SEGA released a Condemned 2 Bloodshot game trailer for Halloween. See the video trailer below. Condemned 2 is coming to the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 in Q1 2008.
Welcome to this week's Games & Toys update, our weekly summary featuring all new product arrivals from the last seven days.
It's been a strong release week, especially with plenty of great new Xbox360™ releases. Popular sellers for Microsoft's system have been Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation (Japanese), Tomb Raider: Anniversary, The Simpsons Game, Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (also available as Wireless Guitar Bundle), Conan and SEGA Rally Revo (all Asia releases).
For PlayStation3™ we've got SEGA Rally Revo, Clive Barker's Jericho, Conan and of course Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction (Asia / US).
Nintendo's long-awaited Super Mario Galaxy has been released for Nintendo Wii™ today and the most interesting PlayStation2™ release in this week has been Banpresto's Super Robot Taisen: Scramble Commander The 2nd.
Top handheld sellers have been Front Mission for Nintendo DS™, followed by Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles (US) and Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow (Asia) for PSP™.
Last but not least, make sure to check out Gamepark Holding's GP2X F-200 Game System, the successor to the popular Korean handheld console.
As usually, here's a summary of all new releases of this week,
Xbox360™:
Ace Combat 6 Flight Stick EX JPN US$ 149.00
Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation JPN US$ 69.90
Bee Movie Game US US$ 49.90
Blue Dragon (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
Chikyuu Boueigun 3 / Earth Defense Forces 3 (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
Clive Barker's Jericho US US$ 59.90
Conan ASIA US$ 49.90
Dead Rising + Gears of War (Platinum Double Pack) JPN US$ 49.90
Dead or Alive 4 (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
Gears of War (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
Guitar Hero II (Game Only) US US$ 59.90
Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock US US$ 59.90
Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock ASIA US$ 49.90
Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock Bundle ASIA US$ 129.90
Lost Planet: Extreme Condition (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 39.90
Oneechanbara vorteX (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
Project Sylpheed (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
SEGA Rally Revo ASIA US$ 44.90
The Idolm@ster (Platinum Collection) JPN US$ 34.90
The Simpsons Game ASIA US$ 44.90
Tomb Raider: Anniversary ASIA US$ 39.90
Tomb Raider: Anniversary US US$ 42.90
Xbox 360 Console Value Pack JPN US$ 399.90
Xbox 360 Rechargeable Battery Pack (Light Blue) JPN US$ 14.90
Xbox 360 Rechargeable Battery Pack (Pink) JPN US$ 14.90
Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (Light Blue) JPN US$ 49.90
Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (Pink) JPN US$ 49.90
PlayStation3™:
Clive Barker's Jericho US US$ 64.90
Conan US US$ 64.90
GI Jockey 4 2007 JPN US$ 69.90
GI Jockey 4 2007 (w/ Winning Post 7 2007 Premium Pack) JPN US$ 109.90
Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights US US$ 64.90
Railfan: Taiwan High Speed Rail JPN US$ 59.90
Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction US US$ 64.90
Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction ASIA US$ 59.90
SEGA Rally Revo (English language Version) ASIA US$ 59.90
The Eye of Judgment Booster Pack US US$ 6.90
The Eye of Judgment: Biolith Scourge Theme Deck US US$ 14.90
The Eye of Judgment: Earth Emperor Theme Deck US US$ 14.90
The Eye of Judgment: Fire Crusader Theme Deck US US$ 14.90
The Eye of Judgment: Water Barrage Theme Deck US US$ 14.90
The Eye of Judgment: Wood Swarm Theme Deck US US$ 14.90
Nintendo Wii™:
Bee Movie Game US US$ 49.90
Dancing with the Stars US US$ 49.90
Namco Museum Remix US US$ 44.90
Naruto: Clash of Ninja Revolution Revolution US US$ 49.90
Opoona JPN US$ 64.90
Super Mario Galaxy JPN US$ 59.90
The Sims 2: Castaway US US$ 49.90
PlayStation2™:
Bee Movie Game US US$ 44.90
Dancing with the Stars US US$ 44.90
GI Jockey 4 2007 JPN US$ 64.90
GI Jockey 4 2007 (w/ Winning Post 7 2007 Premium Pack) JPN N/A
Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock US US$ 59.90
MotoGP 07 JPN US$ 64.90
Super Robot Taisen: Scramble Commander The 2nd JPN US$ 64.90
Gamepark Holding GP2X:
GP2X F-200 Game System US$ 169.90
Nintendo DS™:
Bee Movie Game US US$ 34.90
CSI: Dark Motives ASIA US$ 34.90
Chessmaster: The Art of Learning US US$ 34.90
Chessmaster: The Art of Learning ASIA US$ 34.90
Disney Princess: Magical Jewels US US$ 34.90
Dolphin Island ASIA US$ 34.90
Dragon Tamer: Sound Spirits JPN US$ 48.90
Ed, Edd & Eddy: Scam of the Century US US$ 34.90
Front Mission US US$ 39.90
Hannah Montanna: Music Jam US US$ 34.90
Master Jin Jin's IQ Challenge US US$ 24.90
Naruto: Path of the Ninja US US$ 34.90
Petz Wild Animals Dolphinz US US$ 34.90
Power Rangers: Super Legends US US$ 34.90
Sangokushi DS 2 JPN US$ 48.90
Shrek: Ogres & Dronkeys US US$ 34.90
Solitaire Overload US US$ 34.90
Spanish for Everyone US US$ 34.90
