PLAYSTATION 3 SEGA SUPERSTARS TENNIS DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega's Sega Superstars Tennis for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 501MB.

• Sega Superstars Tennis – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 CONDEMNED 2: BLOODSHOT DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega's Condemned 2: Bloodshot for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 714MB.

• Condemned 2: Bloodshot – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM SOFTWARE VERSION 2.17 NOW AVAILABLE

Sony has made the latest update to the PlayStation 3’s system software (v2.17) available for download via the PlayStation Network and PlayStation.com. Unlike the version 2.10 update, which leaned heavily towards enhancing the system’s video playback features, this update seems to be focusing more on fixing some technical issues with select PS3 titles. Let’s take a look;

The PLAYSTATION®3 system software version 2.17 (with 2.10) update includes the following:

 

“Voice Changer

The Voice Changer feature has been added to voice / video chat. > See details.

Other new or revised features in version 2.17 (with 2.10):

Music

• You can now select [Type 3] as an option under [Settings] > [Music Settings] > [Bitmapping]. > See details.
• A new pattern has been added for the visual player. > See details.

Video

• DivX and VC-1 (WMV) have been added to the types of files that can be played. *1
• Blu-ray Disc Profile 1.1 is now supported. *2
• [BD Data Utility] has been added. *3

*1 – To play VC-1 (WMV) format files, you must go to  (Settings) >  (System Settings) and set [Enable WMA Playback]. – Copyright-protected files or files that were encoded by using DivX 3.11 cannot be played.
– Files that are 2GB or more cannot be played.

*2 – You can now use the “Picture in Picture” feature that enables playback of two videos at the same time with some Profile 1.1-compatible Blu-ray Discs. Features available vary depending on the disc.

*3 – Management data that is used by the Blu-ray Disc is saved here.

Game

• New for 2.17: System stability during use of some PLAYSTATION®3 format software has been improved.” – PlayStation.com

For further information or to obtain the update via the internet, check out the link below.

• System Software Update (2.17) – PlayStation.com

GUITAR HERO III DROPKICK MURPHY TRACK PACK NOW AVAILABLE

In honor of Saint Patrick's Day, a free song pack from Dropkick Murphy for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of Guitar Hero III is now available for download via the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store.

• Guitar Hero III – Official website 

PLAYSTATION 3 MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL 2K8 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of 2K Sports Major League Baseball 2K8 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 953MB.

• Major League Baseball 2K8 – Official website

GOD OF WAR III “COMING SOON” TO PLAYSTATION 3?

Yes folks, God of War III is coming to the PlayStation 3. Naturally, right about now you're saying something snarky and wondering how this is news – after all, I don't think anyone has ever doubted that Sony would be bringing God of War III to the system. 

Well, what you may not know is that apparently the game is "coming soon" – at least that's the word according to the instruction manual for God of War: Chains of Olympus on the PSP. You see, IGN is reporting that much like the back cover of the God of War II manual which announced that Chains would be coming, the back of Chains' manual shows the familiar God of War "Omega" logo with the PS3 logo and "coming soon" written under it.

While there's certainly been no official word from Sony as to when God of War 3 will be hitting retail, one does have to wonder how long it's been in production and if this could be Sony's counterweight to Microsoft's Gears of War 2 come November. Regardless of what the situation is, we'll be sure to keep you updated on any developments as we hear about them.

• God of War III Ad – IGN 

METAL GEAR SOLID 4 COMING JUNE 12TH

Yeah, it does seem like it's "Grub Off Kotaku Day" here at the House of Latenite, but I always go with the first place I saw a story when posting them, and Kotaku just seemed to beat everyone to the punch today.

PlayStation 3 fans have finally gotten the answer they've been waiting to hear for so long… Konami has dated Metal Gear Solid 4. Rather than tease you any further (and since the date is in the title, it's not like that teasing would be effective anyway), the game is scheduled to hit retail on June 12th, 2008.

However, much like a late night infomercial, there's more – Sony has announced that they will be releasing a PlayStation 3 bundle that includes the 80GB PS3, a DualShock 3 controller and Metal Gear Solid 4 for $499.99. That's a combination that will probably win over quite a few who have been waiting on the sidelines for MGS4 before investing in a PS3.

• Metal Gear Solid 4 – Official website
• PlayStation 3: Metal Gear Solid 4 Finally Has a Release Date – Kotaku
• Metal Gear Solid 4 PS3 Bundle Announced – Kotaku

DUAL SHOCK 3 CONTROLLER COMING APRIL 15TH

Kotaku is reporting that Sony has announced they will be releasing the DualShock 3 controller for the PlayStation 3 on April 15th of this year. As the name implies, the controller (priced at MSRP $54.99) will finally bring vibration feedback to Sony's console, eliminating one of the bigger complaints about the system.

At the $54.99 price point, I certainly don't see myself replacing both of my Sixaxis controllers, but I'll certainly grab at least one to serve as my "main" PS3 controller shortly after they become available. How about you?

• DualShock 3 Dated For US – Kotaku 

GUITAR HERO III FREE TRACK – “DREAM ON” – FEB 16TH – 18TH ONLY

Just a quick note here – to celebrate the announcement of Guitar Hero: Aerosmith, Activision Blizzard is offering a free download of the band's "Dream On" for use with Guitar Hero III to all PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 owners from February 16th through the 18th via the PlayStation Store and Xbox Live Marketplace.

"Santa Monica, CA – February 15, 2008 – Fire up the fret board, crank the amp to 11 and get ready to rock this way with Activision, Inc.'s (Nasdaq: ATVI) Guitar Hero®: Aerosmith®, the first game built around the legendary music of America's Greatest Rock 'N Roll Band: Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer.  Slated for release this June, this latest installment from the franchise with the #1 best-selling video game in 2007, puts players in the shoes of Perry (guitar), Whitford (guitar) and Hamilton (bass), as they rock out alongside frontman Tyler and drummer Kramer.  Gamers will experience Aerosmith's GRAMMY® winning career, from their first gig to becoming rock royalty, in a way that no other entertainment vehicle offers. 

To celebrate this historic, ground-breaking collaboration, Guitar Hero® III: Legends of Rock fans will have the opportunity to download and jam to Aerosmith's "Dream On." The song will be available for free from February 16-18 on Xbox LIVE^® Marketplace for Xbox 360^® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PLAYSTATION®Store for the PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system.  For more information, please visit www.guitarhero.com." –  Official press release

 No word on if there will be any future option on the song for Wii owners. That's all I've got for you, so get moving and get it downloaded.

