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Nintendo's DS overtakes PlayStation 2 in lifetime Japanese sales
We already knew Nintendo's DS was quite the popular handheld, and while the PSP recently overtook it in Japanese hardware sales, the most recent numbers show that the Big N's famed DS has actually rocketed above the mighty PlayStation 2 in lifetime sales (in Japan). Notably, the numbers do combine DS and DS Lite units, but there's no mention of how the systems stack up worldwide. Nevertheless, the feat is a fairly impressive one when you consider how much longer the PS2 has been available compared to the DS, and unless Sony somehow lightens the PS2 load even further and starts bundling them in with cereals, we doubt it will reclaim the top spot anytime soon.[Via DSFanboy, thanks J]
PlayStation 2 modchip on a memory card now on sale
It's not like folks haven't been tinkering with something like this, but it's quite refreshing to see an actual product emerge that promises to deliver on the claims we've been hearing about. Apparently, the Memor 32 memory card enables PlayStation 2 owners across the globe to effectively chip their console without requiring a single power tool. The unit promises to allow gamers to load / unload save games (not to mention backups, homebrews, etc.) to and from their PC, and there's even a built-in USB connector to make things even simpler for you. 'Course, we'd still like to see one of these in action before lauding it too enthusiastically, but if you're willing to take a chance, MrModChips will gladly take your £33.49 ($70).[Via PS2News]
Sony's PS2 updated with integrated power supply, no price cut
While you're holding out for a slimmer, $99 PS2 Sony has gone ahead and released a new model in Japan. The SCPH-90000 with integrated power adapter hits Japan on November 22nd for ¥16,000 or about $140 -- that's the same price as the SCPH-79000 model already available. Besides that internal power supply, we're not seeing anything new. ¥1,500 (about $13) will buy you the optional vertical stand. Hurting for gaming profits are we Sony? Oh, right. %Gallery-9835%[Via I4U]
Compact $99 PlayStation 2 rumored to land in 2008
We'll be straight with you: we're far from ready to etch this one in stone, but considering that Sony has already trimmed down the PlayStation 2 (twice), it's not unfathomable to think that an even smaller iteration could be in the pipeline. According to MCV, Sony is aiming to launch a "compact" PS2 in early 2008 for just $99, and while we've no idea how different (or not) it would actually look, it will supposedly feature a "built-in power supply." Of course, representatives for Sony "refused to comment" when questioned, so we hope you're ready for another fascinating round of wait-and-see.[Via Joystiq]
White PS2 with Singstar hitting store shelves
The venerable PlayStation 2 just turned seven years old, and getting all dressed up for the occasion -- that hot Ceramic White slim PS2 Singstar bundle we saw a while back should be hitting stores this weekend, with availability everywhere by November 4, according to Sony's PlayStation Blog. The $150 bundle includes Singstar Pop, a matching white DualShock 2, and two microphones -- just the thing to spice up those holiday parties.Read -- Singstar bundle info on the PlayStation BlogRead -- PS2 turns seven
Ben Heck unveils the Access one-handed controller
Engadget's favorite hardware hacker Benjamin Heckendorn is at it again, and his latest mutant mashup is the one-handed Access controller. The modular rig features five interchangeable pods -- one each for the analog sticks, d-pad, main buttons, and shoulder buttons -- that can be rearranged to make any control scheme one-hand-friendly. Ben says the Access is in pre-production with eDimensional, and will be hitting in PS2 / 3 versions first with a planned 360 version to follow -- although it certainly looks like a brave 360 controller was involved in making that prototype. More photos await you at the read link.
Shredmaster V wireless guitar controller rocks the FCC
So we've never seen this so-called Shredmaster V wireless guitar controller from China's E-Core Technology before, but from what we can tell from the FCC documents, it looks to be your standard third-party PlayStation 2 Rock Band axe. Price? Release date? Ha, couldn't tell ya; maybe a long-distance call to Shenzen City will clear things up.
"Mole" says $400 40GB PS3 (and more) coming this holiday season
This one's firmly in the rumor category, but Ars Technica is reporting that its "mole" had gotten wind of some fairly big plans Sony has in store for this holiday season, not the least of which is a new 40GB PlayStaiton 3 that would retail for $400. What's more, this source says that Sony will also be dropping the price of the 80GB PS3 to $500, and that one or both will come bundled with a Blu-ray version of Spider-Man 3. If that's not enough, Ars Technica is also reporting that Sony will be dropping the price of the tried and true PS2 to a mere $100, which is a rather roundabout way to ensure backwards compatibility but a welcome price drop nonetheless. While Sony's obviously remaining mum on the matter, as both Ars and Joystiq point out, the Tokyo Game Show later this month would seem to be a likely opportunity for it to get official with things, if it in fact has anything to get official with.[Via Joystiq]
White PlayStation 2 appears in upcoming holiday SingStar bundle
It always feels good to do a bit of catch up with Japan, even if we are a couple years behind the times. This time we're getting in on the "so 2005" ceramic white slim PS2 fad, but lucky for us in North America, Sony's tossing in an attractive SingStar bundle all for a perfectly reasonable $150. Included in the box is SingStar Pop, two mics, and of course the white PlayStation 2 and matching DualShock. You can score the bundle this November.[Via Joystiq]
Video of the Vast memory card PS2 modchip working
We were skeptical of Vast's claims to have developed a PS2 modchip that works simply by plugging in a memory card when we first heard about it earlier this week, but the company sent MaxConsole a video of the chip in action and it looks pretty convincing. The demo PS2 first fails to boot a backup disc, but then the demonstrator inserts the Vast card and the disc starts right up. Impressive, but we're still a little wary, especially since the demo PS2 in the video is totally opened up. Let's see this on a fresh console straight from the box, shall we? Check the full video after the break.
