Ask PS3 Fanboy: Volume 9

It's that time of the week again. You ask a question, then we answer it. It's a fun exchange, but sometimes we wonder what would happen if we switched shoes? Say, we ask you all questions and then you answer back? Does that sound like fun? Maybe -- maybe not. Maybe that's what we'll do sometime soon. Just for kicks. Anyway, here's this week's column. Enjoy.

Keep checking back every weekend -- we'll be sure to answer all intelligent, fun, and relevant questions that you may have. If you haven't asked us anything yet ... why haven't you? Send an e-mail to majed @ ps3fanboy.com with the subject "Ask PS3 Fanboy." We'd like to stress, if your e-mail doesn't include that subject heading, your question will not be answered. If you've got PSP-related questions, be sure to ask them on Ask PSP Fanboy.

Paul K. asks: This is something I think I might have heard about awhile ago, but can't remember: Is there going to be a way to access your PSN profile from a PC?
PS3F answers: Yes, it's been available since July. It's called the "PlayStation Network Portable ID." It links your PSN account to your PlayStation Underground (Official PlayStation community) account. You can read the full details here.

Conor R. asks: Is it possible to earn trophies for your PSN ID while not signed in to the PlayStation Network?
PS3F answers: Yes. Your Trophy data is stored in your save files which are linked directly to your local user account on your PS3. Once online, your Trophy data will sync with your PSN ID.

Jesse M., Josh E. ask: Do you have a list of games with custom soundtracks?
PS3F answers: We don't have a list but -- off the top of our heads -- we remember these: Burnout Paradise, Warhawk, WipEout HD, Super Stardust HD, and MotorStorm: Pacific Rift, NovaStrike all have a custom soundtrack option.

Andrew O. asks: On a scale of one to ten, what are the chances of Trophies for PlayStation Home? They could be really silly/crazy like earn 15 platinum Trophies, be a clan member in five games, have a house party with 25+ people, spend $200 on furniture for your apartment, have 200 people on your friend list, etc etc. What are the chances of this happening?
Andrew answers: I'd like to think there are no Trophies for Home. Imagine how horrible it would be if your "spend $200 on furniture" Trophy were actually real. If anything, there should be Trophies for Folding@home. One hour of folding = Bronze. Five hours of folding = Silver. The Platinum Trophy unlocks when you cure cancer.
Majed answers: That's a pretty nice idea! However, since it's technically not a game and it is a service ... I'd highly doubt that it would happen. I'd want it happen though. So, 3 out of 10 in my book.

Sergio V. asks: Is it true that installing a 7200rpm HDD on the PlayStation 3 can overheat the console?
PS3F answers: No, it won't overheat. For reference, the HDD that comes with the PS3 is a Fujitsu 40GB 2.5-inch SATA (model:MHW2040BH) running at 5400rpm.

Eduardo L. asks: I just got my PS3 and I noticed that it comes with an average AV cable. I'm planning on upgrading it to component as my TV supports it (although it isn't HD). But as I live in Brazil the Sony cables are way more expensive than 3rd party's like Logitech and I wanted to know if I would lose some image quality buying 3rd party products instead of Sony's original?
PS3F answers: It's a shame that you don't have an HDTV. If you had HDMI input, a cable would cost you no more than $5 (despite what store clerks say, just look at Amazon) and the image quality would be far better. However, if you don't have an HDTV, using a component cable will not make PS3 games look any better than using the standard composite cable. If you have an EDTV, we recommend buying the cheapest component cable you can get -- first-party AV cables aren't known to be of a better quality.

Roger P. asks: Where are the weekly wallpapers?
PS3F answers: That's a good question. Where are they? We're thinking of reviving this section soon. All in due time, Roger. All in due time.


Yuki M. asks: I was wondering what is the process of connecting a Bluetooth headset to the PS3? Will there be additional steps once in games like Metal Gear Online? And which headsets are of good quality (i.e. good brand/model)?
PS3F answers: All right, process first: turn on the headset and put it into "pairing mode" (this is done differently on different sets so you'll have to check your instruction manual). Now go on your PS3 and select "Accessory Settings" from "Settings" on the XMB. Go to "Manage Bluetooth Devices" and scan; your headset should be picked up. You'll then have to enter a pass key (again, check the manual). Your headset should be recognized by the PS3 now. You can adjust volume under "Audio Device Settings" and play around with the "Voice Changer." There is no additional set up once inside the game, though each game will obviously have its own 'controls' on how chat works. As for what to get ... why not pick up the official PS3 headset? It comes with SOCOM Confrontation for $60, and will offer a slew of crazy PS3-exclusive features. AND it works with your cell phone.

Evan S. asks: Do you recommend the SOCOM: Confrontation bundle? Is the new mic worth the price?
PS3F answers: Considering that the headset is priced at $50 as a standalone product, while the SOCOM bundle gives it to you for about $10 ... that should really give you a clear idea of what we're thinking. It's a great deal, especially if you're really into SOCOM.

David J. (as do a ton of other people) asks: Will we ever see MGS4 trophies? I ask because I see that you guys don't have it on your will be patched list nor is it on your will not be patched list. Thanks in advance.
Majed answers: I don't think it will ever happen. I believe there is good reason for the game to have come out before the 2.40 patch. This has been a game that's been so long in development and was delayed at the last minute -- I just think the crew have moved on. They've made yet again another stellar game and that's all that matters. If you need Trophies to play this, all I have to say is you're missing out and completely missing the point of playing Metal Gear Solid.
Andrew answers: Totally agreed with Majed. The Japanese aren't into Achievements/Trophies as much as the rest of us, it seems. If Trophies are ever added into the game, I wouldn't be surprised if they're for the inevitable re-release of MGS4.