Echo Gaming Guide

Free app for Games and Gizmos website! - Loughborough Echo - Games and Gizmos

2011-04-13T08:44:00.000+01:00

Free app for Games and Gizmos website! - Loughborough Echo - Games and Gizmos

Gaming Guide is on the move!

2010-04-12T16:22:00.003+01:00

GOOD news - my gaming blog has become so successful that it is now off on its travels!

Due to its popularity, my blog has now been given a new home - and a new name Games and Gizmos - thanks to Trinity Mirror, on the Loughborough Echo website.

The new blog - http://blogs.loughboroughecho.net/gamesandgizmos/- will continue to deliver all the latest games and gadget news, previews and reviews from the high-tech world.

So don't delay - add it to your favourites, join the RSS feed and keep on reading - and thanks for all your support!

Nikon photo app come to the iPhone in Europe

2010-04-08T08:34:00.000+01:00

NIKON is bringing its hugely popular ‘Learn & Explore’ photography application to iPhone customers in Europe.

Aimed at photographers of all skill levels, the ‘Learn & Explore’ application offers quick, easy on-the-go access to a world of photography information and editorial content, including images, video lectures, audio commentary and a glossary of photography terms.

Whether you are looking for education, motivation or inspiration, the new tool offers photography information at your fingertips; perfect for those who want to learn and improve whilst out in the field. If you are on holiday and want advice on getting the most from your travel pictures, you can instantly access an article from a Nikon expert, watch a tutorial video, listen to audio tips, or flick through examples of stunning travel photography. Or if you are attending a wedding and want to make sure you are choosing the right aperture or shutter speed for the conditions, you can check information about the recommended settings. Whatever the occasion and whatever skill level you have, the ‘Learn & Explore’ application can help make sure you get the most from your photography.

”The Learn & Explore application has already proved a big hit in the US, and we’re sure it will be just as popular in Europe,” commented Birgitta Olson, General Manager of Marketing Communications at Nikon Europe. “We know better than anyone that photography is an ‘in-the-moment’ activity, and that capturing the perfect image sometimes needs on-the-spot help. It is fantastic that we can now give photo enthusiasts access to Nikon's educational resources right in the palm of their hand and hope it will give people further encouragement and support to learn photography on their own terms.”

Improve your knowledge with iMinds

2010-04-07T10:43:00.000+01:00

iMinds short-form non-fiction audiobooks and eBooks were created because we really believed that we can all be smarter... And that we just needed to make general knowledge acquisition suit our lifestyles and devices.

iTunes customers around the world have felt the same with iMinds amassing a staggering 150+ iTunes Top 10s as well as Number One chart positions in countries as diverse as the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Germany, Sweden, Italy and France. True to its aim of promoting a broad base of General Knowledge ?x2013; iMinds has held Number One chart positions in categories ranging from History to Travel & Adventure, Arts to Religion and Science to Sport.. Truly dominating the non-fiction categories. And not to forget our Juniors products which have collected over 50 chart positions around the globe since launching in late October 2009.

iMinds has also received critical acclaim with media reviews including Time, Mashable, LA Times, Vogue, The Financial Times, Sky News and The Australian.

With a current catalogue of over 180 eight minute general knowledge audiobooks, brought together with the highest production values, this has been called the future of general knowledge acquisition: an entertaining audio encyclopedia for the iPod generation.

Insight into Blacklight: Tango Down

2010-04-07T07:46:00.001+01:00

IGNITION Entertainment has revealed the first insight into the back story, setting and weapons of their upcoming multiplayer-focused first-person-shooter Blacklight: Tango Down, currently in development at Zombie Studios.

Blacklight Tango Down is a fully featured Unreal Engine 3.0-powered game set to release this summer exclusively through Xbox LIVE Arcade, PlayStation Store, and through digital distribution channels on PC, making it one of the most advanced games ever released solely through downloadable channels.

Blacklight: Tango Down is set in the near future and revolves around a special operations military group called “Blacklight.” Blacklight is the SECDEF’s (Secretary of Defense’s) personal direct action team comprised entirely of “Tier One Assets.” These elite soldiers are extraordinary operators recruited from all branches of special operations, including Combat Applications Group (Delta), SF, DEVGRU (SEAL), RANGER, and CIA MSP. All combatants are hand-selected and trained specifically to be equipped to deal with fast-moving, ambiguous and unstructured situations. This is the player’s role in the game.

Blacklight: Tango Down’s near-future setting is not that different from our own time and will appear hauntingly familiar to gamers but also distant enough to be surprising and unsettling. It is a universe that has been overtaken by the exploding speed of technological progress and is left suffering from the unbridled failures that those advances create.

The technological overbuild has created a bleak environment which has transformed once vibrant and familiar cityscapes into dark and endless virtual billboards and danger zones. An ongoing viral epidemic ravages society and the military’s drive to control and use the virus as a weapon has only created more devastating strains. Civilians and governments struggle through ongoing unrest. Order can only be imposed through force and fear.

The military’s attempts to weaponize the virus has lead to what some call “Q-Fever” or SIV (Sentient Insanity Virus) and the people it infects are known as SIVs. The virus destroys a person’s humanity, transforming them into frightening creatures that are less capable of utilizing tools but are far more aggressive and impervious to pain.

Blacklight: Tango Down is set in a universe that is based in Science Fact, not Science Fiction. The future combat technologies and weapons featured in the game are based on the bleeding-edge military developments and breakthroughs of today. Whereas currently, in our real world, these items may exist only in the laboratory or in conceptual designs, in Blacklight: Tango Down, these advanced military tools are deployed mainstream and make up the military reality of the game.

This “science fact” equipment includes exciting new future weapons and support systems, like EMP grenades that disable opponents’ electronic visors, Digi-Grenades that distort the optics of enemies, reactive body armor and widely customizable weapons. The most iconic piece of Blacklight technology is the “Hyper Reality Visor,” a head piece that uses its own electronic pulse and nearby electro-magnetic fields to render the world in a new way, allowing soldiers to see what is otherwise invisible.

Digg on the iPhone

2010-04-03T13:25:00.001+01:00

DIGG is the latest to join the app revolution.

In a release to its followers, it says:

"We realize that many Diggers are often on the go and want to take Digg along for the ride, so we're excited to announce not one, but TWO new apps for your mobile devices. Whether you're in Boston or Bangladesh, Digg is now always at your fingertips.

Digg iPhone App-

	Browse the latest Digg stories, search for the topics you care about, and even save stories to read later...the official Digg iPhone app lets you join in the curation by Digging and burying right from your phone. And to help get the word out, we're giving away a custom Digg-branded iPad every day through April 7th.

Digg Android App -

For those of you using Android devices, we've got something for you too! We just launched the Digg Android app that also gives you the power of Digg even when you're away from your computer. Just like the iPhone app, you can Digg and bury stories, read the top comments, and unique to Android phones, it also supports landscape mode. Because it works with an in-app browser, you can easily pan around and zoom in and out of content.

These are just a few of the things we're working on in the mobile space. If you don't have an iPhone or Android device, you can always use our current mobile site - m.digg.com - which is optimized to work on any mobile browser. We're also making quite a few improvements and iterations to both the iPhone and Android apps in the coming weeks, many drawing off some of the changes we're working on for Digg.com, so stay tuned and be sure to let us know what you think!

PlayStation Store update, April 1

2010-04-01T13:32:00.002+01:00

IT IS PlayStation Store update time again - and there are some interesting surprises in there for UK gamers today, including an addition to the fantastic Heavy Rain.

Here's the full list:

PlayStation Store via PS3

Special Offers (PSP content also available via PSP and Media Go)

(Available until the 15th of April)

Outrun Arcade Online (was – £7.99/€9.99 now – £5.25/€6.59)
Gunstar Heroes (was – £3.99/€4.99 now – £2.39/€2.99)
TMNT: Turtles in Time Re-Shelled (was – £7.99/€9.99 now – £3.99/€4.99)
Tom Clancy’s H.A.W.X – Russian Falcons Pack (was – £3.99/€4.99 now – £2.39/€2.99)
Tom Clancy’s End War Escalation Expansion Pack (was – £7.99/€9.99 now – £3.99/€4.99)
Dynogems (mini) (was – £2.49/€2.99 now – £1.74/€1.99)
Driver 76 (PSP) (was – £15.99/€19.99 now – £7.99/€9.99)
Asphalt: Urban GT 2 (PSP) (was – £11.99/€14.99 now – £6.29/€7.99)
Mawaskes Puzzle (PSP) (was – £15.99/€19.99 now – £8.69/€10.99)
Cover Girl (PSP) (was – £23.99/€29.99 now – £11.99/€14.99)

PSP Favourites (also available via PSP and Media Go)

(Available until the 15th of April)

LittleBigPlanet (was – £19.99/€34.99 now – £13.99/€17.99)
Gran Turismo (was – £19.99/€34.99 now – £13.99/€17.99)
Jak and Daxter: The Lost Frontier (was – £19.99/€34.99 now – £13.99/€17.99)
MotorStorm: Arctic Edge (was – £19.99/€34.99 now – £13.99/€17.99)
Ghostbusters (was – £14.99/€24.99 now – £9.99/€12.99)
God of War: Chains of Olympus (was – £14.99/€19.99 now – £7.99/€9.99)
FIFA 10 (was – £29.99/€39.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars (was – £29.99/€34.99 now – £11.99/€14.99)
Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories (was – £13.99/€17.99 now – £8.69/€10.99)
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories (was – £13.99/€17.99 now – £8.69/€10.99)
Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny (was – £23.99/€29.99 now – £11.99/€14.99)
Tekken 6 (was – £31.99/€39.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
F1 2009 (was – £23.99/€29.99 now – £11.99/€14.99)
Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron (was £31.99/€39.99 now £15.99€19.99)
Need for Speed: Shift (was – £29.99/€39.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
IL-2 Sturmovik: Birds of Prey (was – £29.99/€34.99 now – £13.99/€17.99)
Colin McRae DiRT 2 (was – £23.99/€29.99 now – £11.99/€14.99)
Beaterator (was – £23.99/€29.99 now – £7.19/€8.99)
Football Manager Handheld 2010 (was – £29.99/€34.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)

Permanent Price Reductions

Inferno Pool (was – £6.29/€7.99 now – £2.39/€2.99)
FIFA 09(PSP) (was – £29.99/€39.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
Need for Speed: Pro Street(PSP) (was – £17.99/€21.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10(PSP) (was – £29.99/€39.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
Madden NFL 10(PSP) (was – £29.99/€39.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
NBA Live 10(PSP) (was – £29.99/€39.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
Burnout Dominator(PSP) (was – £17.99/€21.99 now – £15.99/€19.99)
Marvel Super Hero Squad(PSP) (was – £29.99/€34.99 now – £13.99/€17.99)
WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2010(PSP) (was – £31.99/€39.99 now – £23.99/€29.99)

Downloadable Games

Namco Museum Essentials (£7.99/€9.99)
Rating: PEGI 7
Availability: All locales

Pre-order Game Bundle

Sam and Max: The Devil’s Playhouse (£17.99/€21.99)
(This bundle allows you to pre-order all five episodes, which will be delivered via PlayStation Store monthly. This pre-order also allows you to purchase the bundle at a lower introductory price)
Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: All locales

