Syphon Filter beta invite sneaks onto PSP

As far as beta testing news goes, Sony's decision to not make a big deal out of handing out virtual copies of Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror isn't unprecedented. In fact, we'd even go so far as to remark that it goes along with the game's Metal Gear Sold-esque style of play. An e-mail was sent to several readers (who in turn alerted us) informing them of the opportunity.

The short of it is, the e-mail informed recipients to visit pspbeta.us.playstation.com via their PSP's web browser to register. The site can only be accessed through your PSP, so those with firmware versions below 2.0 will not be eligible. Once your application to be a part of the beta team is processed and accepted, it's likely that Sony will get in touch with verified applicants with a link to download the beta (the game will only be available online).

Take note that while Sony lists upgrading to 2.6 as part of the requirements, there's no guarantee that the beta will only be accessible with that particular firmware version. You may want to consider holding off if you're still milking the homebrew cow dry.

While I'd love to regale you with more info on the registration process, for some reason I couldn't get past the login screen. After inputting my login name and password (I've been registered for a number of months), I was told that I could not continue because "I've already been registered". Exsqueeze me? So they're only considering new registrants then? If they are, then why don't they provide a link for new registrations on that site? Did someone in the PSP beta chain of command take a coffee break or something?

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Here's a copy of the e-mail that was sent out by Sony about the Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror beta test [text provided by al]:

Congratulations!

You have been hand selected for a very special mission. We're beta testing a title exclusively for the PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) system — Syphon Filter®: Dark Mirror. We'd like you to apply to be one of our beta testers. Space is limited, so register today using only your PSP™ browser. (You will not be able to register for this beta test any other way.)


Just follow these simple steps:

1) Upgrade your PSP™ Firmware to 2.6*

2) From your PSP™ Internet browser go to http://pspbeta.us.playstation.com.
(We will only accept registrations that are completed on the PSP™ browser.)

3) Follow the onscreen instructions to complete your registration.

You will not receive a confirmation email. We will not send out acceptance notifications until all applications are processed.

Please note that this beta is ONLY playable online on your PSP™ system via a wireless Internet connection. No offline version is available.


*Instructions on how to download
& install the 2.6 Firmware Upgrade:
• Information and instructions about using your computer to install the Firmware are available here.
• If you have wireless Internet access, simply choose the "Network Update" option under the settings menu of your PSP™ system. More details.


Important Beta Test Guidelines

EMAIL ADDRESS: Once you have submitted your application via the PSP™ browser (part of Firmware 2.6), do not change the email address in your PlayStation Underground Member Profile. You may only participate in this beta test with the address to which we sent this invitation.

MAILING ADDRESS: Please be sure to confirm your current mailing address. We cannot deliver to P.O. boxes; you must provide a residential address for shipping. Once your application is submitted, you will not be able to change your mailing address. Your Beta Test Kit will automatically be delivered to the address you entered on your application. After submission, mandatory address changes must be handled through the shipping courier—this may delay delivery and/or affect your level of participation.


SHIPPING: We will not have tracking numbers available for the Beta Test Kits until they are shipped. If your application is accepted, you will receive a welcome email within the next 10 business days. This email will also contain detailed instructions on how to access the public beta test website.

FEEDBACK: As a beta tester, you will have an exclusive preview of SCEA's Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror. Your feedback may have a direct impact on the final stages of development for this game. Thank you for your interest in this opportunity—we look forward to receiving your valuable input.

General information about the PSP system's Internet browser features can be found here. For more detailed instructions on how to use the Internet browser, refer to the Internet Browser Usage Manual.

You must be 18 years or older to participate.

Legal
SCEA is not responsible for technical, hardware or software failures, any lost or unavailable network connections, failed, incomplete, garbled or delayed computer transmissions, misspelled email addresses, lost or deleted email transmissions due to the settings in your email application. Any of these factors may limit one's ability to successfully participate in this activity.

"PlayStation" and the "PS" Family logo are registered trademarks of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Underground is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. ©2005 Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. The Sony Computer Entertainment logo is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation. "PSP" is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Internet connection and Memory Stick Duo™ may be required. Player responsible for Wi-Fi fees. Certain limitations apply to Wi-Fi connectivity. See manual for details.

Syphon Filter is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror © 2006 Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.


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