Hacking the PSP Blog

10 Worst Selling Handhelds

GamePro has an article up discussing the 10 worst selling handheld gaming platforms of all time. Here's the short version but check out the GamePro article using the link below for more on each handhald.

1. Gizmondo (<25,000 sold)
2. Zodiac (<200,000)
3. Game.com (<300,000)
4. Lynx (<500,000)
5. Nomad (1 million)
6. NEC Turbo Express (1.5 million)
7. Neo-Geo Pocket (2 million)
8. GBA Micro (2.5 million)
9. N-Gage (3 million)
10. Game Gear (11 million)

The 10 Worst-Selling Handhelds of All Time (GamePro)

What does a doc called 'Buzz PSP' suggest to you?

From Pocket Gamer:

If we were scouts, we'd be given an eagle-eye badge for this spot. It happened during the recent Develop Conference, when we were sitting through David Amor, creative director of Relentless Software's presentation on 'Making Games for Miyamoto's Wife'.

Of course, it was all interesting stuff, and backed with a nicely designed PowerPoint effort, but then our eyes shifted slightly to the right. The PC wasn't running in full-screen mode you see.

And there it was. A Word document entitled 'BUZZ-PSP...' (see photo above).

We scratched our heads. How would the million-selling PlayStation 2 party game with the innovative red button controller work on the PSP? It would surely have to be online, we figured.

Read the full article here....

Jon Jordan
July 31, 2007

Sony facing another PS3 suit

Sony has already been slapped with patent suits over the construction of its PlayStation 3 Blu-ray discs and the system's digital security technology. Now the electronics giant is being taken to court over the parallel processing Cell chip that powers its latest console.

In its suit, Parallel Processing Corporation of Newport Beach, California, cites a patent for "synchronized parallel processing with shared memory" that was approved on October 8, 1991. The patent was originally assigned to International Parallel Machines of New Bedford, Massachusetts, while Parallel Processing Corporation describes itself as its "exclusive licensee."

Read the full article here...

Brendan Sinclair
July 30, 3007

Source: GameSpot

Off topic: Microsoft won't confirm price cut rumors

Microsoft won't comment upon online images reportedly showing upcoming newspaper advertisements from retailers Wal-Mart and Toys R Us.

These advertisements list the retail price of the premium model Xbox 360 as USD $349, which represents a USD $50 drop from the current price. No elite or core model pricing was shown.

Historically, most recent consoles have had a price drop by this point in their lifecycle. Earlier this month it was reported that Microsoft had developed a smaller chipset for the Xbox 360 which would allow them to cut production costs.

Even so, Microsoft is not commenting on the latest price drop rumors and has made no official announcement.

Read the full article here...

Mark Androvich
July 30, 3007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

PlayStation Sponsors Lollapalooza

Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today announced that it is sponsoring Lollapalooza. This marks the second consecutive time that SCEA has sponsored the "lifestyle concert tour." Those interested can check out the latest PS2, PS3 and PSP titles starting with Lollapalooza's first stop in Grant Park, Chicago on August 3.

Among the games on display will be Lair and Heavenly Sword for PS3 and Buzz! The Mega Quiz and SingStar Amped for PS2. There will also be a Kidzapalooza area with PaRappa The Rapper and Buzz! Jr.: Jungle Party. In addition, Sony will have a competitive "Mindfield" area, with both SingStar Amped and Buzz! The Mega Quiz competitions.

David Radd
July 30, 2007

Source: GameDaily BIZ

Loco Roco sequels planned for PSP as well as PS3

From Joystiq:

Last December, Sony's Phil Harrison said they'd "bring LocoRoco back in a couple of new ways with some new friends in the future." Then, at the PlayStation Premier event in Tokyo this month, they showed off Buu Buu Cocoreccho! by LocoRoco, a sequel that is "LocoRoco, but it's not ... a peculiar extra chapter." So that takes care of PS3, and we have our suspicions about a mobile version, but what about the most obvious platform of all, the PSP? We had a chance to speak with Loco Roco's director Tsutomu Kouno at the Develop conference and, when asked if there will be a Loco Roco 2 for the PSP, he responded, "Yes, there will. I'm thinking about a sequel for the PSP right now. I got a lot of feedback from players that they bought a PSP just to play Loco Roco so I feel like I have to make a sequel for them.

Christopher Grant
July 30, 3007

Read the full article here..

Sony and Sky to deliver video on demand to PSP

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe and Sky have formed a joint venture company to deliver video-on-demand to PSP owners.

The new company promises to begin by offering "a wealth of video and film content" for the more than 2.3 million PSP owners in the UK and Ireland, with discussions regarding a broader European offering ongoing.

More details will be announced at Games Convention in Leipzig on Wednesday, 22nd August, Sony added.

Further details were not forthcoming, but the platform holder said that both companies would enjoy equal board-level representation.

Tom Bramwell
July 27, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

Patent reveals dual-analog controller connectivity for PSP

US Patent Application 0070174531 is of particular interest to PSP fans: it reveals strange plans for connectivity between a DualShock/SIXAXIS controller and Sony's handheld. According to the patent, a "control docking unit" will "facilitate use of one or more controls provided on the control docking unit." Essentially, a controller connected to the PSP will be able to control the system.

The system will use a "wired or wireless communication link," which may suggest at both PS2 and PS3 controllers being compatible with this feature. In addition, "the portable processing unit can be configured to provide additional functions, features, or enhanced operation when coupled to the control docking unit." It looks like players will finally be able to use dual analog controls in-game. (Note: hackers have already been able to do something similar.)

