Other OS to be disabled in new PS3 software update

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.

PlayStation console bug has been fixed

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.

New Aliens vs Predator launch video

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

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

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.

Latest images of God Of War III

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:

Holiday joy for Sony

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.

Online video service now running for the PS3

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.

Cross-game voice chat is coming to the PS3!

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

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

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.

Sneak preview of God of War III

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....

Work underway on Killzone 3?

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!

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

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.

WATCH THIS SPACE!!

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!