News - January, 2013
Thursday31st Jan 2013
News Sony Teases the Future, Will Almost Certainly Reveal the PlayStation 4 on 20th February
Pick up your jaw
Now that’s how you drop a bomb. Sony has announced that it will reveal the future on 20th February at a PlayStation Meeting in New York City. The event – set to start at 18:00PM EST – will almost certainly play host to the PlayStation 4. Are you following this? It’s actually happening. According to infamous industry analyst...
News Killzone: Mercenary Pre-orders Unlock Blackjack's Briefcase
Elite enhancements
If you’re eager to earn an early advantage on the battlefield, then you might want to consider pre-ordering your copy of Killzone: Mercenary. Online retailer Amazon.com has revealed that by registering your interest in the upcoming first-person shooter, you'll unlock Blackjack’s Briefcase, which boasts some beefy bonuses...
Talking Point Killzone: Mercenary Concludes a Killer Week for PS Vita
Back in the zone
It’s not been the best first year for the PlayStation Vita. Shunned in its home territory and disregarded overseas, the powerful portable has struggled to secure a foothold in the brutal video game market. But there have been signs this week that the system is not dead and buried yet, and while there’s still a long road ahead...
News Japanese Sales Charts: New Vita Titles Fail to Drive Hardware
Demon malaise
In the past, it’s been pretty easy to attribute the PlayStation Vita’s commercial woes in Japan to the platform's worrying lack of software. After all, whenever a new title has arrived, the system’s sales have almost always spiked. Worryingly, that wasn’t the case this week. Despite netting two major new releases in dungeon...
News Killzone: Mercenary Pays Out with Explosive Gameplay Trailer
Big bucks
Oh, this is good. Sony has released a brand new gameplay trailer for the upcoming Killzone: Mercenary – and it looks absolutely amazing. Just a reminder in case you’re skipping ahead to the video: this is a PlayStation Vita game. Alright, you can go ahead and watch it now, just make sure you scroll back up for all of the details...
News Valhalla Knights 3 Strides into North America This Fall
Follow the leader
Not content with this morning’s Killer Is Dead confirmation, XSEED Games has announced that it will be bringing Valhalla Knights 3 to North America this Fall. The customisable PlayStation Vita exclusive will allow you to select from a list of 21 different jobs and seven races to create the perfect party. We fancy building an army...
News God of War Legacy Bundle Is the Ultimate Gift from the Gods
True treasure
If you’re looking for an easy entry into the God of War series, then look no further than Sony’s enormous Legacy Bundle. The hardware package – due out on 12th March in North America – includes a 500GB ‘Garnet Red’ PlayStation 3 Super Slim, a copy of God of War: Ascension, a copy of the God of War: Saga (which features all...
News Grand Theft Auto V Hijacks PlayStation 3 on 17th September
Sorry, Killzone: Mercenary
Grand Theft Auto V will bask in the Los Santos sunshine from 17th September, publisher Rockstar Games has announced. That represents a small delay over the title’s originally planned spring launch, but the publisher promises that it will be worth the wait. "The biggest, most dynamic and most diverse open world Rockstar...
News New Tearaway Trailer Takes a Tantalising Trip to Sogport
Ripped open
Media Molecule would like to introduce you to the sodden scenery of Sogport, one of the many environments that you’ll explore during your time with the upcoming PlayStation Vita exclusive, Tearaway. “Sogport is a mysterious island marooned in a deep sea of glue, and inhabited by some very fishy folk with a fearful obsession with the...
News Killer Is Dead Stabs Western Regions This Summer
Spilling overseas
As expected, Grasshopper Manufacture’s gorgeous assassin action game Killer Is Dead will arrive in western territories this summer. The title will be published by XSEED Games in North America, while Dead Island overlord and new Saints Row owner Deep Silver w
News BioShock Infinite Trailer Sticks Its Head Among the Clouds
What goes up, must come down
We reckon that 31st January should be officially renamed ‘Amazing Trailer Day’. If this morning’s jaw dropping Killzone: Mercenary and Tearaway videos didn’t already stir your steely hearts, then this BioShock: Infinite short should do the trick. It focuses on the floating city of Columbia for the most part, but...
Wednesday30th Jan 2013
News Insomniac Frustrated Over Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault Vita Delays
In the dark
Ratchet & Clank: Full Frontal Assault was billed as a cross-buy title, but the PlayStation Vita version was delayed late last year. Sony promised that more information would be shared in January, but it’s almost February and we still haven’t heard a peep. In a
Rumour Could Mutant Mudds Be Switching Planes on PS Vita?
Stranger things have happened
You might be familiar with Mutant Mudds, the platformer from Renegade Kid that's seen a run on not only the Nintendo 3DS, but also PC and iPhone. According to a reliable source close to the developer, a port to the PlayStation Vita is being seriously considered at the moment. The retro-themed release puts you in...
Talking Point Will God of War's Super Bowl Commercial Score a Touchdown with Consumers?
Mass market
Update: Since publishing this story it's emerged that the God of War: Ascension commercial will only be shown during the Super Bowl's online stream. Last year the show attracted more than 2 million viewers, which is a far cry from the numbers of the conventional broadcast. Obviously, that lessens the impact of the discussion within –...
Feature Crafting the Contrasting Sounds of The Unfinished Swan
Secret gardens and synths
The Unfinished Swan is a blank canvas; an engrossing adventure open to interpretation and debate. It’s a title that’s defined by contrasts, be it the bold blobs of colour that paint your progression through the game’s otherwise vacant world, or the juxtaposed personalities of the protagonist and his counterpart, the...
Store Update 29th January 2013 (North America)
Hooked hitman
It’s not a particularly packed week on the North American PlayStation Store, but there’s still a string of titles worth your attention. New arrivals include the digital version of Bayonetta, the Hitman HD Trilogy, and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. There’s also a little game called Let’s Fish: Hooked On, which we’re genuinely...
News EA Games Fires Insomniac's Fuse into the Spring
Reloaded schedule
The handful of you looking forward to Insomniac Games’ divisive Fuse will be forced to wait a few more months, as the title has been delayed. EA Games confirmed the news during an earnings call earlier this evening, stating that it will now launch between the beginning of April and the end of June in 2013. The co-op shooter was...
News God of War: Ascension Slays the 2013 Super Bowl
Blood, sweat, and tears
As predicted yesterday, Sony has confirmed that it will be unchaining a brand new God of War: Ascension advert during this weekend’s Super Bowl. The latest teaser trailer focuses on protagonist Kratos’ wife and daughter, as an army of soldiers stomp through a nearby field. According to the conclusion of the short, more...
News Additional Content Disturbing Dead Space 3 Soon
Hold onto your disc
It looks like Dead Space 3’s jump scares will not conclude once you reach the solace of the title’s credits, because developer Visceral Games is currently working on a slice of post-release content for the survival horror shooter. Steve Papoutsis, the game’s producer, revealed the news in an official EA blog post. “The...
Store Update 30th January 2013 (Europe)
Back in time
It may be discontinued, but the PlayStation 2 is making a comeback. There are no less than ten PS2 Classics in this week’s European PlayStation Store refresh, including Dynasty Warriors 4, Samurai Warriors 2, and, as promised, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. Let’s Fish: Hooked On is also out this week on PlayStation Vita, alongside
News Sleeping Dogs Celebrates in Style with Year of the Snake DLC
Slithering in soon
Sleeping Dogs won’t be taking a nap prior to the impending Chinese New Year celebrations, because it’s got a brand new slice of post-release content in the pipeline. The festive ‘Year of the Snake’ add-on – as spotted by our partners in crime, Eurogamer.net – promises a wealth of cosmetic tweaks, many of which are...
Tuesday29th Jan 2013
Interview SWERY Discusses the Success of Deadly Premonition, Sequels, and Strange Snacks
Going back to Greenvale
This year PlayStation 3 owners will finally be able to journey to the mysterious town of Greenvale, where purple fog pollutes the air, axe-murderers grace the streets, and the rain never seems to stop falling. We recently caught up with Deadly Premonition: Director's Cut honcho Hidetaka 'SWERY' Suehiro, producer Tomio...
Rumour Could Cutter Be Making a Comeback in Uncharted 4?
"Need to top up my minutes"
Now that critically acclaimed first-party developer Naughty Dog has expanded into two teams, we can safely assume that the studio is working on a new entry in the Uncharted franchise. After all, the series still hasn’t reached its full commercial potential, and we suspect that there’s plenty that the ambitious...
News FuturLab's Velocity Ultra Will Be Propelled By a Platinum Trophy
Bling
FuturLab’s upcoming PlayStation Vita re-release Velocity Ultra is turning into quite the slice of fan service. Not only does the title exist because people asked for it, but it’s also getting a Platinum Trophy because, well, people asked for it. The award winning Brighton-based developer confirmed the news in a relatively simple blog post...
Rumour Muramasa Rebirth Cutting PS Vita on 25th June?
Sharper than a razor cut
The only thing missing from this evening’s Muramasa Rebirth announcement was a release date – but online retailer Amazon may have outed that. The site is listing a 25th June launch for the title in North America, despite Aksys being frustratingly quiet. According to our extensive calendar checks, the listed date is a...
News Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 Plus Boasts More Blood Than Ever
Scarlet shredder
Don’t think that Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2 Plus will be going soft in its transition to the PlayStation Vita, because publisher Tecmo Koei has confirmed that handheld port will be bloodier than ever before. The title, due out on 26th February in North America and 1st March in Europe, will boast a bevy of new modes, in addition to a...
News Muramasa Rebirth Slicing North American PlayStation Vitas
Dream come true
We told you that the PlayStation Vita port of Vanillaware favourite Muramasa: The Demon Blade would make its way overseas, didn’t we? Siliconera is reporting that Aksys will be publishing the title in North America as
News Sony Teases Game Day with Mysterious Trailer
What does it all mean?
Sony has added a mysterious trailer entitled ‘Game Day’ to its YouTube channel. The short shows a lady in classical garb strutting through a field, and closes with an open eye and 1st February date. It’s perhaps worth noting that the fonts, clothing, and sound effects all have a God of War-esque feel to them. We’re...
News Soul Sacrifice Saps Your Body and Mind from 30th April
Monster hunter
Enjoy your limbs while you’ve got them, because Sony has announced that it will conjure copies of Soul Sacrifice onto store shelves on 30th April in North America. The title will start slaying grotesque ogres on 1st May in Europe, with both regions securing digital releases on their respective dates. For the uninitiated amongst...
News Deadly Premonition 2 Could Take Place in an English Market Town
Change of scenery
Chatting to us as part of his world tour, Deadly Premonition: Director's Cut creator Hidetaka 'SWERY' Suehiro has hinted that he is already pondering his next title – but whether it gets made depends on the success of the upcoming re-release. “We are in discussion about moving onto the next project,” he teased. “It all...
News Warren Spector's Junction Point Reaches the End of the Line
Mickey mania
After the reportedly dire sales of Epic Mickey 2, it’s perhaps not surprising that Disney has decided to shutter developer Junction Point today – but that doesn’t make the news any easier to swallow. The publisher, currently wrapped up in the production of Disney Infinity, confirmed the closure earlier this evening, citing its...
News We'd Totally Study the History of BioShock Infinite's Columbia
Look around you
We never really cared about history at school – but we suspect that our disinterest would have been reversed if we got to learn about floating cities. This excellent BioShock: Infinite mockumentary outlines the history of Columbia in an informative and educational way. It sure beats watching another ancient BBC funded video about...
