April 2006 - Posts

Videos of PSMonkey's N64 Emulator in action

The hype for PSMonkey's N64 Emulator is increasing everyday. And I personally love it! Getting news about the emulator keeps up my hopes.

And today, Psycho77 has just uploaded multiple videos of the emulator in action. Quest 64, Doom, Tetris and Mario Kart 64 are shown in the videos.

Although not playable, the videos definitely show that the emulator is progressing nicely. I personally can't wait for the emulator to come out.

The first download contains the Quest64 Video. The second file contains Doom, Tetris and MK64 videos. Have a look.

Download: [Quest 64 Video]
Download: [Doom, Tetris, MK64 Videos]

http://www.gametronik.com/site/rubriques/n64/index.gif

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Sony Releases E3 Teaser Video

Sony has released a small teaser video for their upcoming E3 booth. It's essentially just a couple of people trying to hype the viewers up for Sony's announcements and game demonstrations/trailers, but it's worth a watch if you're bored.

The video does hint at Sony making announcements at pricing and such for the Playstation 3 in the video, along with demos and information on the upcoming PSP EyeToy.

Check out the full article here.

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Homebrew: New PSP Homebrew Releases for April 29, 2006

Cool new games today, and an update to a homebrew meditation application. Ohm!

Games
PSPTris v0.5 - Updated version of the homebrew Tetris game.
Terror Strike Beta - A 2-D Counter Strike "clone" (this is not CounterStrike for the PSP!)

Applications
Portable meditation engine v.28/04 - Ohm! Updated!
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

The PSP on the College Scene

I saw this on CollegeHumor.com today...

Click for Next Picture!


posted by Auri with 0 Comments

New Free PSP magazine: Portable Life

The first issue of a new PSP magazine has been released, Portable Life. Why another magazine, you ask? Well, the Portable Life team hopes to set themselves apart from the others via unique writing style and content that is not being covered in other magazines. They focus on quality, not quantity - so the first issue holds 70 pages for your PSP to enjoy.

Portable Life #1
contains:
  • News about the PS1 emulator, the Basic Pack, and the new 2.70 firmware
  • Opinions on Portable Media Players, why teens are losing interest in gaming, and a professor banning laptops in class
  • Homebrew news featuring Starcraft and PiMP streamer
  • Game reviews with a RPG round-up and looks at SOCOM: Fireteam Bravo, Gottlieb Pinball Classics, The Sims 2 and Fired Up
  • Releases section containing release schedules for May and June, highlighting Me & My Katamari and Exit
Download it here.

Source: PSPUpdates


posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Wrapstar's Announces New PSP Skins - Customize Your PSP!



The PSP was a fashionable item when it first came out, with its smooth sleek lines, it was the iPod of the handheld gaming market. But now that so many people own PSPs, they start to look a little bland. Now you can make your PSP stand out from the crowd, with Wrapstars' brand new PSP skin range.

These skins allow your to customize your PSP without removing the original faceplates (Which, if you've ever tried, can be very fiddly andannoying) because all Wrapstar skins are self-adhesive. Although some of the skins do look a little bit cheesy, its a welcome break from having the usual white/black PSP. They are laminated to extend lifetime which could be a good thing, as long as  they don't suffer from the same smudging and dust attraction that the original PSP faceplates do.

Wrapstar's PSP skin range should be available from all good retailers this some time this month, with an RRP of £4.99 ($9 US). They also have plans to expand their PSP skin collection in June, as well as moving to other devices such as the Nintendo DS, GBA and iPod.

Source: PSPUpdates and WrapStar
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Taiwan PSP Users Offered Free Wireless Access via "WiFly" Service

Qware Systems & Services, the builder and operator of the city-wide broadband WLAN WiFly system in Taipei, and Sony Network Taiwan, the operator of local Internet-access services So-net, are cooperating to provide users of Sony PSP (PlayStation Portable) consoles in Taiwan with free wireless broadband access to the Internet via WiFly.

Sony launched its PSP WLAN services globally first in South Korea in September 2005 and second in Hong Kong and Taiwan around the end of last month, with So-net responsible for the operation in Taiwan. PSP WLAN Internet surfing is available at hot spots, while WiFly extends the services to many indoor and outdoor places in main urban areas of Taipei, according to So-net. Users of PSP consoles need to use Sony's NUD (Network Utility Disc) to surf the Internet through WiFly and download contents.

More than 70% of PSP users in Taiwan have played on-line games through ADSL or WLAN, So-net pointed out. According to local retail channels, more than 200,000 PSP consoles have been sold in Taiwan.


Source: DigiTimes

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

New PSP Game: Valhalla Knights Announced for the PSP

A new dungeon crawler, Valhalla Knights, has been announced for the PSP. Marvellous Interactive is bringing RPGamers a chance to explore a fantasy world and lead up to six warriors in an action based battle system. RPGamers will actively direct one combatant while issuing commands to the rest during battles.

PSP owners looking to make use of the unit's wifi abilities will be pleased to know that the game permits RPGamers to battle each other with their team. There is no word on whether this functionality is limited to ad hoc (local) networks only or if it will be infrastructure (internet) enabled.

Interested Japanese recruits for the Valhalla Knights can look forward to the game coming out on that side of the ocean this summer. No word yet on a North American localization.

Source: RPGamer

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

PSP Ripoff - The STONY PSP (I am *not* kidding!)

