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 2015 AOL, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sony accepting claims on 2011 PSN data breach settlement]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/sony-accepting-claims-on-2011-psn-data-breach-settlement/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/sony-accepting-claims-on-2011-psn-data-breach-settlement/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/26/sony-accepting-claims-on-2011-psn-data-breach-settlement/#comments If you were a PSN, Qriocity or Sony Online Entertainment user at the time of the April 2011 Sony hack that disrupted the PlayStation Network for nearly a month and compromised 70 million user accounts, now's your chance to get a piece of the class action settlement levied against Sony last year.

To qualify, you must have held a PSN, Qriocity or Sony Online Entertainment account on or before May 14, 2011. Each service is eligible to receive different claims, but PSN users are able to receive either one or two games - if you already received a free game in Sony's 2011 "Welcome Back" promotion, you're only eligible for one; if not, you're eligible to choose two - from a list that includes standouts like LittleBigPlanet and God of War HD. Notably, none of the games on offer are for the PlayStation 4. If none of the games tickle your fancy, you can instead choose free dynamic themes for your PlayStation 3 or free PlayStation Plus subscription time.

After wading through multiple pages of bureaucratic legalese, you'll find everything you need to make your claim at the PSN-SOE settlement website.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqSony accepting claims on 2011 PSN data breach settlement originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>LBPlegalLittleBigPlanetplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnpspsettlementsonyvitaMon, 26 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[UK teen arrested over suspected involvement in Xbox Live, PSN DDoS attacks]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/uk-teen-arrested-over-suspected-involvement-in-xbox-live-psn-dd/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/uk-teen-arrested-over-suspected-involvement-in-xbox-live-psn-dd/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/17/uk-teen-arrested-over-suspected-involvement-in-xbox-live-psn-dd/#comments An 18-year-old male was arrested as part of a larger investigation into the attacks which brought down the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live in 2014, according to a statement released earlier this week by the UK's South East Regional Organised Crime Unit (SEROCU).

Craig Jones, head of SEROCU's Cyber Crime Unit, attested to working with the FBI on the investigation, which also includes numerous "swatting" offenses. "This investigation is a good example of joint law enforcement cooperation in relation to a type of criminality that is not restricted by any geographical boundaries," Jones said. "We will continue to work closely with the FBI to identify those to who commit offences and hold them to account."

The alleged cyber criminal was brought in under suspicion of unauthorized access to computer material contrary to section 1 of Computer Misuse Act 1990, unauthorized access with intent to commit further offences contrary to section 2 of Computer Misuse Act 1990 and threats to kill contrary to Section 16 of Offences against the person Act 1861.
[Image: Microsoft/Sony]

JoystiqUK teen arrested over suspected involvement in Xbox Live, PSN DDoS attacks originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 17 Jan 2015 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeddosmicrosoftplaystationplaystation-networkps3ps4psnserocuswattingukxboxxbox-livexbox-oneSat, 17 Jan 2015 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Destiny tops PS4 downloads in 2014]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/destiny-tops-ps4-downloads-in-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/destiny-tops-ps4-downloads-in-2014/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/16/destiny-tops-ps4-downloads-in-2014/#comments Bungie's Destiny topped the PlayStation Store's PS4 best-sellers list for all of 2014, Sony revealed today. The store's top sellers on the current-generation console don't include many surprises; Grand Theft Auto 5 took the second spot, followed by Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Minecraft and The Last of Us Remastered to round out the top five. GTA 5 was the most purchased PS4 game in the month of December.

As for PS3 games, Minecraft led all purchases on the system in 2014 on the PS Store, followed by GTA 5, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Destiny and Battlefield 4. Likewise, the list of top-selling PS4 and PS3 add-ons are a mix of Destiny, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 and Call of Duty: Ghosts DLC for the most part; Battlefield 4 Premium and The Last of Us' Left Behind DLC swooped in to the third spot in the PS4 and PS3 lists, respectively. Sword Art Online: Hollow Fragment was the highest-selling game last year on the PlayStation Store for Vita. The Bandai Namco RPG was trailed on the handheld system by Minecraft, Killzone: Mercenary, Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Z and Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster.
[Image: Activision]

JoystiqDestiny tops PS4 downloads in 2014 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Jan 2015 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battlefield-4call-of-duty-advanced-warfaredestinygrand-theft-auto-5minecraftplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-storeplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnsalessonythe-last-of-us-remasteredtop-sellingvitaFri, 16 Jan 2015 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Network offline, Sony investigating [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/playstation-network-offline-sony-investigating/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/playstation-network-offline-sony-investigating/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/playstation-network-offline-sony-investigating/#comments Update 2: According to the PSN Support page, PlayStation online services are back to normal. Sony offered no reason for the outage.

Update 1: Sony has upgraded its online support status from red (offline) to yellow ("Heavy Network Traffic"). Some users may experience delays in signing in, with the PSN console and web store and more.

Those attempting to log into the PlayStation Network may be met with connection issues. According to the PSN Support page, the network is listed as offline. The cause of the outage is currently unknown.

"We're aware that some of you are having issues connecting to the PSN. Engineers are investigating," the official Ask PlayStation account tweeted. Additional PSN-related services, including the Sony Entertainment Network store, are experiencing problems.

Sony's PSN ended 2014 on a down note - an issue that also plagued the Xbox Live service - due to an apparent DDoS attack on its servers. Service, however, was soon restored. Sony has scheduled maintenance for the PlayStation Network on January 15, during which the service will be unavailable from 12PM EST and through 4PM EST.

JoystiqPlayStation Network offline, Sony investigating [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2015 20:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4vitaTue, 13 Jan 2015 20:03:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: PlayStation Network comes down temporarily on January 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/psa-playstation-network-comes-down-temporarily-on-january-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/psa-playstation-network-comes-down-temporarily-on-january-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/13/psa-playstation-network-comes-down-temporarily-on-january-15/#comments Owners of Sony gaming devices, take note: The console manufacturer has scheduled PlayStation Network maintenance for January 15, which will bring the online service down for approximately four hours.

During the downtime, PlayStation owners will not be able to access the PSN Store, any streaming entertainment apps or online gameplay functions. However, if you just can't go four hours without shooting somebody over the Internet, you can get around this problem by signing into PSN before the network comes down. As long as you don't sign out of the PlayStation Network, you'll be able to play online while everyone else is forced to interact with reality.

Barring any last-minute changes or unexpected problems, the downtime is scheduled to occur at 12PM EST and last through 4PM EST.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSA: PlayStation Network comes down temporarily on January 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maintenanceplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnsonyvitaTue, 13 Jan 2015 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: Players report sporadic PSN connection issues]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/psa-players-report-sporadic-psn-connection-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/psa-players-report-sporadic-psn-connection-issues/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/07/psa-players-report-sporadic-psn-connection-issues/#comments Sony is currently investigating PlayStation Network connection issues affecting a number of users this morning, citing "heavy network traffic" as a culprit via its support page.