'Vast' memory card promises tool-less PS2 unlocking
One of the main impediments keeping many people from modding their own consoles is their lack of handiness with a soldering gun -- not to mention the whole voided warranty thing -- but now a new product is said to be on the horizon that moots both these points in a single blow, the 'Vast' advanced custom memory card for PlayStation 2. According to MaxConsole, which claims to have a dialog going with the developers, Vast "essentially exploits a flaw in the PS2 memory card system" to give you the same functionality derived from a hard-wired mod chip sans the need for a single power tool. The only real "proof" we have of this product so far is the above screenshot, which MaxConsole tells us was captured from the card's proprietary operating system; if this is all on the level, we should know more before the scheduled launch, which is said to be a mere two weeks away.
Crafty gamer builds PS2 Guitar Hero axe from scratch
Itching for anything Guitar Hero-related to tide your over until the third iteration hits? If you just so happen to have two unwanted PS1 controllers, a whammy bar, a few screws, a motion sensor, some wood (or similar), cutting instruments, and whole slew of other random tools (seriously, it's a lengthy list), you've got a tremendous challenge ahead. An admittedly stouthearted and presumably resolute individual managed to not only create a fully-functional PS2 Guitar Hero controller from a fairly impressive list of scrap parts, but he actually took the time to assemble a how-to guide for anyone else with enough knowledge and vacation time to do the same. Put simply, this DIY endeavor ranks pretty high up there on the complexity meter, but if you think you've got what it takes, let this be the dare that gets you started. Check out the video of the axe in action after the break.[Via HackNMod, thanks Joe]
Sony lightens PS2 components by almost a third
Unlike Microsoft, which dropped the original Xbox in favor of the Xbox 360 in manner similar to Paris Hilton dropping her old cellphone, Sony has continued to maintain the PlayStation 2. Somehow, Sony has managed to make a new iteration of the PS2 that decreases the console's weight by almost a third: they've trimmed the console itself down to 600 grams from 900 grams, and the power adapter to 250 grams from 350 grams. The external design of the console is unchanged, but the lower weight and the new components should decrease production and shipping costs. Not bad for an old console that continues to sell well (and sell for more than the value of its components, at that).
PS2 still has life for certain markets, PS3 doesn't mind
This is bittersweet news, actually. While we'd love to say that the PS2 is winding down and the PS3 is going to start steamrolling ahead (steamrollers go slow, but they get the job done), it seems developers disagree. While we'd love to rant about Ar Tonelico 2 and how we hope it comes to the US, the very prospect that PS2 games getting released into 2008 is boggling to many. Developer bigBIG disagrees, saying the PS2 is just catering to a different market. To us, that means "niche RPG market" and we smile.So they feel there's a lot of life left in the PS2, but not for new gamers. Sure, there's a huge library of games to choose from, but if you want to get new experiences, the PS3 is the safest bet for Sony consoles. Developers are going to turn their mainstream franchises or big-budget games to the new systems, obviously, but for those of us who like the more unique gaming experiences, niche or just a little different, seems the PS2 is going to continue that trend. We don't mind. In fact, we'd ask Nippon Ichi: "Please bring us Ar Tonelico 2!" but that would be selfish. What do you guys think? Should the PS2 be abandoned sooner or later?
Adgadget: Goat of war
Looking back at the decapitated goat scandal that was Sony's press event for God of War II, which hit British tabloids and gaming news last month, the freshly slaughtered skin may have been the least offensive part.If you frequented any gaming sites in the last few weeks, chances are you saw more pixilated pictures of flesh than you would have in a commercial for Girls Gone Wild. Unfortunately, not all the skin was of the girl variety – most of the pixilated flesh belonged to a freshly slaughtered goat that made an appearance at an event held in Greece to promote the recent launch of the game God of War II. Among the festivities back in March, guests were challenged invited to win a PS3 by reaching into what looked like the most pathetic pit of snakes and eat a traditional Greek dish fashioned after goat intestines while topless women paraded around the joint. The goat had been purchased from a butcher prior to the event and though a spokesperson claimed the goat had not been slaughtered for the event, many were left skeptical considering goats aren't typically decapitated in such a manner. A video of the event surfaced, complete with commentary and cliché flame graphics.
