1.99)
* Defender of Earth Set (£4.79/€5.99)
* Demon & Detective Set (£3.19/€3.99)
* Disgaea 2 Sacrebleu Set (£4.79/€5.99)
* Disgaea 2 Main Character Set (£3.99/€4.99)
* Dragon (£0.79/€0.99)
* Fake Heroes Set (£3.99/€3.19)
* Gig (£1.59/€1.99)
* Gordon (£1.59/€1.99)
* Hanako (£1.59/€1.99)
* Item World Command Attack Mode (£3.19/€3.99)
* Item World Survival Attack (£3.19/€3.99)
* Jennifer (£1.59/€1.99)
* Kogure (£1.59/€1.99)
* Makai Kingdom Main Character Package (£3.19/€3.99)
* Marjoly (£1.59/€1.99)
* Mid-Boss (£1.59/€1.99)
* Nekomata (£1.59/€1.99)
* Pram (£1.59/€1.99)
* Pierre (£1.59/€1.99)
* Prinny Curtis (£1.59/€1.99)
* Raspberyl Chapter 1 (£2.39/€2.99)
* Raspberyl Chapter 2 (£2.39/€2.99)
* Raspberyl Chapter 3 (£2.39/€2.99)
* Raspberyl Chapter 4 (£2.39/€2.99)
* Raspberyl Chapters 1-4 (£8.99/€11.25)
* Revya (£1.59/€1.99)
* Rozalin (£1.59/€1.99)
* Soul Nomad Set (£3.19/€3.99)
* Taro (£1.59/€1.99)
* Thursday (£1.59/€1.99)
* Tink (£1.59/€1.99)
* Yukimaru (£1.59/€1.99)
* Zetta (£1.59/€1.99)

PEGI 12+

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen – Character and Map Pack (£6.29/€7.99)
PEGI 12+

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed – Tatooine Mission Pack (£7.99/€9.99)
PEGI 16+

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 – Wolf Creek Course (£3.19/€3.99 – Introductory price for one week only)
PEGI 3+

LittleBigPlanet – VeraBee Original Sticker Pack (£1.59/€1.99)
PEGI 7+

Rock Band

* Don’t Stop by Fleetwood Mac (£0.99/€1.49)
* I Won’t Back Down by Tom Petty (£0.99/€1.49)
* Mony Mony by Billy Idol (£0.99/€1.49)
* Rebel Yell by Billy Idol (£0.99/€1.49)
* Runnin’ Down A Dream by Tom Petty (£0.99/€1.49)
* She’s A Genius by Jet (£0.99/€1.49)
* World Turning by Fleetwood Mac (£0.99/€1.49)

PEGI 12+

Videos (free)

* Batman: Arkham Asylum Villains Trailer
* IL2 Sturmovik: Birds of Prey Launch Trailer
* Castlevania: Lords of Shadow Gamescom 2009 Trailer
* Mini Ninjas Futo Vignette
* Mini Ninjas Shun Vignette
* Mini Ninjas Suzume Vignette
* Mini Ninjas Tora Vignette
* Crash Commando Characters Trailer
* Crash Commando Heist Map Pack Trailer

PlayStation Store via PSP and Media Go
Downloadable Games

* Dynasty Warriors (£13.99/€17.99)

PEGI 12+

Add-On Game Content (also available via the PS3 store)

Rock Band Unplugged

* Black Sunshine by White Zombie (£0.99/€1.49)
* She’s Not There by The Zombies (£0.99/€1.49)

PEGI 12+

Themes (free)

* Dissidia Final Fantasy Theme 12

PlayStation Network update problems

2009-08-27T21:11:00.002+01:00

JUST a quick note for anyone who is wondering why the store hasn't been updated - from the online forums, it appears there is a problem.
It seems some stuff is now online, but is not being shown under 'latest', but apparently they are working on it, so hopefully it should be sorted soon.
It will be interesting to see what goes on, especially as the next system update is due out on tuesday next week - will there be any extra special extra content online then?
Doubtful, I say.

European PlayStation Network store updated

2009-08-20T16:21:00.002+01:00

THERE are some cracking demos out today (Thursday) on the European update of the PlayStation Network.
Here goes with the full list for this week:

Demos (free)

Colin McRae DiRT 2
PEGI 3+

WET
PEGI 18+

Mini Ninjas
PEGI 7+

IL2 Sturmovik: Birds Of Prey
PEGI 7+
Add-On Game Content

Pain – Andy Dick Pack (£0.79/€0.99)
PEGI 16+

Zen Pinball – Street Fighter II Tribute Table (£1.59/€1.99)
PEGI 7+

Guitar Hero: World Tour – Duelling Banjos Track (£1.59/€1.99)
PEGI 12+

Rock Band

* Foo Fighters Pack 02 (this combines the below three Foo Fighters tracks in one pack) (£2.49/€2.99)
* All My Life by Foo Fighters (£0.99/€1.49)
* I’ll Stick Around by Foo Fighters (£0.99/€1.49)
* Lonely As You by Foo Fighters (£0.99/€1.49)
* I Predict A Riot by Kaiser Chiefs (£0.99/€1.49)
* I’m Shipping Up To Boston by Dropkick Murphys (£0.99/€1.49)
* Inside Out by Eve 6 (£0.99/€1.49)
* No Rain by Blind Melon (£0.99/€1.49)
* There’s No Other Way by Blur (£0.99/€1.49)

PEGI 12+

Videos (free)

* Modnation Racers Trailer
* Ratchet & Clank: A Crack In Time Gamescom Trailer
* Heavy Rain Gamescom Trailer
* LittleBigPlanet Water Trailer
* Tekken 6 Gamescom Trailer
* Trine Trailer
* Ratchet & Clank: A Crack In Time Comicon Trailer
* Front Mission Evolved Trailer
* Savage Moon Waldgeist Trailer
* Gamescom Sony Press Conference Part 1
* Gamescom Sony Press Conference Part 2
* Gamescom Sony Press Conference Part 3
* Gamescom Sony Press Conference Part 4
* PR Sizzler Trailer
* Avatar Game Day Trailer (Released on Friday the 21st of August)

Themes (free)

* Katamari Forever and Noby Noby Boy Theme
* PlayStation Store via PSP and Media Go

Downloadable Games

Wild Arms XF (£13.99/€17.99)
PEGI 12+

Riviera (£13.99/€17.99)
PEGI 12+

Warriors Orochi (£13.99/€17.99)
PEGI 12+

Colin McRae Rally 2005 (£7.99/€9.99)
PEGI 3+
Demo (free)

Dissidia Final Fantasy
PEGI 12+
Add-On Game Content (also available via the PS3 store)

Rock Band Unplugged

* A Favor House Atlantic by Coheed and Cambria (£0.99/€1.49)
* Heartbreaker by Pat Benatar (£0.99/€1.49)

PEGI 12+
Themes (free)

* Dissidia Final Fantasy Themes 8, 9 and 10

Videos (free)

* MotorStorm Arctic Edge Trailer

Mini Ninjas demo out this week

2009-08-18T08:19:00.002+01:00

A DEMO of the fun-looking Mini Ninjas game on the PS3 is out this week.

Eidos recently confirmed the release date of the demo which will be available for download for XBLA, PSN and PC Thursday, August 19.

The full game is still on schedule to be released September 8.

Prison Break to make its gaming debut

2009-08-17T09:44:00.003+01:00

FANS of the now-completed Prison Break TV series will be interested to learn that a gaming version is on its way to their PS3.

Video game publisher Deep Silver has announced a license agreement with Twentieth Century Fox to create a video game based on the TV series Prison Break.
The game will be out on the PC, Xbox 360 and PS3, with a 2010 release date.

The protagonist of the Prison Break game is Company agent Tom Paxton. He is sent to the Fox River State Penitentiary to find out why Michael Scofield (hero of the TV series), a man without a previous criminal record, became a bank robber. The storyline runs parallel to the first season of Prison Break: Paxton encounters several characters from the series and experiences key events from his own perspective.

According to the publisher, the action adventure Prison Break has all the markings of the award-winning TV series: a compelling story, distinct characters, and fast-paced action.

Using diverse climbing and stealth skills, the protagonist Paxton explores numerous locations of the series, all brought to life with great attention to detail.

I thought the TV series was great - it will be interesting to see how the game fares.

US PlayStation Network Store update August 13th

2009-08-14T07:47:00.001+01:00

HERE is the latest fun-filled update to the US site - it's just a shame the European site doesn't come this packed!

Downloadable Games

Marvel Vs Capcom 2 ($14.99)
Fans asked, and Capcom listened! One of the most popular fighting games of all time returns! MvC2 brings legendary characters from throughout Marvel and Capcom history to duke it out in an insane tag-team fighting experience. Featuring an unprecedented 56-character roster and now with HD support and online play, one of the best fighting games ever just got better!
ESRB Rated T
File size: 199 MB

PSone Classics PS3 / PSP

Dead In The Water ($5.99)
Jump into your powerboat and get ready for a wet and dangerous ride! Choose from 14 wacky characters and nine different courses spread across the world.
Rated E
File size: 91 MB

Ten Pin Alley ($5.99)
Welcome to Ten Pin Alley, where you can have all the fun of real bowling without having to rent the shoes. Choose from 12 different bowlers or customize your own in pursuit of bowling a perfect 300 game. Spice up the experience with Open Play, Team Play and Tournament Mode.
Rated E
File size: 102 MB

Tomb Raider ($9.99)
Take control of the most famous woman in gaming, in Lara’s original adventure that started it all. Explore massive prehistoric worlds, fight savage beasts and outwit rival treasure hunters. Fraught with intrigue, excitement and danger, Lara’s adventure takes her from the ancient ruins of the Incans to the lost city of Atlantis in search of the mysterious Scion.
Rated T
File size: 211 MB

Game Demos

Marvel Vs Capcom 2 Demo
Fans asked, and Capcom listened! One of the most popular fighting games of all time returns! MvC2 brings legendary characters from throughout Marvel and Capcom history to duke it out in an insane tag-team fighting experience. Featuring an unprecedented 56-character roster and now with HD support and online play, one of the best fighting games ever just got better!
Rated T
File size: 199 MB

