PS2 News

January2014

  • Store Update 29th January 2014 (Europe)

    Pick 'n' mix

    Much like its North American companion, the most noteworthy addition in this week's European PlayStation Store update is Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition. It’s not exactly travelling alone, though, with Tecmo Koei’s gigantic Toukiden demo and the colossal Curve Studios mega bundle coming along for the ride. We should probably point...

  • News Want Backward Compatibility on PS4? You May Get Better

    Enhanced PSone and PS2 support in the pipeline

    PlayStation Now may not be the comprehensive PlayStation 4 backward compatibility solution that you’ve been craving – but the bigwigs beavering away in Sony’s research and development department may have something even better in store. Eurogamer.net reports that the platform holder is busying...

  • News Could PS2 Fright-Fest Project Zero Be Spooking the European PSN?

    "I ain't 'fraid of no ghost"

    Fan pleas to publishers for re-releases often fall on silent ears. For European admirers of the Project Zero franchise, however, there is a chance for their requests to finally be heard. Tecmo Koei asked its Twitter followers if they would like to see the series on the PlayStation Network earlier this week. The fact that...

  • News Mix Some Fresh Green Herbs, Resident Evil: Outbreak Is Back Online

    Back from the dead

    If you’ve ever bleached your hair blond to mimic the looks of antagonist Albert Wesker, then you’re probably aware of Resident Evil: Outbreak. Released over ten years ago, the PlayStation 2 survival horror employed the console’s network adaptor to create the first online experience in the series’ storied history...

December2013

  • Feature Feel All Festive with These Unforgettable PlayStation Snowscapes

    Ice weather for it

    The weather outside is dreary, but your consoles can be so cheery. And since there’s nowhere you’d rather be, turn on your PSone, PS2, and PS3. Alright, it doesn’t quite fit, but you get the idea. Over the years, the various PlayStation platforms have played host to a veritable wonderland of snowy scenes, so to celebrate the...

  • Feature The Road to Gran Turismo 6

    The evolution of the real driving simulator

    Even when Polyphony Digital president Kazunori Yamauchi was working on slapstick PSone racer Motor Toon Grand Prix, the luminary had driving simulators in mind. The internally developed title, which was undeniably inspired by the success of Mario Kart, was built with a casual audience in mind, but the...

November2013

October2013

  • Talking Point Which PlayStation Game Gives You the Goosebumps?

    Reader beware

    Boo! Apologies, it’s Hallowe’en, so we couldn’t resist sending a shiver down your spine. With the spookiest day in the Gregorian calendar very much upon us, we figured that it was a perfect opportunity to position the courageous Push Square team around a fierce camp fire, and force them to share some short stories regarding their...

  • News Want to Play PSone Games on PS4? Sorry, You're Gonna Need Your Old Consoles

    Starting over

    If our very own Jamie O’Neill’s recent roster of retro reviews have got you frothing at the mouth over some old-school gaming, then you’re going to want to keep your classic consoles hooked up. Revealed as part of yesterday’s colossal PlayStation Blog post, Sony has stated that the PlayStation 4 will not be backward compatible...

  • News PlayStation, This Is Very Much Your Life

    For the players since 1995

    If last week’s ‘Perfect Day’ commercial didn’t get you suitably hyped for the release of the PlayStation 4 next month, then this PlayStation Access video should do the trick. Dubbed ‘For the Players’, the poignant clip depicts almost two decades’ worth of PlayStation gaming from the perspective of a London...

  • Store Update 8th October 2013 (North America)

    A real stinker

    Excuse the misleading sub headline – this is actually an excellent North American PlayStation Store update. Instead, we’re referring to the release of Orc Attack: Flatulent Rebellion, which promises a “fart-filled romp” where “fun-loving Orcs battle pollution loving Humans in a humorous fantasy setting”. Hmm. Less smelly...

  • News Unsurprisingly, Grand Theft Auto V Is the PSN's Biggest Ever Digital Release

    Well, duh

    At this point, Rockstar Games is just going to roll its eyes whenever it smashes another sales record. As part of its monthly European PlayStation Store charts, Sony has confirmed that Grand Theft Auto V has become the biggest selling digital release in th

  • Store Update 1st October 2013 (North America)

    Overcast edition

    Prop up your umbrellas, because this week’s North American PlayStation Store update features a drizzling of new content. First and foremost is Rain, the quirky stealth adventure from Japan Studio. It’s joined by Flashback, the modern day remake of Paul Cuisset’s classic, and the awkwardly dubbed Die! Die! Die!. Are you ready...

