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Sony's PlayStation Mobile Developer Program officially kicks off, SDK ready for prime time
After unveiling plans for PlayStation Mobile last summer, opening the storefront and letting its software development kit marinate in beta for roughly a year, Sony has finally given the dev platform the "go" (no, not that one) for launch. Developers eager to create games and apps for PlayStation-certified Android tablets and smartphones -- and even the PS Vita -- can download the SDK, but have to be willing to shell out $99 a year for the chance to publish as many titles as they wish. If you're ready to start slinging code, see the source links below to enroll in the program and download the SDK.
Sony Playstation Mobile store now live, offers cross-platform games and apps from $0.80
After what feels like a mighty long time since it was first announced, Sony's cross-platform PlayStation Mobile store is now up and running with an initial line-up of games (plus one lonely-looking app) for the PlayStation Vita and PlayStation Certified Android devices. That hardware category currently includes Sony's latest tablets and Xperias, plus HTC One-branded handsets -- check the source link for a full list and installation instructions. So far, we can access PSM on the Vita via a new tab on the PlayStation Store, and we know that readers are having luck on devices in the US -- including the Xperia Play -- but the One X (both global and AT&T) has only given us error messages. If you succeed or fail, please post your results below and we'll update accordingly. Update: Okay, there are definitely teething problems on HTC devices and we're reaching out for an explanation. Meanwhile, owners of the Nexus 7 and the Xperia Ion on AT&T bring happier tidings. Update: Depending on which Sony page you visit, you may or may not see the statement below, which HTC has confirmed to us is true: ""HTC mobile device owners cannot access PlayStation®Mobile for the moment. However, we are working with HTC to ensure PlayStation®Mobile launches as soon as possible. We will update you soon." [Thanks to Paul and all who've commented]
PlayStation Mobile detailed: different screens, same games
Sony's decided to spill the beans on PlayStation Mobile, its upcoming cross-platform gaming service. It will connect to your own PSN ID, linking into its software store and aiming to offer up a "wide range of portable experiences." We're still looking at PlayStation-certified devices here, but Sony's also announced that ASUS and (bizarrely) Wikipad hardware will join the (pretty Sony-centric) line-up. We can already recognize a handful of Xperia phones alongside the Tablet S and, of course, Sony's premier handheld, which will also be able to play the incoming selection of mini-games. %Gallery-162377%
PlayStation Vita Call of Duty: Black Ops Declassified bundle announced, pricing MIA
Sony's handheld will get its own companion bundle for its incoming (and exclusive) Call of Duty title. The set will include the game, a PlayStation Vita and a carry pouch -- camouflage pattern TBC. Unfortunately, Sony it neglected to mention a price or a date -- though it's likely to arrive around the same time as the game, later this year.
Stacking's 'Lost Hobo King' DLC coming in April
As hinted, THQ has made official "The Lost Hobo King" DLC for Stacking. The add-on is coming in "early April" and takes Charlie to the kingdom of Camelfoot to help his friend Levi sort out "an important family matter." Turns out Levi has some royal lineage -- we totally called it! No price has been set for "The Lost Hobo King" yet, but players can look forward to more than 15 new dolls, new challenges and Achievements/Trophies, and the "fully-realized" kingdom of Camelfoot to explore.
Sony's Jack Tretton: 'We don't buy exclusivity'
Perhaps now would be a good time to start? In an interview published within the latest issue of PSM, Sony Computer Entertainment America president, Jack Tretton, responds to the magazine's observation that there are fewer exclusive titles bound for (and to) the PlayStation 3 than there possibly could be. Mr. Tretton explains that Sony's approach to the acquisition of exclusives is different than those of competitors, perhaps in the sense that it's far more noble and devoid of unspeakable acts of bribery. Or perhaps in the sense that there isn't much of an approach at all."Yeah, 'fewer exclusives' is a term, and I don't know what makes an exclusive," says Tretton. "We have a very different approach to exclusives than some of our competitors. We don't buy exclusivity. We don't fund development. We don't, for the lack of a better term, bribe somebody to only do a game on our platform." That's correct, generating reasons for consumers to purchase and enjoy your console over others became a dubious, underhanded maneuver when you weren't looking. Since the publisher (of third-party titles such as Heavenly Sword and Lair) isn't willing to stoop that low, it would much rather "earn" exclusives. "We earn it by saying 'you can build a better game on our platform. If you focus your development on our platform, you will ultimately be more successful. We can try to partner up with you from a technological standpoint. We can try to partner up with you from a marketing standpoint. But just economically and technologically, this is the system that makes the most sense for you.'"With money apparently not changing hands for that exclusive status, how do you suppose the system's comparatively small install base makes "the most sense" economically? No answer is obtained from Tretton, who then rightly notes that as a first-party, Sony has a very strong ability to provide plenty of exclusive titles. However, he warns that relying too much on first-party endeavors as Nintendo does might not make for a "healthy environment" and that conversely, Microsoft is "too dependent on the third-party community."Grab a copy of this month's PSM to read the full interview.[Via GamesRadar Forums]
PSM confirms The Agency, PS3-exclusive spy MMO
Previously revealed at this year's D.I.C.E. summit as a Bond-inspired MMO codenamed: Vista, GamesRadar -- sister site to print mag PSM -- proudly reports that Sony has confirmed the SOE-developed title as ... The Agency. Not a lot of details available just yet, but they do hint at some of the varied game play options: dress in fatigues for a run-and-gun experience; don the spy outfit for something a little more covert. And where will you be covert? Why, in familiar spy locales like Eastern Europe and Venice (someone's been watching their spy-flicks). While no release date has been set, they expect that you'll be able to start spying this holiday season. And with a release date that close, we expect to hear a lot more about The Agency in the coming weeks ... Min-E3 perhaps?Read - Sony confirms PS3's first MMO (Games Radar)Read - PSM magazine scan (gameswank)
New Sly Cooper games coming to PSP, PS3?
