Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Understanding The Legend of Dragoon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/understanding-the-legend-of-dragoon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/understanding-the-legend-of-dragoon/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/02/understanding-the-legend-of-dragoon/#commentsThis is a column by Kat Bailey dedicated to the analysis of the once beloved Japanese RPG sub-genre. Tune in every Wednesday for thoughts on white-haired villains, giant robots, Infinity+1 swords, and everything else the wonderful world of JRPGs has to offer.
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The year 2000 was incredible for console RPGs developed in Japan. I'm sitting here looking at the list, and so many pantheon level games jump out at me. Final Fantasy IX, Chrono Cross, Vagrant Story, Front Mission 3, Valkyrie Profile and Super Robot Taisen Alpha (the first of the franchise's "modern" entries) all came out that year. There's also Legend of Dragoon, Sony's erstwhile attempt to piggyback on the success of SquareSoft. And as it happens, it hit the PSN this week.

The impending arrival of The Legend of Dragoon has brought with it a wave of nostalgia from some very vocal fans; and boy, they will not brook any criticism of their favorite game. Just look at what happened when 1UP asked why they should care about Legend of Dragoon: blanket proclamations that it's the PS1's most underrated RPG, and by the way, a true classic.

Was it though? Have we all somehow overlooked a true gem of a JRPG? I don't think so. I would take every one of the RPGs I listed in the introduction over Legend of Dragoon. I do, however, think that Legend of Dragoon has its place in RPG history.

Continue reading Understanding The Legend of Dragoon

JoystiqUnderstanding The Legend of Dragoon originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 May 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Legend-of-DragoonplaystationPlayStation-Networkps3PSNpsone-classicsSCEISony-Computer-EntertainmentWed, 02 May 2012 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 catching up with Xbox 360 shipments worldwide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/ps3-catching-up-with-xbox-360-shipments-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/ps3-catching-up-with-xbox-360-shipments-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/02/ps3-catching-up-with-xbox-360-shipments-worldwide/#comments Sony reported 3.7 million PS3 unit sales worldwide for Q2 of fiscal year 2011 (which ended September 30), bringing its life-to-date total to 55.5 million units and improving on its year over year Q2 sales by around 200,000. Just last month, Microsoft touted 57.6 million shipped units of the Xbox 360 worldwide, bringing Sony within sight of the vaunted number two position behind Wii (Nintendo reported 89.36 million units shipped as of October).

While Sony's document says "sales," it's difficult to tell whether that refers to sales to consumers ("sell-through") or shipments to retail ("sell-in"). Both competitors' numbers refer to shipments.

JoystiqPS3 catching up with Xbox 360 shipments worldwide originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fy-2011life-to-dateplaystationps3q2salesscesceisonyWed, 02 Nov 2011 13:30:00 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[Sony Japan denies any earthquake-related NGP delays]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/sony-japan-denies-any-earthquake-related-ngp-delays/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/sony-japan-denies-any-earthquake-related-ngp-delays/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/04/06/sony-japan-denies-any-earthquake-related-ngp-delays/#comments Sony's Japanese arm has told the Wall Street Journal that earlier reports suggesting Japan's recent earthquake would delay the release of the NGP in some territories -- including comments made by SCEA president Jack Tretton -- were outright "wrong."

Company rep Satoshi Fukuoka said it expects "no impact from the quake on our launch plan," and that while that plan still calls for the device to arrive later this year, Sony has never said it would launch simultaneously in Asia, North America and Europe.

Sony will, however, continue to monitor the situation in the earthquake- and tsunami-ravaged region and alter its plans if necessary.

JoystiqSony Japan denies any earthquake-related NGP delays originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthquakejapanngpplaystationplaystation-vitapspreleasesceasceiscejsonyvitawall-street-journalWed, 06 Apr 2011 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kaz Hirai promoted, next in line for Sony CEO spot]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/kaz-hirai-promoted-next-in-line-for-sony-ceo-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/kaz-hirai-promoted-next-in-line-for-sony-ceo-spot/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/03/10/kaz-hirai-promoted-next-in-line-for-sony-ceo-spot/#comments Kaz Hirai Kaz Hirai is a familiar name for anyone following the gaming sector. The one-time head of Sony Computer Entertainment America has been making headlines since the days of the original PlayStation. After returning to Japan to replace Ken Kutaragi as President of Sony Computer Entertainment, things have been looking up for Hirai. This morning, it's being reported that a corporate realignment will have Hirai acting as "executive deputy president," heading up Sony's consumer products unit, one of two core post-realignment groups.

"This is an opportunity for the board to watch Hirai san and judge his performance," current CEO Howard Stringer said. "There may be other candidates, but he has a leadership position." That leadership position is due in no small part to "the turnaround of the games business," which was singled out.

Hirai's promotion takes effect on April 1 and, while it's not a joke, his ascension to CEO is far from guaranteed. "The board and I have talked about succession planning and this is the first step," Stringer said. "We have not made a final decision." The other potential candidate? Hiroshi Yoshioka, who will head up Sony's other core division, "covering business to business areas such as semiconductors, batteries and other key components." While that may sound really boring, Stringer notes, "Yoshioka san has an opportunity to make a lot of money in his group, so the race isn't over."

JoystiqKaz Hirai promoted, next in line for Sony CEO spot originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Mar 2011 06:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Howard-StringerKaz-Hiraiplaystationps3pspSCEISonyThu, 10 Mar 2011 06:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 gets a new release date: November 24]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/gran-turismo-5-release-date-november-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/gran-turismo-5-release-date-november-24/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/12/gran-turismo-5-release-date-november-24/#comments Sony confirmed the release date for Gran Turismo 5 (again) today: November 24 is the date you can circle in your High Polygon Cars of 2010 novelty calendar.

In announcing the new date, Polyphony Digital's Kazunori Yamauchi (pictured above hand-pressing each and every GT5 disc himself!) said, "Satisfying the loyal Gran Turismo followers is at the heart of all of our efforts, which is why it was such a difficult decision to delay the release of the game, and one which we did not take lightly. I can only apologize to everyone for making you wait so long, and I hope that when you try out the wealth of driving experiences available in Gran Turismo 5, you will not be disappointed."

