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!

Lumines Electronic Symphony will take full advantage of the Vita’s unique touch panel on the back of the device, making it easier for players to move and position blocks onto the play field. Other new additions include special skills that are unlocked as players collect new avatars, and a graphical overhaul that will turn the flat 2D blocks into much more visually pleasing 3D cubes. The core gameplay, however, remains unchanged.

The brain-busting finger-twisting bundle of joy is scheduled to be available as a launch title for the Vita, which is due out late next month. It will be one of the rare franchises to be available at launch for both the PSP and the Vita. Make sure you have enough hair to pull out and enough time to kill before you pick up your copy.

[via PlayStation Blog]

“Generally we look three years ahead when we work on games” Yoshida says, with Sony having a “fairly firm plan” to take it up until 2013. The PS Vita went on sale in Japan over the weekend, selling 321,000 units in its first two days.

Meanwhile, Yoshida was at pains to point out that Sony will not be pushing augmented reality onto PS Vita gamers unnecessarily, despite AR being a key part of what the handheld was designed to support. The company has demonstrated its SmartAR technology several times this year, eschewing glyphs and instead using face-tracking and other systems.

“One thing I know about hardcore gamers is that they hate it when we try to shove new technology down their throats. There may be a perception that Augmented Reality is a gimmick, so we have to provide something that is robust and genuinely enhances the experience … The more we experiment, I’m sure that we will see real gameplay benefits for hardcore players” Shuhei Yoshida, Vice President of Sony Computer Entertainment and President of Worldwide Studios

The UMD Passport requires the user to use the Registration UMD app that will be offered for free. This app allows the user to insert the UMS and link to a PSN Account to register the UMD account. After you register, the title there will be an offer made to buy a digital version of the game from the digital store at a reduced price.

This would be better if since you own the games already Sony just allowed you to get digital versions to keep playing on the new console. There is no word on what the reduced rate will be. What do you think, should it be free to port games you already own to the PS Vita from UMD?

Gaming on mobile devices has been on the rise, but this is the first time that gaming revenue from iPhones and Android smartphones have overtaken dedicated portable gaming devices such as the Nintendo DS and the Sony PlayStation Portable.

“We see, for the first time, that smartphone revenue in the U.S. has leap-frogged portable game revenue,” said Flurry’s vice president of marketing Peter Fargo. “The disruption has been downright brutal.”

With ever faster mobile processors as we’ve seen with the recently launched iPhone 4S and the upcoming Tegra 3 chips for Android tablets, smartphones will increasingly be able to play console-quality games, making the future even more bleak for dedicated portable game machines.

Nintendo reported its first loss in profit this year since 1982, caused by a decline in game and console sales, losing $925 million in the six-month period that ended in September. Its Nintendo 3DS was considered a flop and now it’s attempting to turn things around with a whole new game console concept with the Wii U.

Sony’s PlayStation Portable has likewise been slipping, waiting for its next iteration in the form of the PS Vita. However, reception to the PS Vita has thus far been lukewarm and the device won’t arrive in most parts of the world until early next year.

[via AppleInsider]

The lack of Flash support at launch isn’t too surprising since Sony’s PSP also did not support flash initially. But that device did not get an update to support Flash until over a year after it launched. With the current anti-Flash movement, the Vita’s Flash support may come just as slowly in the form of a firmware update, if at all.

The PS Vita was first unveiled at E3 2011 and features a 5-inch touchscreen display along with an additional touchpad control on the backside. The device sports dual cameras, dual analog sticks, GPS, Bluetooth, and WiFi. It’s set to go on sale in Japan on December 17, launching with 26 game titles, and will be released in North America and Europe on February 22.

[via Gamasutra]

This value-priced PSP model dubbed the E-1000 will lack Wi-Fi support, meaning it will not be able to download games. Instead, it will be accompanied by a variety of PSP Essentials titles that will retail for £9.99, including Invizimals: The Lost Tribe, EyePet Adventures, and FIFA 12.

The PSP E-1000 will retail for £99, which is £30 less than the current PSP model. And although there’s no Wi-Fi, users can still access a full catalogue of PSP games on UMD or from the PlayStation Store via Media Go.

[via Kotaku]

The two games included are EA’s much anticipated football game, Madden NFL 12, and the older racing title, Need for Speed: Shift. Madden NFL 12 is a cross platform game that’s set to also launch on the PS3, Xbox 360, and PS2 come August 30. It let’s you select from 32 teams and stadiums along with your favorite players all delivered in a slick live broadcast format. Need for Speed: Shift, on the other hand, is almost two years old, but still a decent racing game nonetheless.

Although the future game titles for the PSP look bleak with the PS Vita being the imminent successor, this package could still be good if you want to play Madden NFL 12 on the go right away. The PS Vita, which had been rumored for months under the codename NGP, was officially unveiled during E3 2011 and is set to arrive sometime in 2012. But no exact dates have been given yet, which means it could be too many months to wait for some of you to be without a portable gaming console.

[via PlayStation Lifestyle]

The colors include vibrant blue and blossom pink. I really like the vibrant blue color. The bundle comes with a 2GB Memory Stick PRO Duo storage card. The bundles also come with a storage pouch, a cleaning cloth, and the AC adapter and 1200mAh battery. These are the same basic bundles we have seen before hardware wise.

