Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Quantic Dream's Infraworld may not be canned after all, was possibly just frozen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/quantic-dreams-infraworld-may-not-be-canned-after-all-was-poss/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/quantic-dreams-infraworld-may-not-be-canned-after-all-was-poss/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/30/quantic-dreams-infraworld-may-not-be-canned-after-all-was-poss/#comments ImageQuantic Dream has been flirting with the title Infraworld, since 2006, when it was first reported as a canceled game, to 2010 when it made an appearance in Heavy Rain, to last year's US trademark filing from Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.

This year, a Quantic Dream title due out in 2013 has made an appearance in the biography of French actress Priscilla Liaud, and a studio concept artist has listed Infraworld and another oft-rumored title, Fiv5, in his LinkedIn profile (since removed).

With E3 next week, Quantic Dream may be in the perfect position to take its Infraworld flirtation to the next level: eye contact and straightforward sentences. Our hearts are all a-flutter just thinking about it.

JoystiqQuantic Dream's Infraworld may not be canned after all, was possibly just frozen originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 May 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fiv5infraworldplaystationps3quantic-dreamSCEESONYWed, 30 May 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet Karting arriving in 2012 from ModNation Racers devs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/littlebigplanet-karting-arriving-in-2012-from-modnation-racers-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/littlebigplanet-karting-arriving-in-2012-from-modnation-racers-d/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/22/littlebigplanet-karting-arriving-in-2012-from-modnation-racers-d/#comments
After briefly hearing about LittleBigPlanet Karting in early February, Sony decided to share some new details this morning on the upcoming adorable kart racer. United Front Games is handling production duties - which makes sense given the developer's track record with ModNation Racers - and the team promises the same level of dedication and attention to detail that Media Molecule lavishes on its main franchise LBP titles.

Like those main titles, LBP Karting will support a full creation system, which allows players to craft new levels, racers, and even "to modify the rules of the game itself to create completely new modes and challenges," according to UFG senior producer James Grieve. He also says that some form of "community experience" will be included, though he stops short of saying whether LBP.me will play some part in that experience.

When we first heard about LBP Karting, the game was said to feature PlayStation Move functionality as well, a la Mario Kart for Wii. However, neither Sony nor United Front Games mentions as much in this announcement. What we do know for sure is this: LittleBigPlanet Karting will launch at some point in 2012 on the PlayStation 3.

Gallery: LittleBigPlanet Karting

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet Karting arriving in 2012 from ModNation Racers devs originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>james-grievekart-racinglittlebigplanet-kartingmedia-moleculeplaystationps3release-datesceesony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-europeunited-front-gamesThu, 22 Mar 2012 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Trine 2 hits PSN in Europe after delay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/trine-2-hits-psn-in-europe-after-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/trine-2-hits-psn-in-europe-after-delay/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/03/07/trine-2-hits-psn-in-europe-after-delay/#comments You can finally download Frozenbyte's well-received sequel, Trine 2, from the European PlayStation Store. Since SCEE took longer than expected to get the game through QA, it will initially be offered at a 30 percent discount for €7.99. After two weeks, Trine 2's price will be set at €11.25.

European PS Plus members can download Trine 2 for free right now. Here on the other side of the Atlantic we're getting some free Sly Cooper.

JoystiqTrine 2 hits PSN in Europe after delay originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>frozenbyteplaystationplaystation-plusps-plusps3sceetrine-2Wed, 07 Mar 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Twisted Metal hits Europe on March 7]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/twisted-metal-hits-europe-on-march-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/twisted-metal-hits-europe-on-march-7/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/06/twisted-metal-hits-europe-on-march-7/#comments After the European launch of Twisted Metal was stalled last week, a new date has been announced by creator David Jaffe. The European release has been pushed back to March 7, according to Jaffe's Twitter account, thanks to localization issues and cuts that had to be made in cutscenes.

Last week, Jaffe assured players that Twisted Metal's story -- surely its most integral component -- would remain intact despite the alterations.

JoystiqTwisted Metal hits Europe on March 7 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydelayseat-sleep-playplaystationps3release-datesceetwisted-metal-2011twisted-metal-2012Mon, 06 Feb 2012 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Twisted Metal launch stalled in Europe, pushed back to March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/twisted-metal-launch-stalled-in-europe-pushed-back-to-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/twisted-metal-launch-stalled-in-europe-pushed-back-to-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/02/03/twisted-metal-launch-stalled-in-europe-pushed-back-to-march/#comments Localization issues are holding up the launch of Twisted Metal in Europe, David Jaffe confirmed in a NeoGAF post today. Though he couldn't say exactly when the title would launch in March, it seems the whole month is in play -- it could pull into retail as early as March 1 or at the end of the month. Twisted Metal is still on board for a Valentine's Day launch on February 14 in North America.

In addition to the delay, the European version will be modified. Jaffe says SCEE censored certain portions of cutscenes and minor gameplay elements have been tweaked. "99 percent of the cuts were in the movies and the movies are still intact and I sat with the editor -- who was the same editor of the American movies -- and we went thru and addressed the notes from Europe and made sure the stories still worked," Jaffe wrote in his post. As for the gameplay edits, Jaffe only spoke of one minor change: the guy laying on the gurney from Meat Wagon is now a cadaver rather than a live, screaming corpse. Yep, we're furious too.

Oh well, at least you've got that demo to keep you company in the meanwhile.

JoystiqTwisted Metal launch stalled in Europe, pushed back to March originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaydelayseat-sleep-playeuropeplaystationps3sceetwisted-metal-2011twisted-metal-2012Fri, 03 Feb 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Wipeout 2048's intro cinematic takes us through our future past]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/wipeout-2048s-intro-cinematic-takes-us-through-our-future-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/wipeout-2048s-intro-cinematic-takes-us-through-our-future-past/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/01/21/wipeout-2048s-intro-cinematic-takes-us-through-our-future-past/#comments
According to this intro cinematic for Wipeout 2048, which chronicles the evolution of the game's racing world and its technology, we've only got 36 years to get from out current Formula 1 racers to flying angular death rockets. Challenge accepted.