You’ve got to be pretty stoned to even think that this device has any direct relation to the portable gaming machine coming off of Sony’s assembly lines. The “Stony” obviously takes its design cues from the PSP, but is far from achieving the same kind of market penetration and build quality. No, it won’t play your PSP games (not directly anyways), but it does come pre-loaded with 30 titles of its own.

Like the PSP, the Stony also functions as a multimedia device, with the ability to play back your MP3 or WMA format tunes, as well as unspecified codecs of videos. The display is of the 2 million pixel variety, and there is 256MB of internal memory to be, er, enjoyed. You can also shove in SD or MMC cards for extra storage.

No word on pricing or availability, but I think that I’m just going to, as it were, puff, puff, pass.

The image “http://www.mobilemag.com/content/images/7643_large.jpg” cannot be displayed, because it contains errors.

Source: MobileMag
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

13 Five-Star Reviews for Hacking the PSP on Amazon.com!

I would like to extend a special thank you to everyone who has purchased my book, Hacking the PSP. It now has 13 five-star reviews on Amazon.com. Every review is five-stars! I'm grateful everyone is enjoying the book, and I appreciate your feedback.

Take a look here!

Hacking the PSP : Cool Hacks, Mods, and Customizations for the Sony Playstation Portable (ExtremeTech)

You can also find my book at Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com, Fry's Electronics, and many other fine booksellers!

Thanks again!

Auri Rahimzadeh
Author
Hacking the PSP

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Homebrew: New PSP Homebrew Releases for April 28, 2006

Lots of games this week - but otherwise pretty slow - must be finals week in college!

Games
Car Game v0.1 - Fun two-player race-your-friends racing game.
Traveller RPG Demo 22/04 - Work-in-progress MMORPG for the PSP. Check it out!
Triple Triad v0.1.0 - Fun card game - get all your opponent's cards!

Applications
Portable Meditation Engine - Ohmmmmm...
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Sony to bring net-based TV-to-PSP streaming to Europe (Mac OS X to be supported, too!)

Sony will next month launch its LocationFree TV (LFTV) service in the UK and other key European territories, allowing PlayStation Portable users to receive television programmes transmitted from the home and out across the internet. Mac users are to get access to the service too.

LPTV support is included in the PSP firmware update - version 2.7 - Sony announced this week. The upgrade - due to be posted on the Sony Computer Entertainment Europe website on 25 May - also adds podcast and RSS support, and the ability to handle AAC and WMA music files.

Read the entire article here.

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth E3 2006 Preshow Report

Valkyrie Profile is a favorite of role-playing enthusiasts, but it came out too late to garner much fanfare when it was released in 2000 on the PlayStation. Square Enix is hoping to expose new players to the unique story and beautifully drawn graphics of the game by bringing it over to the PSP, complete with some new content.

We recently brought you impressions of the import version of the game, and nothing has changed since then, but here's a rundown to refresh your memory: Valkyrie Profile is the story of a valkyrie named Lenneth, who serves the god Odin. Lenneth is ordered to go to Midgard, the mortal realm, and recruit warriors to serve in the Sacred War between the gods Aesir and Vanir.

The gameplay in Valkryie Profile involves some light platforming, exploration, puzzle-solving, and of course lots of battles. The battle system is focused on combos that you can pull off by chaining attacks together. Each member of your party is assigned to a specific face button, and fighting is as simple as hitting the appropriate button at the right time.

The original Valkyrie Profile had a unique look derived from some amazingly detailed, hand-drawn backgrounds. The art style appears to hold up well on the PSP, and the character sprites and environments look great.

New to this version of the game are computer-generated cutscenes that serve to further illustrate the story. Additionally, these cutscenes contain key elements to tie Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth into the story of the upcoming Valkryie Profile 2: Silmeria.

Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth is already out in Japan, and it's scheduled to be released in the US later this year. We'll bring you more details on the game, so be sure to check back soon for updates.

Watch the game trailer video here.

Source: GameSpot

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

The PSP Show #4: Thoughts on Firmware 2.70



The PSP Show Episode 4, part of The Podcast Network, has been released. This MP3 podcasting episode is well worth listening to, as it has some interesting thoughts on the PSP's new firmware version, 2.7. Here's whats in this episode:
  • The new features of firmware 2.7 (Of course), including the new Flash player
  • Saving podcasts to your memory stick
  • The loss of homebrew exploits (Due to firmware 2.7), and what this means in the 'bigger picture'
  • A cynical view on the firmware update
  • The Loco Roco demo, and how Sony used it as a marketing ploy to get people to upgrade to 2.7; and how it worked for Nokia's N-gage.
Some very interesting views on 2.7 here, pay special attention to the loss of homebrew exploits part, especially if your unsure at how 2.7 is effecting homebrew. The section on the Loco Roco marketing ploy is also quite interesting, comparing the PSP to the N-gage.

And look for an interview with a member of the PSPUpdates Staff coming up in a future episode of The PSP Show!

Listen: [The PSP Show #4]

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Star Trek: Tactical Assault for PSP Screenshots

This game from Bethesda Softworks and Quicksilver Soft. for the PlayStation Portable is scheduled for a release before year's end. Star Trek: Tactical Assault takes place in the original Star Trek universe and allows players to control auhentic weaponry and ships to be used in battle encounters. This game also has a wireless mode which will allow players ot play with friends, testing their strategies in battles using the ships' weapons and shields.


