http://www.ps3news.com PS3 NEWS - PlayStation 3 News - PS3News - PS3News.com - PS3 Games - PS3 Hacks - PS3 Homebrew - PS3 Linux Tue, 06 Jan 2009 01:53:35 CST en http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/playstation-3-project-preview-ps3-wii-media-portal-in-the-works/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/playstation-3-project-preview-ps3-wii-media-portal-in-the-works/ Tue, 06 Jan 2009 01:53:35 CST cod4randall PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/playstation-3-project-preview-ps3-wii-media-portal-in-the-works/
At the moment I am integrating a flash MP3 Player for it. I will put it on a Googlecode page and add a download link when the beta comes out.. it will be ready for a beta in about a week if I can continue steady work on it.

The project is from [B]Team PSI[/B] and I'm the main Dev working on it.. I used to have a Web site, but I closed it so am sharing the news here.

Hope to have it ready for beta release soon, below are some preview pics!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/ps3-media-server-v1-02-v1-02-1-bugfix-now-available/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/ps3-media-server-v1-02-v1-02-1-bugfix-now-available/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 22:15:25 CST PS3 News PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/ps3-media-server-v1-02-v1-02-1-bugfix-now-available/
Downloads: [URL=http://ps3mediaserver.googlecode.com/files/pms-setup-win32-1.02.exe]PS3 Media Server v1.02[/URL] / [URL=http://ps3mediaserver.googlecode.com/files/pms-setup-win32-1.02.1.exe]PS3 Media Server v1.02.1[/URL]

The author states: If you have no troubles with 1.02, you can skip 1.02.1, as this one has very few fixes, aside this major bug:

[B]1.02.1 Fixes:[/B]
- Major Bug in server start due to a faulty MAC address retrieval
- PMS do not start after activating the archive browsing option
- Media library small fixes

[B]1.02 New Features:[/B]
- Auto-updater, default configuration, cleanups and windows/linux build scripts (thanks to Tim Cox)
- Media library (also act as a parsing cache): you can sort your files by date, ID3 tags, etc.
- Playlists (m3u/pls) support
- Preliminary album art support, better audio (flac) and tags parsing
- New options for video resolution, deinterlace filter, and archives browsing
- Video settings with an easier virtual menu (A/V sync, deinterlace, ...)
- Windows service installer (working on 32 bits only)
- New image parsing library: Better performance / EXIF support (sort photos by camera model, etc.)
- DVR-MS addon

[B]1.02 Fixes:[/B]
- A/V out of sync issues with some ISOs and medias / codecs support improvement (flv, rmvb, hdmov, mp4, multichannels avi, etc.)
- External subtitles not always loaded
- Upnp advertising issue in search reply to the ps3 (thanks to Daniel Pedersen)
- SkipLoopFilter is now disabled by default
- Regression since 0.98, server would not start on some machines
- Newest builds of ffmpeg/mplayer/mencoder for win32
- Usual bunch of fixes]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/rockband-ps3-dlc-week-of-january-6th-2009-roy-orbison-pack/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/rockband-ps3-dlc-week-of-january-6th-2009-roy-orbison-pack/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:25:24 CST PS3 News PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/rockband-ps3-dlc-week-of-january-6th-2009-roy-orbison-pack/
Hopefully Harmonix/Sony will adjust this soon - we'd hate to think it will become standard practice for PS3 owners to get their DLC a week later than everyone else.

- "Space Truckin'" - Deep Purple
- "Funk #49" - James Gang
- "Hymn 43" - Jethro Tull
- "Take Back the City" - Snow Patrol

[B]Roy Orbison Pack[/B]

- "Claudette"
- "In Dreams"
- "Mean Woman Blues"
- "Oh, Pretty Woman"
- "Ooby Dooby"
- "You Got It"

Each song will be priced individually at $1.99 while the Roy Orbison Pack will cost $9.99. Look for the Roy Orbison tracks next week on Thursday, January 15th while the other songs will debut this Thursday on January 8th.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/unanounced-air-combat-game-stormbirds-cancelled-by-thq/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/unanounced-air-combat-game-stormbirds-cancelled-by-thq/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:09:47 CST PS3 News General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/unanounced-air-combat-game-stormbirds-cancelled-by-thq/
Stormbirds was set for release on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC before THQ apparently got cold feet. As a result, the team of over 30 developers was laid off by Juiced owner THQ.

"The game was in the same genre as Ace Combat and HAWX," wrote Calvert in a recent blog post. "THQ deemed the project too high risk, [and] as a result the entire team were made redundant on the 1st of December 2008."

Juice Games was acquired by THQ in 2006. The developer is best known for the "Juiced" series of racing titles.

Rather than see the fruits of their labors go to waste, some renders (below) from the Stormbirds project have been released by both Calvert and [B]Steven Kerswell[/B] of CG studio RealtimeUK, along with an intro cinematic which is available from the link at the top of the article.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/capcom-reveals-european-american-q1-09-ps3-release-dates/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/capcom-reveals-european-american-q1-09-ps3-release-dates/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 21:09:37 CST PS3 News PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/capcom-reveals-european-american-q1-09-ps3-release-dates/
Looks like Capcom is single handedly making Q1 2009 a real gaming event, with plenty to sink your teeth into, even despite inFamous and Killzone 2 being released during the same period.

- Flock - [B]February[/B]
- Street Fighter IV - [B]February 20th[/B]
- Resident Evil 5 - [B]March 13th[/B]
- Bionic Commando - [B]March[/B] (It's not March anymore. Rather, it'll be in the first half of '09)

The American release dates are as follows:

- Flock - [B]Early 2009[/B]
- Street Fighter IV - [B]February 17th[/B]
- Resident Evil 5 - [B]March 13th[/B]
- Bionic Commando - [B]Early 2009[/B]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/sony-denies-reports-regarding-major-division-shutdowns/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/sony-denies-reports-regarding-major-division-shutdowns/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:45:22 CST PS3 News General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/sony-denies-reports-regarding-major-division-shutdowns/
This alleged drastic restructuring goes so far as to suggest that there will be closures of company factories and that major divisions will be shut down. This news comes roughly a month after it was revealed that Sony had plans to cut 8,000 jobs from its non-SCEA workforce.

However, as MCV (linked above) reports, Sony is already denying the supposed corporate restructuring. "We do not plan to announce additional restructuring measures at this time," said Sony spokesman [B]Atsuo Omagari[/B]. "We don't have any such plan."

Whether true or not, Sony's corporate outlook is rather dire; analysts are saying that a radical restructuring is long overdue. They suggest that Sony needs to focus on content and software, and to give Sir Howard Stringer complete control of the business.

"The most important thing is that, to improve organizational strength in the areas of development, purchasing and marketing, it will be necessary to further concentrate power in the hands of [Sir Howard] and unless this is achieved we believe [Sony] will be unable to close the gap with competitors such as Apple and Nintendo."]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/video-littlebig-michael-jackson-on-littlebigplanet-for-the-ps3/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/video-littlebig-michael-jackson-on-littlebigplanet-for-the-ps3/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:20:41 CST PS3 News PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/video-littlebig-michael-jackson-on-littlebigplanet-for-the-ps3/
The video comes courtesy of [B]USCmachinima[/B] via YouTube, and the caption reads as follows:

"My youtube username is usually hvzero. This is a video of Beat It and Thriller in LittleBigPlanet done for CTIN 464: Machinima at USC. Full videos coming soon."

Enjoy!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMjwAsThY00[/youtube]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/opm-first-review-of-killzone-2-for-playstation-3-nabs-55/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/opm-first-review-of-killzone-2-for-playstation-3-nabs-55/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:13:36 CST PS3 News PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/opm-first-review-of-killzone-2-for-playstation-3-nabs-55/
"The buddies alongside you in each battle have been expertly tuned to provide just enough cover and support to actively get your back on occasions, while never making it feel like they could acchieve every objective alone."

"...the believability and consistency are hallmarks of the Killzone 2 expereince. None of the circumstances, weapons you find, locations you visit, or frankly any of the details in the world feel arbitrary. The world is consistently realized in its unappealing flavor."

"...filled with moments that can handily be described as inspiring awe"

- bots in offline multiplayer "perform pretty well"

"Without a doubt Killzone fans, action, and shooter fans of any stripe will isntantly tag this sequel as a powerful contender for teh best game of 2009"]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/army-is-paying-17-7m-for-a-training-game/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/army-is-paying-17-7m-for-a-training-game/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:07:24 CST PS3 News General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/army-is-paying-17-7m-for-a-training-game/
To quote: The Army is shelling out nearly $18 million for a new training simulator game that will allow soldiers to drive virtual vehicles, fire virtual weapons and pilot virtual unmanned aerial vehicles in combat situations.

The contract for "Game After Ambush" was awarded late last month to software developers Laser Shot, of Texas, Bohemia Interactive, of the Czech Republic, and Australia-based Calytrix Technologies.

The new simulator - a modification of the commercial "Virtual Battle Space 2" - will replace the Army's Official video game "DARWARS Ambush," which the service uses to train soldiers for combat.

Since 2006, the Army's Program Executive Office for Simulation, Training, and Instrumentation, or PEO STRI, has fielded more than 3,000 copies of "DARWARS Ambush" to the Army, Air Force, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Homeland Defense Department, according to spokeswoman Kristen Dooley McCullough.

In an e-mail, McCullough said the contract included $10.7 million awarded on Dec. 19, with another $7 million in options.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/gamer-states-sony-discriminates-with-the-word-gay-from-home/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/gamer-states-sony-discriminates-with-the-word-gay-from-home/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:59:03 CST PS3 News PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/gamer-states-sony-discriminates-with-the-word-gay-from-home/
To quote: [B]Michael Marsh[/B], an 18-year-old gamer from Norwalk, Conn., wanted to set up a gay/straight alliance club in PlayStation Home, Sony's new free 3-D virtual world component for the PlayStation 3.

The problem was that the words he was using - "gay," "lesbian" and "bisexual" - were being filtered from text chats and were not being allowed in the naming of clubs or in postings in club forums.

Marsh, who is straight but supports gay rights, said he raised the issue with Home community managers during the private beta test, but the problems persisted after the public beta introduction of Home on Dec. 11.

"I can understand if they're filtering out profanity, but if feel like it's discrimination," Marsh said. "By blocking a word like 'gay,' which is a preferred term by the gay community, you're encouraging it as a bad word."]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/kojima-productions-starting-from-zero-for-2009/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/kojima-productions-starting-from-zero-for-2009/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:50:14 CST Loaded900 General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/kojima-productions-starting-from-zero-for-2009/
Speaking to Famitsu about their plans for 2009, Hideo Kojima reveals that their studio will be starting with a clean slate (well, considering that Ryan Payton has already left...) and still aim to be a global competitor in the video game industry.