Add-on Game Content

LittleBigPlanet MM Originals Pack 2 Historical ($3.99)
Create new levels or upgrade current ones with new building materials based on characters throughout history!
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Historical Costume Pack ($2.99)
Get new costumes based on characters through out history including Mozart, Ghengis Khan, Ada Lovelace, and Boudicca.
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Ada Lovelace Costume ($0.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this additional costume to dress him up as Ada Lovelace, daughter of poet Lord Byron and one of the first people to predict the future power of computers!
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Boudicca Costume ($0.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this additional costume to dress him up as the rebellious Boudicca, queen of the Britons!
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Ghengis Khan Costume ($0.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this additional costume to dress him up as Genghis Khan, the fearsome 13th century warlord who made the Mongol Empire the largest in the world!
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Mozart Costume ($0.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this additional costume to dress him up as 18th century classical composer and all-round musical genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart!
File size: 1.04 MB

PAIN: Knockin’ Bloks Mode ($1.99)
Welcome to Knockin’ Bloks, a new Single Player PAIN Mode that really tests your skills. Show off your accuracy in Shotbloks, where you have to aim carefully to score high. Then you can race the timer in Clockbloks and take down the castle as quickly as possible. Each of the two challenges in Knockin’ Bloks has five different layouts as well as Global Leaderboards so you can see where you stand against the rest of the world. See you in PAIN!
File size: 100 KB

PAIN Museum Environment ($5.99)
Put a little life into an otherwise bland and stiff museum with this new add-on environment for PAIN. With countless things to do like Ooching around the rails to taking flight on a rocket, to giving something special to that guy buffing the floors who always looks at you funny, this museum is never going to be the same. Hop in that launcher and get to work! Download this environment today!
File size: 100 KB

PAIN Smooth Jarvis Character (free)
Meet Smooth Jarvis, a veteran launchee complete with a new look, voice-over, poses (Double Pits To Chesty, anyone?), and plenty more of the PAINful attitude we know and love…and he’s FREE, brought to PAIN by the fine folks at Axe. Download Smooth Jarvis today, and Axe like you know!
File size: 100 KB

Cross Edge Big Strong Pack ($1.99)
Pick up this pack and outfit yourself with the latest gear!
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Additional Dungeon 5 (free)
Extend your adventure with this bonus dungeon!
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Stew Pack ($1.99)
Pick up this pack and outfit yourself with the latest gear!
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Unspoken Fear Pack ($1.99)
Pick up this pack and outfit yourself with the latest gear!
File size: 111 KB

Disgaea 3 DLC Complete Set ($49.99)
This is it. Get all the Disgaea 3 downloadable contents with this package. You won’t have to download everything one by one just click and install. This package also comes with a special custom theme.
File size: 1.24 MB

Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Arabian Armor Set (women) (free)
Arabian Armor Set (for women) – Get this new set of attire to customize your character’s appearance in Edit Mode.
File size: 3.44 MB

Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Wa Armor Set (women) (free)
Wa Armor Set (for women) – Get this new set of attire to customize your character’s appearance in Edit Mode.
File size: 3.45 MB

Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Mystic Armor Set (men) (free)
Mystic Armor Set (for men) – Get this new set of attire to customize your character’s appearance in Edit Mode.
File size: 3.41 MB

Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Shinobi Armor Set (men) (free)
Shinobi Armor Set (for men) – Get this new set of attire to customize your character’s appearance in Edit Mode.
File size: 3.48 MB

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

* Activision Music Track Pack (free) – Downloadable Track Pack for Guitar Hero World Tour featuring “Nothing All The Time” by H is Orange, “The Silence is Deafening” by Awaken and “I’ll Never Know” by Hundred Reasons. Please Note: Many songs are available both as singles and as part of a Track Pack, so please carefully consider your purchases before downloading.
File size: 118 MB

Madden NFL 10 Packs and Upgrades (x27) ($0.50 – $9.99)
Various packs and upgrades for Madden NFL 10!
File sizes: 100 KB each

Red Faction Guerrilla Demons of the Badlands Pack 1 ($9.99)
Set several years before the arrival of Alec Mason on Mars, take control of Samanya to lead the Marauder revolt. Take down the EDF with Spiker machine guns and new Marauder melee weapons. Search the Martian terrain in new Marauder vehicles and walkers. 10 new Guerrilla Actions and 10 unlockable achievements are included in this entirely new single player game.
File size: 444 MB

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

* “Clint Eastwood”— Gorillaz ($1.99)
* “Feel Good Inc.”— Gorillaz ($1.99)
* “Re-Hash”— Gorillaz ($1.99)
* Gorillaz Pack 01 ($5.49) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack: Gorillaz Pack 01. This pack includes: “Clint Eastwood,” “Feel Good Inc.,” and “Re-Hash” by Gorillaz.
* “Piece of My Heart”— Janis Joplin ($1.99)
* “Chest Fever (Live)”— The Band ($1.99)
* “Magic Bus (Live at Leeds)”— The Who ($1.99)
* “White Rabbit”— Jefferson Airplane ($1.99)

File sizes: 17 MB – 52 MB (singles), 116 MB (track pack)

Game Videos (free)

PULSE 8/13 Edition
Join host Christina Lee for PULSE presented by the PlayStation Network. This edition features arcade favorite MARVEL vs. CAPCOM 2, the classic rock of SingStar Queen, and Dynasty Warriors for your PSP. We also bring you an update on PlayStation Home as well as new video releases Best Ranger Competition and 17 Again, starring Zac Efron.
File size: 247 MB (HD), 411 MB (1080)

Alpha Protocol Gameplay Walkthrough #2
File size: 209 MB (HD)

Darksiders Comic Con Trailer
File size: 61 MB (HD)

Mini Ninjas Tora Vignette
File size: 62 MB (HD)

Battle Tanks Trailer
File size: 19 MB (SD)

Astro Tripper Trailer
File size: 54 MB (HD)

Unbound Saga Between The Panels Issue 3
File size: 23 MB (SD)
Themes

Azmodeus Dark Angels Theme 4 ($1.49)
File size: 3.16 MB

Metal Battalion Maidens Theme 3 ($1.49)
File size: 4.83 MB

Amplified Theme ($1.49)
File size: 5.49 MB

World’s Apart Theme ($1.49)
File size: 4.62 MB

Lingerie Football League ($1.99)
File size: 5.87 MB

Disgaea 3: All Star Theme ($0.99)
File size: 1.17 MB

Fear 2: Reborn Theme ($1.99)
File size: 5.76 MB
Wallpaper (free)

Fat Princess Wallpaper 1
File size: 887 KB (SD) 1.31 MB (1080)
PlayStation Store for PSP
Add-on Game Content

Rock Band Unplugged (also available from PS3 storefront)
Build your Rock Band Unplugged library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.

* “The Number of the Beast”— Iron Maiden ($1.99)
* “The Trooper”— Iron Maiden ($1.99)

File sizes: 19 MB – 21 MB

Game Videos (free)

PULSE 8/13 Edition
File size: 47 MB

Unbound Saga: Between the Panels issue 3
File size: 11 MB
PSP Themes

Amplified PSP Theme ($1.49)
File size: 319 KB

World’s Apart PSP Theme ($1.49)
File size: 398 KB

Lingerie Football League PSP Theme ($1.99)
File size: 524 KB

Azmodeus Dark Angels PSP Theme 7 ($0.99)
File size: 532 KB

Azmodeus Dark Angels PSP Theme 8 ($0.99)
File size: 482 KB

PlayStation Network store update

2009-08-07T10:24:00.002+01:00

Here's this week's US playStation Network store update:

Qore Annual Subscription: August 2009 ($24.99)
Qore: Presented by the PlayStation Network is a high-definition monthly interactive video production covering the world of PlayStation. Qore provides its audience with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to upcoming titles from both the SCE Worldwide Studios and third-party developers across the globe.
File size: 1.55 GB

Qore Episode 15: August 2009 ($2.99)
Episode 15 of Qore: Presented by the PlayStation Network transports viewers to the massively multiplayer battlefields of MAG, jumps into Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2, rolls on with Katamari Forever and gets its kicks with Tekken 6.
File size: 1.55 GB

Downloadable Games

Crystal Defenders ($9.99)
Crystal Defenders is a defensive strategy game in which players deploy popular jobs from FINAL FANTASY Tactics A2, such as Black Mages and Soldiers, to fend off encroaching enemy hordes and prevent them from stealing their party’s crystals.
ESRB Rated E
File size: 52 MB

TV Show King ($9.99)
Confront friends and family in a TV quiz game show! Try to answer fun and challenging trivia questions, from the classics to original stumpers, spanning history, geography, literature, science, sports, and entertainment! Make it to the finals and see who can win the greatest amount of cash in one final, deciding duel. TV Show King will challenge your brain!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 220 MB

Game Demos

Rag Doll Kung Fu Demo
All the puppets were kung fu fighting! Rag Doll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic is a unique party fighting game featuring hilarious, customizable kung fu puppets that deliver a sharp jab to the funny bone!
Rated E10+
File size: 669 MB

Batman: Arkham Asylum Demo
Experience a twisted and gritty adventure that takes you to the depths of ARKHAM ASYLUM.
Rated T
File size: 1.01 GB

Crystal Defenders Demo
Crystal Defenders is a defensive strategy game in which players deploy popular jobs from FINAL FANTASY Tactics A2, such as Black Mages and Soldiers, to fend off encroaching enemy hordes and prevent them from stealing their party’s crystals.
Rated E
File size: 32 MB

Worms Demo
The Worms are coming to PLAYSTATION 3, and this time they mean war! Battle up to three other players offline or online on one of six landscape themes, utilising a selection of classic Worms weaponry: from the famed Bazooka to the devastating Banana Bomb. With a fine selection of single player battles and plenty of ways to customise your annelid army, it’s a package sky-high on entertainment!
Rated E10+
File size: 45 MB

Add-on Game Content

Savage Moon Waldgeist Add-On ($4.99)
This action-packed tower defense strategy game takes you to distant planets where you must defend mining facilities from relentless Insectocyte monsters. Build towers in strategic locations to fend off the attackers, then use funds from kills and mining to build, upgrade, or research new weapons and technologies to strengthen your defenses. It will take equal parts skill and strategy to survive in Savage Moon.
File size: 117 KB

LittleBigPlanet inFamous Costumes Pack ($1.99)
Check out this new Sackboy costume inspired by Cole from inFAMOUS!
File size: 1.04 MB

Call of Duty: World at War Map Pack 3 ($9.99)
Call of Duty: World at War Map Pack 3 further expands the COD multiplayer experience with four new maps. Fight for ocean territory in “Battery,” defend Russia’s resources in “Revolution,” and battle through the dense city streets of “Breach.” Zombies return in “Der Riese” (Zombie Factory), a Nazi research facility featuring the weapon upgrading Pack A Punch Machine, teleporters, and 10 Trophies.
File size: 894 MB

Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood Old West Map Pack ($9.99)
Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood Old West Map Pack continues to expand the addictive CoJ multiplayer experience with four new maps. Players fight through the bloody battlefields of “Little Bighorn”, relive a famous gold theft in “Vulture Mine”, and attempt to shoot their way out of prison in “Fort Smith” and “Elmira Prison Camp.”
File size: 268 MB

Cross Edge Latest Technology Pack ($1.99)
Pick up this pack and outfit yourself with the latest gear!
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Pretty Little Pack ($1.99)
Pick up this pack and outfit yourself with the latest gear!
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Trial Edition Pack (free)
2500G, 500EP, 50PP, and 100TP MIGHT just help you survive Hard Mode.
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Additional Dungeon 4 (free)
Extend your adventure with this bonus dungeon!
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Enigma Synth Pack (2) (free)
Add a few extra items to your inventory with this free pack!
File size: 111 KB

Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires: Additional Music Set 3 (free)
Add these additional “Dynasty Warriors” music tracks to the game’s BGM Select screen.
File size: 18 MB

GTI Club Plus ($1.99)
Add four exciting new cars to the high speed arcade racer GTI Club+. The Abarth 500, the BMW Mini Cooper, the Peugeot 207 GT and the VW Polo GTI are four modern classics that suit the narrow, winding streets of the Cote D’Azure perfectly.
File size: 11 MB

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

* “Camel’s Night Out” by Eric Johnson ($1.99)

File size: 50 MB

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

* “America”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Big Bottom”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Cups and Cakes”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “(Funky) Sex Farm”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Gimme Some Money”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Heavy Duty”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Hell Hole”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “(Listen to the) Flower People (Reggae Stylee)”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Rock ‘n’ Roll Creation”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Stonehenge”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* “Tonight I’m Gonna Rock You Tonight”— Spinal Tap ($1.99)
* Spinal Tap’s TAP TEN – ($17.99) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack: Spinal Tap’s TAP TEN. This pack includes “Tonight I’m Gonna Rock You Tonight,” “Stonehenge,” “Rock ‘n’ Roll Creation,” “Cups & Cakes,” “Gimme Some Money,” “Hell Hole,” “America,” “Heavy Duty,” “Big Bottom,” “(Listen to the) Flower People (Reggae Stylee),” and “(Funky) Sex Farm” by Spinal Tap

File sizes: 11 MB – 36 MB (singles), 292 MB (track pack)

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2010 Cog Hill Golf & CC ($4.99)
Play like a pro on the course where the PGA’s Western Open is hosted every year. The signature hole is number 6, a long par 3 with a two-tiered green that slopes toward the front and is surrounded by six deep sand bunkers. Cog Hill has something to offer players at every level.
File size: 195 MB

Game Videos (free)

TV Show King Trailer (English, French and Spanish versions)
File sizes: 8.49 MB – 9.38 MB (SD)

Watchmen The End Is Nigh Part 2 Launch Trailer
File size: 63 MB (1080)

Watchmen The End Is Nigh Part 2 The Complete Experience Launch Trailer
File size: 69 MB (1080)

G Force The Video Game Trailer
File size: 88 MB (1080)

Mini Ninjas Futo Gameplay Trailer
File size: 50 MB (HD)

Mini Ninjas Futo Vignette
File size: 62 MB (HD

Mini Ninjas Shun Vignette
File size: 67 MB (HD)

Unbound Saga Between the Panels Issue 2
File size: 19 MB (SD)

Themes

College Football Themes (x5) (Arkansas, Clemson, Colorado, Illinois and Missouri) ($1.99 each)
File sizes: 4.61 MB – 5.28 MB
PlayStation Store for PSP

Downloadable Games

Dynasty Warriors ($14.99) (also available from PS3 storefront)
Dynasty Warriors transports you to the virtual battlefields of Ancient China to experience the thrill of fighting legions of ruthless enemy soldiers. Choose up to 42 characters, each wielding powerful weapons and lethal fighting skills.
ESRB Rated T
File size: 115 MB

Add-on Game Content

Hannah Montana: Rock Out The Show Musicians Wardrobe Add-On (free) (also available from PS3 storefront)
Style your musicians with cool new wardrobe pieces in this download pack. Get 5 new items to create more unique looks for the ultimate style for your dancers.
File size: 1.08 MB

Hannah Montana: Rock Out The Show Moment Maker Special Effects Add-On (free) (also available from PS3 storefront)
Pump-up your performance with new special effects for your Rock star Moments with this download pack. Get 5 new special effects to create even more cool Moments for your performances.
File size: 1.18 MB

Hannah Montana: Rock Out The Show Stage Prop Add-On (free) (also available from PS3 storefront)
Enhance your selection of rock star stage props with this download pack. Get 4 new stage pieces to create more custom looks and rock the stage for your fans.
File size: 1.05 MB

Hannah Montana: Rock Out The Show Fashions Add-On (free) (also available from PS3 storefront)
Expand your wardrobe with exciting new looks in this download pack. Get 5 new fashions for Hannah and create even more rock star looks for the stage.
File size: 1.05 MB

Rock Band Unplugged (also available from PS3 storefront)
Build your Rock Band Unplugged library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.

* “Had a Dad”— Jane’s Addiction ($1.99)
* “Renegade”— Styx ($1.99)

File sizes: 17 MB – 18 MB

Game Videos (free)

Unbound Saga: Between the Panels Issue 2
File size: 9.72 MB

Batman demo on the Network this week

2009-08-04T07:53:00.002+01:00

BATMAN fans, be prepared - The Playstation Network will be receiving the BATMAN: Arkham Asylum demo this week, as Eidos has announced.
Users will be able to take control of the Dark Knight as he brings The Joker to justice. As users investigate Arkham Asylum, they will also be able look at criminal files and occassionally go bat-crazy on some crazed inmates as The Joker eventually break free and causes havok and chaos within Arkham Asylum.
This game looks really cool from the videos of the gameplay I have seen - let's hope it plays just as good.

Fat Princess is coming!

2009-07-29T08:38:00.003+01:00

MUCH anticipated and slightly controversial title Fat Princess, a downloadable game for the PlayStation 3, developed by Titan Studios and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, is out tomorrow (Thursday, July 30).
The game will cost $14.99 in the U.S. and £11.99 in the UK.In Fat Princess, the player joins one of two opposing teams consisting of up to 16 cartoon characters, each with the goal of rescuing their team's princess from the other team's castle (similar in many respects to capture the flag modes found in other multiplayer video games). In order to make their opponents' task more difficult, players can feed captive princesses more and more food so that she will become heavier and harder to carry back to her respective castle.^[5]

Players may change their character classes and abilities on the fly by picking up hats that are generated at their team's base. Hats can also be found on the battlefield where enemies have fallen. The game's five classes include mage, priest, warrior, worker, and ranger. Each class has its own unique set of weapons and abilities.

Uncharted 2 release date revealed

2009-07-22T08:58:00.003+01:00

UNCHARTED 2: Among Thieves has finally received a release date of October 13 in the US, which usually means a few days after that, we'll get it here in the UK.
Tthe unveiling of the official UNCHARTED 2 box art shows Drake hanging for dear life - but of course this is all in a day's work.

In addition there are added pre-order features to mix up the experience, but these added features are only playable depending on where you pre-order from.

UNCHARTED 2 looks fantastic and appears to have a great single player campaign along with an impressive multiplayer and cooperative mode.

GTA style missions for Assassin's Creed 2

2009-07-13T11:11:00.002+01:00

UBISOFT says its time-hopping stealth adventure game Assassin's Creed 2 will release simultaneously on all platforms on November 17, 2009.
The game promises some interesting new additions. The flying mechanic was one of the more interesting parts of the playable demo shown at E3. Using wings created by Renaissance inventor Leonardo Da Vinci, Ezio can swoop and fly through the streets of Venice using the drafts of burning fires to add altitude to his gliding trajectory.

The developers provided some other interesting details about the length of the main quest (longer than the 20-hour original game) as well as the weapons that Ezio will have at his disposal. They mentioned a hammer, axe and long pike among the new arms that Ezio can use to defeat enemy soldiers.
Most importantly, fans will be glad to know that the original pattern of eavesdropping, pickpocket and punching bag missions has been completely revised in this game. No longer will the player have to slog through a line of repetitive subquests -- instead, missions will be doled out by various factions in the city Grand Theft Auto style.

This game is certainly looking promising - let's hope this time its not just more 'style over substance'.

Demos galore for Euro PlayStation Network update

2009-07-10T09:59:00.003+01:00

TO MAKE up for a couple of weeks of poor updates, Sony have replied with a great new update to the PlayStation Network in Europe and the UK.
This week we have demos including Ghostbusters, a fun game that my friend keeps harking on at me to buy so we can play online co-op.
Also available to download is a playable demo of Fuel, a Motorstorm-a-like which will get the adrenalin running.
And last up - one I've been waiting for for ages - is Battlefield 1943, the online World War Two first-person battleground game which I know and loved from my PC gaming days.
It's now here in all its Next-Gen glory, and this demo lets you play for 30 minutes for free - or you can snap it up for just £9.99 to play to your heart's content.
Let's hope every weekly update can keep up with the quality of this one!

PS3 backwards compatibility on the cards?

2009-06-30T08:09:00.003+01:00

AS ONE of the lucky few(!)who have a PS3 that can play PS2 games, it could be that the rest of you PS3 owners could also soon be playing PS2 games soon

A patent filed on the Emotion Engine technology for Cell Processors by Sony Computer Entertainment in the US, could mean that Sony is gearing up for the release of a potential firmware update that will allow all PS3 users the ability to play PS2 games.

PS3s without PS2 backwards compatibility are missing the Emotion Engine, a chip Sony designed as the PS2’s CPU. What if the PS3’s cell processor could emulate the Emotion Engine, then in theory, all PS3s would be able to play PS2 games even if a console didn’t have the proper hardware.

There aren’t too many reasons why Sony would want the PS3’s Cell processor to emulate the PS2’s Emotion Engine and the key one is backwards compatibility.

Doesn't look like PS1 is catered for, though.

A cool - and chilling -trailer.....

2009-06-26T13:36:00.002+01:00

OKAY, I know this isn't strictly (at all) about gaming - but this movie trailer really has to be seen to be believed....

PlayStation Network store update

2009-06-19T09:45:00.002+01:00

HERE is this week's PlayStation Network store update for June 18 - and this time I've let you see the US version, so you see what us Euro gamers are missing out on!