Monday28th Jan 2013
Review Gun Commando (PlayStation Mobile)
All outta gum?
It’s been a good 20 years since DOOM blasted its way onto the scene and laid the foundations for the rise of the first-person shooter. Some people may look back on its arrival with dismay given how stagnant the genre has become, but its legacy cannot be denied. Developer Green Hill Studios hopes to capitalise on that with its latest...
News Sexy Threads Heading to Deadly Premonition: Director's Cut
Dressed to kill
The previously announced post-release DLC for Deadly Premonition: The Director's Cut will include some saucy new threads for Greenvale's favourite female cop Emily, according to series creator Hidetaka 'SWERY' Suehiro. Speaking as part of an exclusive interview with Push Square, the legendary developer revealed that the outfit was...
News Heavy Rain Composer Sadly Passes Away at 56
Leaves behind an incredible legacy
The composer best known for scoring Heavy Rain’s emotional soundtrack, Normand Corbeil, has passed away at 56. The sad news comes courtesy of 8bitfix.com, who reports that the musician was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in August of 2012. He lost the battle with the disease on Friday, 25th January. Corbeil has...
News Killzone: Mercenary Breaches Polish Magazine Cover
Details deploying soon
Polish magazine PSX Extreme has released some brand new information about the upcoming PlayStation Vita first-person shooter, Killzone: Mercenary. According to the publication, the title is built upon the same engine as Killzone 3, meaning that it looks absolutely staggering. It’s thought that the release will rival
News Sleeping Dogs Headlines Explosive Euro PS Plus Update
It's full of stars
European PlayStation Plus subscribers will be able to rest easy knowing that Sleeping Dogs is set to awaken the service’s bursting Instant Game Collection next month. Sony has announced that the critically acclaimed sandbox crime drama will be available for free from 6th February, leaving you with plenty of change to splash out...
News Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus Strikes North American PS Plus
Slice and dice
Sony is rounding out January in style, by giving away copies of Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus to North American PlayStation Plus subscribers. The critically acclaimed PlayStation Vita port – which secured a strong 8/10 in our review – will be available for free from 29th January, so make sure you free up some space on your system’s...
News Deadly Premonition's York Was Originally Going to Be a Girl
Right, Zacherina?
Since its release in 2010, Deadly Premonition has rightfully earned its title as one of the most absurd, yet insanely gripping open world horror games in history. However, the story of Agent Francis York Morgan could have been very different, as director Hidetaka 'SWERY' Suehiro and producer Tomio Kanazawa explained in a recent...
News Legendary Rare Developer Switches Xbox for PlayStation
Flying the first-party flag
You may not have heard of George Andreas, but you will almost certainly have played one of his games. The former Rare employee worked on a wealth of classics during his 16 year tenure at the UK studio, including Banjo-Kazooie, Donkey Kong 64, and even GoldenEye 007. But, after playing a pivotal role in the production of
News Dead Space 3's Launch Trailer Murders a Classic
Oh lord
Forget the Necromorphs, the scariest thing about this Dead Space 3 launch trailer is the awful Phil Collins cover. It’s a shame, because the footage itself is exceptional, focusing on several enormous set-pieces from the single-player campaign. We’re guessing that that big centipede thing isn’t popping up to play tag. All will be...
News Rory McIlroy Swings onto Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14's Box Art
Hole in one
Not content with being brightest light on the circuit, landing a lucrative deal with Nike, and pulling women’s tennis pro Caroline Wozniacki, Rory McIlroy can now add appearing on the cover of a video game to his list of achievements. The Northern Irish hot shot will star on the front of the European edition of Tiger Woods PGA Tour 14,...
News Stylish Hitman HD Trilogy Trailer Dons a Cunning Disguise
You're already dead
With the release of the Hitman HD Trilogy nearing swifter than a blow to the brain, Square Enix has deployed the title’s official launch trailer in the space below. The compilation promises over 75 hits and more than 40 levels across three re-mastered PlayStation 2 campaigns. You’ll also unlock access to the previously...
News Crytek Resurrects Darksiders Developers with Texas Studio
Back from the brink
Darksiders may have been caught by the scythe of Death, but that’s not stopping a number of former Vigil Games employees from finding new life at Crytek USA. The Austin-based outfit, announced earlier today, represents the ninth studio in the German firm’s portfolio. Its foundation follows closely in the footsteps of Crytek...
News UK Sales Charts: DmC Pounded into Fourth by Black Ops 2
Sinking feeling
After dominating last week, DmC: Devil May Cry’s halo has slipped down into fourth position in the UK sales charts. The title was toppled by former frontrunner Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, which shot straight back to the summit. Familiar favourites FIFA 13 and Far Cry 3 occupied second and third respectively. Elsewhere,
News Sony Bundling 3 Month Bonuses with Annual PS Plus Subs
More for your money
It pays to be a PlayStation Plus subscriber these days – and there’s never been a better time to sign up. Sony has announced that anyone in North America that buys a 12 month membership between now and 4th March will get an extra three months absolutely free. That’s a generous bonus when you consider the sheer amount of...
Sunday27th Jan 2013
Review The Cave (PlayStation 3)
Cavern club
The first adventure game ever to be released was a text title created by computer programmer and caver enthusiast, William Crowther. It's fitting, then, that Double Fine’s latest bid to revive the forgotten genre is also set in a cave. But this is not Crowther’s 1976 exploration game – it's a modern experience, complete with Ron...
News PS Mobile Promotion Refreshes with Free Cubixx Next Week
Cut down to size
Laughing Jackal’s devilishly addictive Cubixx will be the next title to join Sony’s ongoing PlayStation Mobile giveaway next week. The three-dimensional reimagining of arcade classic Qix will replace Beats Slider on Wednesday, and will be available for free for the duration of a week. The puzzler has seen a number of iterations...
Saturday26th Jan 2013
News Namco Summons Strategy Guides for Cancelled Ni No Kuni Orders
Consolation prize
The past few days have proved a distinctly unmagical time for many of those that ordered Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch’s gorgeous Wizard’s Edition. Due to an administration error, the premium bundle was oversold, forcing a number of orders to be cancelled earlier in the week. Namco Bandai has since responded to the...
News Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time Demo Sneaks onto PS Plus
Not a sound
Living up to its namesake with perfect precision, a demo for Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time has sneaked onto the North American PlayStation Store. It’s actually been there for much of the week, but in true ninja fashion, we’ve only just spotted it. You’ll need to be a PlayStation Plus subscriber to download the sampler, though we’re...
News Hook Up with Persona 4 Golden Next Month in Europe
Let it shine
Get ready to rediscover your teenage angst, because Persona 4 Golden is set to brighten up the PlayStation Vita’s barren release schedule in Europe next month. Publisher Atlus has confirmed that the critically acclaimed RPG – which scored a perfect 10/10 on this very site – will hit store shelves on 22nd February. If that’s too...
Friday25th Jan 2013
Talking Point What if the PS4 Is Not Backward Compatible?
Legacy support
It’s ironic that Sony has had such a tumultuous time with backward compatibility of late. In the transition from the PSone to the PlayStation 2, the platform holder essentially set the expectation for the feature moving forwards – but it hasn’t always managed to uphold that standard in recent years. Initial models of the...
News Sony's Latest PlayStation Vita Promotion Pays in Spades
Flex your marketing muscle
Sony’s latest PlayStation Vita promotion is prompting a bit of a backlash in certain corners of the web. The initiative – which launched in North America earlier today – encourages you to “convince your friends to buy” one of the consoles in return for $20 PlayStation Network credit and 1,000 Sony Rewards points...
News Resident Evil: Revelations' Collector's Edition Tells the Time
Also breaks the bank
If you’re in need of a suitable timepiece to accompany your overpriced Leon S. Kennedy themed jacket, then look no further than Resident Evil: Revelations’ Japanese collector’s edition. The premium bundle includes a US Agency watch sporting the BSAA logo. It’s based on the same design worn by protagoni
News PlayStation 3 Super Slim Flashes Red and Blue in UK
Just like the police (minus Sting)
Those recently announced ‘Garnet Red’ and ‘Azurite Blue’ PlayStation 3 Super Slim consoles are set to light up UK store shelves on 15th February, platform holder Sony has announced. The systems will be available as part of a temporary run, and will come bundled with two matching DualShock 3 controllers and...
News Here's What Killzone Would Look Like If It Was Made of LEGO
Toys at war
Forget about all of the excellent LEGO crossovers that have come before – this is the one that we’ve been waiting for. 18-year-old model designer Joris Blok has constructed an army of Helghast soldiers out of LEGO, providing a sneak peak at Guerrilla Games’ blockbuster Killzone franchise in plastic form. Despite their somewhat...
News Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX's Box Art Is Pretty Goofy
A kind of magic
With the re-master’s Japanese release imminent, publisher Square Enix has revealed the box art for the wordy Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 ReMIX. The pack shot leads with Sora, Donald Duck, and Goofy, while Riku and Mickey are relegated to the upper corners. Rumours of a Western release of the PlayStation 3 exclusive hit fever pitch...
News Splinter Cell: Blacklist's Huge Collector's Edition Takes Flight
Cloud nine
The battle for the most preposterous video game collector’s edition rages on with Splinter Cell: Blacklist. Ubisoft has announced that the upcoming stealth action title will deploy alongside an enormous premium bundle that includes a remote controlled plane. Let’s do that again: a freakin’ remote controlled plane. The brilliantly...
Rumour PlayStation All-Stars Developer Thumped by Layoffs
Heavy haymaker
PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale developer SuperBot Entertainment has apparently been struck by a round of layoffs. According to Insomniac Games designer Mike Birkhead, around 20 employees were released earlier today. “When it rains, it pours,” he said, presumably in reference to the recent slew of job losses at defunct...
News LEGO Marvel Super Heroes Video Constructs Stark Tower
Rich man's mansion
Traveller’s Tales is still hard at work slotting all of the bricks together for the upcoming LEGO Marvel Super Heroes, but the developer has been kind enough to show a partially constructed version of the title’s Stark Tower stage. The video comes courtesy of Game Informer magazine, and includes plenty of commentary from...
News Terraria Digs onto PlayStation Network with New Content
It's off to work we go
PC indie smash hit Terraria will up sticks and arrive on the PlayStation Network in February, publisher 505 Games has announced. The creative side-scroller will come with a wealth of new content, including a full tutorial, enhanced controls, and a fresh boss battle. The re-release will also feature a throng of original...
Thursday24th Jan 2013
Review Beats Slider (PlayStation Mobile)
A new riff on an old classic
We don’t know about you, but we’ve always been hopeless at those pesky slider puzzles. Rather than try to solve our alphabetical one as a child, we decided to rearrange our understanding of the order of letters. It’s proved a nightmare in later life, we have to admit. Still, trust FuturLab – the developers of...
News Why Isn't Resident Evil: Revelations Stumbling onto the Vita?
Hot air
Given the title’s origins on the Nintendo 3DS, it always seemed likely that Resident Evil: Revelations would infect the PlayStation Vita at some point in the future. But despite announcing the eerie adventure for a slew of home consoles earlier this week, publisher Capcom failed to even acknowledge Sony’s struggling handheld. Why is...
News Bayonetta Swaggers onto the PlayStation Network Next Week
Girl power
She may not be on quite the same plane as Sabrina the Teenage Witch, but Bayonetta is still pretty bad ass – and she’s strutting onto the PlayStation Network next week, publisher SEGA has announced. The first title in Hideki Kamiya’s critically acclaimed series will launch as a digital download on 29th January in North America and...