Interestingly enough, it seems as if Hideo Kojima is feeling the pressure from Western studios. What with so many industry key persons stating that video game development is no longer centered in Japan, Kojima Productions is now reviewing their current team structure, tools, staff, and basic operations.

I've thought a lot about how Western games have been winning, looking it from a global perspective, and there are things that I've noticed. So 2009 will be a year of change, a year where we start from zero again.

With games, you've got to use cutting-edge techniques, and doing so costs money - so I don't think you can make games that just appeal to the Japanese market. So, 2009 will see us continuing to think how to create a team that can take on the world.

That's weird coming from the guy who made MGS4. Considering it's been quite a success in both Japan and western markets, you'd think Kojima would be pretty confident in his studio's capacity to deliver global-standard games. Well, this is coming from the guy, after all, who said he himself wasn't satisfied with MGS4!

Whatever the case, it looks like they really got some big plans for this year! Can't wait to see what they've got in store for us!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/marvel-comics-shutting-down-littlebigplanet-costumes/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/marvel-comics-shutting-down-littlebigplanet-costumes/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:43:50 CST hunter316 PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/marvel-comics-shutting-down-littlebigplanet-costumes/
We're not sure if this already applies in-game, but as far as the LittleBigWorkshop is concerned, some people have already gotten some emails from Sony stating that they had to mod some users' creations.

Over at the LittleBigWorkshop forums (linked above), one guy by the name of [B]MuffinMan71[/B] talks of his plight. Turns out that the Sackboy in question was one based on the Thing (like, Fantastic Four, Thing). Here's part of the email (pictured below) he received from the Workshop:

We received a notice from Marvel Entertainment, Inc. ("Marvel") that materials that you posted on LittleBIGWorkshop.com infringe Marvel's copyrights. Under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act and the Little Big Workshop Copyright Policy, we removed and disabled access to these materials.

Though this is not in-game, it's still related to the many issues we've been hearing about with regard to copyright infringement in LittleBigPlanet. I know it's a bit tough hearing this - I myself want to see a Deadpool Sackboy eventually - but, sigh, rules are rules, no matter how unfair they seem.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/video-watch-movies-online-for-free-using-the-playstation-3/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/video-watch-movies-online-for-free-using-the-playstation-3/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 01:12:55 CST kdourv1 PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/video-watch-movies-online-for-free-using-the-playstation-3/
It's from earlier last year, and is originally from [B]ebokingLib[/B] on YouTube.

The video is available below..

Enjoy all!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tiVLBtIM7I&feature=related[/youtube]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Dev/playstation-3-service-mode-jig-set-up-files-leaked/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Dev/playstation-3-service-mode-jig-set-up-files-leaked/ Mon, 05 Jan 2009 00:56:11 CST PS3 News PS3 Dev http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Dev/playstation-3-service-mode-jig-set-up-files-leaked/
In any case, those who want to grab them can do so below, however, don't expect it to lead anywhere (remember: they are "old" files to PS3 Devs, meaning this is indeed "old news" just new to the general public).

Download: [URL=http://www.megaupload.com/?d=WUNOBAV6]PS3 Service Mode JIG Set-Up Files[/URL] / [URL=http://www.yousendit.com/download/WnBSckhWT01CSnAzZUE9PQ ]Mirror #1[/URL] / [URL=http://rapidshare.de/files/41278721/set_up.rar.html]Mirror #2[/URL] / [URL=http://depositfiles.com/files/u0rtdtu5l]Mirror #3[/URL]

As it's already making it's rounds on the Internet, we hesitantly decided to post on it... even though those who can actually utilize the files (and attempt to replicate the required hardware) have had them for quite some time.

Here is some background on what the included files are for those new to the PS3 Dev world...

[B]Lv2diag.self:[/B] crashes on a Debug console, likely used for lv2 diagnostics.

[B]PS3UPDAT.PUP:[/B] a very tiny updater PUP, enough for just a 'base' system. It doesn't run on any system the resident PS3 Devs currently have access to.

[B]UPDATER_LOG.TXT:[/B] simply a service mode updater log.

That being said, in general such leaks are frowned upon as they put the source in jeopardy... however, since the source happens to be the leaker in this case there isn't much that can be done unfortunately. If they choose to leak such files taking any associated risk, that is their own perogative... even though it defies rational logic, unless the leaker removed all traces/watermarks of course. ;)

Feel free to discuss the files below, but without the hardware, additional files with complete documentation, and the required software this leak is deemed as no legitimate use to date.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/upcoming-playstation-3-releases-for-january-2009/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/upcoming-playstation-3-releases-for-january-2009/ Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:17:03 CST Starlight PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/upcoming-playstation-3-releases-for-january-2009/
Here is the complete list of titles due out for the PS3 in the US in January 2009. List will be updated if changes are made.

[B]January 6, 2009[/B]
- Hotel for Dogs

[b]January 13, 2009[/b]
- Lord of the Rings: Conquest

[b]January 20, 2009[/b]
- Skate 2

[b]January 26, 2009[/b]
- MLB Front Office Manager

[b]January 27, 2009[/b]
- Afro Samurai

[b]January 29, 2009[/b]
- Noby Noby Boy [PSN, exclusive]

[b]January, to be announced[/b]
- Savage Moon [PSN, exclusive]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/improved-playstation-portable-gets-even-cooler-new-features/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/improved-playstation-portable-gets-even-cooler-new-features/ Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:10:18 CST Starlight PlayStation Portable http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/improved-playstation-portable-gets-even-cooler-new-features/
He gazed in wonder as this 6.7-ounce "toy" played the movie "National Treasure 2" vibrantly on a 4.3-inch screen, then we toured a video game that looks and moves as impressively as any PS 2 game.

I showed him photos of Charisma Carpenter stored on the PSP. We surfed the Web (albeit slowly) using its internal WiFi. But he didn't get a chance to listen to music on it, iPod-style, though it has that capability.

All this, I told him, costs $200. And this new version, the PSP 3000 (released in October), comes with a built-in microphone so you can make Skype phone calls on it. Plus, the 3000's new LCD screen features less glare and much more screen detail than before.

Jeff experienced mild consumer surprise, or what I call PSP Envy. He asked if he could buy my PSP from me. No, of course not.

If this sounds like my love letter to the PSP, it mostly is. The PSP is kind of like the iPhone, but with far superior gaming and video, and no mobile phone service and no touchscreen.

Yet, there's scant pop culture buzz for the PSP, which surprises me constantly. Everyone talks about the Wii, "Rock Band" and the Xbox 360, while parents of little kids know all about Nintendo's hand-held DS.

But the DS - fun in its own right, offering less detail-illustrative computing power in its touchscreen - is primarily for kids, while taller game addicts often go for the PSP.

DS vs. PSP is apples and oranges, two different markets. When you play "Manhunt 2" or "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories" on the PSP, these are cinematic games, and you see the blood. In fact, if you read my best-games-of-the-year list, you saw a PSP game, "God of War: Chains of Olympus," came out on top for all of 2008. (By the way, in my best-of-the-year list, I meant to say that "Frontlines: Fuel of War" was the best online shooter of 2008.)

Not everything is perfect in PSP 3000 land. If you're a hard-core gamer, the PSP is not powerful enough to serve as your only system, but it's a great secondary system to your PS 3 or Xbox 360. The PSP is ideal as a primary system for casual gamers.

Also, the sound system still isn't quite loud enough for a loud-a-holic like me, even when you listen to the PSP on excellent Sony or Bose headphones, or through plug-and-play speakers (Logitech is probably the best choice for that).

And you still can't buy my yet-invented fantasy item: a plug-and-play video projector that beams PSP movies and games onto a wall.

If you got a PSP for the holidays, or if you're planning to take the PSP plunge, it should not leave you disappointed. (Spend an extra $45 on a Sony 2200 mAh battery, to get more battery life.) As for great games from the past few years that you can delve into, try:

"God of War: Chains of Olympus," "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Stories," "Tiger Woods PGA Tour '08," "Patapon," "Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow," "Spider-Man 2," "Manhunt 2," "Wall-E," "Lumines II," "Tomb Raider: Anniversary," "Midnight Club: LA Remix," "Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII," "The Warriors" and "SOCOM U.S. Navy Seals: Fireteam Bravo."

And feel free to show it off in front of your friends. It is almost certain they have no idea what's under its hood.

(The PSP 3000 by Sony retails for $200 - Plays movies, games, music, stores photos and videos, works as a Skype phone and surfs the Web. Games look as good as on the PS 2. Easy to very challenging games. Games rated "E" to "M." Four stars out of four.)]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/playstation-3-trophies-reflect-skill-more-than-achievements/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/playstation-3-trophies-reflect-skill-more-than-achievements/ Sun, 04 Jan 2009 23:09:14 CST Starlight PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/playstation-3-trophies-reflect-skill-more-than-achievements/
The main thing that Xbox 360 fans can boast is that achievements are mandatory for every game available on the Xbox 360 and it has been that way since the launch of the system. It is a shame that the trophy system Sony implemented in many of its games were not available at launch and was not mandatory throughout most of 2008.

Hopefully, trophy support becomes mandatory in 2009, so that gamers aren't torn between buying games based on whether or not they support trophies. Regardless of which was around longer, trophies and achievements are very similar, and are in direct competition for gamers attention.

Here are the reasons why trophies should motivate more gamers to collect them all rather than collecting achievement points.

Almost everyone that owns an Xbox 360 wants to have a high gamer score to boast about. While it's obvious from a high gamer score that a person has a love for playing video games, it usually doesn't mean that this person is a particularly skilled gamer.

Most gamers that have a high gamer score have simply played a lot of games. That person usually doesn't have a 1,000 out of 1,000 on any of their games. Perhaps this person only has an Xbox 360, or perhaps this person only buys multiplatform games for the Xbox 360.

Whichever the case, it's clear that a gamer score doesn't say too much about a gamers skill. However, the trophy system for the Playstation 3 says a lot about the way a person plays a game, and their skill level.

The trophy system can embarrass gamers accustomed to playing a ton of games on the Xbox 360 and only completing them once or halfway through. If you were to play every PlayStation 3 game that supports trophies like this, you would probably gather a nice collection of the lowest trophy you can earn, which is a bronze trophy.

100 bronze trophies with no silver, gold, or platinum trophies to accompany them makes a gamer look a lot more amateurish than a gamer with a gamer score of 10,000 on the Xbox 360 with most of their games only having 300 out of 1000 points awarded.

The reason for this is that when you pull up someone's personal information on the PlayStation Network, you are not only shown the level of that person, and the number of trophies they possess, but the kind of trophies they've earned as well.

This person may have more trophies than you, but because the majority of his are bronze, and the majority of yours are bronze and silver, you may be a higher level than him. It's obvious that the trophy system rewards skill with prestige more than the Xbox 360's achievement system.

