Starting on December 17, PlayStation Home users can step into the Sodium “Teleporter” located in the PlayStation Home Central Plaza and be transported to a futuristic, action-packed social gaming environment. In Sodium, a new technological era has dawned bringing with it interstellar travel, rapid colonization of the galaxy, inexhaustible energy, advanced Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) and the power to travel between quantum realities. This new age has also brought a host of new challenges where players must battle for harmony with their environment — and sometime survival.

Sodium, developed by Outso and published by Lockwood Publishing, starts players in a social hub located in the Nevada desert. Players must check in with A.I. life-force “VICKIE” to obtain their objectives, then battle through multiple levels for a spot on the leader board — either in individual combat or as a multi-player experience — while earning credits and rewards to be redeemed within the game. Sodium features objective-based meta-games, full arcade-style games and community events. During the first section of the game, “Salt Shooter,” players must hunt self-replacing robots with tanks in order control their population. Gamers can play through the first five levels of “Salt Shooter” for free, or unlock additional levels and experiences with the purchase the virtual items, ranging from $0.99 (MSRP) to $4.99 (MSRP).

By leveraging the power of PS3, Sodium delivers awe-inspiring visual graphics and rich gaming social experiences only possible on the PS3 platform. Due to the flexibility of the PlayStation Home platform, the genre-defying Sodium space will continue to evolve over time. Players can look forward to new games, community events and virtual items to be added, further revealing the story and offering new experiences and challenges.

As with all PlayStation Home spaces, Sodium enables PlayStation Home users to interact, communicate and share experiences. Players looking for a more social experience can become a bartender and serve virtual drinks to friends at the ‘Sodium Hub”, or compete with friends in mini games. PS3 owners can customize their PlayStation Home avatar with Sodium gear while exploring the virtual community in real time, and communicating freely through text.

Sodium is one of more than 50 spaces within PlayStation Home. Game publishers continue to recognize the value of directly interacting with the gaming community to increase and extend consumer interest in their game titles via new mediums of game play. SCEA has partnered with nearly 30 brands to develop virtual environments and game-specific content for PlayStation Home, including to Activision, Electronic Arts, Capcom Entertainment, NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., THQ, UBISOFT, and others.

PlayStation Home has also garnered growing enthusiasm from the PlayStation community, connecting millions of PS3 users to each other and to unique interactive experiences. To date, 10 million users around the world have visited PlayStation Home to play games, attend special events, watch videos, listen to music, meet new friends, and launch into multiplayer PS3 games — averaging 60 minutes per visit. Over 250 community events have been held in PlayStation Home since its launch, many organized by the PS3 community. With new users, entertaining new spaces and virtual items added regularly, PlayStation Home offers new thrills and opportunities to connect gamers with every visit.

“Launching Facebook for the PlayStation community is a natural fit for our goal of delivering unparalleled connected experiences – from connecting our community to each other to connecting our customers to great entertainment downloaded from the PlayStation Store” said Susan Panico, senior director, PlayStation Network, SCEA. “As we pass the third anniversary of PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Network, we’re excited to deepen the social experiences of PlayStation Network and kick-off the first phase of our integration with Facebook”

“We’re excited to connect Facebook’s 300 million active users with the PS3 system, enabling players to connect and share their game experiences with friends,” said Ethan Beard, director, Facebook Developer Network.

Key Facebook Features:
Showcase Trophies: Instantly share trophies you earn in PS3 games in your Facebook stream. Simply sync your PS3 system and easily show off your accomplishments to friends and family.

PlayStation Store Purchase Log Publishing: Let friends and family on Facebook instantly know which PlayStation 3 games you’ve purchased. The PlayStation Store, available to PS3 and PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system owners through PlayStation Network, features over 200 downloadable games, many of which are exclusive to PS3 or PSP system owners, in addition to over 4,000 pieces of add-on game content.

Concurrently with the release of the new PS3 system, SCE will modify the PS3 brand name from “PLAYSTATION 3″ to “PlayStation 3″, and introduce a new “PS3″ logo, which is engraved on the surface of the new PS3 system. By unifying under the familiar “PlayStation(R)” name, which represents the entire PlayStation family, PS3 together with PlayStation(R)2 and PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) will further expand the PlayStation business, and will continue to enhance the entertainment experience along with the ever-growing PlayStation(R)Network.

The new PS3 continues to offer the cutting-edge features and functions of the current models, such as the ability to enjoy high-definition Blu-ray disc (BD) movies and games, as well as various content and services downloadable through the network. The new PS3′s storage size has increased from 80GB to 120GB, and with the extra capacity users will be able to store more games, music, photos, videos as well as various content and services available through PlayStation Network. Having more than 27 million registered accounts around the world, PlayStation Network offers more than 15,000 pieces of digital content, ranging from game titles, trailers, and demos to more than 15,000 movies and TV shows via PlayStation Store(*1). PlayStation Network members can also download free applications, such as PlayStation Home, a ground-breaking 3D social gaming community available on PS3 that allows users to interact, communicate and share gaming experiences, as well as Life with PlayStation, which offers users various news and information on a TV monitor in the living room by connecting the PS3 to the network.

