The United States and Europe version of the game will be released by NIS America. In the game, you play as the Black Rock Shooter, a battle android awakened in the year 2051 AD to end the 19-year battle between the alien race that invaded Earth and the 12 surviving human beings left on Earth. She, and her lack of clothing and armor, is the only hope in saving the planet.

This is an action-RPG, so the game focuses on character development. As you advance more into the story, you will be able to unlock more skills and more enhancements for your character. You will have access to a variety of weapons and vehicles to take out the alien race. In the game, you don’t just hack and slash. You have to evade enemy attacks, keep track of your heat gauge, and accurately fire you weapon.

You will have to complete missions in order to learn new skills and abilities, and unlock extra features in the game. You are able to use 4 unique skills at a time in battle. In order to survive certain types of enemies, you have to modify your skill bars accordingly. Don’t let the petite, anime characters fool you, this game is jam-packed with action. In similar news, Grand Theft Auto Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories should be heading to the PlayStation Network right about now.

GTA: LCS takes place 3 years before Grand Theft Auto III. Players will notice a nostalgic feel to the game, as it essentially has many similarities. However, there will be some significant changes in the scenery to the game. For example, the construction site located in Fort Staunton in GTA III will be a little “Italy District” in LCS instead. Also similar to GTA III, you will be unable to swim in LCS. Jumping into the water will kill you.

GTA: VCS features some major changes, as well as several, similar aspects from its counterpart. The hand-to-hand combat system has received a major upgrade, where players are now able to grapple/throw enemies. There is a new “empire-building” feature in the game that allows players to operate businesses on property obtained from enemy gang members. One of the classic elements included in the game is the option to take on side missions.

While both games did have an online multiplayer feature on the PlayStation Portable, it’s still up in the air whether or not those features will be available on the PlayStation 3. These games should serve as a great distraction until Grand Theft Auto V comes out. GTA V is expected to come out on September 17th of this year. Fans have been waiting anxiously to get their hands on the game, and Rockstar attempts to curb their cravings by releasing a plethora of screenshots.

[via Rockstar]

First thing to note is that Uncharted’s online multiplayer is free only for the first 15 levels. You’re welcome to keep playing the game for free, but you’ll never advance farther than level 15. The other levels can be unlocked through micro-transaction purchases. If you want to increase the level cap to 25, you’ll have to pay $4.99, and if you want to remove the level restrictions altogether, you can pay $19.99. In the online multiplayer portion, you are able to play multiplayer matches against other players, as in Team Deathmatch, Capture the Flag, and more, but if you want to unlock Co-op arena, you have to pay $9.99. If you want to unlock the Co-op adventure mode, you’ll have to play $11.99

If you want all of those features, it would be better to purchase the entire game digitally from the PlayStation Network. For $39.99, you’ll get all of the multiplayer features, 12 DLC maps, and over 40 character skins. The developers for Uncharted 3, Naughty Dog, has stated that for gamers who have already purchased Uncharted 3, there will be special gifts available for you, one being a special shirt that you can equip on your characters.

This free-to-play deal for Uncharted 3 is more like a demo to lure players in. It’s great for players who want to test the waters before actually committing to buying the game. Naughty Dog has stated that Uncharted 3′s multiplayer is a very successful aspect to the game, and that over 500,000 players log in each month to digitally kill each other. Over 3.5 million players have played over 37 million matches in the game. You can head over to the PlayStation Network right now to download the game and join in on the fun.

[via Naughty Dog]

Back when the PlayStation Network was cracked, it was no joke – millions of users were exposed to the wild with their names, email addresses, passwords, physical addresses, and dates of birth out in the open for the internet to see. Interestingly enough, it appears that the ICO has found that once the vulnerability that ultimately lead to the hack was made known to Sony, they “failed to address it.” This was back on the 19th of April, 2011, while the most massive wave hit the network in May.

The attack was, according to the ICO, a “focused and determined criminal attack” that to this day has not seen a single entity solidly caught and persecuted (on the hacker end of the equation, anyway.) Though back after the attack occurred several supposed Anonymous hackers claimed responsibility, the larger bulk of the Anonymous collective denied responsibility. This is not the first (and certainly wont be the last) time hackers of all brands have claimed to be part of the collective known as Anonymous while higher-ups deny responsibility for their wild and unassociated underlings.

Sony has responded to the ICO’s fine this week with note that they “strongly disagreed” with the ruling. Mentioning the fact that the ICO found that, “personal data [was] unlikely to have been used for fraudulent purposes” across the board, Sony hopes to avoid any fine – and more importantly, any official admittance of wrongdoing on their part.

“Criminal attacks on electronic networks are a real and growing aspect of 21st century life and Sony continually works to strengthen our systems, building in multiple layers of defense and working to make our networks safe, secure and resilient. The reliability of our network services and the security of our consumers’ information are of the utmost importance to us, and we are appreciative that our network services are used by even more people around the world today than at the time of the criminal attack.” – Sony

Sound reasonable to you? How about those of you that were affected by the leak/attack back in 2011, do you feel Sony has made a big enough effort to repair itself?

[via The Guardian]

Be you switch on your PS3 and jump online to buy up all sorts of games, you should know that you can’t use PayPal to pay for purchases on the console. Instead, you’ll need to head over to the Sony Entertainment Network website and use PayPal to add funds to your wallet from there. At the moment, the PayPal option isn’t appearing for us, so it may be that Sony is rolling out this functionality to users in waves.

Just the same, it seems that others can’t get PayPal payments to work. While Joystiq sees the option to add funds using PayPal, it says that each attempt to do so has failed. So, while some aren’t having any issues using PayPal with their PlayStation Network account, it would appear that the feature has launched with a few kinks left to iron out.

At any rate, once the service is up and running, we imagine quite a few gamers will be pleased as punch. Using PayPal is certainly much faster than heading out to the store to pick up a prepaid card, and this is a feature that US consumers have wanted for a while. Are you having any issues getting your PlayStation Network account to play nice with PayPal?

[via VG247]

Out of all of this, the fact that PS Plus users get 10% off is probably the most surprising. Console manufacturers – Microsoft especially, Sony to a lesser extent – sometimes like to keep prices high on digital versions of retail games. The result is that occasionally you’d end up paying more for a digital copy of the game than you would for a physical copy from a brick and mortar store, but this time around, Sony is ready to pass on some discounts provided you’ve subscribed to PlayStation Plus. Of course, just being a PS Plus member doesn’t automatically mean you’re entitled to the discount, as you’ll have to pre-order the game in question before Sony and the publishers will shave 10% off the purchase price.

Here’s the full list of games that will be launching on PSN on launch day. Keep in mind that PS Plus prices only apply if you pre-order the title unless otherwise stated:

• Resident Evil 6 – October 2, $59.99
• NBA 2K12 – October 2, $59.99/$53.99 for PS Plus members
• Dishonored – October 9, $59.99/$53.99 for PS Plus members
• Doom 3: BFG Edition – October 16, $39.99/$35.99 for PS Plus members
• 007 Legends – October 16, $59.99/$53.99 for PS Plus members during first week of availability
• Medal of Honor Warfighter – October 23, $59.99
• Need for Speed: Most Wanted – October 30, $59.99/$53.99 for PS Plus members
• Assassin’s Creed III – October 30, $59.99

Unsurprisingly, three of October’s biggest games – Resident Evil 6, Medal of Honor Warfighter, and Assassin’s Creed III – don’t come with a discount for PS Plus members, though Assassin’s Creed III is still available for pre-order. There’s no word on if these games will be available to download at midnight on launch day, but Sony’s recent launch day release of Borderlands 2 wasn’t, so it isn’t looking good for the rest of the bunch. More details will almost certainly be coming shortly, so stay tuned.

[via The Verge]

Still, at least Sony has narrowed down the release window a bit for us. When PlayStation Plus launches on the PS Vita, it will come with all of the features that PS3 members love in tow. One of these features is Instant Game Collection, which allows users to access free full games for as long as they’re a PS Plus member. PlayStation Plus subscribers will also get discounts on games and DLC on a consistent basis, along with with 1GB of cloud storage, letting users back up their game saves or store DLC.

With PS Plus, PS Vita owners can also take advantage of automatic updates, which will turn your PS Vita automatically to begin downloading game demos, game updates, and system updates. Once the update has finished downloading, the PS Vita will switch into standby mode, meaning that your PS Vita could potentially download updates without you ever knowing – definitely a handy (if not somewhat creepy) feature to have around.

Those who are already subscribed to PS Plus on PS3 will get a PS Vita membership for free, and those who sign up for PS Plus using their Vita will be able to enjoy the PS3 benefits as well. If you aren’t already a subscriber, a membership will cost the going rate of $49.99 annually. As stated above, the PS Vita version of Plus is still lacking a specific launch date, but you can bet that we’ll update you once Sony lets it loose. Stay tuned!

[via Playstation Blog]

Reports of a new PSN security breach make us immediately recall the bad memories from spring 2011, but there may not be reason to worry just yet. The list which was posted to Pastebin is apparently just a duplicate of a list posted back in March. Kotaku says that SCEA’s Shane Bettenhausen has stated on Twitter that claims of the hack are “totally fake,” but that tweet appears to have been taken down too.

It’s all very confusing, but at the moment, it seems that the PlayStation Network is safe. It’s a good thing too, because PS3 owners definitely still remember last year’s attack all too well. The attack was severe enough that Sony had to take PSN down for a month as it worked on boosting security and investigated what all was stolen. When Sony reported that credit card details may have been stolen in the attack, that made things go from bad to worse, and Sony had to do a lot to restore faith in the company.

Luckily, it seems that history won’t be repeating itself quite yet, but with Sony claiming that it greatly improved security after the first attack, you know that there are plenty of hackers trying to bring PSN down for a second time. With that in mind, it seems that it’s only a matter of time before someone gets in, but who knows? It could be that Sony’s defenses are as strong as the company says. In any case, we’ll be bringing you more information as this rather strange story develops, so keep it tuned here to SlashGear!

Despite having that familiar Rock Band look, Rock Band Blitz is something of a departure for the series. Instead of using those clunky instrument controllers required by Rock Band proper, Rock Band Blitz has players using a standard controller to hit the notes. Truth be told, Rock Band Blitz seems to have more in common with Frequency and Amplitude, two earlier Harmonix titles, than it does with Rock Band.

If you’re like me and you’ve spent more money than you care to count on DLC tracks for the Rock Band series, never fear – Harmonix says that all of those DLC tracks will work in Rock Band Blitz. The game itself comes with 20 tracks, four of which were announced today: “So Far Away” by Avenged Sevenfold, “Jungle Boogie” by Kool & The Gang, “We Are Young” by Fun, and “Sing” by My Chemical Romance. Finally, all of the songs found in Rock Band Blitz are also playable in Rock Band 3, so that’s a nice little bonus in exchange for your $15.