"We're aware that some players are seeing drops on PSN," the official PlayStation Twitter account confirms. "Engineers are on the case and investigating."

Today's reports follow up on the recent restoration of PSN service after a disruptive DDoS attack on Christmas Eve. A timeframe for a fix is not yet known.

[Image: Sony)

JoystiqPSA: Players report sporadic PSN connection issues originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2015 11:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psavitaWed, 07 Jan 2015 11:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq Weekly: Awesome Games Done Quick, Kalimba review, DIY Mario and more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/joystiq-weekly-awesome-games-done-quick-kalimba-review-diy-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/joystiq-weekly-awesome-games-done-quick-kalimba-review-diy-ma/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/04/joystiq-weekly-awesome-games-done-quick-kalimba-review-diy-ma/#commentsWelcome to Joystiq Weekly, a "too long; didn't read" of each week's biggest stories, reviews and original content. Each category's top story is introduced with a reactionary gif, because moving pictures aren't just for The Daily Prophet.
It was a pretty quiet week thanks to the end-of-the-year holiday lull, but things should pick up soon! Like, today even - Awesome Games Done Quick has just kicked off a week-long marathon of high-skill and speedrun-oriented livestreams, with all donations benefiting the Prevent Cancer Foundation. If supporting a worthwhile cause isn't enough of an excuse to watch talented players blaze through games, what is? ... Yes, okay, other than free puppies.

While you're waiting on something of interest that's buried in the event's schedule, catch up on what you might have missed while you were doing relaxing, vacation-y things. PlayStation Network users got good news regarding last week's service outage, Contributing Editor Danny Cowan's relationship survived his Kalimba review, and we explored the history of do-it-yourself Mario and the technical shift in Mortal Kombat X's gore.

Continue reading Joystiq Weekly: Awesome Games Done Quick, Kalimba review, DIY Mario and more

JoystiqJoystiq Weekly: Awesome Games Done Quick, Kalimba review, DIY Mario and more originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 04 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-of-the-restgames-with-goldgolem-arcanajoystiq-weeklykalimbamario-makermortal-kombat-xplaystation-networkplaystation-pluspsnsonic-runnersthe-talos-principlexbox-live-goldSun, 04 Jan 2015 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony to compensate PSN users with Plus extension, discount code]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/02/sony-to-compensate-psn-users-with-plus-time-discount-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/02/sony-to-compensate-psn-users-with-plus-time-discount-code/http://www.joystiq.com/2015/01/02/sony-to-compensate-psn-users-with-plus-time-discount-code/#comments Sony's offering five days of extra PlayStation Plus membership as its way of making up for the recent network outage. The gesture of goodwill isn't limited to Plus subscribers, as all PlayStation Network users are getting a one-time 10 percent discount code for the PS Store.

Sony's Eric Lempel said the company "wanted to show our appreciation" for users' patience after last month's PSN outage, which saw services like the Store and online multiplayer go AWOL. Both PSN and Microsoft's Xbox Live service went offline on Christmas Eve following distributed denial of service attacks.

Continue reading Sony to compensate PSN users with Plus extension, discount code

JoystiqSony to compensate PSN users with Plus extension, discount code originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 Jan 2015 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddosdiscountplaystationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-plusplaystation-storeplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnsonyvitaFri, 02 Jan 2015 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: PlayStation Network back online, service restored [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/28/psa-playstation-network-back-online-service-restored/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/28/psa-playstation-network-back-online-service-restored/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/28/psa-playstation-network-back-online-service-restored/#comments The PlayStation Network appears to be fully armed and operational, according to an update post on the PlayStation Blog. The update confirms that the PSN suffered a DDoS (distributed denial of service) attack on Christmas Eve Day, and though the group that took credit for bringing the service down claimed to have ceased its attack on December 25, it was not until late last evening that service was restored. Sony now reports in no uncertain terms that "PlayStation Network is back online."

If you received or purchased a PlayStation system over the holidays, you should be free to enjoy your new console.

Update: If you're a PS4 user still having difficulties logging in, the Ask PlayStation Twitter account suggests that age-old fix of restarting your system. A tweet reads, "PS4 users: If you are still having issues signing in to PSN today, please reboot the console and try again."
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSA: PlayStation Network back online, service restored [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 28 Dec 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddosddos-attackplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psapsnsonyvitaSun, 28 Dec 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Store Update: Alien Isolation, Diablo 3, more]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/psn-store-update-alien-isolation-diablo-3-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/psn-store-update-alien-isolation-diablo-3-more/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/24/psn-store-update-alien-isolation-diablo-3-more/#comments In a last-ditch effort to get in your wallet before the end of the year, the PlayStation Store has a number of good deals on games this week. Among the many deals for PS4 players at the moment, Alien: Isolation is $35.99 ($29.99 for PS Plus members), while the game's season pass is down to $14.99. Additionally, Diablo 3: Ultimate Evil Edition is $39.59 ($35.99 on PS Plus), Escape Goat 2 is half-price ($5, $4 on PS Plus), Metal Gear Solid 5: Ground Zeroes is just $6.80 and Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag is $25 ($20 on PS Plus).

As for Vita, players can download Danganronpa 2 for $27.99 ($23.99 on PS Plus), Nidhogg for $10.49 ($8.99 through PS Plus), Thomas Was Alone and Stealth Inc. for $3.99 each as well as Lone Survivor: The Director's Cut for $5 ($4 via PS Plus). A number of games, such as Nidhogg and Thomas Was Alone, are Cross-Buy compatible, so those with multiple systems only need to pay once to access each version. That includes Flippfly's Race the Sun, which is down to $6.99 at the moment across all three PlayStation platforms ($5.99 on PS Plus). Head over to PlayStation Blog for a full list of the current deals.
[Image: Sega]

JoystiqPSN Store Update: Alien Isolation, Diablo 3, more originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-isolationaliens-isolationassassins-creed-4-black-flagcreative-assemblydiablo-3discountsescape-goat-2metal-gear-solid-ground-zeroesnidhoggplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-plusPlayStation-Storeplaystation-vitaps-plusps3ps4psnrace-the-sunsalesegathomas-was-alonevitaWed, 24 Dec 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[After Burner Climax faces XBLA/PSN delisting this month]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/after-burner-climax-faces-xbla-psn-delisting-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/after-burner-climax-faces-xbla-psn-delisting-this-month/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/11/after-burner-climax-faces-xbla-psn-delisting-this-month/#comments This month is your last chance to pick up Sega's arcade-ported shoot-'em-up After Burner Climax on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Digital storefront monitor lifelower reports that the Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network versions of After Burner Climax will be permanently delisted on December 24.

