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Sony announcing PS3 bundles with more storage, faster WiFi, and Move?
We're just a day away from Sony's official press conference at this year's E3, and CVG has heard rumors from a supposedly reliable source that some refreshed PS3 bundles are on the docket for officialdom. Word is that the new PS3s will pack 802.11n WiFi (up from 802.11b/g currently) and will come in 250 and 500GB flavors. Both bundles are said to be coming with at least one Move controller included, a move (zing!) that Sony had already said it would make, but the word of faster WiFi flies in the face of last week's FCC filing for new bundles still offering only 802.11b/g. So, will a new 802.11n-equipped model become the standard edition, or does this "industry source" not have a clue? We'll find out tomorrow. Update: Looks as if Sony has updated Move's official online portal with a slew of working titles. Have a peek while we get ready for the full reveal at E3, won't you? Thanks, Tiaan!
TwistDock is the PS3 organizer for M. Night Shyamalan fans
Looking for a dock... with a twist? Frankly we weren't either, but that didn't stop us from being intrigued by the aptly titled TwistDock for the PS3 from Vogel's, a docking station for a console that we didn't think needed one. On the front the TwistDock houses a PS3, either original or Slim, and on the back (here comes the twist) two controllers can be slotted in and charged, shown after the break. There's also a USB hub for connecting other goods and overall it pledges to keep your layout "clean, stylish and sexy." That would be lovely progression from our current entertainment center's "dusty, cluttered and tangly" label. Can it deliver? It's on display at this year's E3, and we'll go see for ourselves.
Microsoft Kinect to go on sale in November, somewhere
What you're looking at is the latest status update to the Xbox MySpace page showing a November release for Microsoft Natal Kinect. You know, just in case you were looking for something to purchase in the run up to the holidays. How much is the big question now. Update: John was kind enough to ping us and let us know about this mention of a November release date on a UK Microsoft press page, which we also have a picture of below. This would seem to imply it'll also be hitting Europe before the end of the year, but we'll find out when the timer on that page hits zero and Microsoft's second big event of the show kicks off. We'll be there. [Thanks, Bharat R.]
Microsoft Kinect gets official, Video Chat announced
You knew it was coming, right? Hot on the heels of getting leaked a wee bit early Microsoft has made official the rebadging of a device desperately seeking a new name: "Project Natal" is no more, replaced by Microsoft Kinect. At a circus- and celebrity-filled affair, MS wrapped everyone in high-tech panchos (pictured after the break courtesy of Joystiq) and then took the wraps off of the new title. Quite a few game demos were shown, ranging from Star Wars to tiger petting, the Kinect interface to the Dashboard was shown (said by some to be Minority Report-like), and a video chat app called, wait for it, Video Chat. Through here you can naturally talk to friends (up to four total people at once was "shown"), and also share photos. Sadly, no hands-on time was given nor did MS reveal the two crucial bits of information we're waiting for: price and date. Naturally a holiday release is expected, to give the Xbox 360 a nice sales boost, but we're hearing price rumors as high as $150. These choice bits of intel will surely be unveiled at Microsoft's event tomorrow -- if someone doesn't beat 'em to it. The hardware is still looking exactly like the early picture above, shattering hopes of a slimmer design to match new Slim Xbox 360. Update: We've got official photos now, though solid textual info is still scarce. Stand by! Update 2: So we're out of the wild, cult-like experience that was Microsoft's Kinect unveiling. Microsoft still has a lot of details to reveal, but there are a few things we gleaned from watching the demos: Almost everything was one person at a time, particularly in the Kinect Sports games. Even a game like beach volleyball or soccer was boiled down to individual "moments" of interaction that get strung together into some sort of competition. Even the running in place games were one at a time, though the river rafting and mining cart games (both with a similar mechanic of jumping and ducking through an obstacle course while picking up tokens) could be played with two people at a time. You can at least play games like volleyball simultaneously with someone else over Xbox Live. An interesting mechanic we saw was a second player "jumping in" to a game. In the mining cart scenario, when the second player jumped in it immediately went split screen, while in soccer different players took turns by just jumping into position. Sure, some of this stuff was edited for our benefit, but it seems Microsoft is working to make the introduction of a second player or the switching between players something less button-heavy. The Star Wars game was pretty badass-looking -- you play a Jedi, rushing down stormtroopers and deflecting laser bolts left and right, wielding a few Force powers, and confronting a certain deep-voiced Sith Lord for a one-on-one duel. Based on the gestures and action we saw, though, it was a pretty heavily scripted experience. Still, there's no scripting a two-handed light saber grip, and that particular action looked like everything we've ever wanted in a Star Wars game. The yoga game is actually a pretty smart use of the infrared and joint detection software we espied previously. Positions were "checked" by points on the joint -- making it certainly harder to fake the moves on Wii Fit -- and it seemed to have a tai chi element to it. Your avatar glowed a more intense red based on your three-dimensional approximation -- bright red for hands stretched forward, for example. Next up: Kinectimals, a baby tiger pet simulator. You can scratch its ears, snuggle, and teach the little guy to jump and play dead. Adorable? Dangerously so. No one can tell us the developer, but based on the lighting effects, art style, and similarities to the previously-shown Milo, we'd wager a guess that it was Lionhead Studios. The Kinect menu interface is about as simple as could be. You wave your hand to control a glowing cursor of sorts, and you push forward to "click" on the element you want. Of course, there's also a very simplified version of the Dashboard to go along with this control mechanism, so it's unclear if you'll be able to do everything via subtle hand waves, but the Twitter, Facebook, Zune and Netflix icons were clearly present. The MTV Games-developed Dance Central has some on staff divided -- only Ross will actually admit to being interested in playing it. A series of dance moves are presented, including elbow jabs, swinging leg, guitar, "rocking out" (with your hand in the air). The art style is akin to Rock Band / Guitar Hero, and to be fair, this is probably one of those games that can't be done as well on any other console. Update 3: Video of family gameplay and media playback control added after the break. Come on, what else are you going to do until its November retail launch? %Gallery-95071%
Xbox 360 Slim outed by Italian ad?
