Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Puzzle Quest and expansion puzzling PSN this winter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/puzzle-quest-and-expansion-puzzling-psn-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/puzzle-quest-and-expansion-puzzling-psn-this-winter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/puzzle-quest-and-expansion-puzzling-psn-this-winter/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

For PS3 owners somehow unacquainted with Puzzle Quest, we suggest stocking up on antibiotics and extra time. D3Publisher has revealed plans to bring not only the original Puzzle Quest but also its recent fan-named expansion, Revenge of the Plague Lord, to the PlayStation Store this winter, a move that according to our calculations will make it scientifically impossible not to have lost sleep playing the puzzle-RPG hybrid.

Both titles will be released as a single purchase and download, though the publisher has not announced how much the time sink combo will cost. We're currently waiting to hear back from our man on the street, who's diligently checking the alleys to see how much a twofer of digital crack goes for these days, anyway.

[Via PS3F]

JoystiqPuzzle Quest and expansion puzzling PSN this winter originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>d3d3-publisherd3publisherplaystationnetworkplaystationstorePS3psnpuzzle-questpuzzlequestrevenge-of-the-plague-lordThu, 02 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN gardening game to exercise green thumbs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/psn-gardening-game-to-excercise-green-thumbs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/psn-gardening-game-to-excercise-green-thumbs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/psn-gardening-game-to-excercise-green-thumbs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


There's nothing we enjoy quite as much after a long evening of gaming than tending to our resident houseplants, one of which teeters on the edge of death while the other, greener replacement waits for when the original inevitably shuffles off its leafy coil. Now, however, it seems that players in Japan may soon be able to take on this diversion with controller in hand as well, as Famitsu has revealed a new PSN title from SCEJ and movie house Premium Agency called Shikitei (literally translated as "Four Seasons Garden"), that premises to let us plant a garden and watch it grow.

Watch being the operative word here, as it seems that even virtually Sony doesn't trust our green thumbs, the report revealing that the game, or "environmental simulator" according to IGN, will focus more on letting players design gardens before letting the program have its way with them. In fact, according to producer Rie Nakamura, the title will include no gaming elements at all. Fun! Still, for all of its hands-offness, Shikitei will include elements such as custom soundtracks, as well as the ability to take a stroll through the virtual eden, no doubt offering solace in the fact that this is one garden that won't meet an untimely end at our hands. At least until we turn off the power.

JoystiqPSN gardening game to exercise green thumbs originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 May 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gardenplantsplaystation-networkplaystationnetworkPS3psnscejshikiteisonySony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanSat, 31 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN reaches a million accounts in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/psn-reaches-a-million-accounts-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/psn-reaches-a-million-accounts-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/psn-reaches-a-million-accounts-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,


While most of us here in the States continue to try to wipe the sleep from our eyes after a long Memorial Day weekend, Sony's Japanese arm has announced that the PlayStation Network has seen its one millionth user account created in Japan. The company adds that the service, which first went live in the region November 2006, is used by nearly 400,000 players each month.

The celebrate the achievement, SCEJ is offering up a thousand ¥1,000 PSN promotional tickets to use online, meaning if you happen to have access to a Japanese PSN account you have until June 9 to throw your virtual hat into the ring for a freebie.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqPSN reaches a million accounts in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanplaystation-networkplaystation-storeplaystationnetworkplaystationstorePS3psnsonyTue, 27 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo series ships more than 50 million globally]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/gran-turismo-series-ships-more-than-50-million-globally/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/gran-turismo-series-ships-more-than-50-million-globally/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/09/gran-turismo-series-ships-more-than-50-million-globally/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


While it may seem seem like just yesterday that we first played Sony's love note to console gear heads in Gran Turismo, it was actually ten years ago ... a realization that made us feel incredibly old as Sony and developer Polyphony Digital announced that the sim, that first got its license in December 1997, has shipped more than 50 million units across the globe.

This figure, of course, includes the recently released Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, which according to Sony has shipped out more than 2 million units. The company is playing coy, though, as to whether this number includes just physical products or digital downloads over PSN as well. We'd like to extend our hand and congratulate the series for making it this far, but unfortunately it didn't stop between the two yellow lines on the pavement so it's going to have to go back to the start and try again.

JoystiqGran Turismo series ships more than 50 million globally originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 09 May 2008 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gran-turismogran-turismo-5gran-turismo-5-prolo...granturismogranturismo5playstation3playstationnetworkpolyphony-digitalpolyphonydigitalPS2PS3psnsonyFri, 09 May 2008 10:57:00 EST<![CDATA[European PSN Store PlayStation Day 2008 update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/european-psn-store-playstation-day-2008-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/european-psn-store-playstation-day-2008-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/06/european-psn-store-playstation-day-2008-update/#commentsFiled under:

So PlayStation Day 2008 is here and that promised update has arrived as well. Well, not entirely. There have been a few modifications from what was noted last week. There's no Blast Factor Advanced Research add-on, but we do get an extra trailer for MotorStorm Pacific Rift and a special compilation video for PS Day.

Playable content:

Add-on content:

  • High Velocity Bowling Character - Mike (£0.69)

Trailers:

It also looks like Siren: New Translation has a "new translation" for its western release. It's now dubbed Siren Blood Curse. Also, check out the PC Store's update, if you've got a PSP.

JoystiqEuropean PSN Store PlayStation Day 2008 update originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 May 2008 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationnetworkplaystationstorepsnpsn-storeTue, 06 May 2008 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony issues consumer alert: PC PSN illegally accessed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/sony-issues-consumer-alert-pc-psn-illegally-accessed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/sony-issues-consumer-alert-pc-psn-illegally-accessed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/26/sony-issues-consumer-alert-pc-psn-illegally-accessed/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sony has issued a consumer alert stating that the PC version of the PlayStation Store may have been accessed illegally. Sony said that a small percentage of user passwords may have been changed through the unauthorized access, making it possible for the hackers to view personal information. The company wants to ensure consumers that Sony is taking "immediate measures to rectify this issue and [making sure that] system security is restored."