Have the latest issue of PSM? Neither do we. However, PSX Extreme is reporting that the latest issue has an interview with Sucker Punch, the developers behind the popular Sly Cooper series of games. In the interview, the developers mention that two new Sly Cooper games were coming out: one for PSP, and one for PS3.The two titles are supposed to launch simultaneously, with PS3-PSP connectivity available from the get-go. The games will be unveiled at mini-E3 later this year in Santa Monica -- and we'll be there to find out more.
PSM: Sixaxis will rumble this year
According to a GameFAQs forum member, the latest issue of PSM revives the PS3 Sixaxis rumble rumors, hinting once again that Sony could integrate the "last-gen feature" into upcoming controllers. According to the magazine's rumor section, Sony will announce rumble support at E3 for a release in mid-November. The re-designed controller will allow both tilting and rumble, united at long last thanks to the settled courtroom battle between Sony and Immersion.
PSM brings DMC4 preview; gets cheap
As many of you are already familiar, PSM has scored a huge 16-page exclusive on Devil May Cry 4 in their latest issue (in newsstands today). Their preview of the multi-platform action game has us yearning for more: "It's safe to say that the generational leap in hardware has not caused the series to lose sight of what it is: pure, all-out, unforgiving action ... Many mainstays from the series, including colored orbs, air juggling, and the Euro-gothic aesthetic remain intact- only everything is rendered in eye-blistering high-definition at a locked 60 frames per second."While current subscribers are enjoying the dreamy pictures of Nero fighting demon hordes, the vigilant deal-watching group CAG has unearthed a fantastic deal for new subscriptions. 12 issues of PSM are now available for $5 at amazon.com, after instant rebate. While new subscribers are unlikely to receive the latest DMC4 blowout, one Lincoln is still a great deal for something to read when you absolutely have no access to PS3 Fanboy.
RSS this!
Every week (except for last week where it slipped by me) PSP Fanboy brings you a great new podcast that you can use your PSP's RSS feature to subscribe to. Those that remember the feature call it RSS this! This week I'm going to do something a bit unorthadox. This week's RSS podcast only has 3 episodes and hasn't been updated in over a month. The reason I'm linking to the podcast though is because there was some serious quality work done on the podcast when it was being done and it only hasn't been updated due to a personal tragedy in Randy Nelson's life. I want to wish Randy the best and let him know that myself and several other PSM fans can't wait for the podcast to be up and running. I also enjoy PSM as a magazine, so I respect what they're trying to do over there and they're easily my favorite platform specific mag. Out of only 3 podcasts, Randy interviewed Ted Price of Insomniac Games and Ryan Payton of Kojima Studios as well as spill the news about the possibility of more MGS titles on PSP and give out plenty of PlayStation news. Randy has promised that when the podcast does come back, it will feature more of the PSM cast and whenever that day comes, I'll be there to listen to it. Feel free to show your support as well. I'm sure after listening to the podcasts that were done, you'll want to anyway. If you want to add PSM Podcast to your PSP's RSS, just bring up this site with your PSP through our mobile version at m.pspfanboy.com and clink this link: http://www.psmpodcast.com/audio/?feed=rss2&category_name=podcasts Then you can exit your web browser and the show should be in your RSS channels. From there you can set a timer for auto-download of episodes, stream them, or download them directly. Got something you have RSS'd and would like us to feature? Just let us know in the comments, or let other readers know what you think of PSM Podcast.
PSM readers, just give in and buy GoW
If you are a regular reader of Playstation Magazine ( ... ewww) you'll notice February's edition has a familiar game ad on the back. It looks like Microsoft bought some prime ad space on the back of the PSM magazine promoting none other than Gears of War. And why not? The PS3 fanboys need something to dream about and everyone knows they wish they could have Gears. We say just give in to your urges already guys, drop the PS3, and buy a Xbox 360 ... Gears is patiently waiting for you.[Thanks, Jonah]
Konami really wants to do a Metal Gear PSP sequel
Back in November there was an IGN interview with Kojima Studios Ryan Payton in which he stated "If the response to MPO is as good as we're expecting, you can look forward to new chapters in the Big Boss legacy on PSP." Well, Ryan is at it again, this time on PSM's podcast saying "If it's successful on the retail level there will definitely be a sequel. ...that's something I really, really want to do." If the Japanese sales are any indication, Snake may be on another PSP sneaking mission very soon. Just to make sure, go out and buy five copies at your local retailer today to appease the Konami gods. The way I feel about it is, the PSP game library is like a bachelorette party; the more Snake the better. [Update 1: Fixed links.]