JoystiqWipeout 2048's intro cinematic takes us through our future past originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 21 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cinematicplaystationplaystation-vitaSCEESony-Computer-Entertainment-Europevitawipeoutwipeout-2048wipeout-ngpSat, 21 Jan 2012 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony UK: no evidence of 'widespread glitches' among Japanese Vitas]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/sony-uk-no-evidence-of-widespread-glitches-among-japanese-vit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/sony-uk-no-evidence-of-widespread-glitches-among-japanese-vit/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/21/sony-uk-no-evidence-of-widespread-glitches-among-japanese-vit/#comments Sony UK is downplaying the scope of reported freezing issues with the PlayStation Vita. Speaking to The Guardian, SCE UK head of public relations David Wilson said, "We're annoyed with these stories, because we can't find any evidence of widespread glitches."

He went on to clarify that there has been no apology issued from Sony on the subject of glitches. "The stories even said that Sony has issued an apology for PS Vita glitches, which simply isn't true - there's an apology on our Japanese website for people who are having trouble getting through to our technical help line, but that's it." The page with the apology also links directly to a list of troubleshooting measures in case of a freeze.

But don't take the overwhelmed tech support, and addressing "freezes" in a shortlist of frequently asked questions, as evidence that freezing is a common issue.

JoystiqSony UK: no evidence of 'widespread glitches' among Japanese Vitas originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 11:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugdavid-wilsonfreezeglitchplaystationplaystation-vitasceevitaWed, 21 Dec 2011 11:50:00 EST<![CDATA[PSA: PSN undergoing maintenance in Europe this Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/psa-psn-undergoing-maintenance-in-europe-this-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/psa-psn-undergoing-maintenance-in-europe-this-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/12/psa-psn-undergoing-maintenance-in-europe-this-thursday/#comments SCEE sent out some advance notice of a PSN outage in Europe via the PlayStation forum. Maintenance is scheduled on the network Thursday, December 15 from 4pm GMT (11am EST) to 2am GMT (9pm EST).

No such announcement has been made for North America, but we can safely assume that the EU outage will coincide with network interruption here. Besides, the only "preparation" you have to do for such an event is not make ironclad plans to play online games or buy things from the PlayStation Store right then. If it turns out that the network doesn't go offline, just sign in and play extemporaneously.

It's not going to adversely affect your life too much if this outage turns out to be EU-only, is what we're saying.

JoystiqPSA: PSN undergoing maintenance in Europe this Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europemaintenanceplaystationps3psnpspsceesonyMon, 12 Dec 2011 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony bringing 12 first party Vita launch titles to Europe, including Uncharted and Wipeout]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/sony-first-party-vita-launch-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/sony-first-party-vita-launch-eu/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/22/sony-first-party-vita-launch-eu/#comments Sony kinda has a thing for Europe, as evidenced by today's PlayStation Vita event in London. SCEE worldwide studios SVP Michael Denny took to the stage to reveal the February 22, 2012 first party launch lineup for the PlayStation Vita, which includes titles like Uncharted: Golden Abyss and Wipeout 2048.

The list of 12 games adds to the two from Namco we already expected by February 22 -- namely Ridge Racer and Touch My Katamari -- and reveals a cadre of "in development" titles, even outing a couple we'd yet to hear about. Presumably the EU's first party launch lineup isn't far off from North America's, but we'll assuredly find out more definitively in the near future.

JoystiqSony bringing 12 first party Vita launch titles to Europe, including Uncharted and Wipeout originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>michael-dennyplaystationplaystation-vitaq1-2012release-datesceesony-computer-entertainment-europeuncharted-golden-abyssuncharted-ngpvitawipeout-2048Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony signs Vodafone as main Vita 3G carrier in majority of EU, Australia, and New Zealand]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/sony-signs-vodafone-as-main-vita-3g-carrier-in-majority-of-eu-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/sony-signs-vodafone-as-main-vita-3g-carrier-in-majority-of-eu-a/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/21/sony-signs-vodafone-as-main-vita-3g-carrier-in-majority-of-eu-a/#comments We don't really have a working knowledge of cell phone carriers in Europe. Whenever a company announces it's working with AT&T, we can say "oh man, AT&T, right?" and groan together. But with this morning's announcement of Vodafone acting as the PlayStation Vita's primary 3G carrier in Europe, the best we can offer is, "Wait, isn't that a soccer team?" (Apparently those logos on the jerseys are just sponsors -- who knew?)

But yes, joining the ranks of NTT Docomo in Japan and AT&T in the US, Vodafone will provide folks in "the UK, Ireland, Italy, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Australia, New Zealand and The Netherlands, and with Vodafone's Partner in France (SFR)" with 3G on the Vita. To help incentivize the 3G model, Vodafone's even throwing in a voucher for Wipeout 2048 - hot dog!

Apparently 3G models of the Vita in said territories will come packed with a Vodafone SIM card. No pricing has been announced just yet, but we expect to hear more soon, as the Vita launches just four months from now in February 2012.

JoystiqSony signs Vodafone as main Vita 3G carrier in majority of EU, Australia, and New Zealand originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3geuropeplaystationplaystation-vitasceevitavodafonewipeout-2048wipeout-ngpMon, 21 Nov 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet Vita dev signs exclusivity deal with Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/littlebigplanet-vita-dev-signs-exclusivity-deal-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/littlebigplanet-vita-dev-signs-exclusivity-deal-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/19/littlebigplanet-vita-dev-signs-exclusivity-deal-with-sony/#comments Sony has added another LittleBigPlanet developer to its collection. Franchise originator Media Molecule became a Sony-exclusive first party in 2010, and now PlayStation Vita LBP developer Double Eleven is joining them in the exclusive club, though through a contract and not outright ownership.