[via Eurogamer]

As a result, Sony has removed access to the PlayStation Store in South Korea so that it can comply with the new law. Gamers need not worry about this affecting the PlayStation Network, with full multiplayer capabilities still in place, but additional content will be unable to be purchased or downloaded until Sony rectifies the situation.

It looks like the move only affect PlayStation 3 users, however, as the PS Vita and PSP stores will remain open. Still, losing access to content for an undetermined amount of time is never a good thing. Stay strong, friends.

[via Joystiq]

Where previous generation PlayStation consoles had seen game integration from previous consoles, we’re now receiving word that this will be the end of such a practice from Sony. If the PlayStation – if it will indeed still be called that when Sony moves on with the “Orbis” name scheme – does indeed only work with new games, will you still be apt to purchase a console? This should be no different from when the world switched from cartridge games to disks, right?

As our anonymous source (who suggests they’re close to the action with Sony) notes, very briefly,

“the Orbis dismisses legacy games. No word yet on if game downloads will be compatible, possibility exists for Vita-like store with older games for download.” – Anonymous

What do you think, folks, time for downloads only? If Sony moves to a downloads-only model for older games – somewhat like what’s happened with Nintendo’s original Wii (sans the Gamecube integration), will you work with it? Or will you be tough and hang tight with the PlayStation 3 forever?

Both Microsoft and Sony appear to be considering having control over used game hardware for the future in several ways. If you’ve got a PlayStation Orbis, for example, and you pick up any old PlayStation game that’d been sold to someone other than yourself and played on a console that wasn’t the one you’re using now, restrictions will come into play. In this case you’ll have a “restricted” amount of gameplay available to you with the “full” experience available for an additional price through the PlayStation Network.

For the Xbox 720, tips from several sources have been noting the complete cut-off of used gameplay altogether. Each game will be tied to the first console it is played on, then that’s it! Downloadable games and one-user-disks will be the only legal means for gamers to play games on their Xbox 720 consoles if rumors prove to be true.

Is this agreeable to you, the average or hardcore gamer?

That means no PlayStation Store, PlayStation Home, Account Management or online gameplay. Sony’s own PSN-enabled websites will also not be working, including the official PlayStation Blog; the company says to keep an eye on its PlayStation Twitter feed for news on when the PSN is back up.

This particular maintenance is slightly overdue, with last Thursday’s scheduled session being postponed and held over until today. It could be completed earlier than Sony’s estimate, however.

It’s the ideal opportunity to play some local games – or, dare we say, check out the heaps of Mobile World Congress coverage from a certain tech site – or indeed get outside. Alternatively there’s always our Sony VAIO P unboxing to keep you occupied.

Hardware

There’s little that a person in my position, being one who reviews buckets of mobile devices such at tablets and smartphones each month along with stereo equipment, mobile apps, and the like, about the hardware here being anything but superior. Superior to the relatively low-quality state of the physical buttons on smartphones, that is. When you handle essentially any modern smartphone with a fold-out keyboard, you’ll find that the software doesn’t exactly keep that hardware in mind when it works in the future state of the touchscreen-only mobile environment.

The PS Vita’s hardware works perfectly in sync with the software and this system not only has a collection of buttons and joysticks that work perfectly well, they harmonize in an awesome way with the two touch surfaces (on front and back) of the device. The best way to show you how the hardware functions well on this device is to let you in on a couple of games we’ve tested that show the full functionality – the first being “Escape Plan” which instantly shows you the oddity – and awesomeness – of the back touch panel.

The rest of the controls you can see lower in this review in the Games section – we’ve got Mod Nation Racers Roadtrip (a racing game, imagine that,) and Ultimate Marvel VS Capcom 3 (a fighting game, of course,) to show you the full range of buttons taps and knob pulls. The only complaint I’ve got with the device in the way of hardware is the proprietary plug at the bottom of the device going out to USB – simply because it can be plugged in the wrong way without you knowing it. You’ve got to make sure the PlayStation logo is facing forward or nothing will happen.

There’s also the fact that this system has expandable memory that’s made specifically for Sony devices and is not cross-compatible with any other non-Sony system. This is a bummer for those of you with relatively giant 32GB cards that cost you $25 online while a similarly sized unit will cost you $100 in Sony memory card form. That said, the card we’ve got works perfectly well and can be replaced readily, switched and utilized.

The system feels natural to use, Sony clearly took a good amount of time testing the way a person plays a game, holds a controller, and is able to interact with the screen for this system. The only controller or handheld gaming unit I’ve used that feels better than this one to use is the original PlayStation controller itself – nothing will ever be as good as that, ever. This is the next best thing.

The display is amazing, has perfect viewing angles down to the smallest sliver, and is as sharp as I could ever ask it to be for how much the system costs. If weeks or months down the line any of the buttons change quality – get loose, start to stick, anything like that, I’ll come back to this review and add a note. Until then, this system is great in touch surfaces, physical buttons, and display brightness.

Software

For our full software review, head back to the post PS Vita OS Review your humble narrator posted earlier this week. You’ll find that not only is this a system that’s impressive enough to wow us here on the PS Vita itself, it appears that it’s preparing to move to other hardware as well. It would not surprise me to see a PS Vita smartphone inside the next 12 months – not one bit. It’s great stuff! Have a look at how it works in part here in the intro and the app “Welcome Part” :

Then check out the Camera and Web Browser here, taking special care to note that the camera is not made to be used on a regular basis, instead mostly made to interact with future games that will interact with it.

Then note that you’re able to purchase a massive amount of games and videos (or rent videos, if that’s your thing) from the PlayStation Store. This store allows you to purchase games made specifically for the PS Vita, legacy games from the PSP, and minis, not to mention apps like Netflix. Games can be downloaded with Wifi or through your 3G connection, both working fine and slick – though for the larger games, of course, you really will want to be going with Wifi.

You’ll find that the PlayStation Store is fine for downloading apps you’ve already seen previews of outside the PS Vita itself, but that it still has many of the same problems that other mobile console app stores have: namely the ability to discover great apps (though it does improve upon this over other stores with the all-powerful sale section) and a complete lack of previews of games. No screenshots, no videos, nothing. We’re hoping for an update to this bit in the near future, otherwise adoption of new games will continue to be scant.

Games

The games we’ve played have been massively impressive and entertaining without a doubt, and that goes for both games downloaded from the PlayStation Store as well as the cartridge games that have been released at the launch here in the first week. First have a peek at the next step in one of the most epic fighting game lines in history: Ultimate Marvel VS Capcom 3. And note that I certainly should have picked Ghost Rider instead of the Hulk – silly me!

Then check out the racing game Mod Nation Racers Roadtrip. This game would have been the ultimate come-up on the Mario Cart-like line of games on its own, but it adds an undeniably entertaining set of customization elements including the ability to create your own racer character, your own vehicle, and your own racing track. That’s the whole shebang! The racing then is both intuitive with the controls you’re given – all of the buttons utilized! – As well as being downright fun on this platform.

This is the same on each game we’ve played thus far. It’s going to be difficult to find a game that isn’t just fun to try out here on this new system, especially since the controls are, again, very intuitive and comfortable to use. One drawback over playing games on your smartphone instead is the loading times. You’ll see several times in the hands-on videos above that there’s more than enough time for you to head to the kitchen to get a snack while your game loads up after you’ve started it.

Daily Use

I’ve tried to stick the PS Vita in my pocket to bring it to a restaurant, attempted to play it while a passenger in the car, and used it on the bus. The last of these three things was great except for the fact that I felt like holding such a gigantic and bright-screened device invited a mugging on my person. Playing it in the car is great if you’re often finding yourself a passenger, but me being a husband and a father, I’m either driving or having a conversation with my wife or child – so there’s really no time for me to use this device. The same goes for a restaurant setting: I’ve gotta be feeding my child or speaking with the people I went out to eat with.

So when would a person find time to use this device? I’m really not sure. If you’ve been using some other kind of handheld gaming system and have a use for it, this might be great for you for an upgrade. If you’re thinking about getting into mobile gaming, I’m not so sure you’re going to have an easy time adapting to it. You have to find time to use this device unless you just so happen to be this system’s real target audience: high-school students. In that case – play it all day long, it’s great!

Wrap-up

This device is without a doubt the most advanced and awesome mobile gamine unit in the short history of mobile gaming units. The Nintendo 3DS looks and plays like an inexpensive toy compared to this fully-fledged PlayStation packed into a mobile unit. You’ve got the ability to play console-level games here, and it’s no joke.

In addition, you could potentially use this as your one “smart” device if you don’t already have a tablet or a smartphone and want one just for the data. Hook it up with some AT&T 3G and enjoy the certainly capable browser and keyboard, watch some Netflix, and play a game or two while you’re at it. This is a unique piece of hardware with controls you wont find anywhere else, and it’s got a store that’s more than able to satisfy your needs for digital content, be it games or videos or basic apps.

Should you buy it? Sure, why not? There’s one whole heck of a lot of things you can do with this entirely versatile piece of hardware with its above average operating system, and it certainly has a future and a strong present! Have at it!

The rebranding to Sony Entertainment Network will be applied to the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Vita in upcoming software updates, but it will not affect the PSP at this time. This change is part of Sony’s efforts to associate the service with the company’s broader entertainment services, including Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited.

The discontinued use of the PlayStation Network name may help sweep away the bad memories of last year’s security breach and month-long outage. The company reported a massive loss and recently appointed new CEO Kaz Hirai. Unifying its services appears to be part of the company’s strategy to turn things around.

[via VentureBeat]

For those of you reading this in the future, this particular down-time took place on the 2nd of February, 2012. This maintenance period has for the most part left online play unaffected, while those who had signed into their accounts before 6 AM PST today should have been able to stay logged in throughout the down time. The services you know and love that are down and will remain down through the night will be the PlayStation Store via the PlayStation 3 and PSP, and Media Go.

In addition, PlayStation HomeMusic Unlimited and Video Unlimited services are unavailable until tomorrow. Account Management and Account Registration are also being said to be down while all the good stuff stays active as it should be. The good stuff includes gamers abilities to collect in-game trophies – each of these trophies then set to upload to users accounts when maintenance ends. Meanwhile you could also just play some offline games or break out the old Ball in a cup attached with a string and have a little old-timey fun then too. It’s only one day!

A reminder to all: the place where Sony announces down-times in advance is over at the PlayStation blog – or you could just stick around SlashGear where you love to get your PlayStation news and we’ll let you know both in advance and day-of like we always do. Cheers!

The good news is Sony claims that most online play will be unaffected. Sony also notes that users who are already signed into their account on the PlayStation Network before the maintenance starts should be able to stay signed into their accounts. However, a number of services will be unavailable for the entire length of maintenance. The services that will be unavailable during maintenance includes the PlayStation Store via the PS3, PSP, and Media Go.