The Aly & AJ Adventure US US$ 34.90
The Sims 2: Castaway US US$ 34.90
Zaidan Houjin Nippon Kanji Nouryoku Kentei Kyoukai Koushiki Soft: 250-Mannin no KanKen JPN US$ 29.90
Sony PSP™:
Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles US US$ 39.90
Gundam Battle Chronicle KOR US$ 49.90
Puzzle Quest: Challenge of WarLords ASIA US$ 29.90
SEGA Rally Revo (English language Version) ASIA US$ 39.90
Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow ASIA US$ 39.90
The Sims 2: Castaway ASIA US$ 42.90
Books & Magazines:
Ace Combat 6: Fires of Liberation Official Strategy Guide US US$ 16.90
Arcadia Magazine [December 2007] JPN US$ 12.90
Disgaea Afternoon of Darkness - The Official Strategy Guide US US$ 24.90
Famitsu Wave DVD [December 2007] JPN US$ 16.50
Toys & Misc:
Chrono Gate - Mylene Hoffman 009-1 Prepainted PVC Figure JPN US$ 59.90
Conan Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Black Wolf (Limited Edition) US$ 14.90
Creator's Labo #13: Air Gear Simca Prepainted PVC Figure JPN US$ 59.90
Dragon Ball DX - God Dragon Plush Doll JPN N/A
Dragon Quest Smile Slime Bean Bag Plush Doll: Bubble Slime JPN US$ 14.90
Dragon Quest Smile Slime Plush Doll: Angel Slime JPN US$ 14.90
Dragon Quest Smile Slime Plush Doll: King Slime JPN US$ 19.90
Dragon Quest Smile Slime Plush Doll: Slime Knight JPN US$ 17.90
Final Fantasy Miniature Trading Figures Vol. 1 JPN US$ 4.90
Final Fantasy Tactics Trading Arts JPN US$ 6.90
Funny Knights Prepainted PVC Figure Kurimu Kuru Nee (Custard Vers.) JPN US$ 49.90
Funny Knights Prepainted PVC Figure Kurimu Kuru Nee (Strawberry Vers.) JPN US$ 49.90
Halloween Girl 1/6 Scale Pre-painted PVC Figure JPN N/A
Idolm@ster Xenoglossia - Yukihiro Hagiwara 1/8 Scale PVC Figure JPN US$ 39.90
Ikkitousen: 1/7 Scale Painted Story Image Figure - Ryofu Housen (Japanese Limited Edition) US$ 59.90
Interon Depot 4 Bullets: Space Pirates blue version 1/8 Scale PVC Figure JPN US$ 54.90
Interon Depot 4 Bullets: Space Pirates red version 1/8 Scale PVC Figure JPN US$ 54.90
Kamichu - Yurie Hitotsubashi 1/8 Scale Prepainted PVC Figure JPN US$ 59.90
Mai-Hime Z Pre-painted 1/10 Scale PVC Figure - Shizuru Viola (Swimsuit) JPN N/A
Megachu! 1/8 Scale Pre-painted PVC Figure: Reukotea JPN US$ 59.90
Melty Blood Act Cadenza Painted PVC Figure Vol. 3: Hisui JPN US$ 17.90
Melty Blood Act Cadenza Painted PVC Figure Vol. 3: Kohaku JPN N/A
Monster Hunter - Hunter Goods Collection Life Figure Part 2 JPN US$ 4.99
Oh My Goodness - Beachside Collection Trading Figures JPN US$ 8.90
Rozen Maiden Traumend Costuma P Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Souseiseki JPN US$ 64.90
Rozen Maiden Traumend Costuma P Pre-Painted PVC Figure: Suiseiseki JPN N/A
SR Shining Wind Figure Collection Gashapon Part 2 JPN US$ 3.49
Sengoku Basara 2: Sanada Yukimur Prepainted PVC Figure with voice JPN N/A
Shakugan no Shana 1/8 Scale Pre-painted PVC Figure - Shana (Ceremony Vers.)(Re-Run) JPN US$ 49.90
Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuutsu Figure Gashapon Vol.3 JPN US$ 2.99
Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuutsu Painted PVC Figure - Haruhi Suzumiya (High School HR Ver.) JPN US$ 14.90
Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuutsu Painted PVC Figure - Mikuru Asahina (High School HR Ver.) JPN US$ 14.90
Transformers The Movie Pre-Painted Figure: Ironhide MA-09 JPN US$ 44.90
Transformers The Movie Pre-Painted Figure: Optimus Prime MA-01 JPN US$ 64.90
Water Game DS Lite Candy Toy JPN US$ 4.90
beatmania IIDX 1/8 Figure Series Vol.1: Candy Rabbit JPN US$ 69.90
Floor space for gaming exhibitors [at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show] will jump 65 percent on last year's available space, but to date the only companies to have confirmed a presence are Commodore Gaming, Entropia Universe, Red Lion Interactive, Shuttle Computers, War Machine, LumiSource, Red Beard and InterAction Laboratories.
However, Microsoft and Sony will both be in attendance on a wider scale, and gaming features are expected to form part of their respective booths.
Joystiq got their greasy manhooks on some interesting market data from NPD. Savvy Xbox 360 fans know that the Xbox 360 sells quite a few games, but according to this data, the Xbox 360 sells nearly twice as many games per console as the PS3 and Wii.
* Xbox 360: hardware to software ratio: 6.59 (hardware total sold = 6.8 million; software total sold = 44.8 million)
* PlayStation 3: hardware to software ratio: 3.58 (hardware total sold = 1.9 million; software total sold = 6.8 million)
* Wii: hardware to software ratio: 3.44 (hardware total sold = 4.5 million; software total sold = 15.5 million)
Electronic Arts CEO John Riccitiello suggests that publishers will soon have to "deal with" the $59 price point for next-gen videogames.
With the US videogame industry on track for its biggest year ever at $17-$18 billion in 2007 revenues, it would seem that consumers are just peachy with the current price of next-generation games.
"In the next five years, we're all going to have to deal with [the current pricing model]. In China, they're giving games away for free," he said in a Fortune blog report. "People who benefit from the current model will need to embrace a new revenue model, or wait for others to disrupt."