September2013

  • Store Update 24th September 2013 (North America)

    Spherical balls

    There’s plenty of football on offer as part of this week’s North American PlayStation Store update – but not the kind that our friends over the Atlantic may expect. FIFA 14 and PES 2014: Pro Evolution Soccer are both out now, and that means that there’s nary a shoulder pad or helmet in sight. Other new additions include the...

  • Store Update 17th September 2013 (North America)

    Three's a crowd

    The entire industry has gone on holiday in order to give you ample opportunity to play Grand Theft Auto V. Granted, there are a couple of new releases available as part of this week’s North American PlayStation Store update – Hot Wheels: World’s Best Driver, anyone? – but, let's be honest, there’s only really one game that...

  • Store Update 3rd September 2013 (North America)

    Ultimate edition

    We hope that you like video games, because this week’s North American PlayStation Store update is practically bursting with new releases. In addition to a bucket load of pre-orders, fresh arrivals include Castle of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse, Diablo III, and Rayman Legends. Elsewhere, Starbreeze’s critically acclaimed...

August2013

  • Store Update 27th August 2013 (North America)

    Games galore

    There are so many new titles available as part of this week’s North American PlayStation Store update that we don’t really know where to start. In addition to a cavalcade of fresh retail releases – including Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, Lost Planet 3, and Killer Is Dead – there are also some smaller titles vying for your...

  • News Sony Depicts the Visual Progression from PSone to PS4

    Spyro to Shadow Fall

    Do you remember when games were little more than a collection of polygons and grainy textures? There’s a good chance that you grew up during the PSone era, then, which means that you’ve been lucky enough to live through the technical progression of the PlayStation brand since its very inception. For those of you that have...

  • Store Update 6th August 2013 (North America)

    Royal flush

    This week’s North American PlayStation Store update is an absolute corker. In addition to the hotly anticipated Vanillaware brawler Dragon’s Crown, there’s also the brilliant Tales of Xillia vying for your attention. Other goodies include Ibb and Obb and new Soul Sacrifice DLC. Let's do this. Pre-Orders: NHL 14 ($59.99)

July2013

  • Store Update 30th July 2013 (North America)

    Dance with death

    Sony’s hoping to brighten up your week with a couple of doozies as part of the latest North American PlayStation Store refresh. Cloudberry Kingdom and PixelJunk Monsters: Ultimate HD both scored highly in our reviews, meaning that there’s no excuse for not adding the titles to your PSN basket as we type. It’s also worth noting...

  • Store Update 16th July 2013 (North America)

    PLAYtime

    The lineup of this year’s PlayStation Store PLAY promotion takes centre stage in North America this week, with all four titles available for pre-order. However, the platform holder’s latest digital initiative is not the only highlight, with Dynasty Warriors 8, Doodle God, and Kung Fu Rabbit also fleshing out a surprisingl

  • Store Update 9th July 2013 (North America)

    Alphabetical animals

    Quick, someone give the studio behind Aabs Animals a copy of Letterland – doesn't the developer know that it goes Annie Apple, then Bouncy Ben, then Clever Cat? We’re waffling in order to fill out words because there’s nothing really of note in this week’s North American PlayStation Store update. We suppose that Coconut...

  • Store Update 2nd July 2013 (North America)

    It's getting hot in here

    Sony’s really turning up the temperature on the North American PlayStation Store this week, with the Summer Blast sale bringing with it a bevy of sweat-inducing discounts. Other highlights include the release of Velocity Ultra, Pinball Heroes: Complete, and Farming Simulator on

June2013

  • Store Update 18th June 2013 (North America)

    Jak's back

    There’s a ton of great content available as part of this week’s North American PlayStation Store refresh, including Dungeons & Dragons: Chronicles of Mystara HD and the intriguing Storm. The highlight, though, has to be the Jak & Daxter Collection, which is out now for the PlayStation Vita. PSN: Dungeons & Dragons...

  • Store Update 11th June 2013 (North America)

    The one we nearly forgot

    We sort of forgot about the weekly PlayStation Store update amidst the E3 2013 madness. Fortunately, we remembered in the nick of time – while we were eating a bowl of strawberries as it happens. It’s a good job that it jumped to the front of our mind, too, as this is a surprisingly good one, with The Last of Us, Tekken...

