New Technology Reviews!.: PlayStation

Sony aims to bring the Playstation Suite to Non-Sony Android devices

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<img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="206" mce_src="http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/747/sonytabletsgames540x343.png" src="http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/747/sonytabletsgames540x343.png" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 640px;" title="Sony Tablet S games" width="324" />Sony and their popular Playstation Suite is currently only available for a few Sony devices, which makes total sense. When first announced Sony did mention they planned to eventually bring it to other devices in the near future. Now according to sources at the AsiaD conference this week Sony’s been talking about just that. While no specific details were given, they do plan to offer the Playstation Suite to non-Sony devices in the future.</div>
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The Playstation Store just launched for their Tablet S as well as the new Sony Music Unlimited so things are starting to finally come together over in Sony’s Android camp. Being able to play games like Crash Bandicoot or Jet Moto on other Android devices sure would be neat though right? I was able to enjoy Crash Bandicoot during my hands-on with the Tablet S.</div>
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While the SDK won’t be available until at least next month, SCE Chairman Kaz Hirai told Engadget at AsiaD that its Android-friendly framework is still open to all other manufacturers. Kaz did go on to mention they don’t plan to keep it exclusively in the Sony family and that Sony is currently “in discussions with non-Sony companies to bring them onboard.”</div>
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No specific details or timeframe was given but they mention we’ll all hear about it once something becomes official. For now we’ll have to wait a little longer before we get to play games like Final Fantasy natively on our Android tablets.</div>
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Sony aims to bring the Playstation Suite to Non-Sony Android devices

Sony and their popular Playstation Suite is currently only available for a few Sony devices, which makes total sense. When first announc...

Crysis for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 released today

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<img alt="Crysis" class="size-full wp-image-90911 aligncenter" height="332" mce_src="http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/4703/07crysis.jpg" src="http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/4703/07crysis.jpg" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-color: initial; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-top-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 640px;" title="Crysis" width="234" />Back in July we reported that the original Crysis would be arriving on consoles, and it looks like the day has finally arrived. EA and Crytek announced today that critically-acclaimed, single-player campaign from Crysis Is now available on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Unfortunately it looks like there won’t be any multi-player mode for the console versions of the game so those of you looking to relive the multiplayer days of the PC, running around custom maps will have to look for the PC version.</div>
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But for those of you who want to know more about the game’s storyline and unlocking achievements, Crysis for consoles should more than suffice. Graphics have been improved, so have the controls and if you have a 3D TV, the game also supports it. Crysis is available now from the PlayStation Network and Xbox LIVE Games on Demand for $19.99 or 1600 Microsoft Points. Check it out and let us know what you think.</div>
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Crysis for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 released today

Back in July we reported that the original Crysis would be arriving on consoles, and it looks like the day has finally arrived. EA and C...