Buyers will be able to redownload purchased copies of After Burner Climax at a later date, but once the game is delisted, it can no longer be bought or added to a user's software library. Sega Nerds speculates that expired licensing agreements between Sega and the manufacturers of the real-world aircraft featured in After Burner Climax are to blame for the game's forthcoming removal. A similar issue resulted in the deletion of Sega's Ferrari-licensed racer OutRun Online Arcade from digital storefronts in 2011.

Starting next year, if you want to legally play After Burner Climax and don't already own a digital copy, you'll need to track down an original arcade machine. Here's a tip: The GameWorks across the street from the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle hosts a pair of Climax cabinets, so you might want to make plans to visit the next time you're in town for PAX Prime.

[Image: Sega]

JoystiqAfter Burner Climax faces XBLA/PSN delisting this month originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Dec 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>after-burner-climaxdelistingmicrosoftplaystationplaystation-networkps3removalsegaxboxxbox-live-arcadeThu, 11 Dec 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Last of Us gets weapons, skills, gear in new DLC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/the-last-of-us-gets-weapons-skills-gear-in-new-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/the-last-of-us-gets-weapons-skills-gear-in-new-dlc/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/09/the-last-of-us-gets-weapons-skills-gear-in-new-dlc/#comments Naughty Dog launched add-ons for The Last of Us' online multiplayer Factions mode this week, each piece available for purchase individually or in convenient bundles. The game's new Tactical Weapons bundle ($2.99) features a tactical shotgun, burst pistol, frontier rifle and crossbow, each available for $0.99 separately. The Last of Us' Misfit Head Item pack costs $6.99 and includes eight clothing and gear options for players such as ski goggles and a viking hat, each available at varying prices individually.

Likewise, the Risk Management Survival Skills pack ($3.99) includes five new skills that are otherwise $0.99 each. Lone Wolf boosts players that separate from their team, Second Chance grants a bonus health kit to those in danger, Jack of All Trades boosts grab-bag level one skills, Lucky Break increases supply box hauls and the special execution-improving Lethal Efficiency skill. Speaking of which, the game's Special Executions pack costs $2.99 and offers new animation sets for takedowns across nine weapon categories, each one costing $0.99 on their own.

Lastly, Naughty Dog introduced two new gestures packs for $2.49 each, with individual gestures going for, you guessed it, $0.99. The developer noted that some of the special execution animations didn't make the cut for the game's PS3 version due to the system's memory constraints.
[Image: SCEA]

Continue reading The Last of Us gets weapons, skills, gear in new DLC

JoystiqThe Last of Us gets weapons, skills, gear in new DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Dec 2014 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-ondlcdownloadable-contentNaughty-Dogplaystationplaystation-networkps3ps4psnsceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-Americathe-last-of-usthe-last-of-us-remasteredTue, 09 Dec 2014 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Metal Slug 3, fan-chosen Neo Geo games coming to PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/metal-slug-3-fan-chosen-neo-geo-games-coming-to-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/metal-slug-3-fan-chosen-neo-geo-games-coming-to-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/04/metal-slug-3-fan-chosen-neo-geo-games-coming-to-psn/#comments SNK Playmore will port select games from its Neo Geo back catalog to the PlayStation Network starting with next year's release of the classic run-and-gunner Metal Slug 3 for the PlayStation 4, PS3, and PS Vita.

Metal Slug 3 saw an upgraded Steam release earlier this year boasting online multiplayer and leaderboard support. An Xbox Live Arcade version was released in 2008.

SNK Playmore is polling fans to determine its next PSN release among a list of 15 possible games. Featured candidates include competitive shoot-'em-up Twinkle Star Sprites, acclaimed golfing sim Neo Turf Masters, and combo-driven brawler Sengoku 3, along with classic fighters like Garou: Mark of the Wolves, Samurai Shodown 5 Special, and The Last Blade 2.

[Image: SNK Playmore]

JoystiqMetal Slug 3, fan-chosen Neo Geo games coming to PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Dec 2014 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>metal-slug-3neo-geoplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitapollps3ps4psnsnk-playmorevitavoteThu, 04 Dec 2014 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Old man Snake goes digital in Metal Gear Solid 4 re-release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/old-man-snake-goes-digital-in-metal-gear-solid-4-re-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/old-man-snake-goes-digital-in-metal-gear-solid-4-re-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/old-man-snake-goes-digital-in-metal-gear-solid-4-re-release/#comments If you missed the collection of dramatic cutscenes known as Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, you have another chance to grab the stealth action hit in a newly-revealed digital release. Come December 16, Konami will launch a PlayStation 3 download of Metal Gear Solid 4 on the PlayStation Network at a price of $20.

While Metal Gear Solid 4 has been repackaged before, Konami claims this digital release will mark "the first time the acclaimed tactical espionage game has been made available as a digital download." That should help alleviate the lengthy installation players face on first starting Metal Gear Solid 4, but those lacking bandwidth be warned: According to Konami, the digital game is a 30GB download.
[Image: Konami]

Continue reading Old man Snake goes digital in Metal Gear Solid 4 re-release

JoystiqOld man Snake goes digital in Metal Gear Solid 4 re-release originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digitalhideo-kojimakonamimetal-gear-solidMetal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsMGS-4MGS4MGS4-Guns-of-the-Patriotsplaystationplaystation-networkps3sonyWed, 03 Dec 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony rings in the holidays with four weeks of PSN discounts]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/sony-rings-in-the-holidays-with-four-weeks-of-psn-discounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/sony-rings-in-the-holidays-with-four-weeks-of-psn-discounts/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/12/03/sony-rings-in-the-holidays-with-four-weeks-of-psn-discounts/#comments Sony wants to make it a bit easier to avoid the hazards of brick and mortar retailers this holiday season with a fully digital, four week-long PlayStation Network sale on television shows, movies and games for each of the publisher's platforms.

From now until the end of December, PlayStation Network visitors will find a wide swath of releases available at up to 65 percent off. Those discounts jump as high as 75 percent off for PlayStation Plus subscribers. Highlights include the PlayStation 4's alternate history shooter Wolfenstein: The New Order at $36 ($30 with PS Plus), both crude cartoon adaptation South Park: The Stick of Truth and racing sim Gran Turismo 6 at $20 ($16 with PS Plus) and Capcom's lesser known yet highly addictive action platformer Dustforce for $5 ($4 with PS Plus).