• Guitar Hero – Community website
• Guitar Hero: Aerosmith – GuitarHero.com

PLAYSTATION 3 MLB 08: THE SHOW DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sony's MLB 08: The Show for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.01GB.

• MLB 08: The Show – Official website

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: GRAND THEFT AUTO IV – THE STEINWAY BEER GARDEN

Hey gang, it’s time for yet another edition of Lazy Day Trailers – today well be looking at Grand Theft Auto IV once again as we’ve got a new "commercial" for the Steinway Beer Garden of Liberty City courtesy of the folks over at GameTrailers.com.

If you’re a fan of the mock radio ads in the previous games, you’ll feel right at home with this one. Before you click though, please be advised that due to language, this is probably best considered Not Safe For Work (NSFW). You have been warned.

Grand Theft Auto IV will be coming to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 on April 29th, 2008.

• Grand Theft Auto IV – Official website
• Grand Theft Auto IV – The Steinway Beer Garden – GameTrailers

PLAYSTATION 3 LOST PLANET MULTIPLAYER DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A multiplayer demo of Capcom's Lost Planet: Extreme Condition for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 231MB.

• Lost Planet: Extreme Condition – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 CONFLICT: DENIED OPS DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Eidos Interactive's Conflict: Denied Ops for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 888MB.

• Conflict: Denied Ops – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 DEVIL MAY CRY 4 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Capcom's Devil May Cry 4 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 640MB.

• Devil May Cry 4 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 THE CLUB DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega & Bizarre Creations' The Club for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.70GB.

• The Club – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 TUROK DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Touchstone Studios’ Turok for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.08GB.

• Turok – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 FIFA STREET 3 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts’ FIFA Street 3 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 310MB.

• FIFA Street 3 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 NFL TOUR DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts’ NFL Tour for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 990MB.

• NFL Tour – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 KANE & LYNCH: DEAD MEN DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Eidos Interactive's Kane & Lynch: Dead Men for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 840MB.

• Kane & Lynch: Dead Men – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 BLACKSITE: AREA 51 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Midway’s Blacksite: Area 51 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 932MB.

• Blacksite: Area 51 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM SOFTWARE VERSION 2.10 NOW AVAILABLE

Sony has made the latest update to the PlayStation 3's system software (v2.10) available for download via the PlayStation Network and PlayStation.com.

The update adds a few new nice features including voice masking, DiVX and WMV support and Picture in Picture (PiP) support for BluRay discs that support the feature. Check out the full patch message below for details;

Voice Changer

• The Voice Changer feature has been added to voice / video chat. > See details.

Music

• You can now select [Type 3] as an option under [Settings] > [Music Settings] > [Bitmapping]. > See details.
• A new pattern has been added for the visual player. > See details.

Video

• DivX and VC-1 (WMV) have been added to the types of files that can be played. *1
• Blu-ray Disc Profile 1.1 is now supported. *2
• [BD Data Utility] has been added. *3

*1 To play VC-1 (WMV) format files, you must go to  (Settings) >  (System Settings) and set [Enable WMA Playback].

Copyright-protected files or files that were encoded by using DivX 3.11 cannot be played.

Files that are 2GB or more cannot be played.

*2 You can now use the "Picture in Picture" feature that enables playback of two videos at the same time with some Profile 1.1-compatible Blu-ray Discs. Features available vary depending on the disc.

*3 Management data that is used by the Blu-ray Disc is saved here. – PlayStation Network Update 2.10

For further information or to obtain the update via the internet, check out the link below.

• System Software Update (2.10) – PlayStation.com

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: GRAN TURISMO 5 PROLOGUE

Well, it was a slow news day, so you get a video courtesy of the good folks over at GameTrailers.com. Don’t you feel all special now? Admit it, you’re feeling all warm and fuzzy now, aren’t you?

What I’ve got for you today is a look at Sony’s Gran Turismo 5 Prologue – the latest in the company’s venerable racing franchise. What you’re about to watch is some in-game footage of a race through city streets. I’d say it was a thrilling run, but the fact that the driver can’t seem to avoid smashing into things kind of takes away from the whole presentation. Still, this video is about getting to see the level of detail of your surroundings – so maybe I should be spending our time looking around instead of critiquing driving skills.

Anyway, check out the video below – I’m sure you’ll agree that the game is looking good – and the fact that Sony has added an in-car mode has certainly got me excited about this one.

As I’m sure you well know, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will be a PlayStation 3 exclusive.

• Gran Turismo 5 Prologue – Official website
• Gran Turismo 5 Prologue: City Streets Gameplay – GameTrailers

PLAYSTATION 3 BURNOUT PARADISE DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts’ Burnout Paradise for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 765MB.

• Burnout Paradise – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 TIMESHIFT MULTIPLAYER DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A multiplayer demo of Sierra’s Timeshift for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 758MB.

• Timeshift – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 GUITAR HERO III BOSS BATTLE SONG PACK NOW AVAILABLE

If you've got the PlayStation 3 version of Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock and have been waiting for the "Boss Battles" download pack that Xbox 360 users have been enjoying for the past week or so, your wait is over. The Guitar Hero III "Boss Battle" Song Pack is now available through the PlayStation Store as a free download. Approximate file size is 78mb.

Just don't hold your breath hoping for the Halo 3 Mjolnir Mix track to show up for the PS3, okay? Enjoy!

• Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 MX VS ATV UNTAMED DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of THQ’s MX vs ATV Untamed for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 715MB.

• MX vs ATV Untamed – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM SOFTWARE VERSION 2.01 NOW AVAILABLE

Sony has made the latest update to the PlayStation 3's system software (v2.01) available for download via the PlayStation Network and PlayStation.com.

This update adds a few nifty new features, including system stability updates for both backward compatible titles and web browsing along with improved upscaling capabilities. There have also been a few reports that the update has bricked more than it's share of PS3's, so if you have the ability to back up your saves, I'd suggest doing it before upgrading just as a precaution.

Check out the full list of new features below.

"The PLAYSTATION®3 system software version 2.01 (with 2.00) update includes the following:

• New for 2.01: System stability during use of some PLAYSTATION®3 format software has been improved.
• New for 2.01: System stability has been improved for some operations, including the use of the Internet browser and  (Information Board).
• New for 2.01: System stability during output of upscaled PlayStation®2 format software images has been improved.*1
• New for 2.01: Functionality of the [Remote Start] feature has been changed to prevent an unintentional remote start. *2

*1 Applies only to models that support playback of PlayStation®2 format software. > See details

*2 If remote start via the Internet is enabled, the PS3™ system may turn on unintentionally, depending on the type of router in use. (In this case a remote play connection cannot be established.) To avoid unintentional power-up of the system, remote start via the Internet may be disabled automatically if a remote play connection is not established within a certain amount of time after the system is turned on. 