PlayStation Network users will also be unable to access account management and account registration features. PlayStation HomeMusic Unlimited and Video Unlimited services will also be unavailable during maintenance. It is worth noting that during the maintenance, gamers will be able to collect in game trophies and the trophies will be updated to their account when maintenance ends.

[via Blog.US.PlayStation.com]

The service will be down for the PlayStation Store on PS3, PSP, and Media Go, as well as the PlayStation Network Account Management and Registration services. PlayStation Home will be down this whole time as well, as will Music Unlimited and Video Unlimited services. As it turns out, unlimited does not include maintenance times. You will not be able to sign in to the PlayStation Network from us.playstation.com during this time.

Those who were signed on before the maintenance began should be able to stay signed on, oddly enough, but will not be able to access any of the services so listed in the paragraph above. Users who are signing on now during the maintenance will be given a message that essentially says they may go no further. In-game trophies will be able to continue to be collected while the maintenance is going on, and your profile will be updated once the PlayStation Network is up and running once more.

[via PlayStation Blog]

Just like their predecessor, House of the Dead: Overkill Extended Cut, House of the Dead 3 and House of the Dead 4 will have Move support. With Move support players can still get that arcade-style experience while playing in their living room. Sega also stated the games were updated with HD graphics and trophies.

House of the Dead 3 was originally released in 2002 but only came to the original XBOX in 2003 and the Wii in 2008. House of the Dead 4, which hit North America in 2006, never left arcades. House of the Dead 3 will be available from the PlayStation Network on February 7th. House of the Dead 4 will follow sometime in “Spring 2012″, according to Sega.

[via Kotaku]

Access to the service will be limited tomorrow during the maintenance. Users will not be able to access the PlayStation Store on the PS3 and PSP, the PlayStation Network Account Management, and the PlayStation Account Registration. Users will also not be able to sign in to the PlayStation Network from us.playstation.com.

However, some users may still be able to play online during the maintenance. Users can continue collecting in-game Trophies and their profiles will update with the new Trophies once the PlayStation Network is back up. Given the long PlayStation Network outage a few months back, perhaps most gamers will be alright with Sony taking some extra time to make sure everything’s still up to snuff.

While previous versions of NBA JAM have included such gems as President Bill Clinton jamming dunks from across court, this version gets a little less political. Watch the video below and you’ll think you’re waiting for an advertisement to be over for a new version of the SSX snowboarding game and OH WHAT, WHAT JUST HAPPENED – that’s right, there’s an SSX team of players featuring the classic set of snowboarding heros right there on the court. Don’t they get hot in those big snowsuits? I guess not! We’ll see how they fare against the mascot players – also seen in the video:

In addition to the new unlockable players, there’s some STANDARD upgrades to this version as well. NBA JAM On Fire Edition had a brand new to the franchise AI system that’s previously been used in the Fight Night game series, modified to fit this classic arena. What it does is learn from your tendencies to, for example, head to the top of the court every single freaking time you get the ball, and learned from them, “throwing them back in your face”, as it were.

There’s also online competitions and a cooperative online campaign included in this brand new game from EA Sports. You can purchase the game directly through the PlayStation Network and Xbox LIVE Arcade for $14.99 USD or 1200 points respectively. Grab it now!

[via EA Games]

Sony posted to its US and European Twitter accounts acknowledging that they are aware of the issue and are working on getting the platform restored. This quick response and communication is a nice improvement over the last time the network went down. The EU Twitter account has also been a bit more proactive in posting updates throughout the morning and has most recently posted the message below:

“Current indications are that we’ll be restoring PlayStation Network services in approx. two hours. We appreciate your patience.”

That was quick, considering the first posts acknowledging the outage started roughly 3 hours ago. Hopefully, that estimation pans out and this outage is just a small blip in operating a massive platform and doesn’t turn into a replay of the overdrawn saga that Sony is surely hoping we all forget.

[via PlayStation Lifestyle]

Following the PSN outage, Sony had promised that it would hire a top exec to beef up its security and to reassure customers that such a breach would not repeat itself. The company has recruited Philip Reitinger, a former director of the US National Cyber Security Center, to become senior VP, spearheading its security operations.

The PSN breach is said to have cost the company more than $171 million. Sony has recently launched a new online portal called the Sony Entertainment Network, which acts as an umbrella brand for the company’s Video Unlimited, Music Unlimited, and PlayStation Network services, replacing Qriocity.

[via VentureBeat]

Even so, I’m here to tell you (and Sony) that the PlayStation 4 should launch as early as possible next year.

When we consider Sony’s current market position, we find a rather interesting story. Internationally, the PlayStation 3 is still selling at a rapid clip. However, in the U.S., the console continues to have trouble catching on with casual gamers that are more intrigued by the Wii and the hardcore segment that would rather play first-person shooters on the Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE.

There’s also the issue of motion gaming. Sony’s PlayStation Move just hasn’t caught on the way the company would have liked, and the Kinect’s controller-free offering seems to be appealing to a growing number of people.

Combine that with Sony’s recent troubles with the PlayStation Network breach and its continuing attempt to repair its ailing brand, and I think the time is right to release the PlayStation 4.

The way I see it, the PlayStation 4 will help change the discussion surrounding Sony. Gone will be the days where the company is mercilessly criticized by those who are still upset about the PlayStation Network breach. Instead, people will talk about Sony’s new and exciting console.

Even better, Sony can deliver its own console next year at or around the same time as the Wii U. That device, which features a really neat controller that might catch on with both casual and hardcore gamers alike, is right now poised for unabated success next year.

By offering a PlayStation 4 that comes with the (unfortunately, necessary) motion-gaming component, but also bests the Wii U on graphical power and online gaming, Sony can single-handedly squash one key competitor.

Of course, by launching a PlayStation 4 next year, Sony will also need to worry about the Xbox 720 (or whatever it will be called) that will be launching at some point in the future. Chances are, that device will have more power than Sony’s option.

But when we consider this generation, which Microsoft jumped into first and saw its Xbox 360 trumped in features by the PlayStation 3, Sony’s decision to release the PlayStation 4 might not be all that scary. After all, Microsoft’s console is still leading the PlayStation 3 even with all of its disadvantages.

So, maybe it’s time Sony stop worrying about its 10-year life cycle and get going on the PlayStation 4. At this point, it seems like the best idea for Sony.

[Image credit: Tai Chiem]

“This is an important initiative as it allows us to accelerate our commitment to enhancing premium online services across our first party game portfolio” Sony said in a statement regarding PSN Pass. The company is yet to confirm how those gamers who either pick up titles second-hand or via gaming rental services will access the online content and services.

Game publishers have long been frustrated with the second-hand market, since they invariably fail to see any proceeds from used game sales. Some have experimented with their own equivalents of PSN Pass, usually offering online access at an extra fee. SOCOM 4: US Navy Seals, released earlier this year, trialled a system of Sony’s own devising, where online access was bundled with the initial purchase but used buyers had to pay for a $15 “activation code” called SOCOM Pro.

[via Slashdot]

This silent announcement is actually more of a reveal, it being found by intrepid fans searching through press releases not yet shown to the world outside Japan. This newest model is not without its limits, you should know before we go on: Blu-ray movies are limited to 480i if you’re not using the HDMI or video out via HDCP, while games have no such limit. Additional specs include the following: 290 × 65 × 290 mm in size, 2.6kg in weight, and operating along AC 100V, 50/60Hz.

This model is slated to be released on June 30th in Japan with a 320GB model costing $436 in converted USD and will indeed replace the previous 2500B model. This device will be sold together with a special HDD Recorder in a bundle that will allow you, the Japanese user, to record TV shows to said hard drive using Torne. Another bundle will be available on September 8th for $473 converted USD.

As you well know, a device popping up in Japan does not ALWAYS mean it’ll be showing up in the United States of America, but it DOES point toward the possibility. With recent extended talks of the PlayStation Network being hacked again and again, it’s hard to speak about Sony’s connected electronics without feeling a little bit odd.

That said, there are still millions of ravenous fans out there dedicated to living out their gaming lives on Sony equipment, be it the PlayStation, the Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY, or any number of connected electronics. Sony stay strong! Keep making wonderful object for us all to play with forever!

[via Electronista]

Hirai’s inaccuracies, meanwhile, center around when the Consumer Products & Services Group president said Sony was aware of the breach. In his statement, Hirai had said that Sony discovered the data had been compromised on April 26 (US time), a day later than SCE’s official documentation submitted to the Japanese government indicates.

In its defense, Sony claims to have not wanted to “bewilder” its users by giving them information too early. “We hadn’t figured out [at that time] what kind of data had been leaked” a spokesperson suggests. “If only passwords and IDs [were breached], they cannot be considered personal information, and so we didn’t want to bewilder our customers.”

The Japanese government, Kyodo says, is looking into Sony’s timelines based around the “suspicion that the game unit of Sony Corp. deliberately attempted to downplay the seriousness of the situation by not fully disclosing information.”

Sony has attempted to placate gamers with its “Welcome Back” packages, consisting of free games, access to premium functionality, various downloads and a year’s subscription to a fraud protection service. However the company’s reputation has been further hit with subsequent hacks on various other systems, including Sony Pictures and Sony Music Japan.

[via Kotaku]

In the UK, the anti-fraud scheme is provided by Fraud Protect; eligible PSN users will get twelve months of online card and personal information monitoring, up to £10,000 identity-theft insurance, anti-fraud software and other support. The site has already updated to deal with the expected influx of calls:

“If you were a PlayStation Network or Qriocity account holder as of 20 April 2011 and aged 18 years or over you may qualify for 12 months FREE cover. You have the option of enrolling in the program for 60 days from 20th May 2011. PlayStation customers will need PSN user ID and email address to register. Qriocity customers will need email address to register.” Fraud Protect

There’ll also be a selection of PS3 and PSP games accessible for free to those PSN subscribers affected. PS3 titles include Dead Nation, inFAMOUS, LittleBigPlanet, Ratchet & Clank: Quest for Booty, and Wipeout HD + Fury, while PSP titles include LittleBigPlanet (PSP), ModNation Racers, Pursuit Force and Killzone Liberation.

[Thanks Tom!]

Dear PlayStation Network user:

We’re pleased to let you know that access to PlayStation®Store on PlayStation®3, PSP™(PlayStation®Portable) and on PC via Media Go has now been restored.

Welcome Back

To thank you for your patience whilst we improved the service, all eligible PlayStation®Network account holders can take part in our Welcome Back programme which includes:

A selection of PS3™ and PSP™ games to download for free from PlayStation Store.
30 days free access to PlayStation®Plus*** for non PlayStation®Plus subscribers****.
Music Unlimited subscribers may receive additional free access to Music Unlimited*****. For more details see www.qriocity.com.