Game Bundle

Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rainslick Precipice of Darkness
Episodes One and Two Bundle (£11.99/€14.99)
Rating: PEGI 18
Availability: Not available in Russia

Demo

Namco Museum Essentials Demo (free)
Rating: PEGI 7
Availability: All locales

minis

Hammer Wars (£2.49/€2.99)
Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: Not available in Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Switzerland

Add-On Game Content

Heavy Rain – Chronicle One: The Taxidermist (£3.19/€3.99)
Rating: PEGI 18
Availability: All locales
Army of Two: The 40th Day – Chapters of Deceit (£6.29/€7.99)
Rating: PEGI 18
Availability: Not available in Germany, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and United Arab Emirates
Dragon Age: Origins –
Feastday Combo Pack (free)
Feastday Gifts (free)
Feastday Pranks (free)
Rating: PEGI 18
Availability: All locales
LittleBigPlanet – Fragrances Costume Pack (free)
Rating: PEGI 7
Availability: All locales
Dante’s Inferno – Godlike Pack (£2.39/€2.99)
Rating: PEGI 18
Availability: Not available in Russia
Sonic & SEGA Allstars Racing –
Metal Sonic & Death Egg Zone (£4.79/€5.99)
Ryu Forklift Character Pack (£3.99/€4.99)
Rating: PEGI 7
Availability: All locales
Dragon Ball: Raging Blast – Ultimate Warriors Pack 3 (free)
Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: All locales
Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce – Additional Quests 3 (free)
Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: All locales
EyePet -
Easter Styling Pack (£2.39/€2.99)
Lucky Dip Styling Pack 12 (free)
Rating: PEGI 3
Availability: All locales
DJ Hero – Jay Z/Eminem Mix Pack (£6.29/€7.99)
Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: Not available in Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and United Arab Emirates
Rock Band -
Axis – Bold as Love (Album) by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (£9.99/€14.99)
(contains the following tracks which are also sold separately)
Ain’t No Telling (£0.99/€1.49)
Bold As Love (£0.99/€1.49)
Castles Made Of Sand (£0.99/€1.49)
If 6 Was 9 (£0.99/€1.49)
Little Miss Lover (£0.99/€1.49)
Little Wing (£0.99/€1.49)
One Rainy Wish (£0.99/€1.49)
She’s So Fine (£0.99/€1.49)
Spanish Castle Magic (£0.99/€1.49)
Up From The Skies (£0.99/€1.49)
Valleys Of Neptune (£0.99/€1.49)
Wait Until Tomorrow (£0.99/€1.49)
You Got Me Floatin’ (£0.99/€1.49)
Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: Not available in Czech Republic, Greece, Luxembourg, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and UAE
Guitar Hero 5 -
Lynyrd Skynyrd Track Pack (£4.39/€5.49)
(contains the following tracks which are also sold separately)
Freebird (£1.59/€1.99)
Gimme Three Steps (£1.59/€1.99)
Simple Man (£1.59/€1.99)
Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: Not available in Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and United Arab Emirates
Karaoke Revolution –
Heart Of Glass (£0.79/€0.99)
I Will Survive (£0.79/€0.99)
Irreplaceable (£0.79/€0.99)
Killing Me Softly With His Song (£0.79/€0.99)
Kiss Me (£0.79/€0.99)
Me And Bobby McGee (£0.79/€0.99)
Stand By Your Man (£0.79/€0.99)
You Can’t Hurry Love (£0.79/€0.99)
Rating: PEGI 7
Availability: All locales

Videos

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Launch Trailer
Battlefield: Bad Company 2 TV Trailer
Brink Official Trailer
Kane and Lynch 2 Welcome to Shanghai Trailer
Patchwork Heroes Warship Attack Trailer

Dynamic Themes

Warhawk Dynamic Theme (£1.59/€1.99)

Themes

Patchwork Heroes City Theme

Gaming news with a new iPhone app

2010-04-01T07:52:00.000+01:00

THEVOLUTION Network is launching THEVOLUTION iPhone application as part of its next-gen gaming repertoire. The application takes its place next to the ever-popular gaming sites by Thevolution Network including ps3thevolution.com, nesthevolution.com and 360thevolution.com.

THEVOLUTION app allows gamers access to daily industry news plus industry events such as E3 and ComiCon. Users can read game reviews, watch game trailers, listen to a weekly podcast by gaming insider Derrick Smith and share the latest news and game reviews with friends and family via Email.

New PC unveiled - with chance to win holiday to US

2010-03-31T17:19:00.002+01:00

THE hunt is on as Asus UK have selected the Easter Bank Holiday weekend to unveil to the UK consumer the artfully designed Karim Rashid Eee PC Seashell 1008P Collection.

World-renowned industrial designer Karim Rashid’s touch is evident in the techno-chic Eee PC Seashell 1008P which is designed to appeal to all 5 senses.

Available in either glossy Hot Pink or matte Coffee Brown finish it brings together function and fashion in a simple, practical and affordable package.
The Eee PC Seashell 1008P integrates the new Intel Atom N450 processor with Windows 7 Starter, Express Gate and Super Hybrid Engine. This winning combination helps optimise energy efficiency and deliver up to a whopping 8 hours of battery life -giving users long lasting functionality when and where they need it most.

Asus’ own highly styled Ken Lee will be popping up all over London (April 3-4) and asking the question:

Which one are you, hot pink or seductive brown?

Everyone who joins in will not only receive a free Asus USB stick but the chance to win a shopping holiday for two to Bloomington, Minnesota - home to the Mall of America.

All entries will be posted online at www.techinstyle.tv from 07 April.

If you aren’t able to join in the Karim Rashid Easter Hunt, worry not, just capture your choice of pink or brown on camera, log on to techinstyle.tv and share with friends and family and the most popular entry will win the shopping holiday*

In addition, the first 500 video entries will all receive a free ASUS USB stick.

The holiday is supplied courtesy of Bloomington, Minnesota (bloomingtonmn.org) and Sun Country Airlines (suncountry.com) and includes return economy flights from Stansted to Minneapolis, 4 nights accommodation and a Mall of America shopping spree voucher as well as a shopping voucher booklet.

So this Easter, dump the egg, and come on an Easter hunt with the Karim Rashid Eee PC.

Ps. If you spot Ken Lee around London on April 3-4, take a snapshot and send to info@techinstyle.tv and one lucky winner will receive a free Karim Rashid Eee PC.

FirstPlay console show launches in April

2010-03-31T06:50:00.001+01:00

EUROPE’S first on-console show FirstPlay will launch its first weekly episode on Thursday (April 8) on the PlayStation Network, bringing high-def video reviews and previews every week, plus exclusive downloadable content and much more.
Brought about by TechRadar’s publisher Future, FirstPlay will be available to UK gamers through Sony’s PlayStation 3 console from the PlayStation Network for 99p an episode or £8.99 for a 90-day subscription.
Highlights in the first episode include a review of Just Cause 2 – rewarding viewers with an exclusive in-game item for use by Rico Rodriquez as well as Sony’s God of War III – and a first-look at EA’s Fifa World Cup 2010.
Plus, there’s an interactive gallery function, including screenshots and artwork from Formula One 2010, Ghost Recon: Future Soldier and Red Dead Redemption.

Other OS to be disabled in new PS3 software update

2010-03-30T07:59:00.002+01:00

FAT PS3 owners beware - if you have installed an alternative operating system on your console, it may become redundant in a couple of days' time.

The next system software update for the PlayStation 3 system will be released on April 1, and will disable the “Install Other OS” feature that was available on the PS3 systems prior to the current slimmer models, launched in September 2009. This feature enabled users to install an operating system, but due to security concerns, Sony Computer Entertainment will remove the functionality through the 3.21 system software update.

This was a handy feature for techie PS3 owners to have, but obviously worries over the console and the PlayStation Network mean you will just have to make use of the Sony OS from now on.

Planet MiniGolf heading to the PS3

2010-03-26T07:36:00.000Z

ZEN Studios has announced that Planet MiniGolf will be coming exclusively to PlayStation Network in Spring 2010.

ZEN is applying its acclaimed ball physics engine used in top-selling ZEN Pinball to deliver the best golf experience on PlayStation.

Planet MiniGolf features a deep single-player campaign with beautiful and intricate courses and over 140 challenging holes to play through, as well as a multitude of fun multi-player options, from the local hotseat mode to weekly online tournaments and a Worldwide Competition mode.

Free app to track down Cask Ale locally

2010-03-24T10:37:00.001Z

TODAY sees the launch of CaskFinder, a new iPhone application available free of charge from Apple’s AppStore to coincide with National Cask Ale Week.

CaskFinder is designed to help consumers enjoy and appreciate Cask Ale wherever they may be in the UK!

Combining data from The Cask Marque pub quality inspection scheme and The Cyclops Beer standardisation initiative, both industry sponsored bodies, CaskFinder uses the location-awareness of the iPhone to show consumers nearby pubs, brewers and events.

Finding a Cask Marque quality approved pub couldn’t be easier – there are over 6,000 in the UK and growing all the time – just click on the Cask Marque pub icon on the downloaded app and CaskFinder shows you automatically on a map where your nearest pubs are.

Once you have found a pub, you can click on its icon and find out what beers it serves, based on its Cask Marque quality inspection.

If you are unfamiliar with the beers or just want to try something new, you can click on the beer logo and immediately view the Cyclops Beer database information held for over 1,000 beers. The Cyclops database contains standardised tasting information compiled by trained inspectors, including Head Brewers, so you’ll know they know what they are talking about!

If consumers find a beer that interests them, they can search in reverse i.e. find nearby pubs where the beer is served, using a “Where to Drink” facility. If they like a particular brewer’s beers, they can find out more about the brewer and even see what other beers they produce – and find out which pubs you can drink them in. Or they could just browse through the database and choose any one of the 1,000+ beers at random!

In addition to finding pubs and beers, CaskFinder includes a number of other useful features – a list of Beer Festivals complete with contact details, admission prices and maps to show you where to go – a Beer Blog from award winning writer Pete Brown that gives you an inside track on the beer industry – and Beer of the Week, a featured beer of interest from your region.

The Cask Marque website www.caskmarque.co.uk has a SatNav coordinate download feature so that you will have no difficulty in finding your nearest Cask Marque pub even without an iPhone! Also available is a text messaging service - Text CASK followed by a FULL STOP and your post code i.e. CASK.CO4 9HT to 60300 and within 30 seconds you will be sent details of your 2 nearest pubs.
With a 46% consumer awareness of Cask Marque by cask ale drinkers these new information services will be of great benefit to the Cask Marque award winning pubs and cask ale drinkers.

Just Cause 2 out this week

2010-03-23T07:54:00.002Z

GRAPPLERS at the ready - Square Enix London Studios has confirmed that Just Cause 2 will hit the shops this week across North America, Europe, Middle East and Australasia.

As Rico Rodriguez, the Agency’s most powerful weapon, players must take on the island of Panau and its military regime in order to track down Rico’s former boss and mentor, Tom Sheldon, who has gone rogue with millions in Agency cash and intel.

