PSP GANG

Number 10 in the Top 10 most popular

2010-02-02T16:15:00.001-08:00

This wallpaper has had 2348666 views and was submitted by John Slater

GameStop COO: DLC is critical to survival

2010-01-31T16:16:00.001-08:00

While other retailers would consider digital content as a threat to their business, GameStop COO J. Paul Raines believes that DLC is critical to their survival. As such, he says that the next challenge for him and

Number 10 in the Top 10 most popular

2009-12-05T16:15:00.001-08:00

This wallpaper has had 2348596 views and was submitted by John Slater

Два обзора и нетбуки с Pine Trail

2009-12-04T16:16:00.001-08:00

Вот как раз. Digitimes сообщает, что начало продаж (запуск) нетбуков с новой платформой

Pine Trail, а конкретно Atom N450, состоится одиннадцатого января следующего года, то есть уже совсем скоро на выставке CES. ASUS, Acer, Lenovo и MSI уже в принципе высказались относительно релиза подобных нетбуков. Вон от ASUS мы даже фотографии видели.

В остальном желающие сегодня могут прочитать обзор нового Eee Box на великом и французском языке, но там много фотографий и видео. Также можно уже на английском прочитать о впечатлениях от ASUS Eee PC 1005HR то есть Eee PC с экраном высокого разрешения (как раз на фото).

Источники:
digitimes.com, blogeee.net, netbooked.net

Number 10 in the Top 10 most popular

2009-10-25T17:15:00.001-07:00

This wallpaper has had 2348538 views and was submitted by John Slater

Konami to bring Shadow of Destiny to the PSP

2009-10-24T16:15:00.001-07:00

Konami Digital Entertainment has announced that they're bringing another old title back in the market. The PS2 classic, Shadow of Destiny, will breath...

Cable joins the war in Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2

2009-10-23T16:15:00.001-07:00

This one goes out to queenanthai following us on Twitter. It was last month when he/she asked if Cable was in Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 (PS3, PSP, PS...

PSP homebrew - GameMusicGear MX v1.3

2009-10-22T16:15:00.001-07:00

The last time a GameMusicGear update graced these pages was almost a year ago. Homebrew developer silmarilion is still tinkering with the Oldpla...

Video: Celebrate Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars' launch with this new trailer

2009-10-20T16:15:00.001-07:00

Here's something to put you in the proper GTA groove -- and it's just in time for the US launch of Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars' PSP version too. ...

Number 10 in the Top 10 most popular

2009-10-19T16:15:00.001-07:00

This wallpaper has had 2348526 views and was submitted by John Slater

Ex-Postal Service worker admits to stealing over 2,000 GameFly mailings

2009-10-18T16:15:00.001-07:00

Hey, Philadelphia residents. Ever ordered a game from GameFly only to never receive it? Maybe your package went through this guy.Reginald Johnson, an ...

Fate/Stay Night, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Hatsune Miku content to be downloadable for Phantasy Star Portable 2

2009-10-17T16:15:00.001-07:00

Sega continues come up with more content for Phantasy Star Portable 2, this time with a boost of girl power from anime series like Neon Genesis Evan...

Koei Tecmo to attend London MCM Expo, official site launched

2009-10-16T16:15:00.001-07:00

Koei Tecmo has just confirmed their stint at the coming London MCM Expo on October 24th to the 25th, and to make it easier for all of us to get upda...

Metal Slug XX rated by ESRB

2009-10-15T16:15:00.001-07:00

Here's some good news for fans of SNK's Metal Slug franchise. The ESRB has the newest title, Metal Slug XX, listed in its database, which means we can...

Second Tekken 6 viral video: No talk, all (slow-mo) action

2009-10-14T16:15:00.001-07:00

The fine folks at Imperial Leisure have given us a heads up on the second viral video they're releasing for Tekken 6 (PS3, Xbox 360 and PSP). This tim...

Pizza Hut delivers - even in Phantasy Star Portable 2

2009-10-13T16:15:00.001-07:00

Pizza Hut isn't gonna let the video game barrier get in the way of expansion - they're opening a branch in the Gurhal Galaxy in Phantasy Star Portable...

Silent Hill: Shattered Memories delayed?

2009-10-12T16:15:00.001-07:00

Nothing official has issued forth from the mouths of Konami representatives yet, but the Silent Hill overhaul, Silent Hill: Shattered Memories (PS2, P...

PSP Weekend Warrior: The PSP Go saga continues

2009-10-11T16:15:00.001-07:00

The PSP Go remains a hot item this week. Nasayers still think it's going to fall flat on its sliding non-face. Sony, for their part, is busy touting i...

E for Expensive - ESRB rating costs concern Fieldrunners developer

2009-10-10T16:15:00.001-07:00

Despite the Minis name, development for Sony's new PSP program is by no means a small task, particularly for smaller developers. Gamasutra got in to...

PSP Go? No, it's the PXP-2000

2009-10-09T16:15:00.001-07:00

You have to hand it to those guys behind these little Chinese ripoffs. We haven't even hit two weeks since the launch of the PSP Go, and already the...

PSP homebrew - Game Decrypter v4

2009-10-08T16:15:00.001-07:00

Wow. Yoshihiro certainly works fast, doesn't he? The homebrew coder has just released version 4 of his Game Decrypter app. With this release, he's exp...

SCEA: US PSP sales up 300 thanks to PSP Go

2009-10-07T16:15:00.001-07:00

Sony has yet to release any hard numbers for the PSP Go, but according to Sony Computer Entertainment America, the latest PSP iteration is doing a ban...

EA trademarks "The Ripper", possible Jack the Ripper game from Visceral?

2009-10-06T16:15:00.001-07:00

I missed this, but apparently a couple of months back there was talk about Visceral Games working on a Jack the Ripper game. Nothing definite followed...

Sony: PSP hardware sales up 120 in UK since PSP Go launched

2009-10-05T16:15:00.001-07:00

Despite lots of skepticism and disinterest surrounding the new model, Sony is proud to reveal that PSP Go sales have met expectations. Believe it or...

Level 5 open to making another Dark Cloud

2009-10-04T16:15:00.001-07:00

While busying themselves with White Knight Chronicles back at TGS, Level 5 Games didn't turn away from the subject of one of their most well-loved cla...

Hello world: PSP Go hacked, proof of concept video released

2009-10-03T16:15:00.001-07:00

Yep, you read that right folks. Mere days after its launch and somebody's already hacked the PSP Go. Hold your horses, though! There are a few caveats...

Evan Wells wants to bring Uncharted to the PSP

2009-10-02T16:15:00.001-07:00

We're still waiting for Uncharted 2: Among Thieves to come along, but we already know that it won't be the last for Nathan Drake and Naughty Dog. No...

Best Buy CEO optimistic about the coming Holidays

2009-10-01T16:15:00.001-07:00

"Consumers are back out spending again." That's what Best Buy CEO Brian Dunn said as he described his anticipation for the forthcoming holidays. Eve...

First Tekken 6 viral video coming tomorrow, watch it right here, right now

2009-09-30T16:15:00.001-07:00

Our friends at Imperial Leisure have just informed us that the first of the Tekken 6 (PS3, Xbox 360 and PSP) videos in their viral marketing push will...

More details for the Earthworm Jim HD remake

2009-09-29T16:15:00.001-07:00

Another classic from console generations past will once again get a breath...

Stan Lee on game development: "It's like a miracle"

2009-09-28T16:15:00.001-07:00

Take this from a guy whose brilliant mind turned figments of the imagination into glorious cultural icons. No less than the man behind Marvel himself, Stan Lee, has expressed his admiration and respect for gaming development. His exact words: "It's like a miracle."

Speaking to The Guardian about Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2, the legendary comic book mastermind gave major props to Activision for the work they put into the game. "In all honesty I'm not involved with the development. Activision deserves 100 of the credit," he said, adding that he is usually quite impressed with the output.

Stan Lee also pointed out that if he didn't write comic books, he'd be out there making video games. "If I were young now and I wanted to do stories, I would very much want to get into the video game business because it's the most exciting. Video games and movies are the most exciting forms of entertainment," he said. "But a video game in a way is more imaginative, it has more variety."

That's certainly high praise coming from a man who made a revolution with his imagination. "In a movie you stick to the plotline, in a video game you go in a million different directions. I have no idea how they're able to do that. It's like a miracle," he said.

As for Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2, Stan Lee was very impressed with how the game came out. "It has more characters than I have ever seen, more characters that you yourself can take the identity of," he said. "They use their powers exactly the way they do in the comics, yet it's highly original and a new experience."

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 hit store shelves back in September 15th for PS3, PSP, PS2, Xbox 360, Wii, and DS.

Watch: Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 launch trailer

Sony not worried by price gap between PSP and PSP Go in Japan

2009-09-27T16:15:00.001-07:00

Now that Sony has announced a price cut for the PSP-3000 in Japan, there will be a sizable gap between that and the forthcoming PSP Go. Problem is, there's still plenty of doubt as to the potential of the latter in making sales. Considering that the PSP-3000 can run UMDs, is compatible with existing accessories, and can be ChickHENabled, the PSP Go might lose a lot of attention to its older brother. What say you Sony? No problemo.

"That's fine. We have no intention to stop producing the PSP-3000," said Sony Worldwide Studios head Shuhei Yoshida, who assures PSP gamers that games will still be released in both UMD and digital form. While he did note that some games will be download-only, major titles will still be available for both. "We will continue supporting the UMD format," Yoshida added.

What still needs answering is that how Sony will get consumers to opt for the Go over a more practical PSP-3000. Well, we'll be keeping an eye on the sales charts when they come.

Media Create software sales 9/14 - 9/20: Handhelds fever

2009-09-26T16:15:00.001-07:00

We've been so attuned to the hardware sales charts the past couple of weeks, thanks to Media Create, so for a change, let's veer our sights to softwares. For the week of September 14-20, Pokemon Soul Silver and HeartGold take spots number 1 and 2, respectively.