Sony also takes time to mention new games coming exclusively to the PSP in July. Konami Digital Entertainment will launch Powerful Pro Baseball 2011 on July 14. BASARA Sengoku Heroes Chronicles will launch on July 21 from Capcom. Let’s make a J. League Pro Soccer Club 7 Euro Plus will launch on August 4.

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 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.

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.

The first thing you’ll notice is that the Xperia Play comes with something unique to smart phones: a permanent screen protector. Almost any smart phone today will come with a cheap one, that will eventually start to peel after a few days use. After that, it’s up to you to protect your fragile little phone. I like the idea of my phone coming with permanent screen protection, but initial reactions have not been so good. You can read more about the screen protection over at android community, and our own hands on review will be up later today.

As for me, I’m a little skeptical of this phone/gaming system. Not that I don’t love mobile gaming. I waited in line at Best Buy to be the first person to pick up a first generation PSP. But back then, my phone couldn’t even access the web, and that was really my only option for on the go gaming. Phones have come a long way. If I have a few minutes to kill, or even a few hours, I can just open up Angry Birds, or one of the other dozens of apps I have on my phone. When the PSP first came out, I didn’t have that option. It was either haul a TV and PlayStation around with me, or get a PSP.

So now that I have a phone capable of keeping me entertained while I’m on the go, do I really need one with gaming buttons? The main concern I have here is size. I hate smart phones with physical keyboards because they add too much bulk. All I have is a jean pocket, and that’s not exactly prime real-estate. I’ve also had my problems with Sony Ericson phones in the past. They usually feel too bulky and cheap, much more like a play phone than a real phone. Sony even had doubts about letting Sony Ericson make the Xperia Play because it might damage the PlayStation image.

So was Sony Ericson able to pull it off? Did they get the right balance of size vs. sexiness? Or did they end up with a monster? I’ll be getting a review unit in the mail tomorrow, and I’ll let you know what I think. Be sure to check out the full review as well. You might have noticed I hardly talked about any of the games on the system. Sony has never let me down in the past, and they have plenty of great content to work with. The last thing I’m worried about is having something good to play. I just don’t want a monster in my pocket.

So, even though Sony sold 1.3m more PS3 consoles altogether in 2010 compared to 2009, it looks like sales could be slowing. The in-house analysts obviously agree, since the estimates for 2011 at 15m, an increase of just 0.7m in comparison. The figures also show how important the incoming Sony NGP is, since PSP sales dropped almost 2m to 8m in 2010, and Sony expects that to drop to 6m in 2011.

Elsewhere, PMP sales actually beat Sony’s estimates, though that’s a rare glimmer of success. LCD TVs, camcorders, Blu-ray players, DVD players and PCs all missed their forecasts. Operating income overall was up, but the unfavorable exchange rate – among other factors – meant Sony didn’t pocket as much cash as it might have hoped.

[via Joystiq]

Last week an intercepted memo surfaced reportedly from Sony to devs that said the PlayStation Store would be back up and running today. Yesterday a new update for the PSP landed that hints the PlayStation Store is indeed coming soon. The update appears to be the PSP equivalent to the PS3 update that forced owners to update their passwords for the PSN. The problem with that PS3 update was that the not-so-carefully-crafted update your password process used information that the hackers who stole user details have access to opening users up to a new hack.

The new PSP update brings the portable console to version 6.3.9. Sony notes that the update will guide users that need to change their password through the process. The update also improves system software stability during the use of some features. There are no specific details of what is fixed in the update offered.

There’ll also be support for PSP save game data, so that you don’t have to start from scratch when you start playing the PS3 version. Sony is also promising new add-on content and/or stereoscopic 3D support, depending on title.

The first game to get the PSP remaster treatment will be Monster Hunter Portable 3rd HD Ver., available in PSP form since December last year and now crossing over to PS3-friendly Blu-ray disc. No word on when the PSP remaster series will cross over to North America or Europe.

Press Release:

NEW “PSP® (PLAYSTATION®PORTABLE) REMASTER” TITLE SERIES
AVAILABLE FOR THE PLAYSTATION®3 SYSTEM

PSP Blockbuster Games Re-mastered to Deliver Rich Gameplay on the PS3 System

Tokyo, May 22, 2011– Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) today announced that a new “PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) Remaster” title series, PSP titles customized and developed specifically for the PS3 computer entertainment system, will become available as Blue ray Disc™ games starting in the Japanese market.

“PSP Remaster” titles will deliver rich and immersive gaming experience on the PS3 system through stunning high-definition graphics as well as through additional new features for these titles, such as operability on the PS3 Wireless Controller (SIXAXIS® and DUALSHOCK®3), new add-on content or stereoscopic 3D support*1. Users will also be able to utilize the same save data from the original PSP game for the “PSP Remaster” version and enjoy the game on the go with the PSP system and continue the game at home on a large TV screen using PS3. Ad-hoc mode gameplay will also be supported through “adhoc party for PlayStation Portable” application on the PS3 system*2.

