e3-2009
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Slimmer PS3 in store at E3?
Rumors of some sort of Sony announcement at E3 have been floating around for a couple weeks now, and it certainly seems like something's afoot -- hot on the heels of that officially non-existent white US DualShock 3 appearing this morning, we're hearing that a revised PS3 is in the works. It's not clear exactly what's going down, but the hot whispers right now say that it's the long-rumored slimmed-down redesign of the current console, not just a color change or storage bump. That makes a certain amount of sense, given the endless chatter of a price cut and Sir Howard Stringer's recent comments about the system being too expensive -- a trimmed-up redesign is right on schedule with those smaller Cell and RSX chips, and it could still possibly include some of that rumored motion-sensing hardware while driving down costs. On the other hand, after all this speculation and hype it would be a total Sony move to just pump out the same machine in a different color with maybe a new pack-in game, so we're not holding our breath. Let's say we're, oh, "cautiously optimistic." That work for you? Update: Sony UK is currently denying the rumor with a curt "We currently don't have any plans for a redesigned PS3 at this time." Okay -- but what else would you expect them to say?[Via I4U News; image courtesy of T3]
The mysterious case of the non-existent white DualShock 3 controller
For over a year you've had Sony's blessing to cradle a black DualShock 3 in your twitchy little fingers, and though that matte covering makes for a perfect primer base should you care to go the RustOleum rattle-can route, that's still the only color Sony has approved for the US. It's the only color, Sony repeats, even when presented with the image above, which pretty clearly shows a white DualShock 3 safely encapsulated within North American, bi-lingual packaging -- and a Walmart receipt to boot. Sony's specific response was: "We have no plans to release a white Dualshock 3." That means either someone carefully sealed an imported gamepad into a domestic package, or this was one of those unplanned releases. Something else to look forward to at E3? Oh youbetcha.Update: Commenter Four More Beers looked up the UPC and, go figure, it points to the classic black model on Walmart's site. So, proven hoax, or does Sony also not have any plans to release new UPC codes?
Microsoft almost definitely planning motion-sensing 3D camera for Xbox 360
If shots from the barrel of Mr. Blurrycam just aren't legitimate enough for you, how's about corroboration from The Wall Street Journal? A breaking report has confirmed that Microsoft is indeed "developing a new videocamera for its Xbox 360 videogame console that will allow players to control games with the movement of their bodies," or at least that's the good word from the all-too-supposing "people familiar with the matter." It's noted that unlike Nintendo's Wii, the Microsoft camera won't require gamers to "hold any hardware in their hands to control in-game action," but in the same vein as The Big N, it seems as if the device will debut at E3 only to sit around in a lab for a year before shipping to consumers. Boo.[Thanks, Chuck]
Rest your weary self at Target's E3 lounge
Target's always there for us when we want to buy goods and receive service that's one degree of quality improved over Walmart. At this year's E3, we'll be able to continue to rely on the retailer's not-as-sub-par-as-other-companies level of performance in its "Bullseye Lounge" in the LA Convention Center.In addition to plenty of sure-to-be-red seating Target will be providing attendees with snacks from its Archer Farms line. We'd suggest the Black Pepper and Sea Salt Potato Chips, which are at lest two to three modica more enjoyable than Sam's Choice Kettle-Cooked Potato Chips. Enjoy.[Via BD]
Atari pulls out of E3, current plans in question
Atari has pulled out of E3, a mere three weeks before the must-attend mega-event is set to kick off. When contacted for comment, the company told Joystiq that it was a "proactive decision to attend but not exhibit at this year's E3 event." Although the publisher feels E3 benefits the industry, it is currently focused on "other selling and marketing initiatives" for Ghostbusters, Champions Online and "other to be announced titles." It sounds to us like someone is out of cash, which is the word on the street (and might explain Ghostbusters' surprise exclusivity in Europe).We contacted the ESA, which runs E3 and still has Atari listed as an exhibitor, to see if the organization had received a check from Atari for the space on the show floor and meeting room -- the ESA referred all media calls to Atari. We contacted Atari and asked several direct questions regarding its E3 status -- and whether it has paid for the space it reserved. A company representative could only confirm that it will not attend the show and did not have any press events planned for LA during E3. We've been told that we should expect a more detailed answer sometime soon.