So. Which of the three distributions [Xubuntu 7.10, Yellow Dog 5.0.1, openSUSE 10.3] above would I recommend? None of them. Not a single distro maintained a consistent, high-quality experience from installation to prolonged use. None of them is usable by your grandmother, or in most cases, by you. For the experienced Linux hacker, it's probably possible to beat some sense into these distributions (with Xubuntu probably closest to useful, when combined with the Petitboot boot loader used by openSUSE). But it's not a good choice - simply the least bad.
Considering the strides being made by desktop Linux on desktop x86 and x86-64 machines, it's immensely disappointing that so little time and effort has been spent on testing PS3 releases, when so much geek street-cred is up for grabs. When I first decided to write this article, I had high hopes for what it might reveal - after all, a lot of time has passed since PS3 Linux first appeared, and it seemed obvious to me that there would be a selection of tuned distributions to pick from, especially considering the high visibility of the PS3. But right now, typing this up on my x86-64 Linux desktop, I find myself preparing to retire PS3 Linux completely for another few months - at least until the next batch of distributions are released. And beyond initial curiosity value, I suggest you do the same.
New York-based importer National Console Support warns customers today that getting their hands on a Japanese version of the DualShock 3 might be tricky. It writes in its semi-daily news updates that offers from one overseas distributor has the following requirement: "In order to obtain 1 Dual Shock 3, we also have to buy 1 PlayStation 3 40GB console." That's a hefty tax.
NCSX urges caution to rumble-hungry games, warning them to wait until stock levels off or distributors offer more sane pricing schemes.
Like all of you, I've been a big fan of our new blog - but until now, I've been staying behind the scenes. I'm excited to share my first post here and thought that our new advertising campaign for the PS3 would be of interest to everyone. In fact, the campaign is scheduled to break this weekend in conjunction with the introduction of the new 40GB PS3 here in North America. But as a reward for being some of our most loyal fans, I wanted to get this out to all of you first.
Last year, we launched the PS3 with a campaign that become known as the "White Room" and we received a strong reaction to those ads for being provocative and demonstrating the PS3's power. With those technology messages now firmly embedded, we wanted to move beyond the "power" message with a more high-energy, entertainment driven focus for the PS3. The games are here, the price point is now $399 and we wanted to make the news loud and clear. But we need to deliver that in a way that befits the PlayStation brand. And so, beyond the brilliant HD games that the PS3 delivers, you'll also see a big focus behind the PS3's Blu-ray movie capability and, for the first time, you'll see a major focus behind the PLAYSTATION Network (did I mention online gaming is free on PS3??) and the exclusive gaming content available on the PLAYSTATION Store, as well as breakthrough services like Home. As Kim noted in her recent post, with so much brewing inside the PS3, the icons and characters of the PS3 world come to life in the vivid black onyx world of the PS3 and nearly burst out of its seams.
A New York Times report suggests Sony might consider selling its animation division to companies interested in expanding their work into the game business -- while SCE and Sony Online Entertainment are not part of any possible deal.
According to the report, Sony Pictures has hired investment bank Houlihan Lokey Howard & Zukin to assess two of its divisions. One is the Sony Pictures Imageworks, the 15-year-old studio which produces visual effects for movies, while the other would be a "no more than 50 percent stake" of the Sony Pictures Animation, the studio which produced movies such as the recent CGI family film Surf's Up.
The PSone games have fairly slow on the uptake, but Sony will gladly be stepping up the pace with the retro treats this month, with nine classics planned for November. Sweet.
G-Police is the one we're after, although there's plenty of awesome stuff on the way, including Crash 2 and 3, and Colony Wars.
Still no WipEout 2079 though, which is both shocking and disappointing after a series of mix-ups and no-doubt underlying technical issues saw the awesome racer confirmed for the download service back in July, and then delayed on the same day.
Here's the list of the nine PSone games on the way this month, followed by the enormous list of PSN content forecasted for the rest of the year.
PSone titles:
Coolboarders
G-Police
Destruction Derby
Colony Wars
Motor Toon Grand Prix 2
Syphon Filter 2
Bust-A-Groove
Crash Bandicoot 2
Crash Bandicoot 3
November Releases:
Feel Ski
PS Eye Mesmerize Distort
PS Eye Tori Emaki
Uncharted: Meet the Dogs/The Characters & Music: English Only - localised versions to follow
Lair: Call of the Beast trailer
MotorStorm Revenge Weekend Trailer
Folkore - Bottom of the Sea pack
MotorStorm Devil Crossing pack: Track - Devils crossing, 4 new tickets containing 10 races, 2 new vehicles with 3 liveries each. One unlockable vehicle with 3 liveries upon completion of the mini devils crossing festival (as per Coyote revenge pack)
Konami's stock has dropped following news that Metal Gear Solid 4 has been delayed until after the holiday season.
Bloomberg reported that Konami shares fell 200 Yen, or 5.9 per cent, to 3,190 Yen (approximately USD 27.74).
This was the largest decline for the company's stock in nearly four years.
"Investors were active sellers today because of disappointment over the delay," said analyst Hirotoshi Murakami. "It may be the company's strategy to boost earnings next fiscal year with the game software."
MGS4 was originally scheduled for release this winter, but has now been delayed.
Guinness World Records has officially recognised Sony's Folding@home program as the most powerful distributed computing network in the world.
As previously reported, Folding@home surpassed the one petaflop computer milestone in early September, counting both PC and PS3 users. PS3 users alone reached the petaflop mark on September 23.
"To have Folding@home recognized by Guinness World Records as the most powerful distributed computing network ever is a reflection of the extraordinary worldwide participation by gamers and consumers around the world and for that we are very grateful," said Vijay Pande, associate professor of chemistry at Stanford University and Folding@home project lead.
"Without them we would not be able to make the advancements we have made in our studies of several different diseases. But it is clear that none of this would be even remotely possible without the power of PS3, it has increased our research capabilities by leaps and bounds."