For Japan, the first “PSP Remaster” title to be introduced will be Monster Hunter Portable 3rd HD Ver. from Capcom Co., Ltd. Monster Hunter Portable 3rd for the PSP system is the latest installment of the blockbuster Monster Hunter franchise, which has alone shipped over 4.5 million units in Japan since its release in December 2010. The graphics of the PS3 version, including monsters, fields, equipment, as well as Felyne Comrades, are more gorgeous and vibrant than ever, and will deliver dynamic gameplay when played on the large TV screens. SCE, with strong support from software developers and publishers, will deploy various measures to enhance the software title line-up for the PS3 system.

SCE will continue to further expand the PS3 platform and create a new world of computer entertainment with innovative and exciting new titles.

*1 What content will be supported will depend by titles.
*2 Not all titles will be supported. Some software title will not function properly depending on the user’s network status and or the software feature. The application is not supported on 20GB model (CECHB00) which does not support Wi-Fi feature.

PlayStation 3 owners in the U.S. can download for free two of the following games as long as you do so within 30 days after the PlayStation Store is restored. The game options for customers in the U.S. are: Dead Nation, inFAMOUS, LittleBigPlanet, Super Stardust HD, and Wipeout HD + Fury.

PSP owners can download two of the following games, also within a 30 day period after the restore of the PlayStation Store. The PSP game options are: LittleBigPlanet (PSP), ModNation Racers, and Pursuit Force.

Other free items you can expect include:
- A selection of “On Us” rental movie titles for one weekend when the Video Service is available. Those particular titles will be announced soon.
- PlayStation Plus membership free for 30 days for non subscribers.
- Additional 60 days free PlayStation Plus membership for current subscribers.
- Additional 30 days plus time lost free of charge for current members of Music Unlimited Premium or Basic services.
- PlayStation Home will offer 100 free virtual items, with additional free content to be released soon, including the next addition to Home Mansion personal space and Ooblag’s Alien Casino.

So, that’s how Sony plans to thank you all for your loyalty and patience. Are you pissed, satisfied, or just glad the network is back? Let us know what you think.

[via G4TV]

The full list of services coming back online includes online gaming on both PS3 and PSP systems, including those titles which demand online verification and downloaded games, PlayStation Home, Friends Lists and chat functionality. On the media side, there’s access to Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity services – though only for existing subscribers right now, not, it seems, new users – as well as to download un-expired PS3/PSP/MediaGo movie rentals. Both services will now allow users to access their account management pages and reset passwords.

As for security, Sony says it has added automated software monitoring and configuration management so as to prevent future attacks, as well as giving it an “enhanced ability” to spot software intrusions, unauthorized access and unusual activity. There are extra firewalls in place, along with boosted data protection and encryption. The data center itself will be physically moved to a new, more secure location.

PS3 owners should expect a “forced” software update before they can get back online, and they’ll be prompted to change their PSN account password too:

“PS3 will have a forced system software update that will require all registered PlayStation Network users to change their account passwords before being able to sign into the service. As an added layer of security, that password can only be changed on the same PS3 in which that account was activated, or through validated email confirmation, a critical step to help further protect customer data.” Sony

Finally, in the hope of soothing troubled gamers missing their multi-play, Sony will be offering the “Welcome Back” appreciation program: 30 days of free membership to PlayStation Plus for existing PSN users, and 30 days free service for those already using PlayStation Plus. Sony is also planning “selected PlayStation entertainment content” for free download, though is yet to confirm which titles will be offered. Qriocity subscribers will get 30 days free service.

Sony is also saying it will help subscribers enroll in “identity theft protection services and/or similar programs” though hasn’t detailed exactly how that process will work. “Welcome Back” will begin rolling out in the coming weeks, as Sony brings the services back online to a stable point.

Is Sony doing enough to win back your trust, or is 30 days of free PlayStation Plus access insufficient? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Press Release:

SOME PLAYSTATION®NETWORK AND QRIOCITY™ SERVICES TO BE AVAILABLE THIS WEEK

Phased Global Rollout of Services to Begin Regionally;
System Security Enhanced to Provide Greater Protection of Personal Information

Tokyo, May 1, 2011 – Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) and Sony Network Entertainment International (SNEI, the company) announced they will shortly begin a phased restoration by region of PlayStation®Network and Qriocity™ services, beginning with gaming, music and video services to be turned on. The company also announced both a series of immediate steps to enhance security across the network and a new customer appreciation program to thank its customers for their patience and loyalty.