It is very likely this is just a small incident; however, it is a smart idea to stay cautious. To verify that your account is intact, sign into the PSN with your pre-set password. If you are successful, then your account is not affected by the incident. Currently, Sony is contacting customers who may have been affected. You can find more information about that at Sony's Knowledge Center.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

JoystiqSony issues consumer alert: PC PSN illegally accessed originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstation-networkplaystationnetworkpsnWed, 26 Mar 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview with SCEA's Hight confirms PSN redesign in April, Warhawk expansion, PS1 games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/interview-with-sceas-hight-confirms-psn-redesign-in-april-warh/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/interview-with-sceas-hight-confirms-psn-redesign-in-april-warh/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/04/interview-with-sceas-hight-confirms-psn-redesign-in-april-warh/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Wow, more and more rumors popping up on the interwebs are proving to be true. This time around, the rumor about an April PSN store overhaul has been confirmed in an interview with John Hight, SCEA's director of product development. Hight is quoted saying, "I think you will see a pretty big change in the PlayStation Network in the early part of April, where we roll out some new interface stuff largely based on customer feedback." So, we now know there's definitely a redesign coming, but we're still in the dark about new content like, oh say, that rumored video download service.

Also in the interview, Hight confirms that the rumored expansion for Warhawk should hit the PSN by April, too. Hight stated, "We just released an expansion on Warhawk in September, and we'll release another one in April." Further more, when questioned about Japanese PS1 games on the American PSN store, Hight had this to say, "I'm pretty darn sure they will [appear on the American PSN], but I don't know which titles." Now hold your horses, what that probably means is that we could be seeing a similar title catalog, and not that Japanese version games will appear on the US PSN. Nice, but not a guarantee. Well, we'd be happy if we could just get Resident Evil 2 in our store ...

JoystiqInterview with SCEA's Hight confirms PSN redesign in April, Warhawk expansion, PS1 games originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>john-hightjohnhightplaystation-networkplaystationnetworkpsnwarhawkTue, 04 Mar 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Four new PSN games for Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/four-new-psn-games-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/four-new-psn-games-for-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/28/four-new-psn-games-for-japan/#commentsFiled under:


It took forever to translate the names of these new Japanese PSN games, but we finally got them. Recently hitting the PlayStation Network over in the land of the rising sun are four PlayStation classics: Ide Yosuke no Mahjong Kyoshitsu, Baroque Syndrome, Wai Wai Bowling, and Um Jammer Lammy.

Three out of the four games were not released outside Japan; the only one that was seen in the west was Um Jammer Lammy -- a rhythm game spin-off of PaRappa the Rapper. The Ide Yosuke game is yet another Mahjong game, while Wai Wai Bowling is, um, bowling. Lastly, Baroque Syndrome is a prequel to the PS1 RPG Baroque (which is also available on the PSN, at the same time ported to the PS2).

While there's really only one or two titles that are worth getting on that list, it still is quite annoying that the Japanese PS1 game library is way better than ours. When will our library start flooding with more and more PS1 games?

JoystiqFour new PSN games for Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baroquebaroque-syndromebaroquesyndromeide-yosuke-mahjongideyosukemahjongmajor-wavemajorwaveplaystation-networkplaystationnetworkpsnstingum-jammer-lammyumjammerlammywai-wai-bowlingwaiwaibowlingThu, 28 Feb 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: FFXIII director predicts demo in 2008 [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/27/ffxiii-designer-promises-demo-2008-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/27/ffxiii-designer-promises-demo-2008-release-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/27/ffxiii-designer-promises-demo-2008-release-date/#commentsFiled under: ,


We know that Final Fantasy games, much like fine wine and Radiohead albums, take some time to come together nicely -- still, it's hard for us to believe that Final Fantasy XIII (in all its shapes and forms) will be dropping any time soon. We've had our hearts broken so many times by delays for hotly anticipated titles that we've sadly come to expect them.

Fear not, for the long wait for the Fabula Nova Crystallis collection will be over soon enough. According to FinalFantasyVersusXIII.net's translation (there appear to be conflicting versions), game director Motomu Toriyama teases that a playable demo for FFXIII would be arriving in 2008 to show off the game's revamped battle system. So don your steepled hat and cuddle tight your cactuar plushie -- your chance to sit down with the unluckiest chapter in Square Enix's seminal RPG franchise may have just gotten a teensy bit closer.

[Update: We originally posted an incorrect interpretation of the original translated comments. The post has been corrected and Joystiq apologizes for the error.]

[Update 2: Square Enix has released an official response - and we eat more crow.]

JoystiqRumor: FFXIII director predicts demo in 2008 [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Jan 2008 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>13fabulanovacrystallisffxiiifinalfantasyfinalfantasyxiiiPlayStationNetworkPS3PSNRPGSquare-EnixsquareenixSun, 27 Jan 2008 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Interview: Kuju's download-only studio doublesix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/joystiq-interview-kujus-download-only-studio-doublesix/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/joystiq-interview-kujus-download-only-studio-doublesix/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/joystiq-interview-kujus-download-only-studio-doublesix/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We admit that the opening of a new studio is not the most terribly exciting event under the sun, but that news becomes decidedly more intriguing when said studio dedicates itself to a single market, or in the case of British developer Kuju's newly opened doublesix studio, a single distribution channel.

With a moniker always referred to in lowercase, we expected doublesix to be quietly reserved regarding its plans, which include developing titles exclusively in the downloadable space for Xbox Live Arcade, the PlayStation Network, WiiWare and the PC. What we found, however, was a studio that is enthusiastic about its positioning in this young, but rapidly growing segment of the video game industry. To find out more, we managed to speak with doublesix studio head James Brooksby on a number of topics, including the price of downloadable games today and in the future, the importance of platform exclusives in the digital space, and of course, where the team likes to eat.