Of the rumored devices we've been looking forward to getting official at E3 this year, two of the biggest come from Microsoft -- both of which, sadly, seem to have escaped from their bag a little early. First is Kinect, the re-naming of "Project Natal," and now it's looking like the rumored Xbox 360 Slim has been leaked early as well. An Italian site, Console Tribe, ran an ad (embedded after the break) showing the above rather more angular looking console that's definitely an Xbox 360, but definitely not a current model. It mentions that this model is compatible with the Kinect and also invites you to "live today." We're thinking this model was not supposed to go live until tomorrow, but seizing an extra day doesn't sound so bad for us.
Microsoft Kinect revealed: Project Natal finally gets a name
USA Today just leaked the name of Microsoft's Project Natal motion control setup: Kinect. Microsoft was apparently planning on revealing these details tonight at a pre-E3 shindig, but the leaks got the better of them (including an Italian ad that also mentions the Kinect brand). There's still no word on price or release date, but hopefully we'll be hearing about that later this week. The USA Today writeup also mentions a few titles, including Kinectimals, Joyride, Kinect Sports, Kinect Adventures, Dance Central, and properties based on Star Wars and Disney characters.
PlayStation Move demoed for 30 minutes, German-style
German publication GamersGlobal may not be familiar to you, but we expect you'll recognize those shiny orbs -- somehow, the website managed to pry a pair of PlayStation Move motion controllers and software away from Sony long enough to shoot an extensive video demo. While we're admittedly jealous of our distant neighbors, we wholeheartedly recommend watching their 30 minute hands-on with Disc Golf, Archery and more -- we've had a turn or two in PlayStation Move's multicolored spotlight already, and we suppose it's time to pass on the torch. Video after the break.
Project Natal game titles outed ahead of E3, 'about a dozen' available at launch
Looking for some last-minute Project Natal scoopage before we head into E3 2010? You've got it -- the LA Times has dished out details on the first four gesticulariffic games for the Xbox 360's new camera attachment this weekend, and says nearly a dozen other Natal titles will be available at launch. First up are "River Rush" and "Obstacle Course," the titles that inspired Parade Magazine to haphazardly flail appendages about last week, but there's also info on "Living Statue," which lets the social butterflies on Xbox 360 send video messages using singing, dancing avatars as a go-between. No video of this last quite yet, but on the off-chance you're not tired of watching humans slap dust mites silly (we kid) you'll find an unrelated Natal demo after the break.