Buying Guide: Best PC gamepad: 6 reviewed and rated

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For most PC gamers, the mouse and keyboard combination is the ultimate way to control our games. The mouse offers lightning-fast responses that are essential for positioning the camera or lining up the scopes for a headshot.</div>
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On the other hand - literally - is the keyboard. Its plethora of keys has been etched into our muscle memory through years of web browsing and typing, giving us options and control that most gamepads can only dream of.</div>
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However, it's not as clear-cut as it first seems. While the mouse and keyboard is undoubtedly the best control method for certain genres - such as first-person shooters and real-time strategy games - for other titles this means of control can feel awkward or unwieldy. Third-person hack 'n' slash games and racing sims in particular suffer from this.</div>
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There's also the issue of console games catching up with PC titles in some respects. While this might seem like heresy to some PC gaming purists (the current generation of consoles struggles to compete with even mid-range PCs, after all), console games have become more complicated and in-depth than their 8-bit ancestors. As they've evolved, so too have the gamepads we play them on.</div>
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Modern gamepads have adapted to become flexible and give us better control over our more complicated games. Some are able to overcome obstacles such as having a limited number of buttons with macro functionality, while others offer features that the mouse and keyboard combination can't, such as force feedback.</div>
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In this roundup, we've gathered six gamepads that cover a range of prices and designs. Some are models from the current generation of consoles adapted to work with the PC, others are based on the console's own gamepads and some are entirely new designs.</div>
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Having a gamepad connected to your PC doesn't mean that you're dumbing down your gaming experience - in some respects you're actually broadening it. But which gamepads offer you a viable alternative to the trusty mouse and keyboard, make gaming more fun and are worthy of your money? This is exactly where this round-up comes in.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller for Windows - £28<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5;" />Web: www.microsoft.com/hardware</div>
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<img alt="Xbox 360" class="aligncenter" height="189" mce_src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread1_xbox360-420-90.jpg" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread1_xbox360-420-90.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px auto 12px; max-width: 640px;" width="252" /></div>
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The Xbox 360 Wireless Controller is small enough to hold comfortably in your hands, with easy access to all the buttons.</div>
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Unlike the PlayStation 3's DualShock controller, and gamepads that have been influenced by that design, the dual analogue sticks on the Xbox 360 pad aren't aligned horizontally. Instead, they're placed in a far more natural position that makes long gaming sessions more bearable.</div>
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The build design in general is great, and it feels incredibly comfortable to hold. Unfortunately, the D-pad is bulky and unresponsive - a real let-down when you consider the other areas in which this gamepad excels.</div>
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As you should expect from a product created by Microsoft, there are no compatibility problems when using this controller with a Windows PC. Plugging in the wireless dongle lets you control your games without having to be sat right next to your computer, and the gamepad is identified and installed in seconds. The controller does need two AA batteries that will need to be replaced often - and that can be annoying.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Verdict: 87%</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Sony DualShock 3 PS3 Ccontroller - £28<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5;" />Web: uk.playstation.com</div>
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Unlike the other gamepads we've tested here, the Sony DualShock 3 PS3 controller doesn't officially support PC compatibility. So why is it included? Well, there are a number of unofficial drivers you can download that enable your PC to interact with the controller.</div>
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Typing 'DualShock 3 for PC' into Google brings back plenty of options. Most offer force feedback and even wireless capability via a Bluetooth dongle. If you don't have one, you can connect it via the supplied mini USB lead. BtSix 1.4 is an excellent choice that allows you to use all the features of the DualShock - including the tilt motion control.</div>
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This controller has a built-in rechargeable battery that charges up when plugged in via USB. Installation is tricky, but the controller is sturdy and full of features. It's well built and, if you're familiar with the PlayStation's iconic controller layout, adapting it to PC games takes no time at all.</div>
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The 10-year-old design is not the most comfortable of shapes, however. If you have a PS3 then this is a free and convenient solution.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Verdict: 81%</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Genius Wireless Grandias 12V - £20<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5;" />Web: www.geniusnet.com</div>
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There are good and bad points about the Genius Wireless Grandias 12V. Unlike most of the other gamepads of its price range, this one is wireless and it also has a vibration function. On the downside, it feels like it's made out of cheap materials.</div>
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The buttons are plasticky, and they can sometimes fail to register unless you push them hard. There were instances when they behaved erratically, performing actions when pressed that they weren't supposed to.</div>
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The dual analogue sticks also feel slightly uncomfortable to use after a while, as they're relatively small and don't offer the thumb support of larger sticks.</div>
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The macro function lets you bind a number of complex moves to a single button press. While some might consider this cheating, it can help make gaming with this pad a lot more intuitive and easy. For 2D platforming games, this is a perfectly accessible, cheap control method, with the added bonus of wireless support. However, for serious multiplayer gaming the unreliable buttons make this controller a defi nite no-no.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Verdict: 61%</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Thrustmaster 3-In-1 Dual Trigger Game Pad - £20<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5;" />Web: www.thrustmaster.com</div>
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<img alt="Thrustmaster" class="aligncenter" height="189" mce_src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread2_thrust-420-90.jpg" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread2_thrust-420-90.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px auto 12px; max-width: 640px;" width="252" /></div>
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The Thrustmaster 3 in 1 Dual Trigger Game Pad isn't attractive. It's thick, bulky and sits rather uncomfortably in your hands. This is mainly due to the additional third shoulder trigger buttons.</div>
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After a while, the gamepad starts to gel, and the buttons are responsive, as are the analogue thumb sticks. Looking about with them may not have the immediacy of the mouse, but it compares favourably with other, more expensive, gamepads. You'll need to configure the buttons yourself, which is an annoying distraction after the Xbox 360 controller's plug-and-play simplicity.</div>
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The buttons are springy and responsive, and most feel comfortable to use, but the shoulder buttons are a bit too thin for comfort.</div>
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Along with the standard USB connection, there's a PlayStation 2 connector, which gives a little extra value. This is a budget gamepad that does the job, but it takes time to configure, and the supplied software and Thrustmaster website aren't much help. It's not a terrible gamepad at all, but there are better models out there.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Verdict: 71%</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Trust GXT 28 - £18<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5;" />Web: trust.com</div>
<div mce_style="text-align: center;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Trust gxt 28" class="aligncenter" height="189" mce_src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread2_trust-420-90.jpg" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread2_trust-420-90.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px auto 12px; max-width: 640px;" width="252" /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
The Trust GXT 28 is closely modelled on Sony's DualShock 3 gamepad, though unlike the Razer Onza Tournament Edition adaptation of Microsoft's design, the GXT 28 does nothing to improve an established gamepad style.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
The GXT 28 is lightweight and feels hollow, but the buttons do feel nice and responsive, and give a satisfying click with every push. Each thumb stick also feels good to use, with the right amount of resistance.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
This might not be the flashiest gamepad out there, but at least it does the job competently. The design is comfortable, and will feel familiar to anyone who uses Sony's official gamepads. There's a turbo mode, but it's only really of use if you're terrified of developing RSI from fast button pushing. For most gamers though, this novelty feature won't be used often.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
You can plug the GXT 28 straight into a PS3 too, which adds value. Trust has been making game peripherals for a long time, and it's come up with a cheap yet reliable alternative to the offi cial PS3 controller.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Verdict: 69%</span></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Razer Onza Tournament Edition - £48<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5;" />Web: eu.razerzone.com</div>
<div mce_style="text-align: center;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Razer onza" class="aligncenter" height="189" mce_src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread2_razer-420-90.jpg" src="http://mos.futurenet.com/techradar/Review%20images/PC%20Format/PCF%20254/PCF254.w_roundup.spread2_razer-420-90.jpg" style="border-width: 0px; clear: both; color: #444444; display: block; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px auto 12px; max-width: 640px;" width="252" /></div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
You might be forgiven for thinking at first glance that this is an official Xbox 360 controller. The shape and design are almost identical and the build quality is top-notch.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
There are a few subtle differences, though. The D-pad is much improved and actually usable - something Microsoft's official controller can't boast. Another great addition is the glowing face buttons, which help to make gaming in the dark a lot easier.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
This gamepad also comes with two buttons carefully placed at the back of the pad that can be used to recalibrate the gamepad on-the-fly. You can also twist the analogue thumb sticks to tweak their sensitivity without pausing your game.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
The gamepad itself feels incredibly comfortable, using the same ergonomic design as the official Xbox 360 pad. It's quite a bit lighter as well - due to the lack of wireless functionality and the need for batteries. While it would have been nice to have it wireless, the long cord goes a long way to compensating for this.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
Overall, this is a great gamepad that improves on an already excellent design.</div>
<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" mce_name="strong" mce_style="font-weight: bold;" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia,'Bitstream Charter',serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.5;">Verdict: 92%</span></div>
</div>
</span></div>