A full list of ongoing discounts can be found on the PlayStation.blog. If you can't find anything appealing there, have patience. This promotion adds new discounts each week, with the biggest discounts presumably arriving as we inch closer to December 25.
[Image: Bethesda Softworks]

JoystiqSony rings in the holidays with four weeks of PSN discounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discountplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4salesonyvitawolfenstein-the-new-orderWed, 03 Dec 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Co-Op Sale: Dark Souls 2, Far Cry 3, Rayman]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/25/playstation-co-op-sale-dark-souls-2-far-cry-3-rayman/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/25/playstation-co-op-sale-dark-souls-2-far-cry-3-rayman/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/25/playstation-co-op-sale-dark-souls-2-far-cry-3-rayman/#comments In the spirit of the money-saving holidays (and Thanksgiving, we guess), Sony kicked off a new Co-Op Gaming sale today that discounts games with local or online multiplayer functionality. The deals end on December 1, and PlayStation Plus subscribers get a bigger discount than other PSN users: up to 80 percent off the price of some games.

Of the group, there are ten PlayStation 4 games on sale through PSN this week, among which are Awesomenauts Assemble ($5.39), EA Sports UFC ($13.99), Mercenary Kings ($8.99), Rayman Legends ($19.59), Surgeon Simulator: A&E Anniversary Edition ($6.39), TowerFall Ascension ($7.34) and Trine 2: Complete Story ($7.99). Other notable deals include Borderlands 2 (PS3, $4.54), Dark Souls 2 (PS3, $19.59), Rayman Origins ($13.29 on Vita, $9.79 on PS3) and Far Cry 3 (PS3, $9.79).
[Image: Ubisoft]

JoystiqPlayStation Co-Op Sale: Dark Souls 2, Far Cry 3, Rayman originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 25 Nov 2014 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awesomenautsblack-fridayblack-friday-2014borderlands-2co-opcooperativedark-souls-2ea-sports-ufcfar-cry-3holidayholiday-2014local-multiplayermercenary-kingsmuliplayeronline-multiplayerplaystationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnrayman-legendsrayman-originssalesonytowerfall-ascensionvitaTue, 25 Nov 2014 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony denies hacker group's infiltration into PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/sony-denies-hacker-groups-infiltration-into-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/sony-denies-hacker-groups-infiltration-into-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/22/sony-denies-hacker-groups-infiltration-into-psn/#comments There has been no intrusion into the PlayStation Network, Sony has told Joystiq in the wake of a hacker group reportedly leaking 2,131 PSN logins.

"We have investigated the claims that our network was breached and have found no evidence that there was any intrusion into our network," a Sony rep wrote to Joystiq. "Unfortunately, Internet fraud including phishing and password matching are realities that consumers and online networks face on a regular basis. We take these reports very seriously and will continue to monitor our network closely."

According to Cnet, the group leaked these logins in a public Pastebin document. However, both the group's Twitter account linking to the document and the document itself have since been taken down. Cnet reports that the group also revealed 1,473 Windows Live logins, and 2,000 2K Games logins. We've reached out to Microsoft and 2K to confirm network intrusion and will update if we hear back.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqSony denies hacker group's infiltration into PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 22 Nov 2014 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackplaystationplaystation-networkps3ps4psnsonySat, 22 Nov 2014 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[FIFA 15 among games blocking PS4 Share Play in US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/fifa-15-among-games-blocking-ps4-share-play-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/fifa-15-among-games-blocking-ps4-share-play-in-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/14/fifa-15-among-games-blocking-ps4-share-play-in-us/#comments Users are reporting a number of issues with using the PS4's Share Play feature, Sony's online pass-the-controller multiplayer service. Namely, it appears FIFA 15 is giving players fits, as visiting players are unable to view the footage shown on the host's console. Rather, one half of the Share Play tandem sees the screen above, which says, "Viewing the game screen that the host is currently playing is not allowed due to content restrictions in your country or region."

In our tests between two US-based PS4 players this morning, the Share Play visitor was unable to view game footage on four separate occasions: In FIFA 15, WWE 2K15, Guacamelee and Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor. Share Play for FIFA 15 was functional once we tested the service with our UK-based editor, Sinan Kubba (albeit with some bouts of lowered resolution and frame-dropping). However, it appears the error message being displayed is entirely inaccurate, as PlayStation noted on Twitter, adding that the support team is investigating the issues.

Eurogamer's big list of Share Play-functioning games notes that FIFA 15 "works fine," so your mileage (or kilometer-age in this case) may vary at the moment. Share Play arrived in October as part of the PS4's version 2.0 update, which itself caused a number of other issues for players. Sony issued another update just this week, version 2.02, to rectify some of the console's lingering problems. We've reached out to Sony to find out what might be causing the hiccups with Share Play and which games are affected.

JoystiqFIFA 15 among games blocking PS4 Share Play in US originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Nov 2014 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cooperativeeaea-canadaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfifafifa-15issuesmultiplayeronline-multiplayerplaystationPlayStation-Networkproblemsps4ps4-shareps4-share-playpsnshare-playSONYFri, 14 Nov 2014 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Extensive PSN maintenance scheduled for November 17]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/13/extensive-psn-maintenance-scheduled-for-november-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/13/extensive-psn-maintenance-scheduled-for-november-17/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/13/extensive-psn-maintenance-scheduled-for-november-17/#comments Heads up, PlayStation owners: Sony plans to bring the PlayStation Network down on Monday, November 17 to "deploy a series of back-end improvements to the network."

According to a notice on the PlayStation.blog, PSN will be unavailable for "approximately 6 hours" from 1PM to 7PM ET (that's 18:00GMT to 00:00GMT, Tuesday morning for our friends in Europe). The good news is that if you've logged into PSN at any time between November 13 and November 17, you'll still be able to play games online and use online apps like Netflix during this maintenance period. However, PlayStation Home, the PlayStation Store and your console's account management features will be unavailable.

This is where we cross our fingers and pray to the gods of tech support that nothing goes catastrophically wrong with these backend updates, as they come mere hours before the debut of a number of high-profile PlayStation 3 and PS4 games including Far Cry 4 and the re-release of Grand Theft Auto 5.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqExtensive PSN maintenance scheduled for November 17 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Nov 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>far-cry-4maintenanceplaystationplaystation-networkps3ps4psnsonyThu, 13 Nov 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Towerfall expands into the Dark World on PS4 in 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/towerfall-expands-into-the-dark-world-on-ps4-in-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/towerfall-expands-into-the-dark-world-on-ps4-in-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/11/towerfall-expands-into-the-dark-world-on-ps4-in-2015/#comments Towerfall Ascension's forthcoming Dark World expansion will arrive on PS4 early next year, developer Matt Thorson revealed via PlayStation Blog. The update adds new playable archers, four levels, power-ups and more to the archery combat platformer. The developer also upped the number of team deathmatch levels per tower to five in the expansion.