Here are six new screens of the PSP game Star Trek: Tactical Assault (which also has a version for the Nintendo DS) from IGN.com:

Star Trek: Tactical AssaultStar Trek: Tactical Assault

Star Trek: Tactical AssaultStar Trek: Tactical Assault

Star Trek: Tactical AssaultStar Trek: Tactical Assault

Source: PSPUpdates


posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Sony Announces Shipment Plans and Financial Prospectus

Sony has announced that they expect to ship 10 million PS2s, 12 million PSPs and 6 million PS3s between April 1st, 2006 and March 31st, 2007.

In the last fiscal year, Sony reported $1.66 Billion US in profit, about 68% higher than the year before. This was mostly due to high sales of the Bravia TVs and the sales of the PSP and Vaio PCs picking up (although Sony's axing of 5,700 jobs and 9 factories doubtlessly helped, too).

Next year, Sony predicts a profit of $872 Million US because of the costs of the PS3 launch. They also expect PSP and PS2 sales to go down.

It's very noticeable that Sony relies on its PlayStation brand to move a profit. Many of their other sectors are in the red and PlayStation is keeping them alive. Hopefully they don't screw up too much with the PS3 or PlayStation won't be the only thing we see disappear. Sony might seem unstoppable, but after all so did Nintendo after the SNES.

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Sega brings Pool to the PSP!

As part of its continuing "Road to E3" promotion, SEGA announced two more titles this morning, and this time they're for the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation Portable. World Pool Championship 2007 for PS2 and World Pool Challenge 2007 for PSP are both in development by Blade Interactive and will hit retailers later this fall.

"Pool is a classic game that a wide variety of audiences can identify with," said Scott A. Steinberg, Vice President of Marketing, SEGA of America. "With a host of exciting new modes and features, both World Pool Championship 2007 and World Pool Challenge 2007 will provide new avenues for virtual hustlers to rack 'em up."



Read the entire article and see more images here.


Source: IGN
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Great new FAQ on viewing Flash on the PSP...

I ran across this great FAQ the Macromedia blog site with great information on using Flash on the PSP:

From the blog author's description:

Viewing Flash on PSP: My weblog is read by lots of Flash developers, but this entry is written particularly for people trying to view WWW sites with Adobe Flash content on Sony PSP devices. The new v2.7 firmware upgrade includes an Adobe Flash Player specially tailored for this gaming console. But many of the sites on the World Wide Web use Flash files which were developed and tested for fullsized computers, and so not every website will play the same on both big box and little box. In the extended entry here I'm starting up a little FAQ for viewing Flash websites on the Sony PSP. I hope the content developers who regularly read this blog can help add to the tips, and with luck we'll be able to get a final FAQ in a better location for the PSP-owning public before too long. Let's go...!

Go to the FAQ here.


(P.S. I'm going to mirror this in my General Discussion section in the forums, just in case his blog goes down for whatever reason... the mirror is here.)
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Locura Personal Media Server for the PSP

Users of Sony’s PSP take note, for VillainoisMind has something that just might interest you. Their Locura Personal Media Server is a server that you install on your PC and serves all sorts of multimedia goodness to your PSP. This stand-alone Web server, which interacts with the PSP’s Web browser, gives you access to movies, audio and pictures that are stored on the PC. You can even set up RSS feeds to stream music from the PC to the PSP. Of course, since it’s a Web server, it works with all devices with a Web browser, but keep in mind that it was especially designed for the PSP. The basic version of the Web server is free, but you are restricted from downloading video or listening to streaming audio, which is kind of a bummer. With that in mind, power users may want to investigate upgrading to the $30 single-user version which has no such restrictions. And if you’re in a family of media-hungry PSP users, the $50 family version will allow up to five connections. Oh, and locura means “madness” in Spanish, but we assume that the Web server does not actually cause that terrible affliction.

Read

locura.jpg

Source: Gizmodo

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Contest: The Big Contest: Ultimate PSP Collection

Win a shiny new black PSP + a bazillion games ... check out the details:

Originally Posted by PSM Issue #111 June 2006 (p.93)
HOW TO ENTER
  1. WRITE YOUR ENTRY - In 50 words or less, write down your toughest experience with a really hard game, and how you overcame it. The funnier, the better!
  2. SEND IT IN - E-Mail your story to psm@futureus-inc.com with "PSP Contest" in the subject line. Or, mail your entry to Future US, c/o PSM, 4000 Shoreline Court, Suite 400, South San Fransisco, CA 94080. Be sure to give us your full name and address. All entries must be recived by July 1st.
  3. KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED - We'll pick our favorite entry and announce the winner in our October issue, on this very page!
WHAT YOU GET

Your very own shiny, black PSP, plus every game we've rated an 8 or above - Thats 33 Games!
  • Burnout Legends
  • Daxter
  • Exit
  • Field Commander
  • FIFA '06
  • Fight Night Round 3
  • GTA: Liberty City Stories
  • Hot Shots Golf: Open Tee
  • Infected
  • Lumines
  • Madden NFL 2006
  • Mega Man Maverick Hunter X
  • Mega Man Powered up
  • Metal Gear Ac!d
  • Metal Gear Ac!d 2
  • MLB 2006: The show
  • Namco Museum Battle Collection
  • NBA Live '06
  • NFL Street 2: Unleashed
  • Prince of Persia: Revelations
  • Pursuit Force
  • Ridge Racer
  • Socom: Fireteam Bravo
  • Street Fighter Alpha 3 MAX
  • Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror
  • Tiger Woods PGA Tour '06
  • Twisted Metal: Head on
  • Virtua Tennis World Tour
  • Winning Eleven 9
  • Wipeout Pure
  • WWE Smackdown! Vs. Raw 2006
  • X-Men Legends II: Rise of the Apocalypse
  • YS: Ark of Napishtim
Source: CheapAssGamer

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Homebrew: New PSP Homebrew Releases for April 26, 2006

Lots of good stuff today. And even though we can't run our beloved homebrew on 2.70 PSPs (yet), we have a utility for the 2.70 PSPs that runs inside the web browser. Check it out below if you have 2.70. Remember, homebrew DOES NOT WORK on 2.61, 2.70 and later PSPs, so don't upgrade if you want to keep running homebrew on 2.60 and below!

