http://www.ps3news.com PS3 NEWS - PlayStation 3 News - PS3News - PS3News.com - PS3 Games - PS3 Hacks - PS3 Homebrew - PS3 Linux Tue, 23 Sep 2008 19:21:31 CDT en http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/limited-edition-playstation-2-lego-batman-bundle-arrives/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/limited-edition-playstation-2-lego-batman-bundle-arrives/ Tue, 23 Sep 2008 19:21:31 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/limited-edition-playstation-2-lego-batman-bundle-arrives/
Hi everyone! I just wanted to let you know that the limited-edition LEGO Batman: The Videogame PlayStation 2 bundle is now available at retail. You can find it at all major retailers for $149.99 (MSRP).

We are excited to team up with fun, exciting partners such as LEGO Batman and Justice League to offer a bundle that is perfect for families and comic enthusiasts alike.

The bundle includes:

- The Black PlayStation 2 system
- DUALSHOCK 2 Controller
- LEGO Batman: The Video Game - The fun of LEGO, the drama of Batman and the uniqueness of the combination make for a comical and exciting adventure to save Gotham City. Fight the mayhem as super-heroes Batman and Robin, or spread anarchy as one of the city’s many super-villains…all in LEGO form.
- Justice League: The New Frontier (DVD video) - Based on Darwyn Cooke’s award-winning graphic novel, this thrilling adventure reveals the origin of the Justice League.

As mentioned these are in limited supply, so be sure to pick one up before they are gone!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/rugby-league-2-world-cup-edition-for-playstation-2-announced/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/rugby-league-2-world-cup-edition-for-playstation-2-announced/ Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:37:51 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/rugby-league-2-world-cup-edition-for-playstation-2-announced/
The game builds on the highly successful 2005 release of Rugby League 2, bringing updated and new content in time for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.

Press Release: "Rugby League 2 was a massive success and gamers had been asking for an updated version for a long time," said David Robles, Business Development Manager for HES."By working with Sidhe to deliver a new version of the game, with updated features, and rosters, we’re giving the fans what they want on the platform they want it most."

Rugby League 2: World Cup Edition includes a host of features and new updates for Rugby fans including:

- All New World Cup Mode
- Squad and Jersey updates for the 2008 NRL, Super League and World Cup International Teams
- Addition of new NRL franchise the Gold Coast Titans including player likenesses
- Stadia updates and five new stadia including Skilled Park (Gold Coast), Browne Park (Rockhampton, QLD), New Craven Park (UK), Twickenham Stoop (UK) and Stade Gilbert Brutus (France)
- New in-game cut scenes
- New Twilight NRL Grand Final Stadia

Rugby League 2: World Cup Edition is expected to be release for PS2 in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom in early November 2008.

About HES
Home Entertainment Suppliers Pty Ltd (HES) are a Sydney-based firm specialising in the distribution of video game consoles, games and accessories throughout the Australian market. Established in 1984, HES are the exclusive distributors of Mad Catz, Saitek and Tru Blu accessories and games in Australia, including 2003’s record breaking NRL Rugby League for PS2, XBOX and PC. HES also has a video game publishing arm, Tru Blu Entertainment.

About Sidhe Interactive
Founded in 1997, Sidhe Interactive is an award-winning developer of console, handheld and PC games. The largest game production studio in New Zealand, Sidhe has a proven track record of creating high-quality, mass-market, licensed and original titles for a worldwide audience. The studio has produced more than 20 high-profile titles including GripShift (Xbox 360, PS3, PSP), Jackass the Game (PS2, PSP), and most recently Speed Racer (Wii, PS2), as well as multiple games based on the NRL Rugby League franchise. For more information on Sidhe Interactive, please visit: http://www.sidheinteractive.com

Note to media: Screenshots from the game are available for download at: http://www.rl2worldcupedition.com]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/kingdom-hearts-chain-of-memories-for-ps2-us-release-confirmed-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/kingdom-hearts-chain-of-memories-for-ps2-us-release-confirmed-1/ Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:55:50 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/kingdom-hearts-chain-of-memories-for-ps2-us-release-confirmed-1/
We reported yesterday that Square-Enix USA has confirmed to managers at the Gamestop Convention that the game will be landing this fall with a budget price.

Confimation of a UK and EU release is at this moment in the words of a Square-Enix rep "tbc." The representative went on to state that they were "unaware" of any plans to bring the game to EU shores, and that it would be "near impossible before Christmas." It was noted that since a US release was happening, a European equivalent would "Probably happen", even if it is a limited release similar to the GBA Final Fantasy remakes.

It seems an international release is unlikely. Europeans should begin praying to the release god now that they see Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories PS2 in 2009.

Square-Enix have revealed to managers at this week's Gamestop Manager Conference that they will be releasing Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories for PS2 this Holiday season in the USA.

Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories is a PS2 3D remake of the Game Boy Advance spinoff title that takes place between Kingdom Hearts and Kingdom Hearts II. The title was originally bundled in Japan with Kingdom Hearts II: Final Mix, but will be released in the US as a standalone game with a $29.99 price tag.

This release has been rumoured for some time, but has finally been confirmed with several Gamestop Managers who were present at the conference and sources at Square-Enix.

This is good news and bad news for KH fans - this means we finally get the superior 3D remake of the awesome GBA game - but we will never see the complete, Final Mix version of KH2 in the West. We will be in touch with Square-Enix tomorrow regarding a European release.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/the-getaway-for-ps2-analyizes-satellite-navigation-in-our-brains/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/the-getaway-for-ps2-analyizes-satellite-navigation-in-our-brains/ Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:48:53 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/the-getaway-for-ps2-analyizes-satellite-navigation-in-our-brains/
Recently, two researchers used the PS2 game 'The Getaway' to analyse how taxi drivers use their brain areas to navigate.

To quote: In a follow-up study, Dr Spiers and Professor Maguire used the PlayStation 2 video game "The Getaway" to examine how taxi drivers use their hippocampus and other brain areas when they navigate. Taxi drivers used the virtual reality simulation to navigate the streets of London whilst lying in an fMRI brain scanner.

The researchers found that the hippocampus is most active when the drivers first think about their route and plan ahead. By contrast, activity in a diverse network of other brain areas increases as they encounter road blocks, spot expected landmarks, look at the view and worry about the thoughts of their customers and other drivers.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/new-playstation-2-model-launches-in-india/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/new-playstation-2-model-launches-in-india/ Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:39:08 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/new-playstation-2-model-launches-in-india/
"We are excited to introduce the new PlayStation 2 at an attractive and accessible price point for the Indian gamers," said PlayStation India boss Atindriya Bose.

"For a country like India where there are many gamers just starting on consoles, PS2 indeed plays an important role as the best entry level gaming console."

Press Release: PlayStation prepares for the festive season sales: brings in the new PlayStation 2 at an attractive price point

Mumbai, 10th September, 2008: Encouraged by the increasing sales and widening distribution, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) has just rolled out the new series of the PS2 in the Indian market to capture the sales opportunity during the Diwali sales. The new PS2 model comes in an attractive new duo-shade look and sleeker design with the AC Adapter being in-built. The new PlayStation 2 is now indeed a styling fit to the living room of the Indian gamer, looking to start off his new exciting hobby around console gaming.

Not satisfied with a simple launch of the model, the new PS2 is being introduced at an attractive price point of 6490/- and with a festive season offer of one free game with every PlayStation 2 purchase. The festival season is now truly looking as the ideal time for purchasing the console.

Atindriya Bose, Country Manager for PlayStation in India said, "We are excited to introduce the new PlayStation 2 at an attractive and accessible price point for the Indian gamers. For a country like India where there are many gamers just starting on consoles, PS2 indeed plays an important role as the best entry level gaming console."

Given that so many Indians are looking forward to PlayStation ownership, the PS2 now is the most natural choice. The ownership decision is further made easy due to the wide range of attractive games with a starting price of INR 499/-.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/singstar-country-coming-to-playstation-2-on-october-28-2008-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/singstar-country-coming-to-playstation-2-on-october-28-2008-1/ Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:28:03 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/singstar-country-coming-to-playstation-2-on-october-28-2008-1/
As a result, SingStar Country will be the first title in the franchise to feature artists on the cover, including popular Sony BMG Nashville country stars Brad Paisley, Gretchen Wilson and Alan Jackson. "It’s great to be one of the first SingStar Country artists," comments Wilson. "This game lets me reach out to all country fans in a whole new way, not only giving them the chance to hear my music, but also to become a part of it."

Press Release: SINGSTAR® COUNTRY TAKES CENTER STAGE ON THE PLAYSTATION®2 SYSTEM THIS OCTOBER

New Edition to the Multi-million Selling Global Singing Franchise Features Leading Country Stars Brad Paisley, Gretchen Wilson and Alan Jackson on the Cover

FOSTER CITY, Calif., September 9, 2008 - Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) announced today the North American release of SingStar® Country, available exclusively for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system (PS2™) on October 28.

Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studio’s London Studio, SingStar Country brings one of the best-selling music genres to the PlayStation 2 system, delivering 30 hit songs from today’s newest and hottest country artists including, Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Taylor Swift, Faith Hill and more.

Additional Sony BMG Nashville stars featured on SingStar Country include Kenny Chesney, Brooks & Dunn, Jessica Simpson, Miranda Lambert, Montgomery Gentry and others, including Kellie Pickler, who cheered, "I grew up wanting to be a country music singer and would sing other artists’ songs, and now people are going to be singing my song in SingStar Country? That’s cool!"

SCEA and Sony BMG Nashville also have joined up for "Sing Your Way to the CMA Awards", a nationwide SingStar Country radio promotion beginning in September. SCEA and Sony BMG Nashville, in conjunction with radio stations in 12 major US markets including Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Chicago and San Francisco, will host SingStar Country tournaments at local hotspots for players to win a chance to attend the 42nd Annual CMA Awards on November 12.

The highest scorer from each market will have their in-game performances taped and posted online for the public to vote on via www.hearsomethingcountry.com. The participant with the most votes by the end of October will win tickets to attend the CMA Awards alongside their favorite SingStar Country artists.

Available both as a stand-alone disc and packaged with two high-quality USB microphones SingStar Country tops off every SingStar fan’s collection, proving that the franchise truly has something for everyone. As in previous SingStar titles, SingStar Country provides an interactive social singing experience by incorporating technology that recognizes pitch, tone and rhythm to accurately score players as they perform to real songs featuring real music videos.

Aspiring country stars can to choose to sing solo or select from multiplayer gameplay modes sure to get the party started like Pass the Mic, Battle and Duet. Players may also use the EyeToy® USB camera to capture and play back their performances.

In addition to SingStar Country, the SingStar franchise will continue to expand its ever-growing catalogue this fall with two new additional PlayStation 2 installments, SingStar® Pop vol.2, the follow-up to the top-selling SingStar® Pop, and SingStar® Legends, a mix of celebrated artists from Tina Turner to Nirvana. SingStar® for the PLAYSTATION®3 (PS3™) system also will be growing its library in October with SingStar® Vol.2 for PS3 featuring a variety of today’s popular artists including Eminem, Radiohead, Paramore, Pink and more.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/developers-neglecting-ps2-mercenaries-2-rates-worse-than-original/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/developers-neglecting-ps2-mercenaries-2-rates-worse-than-original/ Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:31:44 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/developers-neglecting-ps2-mercenaries-2-rates-worse-than-original/
It seems as if the developers watered down this version, perhaps because of their PS3/XBox 360 commitments. It's so bad, they scored it a 3.9/10 and that's REALLY bad coming from the usually high scoring IGN.

To quote: The original Mercenaries came out three-and-a-half years ago. But instead of giving us a game with more than three years worth of updates, Pi Studios has actually taken three steps backwards. Mercs 2 looks worse, plays worse and is just plain worse than the groundbreaking original.

Why this watered-down version was even published is a mystery. Were this game fun, with the missions structured in a way that made them enjoyable, thaen there'd at least be a reason to rent. But there's nothing here to recommend.

Mercenaries 2 on PS2 is a bad game. 'Nuff said.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/recycled-ps2-chairs-to-launch-at-sony-hq-on-wednesday/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/recycled-ps2-chairs-to-launch-at-sony-hq-on-wednesday/ Tue, 02 Sep 2008 18:58:50 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/recycled-ps2-chairs-to-launch-at-sony-hq-on-wednesday/
PRESS RELEASE: RECYCLED PLAYSTATIONS BECOME BRITISH DESIGNER CHAIRS

London-based Pli Design Ltd (http://www.plidesign.co.uk) is launching its latest eco-friendly product, a chair made from 100% recycled games consoles. The launch takes place on Wednesday September 10, 2008 in London, at the HQ of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.

The British manufactured 'Reee® chair' has a plastic seat and back made entirely from recycled PlayStation®2 computer games consoles*. Unlike most recycled plastics, which come from a variety of sources, the plastic in the Reee chair is entirely from a single source, making it the first of its kind in the country.

The Reee chair - which is available for the contract, education and domestic markets - was conceived at the annual Eden Project Suppliers conference in Cornwall, where the Pli team discussed the possibilities for reusing high-quality plastic from waste electronics products with other manufacturers, including Sony Computer Entertainment.

Each chair uses 2.4 kg of recycled plastic and the chair parts are designed to be disassembled at the end of their life and recycled again and again. The production of recycled plastic requires a fraction of the energy used for 'virgin' plastic that comes straight from the oil barrel. And because the chair is also completely sourced and manufactured in the UK, it travels a fraction of the distance from factory to customer when compared to a chair Made in Asia, all of which makes it highly attractive to furniture buyers who put environmental responsibility and sustainability on their list of 'must haves'.

Alex Whitney, Pli's design manager, said: "The simple idea behind the Reee chair is to produce a recycled furniture product in the UK that has style, function and durability but does not compromise its environmental credentials - so our customers don't have to compromise theirs."

Having originated the idea of producing a quality chair with a low carbon footprint, Pli brought in Sprout Design, a specialist sustainable design consultancy, to develop the finished product. With funding from London Remade, the London Development Agency's waste and recycling initiative, Pli developed the original prototype into a production-ready model and the Reee chair went into full-scale production in July 2008.

Pli director Christopher Pett comments: "The Reee chair does not put a premium on the cost of sustainable living: it is priced competitively with other domestic and contract seating designs in the UK market. Pli's mission is to prove that sustainable businesses in the UK can compete on price and quality with imported products."

The Reee chair will go on sale at the Eden Project's visitor shop in Cornwall and through selected retailers and contract suppliers across the country in September. During the London Design Festival it will also be available to buy in Selfridges, London, in the Designersblock pop-up shop located on the 4th floor.

The Reee chair launch will take place on Wednesday 10th September 2008, 6.30 pm to 9 pm at Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, 10 Great Marlborough Street, London W1F 7LP.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/ps2-the-console-that-will-not-die-scph-90000-on-the-way/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/ps2-the-console-that-will-not-die-scph-90000-on-the-way/ Thu, 28 Aug 2008 21:48:34 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/ps2-the-console-that-will-not-die-scph-90000-on-the-way/
Sporting backwards compatibility with the first PlayStation, the system debuted with a gigantic library. Games made specifically for the PS2 have continued to debut since, even continuing after the release of the current generation of systems, including the PS3 from Sony.

Now, two years after the PS3’s debut, Sony is releasing yet another revision of the PS2 in the US, having already released it in the rest of the world. Dubbed the SCPH-90000, the model looks similar to the Slimline model introduced in 2004, but no longer has an external power adapter.

Why release another revision of the hardware? Well, 8 new releases came or are coming in August. 14 are due in September, 15 in October, 13 in November, and 6 more in December. With a constant stream of games like that, there seems to still be a demand. Oh, what a demand there is! According to the latest NPD numbers, over 155 thousand PS2s were sold in the US in July alone, bringing the system’s US total to 42.5 million.

So, the demand is there, and the question becomes not if, but why? Why is a system with lower technology (which of course means lower end graphics) still getting new games and consistent sales? Price is certainly a factor, but the Xbox and Gamecube are considerably cheaper than the PS2. After all, they aren’t even sold new anymore and can only be purchased at used gaming retailers. The system is getting new games, but at about half the rate of its new more powerful sibling.

One thing that may be helping the aged system stay alive is the floundering US economy. The difference between $130 (for a new PS2) and $250 (for a Wii or Xbox 360 Arcade) is a huge one for many families in the US. Also, with the PS3 costing no less than $400, parents may feel that’s just too expensive for a toy for their kids.

The other thing that can’t be overlooked isn’t the new games, but the old ones. There are around 2000 games available for the PlayStation 2, with around 300 of those being in Sony’s budget "Greatest Hits" line. With titles like Final Fantasy X, Lego Star Wars, and SSX 3, along with current or upcoming exclusives like Persona 3 and 4 and Yakuza 2 and still being included on multiplatform titles like Madden and Ghostbusters, the PS2 doesn’t seem to be dying anytime soon.

How much life does the system have? Well, Sony wants the PlayStation 3 to last ten years. The PS2 only has about a year and a half to go to reach that decade mark and prove that it can be done.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/tesco-retailers-who-stick-with-ps2-for-christmas-reap-the-benefits/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/tesco-retailers-who-stick-with-ps2-for-christmas-reap-the-benefits/ Fri, 22 Aug 2008 01:18:07 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/tesco-retailers-who-stick-with-ps2-for-christmas-reap-the-benefits/
To quote: "PlayStation 2 still has a key part to play in the gaming market this year . It seems some people forget that for a large number of young families the outlay for a new console is a major decision and is simply not an option in the current economy.

"With the PlayStation 2 install base I believe that many younger-skewed games will again perform very well this year. Retailers who stick with the PS2 format for Christmas this year will reap the benefits."]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/project-artemis-ps2-hacking-system-in-development-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/project-artemis-ps2-hacking-system-in-development-1/ Tue, 12 Aug 2008 22:24:38 CDT LBGSHI PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/project-artemis-ps2-hacking-system-in-development-1/ here.

The project is far from complete. There have been quite a few stumbling blocks, and some impressive progress has been made (though, without consent from its authors, not all of it can be shown here immediately - an issue I'm hoping will be resolved in the next few days). Through several primary coders (Sang123, Hit n' Run Games, misfire, Shyam Narain, Xerxes Technologies, cYs Driver), it has been determined that...

A: Hiring a company to design such a system will result in either paying tens of thousands of dollars, or ending up with a company that cannot complete the project, and...

B: Hiring a solitary coder, such as a skilled member of the scene, will eventually result in the coder being overwhelmed.

Hence, lacking the necessary funds to hire a coding group or company adept enough to complete the task at hand within a reasonable amount of time, we have made the best decision possible, with Artemis, GSHI, and the scene in mind: to bring the project out of the darkness, and into the realm of open source.

If anyone is interested in contributing, feel free to make a post, if only to say so. We will continue to chronicle our progress, research, and thoughts here. There will soon be a SubVersion repository in play; if you'd like access, let us know. I'll begin making our work available in this thread, and other threads in this forum entitled "Artemis: [Subject]".]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-ps2-will-be-ahead-of-wii-in-2011/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-ps2-will-be-ahead-of-wii-in-2011/ Tue, 12 Aug 2008 21:32:47 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-ps2-will-be-ahead-of-wii-in-2011/
Speaking at the launch of Edinburgh’s Interactive Festival, the games chief said all platforms will see major growth by 2011, predicting there will be 2.5 billion gamers worldwide.

Deering said the DS will have rocketed to 150m users, but top of the home console market will be the PS2 with 90m active users.

The Sony boss added the Wii will be second with 80m users, the PS3 and PSP will be at 70m and the Xbox 360 at 40m.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/yakuza-2-web-site-launched-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/yakuza-2-web-site-launched-1/ Sun, 10 Aug 2008 22:09:37 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/yakuza-2-web-site-launched-1/ live, offering new details about this upcoming sequel developed for PS2 and due to hit the store shelves on September 9th.

Yakuza 2 is a 3rd person action adventure featuring enhanced combat, larger environments and a thrilling storyline continuing a year after the first game ended.

Kazuma Kiryu, the protagonist of the first game, is named Fourth Chairman of the Tojo Clan but unexpectedly retires from life in the clan the same day. However, his personally chosen successor is assassinated by a former allied gang called the Omi.

This sets the stage for the sequel's storyline, which sees Kazuma travelling through Japan on what could be the last opportunity to stop an all-out war between the Tojo and Omi clans.

Video can be seen HERE thanks to Gamershell!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/software-enables-ps2-to-play-online-videos/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/software-enables-ps2-to-play-online-videos/ Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:06:32 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/software-enables-ps2-to-play-online-videos/
To quote: In addition to these capabilities, users can customize Qtv. For example, while using API (application programming interface) available from online video distributors, users can set keywords related to their favorite videos on the Website run by BroadQ.

Using the company's system, users can choose and display videos related to those keywords on their terminals.

BroadQ is planning to release Qtv at US$49.95 sometime around fall 2008. Also, it is planning to disclose and sell its software applications for mobile phones and PCs at the same time.

In addition to selling the software by itself, the company is considering incorporating its software applications in set top boxes and other items manufactured by other companies.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/how-to-turn-a-ps2-memory-card-into-a-usb-flash-drive/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/how-to-turn-a-ps2-memory-card-into-a-usb-flash-drive/ Wed, 23 Jul 2008 23:28:33 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/how-to-turn-a-ps2-memory-card-into-a-usb-flash-drive/
To quote: This Instructable is about how to put a USB flash drive into a Memory Card's case. It isn't very hard and so it won't take you more than about 15 Minutes. This is my first Instructable, so please let me know what you think about it!

For this little project you'll need:

1. Memory Card
2. Flash Drive
3. Screwdriver or knife
4. Dremel or a rasp
5. Sticky tape

Check out the link above for the full guide and enjoy!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/the-ps2-controller-that-gets-tired-as-your-character-gets-tired/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/the-ps2-controller-that-gets-tired-as-your-character-gets-tired/ Sat, 12 Jul 2008 21:17:04 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/the-ps2-controller-that-gets-tired-as-your-character-gets-tired/
This is the one that slows the analog part of the controller down over time, so that when you play a title like Katamari Damacy the Prince will get tired. A lot more details are available linked above.

To quote in part: So, this is my analog version of a playful Playstation 2 controller for the PSX project - the one that slows the analog part of the controller down over time so, you know.. when I’m playing Katamari Damacy it’s a bit more realistic that the Prince gets tired or during GTA, my guy actually gets tired from running away from liquor store heists and stuff.

I’m looking at two approaches. The first is digital - basically intercepting and modifying the communication between the console and the controller. (I’ve described the protocol, and there’s lots of great, hard-gained information out and about describing how it works.)

This second, is a more expeditious design. Basically, I tap right into the PSX controller, putting a microcontroller in between the analog control joysticks and the little FPGA or whatever it is that senses the analog control joysticks.

So, my microcontroller determines where the control sticks are and, depending on how long the game’s been played, "dampens" the value, constraining its range.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-to-launch-fourth-version-of-ps2-by-diwali/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-to-launch-fourth-version-of-ps2-by-diwali/ Thu, 03 Jul 2008 02:12:11 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-to-launch-fourth-version-of-ps2-by-diwali/
The higher-end version promises to be slimer, sleeker and more suave in its looks. There will be no more external AC adapters, all of which will be in-built and the product price will also be the same as the earlier version (Rs 6,990).

SCE India will also be launching the playstation network for their PlayStation 3 in India, which will allow gamers to download free games and also buy them online. This portal is already available in the US and Europe.

"The PlayStation Network is ready for India. It is only the integration of the payment gateway that needs to be done." said Mr Bose. We shall launch it by the end of this fiscal, he added.

Sony PlayStation, over the last 13 years, has evolved as every gamers aspiration. It has its own cult following and to grow this base, SCE wants to market PS2 as gaming console for novices of all age groups and class.

"PS2 is an entry-level console, which helps first timers to enter the gaming zone," said Mr Bose. While PS3 failed to make as great an impact as PS2, SCE wants to tap the BRIC markets with PS2.

It has a 120-million installed base, worldwide, with 3,40,000 of these being in India alone. "We feel PS2 has the potential to penetrate further into the Indian and Russian markets. Console gaming is in its nascent stage in India. These are untapped markets and are new to the gaming world, hence we have no plans to phase out PS2 anytime soon," he added.

Asked if this would affect the market for PS3, Mr Bose said that would not be the case. "We do not market it as a PS2 or PS3. It is the experience of the PS that we market. PS3 is for the next generation. People who are first timers in the gaming market want to pick up PS2 and experience that, before upgrading to PS3," he said.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/console-war-has-changed-ps2-declines-in-old-age-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/console-war-has-changed-ps2-declines-in-old-age-1/ Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:30:52 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/console-war-has-changed-ps2-declines-in-old-age-1/
Sony sold .98 million fewer PS2s than it did over last fiscal year, and PS2 software sales are down 39.5 million units year-over-year, too.

According to the report, Sony is planning on continuing decline for the PS2 in its ninth year since release. "However, on the back of worldwide hardware expansion, there are plans for a diversified portfolio of software titles to be released, and, thus, Sony will strive to maintain the scale of this business," said the company.

How are Sony's other platforms stacking up? Chart, and more delicious numbers, after the jump.

Still, though, PS2 software sales dominated over PS3 and PSP software, with almost three times as many units sold. Interestingly, it's the PSP that's sold more hardware than either the PS2 or PS3, moving a total of 13.89 million units, over four million more than last year.

PSP sold 55.5 million units of software, a small .8 million-unit bump over last year, putting it on par with PS3 software at 57.9 million units. PS3 software made a grand leap to reach that point, though, up 44.6 million units over last year.

Worldwide hardware unit sales (increase/decrease year-on-year ):

PS2: 13.73 million units (a decrease of 0.98 million units)
PSP: 13.89 million units (an increase of 4.36 million units)
PS3: 9.24 million units (an increase of 5.63 million units)

Worldwide software unit sales (increase/decrease year-on-year ):

PS2: 154.0 million units (a decrease of 39.5 million units)
PSP: 55.5 million units (an increase of 0.8 million units)
PS3: 57.9 million units (an increase of 44.6 million units)]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/shadow-of-the-colossus-for-ps2-was-the-hype-justified/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/shadow-of-the-colossus-for-ps2-was-the-hype-justified/ Tue, 17 Jun 2008 16:31:22 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/shadow-of-the-colossus-for-ps2-was-the-hype-justified/
While some of us have lived those days and enjoyed them thoroughly, there are still quite a few gamers left who chose to sit on the fence and perhaps miss out on an experience like no other. This is why I have started this feature for the readers of PlayStation Universe.

If a game has received some notoriety in the past and has been claimed to be a PlayStation masterpiece in the field of gaming, I’ll be checking it out to give you my final verdict.

This marks my first departure into the world of past generation’s titles. I hope you guys enjoy it and for those of you sitting on that fence, hopefully you’ll now fall to either side. Reviews:

"After playing it for a while and slaying 5 colossi, I tip my hat. This far, I had only heard people mumbling about the masterpiece it was. Maybe it was because I wasn't mature enough to understand all connotations portrayed in this game. The gameplay, art style, story, music, colossi, and everything else not listed. Everything is blended perfectly into a game that should not be considered anything less than a masterpiece -- A work of art." - Thorzilla

"No game has awed me as much as SotC has when you stumble across your first Colossi. You come around that corner on your horse into a huge open area and this beast that seams 500 feet tall is lumbering around, and when it sees you, the music picks up and is probably the most epic game I have ever played." - Scape

"There are so many 'I can't believe I can do this in a game' moments in SotC. The gameplay is basic and yet ridiculously deep. I replayed the game literally last week, and I jumped back into Oblivion. The horse and controls of Oblivion feel like a SNES game compared to what you can do on your horse in SotC, how you move around, grab things.... It's way ahead of its time. I'd even say for gameplay, it's still ahead of maybe all PS3 and 360 games released thus far. Sounds stupid, but it's true." - Skulpt

My Verdict: Shadow of the Colossus is a tale of a young man named Wander on his quest to save the life of the woman he loves. While this may sound like a typical story for any adventure/RPG styled game, Team ICO manages to bring this story to an entirely new level with not only innovative gameplay but with a world that truly pulls you in and engulfs you within its atmosphere. Equipped with only a bow, a magical sword, and your trusty steed, Agro; you must conquer and defeat 16 colossi in order to restore life to the fallen maiden.

During this adventure, you’ll be astonished with a beautifully rendered world that feels years ahead of its time. With the ability to freely roam throughout the environment, you’ll find yourself just riding Agro around and exploring the vast peninsula you’re provided. Even if you’ve experienced such beauty as Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune and Metal Gear Solid 4, you’ll still be left in awe at the art and animation direction that Team ICO took in Shadows of the Colossus.

On top of providing a vivid world that will leave its imprint within your gaming soul forever, the developers concocted a masterful score of melodies and effects. From the pleasant sounds of Agro’s feet pounding into the earth below you to the ramped up fast-tempo beat provided once the colossi has risen for you to strike down, the game does a tremendous job stringing together both tension and excitement.

While all of this sounds great, none of it would matter if would matter if the gameplay provided didn’t meet the standards of everything else surrounding it. Honestly, this is where I found the game to shine the most.

Considering a lot of titles revolve around hack ‘n’ slash or shoot’em up styles of play, SotC offers up an aesthetic mix of both puzzle-solving and semi-platforming elements in order to bring down each towering Colossi.

An example would be to let the colossi attack you and strike a cement platform in order for his armor to dishevel and fall apart. This would give you the opportunity to scale his large body by climbing up his fur to his weakness point at the top of the colossi’s head. Having to discover the unique tactic needed to overcome each Colossi helps prolong each battle and truly makes it memorable for the gamer at hand.

I’m sure this title is sounding like it is pretty flawless, but don’t be so sure just yet, it does have one glaring problem that prevents it from being a perfect 10 overall. The main issue I had with Shadow of the Colossus was the terrible control and clunky camera. The game sometimes gives you awkward angles to work with and it's often a chore to line the camera up manually as well. Though this does sometimes create a much more difficult level of play, it doesn't detract from the entire experience of the game too much.

Overall, Team ICO has provided gamers with a great supposed prequel to their first title, ICO. While many gamers passed on Shadows of the Colossus, it is still readily available to be bought at your local used game store. In my opinion, I’d pick this gem up as soon as possible. Once it becomes one of those hard to find titles, it wouldn’t surprise me if the pricing point on sites such as eBay skyrockets without warning.

More screenshots can be seen at the link up top!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/womens-volleyball-championship-coming-to-ps2-in-august-2008/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/womens-volleyball-championship-coming-to-ps2-in-august-2008/ Fri, 13 Jun 2008 18:50:54 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/womens-volleyball-championship-coming-to-ps2-in-august-2008/
According to the release below, Women's Volleyball is as fast-paced and grueling as the real thing, and perfectly captures the passion and excitement of the sport. Play as one of twelve countries battling their way to the top of the ranks, or create your own team of pros to take on the rest.

Press Release: US, June 13, 2008 - Agetec, Inc. today announced its upcoming game, Women's Volleyball Championship, for the Sony PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system. Women's Volleyball, which features six venues from around the world, will be released in August 2008, and promises to be the most accurate representation of the sport ever presented on a gaming console.

"Women's Volleyball brings the intense action of professional volleyball to the gaming community," said Spike. "Professional volleyball produces some of the best athletes in the world and it's high time someone introduced a great video game that reflects that."

Women's Volleyball is as fast-paced and grueling as the real thing, and perfectly captures the passion and excitement of the sport. Play as one of twelve countries battling their way to the top of the ranks, or create your own team of pros to take on the rest.

"A key feature in Women's Volleyball is players get a chance to create and train their own team. If players want their volleyball players to have certain qualities, this game allows them to customize their players to their liking," says Mark Johnson, producer at Agetec. "Another great feature of the game is that the volleyball players are affected by real life conditions like exhaustion and dominant hand, adding an unprecedented level of realism to the game."]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/japan-gets-cinnabar-red-ps2-next-month/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/japan-gets-cinnabar-red-ps2-next-month/ Tue, 03 Jun 2008 14:03:57 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/japan-gets-cinnabar-red-ps2-next-month/
Priced at 16,000 yen, the package will include one slim PS2 unit coupled with an integrated power supply and DualShock 2 controller.

Press Release: Tokyo, June 3, 2008 - Sony Computer Entertainment Japan (SCEJ), a division of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) responsible for business operations in Japan, announced today that it would introduce PlayStation®2 in a new color "Cinnabar Red" (SCPH-90000 CR), on Thursday, July 3, 2008, at a recommended retail price of 16,000 yen (including tax) as a limited offer for the Japanese market.

Since its launch in November 2007, the new PlayStation 2 (SCPH-90000 series) system has been highly successful gaining enthusiastic support from a broad range of users. The internal architecture of the system has been completely overhauled for this series resulting in lighter weight, and by adopting a built-in AC adapter, users’ convenience to enjoy various entertainment contents anywhere at home has been further enhanced.

More and more exciting new software titles continue to be released for PlayStation 2 from third party licensees as well as from Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios (SCE WWS), including Persona4 by ATLUS CO., LTD., SENGOKU BASARA X(Cross) by CAPCOM CO., LTD., JIKKYO PAWAFURU PROYAKYU 15 by Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd., and Ratchet&Clank: Size Matters by SCE WWS, all scheduled for release this summer.(*1) (*2)

Entering in its 9th year since launch, PlayStation 2 continues to be strongly supported by users around the world, exceeding 130 million units in installed base worldwide. With the introduction of the new "Cinnabar Red" PlayStation 2, along with the attractive line-up of upcoming new game titles, PlayStation 2 will bring exciting interactive entertainment to a wider range of audience.

SCEJ will continue to expand the PlayStation 2 platform and create a new world of computer entertainment with this new color offering and the wide variety of PlayStation 2 software.

1 Ratchet&Clank: Size Matters is a ported version, originally developed for PSP® (PlayStation®Portable)

2 The titles are in alphabetical order according to company name.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/ps2-outsells-ps3-by-4-million-units-in-fiscal-year-2008/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/ps2-outsells-ps3-by-4-million-units-in-fiscal-year-2008/ Wed, 14 May 2008 16:52:04 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/ps2-outsells-ps3-by-4-million-units-in-fiscal-year-2008/
According to Sony’s Q4 earnings announcement for the 2007 fiscal year, the company expects to sell ten million PlayStation 3 units throughout fiscal 2008, which began on April 1 and ends March 31, 2009.

Comparatively, Sony pushed 9.24 million units in the previous fiscal year. Despite outpacing PS3 sales for the second year in a row, the company expects PS2 sales to drop off next year, forecasting yearly sales of 9 million, down from 13.73 million units in fiscal 2007.

Moving away from the console market, Sony is anticipating that worldwide PSP sales will hit 15 million throughout the course of fiscal 2008, up from 13.89 million the previous year.

To quote: The breakdown of the company’s hardware sales for the year ending March 31st, 2008 reads:

PSP - 13.9 million - UP 46 per cent
PS2 - 13.73 million - DOWN seven per cent
PS3 - 9.24 million - UP 156 per cent

Global software sales (in units) for each format in the 12 months were:

PSP - 55 million - UP one per cent
PS2 - 154 million - DOWN 20 per cent
PS3 - 57.9 million - UP 335 per cent]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/some-old-but-new-memor32memento-ps2-firmware-news-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/some-old-but-new-memor32memento-ps2-firmware-news-1/ Tue, 13 May 2008 02:49:32 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/some-old-but-new-memor32memento-ps2-firmware-news-1/ Submit News. That being said, I sold my PS2/PSTwo when the PSP came out, and as a result don't follow much news pertaining to them.

Just this morning a friend let me know the Memento Firmware for the Memor32 PS2 Memory Card being peddled was hacked by TikTok n' Botch... since last year (no, not FreeVast)- news to me, and a few others I asked as well!

Downloads: Memento FW v1.2e / Memento FW v1.2e ELF (Updated) / Memento FW v1.2e ELF (Updated Again) [Russian Pages, Click Red Button to D/L]

Without a PS2/PSTwo I can't test the ELF's, but from the NFO file it states: I hope all you PS2 fans like this one. Should give some people a clue as to how the backend works. This is for academic research please treat as such. Lots of protection to stop extraction, Multiple levels of obsfucation (confusion), Uses Memor32 and Sony decrypt functions.

If anyone tries them out feel free to report if they work without requiring the overpriced "Memor32" PS2 Memory Card. :P]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/wipeout-pulse-and-daxter-announced-on-ps2/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/wipeout-pulse-and-daxter-announced-on-ps2/ Wed, 07 May 2008 20:18:23 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/wipeout-pulse-and-daxter-announced-on-ps2/
"As happened with Syphon Filter or Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters, Sony Computer Entertainment will release on PlayStation 2 Daxter and Wipeout Pulse, following their recent passage through PlayStation Portable.

The first would see the day on July 25 next year, while the racing game that plays with the seriousness happen on September 3 this year."

In summary, Daxter is scheduled for a PS2 debut on July 25, 2009 and WipEout Pulse is slated for September 3, 2008.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/analysts-ps2-not-dropping-to-99-any-time-soon/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/analysts-ps2-not-dropping-to-99-any-time-soon/ Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:35:03 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/analysts-ps2-not-dropping-to-99-any-time-soon/
To quote: On Thursday evening, Pachter left us a voicemail, in which he said:

The real reason we haven’t seen a $99 PS2 is that demand hasn’t dropped enough for Sony to justify the price cut. Compelling content like ‘Guitar Hero‘ and ‘Rock Band‘ keeps the demand for PS2s up. I saw a ‘Guitar Hero’ PS2 bundle at Best Buy a couple of months ago for $189.

They’re discounting 30 bucks if you buy the two together. I think games like that - that are kind of a one-off for people who haven’t played a PS2 game before and will [make them] say ‘Hey, I can buy a PS2, why not?’ - [will help keep the price where it is.]

As long as you’ve got a couple hundred thousand PS2s a month selling, Sony doesn’t feel compelled to make the cut. I think you will get the cut, because, frankly, Sony wants to differentiate the PS3. I think the PS3 comes down to $349, maybe $299 if they can afford it.

But they’ve just been selling four to five million PS2s a year in the U.S. so there’s no reason to cut the price until it drops to two million. It really is just demand-driven.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-closing-servers-for-some-ps2-and-psp-games/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-closing-servers-for-some-ps2-and-psp-games/ Thu, 03 Apr 2008 16:00:19 CDT PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/sony-closing-servers-for-some-ps2-and-psp-games/
Here is the list in full:

PlayStation 2:

Amplitude
Destruction Derby Arenas
Everybody's Golf
EyeToy Chat
F1 '04
Jak X
Lemmings PS2
My Street
Syphon Filter Omega Strain
This is Football 2004
This is Football 2005
Twisted Metal: Black Online

PSP:

Lemmings
World Tour Soccer 2

After this date, you will still be able to play them offline, with the exception of EyeToy Chat and Twisted Metal: Black Online, which do not have offline modes.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/top-25-playstation-2-games-of-all-time-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/top-25-playstation-2-games-of-all-time-1/ Fri, 14 Mar 2008 22:20:11 CDT Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/top-25-playstation-2-games-of-all-time-1/
25. Contra: Shattered Soldier (Konami)
It's time to grit your teeth, cock your weapon and show the world what you're made of. Contra: Shattered Soldier is the meatiest Contra game to date, only because it's the most difficult one ever made. That's just fine by us, though. Along with the challenge, you'll also find Shattered Soldier's gritty graphics and rock soundtrack par for the course.

24. Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil (Namco Bandai)
Klonoa 2: Lunatea's Veil is everything we hoped a sequel would be and so much more. The revamped cel-shaded visual style, along with the wondrous soundtrack and the classic 2-D gameplay, make it a game worth revisiting. It's a shame we won't see Klonoa 3 on the PS3 anytime soon.

23. Resident Evil 4 (Capcom)
Resident Evil 4 rocks on GameCube, but the PS2 received a solid port. Along with improved visuals and gameplay, RE4 on the PS2 also features several sub-missions featuring the strikingly beautiful Ada Wong.

22. Odin Sphere (Atlus)
Atlus' 2-D RPG Odin Sphere makes the list for being unlike anything we'd seen. The side-scrolling fighting style is perfectly balanced, and the hand-drawn visuals look exquisite.

21. Shadow of the Colossus (SCEA)
The ICO Team wanted to prove it wasn't a one trick pony with its debut effort, so it cranked out this unforgettable action/adventure. Featuring breathtaking visuals and a stunning array of gigantic beasts to cut down to size, Shadow of the Colossus is a journey that every PS2 owner needs to take -- no matter how immense the odds become.

20. Street Fighter Anniversary Collection (Capcom)
The pure joy of fighting with your friends is undeniable, and Street Fighter Anniversary Collection has many options in which to do so. We personally love Street Fighter III: Third Strike, just because of its balance and incredible art style. Can you withstand the mighty flaming Dragon Punch? SHORYUKEN!

19. Amplitude (SCEA)
We love Gitaroo Man, Rez and Frequency. However, out of all music/rhythm games on the PS2, Amplitude beats its little way into the core of our hearts. The frenetic mix of music, combined with online play and an undeniably cool interface, makes it worth rocking out with- aside from Harmonix's Guitar Hero games, that i

18. Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence (Konami)
Solid Snake has never been better than he is in Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence. This package features an enhanced version of the awesome third chapter in the series, Snake Eater, along with a new online mode, two MSX classics and a bundle of other Snake-related goodies. It's important to revisit this game, especially while you wait for the final Metal Gear chapter.

17. Katamari Damacy (Namco Bandai)
Listening to the soundtrack, trying to figure out the King of All Cosmos and rolling up balls of stuff in an effort to recreate the universe -- Katamari Damacy is just so damn weird. And yet, we can't stop playing it, if only because we want to see how big our Katamaris get. We could roll on forever.

16. Twisted Metal Black (SCEA)
After two sub-par sequels on the PSOne, Incog (formerly Singletrac) returned to the Twisted Metal series with unprecedented success. Yeah, Black is decidedly darker and more gruesome than other entries in the series, but it's also a splendid-looking game and a whole lot of fun -- especially against other players.

15. Tekken 5 (Namco Bandai)
With all due respect to the top-notch Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution, Tekken 5 kicks ass. The main game is worth several hours of your time, but you also have bonus games available, including the first three Tekken arcade releases and the cool sub-game Devil Within, where you can kick major ass with Jun. It makes the wait for Tekken 6 that much more painful.

14. Sly Cooper and the Thievius Raccoonus (SCEA)
Sly Cooper is one of the PS2's finest platforming series, filled with personality, awesome design ideas, and the perfect blend of stealth and enemy-bashing. When it comes to stealing our hearts, the original Sly Cooper makes a clean getaway.

13. Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (Rockstar Games)
The third Grand Theft Auto ended up being one of the best. San Andreas turns the entire formula on its ear, introducing new scenarios (skydiving, drive-bys), a customizable new character (you can even fatten him up if you want) and a wide variety of missions. Not even the scalding burn of Hot Coffee could stop this game's greatness.

12. Okami (Capcom)
Wow, did Okami just come out of nowhere? What could've been just another typical platforming adventure became something so much more, a triumph for Capcom that stands the test of time. The artistic style is breathtaking and the gameplay is finely tuned, especially when using a celestial brush to paint a brighter tomorrow. We can't wait for the Wii version.

11. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening (SCEA)
Dante's come a long way on the PS2, starting with a powerful debut (the original Devil May Cry) and sinking to new depths (the miserable Devil May Cry 2). However, he made a superb return with Devil May Cry 3, an incredible-looking sequel with the style-changing gameplay to back it up. Dante's since moved on to newer consoles, but no one should forget his PS2 Awakening.

10. Final Fantasy XII (Square Enix)
No offense to Final Fantasy X (or, for that matter, the all-girl delight that is X2), but Final Fantasy XII is simply the most defining RPG of the PlayStation 2 generation. Its luxurious visuals, stirring storyline and gameplay deliver on every accord, making it one of the best in the series. Now, whether it's better than Final Fantasy VII, that's a different argument altogether.

9. Gran Turismo 4 (SCEA)
Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec is a nice step forward for Polyphony Digital's supreme racing series, but Gran Turismo 4 is a giant leap. The enhanced visuals and solid gameplay don't get any better than they do with part four. It's a great game to rev up with, even when it comes down to something as simple as the beautiful intro. Hit the gas pedal.

8. God of War II (SCEA)
"Zeus, your son has returned!" Kratos made an astonishing return to PS2 land with the release of God of War II, a sequel that lives up to the name of the original. The fight with the Colossus alone makes it worthy of a purchase, although the adventure is worth playing through. Even the sex mini-game is back -- yay! Now if God of War III would just get here already...

7. Grand Theft Auto III (Rockstar Games)
Grand Theft Auto III didn't just send PS2 gaming into a frenzy, it created an unmatched controversy that hasn't been seen since the old-school days of Mortal Kombat. No matter -- the freedom to simply do ANYTHING in Liberty City makes GTA III noteworthy, whether you're stealing cars and running over its owners or blowing up pedestrians with R/C car explosives. We'll never get tired of this one.

6. ICO (SCEA)
The ICO development team came out of nowhere with this unbelievably stunning platforming adventure. Sure, the girl you accompany doesn't make any sense, but the true involvement of her company, along with the stunning level design, make ICO a game you need to play. Just wait until you see the water effects for the first time.

5. Burnout 3: Takedown (EA)
How does Burnout 3 end up being the most significant racing game on the PS2? That's easy. Its destructive joyriding, combined with spectacular visuals, a handful of tracks, vehicles and slick, fun gameplay make it a winner all around. Nothing beats ramming a buddy into the wall or plowing into traffic to create millions of dollars worth of damage. Get in on the Takedown if you haven't already.

4. Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal (SCEA)
The first two Ratchet and Clank games are superb, and Deadlocked isn't too shabby either. Still, Insomniac Games' pinnacle of the series came with Up Your Arsenal, a jam-packed action tour-de-force that still delivers a firm rattling to your teeth fillings. The solo journey is worth taking and the multiplayer simply makes it even better.

3. Guitar Hero II (RedOctane/Activision)
The original Guitar Hero rocks hard. Guitar Hero II, however, rocks even harder. The two-player versus mode makes the game incredibly fun at parties, and the song selection expands nicely with a fine assortment of rock classics. Who can deny the likes of Van Halen and Guns n' Roses? No one.

2. Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (Rockstar Games)
Here it is, the best Grand Theft Auto experience you can get on the PS2. Yeah, it takes place in the 80's, but it's a phenomenal experience. Excellent graphics, quality voice work (even from Miami Vice's Philip Michael Thomas), a huge soundtrack and hours upon hours of gameplay make Vice City a fun place to visit, even if you wouldn't want to live there.

1. God of War (SCEA)
Kratos freakin' rules. The original God of War not only defines what PS2 gaming is all about, it ushered in a blazing new era for action games. The battle with gigantic sea serpents, the final fight with Aries, the ability to kick anyone's ass in pure bloody fashion -- it's all incredible. The visuals, the music, the controls, everything clicks here. God of War is the best the PS2 will ever see. And if you argue that point, well, you tell Kratos to his face. Go on, we dare you.

Screenshot below is of God of War and each screenshot for every game can be seen at the link at the top of this article!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/PVCS-Reloaded-v0-1-Atari-2600-Emulator-for-PS2-released/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/PVCS-Reloaded-v0-1-Atari-2600-Emulator-for-PS2-released/ Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:05:03 CST PS3 News PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/PVCS-Reloaded-v0-1-Atari-2600-Emulator-for-PS2-released/ PVCS Reloaded v0.2 for PS2 and PVCS Reloaded v0.2 for PS2 (SRC) which features improved sound (near perfection).

Bootsector_ has released an update dubbed PVCS Reloaded (based off the PVCS Atari 2600 emulator by BraveDog) for the PS2... which attempts to bring PVCS 1.3 back to life!

It now supports the following devices:

:. Memory Card
:. USB Devices
:. CD/DVD
:. HDD

Download: PVCS Reloaded v0.1 for PS2 / PVCS Reloaded v0.1 for PS2 (SRC)

This version was converted to PS2SDK/GsKit by bootsector. According to the update's author, it still has that awful sound though... but is a WIP project and there are still many features to be added.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Ratchet--Clank-Size-Matters-Launch-Trailer-for-PS2/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Ratchet--Clank-Size-Matters-Launch-Trailer-for-PS2/ Sat, 01 Mar 2008 19:10:08 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Ratchet--Clank-Size-Matters-Launch-Trailer-for-PS2/
Check it out here (also linked above).

Enjoy guys!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Target-Cuts-PS2-Price-By-30-Starting-Feb-24/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Target-Cuts-PS2-Price-By-30-Starting-Feb-24/ Sat, 09 Feb 2008 00:16:15 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Target-Cuts-PS2-Price-By-30-Starting-Feb-24/
Retailers usually don’t place temporary sales on hardware, so we’re hoping for the latter. Either way, $99 PS2 at Target on February 24. Better mark your calendars if you still have yet to pick up a PS2.

PS2 System $99 @ Target B&M starting Feb.24th]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Konami-Announces-Metal-Gear-Solid-the-Essential-Collection-PS2/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Konami-Announces-Metal-Gear-Solid-the-Essential-Collection-PS2/ Tue, 05 Feb 2008 22:42:55 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Konami-Announces-Metal-Gear-Solid-the-Essential-Collection-PS2/
Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. today confirmed speculation that Metal Gear Solid ®: the Essential Collection is currently planned for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system. Now Metal Gear Solid fans have the final chance to fully immerse themselves in the Metal Gear Solid universe before the release of Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots.

"Since its inception, the Metal Gear Solid franchise has been one of the most successful game series in the history of video games, receiving worldwide recognition and praise," said Anthony Crouts, Vice President of Marketing for Konami Digital Entertainment Inc. "Metal Gear Solid: The Essential Collection represents a great value for gamers, bringing together three must-have classic titles which pioneered the stealth action genre."

Metal Gear Solid: the Essential Collection includes the original Metal Gear Solid for the PlayStation game console, the director's cut of Metal Gear Solid 2 and Metal Gear Solid 3 in a commemorative package with artwork by renowned Metal Gear Solid artist Yoji Shinkawa.

Metal Gear Solid: the Essential Collection is rated M for Mature by the ESRB and sells for a suggested retail price of $29.99. For more information visit the website at www.konami.com.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Twisted-Metal-Head-on-Extra-Twisted-Edition-Review-PS2/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Twisted-Metal-Head-on-Extra-Twisted-Edition-Review-PS2/ Fri, 01 Feb 2008 20:37:27 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Twisted-Metal-Head-on-Extra-Twisted-Edition-Review-PS2/
If you're a fan of the series and have been hoping to get more chaotic, car-combat action, you'll be quite pleased with Extra Twisted -- especially if you were fond of the original PSP title. Extra Twisted is a perfect example of an impressive port and the slew of special features included on the disc make this a very appetizing deal.

Let's begin by breaking down Extra Twisted if you're not familiar with its components. As we've just explained, the bulk of the game is a port of Head-on, which runs quite well on the PS2. The biggest additions outside of the main game are the Lost Levels, a set of four levels originally intended for the sequel to Twisted Metal: Black. The levels include Suburban Terror, Stadium Slaughter, Carnival of Darkness and an unlockable stage.

Head-on and the Lost Levels are the majority of the "playable content" in this package. All the other bonus features are really just icing on the cake, including a video documentary, the original (and previously unavailable) ending movies of Twisted Metal 1 and Sweet Tour, a mode that lets you run around as -- you guessed it -- Sweet Tooth. Lastly, there's an art book included, as well as code that enables you to download a Twisted Metal compilation album for free. That sounds like a sweet amount of content for a port.

For those of you who may never have played the original Head-on, feel free to check out our review which discusses the game in detail. Extra Twisted is almost identical to the PSP version so most of the review is entirely relevant. Although it has been stated that Extra Twisted has improved textures and runs faster than its predecessor, we saw very little change when comparing the two versions. If there is any improvement to speak of in regards to the visuals, it's incredibly minor and really doesn't change the overall appearance of the title.

But Head-on is a lot of fun to play, and offers a great collection of characters/cars to work through an impressive number of stages. The design of the levels, while not entirely remarkable, is certainly conductive to fun gameplay sessions and is therefore entirely adequate -- just don't expect to be blown away by anything you see.

Hot.
All the cars control tightly and (depending on your preference) you should be able to find one that best suits your playing style. Each vehicle has a specific special move to employ, as well as an abundance of commonplace items and power-ups that give a definite edge to the combat. Special moves include explosive boomerangs, fireballs, phantom missiles and other interesting, fun-to-use weapons. Twisted Metal still represents fantastic car combat and that's what you're going to find here.

Although the Challenge and Endurance modes are still present, we should note that multiplayer has been cut quite fiercely in comparison to the original Head-on. You'll only be able to play deathmatch or co-op with a single friend, as opposed to several of them like you could on the PSP. This is certainly disappointing, but two-player is still engaging and a welcome option.

Perhaps the more pressing question is how the Lost Levels hold up. When you enter this portion of the game, you can still choose between Story, Challenge and Endurance like you can with Head-on, except the Lost Levels don't really have a story -- it's just a matter of playing through the three main levels in order and coming out on top. For the most part, the new levels are fun and clearly fit the stylistic motif that Black delivered. Not only are the arenas darker but the characters from Black are also present. I personally prefer the more colorful and vivid presentation that Head-on provides, but fans of Twisted Metal: Black will surely enjoy a chance to see the remnants of Black's ill-fated sequel.

Carnival of Darkness is a particularly enjoyable stage where you can hop your vehicle onto rollercoaster tracks and drive up the side of the level. The general variation between flat road and angled terrain is also pleasing. Overall I enjoyed the Lost Levels, but still have a certain fondness for the content found in Head-on.

The real treat amidst the bonus features is the video material. Both the documentary and the live-action ending movies are fantastic -- just in very different ways. We had a great time watching the documentary, and although it wasn't necessarily spellbinding, it did offer some keen insight into the Twisted Metal universe and the people behind it. The cut endings, however, are pure gold. They're gold because they're so amazingly awful. One should obviously take into account the fact that they were made ten years ago, but they're truly works of cheese and are best enjoyed with a certain respectful sense of humor. We'd like to take a brief moment now to point out the ending for Darkside -- easily our favorite among the bunch. Watch it and you'll see why.

So what exactly are we looking at, then? Extra Twisted is a package that contains a ton of fast-paced, finely tuned car combat with tons of weapons and sweet (over-the-top) characters. But not everything on the disc is going to bode well with you. A lot of fans were excited to take control of Sweet Tooth when Sweet Tour was announced, but the end result is pretty horrendous. We are very much aware of the fact that Sweet Tour is just an unfinished, rough glimpse at something that "could have been," but that doesn't make it good. You only need about ten, maybe fifteen minutes at the most to run through the small linear area and read all the developer notes available -- 29 in all. Yes, Sweet Tour is all about reading and checking out concept art. There's no killing or maiming or even platforming, for that matter. Even though the developer information presented is interesting, the whole thing just feels like a complete let-down.

That car is not in a good place right now.
Finally, it's important to consider that the game's graphics just aren't very good. This may not be important to you if you're in it more for the gameplay, but nothing in Extra Twisted is especially pleasing to the eye. It runs extremely well, but the models and textures are sincerely lacking. Furthermore, the game starts stuttering when you bring in a second player, which can be a bit of a bother, but it shouldn't impair your ability to enjoy the experience.

Closing Comments
Let's be honest: we know this is a port, but you're getting an awful lot of stuff for only twenty bucks. And considering the fact that most of the content packed onto the disc is fun to play, there's really no reason for a Twisted Metal fan to miss this one. Those of you new to the car combat genre may find it a little eccentric, but we assure you that driving around at breakneck speeds and firing missiles out of a truck is very satisfying. Ultimately, we'd like to think of Extra Twisted as a pretty sweet deal -- especially if you're a Twisted Metal junkie.

Video can be seen here!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Atlus-Brings-2D-PlayStation-2-Fighter-Arcana-Heart-To-U-S-/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Atlus-Brings-2D-PlayStation-2-Fighter-Arcana-Heart-To-U-S-/ Thu, 31 Jan 2008 18:19:52 CST Karuto PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Atlus-Brings-2D-PlayStation-2-Fighter-Arcana-Heart-To-U-S-/
Sporting four different modes including arcade, story, versus, and training, as well as an unlockable extras gallery, the game centers around elemental spirits from called Arcana which particular humans can call upon.

Players will fight to keep "the mysterious Mildred Avalon" from forming a rift between the human and spiritual world to "prevent her from bringing an end to all humanity."

Atlus says the game, when it launches in April, will feature 11 female fighters with customizable attack and defense skills, as well as "11 different Arcana to pair with your fighter." It also notes that the game features "huge battle maps" for vertical fighting with "air dashes and homing techniques to create devastating aerial combos."]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/PS2s-Last-Chance-Imports/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/PS2s-Last-Chance-Imports/ Sun, 27 Jan 2008 02:10:44 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/PS2s-Last-Chance-Imports/
There are nearly 40 million PS2s in the United States. Top-shelf Triple-A products have all but abandoned the system, yet there remains an entrenched market for new PS2 games. Sony has relaxed restrictions on what can come out for its old workhorse, as evidenced by late 2D fighters like NeoGeo Battle Coliseum and inexplicable trash like Crazy Frog Arcade Racer.

This combination of facts means one thing; that the PS2 has been repurposed as fertile ground for budget publications priced to move. In general, publishers will look at this situation and capitalize upon it with kids fare, licensed junk and unnecessary paring-downs of current-gen blockbusters.

But there is another way for American publishers to take advantage-by taking a second look at the strange or unique foreign titles that have long since been passed up for US release. Below are our personal favorites; we would love for a brave publisher to pick up any of these, yet this would not be charity. Yes, under other circumstances these games would not have stood a chance at American retail. But today, all the conditions exist for them to find their market.

Some Notes:
• To avoid the most visible added cost to publication, we have avoided text-heavy games where localization could come at a premium.
• While none of these games have been announced for a US release, a publisher may have already picked one up and may have yet to announce it.
• Of course there is some bias here; we would love to play these games without having to import. None of these games are great (or they would have made it over by now), but they all have something interesting and/or marketable to present.

Michigan: Report From Hell
Grasshopper Manufacture

From the warped mind of Killer 7 creator Suda51, Michigan puts the player in the role of a cameraman out to get the story of a city overtaken by horror. It lets the player decide whether they want to play hero or film gruesome killings for points. It saw a full-English release in Europe.

Gregory Horror Show
Capcom Production Studio 3

Gregory Horror Show’s abstract graphics hold up, as does its whimsical "cute survival horror" sensibility. Stylized, interesting characters are the game’s forte, which should keep this title interesting despite its now aged gameplay. This also saw an English release in Europe.

ParaParaParadise
KCEJ

This game narrowly avoided an American release years ago, but with the market for music now opened up ParaParaParadise deserves a second shot. Its sensor cage peripheral means it’s still the most elaborate dance rhythm game ever made.

Simple 2000 Series Vol. 116: The Nekomura no Hitobito
Vingt-et-un Systems

It would be nice if D3 Publisher of America saw fit to release a compilation of its best Japanese Simple 2000 games here. This game is among the best of that bunch, a spiritual sequel to The Adventures of Darwin, but with improved gameplay and the much better premise of "cats in feudal Japan."

The OneeChanBara
Tamsoft

It’s far more likely that a compilation of Simple 2000 OneChanBara games would sell in the US, however. Featuring a bikini-clad girl slicing up monsters with a huge sword, these should find an audience immediately. Several of these games were released in Europe.

Sega Ages
Sega

Back when this series of re-releases sucked, a compilation of them did find the US. Naturally, it was awful. But now that Sega Ages is releasing perfect renditions of awesome arcade classics like Die Hard Arcade and Virtual On, another set would be much more welcome today.

Kenka Bancho
Spike

A comic brawler full of pompadours and silly street gang squabbles, Kenka Bancho borrows wholesale from NES classic River City Ransom. This game and its sequel did very well in Japan.

OZ
Konami

A hack-and-slash Dynasty Warriors clone with the added mechanic of chaining combos with attacks from AI partners, OZ would appease action fans looking for a PS2 fix. Released as The Sword of Etheria in Europe.

Shinobido
Acquire

A Tenchu clone from the studio that birthed the series, Shinobido sidesteps some of the problems of the recent From Software-developed Tenchu game. It does little more than iterate the genre, but with most games in the genre a step back, this should be enough. It saw European release.

Pic below isof OZ Konami and pics for each game can be seen at the link at the top of this story!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/The-PS2-Lives/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/The-PS2-Lives/ Tue, 22 Jan 2008 19:50:14 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/The-PS2-Lives/
Postpone the decorative-coffin-pillow shopping and drop out of your creative-epitaph writing classes; the old PS2 ain't dead. Despite the prognoses of many well-meaning analysts, the little console that helped you ring in the new millennium seven years ago may just make it through 2008. The sharp increase in both gas prices and the speed at which our female pop superstars age may tell us that we're living in a far different world than the year 2000, but one fact remains: Like all good things worth bingeing on, the PS2 is cheap and plentiful.

While the PS2 does lack the "oomph" of the new generation of consoles, when looking at the system's future release list, there's something to be said about the active life of seniors. The groundbreaking, blockbuster games of tomorrow, with their accompanying Internet arguments already going strong, obviously won't grace the meager PS2. However, the past few months have seen a few modestly awesome titles hit the little black box, and the next couple of months will see a few more. So don't go overboard and carve your old PS2 into a crudely fashioned Wii stand or take it out to the shooting range to see what its insides look like; the old boy could make it to next Christmas.

Before this celebration of life gets too out of hand, remember one thing: While you and your PS2 may be having a good ol' time today, it still stinks of death. And with that smell comes the various buzzards that symbolize the end of any console: crappy, crappy games. The quirky and insanely Japanese title that wouldn't have seen the light of day at any other time in the PS2's life may be accompanied by something right out of the abyss of The Disney Channel. But have no fear -- our guide to the final days of the PlayStation 2 will show you how to make the most of the time you have left with your soon-to-be-departed friend.

The Recent

While the rest of the world was searching feverishly for Wiis and sending their Xbox 360s back to Microsoft for revival, quite a few amazing PlayStation 2 games slipped out to store shelves, going nearly unnoticed. Here's a sample of what you may have missed.

Persona 3

Persona 3's status as a niche game on a dying system is probably the only thing that saved it from media scandal and lengthy Senate hearings. The reason? Persona 3 is sort of like Final Fantasy, except that in order to summon monsters, your characters must first shoot themselves in the head. Sadly, in the Final Fantasy universe, where many characters need to be shot in the head, self-inflicted gunshot wounds are in poor taste. But in the occult-happy world of Persona 3, it's all in good fun. This unique little game mixes elements of RPGs, dating sims, and Satan, all in a package your parents wouldn't approve of.

Be Grateful: Since RPGs take an inordinate amount of time to produce, Persona 3 has the distinction of being one of the last, best RPGs on the PS2. Fans of the original PlayStation will remember the similar deathbed release of Arc the Lad Collection, which contained so many games that the packaging was nearly a cube.

Fire Pro Wrestling Returns

Fire Pro Wrestling Returns? Doesn't something have to exist before it can return? If you were paying attention during the first year of the Game Boy Advance, you would have known that the long-running Japanese wrestling franchise entered American waters back in 2001 with a bit of a belly flop on Nintendo's portable system. Of course, we didn't know any better. How were we supposed to realize that the Fire Pro Wrestling series is one of the finest videogame takes on the "sport" when it was hidden away in some other country for so long? Now that it's back in America, ignorance is no excuse. And with Returns, the series' most popular feature, wrestler creation, hits its peak; you'll never guess how many different ways guys in colored underpants can hit each other. (Hint: Over 1,000).

Be Grateful: Since the robust Dual Shock controller can really take a beating, the best in wrestling games no longer needs to evoke images of broken Nintendo 64 controllers.

MLB Power Pros

Like Fire Pro Wrestling, MLB Power Pros is yet another long-running Japanese sports game; but unlike the former, MLB Power Pros didn't step foot outside of its home country until this year. Looking at the graphics, it doesn't take much deductive power to figure out why the very Japanese baseball series Jikkyo Powerful Pro Yakyu made its American debut in 2007: Those freaky baseball players and their massive, featureless heads-it takes time for a country to welcome such nightmarish proportions. But give them a little time and they grow on you, as will the deceptively complex gameplay wrapped up in a cute little superdeformed package. And if you squint hard enough, it kind of looks like a South Park-licensed baseball game. Add your own swears when needed.

Be Grateful: That the MLB Power Pro league doesn't have its own Mitchell report. It's not clear what's making those players' heads so big, but it can't be from the planet Earth.

Tomb Raider: Anniversary

As gamers, we've been trained to not be interested in a Tomb Raider game since around 1999, when the series was creatively bankrupt and supported only by Angelina Jolie's floatation devices. So it's more than a little off-putting when news breaks that not one but two good Tomb Raider games have come within the past two years. The latest, Tomb Raider: Anniversary, is actually good enough to make you forget that Tomb Raider used to be an annual affair meant only to ruin Christmas. Anniversary takes the structure of the original Tomb Raider, arguably the best game in the series, pretties it up a bit, and most importantly, makes Lara control less like a walking math problem. With all this and extra content, you don't even have to worry about locking your bedroom door before playing Tomb Raider again.

Be Grateful: With a much more fair checkpoint and health system in place, Tomb Raider is no longer an OCD experience of hoarding health packs and repeating the same jumps over and over and over again. Feel free to still count the ceiling tiles, though.

Odin Sphere

Vanillaware's decade-in-the-making RPG may symbolize 2D's death rattle, but when this sacrifice is made to create what amounts to a living, breathing storybook world, you'll agree that 2D really took one for the team. The painstakingly intricate art of Odin Sphere becomes all the more interesting when you realize that you've been given the chance to control it. To match the ambitious graphics, the game features a complex, interwoven storyline with multiple characters ripped from the headlines of Norse mythology. All of this comes at the cost of sprite-based slowdown and slightly shallow game play, but Odin Sphere is worth playing just for the experience. You'll wonder how your PS2 was ever capable of Odin Sphere's magic -- and then shame it for holding out on you for so long.

Be Grateful: When you put it in perspective, 11 years isn't really that much time. Get used to thinking this way, because you won't see another Vanillaware game like this until 2018.

The Future

Who needs five-year development cycles, multicell processors, and multimillion-dollar budgets when the average PS2 game now takes only a few weeks and an average of $13.76 to complete? That may be a rough exaggeration, but it's true. The PS2 is still very fertile ground when it comes to game development, and even when PS2 game development grinds to a standstill, you'll still be able to play ports of all the newest PSP games! Until then, the following titles provide a bright future for the PS2.

Baroque

At this point, Atlus has been so successful at releasing niche Japanese titles that they could spend the next 10 years mining for unreleased PS2 gems and delivering them to our unworthy hands. But since their business plan isn't hatched from a fever dream, Baroque might just be one of the last RPGs of note for the PS2. While the game is developed by Sting, those gadfly RPG developers who recently brought us Riviera: The Promised Land and Yggdra Union, Baroque sticks to the standard and rather old-school realm of dungeon hackery. But on a system overloaded with RPGs full of embarrassing philosophizing, high-concept failures, and daddy issues, a straightforward romp through the catacombs is welcome, if not necessary.

Be Excited: Given the low print runs of Atlus RPGs, when you buy Baroque, you'll not only be getting a good game -- you'll also be making a sound investment in the college education of your future children should you decide to later sell it on eBay.

Lego Batman: The Video Game

While developer Traveller's Tales doesn't exactly have a shining track record, they were able to combine two types of nostalgia successfully with the Lego Star Wars series. Just in time for this summer's The Dark Knight, Lego Batman will essentially be just like Lego Star Wars, except with significantly more batmen. Expect the same small-scale spoofy humor and brick-building as seen in previous Lego games, but don't expect to see a flashback of Ma and Pa Lego Wayne getting rubbed out by adorable, yellow-hook-handed criminals. And since it's now clear that adults are playing these Lego games, you no longer need to pretend that you're buying them for an imaginary child. That GameStop clerk didn't believe you, anyway.

Be Excited: With the release of Lego Batman, we are one step closer to all forms of entertainment having an alternative Lego version.

Kiki Kai World

The Pocky and Rocky series, a crash course in Japanese mythology for ignorant American children of the 1990s, redefined the overhead shooter on the SNES with a cute-yet-frantic take on games like Commando. Kiki Kai World is a "spiritual sequel" to Pocky and Rocky-spiritual sequel in this case meaning "inspired by copyright and business conflicts." Still, Kiki Kai World isn't the GoBots to Pocky and Rocky's Transformers. Despite the change in name and appearance, it's still made by the same team, and that should matter to all 13 of you who played the originals.

Be Excited: Any entrance into Japanese mythology is always accompanied by a sudden loss of innocence upon seeing their culture's take on the tanuki and its magical body parts.

Yakuza 2

The original Yakuza shot for the sun and came up a little short. While it certainly was Sega's most admirable game in quite some time, the mix of Grand Theft Auto mechanics with J-RPG leanings made the whole production feel just a little awkward. Still, the Yakuza games are what the Shenmue series should have been from the beginning; in Yakuza 2, you run around an open-ended Japanese city during the 1980s. But instead of bumping into children who want to wrestle, you break countless pool cues over people's faces. Hopefully, Sega will show a disturbing display of competence by polishing some of the more tarnished parts of the original game with this sequel. But even if it carries the flaws of the previous game, Yakuza 2 might just be the last game this ambitious to appear on the PS2.

Be Excited: Fans of the franchise will be happy to know that buying Yakuza 2 will give Sega the vote of confidence they need to bring Yakuza 3 to America in the not-too-distant future. The third sequel takes place in early 17th century Japan, proving that the PlayStation 3 may function as some sort of makeshift time machine.

Persona 4

File this one under "What the heck?" Some of the aforementioned future PS2 releases are currently going through quite a long gestation period in Japan. Persona 4, however, isn't coming stateside after being available for 18 months in another country; in fact, it's so new that some would say it's not even finished yet -- and they'd be right. Recent RPG news rumblings have revealed that Atlus isn't making the jump to the next generation with their upcoming entry in the Persona series. Persona 4 will find its home on the PS2, catering to the millions and millions out there who have yet to find a new Japanese RPG-nesting ground with the PS3, Wii, or Xbox 360. Fans of the series and RPGs in general should be grateful that Persona 4's price of entry will be significantly less than hundreds of dollars.

Be Excited: It's a new RPG being developed for the PS2. Do you really need us to give you a reason to be excited?

More pics for each game can be seen at the link at the top!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Destroy-All-Humans-Big-Willy-Unleashed-Cancelled-For-PS2/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Destroy-All-Humans-Big-Willy-Unleashed-Cancelled-For-PS2/ Mon, 21 Jan 2008 23:47:50 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Destroy-All-Humans-Big-Willy-Unleashed-Cancelled-For-PS2/
IGN discovered the cancellation during an e-mail session with a THQ representative but has been unable to obtain a comment from the company.

