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 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sony Cambridge concept artist shows work from failed pitches]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/sony-cambridge-concept-artist-shows-work-from-failed-pitches/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/sony-cambridge-concept-artist-shows-work-from-failed-pitches/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/08/22/sony-cambridge-concept-artist-shows-work-from-failed-pitches/#comments Artist shows off killed pitches at Sony CambridgeArtist Jason Wilson was a concept artist at Sony's Cambridge studio (before it was folded into Guerilla Games earlier this year). Over on his personal portfolio blog, he's shared a few concept pieces for various pitches put together by the studio on projects that never got made. Simian is the first title he describes: It was an early iteration of what would become Sony's EyePet, with a more alien and mature "adventure game set on a strange alien jungle planet."

Wilson also talks about a first-person shooter named Revolution 4 that portrayed a War of the Worlds-style alien invasion in the middle of modern London (but which later was canceled in favor of Resistance: Fall of Man), as well as a first-person survival horror game named Manhattan, featuring frenzied zombies as opponents, and some strategy elements in terms of clearing checkpoints and saving survivors.

Finally, Wilson posts art from a third-person assassin action game called Zodiac Assassin, which featured a world-traveling female protagonist and some exotic settings. Again, Heavenly Sword was also in progress at Sony at the time, and the company decided in favor of that game rather than the one Wilson was pitching at Cambridge. It's quite a menu Wilson lays out here, and for dishes we'll never get to eat.

JoystiqSony Cambridge concept artist shows work from failed pitches originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept-arteyepetjason-wilsonmanhattanplaystationps3revolution-4simiansonysony-cambridgezodiac-assassinWed, 22 Aug 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet PlayStation Move bundle at Toys R Us]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/eyepet-playstation-move-bundle-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/eyepet-playstation-move-bundle-at-toys-r-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/21/eyepet-playstation-move-bundle-at-toys-r-us/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Sony's virtual Monchichi will be available at Toys R Us in a Move EyePet Bundle. The $100 kit includes fuzzy companion simulator EyePet, a PlayStation Eye Camera and PlayStation Move Motion Controller. The bundle will be available in TRU stores and online starting September 24.

Also, if you've got the cash to burn, remember that EyePet also supports 3D -- and assists in the war against puppies.

JoystiqEyePet PlayStation Move bundle at Toys R Us originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eyepetplaystationps3toys-r-usTue, 21 Sep 2010 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Watch your back, puppies: Kevin Butler talks up EyePet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/watch-your-back-puppies-kevin-butler-talks-up-eyepet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/watch-your-back-puppies-kevin-butler-talks-up-eyepet/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/17/watch-your-back-puppies-kevin-butler-talks-up-eyepet/#comments Sony faux-spokesman Kevin Butler's no stranger to talking smack about competitors -- though, for the life of us, we never expected him to turn his scornful eye upon infant dogs. Check out the US commercial for EyePet after the jump as we await a rebuttal from the dog people of the world.

Continue reading Watch your back, puppies: Kevin Butler talks up EyePet

JoystiqWatch your back, puppies: Kevin Butler talks up EyePet originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 02:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adcommercialeyepetkevin-butlerplaystationplaystation-moveps3scee-london-studioSony-Computer-EntertainmentFri, 17 Sep 2010 02:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Move review: The launch games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/playstation-move-review-the-launch-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/playstation-move-review-the-launch-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/01/playstation-move-review-the-launch-games/#comments
Once you get past that initial thrill of opening the packaging, setting it up and toying around with its settings, any platform is only as good - and as fun - as the games available for it. With the launch of PlayStation Move, the lineup of what's on offer is relatively limited and, as the hardware's all about getting people to, er move around, focuses on sports and party games, with a couple of notable exceptions.

Those would be EyePet, Kung Fu Rider and Tumble, all from Sony, with Tumble being a PSN game. EyePet is a virtual pet "game" that's been available as a PS Eye title in Europe for some time and has been reworked to incorporate Move. While charming, it falls under the category of a kid's title (though I've no doubt some adults will find it fun) and it won't be subject to review here; instead I'll be focusing on the more "core" games in the following pages. As for Kung Fu Rider, it's an odd creation out of SCE Studios Japan.