  • Store Update 4th June 2013 (North America)

    Don't forget

    Capcom’s likeable action adventure Remember Me may be the biggest new addition to this week’s North American PlayStation Store update – but it’s by no means the only noteworthy arrival. Other debuts include Limbo on the PlayStation Vita, alongside a couple of free applications for the portable platform. Shall we get down to...

May2013

  • Store Update 29th May 2013 (Europe)

    On the prowl

    This week’s European PlayStation Store update is quite the varied feast. Just some of the highlights on offer at the gaming buffet are Wonderbook: Diggs Nightcrawler, Fuse, and The HD Adventures of Rotating Octopus Character. Elsewhere, Quell Memento is also up for grabs, while shameless impostor

  • Store Update 28th May 2013 (North America)

    Calm before the storm

    In a few weeks, Naughty Dog will deploy The Last of Us on the PlayStation 3 – and you can pre-order your copy right now from the PlayStation Store. The special digital version will allow you to play the game while it’s downloading – a first for the PS3. This week’s North American update also boasts the survival...

  • Store Update 15th May 2013 (Europe)

    Neutrino speed

    There are a decent roster of titles available as part of this week’s European PlayStation Store update, but you only really need to know about one: Velocity Ultra. After a long wait, FuturLab’s award winning arcade hit has finally teleported its way onto the PlayStation Vita, and we couldn’t be more excited. Other new arrivals...

  • Store Update 14th May 2013 (North America)

    Dust hunt

    Yes, we’re late, but that doesn’t deter from the contents of this week’s North American PlayStation Store update. On the docket this week are DUST 514, Metro: Last Light, and Jacob Jones and the Bigfoot Mystery. There’s also a PS2 Classic in the guise of controversial murder ‘em up Manhunt. Let’s get down to business...

  • News Gran Turismo Franchise Accelerates Past 70 Million Sales

    Pedal to the metal

    It’s often billed as the most popular PlayStation property, but just how big is the Gran Turismo franchise? Speaking during the series’ 15th anniversary event at Silverstone earlier today, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe’s head honcho Jim Ryan revealed that the brand has raced past an extraordinary 70 million units to...

  • News Guacamelee! Takes the Number Juan Spot in the April PSN Charts

    Fiery favourite

    Drinkbox Studios’ brilliant Guacamelee! has proven that it’s hotter than chilli con carne, topping the PlayStation Network sales charts in both Europe and North America for the month of April. The side-scrolling brawler fought off a cavalcade of heavy-hitters in each region, including the likes of

  • News Kaz Hirai Steers Sony to First Profit in Five Years, PlayStation Sales Decline

    Still work to be done

    Sony gaffer Kaz Hirai has successfully steered the electronics giant back into the black. The company announced its first profit in five years earlier today, revealing a net income of ¥43 billion ($458 million). The figure certainly makes for pleasant reading compared to the enormous ¥456.7 billion ($4.6 billion) loss that...

  • Store Update 7th May 2013 (North America)

    Spark up

    After several strong updates, it was only a matter of time before expectations came crashing down to Earth. This week’s North American PlayStation Store update is so flat that we’re struggling to pick out a highlight. We suppose that the demo for Insomniac Games’ upcoming Fuse is interesting, right? There's certainly nothing else...

  • News Snap Up Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly on the PSN This Week

    Classic title in focus

    Floating closely behind the ghoulish wisps of the original Fatal Frame, platform holder Sony has confirmed that sequel Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly will haunt the PlayStation Network in North America this week. The barebones PS2 Classic puts you in the shoes of a pair of twins who are investigating a haunted village. Much...

  • News GameStop to Cease Accepting PlayStation 2 Trades from 1st June

    There's still time to get rid of your copy of The Simpsons: Hit and Run

    GameStop will thump another nail into the now-defunct PlayStation 2's coffin on 1st June, as it ceases to accept trade-ins for the legendary console. Reddit user eGORapTure snapped the photograph embedded below, and Joystiq validated its authenticity with several North American...

  • News What Would Grand Theft Auto V Look Like on the PS2?

    Pretty rubbish, we suspect

    Who needs fancy PlayStation 3 visuals when you can enjoy Grand Theft Auto V in the retro setting of San Andreas now? One dedicated YouTube user has devoted the entirety of their week to producing the old school reimagining of this week’s ‘Michael’ trailer embedded below. It’s probably safe to say that some people...

