The All Things PS3 Thread (News, Demos, Info, etc)

[BGPu]

The PS2 chips are inside the PS3 so it's plug & play essentially.

[noble]

For people looking to start a blu-ray collection via ps3...


Amazon.com is having a nice little High-Def media sale. Here's a link to Amazon.com's Blu-ray Movies http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_nr_af_1/002-4425786-8492861?ie=UTF8&field-is-available-new=1&keywords=blu-ray&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Ablu-ray%2Ci%3Advd%2Cn%3A404276 .
Two things are goin on:

Special Blu-ray Disc Offer: Save an additional 10% on all of your Blu-ray Disc purchases for the next year. Purchase three Blu-ray Discs right now, and you'll automatically qualify to receive an additional 10% off all of your high-definition DVD purchases for one year.

[Joshzilla]

For people looking to start a blu-ray collection via ps3...


Amazon.com is having a nice little High-Def media sale. Here's a link to Amazon.com's Blu-ray Movies http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_nr_af_1/002-4425786-8492861?ie=UTF8&field-is-available-new=1&keywords=blu-ray&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Ablu-ray%2Ci%3Advd%2Cn%3A404276 .
Two things are goin on:

Special Blu-ray Disc Offer: Save an additional 10% on all of your Blu-ray Disc purchases for the next year. Purchase three Blu-ray Discs right now, and you'll automatically qualify to receive an additional 10% off all of your high-definition DVD purchases for one year.

They do the same for HD-DVD's, just fyi.

[noble]

They do the same for HD-DVD's, just fyi.


Oh cool :D

[Cth]

Quick question, the PS3 is backwards compatible correct? But is it just plug and play or do you have to download emulators kits or whatever the hell they are ala the XBox 360?

Guitar Hero II doesn't work so far, which hopefully isn't a sign of future compatibility problems.

[Cth]

http://www.gizmodo.com/gadgets/home-entertainment/ps3-sixaxis-controllers-battery-is-kinda-replaceable-214144.php

PS3 SIXAXIS Controller's Battery Is Kinda Replaceable

Even though Sony's said that they will replace dead SIXAXIS controllers once the battery life is gone—there's actually a note that the battery has a limited life-span in the manual—they also give you a method for removing the battery. All you have to do is unscrew 5 screws on the back of the controller, pull the casing up, and disconnect the connector to the battery. In the above picture, you can see the connector and the battery (that may be exchangeable without getting an entirely new controller).

Our guess is that Sony, or perhaps third party companies, will sell these batteries and you will be able to replace them yourself with 15 minutes and some screwing.

[Cth]

DATE FOR THE DIARY: 17TH NOVEMBER

Phil Harrison’s recent comments regarding the master ID that you obtain once you are registered onto your PS3 has been creating a stir. Mainly by those worrying that, due to the PS3’s early release in the US and Japan, by the time the PS3 launches in Europe all of the decent usernames will have been taken.

Well have no fear, we’ve been informed by PlayStation that when the PS3 launches in the US on 17th November, the rest of the world will be able to register their usernames online at the PlayStation Store via your PC.

STORE:
http://www.us.playstation.com/Store?ref=http%3A//www.sony.com/index.php

[noble]

here's a question for you multiple console owners.

How many of you are going to be using the same user names.

Are you going to be using your 360 gamertag as your PS3 one or even Wii(if it allows it)?

I am as it's just easier to remember :)

[Cth]

I'm going to sign up for Cth and sit on it for a year ;)

[Cth]

http://ps3.ign.com/articles/745/745507p1.html

Weekend numbers are in for the PlayStation 3's Japanese debut, and they aren't pretty at all. Enterbrain, the publisher of Japan's Weekly Famitsu magazine, reports today that Sony managed to sell 88,400 PlayStation 3 units over the system's first two days of retail release. This number breaks down to 33,800 20 Gig models and 54,600 60 Gig models.

If you think those hardware numbers are low, check out these software figures. The best selling game over the period was Bandai Namco's Ridge Racer 7, which sold 30,300 copies. This was followed by Gundam Crossfire at 30,000 units and Resistance, at 15,700 units. Figures for Genji and Sega Golf Club, the two other launch titles, were not provided.

Enterbrain reports a software-hardware tie ratio of 0.98, meaning less than one game purchased for every PS3 sold.

These numbers sound eerily similar to the Xbox 360's launch last year. In its first two days, the 360 managed sales of 62,135 hardware units, Enterbrain reported in the days following the launch. The biggest selling game then was Ridge Racer 6, with 29,891 units, followed by Perfect Dark Zero, at 14,897 units.

Of course, the PS3 was, for all intents and purposes, sold out within hours of launch, while Microsoft filled Japanese shops with 100,000 additional 360 units, which have only recently gotten around to selling. The 360 is, technically, the number one next generation system in Japan at this point, but that will probably change once Sony gets another shipment out.

Something that we expect will happen some time in 2008.

[OS Fitz]

These video game companies piss me off. Obviously there weren't going to be enough machines for everyone but it seems to me that a better strategy than sticking to a date is sticking to a (large) number of units manufactured then set the date.


This would be ideal for the consumer, but, from a business standpoint, a "shortage" is an ideal situation. It is the supply and demand concept at its finest (see also Tickle Me Elmo, Beanie Babies). If you deliver a shortage of something that is even remotely desirable, the inability to attain said item will drive you insane. You must have said item to go on living. Meanwhile, the financial experts sit back with a smile on their face. You might think that they would make more money if everyone that wants one can get it at launch, but, if you're trying to buy one at launch, aren't you going to buy it eventually anyway?

Not being able to buy what I want when I want frustrates me too, but I can appreciate the genius of it.

[Cth]

http://ps3.ign.com/articles/745/745506p1.html

Yesterday, we shared with you a quickly compiled list of PS2 titles that were, according to a database accessible at the official Japanese PlayStation.com site, causing problems when being played on the PlayStation 3. We only looked for the biggest games and found a list that wasn't too long. But the full list of problematic titles is apparently quite hefty.

Japan's Cnet.com reports backwards compatibility problems for over 196 PlayStation 2 titles. This figure counts multiple versions of the same game (budget versions, limited editions, etc.) as a single entity and includes the full range of problems, from simple sound issues to more dramatic freezing issues.

In response to these issues, Sony's PR department pointed out that it, from the start, expected backwards compatibility to be less than 100%. It was also good enough to point out that some people can put up with playing games that lack sound.

Regardless of this somewhat arrogant response, an official statement issued at the PlayStation.com site states that Sony will fix the problems with a future system update, and may even resort to individual patches for certain titles. When this will happen has yet to be specified.

[Kip K]

Is anybody planning on standing in line for a PS3? If so, where and what time do you plan on starting?

Last year I was 14th in line for a 360 at Target after getting there at 4 in the morning. I am thinking I will need to be there alot earlier for a PS3.

[Humphrey_Lee]

Is anybody planning on standing in line for a PS3? If so, where and what time do you plan on starting?

Last year I was 14th in line for a 360 at Target after getting there at 4 in the morning. I am thinking I will need to be there alot earlier for a PS3.

As far as I know I don't have to stand in any line except for whoever is paying for stuff in front of me at the moment. I guess I just gotta show up relatively on time when the store opens up.

[Cth]

Nope, but I might do the business membership thing @ Sams Club to get a Wii.

[Kip K]

I've got one preordered too, but if I can earn a few thousand by standing in line for a night I am going to try it.

[noble]

I've talked to Best buy and FYE.

Both said that IF there aren't enough to cover pre-orders it's going to be first come first serve on the pre-orders.

I plan on getting to Gamestop around 9pm for the midnight launch, and FYE around 8am for the 930am opening.(I live in a reeeeeeeeallly small town, so there shouldn't be that much of a line.)

[Cth]

Someone is claiming EB/GS is saying they're getting shorted on the PS3 orders.

Might be worth keeping an ear out if it's true.. no confirmation yet.

[Cth]

This may be useful info for whoever gets a PS3 --



I've got the PS3 connected (via HDMI) to a Panasonic 42" plasma, model number TH-42PX500 (Japanese TV).
The PS3 is set to output to 720p, which my TV can handle.

Everything is fine until I launch a PS3 game. Once I do that, after the "Playstation 3" logo appears, the screen goes black. The game is loading fine, I just cant see it.

The only way I can regain control of my TV at this point is to tune into the regular TV channels using my TV remote. Only then I can use the input selection button to get back to HDMI. Once I do this, I can see and play the game.

My guess is that the PS3 is sending some kind of signal through the HDMI cable that is making the TV unhappy. The strange thing is, I tried a PS1 game and it worked fine.

Firmware Update
NCS Customers: Please update your Japanese PS3 firmware with v1.10 upon arrival of the console. The download is linked below and is a little under 100MB:
http://djp01.ps3.update.playstation....b/PS3UPDAT.PUP



Tried it with my component cables...definitely an HDMI issue.



ok here with new info i discovered!

first of all. if you have a hdtv monitor that can handle 1080p. here is a tip.

you need first to connect the analog cables that come with the ps3 and the hdmi cable to the minotor. when you start up your ps3 make sure that in system settings you change to hdmi.

then change the setting on the benq monitor to hdmi. only this way it works.

somehow the monitors dont automaticly understand the hdmi signal and it wont work. this left me with big problems. because now my ps3 monitor has hdmi as signal. and i cant get it back to 480i again on my other monitor.

also i tried with different cables from hdmi to dvi doesnt work. i also tried setting 1080i. still not work.

also i updated to firmware 1.10 and loadtimes still same. nothing imporved for me on kingdom of heaven.

i cant try yet 8 below and corpse bride on the ps3 yet. because i gave them to my friend to watch. i will get them back tommorow or monday.

also in the ps3 you cant change settings to 1080p 24 frames a second or 1080p 60 hz. so we can asume for this moment that it only does 1080p 60hz. you can only select 1080p.

anyway today i had very little time to check out on the plasma tv with samsung bluray player. and compare that to ps3 as bluray player. but i will do that tommorow.

now me is going home dead tired and getting some sleep.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=748982&page=1&pp=30

[Cth]

PS3 Launch Title Reviews:


Resistance: Fall of Man - IGN - 9.1 (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/745/745206p1.html)

Closing Comments
But let's be honest, Resistance doesn't have to be perfect to be fun, and fun is exactly what it is. From start to finish, Fall of Man is one hell of an outstanding roller coaster ride that every last PS3 owner needs for day one. Epic boss battles (the final few are crazy!), ever-changing scenery, addictive weaponry, and a unique thematic are just a few of the reasons Resistance stands out. But above all else, it's the multiplayer elements that truly ascend this one to the next level. It's a must have for sure.

Resistance: Fall of Man - 8.5 - 1UP (http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3155184)

For now, Resistance falls a little short of being the hoped-for "Halo-killer," but with a package that would be considered complete by any standards, it delivers a launch classic, and it lives up to its billing as the PS3's killer app.


Tony Hawk's Project 8 - IGN - 7.0 (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/745/745182p1.html)

Closing Comments
Tony Hawk's Project 8 is an interesting game in that while it introduces a number of new and fun concepts, like Nail a Trick and Spot Challenges, much of it feels very rehashed. In fact, some areas of the game are even taken from past games in the series, making the package feel somewhat lazy. That's not to say that Tony doesn't have any stamina left in his legs, as the game is still plenty fun most of the time, but we've seen it all before. It's certainly disappointing that the PlayStation 3 is so far behind the Xbox 360 game. Framerate issues are apparent at every other turn, and the lack of online play really hurts. Project 8 is a worthy game to pick up, just preferably not on this system.

Tony Hawk's Project 8 - Gamespot - 7.3 (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/sports/tonyhawksproject8/review.html?sid=6161341&tag=recent_updates;title;3)

Project 8 makes a lot of changes that will please fans of the series, but some technical issues and missing features hurt the experience.
The Good: Redesigned career mode gives you multiple levels of challenge; nail the trick mode is a cool-looking addition that has a positive impact on the gameplay.
The Bad: Frame rate is frequently unstable; no online support; skater creation options aren't as in-depth as they have been in previous installments.

Genji: Days of the Blade - Gamespot - 6.4 (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/adventure/genji/review.html?sid=6161332&tag=recent_updates;title;2)

While this action adventure game flexes a bit of the PlayStation 3's graphical muscle with its mythical Japanese scenery, its rather shallow, derivative gameplay makes it difficult to recommend.
The Good: Great graphics and sound show off some of what the PlayStation 3 can do; four considerably different playable characters plus multiple unique weapons; some exciting boss battles and other impressive set pieces.
The Bad: Level design is often dull, and sometimes frustrating and confusing; repetitive hack-and-slash combat rarely demands much skill or finesse; some noticeable cut corners throughout the story make the game feel rushed.

Genji: Days of the Blade - IGN - 6.0 (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/744/744611p1.html)

Closing Comments
While gorgeous, Days of the Blade hardly lets gamers “play beyond”, as it were. The additional characters and weapons certainly help, as does the flexible combat system. The game also offers amazing vistas and epic boss fights. Regardless of how someone dresses a corpse, though, it’s still a corpse. And that’s the main problem here. Beneath the gleaming surface lies an old heart that’s just about had it. Days of the Blade gets half the formula right. Sadly, it’s the wrong half. In the end, fans of the original should take a look, but anyone looking for a true next-generation action title will need to wait.

[Cth]

Someone is claiming EB/GS is saying they're getting shorted on the PS3 orders.

Might be worth keeping an ear out if it's true.. no confirmation yet.

Pretty much confirmed everywhere by now. Reports are saying 30-50% less than anticipated.

No idea if this is just for GS/EB or for North America in general yet.

Some people are saying those who ordered 20gb versions are guaranteed to get theirs even if the 60gb version sells out.

It's going to be insane either way on launch day.

[Cth]

Gamestop Shortage Solutions/FAQs



Sony notified us that our initial shipment of PS3 systems will not be what we expected. We will be able to fulfill approximately 60% of our reservations on launch day. While this is not an ideal situation, the following should ease some of the customer service issues:

- We anticipate enough systems to cover reservations well before Christmas.

- Employees must wait to purchase their reserved systems until the second shipment. Anyone violating this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.

We feel it necessary to take a strong customer service viewpoint on this issue.

- Stores will fill launch-day reservations in the order that the systems were reserved. All stores should have this information on the tracking sheets that were provided via email.

- Customers that are willing to wait for the second shipment to pick up their reserve will be offered a free used game or DVD priced at $19.99 or less.

- Instead of utilizing the ARN system, stores will personally call all reservations customers.

- Stores will be provided two scripts to user - one for customers that will be receiving the units on launch day and one for customers whose reservations will be fulfilled by subsequent shipments.

- We will provide each store with launch-day allocations on each SKU and a tracking sheet to monitor customer calls and pick-up intentions.

- Due to the complexity of this release, we will not be providing an ARN call to support this launch.

- Customers should have received the "Thank You for Your Reservation" notification at the time of reservation. This explained that the deposit guaranteed a spot in line when the reserved system becomes available and does not guarantee receipt of a system at launch.

***System Available Script***
"Hi, this is ____ calling from (GameStop/EB Games). I am calling to let you know that our allocation of PS3 systems is not what we expected but, because you were one of the first people to reserve, we will have your system on launch day. We will be opening at ___. We will also be receiving additional units in time for Christmas. If you are willing to wait for a second shipment to pick up your PS3, I can offer you a free used game or DVD priced $20 or less. Could you let me know if you plan to purchase your PS3 on Friday, 11/17 or Saturday, 11/18?"

***System NOT Available Script***
"Hi, this is ____ calling from (GameStop/EB Games). Unfortunately, our allocation of PS3 systems is not what we expected and we will not be able to provide you with a system on launch day. We will be receiving additional units in time for Christmas and your are number ___ on the list to receive a unit. We are very sorry that we are not able to provide you with a system on launch day. We will call you as soon as your system arrives."

-----Q & A-----

Some questions you may have are:

Q: Will we hold PS3 systems past 48 hours (close-of-business Saturday)?
A: We would like all reservations customers to pick up shipments from the initial allocation by Saturday evening. If you have a unique issue that requires you to hold a system longer, please partner with your DM.

Q: Can employees get the free used game because they waited until the second shipment?
A: Yes, employees are eligible to receive the free used game.

Q: When can customers get their free used game on DVD?
A: They will get this when they purchase their PS3 system.

Q: If a customer would like to get a more expensive used game, can we discount it $19.99 and allow them to pay the difference?
A: No, the customer must select a $19.99 game.

Q: Can we provide a free $19.99 used game to those customers to whom we will not be able to provide a system on launch day?
A: No, these customers will not be eligible for the free used game.

Q: When will we get more PS3 systems?
A: We are hoping for weekly re-stocks through the holidays. At this time, we do not have these specifics. The good news is Sony is shipping systems weekly.

-----Notifying Customers------

Customers should be contacted in the order that they are reserved. All calls must be made by end-of-day on Wednesday 11/15. Each store will be provided a tracking sheet to document phone calls made to reservation customers.

Beginning with the first customer on your list, use the below script. This script will be used until your allocation has been met. As stated above, we are requiring that employees wait to pick up their system until a subsequent shipment.

Q: Will customers be able to purchase this on GameStop.com at launch?
A: No, our entire launch allocation is going to the field to fulfill reservations.

Q: If a store is able to provide a system to all customers wishing to purchase and they still have some left, can those be sold to employees?
A: No, in cases such as these, the systems should be transferred to a stores that has not bee able to fulfill all reservations. This is also the case if a stores has 20-GB units that are not wanted by reservation customers.

Q: Will customers that will not have the choice of picking up on launch day get the free $19.99 game?
A: No. We will, however, allow employees to take advantage of this offer since we are not allowing them to purchase on launch day.

Q: Wy are stores getting 20 GB units even if they didn't reserve any?
A: We are shipping out all units that we have available, so some stores may get more of the 20 GB systems that were not reserved.

[Smokinblues]

I just called gamestop regarding a order for my 360 version of Tony Hawk. I've had to call them several times over the last two weeks, and every other time the opening recording said "we have no information about ps3 online preorders."

Today it said "we will not be taking any online preorders for ps3 to due limited availability, instore preorders will be receiving calls from their store."

[Cth]

Hrm, not good news.. Circuit City updated their page with a shortage notice as well:

http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/categorySpecial.do?catOid=-16622&&WT.mc_n=285615&WT.mc_t=U&cm_ven=VANITY%20URL&cm_cat=MERCHANDISING&cm_pla=GAMES%20HARDWARE-%3EGAMING&cm_ite=111986%20VANITY%20URL%20PS3&cm_keycode=285615



Manufacturer shortages have decreased supply, and any statements about product availability made by Circuit City are subject to change.

[Kip K]

I stopped by Wal-Mart this morning and they couldn't give me a firm number. The employee was expecting only 20 for launch.

[noble]

I've heard through my local wal mart manager that they can guarantee they are getting 10. (Didn't specify which model 60, or 20). 11 and up will get a raincheck from wal mart for when the next system shipment arrives.

So if you are standing in line at wal mart and there are 10 people in front of you, I'd turn around and go home.


I'm expecting FYE to get cut from the first wave all together.

If so looks like I get to cash in my coupon :twisted:

[Cth]

It's been said before, but worth repeating.

If you know of someone with a business membership at Sams Club go there, it's probably your best chance to get one.

People will line up, but unless they have a membership they won't get in before they sell out.

[Joshzilla]

If so looks like I get to cash in my coupon :twisted:

Record it and throw that shit on YouTube. You could become the voice of a nation!

[Akira]

If so looks like I get to cash in my coupon :twisted:
You care about that more than the system dont you? :-P

[Akira]

It's been said before, but worth repeating.

If you know of someone with a business membership at Sams Club go there, it's probably your best chance to get one.

People will line up, but unless they have a membership they won't get in before they sell out.

Has there been any word on how many (if any) Sam's club is getting?

[Cth]

Has there been any word on how many (if any) Sam's club is getting?

Probably the same as Walmart, so I'd guess 20?

EDIT: Pure speculation on my part.

[Kip K]

Best Buy's website says each of their stores is getting at least 20, so that is probably a good number for most mass market retailers.