Following a criminal cyber-attack on the company’s data-center located in San Diego, California, U.S.A., SNEI quickly turned off the PlayStation Network and Qriocity services, engaged multiple expert information security firms over the course of several days and conducted an extensive audit of the system. Since then, the company has implemented a variety of new security measures to provide greater protection of personal information. SNEI and its third-party experts have conducted extensive tests to verify the security strength of the PlayStation Network and Qriocity services. With these measures in place, SCE and SNEI plan to start a phased rollout by region of the services shortly. The initial phase of the rollout will include, but is not limited to, the following:
Restoration of Online game-play across the PlayStation®3 (PS3) and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) systems

-This includes titles requiring online verification and downloaded games
Access to Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity for PS3/PSP for existing subscribers
Access to account management and password reset
Access to download un-expired Movie Rentals on PS3, PSP and MediaGo
PlayStation®Home
Friends List

Chat Functionality

Working closely with several outside security firms, the company has implemented significant security measures to further detect unauthorized activity and provide consumers with greater protection of their personal information. The company is also creating the position of Chief Information Security Officer, directly reporting to Shinji Hasejima, Chief Information Officer of Sony Corporation, to add a new position of expertise in and accountability for customer data protection and supplement existing information security personnel. The new security measures implemented include, but are not limited to, the following:

Added automated software monitoring and configuration management to help defend against new attacks
Enhanced levels of data protection and encryption
Enhanced ability to detect software intrusions within the network, unauthorized access and unusual activity patterns

Implementation of additional firewalls

The company also expedited an already planned move of the system to a new data center in a different location that has been under construction and development for several months. In addition, PS3 will have a forced system software update that will require all registered PlayStation Network users to change their account passwords before being able to sign into the service. As an added layer of security, that password can only be changed on the same PS3 in which that account was activated, or through validated email confirmation, a critical step to help further protect customer data.

The company is conducting a thorough and on-going investigation and working with law enforcement to track down and prosecute those responsible for the illegal intrusion.
“This criminal act against our network had a significant impact not only on our consumers, but our entire industry. These illegal attacks obviously highlight the widespread problem with cyber-security. We take the security of our consumers’ information very seriously and are committed to helping our consumers protect their personal data. In addition, the organization has worked around the clock to bring these services back online, and are doing so only after we had verified increased levels of security across our networks,” said Kazuo Hirai, Executive Deputy President, Sony Corporation. “Our global audience of PlayStation Network and Qriocity consumers was disrupted. We have learned lessons along the way about the valued relationship with our consumers, and to that end, we will be launching a customer appreciation program for registered consumers as a way of expressing our gratitude for their loyalty during this network downtime, as we work even harder to restore and regain their trust in us and our services.”

Complimentary Offering and “Welcome Back” Appreciation Program

While there is no evidence at this time that credit card data was taken, the company is committed to helping its customers protect their personal data and will provide a complimentary offering to assist users in enrolling in identity theft protection services and/or similar programs. The implementation will be at a local level and further details will be made available shortly in each region.

The company will also rollout the PlayStation Network and Qriocity “Welcome Back” program, to be offered worldwide, which will be tailored to specific markets to provide our consumers with a selection of service options and premium content as an expression of the company’s appreciation for their patience, support and continued loyalty.

Central components of the “Welcome Back” program will include:

Each territory will be offering selected PlayStation entertainment content for free download. Specific details of this content will be announced in each region soon.
All existing PlayStation Network customers will be provided with 30 days free membership in the PlayStation Plus premium service. Current members of PlayStation Plus will receive 30 days free service.
Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity subscribers (in countries where the service is available) will receive 30 days free service.

Additional “Welcome Back” entertainment and service offerings will be rolled out over the coming weeks as the company returns the PlayStation Network and Qriocity services to the quality standard users have grown to enjoy and strive to exceed those exceptions.

SNEI will continue to reinforce and verify security for transactions before resuming the PlayStation®Store and other Qriocity operations, scheduled for this month.
For more information about the PlayStation Network and Qriocity services intrusion and restoration, please visit http://blog.us.playstation.com. or http://blog.eu.playstation.com/

But then gamers actually got their hands on the device. And they quickly realized that all the so-called benefits of owning the PSP Go were, well, non-existent.

When discussing the reasons the PSP Go failed, it’s hard to pinpoint a single issue. The device was rife with problems from the beginning that made it dead on arrival. And towards the end, it seemed that only Sony saw it as a worthwhile buy.

Take, for example, the exorbitant $250 price tag. At that rate, consumers expected much more than a device that would allow them to download games and play them while on-the-go. After all, for $50 more, they could get the most-capable gaming device on the market, Sony’s PlayStation 3. Even after Sony reduced the PSP Go’s price to $199, it was too expensive.

There was also the issue of games. Generally speaking, the library of titles available to the PSP Go were lackluster. And those that were actually dedicated to gaming on a PSP would have chosen Sony’s traditional model, which supported a UMD drive, so they could get all the games available on the platform.

But it goes beyond the device’s own shortcomings. It was available in a time when casual players were less likely to turn to portable devices, like the PSP or the DS, to satisfy their gaming needs. Instead, they took to Apple’s App Store, found downloadable games, like Angry Birds, and enjoyed them from their iPhone. Android gamers have been doing that as of late, as well.

Simply put, casual titles are becoming more popular. And for the first time, traditional portables are being forced to actually worry about smartphones. Some of the more popular options, like the DS, have been able to thrive under those circumstances. The weakest of the bunch, including the PSP Go, have failed.

So, what can Sony learn from all this?

For one, the company needs to give itself a better chance of competing against Nintendo and smartphones by fairly pricing its upcoming NGP. It would also be a good idea if Sony acknowledges the threat that the competition poses and market the NGP around that.

But perhaps more than anything, Sony needs to learn to not take such giant leaps in the portable space without doing it the right way. The iPhone was a gamble, but Apple pulled it off by doing something special. The same can be said for the DS.