The Folding@home program leveraged only the distributed computing power of personal computers from around the world until March 2007, when the PlayStation 3 joined the program.
Currently, more than 670,000 unique PS3 users have registered with the Folding@home network.
SCE has said that it will continue to support distributed computing projects in a wide variety of academic fields such as medical and social sciences and environmental studies through the use of the PS3.
Sony has decided to keep the Gran Turismo 5 Prologue demo on the Japanese PlayStation Store until the end of the month, instead of yanking it down on the 11th.
In hindsight, we should have followed its example and dragged this information out a bit, because there isn't all that much to say besides that and this is only covering four lines so far. Five.
Fortunately there are some new shots to go with the announcement, picked up on by Kotaku after it surfaced on Game Watch. So look at them.
To download the demo, you'll need to make a fake Japanese account, which obviously we have no idea how to do and is very naughty Google Google Google.
GT5 Prologue, which consists of 50 cars and five tracks in 1080p, is due out in Japan on 13th December in Blu-ray and PlayStation Network download format, and should arrive here at some point too. We'll keep you updated.
Sony has released a new patch for PS3 shooter Resistance: Fall of Man.
It's available for download now via the PlayStation Network. Along with fixing numerous bugs, the gives you the option to take in-game screenshots using a USB keyboard and play password-protected custom games.
You can also expect weapon balance changes and round balancing options and support for the new Dual Shock 3 - even though it's not in Europe or the US till spring.
For more information and to download the patch, visit the PlayStation Network.
The latest in the long-running Final Fantasy franchise has topped the Japanese charts according to data from Media Create – selling almost double the amount of units as its closest competitor.
Final Fantasy Tactics A2 for the DS has sold over 142,000 units on the first week of release. Banpresto's PS2 game Ar Tonelico is at number two in the charts, debuting with 72,000 sales.
The top ten best-selling games includes a total of seven new entries, with World Soccer Winning Eleven DS: Goal to Goal at number three (29,00 units sold), Sega's Ghost Squad for Wii at seven (20,000 units sold) and Capcom's God of War II at eight (17,000 units sold).
The full Japanese top ten follows:
1. Final Fantasy Tactics A2 (DS)
2. Ar Tonelico (PS2)
3. World Soccer Winning Eleven DS: Goal to Goal (DS)
4. Imabikisou (PS3)
5. DS Literature Collection (DS)
6. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (DS)
7. Ghost Squad (Wii)
8. God of War II (PSP)
9. DS Nishimura Kyotarou Suspense Detective Series: Deadly Intent (DS)
10. Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Time Expedition Party (DS)
Metroid Prime 3 Corruption for the Wii has topped the Swedish multiformat charts on its first week of release, according to latest stats from Dataspelsbranschen .
And it's a one-two punch for Nintendo as DS hit The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass takes the number two spot, nudging soccer rivals such as FIFA 08, Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 and Football Manager 2008 down the charts.
But it's a different matter in the single format charts, where Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 is the number one seller on PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 2.
The best selling games in Sweden follow:
Multiformat
1. Metroid Prime 3 Corruption (Wii)
2. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (DS)
3. Football Manager 2008 (PC)
4. Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PS3)
5. Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (PS2)
6. Half-Life 2: The Orange Box (PC)
7. Singstar Svenska hits Schlager (PS2)
8. Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 (360)
9. World of Warcraft (PC)
10. World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade (PC)
11. FIFA 08 (PS2)
12. Counter-Strike 1: Anthology (PC)
13. Half-Life 2: The Orange Box (360)
14. The Sims 2 Jorden Runt (PC)
15. The Witcher (PC)
16. Halo 3 (360)
17. Battlefield 2 (PC)
18. Warcraft III Frozen Throne (PC)
19. FIFA 08 (PS3)
20. World in Conflict (PC)
PC
1. Football Manager 2008
2. Half-Life 2: The Orange Box
3. World of Warcraft
4. World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade
5. Counter-Strike 1: Anthology
6. The Sims 2 Jorden Runt
7. The Witcher
8. Battlefield 2
9. Warcraft III Frozen Throne
10. World in Conflict
PlayStation 2
1. Pro Evolution Soccer 2008
2. Singstar Svenska hits Schlager
3. FIFA 08
4. Guitar Hero 2
5. Singstar Svenska hits
6. Final Fantasy XII
7. Need for Speed Carbon
8. Guitar Hero 2 Rock the 80´s
9. Singstar R&B
10. NHL 08
PlayStation 3
1. Pro Evolution Soccer 2008
2. FIFA 08
3. NHL 08
4. Skate
5. Folklore
6. Eye of Judgement
7. Colin McRae Dirt
8. Sega Rally
9. Heavenly Sword
10. Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2
Xbox 360
1. Pro Evolution Soccer 2008
2. Half-Life 2: The Orange Box
3. Halo 3
4. FIFA 08
5. Project Gotham Racing 4
6. NHL 08
7. Need for Speed Carbon
8. Skate
9. Eternal Sonata
10. Guitar Hero 2
Wii
1. Metroid Prime 3 Corruption
2. Table Tennis
3. Legend of Zelda: The Twilight Princess
4. Rayman Raving Rabbids
5. Mario Party 8
6. Boogie
7. Super Paper Mario
8. FIFA 08
9. Resident Evil 4 Wii Edition
10. Carnival Games
Nintendo DS
1. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
2. New Super Mario Bros
3. Pokémon Pearl
4. Pokémon Diamond
5. Mario Kart DS
6. Bilar
7. Magical Starsign
8. The Incredibles: Rise of the Underminer
9. The Sims 2 Pets
10. Nintendogs: Dalmatian & Friends
PSP
1. FIFA 08
2. Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions
3. Need for Speed Underground Rivals
4. Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
5. Medal of Honor: Heroes
6. NHL 07
7. Tekken Dark Resurrection
8. GTA Vice City Stories
9. Daxter
10. Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron
Flashlinker Europe.com have today added a preorder for a 6GB MicroSDHC Memory card thats compatible with most consoles (via adapters) for the rather cheap price of 59.00EUR
While we reported on the topic (with plenty of juicy details) last week, here's even more confirmation that the PS3 firmware 2.0 is soon on its way. Over on the official semi-official Sony blog Three Speech, when one commenter wondered about a time line for the 2.0 firmware, a Three Speech moderator replied:
News on that is coming tomorrow but it will be within the next two weeks!!