[noble]

You care about that more than the system dont you? :-P


Well I'm already guaranteed one at my gamestop so yeah.

Boom boom. fall down.

[noble]

Probably the same as Walmart, so I'd guess 20?

EDIT: Pure speculation on my part.

They're reporting that Sam's club is not getting their shipments until dec 12th.

[Joshzilla]

On G4 last night there was a poll taken on whether or not "you" would pay over retail for a PS3 at launch. It got something like:

64% - no
36% - yes

I was kinda amazed that many people said yes.

[Kip K]

I think there will be alot of people paying over retail on ebay this weekend. Considering auctions were going for $2,000+ without systems in hand, I could easily see them going for $3,000+ with systems in hand.

[Kip K]

I think there will be alot of people paying over retail on ebay this weekend. Considering auctions were going for $2,000+ without systems in hand, I could easily see them going for $3,000+ with systems in hand.

[Cth]

On G4 last night there was a poll taken on whether or not "you" would pay over retail for a PS3 at launch. It got something like:

64% - no
36% - yes

I was kinda amazed that many people said yes.

Try this one:



Gamasutra examines a new report released by analyst Compete that surveyed pre-launch demand of both the PS3 and Wii in the US. The survey found that almost half (48%) of those considering a PS3 expect it to cost less than $300 without knowing the set $500-600 price. After learning the MSRP, 59% of those considering the console (and 73% of all gamers) thought it was overpriced.

While the article praised the Wii's price point, it also showed doubt concerning Nintendo's brand loyalty: "Nintendo's strategic decision to simplify its console may in fact be turning off a number of its loyalists. 39% of GameCube owners are considering a Wii purchase while 40% are considering a PS3. However, along those same lines, PlayStation loyalty is considerably higher, with 63% of PlayStation 2 owners considering the purchase of a PlayStation 3, according to the firm's figures."



They're reporting that Sam's club is not getting their shipments until dec 12th.

Hah.

I shouldn't be surprised :D


I think there will be alot of people paying over retail on ebay this weekend. Considering auctions were going for $2,000+ without systems in hand, I could easily see them going for $3,000+ with systems in hand.

I can imagine someone selling a reserved PS3 for $2000 on Ebay, finding out they won't get it until March, and just deciding to make off with the $2000.

[Cth]

Sams Club Info (last week)



Wii launch day quantity will average 6-12 per store, bundled with Zelda if memory serves correctly and no extra controller, PS3 expect about half of that but nothing is confirmed yet. We also have good deals on tents for the night before your gonna need it. Replenishment for wii should be about 7-10 days later with the same and possbily double the quantity. PS3 replenishment nothing set up yet.

[Cth]

http://www.cubed3.com/news/6310/1/Poor_Sales_for_Sony_PlayStation_3

Details have begun to emerge from Japan regarding how well the PlayStation 3 and its launch games have actually sold since launching on Saturday, 11th November. The following data is according to Media Create figures:

# PlayStation 3 - 81,639

This is broken down as well into the two separate packages:

# 60GB version - 45,774
# 20GB version - 35,865

As for the software side, originally it was announced that the tie-in rate was only 0.98, meaning not every person went home with a system AND a game. Now, though, the revised software numbers are in and look as follows:

# Ridge Racer 7 - 21,654
# Gundam Target in Sight - 21,309
# Resistance - 13,545
# Genji - 8,766
# Sega Golf Club - 1,410

It certainly does not paint a pretty picture, does it? Considering the bottom three places of last week's Media Create Top 10 looked like this:

Software Sales - This Week | Total Sales

8.) JLAA Official Kanji Kentei DS (NDS, Rocket Company) - 22,824 | 210,556
9.) Animal Crossing: Wild World (NDS, Nintendo) - 20,691 | 3,389,974
10.) Ace Combat X: Skies of Deception (PSP, Bandai-Namco) - 17,961 | 78,545


It certainly does not bode well for the PS3 software, with Ridge Racer 7 perhaps managing to scrape in at No.9. However, there are reports that Nintendo planned to capitalise on the PS3 shortages by shipping many more DS Lite systems than in previous weeks.

If that is indeed the case, then games like Custom Robo, Brain Training and even Tales of the Tempest may have also been boosted, and along with the release of another Kanji Quiz title, we could actually see a Top 10 completely full of DS games, which would be a major embarrassment to Sony.

And then, to top everything off, in the light of the 17th November US launch of the PlayStation 3, Jonnyram of NeoGAF has found out Japanese source Jamira is reporting that only 30,000 PS3 consoles will be shipped this coming Saturday, rather than the originally stated 100,000. This means that the woe for the launch games is not about to be alleviated any time soon.

Perhaps those rumours of developers switching PS3 projects over to Wii are not so crazy after all...

[Cth]

http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/some-dude-is-reselling-100-ps3s-gonna-get-paid/

Some dude is reselling 100 PS3s, gonna get paid

http://www.adjab.com/media/2006/11/3112ps3100.jpg

Some Japanese consumer named Eiji (who we can only assume is a legitimate ninja) somehow managed to scoop up 100 PS3s in both 20GB and 60GB varieties and is reportedly planning to resell them. Forget the fact that he got his hands on more units than most (if not any) other retailer alone received. The point is, this reseller stands to make a lot of cash, most likely in the hundreds of thousands. Expect to see him in Forbes sometime next year.

[Joshzilla]

http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/some-dude-is-reselling-100-ps3s-gonna-get-paid/

Some dude is reselling 100 PS3s, gonna get paid

http://www.adjab.com/media/2006/11/3112ps3100.jpg

Some Japanese consumer named Eiji (who we can only assume is a legitimate ninja) somehow managed to scoop up 100 PS3s in both 20GB and 60GB varieties and is reportedly planning to resell them. Forget the fact that he got his hands on more units than most (if not any) other retailer alone received. The point is, this reseller stands to make a lot of cash, most likely in the hundreds of thousands. Expect to see him in Forbes sometime next year.

What'll be sad is if a bunch of US people buy from him, get their unit and then realize the power cord won't work in US sockets.

[Kip K]

I stopped by Target this morning--they know the number of PS3s they are receiving, but are not giving out the number for some weird reason.

Also, they have a working PS3 in the display case. The machine is a behemoth.

[John Drake]

Wow, so the PS3 is actually in trouble in Japan?

[OS Fitz]

I stopped by Target this morning--they know the number of PS3s they are receiving, but are not giving out the number for some weird reason.

Also, they have a working PS3 in the display case. The machine is a behemoth.

Is it bigger than the 360?

[Kip K]

I would say it is 1.5 (maybe even 2) 360s.

[Foolish Mortal]

What'll be sad is if a bunch of US people buy from him, get their unit and then realize the power cord won't work in US sockets.
I believe you can plug Japanese electronics into American sockets. And even if you couldn't, there are power converters that you can buy for about 20 or 30 bucks that will allow you to do it.

[Joshzilla]

I believe you can plug Japanese electronics into American sockets. And even if you couldn't, there are power converters that you can buy for about 20 or 30 bucks that will allow you to do it.

Well, you can plug it in, but I don't know how well it'd work.

US: 110v 60Hz
Japan: 110v 50Hz

Doesn't sound like much, but my company here runs the circuit board different for each country and our air purifiers aren't nearly the power hogs that game systems are. And yeah, you could do that power converter thing.

[noble]

My local wal mart just confirmed 3-5 systems for tomorrows launch :shock:

Ouch.

[Kip K]

wow--I guess I am going to head over to mine and start the campout tonight.

[Akira]

http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/14/some-dude-is-reselling-100-ps3s-gonna-get-paid/

Some dude is reselling 100 PS3s, gonna get paid

http://www.adjab.com/media/2006/11/3112ps3100.jpg

Some Japanese consumer named Eiji (who we can only assume is a legitimate ninja) somehow managed to scoop up 100 PS3s in both 20GB and 60GB varieties and is reportedly planning to resell them. Forget the fact that he got his hands on more units than most (if not any) other retailer alone received. The point is, this reseller stands to make a lot of cash, most likely in the hundreds of thousands. Expect to see him in Forbes sometime next year.

Wow, that guy could single handely flood the ebay market and ruin the profit margins of other potential resellers.:shock: On the other hand, he could also help lots of parents and gamers get their hands on the system too.

[sto110]

when is the official launch day? Tomorrow morning or friday morning. (for stores with no midnight)


I was in a CC in NJ and they said they were getting 8, said another store (i think in ny) was getting 100 and 100 to give away. yet another store was getting 30 or so

[Cth]

I wonder if the anti-PS3 stuff had anything to do with it :)



Ziff Davis Game Group to Discontinue Publication of Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 14 -- Ziff Davis Game Group, the leading integrated media company focused on the video game sector, today announced that it will discontinue publication of Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine after the January 2007 issue. The Game Group is laser-focused on continuing to expand its rapidly growing digital media presence and on further strengthening its multiplatform properties and powerful integrated network. As such, the Game Group has determined that Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine, a property licensed from Sony Computer Entertainment America and limited to print, no longer fits its strategic vision.

"Ziff Davis has had a great run with Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine for the past nine years," said Scott McCarthy, President of Ziff Davis Game Group. "We are very proud of the magazine and its outstanding editorial team, and we're obviously sad to see it go. Unfortunately, given where we are taking the Game Group, it doesn't easily fit into our integrated media network or afford us digital media opportunities."

Mr. McCarthy continued, "In addition, it's a new world. The powerful online capabilities of the exciting PlayStation 3, coupled with ever- increasing broadband penetration in the U.S., allow for much more efficient distribution of game demos, videos, and trailers. With this next generation of game consoles, the days of having to bundle a disc with a magazine to distribute games-related content are over. And the disc has clearly been a major driver for consumer interest in premium-priced, platform-specific magazines in the past, when the magazine disc was the only way gamers could get such content."

Sony Computer Entertainment America will remain a key content and marketing partner for Ziff Davis Game Group, which will cover SCEA's PlayStation 3 and first-party games extensively across all of its media outlets, including EGM, 1UP.com, and GameVideos.com. The Game Group editorial team will also work closely with SCEA in the development of digital content for the PlayStation Network, accessible only through the PS3.

"We are as excited about the PlayStation 3 as the rest of the world, and gamers will be sure to see us reporting extensively on the platform -- and on the PlayStation 2 and PlayStation Portable -- across our various media assets," said John Davison, Senior Vice President and Editorial Director of Ziff Davis Game Group. "We enjoy working with SCEA and look forward to continuing our relationship for many years to come."

Ziff Davis Game Group's digital media presence has expanded greatly over the past year. The reach of the 1UP Network in the third quarter of 2006 was nearly six times larger than in the same quarter in 2005, and the Game Group has launched several new online properties including GameVideos.com, MyCheats.com, the 1UP Show video podcast, and the ESPN.com Video Games Channel in partnership with ESPN.

The Game Group is also aggressively integrating its print and online media properties wherever possible. For example, its flagship multiplatform magazine EGM, the leader among videogame magazines, is now closely aligned with 1UP.com in terms of visual design, content, and its games rating system.

[Foolish Mortal]

I wonder if the anti-PS3 stuff had anything to do with it :)

Mr. McCarthy continued, "In addition, it's a new world. The powerful online capabilities of the exciting PlayStation 3, coupled with ever- increasing broadband penetration in the U.S., allow for much more efficient distribution of game demos, videos, and trailers. With this next generation of game consoles, the days of having to bundle a disc with a magazine to distribute games-related content are over. And the disc has clearly been a major driver for consumer interest in premium-priced, platform-specific magazines in the past, when the magazine disc was the only way gamers could get such content."
It sounds to me like Sony was the one who killed the magazine because they want (to force) people to get news and demos through them. (I.E. the PS3)

Pitty, I'll miss the magazine. It was fun. :(

[Cth]

It sounds to me like Sony was the one who killed the magazine because they want (to force) people to get news and demos through them. (I.E. the PS3)

Pitty, I'll miss the magazine. It was fun. :(

Yes, I know, but still..

It's probably because the added costs of putting the demos on blu-ray as well.

Still, kinda ironic so soon after the editor said so much negative about it, and how she was buying a 360 instead.

Now we know why they're charging for the demos... crazy.

[Foolish Mortal]

Yes, I know, but still..

It's probably because the added costs of putting the demos on blu-ray as well.

Still, kinda ironic so soon after the editor said so much negative about it, and how she was buying a 360 instead.

Now we know why they're charging for the demos... crazy.
I'm sure Sony had made the decision long before that editorial was printed. I bet the magazine staff knew it was coming for awhile now.

[Cth]

FYI --




"Ive learned that there is a auto HDMI setup built into the PS3. They say to do the following:

Turn on TV and set input to HDMI port being used
Make sure PS3 is connected via HDMI
Power on PS3 via power button and HOLD IT for 5 seconds. It should automagically configure your PS3 to the TV's native res for all settings.

[Cth]

I'm expecting FYE to get cut from the first wave all together.

If so looks like I get to cash in my coupon :twisted:

Get ready..

Wait for it..

FYE was cut altogether. NONE of them are getting any.

[Jew Mafia]

Get ready..

Wait for it..

FYE was cut altogether. NONE of them are getting any.

One of the 24 hour Walmarts here got their shipment cut from 10 to 4

[sto110]

Called my 2 local Sams clubs in philly (for me)
if anyone remembers i got my 360 on launch day with no wait in line (maybe a half hour) I had a business membership to sams club and those people can go there 3 hours early. Well i called and both are getting 1 each.

so its a good thing i didnt really want one. :)

[Joshzilla]

Yikes for PS3 guys:

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4852778&postcount=1640

[sto110]

Yikes for PS3 guys:

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=4852778&postcount=1640

if that is an actual developer that is bad, and prob will be removed soon.

basically he is admitting something is wrong and placing blame, not something you normally see

[Joshzilla]

if that is an actual developer that is bad, and prob will be removed soon.

basically he is admitting something is wrong and placing blame, not something you normally see

Yeah, the only clarification he would give is that it wasn't a software issue (he worked on Resistance). From that, it seems we are to infer it's Sony's hardware. Dunno.

[sto110]

he seems very nonshalant about that, as if he knew this was coming

[Cth]

http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/150-line-up-for-ps3-in-rockville-md/#comments

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.joystiq.com/media/2006/11/ps3line.jpg

Washington's Fox 5 News has the video of approximately 150 people waiting in a line that "grows by the hour" outside the Rockville, MD Circuit City last night in advance of Friday's PS3 launch. The story also shows that the store has only 100 consoles in the storeroom, leaving us to worry about the countless people who will likely wait for two days only to go home empty handed.

The pole position in line goes to a father purchasing the system for a son to "let him know how much love I have for him." We should all have such fathers. Not all the line-goers are so selfless though -- one waiter said point blank that it was "more economical for us to stand in line and do nothing for three days, [then] turn around and sell it on eBay for two grand." The free market ... ya gotta love it.

[Botelho]

Though ya'll would like to know...

From imdb.com


New Debacle for Sony


In the latest embarrassment to strike Sony Corp., the company acknowledged today (Wednesday) that many games designed for the original PlayStation and PlayStation 2 consoles are not compatible with PlayStation 3. News of the problem follows the rash of bad publicity over production delays involving the device, consumer hesitancy over the company's Blu-ray high-definition DVD devices, and especially a recall of laptop batteries that the company had manufactured. Sony had been hoping that the hugely hyped Casino Royale, due out this weekend, would produce revenue to offset the earlier ordeals. Sony managers were in London Tuesday to demonstrate how they planned to integrate the marketing of their products with the new film. Later in the day they attended the premiere of the movie at the Odeon Leicester Square theater -- along with Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip

[Vonn Hennigar]

:( I liked Official U.S Playstation magazine hell i bought the new issue today (2nd last ever i suppose).

But it was so overpriced it was pathetic. $12.99 Canadian for the new issue. Yes it includes a PS2 demo disc and all but fuck that's nuts.

*No PS3 price jokes for the love of god please!!! :)

Oh well looks like it's just EGM for me then. Which is nice.

[Humphrey_Lee]

I gots a call from my Gamestop today. Apparently as long as I show up when the store opens at 8am Friday all I have to do is give them my money and the system is mine. And thus the Ebay debate begins....

[John Drake]

:( I liked Official U.S Playstation magazine hell i bought the new issue today (2nd last ever i suppose).

But it was so overpriced it was pathetic. $12.99 Canadian for the new issue. Yes it includes a PS2 demo disc and all but fuck that's nuts.

*No PS3 price jokes for the love of god please!!! :)

Oh well looks like it's just EGM for me then. Which is nice.

Isn't EGM made by the same people?

[Vonn Hennigar]

Isn't EGM made by the same people?

Yes. But EGM is all platforms (Which i'm sure you know but just in case).
OPM was a fun read and i'm gonna miss it.

[Foolish Mortal]

:( I liked Official U.S Playstation magazine hell i bought the new issue today (2nd last ever i suppose).

But it was so overpriced it was pathetic. $12.99 Canadian for the new issue. Yes it includes a PS2 demo disc and all but fuck that's nuts.

*No PS3 price jokes for the love of god please!!! :)

Oh well looks like it's just EGM for me then. Which is nice.
That's why I always got mine through subscription. It's cheaper.

Yeah, we still have EGM, but no more demo discs. Oh well.

[bairdduvessa]

:( I liked Official U.S Playstation magazine hell i bought the new issue today (2nd last ever i suppose).

But it was so overpriced it was pathetic. $12.99 Canadian for the new issue. Yes it includes a PS2 demo disc and all but fuck that's nuts.

*No PS3 price jokes for the love of god please!!! :)

Oh well looks like it's just EGM for me then. Which is nice.

what? bummer i loved that mag

[JHester]

I was gonna try to get one but it seems there are people tent camping at every store in my area. Oh well. 3 grand pulls everyone out of the woodwork.

[JABSEN]

http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/15/150-line-up-for-ps3-in-rockville-md/#comments

The pole position in line goes to a father purchasing the system for a son to "let him know how much love I have for him." We should all have such fathers. .Damn...That's pretty sad,

[Cth]

:( I liked Official U.S Playstation magazine hell i bought the new issue today (2nd last ever i suppose).

But it was so overpriced it was pathetic. $12.99 Canadian for the new issue. Yes it includes a PS2 demo disc and all but fuck that's nuts.

*No PS3 price jokes for the love of god please!!! :)

Oh well looks like it's just EGM for me then. Which is nice.

Sorry, wish I knew, I've had a free subscription for 3 years or so now :D

I guess that'll roll over to EGM now.. which means that one's good until 2015 or something insane :D

[Corey A.]

http://biz.gamedaily.com

Retail Memo: Sony Limiting PS3 Launch to Top 5 Stores

If avoiding the big retail chains and trying the smaller stores was part of your strategy to get a PS3 at launch, think again. We've discovered via a retail memo that Sony is limiting its initial shipments to the top five retailers. [Update: Sony denies report]

Although we already spoke with Sony once (see end of story below), SCEA has since followed up with us after we posted this story. The representative explained, "There is absolutely no truth to the report that Sony is limiting launch allocations to a select number of retailers. Every single authorized SCEA customer is receiving product at launch."

Of course, it could depend on what "launch" means. The retail memo suggests that Rhino would get shipments about one week later, which could still be considered a "launch time frame."

Original story:

It's already a given that Sony's PlayStation 3 will be in extremely limited supply when it launches on November 17. Now, however, it seems that your chances of getting the new console at anywhere but the biggest retail chains will be essentially zero around launch.

GameDaily BIZ has obtained a memo from a small retail chain called Rhino Video Games—headquartered in Florida and operates about 75 stores in ten states—indicating that Sony won't be sending the retailer any PS3 units to sell at launch because it's limiting shipments to the top five retailers.

The memo, sent from Rhino headquarters to all stores, reads in part, "Unfortunately, Sony will not be fulfilling our order requests for PS3 hardware to be available on launch date, November 17th. Sony has decided to limit the supply of hardware (systems and accessories) to its top five volume retailers (Wal-Mart, Target, etc.)."

It's not clear who these top five retailers are, but in addition to the abovementioned Wal-Mart and Target, we would guess Best Buy, GameStop/EB and Circuit City. Recently, Amazon.com backed out of offering any PS3 pre-orders, while Fry's Electronics cancelled some of its pre-orders and GameStop admitted that it would not be able to fill all of its pre-orders.