Buying Guide: Best PC gamepad: 6 reviewed and rated

For most PC gamers, the mouse and keyboard combination is the ultimate way to control our games. The mouse offers lightning-fast respon...

Buying Guide: Best PC gamepad: 6 reviewed and rated

Buying Guide: Best PC gamepad: 6 reviewed and rated

For most PC gamers, the mouse and keyboard combination is the ultimate way to control our games. The mouse offers lightning-fast respon...

Microsoft thinks PlayStation Vita will fail, bets on Windows Phone 7

<p style="text-align: center;"></p><br/><br/><div style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Sony-PlayStation-Vita-Next-Gen-Portable-Gaming-Device" border="0" height="288" src="http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/3453/sonyplaystationvitanext.jpg" title="Sony-PlayStation-Vita-Next-Gen-Portable-Gaming-Device" width="170" /></div><br/>Xbox COO Dennis Durkin spoke to Industry Gamers about their view of the mobile gaming market, including the recently launched and very powerful PlayStation Vita.<br/><br/>"I’m not sure I would want to be launching a dedicated portable device right now into that market. I think the DS – if you look at the 3DS, certainly versus people’s expectation’s it’s not been as successful as people would have thought. So that’s a very crowded market and a very, very red ocean right now with a lot of change happening. So I’m not sure it’s [a good idea]," he said.<br/><br/>Microsoft has said repeatedly that Windows Phone 7 was their portable gaming device, and there are increasing evidence of ever deeper integration and capabilities including multiplayer gaming and in-game voice chat in Windows Phone 7 Mango.<br/><br/>"You only have a certain number of bets you can make as a company and you have to decide what you want to put your wood behind and I’m just not sure that that’s a place (<em>a dedicated handheld console</em>) that I would put mine."<br/><br/>Via <a href="http://attackofthefanboy.com/news/xbox-exec-doubtful-of-playstation-vita-success/" target="_blank">Attackofthefanboy</a>

Microsoft thinks PlayStation Vita will fail, bets on Windows Phone 7

Xbox COO Dennis Durkin spoke to Industry Gamers about their view of the mobile gaming market, including the recently launched and very power...

