THIS BLOG IS MOVING!

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!

250Gb PS3 is too late for me!

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!

Mini Ninjas demo out this week

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

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.

Batman demo on the Network this week

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.

PS3 backwards compatibility on the cards?

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.

Be a pinball wizard on the PS3

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

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.

Protect your PS3 web browser

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!

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

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?

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.

Worms PS3 gameplay video

New Next Gen console revealed!

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

Wish list for the Playstation.....

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

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.

Let the rumour-mongers be right!!

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.......

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!

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!

The webbed wonder is back!

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.