Sony's 1.80 PS3 firmware enables 1080p upscaling for games and movies
Hot on the heels of an 80GB Korean-bound (and US, too?) PlayStation 3 comes news that Sony is planning on seriously upping the abilities of the PS3 with a forthcoming firmware update. Compared to minor changes that have occurred in the past, this one looks to be fairly substantial, so we'll cut to the chase and give you the skinny. First off, firmware v1.80 will enable "upscaling of PlayStation / PlayStation 2 games and DVD movies up to a full 1080p when viewed on a compatible HDTV set." Of course, that "up to" bit frightens us a bit, but we'll take any progress we can get. Moving on, PSP users will enjoy Remote Play on their PSP across the internet, which will allow them to "access their PS3 anywhere in the world where a broadband internet connection is available." Additionally, owners can now view multimedia stored on a DLNA-enabled media center PC "seamlessly," and there will even be an option to print images stored on the console's HDD or inserted media to a "selection of Epson printers." The tough news, however, is that this attractive update won't be available until May 24th, so go dig up that original Twisted Metal disc in the meantime so you're ready to rock when the time comes.[Via PS3Fanboy]
The first six months show PS3 lagging behind everything
PlayStation 2 is one of the most successful consoles of all time. Last generation, it devastated its competition, with Xbox claiming a very distant second, and Nintendo's Gamecube trailing behind at third. Interestingly, the first six months of sales for these consoles show a similar pattern: PS2, followed by Xbox, followed by Gamecube. While correlation does not imply causality, these figures certainly show that the interest a product garners within its first six months can be quite important.Fast-forward to today. PS3 has suffered a crucial blow last month, and with fewer than a dozen games coming out in the next month, the immediate future does not look much brighter. Infendo (a Nintendo fan site) has constructed a graph, pointing out PS3's lackluster momentum in its first six months. Comparatively, it has been outpaced by last generation's "failures."What can we garner from this data? Firstly, Sony is going to have to try much harder. Secondly, the PS3 isn't that much farther behind the Xbox 360. Finally, the most startling revelation: people aren't as interested in this new generation of console technology as they were previous year's. A look at Wii's phenomenal success is indicative of the industry moving in a direction that many could not have predicted. As distressing as this information may be to Sony fanboys, we have to remember that the battle is far from over.[Via Joystiq]
Mythbusters: Pee on the PS2 edition
It's the stuff great urban legends are made of: A drunk University of Wyoming student supposedly knocked himself out and earned a trip to the hospital after urinating on a still-plugged-in PS2 at an off-campus party. The story got pushed by Fark on Monday and is slowly making its way into the mainstream media, getting a mention yesterday on Fox News Live.We're a bit incredulous. First of all, it's arguable whether or not the physics of the story would even work. The popular Discovery TV show Mythbusters determined that it's nearly impossible to get shocked by peeing on the supercharged third rail of a train track because the urine stream isn't consistent enough to carry a charge. Even if the drunken party-goer somehow did get close enough for a solid stream, we find it hard to believe that the measly power output of a PS2 would knock someone out for a full ten seconds.The original report itself doesn't exactly inspire confidence, either -- Fun Tech Talk is not exactly a well-known and respected source for news. While the post reads like an AP brief, there's no link to any outside sources or mention of who originally reported the story. There are some journalistic inconsistencies too -- the party supposedly happened late Saturday night, but the dateline says it was written that same Saturday.The final nail in the coffin? None of the three students mentioned in the piece turn up on the University of Wyoming's online student directory.While we'd like to believe in the poetic justice for anyone stupid enough to pee on a game system, we've got to nip this one in the bud. As the Mythbusters themselves might say, this one is busted.
Reee chair made from recycled PlayStation 2 consoles
Where do old PS2s go to die? Well, apparently they go right underneath your lazy, game-addicted ass now that Britain's pli design is introducing a chair with a seat and back made entirely from recycled PlayStation 2 casings. Suggested retail price for the Reee chair is £99, which is actually MORE than you'll pay for a brand new PS2 these days, even in Britain.[Via Inhabitat]
What is this? J Allard sporting dreadlocks
The lovable and somewhat forgotten Xbox poster child J Allard is back, sporting a new dreadful hairstyle with PSP in hand. So, what's this all about? Well, back in early 2005 J Allard and Newsweek's N'Gai Croal made a bet about the PSP's sales figures. Allard bet that the PSP wouldn't reach the PS2's sales success and N'Gai thought the opposite. Whoever lost the bet would have to don the other's hairstyle the the following E3, N'Gai would have to shave his head and Allard would get dreadlocks. And, you can see, N'Gai won the bet.But that was back in 2005 when the PSP surpassed the 10 million sales mark faster than the PS2, so why sport the dreadlocks now? Well, Allard soon left the Xbox team, jumped on board the Zune ship and sort of (conveniently) forgot about the little bet. That is until N'Gai reminded Allard 360 days later about their bet and so Allard made good on his promise by posting the story and his new "look" on his company bio page. Full size J Allard picture posted after the break. Take it in folks, dreads will be so "in" this Summer.[Via TeamXbox]