Using a unique grapple and parachute combination, there is no vertical limit as the air becomes your playground: grapple a passing plane in flight, hijack helicopters, BASE jump from the tallest buildings or mountains and leave a trail of chaos and destruction in your wake. Just Cause 2 offers players the freedom to tackle missions any way they choose and, with over 100 vehicles and countless upgrades and collectibles, the choices for relentless adrenaline-fuelled action are limitless.

Just Cause 2 will be available for the PS3, Xbox 360 Games for Windows. I loved the first instalment and can't wait to get my hands on the latest edition - the demo showed there is plenty to explore out there!

Sony Move games are revealed

2010-03-23T06:18:00.000Z

MOVE over Natal, Sony's motion controller is on its way - and some of the games that will incorporate its movement technology have been revealed.

Most of the games being worked on are coming from Sony, although a few titles are the product of third-party publishers. Sony says that 36 publishers will support PlayStation Move with games this autumn, though the majority of these games have yet to be revealed.

Confirmed games include EA Sports Active 2.0, Tiger Woods 2011, The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn's Quest, Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition, LittleBigPlanet, and SOCOM US Navy SEALs 4.

A number of downloadable games will support PlayStation Move as well such as Flower, Echochrome 2, High Velocity Bowling, and Pain.

More games are expected to be announced during E3 in June.

New F1 game screenshots

2010-03-22T07:57:00.004Z

HERE are the latest shots of the new Formula One game winging its way to the next-gen consoles:

Wakeboarding on your PS3

2010-03-16T07:23:00.002Z

A NEW high-def game is to make a splash on the PS3 this week - and us lucky gamers in Europe will be the first to get it, for a change!
TikGames and Creat Studios have announced that Wakeboarding HD will be available for download on your PS3 this Thursday, March 18 in Europe and March 25 in North America.
Wakeboarding HD features state-of-the-art water simulation and split-screen local multiplayer, and will be available via Sony’s PlayStation Network for £14.99 / $14.99.
Grab your board and hold on tight! Wakeboarding HD drops players into 20 high-speed, water-filled, arcade levels to maneuver through tracks, perform high-flying tricks, collect bonuses and avoid dangers from exploding mines to bloodthirsty sharks. Gamers of all ages can show their skills and wreak havoc as the tropical paradise resort transforms into an action-packed extreme playground.

Wakeboarding HD will include PlayStation Trophy support.

The Playstation Move is coming....

2010-03-13T07:04:00.000Z

SONYComputer Entertainment has announced that the new PlayStation Move motion controller for the PlayStation 3 launches worldwide this autumn, offering users a motion-based, high-definition gaming experience.
SCE will also release PlayStation Move sub-controller to be used along with the motion controller for intuitive navigation of in-game characters and objects. The PlayStation Move platform, including the motion controller, sub-controller, and PlayStation Eye camera, together with a strong lineup of software titles, will deliver an innovative and highly immersive experience on the PS3 system.
The combination of the PS3 system and PlayStation Eye camera detects the precise movement, angle, and absolute position in 3D space of PlayStation Move motion controller, allowing users to intuitively play the game as if they themselves are within the game. PlayStation Move motion controller delivers unmatched accuracy through its advanced motion sensors, including a three-axis gyroscope, a three-axis accelerometer, and a terrestrial magnetic field sensor, as well as a color-changing sphere that is tracked by PlayStation Eye camera. Through PlayStation Move system, both fast and subtle motion can be detected, whether the user is swinging a tennis racket, or painting with a brush. With PlayStation Move motion controller, users can provide direct input through action buttons and an analog trigger, while receiving physical feedback from rumble functionality and visual feedback from the sphere’s ability to display a variety of different colors. Furthermore, PlayStation Eye camera can capture the player’s voice or image, enabling augmented reality experiences.
The newly announced PlayStation Move sub-controller is a one-handed controller, developed to further expand the game play options that PlayStation Move games can offer. PlayStation Move sub-controller features a sleek curved design that pairs with the motion controller and comes with an analog stick and directional buttons that allow users to easily control the game when moving characters or choosing a direction. Like all other Wireless Controllers for the PS3 system, it comes with a built in lithium-ion rechargeable battery as well as Bluetooth technology, enabling the controller to transfer the input information wirelessly to the PS3 system without a cable. PlayStation Move motion controller and sub-controller will further broaden the gaming experience on the PS3 system for all genres, from games that use one motion controller to games that use both controllers.

3D TVs to be launched in June

2010-03-10T06:50:00.000Z

SONY is set to release its first 3D TVs in Japan on June 10 and overseas shortly after, along with an update for PlayStation 3 users to take advantage of 3D software.

Sony's first offering is to be a 46-inch model, selling at 350,000 yen (£2,605) and which will include two pairs of 3D glasses.

Will you be one of the first to buy into 3D? I guess until the games and TV catalogue is there to support it, it may be slow on the take-up.

Bad Company 2 server problems

2010-03-09T18:46:00.000Z

FANS of Battlefield: Bad Company 2 may be feeling a bit frustrated - as the server problems have returned.

Just when it looked like things were going back to normal, in relation to the server problems, there are reports that EA servers have been going down again, affecting all three platforms - Xbox 360, PS3 and PC.

EA confirmed this via Twitter that servers were down again, but now should be back up for everyone. EA have also warned that there will be server maintenance at 8am tomorrow - so beware, those early morning gamers!

Killzone 3 to use the Arc?

2010-03-08T08:15:00.001Z

THERE are strong rumours that Killzone 3 will be out by the end of the year - and will use the 'Arc' motion wand, as well as being in 3D.

Tthe Guerrilla Games sequel will launch as part of a big 3D push for the PlayStation 3 this Christmas - far earlier than expected.

PlayStation Store update

2010-03-04T16:13:00.003Z

HERE is today's (Thursday) latest update of the PlayStation Network store - it looks like we can all have a go on the much-anticipated Just Cause 2 demo:

Special Offers

(Available until the 18th of March)

* Cellfactor: Psychokinetic Wars (was – £7.99/€9.99 now – £3.99/€4.99)
* Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo HD Remix (was – £7.99/€9.99 now – £3.99/€4.99)
* Age of Booty (was – £7.99/€9.99 now – £3.99/€4.99)
* Far Cry 2 Fortunes Pack (was – £3.99/€4.99 now – £2.39/€2.99)
* Tom Clancy’s H.A.W.X. Supremacy Pack (was – £7.99/€9.99 now – £3.99/€4.99
* Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 (PSP) (was – £15.99/€19.99 now – £7.99/€9.99)
* Tom Clancy’s EndWar (PSP) (was – £15.99/€19.99 now – £7.99/€9.99)
* Chessmaster: The Art Of Learning (PSP) (was – £15.99/€19.99 now – £7.99/€9.99)

Downloadable Games

* Vandal Hearts Flames of Judgement (£9.99/€12.99) Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: All locales
Demos (free)

* Just Cause 2 Demo Rating: PEGI 18

Availability: Not available in Germany

* Moto 09/10 Demo Rating: PEGI 3

Availability: All locales
Add-On Game Content

* Resident Evil 5
o Desperate Escape (£3.99/€4.99)
o Costume Pack 2 (£1.59/€1.99)

Rating: PEGI 18

Availability: All locales

* Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising – Overwatch Pack (£3.19/€3.99) Rating: PEGI 18

Availability: All locales

* Dante’s Inferno – Dark Forest (£3.99/€4.99) Rating: PEGI 18

Availability: Not available in Russian Federation

* Race Driver GRID – Prestige Pack (£7.99/€9.99) Rating: PEGI 7

Availability: All locales

* Dragon Ball: Raging Blast – Ultimate Warriors Pack 1 (free) Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: All locales

* Karaoke Revolution
o (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman (£0.79/€0.99)
o Against All Odds (£0.79/€0.99)
o Ain’t No Mountain High Enough (£0.79/€0.99)
o Black Velvet (£0.79/€0.99)
o Breakaway (£0.79/€0.99)
o Build Me Up Buttercup (£0.79/€0.99)
o Call Me (£0.79/€0.99)
o Can’t Help Falling In Love (£0.79/€0.99)
o Careless Whisper (£0.79/€0.99)
o Celebration (£0.79/€0.99)
o Complicated (£0.79/€0.99)
o Crazy (£0.79/€0.99)
o Crazy Little Thing Called Love (£0.79/€0.99)
o Easy (£0.79/€0.99)
o Every Breath You Take (£0.79/€0.99)
o Heartbreak Hotel (£0.79/€0.99)
o Holiday (£0.79/€0.99)
o Hot Stuff (£0.79/€0.99)
o How Do I Live (£0.79/€0.99)
o How You Remind Me (£0.79/€0.99)
o If You Don’t Know Me By Now (£0.79/€0.99)
o It’s The End Of The World As We Know It (£0.79/€0.99)
o Lady Marmalade (£0.79/€0.99)
o Let’s Get It On (£0.79/€0.99)
o Material Girl (£0.79/€0.99)
o More Than Words (£0.79/€0.99)
o New York New York (£0.79/€0.99)
o Oops!…I Did It Again (£0.79/€0.99)
o Respect (£0.79/€0.99)
o Saving All My Love For You (£0.79/€0.99)
o Sittin’ On The Dock Of The Bay (£0.79/€0.99)
o Son Of A Preacher Man (£0.79/€0.99)
o Stand By Me (£0.79/€0.99)
o Straight Up (£0.79/€0.99)
o Sweet Home Alabama (£0.79/€0.99)
o Take On Me (£0.79/€0.99)
o These Words (£0.79/€0.99)
o Time After Time (£0.79/€0.99)
o Unfaithful (£0.79/€0.99)
o Uptown Girl (£0.79/€0.99)
o We Are Family (£0.79/€0.99)
o What Is Love? (£0.79/€0.99)
o You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling (£0.79/€0.99)

Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: All locales

* The Beatles: Rock Band – All You Need Is Love (£0.99/€1.49) Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: Not available in Czech Republic, Greece, Luxembourg, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and UAE

* Rock Band
o Downfall by Trust Company (£0.99/€1.49)
o Panic Switch by Silversun Pickups (£0.99/€1.49)
o Sort Of by Silversun Pickups (£0.99/€1.49)
o Third Floor Story by The Mother Hips (£0.99/€1.49)
o White Falcon Buzz by The Mother Hips (£0.99/€1.49)
o Disturbed Pack 02 (£2.49/€3.99)

(contains the following tracks which are also sold separately)
o Meaning of Life (£0.99/€1.49)
o The Game (£0.99/€1.49)
o Voices (£0.99/€1.49)

Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: Not available in Czech Republic, Greece, Luxembourg, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and UAE

* Guitar Hero 5
o Blink-182 Track Pack (£4.39/€5.49)

(contains the following tracks which are also sold separately)
o Adam’s Song (£1.59/€1.99)
o All the Small Things (£1.59/€1.99)
o First Date (£1.59/€1.99)

Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: Not available in Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and United Arab Emirates
Videos (free)

* Fallout: New Vegas Tease
* Split Second Standstill Trailer
* Lead and Gold: Gangs of the Wild West Announcement Trailer
* Bomberman Ultra Trailer

Blur release date revealed

2010-03-04T09:25:00.002Z

ONE for fans of games such as Burnout Paradise, the visually ace racer Blur is coming to America on May 25 and Europe on May 28.