That leaves us with Sports Champions and Racquet Sports from Sony and Ubisoft, respectively. Sports Champions comes bundled with the $100 Move starter kit and the PS3 Move system bundle, but is also available separately ($40) for those who decide to buy their Move setups piecemeal.

With that out of the way - and without any further ado - it's on with the reviews:

Kung Fu Rider | Racquet Sports | Sports Champions
Start the Party | Tumble

JoystiqPlayStation Move review: The launch games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 03:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asobo-studioseyepetkung-fu-ridermoveplaystationplaystation-moveps3racquet-sportsSCE-Japan-Studiosonysports-championsstart-the-partysupermassive-gamestumblezindagi-gamesWed, 01 Sep 2010 03:01:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Move Starter Pack includes nine demos in the UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/playstation-move-starter-pack-includes-nine-demos-in-the-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/playstation-move-starter-pack-includes-nine-demos-in-the-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/29/playstation-move-starter-pack-includes-nine-demos-in-the-uk/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The PlayStation Move is set to launch in the US on September 19 alongside several bundles. The Starter Pack -- a $99 bundle including one PlayStation Move controller, a PlayStation Eye camera and a copy of Sports Champions -- is apparently going to be a bit different when it launches in the UK on September 15. MCV reports that the UK Starter Pack won't include a full copy of Sports Champions, instead giving gamers a taste of nine different titles.

The nine demos included in the package include snippets of six retail Move titles: Sports Champions, Start the Party, The Shoot, EyePet: Move Edition, TV Superstars and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11. The remaining three demos will be for PSN games: Echochrome 2, Tumble and Beat Sketchers. In the UK, the Starter Pack will have a suggested retail value of £49.99.

JoystiqPlayStation Move Starter Pack includes nine demos in the UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Jul 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>beat-sketchersEchochromeechochrome-2eyepeteyepet-move-editionmoveplaystationplaystation-moveps3sceasceesports-championsstart-the-partythe-shoottiger-woods-pga-tour-11tumbletv-superstarsThu, 29 Jul 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet PSP and Invizimals may not support PSP Go in North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/eyepet-psp-and-invizimals-may-not-support-psp-go-in-north-americ/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/eyepet-psp-and-invizimals-may-not-support-psp-go-in-north-americ/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/eyepet-psp-and-invizimals-may-not-support-psp-go-in-north-americ/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The upcoming camera-enabled launches of EyePet and Invizimals in North America may not be available to PSP Go owners at all. PlayStation.Blog's Sid Shuman accurately admits that the upcoming PSP camera was "designed for pre-Go models only," and the "current camera will only fit onto the larger PSP model."

Shuman suggests there are "no workarounds," suggesting he has forgotten about the rarely-seen PSP Go "converter cable," introduced at Tokyo Game Show last year. Whether or not the attachment will ever find a Stateside release is still up in the air. "We don't have any information yet on a peripheral attachment for the Go," a Sony rep told us, neither confirming nor denying the possibility. Of course, should SCEA choose not to ship the cables, there's another solution: importing from Japan.

Gallery: PSP Go Converter Cable

JoystiqEyePet PSP and Invizimals may not support PSP Go in North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraconverter-cableeyepeteyepet-pspinvizimalsplaystationpsppsp-goWed, 07 Jul 2010 17:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Ape Escape joins Japan's 2010 PlayStation Move launch library]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/ape-escape-joins-japans-2010-playstation-move-launch-library/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/ape-escape-joins-japans-2010-playstation-move-launch-library/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/07/ape-escape-joins-japans-2010-playstation-move-launch-library/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We haven't seen much (or anything) of Ape Escape's first foray onto PS3 since it was announced at Tokyo Game Show last year. However, a new announcement video (after the break) showcases the first few seconds of footage of the Move-exclusive game. Furi Furi! Sarugetchu, as it will be called in Japan, joins a relatively small line-up of games launching this year for the PlayStation motion controller in Japan. In fact, only six games are planned for release on the hardware's October 21 launch date:
  • EyePet (SCEJ, ¥3,980)
  • Sports Champion (SCEJ, ¥3,980)
  • Beat Sketch (SCEJ, ¥2,980)
  • Fure! Fure! Bowling (aka High Velocity Bowling, SCEJ, ¥1,900)
  • Machi Suberi (aka Kung Fu Rider, SCEJ, ¥3,980)
  • Big 3 Gun Shooting (Namco Bandai, ¥6,279)