Sony Ericsson head talks PlayStation phone, mythical beasts
Okay, okay, we're just kidding -- he doesn't talk about any mythical beasts. But he may as well be, when speaking about the oft rumored, never going to happen "PlayStation phone." Telling the Financial Times (requires subscription), "If we do not adapt to this new technology or new market environment, we're going to lose," Sony Ericsson's president, Hideki Komiyama, has seemingly resurrected the rumor from its smoldering ashes. Though Sony allegedly has said in the past that a PlayStation-branded phone could only exist independently from the mobile phone maker, the statements made by Komiyama seem to paint a different picture. Though we'll call it unlikely at best, it is possible we'll hear more about this partnership at next month's E3 -- but we're not holding our breath.[Via CVG]
Ballmer pins focus on Xbox 360 E3 announcements
Reiterating his employer's excitement at June's E3 event, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said to the Dallas Regional Chamber in a speech yesterday, "Pay attention to the stuff we're announcing in the next month on Xbox." While part of his statement may be a subliminal promotion for the currently running "Win a car and a trip to E3" contest Microsoft is sponsoring, we're going all the way out on a limb here and guessing it may have something to do with that motion-sensing business we've been hearing so much about.In what is now annual tradition, Microsoft will be holding its press conference one day before the opening of E3 and is planning to "completely transform how people think about home entertainment." We'll be sure to wear sunglasses, ya know, just in case.
Activision: Blur 'to do for racing what Call of Duty did for shooters'
Activision has big hopes for Bizarre Creations' upcoming racer, Blur. Following the company's revenue report yesterday, CEO Michael Griffith said that Blur "brings real innovation to the racing category and is looking very strong." According to MCV, he noted that Activision would be "targeting Blur to do for racing what Call of Duty did for shooters," which, in layman's terms, means selling a lot of copies. Griffith says to expect Blur at next month's E3, and you can believe that we'll get our hands on it the first chance we get.
Majesco serving Cooking Mama 3 to E3 attendees
Majesco just sent out a very cute invitation to a Cooking Mama-themed party to be held during E3. Listed among the activities planned for the party: a chance to play Cooking Mama 3. What a nice way to announce a new game! The last "numbered" Cooking Mama was Cooking Mama 2: Dinner with Friends on DS, so it seems likely that this latest iteration will be on the DS as well. It is very little surprise that Majesco and developer Cooking Mama Ltd. are planning another game. Cooking Mama is the cornerstone of Majesco's business, and we'd expect at least a couple of the "approximately 31 titles" the company plans to release (according to its financial report) to be Mama games. Probably more than a couple -- in addition to the newly announced 3, trademarks suggest both Babysitting Mama and Crafting Mama are on the way.
BigPark CEO: Xbox 360 exclusive will broaden audience, be playable at E3
What prompts a giant like Microsoft -- amidst layoffs and studio closures -- to purchase a Vancouver-based developer that's barely two years old? Aside from boasting a collection of 20-year industry veterans that have had their hands in franchises like Need For Speed, SSX and NBA Street, BigPark Inc. benefited from having its ideas being "very compatible" with those of Microsoft. That's according to BigPark CEO and co-founder Hanno Lemke, who spoke to us regarding Microsoft's recently announced plans to acquire the studio and its "extremely talented group of people." BigPark's titles (including free-to-play tower defense game, Wizard Defense) focus on online social play, digital distribution and a direct-to-consumer model. Lemke suggested that his company's upcoming Xbox 360-exclusive game, which has been in development for more than a year, would be in line with what it had released before. Resulting from a fortuitous "meeting of the minds" between BigPark and Microsoft, the game is unlikely to be a typical product aimed at the Xbox's hardcore audience (no space marines here!), instead fitting in with Microsoft's "big push to broaden the audience." A casual, free-to-play title would certainly fit the description, if one were to speculate. Though Lemke refrained from offering much detail, he confirmed that the "very new and different" title would be playable at next month's E3 -- and that it would break some rules. "[It's] pretty innovative in how it's delivered to consumers," he remarked. And if there's any doubt that the game plays a pivotal role in an audience expansion strategy, consider just what prompts a giant like Microsoft to purchase a Vancouver-based developer that's barely two years old. "It obviously goes beyond one game, right?"