The PSP Go wasn’t special in any way. And that, more than anything else, is why it failed.

Sony will continue to support the PSP Go, and firmware updates are apparently still in the works, but for now the PSP-3000 will be the only portable gaming hardware the company sells. That’s aside from the Sony Ericsson XPERIA Play, of course.

According to Sony, clearing out the PSP Go will allow them to focus on the NGP, the Next Generation Portable expected to hit the market later in 2011. More on the Sony NGP in our recent SlashGear 101 feature.

Interestingly, it’s only the portable segment which is really feeling the squeeze. Smartphone gaming revenue increased from 5- to 8-percent of the US market, while console gaming revenue grew from 71- to 76-percent. In contrast, traditional portable gaming revenue dipped from 24-percent to 16-percent.

Overall, though, it’s billed as bad news for the mobile gaming segment as a whole. While smartphone game sales are increasing, the per-app price is generally less than what’s charged per DS or PSP title; that’s seen the value of the market drop from $2.7bn in 2009 to $2.4bn in 2010. Sony’s push with the PlayStation Suite of development tools for the NGP – which will allow developers to create games for both the new console and Sony Ericsson’s Android handsets – may only speed that drop, as mini-titles on dedicated handhelds become more commonplace.

Take a peek at the Dell Panerai convertible tablet as it attempts to slide its way through the FCC. Check out another FCC attempt by no less than Apple as it dreams up some smart-display iPhone bezel – all sorts of touching! Then see a product that needed no approval, clearly: NuScreen screen goo!

See an analyst decide that Apple holds 60% of touch panel supplies. See Best Buy get in a whopping amount of trouble as they hold back iPad 2 supplies from customers. See the PSP sell more units than the 3DS in Japan.

Behold as the Acer Iconia Tab A500 Honeycomb tablet is officially announced. Take a peek as some HTC Incredible 2 press shots appear. Get pumped up about a sweet London Pyramid Party… and you’re invited! Lick your lips at AMD fusion chips for Android!

Finally, get a big fat boost of knowledge as dropped by our man in England Chris Davies as he asks: Is Dual-Touch the Future of Phones and Tablets?

GamePro reports that the PSP has outsold the 3DS in Japan for the week. The PSP didn’t just squeak by the 3DS either, it sold thousands more units. The numbers for Japanese sales were 58,075 for PSP sales and 42,979 units sold for the 3DS. That number for the 3DS represents a decline of about 8,000 units compared to the week before while the PSP grew by about 7,000.

GamePro attributes the increased PSP console sales to a specific game title called Amagami that is some sort of dating simulation. The game sold over 69,000 copies and more than a few folks bought a new PSP to go with it. The only 3DS title in the top ten list for game sales over the week was Pro Yakyo Famista 2011, which is a baseball game.

[via GamePro]

Rather than simply offer music on a track-by-track basis, the Qriocity engine promises to learn users’ tastes and build them custom music channels that are personalized to each listener. Each supports unlimited skips and is uninterrupted by commercials, as long as you’re on the premium plan. Your PSP will need to be running PSP and Media Go firmware update 6.37.

Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity is available in the US, UK, Canada, Japan and various European countries. A subscription-based service, it’s priced at $3.99 per month for the basic package or $9.99 for the premium package.

Press Release:

“Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity™” Arrives on the PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable)

FOSTER CITY, Calif., April 7, 2011 –SonyNetwork Entertainment today announced that beginning April 14, PlayStation®Portable (PSP™) owners with PlayStation®Network (PSN) IDs will be able to access “Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity™,” a new, cloud-based, digital music service which lets music lovers listen to millions of songs and easily discover new music from major and independent labels from around theworld*. PSP owners can also enjoy a common and synchronized music experience on their PlayStation® 3 computer entertainment systems as well as PCs and other network-enabled Sony devices without the need to manage or transfer music files.

Music Unlimited debuted in the U.K. and Ireland in December 2010 and became available in France, Germany, Italy and Spain in January 2011, then later launched in the United States, Australia and New Zealand in February 2011, representing one of the fastest global rollouts ever seen for a digital music service.

Music Unlimited service gives users the music they want,when they want it. It offers instant streaming access to a catalogue of over seven million songs on any PC or laptop, as well as a variety of Sony devices, including Sony’s 2010 and 2011 models of network-enabled BRAVIA® TVs, Blu-Ray Disc™ players, Blu-Ray Disc Home Theatre systems, as well as PlayStation®3, VAIO® laptops, and now the PlayStation®Portable. It will also become available on a wider range of Sony’s portable devices, Android-based mobile devices, and other portable devices.

By studying users’ listening habits and incorporating their preferences, “Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity” delivers dozens of personalized music channels uniquely tailored to their tastes, commercial-free and uninterrupted, with unlimited skips. Consumers can try the Premium service free for 30-days. Go to www.qmusic.com for more information.