Set before the events of Destroy All Humans! Path of the Furon -- a PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 installment of the franchise that ships in March -- Big Willy Unleashed is still coming to the Wii and PSP. Basically, aliens are back to conquer the planet and it's up to you to make sure the beasts succeed.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/New-Tales-of-Destiny-Directors-Cut-trailer-for-PS2/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/New-Tales-of-Destiny-Directors-Cut-trailer-for-PS2/ Sun, 20 Jan 2008 00:47:37 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/New-Tales-of-Destiny-Directors-Cut-trailer-for-PS2/
Video in a different language can be seen here.

Enjoy!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/TMHO-Extra-Twisted-Edition-on-PS2-But-Wait-hellip-Therersquos-More/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/TMHO-Extra-Twisted-Edition-on-PS2-But-Wait-hellip-Therersquos-More/ Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:17:19 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/TMHO-Extra-Twisted-Edition-on-PS2-But-Wait-hellip-Therersquos-More/
We wanted people to flip the game box over and be floored by how much cool stuff was inside. I love it when I buy a game or DVD and the thing almost FEELS heavier because it’s just stuffed with features and bonus content. And that’s the experience we’ve tried to deliver to folks who pick up our new game. Just check out what this thing has:

The Core Game Itself- Yep, the hit PSP game - Twisted Metal:Head On - is now on PS2. And now it’s running at 60 frames/second, has improved textures and art, and even has a new level created specifically for this version (Transylvania Castle). Check it out:

The Lost Levels - Four brand new levels straight out of the dark, demented world of Twisted Metal: Black. These levels are designed with two player deathmatch in mind and I think they are some of the best Twisted levels we have ever made. My favorites are Suburban Terror and Stadium Slaughter. Here’s a sneak peek:
A Note to Old School Gamers: can you tell where the inspiration for the ‘car combat amid a series of low walls’ area of the stadium level comes from?

The Twisted Metal Symphony- folks who purchase the game will get a free code to let them download a free copy of The Twisted Metal Symphony. TMS is a compilation soundtrack of the greatest musical tracks from TM1, TM2, TM:BLACK, and TM:HEAD ON. Yes, old school TM fans, Rooftops from TM1 WILL be on there! A Continuous Suicide Of Reason: The Art Of Twisted Metal- a pack in art booklet filled with concept art dating back to the very first Twisted Metal game.

The Dark Past- A 30 minute documentary tracing the history of Twisted Metal, the struggles the team went through in making the games, the success, the failures, the fans,etc. Heck, we even touch on what went wrong with TM3 and Tm4 and what the original team REALLY feels about those games. It’s a nice little doc that- I feel- is much more honest than the usual ‘making of’ puff pieces you see ubn a lot of games these days.

Sweet Tour- This is where you get to take control of Sweet Tooth himself and run him around some levels built for Twisted Metal: Black 2. As you run around, you find icons you can collect. Each icon opens up concept art and behind the scenes information about the making of the series. The Lost Ending Movies- Back in 1995, I wrote and directed some live action end movies for the very first Twisted Metal. Because they were deemed too sexist and too violent, they never saw the light of day. But it’s 2008 now and what was once offensive is now just- to most folks- cheesy and charming.

So these flicks are on the disc for folks to finally judge for themselves if they are cinematic masterpieces or the final proof of my total lack of talent. I’m sure you’ll let me know which. To me, that’s one pretty packed disc you know? So I’ve been excited for months about the value I feel we’re bringing not only to Twisted fans, but to action game and multiplayer fans as well. And then, just the other day, Sony confirmed how much the thing was going to cost … and at $19.99 I was thrilled!

Yep, less that 20 bucks for what I feel is a darn good package for action gamers everywhere! Twenty bucks for a port of a hit game is a good deal on its own. Toss in all this extra stuff and - I hope you agree - you’re talking about one sweet deal.

Oh, and have I mentioned that buried deep within this mammoth package is the answer to a question that TM fans have been asking us for quite a while now? No? Oh, well now I have. But good luck finding it! It’s buried pretty deep!

Ok, back soon to post some gameplay vids of the title! Thanks for taking the time to check up out! The game launches in February! Hope you give us a shot!

More screenshots can be seen at the link at the top!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Buzz-The-Schools-Quiz/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Buzz-The-Schools-Quiz/ Sat, 12 Jan 2008 15:12:03 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Buzz-The-Schools-Quiz/
But that's going to change somewhat today with the release of Buzz!: The Schools Quiz. The Schools Quiz has been created in partnership with the Department for Education and Skills (DfES), and uses more than 5,000 questions based on the Key Stage 2 Curriculum, used to teach and assess children in the UK aged between 7 and 11. It's being sold at retail, but it's also being made available to schools.

Tomorrow, we'll still be writing a silly website about videogames. They'll be able to say they've done something a bit more noble. We caught up with co-founder Andrew Eades to find out how The Schools Quiz came together and what the reaction's been like from teachers and children.

Eurogamer: First of all, how did Buzz Schools come about?

Andrew Eades: We noticed two things whilst making Buzz!: The Music Quiz. The first thing was that we were beginning to know quite a lot of music trivia without really trying too hard. You know we didn't study a book of music facts but by just playing Buzz we found we knew a lot of relatively useless facts that we didn't know before. The second thing was that although the brief was to make a game for all the family which is what we strived to do, sometimes the questions were pretty much skewed at an older age range. My daughter who was 7 at the time got very excited about the buzzers and wanted to join in, but often found the questions too hard. We really wanted to do a kids' quiz but weren't sure how to do it.

So when David and I went to Edinburgh in August 2005 I think, we met someone from the DfES who had a remit to put interactive games into schools. David showed him Buzz and we started talking about adapting it for school use. We spoke to Sony, who said that if we wanted to go ahead and make the game with our own funds, they would publish it for us. Luckily the DfES gave us some money to prototype the idea so we could trial it in UK schools.

Eurogamer: Once you'd had the idea, how did you go about approaching it?

Andrew Eades: Once we had the go ahead from Sony, we set about making a demo by adapting the Buzz game we'd already done. We'd set out to create a more flexible quiz engine after Music so this helped with the design of that also. We had to make BIG in a hurry so the fruition of the work we'd done here didn't really arrive until Mega which has powered Hollywood, Schools and Pop (out in March).

Eurogamer: Were you able to use the processes that you've used to guide development of other Buzz titles, or did you have to start from scratch?

Andrew Eades: We didn't start from scratch as we knew we had to develop a more flexible framework. Although Mega came out first, the work really started with Schools as the team was building BIG at the time.

Eurogamer: Do you work closely with children to put the games together?

Andrew Eades: We focus test a lot but a lot of what I know about children comes from my eldest daughter and her friends.

Eurogamer: What's it like taking the games into schools? What has the reaction been from teachers?

Andrew Eades: The whole experience of taking Buzz into Schools has been brilliant. The teachers have been really supportive and have given us great feedback. We have reports of children staying in during their breaks to keep playing Buzz.

Eurogamer: You're using Key Stage 2 National Curriculum material - what went into actually getting the questions and answers together?

Andrew Eades: We used a specialist company, Schoolzone, to provide all the questions and run some of the in-school trials. Their day job is writing curriculum questions for schools so they were the perfect choice.

Eurogamer: Key Stage 2 is a specific age range - are you looking at doing others?

Andrew Eades: Key Stage 2 is 7-11 so there is scope to do different age ranges and we would like to do more. We chose this as the primary curriculum is quite broad and we would have to do many different Buzzes to cover all the secondary curriculum.

Eurogamer: What does the teaching establishment think about games in general?

Andrew Eades: We were pleasantly surprised at how open to Buzz the schools have been. Some even said they were already using Buzz as a reward for golden time at the end of the week. We didn't go in saying we're going to change your world and show you how to teach kids. We were more humble than that and asked them to help us make this work for them.

Eurogamer: Apart from their reaction to Buzz, what would they like to see games doing to make a difference to kids growing up?

Andrew Eades: I think games are a really positive thing for kids to enjoy. Sure there's a lot of flak about some of the more violent ones but they are not all like that. Games have been a part of my life since I was very young and they are a part of my children's lives. I think the positive benefit of interacting with these incredible worlds and solving puzzles and learning how to finish something is brilliant.

Eurogamer: It's often said that developers have a huge responsibility to their audience, particularly the younger end of it; what can they do, even if it's a small thing, to make a difference?

Andrew Eades: I don't claim to be able to make a difference. I think if game developers respect the fact that children in particular really like what they play and spend a long time playing games then they will put in small things.

Eurogamer: Finally, it seems that you've targeted this at primary schools, rather than simply parents and kids, and I've been told you're publishing it yourself, or at least more involved. Would it be fair to say from that that Buzz!: The Schools Quiz is less about exploiting a gap in the market, and perhaps something that's more to do with your own personal beliefs and aspirations?

Andrew Eades: Sony is publishing it. But we've funded it ourselves to get it out there. We really wanted to do something positive and this was a great opportunity afforded to us by the government. We don't make a penny from the version in schools but we will make money from retail sales if it sells well. We're very happy that we've been able to do this. We don't have the kind of cutthroat business mentality of some developers. We'd rather do something we're proud of.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Plug-Pulled-on-Monster-Hunter-U-S--Servers/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Plug-Pulled-on-Monster-Hunter-U-S--Servers/ Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:18:33 CST Starlight PlayStation 2 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation2/Plug-Pulled-on-Monster-Hunter-U-S--Servers/
Of course, it’s amazing that the love affair lasted as long as it did. Still serious business in Japan, sales of Monster Hunter games have been remained flat in the U.S. since their respective debuts. To date, the Playstation 2 version is the only one to feature actual online play, a major draw of the series in the first place (PSP releases only allowed ad hoc multiplayer in the same room).

For the seventy-or-so gamers logged on when the servers were shut off for good at approximately 12:25 PM EST, the departure must have been bittersweet. It wasn’t Capcom’s fault, though. According to a blog post on their community site a little over a month ago, the online capabilities of the game were outsourced to a company that no longer wants to remain in the business of networking Playstation 2 games (and really, what kind of business is that anyway?).

Ever the vanguard for its fans, Capcom even petitioned the nameless provider for a contract extension, but they weren’t having any of it.

It’s always kind of sad to see these small gaming communities disrupted - there’s something intriguing about having that sort of dedication to a game that most people have moved on from or completely ignored in the first place.

But progress must be made, and the pool of money to be made from providing support for a failed online platform must look more like a half-dried puddle these days, with everyone moving on to newer consoles.

Since they belonged to the same company, the servers for Resident Evil: Outbreak have been permanently removed, as well.]]>