Yes, you can look over a persons games on Xbox Live to see how many points they've accumulated in each individual game, but it's not mandatory when looking at someone's profile. You are simply shown the gamer score itself. If it's high, you're impressed, if it's low, you're dismissive.

Meanwhile, this person with the 3,000 gamer score may have 1,000 out of 1,000 on all of his three games, and is probably the guy out-killing you 5 to 1 in a match of Call of Duty 4 for example.

The achievement system of the Xbox 360 may be a better business decision, because it can make a gamer with average skill feel like a gaming god because of his tremendous gamer score, thus persuading him to buy more games to increase his score.

However, gamers that want to flaunt their true skill in the faces of others cannot deny the draw of the trophy system on the Playstation 3. You can guffaw at a gamer's 45 bronze trophies, while he ogles your much sought after platinum trophies.

In conclusion, the trophy system is a much more effective way of showing off your gaming skill than the achievement system. Any person with a good amount of money can pad their gamer score, but it takes a lot of hard work and skill to earn those platinum trophies.

This article is not meant to be insulting to Xbox 360 gamers, because there are many that complete their games fully to earn all 1,000 points. However, this accomplishment is often overlooked if their overall score is low.

The trophy system motivates gamers to fully complete their games to earn more trophies, because most gamers do not want to look like a well-paid amateur with his or her not-so-impressive collection of bronze trophies.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/new-psp-exploit-found-in-gripshift-works-on-psp-3000-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/new-psp-exploit-found-in-gripshift-works-on-psp-3000-1/ Sun, 04 Jan 2009 22:57:39 CST idone PlayStation Portable http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/new-psp-exploit-found-in-gripshift-works-on-psp-3000-1/
Now this is how you start a new year! New exploit, old game! Damn, it's so cool to actually see this beauty working - and on a PSP-3000 no less! The PSP scene was buzzing the other day when MaTiAz found an exploit (read: buffer overflow!) in the three year old game, GripShift.

Download: [URL=http://dl.qj.net/dl.php?fid=25444]GripShift PSP Savegame Exploit POC[/URL] / [URL=http://dl.qj.net/dl.php?fid=25445]GripShift PSP Savegame Exploit POC v2[/URL]

We'll leave the technical bits for later. Now, we'll have this video from FreePlay do the talking:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAoZWymTySw[/youtube]

Now then, the details: MaTiAz says that they've yet to find any further use for this, but it's still a new exploit. It could lead to further hacks, and for now, it's merely a proof of concept. Be that as it may, this is a great start, and a rather sweet find! Here's MaTiAz explaining the exploit:

GripShift has a buffer overflow vulnerability when loading savegames. The savegame contains the profile name which can be easily used to overwrite $ra. The savegame file is pretty big (25kB) so you have lots of space to put your code there.

I wrote a simple blob of code to paint the framebuffer completely white (to just indicate that arbitrary code is running ). The return address is located at offset 0xA9 in the file. In this poc it points to 0x08E4CD50 (which is only a few bytes after the return address), and the code starts at 0xCC in the file.

It was tested on 4.01M33-2 with US version of GripShift (ULUS10040), and psplink.prx, usbhostfs.prx and deemerh.prx loaded (also without psplink and usbhostfs).

The decrypted savegame (sorry, couldn't [be bothered to] get Shine's savegame tool working so it's in plaintext form) is in the SDDATA.BIN form which Hellcat's Savegame-Deemer produces (thanks to him, if the program didn't exist I wouldn't have bothered with this.). Just copy the ULUS10040SAVE00 directory to /PSP/SAVEPLAIN/ and run the game. EDIT: yeah, don't forget to have Savegame-Deemer working, duh.

There are two versions of the exploit. The first which is the raw form from MaTiAz, the other one (v2), is a version encrypted by FreePlay. It's also been confirmed that it works all the way up to the recent [URL=http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/playstation-portable-custom-firmware-5-02-gen-a-released/]CFW 5.02 GEN-A[/URL].]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Linux/guide-to-installing-yellow-dog-linux-6-1-on-playstation-3-console/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Linux/guide-to-installing-yellow-dog-linux-6-1-on-playstation-3-console/ Sun, 04 Jan 2009 22:48:18 CST elcid64 PS3 Linux http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Linux/guide-to-installing-yellow-dog-linux-6-1-on-playstation-3-console/
· Linux Kernel 2.6.27
· X.Org server 1.4.999 with xrandr 1.2.2
· Enlightenment E17 desktop environment
· Mozilla Firefox 3.0
· GNOME 2.16.2 components
· OpenOffice.org 2.3 (version 3.0 available for YDL.net users)
· Improved Wireless network
· YDL.net GUI (private software repository)
· Bluetooth support for PS3's SIXAXIS controller
· ps3vram: temporary file storage or SWAP using video RAM of Playstation 3
· GCC 4.1.2
· Cell SDK 3.1

WARNING: Be aware that if you continue, all the saved games, game data, bought games, downloaded demos, PlayStation Home settings/installation and any data (music, movies, pictures) saved on the hard drive of the PlayStation 3 will be permanently ERASED.

However, the PlayStation 3 settings will NOT be lost. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you back up immediately any saves of your games, hard drive movies, pictures, music or PlayStation Home data on a removable HDD device or USB stick!

The bought games or downloaded demos can not be copied, but you will be able to re-download without the need to buy them again, as they are stored on your PlayStation Network account.

What do I need to get started?

· [URL=http://us.fixstars.com/support/downloads/]Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 DVD ISO image[/URL] (free download)
· PlayStation 3 console (any model) with the latest firmware: 2.53

[B]Part 1 - Prepare the PlayStation 3[/B]

Step 1 - Format the PlayStation 3 hard drive

In the XMB (PS3 interface) go to Settings -> System Settings -> Format Utility and select the "Format Hard Disk" option. Select YES when you will be asked if you want to format the hard disk and follow the steps below:

· Select "Custom" when you will be asked for a partition setting for the hard disk.
· Select the "Allot 10GB to the OtherOS" option.
· Select the "Quick Format" option.
· Select YES when asked if you want to format the hard drive.

Wait a few seconds while the format operation is in process. When it finishes, you will see a confirmation message: "Format completed. Press the X button to restart the system." The PS3 will be restarted.

Step 2 - Install OtherOS boot loader

Insert the Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 DVD into the Blu-Ray player of the PlayStation 3 and go to Settings -> System Settings -> Install OtherOS. The PS3 will scan for the otheros.bld file and when it will find it you can press the "Start" button on the screen to perform the installation. Wait a few seconds. When it finishes, a confirmation message and some information about how to switch to the OtherOS (see the next step) will be displayed.

Step 3 - Switch to OtherOS

In order to start the Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 installation, you need to reboot the PlayStation 3 and boot into the OtherOS. Therefore, go to Settings -> System Settings -> Default System, press the X button and select the "OtherOS" entry. Select YES when asked if you want to leave the PS3 system and start the OtherOS.

At the end of the boot process you will see "kboot:". For different HD TVs you can type one of the following commands:

install_ps3_1080p (Full HD)
install_ps3_1080i
install_ps3_720p
install_ps3_480i

...and hit Enter to start the installation process.

If you know the maximum resolution of your HD TV, then we recommend to type one of the above commands, but if you are uncertain about your TV's resolution, just hit Enter at the kboot prompt and Yellow Dog Linux will automatically find and adjust the resolution for your TV.

To return to the XMB (PS3 operating system) from the kboot prompt, in case you don't want to continue with the installation process of Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 or for any other reasons, just type:

ps3-boot-game-os

...and hit Enter.

[B]Part 2 - Installing Yellow Dog Linux 6.1[/B]

The following will be a regular Fedora/Red Hat installation process:

· Click the "Next" button on the Welcome screen and you will be asked to select your language for the installation process.
· Choose your keyboard layout and hit the "Next" button.
· If you formatted your hard drive, you will see a message that the partition table is unreadable and in order to create new partitions it must be initialized. Click "Yes."
· Select the "Remove Linux partitions on selected drives and create default layout" option (default) and click "Next."
· Click "Yes" when asked if you are sure that you want to remove all Linux partitions on the /dev/ps3da drive.
· Click "Yes" when asked if it is OK to turn SWAP immediately, because the PlayStation 3 memory is low.
· On the network configuration screen, you will notice two entries: eth0 (LAN ethernet connection) and wlan0 (Wireless network connection). Set up your network connections as follows:

For DHCP (dynamic IP) users without wireless:

· Leave the eth0 entry as it is.
· Uncheck the wlan0 entry.

For DHCP (dynamic IP) users with wireless:

· Leave the eth0 entry as it is.
· Select the wlan0 entry and click on the "Edit" button. Uncheck the "Enable IPv6 support" option and enter your ESSID and Encryption Key for the wireless network you want to connect to. Click "OK" when you are done.

For non-DHCP (static IP) users without wireless:

· Select the eth0 entry and click on the "Edit" button. Select the "Manual configuration" option under the "Enable IPv4 support" and input the IP address and netmask from your provider. Also, uncheck the "Enable IPv6 support" option. Click "OK" to return to the main window. Enter a name for the computer (it can be anything you want, e.g. softpedia-ps3), the Gateway and DNS information from your provider.
· Uncheck the wlan0 entry.

For non-DHCP (static IP) users with wireless:

· Select the eth0 entry and click on the "Edit" button. Uncheck the "Enable IPv6 support" option and input the IP address and netmask from your provider. Click "OK" to return to the main window and enter the gateway and DNS information from your provider.
· Select the wlan0 entry and click on the "Edit" button. Uncheck the "Enable IPv6 support" option and enter your ESSID and Encryption Key for the wireless network you want to connect to. Click "OK" when you are done.

· Click "Next" when you're done with the network configuration.
· Choose your location. Click "Next."
· Input a root (system administrator) password. Click "Next."
· On the software configuration screen you can add or remove applications by selecting the "Customize now" option. However, this is recommended for advanced users. Regular users should just click on the "Next" button to continue with the installation process.
· Click on the "Next" button to begin the installation process of Yellow Dog Linux 6.1.

When the installation is over, you will see the confirmation screen. Click on the "Reboot" button and, after a few seconds, the Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 will be automatically removed.

WARNING: Remove the DVD disk from the PlayStation 3 and wait for Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 to start. If you do not remove the disk, it will be pulled back in and the installation process will start again!

[B]Part 3 - Final steps![/B]

When the Yellow Dog Linux will start, you will notice two YDL icons, representing the two cores of the CELL processor, followed by six Fixstars logos, representing the 6 available SPEs (Synergistic Processing Elements) of the CELL processor.