Continue reading Ape Escape joins Japan's 2010 PlayStation Move launch library

JoystiqApe Escape joins Japan's 2010 PlayStation Move launch library originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jul 2010 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ape-escapeechochrome-2eyepethigh-velocity-bowlingkung-fu-riderplaystationps3sports-championstv-superstarsWed, 07 Jul 2010 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Visual overload: Sony's E3 PlayStation Move lineup]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/visual-overload-sonys-e3-playstation-move-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/visual-overload-sonys-e3-playstation-move-lineup/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/21/visual-overload-sonys-e3-playstation-move-lineup/#comments PlayStation Move is essentially a brand new platform for Sony. While many of the motion-sensing launch games for the new PS3 controller are "Wii HD" titles, there are a few noteworthy additions, including echochrome 2, Heroes on the Move and a Move edition of Heavy Rain. Check out trailers for all of Sony's first-party Move titles after the break.

Continue reading Visual overload: Sony's E3 PlayStation Move lineup

JoystiqVisual overload: Sony's E3 PlayStation Move lineup originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010echochrome-2eyepetheavy-rainkung-fu-riderplaystationplaystation-moveps3singstar-dancesports-championsstart-the-partythe-shoottumbletv-superstarsMon, 21 Jun 2010 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet Move Edition ... now in 3D!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/eyepet-move-edition-now-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/eyepet-move-edition-now-in-3d/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/16/eyepet-move-edition-now-in-3d/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EyePet may have been delayed a year for its North American debut, but it's become a far more advanced game since its original release (at least technically). High tech families equipped with a super-fancy 3DTV will not only play the game with the Move motion controller, but with newly added 3D support as well.

Whereas implementing support for Sony's motion controller added about nine months of development time to London Studios' pet simulator, 3D took about a month to implement. Unlike many other games, very little detail has been sacrificed to produce the 3D effect. The character model has been largely untouched, although some of the props have received some tweaks. (Other games drop the polygon count or texture resolution to achieve the demanding technical requirements necessary for 3D.)

Most families won't experience EyePet in 3D, an unfortunate reality of the formats infancy. "The switch to 3D won't happen overnight but we're very proud to be pushing the first family titles in 3D, including Eyepet," a Sony rep told us. However, EyePet's implementation of 3D is some of the best we've experienced from Sony. Instead of focusing on flashy effects, there are a number of subtle implementations. The best part of the demo was washing the EyePet. Over time, steam appears on what appears to be virtual glass. The steam builds up slowly over time, and the slow drops of water that roll down are incredibly believable in 3D. Does it change the game? No. But did it look cool? Absolutely.

Gallery: EyePet (E3)

JoystiqEyePet Move Edition ... now in 3D! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Jun 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2010eyepetlondon-studioplaystationps3sceeWed, 16 Jun 2010 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Interview: EyePet's Nicolas Doucet discusses Move integration]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/interview-eyepets-nicolas-doucet-discusses-move-integration/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/interview-eyepets-nicolas-doucet-discusses-move-integration/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/16/interview-eyepets-nicolas-doucet-discusses-move-integration/#comments We were starting to worry that SCEA had forgotten about EyePet when its planned holiday 2009 release came and went. Sony's Eye-enabled virtual pet simulator made a surprising reemergence recently, now featuring PlayStation Move support. We chatted with EyePet producer Nicolas Doucet about implementing Sony's motion controller into the game, and what that means for gamers, new and old.

By removing the Magic Card, and replacing it with motion controls, isn't this new version of EyePet, essentially, a brand new game?

Especially for North America and Japan, as well. It's going to be the first release, so yeah it's a brand new game. We've really made a lot of effort to make sure that whatever we converted from the Magic Card for the Move wasn't just a port. We deconstructed and reconstructed things to really make it feel like a Move-dedicated game. Obviously, to begin with it wasn't. We put a lot of effort into that. We've extended the development by another nine months to really give something special to players.

Will it be a PlayStation Move launch title?

Yes it will be, this Fall.