In other words, stay tuned for more info tomorrow (Nov 2) about an update that will probably hit within two weeks.
Sony has said we will get the European demo for Uncharted: Drake's Fortune before the end of November, although when exactly is still not decided.
It follows comments made by game director Amy Hennig on the official PlayStation blog that those of you across the pond will be able to download it next Thursday.
There is no word on what will be in the sampler just yet, but we expect it will be a mission or two from the Indiana Jones and Tomb Raider hybrid that maybe involves thumping some baddies in the face and clambering around some mossy old ruins in a jungle. You may even shoot guns.
A trio of exclusive Uncharted videos have been sprinkled generously across the mighty Eurogamer Empire, capturing our early progress in Naughty Dog's anticipated PS3 adventure.
Introducing Nathan Drake as the new Indiana Jones of gaming (and nothing at all like a male Lara Croft, obviously), Uncharted marks the US developer's PlayStation 3 debut, having enjoyed huge success on PSone and PS2 with slavering, ginger maniac Crash Bandicoot, and platforming partners Jak & Daxter.
Of the three exclusive videos showing today, our very own Eurogamer TV offers a taster of Drake's acrobatic and ballistic skills, with a scramble through the jungle and firefight deep in the bowels of a temple.
Meanwhile, over on Eurogamer.de,having crashlanded in dangeorous territory, take a peek at some of the early-doors action scenes Drake will encounter in his hunt for the lost treasure of El Darado.
Last but not least, say a big "salut!" to our Gallic chums at Eurogamer.fr, who have a more cerebral video vignette, highlighting the Tomb Raider-style puzzles our hero must think his way out of to progress.
Uncharted will be raiding PS3's tomb from December 7th in Europe. Watch out for our full review soon.
The Nintendo Wii is still outselling the PlayStation 3 by 2-to-1 in Japan, although the gap between the rival formats has closed for the fourth consecutive month.
The latest figures released by Enterbrain and reported by Reuters show that Nintendo shifted 110,415 units in the four weeks to October 28, while Sony sold 47,183 PlayStation 3 units.
Microsoft continues to struggle in the region, with sales of the Xbox 360 reaching 18,717 units for the same period.
MCV sister site Develop reports that Rockstar, no stranger to controversy, has once again hit the internet headlines, this time regarding the credits in Manhunt 2.
In a blog post by Jurie Horneman, previously the game’s producer, it has been revealed that the instruction manual of the recently-released US version of the game fails to credit any of the work done by Rockstar’s Vienna studio, which was unexpectedly closed in 2006.
“To the best of my knowledge, apart from the people who briefly went to Rockstar London to assist with development there, nobody from Rockstar Vienna is mentioned in the credits of Manhunt 2,” writes Horneman.
“I do not want to denigrate what Rockstar London did on Manhunt 2, but as far as I can tell (from analyzing screenshots, previews, etc.) the majority of the work we did at Rockstar Vienna is in the released game.
Following Take-Two’s admission that hackers had successfully unlocked Adults Only content supposedly cut from the M-rated version of Manhunt 2, California State Senator Leland Yee has called for the game to be reclassified again, while the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) has criticized the game for perpetuating “cruel, inaccurate perceptions that people who live with mental illnesses are violent.”
While multiple edits were made to revise Manhunt 2 so it would be granted a Mature rating (17+), hackers appear to have proven that the sections of the game in question were blocked but not entirely cut, allowing them to create a modified version of the title not meant for release.
“We hope that consumers will not engage in hacking or download illegally modified copies of our games. We encourage them to enjoy our games as they are meant to be played,” said Take-Two chairman Strauss Zelnick in a statement Thursday. However, as GamePolitics reports, Take-Two’s line of defense hasn’t been able to stop fresh waves of criticism.
“Not only should the AO rating immediately be reinstated on [Manhunt 2], the Federal Trade Commission should investigate Rockstar and the ESRB to determine how this was allowed to happen again,” said Senator Yee.
“Time and time again, the ESRB rating process fails parents. It is unconscionable that the rating board would downgrade Manhunt 2’s rating from AO to M and therefore make the game available to children. The ESRB and Rockstar continuously put profits before children.
“Parents deserve to know what, if any, content was truly removed to receive the downgraded rating. ESRB has refused to publicly disclose whether or not Rockstar divulged that such adult content could still be accessible. As if we needed more evidence, this episode further puts into question the validity of the entire rating system.
“The Manhunt 2 scandal further demonstrates the need for [California’s contested video game] law. I am hopeful that the courts will see that severe penalties are necessary for those who sell horrifically violent games to minors.”
The Gamer Gene also reports that NAMI’s executive director Mike Fitzpatrick issued a statement criticizing the title’s portrayal of the mentally ill.
“Even though some people may consider Manhunt 2 to be only a game, it unfortunately perpetuates and reinforces cruel, inaccurate perceptions that people who live with mental illnesses are violent.
“The U.S. Surgeon General has condemned such stigmatization, identifying fear of stigma as a major barrier to people getting help when they need it. The overall contribution of mental illnesses to violence in society is exceptionally small. In fact, people living with mental illness are far more likely to be victims of violence.
"We do not favor censorship, but we do ask for responsible exercise of creative rights when serious public health concerns are at issue. It is our right to demand a higher standard.”
Something PS3 owners must be getting used to by now is waiting a little longer for games to come to their platform, but in Eternal Sonata's case, the extra wait means you'll get two more characters to play as, which is nice.