Of course, not all patent applications come to fruition in the marketplace. Regardless, this is certainly an interesting development, one we wouldn't mind seeing Sony pursue.

View US Patent Application 0070174531

Andrew Yoon
July 27, 2007

Source: PSP Fanboy

Syphon Filter infiltrates PSP's innards to enable full 333MHz

Chris Reese, Technical Director for SCEA's Bend Studio, has posted on the PlayStation.Blog to confirm that Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow will utilize the full 333MHz of PSP power. Reese claims the extra 67MHz will allow Bend Studio to create a look and feel that isn't possible using the original 266mhz. The increase in power will let them focus on adding detail and interactivity to the game's environments.

For those who are confused about 333mhz compatability, let us put your mind at rest. Games utilizing the 333 MHz clock speed will work exactly the same on a normal PSP as on a Slim PSP. The increase in power does mean that the battery in both models will drain more quickly than in other games, but for those who are picking up a PSP Slim you can use your old PSP's battery to lengthen the playtime. This does, however, come with its own problems.

Jem Alexander
July 27, 2007

Source: PSP Fanboy

David Jaffe (God of War Director) goes indie

Last year David Jaffe made it known that he wanted to test the waters of smaller-scale, downloadable games, starting with the PlayStation 3 title Calling All Cars! (originally titled Criminal Crackdown). Now the director and designer of God of War is venturing out into another new frontier: independent development.

Jaffe has updated his blog (warning: profanity) with news that today is his last day as a Sony employee, as he has joined up with Incognito founder Scott Campbell (designer of Downhill Domination and producer of Twisted Metal: Black) to form the independent studio Eat Sleep Play. While the outfit is an independent, it has already signed an exclusive three-game deal with Sony to make console and handheld games.

"We met with some other interested parties," Jaffe wrote, "but at the end of the day, Sony is our home, our family, and we're really thrilled and honored they wanted to work with us and continue the relationship we've spent almost 15 years cultivating."

Read the full story here...

Brendan Sinclair
July 27, 2007

Source: GameSpot

Sort of Off Topic: Game in bag prompts airport evacuation

LONG BEACH, Calif. — A suspicious item in checked luggage that prompted the evacuation of a terminal at Long Beach Airport on Thursday turned out to be an electronic game, authorities said.

Several hundred people were evacuated from the terminal for about 90 minutes and five arriving aircraft were held on the tarmac until the all-clear was given.

Transportation Security Administration screeners spotted the suspicious item while X-raying a checked bag around 9:30 a.m., agency spokeswoman Jennifer Peppin said.

The item turned out to be a handheld electronic game board in a "raw form" that showed its wiring, she said.

The passenger worked for "some sort of game or toy company," she added.

Firefighters, police and a bomb squad were called to the airport, about 25 miles south of downtown Los Angeles.

The Associated Press
July 26, 2007

Source: The Associated Press via Houston Chronicle

DevsGen challenges developers to make Rubik's Cube

Ever since "The Pursuit of Happiness" came into theatres, the multi-colored Rubik's Cube has made a cultural resurgence, becoming quite popular once again. DevsGen.com is challenging homebrew developers to create a virtual 3D Rubik's Cube on PSP. The prize? An impressive $500.

Entries will be judged on a number of criteria, such as erogomics. A hints system, and ability to add textures onto the cubes is optional, but will be looked upon favorably.

Are you ready to take the challenge?

Andrew Yoon
July 26, 2007

Source: PSP Fanboy

Microsoft director bets on 40GB PS3

In a blog post and an email to MSNBC's Level Up, Microsoft's Andre Vrignaud predicts that Sony will start selling a low-end PS3 as early as the Thanksgiving holiday.

"[I]f they don't move significant hardware this holiday, they'll basically be dead for this generation," Vrignaud said.

Vrignaud believes that a single USD 599 SKU will be untenable. He predicts that Sony will sell the announced 80GB PS3 for USD 499, but will also release a scaled-down 40GB PS3 for USD 399. The smaller system would eliminate the memory card slots and integrated WiFi as well as the backwards compatibility hardware.

Vrignaud is Xbox's director of strategy. MSNBC's N'Gai Croal, who writes Level Up, accepted Vrignaud's wager.

Mark Androvich
July 26, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

Reader Contribution: New Grand Theft Auto IV Forums

If you're a big Grand Theft Auto and are looking for continuous news about Rockstar's new installment of the hit franchise, GTA IV, then you may want to check out a new forum created by reader psphacker108. For the latest screenshots and news for GTA IV head on over to the IV Forums and join to start reading and contributing.

Check out IV Forums

Sound-activated rumble mod

F00 f00 over at Acidmods has come up with yet another PSP modification, this time implementing sound-activated rumble. His previous attempts at getting this to work weren't quite as successful, as he was unable to get the vibrating motor to turn off once it had been activated. F00 f00 explains how he accomplished this modification on the AcidMods forums and you can check out the demo video he made via the link below.

Watch Sound-activated rumble mod by F00 f00

Via AcidMods

Sony looking for a way to safely support homebrew

IGN PSP had their latest mailbag questions actually answered by Sony reps. The results were fairly interesting, especially when the issue of homebrew came up. IGN user carterman asked "Why not have some homebrew game support?" To which Jack Tretton replied, "I think that is something that is in the works. We certainly see some of the stuff that has been done via homebrew, and it's incredibly creative. And I think we'd like to try and tap into that a little bit more." Dave Karraker added to Jack's answer by stating that Sony is trying to figure out how to support homebrew without putting the PSP in danger. Does this mean that Sony is working on their own PSP answer to XNA? Sounds like it could be.

