Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sony's Panopticon countdown ends with mysterious trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonys-panopticon-countdown-ends-with-mysterious-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonys-panopticon-countdown-ends-with-mysterious-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/05/16/sonys-panopticon-countdown-ends-with-mysterious-trailer/#comments
The PlayStation Japan website just unveiled a trailer for what's apparently a new Japan Studio game, possibly called Panopticon going by the page name. The unveiling followed a week-long countdown, which was more like a count-up since the timer eventually ticked up to "1,000,000 years." It did just that at 6AM ET, with this trailer in its stead.

The trailer depicts a futuristic, totalitarian world where citizens are seemingly identified by virtually visualized ID numbers. There's no indication of any platforms or release date.

Earlier this year, it was spotted SCE Europe trademarked Panopticon. The word traces it roots to the Greek language, and means to "include everything visible in one view."

JoystiqSony's Panopticon countdown ends with mysterious trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 May 2013 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanpanopticonplaystationsonysony-computer-entertainment-japanThu, 16 May 2013 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony Computer Entertainment merges Japan and Asia divisions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/sony-computer-entertainment-merges-japan-and-asia-divisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/sony-computer-entertainment-merges-japan-and-asia-divisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/04/01/sony-computer-entertainment-merges-japan-and-asia-divisions/#comments Sony Computer Entertainment's Japan and Asia divisions are as of today collectively Sony Computer Entertainment Japan Asia. The perhaps awkwardly named combination is being headed up by former SCE Japan chief Hiroshi Kawano, while former SCE Asia president Hiroyuki Oda becomes the unit's deputy president. The move sees a number of the two divisions' departments merge into one, with Sony looking to continue the cost-cutting initiatives it implemented across the last fiscal year.

A month ago, Sony sold its Tokyo-based Osaki building for around $1.2 billion, this after the sale of its US headquarters earlier this year for $1.1 billion. Sony says it expects to turn an operating profit for the fiscal year ending March 31.

JoystiqSony Computer Entertainment merges Japan and Asia divisions originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>sonysony-computer-entertainment-asiasony-computer-entertainment-japansony-computer-entertainment-japan-asiaMon, 01 Apr 2013 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Demon's Souls PSN petrifying Europeans on January 23]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/demons-souls-psn-petrifying-europeans-on-january-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/demons-souls-psn-petrifying-europeans-on-january-23/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/01/04/demons-souls-psn-petrifying-europeans-on-january-23/#comments Demon's Souls PSN petrifying Europeans on January 23The PlayStation Network version of Demon's Souls is bringing death and despair to Europe on January 23, Namco Bandai tells us. That means our friends across the ocean must wait a little longer for From Software's downloadable dose of role-playing desolation, following yesterday's news of it coming to North America's PSN this coming Tuesday.

Namco says the game's European servers are staying online, so be sure to look out for messages telling you it's safe ahead when in fact there's a big, fat soul-loving spider who missed both breakfast and lunch and isn't really dealing with it well.

JoystiqDemon's Souls PSN petrifying Europeans on January 23 originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 04 Jan 2013 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Demons-Soulsfrom-softwarenamco-bandaiplaystationps3PSNrelease-datesony-computer-entertainment-japanFri, 04 Jan 2013 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Kaz Hirai drops some titles at Sony, still president]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/27/kaz-hirai-drops-some-titles-at-sony-still-president/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/27/kaz-hirai-drops-some-titles-at-sony-still-president/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/27/kaz-hirai-drops-some-titles-at-sony-still-president/#comments One morning, Sony president and CEO Kaz Hirai woke up and said, "I probably have too many titles." Beyond being the president and CEO of Sony Corporation (the umbrella parent company of PlayStation, Bravia, and many other Sony brands), Hirai is also "representative director" and "chairman" - until today, that is. Hirai is relinquishing his responsibilities and titles for both his positions as representative director and chairman of Sony Corp.

Hirai is dropping both titles and responsibility in today's move, only remaining on Sony's board in a "part-time capacity." He became president and CEO earlier this year, taking over former CEO Howard Stringer's spot in early February. Sony Computer Entertainment president Andrew House is taking over the vacated chairman position, effective this month, and former Sony Corp. head Howard Stringer is also exiting his board seat.

In case the bizarre-looking hierarchy isn't clear enough, this means that Andrew House - the guy who runs the PlayStation brand - is the head of Sony Corp.'s board, followed by eight Japan-based Sony Corp. employees. One of those is his boss, Kaz Hirai. Yup.