In addition, we are working on a Welcome Back offer in PlayStation®Home and we will share details of this once it is confirmed. Full details of the Welcome Back programme in your country can be found at eu.playstation.com/welcomeback

Fraud Protect

In addition, Identity Protection Experts at Affinion International Limited are offering eligible PlayStation Network and Qriocity™ account holders one year’s free membership to Fraud Protect. Full details of Fraud Protect and eligibility conditions can be found at www.fraudprotect.co.uk. Offer available for 60 days.

We’ve made a number of additional security improvements to PSN – visit eu.playstation.com/psnlatest and PlayStation.Blog at blog.eu.playstation.com for the latest updates.

Before you start using PlayStation Network again…

In restoring PSN, we have introduced a safety measure which means you will need to update your PlayStation Network account password before you can start using PSN again.

If you’ve got a PlayStation 3, you can do this by updating to system software version 3.61 and then signing in to PlayStation Network from the XMB™ (XrossMediaBar) Menu. Find out more at eu.playstation.com/ps3psn.

Otherwise, you can change your password by visiting https://store.playstation.com/login.gvm on your PC. It shouldn’t take more than a few minutes and if you’d like more help you can follow the step by step guide at eu.playstation.com/psppsn.

Again, we would like to thank you for your patience and support whilst our teams worldwide work to get the full range of PSN services back up and running.

The PlayStation Network team

The PlayStation Store just came back online yesterday with loads of new games that have backlogged due to the five-week outage. Although Sony was vague initially on a restore date, they did promise everything to be back online by the end of May. Well, they didn’t quite make the May 31st deadline, but first week of June is good enough.

Some things to note from the Q&A list is that the PSN Welcome Back package expires on July 3, which means you have exactly one month from today to download all the freebies. And you 30-days free PlayStation Plus membership will end 30-days from the date you sign up, which could extend beyond July 3. The full Q&A list is as follows:

Q: What’s in the Welcome Back Program?
A: To start, all PSN members who had signed up before the outage (April 20, 2011) will be able to select two games for the PS3 and two games for the PSP systems.

For PS3 owners, go to the ‘Welcome Back’ section in the PlayStation Store, and select 2 titles from the following list:

Dead Nation
inFAMOUS
LittleBigPlanet
Super Stardust HD
Wipeout HD + Fury

For PSP owners, go to the ‘Welcome Back’ section of PlayStation Store on your PSP system and select 2 titles from the following list:

LittleBigPlanet (PSP)
ModNation Racers
Pursuit Force
Killzone Liberation

Select your first game from “Game 1”, then return to the Welcome Back page and go to “Game 2” to select your second game out of the remaining choices available. This goes for both PS3 and PSP.

In addition, we’re giving access to our premium subscription service, PlayStation Plus, which includes games, huge discounts, exciting exclusives and added features like online storage and automatic downloads, to all PSN members for 30 days at no charge, requiring no long term commitment. As with the games above, go to the PlayStation Store and under the ‘Welcome Back’ section, select ‘PlayStation Plus: 30 Days Free’, and you’ll be given access to all of the benefits of PlayStation Plus. Note that this will not auto-renew and simply expires 30 days after activation.

Current Plus subscribers receive an extra 60 days added to their existing subscription at no charge. For current Plus subscribers, no action is needed as the 60 days are automatically added to your subscription.

PlayStation Network users will also get 100 virtual items in PlayStation Home as a show of appreciation for your patience while Home was inaccessible. Additional content is coming soon, including the next addition to the Home Mansion personal space, and Ooblag’s Alien Casino, an exclusive game.

A selection of “On Us” movie rentals are currently available to PlayStation Network customers this weekend only, where Video Service is available.

Finally, current Music Unlimited Premium subscription members will receive an additional 30 days of premium subscription plus days lost due to the outage.

Q: When will I have access to the Welcome Back Program?
A: The content offered as part of the Welcome Back Program is available for download today and will be available through July 3.

Q: I have both PS3 and PSP. Does this mean I will get 4 games all together?
A: Yes, as long as you were a PSN member before April 20, 2011, you’ll be able to receive up to 4 games based on the titles listed above; 2 on each platform.

Q: Are there any limitations to the PS3 and PSP games we are receiving as part of the Welcome Back Program?
A: None. These games are yours to keep.

Q: How long do I have to get into the PlayStation Store and receive my content for Welcome Back?
A: Access to the Welcome Back content will be expiring on July 3. Once this date has passed, the Welcome Back section in the PlayStation Store will be removed.

Q: When does the 30 days of my PlayStation Plus access expire?
A: Your PlayStation Plus 30-day access will expire 30 days from the date you activated it in PlayStation Store.

Q: When will (insert game here) be published?
A: Look forward to posts over the coming days that will show what content will be available at that point, or coming soon. We’re planning frequent store publishes offering lots of new content for everyone to enjoy.

Q: I’m getting 30 days of access to PlayStation Plus; can you refresh my memory on what I get with this service?
A: From the time you activate your 30 days of PlayStation Plus, you’ll be able to download games and game related content, purchase select store items at a discount, and have access to the exclusive features of Plus. You’ll also be able to get early access to any Plus exclusive Demos and priority Beta invitations that might be scheduled during your 30 days.

Q: Do I get to keep the games in PlayStation Plus forever?
A: Content that is free in PlayStation Plus will not be available after your PlayStation Plus time has expired. However, if you decide to join PlayStation Plus, you’ll have access to all of the content you downloaded during your 30 day access for as long as you are a subscriber.

Q: Do I get to keep any games or content I purchased with the PlayStation Plus discount?
A: Yes. Any content you purchase at a discount is yours to keep, regardless of your subscription status.

Q: Aside from the games and discounts; does PlayStation Plus offer anything else?
A: Yes! PlayStation Plus includes the Online Storage for Game Saves feature, allowing you to backup treasured game saves or access them from another PS3. In addition, you get the Automatic Download feature, which automatically updates your 10 most recently played games while the system is in stand-by mode so you don’t have to wait for updates before playing your games.

Q: What content will be in PlayStation Plus when I activate my 30 days?
A: PlayStation Plus content and discounts are regularly updated throughout the month. For up-to-date information on content within PlayStation Plus, please visit the Plus homepage.

Q: Where can I find the Welcome Back content in Home?
A: The 100 virtual items can be found in the kiosk in Home’s Central Plaza along with two personal spaces – Dragon’s Lair and the Mansion Garage. A new game – Ooblag’s Alien Casino – will be released soon (June 2011). This game will be 100% free-to-play. As an added bonus, players that access the Ooblag Alien Casino space will be rewarded an active item version of the Ooblag game that can be played in your personal space(s).

[via PlayStation Blog]

The Black Ops Escalation expansion pack will be available for download on the PlayStation Store starting June 10. This is an entire month after the Escalation pack was released for the Xbox 360. But before you blame it on the Sony PlayStation Network outage, the delay is also has to do with Activision’s exclusivity deal that promises Call of Duty DLC releases to arrive first on the Xbox 360.

The expansion pack will bring four new maps to the multiplayer Black Ops that will include a Hotel, Convoy, Zoo and Stockpile. A special star-studded zombie level will also be added, where you can play on a team of zombie killers featuring Sarah Michelle Gellar, Robert Englund, Michael Rooker, and Danny Trejo.

[via PlayStation Lifestyle]

The Welcome Back content is not yet live, with Sony saying that it’s in “the final stages of testing” and should be ready for download soon. As the company previously detailed, that will include – for North America at least - free games, movies, and access to PlayStation Plus, with a choice of titles for PS3 and PSP users.

Another Store update is promised this Friday, and then masses of E3 2011 content timed to go live with the gaming show next week.

Unfortunately, those in Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong will have to wait a bit longer, just as Sony warned, with the “back online by the end of the week” promise not applying to those three countries.

PlayStation Store update for PS3 and PSP:

PlayStation Plus

Full Game Trial
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Vegas 2
Dante’s Inferno Full Game Trial

Featured Games & DLC
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs SU90-S Shotgun (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers)
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs: Abandoned Map (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers)
MAG Interdiction DLC (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $4.99)
Comet Crash (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $9.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Vector TD minis (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $3.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Oddworld: Abe’s Exoddus (PS one) (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $9.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Babel the King of Blocks (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $2.99)
The 2D Adventures of Rotating Octopus Character (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $3.99)
Duael Invaders (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $3.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $4.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Killzone 3 Steel Rain Map Pack (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $4.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Discounted Games & DLC
Red Johnson’s Chronicles Episode 1 (PlayStation Plus price $9.74, regular price $12.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Dungeon Hunter (PlayStation Plus price $10.39, regular price $12.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Ricochet HD (PlayStation Plus price $2.50, regular price $10.00)
Cool Boarder 2 (PlayStation Plus price $3.00, regular price $5.99) (Prior offer, still live)
Under Siege (PlayStation Plus price $10.00, regular price $19.99)
Interpol (PlayStation Plus price $3.99, sale price $4.99, regular price $9.99)
Motor Storm Apocalypse Rare Elite Supercar (PlayStation Plus price $2.24, regular price $2.99)
Motor Storm Apocalypse Revelation Vehicle Pack Bundle (PlayStation Plus price $2.39, regular price $2.99)

Featured Themes & Avatars
Resident Evil 5 – 10 Avatar Bundle ($0.99 and exclusive to PlayStation Plus subscribers)
Resident Evil 5 – Tricell Logo Avatar (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers)
MotorStorm Apocalypse: Burning Avatar (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $0.49)
MotorStorm Apocalypse: Urban Avatar (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $0.49)
Anomalies Static Theme (Free and exclusive to PlayStation Plus subscribers)
SEGA Genesis Dynamic Theme (Free and exclusive to PlayStation Plus subscribers)
Junebug Bench Static Theme (Free and exclusive to PlayStation Plus subscribers) (prior offer, still live)
Street Fighter 2 – 8 Avatar Bundle ($0.99 PlayStation Plus Price, PlayStation Plus Exclusive)
Street Fighter 2 – Ken Avatar (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $0.49)
QORE
May Single Episode (Free to PlayStation Plus subscribers, regular price $2.99)

Updates
Interpol: The Trail Of Dr. Chaos – Sale (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $9.99)

Dc Universe – 12 Month Package (12 Months) – Price Change (now $119.99, original price $143.99)
Dc Universe – 3 Month Package (3 Months) – Price Change (now $38.99, original price $41.99)
Dc Universe – 6 Month Package (6 Months) – Price Change (now $71.99, original price $77.99)
Assassin’S Creed Ii Deluxe Edition Digital – Price Change (PS3) (now $19.99, original price $29.99)
Vertigo – Price Change (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $9.99)
Tehra: Dark Warrior – Minis – Sale (PSP) (now $1.49, original price $4.99)
Slam Bolt Scrappers (Price Drop) (PS3) (now $9.99, original price $14.99)
Plants vs Zombies (Sale) (PS3) (now $9.99, original price $14.99)
Sam And Max – The Devil’S Playhouse – Full Season – Sale (PS3) (now $19.99, original price $29.99)
Cuboid – Sale (PS3) ((now $4.99, original price $9.99)
Digger HD – Sale (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $9.99)
Dragon’s Lair – Sale (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $9.99)
Space Ace – Sale (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $9.99)
Alien Havoc – Minis – Price Drop (PSP) (now $1.99, original price $4.99)
Fish Tank – Minis – Price Drop (PSP) (now $1.99, original price $3.99
Paper Wars: Cannon Fodder – Minis – Price Drop (PSP) (now $2.99, original price $4.99)