And they're handheld-dominated too. The only console title that made it to the list is Tales of Vesperia for the PS3. Check them out below

[NDS] Pokemon Soul Silver (Pokemon Co.) 225,579 / 948,000
[NDS] Pokemon Heart Gold (Pokemon Co.) 220,554 / 941,000
[PS3] Tales of Vesperia (Namco Bandai) 216,593 / NEW
[PSP] Jikkyou Powerful Pro Yakkyuu Portable 4 (Konami) 104,377 / NEW
[NDS] SaGa 2: Hihou Densetsu Goddess of Destiny (Square Enix) 91,547 / NEW
[NDS] Tomodachi Collection (Friend Collection) (Nintendo) 72,629 / 1,124,000
[PSP] Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D s Tag Force 4 (Konami) 50,697 / NEW
[PSP] Ys Seven (Nihon Falcom) 33,349 / NEW
[NDS] Dragon Quest IX: Defenders of the Starry Sky (Square Enix) 32,603 / 3,914,000
[NDS] Idolmaster: Dearly Stars (Namco Bandai) 30,786 / NEW

SCEA scraps UMD good will program for PSP Go

2009-09-25T16:15:00.001-07:00

Bad, bad, bad news for PSP owners who are still thinking about getting the PSP Go. If you take the plunge and do buy one, you better hold on to your UMD drive-equipped PSP. That UMD goodwill program that Sony hoped to put in place has apparently been nixed.

"We were evaluating a UMD conversion program, but due to legal and technical reasons we will not be offering the program at this time," a Sony Computer Entertainment of America spokesman told gaming blog Kotaku.

While the "at this time" remark still offers a glimmer of hope, I imagine that this will be a huge addition to the "Con" side of the table for those who already have sizable UMD collections. Those whose first PSP system will be the Go won't be too affected, I think.

Gamers in Europe have it a bit easier, though, thanks to the free games Sony is offering over there to those who upgrade to the Go. So far that particular rewards program has only been confirmed for territories under SCEE.

Sony to offer new digital copies for old UMD games

Upgrade to PSP Go, get three games for free

2009-09-24T16:17:00.001-07:00

In an effort to entice current PSP owners to Go and upgrade to the new PSP model, Sony is launching a "PSP Go Rewards" program, where you can get your hands on three games free of charge. Read on and find out how.

First, you have to register a PSP Go on PSN. Then you have to log into PSN using your old PSP with a UMD in the drive. From there, you can download a PSP Go Theme and receive an email carrying a voucher.

This voucher will let you download any three games out of this list of 17:

Buzz!: Brain Bender
Buzz!: Master Quiz
Daxter
Echochrome
Everybody's Golf PSP
Killzone: Liberation
Lemmings PSP
LocoRoco
MediEvil
Patapon
Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice
Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
Resistance: Retribution
SOCOM: US Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo 3
Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror
Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow
WipEout Pure

PSP Go Rewards will be running from the PSP Go's day one, October 1st, until March 31st in 2010. The offer is available for those with any of the current PSP models, 1000-3000.

As for the download, there's no word on whether or not it requires FW 6.00 to access. Naturally, Sony's not gonna tell us about their security specs, but it's possible that they have taken steps on that regard. We'll let you guys know if we find anything further.

NBA Live 10 dev diary: the Dynamic Season

2009-09-23T16:15:00.001-07:00

It's no secret that Electronic Arts is pinning high hopes for NBA Live 10 (Xbox 360, PS3, PSP). If they're planning to catch up to 2K Sports like they said they would, then they'd better shape up and bring it. One of their pitches is the Dynamic Season feature, which we can learn more about through this dev diary.

An interesting feature, to say the least. For one thing, it'll keep you up to speed in the current NBA Season, plus you're gonna be hoping extra that your team keeps winning and the guys stay the hell out of injury. As far as realism goes, it's pretty cool, but not that far from what 2K Sports already has.

They did say that NBA Live 10 will change the way we play the game, and not in a market-speak sort of way too. So maybe they have more tricks up their sleeve to keep up with the competition.

More for NBA Live 10:

NBA Live 10 blocks and rebounds vid

Watch: the making of MotorStorm: Arctic Edge part three

2009-09-22T16:15:00.001-07:00

Have you been following the video posts from Bigbig studios? Today we've got the third part of their behind-the-scenes looks at the making of MotorStorm: Arctic Edge for the PSP. If you're looking forward for more brutal, high-octane offroad road rage, then you're in for another treat.

More and more it looks like Bigbig Studios just might indeed be one of the best-looking PSP games ever. You gotta give these guys major credit for the work they put into making it - they actually went to the frozen lakes and roads of Alaska for research. Good for them, the game looks fantastic. Can't wait.

More for MotorStorm: Arctic Edge:

Watch: the making of MotorStorm: Arctic Edge

Apple: PSP and DS just not cool anymore, overpriced too

2009-09-21T16:15:00.001-07:00

The claws are out -- and from Apple, wouldn't you know! Phil Schiller, Apple's marketing VP main man, is calling out the PSP and the DS, handheld gadgets from Sony and Nintendo respectively, for being overpriced. And not being cool anymore. Kssshhh...

"When [DS and PSP] came out, they seemed so cool," said Shiller. "But once you play a game on the iPod touch, you think 'hey, these things aren't so cool any more..."

Wearing out that coolness factor isn't the only problem. "We're talking about 25, 30, 40 dollars a title. These kids can't afford those titles. Worse isn't the price, it's the buying experience." As opposed to their games -- all 21,178 of them, not to mention the up and coming hot titles such as Assassin's Creed II from Ubisoft and the music game Riddim Ribbon.

Apple's definitely making it known they're putting themselves in the handhelds race now, flat and square. Well, Sony and Ninty? What say you? With these points raised by Apple, making a comeback with "It's not really in the same league as us, hence it's not a competition" won't suffice, methinks.

Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep has a multiplayer co-op game mode

2009-09-20T16:15:00.001-07:00

RPGs are great games, especially if you don't feel like stepping out or you just want to get some alone-time with a great game. But have you ever wished that you could play some RPGs with other players? Well, Square Enix probably did. The latest issue of the Japanese gaming mag, V-Jump, has it that Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep has a multiplayer co-op game mode.

Using the PSP's adhoc capabilities, up to three players can play together in the Mirage Arena, where players can play special co-op levels, or replay bosses that the three of you can gank. Square Enix also added a few unique touches to the multiplayer gameplay, allowing players to cast buffs and healing magic on allies.

That's pretty much it for now, but we'll probably learn more come TGS, so stay tuned for updates.

Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep vids:

Yuusha no Kuse ni Namaikida: 3D gets official site, debut trailer

2009-09-18T16:15:00.001-07:00

It's official. Sony will be releasing a third game in their quirky dungeon-building series. An official website for the new title, Yuusha no Kuse ni Namaikida: 3D, has gone live and it features the game's debut trailer.

As you saw in the trailer above, the game's not really in 3D. Apparently, the "3D" in the title refers to the game's dungeons. Previous games, including the US release Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman!, only had one. In 3D, you'll get two additional dungeons apart from the standard Main Dungeon. 3D will also feature new monsters and the introduction of water into the mix.

Sony teasing third Namaikida game?

Namco Bandai ready for TGS, lineup revealed

2009-09-17T16:15:00.001-07:00

You can really feel the gaming expo heat building up when more and more publishers start handing out their lineups. We've seen quite a lot of games coming to TGS 2009 by now, and adding to that list is Namco Bandai, bringing games from franchises that the merged companies are well-known for.

Playable

Tekken 6 (PS3/360)
Gundam vs. Gundam Next Plus (PSP)
Super Robot Taisen Neo (Wii)
Macross Ultimate Frontier (PSP)
Tales of Vesperia (PS3)
Tales of Graces (Wii)
Summon Night X: Tears Crown (DS)
Blue Dragon (DS)
.hack//Link (PSP)
God Eater (PSP)
Dragon Ball Raging Blast (PS3/360)
Naruto Shippuuden Narutimate Accel 3 (PSP)
Idol Master Dearly Stars (DS)
Queen s Blade Spiral Chaos (PSP)
Kimi ni Todoke: Sodateru Omoi (DS)
Fullmetal Alchemist: Senaka wo Takuseshi Mono (PSP)
Element Hunter (DS)
Battle Spirits Kiseki no Hasha (PSP)
Kaiju Busters (DS)

Video only

Mahou Shojo Lyrical Nano ha A s Portable (PSP)
Battle Spirits Heroes Soul (PSP)
Tamagotchi no Nari Kiri Channe (DS)
Fresh Pretty Cure! Asobi Collection (DS)
Dora Base 2 (DS)
Kamen Rider Climax Heroes (PS2)
Taiko no Tatsujin Wii (Wii)
Anpanman to Touch de Waku Waku Training (DS)
Family Trainer 1&2 (DS)
Gundam Network Operation 3 (PC)

Tekken, Dragon Ball, Gundam, Tales, .hack//Link, Naruto, FMA. Strong lineup right there. I wonder what Namco Bandai has left to show about Tekken 6 though, I'm itching to get my claws on that one. Any games on that list on your wishlist?

More TGS 2009 lineups:

Sega rolls out TGS lineup

2009-09-16T16:15:00.001-07:00

TGS is getting ready to explode and we have another publisher revealing its lineup for the event. So if TGS was indeed an explosion, what Sega shrapnel are we gonna be seeing? Check the list out right here.

Bayonetta (PS3/Xbox 360)
Puyo Puyo 7 (DS/Wii/PSP)
The House of the Dead: Overkill (Wii)
Chin Sports (Wii)
Super Monkey Ball Athletic (Wii)
J League Make a Pro Soccer Club! 6 Pride of J (PSP)
Phantasy Star Portable 2 (PSP)
Resonance of Fate (PS3/Xbox 360)
MADWORLD (Wii)
Up (Wii)
Ryu Ga Gotoku 4 (PS3)
Valkyria Chronicles 2 (PSP)
Lunar: Harmony of Silver Star (PSP)
Little Busters! Converted Edition (PS2)
Tomoyo After It's a Wonderful Life CS (Xbox 360)
Poup e Girls DS (DS)
Umihara Kawase (DS)
Kyokugen Dasshutsu (DS)
Coropata (DS)

Long list over here, but don't expect the entire slate to hit the US. Pretty strong lineup I'd say. See some titles you like? I know I'll be keeping my eyes on Lunar. What about you guys?

More TGS lineups:

Persona 3 Portable - Fighting The Shadows vid, boxart

2009-09-15T16:15:00.001-07:00

Checking for more Persona 3 Portable updates? Today's your lucky day. The game's official site posted some new updates, so you can have your fill of the Atlus RPG for now. What we've got today is the Persona 3 Portable official boxart, plus a cool gameplay vid.