JoystiqKaz Hirai drops some titles at Sony, still president originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Jun 2012 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>andrew-househoward-stringerkaz-hiraikazuo-hiraimoveplaystationplaystation-vitaps3pspscejsir-howard-stringersonysony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japansony-corpsony-corporationvitaWed, 27 Jun 2012 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's 'wacky' Tokyo Jungle headed to North America and Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/sonys-wacky-tokyo-jungle-headed-to-north-america-and-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/sonys-wacky-tokyo-jungle-headed-to-north-america-and-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2012/06/08/sonys-wacky-tokyo-jungle-headed-to-north-america-and-europe/#comments Sony's 'wacky' Tokyo Jungle headed to North America and EuropeDespite the absence of a pomeranian guest appearance at Sony's E3 2012 press conference, the company's delightfully bizarre-looking Tokyo Jungle is indeed headed to PlayStation Network in North America and Europe. A press release this week confirmed the EU release, and Sony VP of product development and worldwide studios Scott Rohde told us in an interview this week that the "wacky" internally developed PSN game will indeed arrive in North America as well.

"It'll ship here, it'll ship everywhere," Rohde said. To him, Tokyo Jungle's worldwide release is emblematic of Sony's "crazy innovative" approach. "That game is just wacky, but in a good way, because we like to show that there's still an art form, and you can still experiment," he said. "Is everyone gonna love a game like Tokyo Jungle? Absolutely not, but there's a whole bunch of people it's gonna make really happy. Specifically for the fact that it's so different, and so unexpected. That's a key part of the culture of Worldwide Studios and how our games are developed."

Though he couldn't name one specific person internally who championed the previously Japan-only game, Rohde extolled the internal culture that allows games like that to be created. "Someone has a key vision in our [Japan Studios] about Tokyo Jungle, they wanted to build this game. And so we're gonna embrace that. And of course we discuss it, and if it doesn't make sense, we can walk away. We walk away from dozens and dozens of titles every year. But the difference is, we actually build them out to a certain extent. And when they hit a point where we think, 'You know what? This is pretty interesting and it's gonna make some people happy,' we're gonna build it."

Frankly, we're pretty darn happy this one made it through the wringer. Tokyo Jungle doesn't have a release date or price just yet.

Gallery: Tokyo Jungle (E3 2012)

JoystiqSony's 'wacky' Tokyo Jungle headed to North America and Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crispyse3-2012europejapan-studionorth-americaplaystationplaystation-campplaystation-networkps3psnscott-rohdesony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japantokyo-jungleFri, 08 Jun 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Vita launch issues in Japan result in apology, software update [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/vita-launch-issues-in-japan-result-in-apology-software-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/vita-launch-issues-in-japan-result-in-apology-software-update/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/12/19/vita-launch-issues-in-japan-result-in-apology-software-update/#comments


For us suckers in North America, the PlayStation Vita is still just a distant object of desire. For the Japanese, though, the Vita is already a couple days into its life, but apparently it's got some ... issues. Our tech savvy brethren at Engadget are reporting that some users are experiencing "software bugs, unresponsive touchscreens and complete system freezes," resulting in many taking to social media to voice frustration.

Sony, as it turns out, is listening, already issuing a software update and penning an apology letter. The video above showcases some of the Vita's problematic issues, and it should at very least help you to sympathize with your Japanese equivalent's frustration. The letter, well, it's in Japanese, and it's kinda non-specific, so you may wanna skip that part. Regardless, with any luck, said issues will be ironed out by the time Vita arrives on US shores on February 22. Here's hoping, anyway.

Update: Sony UK counters this report and others, saying the company, "can't find any evidence of widespread glitches."

[Thanks Gerry!]

JoystiqVita launch issues in Japan result in apology, software update [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apologybugsfirmware-updateissuesjapanplaystationplaystation-vitascescejsoftware-updatesony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japanvitaMon, 19 Dec 2011 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA['UMD Passport' application moves UMD-based PSP games to the Vita (for a price)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/umd-passport-application-moves-umd-based-psp-games-to-the-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/umd-passport-application-moves-umd-based-psp-games-to-the-vita/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/11/11/umd-passport-application-moves-umd-based-psp-games-to-the-vita/#comments Sony realizes that you, Japanese PlayStation Portable owner, want to keep playing your UMD version of Nano Diver when the PlayStation Vita launches on December 17. The Japanese electronics giant last night announced its "UMD Passport" program, wherein PSP owners can download a free application to register their UMD games and receive a discount on repurchases of said games through the Vita's digital distribution store.