Just remember, you can gain access to the US store by creating a new profile with a US address - trawl the net and you should find out how to do this quite easily! Here goes:

Qore

Qore Annual Subscription - June 2009 ($24.99)
Qore: Presented by the PlayStation Network is a monthly interactive video production covering the world of PlayStation. Qore provides its audience with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to developers and their games, from both the SCE Worldwide Studios and the third-party community, where the audience member can freely navigate through the content.
File size: 1.12 GB

Qore Episode 13 - June 2009 ($2.99)
Episode 13 of Qore: Presented by the PlayStation Network showcases a hero’s evolution in inFAMOUS and enters the ring for Fight Night Round 4. Veronica Belmont auditions for the Frag Dolls, and the PSPgo is revealed at last! An exclusive inFAMOUS theme and Qore T-shirts for Home are available to all purchasers. In addition, all purchasers will receive the PSone classic Spyro the Dragon (Limited time offer, expires July 31, 2009). Annual subscribers will also receive the full game of High Velocity Bowling.
File size: 1.12 GB

PSone Classics PS3 / PSP

Metal Gear Solid ($9.99)
The game that helped make Metal Gear into one of the biggest franchises in video game history has been re-born! Experience the first Metal Gear to appear on the PlayStation platform, Metal Gear Solid, marks the series’ jump into 3D graphics and true stealth action gaming.
ESRB Rated M
File size: 780 MB

Game Demos (free)

NCAA Football 10 Demo
Now you can settle who has the most school pride once and for all with NCAA Football 10. The all-new Season Showdown ensures that everything you do counts toward your goal of helping your school become the best in the nation. From all-new risk-reward strategic gameplay options to the revolutionary online create-a-school feature TeamBuilder, make a historic run for the national championship with NCAA Football 10.
File size: 1.90 GB

Add-on Game Content

MotorStorm Pacific Rift Jester Signature Livery Pack (free)
Make your vehicle stand out from the crowd with this exclusive MotorStorm Pacific Rift livery pack, available for a limited time only from PlayStation Store.
Reminder: to use this download, you must own MotorStorm Pacific Rift.
File size: 100 KB

Cross Edge Wanderer Pack (free)
In need of some stronger healing items? We’ve got you covered!
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Power-Up Pack (free)
Scale up your skills with these ability-enhancing items.
File size: 111 KB

Cross Edge Departure Pack (free)
Did you bring your handkerchief, tissues, and a few extra cure items? If not, look no further!
File size: 111 KB

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

“Guitar Hero On Tour: Modern Hits Theme” - S.U.P.R.A.H.U.M.A.N (free)
“Fly One Time” by Ben Harper and Relentless7 ($1.99)
“Number With No Name” by Ben Harper and Relentless7 ($1.99)
“Shimmer & Shine” by Ben Harper and Relentless7 ($1.99)
Ben Harper and Relentless7 Track Pack ($5.49) - Downloadable Track Pack for Guitar Hero World Tour featuring “Fly One Time,” “Number With No Name,” and “Shimmer & Shine” by Ben Harper and Relentless7.

File sizes: 32 MB - 44 MB (singles), 110 MB (track pack)

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

“Back From the Dead” — Spinal Tap ($1.99)
“Rock ‘n’ Roll Nightmare” — Spinal Tap ($1.99)
“Saucy Jack” — Spinal Tap ($1.99)
“Warmer Than Hell” — Spinal Tap ($1.99)
Spinal Tap Pack 1 ($6.99) - Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack featuring “Back From the Dead,” “Rock ‘n’ Roll Nightmare,” “Saucy Jack,” and “Warmer Than Hell” by Spinal Tap.
“Bring Me to Life” — Evanescence ($1.99)
“Call Me When You’re Sober” — Evanescence ($1.99)
“Weight of the World” — Evanescence ($1.99)
Evanescence Pack 1 ($5.49) - Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack featuring “Bring Me to Life,” “Call Me When You’re Sober,” and “Weight of the World” by Evanescence.

File sizes: 14 MB - 33 MB (singles), 86 MB - 98 MB (track pack)

Game Videos (free)

Mini Ninjas E3 Trailer
File size: 75 MB (HD)

PS3 Themes

American Pride Theme ($1.49)
File size: 5.71 MB

Jungle Jane Theme ($1.99)
File size: 5.69 MB

Warrior Girls Theme ($1.49)
File sizes: 6.32 MB

Azmodeus Dark Angels Theme 3 ($1.49)
File sizes: 4.35 MB

4th of July Pinups Theme ($1.49)
File sizes: 3.15 MB

PlayStation Store for PSP

Downloadable Games

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 ($19.99) (also available from PS3 storefront)
Scott Mitchell, the leader of the ghosts, is sent south of the Panama border to eliminate guerrilla forces believed to be trafficking high-tech weapons to rebel forces.
ESRB Rated T
File size: 665 MB

PSP Themes

American Pride PSP Theme ($1.49) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File size: 595 KB

Jungle Jane PSP Theme ($1.49) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File size: 425 KB

Warrior Girls PSP Theme ($1.49) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File sizes: 540 KB

Azmodeus Dark Angels PSP Theme 5 ($0.99) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File sizes: 571 KB

Azmodeus Dark Angels PSP Theme 6 ($0.99) (also available from PS3 storefront)
File sizes: 551 KB

PS3 exclusive from Rockstar emerges

2009-06-16T17:17:00.003+01:00

YET another PS3 exclusive game is on its way - and this one should definitely be one to watch, as it comes from Rockstar.
Sony made the announcement at E3 of its latest Rockstar exclusive, AGENT. The team that has brought us the Grand Theft Auto franchise will be looking to make the most of the PS3 processing power, that's for sure.Unfortunately no gameplay footage or images were present.
Of course no leaks have yet surfaced on AGENT and as we have seen from the current and upcoming PS3 exclusives you can definitely expect a high level of production value.
Rockstar and exclusive PS3 usage definitely sounds like a perfect combination, and we are finally starting to see the Xbox 360 get left behind in the PS3's wake - this could possibly become an Xbox-killer.

New motion controller for the PS3

2009-06-03T12:06:00.003+01:00

NOT one to be left behind, Sony has given the public the first view of its new game controller for the Sony PlayStation 3.

The Motion Controller for PS3 uses two controllers that work in conjunction with the Sony PlayStation Eye.

The firm said it was a technology demo, but then said the new system would be available early next year.

The news follows Microsoft's announcement on Monday of a controller-free control system it is calling Project Natal.

The Motion Controller for PS3 works in a similar way to Nintendo's Wii controller. A sensor sits on top of the TV and detects the position, distance and movement of two controllers held in a user's hand.

The device can not only measure where the controllers are in relation to each other, but also how close they are to the sensor, meaning you can create true 3D movement within a game.

The tech demo looks impressive (view it at http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/8080511.stm ) but we will have to wait and see if the games developers can make full use of the potential it offers.

Sony PSP Go! handheld to be revealed

2009-06-01T09:40:00.005+01:00

THERE has been plenty of speculation that Sony could be unveiling its new slide enabled handheld all-in-one device, code named PSP G0! - and that could happen this week.
Leaked footage of Sony’s new PSP has surfaced, as these photos show. Sony are expected to announce its new PSP Go! handheld on Tuesday during the E3 conference held in Los Angeles, California.

Sony’s new PSP Go! is believed to come equipped with 16gb of memory, bluetooth ready and the ability to link it to your mobile phone.
The remote play function of operating your PS3 from any wi-fi hot spot is also included with the new PSP Go!
No UMD functions were mentioned, so it will be interesting to see if this has been ditched, more likely in favour of flash cards.

E3 2009 predictions

2009-05-18T21:17:00.000+01:00

WITH E3 2009 just around the corner, there is plenty of talk about what Sony has in store for us lucky PS3 owners.
E3 is building up to be one of the best in years, and the rumour-mongers have plenty of suggestions as to what's on the way. They include:
*White and Silver PS3 colors announced for North America - so, what's gonna come to Europe then?
*PS3 gets a motion controller - expected to be revealed with a motion detection camer and controllers. Got a lot to do to take the Wii's crown.
*Shadow of the Colossus 2 - could be a massive game!
*Playable version of God of War 3 - fantastic.
*PS3 Price Cut - Long overdue, we need a cut, even a modest one, to keep hardware sales moving.
*Playable version of Heavy Rain - still not sure about this one, but hopefully it will emerge as a contender.
Hmmm, let's hope we're not disappointed....

Call of Duty 6 trailer is here!

2009-05-13T09:59:00.002+01:00

FOR all you Call of Duty fans, here is the latest trailer for the forthcoming release in this great first-person series. Enjoy!

Be a pinball wizard on the PS3

2009-05-09T15:15:00.001+01:00

THIS is the trailer to Zen Pinball, which is on its way to the PlayStation Network next week.
It looks the dogs, so let's hope it plays as good as it looks.

Vidzone music vids coming to PS3

2009-05-06T12:18:00.003+01:00

SONY Computer Entertainment Australia announced a new service coming exclusively to the PlayStation 3 - Vidzone.
The new service is an optional download that places a new icon on the cross-media bar (XMB), allowing access to a massive number of music videos on demand.
VidZone will also be bringing live concert videos, as well as behind the scenes, interviews and making of footage, to your TV when it launches on PS3.
The service itself, which is listed under 'music' on the XMB as a small TV set with a 'Z' in it, is free to all PS3 owners who choose to install the application. However, revenue appears to be generated from ad placement within the browser window.
While in the Vidzone, you can search for artists, by track, genre or album and you can save playlists. The menu is a simple up/down scroll through letters, rather than the pop-up menu generally used.
That's not all - the service also allows you to set up playlists on your PSP while you're on the go, so they're cued up when you get home to your PS3 console.
Region-specific content is also on the way, and Sony hopes to have 10,000 videos on the service in the near future.
Let's hope Europe doesn't get forgotten on this, like we normally are with other new services.

MAGS beta on the way

2009-05-06T09:07:00.002+01:00

MUCH-anticipated MMO shooter MAGS is getting closer to release - and a lucky few of us(!) will hopefully get the chance to try it out before the rest.
It has been officially announced that a beta of the game is to be released in the not-too-distant future, allowing the lucky chosen few to have first look at the game, which will allow up to 256 people to play together online.
If this works as everyone hopes it will, it could be the biggest game to hit the PS3 so far - and would undoubtedly boost hardware sales.
So, fingers crossed - and let's hope a beta key wings its way this way!