Gallery: EyePet (Move)

Continue reading Interview: EyePet's Nicolas Doucet discusses Move integration

JoystiqInterview: EyePet's Nicolas Doucet discusses Move integration originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraeyeeyepetgdc-2010interviewmoveplaystation-eyeplaystation-moveTue, 16 Mar 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The PlayStation Move games (we know of)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/playstation-move-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/playstation-move-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/playstation-move-games/#comments According to the block of info posted on European PlayStation Blog, there are a lot more PlayStation Move games out there to be seen than tonight's press release let on. Beyond the already revealed support for Move in SOCOM 4, LittleBigPlanet and EyePet, a whole mess of games were shown off at Sony's GDC event, from Move Party (um, a party game) to Slider (Mirror's Edge meets Pain?) to a Western shooter in The Shoot. (We've dropped a screen of Sports Champion above -- a game we think looks particularly fantastic.)

Oh, and the Euro Blog's mention of "DUKES" is just another name for that Motion Fighter game, which was mentioned onstage during this evening's press event -- so cool your heels and put the Jump to Conclusion mat back away. (We do rather like the name "Dukes," we'll admit; though we've been told it's a regional thing, and us North Americans are likely stuck with "Motion Fighter" instead.) We've yet to confirm which studios are developing which games, but you can be sure we'll ask Sony just as soon as we can. Here's the complete list of PlayStation Move titles that we know of, though, for now:
  • Sports Champion
  • The Shoot
  • Slider
  • TV Superstars
  • Move Party
  • Motion Fighter

JoystiqThe PlayStation Move games (we know of) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dukeseyepetgdc-2010littlebigplanetmotion-fightermove-partyplaystation-motion-controllerplaystation-moveslidersocom-4sports-championthe-shoottv-superstarsWed, 10 Mar 2010 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet to support PlayStation Move, hits North America holiday 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/eyepet-to-support-playstation-move-hits-north-america-holiday-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/eyepet-to-support-playstation-move-hits-north-america-holiday-2/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/eyepet-to-support-playstation-move-hits-north-america-holiday-2/#comments Sony announced during its GDC 2010 press conference that the upcoming US release of EyePet will feature support for its motion controller, PlayStation Move. The game will allow players to manipulate toys and also play games with their EyePets. Furthermore, it's even possible to create new toys. The promotional video during the event showed off a child using the Move to draw a car on some virtual paper, which then jumped off the page and became an object that players and the EyePet could then interact with.

In addition, Sony announced that EyePet is slated for a North American release this holiday. There was no mention of what will happen to the European version of the game, which was released last year. Presumably, Move support will be added once the peripheral launches.

JoystiqEyePet to support PlayStation Move, hits North America holiday 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eyepetlondon-studioplaystation-moveq4-2010release-datesceesonySony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeWed, 10 Mar 2010 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[European PSN releases for October 29]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/european-psn-releases-for-october-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/european-psn-releases-for-october-29/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/29/european-psn-releases-for-october-29/#comments
Don't call it a comeback! Well, okay, call it a comeback if you must -- after last week's sorry showing, the European PSN releases from this week are fairly phenomenal. There's a pair of demos for Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time, new content for DJ Hero, EyePet and PAIN, as well as the full version of LocoRoco Midnight Carnival. Check after the jump for the full list!

Choose your platform to view the corresponding release list:
(Note: Continue past the break to view both release lists.)

Continue reading European PSN releases for October 29

JoystiqEuropean PSN releases for October 29 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dj-heroeyepetlocoroco-midnight-carnivalpainpsn-thursdayratchet-and-clank-future-a-crack-in-timeThu, 29 Oct 2009 11:47:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet won't see a holiday release in the US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/eyepet-wont-see-a-holiday-release-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/eyepet-wont-see-a-holiday-release-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/06/eyepet-wont-see-a-holiday-release-in-the-us/#comments
"EyePet is now out of holiday," a SCEA representative told us rather succinctly, confirming an initial report from Gamervision. The PlayStation Eye-enabled virtual pet has been stealthily pushed out from its planned November release into the increasingly crowded waters of 2010. SCEA explains that its marketing team "will spend additional time to continue educating consumers and retail channels, setting the table for a successful product launch." Essentially, not enough people are excited about EyePet yet for it to warrant a holiday release.