Double Eleven has signed a deal with Sony in which the developer, formed by ex-Rockstar Leeds lead engineers, will create games exclusively for SCEE. That includes LittleBigPlanet, along with "new titles for Sony platforms" -- mostly the Vita, we assume, given the studio's predilection for handheld gaming.

Continue reading LittleBigPlanet Vita dev signs exclusivity deal with Sony

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet Vita dev signs exclusivity deal with Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>double-elevenlittlebigplanet-vitaplaystationplaystation-vitasceesonySony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropevitaTue, 19 Jul 2011 18:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony introducing one-time-use online codes with Resistance 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/sony-introducing-one-time-use-online-codes-with-resistance-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/sony-introducing-one-time-use-online-codes-with-resistance-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/07/06/sony-introducing-one-time-use-online-codes-with-resistance-3/#comments When an image of a European Resistance 3 hardware bundle surfaced yesterday, the mention of something called "PSN Pass" suggested that some kind of new online program was on the way. SCEE confirmed the program, revealing it as Sony's take on the "Online Pass" or "Project Ten Dollar" initiatives enacted by third parties -- a one-time-use code that enables online play, bundled with new copies of games and sold separately otherwise.

"This program will be game-specific," a Sony rep said. "Games that are a part of this program will include a single-use registration code that grants the account holder redeeming the code full online access for that title." The initiative is intended to "accelerate our commitment to enhancing premium online services across our first party game portfolio."

Sony has clarified to Joystiq that the statement was "a joint SCEE/SCEA statement" and thus covers North America as well. Find the whole statement after the break.

Continue reading Sony introducing one-time-use online codes with Resistance 3

JoystiqSony introducing one-time-use online codes with Resistance 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>network-passonline-passplaystationps3psn-passResistance-3sceeWed, 06 Jul 2011 14:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Invizimals developer Novarama working exclusively with Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/invizimals-developer-novarama-working-exclusively-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/invizimals-developer-novarama-working-exclusively-with-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/invizimals-developer-novarama-working-exclusively-with-sony/#comments Invizimals developer Novarama didn't just announce a new game in its PSP augmented reality series today: it announced a new deal with Sony that will ensure more of the Spanish company's games will appear on Sony systems.

The AR-focused developer has entered into an exclusivity agreement with SCEE. That means that the PlayStation Vita fighter Reality Fighters will remain a Vita-only experience, and Novarama will also begin working on new games for Sony.

"For a studio geared towards innovation like Novarama, having a partner of the size and experience of Sony is the perfect blend," said Novarama CEO Dani Sánchez-Crespo. "By extending our partnership, we will continue making kids believe in invisible creatures and turning gamers into video game characters." Put that way, it sounds a lot more like the work of some evil mastermind. "Soon, all the children will believe in invisible creatures! And then, the world is ours!"

JoystiqInvizimals developer Novarama working exclusively with Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exclusivitynovaramaplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspreality-fighterssceesonyWed, 29 Jun 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hirai promoted to Chairman of SCEI, House becomes CEO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/hirai-promoted-to-chairman-of-scei-house-becomes-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/hirai-promoted-to-chairman-of-scei-house-becomes-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/29/hirai-promoted-to-chairman-of-scei-house-becomes-ceo/#comments Just one day after announcing a new board member, Sony revealed a bit more corporate shuffling, this time at Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Kazuo Hirai, formerly President and Group CEO (and chief apologizer), has been promoted to Chairman, effective September 1. SCEE president Andrew House will take over as Group CEO of SCEI, with SCEE Executive Vice President Jim Ryan taking over his old job at SCEE.

While this may seem like an inopportune time to reward executives with promotions, the shifts were prompted by the retirement of current Chairman Akira Sato effective August 31. Also retiring: Ken Kutaragi, who left his role as Honorary Chairman of SCEI yesterday, presumably finding the honorary demands of the position too honorarily strenuous. He will remain at Sony Corporation as "senior technology advisor."

JoystiqHirai promoted to Chairman of SCEI, House becomes CEO originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-housejim-ryankaz-hiraiken-kutaragiplaystationps3pspsceesceisonyWed, 29 Jun 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Uncharted, Resistance, and Ratchet & Clank bundles out in Europe July 22]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/uncharted-resistance-and-ratchet-and-clank-bundles-out-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/uncharted-resistance-and-ratchet-and-clank-bundles-out-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/23/uncharted-resistance-and-ratchet-and-clank-bundles-out-in-europe/#comments SCEE has confirmed an Uncharted collection, for those European PS3 owners looking for a fast-track method of catching up with the Uncharted series. The publisher told CVG that on July 22, it will release a collection containing Uncharted: Drake's Fortune and Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, along with a dynamic theme and an avatar.

The same day will see a European release of the Resistance bundle (coming to North America July 5), which packs the first two games in that series and a Resistance 3 skin. Also out on July 22 in Europe: a Ratchet & Clank bundle containing Tools of Destruction and A Crack in Time, with bonus avatars and a Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One dynamic theme.

No announcements were made about the Uncharted or Ratchet bundles in North America, but CVG's line of inquiry did begin with the discovery of the Uncharted collection on Best Buy's US website.

JoystiqUncharted, Resistance, and Ratchet & Clank bundles out in Europe July 22 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best-buyeuropeplaystationps3q3-2011ratchet-and-clankrelease-dateresistance-dual-packsceeUnchartedUncharted-1uncharted-2-among-thievesUncharted-Drakes-FortuneThu, 23 Jun 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Euro PSN gets massive update, PS Plus members get more freebies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/euro-psn-gets-massive-update-ps-plus-members-get-more-freebies/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/euro-psn-gets-massive-update-ps-plus-members-get-more-freebies/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/euro-psn-gets-massive-update-ps-plus-members-get-more-freebies/#comments Just hours after the PlayStation Network Store went back online, Sony took to its European PlayStation blog to detail both what's coming in the first major update, as well as what European PS Plus subscribers will be receiving in the coming weeks. Beyond the already detailed "Welcome Back" content, SCEE says an extra 10 days will be added to the 60 already included in the Plus "Welcome Back" package, "due to the Store coming back a little later that we hoped."