Continue reading Joystiq Interview: Kuju's download-only studio doublesix

JoystiqJoystiq Interview: Kuju's download-only studio doublesix originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 14:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>doublesixGuildfordkujuPCplaystation networkPlaystation-NetworkPlaystationNetworkPS3psnWiiwiiwarexblaxbox livexbox live arcadeXbox-360xbox-live-arcadeXboxLiveXboxLiveArcadeWed, 19 Dec 2007 14:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Q-Games founder: PSN games haven't caught on in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/q-games-founder-psn-games-havent-caught-on-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/q-games-founder-psn-games-havent-caught-on-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/q-games-founder-psn-games-havent-caught-on-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: ,


Speaking to Newsweek's N'Gai Croal, Q-Games founder Dylan Cuthbert has discussed some of the challenges facing PixelJunk Monsters, a real-time tower defense title for the PlayStation Network. Cuthbert, who has contributed to everything from Ape Escape to Starfox, noted that beyond the usual control and balancing issues, the real difficulty involves getting Japanese gamers to purchase bite-sized games online.

"So far, it really hasn't caught on in the same way it has in the West--the problem in Japan is a traditional aversion to using credit cards, as opposed to the West where it is second nature," he explained. "A lot of restaurants over here don't accept any credit card at all, and when you order things online to be delivered the majority of people pay on delivery or even by online bank transfer as opposed to using a credit card. Pre-paid cards are definitely the way to go forward to solve these problems, but they only rolled out recently, so we'll just have to wait and see."

It's odd to see the game (which arrives on our PSN in January) facing this external obstacle, especially since it was designed with Japanese sensibilities in mind -- those folks aren't too keen on real-time strategy either, it seems. Perhaps PixelJunk Monsters will find success on our shores, preying on our habit of whipping out the plastic whenever instant gratification is in view.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqQ-Games founder: PSN games haven't caught on in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 20:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PixelJunk-MonstersPlaystation-NetworkPlaystationNetworkPS3PSNQ-GamesRTSFri, 07 Dec 2007 20:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Aqua Teen devs to develop, publish PlayStation Network games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/aqua-teen-devs-to-develop-publish-playstation-network-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/aqua-teen-devs-to-develop-publish-playstation-network-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/aqua-teen-devs-to-develop-publish-playstation-network-games/#commentsFiled under: ,

Fresh off of Midway's laboriously titled and unanimously panned Aqua Teen Hunger Force Zombie Ninja Pro-Am for the PlayStation 2, who can blame Creat Studios from wanting to try something different? The studio, which operates out of both Massachusetts and Russia, has announced a new deal with Sony that will allow it to develop and publish both its own and other company's games over the PlayStation Network.

While no specific titles have been announced so far, we're hedging our bets that N-Cube and Warbit, two mysterious titles from Creat that appeared on last September's DualShock 3 compatibility list, are among them. Just back away from those Adult Swim licenses and we'll all stay friends.

JoystiqAqua Teen devs to develop, publish PlayStation Network games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aqua teenaqua-teenAquaTeencreatcreat studioscreat-studiosCreatStudiosn-cubeplaystation networkplaystation-networkPlaystationNetworkPS3psnwarbitFri, 07 Dec 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Devil May Cry 4 demo confirmed for PSN, XBL in early 2008]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/devil-may-cry-4-demo-confirmed-for-psn-xbl-in-early-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/devil-may-cry-4-demo-confirmed-for-psn-xbl-in-early-2008/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/07/devil-may-cry-4-demo-confirmed-for-psn-xbl-in-early-2008/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Getting gifts and embarrassing ourselves while under the influence of copious amounts of alcohol are reasons enough to count down until the new year, but Capcom has given us another reason to continue to mark through days on the kitchen calender, announcing plans to release a free playable demo of Devil May Cry 4 over both the Xbox Live Marketplace and PlayStation Store in early 2008.

It's unclear exactly what will be included in the demo, with Capcom saying only that the download will serve to introduce the game's new hero, Nero, and feature levels "chosen to showcase Devil May Cry 4's varied locales and allow gamers to familiarize themselves with Nero's unique abilities." The demo will also include in-game instructions on how to use DMC4's Exceed sword charge system and various superhuman abilities, made possible by Nero's "Devil Bringer" powers, and will be capped off with a fight against a surly boss named Berial. We hope the boss has insurance, because players have been waiting a long time revisit Devil May Cry, and we imagine Berial is going to buried many times before the game's February 5, 2008 release.

JoystiqDevil May Cry 4 demo confirmed for PSN, XBL in early 2008 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 07 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdantedemodev-may-cry-4devil may crydevil may cry 4devil-may-cryDevilMayCryDevilMayCry4neroplaystation networkplaystation-networkPlaystationNetworkPS3psnxbox liveXbox-360xbox-liveXboxLiveFri, 07 Dec 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LocoRoco Cocoreccho, Sega Rally Demo highlight PSN update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/locoroco-cocoreccho-sega-rally-demo-highlight-psn-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/locoroco-cocoreccho-sega-rally-demo-highlight-psn-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/20/locoroco-cocoreccho-sega-rally-demo-highlight-psn-update/#commentsFiled under: , ,


With all eyes turned to Tokyo this week, Sony has thrown North American PlayStation 3 gamers a bone in the form of the charming, but perhaps overly complicated "screensaver" game LocoRoco Cocoreccho, as well as a handful of new game demos including Sega Rally Revo, the first title in development from Sega Driving Studio.

Those wanting to pick up the successor to Sony Japan's delightful PSP original LocoRoco can do so for $6.99, a bit of a leap from the game's previously confirmed £1.99 price in the UK. In addition to the already mentioned rally racer, PSN users can also snag demos for EA's Tony Hawk competitor Skate, as well as THQ's Stuntman: Ignition and Sony's own forthcoming NBA 08.

And as if that isn't enough, it also looks like Sony has tossed up some wallpapers, videos, and trailers from such eagerly anticipated eye candy as GT5 Prologue, Devil May Cry 4, and Ratchet and Clank Future, making this a meaty update indeed.

JoystiqLocoRoco Cocoreccho, Sega Rally Demo highlight PSN update originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cocoreccholocorocoplaystationnetworkPS3psnsegarallyrevosonyThu, 20 Sep 2007 15:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's cuddliest video: LocoRoco Cocoreccho trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/15/todays-cuddliest-video-locoroco-cocoreccho-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/15/todays-cuddliest-video-locoroco-cocoreccho-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/15/todays-cuddliest-video-locoroco-cocoreccho-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Little LocoRocos, you're so happy, you make us happy, too. We love watching you bounce and squish. Oh, to tickle a LocoRoco would make us burst with joy. We'd explode with rainbows, of course. (That's a mildly NSFW link, all you weekend laborers.)