Unchartered 2 Among Thieves multiplayer rocks!

2009-04-29T07:43:00.002+01:00

HERE is the first footage of the multiplayer side of Unchartered 2: Among Thieves, which really does look the business!
Let's hope they release a demo online before the game is released - that would certainly send sales rocketing, by the looks of it.

Protect your PS3 web browser

2009-04-28T08:27:00.003+01:00

ANTI-virus developer Trend Micro is now offering free protection for the PlayStation 3 Web browser.

With the latest update of PS3 Firmware 2.70, Trend Micro is offering a trial service for the PlayStation 3 Web browser in two varieties.

The first is a Web filter, which will help you filter out adult content and spam to keep your children safe on the web. The filter will remove images and search results of innappropriate matter as well as block known Web sites that contain adult content and illegal matter.
The second is a privacy lock, that helps protect your personal data such as email addresses, passwords and credit card information from falling into the wrong hands. The filter also eliminates most spoof sites of your favorite web destinations, like Paypal knockoffs and Ebay shams.

While security on the PlayStation 3 has never been an issue, it is nice to know that a company is stepping up to offer services to the unique platform, providing an added peace of mind to an ever-growing market.

It is reassuring to know that you can surf the web on the PS3, safe in the knowledge that you're being protected.

The software is currently available for free for a limited time, while Trend Micro works out the kinks. To take advantage of this offer, open your PlayStation 3's web browser, hit Triangle on your controller, and scroll down to 'Browser Security'. Click on the 'Trend Micro for PS3' link and follow the instructions.

Wolfenstein trailer is here!

2009-04-21T08:33:00.001+01:00

HERE is the first look at the new Wolfenstein trailer, on its way to the PS3. It looks really cool!

PS3 gaming on the cheap

2009-04-20T10:04:00.003+01:00

MY GAMING collection on the PS3 has expanded quite rapidly over the past few months, and that is down to one thing - price.
If you look back 12 months ago, even the older PS3 games had a price tag of £20 or over, as there still wasn't much to choose from. But now, developers have finally embraced the PS3 and there is a wealth of games to choose from.
And the main impact of that is that older titles now still need to sell, so shops are finally getting the message and cutting the prices to shift them.
This month I picked up a copy of Baja for £7.99 - now admittedly, it's not the best racing title on the market, but I'll still get my money's worth. And just last weekend I picked up a copy of the original F.E.A.R. on the PS3 for just £4. For that price, you can't really loose.
Now that originals are coming down in price, let's hope Sony follow suit and start cutting the prices of PlayStation Network titles - especially those that don't have a demo to play first, as us buyers are more likely to make a purchase of a game we haven't or can't play, if it is cheap enough (although the best solution is to make sure there are demos of ALL Network games, to entice us to buy).

Thief game is coming?

2009-04-16T16:44:00.003+01:00

I WAS always a big fan of the Thief game deries on the PC - and it now looks as if the next instalment may be on its way (hopefully on the PS3)!
Eidos Montreal has teased its next project on its official site, and the font delivering the message has led to speculation that the unannounced game could be Thief 4.
At the moment Eidos Montreal is at work on Deus Ex 3, the latest instalment in the espionage first-person series that's been shrouded in mystery, with few details having made it beyond the studio walls.
A post on the developer's official site says the studio's next project will be revealed soon, employing a font familiar to fans of the Thief series. Scant details indeed, but enough to stir forums into a speculating frenzy.
The Thief games are held in high regard, with the last instalment, Deadly Shadows, and were ahead of their time with the whole 'sneak, not shoot' tactics now employed by such greats as Metal Gear Solid.
Here's hoping the rumours will be true.

New Killzone 2 downloadable content!

2009-04-11T16:46:00.000+01:00

Worms PS3 gameplay video

2009-04-08T08:26:00.000+01:00

Worming its way....

2009-04-07T17:40:00.002+01:00

PREPARE to squirm - as Worms are wriggling their way back onto the PlayStation, and this time you can download it off the Network!
Worms is one of my all-time favourite classic games, and I have to admit, I've been waiting a long time for a decent version to appear.
Now those great gaming gods have come up with a great new retro-version for the PS3 - and I can't wait to see what it is like.
Apparently the 'new' version has been fully expanded and features additional retro-styled landscapes, a wide-variety of team voices, additional graphic features and effects, a much more responsive physics engine, 1080p support and four additional weapons including the much loved Holy Hand Grenade, Super Sheep and Concrete Donkey.
I can't wait to start throwing those banana bombs.....

April Fool's.... sadly!

2009-04-01T13:01:00.003+01:00

YES, I admit, the new Next Gen console story was an April Fool's joke.
But, in an ideal world, it would be true. Just think, if Microsoft and Sony pulled together, combined their resources and came up with a console which had the best bits of the PS3 with those of the Xbox 360?
I know, I know, it will never happen - too much competition and pride in there. But, with costs especially under scrutiny in these difficult times, just think what they could do together - and just imagine the console they would create that would be a true gamers' dream.....

Rising to the Buzz! challenge

2009-03-31T11:23:00.000+01:00

SWOTS at Loughborough University have swatted their Aston University rivals at a university challenge with a difference.
Students from the two Midlands universities battled it out over the internet using the popular PlayStation 3 quiz game Buzz!, with the town team triumphing over their Birmingham counterparts 3,764 to 3,690.
The winning students received £50 cash each, PSPs handheld consoles and a free bar tab for the evening.
Similar contests are continuing to take place nationwide, with the leaderboard-topping university announced soon.
The overall highest-scoring campus will then have a £25,000 “house party” laid on by the Buzz! team.

New Next Gen console revealed!

2009-03-31T08:15:00.001+01:00

READ it here first - details have been leaked on hightechlatest.org that Sony and Microsoft are secretly working together to create the next, Next Generation games console to corner the market.
The console, codenamed PS720, appears to combine the best bits of both consoles and, if it does go ahead, would surely dominate the gaming world by basically giving them everything they want in one package.
The details are sketchy, but it would appear that at the heart of the console would be an upgraded PS3 processor, 300gb detachable hard drive, and it would feature Bluray, wi-fi and bluetooth connectivity, integrated wireless headset, detachable hi-def camera and an adapted dualshock controller based on the Xbox 360 design.
There is also talk of a combined Microsoft/Sony online network, that would be available for a minimal charge, but would obviously allow users to access online gaming, the web, Microsoft and Sony stores and back catalogues.
And the best bit about it? The console would be backwards compatible for PS3 AND Xbox 360!
To see the full posting, including apparent early design artwork, visit hightechlatest.org/forpilsaol.htm

Virtual reality.... within a virtual world?

2009-03-26T17:02:00.000Z

SO, THIS could confuse you....
PlayStation Home is launching a new alternate reality game called Xi, which will run within the Home world itself.
Mysterious graffiti has appeared in the main square area, and looking at it gives you access to The Hub, where a new Alternate Reality Game opens up.
From what I've heard, you complete tasks within this which open up further missions or tasks - haven't had a chance to try it yet, but it sounds intriguing.
Let's hope this gives a much-needed boost to PlayStation Home.

Bioshock 2 on PS3 and 360 at same time?

2009-03-23T15:37:00.000Z

IN A great move for PS3 fans, press reports reveal that BioShock 2 will not be a timed-exclusive like the first game.

Apparently, 2K Games said they were aiming for simultaneous release of BioShock 2 on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. It's about time these daft timed exclusives are dropped - unless its a console-exclusive game, all this does is infuriate dedicated fans by having to wait to see the same game come out on their system.

It looks like this time you can welcome in Big Sister as the main attraction in the sequel!

A real Buzz! for students in the UK

2009-03-12T15:56:00.001Z

TO PROMOTE the interactive PlayStation quiz game Buzz! PlayStation have signed up 24 of the UK's biggest unis to take part in a nationwide competition to find the brainiest (very much like University Challenge). It is called Buzz! Clash of the Unis (http://buzzthenation.com/)

On the 24th March, PlayStation will be running a series of on campus events at rival universities Loughborough and Aston. On this day, the cleverest participants will be selected to go head to head with their rival uni’s Buzz! team that night. The two unis will compete against each other by playing Buzz on the online PlayStation network.

The winners of the local rounds will not only win spot prizes on the night, and the pride of hammering their rival campus, but they'll also win a load of points towards their uni's leader-board total in the nationwide competition.

The competition dates are below:

Durham Vs. UEA 15th March
Nottingham Trent Vs. Staffordshire 17th March
Royal Holloway Vs. LSE 19th March
Loughborough Vs. Aston 24th March
Sheffield Hallam Vs. Sheffield 26th March

Once all the heats have taken place, they will announce the winning university at the end of March and they will win a massive 'House Party' for their campus worth £25k.

So, get your Buzzers at the ready!

Prepare to be scared....

2009-03-06T10:56:00.000Z

PREPARE to get the frights – turn off the lights, crank up the volume and become thoroughly spooked with Silent Hill: Homecoming.
This, the sixth instalment of this classic console series, is not only the first to be programmed for the next-generation PS3 machine, but also adds a new central character into the mix.
Alex Shepherd is a war veteran returning home from an overseas tour of duty, following acceptance of compassionate leave after receiving the news that his younger brother, Joshua, has gone missing. Alex begins his investigations in his small home-town of Shepherd’s Glen, but soon finds himself in the mist-shrouded and seemingly empty streets of Silent Hill.
This incarnation of Silent Hill, By Konami, makes full use of the increased power of the PS3, while the gameplay and control mechanics have also benefited from the upgrade to a next-gen machine.

More items from the scenery can be used as weapons and collecting them is now done on the fly rather than equipping them through an inventory, meaning the tension in hectic battle sequences goes through the roof as players have less time to react.
Alex can also vary the strength of his force during combat, using combinations of light and hard attacks that can be strung together in combinations to fell enemies, or powered up for slower but more intense results. Weaker or harder counter attacks are also included as is a dodge system that lets the player skip an enemy strike and instantly attack the assailant if executed correctly, or one that reduces damages but does not avoid it completely if timing is slightly off.
Some weapons encountered upon during play also have ‘finishing’ style moves for more variety when defeating enemies.
Add to that an all-new soundtrack by acclaimed series composer Akira Yamaoka, and gamers are given a thoroughly chilling and unnerving adventure for the Next Generation.
Silent Hill: Homecoming is also out on the Xbox 360.

Wish list for the Playstation.....