News Assassin's Creed III Crowns King Washington Next Month
Behold the Lord High Executioner
Assassin’s Creed III’s intriguing alternate history add-on pack The Tyranny of King Washington will receive its first instalment on 19th February in North America and 20th February in Europe, publisher Ubisoft has announced. The debut episode – dubbed ‘The Infamy’ – will depict the events directly after...
News Sony Fined £250,000 Over PlayStation Network Hack
Chunk of change
If you thought (or wished) that you’d heard the last of 2011’s infamous PlayStation Network outage, then think again. A UK government body responsible for investigating the hack has issued the platform holder with a £250,000 ($395k) fine, describing the attack as a “serious breach of the Data Protection Act”. The...
News Sony Cuts the Ribbon on North American PlayStation Webstore
Form an orderly queue
After a string of promises, Sony has cut the ribbon on the browser-based version of the North American PlayStation Store. The online plaza allows you to peruse and purchase PlayStation Network content without having to wait for the new console application to load. Just think what you could do with those extra 30 seconds – the...
News God of War: Ascension Gifts Early Access to The Last of Us' Demo
Let the bodies hit the floor
Sony’s dialling up the death count to absurd proportions this March, by including early admission to The Last of Us’ gameplay demo with copies of the upcoming God of War: Ascension. Those of you with strong enough stomachs will be able to access the bloodshed courtesy of an icon included on the prequel’s main menu...
News PlayStation Mobile Braces Itself for Chimpact
Cheeky monkey
Those of you searching for something to ape around with in your spare time need look no further than Chimpact, an upcoming PlayStation Mobile title that sees you propelling primates around increasingly complex jungle mazes in order to score points. The title promises addictive one-touch gameplay that’s “easy to play, but fun to...
News Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Turns Back Time on PSN
Acceptable in the 80s
Whip out your shoulder pads, eyeliner, and Blondie records, because Grand Theft Auto: Vice City is set to invade the PlayStation Network in a blaze of bad synthpop and fluorescent colours next week. The barebones PS2 Classic will set you back £7.99/$9.99 when it launches on 29th November in North America and 30th November in...
Rumour Take Two Wrestles the WWE License from THQ
Blood, sweat, and tiny pants
While the majority of THQ’s franchises found new homes yesterday, there’s still been no official word on the future of the WWE license. Early rumours suggested that EA had picked up the lucrative contract, but that’s been countered by an IGN report which claims that Take Two made a last minute bid for the series...
News Crysis 3 Multiplayer Beta Uncloaks on 29th January
Creeping through the chaos
The game’s less than a month away from release, but that’s not stopping Crytek from deploying a Crysis 3 multiplayer beta next week. The online test will run for a period of two weeks, and will give you a chance to experience two modes and maps ahead of the title’s 19th February release. Crash Site, the first of the...
Wednesday23rd Jan 2013
Rumour You'll Be Able to Link PS4 Controllers with Your PSN Account
Simultaneous login
Sony’s upcoming next generation console will include the option to link your PlayStation Network account to a controller, allowing you to earn Trophies when playing on a system that’s not your own. That's according to Kotaku, who claim to have obtained the official documentation for an Orbis development kit. The site...
News The Last of Us Uncovers North American Special Editions
Last one, we promise
In order to accompany the announcement of yesterday’s European The Last of Us collector’s editions, Sony has revealed a couple of premium bundles for the North American market. Up f
News THQ's Assets Are Divided, Deep Silver Snatches Saints Row
Thanks for the memories
The auction for THQ’s assets has concluded, with the publisher closing up shop as a result. After a gruelling 22 hour auction process, intermediaries decided that individual bids would net a greater cash return for the debt riddled company, resulting in the demise of the once prolific publisher. The new owners of many of...
News PlayStation All-Stars Punched Down to Size in European Sale
Time to fight
You’ll have no excuse not to engage in a spot of mascot madness this weekend, when PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale’s price is slashed as part of Sony’s ongoing European PlayStation Network sale. Between the 25th and 28th January, you’ll be able to snap up the brilliant beat ‘em up for just £19.99/€24.99, which...
Opinion Warner Bros Is the Perfect Fit for Saints Row
Grand theft auto
As we type, various companies and venture capitalists are picking at the bones of fallen publisher THQ. The organisation’s assets are being auctioned off individually, meaning it’s entirely possible that the likes of Homefront, Red Faction, and
Talking Point What's the Big Deal with Microtransactions?
Spend a penny
Dead Space 3 will allow you to enhance your arsenal in a more efficient manner by spending real money. As reported earlier today, if you lack the sufficient salvage for a specific upgrade, the game will direct you to the PlayStation Store where you’ll be able to purchase more for an undisclosed fee. Apparently, there will be a range...
News Doodle God Combines the Elements on Vita Today
Knocking on heaven's door
If you fancy yourself a bit of a budding deity, then SPL’s upcoming PlayStation Vita puzzler Doodle God might be right up your alley. The scientific simulator sees you assuming the role of a god, and mixing and matching elements in order to create new ones. These are then used to fill blank worlds with fresh properties...
News Corpse Party: Book of Shadows Haunts Europe Later Today
Hide behind the sofa
The genuinely creepy Corpse Party: Book of Shadows will begin terrorising the European PlayStation Store later today, publisher XSEED Games has announced. The PlayStation Portable visual novel – which spooked North America earlier in the month – will set you back €14.99, and will be compatible with the PlayStation Vita at...
Store Update 23rd January 2013 (Europe)
Too hot to handle
After a couple of slow weeks, the European PlayStation Store is back on form with an overload of content. Highlights include Zombie Driver HD, The Cave, and DUST 514, but there’s plenty more worth getting excited about. It’s also worth mentioning that PlayStation Plus subscribers will be able to grab The Pinball Arcade for free...
News DmC: Devil May Cry Grows Its Hair Back from 29th January
Keep your wig on
Those of you furious with Dante’s taste in fashion will be able to augment your copy of DmC: Devil May Cry with some classic threads next week. Capcom has announced that the demon slayer’s previously revealed costume pack will terrorise the PlayStation Store from 29th January in North America and 30th January in E
News Initiate Your Window Wipers, Zombie Driver HD's on the Way
Road rage
Zombie Driver HD, the promising isometric undead racing sim from EXOR Studios, is drifting onto the European PlayStation Store today. The title – which was originally due out in late 2011 – finds you “trapped in a city full of walking corpses without any option to escape”. Your only method of survival is driving like a maniac,...
Store Update 22nd January 2013 (North America)
Ice queen
Namco Bandai’s gorgeous Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch is the natural standout in this week’s North American PlayStation Store update, but there’s still plenty of other content worth getting excited about. Notable additions include The Cave, Mad Dog McCree, and escapeVektor. Let’s forget about the formalities, and get down to...
Tuesday22nd Jan 2013
News Could Singularity Be Quantic Dream's First PS4 Game?
We're already drooling
Heavy Rain developer Quantic Dream is currently applying the finishing touches to its upcoming PlayStation 3 exclusive Beyond: Two Souls – but the studio may also be working on a PlayStation 4 title. Seasoned online snoop Superannuation has uncovered a domain name for
News Quench Your Thirst with The Last of Us' Special Edition
Survival kit
You too can be prepared for the end of the world by purchasing The Last of Us’ collector's edition. The premium bundle – spotted on the Italian arm of online retailer Amazon – features a handy metal water bottle, a 30-day subscription to PlayStation Plus, and a sticker skin for your PlayStation 3 and DualShock controller. The...
News Joel and Ellie Headline The Last of Us' Special Editions
Who will you choose?
Hot on the heels of this morning’s leaked The Last of Us collector’s edition, Sony has announced a couple of premium bundles for the UK. The packages – available in Joel and Ellie guises – will include a mini art book, a collectable poster, and a DualShock sticker. You’ll also get an exclusive cover specific to the set...
News Retro FPS Gun Commando Targets PlayStation Mobile
All outta gum
Fans of DOOM and Wolfenstein 3D will no doubt feel right at home with Gun Commando, an intriguing 8-bit first-person shooter heading to PlayStation Mobile this week. The title – developed by Green Hill Studios and Abstraction Games – is described as an “old-school, new-cool” adventure, which sees you assume the role of Jack...
News PlayStation Vita Firmware Update v2.05 on the Way
Don't get too excited
Your PlayStation Vita experience is about to get significantly more stable, as there is a new firmware update on the horizon. Spotted on the official PlayStation website, version 2.05 promises enhanced software stability “during the use of some features”. We suppose there may always be hidden additions, but don’t hold...
News Japan's Most Desired Console Is the PlayStation Vita
Moral victory
The system may be locked in a constant conflict with the bottom half of the Japanese hardware charts, but it turns out that local consumers want to love the PlayStation Vita after all. A recent Famitsu magazine survey discovered that more than 64 per cent of readers are eager to snap up the struggling hardware, a sample greater than...
News North American PS Plus Members Net Huge Discounts
Free copies of Foosball 2012, too
Forget about central heating, Sony’s impressive “13 for ’13” promotion is the real winter warmer this week. The excellent initiative – set to launch later today in North America – will see a slew of PlayStation Network titles discounted for the New Year, with PlayStation Plus subscribers securing savings...
News Dead Space 3 Will Let You Buy Better Weapons with Real Money
Nickel and dime
No one can hear you scream in space – unless you’ve got a big enough bank balance, of course. Reporting from a recent hands-on session, Eurogamer.net has revealed that Dead Space 3 will allow you to upgrade your weapons via voluntary microtransactions. You'll be given the option to pay your way out of trouble when you don't have...
News Capcom Revives Resident Evil: Revelations for PlayStation 3
Blowing up on the big screen
As expected, Capcom has announced that Resident Evil: Revelations will shuffle onto the PlayStation 3 later this year. The former Nintendo 3DS exclusive will launch as both a boxed title and a digital download on 21st May in North America and 24th May in Europe. It will set you back the slightly reduced sum of...
Monday21st Jan 2013
Review Haunt the House: Terrortown (PlayStation Mobile)
Phantom menace
The latest in Sony’s PlayStation Mobile initiative, Haunt the House: Terrortown sees you adopt the role of an ethereal being named Ghost and challenges you with the task of scaring people for, well, no apparent reason really. Ghost’s story begins in a clock tower that serves as the game's central hub. With the mysterious music,...
News Meet the 85-Year-Old Who's Addicted to PlayStation 3
Old school
While most pensioners keep their minds active with Sudoku and Countdown, Hilda Knott is a touch more adventurous. The 85-year-old is a keen PlayStation 3 gamer, with an enormous library spanning mainstream favourites such as Grand Theft Auto IV and more hardcore hits like Disgaea 4: A Promise Forgotten. She’s even a PlayStation
Review escapeVektor (PlayStation Vita)
The great escape
Part of what makes escapeVektor so charming is how wonderfully simplistic it is. The title's Pac-Man-esque gameplay sees you navigating minimalistic mazes in order to open up an exit, all the while avoiding deadly traps that threaten to thwart your progress. It's a really basic idea, but despite its lack of complex mechanics, the...
News Sony Is Happy to Let Microsoft Reveal Its Next Console First
Anything you can do, we can do better
In between heated sessions of Ridge Racer (probably), Sony president Kaz Hirai has hinted that he’s happy for Microsoft to announce its next generation console first. Speaking with British newspaper The Times, the former SCE overlord said: "Why go first when your competitors can look at your specifications and...