In a few seconds you will see the customized Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 boot splash. When the boot process is over, you will be prompted by a first-boot configuration process. Please follow the instructions below:

· Click "Forward" on the Welcome screen.
· Accept the license agreement and click on the "Forward" button.
· Select the trusted services for the Firewall or disable it if the PS3 is connected in a network environment with a powerful firewall. Click "Yes" when asked if you want to override the firewall configuration.
· Leave the Kdump option unchecked and click "Forward."
· Input your YDL.net account information, if you have one, or click "Forward" to continue.
· Set up the date and time. Click "Forward."
· Create a regular user for the system. Click "Forward" when you're done.
· Test the sound card of the PlayStation 3.
· Click on the "Finish" button.

[B]Conclusions:[/B]

The Yellow Dog Linux 6.1 performs very well, and it is much faster than the last Linux distribution (Ubuntu 7.10) we've installed on our PlayStation 3 console. It boots in about 40-45 seconds, and the applications start much faster. Enjoy!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/sony-to-cancel-the-playstation-3-do-people-actually-think-this/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/sony-to-cancel-the-playstation-3-do-people-actually-think-this/ Sun, 04 Jan 2009 09:04:18 CST takavach PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/sony-to-cancel-the-playstation-3-do-people-actually-think-this/
Looking at the section which tells me what terms people used in search engines before coming across PlayStation Gamer UK. There were the normal "PlayStation UK" and "killzone 2 pre-order" terms, the one which stood out the most however was that was a considerable amount of people (so much so it was the second most searched term before visiting this Web site) entering "Will Sony Cancel the PlayStation 3".

While clearly the people entering these searches are most likely not that familiar with the gaming industry and clearly unaware that the PlayStation 3 has seen solid sales since its release and like all consoles isn't going to go everywhere.

It does peg the question why did they ask it in the first place. After looking into it there are some reasons why they may ask the question.

The first of which is the recent NPD data which has been released for November and a lot of the mainstream news outlets have taken this data and focused on how the PlayStation 3 sales were down on this time last year in the US.

Now the average person may read this and come to the quick conclusion that this means that sony are going to stop making it which then makes them going on to google and see whats actually going on.

The second reason is less likely to be true however its worth being mentioned. When browsing other Web sites I have noticed in the user comments that they believe there is a lack of any real advertising for the PS3 over in the USA.

While this isn't the case in the UK since both the PS3 and PSP have seen plenty of air time over the hoilday season, if this is actually the case in America some people may think that Sony are giving up on the console since they no longer seen any adverts for it.

I hope this article as got you thinking and it does actually provide a good insight into what the public are thinking about Games consoles and how they are doing.

I also hope that if anyone else comes onto this website after searching that term that they will see that the PlayStation 3 is doing fine and that with a line up of great titles such as Killzone 2 and God Of War III hitting in 2009 the only way is up for it.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/sonys-playstation-3-beats-the-nintendo-wii-on-internet-use/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/sonys-playstation-3-beats-the-nintendo-wii-on-internet-use/ Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:52:43 CST PS3 News PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/sonys-playstation-3-beats-the-nintendo-wii-on-internet-use/
The gap between the PS3 and Wii is pretty big, as the Wii has 0.01% of the Internet browser market share, while the PS3 has 0.04%.

To quote: With more than 30 million Wiis sold into homes in its life to date compared to 16 million PS3s and both with Internet browsers, you might expect that Nintendo's family-friendly box to have a larger 'market share' on the Net than the former.

You'd be wrong. A new report from Marketshare indicates that PlayStation 3 owners like to use their console (sorry, Interactive Entertainment System) for Web use than those people playing with their Wiis in December 2008.

With Microsoft's Xbox 360 not having a browser, it doesn't figure in the stats.

The gap between the PS3 and Wii is huge. Nintendo's machine gets 0.01% of 'operating system market share' compared to the PS3's 0.04%. It might look small - but it actually means that PS3 users use the Internet 400% more than Wii users.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/which-year-was-the-best-year-in-gaming-2007-or-2008/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/which-year-was-the-best-year-in-gaming-2007-or-2008/ Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:24:24 CST Starlight General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/which-year-was-the-best-year-in-gaming-2007-or-2008/
2007 was a year where there was no shortage of quality on any platform. With the DS sporting heavy hitters like Zelda, Puzzle Quest, Hotel Dusk, and Contra 4, the PC reclaimed top honors with amazing experiences like Call of Duty 4, Bioshock, and Crysis, but the Xbox 360 was the platform that took the crown with some of the PC offerings as well as it crown jewel, Halo 3.

Not to be discounted, the Sony platforms could not be forgotten either with titles like Uncharted, God of War 2 and Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow. With such a heavy field of courter vying for our attention, who could deny that 2007 WAS the "Best Year in Gaming" however, 2008 was not to be out done.
2008 was touted as "The Year of the PS3".

Sony's flagship console bared all with Metal Gear Solid 4, Grand Turismo 5 Prologue, Resistance 2, SOCOM (aka SO-CRACK): Confrontation, and LittleBigPlanet as well as the shared titles with the Xbox 360 and PC like Call of Duty: World at War, Burnout Paridise (PC 09), FarCry2, Fallout 3 and Grand Theft Auto 4.

On the PC front, we also saw the unveiling of Sir Will Wright's Spore,Valve's Left 4 Dead, the DRM free Sins of the Solar Empire and the highly pirated World of Goo.

The PSP and DS were not shabby either with titles like Patapon, God of War: Chains of Olympus and Final Fantasy VII: Crisis Core on the PSP and Professor Layton, The World End's with You, Ninja Gaiden: Dragon Sword, and Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia on the DS. Yes there was a lot of gaming to be had in had 2008 but how did it measure up with 2007? Lets break it down.

Anyone who knows about the "typical" video game release cycle know that the first few months of the year are slow and usually riddled with garbage-ware but at the very beginning of 2007, something strange happened. there were some good games to play like:

* Lost Planet: Extreme Condition (360)
* World of Warcraft: Burning Crusade (PC)
* Hotel Dusk (DS)
* Sid Meirer's Pirates (PSP)
* Winning Eleven Pro Evo 2007 (Multi)
* Lunar Knights (DS)
* Rouge Galaxy (PS2)
* Virtual Fighter 5 (PS3)
* Supreme Commander (PC)
* Fl0w (PS3)
* MLB the Show 07 (Playstation)
* Ghost Recon 2 (Multi)
* S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl (PC)

And that's just in the first 3 months! But the hits kept coming month after month and ended with what may be the best year in gaming history.

* 2008 started a bit late with: Burnout Paradise (Multi)
* No More Heros (Wii)
* RezHD (360)
* PixelJunk Monsters (PS3)
* Devil May Cry 4 (Multi)
* Sins of the Solar Empire (PC)
* Professor Layton and the Curious Village (DS)
* Wipeout Pulse (PSP)
* MLB 2K8 (multi)
* MLB 08 (Playstation)
* N+ (Multi)
* Condemned 2 (Multi)
* Pro Evo 2008 (Multi)
* Rainbow 6 Vegas 2 (Multi)

And progressed with some good games but as you can see from this list of games, its heavy with sequels. The wide variety of genres of 2007 were condensed to a few titles per and a lack of Wii and PS2 titles. Of the sequels released, the amazing production of 2007 only scrutinized the 2008 releases day and date with ITS releases.

To "sour" the mood, the Anti-piracy argument was in full effect with the success of the non-DRMed Sins of the Solar Empire and the failure of the also non-DRMed World of Goo and the mind boggling DRMed future-proofed Grand Theft Auto 4.

To make matters worse, not only were some of 2008's list of software releases plagued with delays but the purchases of 2007's titles on credit came back to haunt us with a worldwide financial recession where we saw several studios close as well as a generous handing out of pink slips.

2008 could have been a good year for gaming but we are likely to see a period were gamers and studios scale down their expectations in 2009. All in all 2008 was a good year... should have been labeled "The Year of the Sequel" but still a good year.

2008 was almost as good as 2007 but, life (being the deciding factor) was better in 2007. Here's looking to 2009!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/killzone-2-demo-available-at-gamestop-on-january-5th-2009/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/killzone-2-demo-available-at-gamestop-on-january-5th-2009/ Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:14:53 CST Starlight PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/killzone-2-demo-available-at-gamestop-on-january-5th-2009/
Earlier this week we reported that GameStop would in fact have the demo available for pre-orders to pick up, but it was unclear when they would become available.

On the company's [URL=http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?sku=270110]official Web site[/URL], it clearly states when the demo will become available for in-store pre-orders to pick up. (Online pre-orders will have to wait almost a month longer for their code to arrive)

"A rave card granting access to the Killzone 2 Demo will be available in stores while supplies last beginning the week of January 5. Check with your local store for more information."

Below is a screen-grab of the Killzone 2 page!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/XBox360/red-faction-maxes-out-xbox-360-volition-turn-to-xbox-720-1/ http://www.ps3news.com/XBox360/red-faction-maxes-out-xbox-360-volition-turn-to-xbox-720-1/ Sat, 03 Jan 2009 21:08:22 CST Starlight XBox 360 http://www.ps3news.com/XBox360/red-faction-maxes-out-xbox-360-volition-turn-to-xbox-720-1/
[b]Gameplayer:[/b] How important is Red Faction in general, and particularly Red Faction: Guerrilla, to Volition?

[b]Rick White:[/b] I think for me personally it extends a brand that a lot of Volition is known about, and so for us it's been important to kinda go back to that root, of where Volition came from, and bring that IP back to life in a big way. I think strategically at THQ it's as important as any other project, but I think it's of more personal importance to the team at Volition.

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] You've left one competitive genre to enter another, going from a linear first-person shooter to an open-world third-person shooter - how has the team responded to this challenge?

[b]Rick White:[/b] I think early on they responded, to be honest, in shock. I was the new kid on the block and once I started seeing the destruction engine and seeing how you were taking damage from this physics-based system I was getting frustrated. We'd bring in testers from the local college and they were getting frustrated because they were getting knocked down by stuff they couldn't see so from a gameplay point-of-view we had to pull it back - it just had to happen. You can see stuff more, you get a broader view.

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] And so what sort of other changes are needed with the way you approach things? What have you found you've needed to do differently?

[b]Rick White:[/b] I think for us it was multiple levels. We had to have an AI that can now figure out how to navigate a dynamic world with destruction. Does that AI now know how to go though a hole in the wall, or a hole in the floor? Does it know that it's quicker to jump through that hole than it is to go down the stairs? We had to figure out an AI that knew how to take cover and when to move on when that cover's no longer there because you blew up that wall.

On the design side, because it's non-linear, we had to create what I'm gonna call points-of-interest, challenges, that we assume the player can come from any angle - so how do we make sure that these challenges have different ways of successfully completing them.