As an exclusive treat to PS3 owners, the characters Serenade and Prince Crescendo, who were non-playable characters in the 360 version, will be fully playable. These characters will bring with them new story sequences as well, according to Dengeki Online (via Kotaku).
That should add a little extra incentive to lure in Gamerpoint junkies who usually go for the 360 version, which is out now (and you can check out our review of that right here).
The PS3 version of the game is yet to get an official release date.
Researchers long believed that human perception was limited to tracking four moving objects at one time. But a new study, challenging participants to follow 16 dots moving at a very slow pace on a computer screen, found that participants were able to track up to eight objects at once (or double what we previously thought possible).
The major downfall of our ability to track objects is speed. Because once these dots hit the on-screen speed of 0.15 metres per second, subjects were only able to track one dot at a time.
Subsidies, sponsorships and other forms of public funding for videogames developers is not a good solution to increasing development costs, according to Dr Klemens Kundratitz, managing director of Koch Media.
Speaking exclusively to GamesIndustry.biz he is worried about the uneven playing field that countries such as Canada create, but believes that public funding would lead to games for the sake of culture, rather than for the sake of the customer.
"I don't believe in sponsorship, public funding and subsidies at all, because I think that those systems will lead to games being produced for reasons that are not what the consumer demands, but because people think they should be for cultural reasons."
"It takes the attention away from what the customer wants, and if we create great entertainment then the customer will buy it and I'd rather not have everybody focused on how to get subsidies from various places."
Sony Electronics President Stan Glasgow says Blu-ray player prices will likely not fall under $399 this holiday season.
"(The player will be) in the $399 range...I don't expect it to go much lower than that," Glasgow said today, according to TWICE Magazine.
Glasgow made his comment today following an announcement from Wal-Mart that it will sell the Toshiba HD-A2 HD DVD player for $98 as a special pre "Black Friday" sale starting tomorrow.
Capcom blatantly knows we haven't had to deal with 40MB worth of screenshots in a while, so it's slapped a colossal collection of Devil May Cry screens into our inbox big enough to take up most of our afternoon in the uploading process. Thanks, Capcom.
The latest shots - if you haven't skipped our blurb and gone straight to the screenshot viewer already - show off a rather lovely jungle level for Nero to shoot and slash his way through.
It's out in February for both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. It should be wicked.
Experience the excitement of true next-gen action as you take on the role of Inspector Tequila from John Woo’s influential action film, Hard Boiled starring Chow Yun-Fat. Ensnared by a crime boss with a gripping secret, Inspector Tequila is forced to cross the line from sworn duty to bloody revenge. Engage your enemies with intense cinematic gun battles and cause massive environmental damage in real-time or revolutionary slow-motion Tequila Time.
features
Become a Legend: Face off against guitar icon Slash and others in insane boss battles featuring original tracks recorded exclusively for Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock.
Rock Out Online Or Party Offline: Defeat opponents to achieve legendary status in head-to-head competition including the all new guitar battle or share the glory with a friend in the new co-op career mode.
Fully Immersive Concert Experience: Realize a true rock concert experience with all new venues, incredible lighting effects, authentic instruments and sick character moves.
Incredible Soundtrack: Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock features over 70 of the biggest and loudest songs ever compiled in a game! Rock out to songs such as: Welcome to the Jungle, Rock You Like a Hurricane, Sabotage, Suck My Kiss, Cherub Rock and Mississippi Queen.
Guitar Hero WIRELESS Les Paul Guitar Controller: Strap on your Guitar Hero™ WIRELESS Les Paul Guitar Controller, power on, and CRANK IT UP!
description
Crank Up the Volume and prepare to rock around the globe with Guitar Hero™ III: Legends of Rock. Battle against some of the greatest legends to ever shred on a guitar and become one yourself! Take your skills online against other Guitar Hero players from around the world.
The Simpsons™ Game features a hilarious, sprawling, and mind-busting storyline crafted by the TV show’s Emmy Award-winning writers. The action-comedy will also feature the full cast of voice actors from the TV show who will reprise their roles for the game. In The Simpsons Game, Homer, Marge, Bart, and Lisa use exciting, all-new powers to save the world from rising chaos. To help the Simpsons, gamers at home must journey through all of Springfield (as well as vast worlds beyond!), vanquish an amazing array of villains, and fight their way through parodies of popular games.
features
Xbox 360 Achievement tips
pages: 128
Platform: PS3, XBox360, PC
Detailed walkthrough of all levels
Multiple strategies for various scenarios
Occult power combos
Tips to unlock all Extras
description
There's only one way to survive The Box. . .and that's with Prima as your guide.
features
Platform: PlayStation 3
pages: 208
In-depth item and equipment lists.
Expert boss strategies.
Detailed bestiary.
Coverage of all Side Quests, Cloaks and Pages.
description
Two strangers are drawn to the mysterious town of Doolin, where it is said that
the living can speak to the dead. They soon learn the town serves as a gateway
to fantastic worlds that exist beyond their own, realms full of creatures, fairies,
spirits, and monsters. In order to solve the mystery of the town, the pair must
journey through these worlds to discover their secrets. Will they have the
courage to survive the adventure that awaits them?
features
Platform: PlayStation 3
pages: 192
Extensive listing of all weapons, gadgets and devices.
Expert boss strategies.
Detailed Monsterpeidia.
Signature Series guide features bonus poster and more!
description
Get ready for a galactic adventure filled with explosive mayhem as the Ratchet &
Clank series makes its PS3 debut. Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of
Destruction marks the beginning of a brand-new series of next-generation games
for the gadget-building hero, Ratchet, and his brainy robotic sidekick, Clank.