Since the launch of PS3 in November 2006, the number of BD-based titles has reached more than 1,000 titles and downloadable PS3 games to 1,400(*2) titles worldwide, with the support from a broad range of third party game developers and publishers. In addition to this extensive software title line-up, exciting and attractive new titles are to be released from SCE Worldwide Studios, including Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, EyePet, Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time, Heavy Rain, God of War 3, MAG, ModNation Racer, Gran Turismo 5 and more.

“Logitech’s new guitar controller delivers the same unparalleled Guitar Hero experience offered by our previous premiere edition to an even broader group of gamers and at a great value,” said Ruben Mookerjee, Logitech’s director of product marketing for gaming. “Everything about the Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller is premium – from the authentic wood material and flawless black finish, to the noise-dampening design of the strum bar and buttons, to the authentic accents provided by the metal frets.”

The Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller offers a one-piece contoured wood body preferred by many of the world’s leading rock guitarists. For reduced button noise, Logitech uses rubber dome technology on the fret board controls, the same material used in its award-winning keyboards. The guitar controller also incorporates a touch-sensitive slider, located on the neck of the guitar controller so you can rack up the points.

So you’ll be free to go where the music moves you, the Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller lets you jam at a range of up to 30 feet from the console and offers hundreds of hours of battery life.

The Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller will be available in a pristine black finish complemented with a glossy black pick guard.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech Wireless Guitar Controller for PLAYSTATION®3 and PlayStation®2 computer entertainment systems is expected to be available this month in the U.S. for a retail price of $199.99 (U.S.) and will be available in Europe in June.

One-Piece Convenience

Everything you need is built into the one-piece design of the Driving Force Wireless, including controls for gas, brake, shifting and menu navigation. Also featuring 2.4 GHz wireless technology for lag-free range of up to 30 feet, the Driving Force Wireless force feedback wheel adds convenience to your racing experience by eliminating the console cable. To start racing, just plug in the USB receiver and power cord, put in a driving game, adjust the lap rest to a comfortable position and wait for the race to begin. There’s no mounting or assembly involved. And when you’re ready to put it away, the USB receiver can be stowed in a convenient compartment.

Logitech’s Force Feedback Technology

The Driving Force Wireless force feedback wheel is the latest addition to Logitech’s innovative line of force feedback wheels. When you’re playing a racing game, standard controllers don’t let you feel all the jaw-dropping excitement – the bumps, the crashes, the traction loss – that make racing with force feedback technology the closest you can get to the real thing. Having introduced its first force feedback products in 1998, the company has designed 18 models of force feedback wheels and shipped 5 million force feedback devices. In that time, more than 100 racing titles have supported Logitech force feedback technology. And Logitech’s proprietary force feedback technology is supported by more than 80 titles on PlayStation®2 and PLAYSTATION®3.

Force feedback, unlike vibration feedback or rumble technology, creates directionally precise, tactile feedback that accurately simulates forces experienced in the game. Through the use of advanced software and electronics, force feedback can move a steering wheel or joystick as if the device were subject to real external forces.

Pricing and Availability

The Logitech Driving Force Wireless force feedback wheel is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in August. The suggested retail price in the U.S. is $99.99.

The Logitech Cordless Precision controller for PLAYSTATION 3 offers gamers an affordable cordless gamepad with the reliable 2.4 GHz Cordless Freedom technology.  It provides precise control over a 30-foot range with no lag ensuring that the gamer has smooth and exciting gaming experience. Featuring Logitech´s critically acclaimed floating D-pad design, the Logitech Cordless Precision Controller for PLAYSTATION 3 is extremely accurate and responsive.

There’s no need to worry about running out of batteries amidst an important gaming session. The advanced power-saving technology of Logitech’s Cordless Precision Controller for PS3 lets gamers play for well over 150 hours on a single set of two AA batteries.

Pricing and availability

Logitech Cordless Precision controller for PLAYSTATION 3 is priced at INR 2990 and is available across all leading electronic stores in India.

Warranty

Logitech Cordless Precision controller for PLAYSTATION 3 enjoys a warranty of 2 years.

Distributors

Origin Marketing Pvt. Ltd distributes Logitech Cordless Precision controller for PLAYSTATION 3.

Big Huge Games was founded in 2000 by four veteran game developers, Brian Reynolds, Jason Coleman, Dave Inscore and Tim Train, who together have brought strategy gamers such classic hits as Rise of Nations®, Alpha Centauri®, and Civilization II®. Key studio members also include Ken Rolston, a 25-year RPG design veteran whose most recent design accolades include Elder Scrolls IV: OblivionTM and Elder Scrolls III; MorrowindTM.