News New PS3 Super Slim Colours Strut Their Stuff in Japan
And maybe overseas, too
A couple of custom PlayStation 3 Super Slim colours will hit the console catwalk in Japan next month, platform holder Sony has announced. The newly unveiled 250GB Garnet Red and Azurite Blue systems will launch on 28th February in the land of the rising sun, and will set you back ¥24,980 ($279). Interestingly, the consoles...
News UK Sales Charts: Devil May Cry Ascends to the Heavens
God of war
Dante’s new haircut didn’t prove a hindrance on DmC: Devil May Cry’s ability to conquer the UK sales charts, as the controversial (but excellent) demon slayer shot straight to the summit of the region’s best sellers list, knocking FIFA 13 off the championship spot. Perhaps potential buyers were swayed by the patriotic Union Jack...
News Dead Space's Isaac Clarke Is a Closet Mass Effect Cosplayer
Fancy distress
Like most people, we spend the majority of our evenings prancing around in N7 gear, pretending to save the galaxy from imminent Reaper attacks – but we never suspected that Dead Space protagonist Isaac Clarke was a part of our fantasy circle. However, the below trailer provides irrefutable proof that, even when faced with an undead...
News Let's Fish Hooks a Reely Big One from 30th January
Making a splash
You’ll be able to get your fingers all over the cast of Let’s Fish: Hooked On’s rods later this month, when the fishing simulator swims to the PlayStation Vita on 30th January in Europe. Those of you in North America will have to wait a little while longer to get wet, as the title is not set to wash up on international shores...
News Starbreeze Starts a Storm with New Co-Op Shooter
Stockholm syndrome
Starbreeze, the Swedish studio behind the solid Syndicate, has revealed a few scant details about its upcoming co-op shooter, Storm. The sci-fi title – which doesn’t have any platforms attached to it – is currently in development, and is described as "our future". It's unclear whether that's a tagline, or the company being...
Sunday20th Jan 2013
News You'll Be Able to Purchase Ni No Kuni from the PlayStation Store
Digital adventure
You won’t even need to venture outside to snap up the gorgeous Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch next week, as publisher Namco Bandai has confirmed that the lovely Level-5 developed RPG will also be available as a digital download from the North American PlayStation Store. There’s no word on a price for the online version,...
News PayPal Added As PSN Payment Option in North America
The easy way
Those of you in North America will now be able to use PayPal to add funds to your PlayStation Network account. To take advantage of the functionality – which launched in Europe late last year – all you need to do is login to the Sony Entertainment Network website, select ‘Add Funds to Wallet’, and click on the conspicuous PayPal...
News Prove Your Worth as a Warrior in God of War: Ascension's Beta
Open to everyone
Sony is rounding out God of War: Ascension’s multiplayer beta with an open invitation to all PlayStation Network users. Throughout the course of the holiday weekend, those of you in North America will be able to partake in the goriest battle since the start of Gangs of New York. There’s no need for a PlayStation Plus...
Saturday19th Jan 2013
News No, Monster Hunter 4 Is Not Coming to the PlayStation Vita
Don't shoot the messenger
Like a high school heartbreaker, Capcom has crushed our hopes and dreams. Yesterday we reported that there was a slim chance of Monster Hunter 4 stomping its way onto the PlayStation Vita – but, writing on the company’s official forums
News Mad Dog McCree Moves onto PlayStation 3 Next Week
Yeehaw
Whip out your cowboy hat and spurred boots, because Mad Dog McCree is moseying its way onto the North American PlayStation Network next week. The iffy FMV sharpshooter will join the previously released Fast Draw Showdown on 22nd January, and will boast full PlayStation Move compatibility, in addition to an “all-new scoring system” and...
News No Prizes for Guessing What DmC's First Expansion Features
In a lather
It was inevitable, wasn’t it? Capcom has revealed DmC: Devil May Cry’s first costume pack on its Japanese website, and it includes a skin that brings back protagonist Dante’s less controversial looks. For the grand sum of ¥400, you’ll be able to reunite the potty-mouthed hero with his signature red jacket and silky silver locks...
News God of War: Ascension's Single-Player Demo Rages in February
Off the chain
With the excellent multiplayer beta racing to a brutal climax, Sony is finally starting to focus its attention on God of War: Ascension’s hotly anticipated solo campaign. But while yesterday’s brief teaser trailer provided us with our very first taste of some of the title’s set-pieces, the publisher is promising that there’s...
News Latest Metal Gear Rising Trailer Cuts Bosses Down to Size
Sharper than a razor cut
The antagonists of Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance certainly seem to talk a good fight, but are they a match for Jack the Ripper in the ring? This brand new Japanese trailer focuses on four of the boss battles from the upcoming Platinum Games developed brawler, and it certainly lives up to its tagline, ‘Lightning Bolt...
News Killer Is Dead's First Trailer Comes Out Swinging
Love and execution
The first trailer for Suda51’s upcoming PlayStation 3 action title Killer Is Dead includes everything that you’d expect it to: blood, beautiful women, and more blood. The title was officially revealed earlier this week after an eight month silence from developer Grasshopper Manufacture. Needless to say, it’s shot straight to...
Friday18th Jan 2013
News Scheduled PlayStation Network Maintenance Extended
Don't panic
You’ll have ample opportunity to build a snowman, learn to juggle, and trim your toenails today, as Sony has announced that it's extending the PlayStation Network's scheduled maintenance for a few more hours. The period – which had been set to run from 16:00PM to 04:00AM GMT in Europe, and from 08:00AM to 20:00PM PT in North America...
Review Uncharted: Fight for Fortune (PlayStation Vita)
Poker face
Uncharted: Fight for Fortune was always going to feel like a letdown compared to the epic adventure of Uncharted: Golden Abyss. Billed as a classic card game, the title lacks the explosive attraction of its parent franchise. But can the cheap and cheerful digital title succeed on its own merits, irrespective of the property that it's...
News Scheduled PlayStation Network Maintenance to Persist Overnight
Boo
There’s never been a better time for you to take the shrink wrap off that copy of Wuthering Heights and lose yourself in the (occasionally uncomfortable) love story of Heathcliff and Catherine. Sony has announced that the PlayStation Network’s pre-arranged maintenance period is set to run until the early hours of Saturday morning in Europe...
Talking Point Is It Time to Say Goodbye to the DualShock?
Changes are taking place
Sony is supposedly planning to ditch the DualShock controller with the release of its impending next generation console, the PlayStation 4. The iconic input device, with its pointed handles and symmetrical analogue sticks, has been a pivotal part of Sony’s gaming ecosystem since its original release in 1997. But is it time...
Rumour Sony Ditching the DualShock for PlayStation 4
Shock horror
Sony is poised to ditch its iconic DualShock controller with the release of the PlayStation 4, according to a report on CVG. The website – citing a senior games studio source working on an upcoming exclusive title – understands that the next generation controller has gone through a number of revisions behind the scenes, none of...
Rumour Monster Hunter 4 Is Clawing Its Way onto PS Vita
Roarsome
Monster Hunter 4 could be stomping onto the PlayStation Vita, if a rumour in Japanese magazine Game Lab is to be believed. The publication claims that the Nintendo 3DS exclusive was not recently delayed due to quality purposes, but to ensure a simultaneous release alongside Sony’s slick system. If true, th
News Sony Selling Its New York Headquarters for $1.1 Billion
Chunk of change
In a move that has seen the company’s share prices surge by a whopping 12 per cent, Sony has announced that it has agreed to sell its New York headquarters to the Chetrit Group for a whopping $1.1 billion. The electronics manufacturer will continue to operate out of the 37-story building for the next three years, after which it...
News Feast Your Eyes on God of War: Ascension's Solo Campaign
By the beard of Zeus
Stick some matchsticks under your eyelids, because Sony has released a whopping 30 seconds of God of War: Ascension’s single-player campaign. The blink-and-you’ll-miss-it short shows Kratos kissing his daughter, jumping off a mountain, and punching a sea monster in the face. Did we mention that it looks absolutely awesome?...
News The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim DLC Travels to PS3 in February
Sound the trumpets
It’s been a long, laborious journey, but The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim’s DLC will finally arrive on PlayStation 3 in February. Bethesda confirmed the glad tidings in a PlayStation Blog post, noting that Dragonborn, Hearthfire, and Dawnguard will all launch within the window, and will be accompanied by a 50 per cent discount to...
News Urban Trial Freestyle Revs Up on PS3 and Vita This Year
Feather the accelerator
Seeing as there’s still no port of Trials Evolution on the PlayStation 3, we suspect that you’re going to snap up Urban Trial Freestyle out of necessity. The Tate Interactive developed PS3 and Vita title is due out later this year, and promises a deep arcade motorcycle experience with bombastic visuals and an addictive...
Thursday17th Jan 2013
Review Panic! (PlayStation Mobile)
Ooze cruise
Panic! is a birds-eye 'stop-the-slime-from-consuming-the-townsfolk' puzzle game. As part of Sony's recently released PlayStation Mobile initiative, it is compatible with both the PlayStation Vita and PlayStation-certified mobile phones. The narrative relays that a deadly alien slime has attacked the Earth, and you, in your assumed...
News So, There's a Bunch of PS4 Rumours Doing the Rounds
Deep breath
We’ve officially reached crazy town – but don’t worry, you won’t be forced to listen to Butterfly during your stay. VG247 is reporting that the PlayStation 4 will boast 1.84 teraflops of computational power, giving it a slight advantage over the next Xbox’s rumoured 1.23 teraflops. It’s perhaps worth noting that, in...
News Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII Strikes This Fall
Lace and paper flowers
The countdown to the end of the world will begin this fall, when Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII thunders onto store shelves. The ambiguous release window was revealed by publisher Square Enix earlier today, alongside an extended trailer which features Final Fantasy XIII-2 hero Noel. Despite the impending apocalypse,...
News Killer Is Dead Stars an Assassin with an Outrageous Arm
Packing heat
It's been a long time since we learned anything about Grasshopper Manufacture's upcoming PlayStation 3 action title, Killer Is Dead. The game was announced in April last year, but has been kept under wraps for the past eight months. Thankfully, that's changed this week, courtesy of a Famitsu magazine exposé. The report, translated by
News Classic White PS3 Coming to North America on 27th January
Nicely iced
To complement the dusting of snow on our windowsill right now (no, really), Sony has announced that it’s bringing the classic white PlayStation 3 Super Slim to North America later this month. As with Canada, the wintery system will arrive on 27th January, and will come with a year’s subscription to PlayStation Plus and a 500GB...
News Kevin Butler Actor Agrees Not to Promote Games for Two Years
It only does settlements
Remember the hullabaloo surrounding Kevin Butler late last year? It emerged that Sony was suing the character’s actor Jerry Lambert after he appeared in a Bridgestone commercial playing on a Nintendo Wii. At the time, the platform holder claimed that the advertisement caused “confusion in the market and damage to...
News Kat and Emmett Pick a Fight with PlayStation All-Stars Next Month
New challengers
PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale’s latest combatants will enter the ring on 12th February in North America and 13th February in Europe, developer SuperBot Entertainment has announced. As previously revealed, both Kat and Emmett Graves will be available for free for a limited period of two weeks, after which th
News Epic Mickey 2's Sales Were Less Than Stellar in North America
Oh dear
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit must be seriously losing his charm. According to the LA Times, the poorly received Epic Mickey 2: The Power of Two managed to shift just 270,000 units in North America during its first month or so on sale. That's roughly a million less than its Nintendo Wii exclusive predecessor achieved in a similar timeframe...