The makers claim this game is all about making racing games 'fun again' - so that could mean its either going to be a real blast, or a bit of a mish mash. I think, from the trailer, it could be a good one!

New puzzler from Echocrome developers

2010-03-02T14:00:00.000Z

IF YOU have mastered echochrome, then why not try a magical new puzzler to tease your brain...

Take your mind on a brain teasing journey with the action puzzles of echoshift. Your task is to guide your mannequin to a door within the time limit during each stage. The only way to succeed is by using the fantastic time repeating powers at your disposal which allow you to cooperate with your past mannequins to solve the puzzles in the present.

The first time you enter a stage, the level will end after a short time period and then restart - which is your cue to play from its beginning again but using the replay data you created from your first attempt. The more times you repeat the stage, the more echoes you create. By cooperating with your past echoes, you can perform tricks, dodge obstacles and overcome the puzzles in your path.

echoshift is a great little puzzler, which you can pick up at a great price if you trawl the net.

PlayStation console bug has been fixed

2010-03-02T08:37:00.002Z

THE nightmare bug that has affected owners of the earlier PlayStation 3 consoles has been fixed, according to Sony.

The firm said that the fault had been caused by machines that had "recognised the year 2010 as a leap year".

The problem did not affect the newer "slim" models of the PS3, Sony said.

The Japanese electronics giant had previously advised gamers to stop using their games console until the problems were resolved.

"We are aware that the internal clock functionality in the PlayStation (PS3) units other than the slim model, recognized the year 2010 as a leap year," said Patrick Seybold of the firm in a blog post.

"Having the internal clock date change from 29 February to 1 March (both GMT), we have verified that the symptoms are now resolved and that users are able to use their PS3 normally."

The problem meant that PS3 owners were unable to connect to the PlayStation Network, used by millions around the world to play online games and download movies.

It said that if gamers still experienced problems, they should adjust the date settings manually or via the internet.

Some have liked the problem to the millennium bug.

Eye Of Judgment comes to the PSP

2010-03-01T19:45:00.000Z

A UNIQUE game on the PS3, The Eye Of Judgment was a breath on fresh air on the console - and now it is coming to the PSP.

Collect every card, master your powers and prepare for the ultimate showdown with Scion, Biolith Lord. The Eye Of Judgement: Legends brings fast-paced, addictive virtual card battles to PSP. All the action takes place on the PSP itself, so there's no need for extra peripherals such as a camera or physical cards, making this a fun and accessible game for players of all skill levels.

The Eye Of Judgement: Legends features a brand new single-player story created exclusively for the PSP version, which challenges you to defeat rival characters while travelling around the magical Eye Of Judgement world. Battles take place using digital on-screen cards, and as the adventure progresses, players can acquire new abilities by building their digital card collection.

The ultimate goal is to obtain sufficient cards and special powers to confront and defeat Scion, Biolith Lord in a final showdown.

Have you got what it takes? Looking for something a bit different? Give it a try.

Navy SEALs return to the PSP

2010-03-01T18:15:00.000Z

LEAD a fireteam of friends on an action-packed military hunt for weapons of mass destruction and an ex-KGB agent in SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs - Fireteam Bravo 3 for PSP.

In the latest of the successful series, Fireteam Bravo 3 lets you join forces with like-minded players to tackle an adventure of realistic military action, tactics and teamwork wherever and whenever you want.

Created with the support of the U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command, the SOCOM series is renowned for its real-world situations and attention to detail. Join the ominous world of ex-secret operatives as you lead a special operation to track and interrogate former KGB agent, Alexander Gozorov who is believed to be withholding information on a forthcoming attack with weapons of mass destruction. It's up to you and your squad to track Gozorov in a series of customisable missions, using your skills, stealth and swift thinking.

While the SOCOM name has long been synonymous with multiplayer tactical gaming, Fireteam Bravo 3 takes it a step further allowing players to choose which mission to attempt and tackle with teamwork and firepower. Players can also compete online, communicate via voice chat, battling for Medals and a place on SOCOM's online leaderboards. With an extensive and realistic single-player mode as well, the action in SOCOM: U.S. Navy Seals - Fireteam Bravo 3 never ends.

PlayStation Network is down!

2010-03-01T08:26:00.000Z

SONY'S PlayStation Network was hit by a glitch that has left users on all continents unable to connect to the online service, the company said Monday.

The problem appears to be affecting only the older PlayStation 3 consoles and not the newer so-called "slim" models that were recently launched, according to messages on Twitter.

First reports of the problem began appearing online late afternoon on Sunday, US time, and acknowledgement came from Sony's US unit in the form of a blog and Twitter posting.

"We're narrowing down the issue and continue to work to restore service to all. Updates as soon as we have them," the company said on its @SonyPlayStation Twitter channel.

Alpha Protocol to be released this summer

2010-02-26T07:40:00.000Z

OBSIDIAN Entertainment’s much-anticipated Alpha Protocol is hitting store shelves in the summer.

The espionage game, an original take on the role playing game genre, will launch in Europe on May 28 and June 1 in the US for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC Games For Windows.

“Alpha Protocol offers a new take on the RPG genre giving players the chance to immerse themselves in the world of modern day espionage,” said Gary Knight, European Marketing Director of SEGA Europe.

“Being the first ever RPG in this setting, Obsidian have written a truly immersive storyline with a cast of characters everyone will remember.”

With a plot torn from today’s headlines and more twists than a blockbuster movie, Alpha Protocol brings a new level of modern day realism to the world of RPGs. Tasked with uncovering the perpetrators behind a tragic missile attack on a passenger jetliner, players dive into a story rich with characters and locations to discover an international arms-dealing conspiracy. Through their actions and choices, players direct the outcome of the game as they ultimately decide who to befriend, trust or kill.

In Alpha Protocol, players assume the role of rookie spy Michael Thorton and are given unprecedented control over the development of his abilities and interactions with other characters. Customizable character skill-sets, attributes and weapons all play an important role in allowing gamers to tailor Thorton to their play-style.

NO hard drive install for God of War III

2010-02-24T08:07:00.000Z

GOD Of War III, Sony’s next big blockbuster, will require no HDD install despite the games storage capacity of up to 40GB on a dual-layer blu-ray.

GamingUnion writes: "Recently, PlayStation 3 gamers have been inundated with mandatory installs for games like Heavy Rain and BioShock 2, but God of War 3, which releases next month, promises to offer some good news on this front.

When posting on his personal Twitter account, Christer Ericson, who is the Director of Technology at Sony Santa Monica, said “God of War 3 does NOT do a HD install. The 5MB listed on box back is for save game only.”

That's great news - and should show other developers that it can be done, even with such an impressive game!

Heavy Rain banned in United Arab Emirates

2010-02-23T07:56:00.000Z

ACCORDING to Kotaku, Sony this morning has confirmed the banning of Heavy Rain in the United Arab Emirates.

In a statement released by Sony, it says: "The UAE’s National Media Council (NMC) has banned Heavy Rain on PlayStation3. Heavy Rain has an 18+ PEGI rating and has been conceived from the earliest stages as a genuinely adult experience.

"This means that it deals with strong content including blood and nudity, but treats this content in a mature and sensitive manner.

"The game is not intentionally controversial or sensationalist, and all the themes and content are consistent with what consumers would expect to see in a mainstream Hollywood thriller."

Currently there has been no detailed explanation from the UAE.

Xbox Live user banned - video

2010-02-22T14:26:00.001Z

HERE'S an interesting video - it shows an Xbox Live moderator taking a tough stance on a Live user.
It's good to see 'abusers' facing a crackdown - but do you agree, or do you think it is too harsh?
Watch and learn....

Battle of the motion controllers

2010-02-22T08:49:00.000Z

THE battle of the motion controllers is set to commence - and analysts are predicting the Xbox 360 will come out on top.

Wedbush Morgan Securities analyst Michael Pachter is predicting the Xbox 360's Natal add-on will outsell the PS3's Arc motion control camera by 5 to 1.

He said: "I think that the Sony motion controller will have some problems gaining traction, since it is not an "in the box" solution. That will probably limit adoption to one or two million at the outset. Natal is different... It's only one piece (the camera), is likely to be cheaper, and I think it will come in the Xbox 360 package with new consoles once launched, meaning far deeper penetration."

Pachter thinks the games will be key to the success of both peripherals.

He said: "Sony's internal development is top notch, so I expect the launch titles to be fun, and likely on par with Wii Sports for quality, but ultimately, I think that the motion controller will only sell to 20% or less of the PS3 audience, limiting it's appeal to third party publishers. A year or so after launch, there will be 10 million Project Natal units out there, which will probably attract more third party support. Also, I think Microsoft will subsidize third party development to make it a success."

New Aliens vs Predator launch video

2010-02-20T19:11:00.000Z

HERE is the latest Aliens vs Predator video to appear on YouTube - the graphics looks stunning, lets hope the gameplay is just as good!

New interactive gaming show coming to the PS3

2010-02-16T08:04:00.000Z

A NEW interactive gaming show will soon be winging its way to the PS3.

FirstPlay is being launched on PS3, which will take the form of an on-console episodic gaming show which will bring together reviews, trailers, video previews, galleries, downloads and demos.

And it won't be limited to that alone; it will also be in high-definition and managed by the editorial team behind Official PlayStation Magazine at Future Publishing.

Weekly episodes will cost 99p each, while three-month subscriptions will be going for £8.99.

User-created content will also be available, as well as downloads exclusive to those buying the service.

New Aliens vs Predators demo released

2010-02-15T10:00:00.000Z

A NEW updated version of the Aliens Vs Predator demo is available now on PlayStation Network.

The first iteration of the Aliens Vs Predator multiplayer demo has now been taken down from PlayStation Network and replaced with this new version.

The first iteration of the demo suffered matchmaking problems resulting in some players experiencing difficulties getting into matches. SEGA and Rebellion have worked closely with Sony to investigate and resolve the issue with this new demo.

The new demo also features additional functionality to allow PlayStation 3 users to create their own matches and browse for any available ones to join.

Download TV shows to your iPhone

2010-02-08T12:38:00.000Z

NOT strictly a gaming post, this one - but here's a great new app on its way for iPhone and iPod Touch users.
Rewatch is effectively, the iPlayer on the move, letting you download BBC TV programmes to watch on the go.
It is still being assessed by Apple at the moment, but hopefully it will be approved and with us very soon!

Aliens vs Predator demo is live

2010-02-04T15:05:00.000Z

SEGA will today (Thursday) simultaneously release a multiplayer demo of Aliens vs Predator, for the PS3 (via PSN), Xbox 360 (via Xbox LIVE) and PC (via Steam).

The first-person shooter demo is set on the map "Refinery" in the standard deathmatch mode. Aliens vs. Predator features seven multiplayer maps, and three race classes for players to choose from.

“With the demo now gamers can get to grips with each of the three iconic species so they can hone their skills and be ready for when the game launches and battle commences,” said Jason Kingsley, CEO and Creative Director of Rebellion.

The colonial marine, the Predator and the Alien, your three species to select from, will also have intertwining single-player campaigns. Aliens vs Predator is set to be released on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on February 19 in Europe.

For more details on Aliens Vs. Predator, visit sega.com.