Sony's PS3 LocoRoco Cocoreccho! "interactive screensaver" um, thing will launch next week in many parts of the world. But the Sixaxis might not let us pet the little creatures. Cocoreccho! isn't quite a game, and we're still not quite sure what it is. But this newest trailer at least annotates some of things players can do, while the earlier video left us guessing.

Watch the cuteness after the break, or imagine it on a crisp HDTV with the direct HD feed.

Continue reading Today's cuddliest video: LocoRoco Cocoreccho trailer

JoystiqToday's cuddliest video: LocoRoco Cocoreccho trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 15 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcutedownloadhottestvideolocorocoplaystationnetworkps3psnsixaxissonytrailervideoSat, 15 Sep 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[GT5 Prologue out this year via PSN and Blu-ray]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/gt5-prologue-out-this-year-via-psn-and-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/gt5-prologue-out-this-year-via-psn-and-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/29/gt5-prologue-out-this-year-via-psn-and-blu-ray/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony Europe has announced that Gran Turismo 5 Prologue will be out this year as both a traditional Blu-ray release and as a PlayStation Network download.

The game will feature 40 cars. Racing locations noted in the press release include Eiger Nordwand, the London City Track and Suzuka. As previously discussed, Prologue will feature 16-player online matches. Unsurprisingly, the game will run at 1080p and 60fps, though the replays will only play back at 30fps. Also mentioned in the press release is Gran Turismo TV, a channel for the PlayStation Network that gives access to "a world of great motoring TV programming online."

No details have been announced as to whether the Blu-ray release will, like Warhawk, contain extra content. If Prologue isn't enough for you, the full Gran Turismo 5 is due out in 2008.

Gallery: Gran Turismo 5 Prologue

JoystiqGT5 Prologue out this year via PSN and Blu-ray originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Aug 2007 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>granturismogt5playstationnetworkprologuePS3psnsonyWed, 29 Aug 2007 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Warhawk downloadable via PSN tonight]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/warhawk-downloadable-via-psn-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/warhawk-downloadable-via-psn-tonight/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/27/warhawk-downloadable-via-psn-tonight/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sure, you can pick up Warhawk tomorrow in stores, but if you want to save on the gasoline, the title will be available for download via the PlayStation store tonight at 12:01 a.m. EST. That's a bonus for West Coast gamers, who can get the game at 9:00 p.m. PST tonight.

Going the traditional route isn't a bad option, however, as the retail version is priced $20 more but includes more video content and a Bluetooth headset.

Gallery: Warhawk



[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqWarhawk downloadable via PSN tonight originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 27 Aug 2007 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PlaystationNetworkplaystationstorePS3psnsonywarhawkMon, 27 Aug 2007 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Piyotama, Heavenly Sword videos in today's US PSN update]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/piyotama-heavenly-sword-videos-in-todays-us-psn-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/piyotama-heavenly-sword-videos-in-todays-us-psn-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/piyotama-heavenly-sword-videos-in-todays-us-psn-update/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Pastel-colored chickens are trapped in pastel-colored eggs and the only way to save them is to match four colored eggs and let the Magic of Physics handle the rest! Piyotama is available today on the US PlayStation Network for $2.99. European PS3 owners are not so lucky, having been denied egg-popping this week.

Two Heavenly Sword videos -- the first part of a Behind-the-Scenes featurette and the first episode of the animated series -- are also out today for the low, low cost of nothing.

JoystiqPiyotama, Heavenly Sword videos in today's US PSN update originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordpiyotamaplaystationnetworkPS3psnThu, 09 Aug 2007 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet is almost done, public beta in a few months]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/21/littlebigplanet-is-almost-done-public-beta-in-a-few-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/21/littlebigplanet-is-almost-done-public-beta-in-a-few-months/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/21/littlebigplanet-is-almost-done-public-beta-in-a-few-months/#commentsFiled under:

Are you just itching to find out more information about LittleBigPlanet? Today we've got a quick summary for you, as PSU had a fairly detailed hands-on report to dish out, not unlike our own glowing review. If you are curious about LBP but don't want to read for ten minutes, we'll summarize the important points for you to take into consideration.
  • Your character has different moods (changed by hitting a direction on the D-pad) and depending on these moods, he will control differently. He will bounce as he moves if happy, or keep his head low and walk like he's pouting when sad.
  • Player vs. Player mode will be available -- there's more than just cooperating to create a level. An example of this would be the "Racing Mode" where levels are built for speed. If you've ever played the final stage in Earthworm Jim 2, we expect something like that footrace with Psy-Crow. That was a hard level.
  • LBP is nearly complete and a public beta is supposedly hitting the PSN sometime this fall prior to release.
That's about the high and low of it. We never expected this PSN title to burn so brightly in the Hype Furnace, but we can't resist the warmth of its glow. It looks fantastic. However, does anyone think its a system mover? Will the idea of this game and more to come like it push people into rethinking about the PS3's price? We'd like to imagine so, especially with the immense number of exclusives coming this holiday season.
[Thanks, Justin!]

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet is almost done, public beta in a few months originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jul 2007 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>littlebigplanetPlayStationNetworkPSNsonySat, 21 Jul 2007 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Today's good things in small packages video: LittleBigPlanet (PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/todays-good-things-in-small-packages-video-littlebigplanet-ps/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/todays-good-things-in-small-packages-video-littlebigplanet-ps/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/todays-good-things-in-small-packages-video-littlebigplanet-ps/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


We've played LittleBigPlanet twice and are waiting for its Spring 2008 release to get unlimited time with the final game. Even as a casual game, there have been rumblings between Joystiq writers that this could be a killer PS3 app. GameTrailers shows LittleBigPlanet level construction in a new interview with one of its developers, Alex Evans.