  • Store Update 30th April 2013 (North America)

    Sacrifice your soul

    Sony’s really stepped up its game in recent weeks, with the latest North American PlayStation Store update sporting another cavalcade of noteworthy content. Newcomers include Deadly Premonition: The Director’s Cut, Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon, Zombie Tycoon II: Brainhov’s Revenge, and Soul Sacrifice. There's also

April2013

  • News Katamari Damacy Gets Bundled onto the PlayStation Store Next Week

    Snowball effect

    Keita Takahashi’s madcap puzzler Katamari Damacy will roll onto the PlayStation Network on Tuesday in the form of a PS2 Classic. Sony confirmed the snippet as part of this week’s PlayStation Blogcast, though it failed to add how much cash you’ll need to clump together in order to purchase the zany release. Unbelievably, the...

  • Store Update 23rd April 2013 (North America)

    Making friends

    This week’s PlayStation Store update is absolutely gigantic. In addition to new retail releases such as Dead Island: Riptide, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen, and Star Trek, the mammoth refresh also includes downloadable shooter God Mode, cross-buy platformer Thomas Was Alone, and touch screen advent

  • Store Update 17th April 2013 (North America)

    Teething troubles

    Following some minor technical mishaps, the North American PlayStation Store is now ready and raring to go. Well, it’s better late than never, huh? Notable additions include Dragon Fantasy: Book I, Mad Dog 2: The Lost Gold, and RPG Maker III. To the B

  • Store Update 17th April 2013 (Europe)

    Mockery of justice

    In a strange turn of events, the European PlayStation Store update has arrived earlier than its North American counterpart for the first time in as long as we can remember. Sony’s commemorating that fact with the addition of a slew of content, including Injustice: Gods Among Us, the Journey Collector’s Edition, and

  • News RPG Maker 3 Building a New Home on PlayStation Network Next Week

    Play, create, share

    Those of you that are frustrated with the direction of the Final Fantasy series will be able to build your own sequel next week, courtesy of the PlayStation Network release of RPG Maker 3. The title – which originally launched on the PlayStation 2 back in 2005 – will be available as a PS2 Classic in North America on Tuesday,...

  • Store Update 9th April 2013 (North America)

    Hot and spicy

    After a quiet couple of North American PlayStation Store updates, Drinkbox Studios is turning up the heat to habanero temperature with its cross-buy adventure Guacamalee!. The title’s joined by a handful of former retail releases, in addition to Table Mini Golf on the PlayStation Vita and a selection of PSone imports. Let’s get...

  • News Fatal Frame Photographs the PlayStation Network This Week

    Sick shot

    The original Fatal Frame is set to snap the North American PlayStation Network this week, according to the PlayStation Blogcast. The title will launch as a PS2 Classic, so don’t expect any fancy visual upgrades. Still, despite the dated graphics, we’re sure that the release will manage to scare you absolutely rotten. For those out of...

  • Store Update 3rd April 2013 (Europe)

    Oh so quiet

    Insomniacs could use this week’s European PlayStation Store update as an alternative to counting sheep. Lowlights include a demo for Injustice: Gods Among Us, a couple of Grand Theft Auto games, and, er, Shaun White Snowboarding. We warned you it was a lean week. At least Okami HD is now free for PlayStation Plus subscribers. PS3...

  • Store Update 2nd April 2013 (North America)

    Dare you to defy it

    Aside from the addition of the ambitious online shooter Defiance, this week’s North American PlayStation Store update is relatively quiet again. Titles vying for your attention include the cheap and cheerful shooter Ion Assault, Ninja Gaiden 3: Razor’s Edge, and the PlayStation 2 ports of Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City...

March2013

  • Feature Twelve of the Best PlayStation Easter Eggs

    Hidden treats cracked open

    Video game Easter Eggs may not be made of chocolate like their real world counterparts, but there are still plenty of tasty treats concealed within the world of PlayStation. In order to celebrate the impending spring weather (oh, please let it arrive), we’ve hopped through our archives like a new born bunny to bring you...

  • News Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories, Vice City Stories Tell Tales on PSN

    Console ports spinning a yarn

    You’ll be able to expand your digital collection of Grand Theft Auto games this week, as the PlayStation 2 versions of portable spin-offs Liberty City Stories and Vice City Stories plan a heist on the PlayStation Network. Each title will set you back £7.99/$9.99 when they hit Sony’s digital storefront next week...