Rock Band 3's gear priced: keytar and Pro guitar sport MIDI out, adapter lets you use any keyboard / electronic drum set
Has your head cooled from all that rock news this morning? Nope? Well, we'd hate to rile you up again, but Mad Catz -- now the official provider of all Rock Band 3 equipment -- has priced its latest arsenal for the upcoming rhythm revival title. There's also a few new details on each instrument, so without further ado: Wireless Keyboard: That MIDI port many of you spotted is for output, letting you plug the two-octave (C3 to C5) velocity-sensitive keytar directly into MIDI sequencers for non-gaming use. It'll set you back $80, with an optional stand to be sold separately (no price given) alongside the game's launch. Buying the keyboard / game bundle will be $130, or about $10 off individual purchases. Oh, and if you want to feel a bit more techno, this puppy can be used as the guitar / bass input. MIDI PRO-Adapter: Want to use your own keyboard or electronic drum set? Here's the mediator you need, from MIDI to USB to console, and it sports the D-pad and other necessary gamepad buttons as well as velocity sensitivity adjustment controls. Asking price is $40. Pro Cymbals Expansion kit: three cymbals, apparently rejiggered from RB2's offerings for quieter play and a pre-defined 10 degree angle. It's $40 for this hi-hat, crash, and ride pack. Wireless Fender Mustang Pro Guitar Controller: Not the Squier hybrid we saw, this one actually sports a multitude of buttons for each string, spanning 17 frets (102 buttons in all). Actual strings are used for the plucking and strumming, and here's something interesting -- the axe has a MIDI output for software sequencers. This behemoth is $150, or approximately 1.5 Benjamins in your local currency. Pictures of each instrument -- and the yet-to-be-priced Squier -- in the gallery below, as well as a few screen caps of Pro mode so you can get an idea how exactly it'll "correct you" on proper Bohemian Rhapsody finger picking. %Gallery-94999%
Dreamcast resurrection: classic Sega titles coming to XBLA and PSN later this year
The Dreamcast lives on! Crazy Taxi and Sonic Adventure are reviving Sega's final console, only this time on Microsoft and Sony's hardware. They are the two inaugural titles that will hit the Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network later this year, to be followed by other classics from Sega's better days. As the now software-only company tells it, you'll basically be getting the original games, replete with (slightly) higher-res visuals, surround sound, online leaderboards, and Trophy and Achievement integration. We don't know what pricing will be like just yet, but Sonic Adventure will be coming at us in time for the 11th anniversary of the Dreamcast's original launch in the US (September 9, 1999).
New PS3 models outed by FCC just days ahead of E3
With the big E3 Expo set to kick off in just four days, we must admit to being more than a little intrigued at finding a new PS3 model bumble its way out of the FCC test labs. PlayStation 3 models CECH-2501A and CECH-2501B are both certified for 802.11b/g WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0+EDR differing only in hard disk drive configurations. We're also seeing a pair of PS3 DECH-2500A and DECH-S2500A debugging stations -- interesting since a debug unit is typically only required when there's been a change in the chips on the motherboard. Feel free to speculate as we prepare for E3 to kick off on June 15th.
PlayStation Network down for 'regularly scheduled maintenance' -- RDR posses take the day off
Wondering why your murderous, alcohol-fueled rampage across the old Southwest has been interrupted? The PlayStation Network is taking a personal day for maintenance (it happens sometimes, even on services we pay for, so insert PSN+ rumors here) from 8 a.m. (PST) to 8:30 p.m. Turning on your PS3 for some Red Dead Redemption or other gaming in the interim displays the above message so for now, all of your Home friends will have to wait. In the meantime, Netflix streaming is still a go so queue up 3:10 to Yuma (the original version, of course) and give that tired horse a break. Update: Looks like everything is back up and running, let us know if you spot any extra features, dimensions or otherwise. [Thanks to everyone who sent this in]
DJ Hero 2 brings two turntables and a microphone this Fall (update: now available to pre-order)
Prefer a turntable to a keytar? Then it looks like Activision has you covered -- it's just officially announced DJ Hero 2, which will be available sometime this Fall, and presumably be on hand at E3 next week. Unfortunately, it's not yet clear if there will actually be a new version of the turntable controller or not, but Activison has added a microphone to the equation, and it'll also be releasing the game in a bundle that has (you guessed it) two turntables and a microphone. Of course, the game itself will also see quite a few changes, including new multiplayer modes, a new career mode and, most notably, a new freestyle mode that promises a "heightened level of creative input." Head on past the break for the complete press release, and keep an eye on this post -- Activision is still promising to reveal a bit more today. Update: As promised, Activision has now delivered a few more details, and some pictures. As you can see, the turntable controller appears to be mostly unchanged, but you will get a white model if you opt for the bundle with two decks, and the microphone is, well, a microphone. What's more, it looks like pre-orders are starting immediately -- the two-deck "party bundle" runs $149.99, while the game with a single turntable will set you back $99.99 (the standalone game itself is $59.99).
Hulu headed to a Xbox 360 dashboard near you?
From its humble origins as a chunky black box of PC parts, the Xbox has grown into a strapping young adult -- attracting a social circle including Netflix, Facebook and Twitter. Now, rumor has it that the Xbox 360's preening for a date with Hulu, too. Though plans aren't set in stone, Gear Live tells us Hulu has been spotted in internal Xbox 360 dashboard builds, and that Microsoft will introduce the streaming video service as part of their Xbox LIVE experience at E3 2010. The publication is mighty certain here, but at this point we can't corroborate for ourselves. If this does end up happening, the question is how much it might cost, as we hear there's going to be some sort of fee -- perhaps Hulu will be part of that "Xbox LIVE Platinum Tier" rumor that gets dragged out most every year.