Sony prepares consumers for pricey NGP

<p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" src="http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/6049/5392426376c80584228fo20.jpg" /></p><br/>Sony is readying the launch of the successor to the PSP later this year, currently known as the Sony NGP, with Sony boss Jack Tretton already preparing consumers for what may well be a high launch price point.<br/><br/>The Sony NGP and Nintendo 3DS are clearly going to be big talking points of this year's forthcoming E3 trade event in Los Angeles, with Sony's top US brass already readying gamers for a potential shock with the initial NGP pricing strategy.<br/><br/><strong>What makes a games platform?</strong><br/><br/>While many in the games industry are privately hoping that Sony doesn't make the same mistakes that it made with the PlayStation 3 launch – almost pricing itself out of the market – Sony Computer Entertainment America boss Jack Tretton has said this week that he doesn't "think price makes or kills a platform."<br/><br/>Sony first unveiled the new NGP console back in January, when Sony president Kaz Hirai said it would be priced at a level which would be "well-received by consumers."<br/><br/>Yet this month, Tretton told an interviewer that consumers are now "used to spending hundreds of dollars" on portable devices, citing Apple's iPhone and iPod touch as evidence that this was the case.<br/><br/>"I think when you're buying a platform, when you're buying technology, you're hopefully buying a device that you're going to enjoy for many, many years," said the PlayStation boss, adding that "the amount of money you spend on the hardware is a relatively small percentage of the total investment."<br/><br/>Tretton continued: "Something that's lousy, that's very inexpensive, is not going to be successful, and something that's pricey will ultimately find its audience if there's enough value there."<br/><br/>In the murky world of consumer technology marketing, this talk is generally referred to as 'managing expectations'.<br/><br/>Whereas on videogame forums worldwide, it is generally referred to in words that are not really acceptable for a family audience…<br/><br/><img alt="" height="1" src="http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/4692/77218338.gif" width="1" />

Sony prepares consumers for pricey NGP

Sony is readying the launch of the successor to the PSP later this year, currently known as the Sony NGP, with Sony boss Jack Tretton alread...

Buyer's Guide: PlayStation 3 3D – the definitive list of games

<P align=center><img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/games/playstation/ps3/images/3d_ps3-200-200.jpg"></P> <br /><P>If you are lucky enough to be the proud new owner of a 3D TV this Christmas holiday season, then Sony has kindly listed all of the 3D gaming and Blu-ray movie content you can enjoy via your PlayStation 3.</P><br /><P>Leading TV manufacturers including Samsung, Philips, LG and Sony are all heavily promoting their new 3D TV sets, with further new 3D TV announcements expected at CES 2011 from Las Vegas next month.</P><br /><P>Sony is obviously very keen to promote the fact that you can play plenty of decent 3D games on your PlayStation 3 – either right now, or in the very near future – releasing the definitive list of 3D games, which you can see below this news story. </P><br /><P><STRONG>3D on the PS3</STRONG></P><br /><P>The <a href="http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/12/20/stereoscopic-3d-on-the-ps3-full-list-of-all-3d-games-and-blu-rays/">PlayStation Blog</A> notes that there are already 19 3D PS3 games out now, with a further nine confirmed for 2011 to date.</P><br /><P>Sony rep Sid Shuman adds: "Expect to hear quite a bit more in 2011."</P><br /><P>If you fancy playing some of this year's greatest PS3 titles in 3D, including games such as <EM>Gran Turismo 5, Call of Duty: Black Ops</EM>, and the high def eye-candy that is <EM>WipEout HD</EM>, then Sony has your back.</P><br /><P>Of course, <a href="">PC gamers have been enjoying stereoscopic 3D</A> gaming courtesy of nVidia's 3D Vision kit for some time now, with over 400 3D compatible games available on PC to date.</P><br /><P>Here's Sony's full 3D games and Blu-ray list:<EM><BR></EM></P><br /><P><EM>Out now</EM><EM><BR><BR>1. Auditorium* <BR>2. Call of Duty: Black Ops<BR>3. Enslaved: Journey to the West (via PSN software update)<BR>4. EyePet<BR>5. The Fight: Lights Out<BR>6. Gran Turismo 5<BR>7. High Velocity Bowling<BR>8. Hustle Kings*<BR>9. James Cameron's Avatar: The Game<BR>10. MotorStorm: 3D Rift*<BR>11. NBA 2K11 (new retail version; free PSN software update coming in January 2011)<BR>12. PAIN*<BR>13. Prince of Persia Trilogy*<BR>14. The Sly Collection<BR>15. Super Stardust HD* (via PSN software update)<BR>16. Swords and Soldiers*<BR>17. TRON: Evolution<BR>18. Tumble*<BR>19. WipEout HD*</EM></P><br /><P><EM>Coming in 2011<BR><BR>1. Crysis 2<BR>2. de Blob 2: Underground<BR>3. Dungeon Defenders*<BR>4. Ico and Shadow of the Colossus Collection<BR>5. Killzone 3<BR>6. MLB 11: The Show <BR>7. Mortal Kombat<BR>8. MotorStorm Apocalypse<BR>9. Virtua Tennis 4<BR>10. Uncharted 3: Drake's Deception<BR><BR>*Indicates downloadable PSN title</EM></P><br /><P><EM>Blu-ray 3D Movies<BR><BR>Note: Select titles appear here, for a full list of all 3D Blu-rays, refer to Blu-ray.com/3D.<BR><BR>1. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 3D<BR>2. Clash of the Titans 3D<BR>3. Resident Evil: Afterlife 3D<BR>4. Avatar 3D (December 1st)<BR>5. Alice in Wonderland 3D<BR>6. Despicable Me 3D<BR>7. Open Season 3D<BR>8. My Bloody Valentine 3D<BR>9. Monster House 3D<BR>10. Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole 3D<BR>11. The Polar Express 3D</EM></P>