Gameplay vid's a little shorter than I would prefer, but at least we have a bigger picture of how well the game plays. Still, they could've tossed in an extra enemy or something. The boxart, on the other hand, looks pretty cool. Now you know what colors to spot when looking for the game. Japanese retailers will be selling Persona 3 Portable by November 1st.

More Persona 3 Portable details here:

Persona 3 Portable details, screens, opening movie

Brandon Roy graces the cover of NBA 10: The Inside

2009-09-14T16:15:00.001-07:00

Making it to the cover of a video game says a lot about an athlete's mad skills. With his awesome performance last season and many other creds under his belt, the Portland Trailblazers' Brandon Roy snagged the cover of the PSP-exclusive from SCEA, NBA 10: The Inside.

The 2007 Rookie of the Year will be playing his fourth season in the NBA when the new season kicks off this October. Since being drafted 6th overall, Roy made his presence felt by being part of the All-Rookie Team in 2007, All-NBA Second Team in 2009, and two consecutive appearances in the All-Star team in 2008 and 2009.

Convincing? Hell yes. For more info about NBA 10: The Inside, you can check out the related post or the source link below.

SCEA's announcement:

SCEA announces PSP-exclusive sports title, NBA 10: The Inside

PSP homebrew - PCE for PSP v0.82a3

2009-09-13T16:15:00.001-07:00

Another round of update for the TurboGrafx-16 (also known as PC Engine) emulator for the PSP has been released by an unknown Japanese coder. The latest release is a stability update to further improve the homebrew.

So give it a try guys and tell us what you think about the latest release. You can grab the update via the download link below. Enjoy.

Download: PCE for PSP v0.82a3

Previews article:

PSP homebrew - PCE for PSP v0.82a3

Fake or legit? PSP CFW 6.00 beta video

2009-09-12T16:15:00.001-07:00

Well, well, what have we here? It hasn't been long since the GEN team announced that they've decrypted the newly-released PSP FW 6.00, and now we have this video claiming that a working CFW 6.00 can be released soon. Do we have a real one on our hands? Or is this just another YouTube hoax? See for yourself.

Author of this vid is Mack, who insists that his 6.00 MAC-B isn't fake. He promises to release the download soon, with extra colors and the network update rename. With no plans of a CFW 6.00 M33, this one came with a bit of surprise, so don't get your hopes up just yet.

Let the scrutinizing commence.

Thanks to Zac Isaac for the heads up!

Fw 6.00 updates:

Sony: popular PSP Minis games could end up on UMD, PS3

2009-09-11T16:15:00.001-07:00

As part of their initiative to entice developers for their PSP Minis service (and probably to remind gamers that they haven't forgotten about UMD yet), Sony has hinted at the prospect of Minis eventually being released on the PSP's proprietary UMD format. Not only that, thse bite-sized games could also end up making the jump to the PS3.

Sony Europe s Zeno Colaco recently told Develop that it's possible that the most popular Minis titles could end up in a collected UMD release in the future:

I think that a package of multiple Minis games on a single UMD is a real possibility at a later stage, where even a studio or publisher will put a collection of their own games on a single disc. We d be open to that.

Colaco conceded that the download-only Minis wouldn't necessarily make a killing in retail, but the chance to penetrate another revenue stream could prove to be an enticing opportunity for developers. Sony is also not ruling out eventual releases on other platforms such as the PS3:

These games won t need to necessarily be built for the home console, and I think these games will find their true life and identity in those micro-bursts of play. But I do think there s a possibility that Minis could find themselves on other consoles down the line.

Sony's PSP Minis service is due to launch along with the PSP Go on October 1. So far, 15 titles have been confirmed to be available at launch. All of these will be playable on all PSP models.

No plans for custom firmware 6.00 M33

2009-09-10T16:15:00.001-07:00

So official firmware 6.00 is here. As with every OFW release, there's bound to be speculation about what steps the homebrew community would counter the new protections it puts into place, and who do we all turn to but Dark AleX?

Those hoping for a 6.00 M33 release will likely end up waiting in vain, however. According to PSP Wiki and www.Dark-AleX.org admin Alek, there are currently no plans to release a custom firmware version of the latest official system update.

Here's what he posted on the PSP Wiki:

Please, don't ask here, the Blog, IRC, etc for a 6.00 M33, as it isn't planned.

Tough break. I've actually been looking forward to upgrading past 5.00M33-6. Still, those looking for their CFW fix have other avenues to turn to now.

Thanks to shadownhero for the tip!

PSP FW 6.00 now out! UPDATE Official changelog

Rumor: PSP firmware 6.0 coming tomorrow, changelog revealed

2009-09-09T16:15:00.001-07:00

The latest PSP firmware 6.0 is coming tomorrow, that's according to a very reliable source of PS3-Sense.nl. And to prove that it's real, the source has released the official changelog of the firmware update. If you may recall just days ago, Allison Walter of NIS America accidentally announced via the EU PlayStaion Blog that a new PSP firmware is indeed coming before September 10. Check out the changes after the break.

PSP firmware 6.00 changelog:

Playstation Store Games can now be grouped and displayed in folders based on their expire date under [GAME]
Importing of playlist from the Media GO! applications is now supported under Music
Under [Settings] - [Network Update] has been chnaged to [System Update]
The number of Colors that can be selected under [Settings] > [Theme Settings] has been increased
In [Display Panel Close Options] under [Settings] > [System Settings], the design for the [Standard] oprion has been changed
The PSP Go! system can now connect to the Internet via a Bluetooth modem such as a mobile phone

We're still tagging this one as rumor until the real thing is released, so let's see how tomorrow goes.

Rumor: PSP firmware 6.0 coming this week?

Sony bringing new tech to PS3, PSP via upcoming SDK updates

2009-09-08T16:15:00.001-07:00

Sony just keeps on pumping out some interesting technology for the PS3 console. 3D's already been dated for next year, and there's another piece of tech that allows for ridiculously high-resolution imaging not just on PS3 but on its handheld sibling as well.

The tech, which is apparently already being used on a Japanese release calendar program available on the Japanese PlayStation Store, can seamlessly enlarge or reduce image data, and even allows developers to add a variety of content, including movies, into the images. What impresses me most is that it's also possible on the PSP.

An upcoming SDK update will give developers access to the tech, although Sony hasn't given out a specific date yet. Check out the vid below for a demo.

Another piece of Sony tech that is being readied for developer use is the voice recognition system being used in SingStar. In the game, the tech allows users to navigate their song library by calling out voice commands.

The voice recognition technology is still Sony exclusive, but just like the high-res imaging tech, it will be made available for other developers via an upcoming SDK update. Again, check out the vid below for a demo.

PS3's 3D mode coming next year, Sony planning full-scale 3D tech rollout

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1178

2009-09-07T16:15:00.001-07:00

Another round of update for the PlayStation Portable emulator for PC written in Java is now available courtesy of the JPCSP Team. The latest JPCSP revision offers some more performance improvements and bug fixes.

Changelog:

Revision 1178: improved directory IO behaviour for apps under the ms0 directory
Revision 1177: Added LOP Ge command(tested with Logic Sample). Small fix for VFPU instruction V
Revision 1176: added support for reading version from optional file jpcsp/title.txt, prints in
Revision 1175: Fixed native code sequences for "Hot Wheels Ultimate Racing"
Revision 1174: More Native Code patterns for the Compiler (from Posts with Profiler info)
Revision 1173: Fix for applications sending FBW before FBP (e.g. Dragoneer's Aria)
Revision 1172: Enable GL_DEPTH_TEST when clearing depth buffer: this is fixing SEGA Rally and D
Revision 1171: Implemented texture storage TPSM_PIXEL_STORAGE_MODE_16BIT_INDEXED and TPSM_PIXEL
Revision 1170: cb3: deleting Profiler.java in wrong location
Revision 1169: cb3: attempting to restore Profiler.java
Revision 1168: cb3: attempting to restore Profiler.java

Download: JPCSP v0.3 revision 1178

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1167

Rumor: PSP firmware 6.0 coming this week?

2009-09-06T16:15:00.001-07:00

Earlier last week, we reported about Sony releasing a brand new firmware for developers. Don't look now, it seems the same firmware is heading to our PSP's real soon. How soon?

While answering some fan question regarding the Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman! What Did I Do To Deserve This? Demo, Allison Walter of NIS America said that expect firmware 6.0 to be released on or before September 10:

Hi Killzone_Kid! This is what has been decided for the Badman demo: we're going to re-release it next Thursday, 10 Sept, by which time Firmware 6.0 should have been released. Sorry for the wait!

If the post is true, then we can expect a new firmware update sometime this week. Stay tuned.

Sony rolls out PSP firmware 6.0 beta for developers

Number 10 in the Top 10 most popular

2009-09-05T16:15:00.001-07:00

This wallpaper has had 2348452 views and was submitted by John Slater

New Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep trailer confirms 2009 release

2009-09-04T16:15:00.001-07:00

Square Enix has released a new video for Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep. While that in itself is good news for those eager to lap up any and all info about this game, we also got something better: a much tighter release window.

According to the new trailer, Birth By Sleep will be in Japanese retail stores this year, which effectively cuts down the Winter release window to December 2009. An overseas release has still not been confirmed, but Disney's bound to make Square Enix put out a localized version, maybe even as early as the first half of 2010 if everything goes well.

PSP homebrew - GoblinPSP v2.5.1.0

2009-09-03T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder Moscas has released a new update for GoblinPSP, a multipurpose homebrew utility that allows you to manage your files, back up your data, launch programs, upgrade your custom firmware and manage your plugins The latest update has bumped up the homebrew to version 2.5.1.0.

Version 2.5.1.0 changelog:

If you are upgrading from a version lower than v2.0.0.0 you must uninstall GoblinPSP
Fixed BUG
Fixed language
Improved management of the Setup implementing the creation of the link on the "Desktop" and the menu "Start-> Programs"
Disable the Desktop Management link from the Admin

Download: GoblinPSP v2.5.1.0

PSP homebrew - GoblinPSP v2.5.0.1

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1167

2009-09-02T16:15:00.001-07:00

The JPCSP team is back to release another hefty load of updates for the PlayStation Portable emulator for PC written in Java. The latest JPCSP update features some performance improvements coupled with some bug fixes.