After saving countless planets from dreadful doom and earning intergalactic
celebrity status in the process, Ratchet and Clank have taken some welldeserved
R&R -- again. Yet, Ratchet remains restless. An orphan of the
universe, he has never known anything of his past, his family or his Lombax
origins. And no one can fill that void. Unfortunately for Ratchet, someone else
is equally interested in Ratchet's origins: Emperor Percival Tachyon. In his
thirst for revenge, the vile tyrant of an ancient race of foul insect-like monsters
called Cragmites has festered an age-old grudge and is bent on wiping the lastknown
Lombax off the universe!
Flashlinker Europe.com have today added a preorder for a 8GB MicroSDHC Memory card thats compatible with most consoles (via adapters) for the rather cheap price of 79.00EUR
Gamasutra has up a pair of articles discussing the numbers from this round of the console wars. One focuses on the current frontrunner, Nintendo. Their numerical superiority is highlighted by the number of million selling titles they currently have on tap. Both the DS and Wii are carrying multiple-million sellers, with the current tally for (recently released) Diamond/Pearl sitting at 12,170,000. Meanwhile, in a lengthy article, the site fully explores the impact of console sales in numerous markets and venues, with comparisons between all three consoles (and a focus on Nintendo's sales).
"PlayStation 2 titles make up the bulk of software sales in the U.S. and Europe again in 2007, as they have in previous years. The Wii's 2007 numbers equal the GameCube's in 2006, but its software growth isn't yet matching its hardware's. Microsoft's Xbox 360 has benefited largely from the Xbox's demise and the PlayStation 2 sales' slow decline. Even with the PlayStation 3 hardware's current state in Europe, its software sales in Europe are relatively low."
That will possibly be the only major problem for devs for both consoles in the near future.
1). Lack of memory on the PS3.
2). Lack of storage space on the Xbox 360.
Watch out for that one. It will be here sooner than you think, if not already.
But everyone, just bear this in mind. The Xbox 360, for all the bagging it gets, is really quite a powerfull piece of kit. It has 3 seperate PPC cpus, which basically equates to 6 hardware threads. It has more memory to play with, a superior GPU, and superfast bus rate.
All the BS talked about GOW pushing the 360 is almost toss. Sorry. It was only running on two thread system. And even that engine was very buggy and "heavy" at the time. If not totally overated in its own right as well.
Honestly, if MS decided to put some form of a HD disc in it, Blu Ray or HD-DVD, the damn thing would be almost future proof, with the exception of the over heating, ofcourse.
Because, as it stands, the PS3 only has the storage space over the 360. Its not anymore "advanced" at all, and in many ways, slightly less.
Well, we didn't have to wait for anyone to crack open their PS3 to check, because Sony has squashed all rumors that the new $399 40GB PlayStation 3 SKU is featuring 65nm chips (shrunk from their 90nm standard). While we'll save you the copy and pasted rough auto translation, Sony essentially said that 65nm is not here yet but that they were working on it for the future.
I just spoke to a contact at my local Target store, who informed me of an interesting internal memo. Apparently all Target stores are to stop selling Manhunt 2, going so far as to tell managers to refuse shipments of the title for all systems, with Take 2 agreeing to take back all unopened copies of the game.
Why is this action being taken? The extreme violence in the game is the given reason, but my contact (an employee but not a manager) was told that it was due in greater part to the unfavorable coverage the game got in the national press the last several days. Target stores had been selling the game since it's launch, but it was only today that they were told to pull the product and refuse further shipments.
The listing for Manhunt 2 on the Target website shows that the item is "not available in stores."
I've spoken to employees of several other large retailers (Best Buy, Gamestop and Circuit City) and none of them are, at this time, taking similar actions.
Sega of America released today the first trailer from the highly anticipated game Viking: Battle for Asgard. This stylish new game brings gamers into the rarely-explored and brutal world of the Vikings and their all-powerful Gods.
As Skarin, the powerful yet flawed warrior, take part in epic battles and fight savage magical beasts and barbaric warriors and ultimately face the challenge to stop Ragnarok – the apocalyptic battle that could destroy everything. In this spectacular new trailer, see massive battles and the horrific enemies for the first time and meet the hero who will inspire an army and save the world.
Made by the renowned developer The Creative Assembly, Viking: Battle for Asgard will be in stores for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 in Spring 2008.
Game Republic has popped a website up for its new PlayStation Network title Dark Mist.
It is an action shooter title where you play as light warrior Altemis and try to stop a demon king having his wicked way. As you do.
According to a translation of the Japanese website by IGN there will be Sixaxis-shaking sections to clear enemies in close-quarters, but otherwise you will use a standard light arrow attack to do away with baddies or use a big bomb when things get a bit hairy and you want a breather.
Special attacks should also help you out a bit, and come in Split Star, Meteor Flare and Lightning forms.
It is due for release on 8th November in Japan for JPY 800 (GBP 3.40 / EUR 4.80). We are currently waiting to hear back from Sony Europe about plans for the game here.
Pop over to the Dark Mist website for a look at some minuscule screenshots.
Good news tin fans - Capcom sends word that a three-disc Devil May Cry 4 Collector's Edition will be in the shops in time for release for both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
The $79.99 (£38) tined edition comes complete with documentary-packed bonus DVD and the first volume of the Devil May Cry animated series (four episodes, apparently) which we've got an inkling might be a bit rubbish, but who knows.
The bonus DVD includes a making of feature, soundtrack extracts, a digital art book, wallpapers, icons and screen savers for your PC. Lovely.
It's out in North America on February 5. There's currently no word on a European release but we've left a message with Capcom asking about one. Lost Planet's tin made it over here, so we're feeling optimistic.
Sony has officially deployed the 1.1 patch for PeacePigeon aka WarHawk, and this time it actually meant to release it and everything. Game director Dylan Jobe describes it as "a fast download", which will zap its way down your Interpipes when you next fire up WarHawk.
But what does it do, I hear you ask? It addresses "critical issues with stats and connectivity". Specifically, "stat connection, fetch/post fixes; significantly improved client connection stability; quad '????' ping display bug fixed; added support for Player-Ranked Servers; game synchronisation fixes due to fluctuating network conditions (packet-drop); crash fixes for end of game and split screen".