  • News Sony's Latest Patent Could Bring Trophies to Older Games

    Cunning solution pledges trinkets for PSone, PS2, and PSP titles

    Put those grand career plans on hold, because your life as a Trophy addict could be about to get a whole lot more complicated. NeoGAF has uncovered an intriguing patent which appears to hint at the possibility of adding Trophies to older games. The technology works by creating...

  • Store Update 20th March 2013 (Europe)

    Right on time

    Alright, we’re pretty late with this update. Still, when we were in high school, rocking up to a party after everyone else had already arrived was the cool thing to do. In fact, our friend network took ‘fashionably late’ so far that sometimes we’d show up to social gatherings the evening after they were supposed to take place...

  • Store Update 13th March 2013 (Europe)

    Bits and bobs

    As with North America’s most recent refresh, there are plenty of goodies available as part of this week's European PlayStation Store update. Darkstalkers Resurrection is probably the most notable new addition, alongside WRC Powerslide and a handful of demos. Let’s stop dithering and get down to business. PS3 Games: Atelier...

  • Store Update 12th March 2013 (North America)

    All filler, no killer

    This week’s North American PlayStation Store update is devoid of any real heavy hitters. Sure, you can look forward to the likes of Quantum Theory, Heavy Fire: Shattered Spear, and Kessen II if you like, but they’re not exactly must-have titles, are they? Darkstalkers Resurrection probably comes closest, alongside...

  • News Resident Evil Sale Haunts the EU PlayStation Store This Week

    Sorry, no Jill sandwiches

    Those of you looking to inject your evenings with a spot of horror may be excited to learn about the upcoming Resident Evil sale shuffling its way onto the European PlayStation Store. Starting from tomorrow until 27th March, you’ll be able to purchase a selection of titles from Capcom’s classic franchise at up to 50 per...

  • Store Update 6th March 2013 (Europe)

    Hitting homeruns

    The surprise release of MLB 13: The Show on PlayStation 3 and Vita is this week’s major European PlayStation Store highlight, though the addition of Tomb Raider is also worth noting. Other highlights include Germinator and lots of DLC. Don't forget that Mass Effect 3 is now available for free on PlayStation Plus, too. Let get down...

  • Store Update 5th March 2013 (North America)

    Runnin' through tombs

    It’s a hive of activity on the North American PlayStation Store this week, with Tomb Raider, MLB 13: The Show, and Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance all vying for your hard-earned cash. Other notable additions include Germinator and Bit.Trip Presents: Runn

February2013

  • Store Update 27th February 2013 (Europe)

    A godly freebie

    It's that time again, with a host of downloadable goodies being added to your various Sony consoles for your gaming pleasure. PlayStation Plus member get access to a rather well-known HD re-release, while a host of discounts and new DLC options also fight for your attention. Let's get to the details. PlayStation Plus: God of War HD...

  • Store Update 26th February 2013 (North America)

    Plenty to pre-order

    This week’s North American PlayStation Store update is absolutely brimming with pre-orders. There are a slew of retail releases for you to register your interest in, including BioShock: Infinite and MLB 13 The Show. There’s also a demo for God of War: Ascension, as well as big add-ons for The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and

  • Store Update 20th February 2013 (Europe)

    Easy to overlook

    Believe it or not, normal life does go on. While all eyes are undoubtedly on tonight’s PlayStation Meeting press conference, Sony has found time to update the European PlayStation Store. New arrivals include Capcom Arcade Cabinet, Persona 4 Golden, and Urban Trial Freestyle. Let’s get down to business, shall

  • News Sony Regales Tales of the PS2 Ahead of PlayStation Meeting

    Plus, a young Kaz Hirai

    Sony’s released another entry in its ‘Evolution’ series, this time focusing on the PlayStation 2. The trailer includes a wealth of archive footage from the build up to the system’s launch, including a quote from one news reporter who claims that the console will be “the biggest thing to come along since TV was...

  • Store Update 13th February 2013 (Europe)

    Anarchy wanes

    Much like in North America, there’s not a whole lot worth getting excited about in this week’s European PlayStation Store update. Anarchy Reigns, Aliens: Colonial Marines, and Germinator are all up for grabs on PlayStation 3, while R

  • Store Update 12th February 2013 (North America)

    Take a break

    If your wallet's in need of a breather after the deluge of releases in recent weeks, then you're in luck – there's very little of note on offer in the latest North American PlayStation Store update. New arrivals include the handheld port of Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken, the Twisted Metal Birthday Bundle, and PlayStation All-Stars...