2009-03-03T15:25:00.000Z

SO, what do you want to see turn up on the PS3?
What do you think it is missing? What is Microsoft doing better with the Xbox 360 that Sony needs to emulate? I've been having a think about it, and here's my list :
* In-game chat settings, so I can actually join a friend already in a game and chat privately while playing; the 360 has done this from the start, so why can't we?
* Playstation Network demos; again, I hate to refer to Microsoft, but on Xbox Live you can download demos of their games to decide if it is worth buying, but Sony don't offer this with their online game purchases - sort it out!
* Allow PlayStation Home to boot from startup - most people cannot be bothered to boot up their PS3, find Home and then load that up, so why not just give us the option of booting straight in?
* Downloadable movies and TV shows - what more do I need to say? America has it, why hasn't the UK? IT would be great for Sony revenue!
If you have any ideas, feel free to post them here.

A weekend of online battles

2009-03-02T09:19:00.000Z

YES, it has finally arrived - the PS3 exclusive Killzone 2 is here!
It's been a long time coming, but I can honestly say it was definitely worth the wait. An epic single-player mode, which really does blur the lines between gaming and movies, as you really do feel like you are in a movie. It really has to be seen to be believed.
And add to that some stunning online gameplay, with giant maps and great team play, and it really is THE best first-person shooter you can buy on any console.
I've spent hours on it this weekend, splitting equally between the single-player and online gaming, and know there will be many months of playing ahead.
A keen friend of mine has been playing it like mad this weekend and sent me an email last night to say he had completed the single-player campaign - but is now planning to start again on a higher difficulty.
Yes, it really is that good.

An early present....

2009-02-24T08:19:00.000Z

IF ONLY I could get my hands on Killzone 2 before most other gamers.....
Well, it looks like I can! After checking play.com on Sunday night, I did a quick check to see stock and pricing of the much-anticipated game, due out this Friday - and was amazed to see it was in stock and ready to ship!
I checked the forums to see if there was a catch, apparently there wasn't, so I ordered it Monday morning, and early Tuesday checked the order to find it has been posted! Woo hoo!
So hopefully it will arrive Thursday and I can get an extra 24 hours head start on the rest of you!

Let the rumour-mongers be right!!

2009-02-22T19:23:00.001Z

THERE are always plenty of folk on the web making stuff up and writing things on forums about what they say is going to happen, but it never materialises.
Well, after hearing the latest gossip, let's hope they're right.....
It has been reported on the web that a Sony employer has leaked details of the next firmware update, and its a biggie - at last, people should be able to start chats from inside a game, just like our friends over on the Xbox can!
If it's true, its been a long time coming, and hopefully Sony will make us all happy and finally get to grips with the fact that, now that online gaming is the driving force of most PS3 games now, people do actually want to find it easy to go online with their friends and chat, and not do as they do now, where you start a chat, quit it to join a game, and then try and speak to them if you manage to join the same game more by luck than judgement!
Apparently you will also be able to surf the web while you are in-game, which will also be a handy feature.
Here's hoping.......

A tale of two demos

2009-02-09T09:00:00.000Z

THIS weekend the PlayStation Network has demonstrated quite effectively how game demos should - and should not - be done correctly.
The first to mention is the hugely-anticipated Killzone 2 demo. After downloading it and booting it up, negotiating the start menus (the slight shakey camera-style is a little off-putting), the game started - and absolutely blew me away.
Fantastic graphics, smooth and fluid gameplay, intelligent AI (where the baddies actually run out of the way and hide if you throw a grenade at them) - it was all I had wished and waited for.
Add to that the fact that you can choose different configurations of controls to suit your play - in ways that actually suit different gamers, not just ones that are put in their because they think they should - this demo will definitely shift copies of Killzone 2, including the one I buy.
But, on the other side of the coin, comes - Resident Evil 5.
Again, this was highly anticipated, but once I had downloaded it, I went to the options screen - and it all froze.
I restarted my PS3, booted the demo up again, started the game straight away, got through the first cut scene - and it locked up my console again!
I reset it and deleted the demo! Later that day I went round to a friend's house on whose console it actually worked, to find that, even in these advanced times, you still can't run and shoot at the same time!
Yes, the graphics are impressive, but hasn't gameplayed moved on a bit?
So, thanks for the demos - it has definitely made my mind up on what I will and won't be buying!

To trade, or not to trade....

2009-02-02T09:20:00.000Z

I'M facing a dilemma at the moment.
As always happens this time of year, cash is in short supply, but as a keen gamer, I don't want to miss out on the latest big releases.
And with just Killzone 2 (a must-have) just weeks away, I'm pondering how I'm going to find the cash to buy it.
Now, my friend has made the bold decision to trade in his copy of Resistance 2 at Gamestation for a £20 credit note.
I have the same game, but am only a third of the way through the game and still enjoy the online aspect - but as has been pointed out to me, will I really play both games?
So, do I trade in a game I still enjoy for one I really want, or do I keep both, and try and find some other way of finding the cash? Ideally I would own both, but I don't think that's an option.
And if I do wait until near the Killzone 2 release, the trade-in value will go down - decisions, decisions.....

Let homebrew live on the PS3

2009-01-29T21:06:00.000Z

COME on, Sony - don't you think it's about time you actually start listening to the people who are helping keep your company afloat in these difficult times?

The PS3 is a great piece of kit, but it is really suffering through a lack of support and creativity.

One way to solve this is to let the floodgates open to the wonder that is Homebrew.

These third-party pieces of software could help make the PS3 an invaluable home entertainment system, opening it up to more users by allowing it to be used for more than games, movies and the web.

Software developers out there are keen to get involved in creating applications and software for the PS3, but keep getting their creations shut out when Sony issues a new software update to keep the software doors closed.

Well, I say - open those doors! When you compare the endless software and applications available now on PCs, many of which are out there to download as freeware, then there is no reason why we couldn't see the PS3 take these onboard.

It works like a PC, can use operating systems, and is very flexible in its use - if only those in their ivory towers stop and see this.

Then things could reach the stage where desktop PCs may become redundant, as all you would need is a PS3 with a keyboard and mouse - the world would literally be at their feet.

So, stop tinkering with the long-awaited and highly disappointing Home, and give PS3 owners what they want - everything!

Where are the games?

2009-01-13T13:34:00.001Z

WELL, it's that post-Christmas lull when nothing seems to be coming out for gamers.
The next big launch is Killzone 2, but that's not until next month, so for now we have to make do with games already on the market.

This isn't necessarily a bad thing, as I've noticed that shops like Gamestation are offering some good deals on games, whether it's two for £30 or even two games for £20 - like a copies of Stranglehold and Assassin's Creed that I managed to pick up.
Plus, I have also been filling my gaming time recently playing a cut-price new Saints Row 2, which I missed on original release but have been enjoying greatly - dare I say it, even more so than the infamous Grand Theft Auto 4 - while switching between this and Tomb Raider Underworld.
So, the one good thing about this lull period is, that it actually gives me time to play my existing games properly!

Secret Santa!

2008-12-31T11:56:00.000Z

YES, it's that time of year again when families and friend exchange presents - and shops exchange some of those same gifts for things people actually want!
But I have to say, I wasn't expecting much when it came to Secret Santa time at my work. We all stood round, with various sensible (chocolates, smellies) and not so sensible (a lung-shaped ash tray!) presents were unveiled.
Then it was my turn.
I opened the DVD-shaped package to discover - a copy of Conan on the PS3!
Now, bearing in mind that the budget was just £5, I thought my gift-bearer had done incredibly well.
And, despite some of the reviews, I have been having great fun slashing and splicing baddies in this retro title.
A nice surprise!

We can finally go Home!

2008-12-12T13:55:00.000Z

SO, Home has finally arrived for all of us to have a go.
Only had a quick look at it so far, but the graphics are certainly impressive, and the environments - albeit limited at the moment - do look cool. But we all have to remember that this is still at beta stage, so things can and will change - and its time now to make your voices heard.
If you can think of improvements, spot glitches, praise certain points, then let Sony know via the official forums.
That's the only way you will get the Home experience you really want.
My first issue is the queuing - what's that all about? It's too much like real life, not Second Life!
Have you got any issues or comments about Home? Let me know...

Xmas comes early!

2008-12-08T11:24:00.000Z

ANYONE else noticed that all the new games and big launches, like Resistance 2, have all come early this year?
Whether it's because all games are more expensive, or companies know people are cash-strapped, the release of games has come much earlier than normal this year.
I guess at least it gives us more time to pick and choose what we want to buy.

2008-11-30T16:23:00.000Z

SPEED monsters will be celebrating the arrival of the next in the Need For Speed series, out now on PS3.

Need For Speed: Undercover by EA puts players in an all-out chase where they are the hunted - and the hunter. Players must get behind the wheel and risk everything to infiltrate a ruthless international crime syndicate and take them down. The man you are after is a maniac behind the wheel, and he's driving like his life depends on escape, which maybe it does. He's the one with all the answers you need, you will track him down.

Needless to say, that fleet of police cruisers in your rearview mirror won't make things any easier. It will take all of your experience - and every ounce of skill - to outrun the law, take down the enemy, and unlock the truth that puts an end to this chase once and for all.

The game puts you right into the the thick of the action, as you race into an action-packed story of pursuit and betrayal. Take on jobs and compete in races to prove yourself as you try to infiltrate and take down an international crime syndicate.

On the streets you will have to fight off the cops and others as you take down your prey in high-speed, high stake multi-car chases.

The action is made more adrenalin-fuelled as the AI of the cops is new and vastly improved, meaning more aggressive and intelligent cops focused on taking you out fast and by any means necessary.

Players can tear across the massive highway system and discover the open world of the Gulf Coast Tri-Cities area, with three unique cities connected by an extensive highway system.

What's most important about this is that the cars are really great fun to drive, giving you real feedback to your moves and driving style.

This is an impressive addition to the Need For Speed series.

Prepare to board this game!

2008-11-30T16:21:00.000Z

GET ready to take to the slopes for some fast and furious snowboarding - all from the comfort of your own home on the PS3!

Shaun White Snowboarding by Ubisoft brings you all the thrills and spills of the snowboarding world, covering peaks from all over the globe. The great feature about this game is that it features open world mountains. You can choose how you ride and where you go - its completely up to you!Players can try to conquer the extreme peak conditions, creating their own paths in the back country, or compete with fellow riders in the terrain parks.

The single-player mode is great fun, picking your challenges, whether its a straight race to the bottom of the mountain, or pass through the flags, or numerous other challenges.

And once you get used to the controls, it is quite satisfying pulling off a great aeriel trick perfectly.