Changelog:

Rev1167: Removed the degree sign from the rotation dialog to fix a bug in the displayed t
Rev 1166: Fix for MotoGP.
Rev 1165: Trying better fix for r1154. Please test again! If this works better, code clean
Rev 1164: Fixed handling of alpha in GU_COLOR_5650 and GU_COLOR_5551. Tested on PSP with 2
Rev 1163: Updated "2D Studio" to test different color types in vertex.
Rev 1162: cb3: Merged trunk -> callback3 r1139-1151 inclusive. Fixed problem introduced in
Rev 1161: Added missing display get mode to syscall handler (thanks raziel).
Rev 1160: cb3: copying project files from trunk (seg fault...)
Rev 1159: cb3: copying project files from trunk
Rev 1158: Update callback3 for the Compiler
Rev 1157: Fix for "Twisted Metal: Head-On": trying to display VertexInfo with invalid addr
Rev 1156: Fixed handling of GU_VERTEX_8BIT in r1152 Added Debug info to VertexInfo
Rev 1155: Fixed handling of GU_VERTEX_16BIT in r1152
Rev 1154: Reverted change done in r1063 as this seems to break a lot of 3D games (e.g. Ska
Rev 1153: Forgot file
Rev 1152: Improved Performance for reading VertexInfo: try to use elements directly in Ope
Rev 1151: cb3: save/restore thread status when entering/exiting a callback. fixed an outda

Download: JPCSP v0.3 revision 1167

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1150

Sega serving up Yakuza 4, Valkyria Chronicles 2, more at TGS 2009

2009-09-01T16:15:00.001-07:00

With GamesCom out of the way, there's still another games event on the calendar: the Tokyo Game Show. For this year's TGS, Sega will be showing off a pretty balanced lineup that includes handheld sequel Valkyria Chronicles 2, the PS3 and Xbox 360 RPG End of Eternity, and PS3 exclusive Yakuza 4. Here's the complete list:

The House of the Dead Overkill (Wii)
Bayonetta (PS3/X360)
Chin Sports (Wii)
Let's Make a Pro Soccer Club! 6 Pride of J (PSP)
Phantasy Star Portable 2 (PSP)
End of Eternity (PS3/X360)
Puyo Puyo 7 (Wii, NDS, PSP)
Valkyria Chronicles 2 (PSP)
Yakuza 4 (PS3)

Note that according to Andriasang, Yakuza 4 isn't listed at the official site but is included in press materials Sega handed out hence its inclusion.

Also, Sega didn't make it clear which of the games above would be playable, but Platinum Games did say at the recent Feel Bayonetta event that the DMC-style hair-transforming action game would be playable.

TGS 2009 will take place from September 24 to September 27 at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan.

QuickJump QuickPeek 87: Face-off now on: you got those price cuts you wanted, now get those numbers up

2009-08-30T16:15:00.001-07:00

Exciting past couple of weeks, eh? The price cuts mad rush continued on this week with Microsoft joining in on the bandwagon. Meanwhile, Nintendo's sitting prettily and quietly, choosing the status quo, because, hey, they're on top in the status quo. Wouldn't want to change a thing about that now, would you?

It's also one event after the another, from E3 to GamesCom to upcoming PAX and TGS... if this does not revive interest in the industry, I don't know what will. This latter half of the calendar year is just bursting at the seams, and we've got a portion of all that action here in this nice little bundle for you stamped as QuickJump QuickPeek 87.

Read on.

Again, another good week for the QJ PSP blog. Quite a few big game news from the East to the West, including big guns Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep and Rockstar's Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars. It wasn't all fun and games, though, as we also saw a cautionary tale for those who don't listen to their mothers and get into cars with strangers. PSA time, folks! Here's this week's edition of the PSP Weekend Warrior.

Link: PSP Weekend Warrior

Quite a few theories sprung up during the latter half of the week when it was announced that Dark AleX's forums were shutting down. Did it mean that the homebrew legend was leaving the scene? Did Sony shell out the cash to shut him up? Are we going to see a new version of the retire-and-reemerge trick? Yeah, theories. While we wait for word from the "Dark" one himself, let's take a look at the week in homebrew.

Link: PSP Homebrew Weekend Warrior

Fallout from GamesCom's big PS3 announcements continued to rain down on the PS3 blog this week. The PS3 Slim was still high in the jump counts, thanks to Sony putting its whole weight behind getting the word out to the masses with rebranding, ad campaigns, the works. It seems to be working too, as the Slim has reportedly sold out in some retailers even before the console's official launch. Yep, I bet Sony guys are flying pretty damn high right now. All that and more in the PS3 Weekend Warrior.

Link: PS3 Weekend Warrior

The biggest thing that you missed this week on the Xbox 360 blog is the back and forth dance towards the Xbox 360 Elite price cut. The good thing is that all's well that ends well. We did get the official announcement of the Elite price cut, but unfortunately, we did have to say goodbye to the Pro model. Oh well. We can't have everything, I guess. Read on for more news and updates on your much-awaited games.

Link: Xbox 360 Weekend Warrior

With Sony and Microsoft now busy making their marketing push for the holidays, you gotta wonder what Nintendo is planning to do about it, especially considering that we haven't heard from any of the Nintendo execs for a while now. Are they gonna slim the Wii down too and call it the Wee Wii? Good grief I sure hope not. For the news that did come out over the week, you can catch it all on this edition of the Nintendo Weekend Warrior.

Link: WiiDS Weekend Warrior

This week's news revolves around things to come for the iPhone, and the iPod Touch. Also coming soon is a new iPod, so you should definitely check this one out. Read on for the complete run-down.

Link: iPhone Weekend Warrior

Industry News:

GamesCom was definitely a success. Don't believe us? Just check out that number of visitors throughout the week-long event. If you missed out on GamesCom, then worry not cos there's another chance you might want to grab, and it's TGS 2009 (PAX 2009 would be more practical given that it's just in Washington, though). It's happening in ... erm.. Tokyo this year, and Capcom, for one, has already confirmed their attendance, promising to bring "several" new titles with them.

Link: GamesCom 2009 a success, welcomed 245,000
Link: Capcom prepping "several" new titles for TGS

For our WTF segment this week, we've got Ozzy Osbourne elucidating on his favorite video games. Now if only he could finish his damned sentence, we'd know what it is.

Even more WTF than bat-eating Ozzy's adorable mumbling is the story of this idiot guy, who tried to leech off the free Wi-Fi in the library so he could play some Xbox 360. He did. And got kicked out in the process as well. His picture now rests on the library's Hall of Shame.

Link: Ozzy was hooked on a video game, guess what it is
Link: Fail! Man plays Xbox 360 at a library... gets kicked out

QJ Front Page:

Part 2 of our Dissidia: Final Fantasy special is here!

Link: QJ Special: A spoilerific Dissidia: Final Fantasy character roundup, Part 2

That's it for this week. Keep 'em all jumpin! We'll see you next week for more hot news and updates, only here at QJ!

PSN US Update - 28th August 2009

2009-08-28T16:15:00.001-07:00

Ok, so after a one day delay, the latest US PlayStation Store update is now available for download. Headlining this week lineup is a new downloadable game Invincible Tiger: The Legend of Han Tao, three new PSOne classics including Tomb Raider 2 and SimCity 2000 and more. Also available this week are four new game demos for WET, Dirt 2, NHL 10 and F.E.A.R. 2.

Downloadable Games

Invincible Tiger: The Legend of Han Tao (US 14.99)

PSone Classics PS3 / PSP

CoolBoarders 2 (US 5.99)
Tomb Raider 2 (US 5.99)
SimCity 2000 (US 5.99)

Game Demos

WET Demo
DiRT 2 Demo
NHL 10 Demo
F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin

Add-on Game Content

Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen Maps & Characters DLC (US 9.99)
LittleBigPlanet Artist Vera Bee Sticker Pack (US 1.99)
Crash Commando Add-On Bundle (US 4.99)
Crash Commando Heist Map Pack (US 2.99)
Crash Commando Character Pack 1 (US 1.99)
Crash Commando Character Pack 2 (US 1.99)
Crash Commando Character Pack 3 (US 1.99)
Cross Edge Add TP (US 1.99)
Cross Edge Add G (US 1.99)
Cross Edge Add EP (US 1.99)
Cross Edge Add PP 1 (US 1.99)
Cross Edge Add PP 2 (US 1.99)
Fight Night Round 4 Champions Pack (US 4.99)
Rock Band

Mony Mony Billy Idol (US 1.99)
Rebel Yell Billy Idol (US 1.99)
Don t Stop Fleetwood Mac (US 1.99)
World Turning Fleetwood Mac (US$1.99)
She s a Genius Jet (US 1.99)
I Won t Back Down Tom Petty (US 1.99)
Runnin Down a Dream Tom Petty (US 1.99)

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed Tatooine Mission Pack (US 9.99)
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2010 Wolf Creek (US 4.99)

PlayStation Store for PSP
Add-on Game Content

Rock Band Unplugged (also available from PS3 storefront)

Black Sunshine White Zombie (US 1.99)
She s Not There The Zombies (US 1.99)

PSP homebrew - Game Categories v4

2009-08-27T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder Bubbletune is back to release a new update for Game Categories plugin, a handy homebrew plugin that lets you categorize and organize your PSP's Game menu. the latest update has added support for 5.50 GEN, new mode, new options, language support and more.

Developer's note:

This was mainly implemented because of the new integration with vsh, and it didn't look good to have an English string in other languages. You can translate the plugin by creating a text file at ms0:/seplugins/game_categories_xx.txt, where xx is the language code of your language. A list of language codes can be found in the readme. Note that if you just changed your language in vsh, you need to reboot to make the changes active (this will be fixed in a future version). A file game_categories_en.txt is included for translation purposes, but not necesarry to copy to your PSP, as English is embedded inside the plugin.

Version 4 changelog:

Recoded entire project.
Added support for 5.50 GEN.
Added new mode, "Context menu", see below for more information (this replaces pre-game-menu mode).
Added new option under System Settings to pick your mode instead of the ctrl combo.
Added possibility to translate the plugin to your own language.
Order of your categories is now calcuated from their modification time instead of randomly.
Changed remap code, a lot of character and count limits should now be gone or decreased, including SCE limits.
Show All option was removed in order to aid the removal of certainth limits.
Fixed compatibility with a lot plugins.

.
Download: Game Categories v4

PSP homebrew - Game Categories Plugin v3

PSP homebrew - DSONPSP Beta 4 with source code

2009-08-26T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder Yoshihiro has dropped by our forums to release a new update for DSONPSP, the Nintendo DS emulator for the PSP based on DeSmuME. The latest update features a much improved speed, language config and more fixes. The source code of the game is also now available for download.