The repurchase price varies from game to game, but it averages between 500 and 1,000 yen ($6 to $13), going as high as ¥2,400 ($31). And to get a jump on the conversion process, Sony will be releasing the PSP app on December 6. It's unclear whether the Passport program will arrive Stateside or in Europe when the Vita launches early next year in other territories, but we expect Sony will reveal as much in the coming months.

The initial titles included in the program are detailed by Sony here, and the company apparently intends on expanding it to approximately 200 games.

Joystiq'UMD Passport' application moves UMD-based PSP games to the Vita (for a price) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanpassportplaystationplaystation-vitapspscejsonysony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japanumdumd-passportvitaFri, 11 Nov 2011 08:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's TGS 2011 press conference, live from Tokyo]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/sonys-tgs-2011-press-conference-live-from-tokyo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/sonys-tgs-2011-press-conference-live-from-tokyo/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/09/14/sonys-tgs-2011-press-conference-live-from-tokyo/#comments After a harrowing flight and about fifty trains across the Tokyo metropolitan area, we've arrived at Sony's Tokyo Game Show 2011 press conference and we're ready to kick off the livebloggening. As Mr. Samuel Jackson might say, "Hold onto your butts." Any minute now ...

Continue reading Sony's TGS 2011 press conference, live from Tokyo

JoystiqSony's TGS 2011 press conference, live from Tokyo originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 01:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>playstationps3pspscejsonysony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japantgstgs-2011tokyo-game-showtokyo-game-show-2011Wed, 14 Sep 2011 01:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Take a look at the gorgeous openings of Ico and Shadow of the Colossus HD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/take-a-look-at-the-gorgeous-openings-of-ico-and-shadow-of-the-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/take-a-look-at-the-gorgeous-openings-of-ico-and-shadow-of-the-co/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/10/take-a-look-at-the-gorgeous-openings-of-ico-and-shadow-of-the-co/#comments
Sure, you've already shed dozens of sympathy tears over Ico and Shadow of the Colossus, but have you ever shed tears of joy from the sheer beauty of the games, now updated to high-def? Well, these two videos, showcasing the opening to each game from the upcoming Ico and Shadow of the Colossus Collection re-release, may cause a bit of eye-born precipitation. At very least, they'll serve to get you extra pumped for the September launch of the remastered duo on PlayStation 3.

Continue reading Take a look at the gorgeous openings of Ico and Shadow of the Colossus HD

JoystiqTake a look at the gorgeous openings of Ico and Shadow of the Colossus HD originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ico-and-shadow-of-the-colossus-collectionjapan-studioplaystationps3scescejsony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japansony-japan-studioteam-icoWed, 10 Aug 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 gets three free premium cars for Christmas ... in Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/gran-turismo-5-gets-three-free-premium-cars-for-christmas-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/gran-turismo-5-gets-three-free-premium-cars-for-christmas-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/16/gran-turismo-5-gets-three-free-premium-cars-for-christmas-in/#comments Sony Japan is putting a special Christmas gift in the stockings of Gran Turismo 5 owners in that territory. From December 24 to January 31, Japanese GT5 drivers will be able to download a Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640, a BMW M3 Coupe and a Jaguar XJ13 completely free for use in the game. The Lambo and the Beemer were originally included in the game's collector's edition, and the Jag was a promotional extra from Facebook.

The promotion is currently for Japan only, so you US and European players will have to live with the usual coal in your stocking. Maybe next year, try not being so naughty?

JoystiqGran Turismo 5 gets three free premium cars for Christmas ... in Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Dec 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwchristmasdlcfreegran-turismoGran-Turismo-5japanlamborghiniplaystationpolyphony-digitalps3sonysony-computer-entertainment-japanThu, 16 Dec 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5's full Trophy list revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/gran-turismo-5-trophies/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/gran-turismo-5-trophies/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/gran-turismo-5-trophies/#comments Alongside today's news that Gran Turismo 5 retail discs have begun popping up in Europe comes a video detailing the game's entire Trophy list, minus three "Hidden" Trophies. Czech site Konzolista has the whole shebang, backed up by a clip found on GT Planet.

Rather than detailing the Trophies, we're gonna leave it to you to choose -- the clip has been embedded after the break and contains potential spoilers (albeit, seemingly minor ones). You've been warned!