Lego Harry Potter is on its way

2010-02-01T17:02:00.000Z

WARNER Bros has announced that Lego: Harry Potter Years 1-4 will be released in May for Xbox 360, Wii, PS3, DS, PSP and PC.

Developed by TT Games, the title focuses on Potter's first four years at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry - encompassing events in The Philosopher's Stone, The Chamber Of Secrets, The Prisoner Of Azkaban and The Goblet of Fire.

According to a Warner Bros statement, the game will enable players to "experience the magic and adventure of Harry Potter in a uniquely Lego way".

It added: "Playing as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, as well as more than 100 other favourite characters, gamers will have the opportunity to attend lessons, cast spells, mix potions, fly on broomsticks and complete tasks to earn rewards."

Lego: Harry Potter will also feature famous locations from the book and film series, including Hogwarts Castle, the Forbidden Forest and the village of Hogsmeade.

GTA expansion now coming to PS3 and PC

2010-01-29T11:42:00.000Z

PUTTING an end to the Xbox 360 exclusivity, Rockstar Games has announced that, for the first time, PS3 and PC players will have the opportunity to experience the last two thrilling chapters of the Grand Theft Auto IV saga.

The release of Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City on disc is coming this spring, on March 30.

The two action episodes will also be available in digital forms via Playstation Network and PC. Prices have only so far been released for the US, at $19.99 each.

"Each episode boasts the same detailed and immersive Liberty City we all know and love," says Rockstar on its official website.

Heavy Rain's first nine minutes revealed

2010-01-27T08:20:00.000Z

HERE are the first nine minutes of gameplay revealed for the hopefully-fantastic Heavy Rain on the PS3.
Watch and learn....!

Pushing the Xbox 360 to its limits

2010-01-25T08:28:00.000Z

THE Xbox 360 is definitely going to be pushed to its limits with the new Halo game.

The creative director of Halo: Reach has confirmed that the game will push the Xbox 360 to the limits of its current processing capabilities.

“We are taking every advantage of everything on the CPU and GPU, and every bit of memory in order to produce the look of Reach beyond anything of Halo 3,” Marcus Lehto told Edge.

“We’re pushing it as far as we can go. With every iteration we understand what more we can exploit with the hardware.”

Meanwhile, community director Brian Jarrard explained that Halo: Reach will feature an improved AI for additional replay value.

“The AI system is super robust, and is taken for granted as a rich simulation. Everything is simulated, nothing is bolted down,” said Jarrard.

“You can throw a grenade in a room and it’s all physically simulated. Even in our giant environments you see films in which someone will throw a grenade and it will send a Warthog flying through the air and it’ll kill someone on the other side of the map.”

Bonobo monkey playing Ms Pacman

2010-01-20T16:42:00.000Z

THIS young bonobo monkey likes nothing better than a game of Ms Pacman - although I don't think he's that great at it!

Latest images of God Of War III

2010-01-20T08:06:00.000Z

SOME new screenshots of the highly-anticipated God Of War III game on the PS3 have been released - and they are stunning!

And from the looks of it, the scale of the titans that Kratos will encounter on his adventure are colossal.

Having been one of the lucky few to have already played the demo, I cannot wait for this game to hit the shelves - it has been in development for a long time and I am sure it will not disappoint!

Here are some of those cracking images:

New Virtual Console games released

2010-01-19T08:05:00.000Z

OUT now on the Virtual Console, WiiWare and DSiWare, there are seven new games.

This week's games are as follows:

On DSiWare is Dark Void Zero (Capcom, 1 player, 500 DSi Points), Starship Defense (Nintendo, 1 player, 500 DSi Points), Chronos Twins (EnjoyUp Games, 1 player, 500 DSi Points), and Me and My Dogs: Friends Forever (Gameloft, 1 player, 800 DSi Points).

Dark Void Zero takes Capcom's recent game and using the franchise turns in a side-scrolling NES adventure.

Starship Defense is the newest DSi download from Q-Games and is a tower defense-style game set in space. Me and My Dogs: Friends Forever is another puppy simulator for DSi owners.

On WiiWare, there is Muscle March (Namco Bandai, 1 player, 500 Wii Points) and The Amazing Brain Train (Wahoo Studios, 1 player, 600 Wii Points). Muscle March is the latest strange game to come from Namco Bandai, in which bodybuilders chase after a thief who stole their protein drink. They have to pose in the correct positions to navigate through walls and other obstacles. The Amazing Brain Train is an indie brain training game.

There is just one game on the Virtual Console this week and it's Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi for the Sega Genesis (Sega, 1 player, 800 Wii Points).

Shadow Dancer: The Secret of Shinobi came out last week on the PAL Virtual Console and in December 2006 on the Japanese Virtual Console. It, along with Muscle March and The Amazing Brain Train, is available for download off the Wii Shop Channel, while Dark Void Zero, Starship Defense, Chronos Twins, and Me and My Dogs: Friends Forever are available for download off the DSi Shop Channel.

'3D gaming possible on the Xbox 360'

2010-01-13T17:22:00.000Z

MICROSOFT has assured gamers that its Xbox 360 console is capable of offering 3D gaming in the future.

It has confirmed that its Xbox 360 console has the capability to offer 3D gaming - if the company decides to support the medium in the future.

Aaron Greenberg, Microsoft's Xbox group product manager, told G4TV that the high-definition system is "fully 3D capable" in terms of technology.

Sony confirmed to investors in November 2009 that 3D functionality is to be a key part of PlayStation 3's future lineup alongside features like Blu-ray playback and motion control.

Conversely, Mr Greenberg stated that Microsoft is adopting a wait-and-see approach to whether or not the general gaming audience is ready for 3D technology in the home.

He suggested that a living room 3D experience would be different from being in a darkened cinema due to the fact that people are less able to concentrate fully on the screen.

However, the Microsoft man added: "If it becomes really important and people want to do more with it, we're absolutely happy to support it."

New PSP mini games launched

2010-01-13T17:18:00.000Z

LEADING Indian game developer GameShastra has just released three new PlayStation Portable (PSP) Mini games onto the PlayStation Network (PSN), bringing its total number of games available through the PlayStation Network to five.

The new games draw from the developer's heritage, bringing two titles based on classic Indian Strategy games to a global audience, alongside a game which takes players on a trip along America's most famous highway.

With origins dating back to 4AD, Pachisi is Indian's national board game. GameShastra's version is steeped in heritage, offering a perfect recreation of this absorbing Strategy game equally playable on PSP and PlayStation 3. Simple to learn, yet difficult to master, the fact Pachisi remains one of India's most popular strategy board games over two thousand years since its introduction speaks volumes about its core mechanics - perfectly recreated here, with sophisticated artificial intelligence (AI) offering a challenge to players of all abilities.

Tiger Trouble, also available for PSP and PlayStation 3, is another strategy board game recreation - though this time based on a Nepalese pastime. The game offers two perspectives: playing as tigers, the objective is to kill seven out of fifteen goats; when playing as goats, players must trap the three tigers. Offering unique strategies depending on the side being played, it's a game of limitless possibilities, and one which has been developed with obvious affection for the original board game.

Finally, Route 66 offers a change of pace. A hidden-object game set along America's "mother highway", it's a game best played casually, with ample time to admire the stunning artwork and historical facts whilst hunting for the items deviously-placed within each lavish scene.

Holiday joy for Sony

2010-01-07T16:13:00.000Z

SONY has announced that the holiday season retail sales of PlayStation3 computer entertainment systems during the five weeks following the last week of November 2009 exceeded 3.8 million units worldwide.
The PS3 platform experienced a 76% increase in hardware sales compared to the same period in the previous year, marking the highest record sales for PS3 hardware for a holiday period. With the release of the new slimmer and lighter PS3 system combined with an exciting line-up of compelling software titles, as well as with the expansion of new content and services on PlayStation Network, with more than 38 million registered accounts worldwide, the PS3 platform continues to surpass its momentum every year and remains on track to further accelerate the growth of its worldwide installed base into 2010.
With continued strong support from game developers and publishers around the world, highly anticipated and exciting game titles on Blu-ray disc were released for the PS3 system during the holiday season. The software line-up includes platform-defining franchises that contributed significantly to PS3 hardware sales such as UNCHARTED 2: Among Thieves from SCE, Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed II, Infinity Ward’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 from Activision, and FINAL FANTASY XIII from SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. FINAL FANTASY XIII for North America and Europe/PAL territories will be available on March 9, 2010.
In addition to this extensive line-up of software titles, multimedia capabilities that PS3 offers, including Blu-ray disc player functionality, combined with various rich content and services available for download on PlayStationNetwork, continue to attract more and more users around the globe making PS3 the ultimate interactive entertainment system for the home.
In 2010, SCEI will continue to deploy various measures to further expand the PS3 software line-up, including highly anticipated titles such as God of War 3, Gran Turismo 5, MAG, Heavy Rain and ModNation Racers. The company will also vigorously enhance the network content and services, while tapping into a wider audience through the introduction of a new Motion Controller supported with a variety of software titles as well as delivering outstanding 3D experience in homes with 3D stereoscopic games and movies, that is possible only on the PS3 platform.

Dark Void demo is coming

2010-01-06T08:12:00.000Z

WITH the launch of Capcom’s Science-Fiction third-person Shooter, Dark Void, coming soon, the firm is giving gamers a chance to experience the void for themselves this week with a downloadable demo coming to Xbox Live and PlayStation Network.

Dark Void is a blend of aerial and ground combat which centres on Will, a pilot who crash lands in the Bermuda Triangle following a routine mission. Will wakes up to find himself in “The Void,” a parallel world resembling a primitive earth, upon which aliens with superior technology are planning to take over civilisation. Together with a faction of humans who have also travelled into the Void, Will takes on the alien race using their own advanced technology; including the famed high powered jet pack

The Dark Void demo will be available for download from Xbox Live on Wednesday January 6th and PlayStation Network on Thursday January 7^th. The demo will give gamers a chance to strap on their jet pack for the first time and explore the mysterious and miraculous world of Dark Void through a combination of thrilling aerial dog-fighting, unique vertical cover action and on-foot combat.

Dark Void is due to be released across Europe on Friday, January 22 and will be available for the PS3, Xbox 360 and PC.

FIFA online world cup qualifiers

2010-01-05T11:20:00.000Z

FIFA, the world’s governing body of football, Electronic Arts Inc (NASDAQ: ERTS) and Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) today announced the official kick-off of the second phase of the 2010 FIFA Interactive World Cup (FIWC) online competition.