Beta 4 changelog:

Speedup.
More Fixe game freeze.
Source Code For PSP not cleanned and not debug.
Language config

Download: DSONPSP Beta 4 with source code
Discuss: QJ.NET's PSP Development forums

PSP homebrew - DSONPSP Beta 3

PSP homebrew - DayPR Rev.5 Alpha

2009-08-25T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coders lilmnm, kamikaze and the rest of team Rad Phoenix has released a new update for DayPR, a mod of SANiK's NitePR custom cheat code plugin for the PSP. The latest release has added RemoteJoyLite support, configuration, themes, new GUI and more.

Developer's note:

This release Will include RemoteJoyLite, configuration, themes, Bold Text, a even better looking GUI, and an updated Game's Name code that shows the Real name of the game you are playing along with the Game's ID. I have two PRXs One with RemoteJoyLite and one without it. The one with out RemoteJoy has no major bugs, but the one with it RemoteJoy may cause your PSP to Freeze and Crash. Please let me know right away if there are any bugs that i didnt get so i can fix them right away.

Download: DayPR Rev.5 Alpha
Discuss: QJ.NET's PSP Development Forums

PSP homebrew - DayPR Rev.5

Video: A short and sweet Valkyria Chronicles 2 teaser

2009-08-24T16:15:00.001-07:00

When I say short, I mean it. This first trailer for Valkyria Chronicles 2 clocks in at only 15 seconds, just enough to tease strategy fans and show off the game a bit. Check it out below.

I'd have preferred the old graphics over the anime cutscenes shown in the vid, but realistically speaking, asking for those gorgeous graphics to be transported to the PSP is a bit too much. Still a day one purchase if it gets an overseas release.

Valkyria Chronicles 2 will be out in Japan later this year as Senjou no Valkyria 2 Gallia Royal Academy.

QJ Special: A spoilerific Dissidia: Final Fantasy character roundup, Part 2

2009-08-23T16:15:00.001-07:00

One of the most anticipated titles for the PlayStation Portable this year is Square Enix's Dissidia: Final Fantasy. The game brings together stars from all of the main titles in the Final Fantasy franchise in one, big free-for-all where the victors will decide the fate of the world. For North American fans, the waiting ends in two days.

To celebrate Dissidia's upcoming release, we've put together a little primer on the characters that comprise the game's playable roster. Today we have Part 2 of a two-part feature where we focus on the representatives of the last six Final Fantasies (you can read Part 1here), so dig right in. Be warned, however: spoilers abound.

We kick off the second part of this QJ special with spiky-haired, Buster Sword-wielding Cloud Strife, arguably the most iconic and well-known Final Fantasy protagonist in the franchise's history. In Dissidia, Cloud's character has already moved past the events of Final Fantasy VII, meaning he's no longer a second-rate Zack Fair wannabe. His attacks are powerful, as suggested by the sheer size of the weapon he carries, and Dissidia's devs have stated that they made Cloud most suitable for the more casual players. That's understandable, seeing as he's most likely the one character even those not really into Final Fantasy would first recognize.

Following Cloud into the Dissidia universe is another Final Fantasy icon -- the One Winged Angel, Sephiroth. Sephiroth follows Cloud's character design by wielding another impossibly proportioned sword, Masamune. Unlike most of the villains in the Chaos camp, Sephiroth doesn't really seem to care one whit about controlling or destroying the world. He's just there to constantly and continually mess with Cloud, goading him into fights again and again. Kinda like a kid in grade school who doesn't know any other way to get his crush to notice him but by being a jerk. Haha, I kid, I kid.

Squall Leonheart is Final Fantasy VIII's representative in Dissidia's heroes roster. He comes equipped with his trademark Gunblade, which in my opinion is one of the cooler weapons ever introduced in the Final Fantasy franchise. As in Final Fantasy VIII, Squall is still a loner in Dissidia. Again like VIII, players can also tap the R button during his trademark Renzokuken's multiple hits to increase the attack's damage.

Dissidia's villains roster features two hot women. We already saw one back in Part 1 of this special feature, and the other is right here in the form of Ultimecia, the time-traveling sorceress who loved to possess others in Final Fantasy VIII. Ultimecia possesses great magic power and brings them to bear against her enemies in Dissidia to further her plans of world domination. Be careful of this one if you're playing as a more up-close-and-personal kind of fighter since as with the magic-users in Dissidia she specializes in ranged attacks.

Tantalus Theater Troupe member, master thief, and self-proclaimed Casanova Zidane Tribal is the lead character of Final Fantasy IX, so it makes sense that he's the one representing the game in Dissidia. He's also a breath of fresh air in the Final Fantasy franchise since he serves as a welcome break from the emo-ridden leads in the two previous Final Fantasy titles before IX. It was very welcome to me, anyway. Zidane's thief skills lend very well to fighting with speed and dexterity, so those who prefer to run rings around their enemies would do well to master his mid-air combat skills and fancy footwork.

In contrast to Zidane's happy-go-lucky nature, Final Fantasy IX bad guy Kuja is a cruel narcissist who thinks he's far superior everybody and everything. When he finds out that he's mortal, that he's gonna die somewhere down the line, he also turns into a total psycho. I'm convinced that he wasn't really all that sane to begin with anyway. Come on, look at that codpiece he's wearing and try to tell me that there's nothing wrong with this guy. Did you look? I'm sorry, but you can't unsee that now. He might share some outward similarities with Sephiroth in terms of looks but Kuja isn't much of a physical fighter, relying instead on flashy magical attacks.

We've seen brothers in this list before, so let's take the family relationships to the next level with the father-and-son tandem (albeit on opposite sides of the battle) from Final Fantasy X. Fighting for Cosmos is Tidus, Blitzball player extraordinaire and walking dream. No that, last thing doesn't imply that he's dreamy, he's literally a dream given form, although in his character design puts forth a much wilder aura compared to his appearance in DissidiaFinal Fantasy X. He's a star athlete so it's a given that Tidus is physically fit. In Dissidia, his Blitzball skills manifest in him being one of the fastest attackers.

Standing over on Chaos' side looking like a total badass is Tidus' father Jecht. In Dissidia, Jecht is a returner in the struggle between Cosmos and Chaos. He was originally on the side of the good guys, but ended up on Chaos' team in this particular war. Bit of a nod there to Final Fantasy IX, where Jecht fought to save the world before being turned into another core for Sin. Jecht shares some similarities with Golbez in that he's not really a bad guy per se. He's also the most visibly older character in the game and has the distinction of being one of the very few Dissidia villains to focus mainly on physical attacks.

For the final two characters in the Dissidia roster, we turn to a pair of entrants from two separate Final Fantasy titles. Representing Final Fantasy XI and rounding out the heroes' side is Shantotto, a famous professor of magic. Shantotto is an extra character in Dissidia so she doesn't really serve any purpose in the game's storyline aside from being one of the heroes who fought for the side of Cosmos in the past, but her magic attacks are still fierce enough to be of use to players who prefer ranged combat. Plus, she's like tiny, which combined with her speed makes her a rather hard target to aim at.

The armor-clad Judge Gabranth essentially serves as Shantotto's evil counterpart in Dissidia. Just like the latter, Gabranth doesn't really have any impact on the game's main storyline since he's an extra character. He was also present in a previous battle between Chaos and Cosmos, helping out the bad guys at the same time Shantotto was in Cosmos' roster. Gabranth is not a character for newcomers to use, since there's this restriction on Gabranth's moveset that forces players to really strategize and carefully time their attacks if they want to emerge victorious playing as him. Definitely not for the button mashing set.

That's it for our two-part Dissidia: Final Fantasy character roundup. The game is officially out on August 25, so all you North American gamers don't have to wait too long to try out all these characters. Happy gaming, folks!

PSP homebrew - PSP Adhoc IM v1

2009-08-22T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder qwikrazor87 has dropped by our forums to release PSP Adhoc IM, a homebrew application for adhoc chatting for the PSP. The initial release features a PSP to PSP chatting, background customization, buzz and search feature.

PSP Adhoc IM version 1 features include:

Chatting from PSP to PSP obviously
Customization of the background color and message colors, for the messages they will have a glow color of the opposite color you chose for visibility reasons if you choose the same background theme color.
"Buzz" feature which is a "Boing" sound
PSP Search for PSP's using this application, your PSP will send you a message of the other PSP's nicknames which are in range. This is good to see how far the PSP's adhoc range is.

Download: PSP Adhoc IM v1
Discuss: QJ.NET's PSP Development forums

More PSP homebrews:

New PSP firmware 5.70 spotted at GamesCom

2009-08-21T16:15:00.001-07:00

Now here's an interesting video coming from GamesCom. During a test session at Sony's booth, MaGiXieN of PSPGen was able to film and test a new firmware for PSP Go. Now without further ado, here's your first look at PSP firmware 5.70 for PSP Go.

PSP homebrew - PSPTweaker v2.0

2009-08-20T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder ab5000 has released a new update for PSPTweaker, a homebrew tool that allows you to do various operations on your PSP like registry hacks, UMD dumping, and more. The latest update is the dev's entry for the ongoing NEO Summer Coding Compo 2009.

Version 2.0 changelog:

Added UMD dumper (ISO, title from SFO)
Added motherboards until TA-90 v2
Added Kirk and Spock version to Hardware Info
Now uses VLF 1.0
Some bugfixes

Download: PSPTweaker v2.0

More PSP homebrews:

Sony: No multiplayer in LittleBigPlanet PSP

2009-08-19T16:15:00.001-07:00

I've got some bad news for you folks. Unfortunately, LittleBigPlanet PSP will not support multiplayer. This was confirmed by Sony Cambridge during this week's Gamescom. More after the jump.

According to Mark Green, Senior Producer at SCEE Cambridge, they had to cut multiplayer out of LittleBigPlanet PSP in order to get it to work on the handheld:

The one thing we've lost is multiplayer. You've got full physics systems, you got full create mode, you've got all the aspects of LittleBigPlanet - you can upload, download, ad-hoc share with people - but we haven't got multiplayer. It's a trade-off. The system is physically capable of doing multiplayer, but perhaps not with the full physics system. On the technical side of things you lose a third of the processing power or a third of the system memory just to do multiplayer at all. With those limitations we couldn't achieve it.

This is a little bit disappointing if you asked me since multiplayer is a big part of the PS3 version. What do you think guys? Well, for the mean time, take a look at this new create mode trailer of the game.