Continue reading Gran Turismo 5's full Trophy list revealed

JoystiqGran Turismo 5's full Trophy list revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gran-Turismo-5playstationpolyphony-digitalps3scesceascejsony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japantrophiesMon, 08 Nov 2010 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gran Turismo 5 retail discs spotted in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/gran-turismo-5-retail-discs-spotted-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/gran-turismo-5-retail-discs-spotted-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/gran-turismo-5-retail-discs-spotted-in-europe/#comments Over the weekend, a handful of tipsters sent Gran Turismo fansite GT Planet photos of what appeared to be retail versions of Gran Turismo 5. The photographic evidence began to pile up, and it seems that some gamer slash gearheads in Europe are already playing the game -- this is, of course, after the game was delayed to an unknown release date. Additionally, the game's entire Trophy list has been revealed, adding fuel to the fire.

At the very least, this confirms GT5 director Kazunori Yamauchi's statement about discs for the game already being in production, though it doesn't put us any closer to knowing when exactly the game will finally arrive at retail. Will GT5 follow the path of the Sega Saturn and simply become available "right now," whenever the publisher deems it so? It certainly seems possible as of this report. But then, we all know how well that went for Sega's game console.

JoystiqGran Turismo 5 retail discs spotted in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gran-Turismo-5kazunori-yamauchileakplaystationpolyphony-digitalps3release-dateretailscescejsony-computer-entertainmentsony-computer-entertainment-japanMon, 08 Nov 2010 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu: White Knight Chronicles coming to PSP in 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/famitsu-white-knight-chronicles-coming-to-psp-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/famitsu-white-knight-chronicles-coming-to-psp-in-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/30/famitsu-white-knight-chronicles-coming-to-psp-in-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Level-5's White Knight Chronicles may have had some issues, but it's not stopping the company from pursuing a sequel, set to be released in Japan next month. It would seem the series is also extending to Sony's PSP, as the latest issue of Japanese mag Famitsu (via Andriasang) reveals a PSP entry set for a 2011 launch.

While White Knight Chronicles 2 wraps up the story of Leonard and the events set in motion by the first game, the PSP game will introduce a new story and characters. "And then, to a new world," the text on the teaser page announces. "White Knight Chronicles New Project. A story of your avatar and new allies, told on the PlayStation Portable, is set to start in 2011."

JoystiqFamitsu: White Knight Chronicles coming to PSP in 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 30 Jun 2010 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011famitsujapanlevel-5release-datescejsony-computer-entertainment-japanwhite-knight-chroniclesWed, 30 Jun 2010 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony puts together Patchwork Heroes demo for March 4]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/sony-puts-together-patchwork-heroes-demo-for-mar-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/sony-puts-together-patchwork-heroes-demo-for-mar-4/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/sony-puts-together-patchwork-heroes-demo-for-mar-4/#comments Known as Million Ton Barabara in Japan and the work of Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman! What Did I Do to Deserve This, My Lord?! dev Acquire, Patchwork Heroes is hands-down the coolest-looking PSP game about sawing up giant airships we're ever seen. Okay, so it's the only game of the type we've ever seen -- viva la originality! Sony has announced that we'll all get to experience the (we hope) joys of dismantling flying war machines tomorrow, Thursday March 4, when a demo of Patchwork Heroes hits PlayStation Network as part of the service's usual weekly update. It all goes well, it should fulfill our weird 'n wacky gameplay needs through the entire weekend.

JoystiqSony puts together Patchwork Heroes demo for March 4 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquiredemopsnpsn-storerelease-dateSCEJsonySony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanWed, 03 Mar 2010 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Is this it? Michael Jackson 'This is It' PS3 Japan bundle]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/michael-jackson-this-is-it-ps3-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/michael-jackson-this-is-it-ps3-bundle/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/06/michael-jackson-this-is-it-ps3-bundle/#comments Corporate synergy keeps the late "King of Pop" alive, as various divisions of Sony conspire for a special This Is It PS3 bundle. The ¥33,500 ($365) Japan-only set releases January 27 and comes with a Blu-ray movie of Michael Jackson's behind-the-scenes concert film, along with a 120GB black PS3 Slim. No word if this bundle will come with a white PS3 later.

So, let's get this straight: Japan gets a Michael Jackson PS3 bundle, while the US is "blessed" with a Hannah Montana PSP pack? That's bad, come on, you know that's bad. And the whole world has to answer right now, just to tell us once again: that's bad!

[Via Engadget]

JoystiqIs this it? Michael Jackson 'This is It' PS3 Japan bundle originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 06 Jan 2010 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundlejapanmichael-jacksonscejsonySony-Computer-Entertainment-Japanthis-is-itWed, 06 Jan 2010 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Japan Studio urged to create more PS3 games]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/sonys-japan-studio-urged-to-create-more-ps3-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/sonys-japan-studio-urged-to-create-more-ps3-games/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/02/sonys-japan-studio-urged-to-create-more-ps3-games/#comments
Japan Studios has had little impact on the PlayStation software library this generation. The platform's greatest hits so far have, instead, come from America and Europe. Titles like Uncharted, Killzone, LittleBigPlanet, Ratchet & Clank, Resistance, God of War, and WipEout all come from various studios at SCEA and SCEE. But what has Japan Studio created thus far? Siren, Trash Panic, and The Eye of Judgment -- noteworthy games perhaps, but hardly a collection of system-selling blockbusters.

Sony Worldwide Studios boss Shuhei Yoshida explained to Gamasutra that "their focus was shifted onto the PSP, which reflects the success of the PSP as a platform in Japan ... It's completely opposite of the way how US and European teams moved onto working on the PS3 and we see the fruits of those efforts, while Japan studios shifted their focus onto the PSP." Of course, handheld owners have much to be thankful for: system-defining hits like Patapon and LocoRoco were created out of Japan Studio's dedication to the platform.

However, the next year (and beyond) should be very different for Sony's Japanese developers. With The Last Guardian and Gran Turismo 5 coming from Sony's other Japanese studios, the pressure is on for other developers to follow suit. "We are now re-energizing teams and coming up with new ideas for PS3 development," Yoshida said. "We'll be able to show fruits of this work sometime next year."

JoystiqSony's Japan Studio urged to create more PS3 games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanjapan-studioplaystationscejshuhei-yoshidasonySony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanMon, 02 Nov 2009 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[LocoRoco 2 coming to North America on Feb. 10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/locoroco-2-coming-to-north-america-on-feb-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/locoroco-2-coming-to-north-america-on-feb-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/12/24/locoroco-2-coming-to-north-america-on-feb-10/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Well, this news is sure to leave you smiling ear to ear for the next week -- a tad awkward if you're meant to be at a funeral in the near future, but that's just how LocoRoco rolls. The giggling explosion of euphoric colors, more elegantly dubbed "LocoRoco 2," is officially slated to arrive in North America on Feb 10, 2009.

The PlayStation Blog notes that the anticipated sequel will be available then on UMD, but we hope to see a version of LocoRoco 2 arrive on the PlayStation Store as well (Japan's doing it!). It'll save us the trip into the outside world, which we hear is a rather dour place.

Gallery: LocoRoco 2

JoystiqLocoRoco 2 coming to North America on Feb. 10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 24 Dec 2008 12:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsFebruary-GamesJS-TwitterLocoRoco-2PSPSCEASCEJSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanWed, 24 Dec 2008 12:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu: Demon's Souls, PS3 action-RPG at TGS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/famitsu-demons-souls-ps3-action-rpg-at-tgs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/famitsu-demons-souls-ps3-action-rpg-at-tgs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/10/01/famitsu-demons-souls-ps3-action-rpg-at-tgs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The latest Famitsu has some info on one of those nine unannounced PS3 games coming from Sony and to be shown off at TGS next week. Demon's Souls is a single-player, fantasy-themed action-RPG being developed by From Software (and directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, of Armored Core fame), and published by SCEJ. Though it's a new IP, the game's director and SCE producer mention From Software's RPG series King's Field - perhaps a spiritual successor of some kind? Demon's Souls will be playable at TGS, so we'll find out then, okay?

[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqFamitsu: Demon's Souls, PS3 action-RPG at TGS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Demons-SoulsFamitsuFrom-SoftwareHidetaka-MiyazakiPS3SCEJSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanTGSTGS-2008Wed, 01 Oct 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Afrika trailer is wildly educational]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/new-afrika-trailer-is-wildly-educational/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/new-afrika-trailer-is-wildly-educational/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/06/new-afrika-trailer-is-wildly-educational/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Okay, we think we finally get it. This latest trailer for PlayStation 3 safari sim, Afrika, reveals that the game is, much like the Wii's Endless Ocean, all about exploring, documenting and learning about wildlife. You'll snap pictures of giraffes (they're really tall!), sneak up on a buffalo in the dead of night (where are his wings?), and drive alongside sprinting cheetahs (they always prosper!). There also appears to be an interactive encyclopedia providing details on all those animals you spied on at the watering hole, though it doesn't seem to mention what any of them taste like.

... What?

JoystiqNew Afrika trailer is wildly educational originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jun 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AfrikaJapanPS3Rhino-StudiosSCEJSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanFri, 06 Jun 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan getting 'Metallic Blue' PSP, 'Cinnabar Red' PS2]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/japan-getting-metallic-blue-psp-cinnabar-red-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/japan-getting-metallic-blue-psp-cinnabar-red-ps2/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/03/japan-getting-metallic-blue-psp-cinnabar-red-ps2/#commentsFiled under: ,


Like an enormous -- and enormously spoiled -- child whose tantrums can shake the entire planet, Japan gets all the cool stuff, all the time. The latest, albeit limited-edition, gifts bestowed upon it are a Metallic Blue PlayStation Portable and a Cinnabar Red PlayStation 2. The portable system will be available in a standard Value Pack (complete with cloth, pouch, D Terminal AV cable and, don't laugh, a 32MB Memory Stick), as well as a 1 Seg Pack which includes a 1GB memory stick, carrying case and 1 Seg tuner. They'll be out on July 17th for ¥23,800 ($231) and ¥29,800 ($289), respectively.

The Cinnabar Red PlayStation 2, slated to become available on July 3rd, will fetch a price of ¥16,000 ($155). And in case you were wondering, Cinnabar is actually some kind of red-tinted rock. We were under the impression that you could toss back shooters and eat delicious cinnamon rolls in there.

[Via Engadget]

Source -- Blue!
Source -- No, Rehhhhhhd!

JoystiqJapan getting 'Metallic Blue' PSP, 'Cinnabar Red' PS2 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jun 2008 15:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cinnabar-Red-PS2ColorsJapanMetallic-Blue-PSPPS2PSPSCEJSonySony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanTue, 03 Jun 2008 15:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PSN gardening game to exercise green thumbs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/psn-gardening-game-to-excercise-green-thumbs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/psn-gardening-game-to-excercise-green-thumbs/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/31/psn-gardening-game-to-excercise-green-thumbs/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

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

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

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gardenplantsplaystation-networkplaystationnetworkPS3psnscejshikiteisonySony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanSat, 31 May 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Europeans barred from Afrika]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/europeans-barred-from-afrika/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/europeans-barred-from-afrika/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/27/europeans-barred-from-afrika/#commentsFiled under:


It seems that you residents of Europe itching to go on an exotic wildlife safari will either have to import a copy of the PlayStation 3's Afrika, or have someone push you through the downtown supermarket on a trolley. And hey, if you have extra money lion around, you could pay a visit to the real Africa (the one with a "c") and snap some pics of those really tall horses.

Speaking to Eurogamer, Sony has declared that its plans to publish the nebulous Afrika in Europe are currently non-existent. It was confirmed that the game would still be coming out in Japan, however, with zebra new teaser website promising something "soon." We'll keep our ears to the ground, listening for that stampede of information.

JoystiqEuropeans barred from Afrika originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 May 2008 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AfricaAfrikaPS3SCEESCEJSonySony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanTue, 27 May 2008 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Save the Sixaxis: New MGS4 'Welcome Box' bundles announced for Japan]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/save-the-sixaxis-new-mgs4-welcome-box-bundles-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/save-the-sixaxis-new-mgs4-welcome-box-bundles-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/02/save-the-sixaxis-new-mgs4-welcome-box-bundles-announced/#commentsFiled under:

welcome box
Not one to sit back and let the Sixaxis suffer into extinction, Sony Japan will carefully package the feathery gamepad into a trifecta of new Metal Gear Solid 4 bundles. Dubbed the "Welcome Box," the new limited edition bundle will be offered in three standard flavors (Clear Black, Ceramic White and Satin Silver) and will include a 40GB console, rumblin' DualShock 3 and copy of MGS4 -- oh, and yes, one's very own Sixaxis. The Welcome Box (shouldn't it be "Goodriddance Box?") will be made available in concurrence with the worldwide release of MGS4 on June 12 for a reasonable ¥49,800 (roughly $470). Comparatively, the "Hagane" Grey MGS4 bundle will retail for ¥51,800; and so essentially, Sony's offering a savings of ¥2,000 (about $20) to folks who adopt a Sixaxis. Too bad no Welcome Box's been announced for North America. We'd so love to join the cause: Save the Sixaxis!

Gallery: MGS4 Welcome Box (Japan)

JoystiqSave the Sixaxis: New MGS4 'Welcome Box' bundles announced for Japan originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 02 May 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bundleceramic-whiteclear-blackdualshock-3japankonamimetal-gear-solid-4Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-Patriotsmgs4PS3satin-silverscejsixaxisSony-Computer-Entertainment-Japanwelcome-boxFri, 02 May 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Famitsu reveals 'Siren New Translation' for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/famitsu-reveals-siren-new-translation-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/famitsu-reveals-siren-new-translation-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/16/famitsu-reveals-siren-new-translation-for-ps3/#commentsFiled under:


Much like the ancient evils that plague the survival-horror genre, it seems Siren is about to be resurrected for a new, thrill-seeking audience. The pages of Famitsu have apparently revealed "Siren New Translation," an alleged PlayStation 3 remake of the 2003 scare-a-thon. The original game saw ten unlucky souls attempting to escape a Japanese village, aided only by the occasional blunt object and the ability to see through the eyes of nearby creatures. One of those was considerably more useful than the other.