Downloadable Games
Alien Crush (Same Code As PSP) ($5.99)
Some classics can’t be beat! Alien Crush is a pinball game that features realistic pinball action and superb ‘biomechanical’ graphics. Complete with a function to nudge the machine, this game feels like you’re playing on the real thing! Extra balls and bonus points are your keys to getting high scores!
Pull off all kinds of tricks while enjoying intense pinball action!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 17 MB
Bonk’s Adventure (Same Code As PSP) ($5.99)
An old-school side-scrolling action game! Gameplay is simple; just headbutt your enemies as you progress through each stage! You receive damage when you get hit by an enemy or when you touch something hazardous. Chow down on meat you find along the way to power-up Bonk by 2 levels! Headbutt the ground after Bonk has transformed to unleash a powerful explosion! That’s Bonk power! The power of his mighty rock-hard head!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 13 MB
Wizardry: Labyrinth Of Lost Souls ($14.99)
The popular Wizardry franchise is reborn on the PlayStation 3 system as a downloadable online title! This classic 3D dungeon-crawler remains true to its roots, with all the deep gameplay fans have come to know and love. These beloved dungeons and monsters have all been reborn in glorious high-definition, and new stories for each of the 10 main characters, breathing new life and hitherto unseen replay value into one of the old-school RPG greats.
ESRB Rated T
File size: 476 MB
Sega Rally Online Arcade ($9.99)
Race through five different types of terrain in more rally-bred vehicles than a baker can shake his dozen at. Including the Ford Focus RS, the classic Lancia Delta Integrale and the ferocious Bowler Nemesis. Play through a slew of modes including Time Trials, Single Races, and Championship Events. Cut to the chase and face off online in a variety of 6 Player multiplayer racing events – isn’t it about time you showed your friends who’s numero uno?
ESRB Rated E
File size: 1096 MB
Star Raiders ($9.99)
Star Raiders features a fresh new take on the seminal classic, letting you engage in epic dogfights and aerial assaults against the onslaught of the evil Zylons. Utilize radical ship transformations and robot co-pilots in the heat of battle as you fight to save humanity. Explore the galaxy as you utilize galactic warps and sector tactical maps that let you set your own path to liberation!
ESRB Rated E10+
File size: 877 MB
Red Johnson’s Chronicles (exclusive) ($12.99)
Metropolis, capital of crime. Private Detective Red Johnson is stretched to his limits after shots were heard from Drownedman’s Bridge. Explore strange worlds, find and use clues that will lead you to the truth in this unique game with stunning backdrops. Question suspects and confront them in breathtaking action scenes.
ESRB Rated M
File size: 1.54 GB
Under Siege (exclusive) ($19.99)
GATHER YOUR ARMIES AND FIGHT! Under Siege is an action real time strategy game. Fight through 21 levels in the main campaign and battle against great armies. Play a single player campaign, go online with or against your friends, even versus the world, in competitive and cooperative levels. Create and share your own levels with the powerful built-in editor.
ESRB Rated E10+
File size: 863 MB
Back To The Future: The Game – Episode 3 – Free With Season Pass (Free)
In “Citizen Brown”, the 3rd episode of this 5 game series, a time-stranded Marty has a rough and tumble return to the 1980s and finds himself in a topsy-turvy version of the world lorded over by the enigmatic “First Citizen Brown.”
ESRB Rated T
File size: 261 MB
Dragon’s Lair II: Time Warp ($9.99)
Dragon’s Lair II: Time Warp is the followup to Don Bluth’s arcade classic Dragon’s Lair, can now be enjoyed from the comfort of your couch. This fully arcade authentic version includes all of the original scenes you’ve come to enjoy, and even the unreleased Director’s Cut ending not seen in the arcades. Other bonuses include a full watch feature to sit back and enjoy Don Bluth’s stunning animation.
ESRB Rated T
File size: 1.25 GB
Bomberman ’94 ($5.99)
BOMBERMAN has arrived to restore peace on the planet – split into five parts by an evil hand! In addition to the nine members of the Bomber Family, the character “ROOI” shows up to lend a hand. Jump on the EGGS that appear from destroyed SOFT BLOCKS, and you can ride one of five types of “ROOI”. Each “ROOI” has different special abilities – use these well and you’ll ride to victory!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 18 MB
Learning With The Pooyoos – Episode 1 ($8.99)
With the PooYoos, a merry band of adorable baby animals, children will have fun while learning the basics for his or her development: numbers, letters, space, colors and more.
ESRB Rated E
File size: 251 MB

Game Demos (free)
Lego Pirates Of The Caribbean – Demo
LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean: The Video Game is an action adventure game bringing to life the Pirates of the Caribbean world and all its colorful characters in LEGO brick form. Players will experience all the memorable scenes from the first three films, as well as those in the upcoming fourth film, “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” in the humorous and quirky LEGO video games style.
ESRB Rated E10+
File size: 1.05 GB
Wizardry: Labyrinth Of Lost Souls Demo
The popular Wizardry franchise is reborn on the PlayStation 3 system as a downloadable online title! This classic 3D dungeon-crawler remains true to its roots, with all the deep gameplay fans have come to know and love. These beloved dungeons and monsters have all been reborn in glorious high-definition, and new stories for each of the 10 main characters, breathing new life and hitherto unseen replay value into one of the old-school RPG greats.
ESRB Rated T
File size: 476 MB
Star Raiders Demo
This Star Raiders trial features a fresh new take on the seminal classic, letting you engage in epic dogfights and aerial assaults against the onslaught of the evil Zylons. Utilize radical ship transformations and robot co-pilots in the heat of battle as you fight to save humanity. Explore the galaxy as you utilize galactic warps and sector tactical maps that let you set your own path to liberation!
ESRB Rated E10+
File size: 877 MB
Red Faction Armageddon Demo
In Red Faction: Armageddon, harness the destructive powers of the Nano Forge to transform the world into your weapon and bring it crashing down upon your enemies. Your journey will take you from the frozen poles to the molten core of Mars as you wage war against the Red Faction’s greatest enemy yet.
ESRB Rated M
File size: 854 MB
The Fight: Lights Out Stress-Buster Demo
Get a taste of the incredible 1 to 1 fighting control in The Fight: Lights Out with the Stress-Buster Demo! See how many crushing blows you can land before time expires as you blow off some steam and prepare yourself to take down even the biggest opponent in The Fight: Lights Out.
ESRB Rated T
File size: 636 MB
MotorStorm Apocalypse Single Player Demo
Take a test drive to the end of the world with the single-player demo for MotorStorm Apocalypse! Put the pedal to the metal in the high-powered supercar to beat the competition as you dodge explosions and derailing trains on the Mainline: Off The Rails Track
ESRB Rated T
File size: 1.18 GB

PSone Classics
Missile Command ($5.99)
Defend the cities of the Earth against an alien invasion in this reimagining of an arcade classic. Download this PS one Classic today!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 193 MB
Add-on Game Content
Arcana Heart 3 – Additional Colors – ALL ($3.99)
File size: 1.57 MB
Arcana Heart 3 – Additional Colors ($0.99) (x11)
File size: 1.57 MB
Blazblue: Continuum Shift – Platinum The Trinity ($7.99)
File size: 2.51 MB
Crysis 2 – Retaliation Pack ($9.99)
File size: 99 MB
Dead Space 2 Outbreak Map (Free)
File size: 417 MB
Dragon Age II: All-Class Item Pack ($2.99) (x3)
File size: 11.55 MB
Dragon Age II Item Packs ($2.99) (x3)
File size: 3.2 MB – 4.19 MB
Dynasty Warriors 7 – Costume Pack 0 ($0.99)
File size: 11 MB
Dynasty Warriors 7 – Costume Pack 1 ($0.99)
File size: 95 MB
Dynasty Warriors 7 – Japanese Voice Option (Free)
File size: 1.64 GB
Dynasty Warriors 7 – New Stage and BGM Pack 1 ($2.99)
File size: 47 MB
Dynasty Warriors 7 – New Weapon Pack 1 ($1.99)
File size: 7.24 MB
Fallout: New Vegas – Honest Hearts ($9.99)
File size: 464 MB
Funky Lab Rat New Challenges ($1.99)
File size: 3.76 MB
Hyperdimension Neptunia: various accessories ($0.99) (x21)
File size: 100 KB – 7.17 MB
LittleBigPlanet 2: Tron: Evolution Minipack ($2.99)
File size: 1.02 MB
LittleBigPlanet 2: Cinco de Mayo Costume (1 Week Offer) (Free)
File size: 1.02 MB
Marvel Pinball – Fantastic Four ($2.49)
File size: 50 MB
Marvel Vs Capcom 3: Fate Of Two Worlds – Shadow Battle ($0.99) (x4)
File size: 255 KB – 268 KB
ModNation Racers Mods, Themes and Karts ($0.99 – $6.99) (x5)
File size: 100 KB – 200 KB
MotorStorm Apocalypse Pack ($0.99) (x5)
File size: 100 KB – 200 KB
MotorStorm Apocalypse – Launch Day Livery (Free)
File size: 100 KB
Moon Diver: Chain Kill Mode: Bloodbath! (Free)
File size: 100 KB
Moon Diver: Score Attack Modes: Orbit and Rage! ($0.99)
File size: 100 KB
Shift 2 Unleashed – Speedhunters ($9.99)
File size: 166 MB
Shift 2 Unleashed – Legends ($9.99)
File size: 182 MB
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs – SOCOM Pro ($14.9)
File size: 200 KB
Super Street Fighter IV Ultra Complete Alternate Costumes Pack ($17.99)
File size: 336 MB
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12 – Bethpage State Park ($3.99)
File size: 133 MB
Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12 – Turnberry Resort ($3.99)
File size: 149 MB
Wizardry: Labyrinth Of Lost Souls – Dungeon Of Trials Open ($4.99)
File size: 100 KB
You Don’t Know Jack Pack 3 ($4.99)
File size: 262 MB
Yoostar 2: various scenes ($1.99 – $6.99) (x43)
File size: 50 MB – 572 MB
Zen Pinball – Sorcerer’s Lair – Public Release ($2.49)
File size: 57 MB