The Rhino memo is further backed by a statement on the company's website, which reads: "Unfortunately, due to industry-wide extreme hardware allocations imposed by Sony, Rhino will not be receiving any PS3 systems on launch day, November 17th. We want to sincerely apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause. Sony has simply been unable to meet demand for this product. Sony has informed us that limited quantity shipments of PS3 hardware should be available over the next couple of weeks and will be available on a first come/first serve basis."

The memo adds to that, explaining, "First and foremost, this will be a stressful time for customers as systems will be hard to find. Remember to be patient with all customers and encourage them to take advantage of our system in stock guarantee. While it isn't definite, Sony has informed us that PS3 hardware should be available the week after Thanksgiving. Recommend to all customers that they call back often to check availability."

We contacted Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) about the retail order situation. However, SCEA wouldn't confirm or deny the information found in the memo. A spokesperson simply told us, "We do not disclose retailer allocations."

[Joshzilla]

So nobody's gonna be able to get a PS3 for the most part? Well check Amazon today at 11am PST, they might be having the 360 core system for $100.

This might actually be next Thursday's deal instead of this week...

[Corey A.]

So nobody's gonna be able to get a PS3 for the most part? Well check Amazon today at 11am PST, they might be having the 360 core system for $100.

This might actually be next Thursday's deal instead of this week...

Really?

[Ryan_ZOOM_Turner]

Really?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/holiday/cv/homepage/104-4135646-0683167

[Joshzilla]

Really?

Yep, go check it out. I think the deal is they are taking votes for next week's deal, but it is in there. So that'd be a good treat on Thanksgiving. Go check Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Microsoft-VHMSFT-882224035835-Xbox-System/dp/B000B43OXU/sr=8-1/qid=1163688885/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-6744882-1060951?ie=UTF8&s=videogames

[Corey A.]

http://www.amazon.com/gp/holiday/cv/homepage/104-4135646-0683167

Wow, just wow.....

[Akira]

So, wait, for that Amazon thing, is the deal only good if it wins in the voting?

[Ryan_ZOOM_Turner]

So, wait, for that Amazon thing, is the deal only good if it wins in the voting?

Yeah, but I don't see how it wouldn't win.

[Joshzilla]

Yeah, but I don't see how it wouldn't win.
Exactly.

[Cth]

The only problem with that, is that it'll sell out instantly unfortunately.

The big sites (FatWallet, Slickdeals, DVDTalk, etc) all likely know about this and are just waiting for it to drop :)

[Joshzilla]

The only problem with that, is that it'll sell out instantly unfortunately.

The big sites (FatWallet, Slickdeals, DVDTalk, etc) all likely know about this and are just waiting for it to drop :)
Oh absolutely. Your finger will have to be on the trigger right at go time.

[Cth]

Good News/Bad News

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6161834.html?tag=latestnews;title;1

US PS3 Store already online

The day before the console's North American debut, the PS3's answer to Xbox Live Marketplace is up and running; demos for Resistance, Motorstorm downloadable.

Though the PlayStation 3 does not officially go on sale until November 17, Sony isn't wasting time getting the console's online services ready. Those lucky enough to get a pre-launch PS3 can now register for an online account, check out the PlayStation store, the PS3 equivalent of Xbox Live Marketplace, with the console's browser, and download the system's first demos. Rudimentary options for friends lists and messages are also available.

Though registration is free, those looking to hook up their PS3s with Sony's online service will need a valid credit card. Once signed up, gamers can choose an avatar from several pages of Sony-centric art, including pictires from the Jak and Daxter, Sly Cooper, God of War, and SOCOM games.

The online store is currently populated by trailers for Lair, Genji: Days of the Blade, Warhawk, Resistance: Fall of Man, NBA 07, Calling All Cars!, Motorstorm, Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom, and Cash Guns Chaos. Several free demos are also available, including those for Blast Factor, Formula One Championship Edition, Motorstorm, Cash Guns Chaos, Resistance, and NBA 07. Sony is also offering two downloadable games--Cash Guns Chaos and Blast Factor, each priced at $7.99.

But it isn't all about games. There are also Blu-ray disc trailers for Black Hawk Down, House of Flying Daggers, Ultraviolet, and more.

------------

I think this means we can reserve our 'gamertags' now, but surprise.. sony's website is down..

[Cth]

http://www.wkyt.com/news/headlines/4661551.html

People Standing In Line For Video Game Hit By BBs

Police are investigating a drive-by shooting involving people waiting in line for a video game.

Dozens of people camped out in front the Best Buy store on Nicholasville Road. They're hoping to get their hands on a Sony PlayStation 3 console. But the wait turned serious when someone drove by and fired shots at people waiting in line.

Four people were hit by the BB pellets, including 27 NEWSFIRST reporter Elizabeth Dorsett. She was interviewing someone in line at the time. None of them were seriously hurt.

Police came to the store to investigate. They're still looking for a suspect.
Lexington Police say they'll stay at the Best Buy to make sure people in line stay safe.

The PlayStation 3 goes on sale Friday morning at eight. The consoles are selling for more than $600 a piece.

[JABSEN]

The Best Buy guy on My Xbox friends list told me there were already 45 peple in line at 10 today.


They only got 29 systems.

[sto110]

what does person #30 do? why would they stay?

[JABSEN]

what does person #30 do? why would they stay?:dunno:

Maybe they're hoping to wait people out..or something.

[Corey A.]

http://www.ps3locator.com

eBay blocks users from selling PS3 units, awww...
16/11/2006 14:26:14

eBay has taken strict measures against users attempting to sell PS3 units in both the US and the UK. As of yesterday morning, British eBay members have been forbidden from selling PS3 consoles and games on the site until February 2007. No "munnies" for opportunistic British PS3 owners for now.

It doesn't stop there though. Come February, each seller will only be able to offer one PS3, and it must be purchased within the EU. One must assume that this is in strict accordance to Sony's tight import policies. Sellers must also guarantee dispatch within 30 days and can only accept payment via PayPal.

Over here in the US, only sellers who have already taken part in 50 auctions or more and have at least 98 percent feedback may offer PS3 pre-orders. Sellers must also guarantee 30-day dispatch, provide a photo of the pre-order receipt and list items as auctions rather than "buy it now" items.

ebay has said that these measures have been put in place in order to avoid a repeat of previous console launch situations.

[Cth]

http://www.ps3locator.com

eBay blocks users from selling PS3 units, awww...
16/11/2006 14:26:14

eBay has taken strict measures against users attempting to sell PS3 units in both the US and the UK. As of yesterday morning, British eBay members have been forbidden from selling PS3 consoles and games on the site until February 2007. No "munnies" for opportunistic British PS3 owners for now.

It doesn't stop there though. Come February, each seller will only be able to offer one PS3, and it must be purchased within the EU. One must assume that this is in strict accordance to Sony's tight import policies. Sellers must also guarantee dispatch within 30 days and can only accept payment via PayPal.

Over here in the US, only sellers who have already taken part in 50 auctions or more and have at least 98 percent feedback may offer PS3 pre-orders. Sellers must also guarantee 30-day dispatch, provide a photo of the pre-order receipt and list items as auctions rather than "buy it now" items.

ebay has said that these measures have been put in place in order to avoid a repeat of previous console launch situations.

Wow.

And yet, no such problem with the Wii.. I wonder if that Sony deal rumor WAS true afterall.

I wonder if all future launches will be like this.

[Cth]

20 coupons for 100 people equals stampede.

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/player/popup-2-0/index.php?rn=952695&cl=1229372&ch=952701&src=

Playstation 3 Frenzy Shuts Down Wal-Mart

A Wal-Mart in Palmdale was shut down Wednesday night after a fight broke out between people waiting in line for the new Playstation 3.

(AP) PALMDALE, Calif. Sony's new game console isn't even out yet, and it's already causing trouble.

Sheriff's officials say deputies shut down a Super Wal-Mart in Palmdale after a crowd of shoppers camped out for a chance to buy PlayStation 3 got rowdy.

Deputies were called to the store when the crowd of 75 to 100 PlayStation seekers started getting unruly Wednesday night around 10:30 p.m. --- a full day and a half before the game machine goes on sale.

Wal-Mart officials say deputies decided to shut the store down for the evening and disperse the crowd after some of the waiting customers started running around inside the store.

Sony's new PlayStation will be released tomorrow morning in $500 and $600 dollar versions.

Retailers across the country expect to be overwhelmed by demand for the console.

[noble]

Good News/Bad News

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6161834.html?tag=latestnews;title;1

US PS3 Store already online

The day before the console's North American debut, the PS3's answer to Xbox Live Marketplace is up and running; demos for Resistance, Motorstorm downloadable.

Though the PlayStation 3 does not officially go on sale until November 17, Sony isn't wasting time getting the console's online services ready. Those lucky enough to get a pre-launch PS3 can now register for an online account, check out the PlayStation store, the PS3 equivalent of Xbox Live Marketplace, with the console's browser, and download the system's first demos. Rudimentary options for friends lists and messages are also available.

Though registration is free, those looking to hook up their PS3s with Sony's online service will need a valid credit card. Once signed up, gamers can choose an avatar from several pages of Sony-centric art, including pictires from the Jak and Daxter, Sly Cooper, God of War, and SOCOM games.

The online store is currently populated by trailers for Lair, Genji: Days of the Blade, Warhawk, Resistance: Fall of Man, NBA 07, Calling All Cars!, Motorstorm, Untold Legends: Dark Kingdom, and Cash Guns Chaos. Several free demos are also available, including those for Blast Factor, Formula One Championship Edition, Motorstorm, Cash Guns Chaos, Resistance, and NBA 07. Sony is also offering two downloadable games--Cash Guns Chaos and Blast Factor, each priced at $7.99.

But it isn't all about games. There are also Blu-ray disc trailers for Black Hawk Down, House of Flying Daggers, Ultraviolet, and more.

------------

I think this means we can reserve our 'gamertags' now, but surprise.. sony's website is down..


as of right now you can only set up your account name with a PS3...

[Simps]

I'm thinking about checking out the Sony store at the mall tomorrow morning. Security apparently won't let anyone into the mall until 6am, which is when you could conceivably line up outside Sony Style to try to get one at 8am. If I go over around 3-4am and if there's no one waiting outside the mall entrance, I figure I can hang there, then make the mad dash to the store when the mall opens.

[Briomega]

Has that story from Kotaku been confirmed about the PS3 downscaling to 480p instead of upscaling to 1080i if your HDTV doesn't support 720p been confirmed? If that's true, that's the final nail for me.

[Cth]

Has that story from Kotaku been confirmed about the PS3 downscaling to 480p instead of upscaling to 1080i if your HDTV doesn't support 720p been confirmed? If that's true, that's the final nail for me.

I'm pretty sure it has been.

Early HDTV adopters got screwed hard.

[Cth]

This isn't going to end well.. it'll be one to watch the news for..

http://www.kotaku.com/gaming/ps3-launch/hundreds-mass-outside-sony-style-in-san-francisco-215329.php

Hundreds Mass Outside Sony Style in San Francisco

The Sony Style flagship store in San Francisco is dangerously close to becoming a microcosmic statement on the PlayStation 3 launch around the world, as a crowd close to 1,000 strong has already amassed outside the store, eagerly awaiting the new console's launch.

Even with police officers on hand to keep things civil, the line got nasty this morning, when Sony employees attempted to move the line to a different location, causing many people to rush the front of the line for better positioning. As the threat of a major incident loomed, promise from the employees that the first 750 people in line were guaranteed a system calmed things down.

As the line continues to grow, Sony continues to promise there will be enough for everyone. At one time they promised that to the world at large, and we know how that turned out. All I can say is that in this situation, they'd better come through, or things are going to get really ugly.

[Adam Geen]

This isn't going to end well.. it'll be one to watch the news for..

http://www.kotaku.com/gaming/ps3-launch/hundreds-mass-outside-sony-style-in-san-francisco-215329.php

Hundreds Mass Outside Sony Style in San Francisco

The Sony Style flagship store in San Francisco is dangerously close to becoming a microcosmic statement on the PlayStation 3 launch around the world, as a crowd close to 1,000 strong has already amassed outside the store, eagerly awaiting the new console's launch.

Even with police officers on hand to keep things civil, the line got nasty this morning, when Sony employees attempted to move the line to a different location, causing many people to rush the front of the line for better positioning. As the threat of a major incident loomed, promise from the employees that the first 750 people in line were guaranteed a system calmed things down.

As the line continues to grow, Sony continues to promise there will be enough for everyone. At one time they promised that to the world at large, and we know how that turned out. All I can say is that in this situation, they'd better come through, or things are going to get really ugly.

750 units at one store?! Jesus. Our whole damn company got 1500. And so far I have the most in my whole city. Wtf.

[BGPu]

I went to the Best Buy in Downers Grove IL hoping to get in on the Midnight opening. I waited in line for about an hour and a half before the manager came out to give us a breakdown of what was going on. 88 20 Gig models, 20 60 Gig models. Also, they had no idea what else they would be receiving and in what amounts. The guy said it was totally possible that you might get the system, but no games or accessories. Given that I was about #140, I decided it wasn't worth waiting.

Went to another BB where they were not allowing camping until 10 pm. I saw the store with no one in front of it and thought I had lucked out. Turns out there was a parking lot full of guys in cars scowling at me. One guy told me that it's "first come, first served," so in theory at 10 all these guys will make a mad dash to the front door and anyone who's been there all day that winds up at the end of end is going to be pissed.

Drove around for several hours checking Best Buys, Targets and Walmarts and finally decided that it's not worth it to wait in line. And to think, camping for a PS2 in 2000 seemed so easy...

[noble]

I'm pretty sure it has been.

Early HDTV adopters got screwed hard.

Yeah I'm one of those early HDTV adopters(got the set in late 2004.

I'll confirm or deny this around 1230 tonight ;)

[Thorne]

http://www.kotaku.com/gaming/sony/sony-backward-compatability--flying-breakfast-car-215418.php

Sony: Backward Compatability = Flying Breakfast Car

Nintendo's Chris Kohler... sorry, Wired's Chris Kohler got a chance to ask SCEA VP Jack Tretton a handful of burning questions one day prior to the launch of the PlayStation 3. From line-sitting dangers to backward compatability problems, Jack had much to say.

Such as:

Do you have a response for people experiencing backwards compatibility issues and/or television upscaling problems?

"I would like my car to fly and make me breakfast, but that's an unrealistic expectation. We've reported problems on only 200 of the 8000 PlayStation 1 and 2 games. I would challenge the average consumer to say that there are significant problems with any of the games in their library."

Okay, Jack. We get it. It's a small number, but you don't have to be a jerk about it. Omelette making hovercars are long overdue, true, but come on. I know that your spokespeople said well over a year ago that we shouldn't expect 100% compatability, but be nice. We're risking life and limb, dropping up to 600 bones on this thing!

[Thorne]

Amusing PS3 Camper anecdote:



So there's been a guy out in front of our local Meyer's since Tuesday with a sign advertising that he would sell his PS3 for 2000 dollars, was gonna be the first to get one, blah blah blah.

I just got back from there...he was gone. There was a sign on the door that said "We open at 7 am. At 6:45 am we'll give everyone waiting in line a raffle ticket. Those with winning numbers will be able to purchase Playstation 3's".

Hehehehe that jackass spent 2 days out in the FREEZING cold (I live in the mountains) for NOTHING!

[noble]

Well I can confirm that the PS3 does indeed downscale 720p to 480p and not up to 1080i on tvs that doesn't have 720p.

Makes the games look ummm...bland as shit.


hope they fix this soon :x

[Simps]

http://www.joystiq.com/2006/11/17/flashpoint-sony-style-in-boston/

The scene of the most disorganized launch in the city of Boston is currently at the Sony Style store at the downtown Copley Mall. This follows the cancellation of the midnight Best Buy event, due to the overwhelming crowds that developed by late morning. As the rain pours down in Boston, with thunder and lightning accompanying, a couple hundred people devoted to purchasing a PS3 are left standing outside the mall. Two factions have sprung up and the tension is building.

Alex Flores (pictured, with list) and his group have set up camp across the street after being kicked out of the mall, and then from the sidewalk outside the mall, earlier today. Flores says he arrived at 6AM and developed a list with people showing up later. By 10AM he delivered that list, with about 70 people on it, to the Sony Style manager and was told they wouldn't accept it. Flores and another PS3 owning hopeful, Ernesto Ramos, say the manager told them, "As long as we sell out, that's all we care about."

"They want chaos," says Flores. "We are trying to keep it organized."

Meanwhile, across the street from Flores, in front of the mall where his group was asked to leave earlier today, another mass of people have gathered. Fractured and verbally in-fighting already, there is no structure with this group. By just asking who was first in line, 15 hands went up and harsh words began to be exchanged. But, despite the tension, spirits were still high. Jessica Dunn says, "I did this last year for Xbox, I'm doing it this year for Playstation 3 -- in the rain."

The mall closes from 2 till 6AM. One security guard said there is a plan in place for the morning, another group of security guards say it's just going to be an "organized rush." The Sony Style store has taken a hands off approach to this and is letting whatever happens happen. None of the people outside were told what the actual number of available PS3 units is. They were told by the manager that Sony's policy is not to give any numbers. The rumor is 50 units are available.

People have also rented rooms in the Westin hotel adjoining the mall so they can get a jump on the people waiting outside in the morning.

Best Buy is quiet, so are all the GameStops and EB Games. The only place where there may be an incident is the Sony Style store at Copley Plaza. The so-sad-it's-funny coincidence of Sony bringing us this disastrous launch and then the Sony Style store being the sight of a disaster in 3 1/2 hours is not lost on us. If anybody out there has the power to organize mall security and bring structure considering Sony Style management could care less, now would be the time.

Ha, never mind that idea. I guess I underestimated the ability of people to wait outside a mall to get in line at 6am to wait for the store to open.

[bairdduvessa]

this whole rushing for the new system just makes me ill

[The Craig]

this whole rushing for the new system just makes me ill

Is totally correct.

Hang on... wrong thread!

But baird is. Would waiting for the next batch really hurt people, especially considering that people are actually getting hurt in all this nonsense!

OMAC

[Kip K]

After camping from yesterday morning at a Wal-mart in Wilksboro, I got a 20 gig model. The store only got 8 total, 4 of each. I was number 5--people started lining up Wednesday night.

[noble]

After camping from yesterday morning at a Wal-mart in Wilksboro, I got a 20 gig model. The store only got 8 total, 4 of each. I was number 5--people started lining up Wednesday night.

You playing yours or selling?

[adamgreenberger]

So of the people that got one...anyone played yet?

[Humphrey_Lee]

So of the people that got one...anyone played yet?

Still trying to get my internet options configured. I might need a router. Hrms...

[noble]

Yep adam.

Check out the other thread where I ask if anyone is keeping theirs for my response to this question :)

[Mike]

this whole rushing for the new system just makes me ill

It's really, really, really, really, really not worth it.

At all.

The only reason I can see waiting through this pointless chaos is if I was going to turn around and sell it for 100% profit or more.

[Humphrey_Lee]

It's really, really, really, really, really not worth it.

At all.

The only reason I can see waiting through this pointless chaos is if I was going to turn around and sell it for 100% profit or more.

What pointless chaos? I waited in line for three hours to pre-order mine through Gamestop. I showed up today, bought it, and now I have it right in front of me. The only "chaos" I've experienced so far is trying to get my Network Connections to split properly so I can get this thing internet access.

[noble]

What pointless chaos? I waited in line for three hours to pre-order mine through Gamestop. I showed up today, bought it, and now I have it right in front of me. The only "chaos" I've experienced so far is trying to get my Network Connections to split properly so I can get this thing internet access.


Same here(no chaos at all).

Humphrey I just pulled the ethernet connection from my 360 to the PS3. I can't use both of them at once, so instead of setting up a new connection for the router, I'll just move them back and forth.

Might be something to try if you already have a console jacked into the interwebs.

[Jonny Z]

i have a ps3 in my cart at costco.com but it wont let me check out. site is slower than a dead turtle.