Rock Band 3 purportedly gaining keytar peripheral, infinite amounts of our love
Look, we've no qualms with keyboards -- Elton John is permanently embedded in our playlists, it'll be the first instrument we teach our robotic children, and it's easily the most underrated part of Justin Bieber's spectacularness. But there's no arguing that having a keytar peripheral is far, far more awesome in the grand scheme of things. According to the same mole on ArsTechnica that has correctly nailed a new PS3 bundle, the PSP go and Xbox 360 price cuts, Rock Band 3 will feature a new keytar peripheral, which will undoubtedly destroy our productivity for an indefinite amount of time. We're also told that Mad Catz will be taking over the production of RB hardware, leaving Harmonix only responsible for touching up the software. There's still no indication of when this mythical device will be hitting your local Game Stop, but it's certainly safe to slide your pre-order alert system to Orange.
Parrot AR.Drone to get official launch, price, street date at E3 2010 (update: Android client video!)
If you've been chomping at the bit to get your hands on the AR.Drone iPhone controlled, augmented reality-sporting, WiFi quadricopter (and you know we have been) we've good news for you. According to a brief blip on Parrot's Facebook page, the thing will get its official US launch, complete with pricing and street date, at E3 come June 15. Sort of makes WowWee's Tinkerbell look silly in comparison, don't it? Update: As our main man Kefs has pointed out, the gang at Parrot demoed the AR.Drone Android client at Google I/O last month week. Now we're waiting on news of a BlackBerry client -- which we sure hope makes the scene at E3! See it in action after the break.
PlayStation Move two-fer: Sony tells devs to avoid bad Wii clones, ad points to July release
There's no question that PlayStation Move news is only going to get more frenzied in advance of E3, and it looks like things are already starting kick up a notch, with two stories recently surfacing that could shed a bit more light on what's in store for Sony's new motion controller. The first of those comes directly from Sony's Rob Dyer, who told Gamasutra that the company has been "spending a lot of our time" going back to game developers and telling them what works and what doesn't, and offering other helpful advice like "it didn't work on the Wii for a reason" -- the general idea there being that Sony doesn't want Move developers simply churning out clones of bad Wii games. The second bit of news comes courtesy of New Zealand South African game retailer BT Games, which recently put out a flyer containing the notice above that suggests the Move could be coming as soon as this July. Of course, that conflicts with some earlier listings that pointed towards a September release (and Sony's own word that it's coming "this fall"), but this particular retailer does apparently have a bit of a history with leaks, having correctly confirmed the existence of the 250GB Xbox 360 Elite a few months before its release.
GamePro leak reveals Killzone 3 will be in 3D
Besides sports and movies, videogames are expected to be another huge driver for 3DTV, and Sony is apparently ready to get behind it with one of its showcase franchises for the PlayStation 3, Killzone 3. Featured as a cover story in this month's GamePro the entire game is compatible with today's 3D HDTVs using active shutter glasses (of course) but there's no exact word on the formats being used. Check the Gamespot forums or look for the issue on newsstands June 1 for more info.
Sony rumored to be announcing premium PSN service at E3
We've been hearing about a premium PlayStation Network service for some time now -- even from Sony's Kaz Hirai himself -- and if a report from VG247 is to be believed, it looks like it could finally become a reality at E3 next month. According to the site, a "highly-placed source" says that Sony will be announcing the service and a slew of new premium PSN features during its June 15th keynote at the show, and that it will cost less than £50 (or $70) per year. As we'd heard previously, the current PSN service would apparently remain as-is for anyone that doesn't wish to upgrade, but it seems that Sony will be throwing in some pretty big incentives to get folks to pay up -- you'll supposedly get a free PSN game from a choice of "two to four" each month with your subscription. Details on the premium service are otherwise still pretty light, but VG247 says it will include a music streaming service similar to Spotify.
IntensaFIRE click-on mod bringing programmable / rapid fire modes to PS3 controller
Xbox 360 gamers may have had a solid year head start, but PlayStation 3 loyalists will soon be able to join the programmable / rapid fire party, too. BGRMods has announced that its much-hyped IntensaFIRE controller mod is finally coming to Sony's latest console, bringing with it fewer installation steps and an equal amount of tinkering possibilities. This new board requires no glue and no solder; users simply "click" it into place and enjoy the spoils of having rapid-fire potential at their fingertips. Purportedly, the mod is useful in "all PlayStation games," and it'll begin shipping out on May 21st for those who just can't game without a macro. We're told that the $69.95 device will also be making its public debut at E3, so you can bet your bottom dollar we'll be hitting the show floor in hopes of snagging a bit of hands-on time come June. [Thanks, Kristofer B]