Here's hoping that this quirky little game makes a big impact. See the video after the break.

Gallery: LittleBigPlanet

Continue reading Today's good things in small packages video: LittleBigPlanet (PS3)

JoystiqToday's good things in small packages video: LittleBigPlanet (PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexevanscasualdownloadlittlebigplanetMediaMoleculeplaystationnetworkps3psnsonyThu, 19 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Heavenly Sword demo is 'in the bag,' ready for release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/heavenly-sword-demo-is-in-the-bag-ready-for-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/heavenly-sword-demo-is-in-the-bag-ready-for-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/18/heavenly-sword-demo-is-in-the-bag-ready-for-release/#commentsFiled under: ,

We've told you how impressed we were with Heavenly Sword, and soon you'll get your chance to find out for yourself. That demo that was reportedly coming in the "very near future" has now been confirmed by
Ninja Theory as being finished.

"Let me just tell you all that the dev team has finished work on the demo ... it's in the bag," said Ninja Theory co-founder Mike Ball in a forum post. "So now it's a case of Sony deciding when they feel is the best time to release it to PlayStation Network."

PlayStation Network releases generally fall on a Thursday and, while we're not holding our breath for a surprise release tomorrow, we are hoping it pops up on the network next Thursday, July 26. Or Sony could hold onto the demo until closer to the game's September launch. Or not.

Gallery: Heavenly Sword (PS3)



[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqHeavenly Sword demo is 'in the bag,' ready for release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Jul 2007 15:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heavenlyswordninjatheoryplaystationnetworkPS3psnpsnetworksonyWed, 18 Jul 2007 15:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Stick-figures get their hero in Echochrome]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/stick-figures-get-their-hero-in-echochrome/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/stick-figures-get-their-hero-in-echochrome/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/stick-figures-get-their-hero-in-echochrome/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Enter Echochrome, one of the most interesting and engaging new titles popping up at this year's E3. "Least graphics, most game play is their angle," said Sony's Phil Harrison, as he introduced Echochrome in the midst of Sony's E3 keynote. In addition to our earlier description as, "Jenga blocks, plus stick figure man plus acid," game play seemingly bears a distant resemblance to games like Crush (PSP) and the upcoming PC release Portal. Echochrome looks like it will have players assembling the game world to steer the stick-figure hero to his end goal. An orchestral score keeps an ambient atmosphere, which should help for those ultra-tricky sections that will be sure to induce cold sweats. Ah, the intense pleasures of a great puzzler. Echochrome certainly looks promising and the fact it will arrive on both UMD for the PSP and the PlayStation Store as one of the "more than 80 first-party games available" makes it all the more desirable.

JoystiqStick-figures get their hero in Echochrome originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e307echochromekeynotephil harrisonPhilHarrisonplaystation networkplaystation storePlaystationNetworkPlaystationStorePSPFri, 13 Jul 2007 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony 'bringing home' E3 too, on PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/sony-bringing-home-e3-too-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/sony-bringing-home-e3-too-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/sony-bringing-home-e3-too-on-psn/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Much like what Microsoft has been doing with the Bringing It Home campaign since last E3 (and again with this one), Sony has unveiled its initiative to provide coverage of next week's E3 summit to PlayStation 3 owners via the PlayStation Network.

The July 11 press conference will be available for download as well as unspecified "trailers, videos, and other editorial content," according to a GamesIndustry.biz report. Additionally, the official PlayStation blog will reportedly be updated alongside the show.

JoystiqSony 'bringing home' E3 too, on PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bringing it homeBringingItHomee3e3 07E307playstation networkPlaystationNetworkps networkPS3psnPsNetworksonyFri, 06 Jul 2007 14:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Nielsen tracking in-game ads for Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/nielson-tracking-in-game-ads-for-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/nielson-tracking-in-game-ads-for-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/nielson-tracking-in-game-ads-for-sony/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sony Computer Entertainment America and The Nielsen Company want to track your stats. Specifically, the two companies have teamed up to "develop a measurement system for game network advertising that will help make game software a more competitive advertising platform," according to the press release.

SCEA will "share with Nielsen game network traffic and other data" from PS3 titles, PlayStation Network and the upcoming social MMO Home, at first only in North America -- details beyond that are sketchy, but Nielson calls the effort "fully-transparent" in the press release. The results will be used "to deliver the right ad to the right person at the right time" and to help advertisers figure out a CPM, or cost per impression, for in-game ads.

The initial results of the partnership are expected later this year. Expect more in-game ads you're less inclined to ignore and possibly the strange feeling that Big Brother is critiquing your gamer skills.

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqNielsen tracking in-game ads for Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>igain game adsin game advertisingInGameAdsInGameAdvertisingnielsennielsonplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkps networkPS3psnPsNetworksceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaMon, 02 Jul 2007 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Long-delayed Resistance update coming Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/long-delayed-resistance-update-coming-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/long-delayed-resistance-update-coming-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/long-delayed-resistance-update-coming-friday/#commentsFiled under: , ,

An update to Resistance: Fall of Man that Once Upon a Time was to be released at the end of May is finally coming this Friday. The download, so far confirmed only for Europe, will enable global multiplayer matches. Servers will be down for 16 hours, from 2:00 am to 6:00 pm BST, while they are updated, according to Eurogamer.

Also coming tomorrow is the first Map Pack, which includes maps Westmorland and Camborn, for £2.99 GBP and US $7.99. No word on the map pack or update outside of Europe; we've contacted Sony Computer Entertainment America for information on the status of the update in the US.

[Update: Included US information care of Sony's shiny new blog. Thanks for the heads-up!]

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqLong-delayed Resistance update coming Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActioneuropeFPSInsomniacplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkps networkPS3psnPsNetworkresistanceResistance-Fall-of-ManrfomSCEShooterSonyThu, 28 Jun 2007 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Super Stardust HD shoots up PSN today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/super-stardust-hd-shoots-up-psn-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/super-stardust-hd-shoots-up-psn-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/28/super-stardust-hd-shoots-up-psn-today/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

You're a spaceship destroying bad guys and asteroids -- it's been a time-honored tradition from Space War all the way to Geometry Wars and now crash landing on the US PlayStation Network as Super Stardust HD, an ancestor to descendant of [update: you have your concept of the direction of time and I have mine] the 1993 game Stardust with 1080p visuals.