Read the full mailbag posting here...

Steven Bailey
July 25, 2007

Source: PSP Fanboy

PSP Firmware 3.52 Released

Sony has released version 3.52 of the PSP firmware to provide additional support for PlayStation Network PSX titles. Other than that there's not much to report. Just be aware that upgrading to this version will destroy any dreams of running homebrew software in the near future. However, if you still wish to upgrade then you can download the update from Sony's site using the link below or by using the Network Update feature on your PSP.

Download PSP System Update 3.52

Via PlayStation USA

One of a kind God of War modded PSP on sale

This is for the ultimate God of War fan. In preparation for the upcoming Chains of Olympus, someone took the liberty to meticulously craft this modded PSP. "The PSP console itself was airbrushed with a deep metallic bronze in an 18-step process and then strategically tarnished to create a battle-worn armor look (like the chest plate worn in the game!)." Wow.

How many hundreds of dollars would you give for a machine like this? That's a good question, because the system's available on eBay. As of writing, the winning bid was a reasonable $366. Will you try and snag this one-of-a-kind machine?

Andrew Yoon
July 24, 2007

God of War Modded PSP on eBay



Source: PSP Fanboy

Military-grade PSP case: only $100

Apparently, the PSP is becoming quite popular in the military world. That's why TAD Gear created this PSP case, one that's supposedly MILSPEC grade. "These PSP Pods were produced at the request of some our associates and customers deployed overseas. The Sony PSP has become a common sight in many a soldiers' kit these days. The PSP has become ideal for personal entertainment for many while in transit or stuck at barracks. This is built with MILSPEC construction and materials thru-out. There is no sturdier, better built, and versatile storage pouch for the PSP available anywhere."

The high level of construction is supposed to be the reason behind its somewhat exuberant price: $100. But, if you happen to be in the military, now's the time to pick the system up. "Due the high cost of production it is highly unlikely we will produce these again."

Andrew Yoon
July 24, 2007

Buy TAD Gear PSP Pod

Source: PSP Fanboy

Sony (Europe) opens up PSP development to universities

Sony is set to expand the reach of PSP development with a new programme enabling universities to gain access to the same professional tools available to commercial game developers.

The non-commercial scheme was announced by Sarah Lemarié, who is Sony Computer Entertainment Europe's academic liaison, at the Games:Education day of the Develop Conference in Brighton.

It builds on the existing PlayStation 2 Linux programming scheme run by over 20 UK universities. It will enable the institutions to buy the same hardware development kits as professional developers for what Lemarié described as a "vastly reduced rate".

It will also ship with the same ProDG programming tools and debuggers used by commercial studios. Online support will be provided with a cloned version of the professional development website, with students able to create their own accounts so they can access and interact within their own forums.

Further details will to be announced soon, but the computer programming courses at University of Abertay Dundee, Sheffield Hallam and Hull universities are expected to be the launch partners for the service.

Jon Jordan
July 24, 2007

Source: Pocket Gamer

Harrison pledges more support for Epic

Worldwide Studios Phil Harrison has admitted that Sony didn't initially offer Epic enough support with optimising the Unreal Engine 3 for PS3 - but said the situation has now changed for the better.

Speaking to Game Informer Harrison said, "If we’re honest, we didn’t do enough of a good job supporting them and getting them the tools and technology early enough.

"Also, Epic isn’t a huge company. They don’t have unlimited resource. We have parachuted in some of our SWAT team of super engineers to help them. Specifically, to optimise for SPUs, which are the point of difference that the Cell Processor has."

According to Harrison, the process of optimising the SPUs is already underway - and it will have very positive results for those both creating and playing PS3 games.

"The benefits that it yields to end developers, whether they’re writing exclusive titles or multiplatform titles, is that the performance on PS3 goes up exponentially - and it will make for a much better game experience," he stated.

Ellie Gibson
July 23, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

PSP sales increase 31% over last year

Sony recently released a statement about NPD sales figures. According to their data, PSP is gaining a lot of momentum, selling 31% more systems this month than last year during the same time. For the month of June, PSP sold an impressive 290,108 units at retail in America, now officially making it the biggest selling PlayStation product that Sony currently sells.

Compare that figure to PS3, which sold 98,469 units last month. The PS2 got close: it sold an impressive 270,763 systems last month. However, it's clear that PSP is gaining a lot more momentum. With the redesign coming in September, we're bound to see sales increase even further later this year.

Andrew Yoon
July 23, 2007

Source: PSP Fanboy

GPS foils Playstation thieves

A band of would-be Playstation-delivery truck thieves in Australia had the rug snatched out from under them when police used the vehicle's built-in GPS to track and locate the stolen goods. The truck, loaded with more than $1 million AUD worth of PS2s, was taken from a freight depot in Sydney that the thieves had broken into. The group of evil-doers would have made off clean, save for the fact that local authorities were able to follow the direction and speed of the truck to the gang's suburban shed, where they had begun unloading the game systems -- clearly they should have picked up a few tips from Best Buy's dastardly villains. When questioned later by police, the leader of the ring was reported to have said, "And we would have gotten away with it, too, if it weren't for your meddling GPS!"

Joshua Topolsky
July 23, 2007

Source: Sydney Morning Herald via Engadget

Korean Lumines HEN & Downgrader Now Available

The Noobz team has released another version of the 3.50 downgrader that exploits a buffer overflow vulnerability in the original Lumines UMD's game save files, this time offering compatibility with Korean copies of the game. That means that this version supports all unpatched region encoded Lumines UMDs and all regions of PSPs. Head over to the homebrew software library to download the newest version and remember that firmware modifications can potentially render your PSP completely useless so use this software at your own risk.