And just because we like (and, yes, feel a little sorry for) you, Gran Turismo superfan #1, we'll point out Amazon's deal of the day: a third-party PS3 steering wheel, just the thing you need to get ready for GT5. Should you take Amazon up on its offer, the wheel would be in your home well before November 24, or whatever future date Sony inevitably pushes Gran Turismo 5 back to.

[Photo credit: Frank Filipponio; GIF source: jockamo]

JoystiqGran Turismo 5 gets a new release date: November 24 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gran-Turismo-5playstationPolyphony-Digitalps3release-dateSCEASCEIFri, 12 Nov 2010 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo Anywhere brings the web, more features to GT5]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/gran-turismo-anywhere-brings-the-web-more-features-to-gt5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/gran-turismo-anywhere-brings-the-web-more-features-to-gt5/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/16/gran-turismo-anywhere-brings-the-web-more-features-to-gt5/#commentsFiled under: , ,

At some point, Kazunori Yamauchi and his team at Polyphony Digital are going to be forced to stop adding functionality to the eternally in-development Gran Turismo 5. Until then, they continue to announce new features at every major press event. At this year's TGS, it's "Gran Turismo Anywhere," a new web portal for the racing sim. Features of GTA - actually, let's just call it Gran Turismo Anywhere - include My Home, which includes message boards, photo sharing, and the like, as well as Remote Races, which isn't real-time racing over the web, but rather a racing team management simulation.

Yamauchi also announced the X1, a virtual super car in Gran Turismo 5 that seeks to answer the following question: "What would a racing car, freed of all technical regulations look like?" Because F1 cars, rally cars, NASCAR cars, and go-karts just weren't enough, now GT5 also has make-believe cars in its virtual garage. Some more pics of Yamauchi's presentation after the break, but first a poll!

View Poll

Continue reading Gran Turismo Anywhere brings the web, more features to GT5

JoystiqGran Turismo Anywhere brings the web, more features to GT5 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Sep 2010 02:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gran-Turismo-5GT5Kazunori-YamauchiplaystationPolyphony-Digitalps3SCEITGS-2010Thu, 16 Sep 2010 02:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony closes door on PlayStation Room]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/sony-closes-door-on-playstation-room/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/sony-closes-door-on-playstation-room/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/15/sony-closes-door-on-playstation-room/#commentsAt TGS last year, Sony introduced PlayStation Room, a Home-like social networking service for PSP that allowed players to create cute avatars, decorate virtual spaces, and interact with friends via chat and blogs. Today, following the end of a Japan-only closed beta, Sony announced that it's ceasing development on the service. That infinity symbol in the logo just got nicely ironic.

In the announcement, Sony thanked beta testers for their feedback and said that it planned to use the data gathered to enrich PlayStation Network services. Mind you, if said feedback resulted in the immediate closure of the project, it could't have been easy to read.

Gallery: PlayStation Room


[Via Siliconera]

JoystiqSony closes door on PlayStation Room originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanplaystation-roomroomsceisocial-networkingThu, 15 Apr 2010 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 worldwide sales cross 30 million]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/ps3-worldwide-sales-cross-30-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/ps3-worldwide-sales-cross-30-million/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/05/ps3-worldwide-sales-cross-30-million/#commentsAdding up Sony's quarterly sales numbers for the PS3, including the 6.5 million Q3 sales it announced yesterday, Shacknews arrived at a new estimate for the console's life-to-date sales total: 33.71 million units. That's just about half of the Wii's most recent total of 67.45 million, and about 86% of the Xbox 360's recently-announced 39 million. The gap is narrowing!

The year-over-year sales of the PS3 are increasing (or, at least, they increased), with 13 million sold worldwide in fiscal 2009 versus 10.1 million in fiscal 2008. That's only going to increase in 2010, as everyone is forced to buy a second PS3 so the console will appear in stereoscopic 3D even while no 3D games are being played.

JoystiqPS3 worldwide sales cross 30 million originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Feb 2010 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>industryltdsalessceiFri, 05 Feb 2010 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Only 8% of Koei's sales come from outside of Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/19/only-8-of-koeis-sale-come-from-outside-of-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/19/only-8-of-koeis-sale-come-from-outside-of-japan/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/19/only-8-of-koeis-sale-come-from-outside-of-japan/#comments
How does a company like Koei, which seemingly releases a new Dynasty Warriors game every few months, stay afloat? Well, it's not with the help of American audiences, that's for sure. Sony Japan Studios' senior VP, Yasuhide Kobayashi, shared some information with DICE Asia attendees. He revealed that many Japanese companies are struggling to have their games appeal beyond the Japanese market. The worst offender? Koei, with 91.8% of its sales coming from the Japanese market.

Tecmo follows at 89.6 percent, while Square Enix receives a startling 86.6 percent of its sales from the motherland. With Kobayashi saying "the Japanese market is really shrinking," these companies must "develop [a] global title." in order to survive. Expect to hear even more about the dwindling importance of the Japanese market, and publishers' efforts to make more "global" titles, at Tokyo Game Show next week.

JoystiqOnly 8% of Koei's sales come from outside of Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 19 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dice-asiajapanjapan-studiokoeisceisquare-enixtecmoSat, 19 Sep 2009 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony to offer voice recognition, image enlargement tech in upcoming SDK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/sony-to-offer-voice-recognition-image-enlargement-tech-in-upcom/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/sony-to-offer-voice-recognition-image-enlargement-tech-in-upcom/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/09/08/sony-to-offer-voice-recognition-image-enlargement-tech-in-upcom/#comments
Sony has been working on distributing a number of new technologies, already available in some PS3 programs. The first is voice recognition software, employed by SingStar, that allows the PS3 to quickly recognize up to 20 different languages. In SingStar, players are able to quickly go through the song library by simply calling out various commands or speaking the names of artists and songs. While the technology is currently exclusive to Sony, a report by Dig Info reveals that the company plans on making it available to all PS3 developers in future iterations of the console's software development kit.

Another tech developed by Sony allows the PS3 and PSP to quickly zoom in on massive images. Already used in a Japanese release calendar program (available for free from the Japanese PlayStation Store), this technology streams massive amounts of visual data -- including video -- quickly and scales it appropriately. Like the SingStar voice recognition tools, this tech will be available for developers in an upcoming SDK update. We're not exactly sure how games will be able to take advantage of this, but it certainly looks impressive.

