PS3
software
- Battlefield 3: Battlefield 1942 exclusive to PS3 copy.
- Bioshock Infinite: Move support; PS3 copy includes original Bioshock.
- Dust 514: from CCP, developers of EVE Online. FPS, connected to EVE on PC; supports Move, Home space; PSV support; exclusive PSN.
- God of War Origins Collection: remastered in HD and 3D.
- ICO and Shadow of the Colossus Collection: remastered in HD.
- Infamous 2: release date 7 June; creation tools via Move.
- LittleBigPlanet 2: deeper Move controls.
- Medieval Moves: new Move IP from Zindagi Games.
- NBA2k12 - Move support.
- Need for Speed the Run: 7 exclusive cars for PS3.
- Resistance 3: single player campaign demoed; Sharpshooter bundle $150.
- Ruin: compatible with PSV version via save transference.
- Saints Row The 3rd - exclusive DLC.
- Sly Cooper Thieves in Time: 2012 release.
- SSX - Mount Fuji track exclusive to PS3.
- Starhawk.
- Star Trek - move support and exclusive DLC.
- Star Trek PSN - exclusive to PSN; move support.
- Uncharted 3: single player campaign demoed; beta: 20 June; Subway initiative for early MP access.
------------------------------
PS VITA
hardware
Vita: means life; OLED screen, dual cameras and analog sticks, touch screen and rear touchpad.
Price: wifi - $249, wifi+3G - $299.
software
- at&t: official provider of 3G PSV.
- Bioshock PSV: new title based on Bioshock universe.
- Party mode app: cross chat.
- LittleBigPlanet.
- ModNation Racers - new title; access to all PS3 creations.
- Near app: social networking between PSV owners.
- Ruin: action RPG from SCE San Diego
- Street Fighter X Tekken: Cole from InFamous is a character.
- Uncharted: Golden Abyss: developed by Sony Bend.
- Wipeout 2048 - play against PS3 users.
------------------------------
PSN
- CinemaNow partnership. stream TV and film.
- Playstation Suite: PS content on non-PS hardware.
------------------------------
MISC
- Playstation branded 3DTV - 24 inch; desperate image feature; bundled with 3D glasses, HDMI cable and Resistance 3 - $499.
Showing posts with label Playstation Portable. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Playstation Portable. Show all posts
Monday, 6 June 2011
Thursday, 12 May 2011
Is Sony Santa Monica's new IP 'Heartland'?
Sony's new rumoured PS3 exclusive from Santa Monica may very well be the revival of a previously canned PSP title: Heartland.
Recent rumours have pointed towards Sony Santa Monica working on a new IP that requires personnel with experience in 1st or 3rd person shooters, experience in vehicle combat and open-world development. On top of this, David Cage of Quantic Dream made mention that he was asked to advise on a modern FPS for the PS3. Presumably, this title is an exclusive and since Sony 1st party developers share tech, chances are this exclusive is from a 1st party studio.
http://scrawlfx.com/2011/04/is-sony-santa-monica-developing-a-shooter
http://www.vg247.com/2011/03/23/quantic-dream-staying-exclusive-to-playstation-for-foreseeable-future-says-cage/
It is quite possible that this title is the cancelled PSP game 'Heartland' which David Jaffe, of God of War fame, was spearheading with Incognito (now LightBox Interactive) until development was stopped. Jaffe described the title as an emotional FPS which involved the Chinese invasion of the USA, and that it was a response to the Bush administration of the time. Jaffe explained that the level design was going to be large in scale but not quite an open-world affair, and that QTE's would be used in some capacity. Lastly, Jaffe was being pressed by Sony to make the title for the PS3 as opposed to the PSP .
http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/issues/issue_146/4817-Inside-David-Jaffes-Heartland.2
http://www.1up.com/news/jaffe-heartland-response-president-bush
With this considered, here are the following reasons why Sony Santa Monica's new IP may very well be the revival of Heartland:
1) Heartland was a FPS and the new IP requires FPS experience.
2) Vehicle combat is likely considering Heartland was based on modern warfare and because:
3) Jaffe originally stated that Heartland would involve large levels, and Santa Monica is looking for open-world development.
4) Cage was asked to aid in a modern FPS for the PS3: since the story of Heartland was meant to be quite poignant it is possible that Cage was asked to offer his opinion on the narrative. Additionally:
5) Heartland was originally going to make use of QTE's, something both Santa Monica and Cage have experience with.
6) Sony Santa Monica helped co-develop Warhawk, a prominent PS3 exclusive from Incognito. Considering Heartland was going to be developed by Incognito, it is possible that Santa Monica's relationship to Incognito has allowed the title to fall into Santa Monica's hands.
7) Sony wanted the title on the PS3, which is the very platform the new IP appears to be heading to for.
Recent rumours have pointed towards Sony Santa Monica working on a new IP that requires personnel with experience in 1st or 3rd person shooters, experience in vehicle combat and open-world development. On top of this, David Cage of Quantic Dream made mention that he was asked to advise on a modern FPS for the PS3. Presumably, this title is an exclusive and since Sony 1st party developers share tech, chances are this exclusive is from a 1st party studio.
http://scrawlfx.com/2011/04/is-sony-santa-monica-developing-a-shooter
http://www.vg247.com/2011/03/23/quantic-dream-staying-exclusive-to-playstation-for-foreseeable-future-says-cage/
It is quite possible that this title is the cancelled PSP game 'Heartland' which David Jaffe, of God of War fame, was spearheading with Incognito (now LightBox Interactive) until development was stopped. Jaffe described the title as an emotional FPS which involved the Chinese invasion of the USA, and that it was a response to the Bush administration of the time. Jaffe explained that the level design was going to be large in scale but not quite an open-world affair, and that QTE's would be used in some capacity. Lastly, Jaffe was being pressed by Sony to make the title for the PS3 as opposed to the PSP .
http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/issues/issue_146/4817-Inside-David-Jaffes-Heartland.2
http://www.1up.com/news/jaffe-heartland-response-president-bush
With this considered, here are the following reasons why Sony Santa Monica's new IP may very well be the revival of Heartland:
1) Heartland was a FPS and the new IP requires FPS experience.
2) Vehicle combat is likely considering Heartland was based on modern warfare and because:
3) Jaffe originally stated that Heartland would involve large levels, and Santa Monica is looking for open-world development.
4) Cage was asked to aid in a modern FPS for the PS3: since the story of Heartland was meant to be quite poignant it is possible that Cage was asked to offer his opinion on the narrative. Additionally:
5) Heartland was originally going to make use of QTE's, something both Santa Monica and Cage have experience with.
6) Sony Santa Monica helped co-develop Warhawk, a prominent PS3 exclusive from Incognito. Considering Heartland was going to be developed by Incognito, it is possible that Santa Monica's relationship to Incognito has allowed the title to fall into Santa Monica's hands.
7) Sony wanted the title on the PS3, which is the very platform the new IP appears to be heading to for.
Thursday, 16 September 2010
TGS 2010: Sony Conference Overview
Playstation3
Software
3D support:
-Disaster 4: Summer Memories, Everybody's Golf, Final Fantasy 14, Gran Turismo 5, Metal Gear Solid Rising
Ape Escape Fury! Fury!:
- anime cutscenes.
Dynasty Warriors 7
- Developed only for PS3.
Firmware 3.5:
-3D bluray support.
-21 September.
Gran Turismo 5:
-My Home service: accessible from web and a hub for accessing messages, albums, friends list.