Initial plans had EyePet releasing in two varieties: alone; and bundled with the camera. However, considering another big Sony product -- also coming in early 2010 -- requires use of the Eye, Sony may pursue a completely different marketing plan altogether.

JoystiqEyePet won't see a holiday release in the US originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayeyepetplaystation-eyesceaSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaTue, 06 Oct 2009 09:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet making your coffee table more adorable Nov. 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/29/eyepet-making-your-coffee-table-more-adorable-nov-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/29/eyepet-making-your-coffee-table-more-adorable-nov-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/29/eyepet-making-your-coffee-table-more-adorable-nov-17/#comments
Finally, we can attach a date to the exact moment kids across the world can stop begging for real-life, responsibility-mandating pets, and can instead fall in love with their virtual, responsibility-free counterparts. That is to say, we know the release date for Sony's EyePet -- it's set to drop November 17 in the States. If you've got a PlayStation Eye already, you can pick up the core game for $39.99 -- though an Eye-equipped bundle is also coming for $59.99.

For a quick breakdown of what EyePet is all about, check out the recent PlayStation.Blog video posted after the break. Here's a quick summary: It's like Seaman, only way less creepy, and with a Monkey-esque thing instead of a Man-Fish, and also the Monkey-thing will never learn to speak and question you about your sex life. We hope.

Continue reading EyePet making your coffee table more adorable Nov. 17

JoystiqEyePet making your coffee table more adorable Nov. 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 29 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleeyeeyepetplaylogicplaystation-eyerelease-datesce-studios-londonsceesonySony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeSat, 29 Aug 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet bundled with camera for 50 euros]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/eyepet-bundled-with-camera-for-50-euros/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/eyepet-bundled-with-camera-for-50-euros/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/eyepet-bundled-with-camera-for-50-euros/#comments Those looking to introduce a pet into the household without worrying about all the feeding, grooming, and post-pee castigation will be pleased to hear that Sony has announced a European bundle deal for its inescapably adorable EyePet game. While the company has confirmed that the camera-enabled carefest will arrive in North America this year, it has yet to establish a price for that region. EyePet will launch for €49.99 (roughly $70), camera included, in Europe this holiday.

We'll let you know as soon as we hear more or if we somehow manage to use the phrase "post-pee castigation" ever again.

Update: Retailers are currently accepting pre-orders for the standalone game (sans PlayStation Eye camera), with a UK price set at £19.99.

JoystiqEyePet bundled with camera for 50 euros originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awwwEuropeeyepeteyetoyplaystation-eyeSCEESony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeTue, 18 Aug 2009 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon.co.uk unveils EyePet box, bursting with cuteness]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/amazon-co-uk-unveils-eyepet-box-bursting-with-cuteness/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/amazon-co-uk-unveils-eyepet-box-bursting-with-cuteness/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/17/amazon-co-uk-unveils-eyepet-box-bursting-with-cuteness/#comments
Our love for EyePet should be clear. Why? Not only does it take advantage of the Eye in unique and innovative ways, it is absolutely adorable. It looks like London Studios, responsible for SingStar, has another casual hit on its hands. European retailer amazon.co.uk has posted what looks like the official box art for EyePet, and it looks oh-so-inviting. The titular mascot has its paws pressed against the box, beckoning for you to play with it.

Kotaku also points out that the box for this upcoming PS3 game looks rather different from other PS3 titles. Notice the lack of the PS3 banner on the left-hand side? The PlayStation Network is prominently featured, but were it not for the PS3 logo stitch atop the clear plastic, you'd be hard-pressed into noticing it was even for the PS3. Is this a subtle marketing change on SCEE's part, or is it something the online retailer is doing for what could be placeholder art?

Continue reading Amazon.co.uk unveils EyePet box, bursting with cuteness

JoystiqAmazon.co.uk unveils EyePet box, bursting with cuteness originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonboxbox-arteyepetsceeMon, 17 Aug 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony confirms EyePet US release this holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/sony-confirms-eyepet-us-release-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/sony-confirms-eyepet-us-release-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/28/sony-confirms-eyepet-us-release-this-holiday/#comments Sony has confirmed to us at a holiday showcase event in New York City tonight that the PlayStation Eye game, EyePet, will definitely be heading to the US in time for the holidays. Our roving reporter, Andrew Yoon, says that the game will be available standalone as well as bundled with the PlayStation Eye camera.