Games
Electris v0.1b - Lua Tetris game.

Applications
PSP Kick Soundpack Volume 1: Diallos Herbal Exclusive - More sounds for the PSPKick v3.00 drum simulator.

Utilities

JBG Flash Pack v.001 - Flash file management utility for Firmware 2.70 PSPs!

PSP Software Development

DDS:AP Release 3 - Isometric Mapping System for making your own turn-based RPG games.

Shells and Operating Systems
PSIX Public v1.10
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Photos of Lumines 2 emerge

I found these images of the upcoming game Lumines 2 on French site FactorNews.com:

Jeu : Lumines 2 - PSP
Jeu : Lumines 2 - PSP
Jeu : Lumines 2 - PSP




Enjoy!

-Auri

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Race Driver 2006 E3 2006 Preshow Hands-On

We spend some quality time with a work-in-progress version of Codemasters' upcoming PSP racer.
By Justin Calvert, GameSpot
Posted Apr 26, 2006 11:12 am PT

Currently scheduled for release in May, Race Driver 2006 is an enhanced version of the game that was released for the PlayStation Portable in Europe as TOCA Race Driver 2 last year. The European game was essentially a port of the PlayStation 2 game of the same name, but some nine months later, North American race fans are being treated to a version of the game that boasts extra vehicles (for a total of more than 50) and circuits (for a total of more than 60), additional multiplayer options, and an all-new Trans World Cup gameplay mode. We recently had an opportunity to spend some time with a work-in-progress version of the game, and we're pleased to report that the additional features implemented for the North American version look to add plenty of value to a game that already had no shortage of it.

The most significant new feature in Race Driver 2006 is the Trans World Cup mode, in which you'll compete in events all over the world en route to the title of Trans World Cup champion. Although some of the vehicles and circuits that you'll be racing in the competition are the same ones that appear in the story-driven career mode, the new mode mixes things up considerably by giving you specific objectives for each event. The Trans World Cup events in our build of the game were clearly still in development in terms of their difficulty and frame rates, but the time we spent playing them gave us a good idea of what you can expect in the finished game.

Read the full story at GameSpot here.


posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Atari cooking up HOT PXL

While many publishers are still holding their E3 cards close to their chests, Atari tipped its hand ever so slightly this morning. It announced HOT PXL, a compendium of minigames for the PSP. The title is being developed by Paris-based indie studio zSlide, and is set for a holiday release in the US.

HOT PXL follows Djon, a skateboarder, through a loosely structured central storyline. Said storyline will be packed with challenges--in the form of some 200 minigames, which will require "players to draw on their reflexes and 2D gaming prowess," according to Atari. The various obstacles Djon must successfully negotiate will include performing tricks on a BMX bike, stagediving at a punk-rock show, playing an in-game video game, or "just trying to cross a busy digital street."

Atari also said HOT PXL's minigame library will be able to be updated with downloads via the PSP's wireless Internet functionality.

Full article and more images at: GameSpot

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

R.I.P., Acclaim

The image “http://brandsoftheworld.com/brands/0011/2086/brand.gif” cannot be displayed, because it contains errors.
Following the continuing sale of both the name and assets of bankrupted game publisher Acclaim, whose name has already returned to gaming thanks to former Activision executive Howard Marks, the final assets left over from repeated auctions of Acclaim assets are now being put on the block by David R. Maltz & Co.

According to an official notice from the auctioneer received by Gamasutra, the final auction for remaining Acclaim assets will take place on May 11, 2006 at 1:00 pm in the office of the auctioneer in Plainview, New York.

An official Acclaim IP sale website has again been set up, and this time the auction rights to all the games will be disposed of in bulk, after a December 2005 attempt to auction the rights individually apparently failed or was scrapped.

Although previous sales had disposed of a number of Acclaim's more well-known franchises, the list of more than 150 titles, similar to that published last September, reveals a number of notable games. However, a large majority of them would likely require the potential purchaser to also reach a new agreement with the license holder, making this potentially tricky.

In addition, some of the titles are clearly regional publishing agreements that may have expired, such as SKUs of Populous and Riven, but apparently valid and saleable Acclaim games and franchises include three versions of the Extreme G franchise (ending with PlayStation 2 title Extreme G 3 Racing), the cute platform titles Fur Fighters and Fur Fighters Revenge, plus the infamously-named Nintendo 64 title Iggy's Reckin' Balls.

Also listed is the notoriously suspect Rise Of The Robots franchise, and although unfinished titles such as Kung Faux and The Last Job are still up for auction, previously listed but crossed-out games including Interview With A Made Man, The Red Star, and Dave Mirra BMX 4 are now removed from the list.