Gamers can play in a world where their friends are always around. Do your own runs on mountains populated by real gamers, or join your friends for a quick session from anywhere in the mountains.

You can even throw snowballs, hike to access secret spots, film friends doing crazy tricks. and even upload your videos online to share with the world.

Built on the Assassin's Creed engine, this game creates an immense world with great visuals and realistic interaction with other boarders.

Ubisoft has worked closely with Shaun White to infuse the gaming experience with authenticity, personality, and humour. Shaun is a friend and mentor in the game, and will help you with your skills. And if you are deemed worthy, you may even be able to play him in the game...

It's been a long wait for a good snowboarding game to arrive on the PS3 - and this doesn't disappoint!

It's coming Home.... soon?

2008-11-25T18:04:00.000Z

LUCKY PS3 owners will be refreshing their inboxes every few seconds in a couple of days, when thousands of Home beta keys are sent out.
Apparently around 200,000 were meant to have gone out at the beginning of the week, but a hiccup meant most did not arrive. Rest assured, Sony are on the case and expect them to arrive at their destinations on Thursday. Reports say that this should be the final closed beta, before a full open beta to all is released.
Mind you, we are used to delays with this, so let's hope the rumour-mongers are right this time!

Little Big Planet is a masterpiece online

2008-11-17T20:28:00.000Z

IF YOU have not already gone out and buy this game - what's wrong with you?!
Little Big Planet is a stupendous game, the one all PS3 gamers have been waiting for, and it really comes alive online, as I have discovered.
This is the first PS3 game that makes it easy to jump in and out of games online, with or without your friends - something I hope all other PS3 game developers will take note of.
But where the game has really come alive is through the support of the online community. Not only does it pick out cool levels designed by other people, but it has a great search facility, so that if you want to play a level about football, you just type in the word, search and - hey presto! See how many people have come up with levels about football! The game really has no limits....
And if you fancy seeing my very own cute (if short!) level - complete with a few goodies for the winners, do a search for 'wheelie good', play it - and let me know what you think!

Emerging from the Fallout

2008-11-11T00:35:00.000Z

IMAGINE emerging from a nuclear vault, to find a once great city lying in ruins – that’s exactly where Fallout 3 puts gamers.
The game is set 200 years after the global atomic war of 2077, where survivors have flourished in Vault 101 beneath Washington DC.
Giant Insects, Raiders, Slavers, and yes, even Super Mutants are all no match for superior Vault-Tec engineering. Yet one fateful morning, you awake to find that your father has defied the Overseer and left the comfort and security afforded by Vault 101 for reasons unknown.
Leaving the only home you have ever known, you emerge from the Vault into the harsh Wasteland sun to search for your father, and the truth.
This game is visually stunning, giving players limitless freedom to take in the sights and sounds of the vast Capital Wasteland.
Combat in the game is an all-new experience. Vault-Tec engineers bring you the latest in human ability simulation - the SPECIAL Character System.
Using new breakthroughs in points-based ability representation, SPECIAL affords unlimited customisation of your character.
And the freedom of choice doesn’t end there. Players can choose whether to be good or bad. Feeling like a dastardly villain today, or a good samaritan? Pick a side or walk the line, as every situation can be dealt with in many different ways. Talk out your problems in a civilised fashion, or just flash your Plasma Rifle.
Much fun can also be had with V.A.T.S., the Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System which allows you to pause time in combat, target specific body parts on your target, queue up attacks, and let Vault-Tec take out your aggression for you.
All this is played out in a stunning recreation of Washington DC, albeit after the harsh realities of nuclear fallout. From the barren Wasteland, to the danger-filled offices and metro tunnels of DC, to the hideous rotten flesh of a mutant's face. Fallout 3 is the first-person adventure shooter you have been waiting for. It is out now on the PS3, from Bethesda.

Packs of three on the PSP

2008-11-11T00:33:00.000Z

NOW there is even more fun to be found for gamers on the move – with the release of two new games collections.
Out now on the Sony PSP are a pair of new collections containing not one, not two, but three games on one UMD.
The first one is PlayStation Network Collection – Power Pack.
This features Flow, where players explore the soothing depths of a living underwater environment, discover strange new organisms and embark on a journey of evolution.
Next up is Beats, where gamers take up the challenge and enjoy a highly addictive rhythm action game, where your music collection gets the starring role.
Last but not least is Syphon Filter: Combat Ops. Here, players seek out and terminate rogue agents or team up with friends and form a Cell group, then take out other Cells online and engage in stealth shooter action for up to eight players.
For the more quizzically minded, there is the PlayStation Network Collection – Puzzle Pack.
This kicks off with the insanely addictive Lemmings. The Lemmings are on the loose and that can only mean one thing - trouble! Danger is barely a footstep away for the relentlessly marching hordes of cutesy, green-haired rodents.
Next up is Go! Sudoku, featuring the global phenomenon of Sudoku hitting new levels on the PSP. Simple logic is the key to unlocking the number based puzzles.
And this also Go! Puzzle - an easy to play but tricky to master game, which features three addictive games - Go! Puzzle Aquatica, Go! Puzzle Swizzle Blocks and Go! Puzzle Skyscraper.
All in all, there is something for everyone here – and both collections are on sale for a bargain, ideal as stocking fillers this Christmas.

Sackboy rocks!

2008-11-09T17:41:00.000Z

MY copy of Little Big Planet finally arrived (a day after launch!) and yes, I can confirm - it is as good as we all hoped it would be!

The cute platformer is great fun, and even when you complete the story mode, there is plenty of life left in the game, as the well-publicised level creation side of the game is fantastic. You can build your own levels, post them online and let others play them, or play other people's levels, or even join up online with friends or other gamers to complete the levels together.

I'm just putting the finishing touches to my own first creation - a simple and short level to start with, as I'm just getting the hang of it - but it is great to think you can build a level and then let other LBP gamers play it across the globe.

Fantastic!

The webbed wonder is back!

2008-11-05T09:46:00.000Z

OUR favourite webbed friend is back – and his adventures are bigger and better than ever!
When a deadly symbiote invasion devastates the streets of New York City, only Spider-Man can seize control and bring the city salvation. From the game's direction and outcome through to Spider-Man's destiny, Spider-Man: Web Of Shadows, out now on the PS3, puts control in the player's hands.
Gamers decide when to switch between the agile Red Suit and powerful Black Suit, whether to ally with Marvel's honoured heroes or ferocious villians, which of Spider-Man's abilities to upgrade and what missions to undertake in order to protect Manhattan from certain annihilation.
This game features an overhauled combat system providing its deepest arsenal ever. For the first time ever in a Spider-Man game, players can take the fight vertically and combat foes on city walls, where only Spider-Man holds the advantage. This is where the game and the action is at its very best.
Players can customise their ideal Spider-Man, earning experience in multiple combat disciplines, allowing them to custom-design their ideal Spider-Man.
And dependant on gamers' actions and decisions, a morality meter will gauge whether citizens cheer Spider-Man on or run away in fear. Spider-Man's actions as hero or vigilante, based on choices at key points in the game, will decide the fate of New York.
And players can side with Marvel's greatest heroes and villians, choosing who will ultimately aid them in the fight to rid New York of its alien symbiote.
This all takes place in a living, breathing New York City, where players can destroy store fronts, demolish vehicles, and pick-up anything along the way to use as a weapon.
This is definitely by far the best game in the Spider-Man series so far, and younger gamers will particularly enjoy it.

Hamilton is the champ!!!

2008-11-02T20:33:00.000Z

YES, us Brits can finally start celebrating some sporting brilliance as Lewis Hamilton is the 2008 Formula One world champion.
So, bearing in mind this great victory - and that this is actually a gaming blog - how's about those clever game makers come up with an F1 game for the PS3 that is actually really, really good?
Here's hoping - and congrats and full respect to Lewis!

Any spare LBP codes going - pleeaaassse....!

2008-11-01T15:01:00.000Z

Well, there are just days left for us UK and European folk, waiting to get their hands on the (now slightly amended) Little Big Planet.
But one big detail that most people are discussing is - where can you get your hands on a special promo code to get the extra costumes for Sackboy?
America already have the God of War characters, Europe is getting someone different, and I don't even know if the UK will get the special spacesuit promised for those who buy the game in the first week (especially due to the delay).
So, as I will be getting the game at launch but will not have any codes - if you've got one going spare, feel free to get in touch (I promise I won't pass it on to anyone else!)
Here's hoping.....

Pro is back – and better – on the PS3

2008-10-28T13:54:00.000Z

IT’S back – bigger, brighter and better than ever.
Yes, Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) 2009 is now on the shelves just as Christmas creeps around the corner.
The PES series is a bit of a cult classic among football gaming fans – kicking off in 2002 the game went on to attract thousands of supporters.
Realistic players, intricate details and well calculated passing, shooting and movement controls makes the gamer feel like they are actually Rooney and Ronaldo – far from some other football titles where one is left running from one side of the pitch to the other with little need for skill or accuracy.

The new edition is just as fun and exciting, building on the success of the others but adding a range of new features.
Of course, all team players have been updated, but there is also the impressive ‘Become a Legend’ section, which brings the gamer closer to the action.
This allows the gamer to pick a player and chart the highs and lows of their career by turning them from rookie to professional.
Players can also use their striker or midfielder to play online matches with other gamers and show their skills on the larger online stage.
The controls are also better – redefining first touch, close control, passing and enhancing the shooting.
Every player has also undergone a facelift with new facial and body detail and a chance for the gamer to create their own club crests and badges.
If you thought it couldn’t get any better, it does.
Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 is one game that strikes the right note on and off the pitch.
PES 2009 ris eleased on PlayStation 3 by Konami Digital Entertainment.

For beta for worse....

2008-10-23T22:25:00.000+01:00

AM I the only one PS3 user who seems to find it impossible to get on a Beta testing for upcoming new games?
I did manage to 'borrow' a friend's login for Little Big Planet, for a couple of hours, but soon had to surrender it after he realised that we both could not log in at the same time.
So, I've trawled the Net to find other Beta opportunities, found one for the forthcoming and much-anticipated Resistance 2, only to find that a) the Beta was delayed, and B) when I finally got an update, all the Beta keys had already been allocated.
AAARRGGGHHH!!!
P.S. By the way, Sony, if you are listening, please feel free to send me a Beta key to pretty much ANY game that is coming out in the near future....

The Force is strong on the PS3....