Previously, the game was only announced for a European release after it was first revealed at Leipzig GC last year. We're happy to see the adorable simian-dog-thing will be making the jump across the Atlantic and won't be suffering from the chronic case of Q1-2010 flu that's making the rounds.

If you're hungry for more, check out Engadget's video from today's event, or our impressions from E3.

JoystiqSony confirms EyePet US release this holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eyepetlondon-studioplaystation-eyeTue, 28 Jul 2009 16:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Impressions: EyePet (PS3)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/impressions-eyepet-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/impressions-eyepet-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/04/impressions-eyepet-ps3/#comments It's real, folks. We first learned of EyePet over a year ago, and approached it with both excitement and skepticism. When we had a chance to see EyePet running on PS3 live, we were blown away at how what we originally thought was a concept video had been completely real all along.

For those not in the know, EyePet is a virtual pet simulator that takes advantage of the PlayStation Eye. With the addition of a "magic card," players will be able to play with a virtual monkey that lives in augmented reality. The television will display what the PlayStation Eye sees: you, and your body. Your on-screen pet will then be able to respond to all your actions. You'll be able to virtually pet the creature on the head, grab a bowl of food and feed it, and play a variety of mini-games. The tactile sensation of owning a pet will be gone, but in its stead will be an unworldly adorable creature that uses tech that feels like it's from the future.

Perhaps it's best summed up with video, as EyePet truly needs to be seen to be understood. You can do so many things with the critter, and his incredibly detailed and lifelike animation makes this "game" all the more believable. For example, you can try sweeping your arm across the bottom of your TV view, and the pet will jump over your arm. When your pet goes to sleep, you can clap loudly and get it to wake up ... (although it might be grumpy!)

Gallery: EyePet

Continue reading Impressions: EyePet (PS3)

JoystiqImpressions: EyePet (PS3) originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camerae3-2009eyepetplaystation-eyeThu, 04 Jun 2009 08:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Philosony: Who let the - uh - simian out?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/philosony-who-let-the-uh-simian-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/philosony-who-let-the-uh-simian-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/13/philosony-who-let-the-uh-simian-out/#commentsFiled under:


Pet simulators have come a long way since our English teachers were giving us detention for trying to feed our pathetic, whimpering beeping Tamagotchi in class. Now we've got simulated dogs for our handhelds and virtual animals to keep our virtual people company on our PC. With the development of better robotics we've even seen geek's best friend jump through the LCD and follow us into tangible world. By this time next year (hopefully!) we should have a new kind of digital cuteness to keep us amused when no one is watching - the EyePet.

I recently wrote about some of the difficulties beyond realistic rendering that developers face when trying to make us emotionally attached to a character. Human behaviors and emotions are so much more difficult to mimic than those of animals, no matter how abstract. You'd find me silently weeping for the destruction of little Metal Gear Mk. II long before I'd be shedding tears for Solid Snake. Why is it easier to evoke a nurturing and protective instinct in a virtual pet than in a virtual human?

Continue reading Philosony: Who let the - uh - simian out?

JoystiqPhilosony: Who let the - uh - simian out? originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 13 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eyepeteyetoyjoystiqfeaturespetsphilosonypsychologyuncanny valleyUncannyValleySat, 13 Sep 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Choice: EyePet beat out Eight Days]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/sonys-choice-eyepet-beat-out-eight-days/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/sonys-choice-eyepet-beat-out-eight-days/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/sonys-choice-eyepet-beat-out-eight-days/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


It's harder to single out Nintendo for overlooking its "core audience" when you find out things like this. Speaking with GamesIndustry.biz, Shuhei Yoshida, Sony's head of worldwide studios, revealed that the company chose to fund development of a desktop toy virtual pet - EyePet - over a promising core audience action title, Eight Days.

When asked about the effect that canceling London Studio projects The Getaway 3 and Eight Days had on other titles, Yoshida responded, "There are so many things that we want to do, more than we can do with the resources. So when London Studio was looking at the early work on EyePet and the prototype of Eight Days, they knew they couldn't do all of them." So ... EyePet it was.