  • News Sweet Tooth Celebrates Birthday with Twisted Metal Bundle

    Squashed tomatoes and gloop

    Twisted Metal’s excellent PlayStation 3 reboot is officially a year old this week, and Sweet Tooth is planning to commemorate the event by washing his polka dot pants. Apparently, they’ve got a bit messy over the past 12 months – we’ve told him to be careful where he squirts the strawberry sauce. While the killer...

  • News Sony Cuts Losses, PlayStation Sales Tumble

    Ups and downs

    It looks like the appointment of Kaz Hirai has worked wonders for Sony. The recently recruited president promised to decrease losses when he took over the role in April last year, and he’s done a decent job. The company as a whole recorded a net loss of ¥10.8 billion ($115 million) for its fiscal third quarter ending 31st December,

January2013

  • Store Update 30th January 2013 (Europe)

    Back in time

    It may be discontinued, but the PlayStation 2 is making a comeback. There are no less than ten PS2 Classics in this week’s European PlayStation Store refresh, including Dynasty Warriors 4, Samurai Warriors 2, and, as promised, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. Let’s Fish: Hooked On is also out this week on PlayStation Vita, alongside

  • Store Update 29th January 2013 (North America)

    Hooked hitman

    It’s not a particularly packed week on the North American PlayStation Store, but there’s still a string of titles worth your attention. New arrivals include the digital version of Bayonetta, the Hitman HD Trilogy, and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. There’s also a little game called Let’s Fish: Hooked On, which we’re genuinely...

  • News Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Turns Back Time on PSN

    Acceptable in the 80s

    Whip out your shoulder pads, eyeliner, and Blondie records, because Grand Theft Auto: Vice City is set to invade the PlayStation Network in a blaze of bad synthpop and fluorescent colours next week. The barebones PS2 Classic will set you back £7.99/$9.99 when it launches on 29th November in North America and 30th November in...

  • Store Update 22nd January 2013 (North America)

    Ice queen

    Namco Bandai’s gorgeous Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch is the natural standout in this week’s North American PlayStation Store update, but there’s still plenty of other content worth getting excited about. Notable additions include The Cave, Mad Dog McCree, and escapeVektor. Let’s forget about the formalities, and get down to...

  • Store Update 15th January 2013 (North America)

    Arm the clocks

    As the North American PlayStation Store goes through the gears in 2013, there’s one title that’s unmissable this week: Wake-Up Club. The hotly anticipated PlayStation Vita alarm clock is available for the grand sum of nothing, and boasts Trophies in addition to mini-games that somehow involve your PSN friends. Other highlights...

  • News Disgaea 2 Cursing PS2 Classics Come 22nd January

    Prinny's pleased

    Popular PlayStation 2 strategy RPG Disgaea 2: Cursed Memories is descending onto the North American PlayStation Network later this month, publisher NIS America has announced. The game – which first released in 2006 – will set you back just $9.99 when it arrives on 22nd January. As a straight port of the PS2 original, we’re...

  • Feature Castlevania's Gory PlayStation Bloodline

    We take a look back at the Sony history of Konami's famous franchise

    Konami’s Castlevania series may have established its reputation on Nintendo consoles, but in recent years it has branched out to find commercial and critical success on other systems, most notably the PlayStation line of consoles. With Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 looming...

  • News Siren Sets Its Sights on the North American PlayStation Store

    No looking back

    You’ll be able to see the world from a new perspective next week, when Studio Japan’s punishing PlayStation 2 survival horror Siren spooks the North American PlayStation Store. The brutal stealth title – which was actually remade for the PS3 in 2008 – finds you stranded in a remote village named Hanuda, which is infested by...

  • Store Update 8th January 2013 (North America)

    Back in business

    As the first proper update of 2013, this week’s North American PlayStation Store refresh is understandably quiet. The biggest new addition is Earth Defense Force 2017 Portable for the PlayStation Vita, though there is also the arrival of the digital version of Demon’s Souls to consume your attention (and patience). Shall we get...