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1145

2009-08-18T16:15:00.001-07:00

The JPCSP team has released a new update for the PlayStation Portable emulator for PC written in Java. The latest JPCSP revision has implemented some more bug fixes and performance improvement.

Changelog:

r1145: 2 more patterns for "Race Driver 2006 - USA - ULUS10096"
r1144: A lot of new native code sequences based on the profile logs...
r1143: Fix for ArrayIndexOutOfBoundsException in FastMemory.memset
r1142: Performance improvement for games storing compressed texture...
r1141: Implemented Java Native code for some Allegrex code patterns...
r1140: Added file header.

Download: JPCSP v0.3 revision 1145

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1131

CDC survey suggests gamers less healthy, more depressed than non-gamers

2009-08-17T16:15:00.001-07:00

The average age of a gamer is starting to edge higher. Gamers are also less healthy and more depressed than those who don't partake in our particular brand of entertainment. That's what a CDC survey suggests, at least.

A total of 500 adults aged 19 to 90 in the Seattle-Tacoma area of Washington state were surveyed by the government agency. The area was chosen since it reportedly has the highest internet usage level in the US and is one of the larger media markets.

Over 45 of the respondents reported that they played video games, with their average age at 35. Female gamers were found to be more depressed and less healthy compared to female non-gamers, while male gamers had a higher body mass index and a greater reliance on the internet than non-gamers.

What do you guys think? Sound off in the comments section.

PSP homebrew - XMB TweakShop for 5.00 M33

2009-08-16T16:15:00.001-07:00

PSP homebrew dev thecraziness1 has released XMB TweakShop, a gameboot editor built for CFW 5.00 M33. Formerly known as Gameboot Editor , this app lets you flash gameboots, bootsounds, bootlogos, waves, and even visualizers. It also has a recovery feature and a built-in file browser.

Here's what's been added since Gameboot Editor V.4 's release:

Improved security checks
Now will fully lock out HEN users to prevent damage from they're systems
More secure recovery options
A brand new recovery Eboot that can be run from the psp's recovery menu that will also allow you to restore your original recovery customization settings, and also run other programs from within the program so by launching the "RUN PROGRAM AT: PSP/ GAME / RECOVERY / EBOOT.PBP " option you can gointo recovery OR Run any other program / game on your memory stick.
You now have the ability to flash: Gameboots, 01-12 BMP's, Bootsounds, Clicksounds, Font, Icons, Bootlogos, OSK, Visualizer's, Volume Bars, and Waves.
Implemented the new UPDated version of PSPlugin Manager (which will now automatically install / Uninstall Lockdown XMB and choose the correct version for your PSP.
Full File Browser that lets you browse your memory stick for XMB Tweakshop compatible files and when selected the files will automatically be added to XMB Tweakshop and after they are added you will be asked to name the folder they are in.
You have the ability to flash one file at a time or with FlashGate you can select every file you want to flash and apply them all at once.
A SECRET Customizable that a lot of people don't know about. ( If you can find the button combination to access it)

Note that the download below doesn't come with any custom mod files as per QJ policy. You can still add them yourself, though. Check the readme or, better yet, visit our PSP Development forum for more info.

Download: XMB TweakShop for 5.00 M33
Visit: QJ.NET PSP Development forum

Holy Invasion of Privacy Badman coming to Europe next month

2009-08-15T16:15:00.001-07:00

Get your shovels ready Europe! Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman? What Did I do to Deserve This? is coming. NIS America announced earlier that the highly addictive dungeon making puzzle game will be heading to Europe next month, with a free demo coming to PSN on September 3.

According to Allison Walter, Product and Development Manager for Europe, NIS America is very excited to bring the localized version of Sony's Yuusha no Kuse ni Namaikida to the European shores:

Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman! boasts a retro-style visual flair that matches its throwback game style perfectly. And we think lots of people will be attracted to Badman, and won t be able to stop themselves from spending many sleepless nights with him!

Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman! What Did I Do to Deserve This? will be available both as digital download from PSN and UMD this September.

Holy Invasion of Privacy, Badman! reassured for Europe

Rumor: Sony leak reveals PSP Go games price point, actively recruiting iPhone developers

2009-08-14T16:15:00.001-07:00

With barely five days left until GamesCom, Sony has apparently been slapped with another major leak today as news broke about the price of PSP games for the rumored PSN App Store. According to Pocket Gamer, the upcoming PSP games will be priced at 1, 2 and 5 euros (US 1.43, US 4.28 and US $7.14), which is equivalent to games available in the Apple App Store.

But that's not all, according to reports, Sony has also been actively recruiting existing iPhone developers to bring existing titles to PSN:

Sony isn't taking a leaf out of Apple's book when it comes to easing the process of publishing, however. Games will continue to go through formal console-centric Technical Requirement Check (TRC) requirements, as well as a two week quality assurance testing period. Sony will also actively control the release schedule for games, although considering the current disquiet over Apple's laissez faire attitude to app approval and release, this might not be a bad thing.

Rockstar gives Beaterator a release date, game headed for PSN as well

2009-08-13T16:15:00.001-07:00

More than two years after they first unveiled it, Rockstar has finally given out a release date for Beaterator, the music mixing title they developed in collaboration with producer and rapper Timbaland. Well, better late than never, right?

Beaterator has been given a September 29 and October 2, 2009 release date in North America and Europe, respectively. The game was originally announced as being for the PSP only, but there's apparently a PSN version coming out on the same day as well. Maybe that's the main reason for the delay.

Initially created in 2005 as a Flash application on the Rockstar website, Beaterator features thousands of loops and sounds made by both Timbaland and Rockstar as well as robust beatmaking features. It's touted as being able to let anybody make professional-level music easily.

eLoader now in the works for Medal of Honor Heroes exploit

2009-08-12T16:15:00.001-07:00

Not long after it was found that the Medal of Honor Heroes exploit works on OFW 5.55, n00b81 reveals through his blog post that an eLoader is already in the works for the aforementioned exploit.

Better you take it from n00b81 himself:

While a HEN cannot be developed because of the lack of kmode vuln, m0skit0 and I are developing an eloader for use with the MOHH exploit. Keep in mind that this will be the first open-source eloader for the PSP, so it will take some time to develop ;)

It will work on all firmwares up to 5.55.

I'll keep everyone updated.

While you wait, why don't you guys talk about it in our PSP forums?

More on the Medal of Honor Heroes exploit:

PSP homebrew game - PSP Rubik's Cube v2.2

2009-08-11T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder Exter has released a new update for his brain twisting homebrew game PSP Rubik's Cube. The homebrew based on the classic Rubik's Cube game has gotten some new features and more fixes.

Version 2.2 changelog:

Changed: 36 degrees up view is now the default view.
Fixed: Game freeze when the PSP is put into sleep mode while the new cube menu was shown.
Added: Odd sized cuboids (slim towers and wide towers).

Download: PSP Rubik's Cube v2.2
Visit: QJ.NET's PSP Development Forums

PSP Rubik's Cube v2.0 released

PSP homebrew - Yabause 0.9.10 released

2009-08-10T16:15:00.001-07:00

The Yabause Team has finally released their own version of Yabause for the Sony PSP. Yabause is a Sega Saturn emulator under GNU GPL that currently runs on FreeBSD, GNU/Linux, Mac OS X, Windows, Dreamcast, PSP and Wii.

You can now test and download this version via the link below. For more info about the release, please read the README provided.

Download: Yabause 0.9.10

More Wii homebrews:

Medal of Honor Heroes exploit works on OFW 5.55

2009-08-09T16:15:00.001-07:00

Great news guys! It seems that the previously released Medal of Honor Heroes exploit version 2 for firmware 5.51 is also compatible with the latest firmware 5.55 that is currently included in games such as Evangelion: Jo and G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra. Here is a video proof courtesy of mamosuke.

UK High Street retailers say PSP Go is exciting, but download-only model and pricing are still causes for concern

2009-08-08T16:16:00.001-07:00

UK High Street retailers have said that while the PSP Go -- and the PSP series in general -- has a lot of exciting things coming for it, Sony's decision to opt for the decidedly non-retail friendly model of download-only games is a definite cause for concern. That, and the reportedly high price point.

There are a number of exciting things coming to fruition on the format and it feels like Sony are almost re-launching it," said Play.com's Keith Sharpe. "Potentially the next two years could be very good for PSP, especially with titles like GT5 (ed: he most likely means Gran Turismo) and LittleBigPlanet on the way.

HMV's commercial manager for games, Jonathan Hayes, however, points out that despite the PSP Go's great promise, there's still the matter of how Sony will address the retail problem.

From E3 we all thought that the PSPgo looked like a great new console at a size that makes it truly portable, he said. Our concerns are obviously with the non-retail model of downloading games."

However even if Sony do give retail a solution there are still questions to be answered on the RRP which needs to be below UK 200, Hayes added.

CHIPS' Don McCabe added that so far, customer reaction to the PSP Go has been negative. "I can t see anybody going for it if Sony confirm a high price tag. If we get customers through the door we will sell it, but that remains to be seen.

Sony, on the other hand, assured retailers that they're still a key part of the company's plans and that they'll still be supported "in terms of the PSP-3000":

In terms of the 3000, we re undertaking an unprecedented amount of activity throughout the summer and Christmas periods, highlighting the new range of colours, and for the first time in a long while, a range of first and third party software titles that really showcase the power and full potential of the PSP hardware.

I d argue that this commitment, from a marketing, sales and PR perspective, demonstrates our long term investment in the platform, and we see retail as a key part of these plans.

DiRT 2 will have 8-player online, unlockable Colin McRae memorial event

2009-08-07T16:15:00.001-07:00

Codemasters has confirmed that Colin McRae: DiRT 2 will feature eight-player online races. The number's a step down from their last racing game, but according to game design manager Ralph Fulton, it's not because of some technical limitation. Eight's just the right number.

Speaking at a Codemasters press event in London, Fulton stressed that while DiRT 2 will still be using the same engine that powered last year's Grid, the racing in DiRT 2 is a totally different beast.

In our extensive play-testing of Dirt 2, both internally and external focus tests, we found that these types of cars on these types of tracks, 12 players just gets a little crowded, and made crashing a bit too prevalent. That takes away crucially a lot of the fun of multiplayer competition.

We've found in our extensive testing that eight is the magic number and eight players is the sweet spot.Our PR guys are always on at us to have bigger numbers than the last game but in this instance smaller is better.