Source: Gamasutra

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

PSP Hacks Website Redesign Contest

A note from the PSP hacking site PSPHacks:

As a reminder, we’re accepting entries up until May 1st! - Posted: April 17, 2006 Contest time again folks! As you’re probably aware PSP Hacks is in need of a website overhaul - new logo, new design, etc… With that said we’re going to give away one (1) Neuros MPEG4 Recorder 2 to whomever creates the most beauteous design - courtesy of Neuros Technology. If you wish to participate the rules are simple: email your design to website-redesign@psp-hacks.com and within the body of the message include the answer to this very simple question: How many minutes of video can you record using the normal setting [with 1GB of storage]? If your design catches our eye and you answer correctly - you win! That easy. The deadline date for entries is May 1st and the winner will be selected shortly thereafter. Recap: the prize: Neuros MPEG4 Recorder 2 the rules: design something so spectacular it blows our faces off, and answer this question correctly: How many minutes of video can you record using the normal setting with the capacity of 1GB? send HTML/CSS template/design and answer to website-redesign@psp-hacks.com We’re not fussy with regard to the design - be creative - whatever you see fit. Cheers!


Source: PSP-hacks.com
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

PlayStation Portable Gets Real Podcast Support

Sony has introduced an update for the PlayStation Portable, version 2.70, that adds support for downloading podcasts to the device for playing offline. Previously, the PSP only supported streaming media content.

It appears that Sony is avoiding use of the term podcast, though. In their information, podcasts are called "RSS Channels."

The update lets PSP users save audio podcasts from an RSS Channel (podcast feed) onto Memory Stick Duo media. Version 2.70 also adds support for Macromedia Flash Player 6 content.

The PSP now supports saving podcasts three ways:

  • Select only 1 item to save - Select the item that you want to save, and then select [Save] in the options menu.
  • Save items within a channel - Select the channel that contains the content you want to save, and then select [Save] in the options menu.
  • Select multiple channels and save items within those channels - Select the channels, and then select [Save Multiple] in the options menu.

A sample podcast and tutorial is available at the PlayStation site.

The update is for customers who own PSP (PlayStation Portable) system model number PSP-1001 sold in North America. The update is a free download from the Playstation site.

Source: Podcasting News

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Fanjita constructs FAQ on PSP v2.70 Firmware

v2.70 FAQ

The recent release of PSP Firmware v2.70 has made people wonder about the possible effect this new software could have on the future of Homebrew.

To clear up some of those questions, Fanjita evaluated the new firmware and constructed a quick FAQ:
  • Homebrew does not work on v2.7. The GTA exploit is thoroughly patched, and the TIFF exploit is still patched [Confirmed by QJ.NET already]. 
  • It's unknown when homebrew will be available on v2.7. A whole new exploit needs to be developed.
  • In Fanjita's opinion (shared with EdisonCarter) there is no future for the GTA exploit on v2.7.
  • LocoRoco is an encrypted, signed EBOOT. The only way to run homebrew in the same way is to get Sony's encryption key and sign the homebrew. This is impossible.
  • There could possibly be an exploit to be found in all the new function, e.g. flash player, AAC support, etc. Fanjita and his team are not currently working on one.
  • There might be an exploit to be found in another game. Fanjita and his team are not currently working on one.
  • There's no truth in the rumour that v2.7 has made Fanjita and his team angry, and that they are going to work on an ISO loader as revenge.
  • The LocoRoco demo REQUIRES v2.70, even if you hack the PARAM.SFO in the EBOOT. 
Following this, he drawn the conclusion that the firmware upgrade brings little benefits (therefore, it is not worth upgrading) due to slow support in regards to Macromedia Flash files and the possibility that we might not see v2.70 compatible homebrew for at least the next few months.

Read more at Fanjita's Place.

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

2.70 Firmware Features New Album Art System

We received notification via email (thanks, yoyoboymartin!) of a new feature in Firmware 2.70 that went unmentioned by Sony regarding the MP3 player. Before, in order to assign album art, you had to use a program like Sonic Stage to embed it within the MP3 file. Now, with the new version out (2.70), you can simply put the JPEG file in the same folder as the music, creating the art for the playlist. Very useful when trying to organize your music, but more importantly... Could this lead to a new exploit? While it would be pretty silly of Sony to make the same mistake twice, all you hackers out there in forum-land will surely take a look at this and see what you can do!

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Sony PSP cooling fan

Sony PSP cooling fan

Some people are really creative in inventing accessories for the PSP.

A Japanese vendor called GameBank is listing a "PSP cooling fan" in their product catalog:
http://gamebank-web.com/ec/store.asp?code_syosai=432625

The fan goes for 980 yen (~$8.35), and is fastened to the top of your PSP by screwing it into the holes on either side of your USB port. It has an internal rechargable battery, and can be recharged using the same charger as you use for your PSP. Recharging takes 3 hours.


So usually you would ask for the sense of this. My first idea on this was: stupid! But when you get to the point that the fan is not to prevent oberheating of the console but to prevent your buttons and hands from getting sweaty while playing the idea becomes not that bad...

Source: PSP-Vault

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Lumines sequel confirmed

According to an E3 video preview hosted by Steve Truitt and Diane Mizota of PlayStation Underground, a Lumines sequel is in development and will likely be (officially) revealed at E3. About one minute into the video, Truitt confirms, "The PSP system is revolutionizing portable gaming with titles like ... Lumines 2." There you have it, folks.

See the video here.