  • News Fall of the Artificer Was a Third-Person Steampunk Platformer for PS2

    Dead and buried

    The cancelled PlayStation 2 title Fall of the Artificer was not in production at defunct WipEout developer Studio Liverpool. Former concept artist Mathew Cooling has revealed that the scrapped project was actually the brainchild of Psygnosis Camden, the team behind the forgotten PSone platformer Kingsley’s Adventure. But what was...

  • News The Box Art for the PlayStation 2's Last Ever Game Is a Bit Plain

    Scribble time

    It looks like an infant armed with a tub of crayons designed the cover for Final Fantasy XI: Seekers of Adoulin. The title – which could well be the last PlayStation 2 game ever released – is due out on 27th March in Japan. It’s the fifth expansion for Square Enix’s popular online adventure, and marks the MMO’s tenth...

  • News Take a Look at the Studio Liverpool Game That Never Was

    Crossed off

    Defunct developer Studio Liverpool may be best known for its work on the WipEout series, but the legendary outfit had aspirations beyond just racing games. According to the webpage of former artist Mathew Cooling, the team was working on a steampunk PlayStation 2 adventure named Fall of the Artificer back in 2000 and 2001. Sadly, very...

December2012

  • News Sony Ceases PlayStation 2 Shipments in Japan

    End of an era

    It’s the beginning of the end – but not in the way that the Mayans predicted. After almost 13 years on the market, the iconic PlayStation 2 is finally starting its transition into the console retirement home. Reports coming out of Famitsu magazine suggest that Sony has ceased shipping the system to Japanese retailers today, meaning...

  • Store Update 19th December 2012 (Europe)

    It's full of stars

    There’s a lot to get through in this week’s European PlayStation Store update, so we’re not even going to waste our time on witty quips and puns. Highlights include: Fuel Overdose, Knytt Underground, Labyrinth Legends, and many more. It’s perhaps worth noting that a handful of the new arrivals won't actually release until...

  • Store Update 18th December 2012 (North America)

    Festive favourites

    Remember when we hinted that Bully was coming to the PlayStation 3? Well, it’s here already. Publisher Rockstar Games has unceremoniously dropped a trio of PS2 Classics onto the North American PlayStation Store overnight, with Red Dead Revolver, Midnight Club 3 DUB Edition Remix, and the aforementioned high school adventure all...

  • News Rockstar Games' Bully Is Picking a Fight with PlayStation 3

    Existentialism on prom night

    If the recent release of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas for the PlayStation Network wasn’t enough to quench your thirst for classic Rockstar Games titles, then you’re probably already salivating over the prospect of Bully coming to the PlayStation 3 as a PS2 Classic. During their daily ESRB watch, the eagle-eyed...

  • Store Update 11th December 2012 (North America)

    Slowing down

    After a barrage of beefy North American PlayStation Store updates, we’re sure you’ll appreciate some quiet time. This week’s refresh is headlined by the appearance of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, but there’s also the arrival of Big Sky Infinity and Black Knight Sword to occupy your time. As always, let us know what you’re...

  • News Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas Hits the PSN This Week

    Carl's comeback

    Popular PlayStation 2 title Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas will hit the North American PlayStation Store this week. The release date for the open world crime drama was first spotted on the Hong Kong arm of PlayStation.com, before being confirmed for the West via the PlayStation Blog. The game’s arrival will come as no surprise to...

  • Store Update 4th December 2012 (North America)

    Top trumps

    We hope you weren’t expecting a slow week on the North American PlayStation Store, because December’s inaugural update is brimming with tasty treats. Highlights include Far Cry 3, former Xbox 360 exclusive Mass Effect, and card-game spin-off Uncharted: Fight for Fortune. As always, let us know what you’re buying in the comments...

November2012

  • News Bonkers Kissing Simulator Chulip Puckers Up for PS3

    Mwah

    Utterly insane PlayStation 2 snogging simulator Chulip is set to get a re-release, if an ESRB rating is to be believed. The loopy love ‘em up originally released in North America back in 2007 – almost five years after it first debuted in Japan. The adventure game – which was eventually brought overseas by Natsume – sees you stomping...

  • News Katamari Damacy Is Rolling onto the Japanese PSN Soon

    The King of All Cosmos

    Namco Bandai’s oddball PlayStation 2 title Katamari Damacy is rolling onto the Japanese PlayStation Network next week, the publisher has announced. The game – which sees you collecting objects by piloting an ever-expanding ball across a slew of different environments – will be available from 21st November in the land of...