The shooter was released in Europe on June 15, receiving a glowing review from Eurogamer. Super Stardust HD should be available today for US PlayStation 3 owners for $7.99.

Gallery: Super Stardust HD -- PSN

JoystiqSuper Stardust HD shoots up PSN today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Housemarqueplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkps networkPS3psnPsNetworkSony-Computer-EntertainmentstardustSuper-Stardust-HDThu, 28 Jun 2007 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Paid subscription a possibility for the future of PlayStation Network]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/paid-subscription-and-achievements-the-future-of-playstation-ne/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/paid-subscription-and-achievements-the-future-of-playstation-ne/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/18/paid-subscription-and-achievements-the-future-of-playstation-ne/#commentsFiled under:


Paying for a subscription would certainly seem to be a possibility, especially as the long-rumored feature upgrades come filing into the PlayStation Network. When speaking with Geoff Keighley on the latest edition of Gametrailers' Bonus Round, Eric Lempel spoke about the PlayStation Network's current free service and that, "in time, anything can change." Comparing the PlayStation Network to Microsoft's Xbox Live service, Lempel, Sony's director of Network Operations reconfirmed "we're working on an achievements system," describing its inclusion as "an important feature." Voice-chat across all games is also something (thankfully) that Mr. Lempel touched base on, saying "talking across games ... definitely builds momentum for games and actually migrate(s) users to other games and keeps you in touch with your gaming community." We couldn't agree more.

Exactly when these implementations will make it to a PS3 near you, via firmware upgrade, is uncertain. "It's not in the next firmware update but it's something we're working on," says Mr. Lempel. We certainly hope so, though we are catching wind of the potential trade-off here. What do you think? Would you pay a subscription fee (similar to Xbox Live) for a plan that allows cross-game invites, built-in voice chat for all multiplayer games and a similar achievement points implementation? Or would you rather say the heck with all that, and voice to keep the PlayStation Network free for all, setting it apart from Microsoft's Xbox Live service?

[Via Next-Gen]

JoystiqPaid subscription a possibility for the future of PlayStation Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 18 Jun 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>achievementscross-game inviteCross-gameInviteeric lempelEricLempelmicrosoftplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkvoice chatVoiceChatxbox liveXboxLiveMon, 18 Jun 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Tekken 5 going online via premium update in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/ps3-tekken-5-going-online-via-premium-update-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/ps3-tekken-5-going-online-via-premium-update-in-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/13/ps3-tekken-5-going-online-via-premium-update-in-japan/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The Japanese version of Tekken 5: Dark Ressurection for PlayStation 3 will soon have online multiplayer, but it's going to cost you a bit extra. The latest issue of Weekly Famitsu reports that T5: DR Online will feature free online multiplayer with a ranking system, practice mode and survival mode.

The game will cost 2,800 yen (about US $23), or 1,000 yen (US $8) for current owners of the game to upgrade. Since the game initially came out for 2,000 yen, early adopters are paying 200 yen extra for the time they've had with the offline title since its release in late December. No release date has been decided for the upgrade, and no word at all on a release outside of Japan.

JoystiqPS3 Tekken 5 going online via premium update in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>famitsujapanplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkPS3psntekkentekken 5tekken 5 dark ressurectionTekken5Tekken5DarkRessurectionWed, 13 Jun 2007 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/10/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/10/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/10/psp-fanboy-theatre-volume-23/#commentsFiled under:

PSP Fanboy offers the latest and greatest movie and game trailers, formatted for the PSP in this new weekly feature. Check it out every Saturday. PSP owners can download files wirelessly via m.pspfanboy.com.

Instructions: Save all movie and thumbnail files to the VIDEO folder. These high resolution 480x272 videos require firmware 3.30 or above. (Note: OE custom firmware will also play these videos.)

New for PSP: Get selected videos delivered automatically to your PSP via our new RSS feed.


Metal Gear Solid 4 [PS3]
Download MP4 (84.9MB) | Download JPG

The following videos are featured after the break: Kane & Lynch (PS3 & 360), PLAYSTATION Network, You Kill Me

Continue reading PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 23

JoystiqPSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Jun 2007 01:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kane and lynchKaneAndLynchmetal gear solid 4MetalGearSolid4playstation networkPlaystationNetworktheatreyou kill meYouKillMeSun, 10 Jun 2007 01:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Resistance & Motorstorm updates further delayed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/resistance-and-motorstorm-updates-further-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/resistance-and-motorstorm-updates-further-delayed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/07/resistance-and-motorstorm-updates-further-delayed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Technical issues befall updates to PlayStation 3 titles Resistance: Fall of Man and Motorstorm. The content was originally supposed to be on the PlayStation Network today alongside currently-available trailers for Heavenly Sword, MLB 07 The Show and Stranglehold, which did come out.

The MotorStorm 1.2 update has now been slightly split up. A Sony spokesperson told IGN that the patch, which promises to improve online play, will be available on June 11. The new Time Attack mode will be made available June 14. The update was initially due in mid-May.

Resistance: Fall of Man was to have new content pack that includes new maps and the game modes Team Conversion and Assault, as well as allow for global online play. "The delay will not be long, and we'll have a firm date to share with you shortly," said Alyssa Casella at SCEA, citing "a few last minute issues ... during the final testing of the global server" for the game. The update had already been pushed back to today, initially promised for the end of May.