*Currently accessible on PSP handheld entertainment systems in WiFi network environments

There’s also a new flood of “Greatest Hits” and “Favorites” games, which are basically Sony’s two budget ranges. The $19.99 “Greatest Hits” line-up now includes:

• Assassin’s Creed Bloodlines (Ubisoft)
• DISSIDIA FINAL FANTASY (Square Enix, Inc.)
• LittleBigPlanet (PSP)
• METAL GEAR SOLID: PEACE WALKER (Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc.)
• Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
• Resistance: Retribution
• Toy Story 3: The Video Game (Disney Interactive)

As for the PSP “Favorites” range, all at $9.99, that now includes:

• CRISIS CORE-FINAL FANTASY VII (Square Enix, Inc. )
• Daxter
• Monster Hunter Freedom Unite (Capcom)
• Killzone: Liberation
• SOCOM U.S. Navy SEALs: Fire Team Bravo
• Tomb Raider Anniversary (Square Enix, Inc.)

Sony expects to replace the PSP in late 2011 with the new Sony NGP.

Sony’s Kaz Hirai has sat down for an interview with the Official PlayStation Blog about the NGP to answer a few questions. The reason the console was announced so far ahead of the launch according to Hirai was so that Sony could talk openly about the portable with game developers all around the world. Sony wants a large and robust list of launch titles for the portable and should have it.

We all know that the details would have been leaked in short order as Sony lined up developers so this was a preemptive move it seems. Hirai also noted that having a stable platform that would stay for years to come was important in the developing stage of the new portable. He also said that Sony hopes to match the install base of the PSP and then move beyond that with the NGP. Check out the video to hear what he had to say.

Having faced criticism in the past for their 2006 PlayStation 3 models for $499 and $599 and their 2009 PSP for $249, Sony is trying to play it safe with the NGP although no specific pricing details have been revealed yet.

“That’s something we spent a lot of time on this time around with NGP, to make sure that we don’t go off the deep end,” says Hirai.

However, keeping it affordable may also have been a factor in Sony’s decision to not incorporate 3D in the upcoming NGP scheduled for release before the end of this year. With Nintendo to release a new DS handheld in March that does incorporate 3D, it will be interesting to see how the competing devices will be received.

There are also two cameras, one front and one rear, and a suite of sensors including six-axis motion-sensing (pairing gyroscope and accelerometer), a three-axis digital compass, GPS and WiFi. There’s also 3G, WiFi b/g/n and Bluetooth 2.1+EDR with support for A2DP stereo headphones. Sony is now using a flash memory card to store games, but there’ll also be access to the new PlayStation Suite, also announced today, which offers titles for the NGP and for Android smartphones.

As with the 3DS‘ StreetPass feature, the Sony NGP will use a new service called Near, part of the PlayStation Network, to flag up gamers in the vicinity and show what they’re playing now or having been playing recently. There’ll also be wireless multiplayer support. Each NGP game will LiveArea access, with a log of activity and other information.

The whole thing measures in at 182.0 x 18.6 x 83.5 mm and has dual analog sticks, the usual directional buttons, action buttons and shoulder controls. No word on pricing; that won’t be revealed until closer to launch at the end of the year.

Press Release:

SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES
ITS NEXT GENERATION PORTABLE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

Ultimate Portable Entertainment System Makes Its Debut This Year,
Further Expanding the PlayStation® Business in the Portable Gaming Market
Tokyo, January 27, 2011– Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) today announced its next generation portable entertainment system (codename: NGP), which delivers the ultimate portable entertainment experience. NGP will make its debut at the end of the year 2011.

NGP is designed to offer unparalleled interactive entertainment that is only possible on PlayStation®. This new system offers a revolutionary combination of rich gaming and social connectivity within a real world context, made possible by leveraging SCE’s experience from both PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) and PlayStation®3 (PS3®) entertainment systems.

Deep and immersive gaming is at the core of PlayStation’s DNA, and NGP is the latest embodiment of this vision. By having both Wi-Fi and 3G network connectivity, together with various applications, NGP will enable infinite possibilities for users to “encounter,” “connect,” “discover,” “share” and “play” with friends wherever they are. Within the device are a range of features that provide a genuinely cutting-edge, next generation ultimate portable entertainment experience.

・Stunning OLED and Revolutionary User Interface
NGP incorporates a beautiful multi-touch 5-inch organic light emitting display (OLED) as the front display. A high-performance CPU / GPU combined with OLED enables rich, visually striking graphics never seen before on a portable entertainment system, for both games and other digital entertainment content. The new system also incorporates a unique multi-touch pad on the rear, and together with the front touch display, NGP offers new game play allowing users to interact directly with games in three dimension-like motion, through “touch, grab, trace, push and pull” moves of the fingers.

・Super Oval Design and Dual Analog Sticks
While succeeding the basic design philosophy of PSP, NGP adopts the Super Oval Design form factor, created to fit comfortably in users’ hands. For the first time, a portable entertainment system will feature two analog sticks, which enable a wider range of game genres to be brought into the portable experience.
・LiveArea™
Every game title for NGP will be provided with a space called “LiveArea™” where users can share the fun and excitement with other players. Users will have access to the latest information of games provided from SCE and 3rd party developers and publishers through PlayStation®Network. Additionally, NGP users will be able to view an “Activity” log that is constantly updated with accomplishments from users who are playing the same game, which in turn can trigger active real-time communication among users.