Buyer's Guide: PlayStation 3 3D – the definitive list of games

If you are lucky enough to be the proud new owner of a 3D TV this Christmas holiday season, then Sony has kindly listed all of the 3D gamin...

Free PlayStation app heading to iPhone and Android

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/Mobile%20Phones/apps/Playstationapp-200-200.jpg"> <br /><P>While the world awaits official news of the <a href="">PSP phone</A>, Sony has announced the imminent release of a free PlayStation app for iPhone and Android users. </P><br /><P>The app will be available on Apple iOS 4 or above and any Android version 1.6 (Donut) or higher. </P><br /><P>In version 1.0, users can check their achievements and keep an eye on friends' online statuses, as well as receive news of updates to PlayStation hardware and a feed from the PlayStation Europe blog.</P><br /><P><STRONG>No games to play</STRONG></P><br /><P>Unlike <a href="">Windows Phone 7's Xbox Live hub</A>, however, the PlayStation app won't offer any PlayStation games to play on your handset in version 1.0. </P><br /><P>With a release date no more accurate than "soon", the PlayStation app will be available to iPhone and Android users in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and The Netherlands.</P><br /><P>Sony is already hard at work on the next version of the app, promising "tons more features" to come in the next few months.</P>

Free PlayStation app heading to iPhone and Android

While the world awaits official news of the PSP phone , Sony has announced the imminent release of a free PlayStation app for iPhone and An...

Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 offers built in PlayStation 2

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/home-entertainment/tv/images/bravia_kdl_22px300_1-200-200.jpg"><br /><P>Sony has released a television with a difference – with the Bravia KDL-22PX300 offers built in PS2 functionality allowing you to play your old games.</P><br /><P>We can only imagine that Sony had a truckload of old PS2 tech to get rid of and decided to build it into a 22-inch television set.</P><br /><P>Of course, despite the television being HD ready, the games are not – meaning you will get standard def old titles. </P><br /><P><STRONG>Brilliant or late?</STRONG></P><br /><P>We're not sure if this is fantastic or about five years out of date, but for those who want to dig out that old copy of <EM>Gran Turismo 4</EM> for a nostalgia kick in their second bedroom then this may be just the thing. </P><br /><P>When they build a PS3 into a Bravia 47-inch TV then we'll be at the front of the queue – unless of course it's in six years' time when the PS4 is in its pomp. </P><br /><P>The Bravia KDL-22PX300 offers 4 HDMIs, 720p resolution, a Freeview tuner and costs £199. And, truthfully, it's not the prettiest thing in the world.</P>

Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 offers built in PlayStation 2

Sony has released a television with a difference – with the Bravia KDL-22PX300 offers built in PS2 functionality allowing you to play your o...

PlayStation Phone to be Launched in Feb 2011?