• Custom themes
• You can now customize the XMB™ (XrossMediaBar) icons or background design. > See details

• Playlists
• You can now create playlists to organize content under [Music] and [Photo]. > See details

• Information board
• [Information Board] has been added as a feature under [Network]. PlayStation® related news can be displayed on the XMB™ screen. > See details

• PLAYSTATION®Network category
• [PLAYSTATION®Network] has been added as a category in the XMB™ home menu . > See details

• Remote start
• [Remote Start] has been added as an option under [Remote Play Settings]. A PS3™ system in standby mode can be turned on from a PSP® system used for remote play via the Internet. > See details

Other new or revised features in version 2.01 (with 2.00):

• Overall
  • New grouping options for the [Group Content] feature have been added to the options menu.

• Settings
  • [Color], [Background], and [Font] have been added as options under [Theme Settings].
  • You can now select [Brightness] as an option under [Theme Settings] > [Background].
  • The procedure for setting [Internet Connection Settings] under [Network Settings] has been changed.
  • You can now select Canon printers with the [Printer Selection] option under [Printer Settings]. For a list of compatible printers, select here.

• Game
  • [Vibration Function] has been added as an option under [Controller Settings] in the menu that is displayed when you press the PS button on a DUALSHOCK®3 wireless controller. *
    *Available for purchase in early 2008.

• Network
  • You can now view video content (as a progressive download) as it is being downloaded from PLAYSTATION®Store.
  • [Trend Micro Web Security for PS3™] has been added as an option under the Internet browser.

• Friends
• The voice / video chat menu has been changed.
• You can now use the PLAYSTATION®Eye camera for voice / video chat.*
  * For details on the PLAYSTATION®Eye camera, select here." – PlayStation.com

For further information or to obtain the update via the internet, check out the link below.

• System Software Update (2.01) – PlayStation.com

PLAYSTATION 3 TOY HOME DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sony's Toy Home for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 504MB.

• Toy Home – Official product page

PLAYSTATION 3 BLAZING ANGELS 2 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Ubisoft’s Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions of WWII is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.09GB.

• Blazing Angels 2: Secret Missions of WWII – Official product page

RUMOR MILL – UNCHARTED: DRAKE’S FORTUNE RELEASED EARLY?

Just a quick note here for those of you waiting on Sony's Uncharted: Drake's Fortune – some retailers (and Gamefly) are now listing the game as available. I'm not sure if Sony moved the launch date up at the last minute, or if some locations have decided to break the release date, but it appears the game is, at least unofficially, out in the wild.

• Uncharted: Drake's Fortune – Official Website

A FEW THOUGHTS ON THE EYE OF JUDGMENT’S PROBLEMS

I'd like to take a moment to talk about the situation surrounding Sony's The Eye of Judgment and the use of photocopied cards in online play. A lot has been said on the internet about how the "pirating" of cards could well kill any chance for future expansion sets for Eye.

I'm going to take a bit of a counter-point stance here. I'm not saying the photocopying of cards is acceptable – it's not. Part of the balance of a game like The Eye of Judgment is that not every card is available to every player. You can make the argument that the game then winds up catering to the "rich kid", but I'd bet that even that rich kid doesn't have every single card.

You see, while the problem of card copying is certainly real and a concern, what I want to talk about is how much of this entire issue is due to a lack of thought and follow through on the part of Sony and it's partners. While there would always be a percentage of users who would try to find a way to beat the system, the problem certainly wouldn't be as prevalent if not for the following points.

1. Security: 
1. For all the times Sony went on record as saying the card coding was secure and there would be no way to "copy" cards, the fact that on the very first day of release, a photocopy of a low-resolution scan of a card proved to work just as well as an original shows that, like so many other games in the current generation, no one really tested anything. Seriously, how much testing went into the security of this game when scans, photocopies and even hand-drawn copies of cards are working just as well as the originals. What did you think was going to happen when you price your cards at a premium and then make bootlegging this easy? This leads us into my second point…
2. Greed: 
1. In many ways, Sony, Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast are now reaping the "rewards" of their greed. To begin with, the cards are priced at $3.99 for a booster pack of 8 cards or $14.99 for a pre-built "Starter-Deck" of 30 cards. That's well over the cost of other collectible card games, and when combined with the next fact, is actually quite a bit appalling. You see, if my data is correct, of the 110 cards available in the initial EoJ set, 50 cards are Rare, Ultra-Rare or Phantom cards. Fifty… 45 percent. This ranks right up there with the worst examples of greed we're seeing in the downloadable content arena. For those of you unfamiliar with the way the packaging for the cards works, that means that in every $3.99 booster pack of cards, you're going to get ONE of those 50 cards. Normally, that's an acceptable thing – except when there are only 60 cards that don't fall into that category. Hell, remove the 30 uncommon cards in the set from the equation and we're left with only 30 "common" cards. If you're a little lost at this point, here's what I'm trying to say – there are more "rare/ultra-rare/phantom" cards in the set than there are "common" cards. That's just ridiculous.
3. Supply Issues:
1. As if that wasn't enough, Sony and friends can claim that bootlegging is killing card sales all they want – however, those of us trying to legitimately buy the cards know another truth… the cards just aren't available. Whether there was some problem with printing or the demand for the game was just far more than anyone expected, you would have to look for a long time to find a steady supply of cards. If you look at online retailers, they have messages like "expected in stock in 1 or 2 months" listed for any of the card packs. eBay is almost barren of any card sales beyond individual commons and uncommons. Shortages like this can push even the most honest player into being tempted by those copied cards because they can't play the game they bought online competitively without a variety of cards. Then only people in good shape right now are those that grabbed cards on day one in anticipation of a shortage or fear that should the game bomb, no more would be forthcoming. (For the record, I've managed to grab all 5 starter decks as well as 5 booster packs, with all but the Wood Swarm booster being bought on the day the game came out. Beyond that one additional starter, I haven't seen packs available anywhere since launch. I've got more booster packs on order, but even online sellers are stating that WoTC is far behind in their shipments.) Here's a fact – if you want to sell cards, you have to have cards to sell.

So there you have it. Whether any of these issues can be solved before irreparable harm befalls The Eye of Judgment's card sales is really anyone's guess right now – probably because there would have to be cards freely available on the market to see if anyone is buying them.