“The acquisition of Big Huge Games is a big win for THQ as we continue to expand both our internal development capabilities and our portfolio of owned intellectual properties,” said Jack Sorensen, executive vice president of worldwide studios, THQ. “The talent at Big Huge Games has an outstanding history of developing top-selling quality games and we look forward to their creation of many exciting new owned franchises for THQ.”

“We are extremely excited to become a part of THQ,” said Tim Train, president and COO of Big Huge Games. “We believe their passion for games, developer support, and understanding of the creative process is without parallel in the industry. THQ provides an ideal environment to help us develop new, innovative games for both core gamers and mass market.”

The studio is currently in development on a previously announced new RPG title for THQ for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system, PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system and Windows PC, as well as additional console projects based on their proprietary technology.

The acquisition is expected to close shortly, subject to certain conditions. Under the terms of the agreement, Big Huge Games will become a wholly owned subsidiary of THQ and the studio’s management and employees will continue with the company. The 100 person studio is located in Timonium, Maryland. Financial terms were not disclosed.

PSP Entertainment Packs with the new colors, revealed at the E3 Media & Business Summit, will be available for $199.99 (Rs 8,000 approx). A new PSP comes in three basic colors of “Piano Black”, “Ceramic White”, and “Ice Silver” to meet a variety of lifestyle and preferences for all ages.

The first newly designed PSP that will be released in North America is the limited-edition Daxter PSP Entertainment Pack, which will be available on September 10 and provide users with everything they need to enjoy the ultimate in portable entertainment, right out of the box. This package will feature a PSP in “Ice Silver” along with the award-winning, action-packed game, Daxter; the hit TV comedy from 20th Century Fox, “Family Guy – The Freakin’ Sweet Collection” on UMD(TM) (Universal Media Disc); and a 1GB Memory Stick PRO Duo(TM), for storing photos, music, video clips and more.

The limited-release Star Wars Battlefront PSP Entertainment Pack, available on October 9, will allow owners to experience their favorite Star Wars battles any way — and anywhere — they want with a special “Ceramic White” PSP featuring a silk-screened image of Darth Vader on the back of the unit. Also included is Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron, the next chapter of the best-selling Star Wars Battlefront series from LucasArts. Set during the Original Trilogy era, the game is the previously untold story of a ragtag ensemble of battle-hardened rogues and scoundrels assembled by Han Solo. Now for the first time ever in Star Wars Battlefront, you can customize your character, select your weapons, choose your abilities and create a different experience every time you play. A stand-alone version of Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron will also be available on October 9.

Tags: E3, Sony, PSP, PlayStation, sleeker, ice silver

Unveiled for the first time Tuesday evening at an exclusive media event in Santa Monica, the Killzone 2 demo awed guests with action-packed sequences full of detail and game variety, sure to draw players right into the heart of battle. Once again set in an extreme post-modern war, Killzone 2 utilizes the power of PLAYSTATION 3 to deliver a striking graphical style that showcases a gritty realism unique to the Killzone franchise.

“There have rightly been high expectations for Killzone 2 since we shared the vision for the title back in 2005,” said Phil Harrison, president, Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios. “Guerrilla have worked hard to focus the power of PLAYSTATION 3 to realize their true vision for the game. With incredible action, drama-fueled gameplay sequences, and a vast array of weapons and vehicles, Killzone 2 defines a new benchmark of our industry.”

The Story & Gameplay

Two years after the Helghast assault on Vekta, the ISA is bringing the fight to the enemy’s home world of Helghan. Taking the role of Sev, the battle-hardened veteran of the special forces unit known as the Legion, players will embark upon a mission to the planet Helghan to capture the Helghast leader, Emperor Visari, and bring the enemy’s war machine to a halt. For Sev and his squad, the invasion of Helghan is just the beginning. Tasked with securing Pyrrhus, the Capital City, the team quickly discovers that the Helghast are a formidable enemy on their home planet. Not only have they adjusted to the planet’s hostile conditions, they have also harnessed a source of power from the environment that can be used against the ISA. Sev and his team soon discover the fight is greater than simply addressing the enemy forces; the Legion must also learn how to handle the effects of the fierce enemy planet.

With an extensive, story-driven single-player mode and thrilling multiplayer mode, Killzone 2 offers a host of new elements that caters to both hardcore and casual gamers alike. The game features highly atmospheric environments that respond accurately to weapon fire as players storm through the world of Helghan. The harsh climate and conditions of Helghan are also a factor, forcing players to adapt new tactics to survive.

Proprietary tools and technology such as deferred rendering techniques are implemented to create advanced effects, such as ultra-vivid and detailed character animations and environments. Advanced cinematic effects are used to provide unprecedented visuals, including motion blur, internal lens reflections, and depth-based color grading that will let players experience gameplay that is sharp, detailed, and vibrant. Additionally, Killzone 2 supports 7.1 surround with location-specific audio, providing players the opportunity to experience sound and music that are not only dynamic but in context to indoor and outdoor locations.

Tags: FPS, Gaming, Killzone, PS3, Sony