-Weather effects: rain and snow shown.
-Night time racing.
-X1 Prototype vehicle in game.
Gundam Musou 3:
-Cel shaded art style.
-December release for Japan.
Ico/ Shadow of the Colossus:
-HD Port for PS3.
Ni no Kuni:
-2011 release in Japan.
-No assets used from DS version of game.
Project Dark:
-Developed by From Software.
-Design philosophy similar to Demon's Souls.
-2011 release.
-PS3 exclusive.
The Last Guardian:
-2011 release.
Yakuza: Of the End:
-Fight Zombies.
Hardware
320gb:
-21 October release in Japan.
-------------------------------------
Playstation Portable
Software
3rd Birthday:
-Possible vehicle and turret sequences included
Cardboard Warmachines:
-Anime sequences, cross media with an anime version.
Dissidia 012 Final Fantasy:
-Spring 2011 in Japan.
Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep Final Mix:
-January release in Japan.
Hardware
AKB48:
23 December release in Japan.
Monster Hunter:
-Special bundle for release of Monster Hunter 3rd.
Software
3D support:
-Disaster 4: Summer Memories, Everybody's Golf, Final Fantasy 14, Gran Turismo 5, Metal Gear Solid Rising
Ape Escape Fury! Fury!:
- anime cutscenes.
Dynasty Warriors 7
- Developed only for PS3.
Firmware 3.5:
-3D bluray support.
-21 September.
Gran Turismo 5:
-My Home service: accessible from web and a hub for accessing messages, albums, friends list.
-Weather effects: rain and snow shown.
-Night time racing.
-X1 Prototype vehicle in game.
Gundam Musou 3:
-Cel shaded art style.
-December release for Japan.
Ico/ Shadow of the Colossus:
-HD Port for PS3.
Ni no Kuni:
-2011 release in Japan.
-No assets used from DS version of game.
Project Dark:
-Developed by From Software.
-Design philosophy similar to Demon's Souls.
-2011 release.
-PS3 exclusive.
The Last Guardian:
-2011 release.
Yakuza: Of the End:
-Fight Zombies.
Hardware
320gb:
-21 October release in Japan.
-------------------------------------
Playstation Portable
Software
3rd Birthday:
-Possible vehicle and turret sequences included
Cardboard Warmachines:
-Anime sequences, cross media with an anime version.
Dissidia 012 Final Fantasy:
-Spring 2011 in Japan.
Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep Final Mix:
-January release in Japan.
Hardware
AKB48:
23 December release in Japan.
Monster Hunter:
-Special bundle for release of Monster Hunter 3rd.
Tuesday, 17 August 2010
GC 2010: Sony Conference Overview
Playstation3
Software
Gran Turismo 5:
- November 3 official launch date for SCEE region.
Infamous 2:
-Cole model revised back to original.
Killzone 3:
-Mech suits.
LittleBigPlanet 2:
- Story trailer revealed.
MAG:
-PS Move support.
Medal of Honor:
-MOH Frontline exclusive to PS3.
Mortal Kombat 9:
-3D support.
Play TV Live:
- Community features such as chat, text chat during programmes, and programme recommendations.
Ratchet and Clank All 4 One
-Fall 2011 release; 4 player drop-in-drop-out co-op.
Resistance 3
-2011 release.
R.U.S.E:
- Supports PS move.
Virtua Tennis 4:
- Supports PS move; 3D support.
Hardware
New SKUs:
- 320 gb PS3 with Move starter pack (349 euro), and 160gb (299).
-------------------------------------
PSN
Catch up TV:
-6 new channels, including ITV, Animax and Yahoo.
Mubi:
-Film streaming; PPV and subscription options; 18 countries availability on launch.
-------------------------------------
Miscellaneous
PS3 Sales:
- 38 million.
Software
Gran Turismo 5:
- November 3 official launch date for SCEE region.
Infamous 2:
-Cole model revised back to original.
Killzone 3:
-Mech suits.
LittleBigPlanet 2:
- Story trailer revealed.
MAG:
-PS Move support.
Medal of Honor:
-MOH Frontline exclusive to PS3.
Mortal Kombat 9:
-3D support.
Play TV Live:
- Community features such as chat, text chat during programmes, and programme recommendations.
Ratchet and Clank All 4 One
-Fall 2011 release; 4 player drop-in-drop-out co-op.
Resistance 3
-2011 release.
R.U.S.E:
- Supports PS move.
Virtua Tennis 4:
- Supports PS move; 3D support.
Hardware
New SKUs:
- 320 gb PS3 with Move starter pack (349 euro), and 160gb (299).
-------------------------------------
PSN
Catch up TV:
-6 new channels, including ITV, Animax and Yahoo.
Mubi:
-Film streaming; PPV and subscription options; 18 countries availability on launch.
-------------------------------------
Miscellaneous
PS3 Sales:
- 38 million.
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
E3 2010: Sony Conference Overview
Playstation3
Software
Assassin's Creed; Brotherhood
-Multiplayer beta exclusive to PS3.
-Exclusive content.
Dead Space 2:
-Limited edition includes DS: Extraction with Move support.
Echochrome 2:
-Move title
Final Fantasy 14
Gran Turismo 5:
-Top Gear test track
-November 2 2010 launch.
Heroes on the Move:
-Move title
- Ratchet, Jak and Sly combined.
Infamous 2:
-Ice powers added.
Killzone 3:
-live demo in 3D
-February 2011 worldwide release
-Compatible with PS Move at launch
LittleBigPlanet 2:
-Competitive scoring system
-Make your own games with elaborate tools.
-Create HUD's.
-Trailer shows off user creations in 24 hours with no tutorials from the developers, including a working RTS title.
Mafia 2:
-Exclusive DLC at 1 on PS3 version.
Medal of Honor:
-Exclusive content for PS3 version: limited edition includes a remastered version of MOH Frontline.
-Title is modern day and work was done with actual soldiers, military and weapon personnel.
-New character: Deuce.
-Multiplayer designed by Dice.
-October 12 2010 release.
Portal 2:
-Best version on any console according to Gabe
-Coming 2011
Singstar Dance:
- Uses Move
Sorcery:
-Move title.
-Play as a magicians apprentice.
-Flick at screen to attack.
-Spells include frost which freezes enemies
-Spells can be combined: fire and wind create a fire storm.
-Fix environments with magic.
-Change into different animals.
-Release: Spring 2011.
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11:
-Move enabled through upcoming patch.
-1:1 movement.
-Power is important.
Twisted Metal:
-By Eat. Sleep. Play - David Jaffe.
-Flight added.
-Emphasis on team play.
-2011 release.
Hardware
Playstation Move
-Launch fall 2010.
-Bundle with PS Eye, Move and Sports Champion for $99; PS3 bundle $399.
-Level of precisio
-Level of precision like realism.
-Camera and controller creates 1:1 tracking.
-Developer praise montage.
------------------------------------
Playstation Portable
Software
Eyepet
God of War: Ghost of Sparta
Invizimals
Patapon 3
The 3rd Birthday
Valkyria Chronicles 2
-------------------------------------
PSN
Home:
-Sony E3 booth recreated in Home.
Playstation Plus
-Subscription based PSN.
-Exclusive digital content, priority to betas, PSN store savings and free content like select PSN games.
- $49.99 for a year; $17.99 for 3 months.
First 3 months free.