[noble]

Oh and in case anyone was wondering my gamertag for the PS3 is ThunderBuckets (one word)

[Brian Defferding]

Ha ha ha, found this bit of news on Fark:

John Edwards Tries to Cut in Line at Wal-Mart for PlayStation3 (http://www.outsidethebeltway.com/archives/2006/11/john_edwards_tries_to_cut_in_line_at_wal-mart_for_playstation3/)

By James Joyner
Wal-Mart is outing former Senator John Edwards for trying to cut in line to get a PlayStation3 while continuing to campaign against the retail giant.

Yesterday, a staff person for former Sen. Edwards contacted a Wal-Mart electronics manager in Raleigh, North Carolina to obtain a Sony PlayStation3 on behalf of the Senator’s family. Later that night, Sen. Edwards reportedly re-told a homespun story to participants of a United
Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) union-sponsored call about how his son had chided a fellow student for purchasing shoes at Wal-Mart.

Wal-Mart welcomes Sen. Edwards to visit his local Wal-Mart store and explore the extensive line of home electronics as well as the Metro7 line shoes for men and boys.

The Company noted the PlayStation3 is an extremely popular item this Christmas season, and while the rest of America’s working families are waiting patiently in line, Senator Edwards wants to cut to the front. While, we cannot guarantee that Sen. Edwards will be among one of the first to obtain a PlayStation3, we are certain Sen. Edwards will be able to find great gifts for everyone on his Christmas list - many at Wal-Mart’s “roll-back prices.”

This story is not hard to believe. After all, John Edwards thinks there are Two Americas, one for rich people who can bypass the line and one for poor folks. Apparently, Wal-Mart is working to change that.

PS3s are available at eBay with bidding starting around $2000 and most selling at nearly $3000. They’re $1421 at WalMart.com but supplies are limited.

UPDATE: Edwards’ fellow Tar Heel Mary Katharine Ham has caught wind of the story, too.

UPDATE: Edwards initially denied the claim: “Through a spokeswoman, Edwards says no such request was made.” Now, he’s blaming it on a young staffer.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. said Thursday that a staff member for former Sen. John Edwards — a vocal critic of the retailer — asked his local Wal-Mart store for help in getting the potential 2008 presidential candidate a Sony PlayStation 3. Edwards said a volunteer did so by mistake. Edwards told The Associated Press that the volunteer “feels terrible” about seeking the game unit at Wal-Mart a day after his boss criticized the company, saying it doesn’t treat its employees fairly.

“My wife, Elizabeth, wanted to get a Playstation3 for my young children. She mentioned it in front of one of my staff people,” Edwards said. “That staff person mentioned it in front of a volunteer who said he would make an effort to get one. He was making an effort to go get one for himself.

“Elizabeth and I knew nothing about this. He feels terrible about this. He made a mistake, and he knows he should not have used my name,” Edwards said.

Edwards said the volunteer was “a young kid” unaware of what he called flawed Wal-Mart policies. He called the Wal-Mart statement an effort to divert attention from its own problems.

It’s hardly the height of corruption regardless of whether this is Edwards’ final version of the story. Still, it’s a rather amusing situation. Further, the fact that even Edwards’ employees naturally turn to Wal-Mart to buy their boss’ toys demonstrates the degree to which ordinary working people rely on the retailer and its imitators for their daily needs.

[Cth]

http://www.620wtmj.com/_content/news/story_5427.asp

Man Hurt Trying to Get Playstation 3 in West Bend

Call it survival of the fittest at a Wal-Mart in West Bend.

With a group of about 60 people waiting in the cold for a long time just to get their hands on a new Playstation 3, management at a local Wal-Mart store tell the mob that there's only 10 Playstations available.

They then proceed to line up ten chairs, and the people seated in those chairs would get their Playstation.

"I got tripped up, and then I got pushed and shoved right into my chair, banged on my knee, ripped my pants," said Chris Friedrich, one of the competitors.

"Somebody landed right on top of me and they had to actually pull that person off of me because I was halfway on the chair and I hit my head on the chair."

Other people got hurt, including one person who was taken to the hospital with head injuries after slamming into a pole. He's now looking to sue Wal-Mart. And for those like Friedrich, who got their Playstations, their night didn't end.

"We have to kind of be our own security when we leave," said Friedrich.

In other words, those who fought against each other, had to now work together to make sure nothing worse happened when they left with their PS3's.

"I've heard there was a drive-by (shooting) in Kentucky with a B-B gun. I've heard of crazier things. We'll all come out together with a group and help each other to our cars."

Meanwhile, managers at the West Bend Wal-Mart aren't commenting. Wal-Mart's corporate offices have issued a statement that says for the past two weeks the company has made customers aware that it would only be getting a limited number of Playstation 3 consoles and that a line would form at 7 in the morning. The company claims that when the appointed time came, some customers became unruly and one was hurt. The statement makes no mention of a manager having people race to the chairs.

[Cth]

http://gamesradar.futuregamer.it/upload_images/ps3frontalino%5B161106%5D/ps3frontalino_1%5B161106%5D.jpg

Sony's planning on making facepla, er.. replaceable covers similar to Xbox's face plates.

[Cth]

Eventually you'll be able to reserve your gamertag here:
http://www.us.playstation.com/PS3/Using/ConnectWithFriends

[Jonny Z]

if anyone wants to try their luck on a ps3, here's the link to the costco page with the ps3 on it-

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11186475&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&N=4014156&Mo=11&No=0&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=49403&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&Sp=C#shipinfo

[kari]

Oh and I can confirm that the PS3 has achievements....sorta.

There is no overall score that is being kept track of like 360...AND not every game has them.


However you actually 'get' something for your achievements...at least in resistance.

In Resistance there are certain things you can do and each one has a different points value. You can see the name of the achiev., but it tells you nothing about what it is.

For instance last night I got one called "Tag you're it" and once I got it I looked it up on the in game menu. It told me that I've shot 5 enemies with the tracer(or whatever the heck the gun is called) in 30 seconds or less.

Now there's a bonus menu with ten items. All these items are hidden. But there are points values next to them 10, 20, and so on up to 129(or something like that). Now as you get achievement points it will add up and unlock these bonus items. don't know if they are extra guns, different levels, videos, cheats...at this point I have no idea.

So if anyone was wondering...there you go.

-Noble

[Akira]

Oh and I can confirm that the PS3 has achievements....sorta.

There is no overall score that is being kept track of like 360...AND not every game has them.


However you actually 'get' something for your achievements...at least in resistance.

In Resistance there are certain things you can do and each one has a different points value. You can see the name of the achiev., but it tells you nothing about what it is.

For instance last night I got one called "Tag you're it" and once I got it I looked it up on the in game menu. It told me that I've shot 5 enemies with the tracer(or whatever the heck the gun is called) in 30 seconds or less.

Now there's a bonus menu with ten items. All these items are hidden. But there are points values next to them 10, 20, and so on up to 129(or something like that). Now as you get achievement points it will add up and unlock these bonus items. don't know if they are extra guns, different levels, videos, cheats...at this point I have no idea.

So if anyone was wondering...there you go.

-Noble
Actually, those aren't achievements. Insomniac has been putting things like that in their games for a while I know the last couple of Ratchet & Clank games had the same.

[Akira]

Same here(no chaos at all).
Ditto. I walked into the store at about 9:30 and out at 9:36.

The Motor Storm demo is siiiiiiiiiiiick

[Vonn Hennigar]

Damn i want one :(

But i'm still afraid of buying a launch console, i realize faulty 360's at their worst were what 5% of machines? So buying a Day 1 PS3 should be pretty safe?

Right?

Plus what's the prognosis on actually being able to buy one of these bad boys by Christmas? As in walking into a Best Buy and just plain picking one up? No BS, no pre-ordering, nothing?

[Humphrey_Lee]

Plus what's the prognosis on actually being able to buy one of these bad boys by Christmas? As in walking into a Best Buy and just plain picking one up? No BS, no pre-ordering, nothing?

Probably not good. There'll be a lot of stores still filling pre-orders out and random "show up a few hours before the store opens" nuts about. By March though I think you're good, and that's when the really good games, i.e. LAIR, start hitting anyways.

[Adam Geen]

Damn i want one :(

Plus what's the prognosis on actually being able to buy one of these bad boys by Christmas? As in walking into a Best Buy and just plain picking one up? No BS, no pre-ordering, nothing?

Yeah, I can tell you right now that our company is completely out. My location sold out ours in under 25 minutes, the lineup had been there since Wed night.

And so far, we have no idea when another shipment is coming.

[Akira]

Probably not good. There'll be a lot of stores still filling pre-orders out and random "show up a few hours before the store opens" nuts about. By March though I think you're good, and that's when the really good games, i.e. LAIR, start hitting anyways.

were you ever able to get online?

[Bradford]

I spent 12 hours wandering from Best Buy to best buy Thursday night with a camera and a notebook and some friends. We found some pretty interesting stories and have just now pulled them together:



PlayStation 3 release: Utopia on a Best Buy sidewalk

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b124/bflora/angel.jpg

On Friday Nov. 17, 2006, Sony’s latest video game system, the PlayStation 3, went on sale at 8 a.m. nationwide. With presale units already fetching double price on eBay, hardcore gamers and would-be profiteers pitched tents in front of their local stores days in advance.

Despite 39 degree temperatures Thursday night, tensions ran high outside stores in Chicago as rumors of shootings, robberies and secret PlayStation shipments flew from store to store via cell phone.

Some of these rumors were at least based in truth. Someone was, in fact, shot while waiting in line. But this happened in Indiana, not Schaumburg.

While every camp had its rumors and difficulties, there was something honorable about the community outside of one Chicago store that night: the Elston Avenue Best Buy, where a railroad engineer called the shots, an investment banker delivered the food and touch football brought everyone together.

http://www.methodsreporter.com/2006/11/19/playstation-best-buy-ps3-release/

[Humphrey_Lee]

were you ever able to get online?

Nope, but I haven't really tried though. I've been busy working and yadda yadda. Hopefully soon I can figure out the problem. I really need to see if they have some updated rosters for my copy of NHL 2K7 so I can get Malkin on my Pens line-up. I'm still not sure what the trouble is though.

[noble]

Watching game Head Saturday night and Kaz said that Sony IS implementing Achievements just not right now at launch. They need to figure out how best to make them system wide and not just on specific titles.

[noble]

March is going to SUCK!

December 4, 2006 Fight Night Round 3 Electronic Arts Sports
December 4, 2006 flOw Sony Computer Entertainment Action
December 11, 2006 Go! Sudoku 2 Sony Computer Entertainment Puzzle
December 12, 2006 Blazing Angels: Squadrons of WWII Ubisoft Flight
December 12, 2006 Full Auto 2: Battlelines SEGA Racing Action
December 18, 2006 Lemmings 2 Sony Computer Entertainment Puzzle
December 19, 2006 Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six: Vegas Ubisoft Shooter
December 19, 2006 Sonic the Hedgehog SEGA Platformer
January 2007 College Hoops 2K7 2K Sports Sports
February 2007 Half-Life 2 Electronic Arts Shooter
February 2007 Bladestorm: The Hundred Years' War KOEI Strategy
February 2007 F.E.A.R. Vivendi Games Shooter
February 2007 Eye of Judgment: Conquerors of 9 Fields, The Sony Computer Entertainment Card Battle
February 2007 SingStar Sony Computer Entertainment Music
February 2007 Fatal Inertia KOEI Racing Action
March 2007 Indiana Jones 2007 LucasArts Action
March 2007 John Woo Presents Stranglehold Midway Games Action Adventure
March 2007 Lair Sony Computer Entertainment Action
March 2007 Golden Axe SEGA Action
March 2007 Virtua Fighter 5 SEGA Fighting
March 2007 MLB '07 Sony Computer Entertainment Sports
March 2007 Def Jam: Icon Electronic Arts Fighting
March 2007 Heavenly Sword Sony Computer Entertainment Action
March 2007 MotorStorm Sony Computer Entertainment Racing
March 2007 Burnout 5 Electronic Arts Racing
March 2007 Formula One Championship Edition Sony Computer Entertainment Racing
March 2007 Coded Arms Assault Konami Shooter
March 2007 Virtua Tennis 3 SEGA Sports
March 2007 Medal of Honor: Airborne Electronic Arts Shooter
March 2007 Mercenaries 2: World in Flames *TBA Shooter
March 2007 Haze Ubisoft Shooter
Q1 2007 Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, The Bethesda Softworks RPG
Q1 2007 Darkness, The 2K Games Action
Q1 2007 Calling All Cars Sony Computer Entertainment Action
Q1 2007 Alone in the Dark Atari Adventure
Q1 2007 Warhawk Sony Computer Entertainment Flight Action
Q1 2007 Monster Madness SouthPeak Interactive Action
Q1 2007 Brothers in Arms: Hell's Highway Ubisoft Shooter
Q1 2007 Major League Baseball 2K7 2K Games Sports
Q1 2007 Unreal Tournament 2007 Midway Games Shooter

[BGPu]

I've got mine. It's sitting at my desk here at work. Can't wait to get out of here and try it out. Unfortunately, that won't be until later tonight

[Generic Poster]

So, did they actually implement that rumored "no disc sharing or used disc selling/buying" stuff? I take it they didn't?

[JamesV]

So, did they actually implement that rumored "no disc sharing or used disc selling/buying" stuff? I take it they didn't?

I got an e-mail from blockbuster saying ps3 and wii rental games were in..

So I'm assuming that the rumor had more bark to it than bite.

[Humphrey_Lee]

So has anyone put their iPod stuff on their PS3 yet? Do you have to download iTunes and stuff like that, or can you upload it from your Pod or yadda yadda? I'm not sure how to go about all this. :surrend:

[Akira]

Watching game Head Saturday night and Kaz said that Sony IS implementing Achievements just not right now at launch. They need to figure out how best to make them system wide and not just on specific titles.
Oh, Sweet! :D


March is going to SUCK!
March 2007 Indiana Jones 2007 LucasArts Action
March 2007 John Woo Presents Stranglehold Midway Games Action Adventure
March 2007 Lair Sony Computer Entertainment Action
March 2007 Golden Axe SEGA Action
March 2007 Virtua Fighter 5 SEGA Fighting
March 2007 MLB '07 Sony Computer Entertainment Sports
March 2007 Def Jam: Icon Electronic Arts Fighting
March 2007 Heavenly Sword Sony Computer Entertainment Action
March 2007 MotorStorm Sony Computer Entertainment Racing
March 2007 Burnout 5 Electronic Arts Racing
March 2007 Formula One Championship Edition Sony Computer Entertainment Racing
March 2007 Coded Arms Assault Konami Shooter
March 2007 Virtua Tennis 3 SEGA Sports
March 2007 Medal of Honor: Airborne Electronic Arts Shooter
March 2007 Mercenaries 2: World in Flames *TBA Shooter
March 2007 Haze Ubisoft Shooter


If by "suck" you mean "be totally awesome" :)


So has anyone put their iPod stuff on their PS3 yet? Do you have to download iTunes and stuff like that, or can you upload it from your Pod or yadda yadda? I'm not sure how to go about all this. :surrend:
I'm not sure if it would work the same way with an iPod, but I hooked my PSP up via USB and it recognized it immedeately. I would imagine the iPod would be the same way. In fact, I believe IGN had an article about hooking up the two.

[Corey A.]

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/20/arts/20game.html?_r=3&oref=slogin&pagewanted=print

November 20, 2006

Video Games
A Weekend Full of Quality Time With PlayStation 3
By SETH SCHIESEL

Howard Stringer, you have a problem. Your company’s new video game system just isn’t that great.

Ever since Mr. Stringer took the helm last year at Sony, the struggling if still formidable electronics giant, the world has been hearing about how the coming PlayStation 3 would save the company, or at least revitalize it. Even after Microsoft took the lead in the video-game wars a year ago with its innovative and powerful Xbox 360, Sony blithely insisted that the PS3 would leapfrog all competition to deliver an unsurpassed level of fun.

Put bluntly, Sony has failed to deliver on that promise.

Measured in megaflops, gigabytes and other technical benchmarks, the PlayStation 3 is certainly the world’s most powerful game console. It falls far short, however, of providing the world’s most engaging overall entertainment experience. There is a big difference, and Sony seems to have confused one for the other.

The PS3, which was introduced in North America on Friday with a hefty $599 price tag for the top version, certainly delivers gorgeous graphics. But they are not discernibly prettier than the Xbox 360’s. More important, the whole PlayStation 3 system is surprisingly clunky to use and simply does not provide many basic functions that users have come to expect, especially online.

I have spent more than 30 hours using the PlayStation 3 over the last week or so and may have played more different games on the system — 13 — than probably anyone outside of Sony itself. Sony did not activate the PS3’s online service until just before the Friday debut. Over the weekend a clear sense of disappointment with the PlayStation 3 emerged from many gamers.

“What’s weird is that the PS3 was originally supposed to come out in the spring, and here it came out in the fall, and it still doesn’t feel finished,” Christopher Grant, managing editor of Joystiq, one of the world’s biggest video-game blogs, said on the telephone Saturday night. “It’s really not the all-star showing they should have had at launch. Sony is playing catch-up in a lot of ways now, not just in terms of sales but in terms of the basic functionality and usability of the system.”

Sadly for Sony, the best way to explain how the PlayStation 3 falls short is to explain how different it is to use than its main competition, Xbox 360. When I reviewed the 360 last year, I wrote: “Twelve minutes after opening the box, I had created my nickname, was in a game of Quake 4 and thought, ‘This can’t be this easy.’ ”

I never felt that way using the PlayStation 3. With the PS3, 12 minutes after opening the box I realized that Sony inexplicably does not include cables to connect the machine to a high-definition television. Keep in mind that one of Sony’s main selling points has been that the PS3 plays Blu-Ray high-definition movie discs. But high-definiton cables? Sold separately. The Xbox 360, by contrast, ships with one cable that can connect to either a standard or high-definition set.

Then, before you are even using the PS3, you have to connect the “wireless” controller to the base unit with a USB cable so they can recognize each other. If you bring your PS3 controller to a friend’s house, you’ll have to plug back in again. The 360’s wireless controllers are always just that, wireless.

If there is one thing one would expect Sony to get perfect, though, it would be music. Wrong. Sure, you can plug in your digital music player and the PS3 will play the tunes. But as soon as you go into a game, the music stops. By contrast, one of the things I’ve always enjoyed most on the Xbox 360 is being able to listen to my own music while playing Pebble Beach or driving my virtual Ferrari. Doesn’t seem too complicated, but the PS3 can’t do it.

In that sense it often feels as if the PlayStation 3 can’t walk and chew bubble gum at the same time. In the PS3’s online store (which feels like a slow Web page) you can access movie trailers and trial versions of new games, but when you actually download the 600-megabyte files, you’ll be stuck watching a progress bar crawl across the screen for 20 or 40 minutes. Astonishingly, you can’t download in the background while you go do something that’s more fun (like play a game). On the Xbox 360, not only are files downloaded seamlessly in the background, but you can also shut off the machine, turn it on later, and the download will resume automatically.

The PS3’s whole online experience feels tacked-on and unpolished. On the Xbox 360 each user has a single unified friends list, so you can track your friends and communicate with them easily, no matter what game you are in. On the PlayStation 3 most games have their own separate friends list and some have no friends function at all. There is a master list as well, but in order to communicate with anyone on it, you have to quit the game you are playing.

There are some high points. The multi-player battles in Resistance: Fall of Man are excellent. The arcade-style action in the downloadable Blast Factor is suitably frantic.

But the list of the PS3’s disappointments remains, from its undersupported voice chat to its maddening cellphone-like text messaging system. (In frustration I ended up plugging in a USB keyboard.) Overall, Sony seems to have put a lot of effort into cramming as much silicon horsepower under the hood as possible but to have forgotten that all the transistors in the world can’t make someone smile.

And so it is a bit of a shock to realize that on the video game front Microsoft and Sony are moving in exactly the opposite directions one might expect given their roots. Microsoft, the prototypical PC company, has made the Xbox 360 into a powerful but intuitive, welcoming, people-friendly system. Sony’s PlayStation 3, on the other hand, often feels like a brawny but somewhat recalcitrant specialized computer. (Sony is even telling users to wait for future software patches to fix some of the PS3’s deficiencies.) The thing is, if people want to use a computer, they’ll use a computer.