Check out videos after the break.

[Via Engadget]

Source - High-Resolution Enlargement Technology
Source - PS3 Voice Recognition

Continue reading Sony to offer voice recognition, image enlargement tech in upcoming SDK

JoystiqSony to offer voice recognition, image enlargement tech in upcoming SDK originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>imagesceisdksingstarsonyvoice-recognitionzoomTue, 08 Sep 2009 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Computer Entertainment names new Deputy President ]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/sony-computer-entertainment-names-new-deputy-president/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/sony-computer-entertainment-names-new-deputy-president/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/26/sony-computer-entertainment-names-new-deputy-president/#commentsSony has announced a bit of corporate shuffling, as Kunimasa Suzuki takes the role of "Representative Director, Deputy President of SCEI" effective next month. He will continue in his position as Deputy President of the Networked Products & Services Group, attaining a rare "Double Deputy" status. In his new role, he'll report to Kaz Hirai "and assist him in managing the day-to-day operations of the PlayStation business overall." Suzuki will head the Strategy Planning and Product Planning divisions of SCEI.

"I'm extremely excited to join the PlayStation team," said Kunimasa Suzuki, demonstrating his mastery of corporate language. "I'm determined to maximize my contribution to accelerating the expansion of the PlayStation business, one of Sony's core categories, and at the same time play an active role in linking the consumer electronics and PlayStation teams to strategically fuse both businesses and create new and truly unique Sony user experiences."

JoystiqSony Computer Entertainment names new Deputy President originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kunimasa-suzukiscesceisonysony-computer-entertainmentFri, 26 Jun 2009 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hirai aiming to 'quickly' break-even on PlayStation hardware, looking to double PSN sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/hirai-aiming-to-quickly-break-even-on-playstation-hardware-lo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/hirai-aiming-to-quickly-break-even-on-playstation-hardware-lo/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/29/hirai-aiming-to-quickly-break-even-on-playstation-hardware-lo/#comments President and CEO of SCEI, Kaz Hirai, knows all too well the financial troubles plaguing Sony's Computer Entertainment division. SCEI posted an operating loss of ¥58.5 billion ($612 million) for fiscal 2008 and Sony admits it doesn't expect to turn a profit any time soon. But that's not going to stop Hirai from trying to change things. No, according to what he told Japan Today, it sounds like he already has a plan: "We need to quickly bring our PlayStation business on a break-even level and later to profitability."

So, he's laid out a set of milestones to accomplish, but how's SCEI going to get there? Hirai said Sony needs "a strategy where buying a [sic] hardware is not the endpoint but instead a starting point that can offer new experiences." This includes, according to him, bringing the PlayStation Network to traditionally non-gaming electronics like televisions and digital cameras -- shades of what Howard Stringer said weeks before. And speaking of PSN, part of the strategy is aimed at boosting digital sales from ¥20 billion ($209 million) last year, to ¥50 billion ($523 million). We guess this means expect a lot more content spread across a lot more devices.

[Via Kotaku]

JoystiqHirai aiming to 'quickly' break-even on PlayStation hardware, looking to double PSN sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 29 May 2009 22:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesskaz-hiraipsnsceiFri, 29 May 2009 22:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony targets kids with Japanese focus groups]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/sony-targets-kids-with-japanese-focus-groups/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/sony-targets-kids-with-japanese-focus-groups/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/24/sony-targets-kids-with-japanese-focus-groups/#comments
PS3 is a sexy piece of tech. Its library of games, from Killzone 2 to Metal Gear Solid 4, appeal to the hardcore gamer ... but what about kids? PS3 is still in its infancy, so it's unsurprising that it's failed to catch the attention of children and family gamers. That might change soon though, as Sony is finally conducting focus groups in Japan catered to the younger audience.

Siliconera reports that Sony is looking for participants as young as elementary school students to take part in a testing session at Sony's Tokyo offices. These individuals will give their opinions on upcoming PSP and PS3 games. Half-day participants will get 2500 yen compensation (about $25), while full day participants get 5000 yen and a free lunch. Imagine that! A job that pays you for playing PlayStation games.

JoystiqSony targets kids with Japanese focus groups originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>familyfocus-groupkidssceisonyFri, 24 Apr 2009 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony registers trademark: 'Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman!']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/sony-registers-trademark-holy-invasion-of-privacy-badman/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/sony-registers-trademark-holy-invasion-of-privacy-badman/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/25/sony-registers-trademark-holy-invasion-of-privacy-badman/#comments
Would you buy a game called Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman!? We would. This trademark, discovered by superannuation, was filed by SCEI less than a week ago. Unfortunately, the additional information section of the listing features the rather unhelpful "NOT AVAILABLE." We don't think we'll see anything come from this trademark soon, but it will be hilarious when it eventually comes to fruition.

JoystiqSony registers trademark: 'Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman!' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 05:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>badmanholy-invasion-of-privacy-badmansceitrademarkWed, 25 Mar 2009 05:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nvidia provides free physics tools for PS3 developers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/nvidia-provides-free-physics-tools-for-ps3-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/nvidia-provides-free-physics-tools-for-ps3-developers/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/17/nvidia-provides-free-physics-tools-for-ps3-developers/#comments Sony Computer Entertainment Inc and Nvidia have inked a deal to bring PhysX SDKs to registered PS3 developers free of charge. The partnership gives PS3 devs the binary version of the PhysX kit, which includes a full-featured application programming interface and physics engine.

And just like fellow middleware Havok, Nvidia PhysX is also free for PC developers. Most games developed with PhysX have been PC titles (Empire Earth III), but PS3 support seems to be growing. In the past, PhysX was used in 2006's Mobile Suit Gundam: Crossfire. Not the best game out there, but future titles that will harness PhysX in some way, such as the upcoming PS3-exclusive Heavy Rain, show much more promise.