And then, obviously, on the art side of it, how do we build these structures that take into account stress and the type of material that it's made out of and make sure that they're structurally sound? Early on a lot of our buildings looked really cool, but when we put them in the game they just collapsed on their own - the stress and the weight, they just weren't built correctly. We had to have more of an architectural mentality when building them.

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] Obviously a lot of Volition's experience with Saints Row translates to a game of this type, but where else do you look for inspiration when building a game this ambitious?

[b]Rick White:[/b] What type of movies?

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] Oh, all kinds of things...

[b]Rick White:[/b] I think for us, looking at Red Faction originally, what resonated with people, was the starting point. What do we fail to do that we didn't deliver on with Red Faction?

That was really the message of being able to carve your own path, go anywhere. At the end of the day Red Faction was still a linear game - you still had to go back to point A to continue the story. So the Geo-Mod was kinda meaningless, so how do we make destruction meaningful? Once we researched that technology then we thought, how do we make a game out of this? And a game on Mars.

So I think we looked at Total Recall, [the novel] Red Mars I believe it was, and just looked at different movies. Our walkers are inspired by Aliens. For us it was how do we go sci-fi but also keep it in a realm of possibility, so the player's going to be comfortable with what he's looking at? We didn't want to go high sci-fi. Mars is terraformed, but people believe that someday we're going to be on Mars. We really didn't want a bunch of lasers and stuff like that.

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] You mentioned the original Red Faction, and while the destruction was limited it was still light years ahead of its time. Nobody was doing anything like it, and nobody ever really managed to really emulate it until now. Why do you think this is so, and how long do you think it'll take for the industry to catch up with RFG?

[b]Rick White:[/b] My guess would be two years, but I think part of it is making that time investment and being willing to make the compromises. We've had to make compromises on the visual side of it as well as just design. We're pushing so many polys with the destruction system it's not going to look like your Gears of War 2. Part of what we've had to do over the past four years is not only come up with this tech - which we're calling the Red Engine - but figure out the perfect balance.

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] So you're saying that RFG is pushing the hardware as far as it can go? Squeezing every drop of juice out of the Xbox 360?

[b]Rick White:[/b] Yeah, we've got it to the point where we can't even put an extra vehicle into a world, because it'll blow the memory. Every little change we make we have to be hyper-critical about it because it could just bring the whole system down.

We evaluate every little change in the game, and then we run our tools on it to make sure it isn't going to break the game and then we move forward, so it really is about pushing the engine as far as we can, and pushing the hardware as far as we can, and then looking at what is the next set of hardware that's going to come out. Where can we take it then? You know we're already thinking about if we had XYZ X number of years from now, what would we do with our engine?

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] So you've got a lot of plans for this engine?

[b]Rick White:[/b] I think as the consoles grow, be it the 720 or whatever, it's going to increase our ability to deliver a better looking game with more destruction, or more dense environments. I mean, one thing we have now, because we're throwing so many polys around we're not as dense as Saints Row 2. One thing that you could see with a more powerful console with more dense environments.

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] We see a lot of developers these days juggling multiple projects, what's the secret to success?

[b]Rick White:[/b] That's an interesting question. I think part of it is timing, part of it is luck, and it's having dedicated teams. With Saints Row 2 and RFG we had our own separate teams, and we steal from each other as far as technology goes, but we do our own thing and we have our own staff.

[b]Gameplayer:[/b] So what's RFG's magic mushroom? Games like this tend to get a foothold through positive word-of-mouth, so what is it that people are going to be telling each other about this game? What is that special something?

[b]Rick White:[/b] What we've been seeing is, with a lot of our testing, is we ask them at the end, "What is that most meaningful moment for you?" A lot of that meaningful moment is a moment that they created. It wasn't, "Oh, I went over here and did this because the game wants me to do that" - it's the unexpected that they created.

For example, this one guy yesterday said, "Oh, I'm gonna throw a bunch of these remote charges up on this bridge", the bridge collapsed and killed him. He's like, "Woah, shit, what happened?" Or, in a fight in multiplayer this one guy was being killed by this guy up on a roof, so he finally went in the building and he shot up, blowing a hole in the building and killing that guy but then this huge slab came down and took him out.

It's all these moments: they happen in real-time, it's dynamic. It's those player-generated surprises they get from having a dynamic world.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/quantum-theory-by-tecmo-playstation-3-sleeper-hit-of-2009/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/quantum-theory-by-tecmo-playstation-3-sleeper-hit-of-2009/ Sat, 03 Jan 2009 09:11:16 CST xplodbleu PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/quantum-theory-by-tecmo-playstation-3-sleeper-hit-of-2009/
There are many big name sequels coming out this year that will obviously sell millions. However, I will take a look at the one game that I think will be the sleeper hit on the PS3.

There are many great games coming out on the PS3 that will probably sell millions such as: Killzone 2, God of War III, Uncharted 2, Infamous, Heavy Rain and Twisted Metal. However, the sleeper hit of 2009 for the PS3 is a game that just blind-sides you without even see it coming.

I have to say Quantum Theory by Tecmo is my pick for the PS3 exclusive sleeper hit of 2009. I talked about this game before comparing it to Gears of War. Gears of War currently stands alone in its own specific genre. Yes, I know there are other third person shooters with cover system such as Uncharted. However, Gears of War is known for its gritty gory violence and slow cumbersome beefy guys that can't jump.

The reason why Gears of War is so good is because it is like a summer action flick. It has all the right ingredients for the adolescent teenager: cursing, gore, senseless violence and over the top macho bravado. In a similar way, Tecmo aims to provide competition to Epic by crafting a game that falls into the Gears of War category.

In Quantum Theory, you control the massive gun-wielding dark hero named, Sid. The main character also has a female companion Filena (a la Resident Evil 5), that seems to be with Sid most of the time. Its a safe bet that there is a co-op mode considering the constant companionship.

Quantum Theory utilizes a unique cover system where the battle takes place in a 'living tower.' The environment is constantly changing to provide needed cover as well as taking away cover unexpectedly.

The game follows the formula I outlined previously, with plenty of gore, and action. I'm sure it doesn't hurt that the game features an attractive female heroine wearing next to nothing.

Another reason I am sure this game will sell well is because it is being developed by Keisuke Kikuchi, who became famous for the Fatal Frame horror series. The series on the PS2 is considered to be one of the scariest horror games out there. I have high expectations from Kikuchi, just by looking at his previous work.

I am sure this game will sell a few millions even if there is no deep story. Lets face it, there is a huge fanbase of gamers that will just about buy anything as long as it looks cool and is violent. Expect this game out on the PS3 exclusively late 2009.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/playstation-3-guide-how-to-use-the-ps3-visualizer/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/playstation-3-guide-how-to-use-the-ps3-visualizer/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 22:33:34 CST PS3 News PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/playstation-3-guide-how-to-use-the-ps3-visualizer/
Last but not least, today's "How To" video will teach you how to use the Visualizer on the PLAYSTATION 3. The Visualizer provides a great background to your favorite music on your TV screen.

There are a variety of designs to choose from so pick your favorite and use it next time you listen to your music on your console.

Let us know if there are other videos you would be interested in seeing, and I hope you are all off to a great 2009!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNusUtB4ATI[/youtube]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/playstation-portable-custom-firmware-5-02-gen-a-released/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/playstation-portable-custom-firmware-5-02-gen-a-released/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 02:13:13 CST takavach PlayStation Portable http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStationPortable/playstation-portable-custom-firmware-5-02-gen-a-released/
Download: [URL=http://download.pspgen.com/downloads/C/cf502gen-a_1230843645.zip]PSP Custom Firmware 5.02 GEN-A[/URL]

Features:

- Suspend, Reset and Pandora options added in the recovery.
- Hide MAC Address can be enabled via configuration in recovery.
- VSH Recovery can now be opened with an option in the vshmenu.
- You can quickly exit the recovery by pressing the Select button.
- Game Categories Plugin by Bubbletune integrated (enabled by default, can be disabled in recovery).
- Option to reboot in to official firmware in the recovery, it will remain like this until the next cold reset. (Slim Only, support for the Phat PSP might be added later).
- Slim Colors Patch by Bubbletune integrated, enable in the recovery and flash 13-27.bmp to your flash0. This will allow you to use the Slim Colors on your Phat PSP.
- Higher homebrew compatibility compared to other 5.02 custom firmwares.
- Functional 5.02 pops (keep pops compatibility in mind).]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/playstation-3-guide-starting-video-chat-on-the-ps3-console/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/playstation-3-guide-starting-video-chat-on-the-ps3-console/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:41:39 CST PS3 News PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/playstation-3-guide-starting-video-chat-on-the-ps3-console/
Hoping to stay in more in touch with family and friends in 2009? If so, you're in luck!

For those of you with the PlayStation Eye or other Web camera, video chat is a great way to keep in touch with family and friends, and this video will teach you how to get started.

One of the best features of video chat on the PS3 is the ability to talk with up to six people at a time. So take a look at the video, give a try and let us know if you have any questions.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HueBb_IU-3A[/youtube]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/sonys-playstation-3-versus-microsofts-xbox-360-console-in-2009/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/sonys-playstation-3-versus-microsofts-xbox-360-console-in-2009/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:41:24 CST Starlight General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/sonys-playstation-3-versus-microsofts-xbox-360-console-in-2009/
Despite the fact that this is a PS3 Web site I do take some pride in knowing that we don't pander to Sony and certainly don't pretend Microsoft don't exist: I personally keep both consoles (and a Wii) at the side of the television and of late it's the 360 that has seen the most playtime, my recent acquisition of PlayTV notwithstanding.

Why? Perhaps it's just a case of catching up with all the Xbox games I've missed whilst hammering the hell out of the PS3 for the last 12 months, catching up with Gears or getting involved with the whole Community Games angle, or perhaps it's just nice to have the option to play all the games released.

But such whimsical fence-sitting doesn't help with this article, which is intended to do just one thing: decide the victor of 2009. Yes, there's going to be an awful lot of educated guesswork here, because naturally we don't know everything that the major players have planned for us this year, but we know one thing for sure: not a great deal will change from 2008.

Sony will still promise the earth, extend the firmware to new realms and delay key titles beyond belief, and Microsoft will do pretty much the same - it's the way things are in the world of consoles just now: get the kids in the playgrounds talking, get the parents buying and the rest will take care of itself.

[b]Pricing:[/b]

And what gets people spending more than price? In this cash-strapped economy (thanks, America) we're currently sinking in, the initial price ticket is the one that shouts the loudest. Sure, you can do little spreadsheets to prove that ultimately, pound for pound, the PS3 provides the better value but on the shelves, when Mum is glancing over which console to buy, it's the one that costs £129 that'll shift more than the one that sells £300.

Personally, I bought a launch 60GB PS3 for £425. £425 I didn't really have, and had to save up for a few months, sell pretty much everything I owned and trade-in almost every game I'd ever bought last generation, and I ran a PS2 site so had quite a few.