Through the decades of the Walkman and the Trinitron television, Sony was renowned as the global master of easy-to-use, seamlessly powerful consumer electronics. But recently Sony seems to have lost its way, first in digital music players, in which it ceded the ergonomic high ground to Apple’s iPod, and now in home-game consoles. For now Sony’s technologists seem to have won out over the people who study fun.

As a practical matter, given the limited quantities Sony has been able to manufacture, the PlayStation 3 will surely remain sold out throughout the holiday season. If you can’t find one, don’t fret. Sony still has a lot of work to do. As Mr. Grant of Joystiq put it: “Maybe in six months it’ll be finished. Maybe by next fall I’ll be able to do all the cool stuff. I’m still kind of waiting.”

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[Cth]

Sony's Open Platform for PLAYSTATION®3 website has updated with configuration details for installing another OS on your PS3.

Here's the instructions:

http://www.playstation.com/ps3-openplatform/manual.html

Basically you download the installer from that website and save it to a USB key or HDD, or CD or DVD or BD or memory stick etc. (basically any storage PS3 will recognise can be used). You have to create a folder called 'PS3' at the top level of your storage, then a subfolder called 'otheros', and place the installer in there. You place the third party bootloader for your OS in the same location (must be named 'otheros.bld'). Then just connect your storage to your PS3 and run the 'Install Other OS' utility - it will scan for the installer, and display its location. Just select that, and it will start the installation process for your OS.

Currently the site doesn't point to any third party OSes, and notes that they'll be distributed completely independently of Sony. There's a FAQ in there too.

On a related Open Platform note, PowerDeveloper.org updated its PS3 page to note that a Gentoo overlay for PS3 is in the works. Luca Barbato is looking for someone with a PS3 to test out a Gentoo image for him

http://planet.gentoo.org/developers/lu_zero/2006/11/11/playstation_3

[Akira]

Major PSP and Playstation network updates:


PSP Updates to 3.00
PS1 downloads, a new Music Player, RSS recording ... at last, a big update!
by Nix
November 20, 2006 - Fans of the PlayStation Portable have been waiting patiently for a big system update for some time now -- versions 2.81 and 2.82 were just security updates and nothing else exciting. But the wait for the next big PSP update is finally over, as Sony Computer Entertainment finally released the long-awaited PSP version 3.00 via its Network Update feature. This update is now available in the US and Japan -- a European version of 3.00 is hopefully due out sometime soon as well.

Why is PSP v3.00 so big? For one, it's a big-number update, not just another midway version update -- these are the ones everybody looks for (and also, the ones that all the homebrew fans eye carefully for any changes to their use of PSP.) More importantly, PSP v3.00 adds some long-awaited features to PSP, including downloadable PSone game titles ("Riiiiiiiiiiiidge Racer!!! It's Ridge Racer!") as well as the exciting Remote Play features with PlayStation 3. The update will not please everybody, however, as a few major features are still only implemented in a cursory way in this version update.

The following features are added to the PlayStation Portable ability set with PSP version 3.00:

PlayStation Network titles are now supported under GAME
Remote Play has been added as a feature under NETWORK
Online Instruction Manuals has been added as a feature under NETWORK
Timed Recording has been added as a feature under RSS CHANNEL
A visual player has been added as a feature under MUSIC
3-Speed Fast Forward and Fast Reverse has been added as a feature under MUSIC
Camera has been added as a feature under PHOTO
UMD Auto-Start has been added as a feature in System Settings under SETTINGS
The new PlayStation Network support essentially means that you can download PSone classics to your PlayStation Portable from the PlayStation Network, as announced at E3 2005. The feature hugely expands the library of titles to the PlayStation Portable -- barring a few control issues, SCE has the entire original Playstation console library to pick and choose from for release on the handheld. It should also allow Sony to release new games for PSP, just as it has on PlayStation 3 with games like Blast Factor and Cash Guns Chaos. (Note also that PSP v3.00 adds a new menu option under the GAME menu, the Certificate Utility. We have not yet been able to download a PSone game for PSP, but would assume that this key icon stores your registered ownership of your download.)

The big caveat, of course, is that you can only get these games right now by downloading them and then transferring them via your PlayStation 3 ... if you have a PlayStation 3. Sony has not finished the technology to directly download PSone games to PSP (it would require access to the newly-launched PlayStation Store, which only works with PS3 at the moment), so there is no way to directly get these games onto PSP just yet, nor is there a way to download them if you don't yet have a PS3. Sony is of course working on fixing this problem, with rumors of PSone-to-PSP direct downloads by Christmas.

Also added is Remote Play, a feature that lets you stream media from your PS3 to your PSP (and the opposite is also said to be true.) Now, you can set your console to Remote Play and watch your home videos, browse through your photo collection, and listen to your MP3s anywhere in the house! Sony is working on adding a feature to this to allow PS3 to stream this same media all across the internet. The Remote Play feature is designed currently to work only with the 60GB version of the PS3 (due to the fact that it's the only package of the two with built-in WiFi, and you need WiFi to operate this feature), but in our tests, the feature seemed to use the possibly-accessible WPA-PSK (AES) setting for WLAN devices, so an external wireless router might be able to do the job (if you can get it into that exclusive mode.)

Newly added as well are the Music Visual Player (which features a number of visual, interactive skins for playing back music -- much like the music player on PS3, only in this case, there five of them, plus a randomizer!), an Online Instruction feature similar to PS3 (If you're not sure how to operate your PSP, just click here and it'll tell you all you need to know), an RSS Timed Recorder feature (like a VCR, you can set it to check for the latest RSS Feed update and record the media straight to your PSP ... also hidden in the feature set is a Record All feature that downloads everything from a site or multiple sites), a new Camera icon under the Photo menu (for interacting with the PSP USB Camera now out in Japan -- the device lets you take your own photos, but this new feature should let you also take photos or perhaps video right there on the menu), a fast-speed playback feature for MP3 playback (which works on recorded MP3s but not on streaming music over RSS), and -- at last! -- the ability to hold the PSP back from automatically jumping into a PSP game if a UMD is loaded.

Now, the bad news: PSP v3.00 does not does not have direct access to you PlayStation Network user login (you can use the PS3 Remote Play to check your emails and friend status, but that's nowhere near ideal for most users since you must be in that setting and the resolution isn't great.) Without this feature, you can't check into your PS Network account while away from your PS3. Of course, the PSP itself could benefit greatly from the PS Network features seen on PS3 -- if PSP games used the same network, we might see more games go online and more use Microphone support online. (Plus, we could chat or exchange data with our portables while hanging out at a coffee shop.)

As mentioned above, the new update also does not include access to the PlayStation Store (even in PS3 Remote Play), so as mentioned above, you cannot download games directly to your PSP without owning a PS3 ... even those that will not work with PS3 in the first place. And surprisingly, there are no PSone games to be downloaded with the new PSP v3.00 update ... so now we have the update that can run it, but we don't have the software to play, and most of us don't have the PS3 hardware to transfer the downloads? Sony is promising to fix this as soon as possible, but no word yet on an exact date for that or any news on how that will be implemented ... hopefully, the full PS Store and PS Network will be on PSP soon, but no guarantees.

We'll be taking a closer look at PSP v3.00 and also be on the lookout for those PSone downloads as soon as they're available, so look for updates as soon as we have them.


PlayStation Downloads Start on 11/22
Get that PS3 ready, PSP owners.
by Anoop Gantayat
November 21, 2006 - The Japanese version of Sony's PlayStation Store went quiet following the PS3's 11/11 launch. But things are going to get much more interesting in just a few hours.

Sony has announced final details on the first set of games to be made available for download via the Game Archives section of the store. On 11/22, PS3 owners will be able to download the first batch of PSP-compatible PlayStation titles from the store. Each game is priced at a tax-inclusive price of 525 yen.

Here's what will be available on day one:

Resident Evil Director's Cut (Capcom)
Konami Antiques MSX Collection Vol.1 (Konami)
Konami Antiques MSX Collection Vol.2 (Konami)
Bishi Bashi Special (Konami)
Arc the Lad (SCEJ)
Jumping Flash! (SCEJ)
Hot Shots Golf 2 (SCEJ)
Silent Bomber (Bandai Namco Games)
Tekken 2 (Bandai Namco Games)

Once downloaded to your PS3, you'll then be able to transfer these games to your PSP for play on the go. A PS3 update next year will allow you to play the games on the PS3 as well.

You'll have to make sure your PSP has been updated with version 3.00 firmware. Upgrading to version 3.00 also alows you to take advantage of another PS3 feature: remote play. If you have the 60 Gigabyte PS3 unit, you'll be able to use the PS3 as a local area media player, viewing and listening to all the content on your PS3's hard drive through the portable system. The PS3 will be upgraded next year to allow for worldwide remote play.

These download details concern the Japanese PlayStation Store, which can only be accessed via Japanese PlayStation Network accounts (that is, a PSN account that has a Japanese address). Details on the international Game Archives should follow shortly.

:rock:

[sto110]

so when can i play some of these games on my psp?

[Akira]

so when can i play some of these games on my psp?

The PS1 games? After you update to firmware 3.0 today and they go on sale in the Playstation store tomorrow.

*edit* Actually, the games only go onsale in Japan tomorrow, but I would imagine that they will be availible in the Americas by early December at the latest.

[sto110]

The PS1 games? After you update to firmware 3.0 today and they go on sale in the Playstation store tomorrow.

*edit* Actually, the games only go onsale in Japan tomorrow, but I would imagine that they will be availible in the Americas by early December at the latest.

cool thanks,
so can i buy these games if i dont own a ps3?

[noble]

SCEA Comments on PS3 Resolution on Older HDTVs

Sony is working on a fix for sets that lack 720p

A number of reports have been circulating on the Internet recently, suggesting that Sony's new PlayStation 3 has encountered problems displaying high-definition visuals on HDTV sets that do not support 720p. Today Sony Computer Entertainment America confirmed the problem to GameDaily BIZ:

"A small number of older High Definition television sets found in the United States only have 1080i inputs for HD signals. Those televisions will currently only play some PS3 titles at 480p resolution. PS3 games render images at either 720p or 1080p for High Definition, and you need 720p input on the TV to play select games that do not support 1080p. This is an issue on the side of the individual television sets, which do not accept 720p input, so when a game outputs an HD signal only at 720p, these select TVs have to display the game at 480p instead."

The SCEA spokesperson went on to assure us that Sony is working on a solution.

[Akira]

I'm posting using the remote play function on my psp so it definitely works. I'll try more functions later

[Foolish Mortal]

SCEA Comments on PS3 Resolution on Older HDTVs

Sony is working on a fix for sets that lack 720p

A number of reports have been circulating on the Internet recently, suggesting that Sony's new PlayStation 3 has encountered problems displaying high-definition visuals on HDTV sets that do not support 720p. Today Sony Computer Entertainment America confirmed the problem to GameDaily BIZ:

"A small number of older High Definition television sets found in the United States only have 1080i inputs for HD signals. Those televisions will currently only play some PS3 titles at 480p resolution. PS3 games render images at either 720p or 1080p for High Definition, and you need 720p input on the TV to play select games that do not support 1080p. This is an issue on the side of the individual television sets, which do not accept 720p input, so when a game outputs an HD signal only at 720p, these select TVs have to display the game at 480p instead."

The SCEA spokesperson went on to assure us that Sony is working on a solution.
See? This is why I don't rush out and buy new shit. I just sit back and watch the eager beavers buy stuff the day it comes out and then pull their hair out when bugs pop up.

I was a late adopter to HDTV, and I'm not even going to look at a PS3 for at least a year. They should have worked out the kinks by then.

[YouStayClassy]

I'm posting using the remote play function on my psp so it definitely works. I'll try more functions later

Cool!

[Akira]

I don't have much media on my PS3 hard drive, but I was able to listen to the music I saved on there and view the photos stored (using the PS3 slideshow modes) on the PSP. Not too shabby. Also if interest: when you se it up, you must assign an SSID and WEP to your PS3. These, combined with the fact that the 60 gig PS3 creates it's own IP address, leads me to believe that you'll be able to remotely access your media library via the internet through PSP sooner rather than later.

[Cth]

Uh oh, not a good rumor here:

http://www.digg.com/gaming_news/Rumor_Sony_Plans_To_Screw_Third_Party_Publishers

"So the PlayStation Network is free, right? Well, nothing is free. Somebody's got to pay for it, and if it's not you or me, it sure as hell ain't gonna be Sony. It's a business, not a charity!

Several industry insiders report that to cover demo download costs, Sony is currently considering charging third party developers. Here's what Sony is apparently thinking: Every time an individual downloads a demo, a service charge will be passed onto the third party developer. So they will pay for you to try out their games, instead of vice-versa. Unconfirmed, but it seems that this way the PS3's online service stays "free," Sony cuts its loses and third party developers get reamed.

A decision has yet to be reached, and Sony is hashing things out at the moment. But, if this sails through, expect the PS3 to have few third party demos, but loads of Blu-ray movie trailers."

[YouStayClassy]

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6162154.html

GameStop resupplied on PS3, Wii

Retailer tells analysts both Sony and Nintendo have already delivered their second shipments of newly released consoles, talks tie ratios of both.

Posted Nov 21, 2006 11:08 am PT

One of the biggest hitches with Microsoft's Xbox 360 launch last year was a dearth of follow-up shipments that left the console maker unable to make its next-gen system readily available to consumers until months after launch.

Sony and Nintendo might manage to avoid that problem, as GameStop today indicated that last weekend's launches of the PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Wii sold out, but more units are on the way. In an investor conference call tied to the retailer's third-quarter earnings report, GameStop executives confirmed that they have already been resupplied with both systems, and they expect to get more of each on a weekly basis.

The executives also recapped the launch performances of the two systems. For the PS3, Sony's Resistance: Fall of Man and Electronic Arts' Madden NFL 07 were the biggest sellers, while Nintendo's The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess and Ubisoft's Red Steel stood out from the pack of Wii launch titles.

However, game sales were stronger on the Wii, with GameStop sporting a tie ratio of 3 games sold for every system, compared to the PS3's tie ratio of 1.5 games for each system. The shortfall on Sony's system was attributed to more people picking up the system on its own to turn around and sell it for a premium. As those systems find their ways into the hands of "real gamers," the execs said the PS3 tie ratio should increase.

GameStop's higher-ups noted that their chain historically has the highest tie ratio of any retailer in the country but estimated that they were still shorted on hardware allocation by both Sony and Nintendo. While GameStop and its EB Games brand collectively account for about 25 percent of the US gaming market, the company believes it didn't receive that much of either system's day-one shipments. Executives said that they've never been satisfied with their launch-day allocation of any new machine, but added their main concern now is the flow of follow-up shipments--which both Sony and Nintendo have promised will come at a steady pace.

[YouStayClassy]

Bloomberg: Sony missed PS3 ship targets

Analysts surveyed say number of launch PlayStation 3s available in US was "even lower than expected"; Sony says it shipped as many as possible.

Posted Nov 21, 2006 2:45 pm PT

Many gamers who have been searching desperately for a PlayStation 3 since the console's launch in North America on November 17 have come up empty-handed. A combination of high demand and low supply has resulted in nationwide sellouts of the console, many stores exhausting their initial supplies within minutes.

Gamers winced when Sony announced that only 400,000 units would be up for grabs in North America on launch day, but according to Bloomberg, even that number may have been optimistic.

Several industry analysts have come forward with the belief that Sony may have missed its shipment target by as much as 50 percent. Retail expert SooAnn Roberts told Bloomberg she believes that Sony won't ship more than 200,000 PS3s to North America by the end of the year. Other analysts predicted a similar shortfall prior to the console's launch last week.

Todd Mitchell of Kaufman Bros. Equity Research said the number of PS3s at launch was "even lower than expected," says Bloomberg. The news service also claims that several other analysts echo Mitchell's sentiments.

Sony representatives told Bloomberg, "We shipped as many PlayStation 3 units into the North American market as possible and continue our efforts in supplying systems to retailers nationwide through the holidays." The rep went on to claim that Sony is planning to ship 1 million PS3s to the US by the end of the year. Sony has previously said that it plans on shipping 2 to 2.4 million PS3s worldwide by 2007.

[Akira]

I played a 20 on 20 game of Resistance tonight. No lag whatsoever and hella fun.

[Jonny Z]

mine is arriving on the 29th or 30th next week... looks like im gonna ebay it though- i'm gonna have resistance, genji, and an extra controller... i wanted to make at least 1,600, but i might settle for 1,200 or so

[Cth]

That didn't take long..

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=130532

"The news was basically that - through Linux - they were able to dump Madden 07 to an external hard drive (it's 7.08GB, btw). PS3 game discs are unreadable on a desktop Blu-ray drive. Comparisons are being made to the PSP scene and people are angry and worried."

[sto110]

people are angry/worried? who sony and game developers? how do they know they are angry.... sony will fix it with a firmware fix

[Cth]

Probably movie studios since Blu Ray is supposed to stop this kind of thing.

And yeah, they'll patch it, and they'll bypass the patch over and over.. kinda like the PSP thing.

So, endless updates to keep ahead of them.

[Cth]

http://www.sacbee.com/204/story/81927.html

Holdup was fake, cops say

Two employees are facing criminal charges following the reported theft of four coveted PlayStation 3 game consoles last week from an Elk Grove business, police said Wednesday.

Tauryn Robert Hodge and Gerald Anthony Keys, both 19, were arrested Tuesday on charges of suspected embezzlement, burglary and conspiracy. Hodge is facing an additional charge of filing a false police report. Both were employees of the GameStop on Laguna Boulevard.

On Nov. 16, a day before the consoles were to go on sale, Elk Grove police received a report from Hodge that masked gunmen had robbed his store.

The machines retail for $499 to $599 but have been offered on eBay for hundreds more.

"It was Hodge who initially called the Elk Grove police," Officer Christopher Trim said.

"There are things we are continuing to investigate," Trim said. "There may or may not be additional parties involved. We still haven't recovered the merchandise."

Police were tight-lipped about how they discovered that the robbery report was bogus.

"Our detectives were able to gather information that wasn't consistent with a robbery," Trim said. "They felt there was more to the investigation than meets the eye."

After the reported Elk Grove robbery, police warned retailers in the area, some of whom hired more security. They also advised the encampments of hopeful purchasers waiting for days outside stores to be careful.

Sacramento County Sheriff's Department records show that as of afternoon Wednesday, both men had posted bail and were not in custody.

[John Drake]

Probably movie studios since Blu Ray is supposed to stop this kind of thing.

And yeah, they'll patch it, and they'll bypass the patch over and over.. kinda like the PSP thing.

So, endless updates to keep ahead of them.

So there'll be no PS3 piracy? You mention that to someone here in my country and they'll probably shoot themselves :lol:

[noble]

Resistance is a nice first effort for Sony's fledgling console. It's not too long, and not too short. Seems about the right amount for a FPS.

It starts off a bit slow in the first few stages, but by the end it's pretty frenetic.

This is obviously the start of a much bigger franchise.

And if you didn't know, don't skip past the end credits when you beat the game. There is a hell of a cliffhanger ending after the credits roll :D

[Humphrey_Lee]

Resistance is a nice first effort for Sony's fledgling console. It's not too long, and not too short. Seems about the right amount for a FPS.

It starts off a bit slow in the first few stages, but by the end it's pretty frenetic.

This is obviously the start of a much bigger franchise.

And if you didn't know, don't skip past the end credits when you beat the game. There is a hell of a cliffhanger ending after the credits roll :D

I'm still playing this despite having beat it on Monday. Love this fucking game. And the bonus weapons on the replays are awesome.

[noble]

I'm still playing this despite having beat it on Monday. Love this fucking game. And the bonus weapons on the replays are awesome.



I haven't restarted it yet(trying to finish Rayman to unlock all the bizarro mini games).

Anyhow are there a lot of new weapons on the replay?

I'm assuming one of them is the lazer arc gun the chimera was blasting me with in the later levels(kind of looked like the lava gun from Ratchet and Clank).

How many others are there?

And I've only finished it on easy, anyone know if the endings are different for the harder difficulties?