Bottom line? People can claim bootlegging is the biggest danger to the game all they want, but in my opinion, it's the ineptitude and greed being shown on the part of the parties behind Eye that are the biggest problems.

• The Eye of Judgment – Official website 

PLAYSTATION 3 COLLEGE HOOPS 2K8 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of 2K Sports College Hoops 2K8 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 579MB.

• College Hoops 2K8 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 UNCHARTED: DRAKE’S FORTUNE DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

Oh yeah, nothing tastes quite like the flavor of a demo for a highly anticipated game – especially when it's one that's been keeping a bit of a low profile. As was rumored earlier this week, a demo of Sony’s Uncharted: Drake's Fortune for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.17GB.

• Uncharted: Drake's Fortune – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM SOFTWARE VERSION 2.0 NOW AVAILABLE

Sony has made the latest update to the PlayStation 3's system software (v2.0) available for download via the PlayStation Network and PlayStation.com.

This update adds a few nifty new features, including the ability to customize the XMB's icons and backgrounds, the ability for the system to be started remotely (via the PSP) and… vibration feedback support for the Dual Shock 3 controller! (Coming in early 2008 according to the patch notes)

Check out the full list of new features below.

• Custom themes
• You can now customize the XMB™ (XrossMediaBar) icons or background design. > See details
• Playlists
• You can now create playlists to organize content under [Music] and [Photo]. > See details
• Information board
• [Information Board] has been added as a feature under [Network]. PlayStation® related news can be displayed on the XMB™ screen. > See details
• PLAYSTATION®Network category
• [PLAYSTATION®Network] has been added as a category in the XMB™ home menu . > See details
• Remote start
• [Remote Start] has been added as an option under [Remote Play Settings]. A PS3™ system in standby mode can be turned on from a PSP® system used for remote play via the Internet. > See details
• Other new or revised features in version 2.00:
• Overall
• New grouping options for the [Group Content] feature have been added to the options menu.
• Settings
• [Color], [Background], and [Font] have been added as options under [Theme Settings].
• You can now select [Brightness] as an option under [Theme Settings] > [Background].
• The procedure for setting [Internet Connection Settings] under [Network Settings] has been changed.
• You can now select Canon printers with the [Printer Selection] option under [Printer Settings]. For a list of compatible printers, select here.
• Game
• [Vibration Function] has been added as an option under [Controller Settings] in the menu that is displayed when you press the PS button on a DUALSHOCK®3 wireless controller. *
  *Available for purchase in early 2008.
• Network
• You can now view video content (as a progressive download) as it is being downloaded from PLAYSTATION®Store.
• [Trend Micro Web Security for PS3™] has been added as an option under the Internet browser.
• Friends
• The voice / video chat menu has been changed.
• You can now use the PLAYSTATION®Eye camera for voice / video chat.*
  * For details on the PLAYSTATION®Eye camera, select here.

Unfortunately, it looks like the ability to bring up the XMB while playing a game is still just a dream.

• System Software Update (2.00) – PlayStation.com

PLAYSTATION STORE: TWISTED METAL 2

Well, this week's PlayStation Store update has brought another original PlayStation classic to the PlayStation 3 and PSP. Twisted Metal 2, the first sequel to Twisted Metal (duh), is now available for download at a cost of $5.99. This is two weeks in a row now for classic PS1 games and the store after what seemed an eternity without an update. Color me impressed. 

I'd love to regale you with tales of my days with TM2, but while everyone goes on and on about what a classic it was, I just never really cared for it. I had played the original Twisted Metal quite a bit, but for some reason, TM2 and I just never got along – I wouldn't return to enjoying the vehicular combat genre until about 2 years later when Vigilante 8 made it to the scene.

Based on that last paragraph, I'm sure that I'll start receiving nasty e-mails from the Twisted Metal fanatics in the audience… and probably even a nasty-gram from David Jaffe himself. Hell, I'll probably get a postcard with Kratos on the front of it giving me the finger. (Ok, so actually that would be truly epic and something I would keep forever)

Anyway, it's getting late (or early to be more specific), so I'm going to wrap this one up by stating that if you've been waiting for Twisted Metal 2 to hit the PlayStation Store, it's happened. Have a great ride. 

• Twisted Metal 2 – Official website
• Twisted Metal 2 – Wikipedia entry 

PLAYSTATION 3 TIMESHIFT DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sierra’s Timeshift for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 479MB.

• Timeshift – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 NEED FOR SPEED PROSTREET DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts’ Need for Speed ProStreet for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 907MB.

• Need for Speed ProStreet – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: SPYRO THE DRAGON

While we're on the subject of this week's PlayStation Store updates, Sony has finally gotten around to releasing another classic PlayStation title for both the PlayStation 3 and PSP. Spyro the Dragon, the first in the now familiar series of games, is available for download through the PlayStation store at a cost of $5.99.

"Meet Spyro, the adorable and mischievous little dragon on a GIGANTIC adventure. Take on an astonishing and completely 3D platform adventure game unlike any other! Take a wonderful journey as you glide, fly, roll, and frolic through fantasy worlds." – PlayStation.com

 I remember playing Spyro when it first came out back in 1998, and despite my general dislike of platform style games, I did enjoy my time with it. Maybe it was the fact that the main character was a dragon, or maybe just the fact that I found making Spyro charge headlong into objects utterly hilarious, but I did like it. 

That said, I still won't be purchasing this one. I've got my Emotion Engine equipped PS3 and the original game right here, so there's no need to shell out any more cash for nostalgia's sake. I do wonder if part of the reason Sony is backing away from any support for backward compatibility is so they can rake in the cash the same way Nintendo does with the Wii and it's Virtual Console. Just something to consider.

• PlayStation Store – PlayStation.com
• Spyro the Dragon – PlayStation Store 

PLAYSTATION STORE: EYECREATE

One of the item's released in this week's PlayStation Store update was EyeCreate – a free program for the PlayStation 3 that will allow PlayStation Eye owners to edit their own videos using the console.

"PLAYSTATION®Eye required. EyeCreate™ is the first video editing software for the PLAYSTATION®3. Using EyeCreate™ and the PLAYSTATION®Eye camera, you can capture video, audio and even photos which can then be edited into a movie. An extensive list of special effects such as Color Filters, Distortions, Art Filters and Motion Trails can give your video a professional touch. There are even advanced features such as Time Lapse and Stop Motion to experiment with. Once you're done creating and editing your masterpiece, Export it to watch it on the Video folder of the XMB. EyeCreate™ will let you express yourself and get creative!" – PlayStation Store

While I do understand the need to support the just-released PlayStation Eye camera, I do have to wonder why this wasn't just included with the Eye itself. Ultimately, EyeCreate sounds like a nifty little program for those looking for some simple video creation fun – and since the price is right (free), it certainly couldn't hurt to give it a download.