Thorson announced the Dark World update in September, and has since detailed several improvements to the game via his blog. Dark World will add the Vainglorious Ghoul red archer to the game's roster along with her ghostly ship as one of the levels, The Amaranth. The final tower of Towerfall's expansion, known as Cataclysm, features procedurally-generated levels to keep the action fresh for multiplayer bouts. Dark World will also include power-ups such as Prism Arrows and Trigger Arrows, the latter behaving like remote mines.
[Image: Matt Thorson]

JoystiqTowerfall expands into the Dark World on PS4 in 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 Nov 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>add-ondark-worlddlcexpansionindiematt-thorsonplatformerplaystationplaystation-networkps4psnscreenshotstowerfalltowerfall-ascensiontowerfall-ascension-dark-worldtowerfall-dark-worldupdateTue, 11 Nov 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Banner Saga, Armikrog journey to PS4 in early 2015]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/10/the-banner-saga-armikrog-journey-to-ps4-in-early-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/10/the-banner-saga-armikrog-journey-to-ps4-in-early-2015/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/11/10/the-banner-saga-armikrog-journey-to-ps4-in-early-2015/#comments Four games from independent developers will arrive on PS4 in early 2015, each courtesy of publisher Versus Evil. The publisher, which specializes in assisting independent devs reach new platforms and regions, revealed Stoic Studio's viking RPG The Banner Saga among the handful of games destined for the PlayStation Network. The Banner Saga's first episode launched in January after a successful $723,886 campaign on Kickstarter funded the game in April 2012.

Versus Evil will also help another Kickstarter-funded game to reach PS4 early next year, Pencil Test Studios' clay-sculpted adventure game Armikrog.

The other two games arriving on PS4 in 2015 thanks to the publisher are Kyn and Toren, the latter developed by Brazilian studio Swordtales. Players guide a "Moonchild" through the stages of childhood while ascending a tower in Toren, solving puzzles and slashing at enemies along the way. Versus Evil noted in PlayStation Blog's comments that none of the games are slated to reach Vita as of yet.
[Image: Stoic Studio]

Continue reading The Banner Saga, Armikrog journey to PS4 in early 2015

JoystiqThe Banner Saga, Armikrog journey to PS4 in early 2015 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Nov 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventurearmikrogindiekynpencil-test-studiosplaystationPlayStation-Networkportps4psnPublisherPublishingrpgstoic-studioswordtalesthe-banner-sagatorenversus-evilMon, 10 Nov 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Driveclub deploys server update, PS Plus Edition 'on hold']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/driveclub-deploys-server-update-ps-plus-edition-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/driveclub-deploys-server-update-ps-plus-edition-on-hold/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/28/driveclub-deploys-server-update-ps-plus-edition-on-hold/#comments PlayStation 4-exclusive racer Driveclub has seen a "significant" server update to address online issues that linger after the game's launch earlier this month, developer Evolution Studios announced.

Players should see improvements in Driveclub's competitive multiplayer component starting this week, and leaderboard fixes are also on the way. Many of Driveclub's online features were previously disabled as its developers addressed connectivity issues that cropped up post-launch.

"The issues with server performance were never encountered during the past year, in any of the many rounds of testing prior to launch," a reply from Driveclub's official Facebook account reads. "The servers were actually live for over a week before Oct 7 for reviewers and none of these issues were discovered during that time either.

"The servers hit their absolute limit soon after the midnight launch on Oct 7 [...] and we have been working around the clock every day since, to get more servers online and improve the way that the servers handle social activity between players."

The team is additionally holding back Driveclub's free PlayStation Plus Edition, pending online fixes. "The PS Plus Edition is on hold while this work progresses and we want to get it back on track as quickly as possible, because we want everyone to enjoy the game we've poured our hearts into throughout development," Evolution Studios revealed via Facebook.

[Update: Evolution Studios has issued another Facebook update explaining this week's fixes in detail. "Our diagnostics show the majority of you are now able to get online and racing," the developer states. "Today we also released a server update to optimize multiplayer matchmaking so you will now be matched with more suitable players based on the type of internet connection you have, which means matchmaking should be more reliable. This update will also fix some bugs we had with clubs where some players couldn't join or leave a club."]

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqDriveclub deploys server update, PS Plus Edition 'on hold' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 28 Oct 2014 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>driveclubevolution-studiosplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-plusps4serverupdateTue, 28 Oct 2014 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Shadow Warrior, The Legend of Korra]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/psn-tuesday-shadow-warrior-the-legend-of-korra/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/psn-tuesday-shadow-warrior-the-legend-of-korra/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/21/psn-tuesday-shadow-warrior-the-legend-of-korra/#comments Though the PlayStation gets the bulk of new additions in today's PlayStation Network Store update, most of the biggest releases are available on multiple Sony devices.

Koei Tecmo's musou brawler Samurai Warriors 4 and arcade flyer Race The Sun are now available on the PlayStation 4, PS3 and Vita. Battlefield 4 Premium Edition and Platinum Games' Legend of Korra game adaptation are now available on both PlayStation 4 and PS3. Just Dance 2015 likewise graces both the PlayStation 4 and PS3.

Devolver's Shadow Warrior and Season Two of Telltale's The Walking Dead adventure game are now available on PS4 as well. For a full rundown of the new games, DLC and pre-orders available via the PlayStation Network, visit the PlayStation Blog.
[Image: Koei Tecmo]

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Shadow Warrior, The Legend of Korra originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2014 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnpsn-tuesdaysamurai-warriors-4sonyvitaTue, 21 Oct 2014 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Flash Sale highlights heroines across games and movies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/17/psn-flash-sale-highlights-heroines-across-games-and-movies/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/17/psn-flash-sale-highlights-heroines-across-games-and-movies/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/17/psn-flash-sale-highlights-heroines-across-games-and-movies/#comments Sony is discounting 20 games and 30 movies as part of this weekend's PSN Flash Sale - and it's not hard to figure out the theme. The deals include PS3 games like Bayonetta ($7.99), BloodRayne: Betrayal ($2.49), Portal 2 ($4.99), Remember Me ($11.99), Mirror's Edge ($2.25) and Beyond Good and Evil ($3.49). The sale also features a few games for both PS3 and Vita, such as Hatsune Miku: Project Diva ($11.99 for Vita, $19.99 for PS3), Knytt Underground ($2.49) and Resident Evil 3: Nemesis ($1.49).