[Humphrey_Lee]

I haven't restarted it yet(trying to finish Rayman to unlock all the bizarro mini games).

Anyhow are there a lot of new weapons on the replay?

I'm assuming one of them is the lazer arc gun the chimera was blasting me with in the later levels(kind of looked like the lava gun from Ratchet and Clank).

How many others are there?

And I've only finished it on easy, anyone know if the endings are different for the harder difficulties?

I went through on normal and am now just replaying levels looking for Intel and accomplishing the extras. So far I found some dual pistols that fire rounds like nobody's business, and a grenade that temporarily puts up a bubble shield that repels enemy fire back at them. So, so nifty.

[Vonn Hennigar]

I'm still looking for a PS3 but i LOVE games that give you souped up weapons for replay value.

Anyone who's played Resident Evil 4 2 or 3 times with a Chicago Typewriter,Infinite Rocket Launcher and Alternate Armour costume for the girl know what i'm talking about.

[noble]

I'm still looking for a PS3 but i LOVE games that give you souped up weapons for replay value.

Anyone who's played Resident Evil 4 2 or 3 times with a Chicago Typewriter,Infinite Rocket Launcher and Alternate Armour costume for the girl know what i'm talking about.

Yeah I'm not sure how many new weapons are unlocked for the second go through.

But these aren't just suped up versions of the original weapons, these are all new weapons that you didn't get on the first play through :D

[Vonn Hennigar]

Yeah I'm not sure how many new weapons are unlocked for the second go through.

But these aren't just suped up versions of the original weapons, these are all new weapons that you didn't get on the first play through :D

:blah:

;)

On my 2nd go through, you're right i didn't get the Infinite Launcher until wayyyy into the game,literally right before fighting Salazar. Either way once you got these weapons, you couldn't help playing through the game again, even though it was almost impossible to die (aside from the Press X and Square Button Now!! cut-scenes).

[Humphrey_Lee]

Yeah I'm not sure how many new weapons are unlocked for the second go through.

But these aren't just suped up versions of the original weapons, these are all new weapons that you didn't get on the first play through :D

Well, I don't know how many there are total yet, but I watched a "Making of" video that I unlocked last night, and it had footage of a tester cycling through weapons, and it looked like there was at least 12 in his little circle menu. So it looks like I've got 2 more to unlock, plus whatever new grenades they might unleash on me. Such a fucking great game.

[Brewtown Andy]

For what it's worth, Best Buy isn't advertising even the existence of PS3 in it's weekly ad this week. While I realize that there are no systems to be found anywhere, they aren't even advertising the games.

[Vonn Hennigar]

For what it's worth, Best Buy isn't advertising even the existence of PS3 in it's weekly ad this week. While I realize that there are no systems to be found anywhere, they aren't even advertising the games.

I noticed that too, but in my version at least they were advertising the PS3 games at least.

I'll never find one of these fuckers this year will i?:-x

[Brewtown Andy]

I noticed that too, but in my version at least they were advertising the PS3 games at least.

I'll never find one of these fuckers this year will i?:-xNo, but you don't need it til after you beat God Of War 2.

[Vonn Hennigar]

No, but you don't need it til after you beat God Of War 2.

Fuck that button masher shit!*






* Bitter man after not being able to defeat Ares in Part 1. :-x

[Cth]

More bad news (re: graphics upscaling).. not sure if it's true or not, but it might explain why there's no real official word or quick software patch out currently.

http://boardsus.playstation.com/playstation/board/message?board.id=ps3&thread.id=747177

Sony offers a solution to those who have 480p/1080i HDTVs [ Edited ]

For those of you that are interested, the PS3 does not have a hardware analog scaling chip. This means that PS3 will never be able to upscale. It will only be able to display native resolutions.

This includes upscaling of games, as well as DVDs. However, Sony has the solution for you!

http://www.sonystyle.ca/commerce/servlet/ProductDetailDisplay?sto
reId=10001&langId=-1&catalogId=10001&productId=100253
5&navigationPath=33000n32100n32108n46020

This will upscale any signal up to 1080i. It was designed with the PS3 in mind. Plug your PS3 into this.

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2006/09/dav3200es-front.jpg

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2006/09/interface-dav5200es.jpg

----------------

http://www.engadgethd.com/2006/11/25/sony-retracts-1080i-fix-statement-leaving-customers-in-lurch/

Sony retracts 1080i fix statement, leaving customers in lurch

All you owners of HDTVs that can only do 1080i, we've got some bad news for you. Sony Computer Entertainment America's head honcho of Corporate communications, David Karraker, apparently retracted -- or at least backtracked -- on Sony's previous statements about the increasingly infamous 1080i issue (the one that won't let PS3s play games at 1080i on HDTVs that don't support 720p). According to GameDaily, Sony cannot actually confirm this issue can be fixed via a firmware patch (although they're not denying it, either), and that they are "looking into the issue and haven't stated any actions that will be taken regarding it."



from what i understand a scaler chip was not included in the ps3. to upscale using software will further burden the processor possibly causing further problems with frames per second and other graphical tasks...to sum up, it doesn't sound like an easy task to get it right via software updates

----------

http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2006/11/24/6078

Sony responds to scaling issue with...well...they at least admit they know about it

We've known for the past few days that the PS3 has issues when it comes to scaling their movies and games. The gist of it is that if you don't have a television that can do both 720p and 1080p, you're going to lose picture quality in either games or Blu-ray movies. Not a good way to launch a system, right? Sony knows there's an issue with this, and while they first told GameDaily.biz that the fix would be a firmware upgrade, they have since backed off of that statement. The update:

Sony has contacted us to let us know that they may have spoken a bit prematurely. SCEA's Dave Karraker, Sr. Director, Corporate Communications, informed GameDaily BIZ that they currently cannot confirm that this 1080i issue will be resolved via a firmware patch. The official line is now that they are "looking into the issue and haven't stated any actions that will be taken regarding it."

This doesn't sound good. Reading between the lines, I don't think we'll see anything done about this problem anytime soon. We've joked about beta-testing the PS3 hardware, but it keeps getting less and less funny. The two or three people with 1080p sets are fine, and apparently these are the only people Sony cares about. Of course, you could always buy a brand new Sony HDTV to make your PS3 experience perfect. That'll show 'em!

[Brewtown Andy]

More bad news (re: graphics upscaling).. not sure if it's true or not, but it might explain why there's no real official word or quick software patch out currently.

http://boardsus.playstation.com/playstation/board/message?board.id=ps3&thread.id=747177

Sony offers a solution to those who have 480p/1080i HDTVs [ Edited ]

For those of you that are interested, the PS3 does not have a hardware analog scaling chip. This means that PS3 will never be able to upscale. It will only be able to display native resolutions.

This includes upscaling of games, as well as DVDs. However, Sony has the solution for you!

http://www.sonystyle.ca/commerce/servlet/ProductDetailDisplay?sto
reId=10001&langId=-1&catalogId=10001&productId=100253
5&navigationPath=33000n32100n32108n46020

This will upscale any signal up to 1080i. It was designed with the PS3 in mind. Plug your PS3 into this.

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2006/09/dav3200es-front.jpg

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/2006/09/interface-dav5200es.jpg

----------------

http://www.engadgethd.com/2006/11/25/sony-retracts-1080i-fix-statement-leaving-customers-in-lurch/

Sony retracts 1080i fix statement, leaving customers in lurch

All you owners of HDTVs that can only do 1080i, we've got some bad news for you. Sony Computer Entertainment America's head honcho of Corporate communications, David Karraker, apparently retracted -- or at least backtracked -- on Sony's previous statements about the increasingly infamous 1080i issue (the one that won't let PS3s play games at 1080i on HDTVs that don't support 720p). According to GameDaily, Sony cannot actually confirm this issue can be fixed via a firmware patch (although they're not denying it, either), and that they are "looking into the issue and haven't stated any actions that will be taken regarding it."



----------

http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2006/11/24/6078

Sony responds to scaling issue with...well...they at least admit they know about it

We've known for the past few days that the PS3 has issues when it comes to scaling their movies and games. The gist of it is that if you don't have a television that can do both 720p and 1080p, you're going to lose picture quality in either games or Blu-ray movies. Not a good way to launch a system, right? Sony knows there's an issue with this, and while they first told GameDaily.biz that the fix would be a firmware upgrade, they have since backed off of that statement. The update:

Sony has contacted us to let us know that they may have spoken a bit prematurely. SCEA's Dave Karraker, Sr. Director, Corporate Communications, informed GameDaily BIZ that they currently cannot confirm that this 1080i issue will be resolved via a firmware patch. The official line is now that they are "looking into the issue and haven't stated any actions that will be taken regarding it."

This doesn't sound good. Reading between the lines, I don't think we'll see anything done about this problem anytime soon. We've joked about beta-testing the PS3 hardware, but it keeps getting less and less funny. The two or three people with 1080p sets are fine, and apparently these are the only people Sony cares about. Of course, you could always buy a brand new Sony HDTV to make your PS3 experience perfect. That'll show 'em!It'd be mean to do a dance of joy over the fact that I made sure I went top of the line on my HDTV, right?

[Smokinblues]

It'd be mean to do a dance of joy over the fact that I made sure I went top of the line on my HDTV, right?
it doesn't take top of the line to do 720p.

[Cth]

Basically, developers now to have to work towards one resolution, despite being told to develop for another for launch.

I can see why that Resistance guy was miffed now if so.

Hopefully it'll be contained to launch titles, but it sounds like developers are going to have to fix this and not Sony.

If Sony had kept developers in the loop, it might not have been an issue.. of course, it looks like Sony's left hand didn't know what the right was doing, so it's kind of understandable.

Sucks though to be an early adopter. Even if they did patch it somehow through software, it's just gonna make things choppy.

Unless they did a recall.. which might not be so bad considering how little PS3s are actually out there in fan hands.

[Smokinblues]

Basically, developers now to have to work towards one resolution, despite being told to develop for another for launch.

I can see why that Resistance guy was miffed now if so.

Hopefully it'll be contained to launch titles, but it sounds like developers are going to have to fix this and not Sony.

If Sony had kept developers in the loop, it might not have been an issue.. of course, it looks like Sony's left hand didn't know what the right was doing, so it's kind of understandable.

Sucks though to be an early adopter. Even if they did patch it somehow through software, it's just gonna make things choppy.

Unless they did a recall.. which might not be so bad considering how little PS3s are actually out there in fan hands.

it looks like sony just can't keep itself from giving people reasons not to buy the system. this is an inexcusable error.

[Cth]

http://www.qj.net/Apple-to-offer-Blu-ray-equipped-Macs-by-February-/pg/49/aid/73975

Apple to offer Blu-ray-equipped Macs by February?

Don't look now, but there are reports saying that Apple will begin offering Blu-ray-equipped Macs by February 2007. This is only according to some sources and nothing has been confirmed by Apple as of now.

There are no details divulged and it is not known whether systems will be announced with the new drive on February, pre-announced in January for a later release date, or if the Blu-ray equipped babies would be added to manufacturing for an announcement some time in the first quarter.

Those aren't the only sketchy details as it is also not known if the alleged new drive will rely on an update for the Mac OS X 10.4 Tiger that will add support for the drive, or if the drive will depend on the Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard.

But if you can't wait for this rumor to materialize or to be debunked, you could always buy a Sony VAIO laptop with Blu-ray that will cost you around US$ 3,000-3,500 or a desktop variant that will go for US$ 2, 250.

[Jonny Z]

my PS3 just arrived! not gonna open it though.

question for those of you that have it- when i picked up the box of the ps3, it felt like there was some loose stuff in there- i assume its just the booklets and whatnot- but should i be worried? usually that stuff is all contained within the packaging and not flying around loose inside the box

[noble]

Yeah mine was all self contained.

Is this suppossed to be a new in the box PS3 or is it a used/like new?

It's possible the wires, or something could have jarred loose during shipping. Maybe even the Bluray movie in there.

[Cth]

http://blog.wired.com/games/2006/11/genjis_gamekill.html

Get stuck in Genji? It's not you, it's a massive glitch...

The development team for Genji did a big-hearted thing the other day -- they sent out helpful tips to players in the form of an e-mail. What they failed to give a tip for was avoiding a massive, massive bug in the game that renders your entire playtime useless and forces you to start over. Oh, okay... I'll feed you, baby birds...

At around the 2 or 3 hour mark of playtime, you'll have to hit two switch-thingys on top of a building -- you'll need a key to enter said building and make your way to the roof. However, due to a glitch in the game, that key may or may not appear for you to pick up. That means everything you did is useless. Or is it? Apparently you can stand under the switches and perform an upwards-swinging attack to hit them from the ground, but there's still no access to the building itself. Essentially, you're pretty screwed if that key didn't pop up for your acquisition. Keep multiple save files, guys! Anyone run across this problem?

[Jonny Z]

Yeah mine was all self contained.

Is this suppossed to be a new in the box PS3 or is it a used/like new?

It's possible the wires, or something could have jarred loose during shipping. Maybe even the Bluray movie in there.

it's supposed to be new from Costco.com.

i'll look into it a little more later... i'm still at work so i dont wanna walk around shaking a box and looking like a moron :) i'd rather do it in the privacy of my own home

[Cth]

Finally..

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcat17006&type=page&_requestid=78673

Search your local Best Buy inventory to see if the PS3 is in stock.

EDIT: Hrm.. not sure if this is 100% working, so be warned.

This one says all of them have it in stock:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcat17006&type=page&_requestid=79105

[Cth]

PS3 for under $20? Yes way, jose!

Missed out on the PS3 launch because you didn't have the dough? Don't worry, you still have a chance to get your mitts on a PS3. In fact, you might even end up getting one for under US$20.

That's right, if you've got at least 20 bucks you've still got a chance to get a Sony PS3 thanks to UniqueAuction.com, an online auction that just sold its first PS3 last Friday for a whopping price of $6.06. Maybe some of you are thinking, "Naw, this can't be true." Yeah, it might sound a bit of a stretch (a $600 console getting sold for 6 bucks and change?), but this is the real deal. Last Christmas, they sold over 100 Xbox 360's with the winning bids ranging from $0.92 to $4.34.

So just how does the whole thing work anyway? Unlike a traditional auction, UniqueAuction.com plays up the "unique" part in its name. Instead of the usual highest bidder, it's the most "unique" bid that wins. People can bid any amount on the offered items as long as it doesn't go over the maximum price - for the PS3 it's $15.05. For example, imagine that three people bid $15.05, two people bid $15.04, and one solitary individual bid $15.03. The most unique bid here would be the one for $15.03, hence the guy who made that bid wins the bidding war.

If you wanna know more check out UniqueAuction.com. Every bid costs US$2.00 ($1.00 for platinum members) in order to cover the cost of the system, but hey, what's two bucks more if you end up winning the whole thing for what practically amounts to spare change anyway, right?

[noble]

PS3 RELEASE LIST

Keep in mind the ones that have a 1 as the day of release, (for example, 4/1, or 5/1 are just placeholder dates.) This means they know they are coming out in that month...for instance if a game has a release date of 4/2 that means as of right now it's coming out in April, they're just not sure when.

FIGHT NIGHT ROUND 3 12/5
BLAZING ANGELS 12/12
FULL AUTO 2 12/12
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 12/19
COLLEGE HOOPS 2K7 1/15
RAINBOW 6 1/30
ELDER SCROLLS 4 2/1
EYE OF JUDGEMENT 2/5
GODFATHER 2/5
SINGSTAR 2/5
FEAR 2/6
BLADESTORM 2/19
FATAL INERTIA 2/19
NBA STREET HOMECOURT 2/19
FORMULA 1 3/1
HEAVENLY SWORD 3/1
LAIR 3/1
MLB 07 3/1
MOTORSTORM 3/1
BURNOUT 5 3/6
DEF JAM 3/6
MEDAL OF HONOR AIRBORNE 3/6
VIRTUA FIGHTER 5 3/13
ARMORED CORE 4 3/20
VIRTUA TENNIS 3 3/20
CODED ARMS ASSAULT 3/30
GOLDEN AXE 3/30
HAZE 3/30
INDIANA JONES 3/30
MERCENARIES 2 3/30
SPLINTER CELL DOUBLE AGENT 4/1
TUROK 4/1
WORLD SNOOKER 2007 4/1
ARMY OF 2 4/2
ASSASSINS CREED 4/2
THE DARKNESS 4/2
MONSTER MADNESS 4/3
SPIDER MAN 3 5/1
STRANGLEHOLD 5/1
HALF LIFE 2 6/1
HEAVY RAIN 6/1
HELLBOY 6/1
INTERSTELLAR MARINES 6/1
PROJECT OFFSET 6/1
ROGUE WARRIOR 6/1
SEGA RALLY 6/1
STUNTMAN 2 6/1
THE CLUB 6/1
UNREAL TOURNAMENT 07 6/1
WARHAWK 6/1
COLIN MCREA DIRT 6/30
ALONE IN THE DARK 7/1
5TH PHANTOM SAGA 7/1
HOT SHOTS GOLF 5 7/1
KILLZONE 2 7/1
METAL GEAR SOLID 4 7/1
TEKKEN 6 7/1
THE GETAWAY 3 7/1
THE OUTSIDER 7/1
NCAA FOOTBALL 07 7/3
DARK SECTOR 9/4
MONSTER KINGDOM 10/1
THE WALL 10/1
GRAND THEFT AUTO 4 10/16
EIGHT DAYS 12/1
EYEDENTIFY 12/1
FINAL FANTASY XIII 12/1
FRONTLINES FUEL OF WAR 12/1
GRAN TURISMO HD 12/1
WARDEVIL ENIGMA 12/1
AFRIKA 12/31
ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS 12/31
SAM SUEDE UNDERCOVER 12/31
URBAN MYSTERSIS 12/31

[Cth]

ThreeSpeech Blog:



There have been a few questions relating to the scaling issues on PS3 games, such as the one below:
“Could you try and get info from Sony about the solution to the scaling issues on PS3 games? It seems a lot of people on the net are having trouble with their PS3 due to their TVs being only capable of 480i, 480p, and 1080i.”
“Since the PS3 can’t scale games to a certain resolution, these people can’t enjoy native 720p games being scaled to their TV’s resolution, and instead the PS3 boots the game into 480p. If you could get any info on how this is going to be fixed, or when, that would be greatly appreciated.
Here’s what PlayStation had to say in response:

720p is a higher resolution than 1080i. However, there are limited TVs that can output 1080i rather than 720p, and the HD Ready logo in Europe guarantees the TV is capable of 1080i and 720p
Resolution quality from top to bottom is:
1080p
720p
1080i
576p (480p for the US)
576i (480i for the US)
Therefore, if you tell the PS3 that you can’t do 1080i, the system has to drop to the standard definition resolution of 480p, because the PS3 won’t scale the Blu-ray video output up, and the source Blu-ray material will be at 1080 for high definition.
However, as the PS3 firmware can be updated, this is something that could be included in a later revision and unlike the recent 360 update, the PS3 can run true 1080p, as HDMI is standard on both 20 & 60gb models. What resolution the game is capable of is up to the game developers - all the way up to 1080p.

[LowKey]

This thread makes me happy. While I haven't been able to score a PS3 myself (thanks, FYE), it's good to see that there are actually some folks having fun with their new toy.

There needs to be more fun.

Hopefully, I'll be joining you guys soon enough. I'm sure that I'll be just as much fun to frag in "Resistance" as I am in "Gears of War".

[LowKey]

Sorry...just had to go for an even 500 posts. Viva Pinata!!!

[Humphrey_Lee]

PS3 RELEASE LIST

Keep in mind the ones that have a 1 as the day of release, (for example, 4/1, or 5/1 are just placeholder dates.) This means they know they are coming out in that month...for instance if a game has a release date of 4/2 that means as of right now it's coming out in April, they're just not sure when.