Tester 2
-------------------------------------
Miscellaneous
3D:
- Motorstorm, Killzone 3, Gran Turismo 5, Sly Cooper Collection, Crysis 2, Mortal Kombat, Tron, The Fight, Eyepet.
Coca Cola:
-Cross over advertising with Playstation products.
EA:
-Exclusive content for Medal of Honor and Dead Space 2
Kevin Butler:
-Surprise attendance.
-Advertises PS Move.
-'Every gamer is a true gamer'
PS2:
- 2nd most played console of 2009.
PSP ad campaign:
-Like PS3 ads, with Marcus.
-'Step your game up'
Software
Assassin's Creed; Brotherhood
-Multiplayer beta exclusive to PS3.
-Exclusive content.
Dead Space 2:
-Limited edition includes DS: Extraction with Move support.
Echochrome 2:
-Move title
Final Fantasy 14
Gran Turismo 5:
-Top Gear test track
-November 2 2010 launch.
Heroes on the Move:
-Move title
- Ratchet, Jak and Sly combined.
Infamous 2:
-Ice powers added.
Killzone 3:
-live demo in 3D
-February 2011 worldwide release
-Compatible with PS Move at launch
LittleBigPlanet 2:
-Competitive scoring system
-Make your own games with elaborate tools.
-Create HUD's.
-Trailer shows off user creations in 24 hours with no tutorials from the developers, including a working RTS title.
Mafia 2:
-Exclusive DLC at 1 on PS3 version.
Medal of Honor:
-Exclusive content for PS3 version: limited edition includes a remastered version of MOH Frontline.
-Title is modern day and work was done with actual soldiers, military and weapon personnel.
-New character: Deuce.
-Multiplayer designed by Dice.
-October 12 2010 release.
Portal 2:
-Best version on any console according to Gabe
-Coming 2011
Singstar Dance:
- Uses Move
Sorcery:
-Move title.
-Play as a magicians apprentice.
-Flick at screen to attack.
-Spells include frost which freezes enemies
-Spells can be combined: fire and wind create a fire storm.
-Fix environments with magic.
-Change into different animals.
-Release: Spring 2011.
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11:
-Move enabled through upcoming patch.
-1:1 movement.
-Power is important.
Twisted Metal:
-By Eat. Sleep. Play - David Jaffe.
-Flight added.
-Emphasis on team play.
-2011 release.
Hardware
Playstation Move
-Launch fall 2010.
-Bundle with PS Eye, Move and Sports Champion for $99; PS3 bundle $399.
-Level of precisio
-Level of precision like realism.
-Camera and controller creates 1:1 tracking.
-Developer praise montage.
------------------------------------
Playstation Portable
Software
Eyepet
God of War: Ghost of Sparta
Invizimals
Patapon 3
The 3rd Birthday
Valkyria Chronicles 2
-------------------------------------
PSN
Home:
-Sony E3 booth recreated in Home.
Playstation Plus
-Subscription based PSN.
-Exclusive digital content, priority to betas, PSN store savings and free content like select PSN games.
- $49.99 for a year; $17.99 for 3 months.
First 3 months free.
Tester 2
-------------------------------------
Miscellaneous
3D:
- Motorstorm, Killzone 3, Gran Turismo 5, Sly Cooper Collection, Crysis 2, Mortal Kombat, Tron, The Fight, Eyepet.
Coca Cola:
-Cross over advertising with Playstation products.
EA:
-Exclusive content for Medal of Honor and Dead Space 2
Kevin Butler:
-Surprise attendance.
-Advertises PS Move.
-'Every gamer is a true gamer'
PS2:
- 2nd most played console of 2009.
PSP ad campaign:
-Like PS3 ads, with Marcus.
-'Step your game up'
Thursday, 11 March 2010
GDC 2010: Sony Conference Overview
Playstation 3
Hardware
Playstation Move
- motion controller.
- bundles include standalone controller, with the playstation eye and a whole PS3 bundle.
Playstation Move sub controller
- 2nd controller to assist the Move for use in traditional games.
- 2nd controller to assist the Move for use in traditional games.
Software
Sports Champion:
- includes a variety of games including Gladiator Fight, table tennis.
Eyepet:
- trailer shows off the PS Move adding new motion control actions to the game beyond the existing PS Eye movements.
LittleBigPlanet:
- demo showcasing the PS Move.
- one person controls the Sackboy while the other player uses the Move to manipulate the environment.
Gran Turismo 5:
- will ship in 2010.
- will ship in 2010.
Motion Fighters:
- black and white 3rd person fighting game where 2 PS Move controllers are used for each arm of the character.
Move Party:
- family title which uses the Move, PS Eye and mic.
- family title which uses the Move, PS Eye and mic.
- similar in design to the original Eyetoy games by including a bunch of mini games like hitting objects, painting and cutting hair.
Socom 4:
- includes support for the motion controls with use of the Move and sub controller.
- includes support for the motion controls with use of the Move and sub controller.
Sports Champion:
- includes a variety of games including Gladiator Fight, table tennis.
Wednesday, 23 September 2009
TGS 2009: Sony Conference Overview
Playstation3
Software
Gran Turismo 5:
- March 2010 release; new physics and damage text/ voice chat online; youtube export feature; export videos to PSP.
- March 2010 release; new physics and damage text/ voice chat online; youtube export feature; export videos to PSP.
Hardware
Final Fantasy 13 bundle
- Lighting edition; comes in pink and white with a 250gb HDD
Motion controller
- Jun Takeuchi from Capcom shows off Resident Evil 5; dualshock in one hand with motion controller in the other; LittleBiGplanet also shown; games list includes the likes of Eyepet, Flower, High Velocity Bowling and PAIN
------------------------------------
Playstation Portable
Software
ROOM:
- Home for PSP, cuter looking style
Hardware
PSP 3000:
-priced at 16800 yen from October 1; +- $184/ R1350; Gran Turismo and Winning Eleven bundles planned
PSP go:
-November 1 launch in Japan; 400 - 450 titles planned for launch
-------------------------------------
PSN
Comic service:
-Manga titles in catalogue; available in December; titles include Dragonball and One Piece
Home
-v1.30
Music service.
New PSN service:
-Focus on Mainichi Issyo
PS1 Classics:
-Final Fantasy 8 hitting PSN
- Home for PSP, cuter looking style
Hardware
PSP 3000:
-priced at 16800 yen from October 1; +- $184/ R1350; Gran Turismo and Winning Eleven bundles planned
PSP go:
-November 1 launch in Japan; 400 - 450 titles planned for launch
-------------------------------------
PSN
Comic service:
-Manga titles in catalogue; available in December; titles include Dragonball and One Piece
Home
-v1.30
Music service.
New PSN service:
-Focus on Mainichi Issyo
PS1 Classics:
-Final Fantasy 8 hitting PSN
-------------------------------------
Keynote
Keynote
Home:
-user base doubled from 4 million at start of year to 8 million currently.
The Last Guardian (PS3):
-new trailer shown.
PSPGo:
-launches November 1 in Japan; will be 700 titles available for download on launch in US; 400 for Japanese launch.
PSN Video store:
-will be available to all Europeans by Spring 2010.