Siren New Translation seems set for a July 24th release, with a demo expected to boo-come* available on the Japanese PSN next week. Is that it for the mysterious countdown on Sony's Japanese site?

[Via PS3 Fanboy, Kotaku]

*Alright, that one probably deserves an apology.

JoystiqFamitsu reveals 'Siren New Translation' for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 16 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FamitsuPS3SCEJSirenSiren-New-TranslationSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanSurvival-HorrorWed, 16 Apr 2008 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Revamped PlayStation Store goes live April 15 [updated]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/sony-japan-revamped-playstation-store-goes-live-april-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/sony-japan-revamped-playstation-store-goes-live-april-15/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/10/sony-japan-revamped-playstation-store-goes-live-april-15/#commentsFiled under:


Sony KONPYUTAENTATEINMENTOJAPAN has announced that the revamped PlayStation Store will open its virtual doors on Tuesday, April 15th. Update: SCEA has confirmed that loud-mouthed, spendthrift American PS3s will be allowed to roam the aisles on the same day, as will systems from around the globe.

The store revamp will be facilitated by enhanced firmware (version 2.30) and should mark the return of weekly content updates which have been absent since April 3rd. Once the more user-friendly interface is up and running, PS3 owners will be able to download fun things like Warhawk's Broken Mirror expansion and the 'Still Alive' DLC for Rock Band.

Gallery: PlayStation Store Update Spring '08



[Via PS3 Fanboy]

JoystiqRevamped PlayStation Store goes live April 15 [updated] originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsDLCFirmwarePlaystation-StorePS3PS3FirmwarePSNRock-BandSCEJSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanWarhawkThu, 10 Apr 2008 09:32:00 EST<![CDATA[New Japanese PS3 targets Satin worshippers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/new-japanese-ps3-targets-satin-worshippers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/new-japanese-ps3-targets-satin-worshippers/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/05/new-japanese-ps3-targets-satin-worshippers/#commentsFiled under:


Never one to cast judgment upon any potential customers, Sony has announced a new PlayStation 3 color aimed at Japanese kids in service of Satin. Packing a 40GB hard drive and a matching SIXAXIS wireless controller, the "Satin Silver" model is scheduled for release on March 6th at the price of ¥39,980, or approximately $666 $376.

Those hoping to feel Satin's rumblings in their idle hands can also pick up a similarly colored Dual Shock 3, which releases on the same day for ¥5,500 ($52). If you were foolish enough to pledge your allegiance to that Ceramic White model, consider this your chance to repaint.

Gallery: Satin Silver PlayStation 3



[Via Engadget]

JoystiqNew Japanese PS3 targets Satin worshippers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 05 Feb 2008 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40GBDual-Shock-3DualShock3JapanPS3Satin-SilverSCEJSixaxisSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanTue, 05 Feb 2008 07:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Forty PS3 titles to be playable at TGS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/forty-ps3-titles-to-be-playable-at-tgs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/forty-ps3-titles-to-be-playable-at-tgs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/04/forty-ps3-titles-to-be-playable-at-tgs/#commentsFiled under:


According to IGN, Sony Computer Entertainment Japan has unveiled a list of PlayStation 3 titles expected to be playable at the upcoming Tokyo Game Show. The event, which runs from the 20th to the 23rd of September, will host 40 demos -- some new, some already released and judging by the presence of Disney's Pirates of the Caribbean, some playable only in the very general sense of the word.

You'll find the complete list situated after the break, sans four mystery games Sony has yet to announce. You'll also spy a new untitled project from Tetsuya Mizuguchi's Q Entertainment, the developer behind mesmerizing block dropper Lumines. We can only hope that when they flip a coin to decide between Lumines for the PlayStation Network and a sequel to Ninety-Nine Nights, the forces of the universe act in our favor.