<P><img alt="PlayStation Phone to be Launched in Feb 2011?" border="0" height="150" src="/113523matter.jpg" width="200"></P><br /><P>Sony Ericsson might eventually unveil the purported PlayStation Phone in February 2011 at the Mobile World Congress 2011 in Barcelona. Bert Nordberg, CEO for Sony Ericsson, candidly stated in an interview with The Wall Start Journal that he wants to make loads of "noise" with a new product at MWC and stated that there's no technological difficulty in launching a gaming-oriented phone. <BR><BR>Sony Ericsson's gaming-oriented phone has been unofficially being called the PlayStation Phone and images of the same were also leaked on the web. Nordberg in an interview said, "There's a lot of smoke, and I tell you there must be a fire somewhere. Sony has an extremely strong offering in the gaming market, and that's very interesting."<BR><BR>Obviously the PlayStation Phone running Google Android 2.3 Gingerbread or Android 3.0 HoneyComb would be shown off at the MWC conference. Nordberg pointed out that current generation smartphones with touchscreen aren't optimized for games. He was a bit cryptic and unclear on which platform he was pointing at exactly. According to him, the main challenge ahead of launching PlayStation Phone would be negotiating the right issues with the game publishers. <BR><BR>Finally, Nordberg added, "Sony is of course a very strong brand, and why shouldn't we use that? Gaming, including content, is a very interesting proposition."<BR><BR>We can expect to see the PlayStation Network Integration alongside the normal Android Market on the PlayStation Phone. Last week came in an interesting comment from Sony Ericsson France CEO Pierre Peron stated, "With Windows 7 we run the risk of standardising our smartphones. We would be obliged to compete only on design on price, which we want to avoid," as reported by Telecom Paper.  <BR><BR><BR><img align="baseline" border="0" hspace="0" src="/113523113267psp2.jpg"></P><BR><BR><BR>Will we get to see any Windows Phone 7 based Sony Ericsson phone at MWC? Probably not. Peron added that the company was still in talks with Microsoft about using WP7, but it prefers Android because Google's operating system allows it to introduce more product differentiation. Basically, Android lets Sony Ericsson place a custom User Interface layer over the OS while a tightly bound WP7 doesn't allow the same easily. <BR><BR>Sony Ericsson, as a brand, has no objections in going for a Windows Phone 7 based device. However, Sony Ericsson seems a bit less interested in WP7 phones due to Xbox LIVE integration that directly competes with Sony PlayStation Network. <BR><BR>PlayStation Phone running Android seems imminent but the real quest is to find out if Sony Ericsson would work on a Windows Phone 7 device or not. But before that we might get to see the Sony Xperia X12 'Anzu' handset that was leaked on the web recently.

PlayStation Phone to be Launched in Feb 2011?

Sony Ericsson might eventually unveil the purported PlayStation Phone in February 2011 at the Mobile World Congress 2011 in Barcelona. Bert ...

PlayStation Phone plans: Sony boss comments

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/images/ps%20phone%20prototype-200-200.jpg" /> <br />
Following leaked images of a prototype 'PlayStation Phone' earlier last month, the CEO of Sony Ericsson mobile phones has alluded to the development of the gaming phone, claiming that there is "no smoke without fire." <br />
Of course, this is far from an official confirmation that such a 'PlayStation Phone' exists, although it strongly suggests that Sony Ericsson and Sony Computer Entertainment are looking at ways of jointly developing gaming on mobile phone.<br />
<b>Smoke, fire, mirrors</b><br />
"There's a lot of smoke, and I tell you there must be a fire somewhere," Sony Ericsson Chief Executive Bert Nordberg said in an interview with the <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704170404575624592495029652.html">Wall Street Journal</a>, when quizzed about the leaked images' authenticity.<br />
"Sony has an extremely strong offering in the gaming market, and that's very interesting." <br />
Whether or not Sony Ericsson's new gaming offering will be PlayStation-branded or Xperia-branded is still to be confirmed, although however the gaming controls on the device are developed and marketed, the phone is set to run Google's Android 3.0 OS when it arrives at some point later in 2011.<br />
<b>Current phones not 'optimized for games'</b><br />
iPhones and other current smartphones with touch screens are still not "optimized for games," argued Sony Ericsson's Nordberg.<br />
When asked why Sony Ericsson had not released a gaming-focused phone making use of Sony's PlayStation experience, he responded:<br />
"I haven't dug into that history, but the future might be brighter," adding, "I'm very glad that we work with a company like Sony, who actually knows how to do it."<br />
<b>PSP Phone in Barcelona next Feb?</b><br />
The Sony Ericsson CEO added that there was no technological issues in developing such a phone, but that the major hurdles were legal ones – discussing game rights with third party games publishers.<br />
Nordberg promises that the new gaming phone will be making a big noise at next February's Mobile Word Congress in Barcelona<br />
"Sony is of course a very strong brand, and why shouldn't we use that?" said Nordberg. "Gaming, including content, is a very interesting proposition."