[Thanks Justin; via Modojo]

Source: Joystiq

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Homebrew: New PSP Homebrew Releases for April 24, 2006

Games
Chicken Hunter (stable version) - Bock bock bock bock.
Net Tic Tac Toe for PSP - Play Tic-Tac-Toe against a Nintendo DS with your PSP!
Net Tic Tac Toe for DS - Play Tic-Tac-Toe against a PSP with your Nintendo DS!
Vexed v1.1 - Port of the popular game.
PSPool v0.1b - Pool simulator (the game, not the big hole with water in it) for the PSP.

Applications
PiMPStreamer v0.31 - The popular video streaming app has been updated again!
PSP Office v0.1 - An office application suite for the PSP. Obviously an early beta, but very cool!
PSP Rhythm - Make your own soundtracks on your PSP. There's a lot more in the forums: tutorials, sample projects and more. Go there and see!

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Sony PSP Firmware 2.70 Released for U.S. and Japan!

For those enjoying homebrew, DO NOT UPGRADE! It has been confirmed the GTA exploit for 2.60 does not work on this firmware.

Sony's back again with a new firmware release for US and Japanese PSP's. Some dread firmware updates, while others embrace it. Sony has added a few things to the 2.7 system software update for the PSP that will touch on many things which gamers have categorically requested since the first release, including a few that they didn't.

A note to keep in mind about this release. As you may recall from previous firmware releases, Sony tends to enjoy modifying their newly released firmwares to prevent gamers from playing homebrew and other unlicensed software on the PSP. From past experience we know to expect this, so before upgrading your system if you still hold homebrew close to your heart, as currently all PSP's are able to play homebrew, 2.61 and 2.70 currently withstanding.

Update: We have confirmed that the GTA exploit does NOT work with 2.7 Firmware, so if you enjoy playing homebrew it is advised that you do not upgrade to continue using all the great homebrew applications, games and emulation the PSP community has to offer.

There are quite a few updates in this release so hold on to your hats as we take you down the rabbit hole. To break the ice we start off with a few networking updates, notably the largest update would be including partial Flash 6 support. Flash support is a great way to add a few games and movies to your PSP collection on the go, the only noteable issue with integrated Flash support is that some functions are "not supported" in addition to the obvious fact that Flash 6 is somewhat outdated.

Another nice addition for this PSP firmware is audio files are now easily available from your Memory Stick after grabbing your latest podcast [rss]. On that note, music extensions for AAC have also been updated.

Download : [ PSP 2.7 Firmware (USA) ]
Download : [ PSP 2.7 Firmware (Japanese) ]

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Europe now has 2.70 Firmware!

For those enjoying homebrew, DON'T UPGRADE TO 2.70 as it has been confirmed the GTA exploit for 2.60 does not work on this firmware.

I just got home to sit down and relax with my PSP, thinking what the new features Japan and US are having with their PSP's, when I decided to check for my update. It seems that we in the UK, and Europe I presume, now have the update to 2.70. As reported already, the new firmware implements a host of new features:


[Music]

  • Added file extension to playable AAC format.
 
[Settings]

  • Added [Enable Flash Player] in [System Settings].
    *To change this option, you need to connect to the Internet.
  • "Simplified Chinese" and "Traditional Chinese" added to [System Settings] -> [System Language].
  • Added [RSS Channel Settings].
  • Added [UMD Video L & R Button] into [Video Settings].
[Others]
  • Fixed some issues when using a memory stick with more than 2GB free space.
    *This problem has not happened among the memory sticks sold in Japan until April 24.
Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

PSP Multiple Firmware Hack

PSP


Well, it's always been a dream for PSP hackers to somehow have full control over the firmware. It's been possible indirectly using Firmware Loaders like the ones made by MPH or SXT. But it's still emulation. And the available resources for actually trying hacks are pretty less since most of the memory is used up by the PSP's actual firmware.

Well, not any more. A guy called 0okm has been able to use an external 32MB Samsung NAND chip to boot firmware. Can't figure out what I'm saying ? Well, for starters, how about being able to boot your PSP using an external source ? Yep, it might just be possible. But, it comes at a big risk. So it's still one of those "Do not try this thing at home" situations for most of us.

Read the full article here.

Source: PS2Dev via PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Play a DS against PSP on Tic Tac Toe!

Flagon has released his project Net Tic Tac Toe for both PSP and DS. I bet you know what Tic Tac Toe is, so I won't have to explain anything about the gameplay. However, this homebrew lets you play between a PSP and a DS. Currently the IP address is hard-coded into the source, so you can only launch it on two handhelds and wait for them to establish a game.

Download the PSP version here.
Download the DS version here.

Download the source code here.

Source: Flagon's Home Page




posted by Auri with 0 Comments

European Konami Release List

April 2006
Pro Evolution 5 (Price Drop) [PS2]

May 2006
The Silent Hill Experience [PSP]
Metal Gear Acid 2 [PSP]
Silent hill Collection [PS2]
Rumble Roses XX [360]

June 2006
Dragon Booster [NDS]

Summer 2006

Gradius Collection [PSP]
Ys - The Ark of Napishtim [PSP]
Street Supremacy [PSP]

Third Quarter 2006
Online Chess Kingdoms (Working Title) [PSP]
Steel Horizon (Working Title) [PSP/NDS]
Metal Gear Solid: Digital Graphic Novel [PSP]
Pocket Racers [PS2]
Suikoden V [PS2]

Fourth Quarter 2006
Silent Hill Original Sin  [PSP]
Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin [NDS]

To Be Announced
Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence [PS2]

All dates are obviously subject to change, but they should be a good indication of when you can expect to see these titles. Or so we hope!