Download 3.50 HEN & Downgrader (All Regions)

Via Noobz.eu

Slim PSP will launch in Europe early September, confirms Sony

Sony has confirmed that the new slimline PSP will launch in Europe before it arrives in Japan and will be priced at €169, as announced by David Reeves at E3 last week.

Speaking at SCEE's special E3 event Reeves told the audience, "It will come out at 169 Euros in all the PAL territories at the beginning of September." The new PSP is due to launch in Japan on September 20.

A spokesperson for Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has confirmed to GI.biz, "As David said in his speech last week, the new PSP will launch in early September and will be the same price as the existing one."

The original PSP currently retails in the UK for GBP 129.99.

Ellie Gibson
July 20, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

Sony draws up Leipzig battle lines

SCEE boss David Reeves says E3 was a phoney war

SCEE's president and CEO David Reeves has told MCV that E3 was a phoney war, and that Sony will let off the first of its peak season “fireworks” in Leipzig next month.

Talking exclusively to MCV, he intimated that a series of big announcements will be made at the Game Convention trade and consumer show in Germany – massively enhancing the appeal of both the PlayStation 3 and PSP.

“We prefer to make our big statements in Leipzig, it suits us much better,” Reeves told MCV. “Yes it has been a bit of a slow summer, but we feel that we have kept the momentum going.

“There will be absolute fireworks at peak, that I can promise you. We will be doing things no-one has seen yet for both PS3 and PSP.”

Stuart Dinsey
July 20, 2007

Source: MCV

LED Fader Mod

*FuFa over at the AcidMods forums has posted details on how to rig your PSP with fading LEDs. The particular fader that *FuFa used operates in three modes: fade (activates when a button is pressed), all on, and all off. Be aware that this project involves advanced soldering skills and will void your PSP's warranty. Check out a video of the mod and also instructions on how to put this together using the links below.

PSP LED Fader Mod Video
LED Fader Mod Instructions

Kaz Hirai opening Tokyo Game Show

At last year's Tokyo Game Show, then-Sony Computer Entertainment president Ken Kutaragi delivered the opening remarks at the TGS Forum 2006. The forum is part of Business Day, an industry-only event that traditionally occurs two days prior to the show floor being opened to the public. While many industry watchers anticipated the seasoned exec would address and alleviate the concerns stemming from the PlayStation 3's launch delay and string of bad publicity, Kutaragi was content with primarily touting the PS3's technological superiority.

The Tokyo Game Show 2007 Web site was updated earlier today with news that Kaz Hirai will deliver the TGS Forum 2007 keynote address. The Sony exec's speech will occur on September 20, at the Makuhari Messe International Conference Hall in Chiba City, Japan. Earlier this year, Hirai was named as Kutaragi's successor and assumed the role of SCE president and CEO. Though the speaker has changed, the question on everyone's minds seems to be the same in light of Sony's recent PS3 pricing gaffe.

Read the full article here...

Tom Magrino
July 19, 2007

Source: GameSpot

The truth about PSP Lite's battery life

There appears to be some confusion about the PSP Lite's battery life. The system can go up to 8-10 hours ... but only if it's using the battery from the regular PSP. What?

The upcoming PSP Lite will include a smaller battery for the smaller system. The battery that's included with the system will run for about 5 hours while gaming. However, if you have the battery from your original PSP, you'll be able to get 8-10 hours. The problem with this solution? The battery will bulge out of the system. Sony will offer a new backplate for those interested in adding the old battery to the new system.

Does that make things clearer?



Andrew Yoon
July 19, 2007

Source: PSP Fanboy

Sony's Jack Tretton: Wii is a "lollipop", 360 an "unreliable cook"

GamePro's Vicious Sid recently sat down with Sony Computer Entertainment's Jack Tretton at E3 to discuss the PSP, PS3, backward compatibility ...and how he would describe each game console as a meal. Insights galore!  

GamePro: Before E3, there were all these rumors about the redesigned PSP [featuring a flash drive] so I have to admit I was a little let down when I heard it was only going to be thinner and lighter. When I got my hands on one, though, I was impressed...though it still seemed like an incremental improvement. Why not embed a flash drive?

Jack Tretton: I think we're talking about a short period of time here. Playstation Portable has only been out for a couple of years, and I think it will continue to evolve over time. We are absolutely thrilled with the PSP and we love it. We think it's state-of-the-art technology and we think these improvements take that technology and just give you an updated form factor. But clearly we haven't abandoned the 25 million consumers that are fans of it.

I think one of the risks you run into when you get into [embedding flash memory into a new PSP model] is, what happens to the people who already bought it? And are you going to get the development community to make UMD based games? We have to make sure that anything we do, as far as the evolution of hardware, doesn't leave consumers behind. You can talk about price all day long, but if you don't get the features you need for the long term it's a bait and switch. The good news is you get the price you want and the bad news is the technology has been abandoned. I don't think we ever want to do that to consumers.

Thats just a taster of the full interview. Check out the full text here....

Vicious Sid
July 17, 2007

Source: GamePro

PS3 sales hit 1M in Japan

Back in January, Sony announced it had achieved its goal of shipping 2 million PlayStation 3s worldwide. The company achieved the goal several weeks late, when it shipped its 1 millionth unit to the Japanese market. However, many were skeptical of Sony's claims of success, since the figures were only for units shipped to retailers, not sold to consumers.