Fulton also gave out a few details about a special Colin McRae memorial event that will be unlocked at the end of the game:

At the end of the game, when the player has competed in world tours, when he has won the X Games of America, we think the fitting finale to the game is what we're calling the McRae Memorial Challenge.

This is a special one-off three stage rally in which the player will compete against Colin's own family, Jimmy and Alister McRae, and a host of as yet unannounced motor sports superstars. We'll be revealing a list of their names closer to our release date

Colin McRae: DiRT 2 is slated for a September release. The game will be available on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, DS and PSP.

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1129

2009-08-06T16:15:00.001-07:00

The latest compiled build of the PlayStation Portable emulator for PC written in Java is now available for download. The JPCSP Team has released revision 1129 of JPCSP for another round of stability upgrades.

Changelog:

Avoid "ArithmeticException: / by zero" when packetSize is 0

Download: JPCSP v0.3 revision 1129

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1128

Number 10 in the Top 10 most popular

2009-08-05T16:15:00.001-07:00

This wallpaper has had 2348417 views and was submitted by John Slater

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1128

2009-08-04T16:15:00.001-07:00

The JPCSP Team has once again released a new update for the Playstation Portable emulator for PC written in Java. The latest version of JPCSP has applied some new changes and more bug fixes.

Version 0.3 revision 1128 changelog:

r1128 Changed screenshot file nomenclature: Screenshots are now saved as "[Game Code]-Shot-[Numerical tag].png"
r1127 (Testing) Fix for the display bug: The canvas is now repainted when the mouse moves over the menu bar. Added screenshot taking: Under Options > Screenshot (or pressing F5). It saves the current display as a .png in the current directory.

Download: JPCSP v0.3 revision 1128

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1123

PSP homebrew - Homebrew Sorter Plugin v0.5

2009-08-03T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder L04d1ng has dropped by our forums to release Homebrew Sorter Plugin, a handy plugin for the PSP that automatically sorts all your favorite homebrews accordingly and displays them in the XMB.

The initial release only recognizes homebrews for now but the dev plans to add ISO files and PSX games in the next release. If you have any feedbacks about the release, feel free to contact the dev via the forum link below.

Download: Homebrew Sorter Plugin v0.5
Visit: QJ.NET's PSP Development Forums

More PSP homebrews:

PSP homebrew - PSP Action Replay Converter v0.30

2009-08-02T16:15:00.001-07:00

Another update courtesy homebrew coder raing3 as he released a new version of PSP Action Replay Converter, a simple homebrew app designed to convert the code file of PSP Action Replay into CWCheat or nitePR format. The latest update has added a new based conversion and a couple of bug fixes.

Version 0.30 changelog:

Added: Windows based conversion application, only CWCheat conversion.
Fixed: Issue returning from the PSPAR to nitePR menu.
Fixed: Crash if circle is enter.

Download: PSP Action Replay Converter v0.30
Visit: QJ.NET's PSP Development Forums

More PSP homebrews:

Kazunori Yamauchi loves American cars, puts one on Gran Turismo PSP box

2009-08-01T16:15:00.001-07:00

You asked for it, and now you're getting it. Polyphony DIgital's Gran Turismo franchise is finally making its way to the Sony PlayStation Portable on October 1. To drum up more interest (as if there wasn't enough already), Polyphony Digital has unveiled the cover of Gran Turismo PSP, which features the Corvette ZR1.

Why the ZR1, you ask? Gran Turismo series creator Kazunori Yamauchi says that aside from the fact that GM cars helped shape his love for cars as a child, it's to show support for hard-pressed North American automakers.

With all the automotive industry in the world at a crisis, I know that North American automakers are especially in a very difficult situation, and I understand the background and the reasons behind this.

And I can easily envision these things affecting our works as well. After all, as you well know, the game Gran Turismo is a video game that grew thanks to the insight and vision of the automotive industry, and in effect nurtured by its kindness, in its very womb.

And that s why I wanted us to make something that could cheer up those in the industry.

Yamauchi also hinted at something found towards the end of Gran Turismo that ties in with the game's cover art. I don't know much about cars so the only thing I can think of is an unlockable special ZR1. What do you guys think?

Shadow of Destiny PSP port rated for US

2009-07-31T16:15:00.001-07:00

Earlier this month we learned that the PS2 title Shadow of Destiny was being ported over to the Sony PSP by Konami in Japan. Now, thanks to the ESRB, we learn that it's being readied for a US release as well.

The Japanese version will launch on October 1, but Konami hasn't released any details yet regarding the game's US release. Heck, they haven't even officially announced it. It shouldn't take too long, though, as the PS2 original has already been localized.

PS2 original Shadow of Destiny announced for PSP

PSN US - PlayStation Store Update 07/30

2009-07-30T16:15:00.001-07:00

The latest update for the North American PlayStation Store is now available. You can now grab the much awaited PSN game Fat Princess, a classic PS1 game Spec Ops: Airborne Commando and Madden NFL 10 demo. Also included this week is a hefty pack of add-on contents for your favorite titles. Not to be outdone, three new games for the PSP is now ready for download.

Playstation 3

Demos

Madden NFL 10 Demo
Watchmen: The End is Nigh Part 2 Videogame Demo

Downloadable Games

Fat Princess (US 14.99)
Watchmen: The End is Nigh Part 2 Videogame (US 14.99)

PSone Classics

Spec Ops: Airborne Commando (US 5.99)

Add-on Game Content

Rag Doll Kung Fu Time Saver DLC (US 1.99)
Cross Edge Enigma Synth Pack (1) (free)
Cross Edge Hero Pack (US 0.99)
Cross Edge It ll Come in Handy Pack (US 0.99)
Cross Edge This is Equipment Pack (US 0.99)
Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires DLC
Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Eclectic Armor Set (men) (free)
Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Norse Armor Set (men) (free)
Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Priestess Armor Set (women) (free)
Dynasty Warriors 6 Empires Valkyrie Armor Set (women) (free)
Guitar Hero World Tour DLC:

Knuckle Sandwich Track Pack (US 5.49)
Bloodmeat by Protest the Hero (US 1.99)
I m Shipping up to Boston by Dropkick Murphys (US 1.99)
New Wave by Against Me! (US 1.99)

Rock Band DLC:

KISS Pack 01 (US 5.49)
100,000 Years (Live) KISS (US 1.99)
Deuce (Live) KISS (US 1.99)
Parasite (Live) KISS (US 1.99)
Blink 182 Pack 01 (US 5.49)
Down Blink 182 (US 1.99)
Feeling This Blink 182 (US 1.99)
The Rock Show Blink 182 (US 1.99)
Weezer Pack 02 (US 5.49)
My Name Is Jonas Weezer (US 1.99)
Pork and Beans Weezer (US 1.99)
Undone The Sweater Song Weezer (US 1.99)
Out Here All Night Damone (US 1.99)

Game Videos

Pulse 7/30 Edition
Killzone 2 DLC Bundle Pack Trailer
MAG Developer Diary 3
MAG Developer Diary 4
Dark Void Composer Interview
Unbound Saga Between the Panels Issue 1

Themes

Katamari Forever and Noby Noby Boy Themes (free)
G.I. Joe Rise Of The Cobra: Cobra Theme (US 0.99)
G.I. Joe Rise Of The Cobra: G.I. Joe Theme (US 0.99)
Harry Potter XMB Theme Pack (US 1.99)
College Football Themes (x5) (Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan State, Nebraska and Wisconsin) (US 1.99 each)

Wallpapers

God of War III Wallpapers (x3)

PlayStation Portable

Downloadable Games

Brave Story: New Traveler (US 14.99)
Pocket Pool (US 9.99)
Strikers 1945 Plus (US 11.99)

Add-on Game Content

Rock Band Unplugged DLC
Funk #49″ James Gang (US 1.99)
Smooth Criminal Alien Ant Farm (US 1.99)

Game Videos

Pulse 7/30 Edition
Unbound Saga: Between the Panels Issue 1

PSP Themes

Tomb Raider: Legend PSP Theme (US 1.49)
Tomb Raider: Anniversary PSP Theme (US 1.49)

Wallpapers

Strikers 1945 Plus Wallpaper (x4)

PSN US - PlayStation Store Update 07/16

Euro PSN release list for July 30 now available

2009-07-29T16:15:00.001-07:00

Getting ready the purchase some contents on PSN Europe tomorrow? Well SCEE got you covered as they release the full list of update, one day ahead of schedule. This week, you can grab the much awaited PSN game Fat Princess, Watchmen: The End is Nigh part 2 and a demo of Numblast. A free Fight Night Round 4 DLC pack, Rag Doll Kung Fu Time Savers pack and the usual music DLC's round up the list of add-on contents. For the PSP, Unbound Saga will be available this week along with Samurai Warriors and Numblast demo.

Playable Content

Fat Princess full game ( 11.99/ 14.99)
Watchmen: The End is Nigh part 2 demo
Watchmen: The End is Nigh part 2 full game ( 9.99/ 12.99)
Numblast demo

Add-on Content

Fight Night Round 4 DLC pack 1 (free)
Rag Doll Kung Fu Time Savers pack ( 1.19/ 1.99)
Buzz! Quiz TV AFL pack ( 6.29/ 7.99)
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 10 Cogg Hill pack ( 4.79/ 5.99)
4x Dynasty Warriors 6 armor sets (free)
Rock Band DLC (continued)
Guitar Hero World Tour DLC (continued)

Rock Band

Kiss Pack 01 ( 2.49/ 3.99)

100,000 Years (Live) by Kiss ( 0.99/ 1.49)
Deuce (Live) by Kiss ( 0.99/ 1.49)
Parasite (Live) by Kiss ( 0.99/ 1.49)

Blink 182 Pack 01 ( 2.49/ 3.99)

Down by Blink 182 ( 0.99/ 1.49)
Feeling This by Blink 182 ( 0.99/ 1.49)
The Rock Show by Blink 182 ( 0.99/ 1.49)

Weezer Pack 02 ( 2.49/ 3.99)

My Name Is Jonas by Weezer ( 0.99/ 1.49)
Pork and Beans by Weezer ( 0.99/ 1.49)
Undone The Sweater Song by Weezer ( 0.99/ 1.49)

Individual tracks

Out Here All Night by Damone ( 0.99/ 1.49)

Guitar Hero World Tour

Knuckle Sandwich Track Pack ( 4.39/ 5.99)

Bloodmeat by Protest The Hero ( 1.59/ 1.99)
I'm Shipping Up To Boston by The Dropkick Murphys ( 1.59/ 1.99)
New Wave by Against Me! ( 1.59/ 1.99)

Videos

DC Universe Online Behind the Scenes Trailer
DC Universe Online Sizzle Trailer
Killzone 2 Flash & Thunder Trailer

PSP Content

Samurai Warriors: State of War full game ( 13.99/ 17.99)
Unbound Saga full game ( 13.99/ 17.99)
Numblast demo
Rock Band Unplugged DLC (continued)

Rock Band Unplugged

"Smooth Criminal" by Alien Ant Farm ( 0.99/ 1.49)
"Funk #49" by James Gang ( 0.99/ 1.49)

PlayStation Store Europe Update: 23rd July 2009

Video interview: Namco Bandai on Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny's exclusive features, new characters

2009-07-28T16:15:00.001-07:00

With Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny's release fast coming up, Namco Bandai has told the US PlayStation Blog that gamers can rest assured as development has come quite a long way compared to the state it was in when they showed it at E3 2009.