PSN's discounted movies vary in price based on whether viewers pick up the standard or high-definition versions. Kill Bill Volume 1 and Volume 2 are $6.99 each ($9.99 HD), as is Lara Croft: Tomb Raider and its follow-up, Lara Croft: The Cradle of Life ($10.99 HD each). Plus, Five Resident Evil films as well as four Underworld movies are discounted this weekend to $8.99 each ($9.99 HD). The sale ends at 3:00 p.m. EST (12:00 p.m. PST) on Monday, October 20.
[Image: Majesco]

JoystiqPSN Flash Sale highlights heroines across games and movies originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Oct 2014 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Bayonettabeyond-good-and-evilbloodrayne-betrayalflash-salemirrors-edgeplaystationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitaportal-2ps3psnpsn-flash-saleRemember-MesalevitaFri, 17 Oct 2014 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sound Shapes, Muramasa, and more get PSN Ultimate Editions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/sound-shapes-muramasa-and-more-get-psn-ultimate-editions/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/sound-shapes-muramasa-and-more-get-psn-ultimate-editions/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/15/sound-shapes-muramasa-and-more-get-psn-ultimate-editions/#comments If you're looking to catch up on some of the PlayStation Network's best releases to date, a gaggle of new digital Ultimate Editions have launched this week, offering DLC-bundled versions of Sound Shapes, Muramasa: The Demon Blade, and Batman: Arkham Origins.

Other newly-collected Ultimate Editions include Dead Island: Riptide, The Amazing Spider-Man 2, and Toukiden: Age of Demons. Sony is also hosting a sale this week on many previously-released Ultimate Editions, including Deadly Premonition: The Director's Cut, Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, Saints Row 4, and Resident Evil 6.

PlayStation Plus members get an additional discount on top of listed price drops. Sale prices remain in effect through October 20.

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqSound Shapes, Muramasa, and more get PSN Ultimate Editions originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Oct 2014 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batman-arkham-originsdead-island-riptidemuramasa-the-demon-bladeplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3psnsound-shapesthe-amazing-spider-man-2toukiden-the-age-of-demonsultimate-editionvitaWed, 15 Oct 2014 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN going offline for maintenance October 13]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/09/psn-going-offline-for-maintenance-october-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/09/psn-going-offline-for-maintenance-october-13/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/09/psn-going-offline-for-maintenance-october-13/#comments Do you have next Monday, October 13 off work? Are you planning ahead to call in sick for school that day? Do you have that date circled on your calendar with the note "gaming marathon" written on it? If you answered "yes" to any of those questions, be aware that Sony has PlayStation Network maintenance scheduled for that day.

The routine maintenance is planned to begin at 1:00 p.m. EST (10:00 a.m. PST) and will last until 8:00 p.m. EST (5:00 p.m. PST). PlayStation's support team noted that those that log in to PSN at any point from yesterday on will retain online play and app access during the maintenance period. However, the PlayStation Store, PlayStation Home and account management services will not be available during that time.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSN going offline for maintenance October 13 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>maintenanceplaystationplaystation-homePlayStation-NetworkPlayStation-Storeplaystation-vitaps3ps4psaPSNscheduled-maintenanceSONYvitaThu, 09 Oct 2014 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN Tuesday: Driveclub, Alien: Isolation, Vib-Ribbon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/07/psn-tuesday-driveclub-alien-isolation-vib-ribbon/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/07/psn-tuesday-driveclub-alien-isolation-vib-ribbon/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/07/psn-tuesday-driveclub-alien-isolation-vib-ribbon/#comments It's a big week for the PlayStation 4, as Sony's newest console adds Alien: Isolation, Driveclub and NBA 2K15 to its complement of big-name game offerings available through the PlayStation Network. The system is likewise well-represented among smaller-scale games, including Dust: An Elysian Tail, Pix The Cat and Spelunky - all of which are available as free downloads to PlayStation Plus subscribers.

The PlayStation 3 also picks up Alien: Isolation and NBA 2K15, but the console's most enticing additions are two PlayStation One-era classics: Capcom's 2D action platformer Strider 2 and bizarro cult rhythm hit Vib-Ribbon. Both games can be downloaded for $6.

The Vita handheld has received the fewest number of notable additions in this week's PlayStation Network update, but it too now offers access to Vib-Ribbon, as well as Pix The Cat. If your tastes run toward anime-styled action adventures, Bandai Namco has launched One Piece Unlimited World Red - Prestige Edition, an enhanced, content-rich redux of the 3DS' One Piece Unlimited World Red.

As with each weekly PlayStation Network update, you can find full details on each of these games, as well as information on how to purchase them, on Sony's official PlayStation.blog.
[Image: Sega]

JoystiqPSN Tuesday: Driveclub, Alien: Isolation, Vib-Ribbon originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Oct 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alien-isolationaliens-isolationplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psn-tuesdayvitaTue, 07 Oct 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Spend $100 on PSN in October, get $15 back]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/spend-100-on-psn-in-october-get-15-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/spend-100-on-psn-in-october-get-15-back/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/10/02/spend-100-on-psn-in-october-get-15-back/#comments Sony's latest promotion is dishing cash back to those that buy goods on PSN this month. As of October 1, players that spend at least $100 using their Sony Entertainment Network wallets will receive $15 in credit. The credit will be delivered to those taking advantage of the offer "on or before November 7" via email or PS4, PS3 or Vita system notification in redemption code form.

The promotion runs through Tuesday, October 28. Players will have until December 5 to redeem their $15 credit codes. Now the question is: What ever shall you spend that $100 on? PS4 players may consider the recently-launched and excellent Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, or may choose to pre-order Alien: Isolation via PSN. Or you could just blow it all on repeated rentals of Hocus Pocus. Your call.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqSpend $100 on PSN in October, get $15 back originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>creditplaystationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitapromotionps3ps4psnpspsceasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Entertainment-NetworkvitawalletThu, 02 Oct 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega's JRPG Resonance of Fate pops up on PSN]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/23/segas-jrpg-resonance-of-fate-pops-up-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/23/segas-jrpg-resonance-of-fate-pops-up-on-psn/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/23/segas-jrpg-resonance-of-fate-pops-up-on-psn/#comments The PlayStation 3 version of Sega and developer Tri-Ace's cult hit JRPG Resonance of Fate resurfaces on the PlayStation Network this week as a downloadable title, arriving more than four years after its initial retail release.

In Resonance of Fate, players control a Private Military Firm who must trek across a dystopian Earth, fulfilling client requests and outgunning monsters in uniquely cinematic combat sequences. If you haven't yet experienced Resonance of Fate, this oddball scene in particular might win you over. It's...quite a thing.

Resonance of Fate is priced at $19.99. An Xbox 360 Games on Demand version is also available.