Nearly six months to the day later, Sony has finally sold its 1 millionth PS3 in Japan. Reuters quotes Famitsu publisher and Japanese game-industry stat tracker Enterbrain as reporting that Sony's console reached the sales milestone on July 15.

Japan is the last major gaming region to reach the 1 million sold milestone. North America was the first, with nearly 700,000 PS3s being sold during the 2006 holiday season alone, and early last month, the PS3 hit the 1 million mark in the PAL territories of Europe and Australia. The PS3 launched in North America and Japan in November 2006, and went on sale across PAL territories in March 2007.

Read the full story here...

Tom Magrino
July 18, 2007

Source: GameSpot

Pachter: E3 Was A 'Terrible Disappointment'

While Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter had previously said that imminent price wars was to be the "key takeaway" from this year's E3, with the show now over, Pachter more glumly has said "the key takeaway from this year’s E3 was that the ESA made a mistake in downsizing the show."

"In past years," said Pachter, "publishers and console manufacturers used E3 to address the needs of their core constituents: media, retail, investors, and consumers. By choosing to eliminate any potential for a consumer element to the show, the ESA chased away much of the television media. By scheduling the show two months later than in the past, retailers stayed away. By scheduling the show during the calendar quarter financial quiet period (Microsoft, Sony, Activision and THQI did not meet with investors), only limited access was provided for buy and sell side analysts."

Read the full article here...

Brandon Boyer
July 16, 2007

Source: Gamasutra

Japanese PSPs tuning into TV September 20

TOKYO--Sony Computer Entertainment held its "PlayStation Premiere 2007" press conference in Japan today, giving the Japanese media a chance to check out the new PlayStation Portable that was announced at the E3 Media & Business Summit.

Aside from updating the press with all the details unveiled last week in Santa Monica, Sony made a number of new announcements that apparently pertain only to the Japanese market. There, the new PSP model (PSP-2000) will be coming out on September 20 at the price of 19,800 yen (around $162).

In Japan, SCE will release a TV tuner (PSP-S310), which users can attach to the new PSP via its USB port. The peripheral weighs in at only 17 grams and is very portable, but is compatible only with the new PSP model. Also, since it's a 1seg digital TV tuner (ISDB-T broadcasting format), its use is limited to the Japan airwaves. The TV tuner will be released at the same time as the new PSP, and will retail for 6,980 yen (about $57), about the same as a low-end USB TV tuner for a PC.

Read the full artcle here...

Hirohiko Niizumi
July 17, 2007

Source: GameSpot

SCEA CEO Looking Forward to Working with Peter Moore

While we wouldn't call them enemies, Microsoft video game execs and Sony's execs are certainly very competitive and they're not afraid to bash the competition. In fact, Microsoft corporate vp Peter Moore recently said Sony's gaming business in Japan is crumbling.

But with the shocking news today that Peter Moore is leaving his Xbox post to head up all of EA Sports, he's suddenly in the seemingly awkward position of having to work directly with the folks at Sony. SCEA couldn't be happier it would seem.

Jack Tretton, President and CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment America provided GameDaily BIZ with the following comment: "We wish Peter the best of luck in his new role at Electronic Arts and look forward to working with him. We have an outstanding relationship with EA and their sports products have been incredibly successful on all our platforms. I am sure this will continue with Peter now at the helm."

James Brightman
July 17, 2007

Source: GameDaily BIZ

Hirai confirms phase out of 60GB PS3

Sony Computer Entertainment president Kaz Hirai has confirmed David Reeves' comments that the 60GB PlayStation 3 will be phased out by the end of July.

Reeves told GamesIndustry.biz last week that once current stocks of the USD 499 model have sold out in North America, the 80GB 599 SKU will be the only version of the console on the market.

"Once that product is gone from the retailer's shelves, then we're back to the USD 599 SKU only," said Hirai speaking to VG Multimedia.

"It's not like we have a two price strategy here in the US market. We found out very early on that consumers react mostly to having one SKU as opposed to two," he said.

Matt Martin
July 16, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

E3 2007: Old PSP to be Phased Out

Senior Public Relations Manager for Sony Computer Entertainment America, Patrick Seybold, has substantiated this news to IGN: the 60GB will not be continued in North America, either. In effect, this means the $100 price drop is only temporary.

"The 60GB PS3 will be available in North America for $499 until supplies of that unit are depleted," Seybold said. "We have ample inventory to meet the immediate needs of consumers in this territory for several months to come. We won't be making any further announcements regarding our PS3 model hardware strategy in North America until the 60GB model is exhausted and market conditions are evaluated."

Seybold also shed some light on the company's plans for the older PSP model now that a redesign has been announced. Will it be phased out as well? Or receive its own price drop?

"The newly designed PSP will replace the original PSP design starting in September with the $169.99 PSP Core Pack and the $199.99 Daxter PSP Entertainment Pack."

Read the full article here...

Daemon Hatfield
July 13, 2007

Source: IGN

Off Topic: EB Games Australia Issues 360 Recall

From Kotaku:

EB Games Australia have issued a recall on their Xbox 360s. Not just their own personal display or demo units. Every single Premium Xbox 360 they had in-stock. Sources within the company have confirmed that two weeks ago (approx June 29) store managers were first asked by Head Office to test every unit in-stock for errors, but were then ordered last week to return their entire inventories of the console, as well as remove all 360 promotional material and dummy boxes from their stores. The recall is believed to be due to a faulty batch of HDDs, as it did not include Core units.

Read the full Story here...