2008-10-20T17:14:00.001+01:00

FANCY using The Force? Well, here’s your chance with the release of Star Wars: The Force Unleashed, a videogame developed by LucasArts.
The game casts players as Darth Vader's Secret Apprentice and unveils new revelations about the Star Wars galaxy. The expansive story, created under direction from George Lucas, is set during the largely unexplored era between Star Wars: Episode III Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope.
Players assist the iconic villain in his quest to rid the universe of Jedi - and face decisions that could change the course of their destiny.
During the period between Episodes III and IV, players hunt Jedi in the role of Darth Vader's Secret Apprentice.
Star Wars fans will love this game, as it gives players the chance to really get to grips with The Force – which can range from just grabbing hold of a box and smashing it into your enemies, to taking hold of a Tie-fighter and flinging it through the sky.
Players can unleash and upgrade the Secret Apprentice's four core Force powers - Force push, grip, repulse and lightning - throughout the course of the game, and combine them for ultra-destructive, never-before-seen combos.
The Force is truly strong in this game. The Secret Apprentice won't just Force grip foes to throw them aside, he will Force grip them in midair, zap them with lightning, then drop them to the ground to explode like a bomb.
In addition to new adversaries created just for the game, such as fugitive Jedi and Force-sensitive Felucians, players will also confront and associate with familiar faces from the Star Wars films, including Darth Vader.
Players will Visit locations such as Episode III's Wookiee homeworld Kashyyyk and the floral Felucia, the junk planet Raxus Prime.
Decisions made by players throughout the game determine the path of the story, including multiple endings that will rock Star Wars continuity as they know it.
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed is out now on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.

Wrestling with impact on the PS3

2008-10-20T17:12:00.000+01:00

TNA iMPACT! brings all the fun and excitement of the Total Nonstop Action Wrestling from the top-rated weekly television show to your games console.
In TNA Impact!, you choose the wrestling style, custom move set and clothing to construct the ultimate champion. TNA drenches the player in moves and match types that allow amazing acrobatic and aerial feats along with the bone-jarring crush of hard-hitting impacts.
The game features top wrestling talent such as Kurt Angle, Jeff Jarrett, Rhino, Samoa Joe, AJ Styles, Sting, Christian Cage, Abyss and more to deliver all of the excitement and action of the television show.
TNA's signature six-sided ring brings unprecedented action and high-flying wrestling moves to players. With TNA's incredible Ultimate X match, wrestlers climb cables high above the ring in a daring attempt to capture the belt.
Players can build a lifetime of fame through the game's innovative story mode, creating their very own TNA wrestler with customised costumes, move sets and more as they unfold the back-story of a champion wrestler.
Online play also allows gamers to create customised match rules and invite friends or foes to compete head to head. Online game modes include Tag Team, Ultimate X and Fatal Four-Way.
This must be one of the most life-like wrestling games out there, and is certainly satisfying when you pull off a complicated move to take down your opponent.
TNA iMPACT! by Midway is out now on the PlayStation 3.

Sackboy fans will have to wait..... !

2008-10-20T16:49:00.000+01:00

AS I am sure all PS3 owners are fully aware, the launch date of Little Big Planet has been delayed - NOOOOOO!!
This is the most eagerly awaited PS3 title since the console was launched, but the delay has been blamed on the discovery of some religious phrases making their way into the lyrics of a song included in the game.

Sony have decided to pull the launch date to 'rectify' the situation, and it now looks as though the new European release date is November 7.
So, I'm afraid you will have to wait a few more weeks to get creative in the online PS3 community.

Little Big Planet Beta rocks!!

2008-10-06T14:46:00.000+01:00

Thanks to a lucky fellow PS3 owner who was happy to share a code for Little Big Planet - like the gold invite in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - I have experienced at first hand, the wonder that is LBG.
And I have to say, in my truly unbiased opinion, this has to be THE game that will shift more PS3 consoles - it really is that good.
Yes, I know, it is really just a platform game - but what a platform game. The graphics are lush, the gameplay is as smooth as ice, and the levels are divine.
I was hooked, and sadly, as I had to yield control of the beta back to my friend (apparently Sony says it is quite ok to let someone else logon to the beta, but the down side is the other person can't access it for 24 hours it seems), I was left waiting and drooling over the game and desperately looking for another injection of 'Sackman' fun.
I am quite picky about what games I buy, but this beta has made me 100 per cent sure that I am gonna get my hands on this for launch day.
And with its community-based gameplay, with everyone creating their own levels for others to play, as well as the much-anticipated online gameplay that looks stunning, this is without doubt the must-have of 2008.
Now, all we have to wait and see is if Home is going to launch at the same time...

Saints Row's gonna let you do lots of things....

2008-09-30T19:51:00.000+01:00

Saints Row 2 is veering off on a very different path compared to Grand Theft Auto, it seems.
Whereas GTA was more about a narrative storyline and progressing through the game by developing relationships with other characters, Saints Row 2 seems to be more of an open environment where the world is your oyster.
Here is just a small taste of things you should be able to do in the finished version:
Buy stuff for your apartment
Dress as a ninja....
Or a pirate
Roast people with the flamethrower
Take over a chain of supermarkets
See your face appear on billboards in the game
Dress emo
Drive a monster truck
Wear women’s underwear (!)
Well, some of those may take your fancy, others may not, but it certainly looks like it will be a very varied and open game.

Is Home on its way??

2008-09-27T22:06:00.000+01:00

The word is out - Sony's online Home community appears to be set for a release in October - finally!!
It has been let slip that the 2.50 firmware update on the PS3 is due sometime next month, and one of the Home development team have let slip that the Home network should form part of it.
This would also tie in with the fact that the much-anticipated and highly hyped game Little Big Planet - probably THE most important online game to hit the PS3 since it was launched - will also hit the shelves in October.
The game is believed to have a strong tie-in with Home, so with all these bits of information tying up together, hopefully we will be right at Home on the PS3 in the next few weeks - fingers crossed!

More trophies please!

2008-09-24T21:37:00.000+01:00

Come on, Sony and games creators, please sort out your trophies!

The long-overdue trophy system is now up and running, but unfortunately there is a distinct lack of support for PS3 gamers who have been faithfully spending their hard-earned cash on games over the past couple of years.

To be fair, Pain now has trophies, Warhawk has trophies - which are great fun trying to get hold of - and others are in the pipeline, including the forthcoming WipEout HD.

But it is very sad that companies won't spend a bit of time and cash from their profits back-dating trophy support for games released over the past year. Uncharted: Drake's Fortune has now got trophies, but you can't have them backdated - so as someone who has already completed and got rid of the game, I do feel a little bit cheated.

Hopefully games companies will now take on the trophy system with full gusto and realise that it is an extra selling point. Some people do own both systems, and if they have a choice, they will by the Xbox 360 version to get the achievements.

So let's have trophies galore please!

Win a Console!

2008-09-21T14:57:00.000+01:00

Get your creative talents at the ready - and you could be in with a chance of winning a next-gen console!
A design a t-shirt contest is being held online, with some great prizes for the best designs, including your choice of a Ps3 or Xbox 360 console. So what if you already have one - why not win another one, or one of each!
For full details and rules (it's only open to US residents), have a look at the link below:

http://www.brickfish.com/Entertainment/Stacker2

And your chances of winning seem relatively high - so far there are only just over 300 entrants online. It looks like a good bit of fun, and you might win something!
(*Always read the rules and small print of competitions.)

Fancy some PS3 file sharing?

2008-09-16T20:58:00.000+01:00

I've found an interesting link on a gaming website that helps friends with PS3's share their games, saving on cost and meaning you can both play the same games. Here it is:

http://sarcasticgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5664&highlight=file+sharing

There are some restrictions, but most downloadable games look as though they can be shared, particularly add-ons.

Something completely different!

2008-09-14T18:37:00.000+01:00

I know this is strictly speaking meant to be all about the Sony PS3, but I thought I would just share with you this strange vid I took at an aquarium in Wales - it seems these watery creatures are growing inside a strange kind of womb!

My next post will be about the PS3 - I promise!

Are you one of the lucky ones?

2008-09-13T13:49:00.000+01:00

So, I received an urgent call from a mate on my answerphone, telling me he had some really important news to tell me.

I quickly rang him back, thinking he was going to tell me his wife was pregnant, he was emigrating, something like that....

No, he rang me to gloat that he had received an email from Sony giving him a voucher to play the new Motorstorm Pacific Rift demo!

The lucky guy was one of a fortunate few who had been randomly sent an invite to download the demo, while the rest of us - yes, to his great joy, that includes me - had to sit and stew that we hadn't been invited to the party. I wouldn't mind, but he is also a big Xbox 360 fanboy!

To be blunt, I think Sony have dropped a clanger as I, for one, have been put off taking interest in the game if I can't even download the demo now while others can. Looks like new racing game Pure may be a better buy, as the demo is great (and I can play it!).

Anyone figured out the PS3 chat time delay problem?

2008-09-12T13:40:00.000+01:00

I don't know if it is just myself and my friend who seem to be stuck in some time vortex, but whenever we use the PS3 chat we can't help but notice the time delayfrom when you speak to when your friend hears it.
Now, he only lives about a mile and a half away, it's not like I'm in the UK and he is in the US, so why hasn't this problem been solved? As a pro-PS3 user, I am ashamed to say that the Xbox 360 chat (which also has the benefit of a headset included with the hardware) is by far and away more impressive and has no time lag.
Come on Sony, get this problem figured out - and how about making it easier to have a chat with a buddy, and be able to then join a game without having to quit chat first? These are the basics. Anyone else got a view on this? Post me!

2008-09-09T20:46:00.000+01:00

Fans of the original and hugely popular Resistance game will be pleased to hear they may be able to get their hands on Resistance 2 earlier than its November 4 release date.
SCEA has announced that a worldwide competitive online multiplayer and co-op beta of the game is to get underway in early October on the PlayStation Network - so keep an eye on those weekly online updates for your chance to join the resistance movement ahead of schedule!
Thee beta will provide PS3 owners with an opportunity to experience new levels, modes, and weapons.

2008-09-09T20:17:00.000+01:00

Having played the Star Wars: Force Unleashed demo on both the PS3 and Xbox 360, this long-awaited game is starting to draw concern from many avid game players who, much to their dread, fear it is going to be a big disappointment.
The game is all about using the Force, as the title suggests, but many are complaining that trying to use the Force in the game is as easy as playing tennis with a spoon instead of a racquet.
Not long to wait now, so let's hope they've got it wrong and that the Force is strong with this game!
Watch the trailer and see what you think....