  • Store Update 6th November 2012 (North America)

    Jammin'

    There may well be heavy hitters such as LittleBigPlanet Karting and When Vikings Attack arriving as part of this week's North American PlayStation Store update – but the undisputed best new addition is ToeJam & Earl. The original SEGA Mega Drive title jives in this week alongside its side-scrolling sequel. Both titles will include...

  • News Sony Reports PlayStation Sales Decrease, Lowers Vita Forecast

    But overall losses reduce

    Sony has revised its annual sales forecast for the PlayStation Vita and PSP for the second time this year. Speaking during its quarterly financial briefing, the company explained that it now expects the handheld systems to sell a combined total of 10 million units by 31st March, 2013. It had previously predicted a tally of...

October2012

  • News Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas Prepares to Hijack the PS3

    Hit the gym

    Put your anticipation for Grand Theft Auto V on hold, because it looks like PS2 classic Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is coming to the PlayStation 3. The eagle-eyed editors over at Gematsu spotted an updated ESRB rating for the open world adventure, essentially confirming the title’s eventual arrival on the PlayStation Store. Similar...

  • News Japanese Sales Charts: PlayStation 3 Sales Surge

    Like a disease

    A cavalcade of anticipated software – combined with the release of the new Super Slim hardware model – pushed the PlayStation 3's sales over 42k units in Japan this week. The bump still wasn’t enough to topple the unstoppable Nintendo 3DS, but it came within striking distance. Resident Evil 6 was the platform’s biggest new...

September2012

August2012

  • News PES 2013 Scores Champions League Themed Metallic Cover

    Prestigious

    Pre-orders of PES 2013 in North America will come with a UEFA Champions League metallic cover, publisher Konami has revealed. We suppose it’s a bit strange for Europe’s premier club competition to be featured on the front of a US release, but we suspect that anyone buying PES in North America will be familiar with the competition. If...

  • News PES 2013 Secures Licensed Brazilian Teams

    Hooray?

    Who cares about the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A when you’ve got 20 officially licensed Brazilian teams? That’s the positive attitude Konami’s being forced to adopt for PES 2013, noting that the addition of teams like Corinthians and São Paulo helps to create “the most authentic soccer experience available on the market”...

  • News Psychonauts Launches on PSN Next Week

    Naut but good news

    Double Fine’s memorable PlayStation 2 adventure Psychonauts is coming to the North American PlayStation Store on 28th August, platform holder Sony has announced. The unhinged adventure will launch as a bog-standard PS2 Classic, so don’t expect any fancy visual upgrades or Trophy support. There’s no word on a price tag just...

  • Store Update 22nd August 2012 (Europe)

    Counter strike?

    This week’s European PlayStation Store update is actually a humdinger, but it’s offset by the unfortunate absence of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Still, there’s plenty of other content to look forward to, including Deep Black, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure HD and Retro/Grade. Let’s get sweaty. PS3 Games:

  • News Sony Adds New Deals to European Summer Sale

    Counting the pennies

    With the school holidays coming to an unfortunate close, Sony has announced the final batch of offers being added to its expansive European Summer Sale. Discounted titles include Alice: Madness Returns, GoldenEye 007: Reloaded and many more. Feel free to peruse the full list of promotions in the space below. And, as always, let...

July2012

  • News Shuhei Yoshida: SOCOM Franchise Is Not Done

    Just on hiatus

    Given the tepid critical response to SOCOM 4 and the closure of developer Zipper Interactive, many assumed that it was game over for Sony's tactical shooter series – but Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida has adopted a “never say never” mentality to the future of the franchise. “It's not done. We never definitely...

  • News Japanese Sales Charts: PSP Hits a Home Run

    Out of the park

    There are eight PSP titles on this week’s Japanese sales chart. The ageing handheld proved that there's still life in its elderly legs by outpacing the Vita by a few thousand units. We’re not sure whether that’s a sign of the PSP’s continued relevance, or the dismal state of Sony's latest platform. Still, despite the sheer...

  • News Classic Horror Title Haunting Ground Stalks PS3

    Brace yourself

    Looks like Capcom’s classic survival horror title Haunting Ground is sneaking onto PlayStation 3. The eagle-eyed folks over at Siliconera spotted an ESRB rating for the fearsome favourite, indicating its imminent arrival on Sony's home console. The title follows the escapades of Fiona and her dog Hewie, but instead of going on a...