Granted, we don't know with any certainty that Eight Days was going to be any good, but an original action IP on a still very core audience console would seem like something worth investing more time in over a ... virtual pet.

Yohshida also said regarding the London Studio, "There are even more things they're working on at early concept stage." Tip for the staff there: If you don't want your big games canned, don't mention your "pet" projects to Shuhei the next time he pops in for a visit.

JoystiqSony's Choice: EyePet beat out Eight Days originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eight-dayseyepetlondon-studioPS3scee-london-studioshuhei-yoshidaThu, 28 Aug 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EyePet benefited from Eight Days and Getaway cancellations]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/eyepet-benefited-from-eight-days-and-getaway-cancellations/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/eyepet-benefited-from-eight-days-and-getaway-cancellations/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/28/eyepet-benefited-from-eight-days-and-getaway-cancellations/#commentsFiled under:


The adorable debut of EyePet at Leipzig Games Convention was quite possibly the biggest surprise of the show. The innovative use of the PlayStation Eye, coupled with one of fthe most adorable creature designs in recent memory, made it one of the most high-profile titles we showcased on our site during the Convention. Although it's still not planned for a release late next year, it benefited from the controversial cancellations of other SCEE games, such as Eight Days and The Getaway.

"Yes, there are so many things that we want to do, more than we can do with the resources. So when London Studio was looking at the early work on EyePet and the prototype of Eight Days, they knew they couldn't do all of them - and there are even more things they're working on at early concept stage," Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida told GI.biz. "So your expertise and ideas are best spent on some titles rather than others."

London Studios is arguably best known for their work on SingStar and other PS2/PS3 Eye games. Their experience in casual games developent will undoubtedly help EyePet. "London Studio is really best-placed for showing how these things can be done, because they've worked on games in that space for many years - they know how consumers are going to react, how to make it accessible and fun."

JoystiqEyePet benefited from Eight Days and Getaway cancellations originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 10:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eight-dayseyepetgetawaylondon-studiosshuhei-yoshidathe-getawayThu, 28 Aug 2008 10:10:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Eye + EyePet = Who needs real pets?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/playstation-eye-eyepet-who-needs-real-pets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/playstation-eye-eyepet-who-needs-real-pets/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/playstation-eye-eyepet-who-needs-real-pets/#commentsFiled under: ,


click the monkey

Our biggest problem with Sony's AIBO robotic dog was that, well ... it wasn't fake enough! Though it wasn't able to soil the floor, you could still touch it or (perish the thought!) pick it up. So it's with great interest that we bring you news of EyePet, a "responsive virtual pet who reacts to your every move" brought to you by our friends at SCEE. All you need is a PlayStation Eye camera, a PlayStation 3, and the ability to love.

"EyePet gives you all the lovable benefits and interaction of a real-life pet without tearing up your sofa or making a mess on the rug," says the totally understated press release. With a late 2009 release date, that gives you just enough time to forget all about that real miniature monkey thing you had when you were a kid. Video footage of your new best friend can be found after the break.

Gallery: EyePet

Continue reading PlayStation Eye + EyePet = Who needs real pets?

JoystiqPlayStation Eye + EyePet = Who needs real pets? originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsEyePetLeipzig-2008PlayStation-EyePS3SCEESony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeWed, 20 Aug 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[New PlayStation Eye game announced: Eyepet]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/new-playstation-eye-game-announced-eyepet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/new-playstation-eye-game-announced-eyepet/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/new-playstation-eye-game-announced-eyepet/#commentsFiled under: ,


Download to PSP

Do you love puppies and kittens? How about virtual puppies and kitties? If you do you, you might enjoy the new Eyepet game that's just been announced. Check it out in the video above.

It's a virtual pet game that allows gamers to interact with their pet by utilizing the PlayStation Eye peripheral. If you put an object in front of the PS Eye, the pet will interact with it on screen. If you wave your fingers in front of the PS Eye, you can tickle your "loveable, simian-like pet." Eyepet is developed by SCEE and will be available in "late 2009" for PAL regions.

JoystiqNew PlayStation Eye game announced: Eyepet originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eyepetlgc08playstation-eyeps-eyesceeWed, 20 Aug 2008 12:05:00 EST