PlayStation Phone plans: Sony boss comments

Following leaked images of a prototype 'PlayStation Phone' earlier last month, the CEO of Sony Ericsson mobile phones has alluded ...

In Depth: 3D Blu-ray on PlayStation 3: why it's a letdown

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/home-entertainment/gaming/consoles/images/playstation-3-red-200-200.jpg"><br /><P>Sony has come good on its promise to turn the ubiquitous PS3 console into a 3D Blu-ray player by way of a free firmware update. No cost; no catches; your console just went fully 3D. </P><br /><P>It's a remarkable piece of forward planning by the PlayStation division that not only gives its black box an edge in the war with Microsoft's Xbox 360, but also lends the 3D movement a much needed leg up, effectively putting a 3D Blu-ray player in millions of homes around the world. </P><br /><P>But was 3D ever on the roadmap for PS3, or is this a compromised version of it, rushed out in time to play Sony's solitary 3D Blu-ray release and deliver the 3D message being pushed by Sony's marketing? </P><br /><P>Extensive testing of an updated PS3 Slim and an older PS3 'Fat' reveals some shortfalls. </P><br /><P><STRONG>Old dog, new tricks </STRONG></P><br /><P>Early adopters that already have a 3DTV to go with their PS3 will have been playing three-dimensional games since the 3.4 firmware update in June. I for one have been hooked on <EM>Wipeout HD </EM>all over again now that the extra dimension has been added. </P><br /><P>With the 3D gaming update came a compromise, though. The maximum resolution in 3D mode dropped to 720p, which of course looks a little soft on a large 1080p screen. Fears of the same thing happening with 3D Blu-ray are unfounded. </P><br /><P>Both PS3s manage full HD 3D output, which means you see a frame sequential 1080p image through each eye and a very sharp image on screen. But that's at the expense of audio support for Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Without an HDMI v1.4 port, the PS3 seems unable to output full HD 3D video and high-resolution surround sound at the same time.</P><br /><P>In other words, the DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix of <EM>Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs</EM> drops to compressed DTS 5.1. This probably won't mean anything to the majority of PS3 owners, but it's a major blow for cinephiles seeking the ultimate home cinema experience. Perhaps it's a situation that can be fixed by firmware at a later date, but Sony's reluctance to reassure HCC readers makes us suspect not. </P><br /><P>Updating both a new European PS3 Slim and a legacy PS3 console from the first production batch to hit the US, gave slightly different results. Firmware 3.5 is a big update of 170MB and it brings an attractive orange interface, but few other changes beyond 3D BD compatibility. </P><br /><P>Now when you load the 3D Blu-ray release of <EM>Cloudy</EM>... the '3D detected' message pops up and you have the choice of watching in either 2D or 3D. Played on the PS3, the movie has all the detail and depth of field you get with a dedicated 3D player. </P><br /><P>The film's colour palette is the highly unrealistic and lurid mix of reds and purples that appeals to kids and it is all faithfully reproduced by the console. The image is sharply resolved at 1080p, although there is, however, the usual drop in brightness, which means you'll get much better results if you dim the room lighting. </P><br /><P>The 3D effect is just as successful here as on Sony's dedicated deck, the BDP-S470. There's a clearly defined perspective to the film that puts key characters in the foreground and scenery behind, and it adds to the fun when hamburgers appear fly through the screen and into the room. </P><br /><P>There are scenes, however, where the 3D scope just looks odd. Fast-forward to Chapter 12 and the warehouse looks suitably cavernous with ropes dangling eerily in the foreground, but the view of lead character Flint in the dustbin is strangely out of focus on one side. All of the rubbish at the bottom of the bin should be on the same plane, but instead only half is sharply resolved, while the other half is blurred. This seems to be more an issue of the disc than the PS3, however. </P><br /><P>Apart from the criminal lack of lossless audio, another oddity of the firmware updated PS3 is the way the film flips into 2D whenever you call up the onscreen menu. It automatically reverts to 3D when you resume play, so it's not a problem by any means, but just a little inconsistent. </P><br /><P>Far more worrying are the compatibility issues. Our legacy PS3 wouldn't recognise <EM>Monsters vs Aliens</EM> on 3D Blu-ray for example, which is frustrating given the dearth of 3D material available right now. It does play on the PS3 Slim, though, which may indicate a limitation of the older console. </P><br /><P>So, the PS3's transition to a full HD 3D Blu-ray player is a bit of letdown. Free 3D playback can't be sniffed at, but the lack of lossless audio is a major issue. Basically, if you're as committed to lossless audio as you are to 3D images, the PS3 is a no-go as a 3D player, and you're best off buying a dedicated deck. </P><br /><P>We desperately hope that Sony will figure out how to fix this – and iron out the disc incompatibility issues.</P>

In Depth: 3D Blu-ray on PlayStation 3: why it's a letdown

Sony has come good on its promise to turn the ubiquitous PS3 console into a 3D Blu-ray player by way of a free firmware update. No cost; no ...