Additionally, April's Plus content and deals are being extended for two extra weeks, meaning that if you missed a chance to download Premiere Manager at 50 percent off, there's still time! June's offers have yet to be revealed, but the post does promise Plus users a free copy of Burnout Paradise as part of the month's content offerings.

The "Spring Offers" deal for all PSN users has also been extended to June 8, a sale which was unavailable during the majority of its duration as a result of the month-long PSN outage. All PSN users can also snag a free copy of FIFA 11 Ultimate Team, a soccer management game from EA, for the time being.

And finally, the EU PlayStation Store has also received a massive update, the likes of which we've never seen before. Final Fantasy VI is totally on there, as is a mess of new Hyperdimension Neptunia content and ... well, you know what? We're going to simply point you to it rather than try to wade the flood.

JoystiqEuro PSN gets massive update, PS Plus members get more freebies originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Burnout-Paradiseeueuropeeuropean-unionfifa-11-ultimate-teamplaystationplaystation-networkplaystation-network-storeplaystation-plusplaystation-storeps3psnpspsceesonysony-computer-entertainment-europeThu, 02 Jun 2011 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Wipeout NGP gameplay video flies into view]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/wipeout-ngp-gameplay-video-flies-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/wipeout-ngp-gameplay-video-flies-into-view/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/02/wipeout-ngp-gameplay-video-flies-into-view/#comments Okay, the video of Wipeout running on Sony's NGP didn't literally fly into view, but it does contain a variety of flying liveries. It also contains several game journos -- including our own Chris Grant! -- staring intently at prototype NGPs. We much prefer the racing parts. Sorry, Chris!

Continue reading Wipeout NGP gameplay video flies into view

JoystiqWipeout NGP gameplay video flies into view originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplayngpplaystationplaystation-vitasceesony-computer-entertainment-europevitawipeout-ngpThu, 02 Jun 2011 14:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: response to PSN outage was dependent on 'forensic analysis']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/sony-response-to-psn-outage-was-dependent-on-forensic-analysis/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/sony-response-to-psn-outage-was-dependent-on-forensic-analysis/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/27/sony-response-to-psn-outage-was-dependent-on-forensic-analysis/#comments What happened after Sony pulled the plug on PlayStation Network, and before it finally alerted customers that their information had been compromised during an unlawful intrusion? According to SCEE head of communications Nick Caplin, writing in a post on the European PlayStation blog this morning, Sony's lackluster communication efforts were impeded because the company didn't immediately assume the worst. "There's a difference in timing between when we identified there was an intrusion and when we learned of consumers' data being compromised," Caplin says.

He goes on to explain that Sony learned of the "illegal intrusion" on April 19 and "subsequently shut the services down," though the official FAQ he links to in his post claims that Sony found the breach "between April 17 and 19." Furthermore, Caplin says that after shutting down PSN and Qriocity, "It was necessary to conduct several days of forensic analysis, and it took our experts until yesterday to understand the scope of the breach." There's your disparity.

The FAQ further notes that services will remain down until Sony can "verify smooth operation" of its network, though the company is "working hard to resume the services as soon as we can be reasonably assured security concerns are addressed." It also notes that folks looking for refunds may be out of luck for the moment, as Sony "will assess the correct course of action" regarding such requests when "full services are restored."

Beyond one US Senator politicizing Sony's info breach, the UK's Information Commissioner's Office also announced today that it would be questioning the company on the issue. "We are contacting Sony and will be making further enquiries to establish the precise nature of the incident before deciding what action, if any, needs to be taken by this office," the ICO said of its plans in a statement to Eurogamer.

JoystiqSony: response to PSN outage was dependent on 'forensic analysis' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>nick-caplinoutageplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnpsn-outage-2011pspqriocitysceesonysony-computer-entertainment-europeWed, 27 Apr 2011 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MotorStorm Apocalypse review: Crash test dummy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/motorstorm-apocalypse-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/motorstorm-apocalypse-review/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/22/motorstorm-apocalypse-review/#comments As far as awesome spectacles in gaming go, MotorStorm Apocalypse is up there with the best. I don't know if I've ever seen a game, let alone a racer, with this amount of action happening at any given moment. I can't help but marvel at the degree and detail of the destruction it renders on a city-wide scale -- which is a problem, since I'm supposed to be focused on racing.

Everything comes at you so fast, furious, loud and bright that opponents trying to ram you off the "track" (little in this game resembles an actual race course) are the least of your worries. No, the greatest risk is running into the scenery ... over and over and over again.

Gallery: MotorStorm Apocalypse (4/20/11)

Continue reading MotorStorm Apocalypse review: Crash test dummy

JoystiqMotorStorm Apocalypse review: Crash test dummy originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evolution-studiosmotorstormmotorstorm-apocalypseplaystationps3racingsceasceesonyFri, 22 Apr 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony UK boss Ray Maguire departs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/sony-uk-boss-ray-maguire-departs/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/sony-uk-boss-ray-maguire-departs/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/05/sony-uk-boss-ray-maguire-departs/#comments Ray Maguire, Sony Computer Entertainment's UK managing director, has decided to leave the company. Maguire helped establish the PlayStation brand in Europe, with a career in the division that spans 17 years. He made the choice to leave after "a lot of soul searching" and described his future personal growth as "essential."

Sony Europe president Andrew House wished Maguire luck on his future endeavors. No word yet on where Maguire is going next or where Sony will look for a replacement.