FIGHT NIGHT ROUND 3 12/5
BLAZING ANGELS 12/12
FULL AUTO 2 12/12
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 12/19
COLLEGE HOOPS 2K7 1/15
RAINBOW 6 1/30
ELDER SCROLLS 4 2/1
EYE OF JUDGEMENT 2/5
GODFATHER 2/5
SINGSTAR 2/5
FEAR 2/6
BLADESTORM 2/19
FATAL INERTIA 2/19
NBA STREET HOMECOURT 2/19
FORMULA 1 3/1
HEAVENLY SWORD 3/1
LAIR 3/1
MLB 07 3/1
MOTORSTORM 3/1
BURNOUT 5 3/6
DEF JAM 3/6
MEDAL OF HONOR AIRBORNE 3/6
VIRTUA FIGHTER 5 3/13
ARMORED CORE 4 3/20
VIRTUA TENNIS 3 3/20
CODED ARMS ASSAULT 3/30
GOLDEN AXE 3/30
HAZE 3/30
INDIANA JONES 3/30
MERCENARIES 2 3/30
SPLINTER CELL DOUBLE AGENT 4/1
TUROK 4/1
WORLD SNOOKER 2007 4/1
ARMY OF 2 4/2
ASSASSINS CREED 4/2
THE DARKNESS 4/2
MONSTER MADNESS 4/3
SPIDER MAN 3 5/1
STRANGLEHOLD 5/1
HALF LIFE 2 6/1
HEAVY RAIN 6/1
HELLBOY 6/1
INTERSTELLAR MARINES 6/1
PROJECT OFFSET 6/1
ROGUE WARRIOR 6/1
SEGA RALLY 6/1
STUNTMAN 2 6/1
THE CLUB 6/1
UNREAL TOURNAMENT 07 6/1
WARHAWK 6/1
COLIN MCREA DIRT 6/30
ALONE IN THE DARK 7/1
5TH PHANTOM SAGA 7/1
HOT SHOTS GOLF 5 7/1
KILLZONE 2 7/1
METAL GEAR SOLID 4 7/1
TEKKEN 6 7/1
THE GETAWAY 3 7/1
THE OUTSIDER 7/1
NCAA FOOTBALL 07 7/3
DARK SECTOR 9/4
MONSTER KINGDOM 10/1
THE WALL 10/1
GRAND THEFT AUTO 4 10/16
EIGHT DAYS 12/1
EYEDENTIFY 12/1
FINAL FANTASY XIII 12/1
FRONTLINES FUEL OF WAR 12/1
GRAN TURISMO HD 12/1
WARDEVIL ENIGMA 12/1
AFRIKA 12/31
ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS 12/31
SAM SUEDE UNDERCOVER 12/31
URBAN MYSTERSIS 12/31

I'm getting all those that I bolded. And that lineup is why I went with a PS3. Plus I'm pretty sure Devil May Cry 4, White Knight Story and L.A. Noire will be out next year too, even though they're not listed.

[noble]

I'm getting all those that I bolded. And that lineup is why I went with a PS3. Plus I'm pretty sure Devil May Cry 4, White Knight Story and L.A. Noire will be out next year too, even though they're not listed.


I believe they are as well.

However this is just what Gamestop has listed.

here's an interesting thing to ponder.

We know Resident Evil 5 is deep in development as well as Devil May Cry 4. So much so that they are pretty likely to come out this year.

Yet neither one of them appears on this list.

If we read between the lines could this have something to do with the rumored buyout of Capcom by Microsoft?


Something to think about ;)

[Akira]

I believe they are as well.

However this is just what Gamestop has listed.

here's an interesting thing to ponder.

We know Resident Evil 5 is deep in development as well as Devil May Cry 4. So much so that they are pretty likely to come out this year.

Yet neither one of them appears on this list.

If we read between the lines could this have something to do with the rumored buyout of Capcom by Microsoft?


Something to think about ;)
That would be interesting. It would also be interesting if Capcom still made good games after being brought under MS' wing. Rare, I'm looking in your "Grabbed By Ghoullies"/"Perfect Dark Zero" producing direction.
Seriously though, it's probably more likely that Capcom just isn't posting dates for those two games at all. Now if they weren't on the Wii or PS3 list, but were on the 360 list, that would be a horse of a different color.

[Cth]

In stock bundle:

http://videogames.barnesandnoble.com/search/product.asp?z=y&cds2Pid=8004&ean=2000003127368

Sony PlayStation 3 (20 Gig) Barnes & Noble Bundle
$909.92

This Bundle contains the following:
PS3 20 GB
Wireless Controller
Untold Legends
Madden 2007
Ridge Racer 7
NBA 07
Marvel Ultimate Alliance
Resistance Fall of Man

[Cth]

Sony Replaces PlayStation Chief Kutaragi After Delays

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=aPGd5E.YlTR8&refer=japan
http://money.cnn.com/2006/11/30/technology/sony.reut/index.htm
http://prnewswire.com/news/index_mail.shtml?ACCT=104&STORY=/www/story/11-30-2006/0004482553&EDATE

Nov. 30 (Bloomberg) -- Ken Kutaragi, the developer of Sony Corp.'s PlayStation game console, stepped aside from day-to-day management of the unit after production delays forced the company to slash shipment targets.

Kaz Hirai, head of the U.S. game division, will take over as president of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., the Tokyo-based company said in a statement today. Kutaragi, 56, will become chairman of the unit.

Sony Chief Executive Officer Howard Stringer is counting on the PlayStation 3 to revive a company that has lost almost half its market value in the past six years. Kutaragi, a 30-year Sony veteran, in September cut 2006 shipment targets by half because of parts shortages.

``Given that PlayStation 3's main market may be overseas, turning to people who know that business is understandable,'' said Naoki Fujiwara, who manages $720 million at Shinkin Asset Management Co. in Tokyo.

Sony cut the Japan price of the PlayStation 3 by 20 percent to help lure buyers from Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360 and Nintendo Co.'s Wii consoles, which sell for about half as much. The PlayStation 3 went on sale earlier this month and the company aims to ship 2 million units this year.

$20 Billion Business

Kutaragi led the team that developed the PlayStation brand in 1994, giving Sony the biggest share of a $20 billion industry.

``Kutaragi will focus on overseeing the entire operation rather than day-to-day business,'' said Nanako Kato, Sony Computer Entertainment's spokeswoman. His position at ``the top of the management doesn't change.''

The company probably missed its goal of having 400,000 players in the U.S. when it went on sale Nov. 17, analysts including Merrill Lynch & Co.'s Justin Post and Paul-Jon McNealy at American Technology Research said this month.

Hirai, whose full name is Kazuo, will start his new job tomorrow, the company said. The 45-year-old joined CBS/Sony Inc., now Sony Music Entertainment Japan, in 1984, at the same time that Stringer was an executive producer at CBS News.

After joining Sony Computer in 1995, Hirai oversaw the U.S. introduction of the PlayStation, PlayStation 2 and the PlayStation Portable game players. He also led Sony into online game-playing in 2002, gaining more than 2 million users, according to Sony Computer's Web site. Hirai has been president of Sony Computer America Inc. since 2003.

Declining Outlook

Sony on Oct. 20 cut its full-year net income forecast to a five-year low of 80 billion yen ($688 million), from an earlier estimate of 130 billion yen. The reduction was caused by the PlayStation 3 price cut and a battery recall that was the largest in the history of consumer electronics.

The games division had an operating loss of 43.5 billion yen as sales dropped 21 percent in the three months ended Sept. 30.

[Cth]

http://ps3.net/newsboard/view.php?id=616

Sony to ship 100,000 PS3 consoles weekly

By Cornelius Wilson on Nov 26, 2006

Sony will be shipping off 100,000 PS3 units each week to all retail stores. There goal is to ship off one million PlayStation 3 units by the end of the year.

Expect to find the consoles in the stores on Friday's. There isn't expected to be more than six PlayStation 3's at each store. Call your local retailers to confirm that they have the PlayStation 3's before making the trip.

One million consoles before the end of the year? Surprising to me...I'm curious to see if this is legit or not. I hope it is true, at launch, I camped out Wednesday afternoon when the console didn't come out until Friday only to get stuck with a 20 gig which I put up on eBay, I'm looking for a 60 gig myself but have been missing the recent new shipments. Whenever I hear of a possible shipment I arrive to the store only to find out they sold out an hour or so before I came there, hopefully this Friday will be my chance to finally get one.

[Kip K]

I personally don't believe anything that Sony is saying regarding their console shipments. They still haven't owned up to undershipping the initial allocation. And given all the problems they had making the initial shipment, isn't it strange that suddenly everything is up and running sol well?

[Cth]

How To Upgrade Your PS3 Hard Drive

http://www.techeblog.com/index.php/tech-gadget/how-to-upgrade-your-ps3s-hard-drive

[Cth]

http://www.news4gamers.com/industrynews/News-16479.aspx

Analyst: Sony Must Sell 30 Games for Every PS3

A report from prestigious British economic publication Financial Times shows how Sony's hardware strategy for the PlayStation 3 is anything but straightforward.

The Financial Times report posits that a weak Yen value may "rescue Sony from an estimated four years of losses on its complex machine" as it sells the high-priced game systems in Europe in early 2007.

The article also claims that Europe is expected to be a "strong market" for the PlayStation 3, citing past successes with the PS2.

According to an analyst quoted in the article, Sony will need to sell roughly 30 games for every PS3 console sold in order to break even on hardware costs, assuming that the company receives a $10 royalty on every PS3 game sold. By the same formula, Sony only had to sell an estimated eight games for every PS2 in order to break even on hardware costs.

[Cth]

http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/748/748610p1.html

Sony drops GTHD:

A concept GTHD will be available for download only, and several other 'concepts' will emerge via download too. Sony wants to focus on a full GT5, and quite right too.

Polyphony seems to have quite a bit in the works for GT5. The Gran Turismo official site lists the genre for Gran Turismo HD Concept as "Real Driving Simulator," the same genre that's been used for the series since the original PlayStation version. For Gran Turismo 5, the genre is listed as "Online Car Life Simulator."

[BGPu]

http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/748/748610p1.html

Sony drops GTHD:

A concept GTHD will be available for download only, and several other 'concepts' will emerge via download too. Sony wants to focus on a full GT5, and quite right too.

Polyphony seems to have quite a bit in the works for GT5. The Gran Turismo official site lists the genre for Gran Turismo HD Concept as "Real Driving Simulator," the same genre that's been used for the series since the original PlayStation version. For Gran Turismo 5, the genre is listed as "Online Car Life Simulator."

Looks like it's going to be a free download come Christmas Eve

http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3155601
Since Gran Turismo HD was shown as a demo at E3 this year, gamers all over the world have been left puzzled as to whether it would eventually be released as a game or not. Prior to the PlayStation 3 launch, SCE began listing it in their PS3 release schedule, and instantly everyone assumed it would be released at retail, similar to Gran Turismo 4 Prologue (which released at the end of 2003 in Japan).

Well, today SCE and Polyphony Digital have announced that Gran Turismo HD Concept--note the name change--will be made available as a free download at the PlayStation Store, starting from December 24. The real driving simulator will be available to download for a limited period, and will feature a choice of ten cars and two layouts on a single course. There will be two modes of play included--Time Attack and Drift Trial mode. The demo will also have a Network Ranking feature, presumably for the Time Attack mode.

Running up to the release of Gran Turismo 5, the "online car life simulator", it's possible a number of other concept releases will be released, but nothing is set in stone right now, including the release date of the finished game. But it's clear Kazunori Yamauchi and team are pouring their focus into the final game, rather than a cut-down preview. Still, it's free--surely PS3 owners around the world are rejoicing at the prospect of getting behind the wheel of the latest iteration in the 46 million-selling series. The download is currently only announced for Japan, but it's likely to follow in the US soon.

[Jonny Z]

http://ps3.net/newsboard/view.php?id=616

Sony to ship 100,000 PS3 consoles weekly

By Cornelius Wilson on Nov 26, 2006

Sony will be shipping off 100,000 PS3 units each week to all retail stores. There goal is to ship off one million PlayStation 3 units by the end of the year.

Expect to find the consoles in the stores on Friday's. There isn't expected to be more than six PlayStation 3's at each store. Call your local retailers to confirm that they have the PlayStation 3's before making the trip.

One million consoles before the end of the year? Surprising to me...I'm curious to see if this is legit or not. I hope it is true, at launch, I camped out Wednesday afternoon when the console didn't come out until Friday only to get stuck with a 20 gig which I put up on eBay, I'm looking for a 60 gig myself but have been missing the recent new shipments. Whenever I hear of a possible shipment I arrive to the store only to find out they sold out an hour or so before I came there, hopefully this Friday will be my chance to finally get one.

gosh, i hope not. currently, my plan is to sell mine the week before christmas to try and cash in on the mania...

[Generic Poster]

30 games per system? I know I'm not the world's biggest gamer, but I've never purchased 30 full-price new games for any system I've owned, ever.

[noble]

30 games per system? I know I'm not the world's biggest gamer, but I've never purchased 30 full-price new games for any system I've owned, ever.

Don't worry.

I'll pick up your slack :grope:

[Akira]

Don't worry.

I'll pick up your slack :grope:

Ditto

[Cth]

30 games per system? I know I'm not the world's biggest gamer, but I've never purchased 30 full-price new games for any system I've owned, ever.

That's why they're sinking so much into Blu-Ray succeeding as the movie format.

[kari]

This is fucking priceless :D

FROM THE DESK OF: Kaz Hirai
ATTN: Ken Kutaragi

To whom it may concern,

Actually, this just concerns you, Ken. After arranging several meetings, internal polls and Aibo races, we've determined that your recent performance with regards to the PLAYSTATION 3 has been less than satisfactory. It's nothing personal, but we feel it's a fair comment to make given your actions behind the wheel of our Blu-ray vehicle. You've hit a concrete barrier, rolled over a cliff and even run over some pedestrians. I'm not really sure where this metaphor's going (it's running out of gas, you might say), but the general feeling I'm trying to convey is WRONG. BAD. UNHAPPY.

So, we're kicking you down a couple of notches in the business. I'm going to need you to write me a full sales report and have it on my desk by tomorrow. We don't have any tracking infrastructure in place yet, so I'm going to need you to manually count every PLAYSTATION 3 system sold.

FROM THE POORLY LIT WORKSTATION OF: Ken Kutaragi
ATTN: Kaz Hirai

To whom it may concern,

I have intensely calculated the sales numbers you requested:

- DS Lite: 201,378 72,757 (56.57%)
- PLAYSTATION 3: 32,662 9,437 (22.42%) (Ken's note: Only the second smallest percentage decrease! The system is clearly a success!)
- PSP: 30,815 14,125 (84.63%)
- PS2: 26,263 11,195 (74.30%)
- Xbox 360: 7,007 2,957 (73.01%)
- GBA SP: 1,26465 (5.42%)
- Game Boy Micro: 1,235 198 (19.09%)
- Gamecube: 576 62 (12.06%)
- DS Phat: 212 30 (16.48%)
- GBA: 27 3 (10.00%)
- Xbox: 0 6 (100.00%)

[Source: Media Create]

See also: Previous Japanese hardware sales charts

Can I have my old job back, now?

FROM THE DESK OF: Kaz Hirai
ATTN: Ken Kutaragi

To whom it may concern,

No.

FROM THE POORLY LIT WORKSTATION OF: Ken Kutaragi
ATTN: Kaz Hirai

To whom it may concern (jerk),

This is completely unfair. The PLAYSTATION 3 has been a resounding success. It's been consistently selling out and I have yet to see our "competitors" match its flawless design. This job you have relegated me to is degrading and could be done with but ONE of the CELL SPEs inside the PLAYSTATION 3. That's how powerful it is! Why, if I were a PLAYSTATION 3, I could calculate the sales numbers for every country in the world simultaneously and render a pie chart in four dimensions.

I could connect to the internets, link to other corporate executives and run sale simulations that encompass every planet in the known universe. If I used all my SPEs, I could travel back in time at a 120FPS at the wink of an eye. Of course, I wouldn't need eyes, because the power would allow to see the very matter of existence on an atomic scale. In HD. And not some ****ty HD, I mean true, 1080p.

You are a fool to demote me.

FROM THE DESK OF: Kaz Hirai
ATTN: Ken Kutaragi

To whom it may concern,

Ken. YOU THINK YOU ARE A PLAYSTATION 3.

I'm not sure there's much more to be said.

FROM THE POORLY LIT WORKSTATION OF: Ken Kutaragi
ATTN: Ken Kutaragi

To whom it may concern,

By my calculations, every person in the world will have enough jobs collectively to be able to afford a PLAYSTATION 3, by 2008. This statistic is irrefutable and will restore my reputation and the faith of the shareholders. Where you see launch delays, I see expanding anticipation. Where you see Blu-ray diode shortages, I see rarity and exclusivity! It is a pity that your mind is too narrow to accomodate these concepts. This was the perfect launch.

FROM THE DESK OF: Kaz Hirai
ATTN: Ken Kutaragi

To whom it may concern,

I'm trying to keep this impersonal, Ken, but you are making things a bit more difficult than I am accustomed to. Also, I didn't get your last memo, because apparently YOU SENT IT TO YOURSELF.

You're also embarrassing yourself. You made a few mistakes with this console -- just accept it. The great games will be there eventually.

FROM THE POORLY LIT WORKSTATION OF: Ken Kutaragi
ATTN: Kaz Hirai

Oh, I'm embarrassing myself, am I? Need I remind you of your favorite game? I think it's called Riiiiidge Racer.

And it's a computer, not a console. There's a difference.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-Noble

[Akira]

is anyone besides noble and myself set up with username for online? i'm Akira257

[kari]

I think we might be the only 2 on the benbo that are actually playing a PS3 right now :)

And I don't like the lack of a standard headset, so I'm not online much ;)

-Noble

[LowKey]

is anyone besides noble and myself set up with username for online? i'm Akira257

I just set it up this morning!! Whoot!!!

I'm...err....Paradoxik (I likes to keep it simple).

I'll add you on as soon as I can. I'll search the thread for noble's in a bit.

[BGPu]

I finally got mine online a few days ago.

My ID is BGPu

[noble]

ThunderBuckets.

One word

[Humphrey_Lee]

is anyone besides noble and myself set up with username for online? i'm Akira257

Nope. Need a router and I don't have the money for it right now. Also, I'm back to playing Final Fantasy 12 anyways. I do need to get back into the PS3 though, and ge online with it to see if I can download Malkin onto my NHL2K7 roster.

[LowKey]

Just dowloaded the Blast Factor demo. Good stuff. Actually makes use of the 'tilt' function.

At the Sony store, it indicates that you can use this game on "up to 5 registered Playstation 3's". What does THAT mean? Can we share games?

If so...I'd be willing to"trade".

[Akira]

I just set it up this morning!! Whoot!!!

I'm...err....Paradoxik (I likes to keep it simple).

I'll add you on as soon as I can. I'll search the thread for noble's in a bit.
Awesome! Shoot me a request (if you haven't already) and I'll add you as soon as I fire it up today.



At the Sony store, it indicates that you can use this game on "up to 5 registered Playstation 3's". What does THAT mean? Can we share games?

If so...I'd be willing to"trade".

Wow, I didn't even notice that when I bought Blast Factor. That's kinda odd, maybe you can dump the bame to a memory stick or (eventually) send it as an attachment to a friend...

[Cth]

Bah, stupid board glitch clobbered my old account, so I can't update the first page with everyone's "gamertags"

-------------

PS3 Gamertag List
[ Username - PS3 Gamertag ]

LowKey - Paradoxik
Noble - ThunderBuckets
BGPu - BGPu
Akira - Akira257

[Akira]

Bah, stupid board glitch clobbered my old account, so I can't update the first page with everyone's "gamertags"

-------------

PS3 Gamertag List
[ Username - PS3 Gamertag ]

LowKey - Paradoxik
Noble - ThunderBuckets
BGPu - BGPu
Akira - Akira (?)

Akira257

[BGPu]

If anyone in Chicago has a PS3 and is looking for a Memory Card Adapter the Fry's out in Downers Grove had a ton of them Sunday night.

[Akira]

PSone Games Now Available for PSP

First five titles appear on PlayStation Store.

by Chris Roper

December 4, 2006 - Sony Computer Entertainment today has released the first five PlayStation games for download via the PlayStation Store. Currently available for play on the PSP, CoolBoarders, Crash Bandicoot, Hot Shots Golf 2, Syphon Filter and Tekken 2 are on sale for $5.99 each.