・Near
SCE will also provide location-based services on NGP as part of the basic features utilizing PlayStation Network. The new application called “Near,” developed specifically for this service and the network, will be pre-installed in the system to let users find out what their friends in the vicinity are playing now or what they were playing recently. Users can meet their friends and new players virtually, regardless of what games they are playing, simply by sharing their game information across different dimensions of time and distance.

・New Game Medium
NGP adopts a new game medium, a small flash memory based card, dedicated for NGP software titles. Taking advantage of the flash memory feature, this innovative card can store the full software titles plus add-on game content or the game save data directly on to the card. By adopting flash memory based card, SCE will be able to provide game cards with higher capacity in the future, allowing developers to store more game data to deliver rich and immersive games.

NGP will also come equipped with two cameras on its front and rear, as well as three motion sensors, gyroscope, accelerometer and electronic compass, all of which are designed to enable users to enjoy the world of entertainment that is linked with real life experiences.

PlayStation®Suite (PS Suite), announced today, will also closely coordinate with NGP. The newly developed and released game content for Android™ based portable devices can also be enjoyed on NGP. As a result, users will have access to not only the most leading-edge content, but also some of the more casual experiences that typify the mobile market place.

SCE will vigorously promote NGP towards the launch as the next generation portable entertainment platform and deploy various measures to further expand the portable gaming market.

The newest firmware is v6.37, and details are non-existent. Sony has classified the update as “minimal” one, and only allude to the fact that the update will improve the overall system software stability during use of “some features.” No explanation as to what they’re talking about, or what features they mean, but it looks like the system should get at least a bit smoother in daily operation, if nothing else.

No timetable as to when the update will actually be launched, either. Just “soon.” Will Sony include any special surprises? We’ll just have to wait and see.

[via PlayStation Blog]

Sony is also tipped to be readying a new push for networked media and entertainment, using the two new devices along with its games, movies and music services. Though mostly unknown at this stage, the plan is believed to included easier sharing between TVs, handheld devices and other gadgets.

The strategy is believed to come from a renewed effort to take on both Apple and Nintendo, one phone software developer briefed on the plans has revealed. Sony itself has declined to comment on the rumors.

Games publishers have apparently been working on titles for the new PSP2 since late in 2010, with both Netherrealm Studios and EA confirming that they are readying software. Although full details of the new handheld are unknown, it is believed to have twice the RAM of an Xbox 360, an HD display and, despite renders based on leaked shots of the PSP2 development kit, a monoblock form-factor.

The Sony PSP2 is expected to launch in fall 2011, with dual cameras and a touchpad.

They claim it was a “70-percent success”, which doesn’t really mean much; needless to say, Sony Ericsson will likely have locked down gaming options on the handset when it launches anyway, so that you’re forced to use their own ROMs rather than cracked or copied ones. As for the comparisons, the smartphone gets up close and personal with the PSP-1000, the PSP Go, DSi, GBA SP and other Sony Ericcson handsets.

The PlayStation Phone was last seen in the wild on Friday, complete with some preliminary benchmarking and a “PlayStation Pocket” app store, seemingly for games downloads. We’re expecting Sony Ericsson to officially launch it at Mobile World Congress next month.

[via Android Community]

The first iteration will see 63 levels on offer, but we’re guessing that developers Rovio will be pushing out the usual add-on level packs as they have been on the smartphone versions of the title. It’s not clear how much Angry Birds will cost at this stage.

There’s also a trackpad on the back, for easier navigation of the system and webpages, along with a camera which, it’s suggested, might be used for augmented reality gaming. There’s also a front-facing camera and microphone, though obviously the render lacks some important structural details, such as rails for the sliding mechanism.

Sony execs have recently hinted that the new PSP could well include a touchscreen, though despite the design similarities to the Sony Ericsson XPERIA Play, the company is looking to keep the handheld very much differentiated from the Android-based smartphone. Instead, casual gamers would be led to the phone, and more serious gaming done on the PSP2.

[via Kotaku]

“The games being played on Android and Apple platforms” he suggests, “are fundamentally different from the world of immersive games that Sony Computer Entertainment, and PlayStation, aims for.” As for the dual control methods, “depending on the game, there are ones where you can play perfectly well with a touch panel,” Hirai explains. “But you can definitely play immersive games better with physical buttons and pads. I think there could be games where you’re able to use both in combination.”

If you’re thinking that sounds a lot like the Sony Ericsson PlayStation Phone – aka the XPERIA Play – then you’re not alone. Although Hirai suggests the “gaming industry pie” is only growing larger thanks to the new interest in casual titles like Angry Birds, Sony is also apparently cautious about how it will differentiate between, say, the XPERIA Play and a new PSP. “We don’t want gamers to be asking, what’s the difference between that and a PSP,” he explained. :We have to come up with a message that users will understand. It would have to be a product that keeps the PlayStation’s strengths intact.”

Pachter is an analyst from Wedbush Morgan, and during a “Pach Attack” webcast, he outlined in brief why he believes the PSP2 won’t be worth the attention it will receive when it launches, and even went on to say why he believes the mobile market as a whole is over-saturated, but that Apple’s iPod Touch will thin the market soon enough.