[Image: Sega]

Continue reading Sega's JRPG Resonance of Fate pops up on PSN

JoystiqSega's JRPG Resonance of Fate pops up on PSN originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Sep 2014 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-networkps3resonance-of-fatesegatri-aceTue, 23 Sep 2014 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Weekend-long PSN Flash Sale discounts a pack of racers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/20/weekend-long-psn-flash-sale-discounts-a-pack-of-racers/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/20/weekend-long-psn-flash-sale-discounts-a-pack-of-racers/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/20/weekend-long-psn-flash-sale-discounts-a-pack-of-racers/#comments
Even if your weekend pace is relaxed and leisurely, you should still be able to reach the PlayStation Store's Flash Sale before it ends on September 22 at 3pm EST. You can make up for your slow-and-steady demeanor by setting lap records in this Flash Sale's racing-oriented deals, unless you prefer to destroy everything in sight in Burnout Crash.

Pack leaders include Need for Speed: Most Wanted for $4.99 on PS3 and Vita, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed for $9.99 on PS3 and Vita, Cel Damage HD for $2.49 on PS3, PS4 and Vita, Crazy Taxi for $2.49 on PS3, and GRID Autosport on PS3 for $12.49, among others. You can check the PlayStation Blog's complete breakdown of the sale's standings, or just round the corner as fast as possible and race straight into the deals.
[Image: PlayStation]

JoystiqWeekend-long PSN Flash Sale discounts a pack of racers originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 20 Sep 2014 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flash-saleplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnpsn-flash-saleracerracing-gamesvitaSat, 20 Sep 2014 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Report: PSP users in Europe, Asia lose PSN access on September 15]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/11/report-psp-users-in-europe-asia-lose-psn-access-on-september-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/11/report-psp-users-in-europe-asia-lose-psn-access-on-september-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/09/11/report-psp-users-in-europe-asia-lose-psn-access-on-september-1/#comments Sony is closing off PlayStation Network access for its PlayStation Portable console in multiple regions starting this week, IGN reports.

A Sony representative told IGN that the shutdown affects PSP owners in Europe, Asia, Oceania, and select regions in Africa. North American PSPs will still be able to access the PlayStation Network while Sony "evaluates market trends" to determine if it should expand its service shutdown plans.

While affected regions will be unable to directly access the PlayStation Network from PSP hardware starting on September 15, Sony notes that users will still be able to buy PSN marketplace content and redownload previous purchases via the Sony Entertainment Network Online Store. Sony halted PSP production in Japan in June, and discontinued North American hardware shipments in January.

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqReport: PSP users in Europe, Asia lose PSN access on September 15 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 11 Sep 2014 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discontinuedhardwareplaystationplaystation-networkpsnpspservice-shutdownshutdownsonyThu, 11 Sep 2014 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: PSN gets knocked down again [Update: Back online]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/26/psa-psn-gets-knocked-down-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/26/psa-psn-gets-knocked-down-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/26/psa-psn-gets-knocked-down-again/#comments The PlayStation Network servers are currently out of commission for the second time in as many days. Sony posted a notice to its official Twitter account that its engineers are "aware of connectivity issues" and "are working to resolve" them.

PSN suffered an outage for the majority of Sunday thanks to an apparent DDoS attack (distributed denial of service). Sony noted that no personal information was accessed in the attack. b=Both PSN and Sony Entertainment Network were "impacted by an attempt to overwhelm our network with artificially high traffic," though it's unclear if that's also causing today's issues. We'll update this post when PSN is up and running again.

Update: Sony said that "network connectivity is being restored," and thanks players for their patience.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSA: PSN gets knocked down again [Update: Back online] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 26 Aug 2014 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attackddosddos-attackoutageplaystationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psaPSNserversSonySony-Entertainment-NetworkvitaTue, 26 Aug 2014 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN resumes normal service, maintenance rescheduled]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/25/psn-resumes-normal-service-maintenance-rescheduled/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/25/psn-resumes-normal-service-maintenance-rescheduled/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/25/psn-resumes-normal-service-maintenance-rescheduled/#comments Following yesterday's distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack, Sony said this morning both the PlayStation Network and the Sony Entertainment Network are back online. Users can now resume game downloads, play games online, buy stuff off the PlayStation Store, use apps and all the other PSN services as normal.

Furthermore, the PSN maintenance that was due to take place today is to be rescheduled. The company will announce the new date and time for the maintenance "shortly."

Continue reading PSN resumes normal service, maintenance rescheduled

JoystiqPSN resumes normal service, maintenance rescheduled originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 25 Aug 2014 05:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddosmaintenanceplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnvitaMon, 25 Aug 2014 05:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Head of Sony Online Entertainment's flight rerouted over concerns for explosives [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/24/head-of-sony-online-entertainments-flight-rerouted-over-concern/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/24/head-of-sony-online-entertainments-flight-rerouted-over-concern/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/24/head-of-sony-online-entertainments-flight-rerouted-over-concern/#comments
The commercial flight of John Smedley, head of Sony Online Entertainment, has allegedly been rerouted due to Twitter users warning America Airlines that explosives are on board. These same users are also claiming responsibility for this morning's apparent DDoS attack on the PlayStation Network, explaining that part of the group's messaging is that Sony "should be paying for DDoS protection" with the revenue earned from PlayStation Plus.

Smedley tweeted earlier today that he would be flying to San Diego, later adding that his flight had been rerouted to Phoenix, seemingly due to concerns about "security and our cargo." Smedley's tweets match the flight pattern of AA Flight 362, shown in the above image from Flight Aware as well as AA's online records.

Update: The FBI has released a statement to Game Informer. It's not much of a statement, but it shows the authorities are at least aware of the situation. "Today AA Flight 362 traveling from Dallas to San Diego was diverted to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. The flight landed without incident. Passengers were safely removed from the plane," the Bureau writes. "The investigation is still ongoing."
[Image: Flight Aware]

JoystiqHead of Sony Online Entertainment's flight rerouted over concerns for explosives [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Aug 2014 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ddosjohn-smedleyplaystation-networkpsnsoesonysony-online-entertainmenttrollingSun, 24 Aug 2014 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: PSN down, reportedly due to DDoS attack [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/24/psa-psn-down-reportedly-due-to-ddos-attack/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/24/psa-psn-down-reportedly-due-to-ddos-attack/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/08/24/psa-psn-down-reportedly-due-to-ddos-attack/#comments At the time of this writing, the PlayStation Network is offline, reportedly due to a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack that occurred in the early hours of Sunday, August 24. Shacknews reports that other services and online games, such as Path of Exile, World of Warcraft and League of Legends were also attacked, but those seem to have recovered.