This year’s FIWC season has been split into two phases to ensure that even more players have the opportunity to compete in the tournament. The first phase, which concluded on 18th December 2009, saw over 400,000 players from around the world compete online on EA SPORTS™ FIFA 10 on the PlayStation®3 (PS3™), via PlayStation®Network to secure the first 11 places at this year’s FIWC Grand Final, which will take place at Port Olympic in Barcelona on 1st May 2010.
The online leaderboard from the FIWC 2010 phase 1 has now been wiped clean, giving those players who weren’t able to participate or didn’t make it into the top ten another shot at claiming one of the remaining 11 online Grand Final spots*. To participate in the FIWC 2010 online, players can register directly inside the retail version of EA SPORTS™ FIFA 10 on PS3 from 5th January 2010 and start competing right away. Alternatively, live qualifier events for an additional nine Grand Final places will take place at:
Host Country
Host City
Date
Australia
Sydney
9th – 11th April
Brazil
Sao Paulo
27th March
France
Paris
12th-14th March
Italy
Milan
March
Japan
Tokyo
21st March
Denmark
Copenhagen
13th March
Poland
Warsaw
6th February
Russia
Moscow
6th-8th November
South Africa
Johannesburg
6th March
UK
London
March
Following the culmination of this year’s competition in Barcelona, the FIWC World Champion will be crowned officially at the FIFA World Player Gala 2010, a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet the real life football stars in person. For photographs of FIWC World Player 2009 Bruce Grannec’s experience at the FIFA World Player Gala on 21 December 2009, go to
www.fifa.com/fiwc.
* For full FIWC 2010 tournament terms & conditions, please see www.fifa.com/fiwc

MAG beta out now - for everyone!

2010-01-05T08:16:00.000Z

THE MAG Beta is open to the world today - but catch it now, as it only lasts a week!

Sony has announced the MAG beta which will be available worldwide to everyone starting from Monday. All you need is a PS3 and a internet connection. The MAG Beta will be available to everyone from today until the end of the testing phase on January 10 at 11.59pm.

The beta will come with two different game modes: 64-player sabotage and 256-player domination!

What you’ll need to do to get the Beta:

1. Log on to the PlayStation Store, Select “View All By Title -> M Titles -> MAG” and download the MAG Beta file like you would any other freely-available PSN video or demo (298 MB)

2. Launch the MAG Beta program from your XMB to download a special patch that will restart MAG once the update has been received (another 37 MB)

3. After the reboot, the Beta will reconnect and download the actual game data so that you can play (1.8 GB – 2.3 GB depending on your region)

A video game controlled by a stuffed pet toy!

2009-12-31T11:07:00.000Z

A FASCINATING new video game is on its way to the Nintendo Wii later this year – and may become the latest must-have for younger gamers.

Wiiwaa is an upcoming video game currently being developed by Zoink Games for the Wii. It is a unique title due to the fact it is controlled by placing the Wii Remote inside a stuffed toy, which is used to control the on-screen avatar. The game is currently in development and a release date has yet to be announced, but is expected to be released sometime in 2010.

Aimed at young children, Wiiwaa offers a unique take on motion controlled gaming by offering control via a stuffed toy named Wiiwaa. By feeding the Wii Remote into Wiiwaa’s mouth, it becomes a controller that can be used to move its in-game counterpart. By moving Wiiwaa about, he walks across an on-rails path.

If Wiiwaa is attacked by enemies, the player can shake Wiiwaa to defeat them. The player can also make Wiiwaa duck in order to sneak up on certain enemies. There are also minigames in which players can throw Wiiwaa into the air to jump towards fruit, or hang him via its extendable rubber ears to bungee off a flying creature. The game is planned to include badges that the player can choose to attach to Wiiwaa as a reward for completing certain tasks.

For a peek at what the game will look like, have a look at the video at http://www.zoinkgames.com/wiiwaa/

New screenshots for Dante's Inferno

2009-12-15T09:08:00.000Z

HERE are some great new screenshots for the forthcoming Dante's Inferno - let's hope it plays as good as it looks!
Mind you, our US counterparts already know how it plays - a demo was released this weekend. But for some reason, I downloaded it with my US account I had set up, but the demo will not install - has Sony now blocked Euro users from using US accounts?
If anyone knows, please let me know!

Optional software update coming for the PS3

2009-12-09T08:00:00.000Z

A NEW system software update is on its way to the PS3 - except this time, it is optional.

The PS3 will receive its next system software update shortly – v. 3.15.

This is an optional update, and it enables existing PS3 owners who purchase a new PS3 system (perhaps as a second unit for the household) to transfer their content from their current PS3 to the new system. Content such as games, game save data, and videos downloaded from PlayStation Network can be transferred to the new PS3 system and deleted from the current PS3 system. Other content, including personal media files (photos, music, videos), can be copied onto the new PS3 and remain on the current PS3 system.

Data Transfer Utility Explained:

1. Turn both the current PS3 (A) and new PS3 (B) on and connect them with a LAN cable; PS3 (A) should be connected to the TV. Please note, firmware (v3.15) must be installed on both systems.

2. On the XMB of PS3 (A), scroll to the Settings category and select [System Settings] and then [Data Transfer Utility]

3. Follow the instructions on-screen and transfer data

4. After transferring the data, follow the instructions on-screen, and then connect PS3 (B) to the TV to view the XMB

5. If content that was downloaded from PlayStation Store was transferred as part of this operation, you must activate PS3 (B) before you can use the data. Log in to the PS3 system as the user who owns the content, and then select (PlayStation Network) > (Account Management) > (System Activation) to activate the system.

More details on Data Transfer Utility will be available here once the firmware updat

ModNation Racer beta is an early Christmas present

2009-12-08T08:01:00.000Z

A BETA of ModNation Racer is coming to the PlayStation Network on December 18 - but I'm guessing that, yet again, this will only be for US gamers.

Us European players obviously aren't good enough to test out these forthcoming games.

The Beta runs untilJanuary 10, and you will have the chance to score a Beta voucher on the PlayStation Blog! Stay tuned very soon for details on the Beta giveaway.

Those of you who picked up LittleBigPlanet Game of the Year Edition already have a voucher, so you’re good to go!

Santa is coming Home....

2009-12-01T07:48:00.000Z

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe is inviting PS3 users to the new Winter Wonderland space starting December 10.

Visitors can hang out with Santa and his elves and you will be able to assist in Christmas preparation via mini-games.

PlaystationBlog UE writes:

"There will be plenty to do, so make sure you keep coming back frequently to find out what Santa and his elves need next. You wouldn’t want to miss out on opening a present, or taking part in one of the task mini-games, now would you? While you’re there make sure to browse the winter market, and don’t forget to get your picture taken by the photo elf. He’ll even throw in a special festive border!"

New racing pack for Need for Speed SHIFT

2009-11-23T16:52:00.001Z

Electronic Arts has announced that an all-new Team Racing pack for Need for Speed SHIFT will be released for PS3 on December 3 in Europe and on December 10 in North America.

The Team Racing pack will be available worldwide on December 1 for Xbox 360. The content pack includes an action-packed new race mode and five renowned racing cars.

And best off all - it sounds like it is going to be completely free!

Online video service now running for the PS3

2009-11-20T07:38:00.001Z

SONY Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) further expanded its PlayStation® entertainment experience on Thursday with the launch of the PlayStation®Network video delivery service for Europe.

Now available in France, Germany, Spain and the UK, with other countries to follow in 2010, the service allows film fans to download hundreds of movies, including the latest releases, straight to their PlayStation®3 (PS3™) and PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable).
More than 2,000 movies are available across the stores to rent (from €1.99) or to buy (from €7.99), many in High Definition* (HD) as well as Standard Definition (SD), from major movie studios including 20th Century Fox, The Walt Disney Company1, Lionsgate2, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM), Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, Starz Media2, Universal, and Warner Bros. The service also provides a broad selection of content from local market studios including ContentFilm International, E1 Entertainment UK and Optimum Releasing (UK), and Constantin Film, Kinowelt and Universum Film (Germany), MK2, EuropaCorp, Pathé, SND and Wild Side Video (France) and Vértice Cine (Spain).
Titles available within the launch window include Angels and Demons; Bruno; Disney/Pixar’s Cars; Walt Disney Pictures’ The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe; Crank 2; The Dark Knight; Dead Space: Downfall; Drag Me to Hell; Gran Torino; Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix; National Treasure; Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl; Public Enemies; Star Trek; Terminator Salvation; Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen; and Valkyrie; and X-Men Origins: Wolverine. Additional content will be added on a weekly basis.
“The launch of the PlayStation Network video delivery service extends our entertainment offering and provides consumers with another way to access their favourite movies, whether at home or on the go,” said Andrew House, President and CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe. “With the choice of content constantly expanding, including full games, bite-size downloadable “minis” games, demos and now movies too, the PlayStation Network is the gateway to a world of entertainment.”
At launch, there will be a special offer for existing PSN members, allowing them to receive a complimentary copy of The Da Vinci Code if they buy Angels and Demons. There will also be a special promotion to encourage new members. Anyone who registers for a PlayStation®Network account using their new PS3s between 19th & 30th November 2009 will receive a voucher to download a complimentary copy of Transformers to own3.
Located on the PlayStation®Store under the “Video Store” section, the PlayStation Network video delivery service provides consumers with an exceptional entertainment experience, adding HD and SD movies for rental or purchase, to the already comprehensive line-up of games, demos, trailers and other content.
The video delivery service will be fully integrated within the PlayStation Network, using the same log-in, wallet system and user-interface. Visitors can search for movies by name, or can browse categories such as “new releases”, “genres” and ”most popular downloads”. PS3’s progressive downloading allows viewers to start watching a film shortly after the download begins. They can also access certain games or other content on their PS3 while the download is taking place.
Consumers who choose to rent have up to 14 days to watch their movie, and, once playback is started, they have 48 hours to watch the content. Purchased movies are stored on the PS3 hard disk drive and can be accessed at home via PS3 or transferred to PSP for content on the go.
The PlayStation Network video delivery service takes prime position in a line-up of PlayStation entertainment features, alongside streaming music video with VidZone®, Catch Up TV services and free digital TV viewing with PlayTV™. With games, music, Internet, photos, communications and more, it’s yet another reason to make PS3 and PSP the heart of your entertainment world. To find out more, visit HYPERLINK "http://www.eu.playstation.com" www.eu.playstation.com.
* Initially HD content will only be available to rent
1 Content only available to rent or to buy in the UK and to rent in Germany at launch
2 Content from these studios will be available only in the UK
3 The promotional code will be sent to eligible customers in December 2009.

Video store launches on Euro PlayStation Network

2009-11-18T20:03:00.000Z

GREAT news - the PlayStation Network video store is launching in Europe tomorrow (Thursday).

Here's an excert from the official Sony PlayStation Euro blog:

"You’ve been waiting for movies to come to PlayStation Network and we can finally confirm some exciting news! Video Store will be available in the UK, France, Germany and Spain starting tomorrow November 19! Are you ready?

We’ve got amazing content lined up for you at launch, loads of latest new releases and all-time favourite classics. I will be updating you weekly via PlayStation Blog with all the new additions.

Now you can save the trip to the shops and enjoy hundreds of films in the comfort of your own sofa on your PS3 or on the go with PSP.

To celebrate the launch we are giving you PlayStation fans something extra! Angels & Demons and The Da Vinci Code: Two Great Movies for the Price of One! Its simple – you buy Angels & Demons and we e-mail you the voucher for The Da Vinci code. How great is that?

And if you are new to PlayStation we don’t want you to miss out! Just register your new console on PlayStation Network between November 19 and 30 and we will send you a voucher for Transformers movie. Yep, you can own Megan Fox in HD on your PS3 forever!"

Great times ahead for the PS3 with vids, facebook - and hopefully soon, cross-game voice chat.

Free games for the Wii

2009-11-18T08:13:00.000Z

GAMERS can now download free games for the Nintendo Wii.