Luke Plunkett
July 15, 2007

Source: Kotaku

Interview: Sony's Jack Tretton Talks About UMD, Rips Movie Studios

From Kotaku:

Many of us expected the a new PSP to have on-board storage to allow for a less UMD-reliant experience for music and gaming. In this clip, SCEA President and CEO Jack Tretton tells us what's gone wrong with UMD, and more importantly, how Sony plans on reviving the struggling PSP media format. He sorta lays the smackdown, so it's worth a watch. The only hole in his logic seems to be that Sony prices UMDs fairly high as well. [kotaku]

Watch the interview here

Interview: Sony's Jack Tretton Discusses the New PSP, Inside and Out

From Kotaku:

What's up with the PSP redesign? SCEA President and CEO Jack Tretton responds to naysayers and confronts misconceptions on performance enhancements. [kotaku]

Watch the interview here.

PSP firmware 3.60 reveals hidden USB Charge feature

Andrew Yoon over at PSP Fanboy got his hands on the redesigned PSP and has posted a few tidbits on the site. Most notably, there is a new USB charge feature in the new upcoming firmware 3.60. Here's what Andrew had to say about the new PSP:

(Also check out Joystiq hands-on with the new PSP)

We got our hands on a fully functional redesigned PSP, and we immediately grabbed pictures of the firmware that was installed on the system. Currently unreleased, version 3.60 was installed on the system. All of the features that are available in 3.60 will not work on the old PSP system, and it's unclear whether or not an older PSP system will even display the features found in this update.




UMD Cache is used to increase the load speeds of games. As revealed earlier, the cache is added RAM found in the redesigned system.



USB Charge allows players to charge their PSP battery by connecting their systems via USB. Previously, the system would drain power when stuck in USB mode.



Connected Display Settings contains the settings for the new video-out feature.



Within the display settings, PSP owners can change the type of TV that's connected, and settings for screensavers. We connected a PSP to a TV and were impressed by the results: UMD movies look fantastic, but games will be bordered. PSP games are rendered at 480x272, progressive scan only. Because it's output at 480x272, there will be black borders all around the image when playing on the television.



Andrew Yoon
July 13, 2007

Source: PSP Fanboy

No PS3 price cut, no 80GB model for Europe

Starter Pack with 2 games and 2 controllers for GBP 425

Sony will not be cutting the price of the PlayStation 3 in Europe or releasing a 80GB model – instead it will be offering a Starter Pack containing the console, two games and an extra controller for GBP 425 / EUR 599

SCEA has greatly benefited from the USD 100 price cut announced earlier this week in North America, but Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has chosen to bundle first-party titles and a second Sixaxis controller with a combined RRP of GBP 115, rather than adjust the price.

Due on sale in the UK on July 18 and in Europe August 1, the Starter Pack will offer two Sixaxis controllers and a choice of two first-party titles from a list of Resistance: Fall of Man, Motorstorm, Genji: Days of the Blade, Formula One Championship Edition and Ridge Racer 7.

"With sell through of over 1.2 million units in the SCEE territories to date, PlayStation 3 has proved to be an instant and huge success," said David Reeves, president of SCEE.

Matt Martin
July 13, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

E3: No more 60GB PlayStation 3 in US after July, says Reeves

'All they're doing is taking their stock and marking the price down'

SCEE president David Reeves has told GamesIndustry.biz that the 60GB PlayStation 3 will no longer be available in the US after stock sells out - which he predicts will occur by the end of the month.

Reeves was speaking at an E3 event to announce the introduction of a new PS3 bundle in Europe. When asked about possible criticisms over whether SCEE should have given consumers the option to pay a lower price, as SCEA has done, he replied, "Well, they're not really are they, because what the US are offering from the 1st of August is a USD 599 version with one game.

"All they're doing is taking their stock in trade that they've got at the moment of the 60GB model, marking the price down and it will all be gone by the end of July."

When asked to clarify if this will mean the end of the 60GB model, Reeves answered, "In America, yes."

Read the full article here...

Ellie Gibson
July 13, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

Tretton blames third parties for PS3 software deficiencies

SCEA wants to encourage, but cannot control third parties

Speaking to GamesIndustry.biz at an E3 roundtable, SCEA president Jack Tretton addressed the issue of some games looking better on the 360 than they do on the PS3.

“If the games don’t look good on the platform, consumers aren’t going to buy them. As I said, we can’t control what third parties are going to do,” explained Tretton. “We can try to evangelize the technology and assist those guys in development and try to convince them that it is in their best interests to take advantage of the technology.

“If we have to drive the message on our platform with the games that do that…whether they are first party or third…those are the games we are going to focus on and those are the games the consumers are going to make their purchase decisions on,” he said.

Read the full article here...

Mark Androvich
July 12, 2007

Source: GamesIndustry.biz

Full E3 Press Release: Sony Computer Entertainment America Outlines Plans for PlayStation(R) Platforms at E3 2007

And here's the "what's up" press release from E3. For those who don't know what press releases are: Press releases are short write-ups released to the press (a.k.a. news media) to provide details about company-related news, such as new product releases and management changes. Normally, press releases are all spin, provide many quotes from company executives for the press to copy and use in their articles, and keep away from lots of details. This is one reason so many articles you read from so many news sources sound alike. (The other problem is Associated Press and Reuters, which is a whole different story about responsibility and often quick-paced journalism, and irks me so I won't go into it here). -Auri

Company Debuts Updated PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) and Introduces Broad
     Library of Unique Games and Services for PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)),
                  PLAYSTATION(R)Network and PlayStation(R)2

    CULVER CITY, Calif., July 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. (SCEA) held its annual press conference today at the E3 Media & Business Summit, making a series of announcements that demonstrated the strength and innovation of the PlayStation(R) family of products.  Among these announcements was the introduction of a newly updated PSP(R)
(PlayStation(R)Portable) and an extensive library of soon-to-be released games and services across the entire PlayStation portfolio.  The company also unveiled several new exclusive game development agreements with various well-known publishers including NCsoft(R) Corporation, Midway, Ubisoft, LucasArts and Konami.