Rock Band 3
Build your Rock Band library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.
“Do You Feel Like We Do (Live)” – Peter Frampton ($1.99)
“5 Minutes Alone” – Pantera ($1.99)
“Mouth For War” – Pantera ($1.99)
“Walk” – Pantera ($1.99)
“I’m Broken” – Pantera ($1.99)
“Born This Way” – Lady Gaga ($1.99)
“Lovegame” – Lady Gaga ($1.99)
“Paparazzi” – Lady Gaga ($1.99)
“Urgent” – Foreigner ($1.99)
“Hot Blooded” – Foreigner ($1.99)
“Big Bang Baby” – Stone Temple Pilots ($1.99)
“Do You Really Want To Hurt Me” – Culture Club ($1.99)
“From Out Of Nowhere” – Faith No More ($1.99)
“Stash” – Phish ($1.99)
“Tweezer” – Phish ($1.99)
“Working For The Weekend” – Loverboy ($1.99)
“Hard Rock Hallelujah” – Lordi ($1.99)
“King Of Rock” – Run-DMC ($1.99)
“Long Road To Ruin” – Foo Fighters ($1.99)
“Rope” – Foo Fighters ($1.99)
“Stacked Actors” – Foo Fighters ($1.99)
“Walk” – Foo Fighters ($1.99)
“Blue Bayou” – Roy Orbison ($1.99)
“Dream Baby (How Long Must I Dream)” – Roy Orbison ($1.99)
“Only The Lonely (Know The Way I Feel)” – Roy Orbison ($1.99)
“Rock And Roll All Nite (Live)” – KISS ($1.99)
“Strutter (Live)” – KISS ($1.99)
Roy Orbison: 75Th Birthday Pack ($5.49) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game album: Roy Orbison: 75Th Birthday Pack. This pack includes “Blue Bayou”, “Dream Baby” and “Only the Lonely (Know The Way I Feel)”. By Roy Orbison.
Foo Fighters Pack 04 – ($6.99) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game album: “Long Road to Ruin”, “Rope”, “Stacked Actors” and “Walk”. By Foo Fighters.
Pantera Pack 01 – ($6.99) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game album: “5 Minutes Alone”, “I’m Broken” and “Mouth for War”. By Pantera.
Lady Gaga Pack 02 – ($5.49) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game album: “Born this Way”, “LoveGame” and “Paparazzi”. By Lady Gaga.
File size: 25 MB – 51 MB (singles), XX MB (track pack)

Rock Band Network
“Goodnight Technologist” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Homosuperior ” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Megatron” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Montana” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Car Windows” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Dove Nets” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Taking Apart A Gigantic Machine”- The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Talk Them Down” – The Main Drag($0.99)
“Teeth, Face, Outerspace” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Tricky Girl” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Abigail” – Motionless In White ($1.99)
“At The Edge Of The World” – Kataklysm($1.99)
“Can I Stay” – Stephanie Hatfield and Hot Mess ($0.99)
“Even Seconds” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“It’s Gonna Be A Long Night” – Ween ($1.99)
“Oye Vaya” – Earl Greyhound ($0.99)
“Swine Houses ” – The Main Drag ($0.99)
“Tadpole Search And Rescue” – Chaunce DeLeon and The Fountain of Choof ($0.99)
“The Resonance” – Decrepit Birth ($1.99)
“White Knuckles – The Big Robot Remix” – OK Go ($1.99)
“A Christmas Rock Medley” – Richard Campbell ($0.99)
“Allegiance” – Blackguard ($1.99)
“Cursing Akhenaten” – After the Burial ($1.99)
“Dance With Me” – Stewart ($0.99)
“Destructive Device” – Mindflow ($0.99)
“Entertain” – Sleater-Kinney ($1.99)
“Icarus Lives” – Periphery ($1.99)
“Persistence of Vision” – Matter in the Medium ($0.99)
“Piranha” – Pretty & Nice ($1.99)
“Tora Tora Tora” – Pretty & Nice ($1.99)
“Dawn Of A Million Souls (Rock Band Mix)” – Ayreon ($1.99)
“If I’m James Dean, You’re Audrey Hepburn” – Sleeping with Sirens ($1.99)
“Learn To Live” – Architects ($1.99)
“N.A.T.G.O.D.” – Daath ($1.99)
“Nightfall” – Nachtmystium ($1.99)
“Stick Tight” – Terror ($1.99)
“The Omen” – Heaven Shall Burn ($1.99)
“Undead Heart” – Vampires Everywhere! ($1.99)
“World On Fire” – Firewind ($1.99)
“Your Petty Pretty Things” – The Get Up Kids ($1.99)
“Anybody Else” – Audible Mainframe ($1.99)
“Cimmerian Shamballa – Wretched ($1.99)
“Do Yourself A Favor” – Comeback Kid ($1.99)
“Fractured (Everything I Said Was True)” – Taproot ($1.99)
“Ice Cold” – Audible Mainframe ($0.99)
“Model Ships” – Rosaline ($1.99)
“On Parole” – Sister Sin ($1.99)
“Radioland” – Audible Mainframe ($1.99)
“The Body” – Close Your Eyes ($1.99)
“The Way You Move” – Since October ($1.99)
File size: 17 MB – 36 MB(singles)

Bundles
Soldner-X & Soldner-X 2 Complete Soundtrack Bundle ($7.99)
This bundle contains all three albums (the soundtracks from Soldner-X: Himmelssturmer, Soldner-X 2: Final Prototype and Soldner-X 2: The Last Chapter) and has a total running time of over 160 minutes.
File size: 354 MB
MotorStorm Apocalypse Revelation Vehicle Pack ($2.99)
Summon the four harbingers of the Last Judgement with this Revelation Pack – a quartet of vehicles inspired by the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, for use exclusively with MotorStorm Apocalypse.
Download all four vehicles with special bundle pricing.
File size: 400 KB

Avatars
Street Fighter 2 ($0.49) (x8)
File size: 100 KB
L.A. Noire – Cole Phelps Avatar ($0.49) (x4)
File size: 100 KB
L.A. Noire Avatar ($0.49) (x6)
File size: 100 KB – 139 KB
MotorStorm Apocalypse Stormers Avatar Bundle ($0.99)
File size: 695 KB
MotorStorm Apocalypse Avatar ($0.49) (x5)
File size: 134 KB – 142 KB
Hard Corps: Uprising Avatar Collection 1 ($1.49)
File size: 500 KB
Hard Corps: Uprising Avatar ($0.49) (x5)
File size: 100 KB
Grand Theft Auto IV – Avatar ($0.49) (x10)
File size: 100 KB
Red Dead Redemption – Avatar ($0.49) (x7)
File size: 100 KB – 133 KB
Resident Evil 5 Avatar ($0.49) (x10)
File size: 100 KB – 1.03 MB
Dragon’s Lair II: Avatar ($0.49) (x6)
File size:100 KB – 109 KB
Tales From Space: About A Blob Avatar ($0.49 – $1.99) (x9)
File size: 100 KB – 800 KB (bundle)
Funky Lab Rat Avatar ($0.49 – $1.49) (x7)
File size: 100 KB – 600 KB (bundle)
Castlevania Lords Of Shadow Avatar ($0.49 – $2.99) (x11)
File size: 100 KB – 1.06 MB (bundle)
Might And Magic Clash Of Heroes – Avatar ($0.49) (x4)
File size: 112 KB – 129 KB
Killzone 3 Avatar ($0.49 – $1.49) (x19)
File size: 100 KB – 500 KB (bundle)
MLB 11 The Show – Avatar ($0.49 – $1.49) (x10)
File size: 100 KB
MotorStorm Apocalypse – Avatar ($0.49) (x2)
File size: 100 KB

Game Videos (free)
Duke Nukem Forever – History of A Legend, Episode 1 Trailer
File size: 161 MB (HD)
Top Spin 4 – Playstyles Trailer #1: Baseline Attacker
File size: 54 MB (HD)
Asura’s Wrath – Announce Trailer
File size: 111 MB (HD)
Asura’s Wrath – Captivate 2011 Trailer
File size: 118 MB (HD)
Dead Rising 2: Off The Record Announcement Trailer
File size: 63 MB (HD)
Dragon’s Dogma Announcement Trailer
File size: 75 MB (HD)
L.A. Noire – Gameplay Trailer 1
File size: 131 MB (HD)
L.A. Noire – Gameplay Trailer 2
File size: 114 MB (HD)
L.A. Noire – Official Trailer 1
File size: 45 MB (HD)
L.A. Noire – Official Trailer 3
File size: 51 MB (HD)
L.A. Noire – Technology Trailer
File size: 131 MB (HD)
Binary Domain Gameplay Trailer 1
File size: 72 MB (HD)
Captain America: Super Soldier Press Event Trailer
File size: 56 MB (HD)
Dungeon Siege 3 – Anjali Vignette
File size: 38 MB (HD)
Outland – Trailer
File size: 53 MB (HD)
Starhawk Trailer
File size: 156 MB (HD), 264 MB (1080)
MotorStorm Apocalypse – Features Trailer
File size: 160 MB (1080)
Twisted Metal – Extended Trailer – “Broken”
File size: 84 MB (HD), 141 MB (1080)
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs – Launch Trailer
File size: 92 MB (HD), 154 MB (1080)
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs – “Dream Team” TV Spot
File size: 22 MB (HD), 36 MB (1080)
Portal 2 Boots Trailer
File size: 74 MB
Marvel Vs Capcom 3 – Jill Dlc Trailer
File size: 58 MB (HD)
Marvel Vs Capcom 3 – Shuma-Gorath Dlc Trailer
File size: 58 MB (HD)
Lego Pirates Of The Caribbean – Black Pearl Trailer
File size: 66 MB (HD)
Thor Prologue Trailer
File size: 111 MB (HD)
Dungeon Siege 3 – Reinhart Vignette
File size: 40 MB (HD)
inFAMOUS 2 – Quest for Power Trailer
File size: 81 MB (HD), 133 MB (1080)
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs – Behind the Scenes: Solo Campaign
File size: 147 MB (HD), 245 MB (1080)
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs – Behind the Scenes: Music
File size: 150 MB (HD), 252 MB (1080)
MotorStorm Apocalypse – Wreckreation Developer Diary Part 1
File size: 255 MB (HD), 427 MB (1080)
UNCHARTED 3: Drake’s Deception – Multiplayer Trailer
File size: 82 MB (HD)
Shift 2 Unleashed – Dangerous Corners Trailer
File size: 73 MB (HD)
Thor: Press Event Exclusive Trailer
File size: 83 MB (HD)
Dungeon Siege III – Lucas Vignette
File size: 36 MB (HD)
Back To The Future: The Game – Behind The Scenes – Jennifer Returns Network Trailer
File size: 121 MB (HD)
Back To The Future: The Game – Episode 3 Trailer
File size: 70 MB (HD)
Call Of Juarez The Cartel Announcement Trailer
File size: 104 MB (HD)