JoystiqSony UK boss Ray Maguire departs originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EnglandEuropeplaystationps3pspRay-MaguireSCEEsonyukTue, 05 Apr 2011 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone live-action short overacts the Helghan war's origins]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/killzone-live-action-short-overacts-the-helghan-wars-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/killzone-live-action-short-overacts-the-helghan-wars-origins/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/28/killzone-live-action-short-overacts-the-helghan-wars-origins/#comments Not since Command & Conquer's Kane have we seen overacting of such brilliance as that exhibited in the new Killzone origin story clip. Two friends, one ISA and one Helghan, have their friendship torn asunder ... in the name of war. Check it out after the break.

Continue reading Killzone live-action short overacts the Helghan war's origins

JoystiqKillzone live-action short overacts the Helghan war's origins originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guerrilla-gamesKillzone-3live-actionplaystationps3sceesony-computer-entertainment-europeMon, 28 Mar 2011 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA['Fiv5' could be the title of Quantic Dreams' next game]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/fiv5-could-be-the-title-of-quantic-dreams-next-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/fiv5-could-be-the-title-of-quantic-dreams-next-game/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/21/fiv5-could-be-the-title-of-quantic-dreams-next-game/#comments David Cage, director of the soggy serial killer interactive drama Heavy Rain, has already said there won't be a sequel to that game, telling the PlayStation Blog, "We're going to be exploring a different direction, which will still be very dark and still for adults, but completely different to Heavy Rain" for Quantic Dreams' next project. That game's specifics may be a secret, but it may have a title: "Fiv5" ... yes, in the style of David Fincher's film Se7en.

Gaming trademark sleuth superannuation has turned up several clues supporting this theory, including a trademark filing with Europe's Office of Harmonization for the International Market. There's also a domain name registration by Quantic Dream, and a new hire at the developer has listed themselves as "Concept Artist: Video Game "FIVE" & "INFRAWORLD" on LinkedIn. Infraworld? Where'd we put our deerstalker hat and magnifying glass?

Joystiq'Fiv5' could be the title of Quantic Dreams' next game originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 21 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david-cagefiv5Heavy-Rainplaystationps3quantic-dreamsceesonytrademarkMon, 21 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet 2 teacher pack coming to UK PSN in May]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/littlebigplanet-2-teacher-pack-coming-to-uk-psn-in-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/littlebigplanet-2-teacher-pack-coming-to-uk-psn-in-may/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/17/littlebigplanet-2-teacher-pack-coming-to-uk-psn-in-may/#comments Sackboy is grabbing his trusty Trapper Keeper and heading to Avalon Elementary next semester. The LittleBigPlanet 2 "Teacher Pack" is currently being developed by Media Molecule and it's said to be packed with "demonstrations of National Curriculum, based in game levels that other teachers have made." The pack will feature PlayStation Move functionality, SCEE senior VP Ray Maguire told MCV.

"The pack will be a really useful way of starting to track and develop interest and involvement in games-based learning," Maguire noted. He also added that SCEE is aiming for a release "by the start of the summer term in May." In other news, schools in the UK have a summer term starting in May. We're so, so sorry, you guys.

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet 2 teacher pack coming to UK PSN in May originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dlcdownloadable-contenteducationLittleBigPlanet-2media-moleculenational-curriculumplaystationplaystation-networkps3psnray-maguiresceesony-computer-entertainment-europeteacher-packukThu, 17 Mar 2011 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorstorm: Apocalypse launch postponed in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/motorstorm-apocalypse-launch-postponed-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/motorstorm-apocalypse-launch-postponed-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/15/motorstorm-apocalypse-launch-postponed-in-uk/#comments Despite the fact that MotorStorm: Apocalypse has already begun shipping to brick-and-mortar stores in the UK, Sony says it will "postpone the launch" for the time being, missing the March 18 launch date. SCE issued a statement (via CVG) that specifically cites "the impact of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan" and "the parallels between these events and the underlying theme in MotorStorm" as reasons for the delayed launch. The game's March 17 Japanese launch has also been delayed to a "TBA" date, alongside several other titles.

"Although the game itself is already in distribution, we are ceasing any further shipments and removing as much of the marketing materials as possible," SCE's statement continues. "Our thoughts are with all those affected, including our colleagues within the Sony family, living and working throughout Japan." SCEA confirmed with Joystiq that MotorStorm: Apocalypse will still ship in the US on April 12 -- perhaps signaling when the game will be made available across the Atlantic as well.

JoystiqMotorstorm: Apocalypse launch postponed in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Mar 2011 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delaysearthquakeevolution-studiosmotorstorm-apocalypseplaystationps3scesceesony-computer-entertainmentTue, 15 Mar 2011 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Europe cancels games across several UK studios]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/sony-europe-cancels-games-across-several-uk-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/sony-europe-cancels-games-across-several-uk-studios/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/09/sony-europe-cancels-games-across-several-uk-studios/#comments Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has informed staff at London Studio, Studio Liverpool, and Evolution Studios that several of their projects will be "streamlined or closed" to focus development on higher-priority first party offerings. In a statement to GamesIndustry, the publisher explained, "with the incredibly strong list of exclusive first party titles coming up both this year and in the near future, resources should be reallocated to enhance those projects closer to completion."

Sony did not reveal the identities of these projects, or whether their cancellation would result in layoffs -- the statement only mentioned, "This decision will have no impact on the role that our first party studios will play in the future of all PlayStation platforms." We've contacted Sony to try and find out if any positions had been cut thanks to the reallocation.

JoystiqSony Europe cancels games across several UK studios originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cancelcancellationeuropeplaystationps3pspsceesonyworldwide-studiosWed, 09 Mar 2011 15:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 3 beta delayed (very slightly) to tomorrow]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/killzone-3-beta-delayed-very-slightly-to-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/killzone-3-beta-delayed-very-slightly-to-tomorrow/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/02/02/killzone-3-beta-delayed-very-slightly-to-tomorrow/#comments So that Killzone 3 multiplayer beta that was supposed to open today? That ain't happenin' -- not just yet. The beta has been pushed back to the far flung future of tomorrow (beginning at 1PM ET), according to PlayStation Blog. The humanity!