According to Pachter, “I think the PSP was dead on arrival and I think the PSP2 is going to be dead on arrival.” He went on to add that, “We’re approaching saturation in the handheld market. We’re starting to see DS hardware sales crack, the iPod Touch is cutting into the handheld market.”

While some may say that Pachter is right, he points out that when Nintendo’s upcoming 3DS portable gaming console launches, it will spike interset in the market one more time, before it inevitably flat-lines again, and people realize that they’re paying too much money to play Tetris on their portable gaming unit.

Pricing does obviously play a big part in the video game industry, just as it does in any industry. However, with the technology that the 3DS is bringing to the table, and with whatever Sony has up their sleeve for the next generation PSP2, it would seem, at least remotely possible, that the video game enthusiasts out there would still prefer to have the power, and technology (plus game selection) on their particular portable game consoles.

[via MCV UK]

SlashPIRACY
I’ll just leave this here and you tell me what you think about it. This is a quote from a spokesperson from the BPI (essentially England’s music industry, similar to USA’s RIAA) responding to Google’s recent tweaks to its search service like removing words associated with piracy from appearing on autocomplete: “It is encouraging that Google is beginning to respond to our calls to act more responsibly with regard to illegal content, … However, this package of measures, while welcome, still ignores the heart of the problem – that Google search overwhelmingly directs consumers looking for music and other digital entertainment to illegal sites” – these words basically repeated by Richard Mollet of the Publishers Association: “We hope that the measures announced today take effect quickly and that Google could then consider going further, so that illegal sites don’t appear in general free search results.”

[Via BBC]

R3 Media Network

SlashPhone
Google Planning on Their Own online eBook Store
PSP Phone Spotted in Greece [caught on video]

Android Community
Pocket God hits Android, has issues
Speck launches new cases for Galaxy Tab and Galaxy S
Spotify for Android update suits tablets, speeds performance
Verizon’s 4G LTE Network Initial Impressions
Business Insider Ranks Google TV and Nexus One Among Top 15 Biggest Tech Flops of 2010
Google Doodles Now Available on Mobile Devices
Android Flash Player Updated 10.1.105.7
Galaxy S Android 2.2 Delay Addressed by T-Mobile – Maybe Due Next Week?
NOOKcolor Receives Full Teardown
Android 2.3 Gingerbread User Interface Demonstration [in Cantonese] [GINGERBREAD YAY]

SlashGear
Malcolm Fontier outs iMojito hybrid iPhone case and wallet
Verizon 4G LTE contract-free options confirmed
NASA find new lifeform: arsenic microbe widens likelihood of extraterrestrial life [BIGGEST NEWS EVER, EVER]
OnLive PlayPack $9.99 flat-rate gaming plan debuts as MicroConsoles ship
iPad bests Galaxy Tab in perceived value; neither live up to RRP
RIM adds The Astonishing Tribe to its team
Apple TV HD movie streaming delays frustrating owners
Samsung develops highest density LPDDR2 DRAM in industry for mobile devices
HTC watching tablet market and will focus on Android rather than Windows Phone 7 for now
ThinkGeek ships uber geeky Electronic Music Synthesizer shirt
XIM3 gadget breaks cover to let you bring other controller types to your Xbox 360
PeeWee launches new PeeWee Power 2.0 laptop for kids
Sanus outs new basic TV stands and no-drill TV mount
Amazon yank WikiLeaks hosting amid first-amendment furore [FFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUU]
Motorola wireless STB streamer due at CES 2011 to take on Slingbox [Updated]
Apple 3D patent details glasses-free display
UK to lead in 4G LTE roll-out, regulator Ofcom predicts
Advent Vega tablet back on sale [Update: all gone!]
Apple fiber-optic MagSafe cable patent tips potential Light Peak support
Fifty Percent of Xbox LIVE Users Are Gold Subscribers, So Says Microsoft
Wii Speak Phased Out by Nintendo …Maybe
New Right-Click Menu item for YouTube Allows Instant Time Link
NASA: The Definition of Life Has Just Expanded [A WHOLE NEW WORLD]
Concept Design Shows Smartphone Floating in Mid-Air to Charge Battery
Sony Aims for Life-Size 3D Holographics by 2022
Just admit it: We all want bigger HDTVs [COLUMN]
Logitech Revue Promoted by Kevin Bacon’s Biggest Fan
Apple Patent Application Suggests Pop-Up Radial Menus Could be Included in iOS 5
Angry Birds Seasons Expansion Now Available in Apple App Store [WEEE]
Advent Vega unboxing & hands-on [Video] [FEATURED]
4G Motorola devices in early 2011; tablets imminent & Verizon iPhone tipped for Q1

To see more Daily Slash posts, click here: [The Daily Slash] or here: [SlashGear Morning Wrap-Up]

With the software update, v6.35, coming to the PSP in the near future, the mobile gaming unit will be able to take advantage of “Music Unlimited Powered by Qriocity.” The service is a cloud-based one, and if you’ve got a compatible device, and as long as you’re a subscriber, you’ll be able to listen to your music whenever you want. There’s no word on what, exactly, the monthly cost will be, but hopefully it will be competitive to the other subscription services out there.

[via Boy Genius Report]