    The press conference was held in both the physical and virtual worlds whereby company executives presented in person and as their own personalized avatars within the PlayStation(R)Home environment, transitioning from their virtual-world avatars to reappear live on stage.  This format was designed to illustrate the innovative functionality of the innovative experience of PlayStation Home, the PLAYSTATION(R)Network service designed to serve as a 3D community gathering place for PS3 users from around the world.

    Portable Entertainment Just Got Sleeker
    The new PSP is a sleeker and more streamlined version of the popular original PSP system.  It is 33 percent lighter and 19 percent slimmer than the current version, making the all-in-one mobile entertainment system even more convenient to carry around at less than 1/2-pound in weight and less than 3/4-inch in thickness.  The new PSP system will also have a thinner, more efficient battery, 64MB of system memory and video-out capabilities allowing consumers to enjoy their games at 480 x 272 resolution and movies at full standard-definition resolution on any progressive scan TV.
    In addition to the "Piano Black" model launching in September in the Core Pack, the new PSP will also be available in two new limited edition colors in North America: A collector's edition "Ice Silver" PSP will be included in the Daxter PSP Entertainment Pack in September; and a limited edition "Ceramic White" PSP, including a Darth Vader(TM) silk screen on the unit, will be featured in the Star Wars Battlefront(R) PSP Entertainment Pack launching in October.  SCEA plans to make more than 140 new software titles available this fiscal year for PSP, in addition to the other great entertainment content coming on UMD(TM) (Universal Media Disc).
     
    Games, Games and More Games
    Throughout the holiday and this fiscal year, SCEA and its third-party partners plan to release more than 120 PS3 software titles available on Blu-ray Disc(TM) (BD), SCEA is also working on another 40 games and game packs downloadable via PLAYSTATION Network in North America.
    During the press event, the company highlighted several of its 15 exclusive first-party PS3 titles which are sure to excite gamers this holiday season -- each of them taking full advantage of PS3's powerful Cell Broadband
Engine(TM) (Cell/B.E.) including Heavenly Sword(TM), Ratchet & Clank(R)
Future: Tools of Destruction(TM) and Uncharted: Drake's Fortune(TM).
    Also showcased were expected second- and third-generation titles including Killzone 2, an earth-shattering futuristic action/combat game, the super-hero adventure InFamous and Grand Turismo 5 Prologue, the latest offering from the best-selling racing game of all time.

    Discover New Ways to Play
    SCEA also announced new games and services for its PLAYSTATION Network.
Included were new features for the innovative and highly-anticipated service PlayStation Home, such as the ability for users to launch games from within PlayStation Home; a newly designed Home Square that replaces the original lobby concept; and four new personal spaces allowing for increased user personalization.
    Additionally, several new downloadable games were introduced specifically for PLAYSTATION Network, including a crafty puzzle game, echochrome, which utilizes PS3's SIXAXIS(TM) wireless controller; an achingly funny action game named PAIN; and the next chapter in the popular Wipeout(R) racing series, Wipeout HD. Also, demonstrated was a pair of games to be made available through download from PLAYSTATION(R)Store and on BD: SOCOM: U.S. Navy Seals Confrontation, the next title in line of one of the most popular franchises in PlayStation history; and Warhawk(TM), a ground-breaking online multi-player air and land combat game.

    PlayStation 2 Momentum Continues
    The popular PlayStation(R)2 was also center stage as the company highlighted some of the more than 160 games headed to the platform this year in North America, including social game franchises, such as Buzz!(TM) and SingStar(TM), both of which are already million-sellers in Europe and will make a huge impact on PlayStation 2 this year here in the US.
    "Today's announcements lay the groundwork for what we are confident will be accelerated momentum for the PlayStation brand throughout the holidays and this fiscal year," said Jack Tretton, President and CEO, SCEA. "At the heart of each of these announcements is our desire to empower consumers with the technology, gameplay and entertainment capabilities that they have come to expect and desire from PlayStation. We truly believe that these new products, services and software will help us take our platforms to the next level."

    New PS3 Model, Pricing
    Today's press conference announcements follow Sunday's news of a new PS3 80GB model coming to North America and new pricing for the current 60GB model.
Beginning in August, the new 80GB PS3 will be available for a suggested retail price of $599 and will be sold with the popular online-enabled racing game MotorStorm(TM). With the expanded hard disk drive (HDD), consumers will be able to download even more games and entertainment content from PLAYSTATION Network. Additionally, new pricing was announced for the current 60GB PS3 model. Effective immediately, consumers in North America can purchase the model for $499, $100 less than the original price.
     