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

More PSP 2.70 Update Details

Sony Computer Entertainment Japan has announced the version 2.70 system software update for Japanese PSP (Model PSP-1000). This update is slated for 14:00, April 25, GMT+9:00 (1:00AM, April 25, EDT). Here are the details of this update:

  
[Network]

  • [Internet Browser] now supports Macromedia Flash contents playback.
    *You need to enable the Flash contents playback in the [System Settings].
    *The version of the flash player is Macromedia Flash Player 6 (a part of the functions is not supported).
  • The settings of the [Internet Browser] is added into [Settings] -> [Connection Settings]
  • The audio contents from channels in the [RSS Channel] section now can be saved into your memory stick.
  • [Auto] option added to [Rate Change] in [Location Free Player].
    *More about the Location Free base station can be found [here].
 
[Music]

  • Added file extension to playable AAC format.
 
[Settings]

  • Added [Enable Flash Player] in [System Settings].
    *To change this option, you need to connect to the internet.
  • "Simplified Chinese" and "Traditional Chinese" added to [System Settings] -> [System Language].
  • Added [RSS Channel Settings].
  • Added [UMD Video L & R Button] into [Video Settings].
[Others]
  • Fixed some issues when using a memory stick with more than 2GB free space.
    *This problem has not happened among the memory sticks sold in Japan until April 24.
So, there you got it. And please note that the old warning is still there:

"CAUTION: This update is only for customers who obtained PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) for Japan (PSP-1000 series). Upon completion of preparing, we will announce update information for the other countries/areas customers via SCE Group Web Site or other channels . For these customers who obtained PSP® in the other countries/areas, please DO NOT update PSP® through this web site. There are no guarantee of proper operation of the other PSP®."

You won't void your warranty, but it's not cool to do so in Sony's opinion. ;-)

Thanks for the email heads-up, Kynadr!

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

LocoRoco demo out tomorrow - Will *require* Firmware 2.70 to run

Sample of Sony's PSP platformer goes online tomorrow--but only for gamers running new PSP 2.7 OS; upgrade features Flash support.
By Dan Tochen, GameSpot
Posted Apr 24, 2006 4:00 pm PT

One upcoming quirky title that has piqued gamers' interests is LocoRoco, the puzzle-platformer featuring a too-cute orange blob and simple controls. Sony Computer Entertainment is developing the game internally, and has scheduled a Japanese launch date in July, with no firm date yet for a US launch.

Those who can't wait a few months to get their hands on LocoRoco's bouncing, rolling gameplay will be happy to know that as of tomorrow, they'll be able to download a demo from the game's Web site.

However, even though the download is free, it comes with a caveat: It will work only on PSPs running the latest operating system, version 2.70, which will be released tomorrow in Japan.

Sony says the latest iteration of the handheld's frequently hacked operating system adds a number of browser enhancements, including Flash compatibility and the ability to save audio content from RSS channels to a memory stick. The upgrade also fixes the problems that cropped up with earlier versions of the OS when using memory sticks larger than 2GB. Though it's not noted in Sony's specs, it's safe to assume that the upgrade also prevents the handheld from running home brewed software, or being put to other uses that Sony frowns upon.

The LocoRoco demo marks the first time that Sony has distributed PSP demos via PC download. Until now, the company has required its users to go to "PlayStation Spots" set up at retailers.


Source: GameRankings

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Japanese PSPs Get 2.7 Firmware Update! Flash Support Included!

(Of course we all know this means homebrew will not work on 2.70 - but that doesn't mean it never will! And don't forget - you don't have to upgrade! -Auri)

Sony has announced that it will release a firmware update, v2.7, to owners of its PSP game handheld in Japan starting on April 25. The update includes long-awaited support for Macromedia Flash 6 for the PSP web browser, and the company has announced that Flash Player 6 is also included with the update.

Once enabled, the addition of Flash 6 support makes the PSP a much more viable web browser, allowing users to visit websites that use embedded Flash content, which were previously unreadable on the game handheld.

The update will also include additional support for Apple's AAC music format, the preferred file format for Apple's iTunes software (although it is believed that protected AAC files will still only be compatible with Apple's iPod), as well as the ability to save podcasts directly to the PSP's memory stick. Some menu items have been reorganized as a result of this latest update as well. Finally, the update allows users to select both Simplified and Traditional Chinese as the PSP's native language.

This update is expected to be released in other regions as well, although no release date has been announced at this time. The previous update, to Version 2.6 in November 2005, added features including WMA support and an RSS channel.

The image “http://www.gamasutra.com/db_area/images/news2001/9017/psp_flash.jpg” cannot be displayed, because it contains errors.

Source: Gamasutra
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

REVIEW: SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo

If Xbox owners had Halo 2 as a first-party title to gun down their enemies online, there's little doubt that the PlayStation2 equivalent is Zipper Interactive's third person tactical military shooter SOCOM US Navy SEALs series. First released on PlayStation2s in Europe during 2003, the franchise's PSP debut aims to bring the same strong tactical shooter experience with engaging multiplayer options to the portable platform.