• PlayStation Eye – PlayStation.com
• EyeCreate – PlayStation Store

NEW FOLKLORE DEMO AVAILABLE FOR PLAYSTATION 3

A second demo of Sony’s Folklore for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.27GB.

• Folklore – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 JUICED 2: HOT IMPORT NIGHTS DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of THQ’s Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 969MB.

• Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: EVERYDAY SHOOTER

This week’s PlayStation Store update brings Jonathan Mak’s critically acclaimed game Everyday Shooter to the PlayStation 3. The game is a stage-based shooter that plays a lot like Bizarre Creations’ twin-stick shooter Geometry Wars, with the added twist that the player must collect particles created by the destruction of your enemies in order to chain together scoring combos.

One of the game’s coolest touches is that it’s in-game audio effects become part of it’s soundtrack, meaning that every shot and every explosion will create a soundtrack that differs with each play through.

“Developed solely by Jonathan Mak, Everyday Shooter won three awards at the Independent Gaming Festival at the 2007 Game Developers Conference. Unlike traditional arcade shooters, the sound effects in Everyday Shooter play in musical harmony with the game’s background music. Throughout Everyday Shooter’s album of games, typical arcade sounds of destruction are replaced with guitar riffs harmonizing over an all-guitar soundtrack.

KEY FEATURES

• Album of Shooter Games – Each of the 8 ‘songs’ or levels has a completely different visual vibe and chain system.
• Vector-Based Graphics – Graphics are created from mathematical equations celebrating the beauty of geometry.
• Stunning, Evolving Synaethesia – Every shot, hit, or explosion creates a visual and musical inspiration that produces a note, chord or riff that harmonizes into the song for each level.
• Full HD at 1080p – In addition to the fluid music, enjoy the brilliant colors and stylized visuals.” PlayStation Store

Based on the trailers I’ve seen of Everyday Shooter, as well as the praise the game has drawn from numerous reviewers who have had a chance to try it, I’d probably feel safe in saying that if you’ve got a PlayStation 3, don’t mind stage-based shooters and are a fan of arcade style games, this one is probably going to be a good buy for you.

It’s in that statement that the bad news surrounding Everyday Shooter can be found… I say “probably”, because as with most of Sony’s other PlayStation Store offerings, no demo is available for you to try before you make a purchasing decision. While the game certainly looks fun, it only has a limited number of stages, and without getting a feel for how long each lasts, there’s a question as to whether or not this one is really worth the $9.99 price Sony is asking for it.

• Everyday Shooter – PlayStation Store

PLAYSTATION 3 CONAN DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of THQ’s Conan for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 541MB.

• Conan – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 RATCHET & CLANK FUTURE: TOOLS OF DESTRUCTION DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Insomniac Games Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.57GB.

• Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 RATCHET & CLANK FUTURE: TOOLS OF DESTRUCTION DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Insomniac Games Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.57GB.

• Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 RATCHET & CLANK FUTURE: TOOLS OF DESTRUCTION DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Insomniac Games Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.57GB.

• Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 RATCHET & CLANK FUTURE: TOOLS OF DESTRUCTION DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Insomniac Games Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.57GB.

• Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 NHL 2K8 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of 2K Sports NHL 2K8 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.08GB.

• NHL 2K8 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 THE SIMPSONS GAME DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts The Simpsons Game for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 628MB.

• The Simpsons Game – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 BLADESTORM: THE HUNDRED YEARS WAR DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Koei’s Bladestorm: The Hundred Years War for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 865MB.

• Bladestorm: The Hundred Years War – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: GO! SPORTS SKI

Today’s PlayStation Store update will see the release of Go! Sports Ski, a new extreme skiing game designed by Smackdown vs RAW developer Yukes. The game will offer both single player action as well as multiplayer racing via split-screen for the low cost of $2.99.

“Go! Sports Ski™ is a skiing simulator that harnesses the SIXAXIS™ wireless controller to twist, turn and pull off tricks. The easy and intuitive motion control allows you to fly down visually stunning slopes right out of the gate. Supporting various single player modes, including slalom racing, a split-screen versus mode and several online battle modes, Go Sports Ski features two distinct courses. Other online features include downloading the top online player’s ghost data to race against and a global ranking system.

KEY FEATURES 

• Various Gameplay Modes – Includes 3 offline practice modes, split-screen battle, 2 online single player leaderboard time trials, and 4 player online battle mode.
• SIXAXIS™ Wireless Controller – Fully controlled by the SIXAXIS motion sensors to simulate realistic ski slopes.
• Collect up to 27 Emblems – Unlock emblems with gameplay success and display them to your online records.
• Global Online Ranking – See how you stack up against other skiers worldwide.” – PlayStation.com

Go! Sports Ski has been rated E (Everyone) by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board.

PLAYSTATION 3 CLIVE BARKER’S JERICHO DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Codemasters Clive Barker’s Jericho for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 821MB.

• Clive Barker’s Jericho – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 NBA 2K8 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of 2K Sports NBA 2K8 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 287MB

• NBA 2K8 – Official website

PLAYSTATION STORE: LOCOROCO COCORECCHO!

You know, almost every time Sony releases an original game via the PlayStation Store, I find myself saying "I really wish there was a demo" – I’m sure many of you feel the same way. Anyway, Sony has brought the LocoRoco franchise to the PlayStation 3 with the release of LocoRoco Cocoreccho, a game that would appear to be patterned off of titles such as Lemmings, but with a slight twist – instead of placing objects in strategic areas to control the flow of the critters being saved, players use the motion controls of the Sixaxis controller to move a butterfly, which the LocoRoco will attempt to follow, around the playfield.

"All new LocoRoco™ game exclusively for the PS3™! Play as a butterfly and guide the cute little LocoRoco to safety. The LocoRocos respond to the environment, interact with each other, and sing along to the music. Running at 1080p, LocoRoco™ Cocoreccho! brings all new gameplay, use of the SIXAXIS™ wireless controller technology, mini-games, and online rankings.

• New Gameplay – Control the butterfly to guide the cute little LocoRoco to safety! LocoRoco will try to follow the butterfly wherever it goes!
• Full HD at 1080p – Fly around a richly detailed environment to wake up and rescue up to 200 LocoRoco!
• SIXAXIS™ Wireless Controller- Use the SIXAXIS controller to rock, launch, and bounce the LocoRoco.
• Additional Mini-games – Discover three addicting mini-games." – PlayStation store product description

The game is priced at $6.99, and as I alluded to earlier, no demo is available.