JoystiqResistance & Motorstorm updates further delayed originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Jun 2007 20:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>motorstormplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkps networkPS3psnPsNetworkresistancerfomThu, 07 Jun 2007 20:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Remote Play reveals unique features for Mainichi Issyo [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/japan-gets-psps-first-remote-play-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/japan-gets-psps-first-remote-play-title/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/05/japan-gets-psps-first-remote-play-title/#commentsFiled under:


For PSP owners itching to test out the game-playing capabilities of Remote Play (made possible from the last firmware upgrade), you'll want to go here for a walkthrough on setting up a Japan PlayStation Network account for your PS3. Mainichi Issyo has been (and still is) only available through the Japanese PlayStation Store. As reported during the firmware 3.50 release, the Remote Play functionality will allow Mainichi Issyo gamers to "interact with Toro the cat" through any available internet access point. New details unveil the game's unique ability to complete microtransactions through the PlayStation Store in-game, instead of dumping you out to the PSP built-in browser. Feel free to have yourself a look-see. We'll be sure to update you with our in-depth impressions on Remote Play, as promised.

[Update: Changed the wording of the post to reflect the newly unveiled features within Mainichi Issyo, using Remote Play. The post title changed to reflect the description of these new in-game features.]

JoystiqRemote Play reveals unique features for Mainichi Issyo [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Jun 2007 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mainichi issyoMainichiIssyomicrotransactionsplaystation networkplaystation storePlaystationNetworkPlaystationStoreremote playRemotePlaytoro the catToroTheCatTue, 05 Jun 2007 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Indies and consoles: an imperfect system]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/indies-and-consoles-an-imperfect-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/indies-and-consoles-an-imperfect-system/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/31/indies-and-consoles-an-imperfect-system/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

According to Gamasutra's Simon Carless, the independent scene is facing an uphill battle when developing for consoles, specifically in the realm of digital distribution. Carless argues that the difficulty in bringing a title across all platforms, both for technological and business reasons.

Other than some retro titles (e.g. Joust), a very small number of downloadable title are appearing on both Xbox Live and PlayStation Network. Capcom's Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo HD Remix is one of the few exceptions, and Capcom's Christian Svensson said it required "considerable coordination" to get the titles on both consoles, which indicates to us that less established independent houses would have insurmountable difficulty.

Carless notes that Sony's collection, retro games aside, are predominantly first party (though we should note that flOw went to Sony because they actively sought out the independent title). Nintendo has always talked about bringing original games to the Wii, and there have been murmurings of a Game Channel, but so far all the only tangible indication of a non-Virtual Console title is Impossible Mission.

Carless' analogy to the film industry (three separate formats for theatre chains), though admittedly ham-fisted, does not account for industry history. It may be unfair to the independent developer, but there hasn't been a time when gaming was controlled by a single format. Sure, development teams are now much larger and require a bigger budget, but that hasn't stopped smaller teams from succeeding with Geometry Wars, Ragdoll Kung-Fu, and Alien Hominid (pictured). The state of indie games isn't ideal, but it seems to be getting better. We say keep on fighting, Simon.

JoystiqIndies and consoles: an imperfect system originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 May 2007 22:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien hominidAlienHominidcapcomflowgame channelGameChannelgeometry warsGeometryWarsimpossible missionImpossibleMissionindependentindieline riderLineRiderplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkPS3psnpuzzle fighterPuzzleFighterrag doll kung fuRagDollKungFuWiixblaxbox liveXbox-360XboxLiveThu, 31 May 2007 22:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Championship Sprint motors hits PSN tomorrow, we're still bored.]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/rant-championship-sprint-motors-hits-psn-tomorrow-were-still/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/rant-championship-sprint-motors-hits-psn-tomorrow-were-still/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/30/rant-championship-sprint-motors-hits-psn-tomorrow-were-still/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The PlayStation Store seems to be on a mind-numbing sprint through the bargain bin of old classics, however this recent entry might struggle with even that very definition. Championship Sprint was an arcade treat in its heyday, but without the acrid smell of burnt pizza cheese permeating the air and the ching-ching-ching of tokens being dispensed nearby, we're not sure reliving this classic on the PS3 is going to evoke the same sense of guilty pleasure we once experienced. Pray tell, why exactly would anyone care to relive this classic without standing at the machine itself with a vice-like grip on the steering wheel (sans Force Feedback, we might add)? There is plenty of ripe fruit in the Sony catalog, so where are the classic gems from the lucrative and expansive PlayStation gallery? How many times can we ask for Twisted Metal? How about SOCOM? Honestly, lets skip the brussel sprouts and head right for the ice cream.

For interested parties, Championship Sprint hits the PlayStation Store tomorrow, on May 31st, for $4.99. We suppose it's better than nothing, but not by much. Comments and suggestions on preferred PlayStation Store titles would be a fantastic addition here, so post away. Give Sony some ideas! Now, if you don't mind, we're heading back to the recesses of our couch to complete our Pirates of the Caribbean Blu-ray marathon. Wake us up when something more worthwhile is on.

JoystiqChampionship Sprint motors hits PSN tomorrow, we're still bored. originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2007 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atarichampionship sprintChampionshipSprintplaystation networkplaystation storePlaystationNetworkPlaystationStoreWed, 30 May 2007 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Network integrated into next firmware]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/playstation-network-integrated-into-next-firmware/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/playstation-network-integrated-into-next-firmware/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/26/playstation-network-integrated-into-next-firmware/#commentsFiled under:


The soon-to-be-released PSP firmware 3.50 is starting the slow process of integrating the PlayStation Network onto the handheld. When using Advanced Remote Play, users will be required to log-in using their PSN ID (pictured, right). Although this is a feature only applicable for those with PS3 systems, its exciting to see the PSN slowly appear on the system. Hopefully, this is a sign that future integration is not too far off: we can't wait to get a PlayStation Store and a single user ID for multiplayer games. The future is looking quite bright.

[Thanks, Incog! Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqPlayStation Network integrated into next firmware originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 26 May 2007 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.50networkplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkpsnSat, 26 May 2007 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Joust to impale the PS Network tomorrow for $5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/joust-to-impale-the-ps-network-tomorrow-for-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/joust-to-impale-the-ps-network-tomorrow-for-5/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/23/joust-to-impale-the-ps-network-tomorrow-for-5/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

What is the price of nostalgia? Sony has announced that starting tomorrow, you will be able to ride your ostrich and thwart buzzard-riding knights when Midway's Joust arrives on the PlayStation Network for $4.99.