JoystiqNvidia provides free physics tools for PS3 developers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Mar 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>middlewarenvidiaphysxsceisdksonytoolsTue, 17 Mar 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Patapon 2 priced and dated for North America]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/patapon-2-priced-and-dated-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/patapon-2-priced-and-dated-for-north-america/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/03/06/patapon-2-priced-and-dated-for-north-america/#comments Cinco de Mayo won't be the only celebration going down on May 5 this year; Patapon 2 will also be released in North America on that date. The rhythm game from SCEI will go on sale at the suggested retail price of $19.99 -- just like the original. And, hey, if you pre-order the game now, you get free downloadable mariachi-pons.*

*just kidding about that last part.

JoystiqPatapon 2 priced and dated for North America originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pataponpatapon-2rhythmsceasceiFri, 06 Mar 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Resident Evil 5 gets custom PS3 bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/resident-evil-5-gets-custom-ps3-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/resident-evil-5-gets-custom-ps3-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/resident-evil-5-gets-custom-ps3-bundle/#commentsFiled under:

It looks like that Yakuza 3 bundle isn't the only SKU out on the market with an extra dash of special detail. A bundle for Capcom's Resident Evil 5 will also feature a unique 80GB PS3 adorned with a Tri-Cell logo. It's perhaps not as stylish as the Yakuza 3 one, but at least it comes with a second controller. The set hits Japan on March 5 alongside the debut of RE5 and will retail for ¥48,980 ($522).

It's interesting to see Sony pursue an interest in this sort of hobbyist/collector appeal strategy. Microsoft has been employing the tactic in Japan for several years now, releasing major J-RPGs in the territory with custom faceplate bundles. It'll be interesting to watch the rest of the year to see if this stratagem bears fruit, or becomes commonplace for other big name titles. In any case, don't expect to see these babies outside Japan ... seeing as we never got the silver and white units.

JoystiqResident Evil 5 gets custom PS3 bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomps3resident-evil-5sceiscejWed, 07 Jan 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony could break even on PS3 in '09, finally get agressive with pricing]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/sony-could-break-even-on-ps3-in-09-finally-get-agressive-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/sony-could-break-even-on-ps3-in-09-finally-get-agressive-with/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/23/sony-could-break-even-on-ps3-in-09-finally-get-agressive-with/#commentsFiled under: ,


Back in January, Sony Computer Entertainment president Kaz Hirai told Reuters that he'd very much like the company to turn a profit on PlayStation 3 in early 2009. Going by a new report on the actual manufacturing costs of the system, Hirai may get his wish.

BusinessWeek reports that the PS3 - which cost Sony a whopping $840 to produce in 2006 - has, through a reduction in parts and cost thereof, reached a price of $445 assembled. Sony was losing more than $200 per system sold back in the fall of '06 ... and it has now gotten that figure down to about $45. This was achievable by scaling back its inner-workings from 4,048 parts then to 2,820 today (losing backwards compatibility with PS2 games along the way). Also, the system's Cell processor, which cost Sony $89 at launch, is $46 now.

It's good news for Sony and its shareholders, who have been watching profits sink for some time. It's also good news for gamers; continued cost reduction on the hardware could spell a price drop on both SKUs by summer of 2009 - and potentially even more aggressive pricing this time next year. (Fun fact: although it might seem like the retail price of PS3 isn't dropping as fast as PS2, both systems dropped exactly $100 during their first 24 months on sale.)

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqSony could break even on PS3 in '09, finally get agressive with pricing originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hardwaremanufacturingmanufacturing-costprice-dropps3sceasceesceiSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeTue, 23 Dec 2008 17:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP Brite sells over 140K in Japanese launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/psp-brite-sells-over-140k-in-japanese-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/psp-brite-sells-over-140k-in-japanese-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/22/psp-brite-sells-over-140k-in-japanese-launch/#commentsFiled under: ,

Scanlines be damned, Sony's latest iteration of the PSP -- known as PSP-3000 or PSP Brite -- has sold 141,270 units in its first four days of launch in Japan (October 16-19), reports Famitsu. Though a marked improvement over the handheld's current sales trend in the region (approximately 25K each week), PSPHyper notes that the the last update (PSP-2000, a.k.a. Slim) sold 130,000 in its first day of launch, and 250,702 for its first 3 days.

According to the report, 14,450 units of the earlier PSP models were also sold between October 13 and 19 for a total of 155,720 for this week's Japanese hardware sales.

[Via PSP Fanboy]

JoystiqPSP Brite sells over 140K in Japanese launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hardwarehardwaresalesjapanjapanesehardwaresalesPSPpsp-3000psp-britescesceisonyWed, 22 Oct 2008 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: PSP Brite's scanlines caused by hardware, no plans to fix [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/scei-psp-brites-scanlines-caused-by-hardware-no-plans-to-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/scei-psp-brites-scanlines-caused-by-hardware-no-plans-to-fix/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/scei-psp-brites-scanlines-caused-by-hardware-no-plans-to-fix/#commentsFiled under:

Though SCEA is still "looking into the problem," Sony's Japanese headquarters (SCEI) has released a statement describing the PSP-3000 (a.k.a. PSP Brite) scanline issues as being part and parcel of the new hardware. "PSP-3000 has a new LCD device with vastly improved picture quality, achieving a more natural and vivid picture than older models," said the statement (via Engadget Japan). "By improving LCD response time to reduce ghosting, the horizontal-line phenomenon becomes more visible."

Turns out, phenomenon means "no fix in sight." According to Sony, "Since this phenomenon is caused by hardware characteristics, there is no plan to fix it with system software update." We'll be interested to see if Sony of America (SCEA) has anything different to say.

Update: SCEA has finally received the corporate memo, feeding us the same official statement from SCEI. (Posted in full after the break.)

[Via PSP Fanboy]

Continue reading Sony: PSP Brite's scanlines caused by hardware, no plans to fix [update]

JoystiqSony: PSP Brite's scanlines caused by hardware, no plans to fix [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsinterlacingPSPpsp-3000psp-britescanlinessceasceiSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaTue, 21 Oct 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP-3000 scanlines a hardware feature; no fix planned]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/psp-3000-scanlines-a-hardware-feature-no-fix-planned/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/psp-3000-scanlines-a-hardware-feature-no-fix-planned/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/21/psp-3000-scanlines-a-hardware-feature-no-fix-planned/#commentsFiled under:

Sony Japan has responded to criticisms about visible scanlines on the new PSP-3000 systems. While Sony America is looking into the situation, Japan's statement doesn't bode too well. It seems that the scanline problem is a feature of the new LCD screens. SCEI says that the "PSP-3000 has a new LCD device with vastly improved picture quality, achieving a more natural and vivid picture than older models. By improving LCD response time to reduce ghosting, the horizontal-line phenomenon becomes more visible."