Music
Soldner-X 2: Final Prototype Complete Soundtrack ($4.99)
File size: 200 MB
Soldner-X: Himmelssturmer Complete Soundtrack ($3.99)
File size: 354 MB
PS3 Themes
Duke Nukem Forever – Official Duke Nukem Forever Theme (Free)
File size: 3.24 MB
Killzone 3 – ISA Sky Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 5.25 MB
Killzone 3 – Helghast Sky Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 3.83 MB
MotorStorm Apocalypse – Mash Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 7.93 MB
Destinations Theme ($2.99) (x11)
File size: 9.68 MB – 13 MB
Amazing Earth Theme ($2.99) (x6)
File size: 7.98 MB – 13 MB
Fantasy – Blood Blossom Warrior Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 2.68 MB
Fantasy – Matchhead Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 11 MB
Sci-Fi – Galactic Miner Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 6.08 MB
Sci-Fi – Starfield Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 11 MB
Sci-Fi – Shock Therapy Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 5.65 MB
Abstract Theme ($2.99) (x4)
File size: 2.6 MB – 38 MB
Dynamic Lagoon Theme ($2.99)
File size: 11 MB
Wendy Premium Theme 3 ($2.99)
File size: 3.58 MB
Zen Waterfall Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 12 MB
Aqua Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 72 MB
Bio Cascade Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 106 MB
Digital Dream Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 1.46 MB
Brown Sugar Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 3.56 MB
Turkish Delight Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 3.63 Mb
Fantasy: Head Hunter Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 5.27 MB
Fantasy: Fireflies Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 9.38 MB
Fantasy: Fire Skull Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 3.53 MB
Fantasy: Haunted Castle Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 3.8 MB
Fantasy: Cherry Blossoms Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 13 MB
Amazing Honeys Theme ($1.49)
File size: 6.48 MB
Summer Beach Theme ($1.99)
File size: 13 MB
SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs Static Theme (Free)
File size: 2.37 MB
AK47 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 4.21 MB
Pheonix Suns Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 4.52 MB
Arcana Heart 3 Theme ($1.49)
File size: 18 MB
Dragon’s Lair II: Time Warp Theme ($2.99)
File size: 3.07 MB
Fireflies Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
File size: 4.26 MB
PS3 Wallpapers (free)
Starhawk Wallpaper
File size: 1.47 MB

PlayStation Store for PSP

Downloadable Games (also available from PS3 Storefront)
Lego Pirates Of The Caribbean ($29.99)
LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean: The Video Game is an action adventure game bringing to life the Pirates of the Caribbean world and all its colorful characters in LEGO brick form. Players will experience all the memorable scenes from the first three films, as well as those in the upcoming fourth film, “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” in the humorous and quirky LEGO video games style.
ESRB Rated E10+
File size: 1.28 GB
Alien Crush ($5.99)
Some classics can’t be beat! Alien Crush is a pinball game that features realistic pinball action and superb ‘biomechanical’ graphics. Complete with a function to nudge the machine, this game feels like you’re playing on the real thing! Extra balls and bonus points are your keys to getting high scores!
Pull off all kinds of tricks while enjoying intense pinball action!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 17 MB
Bonk’s Adventure ($5.99)
An old-school side-scrolling action game!
Gameplay is simple; just headbutt your enemies as you progress through each stage!
You receive damage when you get hit by an enemy or when you touch something hazardous. Chow down on meat you find along the way to power-up Bonk by 2 levels! Headbutt the ground after Bonk has transformed to unleash a powerful explosion! That’s Bonk power! The power of his mighty rock-hard head!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 13 MB
Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars ($29.99)
The beloved and critically acclaimed LEGO Star Wars franchise is back. LEGO Star Wars III: The Clone Wars, combines the epic stories and iconic characters from the Star Wars universe and hot animated TV series with all new gameplay features.
ESRB Rated E10+
File size: 1.45 GB
Bomberman ’94 ($5.99)
BOMBERMAN has arrived to restore peace on the planet – split into five parts by an evil hand! In addition to the nine members of the Bomber Family, the character “ROOI” shows up to lend a hand. Jump on the EGGS that appear from destroyed SOFT BLOCKS, and you can ride one of five types of “ROOI”. Each “ROOI” has different special abilities – use these well and you’ll ride to victory!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 18 MB

Add-on Game Content (also available from PS3 Storefront)
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – FFII BGM Pack [3 Tracks] ($0.99)
3 BGM tracks selected from FINAL FANTASY II.
File size: 1.43 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – FFIII BGM Pack [3 Tracks] ($0.99)
3 BGM tracks selected from FINAL FANTASY III.
File size: 1.58 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – FFVII BGM Pack [3 Tracks] ($0.99)
3 BGM tracks selected from FINAL FANTASY III.
File size: 6.16 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – FFVIII BGM Pack [3 Tracks] ($0.99)
3 BGM tracks selected from FINAL FANTASY III.
File size: 5.6 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – FFX BGM Pack [3 Tracks] ($0.99)
3 BGM tracks selected from FINAL FANTASY X.
File size: 7.5 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – FFXII BGM Pack [3 Tracks] ($0.99)
3 BGM tracks selected from FINAL FANTASY III.
File size: 3.38 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – Onion Knight Alt 3: Ingus ($0.99)
Additional costume for Onion Knight.
File size: 3.5 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – The Emperor Alt 3: Emperor Of Arubboth ($0.99)
Additional costume for Emperor.
File size: 3.27 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – Vaan Alt 3: Pirate’s Garb ($0.99)
Additional costume for Vaan.
File size: 2.57 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – Yuna Alt 3: Gunner Dressphere ($0.99)
Additional costume for Yuna, based on her appearance from FINAL FANTASY X-2.
File size: 2.33 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – Laguna Alt 3: Sorceress’S Knight ($0.99)
File size: 2.93 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – Sephiroth Alt 3: Kingdom Hearts Gear ($0.99)
Additional costume for Sephiroth, based on his appearance in the KINGDOM HEARTS series.
File size: 2.84 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – Kuja Alt 3: Treno Nobleman ($0.99)
Additional costume for Kuja.
File size: 2.97 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – Zidane Alt 3: Marcus’S Cloak ($0.99)
Additional costume for Zidane.
File size: 3.13 MB
Dissidia 012 [duodecim] FINAL FANTASY – FFIX BGM Pack [3 Tracks] ($0.99)
3 BGM tracks selected from FINAL FANTASY IX.
File size: 4.38 MB

PSP minis (also available from PS3 Storefront)
Star Hammer Tactics – Minis ($1.99)
File size: 5.08 MB
Best Of Solitaire – Minis ($4.99)
File size: 22 MB
Block Cascade Fusion – Minis ($1.49)
File size: 11 MB
Sky Force – Minis ($4.99)
File size: 24 MB
Card Shark – Minis ($1.49)
File size: 13 MB
Days Of Thunder – Minis ($4.99)
File size: 39 MB
Top Gun – Minis ($4.99)
File size: 40 MB

Today’s work will in-part focus on bringing the PlayStation Store up to speed. Although Sony has restored some services in North America, Europe and Asia, including online gaming and much of its Qriocity streaming media platform, there remain several elements yet to be turned back on.

That includes in-game commerce, support for redeeming vouchers and codes, Media Go, and the ability to use Qriocity on PS3, PSP, Sony’s VAIO computers and other PCs. The timetable calls for those to be added back in by the end of the week, though Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong will have to wait a little longer.

In addition to PSN service restoration, Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity will also be restored in the same territories. Services freshly reactivated will include full PlayStation Store functionality, in-game commerce, support for redeeming vouchers and codes, Media Go, and the ability to use Qriocity on PS3, PSP, Sony’s VAIO computers and other PCs.

The news follows a partial restore of the PlayStation Network services earlier this month, beginning with North America and Europe and then spreading to Asia afterwards. However it’s not been all smooth sailing: issues with the password reset system forced Sony to take it offline briefly.

Press Release:

SONY AND SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCE FULL RESTORATION OF PLAYSTATION®NETWORK SERVICES

Tokyo, May 31, 2011 – Sony Corporation and Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) announced today that Sony Network Entertainment International (SNEI, the company) will fully restore all PlayStation®Network services in the Americas, Europe/PAL territories and Asia, excluding Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea by the end of this week. The company will also resume Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity™ for PlayStation®3 (PS3®), PSP® (PlayStation®Portable), VAIO and other PCs. Details for Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea as well as the remaining services on Qriocity will be announced as they become available.
The company implemented considerable security enhancements to the network infrastructure, as well as conducted testing of the payment process and commerce functions. The first phase of PlayStation Network and Qriocity restoration began on May 15 in the Americas and Europe/PAL territories, followed by Japan and Asian countries and regions on May 28, when the company brought partial services back online. With this partial restoration users were able to access to some of the services such as online game play, account management, friend lists and chat functionality were restored. The full restoration of PlayStation Network as well as part of services to become available on Qriocity will include:
• Full functionality on PlayStation®Store
• In-game commerce
• Ability to redeem vouchers and codes
• Full functionality on Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity for PS3, PSP, VAIO and
other PCs
• Full functionality on Media Go
Customers will be able to purchase and download games and video content from the PlayStation®Store on PS3 or PSP. In addition, consumers will have full access to Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity through PS3, PSP, VAIO and other PC’s. Service restoration of Video on Demand powered by Qriocity™ and Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity for a variety of network-enabled Sony devices will be announced later.
“We have been conducting additional testing and further security verification of our commerce functions in order to bring the PlayStation Network completely back online so that our fans can again enjoy the first class entertainment experience they have come to love,” said Kazuo Hirai, Executive Deputy President, Sony Corporation. “We appreciate the patience and support shown during this time.”
The company will be offering customers a “Welcome Back” package of services and premium content to all registered PlayStation Network* and Qriocity account services. The details of this program will continue to be detailed regionally.
* Only available for those countries with access to PlayStation®Store.

Apparently just before the PBS hack, LuzSec issued a warning via Twitter that they are “working on another Sony operation.” After the recent Playstation debacles, we are not very inspired with overwhelming confidence in Sony. But the real issue is not Sony or PBS, the real issue is that some of the biggest IT firms in the world seem to be easy prey for rouge hacker groups. Some are wondering if these types of hacker attacks are more dangerous than Terrorists.

Obviously these are not threats to Homeland Security, but these targets have big money, and they spend big piles of it on security. It is no wonder that average consumers are being hammered with so much fraud and identity theft. No one is a fan of bad journalism, but these types of attacks are right up there near Domestic Terrorism. WikiLeaks issued their own unedited version of the Frontline interview to help set the record straight. That type of response seems a lot more realistic and a lot less dangerous, and probably a lot more effective.

Ever since the advent of the internet it has been clear that no secrets are safe. No senator can hide his affair, no corporation can hide unscrupulous practices, and the home address of the Snuffalupagus is probably posted on the internet. The only way we can find to ensure zero successful attacks is to sell your house and move to a cave in Oregon. Until then, watch yourself when you surf, and save me a seat in the cave.

[via Andy Greenburg]

While all that was going on, I didn’t miss PlayStation Network one bit. I went about my day, playing games as I normally do, and didn’t even think once about PlayStation Network.