Microsoft to acquire BigPark, working on Xbox 360 exclusive
What you know about BigPark probably isn't enough to fill a small garden -- but you'll likely be hearing a lot about the Vancouver-based company in the coming weeks. Microsoft has announced plans to acquire the group, which bills itself as an "interactive online entertainment company." Its founders, who came together in 2007, claim to share a goal of creating "great games in an inspiring and collaborative environment for highly talented and creative people." Though BigPark itself has yet to do so on its own, its members are said to have produced popular franchises such as Need for Speed and SSX. Update: BigPark's first project was a free-to-play tower defense game, called Wizard Defense. Microsoft and BigPark -- now reporting to Microsoft Game Studios -- will "continue" collaborating on an Xbox 360-exclusive title, one that is likely to be unveiled at next month's E3. "We're looking forward to being part of the Microsoft Game Studios team, where we believe we can successfully contribute to shaping key Microsoft initiatives through fresh and engaging consumer experiences," said Wil Mozell , studio president and co-founder of BigPark. Mozell's name doesn't ring a bell, but another co-founder does: Don Mattrick, Microsoft's current VP of Interactive Entertainment Business. According to BigPark's rather ambiguous website, its goal is to "expand gaming audiences around the world and bring them together through accessible and highly entertaining interactive experiences." Expanding audiences through accessible experiences? That definitely sounds like a part of Microsoft's ongoing attempts to put the Xbox 360 in the same space as Nintendo's Wii. [Thanks, DanteSparda504]
Joel McHale to host Ubisoft E3 press conference
We love Joel McHale, host of E!'s The Soup. Like, love. If there were such a thing as McHale's Navy, we would join it, even if he was in no way involved with the organization. That's the kind of devotion we're talking about here. The biggest problem with Joel McHale is how rarely video game bloggers get to write about him.You can imagine the kind of joy it brings us then to relate Ubisoft's announcement that McHale will be hosting the company's E3 press conference. You can even watch the whole thing yourself the next morning at Ubisoft's site! We think the release also mentioned some games too, but who cares? Joel McHale!
We're assured that Mythos is coming back
Mythos seems to hold a cult fan status among those who were lucky enough to play the game before last year's Flagship kerfuffle unceremoniously halted the games' production -- and with good reason. The game was a lot of fun, as all those cult fans know. Which is why we're torn about this news.It appears as though Hanbitsoft -- the Korean developer who picked up the rights to Mythos last year -- has come out and said they fully intend to bring the game back into the world. They've also said they realize the game is basically inspired fully by Diablo, and plan to, "-put in more content for more exciting multiplayer." That's great and all, but we worry that the beta that we played last year and this retooled Korean flavored version aren't going to elicit the same kind of excitement.This is also compounded by the fact that, well, the original Mythos team has already formed Runic Games and will be presenting their spiritual successor to Mythos, entitled Torchlight, at E3 in just about a month. Now, while Torchlight is only a single player RPG for the time being, Runic has clearly stated their plans to build it into an MMO down the road. So for now, with one game the closer, we'll just decide to be excited for E3 come early June.