The worst news is that there's no fix. "Since this is caused by hardware characteristics, there is no plan to fix it with system software update." Looks like it's here to stay. We're still waiting on a statement from SCEA but, from the looks of it, they won't have much new to add.

Update: SCEA response, after the break.

Continue reading PSP-3000 scanlines a hardware feature; no fix planned

JoystiqPSP-3000 scanlines a hardware feature; no fix planned originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 21 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>psp-3000psp-britescanlinesSCEIsonyTue, 21 Oct 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[A few new details on Eye of Judgment: Set 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/a-few-new-details-on-eye-of-judgment-set-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/a-few-new-details-on-eye-of-judgment-set-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/a-few-new-details-on-eye-of-judgment-set-3/#commentsFiled under: ,

There's a nice write up over on the PS.Blog for Eye of Judgment fans regarding the upcoming Set 3. In case you somehow forgot, Set 3 will be out in two weeks on October 16 and will be bringing with it 100 new cards and also trophy support. You can have a look at some of the new cards from the set over on the PS.Blog.

Set 3 will also introduce ten new abilities, including the abilities to change card affiliation and peek at an opponent's hand. We wonder how that last one's going to work. Another revealed ability makes opponents unable to sacrifice creatures.

It's good to see such strong support for Eye of Judgment, even if other PS Eye games haven't really taken off. The Eye of Judgment turns one year old this month, and already in that short time we've seen two full expansions with Set 2 back in April. If SCEA keeps this up, perhaps we should be expecting a new set every six months?

JoystiqA few new details on Eye of Judgment: Set 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eye-of-judgmentsceasceiFri, 03 Oct 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Enkaku Sousa and Diamond Gunshot websites open]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/enkaku-sousa-and-diamond-gunshot-websites-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/enkaku-sousa-and-diamond-gunshot-websites-open/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/03/enkaku-sousa-and-diamond-gunshot-websites-open/#commentsFiled under:

Yup, those two modern day, Dick Tracy-like games now have official sites. Now that the print mags have let the cat out of the bag on Sony's first party PSP games to be shown at TGS, the internet is getting a treat. If you're interested in getting a better look at either of these titles, you can check out the Enkaku Sousa website here or the Diamond and the Sound of a Gunshot one right here.

This blogger recommends checking out the Enkaku Sousa website purely to listen to the background music. That, and the fact that there's some footage on the game you can watch. Diamond Gunshot's website on the other hand, has less to offer, but drop by if you're interested.

JoystiqEnkaku Sousa and Diamond Gunshot websites open originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamond-and-the-sound-of-a-gun-shotdiamond-gunshotenkaku-sousasceiscejFri, 03 Oct 2008 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Two out of three SCEI TGS games revealed, Irem brings Disaster Report to PSP]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/two-out-of-three-scei-tgs-games-revealed-irem-brings-disaster-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/two-out-of-three-scei-tgs-games-revealed-irem-brings-disaster-r/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/02/two-out-of-three-scei-tgs-games-revealed-irem-brings-disaster-r/#commentsFiled under:

Here's another three new titles set to be shown at this year's Tokyo Game Show. Let's start first with two out of the three unannounced SCEI games, shall we? Both games are adventure, investigation-type games according to PSPHyper. They're called Enkaku Sousa and Diamond and the Sound of a Gun Shot. The third mystery Sony title is apparently Resistance: Retribution, which is something we've known about since E3. Not really much mystery there.

The last title we'll mention in this article is Irem's Disaster Report game for PSP. The company is bringing the series of survival adventure games over to the PSP with Zettai Zetsumei Toshi 3. The series has come over Stateside before, so this one might turn out to be a title that could make its way over here.

Source 1 - PSP Hyper
Source 2 - PSP Hyper

JoystiqTwo out of three SCEI TGS games revealed, Irem brings Disaster Report to PSP originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diamond-and-the-sound-of-a-gun-shotdisaster-reportenkaku-sousairemsceizettai-zetsumei-toshi-3Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 Fanboy import hands-on: The Last Guy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/ps3-fanboy-import-hands-on-the-last-guy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/ps3-fanboy-import-hands-on-the-last-guy/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/31/ps3-fanboy-import-hands-on-the-last-guy/#commentsFiled under:



The Last Guy is a title that has caught our eye recently, simply because it's a game with a bizarre concept, and its developers are an equally odd bunch to say the least. Its strangeness has ensnared us, pulling us in; it's even gone as far as making us purchase it off the Japanese PS Store -- not waiting for a full English release. So we did just that, we bought the Japanese release and what we got was a delightful little surprise. Want to know how it fared? Then you know the drill, read on after the break.

Continue reading PS3 Fanboy import hands-on: The Last Guy

JoystiqPS3 Fanboy import hands-on: The Last Guy originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Jul 2008 20:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>joystiqfeatureslast-guysceithe-last-guyThu, 31 Jul 2008 20:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony finds Harrison's replacement in Shuhei Yoshida]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/sony-finds-harrisons-replacement-in-shuhei-yoshida/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/sony-finds-harrisons-replacement-in-shuhei-yoshida/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/16/sony-finds-harrisons-replacement-in-shuhei-yoshida/#commentsFiled under:

Sony has finally settled on an executive to fill the shoes of former Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios president (and Infogrames' current Directeur Général Délégué) Phil Harrison, with the company handing the baton over to the US division's senior vice president Shuhei Yoshida. The exec is something of a familiar face around the Sony camp, having first joined the company in 1986 before moving on to SCEI in 1993, where we can thank him for being one of the initial forces behind getting the original PlayStation off the ground.