News Unreleased Tracks Spotted in New Gran Turismo 5 Trailers
Road trip
The keen eyed folks over at GT Planet have spent the past couple of days analysing the latest batch of Gran Turismo 5 trailers – and have discovered a handful of unreleased tracks in the process. According to the site, the recently released footage of the 2014 Corvette Stingray includes a sneak peak at
News Max Payne 3 Swallows Its Final Dose of DLC Next Week
Deathmatch made in heaven
The final jolt of Max Payne 3 content will be injected into the North American PlayStation Network next week, publisher Rockstar Games has announced. European players will need to go cold turkey until 30th January, when the expansion is due to arrive overseas. It will set you back £7.99/$9.99, or will be free if you own a...
Wednesday16th Jan 2013
Review Fuel Tiracas (PlayStation Mobile)
Twitchy thumb syndrome
Fuel Tiracas is wonderfully compelling. You'll approach it with the intent of a quick five minute session, but will no doubt end up pouring the best part of an hour into it. And it's all because of the game's pesky leaderboards. You'll want, no, need to shave a few seconds off your personal best in order to climb the high...
News Your Bikinis Will Be Compatible with Dead or Alive 5 Plus
Fill your boots
If you’ve already acquired a healthy wardrobe of skimpy Dead or Alive 5 costumes, then you may be delighted to learn that they’ll all be compatible with the fighter’s upcoming PlayStation Vita port, Dead or Alive 5 Plus. That brand new first-person mode may have a purpose after all. In addition, according to
News Milestone Wheeling Out MotoGP 13 for PS3 and Vita
Kick starter
Following the closure of previous developer Monumental Games, Milestone has announced that it’s taken the handlebars of the official MotoGP license, announcing MotoGP 13 for PlayStation 3 and Vita. The title's set to release at some point in June. The Italian outfit promises to have “re-invented” the franchise, with new physics...
News Bungie Sets a Date with Destiny at GDC 2013
Out of this world
Bungie, the developer best known for creating the Halo franchise, will disclose the very first official information about its brand new intellectual property at the Game Developers Conference in March. According to the convention’s schedule, the studio will host an hour-long presentation dubbed ‘Brave New World: New Bungie...
News Army of Two: The Devil's Cartel Trailer Works Up an Appetite
Should've had a bigger breakfast
The worst part about fighting wars for a living is that there’s rarely time for a mid-morning snack. Take the masked protagonists of upcoming PlayStation 3 shooter Army of Two: The Devil’s Cartel – they're too busy dodging bullets and half-volleyed frag grenades to scoff a custard cream or three. No wonder they...
News Sony Dishing Out Free PS Mobile Titles for Six Weeks in Europe
Won't cost a penny
In order to remind you that, hey, PlayStation Mobile actually launched, Sony has concocted a promotion that will see a handful of games given away over the next six weeks. All you need to do to claim the goodies is own a compatible device and hit the download button on the PlayStation Store. The first freebie is Beatnik Games’...
Store Update 15th January 2013 (North America)
Arm the clocks
As the North American PlayStation Store goes through the gears in 2013, there’s one title that’s unmissable this week: Wake-Up Club. The hotly anticipated PlayStation Vita alarm clock is available for the grand sum of nothing, and boasts Trophies in addition to mini-games that somehow involve your PSN friends. Other highlights...
Store Update 16th January 2013 (Europe)
Retro renaissance
Retro City Rampage makes its long awaited arrival on the European PlayStation Store today. The throwback adventure is joined by a handful of hot titles, including Earth Defense Force 2017 Portable, Orgarhythm, and Sumioni: Demon Arts. Just a quick note for PlayStation Plus subscribers: you’ll be able to a download complimentar
News Splinter Cell: Blacklist Goes Dark Until 20th August
Under the radar
There’s life beyond the summer after all. Despite the majority of new video game releases being crammed into the opening six months of the year, Ubisoft has revealed that Splinter Cell: Blacklist will don its night vision goggles on 20th August in North America. That’s mere months before the PlayStation 4 is rumoured to...
News Discover Your Desires in The Cave from 22nd January
Going underground
Double Fine’s intriguing PlayStation Network adventure game The Cave will open for exploration on 22nd January in North America, publisher SEGA has announced. European gamers will have to wait an additional 24 hours to uncover their inner fantasies, when the mysterious title arrives on 23rd January overseas. Admission will set...
News escapeVektor Cuts a Path onto North American Vitas Next Week
Head on collision
After launching in Europe late last year, Australian indie developer Nnooo [sigh – Ed] has attached a 22nd January North American release date to its PlayStation Vita puzzler escapeVektor. The title will set you back $9.99, a fair price for an adventure with no less than 150 levels. Blimey. The game itself is an ambitious mix of...
Tuesday15th Jan 2013
Talking Point Are Collector's Editions a Waste of Money?
Bobby dazzlers
Collector’s editions are a relatively new phenomenon. They only came into fashion about ten years ago, rewarding franchise fans with steelbook cases and behind the scenes footage of their favourite games. Since their humble origins, package sizes and price tags have increased, as publishers go in pursuit of additional profits from...
News Dead Island: Riptide's Busty Collector's Edition Is Hideous
Put it away
Of all the collector’s editions that we’ve had the misfortune of posting about, this is probably the worst. Deep Silver has announced the UK premium bundle for Dead Island: Riptide – and it includes a bleeding pair of knockers. The publisher claims that the grotesque, er, bust is the title’s own “take on an iconic Roman marble...
Review Samurai Beatdown (PlayStation Mobile)
Sword dance
A samurai swiping down monsters in time to a beat – why, it sounds just like a mini-game in Nintendo's Rhythm Heaven series. Samurai Beatdown's endless runner-style approach differs, however, as your noble warrior dashes through brightly coloured, detailed environments that benefit immensely from the PlayStation Vita's screen. Both...
News Deep Silver Issues Apology Over Dead Island: Riptide Bust
Company made a huge boob
In what’s looking more and more like a publicity stunt, publisher Deep Silver has issued an apology over its controversial Dead Island: Riptide collector’s edition. For those who haven’t been keeping abreast of the situation, the company announced the grotesque premium bundle earlier today, which includes a statue of a...
News Hideki Kamiya Doesn't Hate Ninja Theory's Devil May Cry Reboot
He's a fan
Considering former Capcom employee Hideki Kamiya’s, er, outspoken nature, we expected the original Devil May Cry director to have a few choice words for Ninja Theory’s reboot – but he’s actually rather fond of it. "I've been getting a lot of DmC: Devil May Cry tweets lately,” the Bayonetta creator revealed on
News Disney Infinity Goes Above and Beyond Skylanders This Year
Deep pockets
It was inevitable, wasn’t it? After muted rumours, Disney Interactive has announced Disney Infinity, a brand new PlayStation 3 sandbox title powered by toys based on characters from the illustrious filmmaker’s storied history. The title’s set to launch this June, which is sure to have Skylanders publisher Activision quaking in its...
News Injustice: Gods Among Us Punches PS3 on 16th April
Immortal combat
NetherRealm Studios’ superhero showdown Injustice: Gods Among Us will pick a fight with the PlayStation 3 on 16th April in North America and 19th April in Europe, publisher Warner Bros has announced. You’ll be able to purchase the fighter in a variety of guises, including as part of the beefy Battle Edition, which includes an...
News Canada Paints the PlayStation 3 White on 27th January
Cold as ice
Clearly inspired by the winter months, Sony’s Canadian department has committed to bringing the white PlayStation 3 Super Slim overseas. Gamers in the maple syrup loving nation will be able to purchase the cool console from 27th January, according to a Best Buy listing. The system will ship with a year’s subscription to PlayStation...
News Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time to Be a Real Steal at $39.99
Cheap and cheerful
Just in case you missed the memo, Sony has announced that Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time will sneak into stores well below the usual retail price for PlayStation 3 games. The first-party platformer will set you back just $39.99 for both the PS3 and Vita versions. You may as well scrap your elaborate bank robbery plans now, as...
News Darksiders Brays onto North American PlayStation Plus
Apocalyptic addition
THQ may be on the cusp of commercial collapse, but that’s not stopping the publisher from giving away complimentary copies of the original Darksiders to North American PlayStation Plus subscribers. Assuming you’re a member, you’ll be able to grab the title for free from later today. Other goodies include a 50 per cent...
News Metal Gear Rising Demo Serves Sweet Revengeance Next Week
A cut above
The long awaited demo for Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance will finally chop the PlayStation Network into tiny little pieces on 22nd January, developer Platinum Games has announced. It’s the same gameplay teaser that was originally included with copies of the Zone of the Enders HD Collection last year. You can read our thoughts on the...
Monday14th Jan 2013
Review DmC: Devil May Cry (PlayStation 3)
Devil may care
You've got to feel for DmC: Devil May Cry developer Ninja Theory. Tasked with the challenge of rebooting Capcom's classic combat series, the Cambridge-based developer has come under fire from franchise fans for its urban redressing of protagonist Dante. Armed with a top of the range faux hawk and a figure hugging sleeveless shirt, the...
Rumour Sony Struggling with Early PS4 Production Issues
Plus, analyst predicts the price
The next generation rumours are inescapable today. Following this morning’s report regarding the imminent announcement of the PlayStation 4, research firm Baird Equity has suggested that the console could launch as soon as October, with a reveal almost guaranteed to take place prior to E3 in June. In a note to...
News Sony Executive Teases Incoming PlayStation 4 Announcement
Brace yourself
We all know that the PlayStation 4 is almost certainly on its way – it’s just a matter of when at this stage. Well, chatting with Chilean news website El Mercurio Online (great name, by the way), Sony’s vice president of home entertainment Hiroshi Sakamoto has hinted that a reveal could come as soon as May. That’s in less than...
News Test Drive the 2014 Corvette Stingray in Gran Turismo 5
Free content coming tomorrow
Gran Turismo 5 players will be amongst the first to get behind the wheel of the newly announced 2014 Corvette Stingray this week, when the vehicle is added to the simulation racer for free. Just one day after its debut at the North American International Auto Show, the luxury supercar will be added to the PlayStation...
News UK Sales Charts: FIFA 13 Clings on Through Stoppage Time
Closes out the three points
FIFA 13 battled through another set of challenging fixtures to hold onto the summit of the UK sales charts for a sixth time this week. The soccer sim locked Ubisoft’s excellent tropical shooter Far Cry 3 in second, while Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 settled for third. Hitman: Absolution and
News PlayStation Store Patch Makes Browsing Snappier
Well, sort of
You’ll be able to reinvest your hard earned cash into the PlayStation Store a little bit quicker from now on, as Sony has released a patch for the overhauled online plaza that makes browsing through its menus somewhat swifter. Sadly, the update doesn’t fix the outrageous start up time, leaving you with plenty of opportunity to...
News Zombies Infiltrate Nuketown in Call of Duty: Black Ops 2
They're looking for brains
All of that radiation has clearly played havoc with the once neighbourly population of Nuketown. Activision has announced that from 17th January, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 season pass holders will be able to embark in a spot of undead shenanigans on the popular map. If you’re planning on joining the fun, we seriously...
News CCP Games Deploys DUST 514 Open Beta on 22nd January
Just the beginning
CCP Games’ ambitious free-to-play first-person shooter DUST 514 will fire into open beta on 22nd January, the developer has announced. The news comes just weeks after the PlayStation 3 exclusive merged servers with its companion PC MMO, Eve Online. It’s all rather exciting stuff. "The launch of the Dust 514 open beta is...