In the hopes of subduing your rage over this slight delay, Sony is giving away 60 "Limited Helghast Edition" copies of the game. Any player who accesses the beta this weekend will be automatically entered for a chance to win. The LE, you know, is the one with the crazy replica Helghast helmet that isn't sold in stores. Yeah, that one. Looks like our weekend just got booked!

JoystiqKillzone 3 beta delayed (very slightly) to tomorrow originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betadelaysdemoguerrilla-gamesKillzone-3multiplayerplaystationps3scesceasceesony-computer-entertainmentWed, 02 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony 'studied the possibility' of 3D in NGP, decided against it]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/sony-studied-the-possibility-of-3d-in-ngp-decided-against-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/sony-studied-the-possibility-of-3d-in-ngp-decided-against-it/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/27/sony-studied-the-possibility-of-3d-in-ngp-decided-against-it/#comments We've covered an awful lot of Sony news over the last 15 or so hours -- 23 posts thus far and counting, including this one -- and not once did the company bring up its 3D efforts. The entire NGP announcement has remained mysteriously devoid of one of Sony's biggest talking points of 2010, and Sony Europe head Andrew House has an explanation for why that is. "We view 3D as having the greatest potential, in the near term, in what I would call a dedicated entertainment environment," he told Eurogamer.

House continued, "That's in the home, around the television, and where it's a shared experience. I think that's really important." A statement from Sony clarified that, "In the development process, we had studied the possibility of introducing stereoscopic 3D feature to NGP, but decided not to install it."

House added to that, needling Sony's handheld gaming competition a bit in the process. "We struggle a little bit to see how that 3D, shared experience translates to portable devices as they currently stand." Perhaps he was holding the 3DS at a weird angle? We can't be sure.

JoystiqSony 'studied the possibility' of 3D in NGP, decided against it originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 27 Jan 2011 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d3dsandrew-housengpplaystationplaystation-vitapspsceesonysony-computer-entertainment-europevitaThu, 27 Jan 2011 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 3 open beta starts February 2nd or 3rd (depending on what zone of killing you're in)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/killzone-3-open-beta-starts-february-2nd-or-3rd-depending-on-wh/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/killzone-3-open-beta-starts-february-2nd-or-3rd-depending-on-wh/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/21/killzone-3-open-beta-starts-february-2nd-or-3rd-depending-on-wh/#comments Killzone 3 is bringing its particular brand of first-person shooting (the "killing in a zone" brand, we presume?) to retailers in North America and Europe on February 22 and 23, respectively. Unfortunately for those of you who reside in the zone of killing known as Europe, the upcoming "beta" gives North American players the same one-day lead, according to the regional arms of the PlayStation Blog family.

For 12 days beginning February 2 in North America, all PlayStation 3 owners will be able to download the "open beta" (read: demo) and treat themselves to stereoscopic 3D, Move support, and access to just one map, titled "Frozen Dam." Inside that one map, you'll at least be able to try out all three online multiplayer modes - 16-player "Guerrilla Warfare," 24-player "Warzone," and 16-player "Operations" - in addition to the bot-based, offline mode cleverly titled "Botzone." Because it's Killzone ... with bots.

But look on the bright, less-killy side, Europe: When North America's open beta access cuts off on February 14, you'll still have one more full day of jetpack-enabled fun. While you wait, take a look at the latest multiplayer video after the break, showing off killstreaks in the game.

Continue reading Killzone 3 open beta starts February 2nd or 3rd (depending on what zone of killing you're in)

JoystiqKillzone 3 open beta starts February 2nd or 3rd (depending on what zone of killing you're in) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Guerrilla-GamesKillzone-3playstationps3SCEEFri, 21 Jan 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Europe aware of PlayTV crashing issue, working on fix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/sony-europe-aware-of-playtv-crashing-issue-working-on-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/sony-europe-aware-of-playtv-crashing-issue-working-on-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/01/12/sony-europe-aware-of-playtv-crashing-issue-working-on-fix/#comments A Sony Europe representative has informed Joystiq that the company is aware of a current issue with PlayTV, the HDTV DVR add-on for PS3 available in the region. Users have reported encountering a system-crashing bug after applying the most recent premium update to the device.

"We are aware that since the latest PlayTV update, certain issues have arisen," a company representative told Joystiq. "We are working to fix these and hope to have a solution very shortly." A Joystiq tipster suggests the issue can be fixed by reinstalling PlayTV, though doing so will erase all data, including the paid update.

[Thanks, Antony D.]

JoystiqSony Europe aware of PlayTV crashing issue, working on fix originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>play-tvplaystationPlayTVps3sceeWed, 12 Jan 2011 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Killzone 3 to include split-screen]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/rumor-killzone-3-to-include-split-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/rumor-killzone-3-to-include-split-screen/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/06/rumor-killzone-3-to-include-split-screen/#comments According to an image from NicaGamerz of an alleged Killzone 3 preview build, the third Helghast murder simulator will allow for split-screen co-op -- a function that previous entries lacked. Sony of Europe gave VG247 an official "no comment" on the possibility, but also didn't deny the rumor. However, earlier this year at E3, president of SCE worldwide studios Shuhei Yoshida spoke to us about Killzone 3's 3D functionality, saying, "We were going to give players two screens anyway, for some mode ... for some gameplay anyway." Split-screen, perhaps? Given that Killzone 3 is a 3D title and its video is already being rendered twice for the 3D effect, the possibility of split-screen is a bit of a given.

As for whether the split-screen will allow friends to take the game online together is unknown, but it seems players will at least be able to shoot up yellow-eyed baddies on a couch together. Let's put it this way: we're giving today's news the "rumor" tag, but calling the possibility "very likely."