Judging by the press release and attached screenshots, the game looks to be visually untouched from its original state. We had a hard time recommending the game for $5 (then 400 MS points) last year when it was released, with updated visuals, on Xbox Live, and we have just as hard of a time recommending it now on the PS3. However, if you have deep-rooted memories in this game (and don't already have it in one of the other Midway bundles), this is for you.

JoystiqJoust to impale the PS Network tomorrow for $5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 23 May 2007 18:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joustmidwayplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkps networkPS3psnPsNetworkWed, 23 May 2007 18:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Latest PlayStation Network numbers, 1.5 Million accounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/playstation-network-releases-numbers-1-5-million-accounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/playstation-network-releases-numbers-1-5-million-accounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/playstation-network-releases-numbers-1-5-million-accounts/#commentsFiled under:


Any fear that the PlayStation Network wasn't pulling its fair share of subscribers can be put to rest. PlayStation Universe says 1.5 million user accounts were created since its inception, with 775,000 stemming from North America alone. Barring the fact users could have subscribed twice for multiple regions, the numbers are still impressive. Xbox Live only garnered 500,000 in the same six month time frame (including Silver and Gold memberships). Six million pieces of content were downloaded during this time. These numbers build on earlier reports of 1.3 million subscribers with over 3.2 million pieces of content downloaded.

As far as gobbling up content, our appetites are always demanding more. Not to worry. As Sony Gamer's Day coverage should indicate, we have a feast coming very soon.

[Via Qj.net]

JoystiqLatest PlayStation Network numbers, 1.5 Million accounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstation networkPlaystationNetworkSGD '07Sgd'07user accountsUserAccountsXbox LiveXboxLiveMon, 21 May 2007 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[California Games comes to the PlayStation Network]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/california-games-comes-to-the-playstation-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/california-games-comes-to-the-playstation-network/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/21/california-games-comes-to-the-playstation-network/#commentsFiled under:

From the ashes of Epyx, London-based System 3 will be bringing the nostalgic California Games to both the Wii and PS3 consoles. When confirming its destination for the Wii console, CEO Mark Cale dropped word that it would also make its way to the PS3. According to Mr. Cale, "you will be able to buy it online," and "as a retail product." No word on if the title will include multiplayer over the PlayStation Network or if it will be revamped for its next-gen arrival. It would be silly to waste all that space on a Blu-Ray disc, so lets keep our fingers crossed for a bunch of extras (we secretly hope it's something other than its dreadful sequel, California Games 2). At any rate, it'll be nice to hit that silly seagull with a footbag again.

JoystiqCalifornia Games comes to the PlayStation Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 May 2007 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>california gamesCaliforniaGamesepyxmark caleMarkCaleplaystation networkPlaystationNetworksystem 3System3Mon, 21 May 2007 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Sony wants a $500 million Club Penguin]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/rumor-sony-wants-a-500-million-club-penguin/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/rumor-sony-wants-a-500-million-club-penguin/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/18/rumor-sony-wants-a-500-million-club-penguin/#commentsFiled under: ,

Montgomery & Co. virtual online company, Club Penguin, is supposedly in exclusive acquisition talks with Sony for the rumored price of $500 million. One has to wonder where that cash would be coming from, after such reports on Sony's recent financial situations. Nevertheless, if the acquisition is successful, it would allow Sony to cater to a much younger audience. Club Penguin offers games, activities and even kid-friendly chat. We'd imagine Sony would incorporate this into the PlayStation Network or even Home somehow, allowing a haven for young tykes to duke it out in Resistance play silly games and chat with their friends.

Club Penguin's incorporation into the PlayStation Network might even convince parents to fork over $600 beans in order to get their kids the PS3 system. Not a bad idea, really. Sony could use more niche markets to increase the PS3 penetration and convince third party developers to start bringing the games.

JoystiqRumor: Sony wants a $500 million Club Penguin originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 May 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>club penguinClubPenguinplaystation networkPlaystationNetworkFri, 18 May 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony announces SOCOM Confrontation for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/sony-announces-socom-confrontation-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/sony-announces-socom-confrontation-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/17/sony-announces-socom-confrontation-for-ps3/#commentsFiled under: ,


Sony has announced a PlayStation 3 entry in its popular SOCOM series, namely SOCOM Confrontation. Given the abundance of obscenely large weapons, it seems a fair guess that all confrontations in the game will end in violence and battered egos. That's precisely what Sony's counting on, as the game does away with single-player pleasantries and prioritizes online mayhem.

Supporting up to 32 players in battle, Confrontation will launch with five North African themed maps, with further map packs becoming available for download in the PlayStation Store. Outside of conflict, the game will allow you to set up tournaments and clans, access leader boards and completely customize your soldier's appearance. Generally, you'll want to go with a constant frown on that virtual mug. Blissfully smiling soldiers are just begging for bullets, you know.

SOCOM Confrontation is scheduled for release during the holiday season on the PlayStation Network.

Gallery: SOCOM Confrontation

Continue reading Sony announces SOCOM Confrontation for PS3

JoystiqSony announces SOCOM Confrontation for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 May 2007 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>confrontationPlayStation NetworkPlaystationNetworkPS3PSNsgd07socomSonyThu, 17 May 2007 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: PS3 firmware 2.0 details leaked]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/rumor-ps3-firmware-2-0-details-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/rumor-ps3-firmware-2-0-details-leaked/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/rumor-ps3-firmware-2-0-details-leaked/#commentsFiled under:

A user on the official PlayStation forums asserts to have a full list of features meant for an upcoming PlayStation 3 firmware update. The "2.0" update contains several significant changes for Sony's system, including the ability to access the Emmy award-winning XcrossMediaBar menu system during gameplay. The method of selecting output resolution is marked for change once again, as is the backwards compatibility range of PAL consoles.

Sony has officially dismissed these details, however, lumping them firmly into a category of elaborate speculation. "We haven't released any information regarding a new firmware update for PS3, and don't comment on rumors or speculation." Feel free to comment yourself after perusing the list after the break.

Continue reading Rumor: PS3 firmware 2.0 details leaked

JoystiqRumor: PS3 firmware 2.0 details leaked originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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