News Ubisoft Resurrects Trademark for Killing Day
Back from the dead
Ubisoft has submitted a new trademark for its forgotten PlayStation 3 first-person shooter Killing Day. Those of you with sharp memories will recall the title originally being announced during Sony’s legendary 2005 E3 press conference, only to get totally upstaged by a certain Killzone 2 target render. Despite
News Journey Strolls Away with Eleven DICE Award Nominations
In need of a bigger cabinet
Journey has already won the most coveted gong going, but that’s not stopped it from scooping up an armful of nominations in the 16th annual DICE awards too. The innovative PlayStation Network exclusive received an impressive eleven nods in various categories, including game of the year. The title will duke it out...
Sunday13th Jan 2013
News Who Wants to Peruse Another Bonkers PS Move Patent?
Urgh
Sony is more prolific with patents than Mario Balotelli is with controversy. Following last week’s divisive anti-used games registration, the platform holder has now concocted an updated PlayStation Move set-up that uses the current controller’s light-tracking technology in conjunction with sound detection to provide greater “depth”...
News Andrew McCutchen Hits a Home Run in MLB 13 Cover Vote
Bringing it home
Don’t expect any hard hitting commentary in this story – we know as much about baseball as we do embroidery. Still, we daresay a handful of you will be delighted to discover that Pittsburgh Pirates outfielder Andrew McCutchen has won MLB 13: The Show’s cover poll. The player garnered over 100,000 votes in the title’s...
News Disgaea 2 Cursing PS2 Classics Come 22nd January
Prinny's pleased
Popular PlayStation 2 strategy RPG Disgaea 2: Cursed Memories is descending onto the North American PlayStation Network later this month, publisher NIS America has announced. The game – which first released in 2006 – will set you back just $9.99 when it arrives on 22nd January. As a straight port of the PS2 original, we’re...
Saturday12th Jan 2013
Feature Castlevania's Gory PlayStation Bloodline
We take a look back at the Sony history of Konami's famous franchise
Konami’s Castlevania series may have established its reputation on Nintendo consoles, but in recent years it has branched out to find commercial and critical success on other systems, most notably the PlayStation line of consoles. With Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 looming...
News Mark Your Territory with Huge Dead Space 3 Collector's Edition
Sorry, no Plasma Cutter
If you’ve played either of the original Dead Space titles, then you'll know exactly what happens when you come into contact with the Marker. As such, we recommend steering clear of the recently announced Dead Space 3 ‘Dev Team Edition’ as it includes an 8-inch replica of the strange, pointed artefact. The package also...
News It Looks Like Resident Evil: Revelations Is Coming to the PS3
Dead good news
Remember when we wrote a report about a rating for Resident Evil: Revelations on the PlayStation 3? Well, evidence of a console port of the former Nintendo 3DS exclusive has intensified this afternoon, courtesy of a leaked batch of Xbox 360 achievements. The digital trinkets seemingly confirm the existence of the title, noting th
News Alien Breed Infects the PS3 and Vita Next Month
They're coming out of the walls
Not content with its recent PlayStation Mobile port, Team 17 has announced that its retro run-and-gun arcade blaster Alien Breed is coming to both the PlayStation 3 and Vita next month. The British studio – which is best known for its anthropomorphic annelids – is aiming to take advantage of various cross-platform...
News God of War: Ascension Rewards Brave Beta Testers with Gear
Gift from the Gods
If you’re currently participating in the God of War: Ascension beta, then your efforts will not go unnoticed. Sony Santa Monica has promised to bestow all contributing warriors with a package from the heavens. Rewards include a set of steely championship armour and an exclusive blood-stained sword. We would have preferred a...
News The Tide Is High in Exclusive Far Cry 3 DLC Next Week
Is it going to be your number one?
As promised, the PlayStation 3 exclusive ‘High Tides’ add-on for Far Cry 3 will wash up on the PlayStation Network next week. The expansion will add two new chapters to the tropical shooter, which conclude the narrative of the title’s enjoyable co-op campaign. It’s been produced by multiplayer focused...
News Sumioni: Demon Arts Inks European Vitas Next Week
Feels like some kind of brush
Almost a year after its original debut in North America, publisher XSEED has announced that it's drawing its beautiful PlayStation Vita puzzle platformer Sumioni: Demon Arts onto European shores. The title puts you in control of a demon named Agura, who is empowered by his ability to paint. Using different brush...
Friday11th Jan 2013
Hardware Review Sony Pulse Wireless Headset
Audio extravaganza
While a great many of us are more than happy to experience game audio through a gigantic set of speakers that tickle your intestines every time a bass line drops, the reality for most players is that they can’t be keeping the neighbours up all night with their entertainment pursuits. Some kind of headphone-based alternative is a...
Talking Point Does It Matter if the PS3 Overtakes the Xbox 360?
Console combat
According to sales estimates released by the International Data Corporation earlier this week, the PlayStation 3 is now the second-best selling console of the generation. The research firm predicts that Sony surpassed the Xbox 360 in global shipment figures this December, putting the platform ahead of Microsoft’s machine for the...
News Square Enix Promises Final Fantasy X HD Answers Soon
Dry your eyes
Don’t worry, Square Enix has not cancelled Final Fantasy X HD. Well, not yet anyway. Responding to a fan request on Twitter, the company noted that “the world will get answers” about the hotly anticipated PlayStation 3 and Vita port soon. It’s the first time that the title has been mentioned since February, when producer Shinji...
News Velocity Ultra Warps onto PS Vita with New Visuals and Trophies
We chat to FuturLab to find out more
Velocity, the undisputed king of the PlayStation Minis catalogue, is getting a full PlayStation Vita overhaul later this year. After a solid month of teasing, Brighton-based developer FuturLab has warped through the stratosphere to confirm the existence of
News What Would You Sacrifice for This God of War DualShock 3?
Midas touch
God of War: Ascension is a big deal. As the latest entry in one of PlayStation’s best selling franchises, it’s little wonder that the platform holder is preparing lots of merchandise to accompany the title’s impending March release. The latest gizmo to enter the arena is this rather fetching DualShock 3. Look closely and you’ll...
News LittleBigPlanet 2: Extras Edition Swings onto PlayStation 3
The one that you want
If you’re still yet to fully embed yourself in the creative landscape of LittleBigPlanet 2, then Sony has a tantalising proposition for you in the guise of the upcoming Extras Edition. The upgraded retail package will not only come equipped with the original adventure, but will also boast a bevy of burlap bonuses for you to...
News December NPD: Black Ops 2 Dominates Disappointing 2012
The future's bleak
Staying consistent with the rest of 2012, December served up another year of decline for the North American video game industry. Despite pulling in a whopping $3.2 billion during the festive window, sales were still down 22 per cent over last year’s $4.10 billion. The year as a whole drooped by a similar margin, scooping just...
Thursday10th Jan 2013
Review Super Crate Box (PlayStation Mobile)
In the box seat
Super Crate Box is a dangerous game. Previously released on Flash, iOS, and Steam, it's a twitch platformer-cum-shooter that preys on compulsion. If you dare to open the box on a lazy day, don't expect to close it again for an hour. And developer Vlambeer knows it. You run about a single screen level trying to grab as many crates as...
Review Aqua Kitty: Milk Mine Defender (PlayStation Mobile)
Make mine milk
Well, our knowledge of the origins of milk has been put out to pasteurise. It turns out that it doesn't just come from mammals; it's also a resource that swirls around deep inside Earth, as precious as – but presumably twice as tasty as – oil. Aqua Kitty: Milk Mine Defender has you descend deep below the sea to defend the brave...
News Muramasa DLC Adds Four New Character Scenarios
Ever wanted to play as a two-tailed cat lady?
Back in September, Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu revealed that the PlayStation Vita port of Muramasa: The Demon Blade would be receiving a brand new batch of DLC for its Japanese launch on 28th March. However, other than the content's title – 'Genroku Kaikitan' – very little was disclosed about...
News Report Puts PlayStation 3 Ahead of Xbox 360 in Global Shipments
Knock out
It’s been a long time coming, but it looks like the PlayStation 3 has finally overtaken the Xbox 360 in global shipments. A new report by the International Data Corporation – spotted by GamesIndustry.biz – estimates that PS3 figures reached 77 million units this past December, a tally greater than the Xbox 360’s still impressive 76...
News The Walking Dead: Survival Instinct Stalks the PS3 in March
Dead soon
The Walking Dead: Survival Instinct may have looked a little rough in its recent fan-edited trailer, but that’s not stopping publisher Activision from releasing the game in less than three months time. The company has announced that the Terminal Reality developed first-person shooter will infect store shelves on 26th March in North...
News Capcom Arcade Cabinet Turning Back Time in Japan
Acceptable in the 80s
We’ve never quite understood the fascination with using modern hardware to emulate ancient experiences, but it’s big business – and now Capcom is looking to get into the lucrative market. Chatting in the latest issue of Famitsu magazine, the publisher has revealed Capcom Arcade Cabinet, a free application for the...
News Let's Fish Hooks Footage of Feisty Angler Jamie
Reely good
Let's Fish: Hooked On's lead character Jamie may not look dressed for the sport, but the teenage sensation is actually a keen angler. Fuelled by her rivalry with the busty Kano and her lust for the dreamy Ryuji, the feisty fisher uses her partially unbuttoned Daisy Dukes and poorly placed Band Aids to win carp catching competitions all...
News A Connecticut Town No Longer Wants To Buy and Burn Your Copies of God of War
The town's M-rated games sigh in relief
Remember when we reported that a Connecticut town was offering $25 vouchers to families who handed over their violent video games to be incinerated in a drive that was due to take place on 12th January? Well, that's not happening any more. A spokesperson from the SouthingtonSOS has told Polygon that the group...
News Sony Cutting the Ribbon on US Web-based PS Store This Month
Automatic downloads in the pipeline
Sony is aiming to launch the web-based version of the PlayStation Store in North America later this month. The platform holder introduced the digital shopping destination in Europe late last year, but now it’s looking to invite overseas gamers to the uber-useful online plaza. Chatting with CNET, Sony Network...
News Gran Turismo 5 Lands Its Own Reality TV Series in the UK
Launching in February on ITV4
Forget about Dancing on Ice, Britain’s Got Talent, and the X-Factor – there’s a new ITV reality show in town. Sony has announced that it’s teaming up with the UK broadcaster to air a six episode television series based on its GT Academy competition. The programme will depict the plight of six Gran Turismo 5...
News Siren Sets Its Sights on the North American PlayStation Store
No looking back
You’ll be able to see the world from a new perspective next week, when Studio Japan’s punishing PlayStation 2 survival horror Siren spooks the North American PlayStation Store. The brutal stealth title – which was actually remade for the PS3 in 2008 – finds you stranded in a remote village named Hanuda, which is infested by...
News Far Cry 3 Makes the Madness Mobile with Companion App
Island insanity on the go
Feel like you've accomplished everything Rook Islands has to offer in Ubisoft's latest first-person frenzy, Far Cry 3? What about the competitive multiplayer and co-op modes? To keep things feeling fresh, the publisher has released a brand new companion application for the shooter on iOS and Android – and best of all,...
Wednesday9th Jan 2013
Talking Point Does the PS4 Need 4K Resolution?
A question of perspective
As expected, Sony’s CES press conference focused heavily on 4K resolution. Like 3D before it, the manufacturer spent the majority of its showcase demonstrating a new line of Bravia televisions that will attempt to drive the standardisation of the burgeoning format. The company also touched upon re-mastered Blu-rays, video...