Trion to debut 'Heroes of Telara' at E3
Trion World Network has confirmed the rumors: it will reveal its first game at E3 next month. Unfortunately, details of its debut offering, Heroes of Telara, are slim, but the press release for the announced MMORPG contained such carefully spun phrases as "limitless new content" and "unprecedented level of rich and dynamic gameplay." So, your guess is as good as ours.If the name Trion sounds familiar, but you can't think of a single game the company has made, don't feel bad. Trion drama has swept the internet for quite some time. In late 2008, it was revealed the server-based gaming company had raised over $100 million in capital but had yet to release a single title. In late April 2009, Joystiq received a rather inflammatory anonymous tip that Trion president and chief creative officer, Jon Van Canegham, had been removed from his position -- but Trion reps maintain the split was a "natural evolution of the growing company."Trion World Network is also collaborating with the Sci-Fi Channel (soon to be SyFy) on an MMO/TV hybrid project and recently announced plans to work with developer Petroglyph (of Star Wars: Empire at War fame) on an unnamed MMORTS title.[Via BigDownload]
ESA holding charity events during E3
Did you know that by attending this year's E3, you won't just be filling your pants with game-based thermoses and probably catching swine flu? No, this year you'll be helping to give back with charity events the ESA has set up during the event. First up is Pro vs. GI Joe, a military support group which will allow attendees to challenge our nation's fighting men and women in tests of video game aptitude. E3 visitors will also be able to buy a special shirt from the event -- designed by one of the attendees -- the proceeds from which will, in part, go to LA-based homeless support group The Midnight Mission.Attendees can also participate in a Red Cross drive held at E3, siphoning their blood into packs that will almost certainly be mistakenly collected by other attendees for an HP boost.[Update: The ESA asked that we include a few details so you know how you can get involved. Just to be clear, you can click here to find out how to submit a T-shirt design or register to give blood.]
Prepare for Sadness: Nibris showing something at E3
Sadness "developer" Nibris sent out a message to its YouTube channel's subscribers, indicating that something related to the developer will be shown at E3 this year. Note that the message doesn't specify the vaporous Sadness game, or that a game will be shown at all -- merely an "update." Which means that even in the unlikely event that Nibris shows up and displays something, it could still be disappointing.Nibris is still holding to a Fall 2009 date for Sadness, so it's quite likely that this "update" is intended to be related to the mythical horror game. We hope Sadness actually does show up -- we'd love to add the day the game becomes real to our timeline (which we posted in 2007).
Trion to reveal first MMO at E3: Heroes of Telara
One of the newer industry players in the MMO world is Trion World Network, which first came to our attention nearly a year ago with word of an MMO being made in partnership with the Sci-Fi Channel (soon to be rebranded as "Syfy"). Since then we've learned that there are multiple titles and publishing deals in the works at Trion. Trion has now announced that the first title they'll unveil is "Heroes of Telara", which they'll be showing off at this year's E3 Expo in June. Details on the title are extremely scarce, but the Trion PR line is one of the first game descriptions we've seen thus far for their previously codenamed "Channel 1" MMO: "Heroes of Telara is a fantasy Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) where everyday gamers are forged into legendary heroes. In Heroes of Telara players are challenged to conquer the unknown in an epic, ever-changing world. Heroes of Telara will feature an unprecedented level of rich and dynamic gameplay, driven by recurring events, unexpected challenges and limitless new content."We'll be on the lookout for more info about Heroes of Telara as well as the other Trion MMOs as details emerge.
Ars discusses rumored Xbox 360 motion sensor
Microsoft's rumored motion-sensing peripheral for the Xbox 360 may have actually been on display to the public under a different banner, Ars Technica suggests. The meat of this speculation (tofu compact for vegans) is that the site actually saw the same technology at the Consumer Electronics Show last year, and Microsoft is allegedly buying 3DV, the company responsible.Back at CES 2008, 3DV apparently had a small web-cam that could detect movement and interaction, telling Ars at the time that it planned to release the item in the "sub-$100 area." Ars states that the technology was already "mature" at the time and was like having a "Microsoft Surface -- without the Surface." It's all still "rumor and speculation," but it seems Ars has found some missing puzzle pieces between the couch cushions.[Via Engadget]
Sega confirms partial E3 lineup
Sega's official Twitter account has confirmed several games that will be shown at E3 2009. The financially troubled slave drivers of Sonic have stated the following games will be on display:
