Archive for May 2011

SCEDev website named Vita has been found

PSV PlayStation Vita PS Vita was rumoured to be the official name chosen by Sony for the NGP earlier in the week by various sources. To strengthen the rumor even further, a Sony development website named Vita has been found. The domain has launched with the URL being http://vita.scedev.net/

If you open the web address vita.scedev.net, you’ll land on a website shows Sony’s current gaming platforms available in the market as well as information about Sony Computer Entertainment. The website also has the following disclaimer announcing that it’s wholly owned by SCE: “The Developer Network sites are owned and managed by Sony Computer Entertainment Inc and its affiliates.”

Despite this strongly suggests that Sony are planning to use to name Vita for the official name of NGP. It remains to be seen in Sony’s E3 conference in June.

May 31, 2011
SCEDev website named Vita has been found

Growlanser IV: Over Reloaded will release for PSP

Growlanser IV: Over Reloaded will release for PSP The tactical RPG series Growlanser from the Career Soft/Atlus should only hardcore players in Europe are known, which is no surprise that most have serial but the way to Europe only not found. Of the six parts so far, only the fifth, Growlanser: Heritage of War, Published as a PAL version.

Now some time located at Atlus for a PSP-implementation of the fourth part, Growlanser IV: Wayfarer of Time, in preparation. The game was originally released in December 2003 (PlayStation 2) in Japan and now will inspire the fans of tactical RPG on the PSP. This game is easily renamed  as Growlanser IV: Over Reloaded and on trade 18 August 2011 in Japan.

Of course, the name was chosen deliberately. According to producer Shinjiro Takada where as that buyers be made clear, this is not a trivial conversion, but a refurbished version with many new features.

Takada at later also explain why Atlus decided after the first part of PSP remake has to renew next the second part and the third part to skip.

An impression, the game gives you the official intro movie of Growlanser IV: Over Reloaded:

Growlanser IV: Over Reloaded will release for PSP

Golden Abyss - Subtitle of the Uncharted portable version?

Sony exclusive adventure franchise - Uncharted will be making a splash on the Next Generation Portable. As is true for Sony now is almost customary, seem to leak out in advance of this year's E3 various details about Sony's revelations.

Recently Naughty Dog co-president, Christophe Balestra had in an interview announced that the story before the first part PS3 Uncharted: Drake's Fortune will play.

Golden Abyss - Subtitle of the Uncharted portable version?

Whilst the details are relatively shallow right now, ripten.com has confirmed that Golden Abyss is a Subtitle of the Uncharted which will be announced soon, possibly at or prior to E3 2011.

May 30, 2011
Golden Abyss - Subtitle of the Uncharted portable version?

One Epic Game - Trailer for new PSN game

Grip Games presents its new PlayStation game "One Epic Game" with a trailer. The title focuses on a number of gaming stereotypes. "There are aliens, zombies, fantasy, nuclear, wasteland and the Second World War, making it effectively the most epic game ever created," said Grip Games.

The player has character in "One Epic Game" randomly generated by environments, control, destroying as many enemies and the way to go out of hazards. The graphic reminder of the former 16-bit era.

All jokes aside, this game looks like it has an addictive quality akin to that of Canabalt on the iOS platform. Enemies and obstacles will be randomly generated, so each play-through will be a new experience to that last.

One Epic Game - Trailer for new PSN game

Sony has the domains PlayStationVita.com

Sony has the domains PlayStationVita.com Only yesterday we reported on behalf of the allegedly final of the PSP's successor: PSVita. There are significant domain filings from the past that prove this is a legitimate PlayStation name.

Sony's registration for PlayStatation.NL, which is now UK.PlayStation.com, is registered by domain company ASCIO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.. Companies like Sony tend to use 3rd party domain companies instead of filing domains themselves to keep major projects under-raps before media can uncover it. With their track record, ASCIO is an official domain registering partner of Sony, and it just so happens that PlayStationVita.com is registered with that very company. We can safely assume that PlayStation Vita is a possible name for NGP. This does not confirm however that Sony will be indeed using the name as NGP's replacement. View the domain filing "who is" listings below citing the ASCIO domain company. Sony's E3 2011 press conference will reveal all.

Examine the domain here: Who Is PlayStationVita.com

May 29, 2011
Sony has the domains PlayStationVita.com

Rumor: Final name of NGP is PSVita?

Original Piece: The ‘NGP’. The ‘Next Generation Portable’. This is code name for the successor of the PSP. But what is the final name?

Today we received some new, and exclusive, information from an "credible sources". The official name of the NGP! Rumor has it that the new Sony handheld will bear the name PS Vita. Vita is Latin/Italian for ‘life’. Does Sony hope to bring life back into their stock? Do they want to rejuvenate the PSP? Revitalize your needs for portable gaming?

Our source tells us that this will be the definite and final name of the new system Sony will bring out at the end of 2011. Sony is expected to give further announcements on the E3 next week.

ngp psp vita

ngp playstation vita

In my opinion this is a very surprising name. Mainly because it will be the first innovative name Sony is using for any of its consoles/handhelds. This name is contrast to the usual numbered Sony devices, this would be the first time that is set to a more creative name. However the real shock was the specs of the device, which was essentially credited as a PS3 Portable with similar graphics.

May 28, 2011
Rumor: Final name of NGP is PSVita?

Final Fantasy V is heading to North American PSN

The news comes from the ESRB, which re-rated Final Fantasy V for PlayStation 3 and PSP. ESRB rating has revealed that Square Enix is bringing Final Fantasy V to the North American PSN. We’re not surprised since Square Enix confirmed a Final Fantasy V re-release in Japan and Europe.

The game is something of an oddity for the series, having never made it to the U.S. in its native SNES format - it only came stateside as part of the Final Fantasy Anthology, and as the expanded GBA title Final Fantasy V Advance.

This release nor a port of the PSone version of the title, in which some jobs and a bonus dungeon were not included. Then all the contents of the classic role-playing may be present, you still get the core of Final Fantasy V.

Final Fantasy V is heading to North American PSN

Final Fantasy V is heading to North American PSN

 

In addition to Final Fantasy V, we've got a lot of Square Enix PSOne Classics to look forward to: Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI. Now we just have to wait for the PlayStation Store to fling open its long-shuttered doors.

Final Fantasy V is heading to North American PSN

FIFA 12: first trailer shows "Impact Engine"

EA Sports has released some details on the upcoming football game "FIFA 12". Among other things, the company expects the called "Player Impact Engine", which was already presented in the debut trailer.

EA Sports describes the "Player Impact Engine" as follows: "Player will experience a real images simulation of football players who fight for the ball, get the ball and compete in physical combat. The Impact Engine allows a variety of natural and credible consequences of present collisions. The players in the intense battles for the ball and recover more quickly from light attacks"

The new "Precision Dribbling" in turn should provide more precision: "The Precision dribbling guarantees a precise ball control in a confined space, more time for decisions in attack and more control over the pace of the game," added EA Sports.

May 27, 2011
FIFA 12: first trailer shows "Impact Engine"

Release date for White Knight Chronicles: Origins

White Knight Chronicles: Origins, the prequel PS3 RPG White Knight Chronicles has been release, there are now some new information to the title. So there is not only new pictures, and a new short trailer, but also a new publication date, on the same day with the release of White Knight Chronicles 2 on the PS3.

  • UK and Ireland: 10 June 2011
  • Australia and New Zealand: 9 June 2011
  • Rest of PAL: 8 June 2011

White Knight Chronicles: Origins is a brand new story to the series set 10,000 years before the events of the original PS3 game. With a 30  hour single player campaign and online play for up to 4 friends, White Knight Chronicles: Origins has plenty to keep you going on the move. You’ll also be able to trade quests and avatars with your friends.

Source: PlayStation Blog

Release date for White Knight Chronicles: Origins

SCEA announces new PSP limited edition entertainment pack

It is true the Sony's NGP will launch in this year, but yet the PSP still far from dead, this looks as well. In keeping with the upcoming Father's Day, SCEA announced today unveiled a new PlayStation Portable bundle. This one has clearly targeted at the most average Americans: baseball and racing.

PSP bundle limited edition entertainment pack

This bundle would be great for sport’s fans as it includes the following (as seen above): PSP®-3000 Piano Black System, 2GB Memory Stick, MLB 11 The Show, Gran Turismo. Set on the price of the Limited Edition Entertainment Pack on all $159.99. Information whether the same or similar new bundles for Europe are planned, there are still pending.

With the impending NGP release and recent PSP price drop, Sony PlayStation has been making an all-out effort to push their handheld device. Over the years many bundles have been released as limited time offers and until the PSP is discontinued, it seems that trend will go on. A new PSP bundle will hit North America store shelves this June.

May 26, 2011
SCEA announces new PSP limited edition entertainment pack

PSP Remaster games missing out Trophy support

Sony recently announced the PSP Remaster series, in which some PSP titles will be revisited in HD for the Playstation 3. Unfortunately, Trophy support won’t be included in the PSP Remasters line.

psp remaster trophy

Sony Japan has recently confirmed in a Q&A that unlike the previous PS2 remakes that were ported to PS3, the PSP remakes will not have trophy support, despite their HD support and numerous other additional features. This is in contrast to the PS2 titles, E.g. God of War 1 and 2, which had received Trophies donated in their PS3  version.

Sony has been very committed to protecting their Trophy system from hacking attempts. This is one of the reasons why trophies were never available on PSP, a console that has gone through numerous hacking since its release. Sony has speculated that saving transferable data between the “PSP Remaster” and PSP versions of the game may provide the opportunity for players to exploit the PSP hackable version to get access to Trophies while playing on the PlayStation 3.

However the PS3 and PSP interconnectivity is still an attractive option, so many gamers are expected to buy this product even if it does not give access to trophies.

May 25, 2011
PSP Remaster games missing out Trophy support

Persona 2: Innocent Sin would be release in North America this fall

The 1999 role-playing game Persona 2: Innocent Sin is the game never released in the US. Despite its North American absence, Atlus saw fit to release Innocent Sin's direct follow-up, Persona 2: Eternal Punishment, in North America in 2000.

That's an oversight Atlus is ready to remedy, as the publisher early today announced that it would be bringing Innocent Sin to North American PSPs this fall. At least in the US. that appear, information about an EU. release are not yet known. In addition, there are some first screenshots with english text which you can see it.

Persona 2: Innocent Sin would be release in North America this fall

Persona 2: Innocent Sin would be release in North America this fall
Persona 2: Innocent Sin would be release in North America this fall

The game is being tweaked to suit its new platform, optimized for the PSP's 16:9 aspect ratio and given a new interface and additional side quests.

Persona 2 was released in two episodes, the first Innocent Sin and the subsequent Eternal Punishment. In Innocent Sin, you take the role of the young Tatsuya Suou which the play is in progress by using his friends, the dark secrets of a mysterious Joker reveal while. Innocent Sin on the PSP has a bunch of new features. There’s new quests like the “Charisma Classroom,” a new world map, and a quest editor. Atlus also remixed the game’s soundtrack and added the ability to toggle between the old and new OST.

Persona 2: Innocent Sin would be release in North America this fall

PSP firmware 6.39 include a guided password change process

Playstation 3 users can have for some time to change PSN password via the XMB menu. Looked PSP owners so far in the tube. Now announced by Sony, that a firmware update for the Playstation portable will be released, which is also available on the PSP makes password to change on a menu item in the XMB of the handheld. This is just after the hack attack on the PlayStation Network last April to become an important function in order to prevent a possible access by third parties on their own account.

Announced on the Sony's official website, firmware 6.39 wants include a guided password change process. Although the passwords change feature is the major selling point, some stability issues wants thus fuel element rectified.

PSP firmware 6.39 include a guided password change process

Firmware 6.39 is the from Sony already been put online. You can update your PSP as normal via the system update in the handheld's XMB, or to download the official firmware from Sony's official website.

May 24, 2011
PSP firmware 6.39 include a guided password change process

Monster Hunter Portable 3rd and God of War Portable Collection Bring On The PS3

Monster Hunter Portable HD

As detailed earlier today, Capcom will release a PS3 version of Monster Hunter Portable 3rd under the name Monster Hunter Portable HD. The 4.5 million selling PSP title will feature 3D support, HD visuals and shared save files with the PSP, and will see release this summer. This is a part of a new PlayStation 3 series from Sony called PSP Remaster. This series features PSP titles customized for re-release on PS3.

Monster Hunter Portable 3rd and Bring On The PS3

The official site for Monster Hunter Portable 3rd HD has opened with confirmation of a major new feature for PS3 players. The game promises full HD visuals, 3D support, shared save data with the PSP version (allowing you to play both on the go and in the home), and online play via Ad Hoc Party.

According to the site, the PS3 version will use the Dual Shock 3's right stick for camera controls. In the PSP version, the camera is controlled using the d-pad, causing people to use a "claw" grip to keep their fingers on both the analogue stick and the d-pad simultaneously. The change to the right stick should make camera controls more comfortable for most players.

The site also confirms that all the current and future MHP 3rd download content will be playable on the PS3 version of the game (with some exceptions).

Capcom has uploaded a higher resolution version of the trailer I shared here

God of War Portable Collection

"God of War Portable Collection" is compilation versions of the two God of War PSP games, 2008's Chains of Olympus and last November's Ghost of Sparta. Enhanced port of the screen with the PS3 hardware features to high-resolution, let the players on the big screen TV to the big screen to enjoy these two epic myth rumor action and magnificent drama of courage.

God of War Portable Collection Bring On The PS3

According to a reported press release sent out by Sony Computer Entertainment Taiwan and it does appear to have been redistributed on additional news sites, including China Times, the "God of War Portable Collection" is headed to PS3 in Asia this July 7, include both Chinese and English language options and will be packaged together.

It's not been specified whether the collection will be disc-based or digital (or both). Additionally, no development studio has been attached to the project. The PSP games were created by Ready At Dawn (Ghost of Sparta in collaboration with Santa Monica Studio).

May 23, 2011
Monster Hunter Portable 3rd and God of War Portable Collection Bring On The PS3

PSP Remaster Series for PS3 announced

PSP Remaster Series for PS3 announced Classic PlayStation Portable titles to PlayStation 3, Sony announced it now to confirming some rumors. The Company has planned of a new PSP Remaster lineup, in which some PSP titles in HD for the PS3 to be presented again to be supposed.

The Bluray versions that plays are spruced up with full HD visuals, compatibility with Dual Shock 3, PS3 exclusive content, 3D support, and other features. Multiplayer games between the two platforms will be possible because the PS3 versions are also compatible with Sony's Ad Hoc Party for PlayStation Portable service for network play.

The PSP and PS3 versions of the game also share save data. Sony says that this could allow you to play a game on the PSP while on the go, then continue playing when you return home.

The series will release first in Japan through sales of Blu-ray Disc titles. According to Sony's statement that the series will also be released internationally and will also see some games offered in download form.

May 22, 2011
PSP Remaster Series for PS3 announced

First gameplay video of Final Fantasy: Type-0

In the video is seen, how Hajime Tabata shows several aspects of the gameplay for the first time in motion:

  1. The basics of the game
  2. A fight against a powerful enemy
  3. A look at some of the challenging missions that require multiplayer
  4. A look at the air ship that you can control yourself

 

First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0 First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0

Thus it is at the beginning in the magic academy, which is to serve the player as basis between the missions. Tabata confirmed that the academy of relatively large area to consist is, which is seen already good in the video. In addition it is shown player in the classroom, students take classes for improving their magic abilities.

First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0

A feature not seen so far yet, is the fact that during exploring the academy, you'll notice that the time counter in the lower right is slowly going down to zero. Once this reaches zero, you'll begin a mission that's part of the story. This mission is required and will take you out to specific mission points on the world map.

First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0

Tabata confirmed here that the map of the world will be exact which the fans from Final Fantasy is used i.e. very extensive areas, many areas for exploring, and regular random fights. A further feature will be here that by the circumstance that the world of the play is in the war, on the map of the world even this is also actively operated. 

First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0 First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0

Likewise for the first time shown, during battle, you'll notice that the characters absorb energy from their fallen foes. This is a special system in Type-0, explains Tabata. The energy is called "Phantoma." When you absorb it, you recover some of your MP. This is particularly important for Type-0, as the game is heavy on magic use. The Phantoma is also used for customizing and upgrading your magic.

As the extremely action-heavy mission progresses, Tabata explains the game's "kill sight" system. You'll see a red mark appear on the enemy as you fight. This is shown when the enemy leaves an opening. If you connect an attack during this time, the enemy will die instantaneously. The system name is "Instantaneous Death Battle". 

First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0 First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0

Continuing with battle, Tabata shows a character change. During single player play, you can freely switch off between characters. In this case, Tabata switches to recently introduced Sice. You can see how wide his attacks are thanks to his scythe, although Tabata also notes that you can connect attacks together. He then switches to Rem, noting that she's particularly adept with magic attacks, then to Queen.

First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0

Next, he summons Golem. You can call out the game's summons whenever you want, but the calling character is killed off. In this case, Sice is sacrificed to bring out Golem, who is particularly strong with physical attacks. For normal enemies, Golem can just stomp on them to do damage. As you use the summon, you can see a timer counting down the time limit to the right. 

First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0 First Gameplay video to Final Fantasy: Type-0

For the last, Tabata shows the playable air ship sequence. The reason Tabata wanted to show off the air ship sequence is because it has shooting elements! You can blast away at things.

Tabata promised further information to the multiplayer mode in a later update.

Related Post: Final Fantasy Type-0 release Summer 2011 in Japan, Final Fantasy Type-0: going to be released on twoself-contained series UMD

First gameplay video of Final Fantasy: Type-0

Patent shows: Touch screen and telephone App were planned for PSP

New features of the NGP and Sony Xperia are touch screens and in the case of the Xperia's ability as cellular phone. Now, picture shows a newly published, however, that Sony has been working on an accessory that these functions would allow for PSP.

Patent shows: Touchscreen and telephone App were planned for PSP

This chart is received from a patent application filed by Sony Computer Entertainment, shows a touch panel, would be having USB connector. Users would plug the device in the PSP’s USB slot and flip the touch screen on top of the PSP. A stylus could be used to tap an onscreen keyboard to input characters or play games that worked with the hardware.

This touch panel is also planned in a further variant, a touch panel with cellular radio, the numbers were written on the panel. This should be it possible to use the PSP as a mobile phone and the numbers on the panel should mean that it feels more like a handheld cell phone.

The patent was in 2004 and became one with the same time for the camera and the GPS device registered. In contrast to these two, the plans were rejected for the touch panel. It seems that Sony scrapped the rest of the plans in favor of developing the Xperia Play.

May 21, 2011
Patent shows: Touch screen and telephone App were planned for PSP

NGP: Sony shows video of augmented reality technology

NGP: Sony shows video of augmented reality technology Sony no stranger to innovation and able to create an experience that changes the way we think about games. At this year’s Game Developers Conference , Sony showed off demos of augmented reality (AR) on NGP device. NGP builds on Sony experience with augmented reality over the years with PlayStation 2/EyeToy, PSP, and PS3/PlayStation Move. With front and rear cameras that combine real-time images of you and your environment, a brilliant 5-inch multi-touch OLED screen and rear multi-touch pad, internal motion sensors, and dual analog sticks, NGP offers new ways to interact with AR games.

Now, Sony published a video of the SmartARTechnology, augmented reality behind the capabilities of the NGP is. As can be seen in the video, the technique can involve ordinary objects in the game. It Is new, however, that it is not only AR-specific markers must set so that the objects are recognized:

Sony NGP AR System

To create real-life markers, you do not need a proprietary marker. For example, motion tracking technology used in movies requires blue or green markers, and Nintendo 3DS have been programmed to accept a particular card - without this card, you will not be able to have AR now. Sony is taking a giant step forward by using the markerless system. This technology can be used as a natural marker because it uses any flat object or surface in its environment as a real-time marker. The video shows object recognition and tracking that allows the device to be used on any flat surface. This will be available on the NGP and could very likely revolutionize virtual gaming.

The AR technology mainly uses “active camera” mechanics. Passive cameras are also used to take photos of the environment to map the game. One possible feature would be a replay of the real-time environment, which is highly likely considering the significant storage and processing power on the NGP.

May 20, 2011
NGP: Sony shows video of augmented reality technology

Uncharted NGP version not be located between the first two titles in the series

After a long silence for the title, there are now some new information on the highly anticipated Uncharted offshoot for Sony NGP. As Naughty Dog co-president, Christophe Balestra in an interview announced is Uncharted NGP (Which still bears no fixed subtitles) time not be located between the first two titles in the series that have been made for PS3. The portable branch of the series is currently Uncharted 1. However, the game is not yet as Prequel thought, because that it is not just a simple introduction to the story Nathan Drake, It is a completely separate game do on its feet.

Uncharted NGP version not be located between the first two titles in the series

Moreover, in the course of the interview was announced that the gameplay slightly from the previous Uncharted titles to deviate to a better way to make games in shorter sessions. So shall be less shooting and for exploring more to offer to insert more time to breathe or to a pause. Furthermore, it is also in the development of Uncharted Portable with some of the actors worked together so we can probably expect from the portable branch cut scenes in the quality of the large versions.

There is no exact release date is, of course, as well as for Sony NGP itself, not yet. With an announcement at the upcoming E3 is likely.

Uncharted NGP version not be located between the first two titles in the series

Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7 will be the third major Lego game this year.

Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7 will be the third major Lego game this year The surprise is likely to be limited: In a press release announced Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment to develop Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7, which appears in the fall of 2011 for a whole bunch of platforms - Xbox 360, PS3, PC, Wii, DS, 3DS, PSP and NGP are served! (That NGP listing is curious, given that Sony has yet to confirm that their NGP will make it to America by year's end).

The game, which is based obviously on the last three Potter books is, the design tradition of the series faithful to, but (like its predecessor) offers more mysteries and puzzles, but less magic wand action - and of course lots of cut scenes with the famous Lego humor. Screenshots We have not identified, but for a teaser image.

Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7 will be the third major Lego game this year

The new Lego Harry Potter would be the third major Lego game this year, an unprecedented streak that nearly exhausts the existing movie and book tie-ins available to the franchise's caretakers. March's Lego Star Wars III covered the last bit of major Star Wars, the Clone Wars cartoon, that hadn't been given a Lego video game treatment. May's Lego Pirates of the Caribbean covered all four Pirates movies in one game.

Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7, according to a Warner Bros. press release, based on the last three Harry Potter books and final four films, LEGO Harry Potter: Years 5-7 takes players through Harry Potter's heroic adventures in the Muggle and wizarding worlds. From Privet Drive in Little Whinging to Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade and Hogwarts – plus new locations including Grimmauld Place, the Ministry of Magic, and Godric's Hollow – players will encounter new faces, new challenges and new magic, preparing them for the ultimate face-off against Lord Voldemort.

Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7 will be one of the first games on Sony's new portable console, currently known as the NGP, with Warner Bros Interactive targeting a launch between October and December 2011.

Lego Harry Potter: Years 5-7 will be the third major Lego game this year.

Sony offer “Welcome Back” Program to improve its reputation

After hit by hacker attacks that cause the PlayStation Network (PSN) offline for nearly a month, Sony has announced details for the “Welcome Back” program for users in North America by distributing video games for free.

Earlier this week, Sony thanked profusely for gamers who use the PSN for his patience, support and tremendous loyalty during the service could not function.

Sony offer “Welcome Back” Program to improve its reputation

As part of their award, Sony is giving bonuses to PSN and Qriocity music streaming users in the territory of the United States (U.S.) and Canada in the form of two new games, either in the format of the PlayStation 3 and PSP. They can do the registration for free on the PlayStation Store when it is back online.

PS3 users can choose two titles from a number of the following games: Dead Nation, Infamous, LittleBigPlanet, Super Stardust HD and Wipeout HD. As for PSP users, the choice is LittleBigPlanet, ModNation Racers, Pursuit Force and Killzone: Liberation.

The Welcome Back package also will be included :

  • 30 days of free PSN Plus membership for non Plus subscribers.
  • Existing PSN Plus subscribers will be granted 60 days of free service.
  • PlayStation Home will offer 100 free virtual items to help welcome their users home. Additional free content will also be released , including the exclusive game Ooblag’s Alien Casino and an upgrade for Home Mansion personal space.
  • A selection of free rental movie titles will be allowed to PSN customers for one weekend under the Video Service section. These titles will be announced soon.
  • Existing Music Unlimited subscribers on Premium Trial will have an extra 30 days of free subscription.
  • An extra 30 days + time lost for all Basic and Premium subscribers of Music Unlimited.

Sony also gave the same offer to users in Europe and South America. But Sony has not offered any compensation to its users in Asia, where the PSN network is not back in operation.

May 19, 2011
Sony offer “Welcome Back” Program to improve its reputation

Hackers used Amazon Cloud Service to attack PSN

The attack on the Sony PlayStation Network (PSN) which causes the network down to a month was allegedly the hacker done through Amazon’s Elastic Computer Cloud, or EC2 service.

A number of speakers who understand the problem told Bloomberg, whoever the perpetrators of attacks using EC2 service to hijack the PSN servers and result in one of the largest data theft in history.

Hackers used Amazon Cloud Service to attack PSN

A hacker used Amazon’s Elastic Computer Cloud service to attack Sony’s online entertainment systems last month, a person with knowledge of the matter said May 13. The intruder, who used a bogus name to set up an account that’s now disabled, didn’t hack into Amazon’s servers, the person said.

“Anyone can go get an Amazon account and use it anonymously,” said Pete Malcolm, chief executive officer of Abiquo Inc., a Redwood City, California-based company that helps customers manage data internally and through cloud computing. “If they have computers in their back bedroom they are much easier to trace than if they are on Amazon’s Web Services.”

Cloud services are also attractive for hackers because the use of multiple servers can facilitate tasks such as cracking passwords, said Ray Valdes, an analyst at Gartner Inc. Amazon could improve measures to weed out bogus accounts, he said.

Hackers used Amazon Cloud Service to attack PSN

The use of hijacked or rented servers to launch attacks is typical for sophisticated hackers, according to Hilbert. Chinese hackers used the servers of a major U.S. Internet service provider in 2008 to break into a government agency and several defense contractors, according to a secret Nov. 3, 2008, cable exposed by Wikileaks.

The hackers “used at least three separate systems at the unnamed ISP in multiple network intrusions and have exfiltrated data via these systems,” according to the cable.

In some cases, hackers hide their tracks beneath several layers of proxy servers that can span the globe. A recent attack against computers in South Korea was controlled from servers in more than 20 different countries, according to Georg Wicherski, a security analyst at Santa Clara, California-based McAfee Inc. (MFE) The identity of the offenders is unknown, he said.

Last month’s incursion was “very carefully planned, very professional, highly sophisticated criminal cyber attack,” Sony has said.

“This puts cloud computing into proper perspective,” Jennex said. “Everybody’s been thinking it’s chic and ignoring the security aspect. I think this reminds companies that things that make them great need to stay under their control.”

May 18, 2011
Hackers used Amazon Cloud Service to attack PSN

Sony can not guarantee the security of the PlayStation Network

NEW YORK - Sony CEO Howard Stringer admitted no longer able to guarantee the security of the PlayStation Network following a hacker attack that caused the leaking of data tens of millions of users, some time ago.

Japanese electronics has revived services PlayStation Network and Sony Online Entertainment, after being offline for nearly a month due to hacker attacks. This attack is expected to force Sony to lose up to $ 1 billion.

Even so, Stringer warned that it no longer can guarantee 100 percent security for users of that service. In fact, Stringer also indicated that after a while hackers will target the global financial system.

"Unfortunately, this attack is only the beginning of other bad things that might happen. This is not a brave new world, but the new world which is very bad," Stringer told, was quoted as saying West Australian on Wednesday (18/05/2011).

On this occasion, Stringer also threw a defense related criticism that was brought to Sony for not more quickly inform the attack to the user. He said "We're trying to find out beforehand what is happening in this situation before providing that information. If your house is robbed, you'll find out first if there are missing items before contacting the police".

Sony can not guarantee the security of the PlayStation Network

Retro RPG game ClaDun 2 sold on PlayStation Network in August

NIS America is bringing the sequel to ClaDun: This is an RPG stateside. The core gameplay, exploring random dungeons for loot, is the same. Saint, Magician, Ranger, and Dragooner are some of the classes being included in Cladun 2.

Retro RPG game ClaDun 2 sold on PlayStation Network in August 

Saints that come with dual daggers, can cast recovery spells and use their magic to deal a final blow to undead monsters.

 

 

Retro RPG game ClaDun 2 sold on PlayStation Network in August 

Rangers get a speed boost over certain types terrain like grasslands and use weapons like bows, lets you shoot enemies from afar.

 

 

Retro RPG game ClaDun 2 sold on PlayStation Network in August 

Dragon slaying class can use spears.

 

 

 

 

Developer System Prisma are adding more customization options to the game. This is an RPG let players design their characters pixel by pixel, you can create a head and body for custom characters; even draw weapons. Musically gifted players can compose their own background music.

Retro RPG game ClaDun 2 sold on PlayStation Network in August You'd be surprised how incredibly flexible the character creator is and  you can create just about any character you would like in glorious 8-bit visuals and take them through the game's dungeons.

Retro RPG game ClaDun 2 sold on PlayStation Network in August You can create your own equipment – weapons like a folding chair in pro wrestler.

For the most part, Cladun is simple in hack and slash gameplay. Dungeons are relatively easy to get into from the get-go and the game gets progressively more difficult. Characters can be equipped with three different types of weapons: a blade, blunt weapon or a rod. Combos can be performed with blade weapons while blunt ones allow for charged attacks. Rods typically cast ranged magic spells and have a cool down meter for moderation.

In fact, Cladun probably has one of the most in-depth character building and customization systems in any RPG game as of late. There are numerous classes to pick from when creating your own character, including Warrior, Dragoon, Merchant and Wizard. Each has its own unique stats like high attack, low HP or low attack and high SP.

you'll start off with only Pudding and Souma as playable characters and eventually gain access to the other characters as they are introduced throughout the game. After clearing a number of dungeons, you'll also get access to the tools to create your very own characters. The character creation toolset is surprisingly flexible and simple to use. Simply pick a template for the character and their final boss, and start editing pixel by pixel.

This Is An RPG has quickly become my most ridiculously addicted-to game. NIS America will release ClaDun x2 for PSP as a digital download sold on PlayStation Network in August.  Especially since the game only costs $19.99. Whenever PSN comes back online, you can grab a demo from Japan’s PlayStation Store.

 

May 15, 2011
Retro RPG game ClaDun 2 sold on PlayStation Network in August

PSX Classics games not exclusive to Xperia Play

So far the Sony Ericsson Xperia Play is the only device that has been confirmed to offer PlayStation titles, it will be one of the first Android devices to have dedicated game controls, be PlayStation certified, and have access to a huge library of PSX classics. How many PlayStation fans out there are thinking about picking up this device when it comes stateside?

Playstation One games not exclusive to Xperia Play

In my opinion, if you want a portable emulation PSOne as well as a phone then, this device is for you. But if you already have a smartphone with Android OS, and do not plan to replace it there will be another way to enjoy the PlayStation One game. 

PlayStation emulator for Android

I think another problem with the lack of PSOne games sales for Xperia play is that the other smartphone runs on Android - which has a universal PlayStation emulator that runs at full speed anyway. These emulators support most games, so why would anyone want to waste money on official games?

Playstation One games not exclusive to Xperia Play

PSX4Droid PlayStation emulator was capable of running games at high-speeds, alongside many other features. However, after being available for nearly six months, recently it got removed off the Android Market.

Google has pulled the plug on a prominent PSOne emulator for its mobile OS. According to its author, "ZodTTD," PSX4Droid was removed from the Android Market without warning due to a "Content Policy violation,"

ZodTTD currently have streamlined website was working on a large update to psx4droid here

Tegra Zone application

NVIDIA announced on their Tegra Zone app that Sony’s PlayStation Suite will be coming to Tegra-equipped Android phones and tablets later this year. PlayStation Suite is a hardware-neutral game framework designed to bring the PlayStation experience to Android devices.

Playstation One games not exclusive to Xperia Play

This is the first solid news of Sony's PlayStation app landing on Android smartphones and tablets since the official reveal of the PS Suite and Sony Ericsson's PlayStation-certified smartphone, Xperia Play.

Tegra 2 powered devices have the processing power to bring console-quality games to Android so this announcement is not that surprising, but it’s the first time that details have been shared about other devices joining the PlayStation Certified family.

Other reports have limited Nvidia's announcement to just Tegra 2 devices, but the company clearly stated "Tegra-equipped Android phones and tablet devices" throughout the report. This indicates that current Honeycomb-based Tegra smartphones should be compatible with the PS Suite app and games.

May 14, 2011
PSX Classics games not exclusive to Xperia Play

Xperia Play problem with the lack of PlayStation games sales

Xperia Play problem with the lack of PlayStation games sales The Xperia Play has yet to launch in the US, but it's already available in the UK, Canada, Ireland and Spain. Xperia PLAY will be in stores in the US market with Verizon Wireless "this spring." Or at least, Verizon wants to hack into it and load up Verizon bloat and limitations first before unleashing the phone to anxious subscribers.

The Xperia Play packed with Google's Android 3.0 "Gingerbread" OS, over sixty games available in the first week alone, and a slide-out gaming pad, gamers will surely forget about those other fruity and kiddy mobile platforms... at least until the NGP arrives this holiday season.

The phone arrives with a few exclusive titles under its belt including N.O.V.A. 2, Dungeon Defenders Second Wave, Backstab and Asphalt 6. Other optimized games include Assassin's Creed Altair's Chronicles HD, Need for Speed, Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell, Gun Bros, Galaxy on Fire 2, Zenonia 2 and more (see list below). All of these will be downloadable through the Xperia PLAY launcher application, and not via the Android Market.

Of course, the big hype around this PlayStation-sanctioned phone is the ability to actually play PlayStation One games. Crash Bandicoot will come pre-installed within the PlayStation Pocket app, with five additional games available to purchase and download including Cool Boarders 2, Destruction Derby, Jumping Jack Flash, MediEvil and Syphon Filter.

However, sales of PSOne titles being offered for the phone haven't exactly been brisk, evidently. All of the five PlayStation games available for the Xperia Play have sold under 1,000 downloads each since the device launched in early April. Current figures based on the Android Marketplace, here are the sales totals:

Cool Boarders 2: 100-500
Destruction Derby: 500-1,000
Jumping Flash: 50-100
MediEvil: 100-500
Syphon Filter: 100-500

Dominic Neil-Dwyer, Head of Market Development at Sony Ericsson, told PlayStation LifeStyle that it's not really a concern:

I think there's also an awareness thing for people that are getting their hands on the device and where they are choosing to purchase games, There's only a few, at the minute, PlayStation One titles there, and there's more coming on a regular basis, and there's the whole PlayStation as a content provider exclusive to the device, the story about that, that will emerge and people will see.

So, there's no concerns, it's a revolutionary device, it's shaking up the market, we're very pleased with it. In terms of getting the PlayStation Certified program out, generally, we're very happy. I think we'll make a full assessment of if it has achieved our expectations fully, further down the line, so we're very happy.

As for what the future has in store, he says to look to E3, as more games and support for the device are sure to be announced there. "There'll be more exclusives to come," Neil-Dwyer promised. "We'll be making some pretty big announcements at E3". More games will be added on a regular basis and will likely mirror what's already available for the PSP and PSP Go.

 

May 13, 2011
Xperia Play problem with the lack of PlayStation games sales

How to extract the cutscenes video out of the PSP games

How to extract the cutscenes video out of the PSP games Always thought those in-game cutscenes were cool, but you couldn't view them anywhere else except during the game?

PMF (Playstation Media Files) is a PSP video file format that being used in many games for PSP. so many games cut scene and movies are actually stored on the UMD with PMF format and all the game is doing is calling the PSP AVC(H264) module to play it.

 

Want to play PMF video on your PC? for that, you will need to extract the PMF out of the ISO image. Here is a guide on how to extract the PMF video with UMDGen. I hope this tutorial comes in handy cheesy.

You can open and modify ISOs using UMDGen, the latest version is currently 4.00. Download the UMDGen

Now you are ready to extracting PMF video:

  1. Open UMDGEN and open the game you want to get a video. UMDGEN v4.00 can open compressed games. there is no need to convert your CSOs to ISOs before ripping.
  2. Browse the directory from a PSP .ISO game, first seen a folder with the name PSP_GAME and file UMD_DATA.BIN. Looking for a folder called "Video" / "Movie" / "Cutscene" etc, inside you will find all the PMF video.
  3. Select the PMF file you want to extract, right-click and choose "Extract to" option. Browse to the folder you wish to save the PMF video.

How to extract the cutscenes video out of the PSP games

Finally you need Lande PMF Player. Lande PMF Player will allow you to playback PMF video files on your Windows desktop. Download Lande PMF Player here. Or you just need a codec to play .PMF videos, and play them from any media player on your windows PC. You can download PMFPlay H.624 Codec for Windows.

If you're looking for some cool videos to put on your PSP device, check out the site below. You'll find thousands of videos that you can download for free after you join as a member. You'll also get unlimited access to download PSP movies, music, videos, software and much more.

psp download center

May 10, 2011
How to extract the cutscenes video out of the PSP games
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