PLAYSTATION 3 NBA 08 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sony’s NBA 08 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 888MB.

• NBA 08 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 SEGA RALLY REVO DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sega’s SEGA Rally Revo for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 713MB.

• SEGA Rally Revo – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 STUNTMAN IGNITION DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of THQ’s Stuntman: Ignition for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 608MB.

• Stuntman: Ignition – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 SKATE DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts skate for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 977MB.

• skate – Official website

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SONY CONFIRMS DUAL SHOCK 3 CONTROLLER

Confirming the rumors that have been spreading across the ‘net for the last few days, at their press briefing for the Tokyo Game Show, Sony Computer Entertainment President Kaz Hirai confirmed that that vibration feedback would be coming to the PlayStation 3 in the form of the Dual Shock 3 controller.

The new controller looks identical to the current Sixaxis controller and will be hitting retail in Japan this November with the United States and Europe following in the Spring of 2008. No price has been quoted at this time.

This is great news for PlayStation 3 owners who have been sorely missing the feature – though I’m sure some who purchased multiple controllers may feel a little burned by the move. Even better news was that in addition to future PS3 games supporting vibration feedback, Hirai noted that some games in the existing PlayStation 3 catalog could have the feature added via downloadable updates.

• Sony Confirms, Details SIXAXIS Rumble– Kotaku
• TGS ’07: Sony announces Dual Shock 3, Home delay – Gamespot
• Sony Confirms DualShock Controller For PlayStation 3 – Gamasutra
• TGS 2007: Sony confirms PS3 rumble, sidesteps any admission of failure – Destructoid

PLAYSTATON STORE: PIXELJUNK RACERS

PixelJunk Racers, the second game added in last week’s PlayStation Store update, is a bit of a strange title – I’d almost call it a throwback game. The game is based on the slot car race sets many if us played with as children in which cars race around a track with only the ability to change speed or lanes. Several game types appear to be available to add some mix to the flavor, but ultimately, it’s still slot car racing.

"PixelJunk™ Racers is an addictive slot car racing game that supports 1080p and features single player and multiplayer fun (up to 7 players simultaneously offline!). Intuitive controls, 32 different race modes, and online rankings will provide countless hours of racing mayhem.

• Unlimited Racing Action – 16 core racing modes with varying degrees of difficulty for a total of 32 modes, including an in-depth single-player tournament and offline multiplayer modes (up to 7 players!).
• Full HD at 1080p – Speed through 10 richly detailed courses.
• SIXAXIS™ Wireless Controller – Use the controller’s left and right buttons on the D-pad to steer through traffic, master cornering, and overtake rival vehicles.
• Global Online Ranking – Play for your personal best in Score Attack and see how you stack up against other racers worldwide." – PlayStation Store

PixelJunk Racers is priced at $6.99 and a demo is available for download via the PlayStation Store. I had the chance to try this one out this weekend, and I’ll rate it as a pass – there’s just not much of a game there.

PLAYSTATION STORE: HIGH STAKES ON THE VEGAS STRIP: POKER EDITION

Last week’s PlayStation Store update saw the addition of two new games to the service. The first we’ll be talking about is High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition. As this game has managed to stay far under the radar and no demo is available, I really can’t really tell you what to expect (other than that it’s a poker game of some sort) beyond what’s listed in the product description – so let’s take a look.

"Go all in on the Vegas Strip. Take a seat, put on your poker face and experience the casino action of Vegas; play limit or no-limit poker in five different game types including Texas Hold’em, Super Hold’em, Billabong and more! Master your skills against the computer or challenge up to five others in multiplayer action to become the online poker champ! Ante up and risk it all in High Stakes on the Vegas Strip.

• Multiplayer Action – Challenge up to 5 others
• Online leader boards and in-depth hand statistics
• Power through the tournament circuit in Turbo Mode
• Live audio feed
• High definition up to 1080p." – PlayStation Store

High Stakes on the Vegas Strip: Poker Edition is priced at $9.99 and, as I mentioned earlier, no demo is available. I really don’t see how anyone could screw up a poker game at this point, so if you’ve been waiting for a poker game and don’t mind paying $10 for one, this is probably for you

PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM SOFTWARE UPDATED TO V1.93

If you own a PlayStation 3 and have logged onto the PlayStation Network in the last day or so, you have undoubtedly noticed that there is a new system update available for the console. System Update 1.93 doesn’t seem to add all that much to the mix, as according to the PlayStation 3 System Update page, the only addition in the update are some tweaks to network stability.

"New for 1.93: The stability of the network connection has been improved." – PlayStation.com

Not much else to say here, it was a small update and one that most will probably never notice the effects of.

• PlayStation 3 System Software Update – PlayStation.com

PLAYSTATION 3 FIFA 08 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts FIFA 08 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 732MB.

• FIFA 08 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 342MB.

• Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix – Official game website

PLAYSTATION 3 NHL 08 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts NHL 08 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 685MB.

• NHL 08 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 TONY HAWK’S PROVING GROUND DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Activision’s Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.47GB.

• Tony Hawk’s Proving Ground – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 STRANGLEHOLD DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

The long-awaited PlayStation 3 demo of Midway’s Stranglehold is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.31GB. This is one you should definitely download – lots of fun here.

• Stranglehold – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 NBA LIVE 08 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts NBA Live 08 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 661MB.

• NBA Live 08 – Official website

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: HEAVENLY SWORD: LEGEND OF THE SWORD – PART FIVE

The fifth and final installment in Sony’s animated Heavenly Sword series has been released and as predicted last week, Nariko’s clan didn’t take too kindly to their heavenly warrior being born a girl. Still, Nariko undergoes her training with the clan to become the warrior of legend. The story has once again rapidly moved forward and leaves us at the scene of what will most likely be a great battle – and possibly the opening of Heavenly Sword.

The word on Heavenly has been pretty mixed so far, but I’m not about to give up hope on this one yet, though I am tempering my expectations quite a bit.

Those of you looking to play catch-up with the series should check out the below videos in their proper order.

• Heavenly Sword – Official website
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Five – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Four – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Three – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Two – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part One – GameTrailers.com

PLAYSTATION 3 SYSTEM SOFTWARE UPDATED TO V1.92

If you own a PlayStation 3 and have logged onto the PlayStation Network in the last day or so, you have undoubtedly noticed that there is a new system update available for the console. System Update 1.92 doesn’t seem to add all that much to the mix, as according to the PlayStation 3 System Update page, the only addition in the update are some additional tweaks to backward compatibility.

"New for 1.92: Playability status with the PS3™ system has changed for some PlayStation®2 format titles. To check on the latest status, visit the search site for compatible titles (coming soon)." – PlayStation.com

My guess is now that the latest model PS3s are shipping without hardware based backward compatibility, we’ll be seeing that message in quite a few of the upcoming patch messages.

• PlayStation 3 System Software Update – PlayStation.com

PLAYSTATION STORE: TEKKEN 5 DARK RESURRECTION ONLINE PACK

Namco Bandai has released an online multiplayer expansion pack for it’s downloadable PlayStation 3 fighter Tekken 5 Dark Resurrection. The pack, priced at $9.99 for the expansion alone or bundled with the full game for $29.99, naturally adds online versus multiplayer via the PlayStation Network and is available for purchase via the PlayStation Store.

"The hugely popular arcade and console fighting game, Tekken®5 Dark Resurrection™ is now available with an all-new ONLINE BATTLE feature! Take on other players from around the country, in full HD running at a smooth 60 frames per second! Prove who the real King of the Iron Fist Tournament is by checking the online rankings. Experience the pinnacle of fighting games as Tekken reaches into the “Online Vs.” world for the first time ever!

The online features of Tekken®5 Dark Resurrection™ ONLINE make use of the PLAYSTATION®Network. All terms of use of the PLAYSTATION®Network apply. Online game play of Tekken®5 Dark Resurrection™ may be adversely affected by network conditions. As such, instances in which the game may not be playable online or the game play conditions suffer may occur." – PlayStation Store

While some may gripe that Namco is nickle and diming gamers to death for an expansion that should be free, it is worth mentioning that Tekken 5 Dark Resurrection was not priced as a full release – even as a downloadable title – so the option of adding multiplayer if you wish for a small price isn’t completely unreasonable in my opinion.

PLAYSTATION STORE: SUPER PUZZLE FIGHTER II TURBO HD REMIX

Yesterday’s PlayStation Store update saw the addition of Capcom’s Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo HD Remix for the PlayStation 3 to the service.

"One of the most popular puzzle games of all time is back with HD graphics, dazzling elemental effects and a new re-balanced X mode! Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo HD Remix brings together the worlds of Street Fighter, Darkstalkers and other Capcom characters to provide extremely addictive puzzle mayhem. Enjoy single player, local versus mode or just watch other players duke it out online!" – PlayStation Store

The game is priced at $9.99 and a demo version is available to assist in your purchase decision.

PLAYSTATION 3 NASCAR ‘08 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts NASCAR ’08 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 569MB.

• NASCAR ’08 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 TIGER WOODS PGA TOUR 08 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts Tiger Woods PGA Tour 08 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 729MB.

• Tiger Woods PGA Tour 08 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 ALL PRO FOOTBALL 2K8 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of 2K Games All Pro Football 2K8 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 607MB.

• All Pro Football 2K8 – Official website

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: HEAVENLY SWORD: LEGEND OF THE SWORD – PART FOUR

The fourth installment in Sony’s animated Heavenly Sword series has been released and it looks like the story is rapidly catching up to present day. Unless there’s a major plot twist about to happen, we now get to see the birth of Nariko – and some early signs of how her arrival was taken by her clan. Here’s a hint – not good.

Those of you looking to play catch-up with the series should check out the below videos in their proper order. We’ll continue posting each episode as they’re made available, so stay tuned.

• Heavenly Sword – Official website
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Four – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Three – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Two – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part One – GameTrailers.com

PLAYSTATION 3 FOLKLORE DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Sony’s upcoming fantasy title Folklore is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. The demo weighs in at 1,107MB and lets you experience two of the worlds in the game.

"Be the first to cross over to the “other” side and discover the amazing worlds and creatures of Folklore. Join Ellen and Keats in their search to solve the mysteries of the Netherworld and learn to protect yourself from the dangers that wait for you. Experience a completely original battle system as you use your SIXAXIS™ controller to take your enemies’ powers and make their abilities your own.

In this demo, play as both characters and visit two of the many worlds of Folklore. Explore the wonders of the Faery Realm as Ellen or discover the wastelands of Warcadia as Keats." – PlayStation Store demo description

Folklore is scheduled to release exclusively on the PlayStation 3 some time this October.

• Folklore – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 DIRT DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

An PlayStation 3 demo of DiRT is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 553MB.

• DiRT – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 NCAA FOOTBALL ‘08 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

A demo of Electronic Arts NCAA Football ’08 for the PlayStation 3 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 728MB.

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: HEAVENLY SWORD: LEGEND OF THE SWORD – PART TWO

Last week we told you about a five-part animated series of shorts Sony would be running to give some background on the world of Heavenly Sword. Today, thanks to the folks over at GameTrailers.com, we’ve got part two of the series for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!

We’ll continue posting each episode as they’re made available, so stay tuned.

• Heavenly Sword – Official website
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part Two – GameTrailers.com
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part One – GameTrailers.com

PLAYSTATION STORE – PIYOTAMA

Sony has made Piyotama, a new PlayStation 3 "match the falling objects" type puzzler, available for purchase via the PlayStation Store. I know that’s not exactly the most descriptive of explanations, but I just watched a video of the game and I really can’t think of any other way to explain it. In short, colored eggs fall from the top of the screen and the player must shift around the horizontal rows of eggs at the bottom of the screen to create matches using the Sixaxis tilt controls.

Still confused? I don’t blame you one bit. The official product description listed below isn’t much help in that regard either;

"Hidden deep within the Hotai forest, you’ll find a family of playful and mysteriously colored creatures known as Piyos. Every spring Mother Piyo “PIYOMAMA” lays a few eggs to fill the forest with new colorful Piyos; however, this year she got too excited and laid too many eggs! Help her hatch the eggs before they overflow the nest!" – PlayStation Store Piyotama product description

While Piyotama may be priced at a very reasonable $2.99, my advice to those of you unsure of whether or not to purchase this one would still be to check out this gameplay video over at GameTrailers.com – hopefully it will let you know if this is your kind of game or not.

• Piyotama – Piyotama page at PlayStation.com
• Piyotama Egg Hatching Gameplay – GameTrailers.com

LAZY DAY TRAILERS: HEAVENLY SWORD: LEGEND OF THE SWORD – PART ONE

Sony sent out an e-mail to all PlayStation Underground Gamer Advisory Panel (G.A.P.) members advising them that they were being given exclusive early access to a series of animations and behind the scene looks at Ninja Theory’s highly anticipated title Heavenly Sword.

Quite obviously, while I may be a member of the G.A.P, that doesn’t help you much, does it? Thankfully, the folks over at GameTrailers have posted the first of five animated shorts which will serve to introduce gamers to the world of Heavenly Sword. Let’s take a look;

The remaining episodes should be made available over the next few weeks, so we’ll be sure to update the site as each video finds it’s way to the internet. (Don’t worry if you miss one, these videos are only being made exclusive to G.A.P. members for a limited time, so eventually you should be able to find them everywhere.)

• Heavenly Sword – Official website
• Heavenly Sword: Legend of the Sword – Part One – GameTrailers.com

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION 3 UNREAL TOURNAMENT 3 TO SUPPORT KEYBOARD & MOUSE

You know, the PlayStation 3 version of Unreal Tournament 3 keeps looking better and better. It started with Epic Games Vice President Mark Rein announcing that mods made for the PC version of UT3 will work with the PS3 version and has just kept growing from there. The latest bit of news on the PlayStation 3 front (found by way of Kotaku) is that UT3 will also be supporting keyboard and mouse controls on the console. I can’t emphasize enough just how welcome that statement is to me.

“I checked with Steve Polge and he said that YES we are supporting keyboard and mouse in Unreal Tournament 3 on PS3. He is confident we are doing it in a way that will be balanced without feeling “gimped” for either side. We’ll also allow people to choose whether or not they want to allow mixed controller vs. keyboard/mouse games or not.” – Mark Rein, vice president, Epic Games

It’s because of all these “PlayStation 3” only announcements that I’m beginning to think that Unreal Tournament 3 will be the first multi-platform title that I’ll be grabbing for the PlayStation 3 instead of the 360. I know not everyone has a setup where using the mouse and keyboard on a console is convenient, but in my case it is and it’s certainly a feature that I feel will help make UT3 the best experience it can be. Besides, if you don’t like it, you can always opt to only play against those who are using the same control setup that you are.

Those of you wondering why these changes are only being made for the PlayStation 3 version of the game an stop coming up with conspiracy theories as the answer is simple – Sony is allowing them to do it. Several comments made by Epic Games indicate that they’d like to implement the same features on the Xbox 360 version, however Microsoft’s testing policy, strict network control policy and vision for the 360 just won’t allow them to do it. Epic has left the door open for some of the best mods being provided on the 360 via downloadable content through the Live Marketplace somewhere down the road.

It probably won’t hurt the game’s PlayStation 3 sales that it’ll be coming out several months before the Xbox 360 version either.

• Unreal Tournament 3 – Official website
• Yes we will have PS3 keyboard and mouse support – Epic Games Forums
• Unreal Tournament III to Have Mouse/Keyboard Support – Kotaku
• E3: Midway Confirms UT3 PC Mods Playable On PS3 – Gamasutra

PLAYSTATION STORE – BLAST FACTOR: ADVANCED RESEARCH

An expansion pack for Sony’s PlayStation 3 shooter Blast Factor is now available for purchase via the PlayStation Store. Purchase price is $4.99.

• Blast Factor: Advanced Research – Blast Factor page at PlayStation.com

SONY DATES HEAVENLY SWORD

That little taste of Heavenly Sword that Sony gave us a little over a week ago gave us may have been short, but it certainly left us wanting more. Thankfully, it looks like the wait for the full meal is almost over. IGN is reporting that Sony’s most anticipated PlayStation 3 title of 2007 will be hitting retail on September 12th. I’ve got my pre-order in – do you?

• Heavenly Sword – Official website
• Heavenly Sword Date Set – IGN
• Lazy Day Trailers: Heavenly Sword Demo Footage – nylatenite.com

PLAYSTATION 3 GHOST RECON ADVANCED WARFIGHTER 2 DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

An PlayStation 3 demo of Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 779MB.

• Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2 – Official website

PLAYSTATION 3 THE DARKNESS DEMO NOW AVAILABLE

An PlayStation 3 demo of The Darkness is now available for download via the PlayStation Store. Download size is approximately 1.41GB. This one is definitely a game worth checking out, so if you haven’t had a chance to play it yet, be sure to give the demo a try.

• The Darkness – Official website

LAIR DELAYED UNTIL SEPTEMBER 4TH

In a surprising move, Sony has reversed course and announced that, despite their earlier statements, Lair will be delayed until September 4th so that several community features of the game can be properly tested. While it is unclear whether that’s really the situation or if Sony is bringing Lair back in for some control tweaks following some supposedly very unkind early reviews, what is clear is that the game won’t be on the shelves in August.

"Wow, even I didn’t see this one coming! Due to an extra step in QA testing to enhance the community features in the game, the release of LAIR, originally set for August 14th, has changed to September 4, 2007. Natural challenges that arose while finalizing the offline game to include key online features – such as leaderboards and medal systems – have led to the difficult choice of pushing back the release date. We appreciate everyone’s excitement and patience for the game and look forward to its release on September 4." – Ryan Hamlyn, associate producer, SCEA

If the game is indeed being brought in for a control scheme overhaul, one has to wonder whether or not September 4th will be a reasonable release date – after all, the game would have to go to press again, wouldn’t it? (after all, you could just patch "online" features and ship in August, but in order to change the control scheme you would have to change the game itself as customers who are unable to patch online would have to be taken into account – you couldn’t ship a game that didn’t control correctly right out of the box without facing serious repercussions)

Before any fanboys go running with this one, please keep in mind that officially the game is being delayed due to additional quality assurance testing centering around the community features of the game – the rest is just my own speculation.

• Lair – Official website
• Lair Update – PlayStation.Blog
• Early EGM Reviews for Lair Look Grim – Gaming Today

PLAYSTATION STORE: GRIPSHIFT 2.0

In all the excitement surrounding the Heavenly Sword demo, I realized this morning that I forgot to post this one. Sony has made a remixed version of it’s downloadable PlayStation Network title Gripshift available for purchase in the PlayStation Store. Gripshift 2.0 is available for $9.99 and has been rated E for Everyone by the ESRB.

"GripShift™ combines high speed driving and platform gaming action! Stunt through 150 crazy levels and experience all-out, pedal to the metal thrills as you collect power-ups, avoid traps, and beat the clock. Challenge the No. 1 leaderboard spot, or compete in online multiplayer, to be the Master of Faster!" – PlayStation.com