If the PS3 still cost £425 this article (and this website) probably wouldn't exist. The arrogance that Sony showed when pricing the PlayStation 3 over here still beggars belief, and the whole notion that people will pay that "even if it had no games" still makes me cringe.

Whether or not the ridiculous price had any effect on sales for the first two years we're not concerned with - the PS3 now costs a penny under £300, so that's what we're working with. On the flip side, you can get an Xbox Arcade for £129, less than half the price and although it doesn't come with a hard drive, it is an Xbox 360 and with that £129 purchase you can play 99% of all the 360's games.

So, that's the issue here. Does Sony need to offer a cut-down PS3, sans wi-fi and Blu-ray player, to compete? Sony, and in particular SCEE, have always stuck with the rule that bundles are the way forward, and continue to offer almost the same hardware and just throw in more and more accessories and games to extend the value of the purchase.

To an extent this works, if you're clued-up on what the PS3 offers then £300 with wi-fi (which costs £50 on the 360) and a HD-movie player (which we'll come back to) is a fantastic deal, but recent anecdotal experience over Christmas suggests otherwise: people don't understand, at all. And why would they - what have SCEE done to promote the features of the PS3 on television?

Who's seen an advert that says the PS3 plays the future of HD movies, has free internet gaming and works with whatever network you already have, out of the box? Nobody, so they expect the GAME sales staff to relay this information to the customer instead? Really?

Let's face it, some gamers won't even know that the bundled AV cables don't offer the best picture; some gamers won't have access to a HDTV and some won't even have access to the web. These are the gamers for which price is the main factor, assuming they can play GTA IV and FIFA, and thus the low entry price of the Xbox 360 can only result in lots of sales for Microsoft, and the opposite for Sony. Round one, then, goes to the Xbox.

[b]Interface:[/b]

Much has been made recently of the New Xbox Experience. Compared to the old 'blade' interface it's a huge step forward, one away from pushing the 360 as a games console and moving towards a future-proof, expandable media hub.

Sure, it's not immediately obvious how to find your way around and 75% of the menu options end up trying to get you to spend money, but the consistent look and feel as you drill down the menus works a treat, and the box-arts for everything are really neat.

It's just fast, slick and very un-Microsoft, but it isn't going to sell consoles or decide the 'winner' this year, because at its core it's just another way of navigating the menus, much like Sony's equally (but rather more muted) XMB.

No, the reason the 360's interface keeps gamers coming back is the way that everything on the console is superbly linked and cross-referenced. From anywhere, in any game, a simple tap of the Guide button brings up a cool sub-set of the NXE from where you can manage friends, messages and check things like Achievements, which we'll come back to.

Yes, the in-game XMB does a similar thing, but in comparison the decision to present the user with the entire XMB menu wasn't the best idea - try showing the feature to a non-gamer, or someone unfamiliar with the structure of the XMB and even the option to quit the game requires a bit of searching around. Couple this with the somewhat clunky Trophy implementation and it's clear that the Xbox 360's interface is leaps and bounds ahead of the PS3s.

But, again, how does this translate into winning a console war? Well, when forced to choose between two otherwise identical versions of a new game, which do you go for: the one with Achievements guaranteed and the ability to easily invite friends at a consistent console-level or the one where you might get Trophies and you might be able to work out how to invite your buddies assuming the developers have a) coded the feature in and b) not made it almost impossible to figure it out.

I'll not mention any specific games, but you know who you are. And then we come to the one of the biggest issues I have: the title updates. If a PS3 game requires a patch, it's usually at least 25 MB and you're at the mercy of the PS3's wifi as it slowly crawls across the internet to your console.

The equivalent 360 update? Grabbed in seconds, literally. If you don't think this is an issue, try unboxing a brand new PS3 on Christmas day and playing LittleBigPlanet - if it's not the massive firmware update it's at least one title update - we've heard stories of new PS3 owners having to wait an hour after first putting in the disk before playing.

These things, like everything else, spread by word of mouth. Sony needs to sort out its firmware and game update patching regulations, enforce mandatory Trophies and take a good hard look at what makes the 360's interface so damned user friendly, and that's without mentioning full game installs, a feature that really does silence the critics. Round two? Yep, you guessed it, 2:0.

[b]HD Movies:[/b]

HD-DVD is dead, thankfully. With a dual-format high definition movie war the only losers were the consumers themselves, having to either edge their bets or stay clear until somebody kicked the bucket.

Clearly, Sony's decision to include the Blu-ray player as standard will have repercussions throughout the rest of the year: the Blu-ray sections in major stores are only getting bigger, the prices are slowly starting to come down and in terms of functionality and performance the PS3 offers outstanding playback of the new format. This, out of all the things in this particular feature, stands out as being a major contributing factor to the recent sales of the PS3, yet Sony are still reluctant to advertise the fact to the masses.

With HDTV penetration on the rise (and we'll bet there's been a massive spike after Christmas) it's the non-gamers that Sony should now be looking towards: push the fact that the PS3 plays this new movie format and no other console does and those sat on the fence might bite.

At £300 for a Blu-ray player alone the new PlayStation is a steal, yet as a games machine alone it looks overpriced. Of course, those of us already sporting the shiny black console under our TV know all this, but you can bet your bottom dollar that Joe Average has no idea, and unless he's blind will not only see the benefits of buying a PS3, but also will then go on to purchase the HD movies in the future.

And if you're in the US you can also watch movies on your PS3, although it's clearly not as developed as the 360's Netflix option. Why we don't have a similar function here in Europe is presumably down to licensing issues and the notion that Sony Europe need an additional six months of time to get anything done, but we will see the option soon.

Microsoft is adamant that Digital Downloads are the way to go, but call me old fashioned: I'd rather have the boxed version on my shelf as part of my movie collection, thank you very much. There's no question here, if you're looking for a reason for the PS3 to win in 2009, the ability to play Blu-ray movies must come into play. Round three: PS3.

[b]Games:[/b]

And, finally, we arrive at the thing that gamers want the most: games, and it's probably one of the toughest areas to cover because whilst the above is reasonably objective discussion, games by their very nature are subjective and usually encompass much of the fanboy debate as console exclusives are used as the main weapon in the my-console-is-better-than-yours war: Is Left4Dead better than Uncharted 2? Is Forza 2 a better racer than Gran Turismo 5 Prologue?

And then we have the utterly ridiculous cross-console comparison features, normally started by some bored forum member and pushed to the masses by the otherwise readable Eurogamer. Does it matter if the PS3 version of GTA has less pixels than the Xbox 360 version? Does Devil May Cry's slightly-quicker-on-PS3 load times really push that version of the game?

Probably not. However, the recent trend of buying exclusive content almost certainly does. Microsoft's initial gamble with Grand Theft Auto IV's downloadable content (DLC) for a reputed $50M meant that if you wanted the definitive version of Rockstar's latest you bought the 360 version over the PS3 version, and if you didn't have a console and were waiting for GTA, then you'd buy a 360 to play it on.

Naturally, getting hard evidence to support these notions isn't easy, but in the content of such a feature it's not unreasonable to assume that such decisions were made by gamers new to this generation of consoles. Sadly, we're still to see the release of the GTA DLC, although we're assured it's on its way, but such pauses have long term consequences as the recent exclusive DLC for Tomb Raider Underworld don't seem to have had much effect on sales of the game, with the initial batch of PS3 versions outing the rival 360 version.

Games do sell consoles, though, and in the war of 2009 it'll be the exclusive games that finally decide the victor, at least in our idealistic but probably ridiculously naive world. Who had the best games in 2008 isn't relevant here, both consoles had some absolute stormers, but looking ahead to the rest of this year is entirely relevant and we're still ignorant about anything that Sony and Microsoft are holding back from the public eye until E3 or some other game show in the coming months.

What we do know, though, is that Sony will absolutely own the first quarter of 2009. Why? Well, think Killzone 2 mainly, the first person shooter that has been at the forefront of PlayStation gamers since that movie back at E3 2005. Yes, it's been quite a while, but the recent beta and playtests of those fortunate to have spent time with the game have been almost entirely positive, and in terms of system-sellers Killzone 2 is as big as they come.

And then the rest of the AAA titles start to roll in. In 2009, the PS3 will exclusively play host to Uncharted 2, Final Fantasy Versus XIII, inFamous, God of War 3 and Heavy Rain, and hopefully something from Polyphony Digital to test our force-feedback steering wheels. Each and every one of the above has been hyped beyond normal rational levels, with the mere mention of any of them enough to hopefully get gamers not yet on the PS3 wagon well and truly ready to splash the cash.

Of course, Microsoft isn't going to roll over and just let the PS3 walk away with all the bragging rights in terms of software: the 360 will exclusively feature Alan Wake, a follow up to Mass Effect and a new Halo title, but in my humble opinion none of these hold the same weight and we can't see them actually selling machines.

So we're calling this 2:2. The Xbox's interface and pricing may make the 360 an initially attractive purchase, and one that sits happily underneath the television in TSA Towers, but long term, and where it really matters, the games, the PS3 starts to shine through and although this has been said for the last two years, 2009 really is the year of the PS3.

It has to be: gaming has always been where the PlayStation brand has excelled, and it's clear that the developers are really starting to get to grips with the architecture of the machine and that the publishers are getting behind it more than ever before.

We look forward to seeing what happens in 2009, then, and as always welcome your comments on this topic.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/video-viajerus-ps3-iso-loader-new-fake-for-2009/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/video-viajerus-ps3-iso-loader-new-fake-for-2009/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:41:05 CST luetze PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/video-viajerus-ps3-iso-loader-new-fake-for-2009/
Hi! What that? A new PS3 iSO Loader fake for 2009?

Download: [URL=http://www.megaupload.com/es/?d=UH4BKO2K]Viajerus PS3 iSO Loader[/URL] [Requires Password, Not Available]

Video is below, from [B]Machinpc[/B].

Happy new year,

Luetze

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q007MsO4FvI[/youtube]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/alan-wake-the-real-mystery-in-this-thriller-is-when-itll-be-out/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/alan-wake-the-real-mystery-in-this-thriller-is-when-itll-be-out/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:40:55 CST Starlight General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/alan-wake-the-real-mystery-in-this-thriller-is-when-itll-be-out/
In fact, mostly talk of Alan Wake is followed by arguments about whether it will ever come out, if it can possibly live up to three years' worth of hype and - whisper it - if it even exists anymore.

Well, after a year of silence, a new trailer landed last month so we know, at least, it exists. But can it live up to expectations - and when will the game actually arrive on shop shelves?

Release date first, then - because there isn't one. As is Remedy's wont, the game will only see the light of day when completed. The Finnish coders have consistently shaken off any vague seasonal release pushed their way by publishers Microsoft, repeating on their website that the game only debuts once it's done.