Though I’m singling out the PlayStation Network, I could say the same for Microsoft’s Xbox LIVE platform. If the worst occurred and that service was breached, forcing the software giant to take it offline, I wouldn’t have missed it one bit.

See, I don’t like online gaming. I’ve tried it many times in the past, and I’ve found that it’s not for me.

My biggest issue with online gaming is that I simply don’t have the time to dedicate to it to even be good enough to play. When I tried Call of Duty: Black Ops on Xbox LIVE last year, I found myself getting killed with ease by players that have more skill than I think I’d ever be able to build up. For a while, I tried to improve my ability and play more; but after a while, I realized that I didn’t have the time to do it. And after continuing to get killed quickly, I decided that sticking with offline multiplayer with friends was a much better option for me.

But that’s just one small part of my issue with online gaming. The biggest problem I have with it is the user base. Far too often when I go online to relax and play a few games with others around the world, I find them to be unbearable. They yell, bark orders, taunt, and say some of the most amazingly obnoxious things I’ve ever heard. After just a few minutes of it, I’ve heard enough.

For me, the only way to play online is with some friends. We find a time to get on our consoles and play together. It’s a simple, more-relaxed option that delivers the kind of experience that many folks enjoy when they’re playing with others around the world.

So, although some were upset to see PlayStation Network bite the dust for a month, I wasn’t fazed at all. I thought the move was a smart one on Sony’s part, and I welcomed the company actually doing its part to ensure something like this doesn’t happen again. And all the while, I continued to play games on my PlayStation 3 (and other consoles) just as I did prior to the breach.

I know there are few people who agree with me, but I just don’t see the value of online gaming the way most folks do. As far as I’m concerned, the offline world is a much better place for gamers.

As with the restoration in other areas, there’ll be a mandatory password change for PSN and Qriocity users. Sony has also detailed the “Welcome Back” compensation package it will be providing, which will include a choice of two titles from The Last Guy, Loco Roco!! BuuBuu Cocoreccho!, Echochrome, Wipeout HD and Hustler King on the PS3 or Yuusha no Kuse ni Namaikida or2, Minna no Sukkiri, Patapon 2, LittleBigPlanet Portable and LocoRoco Midnight Carnival on the PSP.

There’ll also be 30 days of PlayStation Plus access along with 30 free days of Platinum membership in Weekly Toro Station. Sony intends to also offer free video rentals, though they will be detailed at a later stage.

Sony has announced that users of the PSN can now take advantage of that free identity theft protection offer, as can Qriocity users. As of yesterday, users of the PSN or Qriocity in the US can register for the theft protection by visiting this link. Sony is also alerting users of the enrollment page via email and says that the email should land in the user’s box this week. The identity protection was detailed for US PSN users early this month.

The protection will be offered via Debix and is called AllClear ID Plus. The service will provide the PSN users with identity theft insurance and hands-on help from expert fraud investigators in the event that their personal information is misused. The service will last for 12 months, but the PSN user must enroll. To be eligible the user has to be in the US and have had an account as of April 20, 2011. The enrollment link will generate the activation code needed for the AllClear ID Plus service activation.

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has confirmed that the store is indeed not relaunching today, although they still intend to restore the system by the end of May. Posted on their blog last evening, James Gallagher writes that “The latest information I have on PlayStation Store is that we are aiming to have it live by the end of May. Contrary to popular rumours, it will not be reopening tomorrow but we will let you know here as soon as the date is confirmed.”

The PlayStation Network is undergoing a routine maintenance today, but SCEE states that the procedure has nothing to do with the delay of the PlayStation Store relaunch. Could the discovery of various new security issues be the problem? Especially with the successful attacks of three of Sony’s networks including So-Net, Sony Music Greece, and Sony Music Japan.

[via Gamasutra]

[via G4tv]

Last week in gaming consoles…
Nintendo “Project Café” Wii 2 caught on video?
Nintendo ‘Project Cafe’ Wii2 Game Controller To Have Camera?
Microsoft email tips possible free replacement for older Xbox 360 consoles that can’t support new game format
Microsoft Offers Free Xbox 360 with Select Windows 7 Notebook Purchases

As Sony struggles to resurrect its network…
Sony PlayStation Network suffers new hack
Sony hosting phishing site on own server as new hacks identified
Sony hacked again? This time it’s So-Net

Android:
Android flaw could see Google & Facebook accounts snatched over WiFi
Google Confirms Android WiFi Security Fix Rolling Out Today
ASUS Eee Pad Transformer, Acer Iconia Tab A500 Getting Android 3.1 Honeycomb In June
Amazon Tablets ‘Coyote’ And ‘Hollywood’ Slated For 2011?
Android Honeycomb 3.1 Review

Apple:
iPad 2 supply bottleneck improving tips analyst
Foxconn iPad 2 plant explosion [Video] [Updated]
Apple Store 2.0 Top Secret Revamp Revealed?
Apple Store secret NFC payment upgrade tipped
Apple Back-To-School Sale To Start Next Week?
No NFC for iPhone 4S/iPhone 5 claim analysts
Apple iTunes iCloud Music Service Might Not Launch At WWDC?
Toshiba Reveals 367ppi LCD Display, Beats Apple Retina

Samsung:
Samsung Reveals Battle Plan Against Apple
May 24th Samsung Mobile Event Postponed

T-Mobile:

HTC Sensation unboxing & first-impressions [Video]
T-Mobile 2011 roadmap reveals HTC Doubleshot and G-Infinity, more
Samsung Hercules For T-Mobile, Like The Infuse 4G, But Dual-Core

AT&T:
HTC HD7S Windows Phone Heading To AT&T On June 5
Dell Streak Pro Honeycomb slate dropping June with Tegra 2 T20?

Verizon:
Verizon 4G LTE spreads: Nine new markets, Five boosted cities
Verizon To Drop Unlimited Data Plans, May Add Family Data Plans
LG Revolution To Launch May 26 With Netflix, Froyo, And LTE
Verizon HTC Trophy: Carrier’s first WP7 device due May 26
Droid X2 Unboxing and Hands-on [vs. Droid X]
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Reviews, Unboxings, and Hands-ons:
Infuse 4G Review
Galaxy Tab 10.1 Review (Limited Edition)
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Review
HTC Flyer Review
HTC Flyer Hands-On and Unboxing [Best Buy]
HTC Flyer On Sale Today At Best Buy

[Image via Matt Brett]

I used to think that YouTube comments were the evil pit of despair on the Internet. The worst place you could visit. I never sent my mother a YouTube link to one of my review videos because I did not want her to read the things commenters would say about me. The endless criticism of my voice, my cuticles (only my hands appear in most videos, so I was spared the worst taunts), my opinions, even the choice of device to review. I was told I should die, or never have been born. I was told I should be fired and stripped of my livelihood. I was told I was poorly groomed, or in poor health, or that my breathing was simply annoying. I’m a human. We breath sometimes.

Usually these criticisms were over serious errors in my judgment. If I disliked a popular device, I should die. If I liked an Apple device, I was clearly being paid off by Apple. If I had high expectations for a cheap device, I didn’t understand the audience. If I failed to compare that cheap device to the most expensive devices on the market, I’m clearly made a poor career choice, and I need to be punished.

My favorite YouTube comment thread is still ongoing, though I posted the video years ago. I posted a video shot with the high-speed Casio Exilim EX-F1. It’s a firecracker exploding at 1200 frames per second. I have received dozens and dozens of replies to that video claiming I was lying about the fps speed. At first, I tried to gently correct them. Then I got angry and started insulting commenters. Then I started deleting dozens of comments that made the same, stupid argument. Now, I simply laugh whenever I see a new comment is posted.

YouTube is brutal, no doubt, but by far the worst comments I have ever encountered come during online gameplay on a gaming console. I usually hear the most hateful, most racist, homophobic, misogynistic comments I could possibly imagine, and many that exceed my admittedly raunchy imagination. I thought about how I could repeat some of those slurs here in this column, but I’m going to spare you the abuse. Just imagine the worst thing you can think of, then dunk your head in a bucket of acid, and you’ll get an idea for how bad things can get.

Usually these insults are issued in prepubescent voices; young boys who could still sing soprano in their school choir. Not to make a sexist judgment, but I have never been insulted by someone with an obviously female voice.

There is a backlash against these cretins. I am not saying that theirs is the only voice you’ll hear in online games. I have seen users kicked out of arenas for using such slurs. I have heard other gamers openly correct and chastise these bigots for their slurs. I have even seen gamers devote their gamertags to spreading a message of love and acceptance, and not hate and fear. But the problem persists, and I think it is one of the biggest obstacles in online console gaming today.

Thus, it was refreshing to hear Gabe Newell of Valve software, talking to Develop magazine online, about how Valve and other developers can combat this sort of behavior. His solution? Charge nice guys less. Charge jerks more. A lot more. Make the game more expensive. Charge an extra $100 for voice.

My ultra-liberal First Amendment side perks up at this argument. Is this an abridgment of the freedom of speech? Of course not. The freedom of speech is a government concern. The law says that the government can’t curtail the freedom to spew whatever hateful nonsense you want. I’ll stick up for that, even in the worst cases when I truly despise what someone is saying.

A game developer keeping hate speech out of a gaming experience? That’s not freedom of speech, that’s capitalism. I don’t have an Xbox LIVE account anymore because I hated playing against the other online players. Microsoft is losing the money I happily paid in the past because of the people it admits to its servers. Freedom of speech does not guarantee you the right to say anything you like anywhere you want to say it. It’s only about the government, and what the government can do to your expression. It’s not about what a company can restrict.

But where do we draw the line? I’m offended by homophobic comments, racism and blatant sexism. But I’m not bothered by occasional cursing. I don’t mind trash-talking and insults about my mother. I have a dark, sardonic sense of humor, so it’s possible that I may offend people who are more sensitive than I, without realizing I am doing so.

Plus, though I strongly disagree with the hateful things you may say, you may have been raised in a cultural or religious background that finds no offense in such hatred. I don’t agree, and I don’t like those sorts of beliefs, but I’m not going to pretend they don’t exist, and that the believers aren’t earnest in their interpretation. How am I to curtail their speech if the things I say may offend their conservative sensibilities?

It’s a tough question, and one that cannot be answered with a blanket policy. To understand my sense of humor, you have to get to know me. Once you know I’m a nice guy (doesn’t it say so in my bio below?), the terrible things I might spew are so out of character that it’s obvious I’m making a joke, making fun of the human condition of horrible thoughts that pop into our heads. I never veer into hate, but in order for my comments to work, you have to get to know me first. That’s my responsibility. If I fail, and I get fined by Valve or kicked out of an arena, I’ll know the next time to tone it down if I want to keep playing. And I’ll appreciate the mediation that keeps gamers happy doing what they love, which is just playing the game.