Yoshida was elevated to his most recent role in February 2007, and will begin calling the shots at SCE WWS starting, well, now. His plans for the company at this point remain anyone's guess, with Sony front man Kaz Hirai boasting only that the company "will reinforce our software business by further enhancing coordination among the studios under a new leader." Let us at least hope that part of that plan includes completing the work Harrison started and getting Home out the door someday sooner rather than later.

JoystiqSony finds Harrison's replacement in Shuhei Yoshida originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 May 2008 00:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewssce-wwssceiscewwsShuhei-YoshidaShuheiYoshidasonyFri, 16 May 2008 00:30:00 EST<![CDATA[YouTube uploads integrated into PS3 games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/youtube-uploads-integrated-into-ps3-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/youtube-uploads-integrated-into-ps3-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/15/youtube-uploads-integrated-into-ps3-games/#commentsFiled under:

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. has announced that it is integrating the YouTube API to allow developers to add video uploading to their titles. The first game to utilize the new feature is Mainichi Issho, a free Japanese PSN title that debuted in November 2006. As seen in the screenshot above, you will now be able to upload in-game video to YouTube for sharing from inside the game.

No other title has been announced to use the YouTube API, either for a new title or updating an exiting game. Our dream? YouTube uploads with LittleBigPlanet. It seems like a no-brainer.

JoystiqYouTube uploads integrated into PS3 games originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 May 2008 22:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mainichi-isshoPS3sceisonyyoutubeThu, 15 May 2008 22:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony pushes Home open beta out until fall '08, closed beta extended]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/sony-pushes-home-open-beta-out-until-fall-08-closed-beta-exte/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/sony-pushes-home-open-beta-out-until-fall-08-closed-beta-exte/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/22/sony-pushes-home-open-beta-out-until-fall-08-closed-beta-exte/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Sony's promise of a true open-world experience with Home has been a continual dot on the horizon for PlayStation 3 owners since it was first announced during former Sony-exec Phil Harrison's GDC keynote last year. This continues to be the case this evening, as Sony just sent word that it plans to extend the service's closed beta phase through the summer season, pushing the eventual open beta launch until sometime in the fall.

According to Sony, the move will allow the company to invite more PS3 users into the closed beta, perhaps to iron out some of the social MMO's failings we heard so much about late last year. Says SCEI president and group CEO Kaz Hirai, the delay will let Sony "refine the service to ensure a more focused gaming entertainment experience than what it is today," which is business speak for telling us that we'll have to wait a few more months before we can know the joy of throwing virtual televisions down equally virtual stairs.

JoystiqSony pushes Home open beta out until fall '08, closed beta extended originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 22 Apr 2008 01:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking-newsbreakingnewshomekaz-hiraikazhiraiPS3sceisonyTue, 22 Apr 2008 01:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Hands-on with Eye of Judgment Set 2 expansion]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/hands-on-with-eye-of-judgment-set-2-expansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/hands-on-with-eye-of-judgment-set-2-expansion/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/24/hands-on-with-eye-of-judgment-set-2-expansion/#commentsFiled under:

Click for high res image.

We've recently had the pleasure of trying out the new Eye of Judgment: Biolith Rebellion 2 expansion -- that very same expansion set to hit the US PSN this Thursday, March 27. Right away, we were excited to test out our new holo-cards and so we immediately began installing the new expansion.

We eagerly waited for the install to go through, though we soon realized it was taking longer than we expected. It was roughly about a fifteen-minute waiting period for a near two gig install. Keep in mind, however, we were told that the final update hitting the PSN should only be one gigabyte, so we assume gamers won't be experiencing the same sort of downtime we went through.

Once the install was finished, we immediately noticed some new changes. For one, the start up screen now displays "Set 2" in the lower right corner. Soon after, we began a battle with the sample cards we were given. Out of the 100 new spells and creatures promised in Set 2, we've tested out about 26 new creature and spell cards. The new character models and their animations look wonderful. We're sure fans of the game will like the new units like the Biolith War Chariot -- a tank-like summoned creature that can attack two adjacent enemy squares simultaneously.

There's a lot more to see in the game, yet we've only scratched the surface. From what we've seen thus far, we can deduce that Set 2 is something fans will be pleased with. We do have one indirect gripe though; to use your new Set 2 cards you'll need to purchase the expansion software on the PSN for $14.99. Now, why still charge gamers for functionality when they'll already be spending a fortune on cards? Oh well, c'est la vie. In any case, have a look at some shots of new cards and in-game battle animations in the gallery, then let your eyes be the judge of things.

JoystiqHands-on with Eye of Judgment Set 2 expansion originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eye-of-judgmenteyeofjudgmentsceasceiMon, 24 Mar 2008 22:10:00 EST<![CDATA[SOE to report directly to Kaz Hirai, SCEI]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/soe-to-report-directly-to-kaz-hirai-scei/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/soe-to-report-directly-to-kaz-hirai-scei/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/soe-to-report-directly-to-kaz-hirai-scei/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Sony has announced a change in the relationship between two of its, err, Sonys, namely Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. and Sony Online Entertainment. If we understand the press release correctly -- the pop-up pictures were an immense help -- SOE will be reporting directly to SCEI president and group CEO, Kaz Hirai, as of April 1, 2008. The structural change is "designed to mutually benefit both companies by further accelerating the PlayStation business through SOE's strong online gaming expertise," which ultimately boils down to more "exciting entertainment offerings" to consumers.

SOE will continue to develop said exciting entertainment offerings for the PlayStation 3 and PC, with company president John Smedley reporting to Hirai and making sure he says things like, "We are thrilled to become a part of the incredible team that has made PLAYSTATION 3 the premier platform for next generation online gaming."

SOE is currently hard at work on The Agency, a promising spy-themed MMO shooter for PC and PS3.

JoystiqSOE to report directly to Kaz Hirai, SCEI originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Kaz-HiraiKazHiraiPCPS3SCEISOEThe-AgencyTheAgencyThu, 13 Mar 2008 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Structural changes mean Kaz Hirai will head both SCEI and SOE]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/structural-changes-mean-kaz-hirai-will-head-both-scei-and-soe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/structural-changes-mean-kaz-hirai-will-head-both-scei-and-soe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/13/structural-changes-mean-kaz-hirai-will-head-both-scei-and-soe/#commentsFiled under:

Sony is announcing today that structural changes will be occurring within the company, effectively merging the Sony Computer Entertainment and Sony Online Entertainment departments. (Sony Online Entertainment has been run by Sony Pictures.) While the two will remain largely separate Kaz Hirai, President of SCEI, will now be the head of both companies, with SOE President John Smedley reporting to him from April 1st onwards.

Both SOE and SCEI seem excited by the opportunities this brings, with Hirai stating that he is "excited to be able to work with SOE even more closely, as online games and services become a more integral part of the PS3 entertainment experience. This new structure will allow us to take full advantage of the extensive breadth of expertise of the two companies and increase our range of exciting entertainment offerings to our consumers." Smedley shares these sentiments, adding that he is "thrilled to become a part of the incredible team that has made PlayStation 3 the premier platform for next generation online gaming."

This all seems to make sense, considering how much energy SOE is putting into PS3 projects over the next frew years. We can't wait to finally starting seeing the fruits of their labor later this year.

[Via press release]

JoystiqStructural changes mean Kaz Hirai will head both SCEI and SOE originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 13 Mar 2008 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>john-smedleyKaz-hiraiSCEISOEsonyThu, 13 Mar 2008 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GDC08: More Gran Turismo 5 Prologue screens really rev up our engines]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/more-gran-turismo-5-prologue-screens-really-rev-up-our-engines/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/more-gran-turismo-5-prologue-screens-really-rev-up-our-engines/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/19/more-gran-turismo-5-prologue-screens-really-rev-up-our-engines/#comments

Click for high-resolution image.

Every time we get a glimpse of GT5, we can't help but feel overly giddy for more. Luckily, Sony's Three Speech blog really cranked out the Gran Turismo 5 Prologue screens today with more shots of tracks, cars, and the pit. The environments look so spectacularly life-like it's almost scary. We wouldn't want to crash in such a real simulation; it's just simply too much of a scary thought.

Despite our crash-phobia, we're really looking forward to getting in this game's driver's seat and burning up some rubber. GT5's March-April release is just too far away.

[Thanks Clayton!]

JoystiqGDC08: More Gran Turismo 5 Prologue screens really rev up our engines originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Feb 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gdc08fanboygran-turismogran-turismo-5gran-turismo-5-prologuegtgt5Polyphony-digitalprologueracingSCEITue, 19 Feb 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kaz Hirai 'not satisfied' with current version of Home]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/kaz-hirai-not-satisfied-with-current-version-of-home/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/kaz-hirai-not-satisfied-with-current-version-of-home/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/07/kaz-hirai-not-satisfied-with-current-version-of-home/#commentsFiled under:

1UP got their mitts on the latest issue of Famitsu Weekly, in which they interviewed Sony's man with the plan, Kaz Hirai. Since we don't have our copy handy just now and our Japanese translator is out sick with a terrible case of invisibility, we'll just have to settle for 1UP's highlight reel, notable for some particularly refreshing bouts of candor from PlayStation's top dog.

When asked about the delay of Home announced at the Tokyo Game Show, Kaz responds, "I personally am not satisfied with the current version of Home. This is a very big project for the PS3 and we want to make sure that we deliver to our hearts content." It should come as no surprise that Kaz isn't happy with where Home's at; otherwise, they wouldn't have made the hard decision to push it back past the holidays.

Also covered is the 40GB model and its absence of backwards compatibility, PS3 price drops, Monster Hunter III, the sale of the Cell processor manufacturing facilities, and the company's plans for the holiday. Most interesting is Kaz's response to the last question: "Returning to Japan, I have done my best in the given limited amount of time. Not everything I envision has turned out 100% but we as a company have worked together towards our goals." How's that for candor?

[Via GameDaily]

JoystiqKaz Hirai 'not satisfied' with current version of Home originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FamitsuKazHiraiPS3SCEIWed, 07 Nov 2007 21:31:00 EST<![CDATA[TGS07: Kaz Hirai to headline Tokyo Game Show]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/tgs07-kaz-hirai-to-headline-tokyo-game-show/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/tgs07-kaz-hirai-to-headline-tokyo-game-show/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/19/tgs07-kaz-hirai-to-headline-tokyo-game-show/#commentsFiled under: ,

Now that all that pesky E3 business is behind us we can start talking Tokyo Game Show! The newly lengthened TGS has just announced the keynote speaker ... none other than Ken Kutaragi's successor, Kaz Hirai. Of course, Kutaragi delivered last year's (baffling) TGS keynote, so it's only fitting that Kaz take the baton this year.

Let's just hope he doesn't go all E3 '06 on us, with dry charts and boring numbers; we'd love to see some sex appeal from the new Pres of SCEI. Now, what's the name of his speech? "The Expanding PlayStation World, Business Strategy For New Growth." Well, charts are cool we suppose ...

JoystiqTGS07: Kaz Hirai to headline Tokyo Game Show originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JapanKazHiraiPS3SCEITGSTGS07Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi steps down as CEO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-steps-down-as-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-steps-down-as-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-steps-down-as-ceo/#commentsFiled under:

The quote unquote Father of the PlayStation is stepping down from his position of CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment. "Kutaragi has said that he has been considering this decision for some time. He stated that, in the six months since the appointment of Kazuo Hirai as President in December, the new generation of management, led by Mr. Hirai, has continued to develop. With the March introduction of PS3 in Europe completing the successful launch of PS3 worldwide, Mr. Kutaragi has identified SCE's Annual Shareholders' meeting in June as the ideal timing to pass on the torch to the new generation of management. Mr. Kutaragi will now apply his extensive technological knowledge and leadership skills to take on new challenges beyond the world of PlayStation. Sony and SCE will continue to seek Mr. Kutaragi's input and ideas from a broad perspective, while continuing to support him as much as possible in the realization of his dreams."

Kutaragi will continue to be a senior technology advisor to Sony. Although the man was infamous for his somewhat delusional comments, we know that his replacement, Kaz Hirai, will do just a good of job at keeping the internet entertained.