That said, almost a thousand days into development and they are, at least, prepared to attach the year 2009 to the project. And, if we were to take a bash, we'd say autumn is a good bet.

In a weird way, Remedy have tried their best to downplay expectations, showing little of the game, revealing nothing of the story and never once, in three years, giving anyone a chance to play it. It could be argued the sense of anticipation comes from a lack of eyes-on time, with only some incredible tech demos providing any insight into how the gameworld will look and feel.

Based on that, it's obvious this is a beautiful, vast and dense world, built around a real-time weather system which brings with it sunshine, rainfall, wind and even the occasional tornado. At 36 square miles, they've certainly gone for big too.

The town of Bright Falls is at the heart of the game, but dotted around are huge forests, lakes, satellite towns and story-important landmarks such as the lighthouse glimpsed in one of the earliest trailers.

Remedy admit Wake is a free-roaming game, with exploration, character interaction, interiors and, particularly, driving a major part of the adventure. They've also tried to distance it from GTA by saying the focus on story means the player will be more closely aligned with the plot.

"The storyline doesn't advance if the player wanders aimlessly around the woods," says Lead Designer Petri Jarvilehto, which suggests that, while there will be a degree of freedom, you won't be base-jumping from the Lighthouse, or stealing ambulances and careering around the woodland with fifty cop cars on your trail.

So, with the story playing such a massive part, it's just a shame we know so little about it. What Remedy have released is a basic overview, repeated a thousand times: Wake is a writer, whose wife disappears when he moves to the Pacific north west town of Bright Falls - and as insomnia and writer's block kicks in, his book starts writing itself... and the events in it come to life.

Hugely influenced by the works of Stephen King, the game's scripter Sam Lake also points towards weird-out cult TV show Twin Peaks as inspiration as well. Does that mean you'll be encountering backwards-talking dwarfs in red rooms? Er, no, but there'll certainly be that same sense of an apparently perfect small town hiding deep, dark secrets, with nothing quite as it should be.

For now, though, we just have to wait. Again. Still, given that Remedy have already made us sit on our hands for three years, another 6-8 months shouldn't be much of a chore...]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Themes/god-of-war-iii-ps3-theme-now-available/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Themes/god-of-war-iii-ps3-theme-now-available/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:40:28 CST FRott PS3 Themes http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Themes/god-of-war-iii-ps3-theme-now-available/
God of War III Theme features:

- 5 Backgrounds
- Custom Icons
- 2.53 Firmware Compatible

Download: [URL=http://ps3files.net/uploads/themes/0000/4671/GodofWarIII.p3t]God of War III PS3 Theme[/URL]

Enjoy!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Linux/guide-apple-tv-rips-via-ubuntu-linux-and-a-ps3-blu-ray-drive/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Linux/guide-apple-tv-rips-via-ubuntu-linux-and-a-ps3-blu-ray-drive/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:40:15 CST Phantom6 PS3 Linux http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Linux/guide-apple-tv-rips-via-ubuntu-linux-and-a-ps3-blu-ray-drive/
The primary purpose here is to avoid the expense of a computer-based Blu-ray drive for movies rips. Hardware/Software needed:

1. Sony PlayStation 3
2. USB keyboard & mouse for PS3
3. Windows XP/Vista PC or Mac with Parallels (100GB free space)
4. CD-RW or DVD-RW blank disk
5. Gigabit Wired Network
6. [URL=http://static.slysoft.com/SetupVirtualCloneDrive.exe]SlySoft Virtual CloneDrive[/URL] (free PC app)
7. [URL=http://static.slysoft.com/SetupAnyDVD.exe]SlySoft AnyDVD HD[/URL] (commercial PC app, ~$100, 21-day trial available)
8. [URL=http://cdimage.ubuntu.com/ports/releases/8.10/release/ubuntu-8.10-alternate-powerpc+ps3.iso]Ubuntu 8.10 for PS3[/URL] (free open source)

Guide:

1. You have to install Ubuntu Linux onto your PS3. Those who are intimidated by this step or Linux in general - don't worry!

Installing other operating system on PS3 is fully supported by Sony, unlike say "patching" Apple TV. Also, installing Ubuntu is a very simple process even if you'd never touched Linux before.

a. Download latest [URL=http://cdimage.ubuntu.com/ports/releases/8.10/release/ubuntu-8.10-alternate-powerpc+ps3.iso]Ubuntu 8.10 PS3 ISO[/URL] and burn it onto a blank DVD

b. Prepare PS3 partition for Ubuntu. In PS3 game menu, go to [System Settings] > [Format Utility]. Select "Format Hard Disk" and click [Yes]. Choose [Custom] and [Allot 10GB to the Other OS]. Select [Quick Format] and confirm with [Yes]. It will take a few seconds, press 'X' on your game controller to restart the PS3.

c. Insert the disk you burned into the PS3, connect the keyboard & mouse. Go to [System Settings] > [Install Other OS]. Select "Other OS" and hit "Yes" to restart the system.

d. Go to [System Settings] > [Default System] and switch from PS3 to "Other OS". With the Ubuntu disk inserted and Other OS activated, start up your console, and wait for the installer to begin.

e. From here on, the Ubuntu installer will start its thing, just follow all the prompts. It will ask you for few basic things like system name, your user-id/password, time zone, etc. Please ensure that your PS3 is connected to Internet via wired cable. The whole install process should take about 1 hour.

2. Now you need to login into Ubuntu UI and install a few pieces of software. Login into Ubuntu using USB keyboard/mouse, with previously specified user-id & passwiord. Open a Terminal window (Applications -> Accessories -> Terminal), and execute two commands listed below. Note your PS3 has to be connected to the Internet.

a. Install SSH so that you can remotely login into PS3 (after completing this, you can disconnect PS3 keyboard/mouse and do the remaining steps from your main computer thru SSH session into PS3):

[B]sudo apt-get install openssh-server openssh-client[/B]

b. Install SMB package - this enables Ubuntu mount Windows shares:

[B]sudo apt-get install smbfs[/B]

3. Mount your Windows or Mac SMB share. Note that I have my iMac acting as a SMB server, but it should work the same with XP or Vista:

a. Make a local directory to act as a mount point (replace 'username' with yours)

[B]mkdir /home/username/netshare[/B]

b. Mount your SMB share: (replace username/password below with correct values, as well as your server IP and share name):

[B]sudo mount -t smbfs -o username=username,password=password "//192.168.1.10/NetShare/" /home/username/netshare[/B]

c. If you want the above share to mount every time you boot your PS3 Ubuntu, add the following line to the end of /etc/fstab file:

[B]//192.168.1.10/NetShare /home/username/netshare smbfs auto,username=username,password=password,uid=username 0 0[/B]

4. Now, insert your Blu-Ray disk into the PS3 drive, and dump its contents onto the Network Share folder. The copy process should take about an hour over Gigabit network (I emphasize that a wired Gigabit network is essential for this step):

[B]sudo dd if=/dev/cdrom of=/home/username/netshare/bd-movie.iso[/B]

5. On your Windows PC or Parallels machine, install and run Virtual CloneDrive. Then right-click on the bd-movie.iso file you copied in the previous step, select 'Open with' and 'Mount Files with Virtual CloneDrive'. At this point, the movie ISO should show up as a "virtual" local disk.

6. Open AnyDVD HD and let it do its magic. Follow the Blu-ray to Apple TV thread (above) for the remaining instructions on how to produce an Apple TV compatible movie file.

Note: to boot your PS3 back into Game OS, issue this command: [B]sudo boot-game-os[/B]]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Themes/mesmerize-v-2-53-ps3-theme-now-available/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Themes/mesmerize-v-2-53-ps3-theme-now-available/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:39:51 CST FRott PS3 Themes http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Themes/mesmerize-v-2-53-ps3-theme-now-available/
Mesmerize PS3 Theme features:

- Updated 2.53 Icons
- New custom sounds
- 1 background

Download: [URL=http://ps3files.net/download/4639/Mesmerize.p3t]Mesmerize V 2.53 PS3 Theme[/URL]

ENJOY!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/happy-new-year-2009-to-all-ps3-news-members-visitors/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/happy-new-year-2009-to-all-ps3-news-members-visitors/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:39:41 CST PS3 News General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/happy-new-year-2009-to-all-ps3-news-members-visitors/
If you run a related Web site or have a MySpace/YouTube/etc page yourself and wish to share news with everyone here, remember you can [URL=http://www.ps3news.com/submit/]Post News/Videos[/URL] which will appear LIVE right on our main page for all to see generating you traffic!

Finally, we are always seeking both Web site [URL=http://affils.ps3news.com/]Affiliates[/URL] and [URL=http://www.ps3news.com/forums/sendmessage.php]Sponsors[/URL] to partner with us, so feel free to [URL=http://www.ps3news.com/forums/sendmessage.php]Contact Us[/URL] if either interests you!

The entire PS3 News Staff wishes all our members and visitors a very [B]Happy New Year 2009[/B]!!]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/ps3-pain-downloaders-experiencing-abusement-park-add-on-bug/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/ps3-pain-downloaders-experiencing-abusement-park-add-on-bug/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:39:07 CST PS3 News PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/ps3-pain-downloaders-experiencing-abusement-park-add-on-bug/
Many are blaming the recent 2.53 patch, which adds a free character and YouTube support to the game.

"If you did not have the Abusement park addon downloaded from PSN prior to the update the level is destroyed and unusable, Items fall through the landscape the background image is blank white and the level is unusable."

A quick look at [URL=http://boardsus.playstation.com/playstation/board/message?board.id=pain&thread.id=3251]this thread[/URL] shows a lynch mob asking for Idol Minds' head.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3RIXsLY9Ok[/youtube]

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2YouwHJc04[/youtube]

Direct-feed video of the glitch shows how the game is rendered unplayable... because nothing gets rendered! Unfortunately, this glitch doesn't appear to be affecting a small group of people.

Once again, this being the holiday season, it seems unlikely that affected individuals will get a patch in the immediate future.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/widespread-device-failures-microsoft-facing-red-ring-of-zune/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/widespread-device-failures-microsoft-facing-red-ring-of-zune/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:38:53 CST Starlight General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/widespread-device-failures-microsoft-facing-red-ring-of-zune/
Gizmodo reports that "the players began freezing at about midnight last night, becoming totally unresponsive and practically useless" and that the "crisis has been dubbed by Zune users 'Y2K9', due to the apparently synchronized faceplantings across the country."

A Gizmodo tipster explained that the Zune's appeared to "either reset, or were already off" and that "when turning on, the thing loads up and... freezes with a full loading bar... it seems everyone with a 30GB HDD model has had this happen to them."