From now until January 16, Wiiware will allow gamers to download several games at no cost. These include World of Goo (2D Boy), six levels of strategy title Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles: My Life as a Darklord, as well as the opening levels of Bit.Trip: Beat, and NyxQuest: Kindred Spirits.

Nintendo says: "WiiWare has allowed developers with small budgets to release innovative, original, and smaller-scale games without the cost and risk of creating a title to be sold at retail." Nintendo WiiWare is now taking it one step further and allowing gamers to experiment for free.

Play the games for free by following these simple steps: Go to the Wiiware section of the Wii Shop and select "search by genre". Choose the "demo" genre to get a list of all the available demos. Select your choice(s), as you can choose as many as you'd like, and download.

Cross-game voice chat is coming to the PS3!

2009-11-17T17:01:00.000Z

ONLINE fans of the PS3 be prepared - it has finally been confirmed that cross-game voice chat IS on its way to the console!

The news was revealed on the official Euro Sony PlayStation blog by James Thorpe, PlayStation Network product manager. In response to a question about cross-game voice chat, he said:

"I wish I could just give you a date, I really do!! Trust me when I say that as soon as I hear from ‘up top’ I will be shouting about it and making myself the most popular person on the blog.

"I know I have answered this in other posts but seeing as you are only mentioning it once I thought you should get a reply. Unfortunately my answer is the same though – As soon as I hear about it I will be straight on here to tell you guys about it. I hope, like you all do, that its sooner rather than later."

So, what gamers have been campaigning for, what they need, is finally on its way - let's just hope it doesn't take forever to arrive.....

Facebook IS coming to the PS3

2009-11-17T08:58:00.000Z

IN THE latest update on the Playstation Blog, Sony has officially announced details for Facebook integration in the new Firmware 3.10 update for the Playstation 3.

With Facebook integration users can link theirPlaystation Network account to their Facebook account and have it updated whenever Trophies or Store activity is happening.

Other features include:

The Photo category on the XMB is revamped to make it easier to see more of your photos stored on the PS3
The PSN Friends List has been modified based on feedback they received after update 3.00. Additionally, you can now choose a colour for your PSN ID on the XMB.

PES 2010 scores a winner

2009-11-16T08:50:00.000Z

THE battle of the football games is back - but Pro Evolution Soccer 2010 has really upped its game this time around.

After listening to the feedback from thousands of PES fans, PES 2010 benefits from a raft of new additions and changes, one of the most important of which is the inclusion of 360-degree control that further elevates the unrivalled realism of the title.

The 360-degree control system allows players to spread the ball with ease, opening up new attacking and defensive possibilities. PlayStation 3 owners will also benefit when using the Dual Shock's D-Pad.

PES 2010 delivers a pace of game in tune with football played at the highest level. Triangulation of passes and use of off-the-ball runs are key to breaking down the opposition, forcing the player to use the strengths of their team mates to create scoring opportunities. Gone are 'soft' goals that can be used to break the deadlock - instead, only working the channels and the precision play expected of great players will make a difference.

Key skills of the many players have now been attributed names, allowing users to incorporate them into their play strategy. Cover star Torres, for instance, is renowned for his ability to receive a pass in the penalty area, and to drop the ball to a teammate in a good position for a goal-scoring opportunity. As such, he is labeled a "Fox In The Box" and "Goal Poacher", in line with his prowess in both scoring and setting up goals.

Each team has unique settings matching their real-life playing styles. Torres at Liverpool, for instance, will recreate the Merseyside club's sophisticated play and high numbers in attack, their pressing from midfield, strong defensive line, and width across the pitch.

The Master League now incorporates both the Champions League and Europa Leagues in its content, offering a complete season for players to enjoy. Success in the Master League will see players streamed into these competitions. The lure of European football can also be used to attract stronger players to your side, with transfer dealings and contracts now significantly more realistic in their use.

The makers of PES 2010 have really listened to what their fans had to say, took on the criticisms, and most importantly, done something about it, to make this the best PES so far.

PES2010 is out now on PS3, Xbox 360, PSP, PC, PS2 and the Wii.

PlayStation Store update November 12, 2009

2009-11-12T13:40:00.000Z

TO COINCIDE with the Modern Warfare 2 blockbuster that everyone is playing, the original Call of Duty: Classic is now on the PS Store .

For the rest of the update this week, there is a varied offering, taking in a new bundle for Burnout Paradise, a new quiz pack for Buzz!, Fat Princess makes an appearance in PAIN and there is also additional content for Rag Doll Kung Fu, EyePet, Rock Band and Guitar Hero.

PSP users get three new games, three new minis, and the demo for Jak and Daxter: The Lost Frontier.

And we are being promised that next week, there should be a nice stream of content released, with some surprises (in-game chat, video and movie store, world peace?!).

So here's this week's update in full:

PlayStation Store via PS3 Add-On Game Content

Fallout 3
- Broken Steel (€7.99)
- Operation Anchorage (€7.99)
- The Pitt (€7.99)
- Point Lookout (€7.99)
- Mothership Zeta (€7.99)

Rating: PEGI 16+
Availability: Additional release for Spain only

Burnout Paradise - Big Surf Bundle (Burnout Paradise full game and Big Surf Island pack) (£27.99/€34.99) Rating: PEGI 3+

Availability: All locales

Buzz! – Euro Sports Quiz (£3.99/€4.99) Rating: PEGI 3+

Availability: All except Czech Republic, Greece and Russia

Pain
- Fat Princess Pack (free)
- Speed Oocher Pack (£1.59/€1.99)

Rating: PEGI 16+

Availability: All locales

EyePet – Lucky Dip Styling Pack 4 (free) Rating: PEGI 3+

Availability: All locales

Rag Doll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic -
- Mistress of Mime (free)
- Shaolin Scarecrow (free)

Rating: PEGI 12+
Availability: All locales

Guitar Hero 5
- Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz (£1.59/€1.99)
- Lady by Lenny Kravitz (£1.59/€1.99)
- Let Love Rule by Lenny Kravitz (£1.59/€1.99)
- Lenny Kravitz Track Pack (£4.39/€5.49)

Rating: PEGI 12+
Availability: All except Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and United Arab Emirates

Rock Band
- A Day Like This – SpongeBob SquarePants (£0.59/€0.79)
- Club Foot by Kasabian (£0.99/€1.49)
- Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground by White Stripes (£0.99/€1.49)
- Employee of the Month – SpongeBob SquarePants (£0.59/€0.79)
- Girl, You Have No Faith in Medicine by White Stripes (£0.99/€1.49)
- Icky Thump by White Stripes (£0.99/€1.49)
- Ridin’ the Hook – SpongeBob SquarePants (£0.59/€0.79)
- Smash It Up (Part II) by The Damned (£0.99/€1.49)
- White Stripes Pack 01 (this pack contains the three White Stripes tracks above) (£2.49/€3.99)

Rating: PEGI 12+
Availability: All except Czech Republic, Greece, Luxembourg, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and UAE

Videos (free)

Avatar Dev Diary 2
Dante’s Inferno Anger Dev Diary
Ratchet & Clank: A Crack in Time Launch Trailer
Just Cause 2 Island of Panua Mini Doc 2

Premium Themes

(Static themes)

Wise Father Theme (£1.19/€1.49)
Yuefeng Theme (£1.19/€1.49)
King Zumo Theme (£1.19/€1.49)
Cavalier Warrior Theme (£1.19/€1.49)

Availability: All locales

PlayStation Store via PSP and Media Go Downloadable Games (also available via the PS3 store)

Street Fighter Alpha Max 3 (£13.99/€17.99)
Major League Baseball 2K9 (£11.99/€14.99)
Mana Khemia: Student Alliance (£19.99/€24.99)

Rating: PEGI 12+
Availability: All except Australia and New Zealand

minis (also available via the PS3 store)

Circles Circles Circles (£2.49/€2.99) Rating: PEGI 3+

Availability: All except Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Spain and Switzerland

D-Cube Planet (£2.49/€2.99) Rating: PEGI 3+

Availability: All except Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Spain and Switzerland

Bubble Trubble (£3.99/€4.99) Rating: PEGI 3+

Availability: All locales

Demo (free)

Jax and Daxter: The Lost Frontier Demo (free) Rating: PEGI 12+

Availability: All locales

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

Dynasty Warriors: Strikeforce – Additional Quests 7 (free) Rating: PEGI 12+

Availability: All locales

Rock Band Unplugged
- Excuse Me Mr. by No Doubt (£0.99/€1.49)
- I’m Shipping Up To Boston by Dropkick Murphys (£0.99/€1.49)

MAG enters the next phase

2009-11-11T07:55:00.001Z

FOR those lucky people in the US, the beta for massive online shooter MAG is well and truly underway.

Today the next phase of the beta is coming to the chosen ones with beta 4. There has been thousands of changes made to enhance the MAG experience, from the new proximity chat feature which allows players to hear the communication of the enemy as you get closer, to an improved ranking system.

If you have not yet experienced the MAG beta please remember that it ends November 20.

Can't we have it over here in the UK, pretty please? Oh well, guess I'll have to make do with playing the stunning COD Modern Warfare 2!

No High Def Wii for 2010....

2009-11-09T13:09:00.000Z

IT DOESN'T look as though all the rumours about the Wii going HD will amount to anything.

Nintendo has categorically denied that a next generation version of the console is in development.

Reggie Fils-Aime, President of Nintendo America, said during a recent interview that “there is no Wii HD”.

Many in the gaming world had been talking about a new version coming out in 2010 - but this appears to be news to Nintendo.

But that simply isn’t the case, according to Fils-Aime.

PlayStation Store update November 5th, 2009

2009-11-05T15:41:00.000Z

THIS week's PlayStation Store update is now out, which includes DLC for Brutal Legend and LittleBigPlanet.