JoystiqKen Kutaragi steps down as CEO originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken kutaragiKenKutaragikutaragisceiThu, 26 Apr 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi to retire, go back to space ship]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-to-retire-go-back-to-space-ship/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-to-retire-go-back-to-space-ship/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-to-retire-go-back-to-space-ship/#commentsAs of June 19th, the man behind the Spider-Man font, behind the PlayStation 3's slick design, behind the massive damage control Sony is still trying to get a hang of will be retiring. Yes, Krazy Ken Kutaragi will be stepping down from his position as CEO at Sony Computer Entertainment. He will be replaced by the less krazy Kaz Hirai -- he doesn't get the capital letter yet.

The following are excerpts from a press release from Sony detailing the resignation: "Kutaragi has said that he has been considering this decision for some time. He stated that, in the six months since the appointment of Kazuo Hirai as President in December, the new generation of management, led by Mr. Hirai, has continued to develop...Sony and SCE will continue to seek Mr. Kutaragi's input and ideas from a broad perspective, while continuing to support him as much as possible in the realization of his dreams." He's passing on the torch to Kaz Hirai and the new, fresh, young management team! Good. It's a good thing to know what's best for the company, even at your own expense. We salute him for that. But... what are his dreams? The PS3 Grill?

While this is heartbreaking news for those who think Kutaragi was doing a stellar job with the PS3, recall that he was given a promotion recently that consequently took him out of most day-to-day operations of Sony and the PlayStation 3. As a parting farewell to all the shoddy promises given by Kutaragi, as well as a few things to make us giggle, we're sticking some famous quotes from the man, the legend, the mystery: Ken Kutaragi. Goodbye, Krazy Ken. You had a good run, but it's time to step aside. Have a great retirement!

  • "[We want] consumers to think to themselves 'I will work more hours to buy one'. We want people to feel that they want it, irrespective of anything else."
  • "The PS3 will instill discipline in our children and adults alike. Everyone will know discipline."
  • "The PS3 is not a game machine "

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqKen Kutaragi to retire, go back to space ship originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ken KutaragiKenKutaragikutaragiPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3scesceiSonyThu, 26 Apr 2007 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Ken Kutaragi announces plans to retire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

In March, The Wall Street Journal said Ken Kutaragi was a "stumbling block" for Sony; now they're reporting that the controversial chairman and group CEO for Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. -- and father of the PlayStation brand -- will be retiring his post effective June 19. Of course, the 57-year-old exec was recently kicked upstairs, removing him from day-to-day operations following what many considered to be a botched strategy for the PlayStation 3. Kaz Hirai, who replaced Ken in December, will be promoted to CEO of SCE.

And Kaz, you better start practicing. You've got some large shoes to fill ... four-dimensional shoes that require dual HDMI soles to output 120 footprints a second. But seriously, we'll miss your krazy quotes, Ken!

Update -- SCEI statement: "Kutaragi has said that he has been considering this decision for some time. He stated that, in the six months since the appointment of Kazuo Hirai as President in December, the new generation of management, led by Mr. Hirai, has continued to develop. With the March introduction of PS3 in Europe completing the successful launch of PS3 worldwide, Mr. Kutaragi has identified SCE's Annual Shareholders' meeting in June as the ideal timing to pass on the torch to the new generation of management. Mr. Kutaragi will now apply his extensive technological knowledge and leadership skills to take on new challenges beyond the world of PlayStation. Sony and SCE will continue to seek Mr. Kutaragi's input and ideas from a broad perspective, while continuing to support him as much as possible in the realization of his dreams."

Read - PlayStation Creator Plans to Retire (WSJ subscription reqd.)
Read - Kutaragi to step down as Sony game unit CEO (IDG)

JoystiqSony's Ken Kutaragi announces plans to retire originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceoken kutaragiKenKutaragikutaragiplaystationPS2PS3PSPscesceisonyThu, 26 Apr 2007 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony talks about the backwards compatibility thingy]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/26/sony-talks-about-the-backwards-compatibility-thingy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/26/sony-talks-about-the-backwards-compatibility-thingy/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/26/sony-talks-about-the-backwards-compatibility-thingy/#commentsFiled under:

Looking ahead, I have a lot of exciting news for you guys today! I'll get it all typed up now, before 1PM, but it's all set to publish throughout the day (one of the reasons it seems we're slow, actually... got to spread out the news. Tossin' it all out in a two hour timeframe really doesn't make much business sense). First up is this, our follow up to the announcement that Sony will release a new version of the PS3 in Europe, sacrificing some backwards compatibility temporarily as well as our other post describing how this is just temporary but may be indicative of a price cut next year due to decreased manufacturing costs.

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe's big brother, SCEI, has issued a statement regarding the backwards compatibility software stuff. Really, they should've just quoted us. I think we made a pretty decent rational appeal. What was told/confirmed (even though it pretty much was already) is that "Sony is including hardware of some form that will take the place of the Graphics Synthesizer graphics chip. The Emotion Engine CPU functionality will be replicated entirely through software emulation." Still no word on actual percentages of games playable from the past, but we've said enough on this topic. Let's all collectively shrug, keep our PS2's in a closet for when we want them, and move on. This isn't good news, but it's in no way "OMFG liek boo sONy!" news.

JoystiqSony talks about the backwards compatibility thingy originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Feb 2007 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Playstation 3Playstation3PS3SCEESCEISonyMon, 26 Feb 2007 11:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Team Ico making plans for PS3 development]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/team-ico-making-plans-for-ps3-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/team-ico-making-plans-for-ps3-development/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/team-ico-making-plans-for-ps3-development/#commentsFiled under: ,

Team Ico wants you! Provided, that is, you're an ace programmer or a crack network engineer (for example) and keen to work on an exciting new PS3 project. There's a recruitment ad to this effect on Sony's Japanese website, while Sony has also bought a double-page spread in the latest issue of Weekly Famitsu to get the word out. So is this confirmation of a PS3 sequel to Wanda, or -- considering the specific requirement for networking staff -- can we expect an altogether different kind of beast? For now, we're just content to stare at the sketches and calculations scrawled by Team Ico staff on Sony's site.

JoystiqTeam Ico making plans for PS3 development originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Feb 2007 03:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ColossusIcoico-and-shadow-of-the-colossus-collectionPS3SCEITeam-ICOWandaThu, 15 Feb 2007 03:30:00 EST