Hundreds of others are already reporting similar Zune problems on the [URL=http://www.zunescene.mobi/forums/index.php?board=15.0]Zune support[/URL] and on Zune [URL=http://forums.zune.net/404251/ShowPost.aspx]fan forums[/URL]. Microsoft is yet to comment on the problem. We'll be sure to bring you updates as they come in.]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/rumor-sony-may-release-a-white-playstation-3-model-cechh01/ http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/rumor-sony-may-release-a-white-playstation-3-model-cechh01/ Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:26:41 CST Starlight PlayStation 3 http://www.ps3news.com/PlayStation3/rumor-sony-may-release-a-white-playstation-3-model-cechh01/
There's even plenty of photos to show that this is a serious possibility, and Sony Computer Entertainment America tells BLAST it's a possibility, but not to bet on one way or the other just yet.

"There are many FCC filings like this each year," said SCEA's [B]Alex Armour[/B] in a recent interview. "We haven't made any announcements about upcoming PS3 plans, but are comfortable with our current two SKU strategy. We are continually evaluating the market trends and consumer input to determine the appropriate PS3 models for our territory."

What does that mean? If they think they'd sell a bunch, they'll release a white PS3.

What Sony did do was clear the governmental hurdles necessary to bring the product forward. And this all depends on whether or not the PlayStation 3 has the year everyone thinks it's going to have. You might see a new bundled white PS3 with one or some of the new titles hitting stores soon, or for all we know Best Buy could do their thang and secure a "Best Buy Exclusive white PS3 with 2 controllers and 2 games for $499."

But that's pure wanton speculation on my part... others?]]> http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/ernst-young-to-use-playstation-home-for-virtual-meetings/ http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/ernst-young-to-use-playstation-home-for-virtual-meetings/ Wed, 31 Dec 2008 22:17:37 CST PS3 News PS3 Online http://www.ps3news.com/PS3Online/ernst-young-to-use-playstation-home-for-virtual-meetings/
To quote: In an effort to cut costs and reduce carbon emissions, UK financial services businesses, including Ernst & Young, are to trial holding management conferences through PlayStation 3's new virtual world Home.

The move is part of a project led by Dr Nipan Maniar and Manish Malik from Portsmouth University, which was commissioned by Advanced Workplace Associates and aims to explore how large companies can use virtual worlds to reduce costs on office space and travel, as well as their carbon footprints.

Other firms taking part in the project include Microsoft and Merrill Lynch. Managing director of Advanced Workplace Associates, Andrew Mawson, said:

"Increasingly we are living in a world without borders where workers need to collaborate on a global scale.

Audio and video-conferencing solutions have emerged but the use of virtual worlds may offer the next evolution in overcoming the tyranny of distance - a more realistic and learning-enhanced environment."]]> http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/what-apple-can-teach-nintendo-and-sony-on-iphone-games/ http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/what-apple-can-teach-nintendo-and-sony-on-iphone-games/ Wed, 31 Dec 2008 22:17:22 CST Starlight General/Off Topic http://www.ps3news.com/General_OffTopic/what-apple-can-teach-nintendo-and-sony-on-iphone-games/
Nintendo, your DS has tons of games, a wide variety of unique stuff that's a blast to play. Sony, your PSP is a gadget-lover's gaming tool, with everything from Skype to Internet-radio support (oh, yeah, and you have some cool games, as well). But unless you both do something in 2009, the iPhone and iPod Touch will soon become the top dogs in handheld gaming.

Apple, the same folks who have pretty much ignored games since I played Marathon on a Mac, came on strong in 2008- and now Nintendo and Sony must consider the iPhone a legit competitor. The proof: Apple's iPhone/iPod Touch games start at a buck (going up as high as $10), and games have flooded Apple's App Store since it opened its digital doors in July.

Nobody at either company has asked, but here's my free advice.

[B]Nintendo:[/B] Get that new DSi to the United States, on the double! The bigger screens and the 256MB of memory are a good start, but we need to see a Wiiware-style channel where people can easily download DS games directly onto their handheld no matter where they are, stat!

Also, while I'm mentioning it, set it up so that we can run said downloaded games directly from SD Card. Another quick thought: Don't try to out iPhone the iPhone. If you're going to build in MP3 functionality, maybe you should at least support the MP3 file format. (AAC only? Really?)

[B]Sony:[/B] Admit that UMDs need to be thrown down a hole with all those Betamax machines. The UMD optical drive sucks power and doesn't deliver high-capacity storage compared with what even cheap flash memory cards now offer. You're better off bundling a streamlined system with a hard drive.

Want to sell people games at a store? Sell them on Memory Sticks- as you probably should've done in the first place. Or take further advantage of the online store, which has already done a bang-up job offering PSP games as digital downloads.

The PSP has had a tough fight against the Nintendo DS since its launch. That said, as a gadget-head, I love all the connectivity features that sync up the PSP with the PlayStation 3. If Sony can create more games and applications that tether the two devices together, you might still make a case for PSP owners.

[b]Both[/b]: The best advice I can give to both Nintendo and Sony is to remember your roots. I did a story a couple months back celebrating the indie community that has rallied around the R4 cartridge as a legitimate homebrew gaming tool. That same group is always looking for new ways to mod the PSP, as well. These dedicated coders do it simply for the love of games (or to build their resume for getting into the gaming biz). Open up the doors, and let people who want to make all sorts of apps release them into the wild. You want to vet them for quality control? Go right ahead.

Way I see it, Apple has the right idea. The code is out there for people to play with, and I'm seeing tons of cool, free, and cheap applications just waiting to be downloaded. Want a taste of what's available? Read on to learn more about the best iPhone games of 2008.

[B]The Greatest iPhone Games of 2008[/B]

Though Macworld has nailed down its top ten iPhone games of 2008--only ten?--I just had to provide my own list of titles worth trying out. I mean, heck, I can count more than 25 titles that are better than some Nintendo DS and PSP games that sell for 20 or 30 bucks! Here's what's playing on my iPhone.

[b]Oddball Gaming[/b]

[b]Rolando Rolando[/b]: This stylish puzzle adventure has you rolling little ball people around a colorful world. In fact, it's probably the best game on the iPhone to date. Play it.

[b]I Love Katamari[/b]: Rolling up a big pile of garbage might not sound like fun, but this game definitely cleans up. Speaking of which, Namco needs to update the tilt controls a little before this good game becomes great.

[b]Flight of the Hamsters[/b]: It seems simple enough- launch a hamster and see how far it'll go--but this game is amazingly addictive.

[b]Amateur Surgeon[/b]: Here's a goofball cross between Operation and the DS's Trauma Center: Under The Knife.

[b]Touch Physics[/b]: This rip-off-ahem-tribute to the indie game Crayon Physics has you drawing shapes to solve puzzles. I'm playing this until the real deal comes to the iPhone.
Sim Cities and Strategies

[b]SimCity SimCity[/b]: It's SimCity, and it's in the palm of your hand (technically, it's SimCity 3000, but you get the idea). This spot-on re-creation operates surprisingly smoothly, providing everything from advisors to disasters--all that you'd expect from the classic PC game.

[b]Fieldrunners[/b]: Hands down, this is one of the best and most polished iPhone games going. If you're a Tower Defense fan, check this out.

[b]Lux[/b]: Remember the board game Risk? That's what you have here.

[b]Zombie Attack[/b]: Defend your home from roaming undead by setting up turrets and traps.

[b]Action Junkie[/b]

[b]Hero of Sparta Hero of Sparta[/b]: In this pretty impressive God of War-like action game, some solid hack-and-slashery is going on. My only real complaint is that the frame rate can get a little choppy at times. Still, it's a solild effort that's a lot of fun to take a stab at.

[b]Chocolate Shop Frenzy[/b]: Fans of time-management games like Diner Dash need to check this out. In it, you serve chocoholics and play a Bejeweled-style minigame at the same time.

[b]Dropship[/b]: This title is a high-style, vector-graphics flight game.

[b]Topple[/b]: Playing this Tetris-like game takes a very steady hand. The difference here is that you want to stack your blocks up as high as they will go--and make sure not to tilt your phone too much in the process.

[b]Brothers in Arms[/b]: Hour of Heroes Brothers in Arms- Hour of Heroes: This is an amazing rendition of the World War II shooting title, ported to the iPhone. The controls are surprisingly smooth, proving that you can have a good shooting-game experience on your handset. It's... wait for it... a blast.

[b]Flick Bowling[/b]: Twitch your finger and fling balls down the lane. Good physics models and nice graphics make this game a must-buy.

[b]Guitar Rock Tour[/b]: Tap drums or play guitar riffs to cover classic rock songs. Hearing "Rock You Like a Hurricane" without a German-accented singer just seems wrong.

[b]Real Soccer 2009[/b]: This fully legitimate, arcadey soccer title (sorry, football for the rest of the world) looks and handles fantastically.

[B]A Taste of the Classics[/B]

[b]Chopper Chopper[/b]: Addicted to Choplifter way back in the day? The game has been updated, and you steer with the tilt controls.

[b]Dr. Awesome[/b]: Excise viruses in this modern take on Qix. It gets a little repetitive, but it has an awesome name. Plus, your patients are people on your iPhone contact list.

[b]Darts[/b]: Here's a simple dart-hurling sim for when you aren't in some pub.

[b]Crazy Tanks[/b]: Remember Combat on the Atari 2600? Think more colorful and cooler.

[b]Uno[/b]: It's the classic card game, on your phone.

[b]rRootage[/b]: Snag this classic retro shooter.

[b]Puzzlers[/b]

[b]Alternate Endings Alternate Endings[/b]: This is more of a video "Choose Your Own Adventure" than anything else, good for a quick bus trip. But it is a nice throwback to the days when full-motion video games were considered cutting-edge. Ah, Night Trap, I miss you.

[b]Adventure[/b]: The classic Atari 2600 game, on your iPhone. It's a little twitchy, but hey, it's free.

[b]Blackbeard's Assault[/b]: Match cannonball colors and keep them from hitting the X. If you've ever played Zuma, you'll feel right at home.

[b]Booty Blocks[/b]: What is it about pirate puzzle games? Flick booty around the screen with your fingers.

[b]Word Warp[/b]: Here's a quick little vocabulary game, kind of like what you'd see in the newspaper- if you still read newspapers.

[b]Enigmo[/b]: In this brain bender you use objects to angle water drops and solve puzzles.

[b]Aurora Feint- The Beginning[/b]: It's an online role-playing puzzle game! If you're a fan of Puzzle Quest, you'll get hooked on Aurora Feint. Consider yourself warned.

Is that all? No, there are plenty more games where those came from. Have I missed something that I absolutely need to check out? Let me know!

Pic below is of Brothers in Arms- Hour of Heroes and more can be seen at the link at the top of this news article.]]>