Tuesday, 18 August 2009
GC 2009: Sony Conference Overview
Playstation3
Software
Software
Eyepet - bundled with the PlaystationEye
Heavy Rain - new character
Home - Singstar space with video jukebox and music quiz; Audi space ;new dance moves, animations, character customizations and a camera item
Uncharted 2
Hardware
Motion controls - Teaser video for now but fully shown at TGS 2009
Playstation 3 Slim - 120gb, 33% smaller, 36% lighter, available 1st week September at 299 Euros
------------------------------------
Playstation Portable
Software
Eye of Judgement
Minis - New titles for PSP on the PSN store with a 100mb size limit; 15 titles on launch October 1st with 50 titles through 2009. Includes Tetris, MiniGore, Fieldrunners, and Hero of Sparta
Gran Tursimo PSP - Anyone who registers their PSPGo in the first 10 days from launch get GT PSP free!
Loco Roco Midnight Carnival - exclusive download title
Hardware
PSP 3000 - new colours -- Turquoise Green, Lilac Purple and Blossom Pink.
-------------------------------------
PSN
Digital Reader - graphic novels, indie titles; includes Marvel; not just for comics.
Firmware 3.0 - interface changes; whats new section; animated themes
Heavy Rain - new character
Home - Singstar space with video jukebox and music quiz; Audi space ;new dance moves, animations, character customizations and a camera item
Uncharted 2
Hardware
Motion controls - Teaser video for now but fully shown at TGS 2009
Playstation 3 Slim - 120gb, 33% smaller, 36% lighter, available 1st week September at 299 Euros
------------------------------------
Playstation Portable
Software
Eye of Judgement
Minis - New titles for PSP on the PSN store with a 100mb size limit; 15 titles on launch October 1st with 50 titles through 2009. Includes Tetris, MiniGore, Fieldrunners, and Hero of Sparta
Gran Tursimo PSP - Anyone who registers their PSPGo in the first 10 days from launch get GT PSP free!
Loco Roco Midnight Carnival - exclusive download title
Hardware
PSP 3000 - new colours -- Turquoise Green, Lilac Purple and Blossom Pink.
-------------------------------------
PSN
Digital Reader - graphic novels, indie titles; includes Marvel; not just for comics.
Firmware 3.0 - interface changes; whats new section; animated themes
PSN - relaunch design for September 1
Video Download Service - Rent and buy films - PSP and PS3; launches November
Vidzone - expanding to new PAL territories
Video Download Service - Rent and buy films - PSP and PS3; launches November
Vidzone - expanding to new PAL territories
Tuesday, 2 June 2009
E3 2009: Sony Conference Overview
Playstation 3:
Hardware:
Motion control - similar to Wii remote but requires eyetoy; true 1:1 tracking; first person shooter demoed; RTS demoed;
Software:
Agent - Rockstar PS3 exclusive; late 1970's espionage
Assassins Creed 2.
Final Fantasy 13.
Final Fantasy 14 - PS3 exclusive; online like FF11
God of War 3 - first public demo shown.
Gran Turismo 5 - rally, nascar, car damage.
Infamous.
The Last Guardian - Trico project.
LittleBigPlanet - new Disney costumes coming;
MAG - first public demo shown.
ModNation Racers - kart racer, LittleBigPlanet esque; PS3 exclusive
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.
Playstation Portable:
Hardware:
PSP Go - no UMD; does not replace PSP 3000 or UMD; 16gb internal flash memory, built-in wifi, bluetooth support; $250.
Hannah Montana PSP 3000 bundle - new lilac colour.
Rockband Unplugged PSP 3000 bundle
Software:
Assassins Creed: Bloodline.
LittleBigPlanet.
Gran Turismo - full scale game, 60 frames per second, 800 cars, 35 tracks; many single player modes such as time trial and drifting; ad hoc for up o 4 players; trading of cars with other players
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker - 10 years after MGS3; Kojima deeply involved with script and producing; made by MGS4 team
Resident Evil Portable- new title.
Media Go - simpler way to connect the PSP to the PC in order to receive PSN content.
Sense Me - sense listening habit, recommend playlist.
Video PSN - native for PSP; includes new channels such as E!, Manga and Showtime.
Hardware:
Motion control - similar to Wii remote but requires eyetoy; true 1:1 tracking; first person shooter demoed; RTS demoed;
Software:
Agent - Rockstar PS3 exclusive; late 1970's espionage
Assassins Creed 2.
Final Fantasy 13.
Final Fantasy 14 - PS3 exclusive; online like FF11
God of War 3 - first public demo shown.
Gran Turismo 5 - rally, nascar, car damage.
Infamous.
The Last Guardian - Trico project.
LittleBigPlanet - new Disney costumes coming;
MAG - first public demo shown.
ModNation Racers - kart racer, LittleBigPlanet esque; PS3 exclusive
Uncharted 2: Among Thieves.
------------------------------------------------------------
Playstation Portable:
Hardware:
PSP Go - no UMD; does not replace PSP 3000 or UMD; 16gb internal flash memory, built-in wifi, bluetooth support; $250.
Hannah Montana PSP 3000 bundle - new lilac colour.
Rockband Unplugged PSP 3000 bundle
Software:
Assassins Creed: Bloodline.
LittleBigPlanet.
Gran Turismo - full scale game, 60 frames per second, 800 cars, 35 tracks; many single player modes such as time trial and drifting; ad hoc for up o 4 players; trading of cars with other players
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker - 10 years after MGS3; Kojima deeply involved with script and producing; made by MGS4 team
Resident Evil Portable- new title.
Media Go - simpler way to connect the PSP to the PC in order to receive PSN content.
Sense Me - sense listening habit, recommend playlist.
Video PSN - native for PSP; includes new channels such as E!, Manga and Showtime.
Friday, 3 October 2008
Sony at Tokyo Game Show 2008
With the Tokyo Game Show just around the corner, and Nintendo holding a rather impressive conference of their own, all eyes are on Sony: will the PS3 be able to build upon an impressive foundation of upcoming titles? Will Sony be able to answer Nintendo's DS revision, the DSi?
Playstation 3:
If E3 and the Gamers Convention proved one thing, it is that Sony are trying their best to put the PS3 as the console choice for gamers. With some excellent showcases, TGS is the final major convention stop for all companies and Sony will want to end the year with a bang. Though Japan has become a touchy issue for Sony as of late: they lack JRPG's to entice the majority of the Japanese market, and the PS3 has recently been outsold by the Xbox360 in the region for a few weeks straight, due in turn to JRPG releases. Simply put, TGS 2008 will require Sony to showcase a few RPG titles. Now Sony has 11 playable unannounced titles for TGS. How many of these are actual new games, and merely known games receiving their first Japanese release and showcasing, is unknown, though the former is perhaps more desired.
Famitsu has had some information on new titles and in doing so, have probably unveiled some of these announcements for TGS. One title which is bound to get some attention is Demon's Souls, mainly because its an RPG. It seems like a grat synthesis of King's Field, Oblivion and Shadow of the Colossus. Awesome! Though this title is from the same team who created the average Enchanted Arms. Not so Awesome! Another two of the titles come from IREM and Konami. IREM have Spelunker HD (what ever happened to Steambot Chronicles 2?) and Konami's title seem more or likely to be Zone of the Enders 3... or Coded Arms has resurfaced from cancellation (better then nothing I suppose). Either way, whether Demon's Souls and Spelunker HD are part of the unannounced titles, it is difficult to tell, but it leaves Sony with merely nine unknown titles (or eight if you count a possible ZOE3).
Team ICO is bound to break the silence and showcase their new title, and it very much one of the more anticipated moments of the show. This leaves seven titles remaining, but it must be said that these titles will most likely come from Japanese developers. The reason for this is simple: E3 showed off American developed titles, such as God of War 3 and MAG, and the Gamers Convention showed off European developed titles such as the new Singstar's. There is a possibility that the three Cellius projects: Brace Arms, Chain Limit and Second: Season 01 are shown. The apparnetly online-only Tears of Blood could finally be showcased, along with Kurayami from Suda 51 (though this title could be published by EA leaving it as multi platform). If these is the case, that leaves two titles.
There is bound to be a PSN title, but where are the JRPG's? One can only fathom that Sony will do what Nintendo have done at their recent conference and resurrect a sequel to an older IP, the most notable for Sony in the JRPG genre being The Legend of Dragoon. This title is perhaps the most required from Sony as it would show their commitment to the JRPG genre and even allow other developers to follow.
It is difficult to really predict what will be shown because of the flux of titles that were announced for the PS3 but have since fallen off the radar. Whatever the case, Sony has to prove not only that it has the software to compete with Nintendo's recent announcements, but also that it is not going to abandon the RPG scene.
Playstation Portable:
Nintendo's DSi proves quite valuable to Nintendo's handheld efforts, regardless of whether you think its viable for them to release a new revision or not. However there are many moves Sony can make to counteract the euphoria around Nintendo's announcement. Firstly, the DSi is going to debut at 18,900 yen, which is merely 900 yen cheaper then the PSP-3000's debut price of 19,800. With a difference of around $8.5, Sony is now more competitively priced to its rival. While its unlikely, Sony could easily announce at TGS a new price for their handheld, being equated to the DSi. If this were to occur, sales will merely rely upon hardware and software alone, mainly the latter.
The video game representation for both handhelds are pretty impressive, with Sony being most fortunate for a sudden proliferation in third party support from Japanese developers. While it will be key for them to outline many titles, especially the likes of LocoRoco 2 and Patapon 2, and other key titles such as the Final Fantasy's from Square Enix, what could work more in Sony's favour would be to outline upcoming firmware updates. With the DSi, Nintendo has created a more media capable handheld, and Sony could capitalize upon this by showing off software for the PSP's OS.
Much has been expressed about the PSP gaining the addition of direct PSN access. This is of much help to PSP users allowing them to cu the middleman of a PS3 or PC to get content for their PSP. This also highlights Sony's stance for downloadable content for the PSP, however one aspect of Sony's overall strategy is still missing: the numerous downloadable PSP-exclusive PSN titles. Beats was the first, and Sony promised more titles, with a FPS, action and rhythm titles coming. If Sony can demonstrate this feature while showing at least of of these titles (if they even still exist), then the DSi's virtual console support becomes undercut a little, though it is still an important factor of the DSi.
Other features will be important to outline: a PSN ID, friends list and trophy support. These three don't counteract anything about the Dsi, but it gives the PSP a lot more functionality, albeit somewhat trivial in helping hardware sales. Though what could be key in challenging the DSi's new found media capabilities, would be for Sony to prove the rumours of wmv. and avi. support. Such a feature will allow the PSP to be a rather hefty piece of equipment, and the price tag would seem even more justifiable.
The overall point would be for Sony to make the PSP-3000 seem far more important to customers than Nintendo's Dsi. They might not be able to stop what could be amazing DSi sales, but they can easily create doubt in the mind of consumers. And with what looks like hefty support from Japanese develpers, Sony could easily see another PSP boon in Japan for a while, which is required in order to help their market prospects elsewhere.
Wednesday, 20 August 2008
GC: Sony Conference overview
Playstation Portable:
Hardware:
PSP 3000 - A new model, not new PSP. Has enhanced LCD for more intensity and less glare. A built-in microphone. 8 bundles, all at R2,287, either with FIFA, Go! Communication, Buzz!, Harry Potter
Software:
Loco Roco 2
Hardware:
80gb sku - going for R4586. Launch in EU on 28 August.
160gb sku - going for R5161. Launching in EU October 31, same functionality as 80gb.
Play TV - 19th September in EU.
Wireless Keypad - Attachable to the PS3 controller. Has a touchpad for mouse usage.
Software:
EyePet - Adopt a virtual animal which you can stroke and play with and so forth. Uses the eyetoy camera presume.
DC Universe Online
Free Realms
Heavy Rain - A QTE system seems in place.
InFamous
LittleBigPlanet - 29th October is the release date.
MAG
Motorstorm 2
Ratchet and Clank
Resistance 2
Singstar Disney - music from Disney animations such as The Lion King.
Singstar Turkish Party - German exclusive it seems.
Singstar Volume 3 - an update will allow downloaded music to be playable on your PS3.
Siren
The Agency
Fat Princess [PSN]
Fl0wer [PSN]
PixelJunk Eden [PSN]
The Last Guy [PSN]
Wipeout HD [PSN]
------------------------------------------------------------
Playstation Network:
Software:
Vidzone - music streaming service which is apparently free for early 2009. For use with PS3 and PSP.
Misc - Video service coming?
Hardware:
PSP 3000 - A new model, not new PSP. Has enhanced LCD for more intensity and less glare. A built-in microphone. 8 bundles, all at R2,287, either with FIFA, Go! Communication, Buzz!, Harry Potter
Software:
Loco Roco 2
------------------------------------------------------------
Playstation 3: Hardware:
80gb sku - going for R4586. Launch in EU on 28 August.
160gb sku - going for R5161. Launching in EU October 31, same functionality as 80gb.
Play TV - 19th September in EU.
Wireless Keypad - Attachable to the PS3 controller. Has a touchpad for mouse usage.
Software:
EyePet - Adopt a virtual animal which you can stroke and play with and so forth. Uses the eyetoy camera presume.
DC Universe Online
Free Realms
Heavy Rain - A QTE system seems in place.
InFamous
LittleBigPlanet - 29th October is the release date.
MAG
Motorstorm 2
Ratchet and Clank
Resistance 2
Singstar Disney - music from Disney animations such as The Lion King.
Singstar Turkish Party - German exclusive it seems.
Singstar Volume 3 - an update will allow downloaded music to be playable on your PS3.
Siren
The Agency
Fat Princess [PSN]
Fl0wer [PSN]
PixelJunk Eden [PSN]
The Last Guy [PSN]
Wipeout HD [PSN]
------------------------------------------------------------
Playstation Network:
Software:
Vidzone - music streaming service which is apparently free for early 2009. For use with PS3 and PSP.
Misc - Video service coming?
Tuesday, 15 July 2008
E3: Sony Conference overview
Playstation 2:
Hardware:
Bundle with LEGO Batman and Justice League: New Frontiers DVD - R1140
Software:
Buzz! (2008)
LEGO Batman
Madden NFL (2008)
Mercenaries 2 (2008)
NCAA Football (2008)
Singstar (2008)
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (2008)
Tiger Woods PGA Tour (2008)
Yakuza 2 (2008)
Hardware:
Bundle with Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters, National Treasure 2 UMD, a 1GB memory stick, and echochrome PSP voucher - R1520
Software:
Buzz! Master Quiz (2008)
LEGO Batman
Loco Roco 2
Madden
Midnight Club Los Angeles Remix
NBA 09
Patapon 2
Resistance Retribution (2009) - by Sony Bend, a third person title.
Star Wars: Unleashed
Super Stardust Portable
Hardware:
80gb SKU - same functionality as 40gb?
Software:
50 Cent: Blood on the Sand
Buzz Quiz TV (2008)
DC Universe Online - Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Joker, Bane.
God of War 3
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue - Pay Per View content coming
Ghost Busters
Guitar Hero: World Tour
HOME - Dedicated rooms. Graphical update.
inFamous (2009)
Killzone 2
LittleBigPlanet (October 2008)
MAG: Massive Action Game - Zipper Interactive. 256 players possible online!!!
Mirror's Edge
Motorstorm: Pacific Rift
NBA 09
Quantum of Solace
Resident Evil 5
Resistance 2 (2008)
Singstar
Socom: Confrontation
Soul Calibur 4
The Agency
Crash Commando [PSN]
Fat Princess [PSN]
Flower [PSN]
Pain: Amusement Park [PSN]
Siren: Blood Curse [PSN]
Ragdoll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic [PSN]
Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty [PSN]
Hardware:
Bundle with LEGO Batman and Justice League: New Frontiers DVD - R1140
Software:
Buzz! (2008)
LEGO Batman
Madden NFL (2008)
Mercenaries 2 (2008)
NCAA Football (2008)
Singstar (2008)
Star Wars: The Force Unleashed (2008)
Tiger Woods PGA Tour (2008)
Yakuza 2 (2008)
------------------------------------------------------------
Playstation Portable: Hardware:
Bundle with Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters, National Treasure 2 UMD, a 1GB memory stick, and echochrome PSP voucher - R1520
Software:
Buzz! Master Quiz (2008)
LEGO Batman
Loco Roco 2
Madden
Midnight Club Los Angeles Remix
NBA 09
Patapon 2
Resistance Retribution (2009) - by Sony Bend, a third person title.
Star Wars: Unleashed
Super Stardust Portable
------------------------------------------------------------
Playstation 3: Hardware:
80gb SKU - same functionality as 40gb?
Software:
50 Cent: Blood on the Sand
Buzz Quiz TV (2008)
DC Universe Online - Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Joker, Bane.
God of War 3
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue - Pay Per View content coming
Ghost Busters
Guitar Hero: World Tour
HOME - Dedicated rooms. Graphical update.
inFamous (2009)
Killzone 2
LittleBigPlanet (October 2008)
MAG: Massive Action Game - Zipper Interactive. 256 players possible online!!!
Mirror's Edge
Motorstorm: Pacific Rift
NBA 09
Quantum of Solace
Resident Evil 5
Resistance 2 (2008)
Singstar
Socom: Confrontation
Soul Calibur 4
The Agency
Crash Commando [PSN]
Fat Princess [PSN]
Flower [PSN]
Pain: Amusement Park [PSN]
Siren: Blood Curse [PSN]
Ragdoll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic [PSN]
Ratchet and Clank Future: Quest for Booty [PSN]
------------------------------------------------------------
Playstation Network:
Software:
Single user sign-in for all Playstation customers
Video rental service - Sony, Fox, Disney, Warner, MGM, Lionsgate, 20th Century and even Funimation. Studio backgrounds replace normal backgrounds. 85 films from Sony available on SD. HD rental also available for certain titles, with purchase as an option at R115. Files can be transfered to you PSP.
Life with Playstation - News and weather with google earth.
Playstation Network:
Software:
Single user sign-in for all Playstation customers
Video rental service - Sony, Fox, Disney, Warner, MGM, Lionsgate, 20th Century and even Funimation. Studio backgrounds replace normal backgrounds. 85 films from Sony available on SD. HD rental also available for certain titles, with purchase as an option at R115. Files can be transfered to you PSP.
Life with Playstation - News and weather with google earth.
Tuesday, 24 June 2008
What Sony needs at E3
Regardless of you gaming preference, it is difficult to deny that Sony has some good offerings in store, and its probable that there are other key software which we are unaware of. 2008 has been a good year for Sony but the game releases are, currently, not mainstream enough to truly accelerate the Playstation 3, but I will acknowledge that the next six months could prove otherwise. However, 2009 offers different and better possibilities, and with Sony enjoying success this year, it could be that much better in the more potential 'Year of the PS3': 2009. Here are the key areas Sony must target to get them firing in the console race:
1. Rectify the JRPG situation
Sony will first want to dampen the euphoria around Microsoft's surprise Japanese RPG announcements. Revalidation of The Last Remnant could dent the early release of the Xbox 360 version, but Sony would need to provide a concrete date for both White Knight Chronicles and Final Fantasy XIII. Information on Final Fantasy Versus XIII would be appreciated, along with the possible confirmation of the rumoured Dark Cloud 3. These titles easily hold their weight against the Xbox 360 exclusives but Sony can further add doubt into the minds of potential Xbox 360 owners: announcing an English port of Eternal Sonata could be very pivotal for a couple reasons. Eternal Sonata was once an Xbox360 exclusive, by Namco Bandai, who just so happen to be developing Tales of Versperia, which seems to be another timed-exclusive, unless Famitsu are to be believed about an exclusive Tales title for the Playstation 3. This could lessen the effect of Tales of Versperia and The Last Remnant. As well as including Disgaea 3, X Edge and Tears to Tiara in their lineup could easily make many question the JRPG support on the Xbox360.
2. Celebrate the Playstation 2, and leave it to rest
The Playstation 2 is one of the best selling consoles in existence, and helped Sony gain a valuable footing on the gaming industry. But with both the Playstation 3 and Playstation Portable not selling at an expected pace, it might prove best for Sony to encourage Playstation 2 owners to jump aboard Sony's other two systems. Though this should not stop Sony from announcing the final build of the Playstation 2 hardware for retail purposes and encourage potential Wii buyers to jump aboard Sony's ship instead, just in time for such releases as Yakuza 2 and Perona 4.
3. Enhance the image of the Playstation Network
Pushing the PSN in its totality is a must. With a possible announcement of a music and video download service, and with the imminent release of firmware 2.4, Sony will be catching up to Microsoft in terms of extras features which their console supports. But games are where Sony will truly enhance the PSN, with HOME being a easy bet to appear. Home is become a laughingstock of the gaming community, with the countless praise by Sony only turning into countless delays. It is obvious that fine tuning has been taking place with the recently reveals 'Media and Events' room not in the original proceedings of Home, but it really cannot not afford anymore negative news. Though in a more positive manner, the PSN will be seeing the releases of Wipeout HD, PixelJunk Eden, SIREN: Blood Curse, Socom: Confrontation, the soon to be announced Or2 (or is ir Orz?), and the intriguing LittleBigPlanet, all highlighting the further potential of the PSN platform. But besides the confirmed releases, the world still awaits more information on all projects by David Jaffe, the first being a Twisted Metal title. Nobi Nobi Boy by Keita Takahashi, of Katamari Damacy fame, could prove a hit, with the mysterious Linger In Shadows, sounding similar in design to Sony's Echochrome, adding a new type of game to Sony's repertoire of genre types. And this does not even begin to touch upon the possible title of Ratchet: Quest for Booty (which could be mere DLC), and as well the apparent Team ICO title that is heading to the PSN. Another major boost will be getting the release of many Playstation classics ready, and the rumoured enhanced port of Final Fantasy 7 will truly be a shocker.
4. Bring out the big software for the Playstation 3
The disc-based region for the remainder of the year does fare quite well. Afrika could get a potential release, though recent news states otherwise, and Buzz! Quiz TV attracts the increasingly popular casual market, with Valkyria Chronicles being an interesting exclusive along with Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm to appeal to anime fans. Yet these titles are far too niche, and the big titles of Resistance 2, MotorStorm: Pacific Rift, and the eventual PS3 release of Bioshock, might not pick up the pace of the Playstation 3, as the lineup is not entirely dominating. The much famed Tekken 6 is a key title, though it might be aging as of late, but Sony really needs is a 2008 release date for White Knight Chronicles, at the very least, and the wishful idea that Final Fantasy XIII gets a 2008 release date. The latter title, a real system seller, would be of tremendous help to the notion of 2008 being the year of the Playstation 3.
Thankfully, new key titles can help improve the remainder of 2008 and 2009. Both Insomniac and Team ICO have big-budget titles on the way. After Resistance 2, work on a sequel to Tools of Destruction will be in full sway, with Team ICO's title being hotly anticipated. Naughty Dog are another company who has had great success with Sony over the years, and with a rumoured new Jax and Daxter title on the way: The Lost Frontier. What can be expected is a possible Uncharted 2, but this will obviously depend on how far into production the game is currently. Other important sequels which should get a place in Sony's conference are Killzone 2, Gran Turismo 5 (usually a system seller), Yakuza 3, and God of War 3, which is perhaps one of the most anticipated titles at the moment. Sony do have a new Socom in development but with their multiplayer-only Socom: Confrontation not even released yet, its doubtful that Sony would jeopardize this title, and therefore show a new Socom possibly early next year. It should be expected that SOE's The Agency will appear in some form, and even possibly their DC Universe MMO. NCsoft could have a title shown, even four, as their exclusive deal with Sony was much publicized. Two unique titles which could possibly be Playstation 3 exclusives is the Guilty Gear successor, BlazBlue, which could help entice 2D fighting fans, and the Suda51 project, Kurayami. While its not entirely known if BlazBlue will be an exclusive title, Kurayami was last seen to be having publisher issues. Rockstar's L.A Noire is another title which appears to be wavering as far as being an exclusive goes, but by information so far, it is a playstation 3 exclusive. There has also been talk of a possible Zone of the Enders sequel, even going as far as being declared a Playstation 3 exclusive. Though there are three definite exclusives titles which really look intriguing from the limited showcasing they have received. The first is inFamous with its Phil Harrison looking protagonist, being developed by Suckerpunch, responsible for Sly Cooper (I wonder if a new title could be in the works as well), and seems like a nice mix of Grand Theft Auto and the television series Heroes. The second is Wardevil, one of the first HD-generation games ever announced. Initially a multiplatform title, it went Playstation 3 exclusive. Another amazing exclusive is Heavy Rain, which not only has the potential to further the experience of Fahrenheit, a former Quantic Dream title, but also be a showcase for the Playstation 3's hardware capabilities. However there are three more titles, which beyond some scans, have yet to get any real showcasing. Apparently being developed by the Sony Namco initiative known as Cellius, the three titles are Brave Arms, Chain Limit and Second: Season 01. All three make use of an advanced QTE system, but as the main game play element. Its possible that the long absence of these titles was so as to develop a more practical game play system, while incorporating the new QTE system. Lastly, there were rumblings of an unannounced exclusive in the works. Ranging from Heavy Rain to a title know as Tears of Blood, it appears that Sony might in fact have two new exclusives by which the gaming public is unknown about (that is if Tears of Blood or Heavy Rain are not the title). Though this is strictly unconfirmed in every possible way , though Vanssa Morgan, new editor for OPM Australia, did briefly mention two unannounced titles for the Playstation 3 which were huge. This doesn't even begin to make mention that Red Dead Revolver 2 could be an exclusive, a console Syphon Filter, and the Biochock port for later this year.
5. Make the Playstation Portable important again
Sony will need to attempt to prove that the Playstation Portable is not dying out, with the new iPhone being a potential threat. LocoRoco 2 will easily make an appearance after it's confirmed release, and highlighting Bleach: Soul Carnival, Dissidia: Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep would be expected (especially for the latter if Sony wants to gain a Kingdom Hearts 3 exclusive). Recent articles on both Ubisoft and Crytek could bring new life to the handheld, though its disheartening that their is not much to talk about software wise for the system. Even the expected handful of PSN titles, after Beats, could help strengthen the Playstation Portable's position, with two rumoured titles being LittleBigPlanet and Call All Cars. Yet any surprise information on the canned/ vaporware titles of Gran Tursimo: Mobile, Resident Evil, Devil May Cry, Earthworm Jim, Gekido 2, Heartland and Oblivion would be of much use to Sony, amongst new unannounced titles. With Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G selling so strongly in Japan, it would be wrong of Sony not to make an announcement of an English release. It revitalized sales in Japan and, with other good quality software, could do the same in other territories.
6. Highlight hardware specials
Beyond software, Sony are possibly developing something big hardware wise. Before that, I think it's viable that Sony could announce a new Eyetoy title. While Eyedentify seems to have gone into gaming limbo, a new title to help promote the new Eyetoy, or even a new Eyetoy Kinetic title could be in the works so as to challenge Wiifit (though it must be said that Sony did it first). There are rumblings of a new Playstation 3 controller, two in fact. The first talks of a controller which breaks apart and can form new controller types, and another which is similar to the wii-mote. I talked a little about this in a previous short article: New rumoured Sony controller not so new?. Regardless of which is correct or not, a new controller could provide a new angle for Sony to play upon in regards to their console. However, bringing to light the release of the Dualshock 3 in Europe is vital, regardless of whether a new controller is shown, but I did discover when this could possibly be: Dual Shock 3 EU release in end July?. If both the Dual Shock PAL release and the new controller make the conference, Sony will need to to make sure not to alienate the Dual Shock 3's capabilities. E3 will be a great oppurtunity to discuss Play TV, and attempt to show what other features the Playstation 3 and Playstation Portable will be capable of.
1. Rectify the JRPG situation
Sony will first want to dampen the euphoria around Microsoft's surprise Japanese RPG announcements. Revalidation of The Last Remnant could dent the early release of the Xbox 360 version, but Sony would need to provide a concrete date for both White Knight Chronicles and Final Fantasy XIII. Information on Final Fantasy Versus XIII would be appreciated, along with the possible confirmation of the rumoured Dark Cloud 3. These titles easily hold their weight against the Xbox 360 exclusives but Sony can further add doubt into the minds of potential Xbox 360 owners: announcing an English port of Eternal Sonata could be very pivotal for a couple reasons. Eternal Sonata was once an Xbox360 exclusive, by Namco Bandai, who just so happen to be developing Tales of Versperia, which seems to be another timed-exclusive, unless Famitsu are to be believed about an exclusive Tales title for the Playstation 3. This could lessen the effect of Tales of Versperia and The Last Remnant. As well as including Disgaea 3, X Edge and Tears to Tiara in their lineup could easily make many question the JRPG support on the Xbox360.
2. Celebrate the Playstation 2, and leave it to rest
The Playstation 2 is one of the best selling consoles in existence, and helped Sony gain a valuable footing on the gaming industry. But with both the Playstation 3 and Playstation Portable not selling at an expected pace, it might prove best for Sony to encourage Playstation 2 owners to jump aboard Sony's other two systems. Though this should not stop Sony from announcing the final build of the Playstation 2 hardware for retail purposes and encourage potential Wii buyers to jump aboard Sony's ship instead, just in time for such releases as Yakuza 2 and Perona 4.
3. Enhance the image of the Playstation Network
Pushing the PSN in its totality is a must. With a possible announcement of a music and video download service, and with the imminent release of firmware 2.4, Sony will be catching up to Microsoft in terms of extras features which their console supports. But games are where Sony will truly enhance the PSN, with HOME being a easy bet to appear. Home is become a laughingstock of the gaming community, with the countless praise by Sony only turning into countless delays. It is obvious that fine tuning has been taking place with the recently reveals 'Media and Events' room not in the original proceedings of Home, but it really cannot not afford anymore negative news. Though in a more positive manner, the PSN will be seeing the releases of Wipeout HD, PixelJunk Eden, SIREN: Blood Curse, Socom: Confrontation, the soon to be announced Or2 (or is ir Orz?), and the intriguing LittleBigPlanet, all highlighting the further potential of the PSN platform. But besides the confirmed releases, the world still awaits more information on all projects by David Jaffe, the first being a Twisted Metal title. Nobi Nobi Boy by Keita Takahashi, of Katamari Damacy fame, could prove a hit, with the mysterious Linger In Shadows, sounding similar in design to Sony's Echochrome, adding a new type of game to Sony's repertoire of genre types. And this does not even begin to touch upon the possible title of Ratchet: Quest for Booty (which could be mere DLC), and as well the apparent Team ICO title that is heading to the PSN. Another major boost will be getting the release of many Playstation classics ready, and the rumoured enhanced port of Final Fantasy 7 will truly be a shocker.
4. Bring out the big software for the Playstation 3
The disc-based region for the remainder of the year does fare quite well. Afrika could get a potential release, though recent news states otherwise, and Buzz! Quiz TV attracts the increasingly popular casual market, with Valkyria Chronicles being an interesting exclusive along with Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm to appeal to anime fans. Yet these titles are far too niche, and the big titles of Resistance 2, MotorStorm: Pacific Rift, and the eventual PS3 release of Bioshock, might not pick up the pace of the Playstation 3, as the lineup is not entirely dominating. The much famed Tekken 6 is a key title, though it might be aging as of late, but Sony really needs is a 2008 release date for White Knight Chronicles, at the very least, and the wishful idea that Final Fantasy XIII gets a 2008 release date. The latter title, a real system seller, would be of tremendous help to the notion of 2008 being the year of the Playstation 3.
Thankfully, new key titles can help improve the remainder of 2008 and 2009. Both Insomniac and Team ICO have big-budget titles on the way. After Resistance 2, work on a sequel to Tools of Destruction will be in full sway, with Team ICO's title being hotly anticipated. Naughty Dog are another company who has had great success with Sony over the years, and with a rumoured new Jax and Daxter title on the way: The Lost Frontier. What can be expected is a possible Uncharted 2, but this will obviously depend on how far into production the game is currently. Other important sequels which should get a place in Sony's conference are Killzone 2, Gran Turismo 5 (usually a system seller), Yakuza 3, and God of War 3, which is perhaps one of the most anticipated titles at the moment. Sony do have a new Socom in development but with their multiplayer-only Socom: Confrontation not even released yet, its doubtful that Sony would jeopardize this title, and therefore show a new Socom possibly early next year. It should be expected that SOE's The Agency will appear in some form, and even possibly their DC Universe MMO. NCsoft could have a title shown, even four, as their exclusive deal with Sony was much publicized. Two unique titles which could possibly be Playstation 3 exclusives is the Guilty Gear successor, BlazBlue, which could help entice 2D fighting fans, and the Suda51 project, Kurayami. While its not entirely known if BlazBlue will be an exclusive title, Kurayami was last seen to be having publisher issues. Rockstar's L.A Noire is another title which appears to be wavering as far as being an exclusive goes, but by information so far, it is a playstation 3 exclusive. There has also been talk of a possible Zone of the Enders sequel, even going as far as being declared a Playstation 3 exclusive. Though there are three definite exclusives titles which really look intriguing from the limited showcasing they have received. The first is inFamous with its Phil Harrison looking protagonist, being developed by Suckerpunch, responsible for Sly Cooper (I wonder if a new title could be in the works as well), and seems like a nice mix of Grand Theft Auto and the television series Heroes. The second is Wardevil, one of the first HD-generation games ever announced. Initially a multiplatform title, it went Playstation 3 exclusive. Another amazing exclusive is Heavy Rain, which not only has the potential to further the experience of Fahrenheit, a former Quantic Dream title, but also be a showcase for the Playstation 3's hardware capabilities. However there are three more titles, which beyond some scans, have yet to get any real showcasing. Apparently being developed by the Sony Namco initiative known as Cellius, the three titles are Brave Arms, Chain Limit and Second: Season 01. All three make use of an advanced QTE system, but as the main game play element. Its possible that the long absence of these titles was so as to develop a more practical game play system, while incorporating the new QTE system. Lastly, there were rumblings of an unannounced exclusive in the works. Ranging from Heavy Rain to a title know as Tears of Blood, it appears that Sony might in fact have two new exclusives by which the gaming public is unknown about (that is if Tears of Blood or Heavy Rain are not the title). Though this is strictly unconfirmed in every possible way , though Vanssa Morgan, new editor for OPM Australia, did briefly mention two unannounced titles for the Playstation 3 which were huge. This doesn't even begin to make mention that Red Dead Revolver 2 could be an exclusive, a console Syphon Filter, and the Biochock port for later this year.
5. Make the Playstation Portable important again
Sony will need to attempt to prove that the Playstation Portable is not dying out, with the new iPhone being a potential threat. LocoRoco 2 will easily make an appearance after it's confirmed release, and highlighting Bleach: Soul Carnival, Dissidia: Final Fantasy and Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep would be expected (especially for the latter if Sony wants to gain a Kingdom Hearts 3 exclusive). Recent articles on both Ubisoft and Crytek could bring new life to the handheld, though its disheartening that their is not much to talk about software wise for the system. Even the expected handful of PSN titles, after Beats, could help strengthen the Playstation Portable's position, with two rumoured titles being LittleBigPlanet and Call All Cars. Yet any surprise information on the canned/ vaporware titles of Gran Tursimo: Mobile, Resident Evil, Devil May Cry, Earthworm Jim, Gekido 2, Heartland and Oblivion would be of much use to Sony, amongst new unannounced titles. With Monster Hunter Portable 2nd G selling so strongly in Japan, it would be wrong of Sony not to make an announcement of an English release. It revitalized sales in Japan and, with other good quality software, could do the same in other territories.
6. Highlight hardware specials
Beyond software, Sony are possibly developing something big hardware wise. Before that, I think it's viable that Sony could announce a new Eyetoy title. While Eyedentify seems to have gone into gaming limbo, a new title to help promote the new Eyetoy, or even a new Eyetoy Kinetic title could be in the works so as to challenge Wiifit (though it must be said that Sony did it first). There are rumblings of a new Playstation 3 controller, two in fact. The first talks of a controller which breaks apart and can form new controller types, and another which is similar to the wii-mote. I talked a little about this in a previous short article: New rumoured Sony controller not so new?. Regardless of which is correct or not, a new controller could provide a new angle for Sony to play upon in regards to their console. However, bringing to light the release of the Dualshock 3 in Europe is vital, regardless of whether a new controller is shown, but I did discover when this could possibly be: Dual Shock 3 EU release in end July?. If both the Dual Shock PAL release and the new controller make the conference, Sony will need to to make sure not to alienate the Dual Shock 3's capabilities. E3 will be a great oppurtunity to discuss Play TV, and attempt to show what other features the Playstation 3 and Playstation Portable will be capable of.
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