Mubi classic film streaming service debuts on PlayStation 3

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//Review%20images/TechRadar/Home%20Entertainment/PS3%20Slim/official%20pics-200-200.jpg"><br /><P>Sony has announced Mubi, a new classic movie streaming service for PlayStation 3 in Europe. </P><br /><P>Available on the PlayStation Network, Sony says Mubi is "perfect for gamers looking to get something more out of their PS3 by offering instant access to a world of independent, international and classic cinema." </P><br /><P>You can access the service by downloading the free application from PlayStation Store on PlayStation Network to become a member. </P><br /><P>There are monthly free-to-view films or take your pick from across the catalogue. Individual films priced at only £0.79 for short films and £2.99 for feature length films. </P><br /><P>Mubi is also offering a 30 day all-you-can-watch subscription for £9.99.</P><br /><P>Mubi founder and film guru Efe Çakarel said of the announcement: "Bringing MUBI to PlayStation opens up the world of independent, foreign and classic film. Our films are from the most visionary directors and creative masterminds on the planet and every film we show has been hailed a classic by the film community. </P><br /><P>"It is about making great films fun and accessible, tearing away the mystique and letting members go on the most unexpected of journeys. It offers films you never even dreamed about, films with an edge, films that you have always wanted to see but haven’t been able to find. Our mission is to put the excitement and adventure into home viewing." </P>

Mubi classic film streaming service debuts on PlayStation 3

Sony has announced Mubi, a new classic movie streaming service for PlayStation 3 in Europe. Available on the PlayStation Network, Sony says ...

PlayStation Phone: new details emerge

<img src="http://cdn.mos.techradar.com//classifications/Mobile%20Phones/Sony%20Ericsson/playstation-phone-200-200.jpg"/><p>New details have come to light about the much-rumoured PSP Phone, including some new shots of the device.</p><p>The notion of a <a href="http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/sony-ericsson-to-build-playstation-phone-161541">PlayStation Phone</a> has been around since 2007, but it is only in the <a href="http://www.techradar.com/news/gaming/first-pictures-of-sony-playstation-phone-emerge-903607">last week</a> that images and specs have started to leak.</p><p>According <a href="http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/29/the-playstation-phone-new-photos-more-details/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+weblogsinc%2Fengadgetmobile+%28Engadget+Mobile%29&utm_content=Google+Reader">to Engadget</a>, who seems to have a firm handle of all things PSP Phone related, the Sony Ericsson device definitely has the modest codename of Zeus and is currently running Android 2.2 - but this may change when it comes to market.</p><p>When it comes to storage, there seems to be a microSD card slot on board and 512MB of internal memory - likely allowing users to pump the internal storage up to around 32GB.</p><p><strong>Phone and games</strong></p><p>The chassis of the PlayStation Phone is around 17mm thick, according to Engadget, and looks a bit like a BlackBerry – the phone make, not the fruit.</p><p>The width of the chassis is around the same as the PSPGo, so will feel familiar to those who have had a go on the PSPGo.</p><p>Speaking recently to press (and picked up by <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/sony/8101763/Sony-breaks-silence-over-PlayStation-phone-rumours.html">the Telegraph</a>) Masaru Kato, Sony's chief financial officer did talk about the smartphones and gaming, explaining: "As for the new PSP product... there is a gaming market based on [the] cellphones, and there are many changes that are being seen [with] Nintendo, as well as ourselves, in the field of the product for the gamers."</p><p>In short: he's telling us there is games market for phones and Sony makes games and phones. Which means that the <a href="http://www.techradar.com/news/phone-and-communications/mobile-phones/psp-phone-rumours-what-you-need-to-know-903712">PlayStation Phone</a> is looking less and less like vapourware each day and could well launch at Mobile World Congress in February.</p><img border="0" height="1" src="http://rss.feedsportal.com/c/669/f/9809/s/f3c1a04/mf.gif" width="1"/><div class='mf-related'><p>

PlayStation Phone: new details emerge

New details have come to light about the much-rumoured PSP Phone, including some new shots of the device. The notion of a PlayStation Phone...