    About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
    Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R)
(PlayStation(R)Portable) mobile entertainment system, the ground-breaking
PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system and its online and network services the PLAYSTATION(R)Network and PLAYSTATION(R)Store.
    Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the PSP system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif.  Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

    Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com

Full E3 Press Release: New PSP Makes Its Debut To The Market Worldwide In September With Newly Equipped Video Out Port

It's definitely not what you've been salivating for. It's like a Disney movie re-release. This time the packaging is shinier! No, the processor isn't any faster, and gaves have always had the option of running at 333 MHz. I *do* like the 64 megs of RAM... I wonder how that will affect browsing and what memory architecture changes they've made, if any (probably none). Yeah, video-out is cool, but who's going to watch UMDs on a big screen and be happy? -Auri

New PSP Makes Its Debut To The Market Worldwide In September With Newly
                           Equipped Video-Out Port

    TOKYO, July 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) today unveiled an enhanced design for PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system (PSP-2000) that has a more streamlined form factor and a video-out port which will become available in stores from September in Japan, North America and Europe.

    (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020701/SFM066LOGO)

    While succeeding the basic functions and design philosophy of the current PSP including a 4.3 inch wide high resolution LCD screen, overwhelmingly large for a handheld device, new PSP is 33 percent lighter and 19 percent slimmer than the original version, making the all-in-one handheld entertainment system even easier to carry around at approx.189g in weight (weight of current model is approx.280g) and approx.18.6mm in thickness (thickness of current model is approx.23.0 mm).

    Adding a video-out port(*1) enables new PSP users to experience high quality UMD(TM) (Universal Media Disc) Video, pictures and movies from Memory Stick Duo and game software titles(*2) on their TVs at home.  Also, new PSP is equipped with enhanced feature to temporarily store game data from UMD, reducing load time during game play(*3).  Moreover, the ability to charge the unit through PLAYSTATION(R)3 or PC via USB cable during data transfer is newly equipped(*4), further positioning PSP as a true handheld device.

    A new PSP comes in three basic colors of "Piano Black", "Ceramic White", and "Ice Silver" to meet a variety of lifestyle and preferences for all ages(*5).

    During the two and a half years since the launch of PSP in December, 2004 strong support from users worldwide as well as an abundance of exciting software titles from publishers around the world have resulted in PSP achieving cumulative shipment of 25 million units for the hardware and 100 million units for software titles worldwide by March, 2007.  The expansion of the PSP platform is being boosted worldwide along with its exciting lineup of software titles as well as the introduction of color variations.

    SCEI will continue to further expand the PSP platform and create a new world of computer entertainment with innovative and exciting new titles and a new PSP.

    (*1) Video output cables (AV cable/S VIDEO cable/D Terminal AV
         cable/Component AV cable) are sold separately.  Product lineup may
         differ by country/region.
    (*2) Progressive TV and PSP specific cable (D Terminal AV cable or
         Component AV cable) are necessary to output game software titles for
         PSP.
    (*3) Effect of this feature varies depending on software titles.
    (*4) PSP needs to be put in "USB Connection" mode.
    (*5) Color variations may differ by country/region.

    PSP(R)(PlayStation(R) Portable) (PSP-2000) Product Overview

    Product Name          PSP(R)(PlayStation(R)Portable)
    External              Approx. 169.4 x 18.6 x 71.4 mm / 6 3/4
    dimensions            x 3/4 x 2 3/4 in (width
                          depth) (excludes largest projection)
    Weight                Approx. 189g / 6.7 oz (including
                          battery pack)
    CPU                   PSP CPU (System clock frequency
                          1-333MHz)
    Main Memory           64MB
    Display               4.3 inches (16:9) full-transparent
                          type, TFT drive,
                          480 x 272 pixel, Approximately
                          16,770,000 colors displayed
    Sound                 Built-in stereo speakers
    Main                  Wireless LAN (IEEE 802.11b)(Wi-Fi)
    Input/Output          High Speed USB (USB2.0) (mini-B)
                          Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM)
                          Analog Video Out
    Main Connectors       DC In 5V connector
                          DC Out connector
                          video out/headset connector
                          USB connector
                          Memory Stick Duo(TM) slot
    Key/Switches          Directional buttons
                          (up/down/right/left), analog stick,
                          Action buttons (triangle, circle,
                          cross, square), L/R buttons
                          START button, SELECT button, HOME
                          button
                          POWER/HOLD switch, WLAN switch
                          display button, sound button, volume
                          (+/-) buttons
    Power sources         Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery pack
                          AC adaptor
                          USB power supply
    Internal disc         Read-only UMD(TM) drive
    drive
    Supported             PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable)
    profile               UMD(TM) Video
    Access Control        Region code, parental control
    Wireless              Infrastructure mode
    Communications        Ad hoc mode (connects up to 16
                          consoles)
    Supplied              AC adaptor
    Accessories           Battery pack (1200mAh)


    Supported codec (in Memory Stick)

    Video         --  Memory Stick Video Format
                      - MPEG-4 Simple Profile (AAC LC)
                      - H.264/MPEG-4 AVC Main Profile (AAC LC)
                  --  MP4 File Format
                      - MPEG-4 Simple Profile (AAC LC)
                      - H.264/MPEG-4 AVC Main Profile -- CABAC only --
                          (AAC LC) / Baseline Profile (AAC LC)
                  --  AVI
                      - Mmotion JPEG (Linear PCM or
    Music         --  Memory Stick Audio Format
                      - ATRAC3(TM)
                      - ATRAC3plus(TM)
                      - MP3
                  --  MP3(MPEG-1/2 Audio Layer3)
                  --  MP4(MPEG-4 AAC)
                  --  WAVE(Linear PCM)
                  --  WMA(Windows Media(R) Audio 9 Standard only) (*6)
    Photo         --  JPEG (DCF2.0/Exif2.21 compliant)
                  --  TIFF
                  --  BMP
                  --  GIF
                  --  PNG

    (*6) WMA Playback feature needs to be enabled.


    PSP(R)(PlayStation(