Beginning in the Chilean countryside, Fireteam Bravo's campaign features fourteen missions that take players from Chile, across the Atlantic to three other areas: Poland, Morocco, and South Asia. Dropping the standard four-man SOCOM team, Fireteam Bravo consists of two soldiers codenamed Sandman and Lonestar, with players controlling the former and issuing orders to the latter. Tied into the storyline of SOCOM 3: US Navy SEALs, which has been released simultaneously on PlayStation2, the links between the two titles go a little deeper than just a parallel storyline with skins and weapons becoming unlocked when such 'Cross-Talk' missions are accomplished. Visually the game of course retains that SOCOM style with a sufficient amount of detail paid to the characters, though some of the animations in Fireteam Bravo do seem a little rough around the edges at times. There's a variety in the maps across the four locations, and the game also benefits from the widescreen of the PSP, which means that the various HUD elements never feel like they clutter the view.

Read the entire review here.
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Homebrew: New PSP Homebrew Releases for April 23, 2006

Wow is all I can say for today. Starcraft for PSP - sweet! Great development utilities - awesome!

Games
GTA Driving Forward v0.2 - Side-scrolling racing game that uses the same cars as Grand Theft Auto.
Lua Avalanche v1.0 - Updated!
Lua Wildsniper v1.52 - Shoot and kill the enemies. Makes sense to me :)
So Do We Have a Deal or What? - Like "Do we have a deal?". Two versions: U.S. and U.K.
Starcraft for PSP v1.0a - Proof of concept - way cool!

Applications
PSP-FTPD v0.3.5 - Updated version of the PSP FTP client.

Emulators
PSPCAP32 v1.01 - Amstrad computer emulator.

PSP Software Development
DDS:AP r2 - RPG creation utility.
PSPLINK v0.9 - Very helpful PSP development utility.

PSP Magazines
PSP Pak Issue 2 Manga Mad Beanz

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

The Dog: Happy Life - Screenshots

Publisher: Yuke's
Platform: PSP
Genre: Breeding / Communication
Origin: Japan
Release: April 27, 2006



 

Yuke's will release the PSP virtual pet breeding and communication game called Artlist Collection - The Dog: Happy Life in Japan on April 27, 2006, for 2940 yen. In this game you can breed and dress-up your dogs in different ways, as well as taking artistic pictures of your dogs and save them to the memory stick. Yuke's will launch a website for fans to post their photos on the Internet and share with others, there will be periodical events and competitions as well.




See more at The Magic Box here!
posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Dell Selling PSP Core Packs for $159!

From Cheap Ass Gamer:

Dell has PSP Core Systems for sale at $159 with no shipping charges (altho taxes may be charged). The PSP Core Pack (often called PSP Core) does not come with the 32 megabyte stick or any of the other accessories that come with the Value Pack. There's also the issue that the Core Pack likely ships with Firmware 2.61, which disables your ability to run homebrew (for now). Still, a great deal!

http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/productdetail.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&sku=A0628 983

use these coupons:
QGM7T0C1C2TVVD
BLKSK2?5HVT$D0

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy Game Coming to PSP

ust in time for the American International Toy Fair 2006, LucasArts and TT Games today announced their plans to release LEGO Star Wars II: The Original Trilogy , the sequel to one of the best-selling video games of 2005. Published by LucasArts and created by TT Games, LEGO Star Wars II is slated for release this fall across multiple platforms. May the Force build with you with versions developed by Traveller’s Tales on PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system, Sony PSP™, Xbox® video game system from Microsoft, Nintendo GameCube™ and Windows, as well as handheld versions developed by Amaze Entertainment for Nintendo DS™ and Nintendo Game Boy® Advance.

With a comical take on the Star Wars Trilogy that revolutionized pop culture forever (Episode IV A New Hope, Episode V The Empire Strikes Back and Episode VI Return of the Jedi), LEGO Star Wars II follows the Rebel Alliance's battle to dismantle the Galactic Empire and rebuild a galaxy in pieces. From Darth Vader's pursuit of Princess Leia aboard her Blockade Runner to a showdown on the reconstructed Death Star, the game includes even more of the family-friendly LEGO action, puzzles and humor that earned the original LEGO Star Wars such popularity and acclaim.

The image “http://www.mygamer.com/games_images/551979asylum_boy.jpg” cannot be displayed, because it contains errors.

Source: MyGamer
posted by Auri with 5 Comments

Flash comics on your PSP?


Websites have already started to prepare for the Macromedia Flash support planned for the next release of PSP Firmware, which according to the PSP Firmware release schedule, will arrive some time this Spring.

One site, ARComics, have already altered their site in order to support the PSP's browser in time for the next firmware release. ARComics provides digital comics to web users, and said "We see the PSP screen size, Internet/network connectivity, commercial success and target demographic as a perfect venue to bring an entertaining means of reading to a new generation by blending technology with art and storytelling."

ARComics are still adapting their website for viewing on the PSP, and of course it won't be perfect until the firmware update is actually released. But is this site just a taster of whats to come: more PSP formatted websites as a result of the scheduled firmware upgrade? Only time will tell.

Source: PSPUpdates

posted by Auri with 0 Comments

Homebrew: New PSP Homebrew Releases for April 21, 2006

The last two days have been pretty slow - but there's been some great stuff released!

Games

So, Do We Have a Deal or What? v0.31 - Like the "Do we have a deal?" gameshow. Two versions: U.S. and U.K.
2PACMAN v1.5 - Mod for Poxman v1.0a.

Applications
Graphic Creator v1.5 - Paint and drawing program.

Firmware Hacks & Launchers
eMenu v0.1 FINAL - Replacement menu for eLoader.
posted by