But wait, that sounds boring! Fortunately, Jobe and his Incog pals are also working on a 1.2 patch that introduces new layouts for existing maps, clan and Buddy list options for servers and other interesting tweaks.
For more on WarHawk, check out our WarHawk gamepage. It's available now as a PSN download or in the shops on a disc with a manual and a headset.
Flashlinker Europe.com have today added the 4GB MicroSDHC Memory card thats compatible with most consoles (via adapters) for the very cheap price of 10.00EUR
Homer, Marge, Bart, and Lisa use exciting, all-new powers to save the world from rising chaos. To help the Simpsons, gamers at home must journey through all of Springfield (as well as vast worlds beyond!), vanquish an amazing array of villains, and fight their way through parodies of multiple popular games.
Cars Mater-National features an all-new International group of racers vying for their chance to compete against Lightning McQueen in the First Annual Mater-National Race Festival, hosted by Lightning's best friend, Mater. Explore the new and improved open world of Radiator Springs, play in the all-new Monster Mode, jump into the fast lane with 6 new International racing competitors, burn rubber on new tracks, and twist and turn your way through new mini-games like Ramone's Rhythmic Rumble and Fillmore's Fuel Frenzy. Go head to head with over 10 multiplayer games.
Pages: 208
Detailed walkthroughs for every adventure in all six episodes!
Locations for all LEGO canisters, Challenge canisters, and red power bricks!
Exclusive maps!
Extensive tips for Freeplay mode!
New characters, vehicles, and game features revealed!
All-new quick reference guide with detailed information for every level!
description
Now Witness the Firepower of this Fully Armed and Operational Game Guide!
The Complete Saga takes players to the most beautiful LEGO galaxy ever assembled with high-definition graphics on the PlayStation 3 system and the Xbox 360. And with both consoles' online capabilities, families spread across the world can unite to rebuild a galaxy in pieces with cooperative two-player, drop-in/drop-out gameplay. Meanwhile, the unique Wii and Nintendo DS control schemes result in the most interactive LEGO Star Wars gaming experience yet.
From the Trade Federation's "negotiations" with Obi-Wan Kenobi and Qui-Gon Jinn in The Phantom Menace to the space battle above Endor in Return of the Jedi, The Complete Saga allows players to kick some brick through 36 Story mode levels, including Episode II's newly added high-speed pursuit of bounty hunter Zam Wessell.
features
Platform: PC, PS3, Xbox 360, DS
Pages: 272
BradyGames' Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare Official Strategy Guide features a complete walkthrough of the entire game.
Detailed area maps pinpointing critical locations.
In-depth listing of items, equipment and weaponry.
Extensive enemy section.
Expert strategies for each mode of gameplay.
Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare , the new action-thriller from the award-winning
team at Infinity Ward, the creators of the Call of Duty series, delivers the most
intense and cinematic action experience ever. Armed with an arsenal of
advanced and powerful modern day firepower, players are transported to
treacherous hotspots around the globe to take on a rogue enemy group
threatening the world. As both a U.S Marine and British S.A.S. soldier fighting
through an unfolding story full of twists and turns, players use sophisticated
technology, superior firepower and coordinated land and air strikes on a
battlefield where speed, accuracy and communication are essential to victory.
The epic title also delivers an added depth of multiplayer action providing
online fans an all-new community of persistence, addictive and customizable
gameplay.
Experience the excitement of true next-gen action as you take on the role of Inspector Tequila from John Woo’s influential action film, Hard Boiled starring Chow Yun-Fat. Ensnared by a crime boss with a gripping secret, Inspector Tequila is forced to cross the line from sworn duty to bloody revenge. Engage your enemies with intense cinematic gun battles and cause massive environmental damage in real-time or revolutionary slow-motion Tequila Time.
Cars Mater-National features an all-new International group of racers vying for their chance to compete against Lightning McQueen in the First Annual Mater-National Race Festival, hosted by Lightning’s best friend, Mater. Explore the new and improved open world of Radiator Springs, play in the all-new Monster Mode, jump into the fast lane with 6 new International racing competitors, burn rubber on new tracks, and twist and turn your way through new mini-games like Ramone’s Rhythmic Rumble and Fillmore’s Fuel Frenzy.
features
Full six - axis motion control
Swappable analog stick and mouse
Playstation™ 1 , 2 and 3 game support
Programable motion feature
description
The fragFX is the perfect controller to help the lifelong mouse-clicking Computer gamer get the same ease of use from a console. It gives you that same PC style gameplay on the PS3 and doubles as an optimized mouse for PS Home and Web navigation. The fragFX was designed for all game styles, but it's optimal for 1st and 3rd person shooter games - fragging will never be the same . No game internal mouse support is needed; fragFX works with all games. Full six-axis motion control Swappable Analog stick and mouse Firmware Upgradeable (via computer) Programmable buttons (via computer) Playstation 1, 2 and 3 game support Adjustable sensitivity (Mouse sensitivity) Sony “PS Home” and "web navigation" support Frag button (Slows down targeting movement for better aim accuracy.) Programmable motion feature (Port a repetitive button function to a motion command, like gun reload)
features
Built-in 4 microphone array.
Chat with up to 6 people at once.
Ultra fast frame rate of 120 frames per second ensures pristine video quality.
Engineered to work well in low light conditions.
Includes free EyeCreate™ Software download.
description
Revolutionize your interactive gaming and online communication experience with the PLAYSTATION®Eye USB camera. The PLAYSTATION®Eye has the ability to reduce background noise and focus on the spoken word for smoother, more accurate speech recognition and transfer. The fast frame rate allows for improved tracking and responsiveness for pristine video quality. The PLAYSTATION®Eye is also engineered to perform well in low-light conditions and includes a dual action lens for close-up and full body options.