Continue reading Forty PS3 titles to be playable at TGS

JoystiqForty PS3 titles to be playable at TGS originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 04 Sep 2007 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>PS3SCEJSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanTGS07TokyoGameShowTue, 04 Sep 2007 12:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Yamauchi reveals GT5 details to Car & Driver]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/yamauchi-reveals-gt5-details-to-car-and-driver/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/yamauchi-reveals-gt5-details-to-car-and-driver/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/03/yamauchi-reveals-gt5-details-to-car-and-driver/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Auto industry tome Car and Driver made the trek out to Japan for a feature on Gran Turismo creator Polyphony Digital studios in its August 2007 issue. Among the obsessively detailed descriptions of the Polyphony offices and some ridiculously simplistic analysis of the console wars, the article managed to squeeze in a few details about Gran Turismo 5 from creator Kazunori Yamauchi. Among the salient news:
  • Programming detailed car models on the PS3 is a ridiculously time-consuming process. "For Gran Turismo 1, one car was one day's work for one man," Yamauchi said. "For GT3, one car was one man's work for 30 days. For GT5, one car is one man's work for 180 days."
  • Since programming 700 new cars for GT5 would take the Polyphony team five years, the game will launch with what the article calls a "a much smaller collection," with downloadable updates to follow. This seems to somewhat confirm earlier rumors of a focus on downloadable content for the GT series.
  • Yamauchi said the PS3 is powerful enough to handle in-game car damage , but implementing it realistically would require "double the work" in physics and artistic modeling. So will it make it into the game? As the Magic 8-Ball might say, signs point to no.
While comments from Sony seem to indicate a vague Spring '08 release for GT5, the Car & Driver article speculates that Sony might have to indulge Yamauchi's artistic temperament, "even if it pushes Gran Turismo 5's release date to the end of 2008 or beyond." We just hope the game doesn't get shoveled over to the PS4, or worse, end up in perpetual vaporware development like Gran Turismo Mobile.

JoystiqYamauchi reveals GT5 details to Car & Driver originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Jul 2007 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Gran Turismo 5Gran TursimoGranTurismo5GranTursimoGT5polyphonyPS3PSPSCESCEJSonySony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanTue, 03 Jul 2007 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 shipments hit 2 million worldwide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/16/ps3-shipments-hit-2-million-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/16/ps3-shipments-hit-2-million-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/16/ps3-shipments-hit-2-million-worldwide/#commentsFiled under: ,

Better late than never, right? Though Sony missed their initial goal of shipping 2 million Playstation 3 consoles by the end of 2006, two weeks spent in the new year brings them up to speed. According to a GameDaily Biz report, Sony Computer Entertainment has announced a 1 million shipment milestone in Japan, thus bringing the global total to 2 milllion. Officials point out that in the Playstation family, the PS3 has been the quickest in reaching this number.

Next up, Sony will tackle a lofty 6 million shipment target for the end of March, with success largely depending on how the system fares in Europe when it launches in the same month. Japanese analysts aren't particularly optimistic, with Nomura Securities predicting that only 4.5 million units will ship by then.

Further numbers revealed by Sony are the 5 million in collective PS3 software shipments, 500,000 Playstation network users and the over 300,000 downloads enjoyed by the Gran Turismo HD demo.

JoystiqPS3 shipments hit 2 million worldwide originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 16 Jan 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnalystGran Turismo HDGranTurismoHdGTHDPS3SCEASCEJSony shippingSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanSonyShippingTue, 16 Jan 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Preliminary: Sony missed 2M shipment target in '06]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/preliminary-sony-missed-2m-shipment-target-in-06/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/preliminary-sony-missed-2m-shipment-target-in-06/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/01/10/preliminary-sony-missed-2m-shipment-target-in-06/#commentsFiled under: ,

According to a market survey released yesterday by Japanese game publisher, Enterbrain Inc., Sony is falling short of both its Japanese and global shipping targets. Having shifted 466,716 Playstation 3 units since the November 11 launch, the electronics giant appears to be missing its goal of shipping 1 million units in Japan by a considerably wide margin.

An ABC News report notes the more successful situation in North America, where Sony hit their 1 million unit target, but concludes that the combined results fail to satisfy Sony's desire to ship 2 million consoles worldwide before the end of 2006. Production woes and steep competition from Nintendo's Wii, which sold close to a million units in Japan since early December, are the chief culprits cited.

Sony is expected to release their own shipping estimates soon and warn that there may be discrepancies between their data and the results obtained by Enterbrain.

See also: Japanese hardware sales charts

JoystiqPreliminary: Sony missed 2M shipment target in '06 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Jan 2007 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Japanese hardware salesJapaneseHardwareSalesPS3SCEASCEJshipping targetsShippingTargetsSony shippingSony-Computer-Entertainment-AmericaSony-Computer-Entertainment-JapanSonyShippingWed, 10 Jan 2007 11:10:00 EST