It's worth noting that this attack, if true, is not comparable to the 2011 PSN outage. Whereas the incident three years ago was due to compromised systems and an intrusion into Sony servers, a DDoS attack is much simpler, and basically floods the targeted network with data so that it can't make new connections to legitimate users.

Should the issue escalate or resolve, we'll keep you posted.

Update: Sony is aware of the issue and working to resolve connection problems, according to the official PlayStation Twitter account.

Update 2: Sony has posted an update to the PlayStation Blog, clarifying that "no personal information has been accessed."

Update 3: Sony announced Monday morning that PSN is back online, and the maintenance that was due to take place today is being rescheduled.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSA: PSN down, reportedly due to DDoS attack [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 24 Aug 2014 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnsonyvitaSun, 24 Aug 2014 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Court approves settlement over Sony's 2011 PSN breach]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/24/court-approves-settlement-over-sonys-2011-psn-breach/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/24/court-approves-settlement-over-sonys-2011-psn-breach/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/24/court-approves-settlement-over-sonys-2011-psn-breach/#comments The US District Court for the Southern District of California approved a settlement for the class action lawsuit resulting from Sony's 2011 PSN data breach. The settlement may result in Sony doling out as much as $17.75 million, which includes an offer for one free game (PS3 or PSP only), three PS3 themes or credit for three months of PlayStation Plus membership (valid only for new subscribers).

The claimant groups are divided based on whether PSN account holders prior to May 15, 2011 took advantage of the "Welcome Back" program following the intrusion. Those that did not accept the PSN Welcome Back offer can claim two of the benefit options among the games, themes and PS Plus membership credit on a first come, first served basis until a $6 million allocation from Sony is reached. For those that did take advantage of the program, they will receive one of the benefits above until a $4 million allocation is reached.

Continue reading Court approves settlement over Sony's 2011 PSN breach

JoystiqCourt approves settlement over Sony's 2011 PSN breach originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 Jul 2014 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>claimsclass-actionclass-action-lawsuitcourtlawsuitplaystationPlayStation-Networkps3PSNpsn-outage-2011pspsettlementsonywelcome-backThu, 24 Jul 2014 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN service 'intermittent' during Destiny beta launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/17/psn-service-intermittent-during-destiny-beta-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/17/psn-service-intermittent-during-destiny-beta-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/17/psn-service-intermittent-during-destiny-beta-launch/#comments Sony warns that the PlayStation Network is "intermittently available" as Bungie prepares to launch its Destiny public beta for registered users.

"The PlayStation Network is currently experiencing high volume and users may experience issues when connecting to the service," Sony's PlayStation Knowledge Center reports. "We will update you with any changes that may occur in regards to this issue. Thank you for your patience."

Destiny beta keys are now being sent out to players who redeemed early access codes. Destiny's beta launches for PlayStation platforms today. Xbox One and Xbox 360 owners will receive beta access on July 23.

[Image: Bungie]

JoystiqPSN service 'intermittent' during Destiny beta launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2014 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betabungiedestinyoutageplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnvitaThu, 17 Jul 2014 13:33:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN 2-for-1 sale pairs up 22 discounted games this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/15/psn-2-for-1-sale-pairs-up-22-discounted-games-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/15/psn-2-for-1-sale-pairs-up-22-discounted-games-this-week/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/15/psn-2-for-1-sale-pairs-up-22-discounted-games-this-week/#comments The PlayStation Network is offering a 2-for-1 sale on 22 featured games this week, collecting varied pairs of PlayStation 3 and PS Vita releases at bargain prices.

Featured PS3 pairings include NBA Jam: On Fire Edition and NFL Blitz for $14.99, Max Payne 3: The Complete Edition and Red Dead Redemption for $29.99, and From Dust and I Am Alive for $14.99. Vita owners can pick up Corpse Party and its sequel for $19.99, along with the portable Grand Theft Auto series entries Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories for $19.99.

Sale prices remain in effect through July 21. A full list of featured games is available at PlayStation Blog.

[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPSN 2-for-1 sale pairs up 22 discounted games this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2014 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationplaystation-networkplaystation-vitaps3psnsalevitaTue, 15 Jul 2014 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS Plus subscribers get free Powers in December]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/ps-plus-subscribers-get-free-powers-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/ps-plus-subscribers-get-free-powers-in-december/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/ps-plus-subscribers-get-free-powers-in-december/#comments The PlayStation Network will be bitten by a radioactive crime drama series later this year; Powers, a live-action adaptation of the comic of the same name, will be available via the PSN starting in December, with the debut episode available for free. Meanwhile, PlayStation Plus subscribers will be able to view the entire series at no charge.

David Slade (Hannibal, Breaking Bad) will direct the first two episodes of the show, which focuses on detectives who investigate cases involving people with superhuman powers. The original comic, published by Image until 2004 and currently by Marvel, is written by Brian Michael Bendis (Ultimate Spider-Man, Guardians of the Galaxy) and illustrated by Michael Avon Oeming (Judge Dredd, Catwoman).
[Image: Marvel]

JoystiqPS Plus subscribers get free Powers in December originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jul 2014 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avon-oemingbrian-michael-bendiscomicsplaystationPlayStation-Networkplaystation-vitapowersps3ps4psnsonysony-pictures-televisionvitaSat, 12 Jul 2014 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Store Flash Sale offers up 99-cent deals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/playstation-store-flash-sale-offers-up-99-cent-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/playstation-store-flash-sale-offers-up-99-cent-deals/http://www.joystiq.com/2014/07/12/playstation-store-flash-sale-offers-up-99-cent-deals/#comments
Surprise sales are always nice, especially when you've got a weekend to spend with whatever you pick up from them. The PlayStation Blog has detailed the PlayStation Store's latest Flash Sale, which offers a range of PSOne and digital-only titles at an impulse-friendly 99 cent pricepoint.

Highlights from recent times include Papo & Yo, Machinarium, Double Dragon Neon and separately-offered PS3 and Vita versions of Thomas Was Alone. There's some love for the original PlayStation's library as well, with Dino Crisis 1 and 2, Legend of Dragoon, Harvest Moon: Back to Nature, Wild Arms 1 and 2 and the Syphon Filter trilogy up for grabs. You could always re-fuel some of your long-standing arcade rivalries with Virtual Fighter 2, too.

If you're a shrewd shopper no matter how low a price is, you've got plenty of time to decide - the Flash Sale runs until 3 p.m. EST on July 14.
[Image: Sony]

JoystiqPlayStation Store Flash Sale offers up 99-cent deals originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 12 Jul 2014 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>flash-saleplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-storeplaystation-vitaps3ps4psnsonyvitaSat, 12 Jul 2014 10:30:00 EST