JoystiqRumor: Killzone 3 to include split-screen originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>co-opguerrilla-gamesKillzone-3playstationps3sceasceeshuhei-yoshidasony-computer-entertainment-europesplit-screenMon, 06 Dec 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Gran Turismo 5 launch trailer is here]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/the-gran-turismo-5-launch-trailer-is-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/the-gran-turismo-5-launch-trailer-is-here/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/24/the-gran-turismo-5-launch-trailer-is-here/#comments In case you have yet to see the retail boxes at your local brick-and-mortar, Gran Turismo 5 is, like, totally out. Further proof? Sony's released the game's launch trailer. So it must be out! Seriously! Oh, right, we also reviewed it, so there's that too, ya big doubting debbie.

Continue reading The Gran Turismo 5 launch trailer is here

JoystiqThe Gran Turismo 5 launch trailer is here originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Nov 2010 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gameplayGran-Turismo-5launch-trailerplaystationpolyphony-digitalps3scesceasceeWed, 24 Nov 2010 11:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Ericsson boss on PlayStation Phone: Where there's smoke ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/sony-ericsson-boss-on-playstation-phone-where-theres-smoke/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/sony-ericsson-boss-on-playstation-phone-where-theres-smoke/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/22/sony-ericsson-boss-on-playstation-phone-where-theres-smoke/#comments Sony Ericsson Chief Executive Bert Nordberg must have just come back from holiday on Glib (it's one of Greek Islands), because he expertly delivered one of the most urbane quotes on the PlayStation Phone to date. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, the executive said on the subject of the device, "There's a lot of smoke, and I tell you there must be a fire somewhere." Perhaps it's in the R&D building.

As if channeling Monty Python's "Nudge Nudge, Wink Wink" sketch, Nordberg gave another interesting answer when asked why the company's phone division hadn't tapped into Sony's gaming resources before. "I haven't dug into that history, but the future might be brighter."

The PlayStation Phone, which the WSJ speculates will carry Sony Ericsson's Xperia brand, is still a phantom, existing in "read between the lines" executive comments and leaks that allegedly showcase the prototype.

Continue reading Sony Ericsson boss on PlayStation Phone: Where there's smoke ...

JoystiqSony Ericsson boss on PlayStation Phone: Where there's smoke ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Nov 2010 09:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbert-nordbergmobileplaystationplaystation-phonepspsceasceesonyMon, 22 Nov 2010 09:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 course creation tools demonstrated on video]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/gran-turismo-5-course-creation-tools-demonstrated-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/gran-turismo-5-course-creation-tools-demonstrated-on-video/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/15/gran-turismo-5-course-creation-tools-demonstrated-on-video/#comments One of the main reasons Gran Turismo 5 has been in development for so, so long is because Polyphony Digital has packed it to the gills with content, and that includes the race track creator demonstrated after the break. Just think of the all the Mario Kart levels you could repurpose for the game's kart races ...

Continue reading Gran Turismo 5 course creation tools demonstrated on video

JoystiqGran Turismo 5 course creation tools demonstrated on video originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 Nov 2010 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>course-makerGran-Turismo-5playstationpolyphony-digitalps3sceasceescejsony-computer-entertainmentMon, 15 Nov 2010 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation Phone prototype further detailed, codenamed 'Zeus']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/playstation-phone-prototype-further-detailed-codenamed-zeus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/playstation-phone-prototype-further-detailed-codenamed-zeus/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/27/playstation-phone-prototype-further-detailed-codenamed-zeus/#comments Continuing coverage of the PlayStation Phone leak, Engadget has now posted details about the unannounced gaming slash celly device. Apparently the phone is currently known as "Zeus" internally and isn't running Android 3.0 firmware just yet (it's said to be running on 2.X for now). Additionally, Engadget reports, citing "multiple, trusted sources ... and we're not just talking good tipsters -- some of our information comes from people much more closely connected to the project," that the "rumor" nature of the device is no longer in effect:
"The PlayStation Phone in the photos we ran last night, and the device reported on back in August is most definitely real. We're not saying that because we want to believe or because we're gingerly trying to nab pageviews: we're saying it because we know it to be true."
Meanwhile, SCEE's original statement regarding the device -- "These images are definitely fake" -- has turned into: "Sony doesn't comment on rumour or speculation" (as has Sony Ericsson's statement). When contacted, SCEA counterparts similarly told us, "We do not comment on rumors or speculation." Unfortunately, suggesting to Sony that the PlayStation Phone doesn't appear to be either "rumor" or "speculation" didn't elicit further comment.

JoystiqPlayStation Phone prototype further detailed, codenamed 'Zeus' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid-3.0mobileplaystationplaystation-phonepspsceasceesonysony-ericssonzeusWed, 27 Oct 2010 14:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Wipeout dev seeks designer with racing game experience]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/wipeout-dev-seeks-designer-with-racing-game-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/wipeout-dev-seeks-designer-with-racing-game-experience/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/20/wipeout-dev-seeks-designer-with-racing-game-experience/#commentsFollowing a hiring surge in late July for an apparent "action" project, SCE Studio Liverpool is once again in need of a senior designer with "an encyclopedic knowledge of games," only this time with an "especially racing" kind of intelligence. Said know-it-all should have put this in-brained database to good use, too, and must have "shipped at least one successful racing title within a senior design role."
According to GamesRadar, an earlier version of the job listing was more candid, describing the position as one in which the new hire would "work with a talented and experienced team on a high profile, futuristic racing franchise." Though it's unclear what prompted the edit (was that a spoiler?), Studio Liverpool's newest designer will likely be working on the WipEout franchise.

Earlier this year, Studio Liverpool underwent a drastic reduction in size, with reportedly half of all staff laid off. Shortly before the restructuring, Sony confirmed that a number of projects within the studio had been canceled. Studio Liverpool's last significant release was the WipEout HD add-on "Fury" in mid-2009 -- unless you count this summer's grand opening of the "WipEout Museum" ... in PlayStation Home.