Check out the vid and learn more about the game's PSP exclusive features as well as new characters Kratos and Dampierre. There's some new Kratos combat footage in there too. Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny will be out on September 1.

PSP homebrew - btcnfpatch.prx for CFWenabler 5.03: iR Shell patch for custom firmware enabler users

2009-07-27T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew coder bosshunter has released a patch for users of Custom Firmware Enabler 5.03 and below that will allow you to play ISO's and PSX games. The release has also improve the stability of iR Shell. This homebrew utility is tested to work on both PSP-2000 and PSP-3000.

Developers note:

Note 1: This patch is only working on CFWe 3.50 version and below. With CFWe 3.60 you can still play ISOS but the PSX games won't work.. (The game could not be started. (800200E5))
Note 2: It is only for firmwares 5.03 on PSP 2000 or 3000. (Tested on both. Phat not supported as you can install CFW on it)
Note 3: This utility touches a file installed by CFWe in flash0 so USE IT AT YOUR OWN RISK.
Note 4: If something goes wrong while the prx is patching the file (ex: PSP turns off because of low battery) and CFWe is no longer loading, you can always reinstall the CFWe and run the patch again.

Make sure you have:
- iR Shell 5.0 installed.
- A fresh install of CFWe (if you have done my other tutorial, you'll have to reinstall CFWe to run this utility).
- Plugins in game.txt are disabled (If not you'll probably get a black screen when running the prx. Just do a hard reset if this happens. Then enable ChickHen, run CFWe and try the patch again after disabling the game.txt plugins. Kinda looks like a pain but.. You only need to run this once!).
- Replaced the provided iR SHELL folder in your memory stick.

Instructions: (same as the old IrShell patches)
- Run iR Shell
- Open Directory View and go to ms0:/IRSHELL/PATCH/5.03/
- Run btcnfpatch.prx
- Press X to start patching
- Wait a few seconds and you're done (you should see the following screenshot on your PSP if the update is successful).
- You can now re-enable your plugins in game.txt.

Download: btcnfpatch.prx for CFWenabler 5.03
Visit: QJ.NET's PSP Development Forums

More PSP homebrews

Koji Igarashi still at Konami, next project may show up at TGS 09

2009-07-25T16:15:00.001-07:00

Koji "IGA" Igarashi has been involved with Konami's Castlevania franchise since for a dozen years now. I was personally surprised that the man considered to be a Castlevania icon wasn't anywhere near the E3 stage when Konami announced Lords of Shadow (PS3, Xbox 360), but it appears that we may be hearing more from him in a few months' time.

Kotaku reports that according to Konami spokesman Jay Boor, IGA is "still at Konami, and he is still working on projects." As to what these "projects" are, well, Boor says we'll have to wait until the Tokyo Game Show to find out. This year's TGS is scheduled for late September.

The last Castlevania project IGA was involved with was the much-derided 3D Wii title Castlevania Judgment. Maybe his next game would be a return to 2D after all the criticism that Judgment received.

Atlus: Localization is no simple process, steps outlined

2009-07-24T16:15:00.001-07:00

Ever wondered why localization of a game takes as much as six months? Am sure you have, along with countless other curious souls. And finally, somebody takes the time to explain, step by step. Atlus lists the detailed procedure of localization, in hopes of appeasing the impatient gamers out there.

There are six steps in all, but you can bet each one spends a great deal of tedious work, hence the long weeks, long hours, long months before the final product.

Step 1: Familiarization (1-3 weeks) -- Play the game and understand context of written material.
Step 2: Localization (1-8 weeks) -- Depends on amount of text and if voice acting is required.
Step 3: Programming (4-6 weeks) -- All implemented by original developers.
Step 4: Quality Assurance (5-8 weeks) -- Bugs are natural side effect of localization, along with "test issues."
Step 5: Manufacturer Approval (3-8 weeks) -- "Internal testers go over the submitted master candidate."
Step 6: Manufacturing (3-5 weeks) -- Print, box and ship.

So next time you think it's just a matter of merely translating the game, think again. Things are never as simple as you think them to be.

PSP homebrew game - Portable Bubble v1.0.0

2009-07-23T16:15:00.001-07:00

Homebrew developer Gefa is back on the scene to release another excellent homebrew game for the PSP. Portable Bubble is a port of the classic puzzle game Puzzle Bobble but with some extra features.

The homebrew game features a level editor, random play mode and users can choose which levels to play. The game contains up to 100 levels taken directly from the original Puzzle Bobble clone, Frozen Bubble. Here's a sneak peek of the homebrew. Enjoy.

Download: Portable Bubble v1.0.0

More PSP homebrew games:

First Mega Man coming to Japanese PSN

2009-07-22T16:15:00.001-07:00

How many Mega Man titles have we seen in two decades? I'm not even sure anymore. But no matter how many titles Capcom adds to the franchise, you still gotta know your Mega Man history. For that, Capcom is paying tribute to the one that started it all - the very first Mega Man from 1987 is coming to 2009 as a downloadable on PSN.

The first Mega Man will come to the Japanese PSN as a re-release of Rockman: Perfect Works, the enhanced port of Rockman 1 from the PSOne era. Yep, it's Rock, not Mega. All the same, the non-sliding, non-charging, non-upgrading Mega Man (or should I say Rockman) will be providing young gamers with a touch of Gaming 101.

Rockman: Perfect Works will hit the Japanese PSN as a downloadable PSP and PS3 game on August 12th, and will be yours for 600 (US 6.50). There's no word on release in other territories, though.

This one should definitely materialize into a game:

Megaman 2.5D now has a multiplayer video - MegaMan and ProtoMan

Sony: It's still too early in the PSP's life cycle to add a second analog nub

2009-07-21T16:15:00.001-07:00

The "second analog nub" mantra has since become sort of a call to arms for a vocal portion of PSP users. When Sony revealed that the new PSP Go would still have only one analog nub, these dissatisfied users ranted and raved about what they considered a "stupid" decision.

There's a reason for every decision, though, no matter how stupid they may end up being sometimes. As for the lack of a second analog nub on the PSP Go, Shuhei Yoshida, President of Sony Worldwide Studios, says that they did consider adding it, but it was just too early in the PSP's life cycle to implement it now. Here's what he told GameInformer:

We also felt - like many users - that we wish we had a second analog on the PSP. But we are talking about the mid-life cycle of this platform, and the PSPgo is designed to be perfectly compatible with the PSP-3000 and all the games that released before that. So we had a very serious discussion about this particular subject, but we decided not to add a second analog, and some of the developers are doing quite a nice job translating the second analog functionality to different buttons. We didn t want to divert their efforts either.

It actually makes sense to me. They did accede a bit and added support for the Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers, which is a welcome feature. Of course, I still expect a second analog stick on the PSP2 or whatever name they ultimately choose to call it, but that's neither here or now. Any thoughts, guys?

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.3 revision 1107

2009-07-20T16:15:00.001-07:00

A new update for JPCSP has been released today. The latest update of JPCSP, a Playstation Portable emulator for PC written in Java, fixes some minor issues from the previous release.

Changelog:
r1107 - Avoid lot of "Using Compiler" log messages when exiting Jpcsp
r1106 - SceUtilitySavedataParam: forgot to write buffer4Addr

Download: JPCSP v0.3 revision 1107

PSP homebrew - JPCSP v0.2 revision 1104

Rumor: WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 to feature online Royal Rumble mode?

2009-07-19T16:15:00.001-07:00

First details of the upcoming WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010 video game has apparently been posted by THQ on their French website earlier this week. Among the juicy details scooped by gaming site Ve3tro reveals that for the first time, the game will feature an online Royal Rumble mode, a complete overhaul to the Road to Wrestlemania mode and many more.

Other features expected for the game includes an updated roster of wrestlers and extensive customization option. The wrestling game which was announced at E3 this year is being developed by Yuke's and will be published by THQ for the Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, PSP, and DS. The game is scheduled to be released on August 23, 2009.

E3 2009: THQ announces WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2010

SCEE reserves three hours for GamesCom press conference

2009-07-18T16:15:00.001-07:00

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) will be holding a massive press conference for GamesCom, reports VG247. It is scheduled to run for three full hours -- there's got to be something big somewhere in all that 180 minutes, right?

No idea what the presscon will be about, but they did say that SCEE has got huge plans for their show. The GamesCom presscon of SCEE is scheduled to happen on August 18, 2009, Thursday, at 6:00PM - 9:00PM.

GamesCom 2009, Europe's version of the GDC, is happening on August 19 to 23, in Cologne. We'll keep you updated on more news and schedule line-up for this event.

Screenshots and details for Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny's character creation mode

2009-07-17T16:15:00.001-07:00

Character creation and customization has been a staple feature of the Soul Calibur series since the third game and Namco Bandai isn't letting fans of the feature down in the series' PSP iteration. Today they've shared some screenshots and info on how character customization is handled in Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny for the PSP.

The game's customization aspect covers gender, hair style, clothing, voice, and coloring. As you can see in the screenshots below, you can make minute "parts adjustments" to fine-tune item positioning and width. You also be able to set the position, size, and angle of almost every aspect of your character.

One cool thing is that the game lets you make thumbnail images for your custom character. You can pose your character however way you want and then select a background for the thumbnail. These images are shown during character selection and in battle.

Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny is currently tracking an August 27 release in Japan with an expected US release this September. You can check out more screenshots at the source link.