Here it is:

PlayStation Store via PS3

Special Offers
Until the 12th of November:

Siren Blood Curse (Was - £19.99/€29.99 Now - £14.99/€19.99)
Siren Blood Curse Chapter One: The Siren's Call (Was - £6.99/€9.99 Now - £4.79/€5.99)
Siren Blood Curse Chapter Two: No Refuge (Was - £6.99/€9.99 Now - £4.79/€5.99)
Siren Blood Curse Chapter Three: Nest of Devils (Was - £6.99/€9.99 Now - £4.79/€5.99)
Siren Blood Curse Chapter Four: The End is the Beginning (Was - £6.99/€9.99 Now - £4.79/€5.99)

Until the 19th of November:

3 on 3 NHL Arcade (Was - £6.29/€7.99 Now - £4.79/€5.99)
Supersonic Acrobatic Rocket Powered Battle Cars (Was - £7.99/€9.99 Now - £3.99/€4.99)
Echochrome Micro (PSP) (Was - £6.29/€7.99 Now - £3.99/€4.99)
Syphon Filter: Combat Ops (PSP) (Was - £7.99/€9.99 Now - £3.99/€4.99)
Command & Conquer (PSone) (Was - £3.49€4.99 Now - £2.39/€2.99)
Command & Conquer: Red Alert (PSone) (Was - £3.49€4.99 Now - £2.39/€2.99)
Command & Conquer: Red Alert Retaliation (PSone) (Was - £3.99€4.99 Now - £2.39/€2.99)

PSone Classic
Party Time with Winnie the Pooh (£3.99/€4.99) PEGI 3+

Demos (free)
NBA 2K10 Demo PEGI 3+

Add-On Game Content
Brütal Legend - Hextadon Map Pack (free - until the 19th November only) PEGI 18+

LittleBigPlanet
Anniversary Cake Costume (free)
Spacesuit Costume (free)
(both costumes available for one week only)

EyePet
Hospital Styling Pack (£2.39/€2.99)
Lucky Dip Styling Pack 3 (free)
PEGI 3+

Rock Band
Best of You by Foo Fighters (£0.99/€1.49)
The Pretender by Foo Fighters (£0.99/€1.49)
Wheels by Foo Fighters (£0.99/€1.49)
Word Forward by Foo Fighters (£0.99/€1.49)
Foo Fighters Pack 03 (this pack contains the above four Foo Fighters tracks) (£3.49/€5.29)
About a Girl by Nirvana (£0.99/€1.49)
Blew by Nirvana (£0.99/€1.49)
School by Nirvana (£0.99/€1.49)
Nirvana Pack 02 (this pack contains the above three Nirvana tracks) (£2.49/€3.99)
Fake Friends by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts (£0.99/€1.49)

Videos (free)
Assassin's Creed 2 Lineage Trailer
Battlefield: Bad Company 2 Battlefield Moments Episode 1
DC Universe Austin Studio Tour Video
DC Universe Jens Anderson Video
Front Mission Evolved Trailer
Star Ocean: The Last Hope Trailer
Nier Trailer

PlayStation Store via PSP and Media Go

Special Offers
Until the 19th of November:

Echochrome Micro (PSP) (Was - £6.29/€7.99 Now - £3.99/€4.99)
Syphon Filter: Combat Ops (PSP) (Was - £7.99/€9.99 Now - £3.99/€4.99)
Command & Conquer (PSone) (Was - £3.49€4.99 Now - £2.39/€2.99)
Command & Conquer: Red Alert (PSone) (Was - £3.49€4.99 Now - £2.39/€2.99)
Command & Conquer: Red Alert Retaliation (PSone) (Was - £3.99€4.99 Now - £2.39/€2.99)

Downloadable Games (also available via the PS3 store)
Ghostbusters (£16.99/€26.99) PEGI 7+
Dragoneer's Aria (£11.99/€14.99) PEGI 12+
Star Wars Battlefront: Elite Squadron (£31.99/€39.99) PEGI 12+
minis (also available via the PS3 store)
Spot the Differences! (£2.49/€2.99) PEGI 3+

PSone Classic
Party Time with Winnie the Pooh (£3.99/€4.99) PEGI 3+

Add-On Game Content (also available via the PS3 store)
Rock Band Unplugged
Toxicity by System of a Down (£0.99/€1.49)
Waking The Demon by Bullet For My Valentine (£0.99/€1.49)
PEGI 12+

Videos (free)
Metal Gear Solid Peacewalker Trailer
Thexder Neo Trailer

Playstation video store - first movies revealed

2009-11-05T14:06:00.000Z

DETAILS are starting to trickle in ahead of the PlayStation video store UK launch later this month.

We’ve already seen what it will look like, and now partners and first titles you’ll be able to download are out too.

Major studios including 20th Century Fox, Disney, MGM, Paramount, Sony, Universal and Warner Bros are all on board to push out new blockbusters on the PlayStation video store, letting you download movies to your PS3 and PSP.

The first titles on the store will include Transformers 2, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Casino Royal, Crank 2, and recent titles including Angels & Demons, Bruno, and Hannah Montana: The Movie.

No demo for Assassin's Creed II

2009-11-03T07:47:00.000Z

IF YOU fancy having a test of Assassin's Creed II before it is released, prepare for disappointment.

It looks like gamers will have to wait until the game is released to play the upcoming sequel to the 2007 smash hit.

Assassin’s Creed 2 is due out on November 17, but apparently Ubisoft will not be releasing a demo before the game goes on sale.

Sneak preview of God of War III

2009-11-02T16:53:00.000Z

I AM one of the lucky few who have been sent a special code courtesy of Sony to download the early demo of God of War III - and it rocks!
I have been a big fan of the God of War games on the PS2 and PSP in the past, and have been eagerly awaiting the HD versions that are on their way to the PS3 in the form of HD-updated version of the PS2 God of War I and II games, plus the eagerly-anticipated number three due out next year.
After playing the demo, I can honestly say that the game plays as well as ever, but the graphics are stunning - everything you expect from a current PS3 game.
You should not be disappointed - and here's a clip from youtube of the demo to tickle your tastebuds....

Fancy a larger Nintendo DSi?

2009-10-30T12:13:00.000Z

Nintendo's officially confirmed the Nintendo DSi LL (or 'Nintendo DS XL', as seems to be the Western name).

The massive new handheld, said to be targeted at a more mature audience who like their portables large, will be released in Japan on November 21 priced at 20,000 yen (£134) (UPDATE: And in Europe in Q1 2010).

The upgraded handheld features a larger 4.2 inch screen and comes in three colours: 'Dark Brown', 'Wine Red' and 'Natural White'.

The DS LL measures 161 x 91.4 x 21.1mm and weights 314g. In comparison, the DSi measures 137 x 74.9 x 18.9mm and weighs 214g.

The new model will offer greater battery life than the exiting DSi, says Nintendo. The XL's battery can last from 4-5 hours (extensive use) to 13-17 hours (energy saving use), compared to 3-4 hours to 9-14 hours for the DSi. On the down side, the XL will take three hours to charge - 30 minutes longer than the DSi.

Each DSi LL will come bundled with a second, larger stylus apparently meant for "home use", as it's too large to be stored in the system.

The fat portable will also pack three DSiWare games for free: a pair of Brain Age titles and an unreleased dictionary program.

UPDATE: Nintendo's confirmed a 'Q1 2010' release date in Europe. "Nintendo today confirms that a new Nintendo DSi XL console is launching in Europe in the first quarter of 2010," a rep told CVG.

"The retail price of the Nintendo DSi XL is expected to be higher than that of the Nintendo DSi. Further details will be released soon."

Are you ready to shell out for another DS so soon after the last one?

Video store comes to the PS3

2009-10-27T08:17:00.000Z

THE launch of the PlayStation video store in the UK is fast approaching - and here is the first screen to tickle your taste buds.

This is the first screenshot of the Euro-version.

The PlayStation video store, or PlayStation Network video delivery service, as it is called, will launch in the UK, France, Germany and Spain next month, letting you stock up your PS3 and PSP with movies. This shot you see above is how the PlayStation video store will be laid out, and there have been a few subtle tweaks to the version available to PlayStation heads on the other side of the pond.

For one thing, the Euro PlayStation video store has had a bit of a rejig on the left hand column, with Anime and other genres relegated to the Categories section, and “HD Only” given a raise. We’re also liking the promise of “Special Offers” too, letting you grab movies for cheap for a short period of time like those DVD dispensing Pop cabinets you see in cinemas.

Finally, the Channels section looks promising - let's hope we finally catch up with the US and get some decent downloadable content.
(as first published on electricpig)

Blu ray coming to the Xbox 360?

2009-10-22T15:18:00.000+01:00

IN a chat with Gizmodo, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer answered a question about Blu-ray's presence in the Xbox 360's assemblage of accessories.

He said: "Well I don't know if we need to put Blu-ray in there," said Ballmer, predictably, then not so predictably adding "You'll be able to get Blu-ray drives as accessories."

Proper skeptics they are, Gizmodo pushed for clarification, to which Ballmer responded:

Our immediate solution for Blu-ray-quality video on an Xbox 360 is coming this fall with Zune Video and 1080p instant-on HD streaming. As far as our future plans are concerned, we're not ready to comment.

So no further comment about "You'll be able to get Blu-ray drives as accessories," but effective confirmation--without backpedalling or obfuscation--that it'll happen at some point.

Work underway on Killzone 3?

2009-10-20T12:18:00.000+01:00

ACCORDING to StickSkills, KILLZONE 3 has been labelled as one of the “Secret Games Of 2010″ for the PS3 in the latest Playstation: Official Magazine issue.

The issue reads:

“Insider slips reveal three big names you can already pencil for the next year. Killzone 3 is reportedly deep in development, Insomniac’s Full Moon Show podcast hints at a project we can only conclude is Resistance 3, and a Treyarch employee’s online mentions of a Call of Duty: World at War sequel.”

Watch this space.....

XMB chat coming to the PS3? Let's hope so!

2009-10-15T15:30:00.000+01:00

IF THE rumour mill is to be believed, joyous days are ahead for all those PS3 gamers currently suffering in silence.
XMB chat is on its way.

It appears that a Naughty Dog staffer posted a message on the US Sony PlayStation forum, saying that XMB chat was on its way in the next Sony PS3 firmware update.

Anyone who has any interest in online gaming will now how frustrating it currently is that you can chat to someone while out of a game, but then if you want to both go into a game, you have to leave chat first, join a game with your friend (if you are that lucky) and then try and chat in game.

If this works as it is supposed to, it will mean you can see your buddy online, both chat away, then join a game together - without any messing logging out.

If this does happen, then Sony may finally conquer the online gaming market - and catch up on the Xbox 360, whose users have been doing this for years.

Here's hoping....

Vidzone to stay a PS3 exclusive

2009-10-15T15:26:00.000+01:00

VIDZONE Digital Media is not looking at replicating its success on the PS3 by providing a streaming service on Xbox Live.

The company already charges Xbox 360 users for individual videos, but is not currently looking at extending the platform with a PS3-style streaming service.

VidZone is currently in the process of rolling out the streaming service to more European PlayStation regions.

Sky TV is coming to your Xbox 360

2009-10-15T15:21:00.000+01:00

SKYand Microsoft have confirmed that Sky Player will arive on the Xbox 360 on October 27.
That means in just a fortnight subscribers to the Sky TV packages be able to invite virtual pals over to watch the self–styled “greatest league in the world”, as well as lay their hands on a string of on-demand content.

While both tech giants have given Sky Player on Xbox 360 the official nod, neither is coming clean on pricing. An official page on the Xbox website states “full channel-line up and pricing will be confirmed at launch on the 27th.”

Both football and flicks will get special virtual parties where you can invite avatars over and share banter while your team loses or shoots some bad guys.

Will this be a cheaper way to get Sky than your traditional box and dish set up? Time will tell.

Now you can cycle with your Wii

2009-10-15T15:18:00.000+01:00

AN INTERESTING new addition is on its way to the Nintendo Wii fitness collection - the Cyberbike.

The Cyberbike’s premise is very simple: connect the full-size exercise bike to your Nintendo Wii and then cycle your way through the selection of interactive fitness games bundled with the kit.

Eighteen different virtual tracks feature in the game, said manufacturer Bigben Interactive.

Cyberbike will be available in January next year – just in time to burn off those festive indulgences. A price has not been revealed yet.

WATCH THIS SPACE!!

2009-10-13T16:44:00.000+01:00

DUE to the overwhelming success of my PlayStation 3 blog - ps3ontheweb.blogspot.com - I am now expanding to cover ALL the latest games consoles.
I will bring you the latest news, previews and reviews, as well as top tips and insights into what gamers really want to hear.
This blog will be launched soon - so watch this space!