[Pictured: Studio Liverpool; source: SCE Worldwide Studios]

JoystiqWipeout dev seeks designer with racing game experience originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hiringjobsnorth-west-studio-groupplaystationps3pspracingsce-studio-liverpoolsceesonystudio-liverpoolwipeoutWed, 20 Oct 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Move sales around 1.5 million in Europe, 300K estimated for US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/playstation-move-launch-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/playstation-move-launch-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/15/playstation-move-launch-sales/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It seems that Sony settled on the right name for its PlayStation Move motion controller, as the company is definitely moving plenty of units in Europe. Speaking to Bloomberg, Sony Europe's Andrew House noted "very significant sales" for the Move, saying that it has sold "somewhere in the region of 1.5 million units for the new controller across just Europe." He added that sales have exceeded Sony's original hopes, and that the company will likely increase production of the peripheral.

Sales may not be as motivated in America, however. In a report released to the media, Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter estimated that the motion controller sold around 300,000 units in its US debut, including Move console bundles; though it's important to note that SCEA has not released official sales figures. Despite the sluggish launch estimate, Pachter expects both the Move and Kinect to drive console sales in the US this holiday season.

JoystiqMove sales around 1.5 million in Europe, 300K estimated for US originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 10:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andrew-HouseEuropehardwareperipheralsplaystationPlayStation-Moveps3salesSCEEUSAFri, 15 Oct 2010 10:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Killzone 3 public beta starts October 25 in the US]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/killzone-3-public-beta-starts-october-25-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/killzone-3-public-beta-starts-october-25-in-the-us/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/07/killzone-3-public-beta-starts-october-25-in-the-us/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Guerrilla Games' Killzone The Tres is set to unleash a public beta on October 25, the PlayStation Blog promises. Of course, there's a catch: in order to get in on it, you'll need to be a PlayStation Plus subscriber before the beta rolls out, and download a custom Killzone 3 XMB theme, which'll release on October 19. The first 10,000 to download the theme will get access -- 5,000 from the US, 5,000 from Europe.

You'll also want to keep an eye on your email inbox, because Sony plans to mail out codes on October 25 to the lucky 10,000 who snagged the XMB theme first. To help tide you over, Sony's got a new trailer, which you can check out past the break.

Continue reading Killzone 3 public beta starts October 25 in the US

JoystiqKillzone 3 public beta starts October 25 in the US originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 16:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>betaguerrilla-gamesKillzone-3playstationplaystation-plusps3public-betasceasceeThu, 07 Oct 2010 16:20:00 EST<![CDATA[LittleBigPlanet 2 delayed to avoid launch-day patches, Evans says]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/littlebigplanet-2-delayed-to-avoid-launch-day-patches/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/littlebigplanet-2-delayed-to-avoid-launch-day-patches/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/10/05/littlebigplanet-2-delayed-to-avoid-launch-day-patches/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Media Molecule delayed LittleBigPlanet 2 until next year because the developer did not want the game to be dependent on launch-day patches. Speaking with VG247, MM head Alex Evans explained the team wanted the retail disc to "perfect" and something the company could be "proud of," ensuring that folks who didn't have a PS3 connected to the internet would still receive the "full experience" without patches.

"We could have shipped it and it would have been fine," Evans told the site. "However we realized that with just a couple of extra weeks we could make the game super amazing, adding the super onto the already amazing which exists today. This is something that will live forever and the delay, people will forget about."

Strangely, at no point in the interview did Evans say, "Oh yes, and one more thing, the real reason we delayed LBP2 was to spite that Griffin McElroy. Muahahahahahahaha!" Seriously, poor guy hasn't stopped rocking in the corner, wracked with denial, since the delay was announced last month.

JoystiqLittleBigPlanet 2 delayed to avoid launch-day patches, Evans says originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alex-EvansdelayLittleBigPlanet-2media-moleculeplaystationps3SCEESonyTue, 05 Oct 2010 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Eat Them! preview: War of the Rampage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/eat-them-preview-war-of-the-rampage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/eat-them-preview-war-of-the-rampage/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/05/eat-them-preview-war-of-the-rampage/#comments Somewhere there's an alternate dimension where monster games like Rampage and War of the Monsters are not oddities but rather fine examples of a whole "monsters destroying crap" genre. Eat Them!, which I played recently at PAX 2010, is a game directly from that dimension.

In Fluffy Logic's (Savage Moon) upcoming PSN release, you play as a monster that you've customized every slimy, scaly inch of, from his shoulder rockets to his tentacle legs. Then ... well, you destroy shit.

Continue reading Eat Them! preview: War of the Rampage

JoystiqEat Them! preview: War of the Rampage originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 05 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eat-themfluffy-logicplaystationps3psnsceeSun, 05 Sep 2010 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[European developers rally to help ex-Realtime Worlds employees]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/european-developers-rally-to-help-ex-realtime-world-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/european-developers-rally-to-help-ex-realtime-world-employees/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/19/european-developers-rally-to-help-ex-realtime-world-employees/#commentsFiled under: , ,

It's when things seem at their darkest when the true light and goodness of humanity can really shine through ... or something like that. Following APB developer Realtime Worlds' decision to go into administration -- and the 75 percent staff cut the studio was forced to undergo -- fellow game developers Codemasters, The Creative Assembly, Blitz Games Studios, Activision and Sony Europe have announced recruitment events in the coming weeks to help the displaced staff get back on its feet.

There should be plenty of openings to go around for the 185 unemployed artists, writers and programmers -- Codemasters alone is reportedly looking for 150 new hires to fill its UK studios and The Creative Assembly is staffing up to work on an "unannounced AAA title" for Sega. Not to be outdone, Activision's also making a huge hiring push -- though these unfortunate souls will be relegated to the dance cages located in the foyer of Bobby Kotick's Miami-based "party palace." (Fine, we made that last part up. Please don't sue us.)

JoystiqEuropean developers rally to help ex-Realtime Worlds employees originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionAPBblitz-gamescodemasterseuropelayoffspcrealtime-worldssceesony-computer-entertainment-europethe-creative-assemblyThu, 19 Aug 2010 21:00:00 EST