Review Fuel Overdose (PlayStation 3)
Burnt rubber
What's not to love about the indie game scene and its current revival? From the phenomenal success of Angry Birds to truly brilliant tales like Journey and The Walking Dead, it's nice to see that inspiration and clever ideas can sometimes trump vast amounts of money and celebrity voice actors. As such, we were really looking forward to...
News Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time Prepares for the Ultimate Heist
Like taking candy from a baby
It’s not easy being a master thief, you know? You need a sharp tongue, a cunning plan, and a wardrobe of great disguises. This brand new Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time trailer demonstrates the lot, as the series’ band of friendly heroes embark on a mission to rescue Rioichi Cooper from the captivity of the evil El...
News Is There a New Fallout Sequel on the Horizon?
We certainly hope so
Sometimes it can be tough to keep your mouth shut. Projects leak all of the time thanks to loose lips – it’s what keeps our job interesting. But you’ve got to give credit to Fallout 3 voice actor Erik Todd Dellums: at least he checked first. Posting on Twitter late last night, the voiceover artist – best known for his...
News Corpse Party: Book of Shadows Sets a Spooky Date
Be very, very afraid
Corpse Party: Book of Shadows, the sequel to the scariest game that we’ve ever played, will haunt your PlayStation Portable and Vita from 15th January in North America, publisher XSEED has confirmed. The nightmare simulator will set you back just $19.99, which sounds pretty reasonable to us. A European launch will follow, but...
Store Update 8th January 2013 (North America)
Back in business
As the first proper update of 2013, this week’s North American PlayStation Store refresh is understandably quiet. The biggest new addition is Earth Defense Force 2017 Portable for the PlayStation Vita, though there is also the arrival of the digital version of Demon’s Souls to consume your attention (and patience). Shall we get...
Store Update 9th January 2013 (Europe)
Lights and sound
Auditorium HD finally makes its debut on the European PlayStation Store this week. The bizarre sensory experience originally launched in North America over two years ago, but now it’s finally available overseas. Other notable additions are few and far between, though you should keep an eye on SCEE’s New Year sale if you're in...
News Bloody Palace Turns DmC a Colourful Shade of Crimson
Sacrifices not necessary
Capcom heard your complaints about premium DLC. The publisher has announced that the first major add-on for Ninja Theory’s controversial Devil May Cry reboot won’t cost a penny. Dubbed ‘Bloody Palace’, the expansion will boast an additional mini-game in which Dante is forced to fight his way through 100 floors of...
News Don Your Sunglasses for New Muramasa Footage
Taste the rainbow
Phwoar, those folks over at Vanillaware sure like their colours, huh? This brand new trailer for the PlayStation Vita port of former Nintendo Wii exclusive Muramasa: The Demon Blade is more vibrant than a packet of Skittles. The title’s due out on 28th March in Japan. Sadly, there's still no word on a Western release.
News Retro City Rampage Pulls Up on the European PSN Next Week
Heist life
After what feels like an eternity, one-man developer Brian Provinciano has confirmed that Retro City Rampage will hijack the European PlayStation Network next week. That’s the 16th January if you want to mark your calendars. Go on, we’ll wait. The game boasts an additional month of development on top of the North American release,...
News Journey Clambers to the Summit of the PSN Charts
Magical trip
Not content with scooping our coveted Game of the Year award, Journey has also climbed to the peak of the North American PlayStation Network charts. The critically acclaimed exclusive brushed aside strong competition from Mass Effect and The Walking Dead to steal the top spot for the month of December. In Europe, the title fin
Tuesday8th Jan 2013
News Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 DLC Adds New Maps Next Month
Plus, fresh firepower
Call of Duty: Black Ops 2’s first DLC pack Revolution will target the PlayStation Network on 28th February. The add-on will include four brand new maps, a fresh zombies arena, a unique undead game mode, and an exclusive weapon. That’s quite a hefty offering compared to previous expansions. The added locations include...
News Kaz Hirai: PS Vita Sales Are on the Low End of Expectations
Looking to the long term
Speaking at a press event directly after the conclusion of last night’s CES showcase, Sony CEO Kaz Hirai admitted that PlayStation Vita sales are currently at the bottom end of the company’s expectations. “I would say it’s on the low end of what we expected,” he explained, adding that it takes time before a system...
News LEGO Marvel Super Heroes Assembles on PS3 and Vita
Coming together
If you were wondering where the next big LEGO game was going to come from, and the recently revealed Legends of Chima failed to prompt much of a response, then perhaps today’s announcement will succeed in securing your excitement. Warner Bros has confirmed that it’s teaming up with seasoned developer Traveller’s Tales yet again...
News Sony Bets the Bank on 4K Technology at CES
Through the looking glass
No, the PlayStation 4 was not announced during Sony’s widely publicised CES press conference in Las Vegas last night. But while the manufacturer failed to mention its range of PlayStation platforms in any meaningful capacity, it still offered a hint at what we can expect from its next console – and that’s 4K...
News Here's Your First Look at Tomb Raider's Multiplayer Mode
Uncharted addition
Assuming you’re patient enough to sit through a slew of developer interviews, you'll be able to get your first glimpse of Tomb Raider’s controversial multiplayer mode courtesy of the video embedded below. Unsurprisingly, the online add-on – in development at Eidos Montreal – looks like it’s taken more than a few ideas...
News Ni No Kuni Delayed Until 1st February in Europe
Wrath of the white witch
Our very own Katy Ellis is crying into her DualShock as we type. It turns out that publisher Namco Bandai has been forced to delay its upcoming PlayStation 3 exclusive Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White With until 1st February in Europe. The title had been expected on 25th January, but a logistical error has pushed it back a...
News Del Toro Holding inSANE Talks with a "Big Company"
Gone mad
Famed director Guillermo del Toro's debut video game inSANE is not in development at THQ anymore for, well, obvious reasons. But that hasn’t stopped the high-profile movie maker from shopping the title around to other publishers, with one “very, very big company” purportedly showing interest in the project. "We are in talks with a...
News Remember Me Gift Wraps a Late Christmas Present
The one that you've been waiting for
As promised, Parisian developer DONTNOD Entertainment has released a brand new trailer for its upcoming PlayStation 3 action game, Remember Me. The footage focuses on Lara Croft sound-alike Nilin, as she attempts to conquer a goliath bald headed competitor known as Kid Xmas. Not a very menacing nickname, is it?...
Monday7th Jan 2013
News Sony Cancels Former LittleBigPlanet Developers' Vita Game
Mismatch of expectations
A team comprised of former LittleBigPlanet developers has turned to Kickstarter following the cancellation of its first PlayStation Vita project. Ambient Studios – which was founded in 2011 – had been working on a Sony-funded handheld title for a year before the platform holder decided to pull the plug. “We'd been...
Feature The Twelve Stories That Shook PlayStation in 2012 - Part Two
Stop press
While the big stories of 2013 are looming larger than a professional basketball player, we’re still not quite finished looking to the past. We’ve cranked up our DeLorean’s Flux Capacitor and set it on a crash course with the last twelve months, where we’ll be taking a look back at six more of the most scorching PlayStation stories...
News David Cage Dubs Beyond's Engine Switch "Totally Absurd"
Where there's no sense, there's no feeling
Heavy Rain developer Quantic Dream has officially gone mad. Chatting with Shack News, head honcho David Cage has admitted that creating a new engine for the upcoming Beyond: Two Souls was probably not the company’s best idea – but it went ahead and did it anyway. “Does it make sense from a company...
News Mega Man Titles Join Brutal North American PS Plus Update
Toughen up
You’re going to need skin as thick as a rhinoceros to cope with this month’s North American PlayStation Plus update. Not only will you be invited to brave the brutality of the God of War: Ascension beta, but you’ll also have the option to sample both Mega Man 9 and Mega Man 10 absolutely free of charge. We suspect that this is a...
News What Was Bizarre Creations Up to Before It Closed?
Making magic
Hands up if you've played Blur? Not many of you, huh? That’s a real shame, because the Bizarre Creations developed combat racer is one of our favourite titles on the PlayStation 3. Not only does it have a solid single-player campaign, but it’s also augmented with one of the slickest online components we’ve ever had the fortune to...
News THQ Franchises Available Individually, EA in the Running
Open your cheque book
Ever since creditors complained about THQ's quick sale to equity firm Clearlake Capital, things have gone from bad to worse for the embattled publisher. What initially seemed like a crafty way of protecting the company as on ongoing concern has quickly transformed into a bidding war for the firm’s most valuable assets – and...
News Dead Rising 3 Cinematic Spotted on Resume
Loose lips
People really need to be more careful about what they reveal on their LinkedIn profiles. Take rigging supervisor Jeremie Passerin: apparently he spent a chunk of 2012 working on a game cinematic for Dead Rising 3, but the title hasn’t been announced yet. Whoops. Of course, it’s not the first time that we’ve heard about a sequel to...
News Assassin's Creed III Bulks Up with New Multiplayer DLC
Working out
If you haven’t got tired of stabbing unsuspecting players in the back yet, then you might be excited to learn about Assassin’s Creed III’s latest batch of multiplayer DLC. The content – which will be available for free to Season Pass subscribers – will reward you with three extra maps and a handful of playable characters. It...
News The Walking Dead Has Sold an Incredible 8.5 Million Episodes
Shuffling success
Telltale’s excellent take on The Walking Dead may have been a surprise critical success, but it’s also been a huge commercial smash hit too. Chatting with the Wall Street Journal, co-founder Dan Connors has revealed that the series has sold a whopping 8.5 million episodes across multiple platforms. “At about $5 per episode,...
News UK Sales Charts: FIFA 13 Shoots to the Top of the League
Marching on
You can’t keep a good football game down for long. Despite being forced to sit out on the sidelines for the majority of the Christmas period, FIFA 13 has returned to the top of the UK sales charts. The soccer simulator knocked last week’s frontrunner Far Cry 3 into second position, while Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 remained in third...
Sunday6th Jan 2013
News PlayStation All-Stars DLC Won't Break the Bank
Cheap as chips
While the first batch of PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale DLC – starring Kat from Gravity Rush, Emmett Graves from Starhawk, and a WipEout themed arena – won’t cost you a penny during its first couple of weeks on sale, an eagle-eyed detective over at
Review Page Chronica (PlayStation 3)
Fairy stale
Page Chronica is the kind of game that you’ll find yourself rooting for. Like a book with a bad cover, you’ll wade through the title’s grungy exterior in the hope of uncovering something magical inside. But sadly, for all of the release’s impressive ideas, it fails to deliver on its compelling literary hook – and it results in...
News Judge Blocks THQ's Quick Sale, Warner Bros Starts Sniffing
Scratches head
Who fancies some serious legal mumbo jumbo before bed? THQ’s attempt at a quick sale to equity firm Clearlake Capital has been blocked following complaints from irked creditors. Earlier this week, the miffed parties noted that the proposed takeover had been purposely designed to minimise disruption, rather than maximise debt...
Saturday5th Jan 2013
News Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 Bursts PS3 in March
Prepare your hair gel
Proving that there’s still room for one more heavy-hitter in the crowded month of March, publisher Namco Bandai has announced that the wordy Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 3 will pick a fight with the PlayStation 3 on 5th March in North America and 8th March in Europe. We’re not convinced that the CyberConnect 2...
News Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 Was the UK's Best Selling Game of 2012
Act surprised
We don’t know why Chart-Track even bothers to hire statisticians to uncover the annual best selling game in the UK. Everyone knows it’s going to be Call of Duty or FIFA anyway, so what’s the point? We suppose it gives us something to pad out an otherwise slow Saturday afternoon – seriously, the alternative to this story was a...
News What Are the Protagonists of Grand Theft Auto V Looking At?
Curiosity killed the cat
Rockstar Games is almost ready to release the final box art for Grand Theft Auto V – but it’s eager to tease you with a few more sketches in the meantime. This brand new artwork – lovingly labelled ‘The Trunk’ – shows the title’s trio of lead characters leaning over a Tornado’s open hatch. The big question...
Friday4th Jan 2013
Review Dragon Ball Z Budokai HD Collection (PlayStation 3)
High tension definition
The Budokai series first launched on the last generation of consoles. It spawned three games, each sporting their own take on the epic Dragon Ball Z story. Dragon Ball Z Budokai HD Collection repurposes the first and third titles from the franchise – but are they enough to capture your attention in the HD era? Let’s get...
News Telltale's The Walking Dead Was Inspired by PS3 Exclusives
Company's keen to adapt Star Wars next
Telltale Games’ award winning take on The Walking Dead was heavily inspired by PlayStation 3 exclusives such as Uncharted and Heavy Rain. Chatting with Red Bull UK, co-founder Dan Connors explained that the team spent a lot of time analysing th
News A Connecticut Town Wants to Buy and Burn Your Copies of God of War
Hand 'em over
A small town in the state of Connecticut has called for families to participate in a drive to rid the area of violent video games following the devastating shootings at Sandy Hook elementary school. The 'Violent Video Games Return Program', instigated by the SouthingtonSOS, urges families to give up their M-rated games, films, and CDs...
News Demon's Souls Spreads to the PlayStation Network Next Week
Can your hard drive handle it?
Soon you won't need to move a muscle in order to return to the unforgiving world of Demon’s Souls. Atlus has announced that it's set to launch the punishing adventure on the North American PlayStation Network next week, stripping away the need for you to waste your energy on switching discs. The digital version will...
News Fall of the Artificer Was a Third-Person Steampunk Platformer for PS2
Dead and buried
The cancelled PlayStation 2 title Fall of the Artificer was not in production at defunct WipEout developer Studio Liverpool. Former concept artist Mathew Cooling has revealed that the scrapped project was actually the brainchild of Psygnosis Camden, the team behind the forgotten PSone platformer Kingsley’s Adventure. But what was...
News BioShock: Ultimate Rapture Edition Washes Up This Month
Under the sea
The BioShock: Ultimate Rapture Edition will splash onto North American store shelves on 14th January, publisher 2K Games has announced. The comprehensive aquatic collection will collate BioShock, BioShock 2, and a whole slew of add-ons for a squeaky clean $29.99. That’s cheaper than a trip to the swimming baths and a pair of leopard...
News Cinematic Devil May Cry Trailer Makes Our Hearts Race
Hey, good lookin'
Ninja Theory’s stamped its mark on the Devil May Cry franchise with an epic new trailer. The slick short – which is currently showing in cinemas across North America – shows protagonist Dante picking off demons and pouting as much as humanly possible. In all honesty, we suspect we're developing a bit of crush on the hunky...
News Save the World One Song at a Time with Dance Magic
Bust a groove
We’ve always fancied ourselves as heroic popstars, but sadly we’ve got two left feet. Still, at least we’ll be able to live out our fantasy from behind the controller in Gaijin Entertainment and Targem Games’ upcoming Dance Magic. The swish PlayStation Network exclusive – due out on 8th January in North America – promises...
News Demon's Souls Spooking the European PSN on 23rd January
Alone in the dark
European players eager for an excuse to return to the punishing realm of Boletaria will receive a good one on 23rd January, when Demon’s Souls brings its specific brand of challenge to the PlayStation Network. As previously reported, the title will arrive on the North American digital storefront next week. Local publisher Namco...
News MLB 13: The Show Comes Out Swinging in New Trailer
Strike one
Just when we were resolved to welcoming the weekend with a cup of cocoa and a Thomas Hardy novel, MLB 13: The Show’s debut trailer has forced us to whip out our air guitar and party the night away. Sure, the game looks excellent as always – but that’s one hell of a backing track, isn’t it? Show us some horns, readers.
News Deadly Premonition Developer Teases Amazing News
But what could it be?
The long awaited arrival of Deadly Premonition: The Director’s Cut may not be all that you have to look forward to in 2013. The mastermind behind the polarising project Hidetaka “SWERY” Suehiro has teased that there are good times ahead. “To all my fans, who keep giving me their never-ending support,” he wrote in a...
Thursday3rd Jan 2013
Review DOOM Classic Complete (PlayStation 3)
Rock solid
Boasting the full versions of Ultimate DOOM, DOOM 2: Hell on Earth, and Final DOOM, there's no doubt that DOOM Classic Complete is a comprehensive package for those looking for a nostalgia trip. But is the famous franchise still the daddy of first-person shooters? For better or for worse, the graphics of DOOM Classic Complete are the...
Review Big Sky Infinity (PlayStation 3)
Space invader
Side scrolling, twitch-based space shooters are a staple of gaming, and have been for years. As such, finding something unique can be a struggle. But despite this, developer Boss Baddie has been quietly expanding on the genre with its Big Sky titles on PC. And now the latest iteration Big Sky Infinity has hit the PlayStation 3 and Vita...
Talking Point Why the PlayStation 4 Won't Block Used Games
Keep calm and carry on
Sony likes to patent a lot of things. The manufacturer is so trigger-happy with its technology registrations that we could probably dedicate the entirety of our editorial output to the innumerable crazy ideas that the company has. The reason that we don’t is because ideas aren’t nearly as interesting as final products, and...
News Sony Patent Plots an End to Used Game Sales
Like it or lump it
Before you dive off the deep end, it’s worth noting that Sony patents a lot of things, but very few of them turn out to be genuine products. As such, a new document outlining anti-used game technology may just be another of the platform holder’s experiments. At least, we hope so. The patent – filed by Sony Computer...
News Place a Pre-order for BioShock Infinite's Sky Hook Replica
Calling all cosplayers
If you simply can't wait until the delayed launch of BioShock Infinite on 26th March, then you can always quench your steam-punk thirst by pre-ordering NECA's motorized Sky Hook replica. The sidearm measures 22 x 11 inches and can be pre-ordered via GameStop in North America for a mighty $79.99 (nearly £50). It's set to...
News January PlayStation Plus Content Arrives in Europe
Smile like you mean it
There may not have been a regularly scheduled PlayStation Store update in Europe yesterday, but that hasn't stopped Sony from adding a slew of new titles to the PlayStation Plus Instant Game Collection. New arrivals include BioShock 2, Guardians of Middle Earth, and the PlayStation 3 version of Mortal Kombat. Subscribers will...
News Streaming Service EPIX Expands to PlayStation 3 and Vita
Tuned in
If you’re eager for more entertainment options on your PlayStation 3 and Vita, then you might be excited to learn about the imminent arrival of EPIX. According to the PlayStation Blog, the online streaming service will bring its library of movies, concerts, comedy specials, and sports to both systems in North America later this year...
News Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 Sets Its Sights on March Release Date
Hot shot
City Interactive’s oft-delayed first-person shooter Sniper: Ghost Warrior 2 finally has a firm release date of 12th March. The title has been pushed back a number of times over the past six months, but the studio ensures that on this occasion it's staying put. Indeed, in order to celebrate the announcement, it's released a brand new...
Wednesday2nd Jan 2013
Feature The Twelve Stories That Shook PlayStation in 2012 - Part One
On the Richter scale
If you’re reading this then you successfully survived the Mayan’s reported apocalyptic prediction, Christmas dinner, and yet another lousy New Year’s Eve party. But while your freshly erected ‘Cute Kittens’ calendar may be wearing the number 2013, we’re not quite done with the past twelve months just yet. In order to...
News The Box Art for the PlayStation 2's Last Ever Game Is a Bit Plain
Scribble time
It looks like an infant armed with a tub of crayons designed the cover for Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin. The title – which could well be the last PlayStation 2 game ever released – is due out on 27th March in Japan. It’s the fifth expansion for Square Enix’s popular online adventure, and marks the MMO’s tenth...
News LEGO Uncovers the Legends of Chima for PlayStation Vita
Fighting fantasy
While the well of new third-party PlayStation Vita content may be a little bit dry, one property you can always count on is LEGO. Warner Bros has announced that it will be releasing LEGO Legends of Chima: Laval's Journey on Sony’s handheld this summer, a fantasy quest set in a brand new universe occupied by magical animal tribes...
News Here's Your First Look at Activision's Take on The Walking Dead
Groan
We almost feel sorry for The Walking Dead: Survival Instinct developer Terminal Reality. Just weeks after the conclusion of Telltale Games’ award winning episodic series, the North American studio has been forced to release footage of its upcoming first-person shooter based on the television adaptation of Robert Kirkman’s undead franchise...
News The Last of Us Looks Even Better When It's Made of LEGO
Brickin' it
Just when you thought The Last of Us couldn’t possibly get any more exciting, someone goes and recreates the title’s debut trailer out of LEGO bricks. This brilliant piece of handiwork adds a brand new dimension to the upcoming PlayStation 3 blockbuster – a particularly plastic one, we hasten to add. We’re especially fond of Jar...
News Take a Look at the Studio Liverpool Game That Never Was
Crossed off
Defunct developer Studio Liverpool may be best known for its work on the WipEout series, but the legendary outfit had aspirations beyond just racing games. According to the webpage of former artist Mathew Cooling, the team was working on a steampunk PlayStation 2 adventure named Fall of the Artificer back in 2000 and 2001. Sadly, very...
News Activision's Sing Hero Stumbled Before It Reached the Stage
Kicked out of the band
Just like a tone deaf X Factor hopeful, Sing Hero’s dreams of stardom were thwarted long before it reached the stage. The Activision funded karaoke spin-off was in development at North American outfit Pi Studios, but was cancelled when the music game bubble burst. A trademark for the title was registered way back in 2009...
News Zeno Clash 2 Punches the PlayStation Network This Spring
Heavy haymaker
After almost four years of development, ACE Team’s first-person brawler Zeno Clash 2 is set to pick a fight with the PlayStation Network this spring. Co-founder Carlos Bordeu confirmed the title’s tentative release window on the game’s official forums, adding that it’s too early to pin a specific date down. If the title’s...
Tuesday1st Jan 2013
Game of the Year Best PlayStation Game of 2012
Top of the drops
After weeks of careful consideration, heated discussion, and hard work, we’ve reached the conclusion of our game of the year countdown. We know you’re probably still suffering from last night’s New Year festivities, but focus your optics for five minutes while we crown the finest PlayStation game of 2012. Best PlayStation...
News Fez Is Finally Coming to Other Platforms in 2013
And the world goes 'round
Polytron’s curious puzzle platformer Fez has been scooping up game of the year nominations like they’re going out of fashion recently – but the adventure remains restricted to the Xbox 360. That’s about to change, however, if a blog post from designer Phil Fish is to be believed. “Fez will finally be ported to...
News Share Your Skills with Dead or Alive 5 Video Upload Patch
Put on a show
Budding kings of the ring will soon be able to evidence their ability in the arena with video footage. A forthcoming patch for Dead or Alive 5 will allow you to upload your match replays to both YouTube and Facebook, though there is currently no date for the upgrade. Other improvements include the option to filter online matches by...