Though a PlayStation 3 is required to download the games, they can only be saved directly to a PSP and not temporarily stored on the PS3's hard drive. After purchase, two files are downloaded - the game file (which can be up to 600MB or so) and the license file, a small document that prevents illegal copying.

A number of universal control schemes are available in each game, giving you the option of how to emulate the lack of the L2 and R2 buttons. Each configuration uses either the D-Pad or analog stick for inputting L2 and R2, either by using a directional press to trigger them or alt-shifting the PSP's L and R buttons.

By default, each game's description on the PlayStation Store comes with this bit of text: "This title has been converted from the original PlayStation disc to the PSP system. Consequently, there may be times where the title plays differently from the PlayStation disc version, or where some features do not function properly. This version does not support PlayStation peripherals (Controller, Memory Card, Multitap, etc.), therefore functionality such as multiplayer, versus, and co-op modes will not be available."
Link (http://psp.ign.com/articles/749/749049p1.html)

[Cth]

http://gamersreports.com/news/4511/

Patent: http://tinyurl.com/y2xyso

It looks like Sony is continuing its implementation of Wii-like technology in the Playstation 3. Now, in addition to the tilt motion sensing, Sony is has filed a patent for technology which will allow users to point to places on the screen using a Wiimote-like pointing device. The patent even includes a description of "A receiver portion include one or more sensor units located in or near the target area." Sounds like a sensor bar to us. You decide.

[Akira]

http://gamersreports.com/news/4511/

Patent: http://tinyurl.com/y2xyso

It looks like Sony is continuing its implementation of Wii-like technology in the Playstation 3. Now, in addition to the tilt motion sensing, Sony is has filed a patent for technology which will allow users to point to places on the screen using a Wiimote-like pointing device. The patent even includes a description of "A receiver portion include one or more sensor units located in or near the target area." Sounds like a sensor bar to us. You decide.

God bless them. If this goes through, and (optional) Wii control schemes are given next gen graphics, this would be quite the coup.

[Cth]

Well, it is an old patent, dunno why it's popping up now..

------------------

Amusing quotes:
http://www.us.playstation.com/News/PressReleases/354



"As the industry leader, SCEA has always offered comprehensive entertainment systems that stand the test of time," said Kaz Hirai. "The PS3 system features technologies that are truly next-generation. With so much packed into our system, we're confident that the PS3 will be just as 'future-proof' as our other PlayStation products, allowing consumers to enjoy a myriad of digital entertainment content for many years to come."



A PS4 will be launched by Sony but not until at least 2010.


Console lifetimes are getting shorter and shorter..

I'd say 2010 sounds about right if they don't push for 2009 to get the jump on competition. Putting out a date like that just seems to be giving the competition a date to beat out the gates like this generation. So, I'm leaning towards 2009.

What the heck are they thinking?!

[Cth]

Playstation 3 Censoring Through Region Coding



Certain Playstation 3 games will and do have a "feature" built in that will turn certain elements on or off depending on the region of your system.

The first example comes from Resistance: Fall of Man which shows no blood when run on a Japanese system but lots of blood when run on a US system.

Also, it doesn't matter if you have the Japanese print or the US print of the game, as it's built into both.

The second, which also comes from Resistance, is a bit more of a concern for online players. Your console's region essentially pairs you with that region's online servers. Thus if you have a Japanese system and you're playing Resistance online, you'll be playing against Japanese gamers. And well, they're a lot easier to kill :P.

Looking for confirmation on this one..

[Cth]

http://www.japantoday.com/jp/news/392523

180 PlayStation 3 consoles stolen in Ibaraki

Wednesday, December 6, 2006 at 07:07 EST

MITO — Police said Tuesday 180 sets of the popular game console PlayStation 3 were stolen from the luggage-handling area of Meitetsu Golden Air Cargo Corp during a transit in Ibaraki Prefecture on Tuesday.

[Cth]

New update - 1.30

http://www.jp.playstation.com/ps3/update/index.html

Support Bluetooth media remote.
In BD/DVD setting, HDMI output format setting was added.
The backup utility was added to the system settings (backs up HD contents to other media, presumably so you can swap HDs).
Adds options to Restore PS3 system under system settings. Good for blanking machine so you can sell it?
Added selective method of setting TV resolutions (but I think that existed before under "custom").

And something about more USB devices supported. Like a model train controller (streetcar GO! Shinkansen).

[BGPu]

Playstation 3 Censoring Through Region Coding



Looking for confirmation on this one..

I've got a Japanese console and the Japanese version of Resistance. There's some blood but not a ton, if I'm remembering correctly.

I'm not sure what servers I've played on. I think I've played against mostly American players, but they could all be importers too...

[Cth]

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=763633

720p HDTV owners, DO NOT UPGRADE TO 1.3 until you've read this

Sorry for this seperate topic, but I wanted to stress that people saw this before just randomly updating their system.

In the old firmware, 720p had higher priority over 1080i. The new firmware update reverses this so 1080i has higher priority over 720p. The problem here is, if you play the following, this is what you'll get:

A game that only supports 720p, you'll get 720p

A game that supports up to 1080p, you'll get 1080i instead of 720p

Blu-Ray movie 1080i

If you try to disable the 1080i resolution to always get 720p, the problem is when you play Blu-Ray movies, you'll only get 480p.

This is a significant step backwards and before you update your system, be sure you know what kind of functionality change you'll be getting. I'm going to hold out for now till they fix this.

[Akira]

Blu-Ray movie 1080i

If you try to disable the 1080i resolution to always get 720p, the problem is when you play Blu-Ray movies, you'll only get 480p.


From what I understand this is only an issue if you don't switch the resolution when going from game to blu-ray.

[noble]

Major Firmware Updates for PS3
Over the next several years, that is.
by Daemon Hatfield
December 6, 2006 - Sony has big plans for the PlayStation 3. "Future proof" is a term executives have used repeatedly to describe the new console, claiming that it is powerful and advanced enough to outlast the typical five year lifespan of a game machine. To help extend the PS3's life, Sony is planning a series of major firmware updates over the next several years.

Designed to give the PS3 more media center capabilities, the updates will allow third parties to make applications and hardware "such as interactive controllers," according to Vice President of Technology for Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, Paul Holman.

Speaking to SmartHouse in Sydney, Australia, Holman said developers are discovering that the PS3 has "a heap more processing headroom than they initially anticipated and that this was resulting in the development of new gaming capabilities."

"The PS3 has an awful lot of processing power and we will harness this power with firmware upgrades and new features," Holman said.

According to Holman, the first of these firmware updates should come next March alongside the PS3 launch in Europe and Australia. He also speculated that in the future the PS3 may come bundled with a keyboard and mouse to allow for easier access to the internet and media center applications.

[noble]

Three More for the Store
Sony's PlayStation download hub will add two games and a demo tomorrow.
by Jeremy Dunham
December 6, 2006 - Sony Computer Entertainment has confirmed with IGN today that it will unveil three more downloadable options for the PlayStation Store starting tomorrow. Lemmings 2, Go! Sodoku 2 and a playable demo of Genji: Days of the Blade will be available at an undisclosed time starting Thursday, December 7.

Featuring 40 brand new levels, added visual effects, and 1080p HD support, Lemmings 2 will retail for $5.99 and take up 270 megabytes of hard drive space. Go! Sodoku 2 will work with a more open price structure, as the initial level will be absolutely free with every level afterwards costing $2.99. There are four levels in all -- Easy, Mild, Difficult, and Fiendish. Combined, these four breakouts will make for 1000 different stages and the game will support up to four players as well. Its size is 86MB for the base file and 100k for each additional level.

Days of the Blade is free and will take up 593MB on your HDD.

[noble]

Tekken 5 Set for PS3
Bandai Namco to make updated arcade title downloadable.
by IGN Staff
December 6, 2006 - The PlayStation Network is off to a slow start, but things are going to get a lot more interesting in the near future. According to Japan's Famitsu Weekly, Bandai Namco will be releasing a version of Tekken 5 Dark Resurrection for the download service. A release date and pricing information were not announced.

This version of Tekken 5 is based off the arcade update that powered the recent PSP entry in the series. The PS3 version will feature full 1080p visuals and the playable debut of boss character Jinpachi, who was unplayable in the arcade version. The various modes found in the arcade game, including arcade battle, ghost battle and gallery, will also be updated for the PS3 version.

At the very least, this ought to hold Tekken fanatics over until Bandai Namco is ready to start talking about Tekken 6.

[Cth]

The TRUTH about the PS3's backwards compatibility...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoCD9TwLrVs

Thoughts?

Discussion thread with more screenshot examples:
http://boardsus.playstation.com/playstation/board/message?board.id=ps3&thread.id=808212&view=by_date_ascending&page=1

[Akira]

The TRUTH about the PS3's backwards compatibility...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoCD9TwLrVs

Thoughts?

Discussion thread with more screenshot examples:
http://boardsus.playstation.com/playstation/board/message?board.id=ps3&thread.id=808212&view=by_date_ascending&page=1

I've been playing FFXII on my ps3 for the last 2 weeks or so and after I changed the option in the game to remove the blurriness, it's been fine. Granted I'm playing on an SD tv over component cables, so I'm not sure if this would affect me at all.

[Cth]

Here's someone's list of tested games..

And a link to another article with more reports:
http://digg.com/gaming_news/PS3_looks_like_crap_when_running_old_and_new_PS2_g ames



Graphics 'OK':
Bombastic
Gran Tursimo 4
R-Type: Final
Mojo
Castle Shikigami 2 (no BGM though)
Mobile Light Force 2
Ape Escape 2
Contra: Shattered Soldier
Adventures of Cookie and Cream
Armored Core 3
Gun Griffon Blaze
Silpheed
Stretch Panic
Robotech BattleCry
Katamari Damacy
Dynasty Warriors 4
Grandia 2
Metropolismania
Battle Engine Aquila
Mr. Mosquito
Mad Maestro

Graphical Gitch:
Castlevania: Lament of Innocence (only seems to happen on characters, not backgrounds)
Final Fantasy XII
Killzone
God of War
We love Katamari
Soul Reaver 2
Zone of the Enders
Ribbit King
Xenosaga
Metal Gear Solid 2

Games I couldn't tell:
Gradius III & IV
Fantavision

All-in-all, 100% of the games work, at least so far no crashing, or graphical trash on screen that would make a game unplayable. And for me it seems to be running 2-to-1 as to if a game might have the glitch we all know and love so much.

Sony did ship a functionally complete system, just not a feature complete system - and so far Sony seems to be working on getting the features operational. I do not expect an update to the PS2 emulator on our PS3s until the day of the European launch - besides - I'm more pissed about not being able to dump my PS1/PS2 save games from my PS3 onto a memory card that I can use in my friend's PS2, or my PS2 in the bedroom.

[Cth]

Here's some hopeful good news though:



Ah, created an account just to post in this thread. I've been having this issue since launch day, and would like to give my opinion on it. First off, I'm about halfway through getting a CSE degree and follow computer hardware quite a bit, so I know a bit about what's in the system. IMO, it's something to do with the RSX.

Obviously, the 'pixel flipping' theory seems correct, almost indisputably. Which definitely makes it seem like a software issue. All Nvidia cards as far as I can remember have rendered in "Quads", which are blocks of 4 pixels, coincidence? It seems that when it's taking in this interlaced image and converting it to progressive, it's inverting it. I wouldn't be surprised if the PS3 was incapable of working with an interlaced image (It probably just converts it at the end), so internally it probably has a progressive image even when running in 480i, which explains why the problem happens regardless of your video output.

I'm not sure how many quads the RSX can work with, but if I remember correctly the G70 worked with 16 pixels at a time, or four quads, so maybe something with how it's handling the first quad in the set is mirroring them? Sounds like a pretty simple software glitch as not every quad has the problem. With how incredibly repeatable the issue is and how it appears to happen at a set frequency throughout the line it definitely just seems like a math error. I definitely expect it to be fixed, and I'm glad they're finally acknowledging it... I'll probably call tomorrow just to help the cause.

[Olivier E.]

PS3 in September true? :mad:

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=151602

[Akira]

PS3 in September true? :mad:

http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=151602

Until you hear otherwise from a credited source (i.e. one willing to go on record) take it as rumor and conjecture

[Cth]

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/J/JAPAN_SONY_PRESIDENT?SITE=KGW&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT

Sony Sticks to PS3 Shipment Target

By HIROKO TABUCHI
Associated Press Writer

TOKYO (AP) -- Sony is sticking to its target of shipping 2 million PlayStation 3 consoles by the end of the calendar year, its president said Thursday as he addressed concerns the company wouldn't be able to meet even the relatively low goal it set ahead of the year-end shopping season.

Speaking to reporters in Tokyo, Sony Corp. President Ryoji Chubachi also said there were no expected changes in the cost of an embarrassing global recall of Sony laptop batteries, which has affected almost every major laptop maker in the world.

"It's true that availability has been a bottleneck," Chubachi said of the PlayStation 3. "But the targets are achievable. We do not need to revise our shipment targets."

Tokyo-based Sony also expects to meet its shipment target of 6 million PS3 ready by the end of the fiscal year ending March and will launch its next generation system in Europe as soon as possible, Chubachi said.

PlayStation 3 made its highly anticipated world debut in Japan in November to long lines, with local stores selling out their supplies of the video game console in a pattern that was followed days later at the U.S. opening.

The console, which is powered by the new "Cell" computer chip and supported by the next-generation Blu-ray video disc format, delivers nearly movie-like graphics.

But the launch has been anything but smooth. Plagued with production problems, Sony pushed back its release date and said it expected to ready only 1 million PlayStation 3 machines each in time for the year-end holiday crunch. It also postponed its Europe launch until next year.

There is concern, however, that even the total 2 million machine mark may be a challenge. Though Sony has not released sales or shipment figures, some industry estimates have put actual shipments below 2 million.

That has helped rival Nintendo Co.'s Wii, which also hit U.S. stores last month, outsell the PS3 there by more than two to one, according to industry figures. Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360 got a head start with a launch last year.

The competition has meant it will be difficult for Sony to maintain the dominance its previous generation consoles commanded on the global market, with more than 200 million PlayStation series machines sold worldwide over the years.

Selling machines in high volumes is crucial in the gaming business because hot-selling formats attract software companies to make more games, which in turn boost console sales.

The company is also relying on royalties from game makers to reap returns on the massive investment in its PS3 console. Sony will be losing money for a some time on each PS3 sold because of the high costs for research and production that went into the highly sophisticated machine, as well as high costs of parts.

Chubachi said Sony is working to cut PS3 production costs, and expected to see the effects of that next year. A weak yen against the euro is also expected to minimize losses it makes on consoles sold in Europe and play to Sony's advantage.

He also said a recent management reshuffle - which saw technology guru Ken Kutaragi relieved of day-to-day responsibilities as president of Sony's game unit - was meant to reflect more emphasis on software development and marketing elements of an increasingly vital business for the company.

"With the PS3 launch, the entire game industry will expand. Its positioning within the Sony group is larger than ever," Chubachi said.

Kutaragi, also known as the "father of the PlayStation," was technically promoted from president to chairman of Sony's gaming arm. But in Japan, such a move sometimes disguises retirement or demotion - and analysts have expressed concern that Kutaragi was sidelined over difficulties in the PS3 launch or that the move signals serious disagreements within the group's executives.

The PlayStation 3's success will be critical to helping a company struggling to gain lost ground to rivals in digital music players and flat-panel TVs.

Welsh-born American chairman Howard Stringer - the first foreigner to head Sony - has closed plants, wiped out divisions and trimmed jobs in an attempt to turn round the company's fortunes.

But recovering sales got devastated by a recent massive global battery recall, which cost the Japanese electronics and entertainment company 51 billion yen ($438 million) in the third quarter.

Almost every major laptop maker in the world, including Dell Inc., Apple Computer Inc. and Lenovo, has announced recalls of Sony lithium-ion batteries that could overheat and burst into flames

Startup costs for the PS3 have also battered Sony's books, sending its profit for the July-September quarter plunging 94 percent to 1.7 billion yen ($14.6 million).

Sony shares rose 1.8 percent to 4,970 yen ($42.45) Thursday in Tokyo, little changed from the morning close before Chubachi's comments. The company's share price has fallen by almost 20 percent since April.

[Akira]

Info on firmware update 1.31.


The PLAYSTATION®3 system software version 1.31 update includes the following:


Settings
You can now register the BD remote control in [Register Bluetooth® Device] under [Accessory Settings].
[BD/DVD Video Output Format (HDMI)] has been added as an option under [BD/DVD Settings].
[Backup Utility] has been added as a feature under [System Settings].
You can now select the hard disk format method in [Format Utility] and [Restore PS3™ System] under [System Settings].
The method of selecting output resolution has been changed in [Video Output Settings] under [Display Settings].

Game
New for 1.31: You can now play PlayStation®2 format software titles that must be installed on the hard disk.

Other
The compatibility of USB devices with PlayStation®2 format software titles has changed. For details on USB devices that can be used with system software version 1.30, select here.
New for 1.31: Playability status with the PS3™ system has changed for some PlayStation® and PlayStation®2 format titles. To check on the latest status, visit the search site for compatible titles
link (http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/network/updates)

[Cth]

Sony Gives UKers A Break For Once; Screws US Users..

Register your account name online now:
https://account.np.ac.playstation.net/accounts/register/reg_explain.vm

[Shade]

So my local gamestop got a few PS3s in, and me being the idiot that I am
decided to get one. Forgetting about bills and christmas presents....

I figured that maybe I could make 100 bucks by selling it.


Wrong.


You cant give these away.



So I'm going to return it tomorrow.

[BGPu]

I got the remote a few days ago but I've been so busy at work I haven't even opened the box yet.

[noble]

So my local gamestop got a few PS3s in, and me being the idiot that I am
decided to get one. Forgetting about bills and christmas presents....

I figured that maybe I could make 100 bucks by selling it.


Wrong.


You cant give these away.



So I'm going to return it tomorrow.


www.uniqueauction.com

They were going for about 3 and a half grand last week.


You just have to know where to look ;)

[Akira]

I got the remote a few days ago but I've been so busy at work I haven't even opened the box yet.

Where did you find it, cause I've been looking and havent seen it yet

[sto110]

So my local gamestop got a few PS3s in, and me being the idiot that I am
decided to get one. Forgetting about bills and christmas presents....

I figured that maybe I could make 100 bucks by selling it.


Wrong.


You cant give these away.



So I'm going to return it tomorrow.

if you are not interested in making profit anymore i may know someone who is willing to buy it off you and pay shippin. Ill have to ask him

[BGPu]

Where did you find it, cause I've been looking and havent seen it yet

I don't think it's out in the states yet. It was released in Japan on the 7th. I got it from Play-Asia.com. I got that and a bunch of PS1 & PS2 imports last Monday and I haven't touched any of them yet...

[Akira]

I don't think it's out in the states yet. It was released in Japan on the 7th. I got it from Play-Asia.com. I got that and a bunch of PS1 & PS2 imports last Monday and I haven't touched any of them yet...

Ah cool. I'll keep my eyes open for a stateside release date

[Taxman]

Three booked in PlayStation 3 thefts

Thursday, December 21, 2006

By Michelle Hunter

East Jefferson bureau

Considering they've already incited riots, robberies and a shooting or two around the country, it seemed only a matter of time before the criminal mayhem surrounding the release of the scarcely available Sony PlayStation 3 video system struck locally.

A trio of UPS employees have been arrested for stealing more than $19,000 worth of the systems from the delivery company's Elmwood distribution center, according to Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office incident and arrest reports. Sean Weber, 25, of Harvey, Norbert Joseph, 37, of Picayune, Miss. , and Jasel Bolden, 29, of Gretna were booked with theft valued at more than $500.

The men worked nights at UPS and shipped at least 20 of the PlayStation 3 units and 24 wireless video game controllers to their day job at Andrews Sport Company Inc. in Jefferson , using pilfered mailing labels, the arrest report said.

"They would take the (Andrews) labels and put them over the correct label . . . and then it would be shipped here," said Al Andrews, owner of the sports equipment wholesale company.

The three then sneaked the systems out the Andrews store.

Andrews said he and his company had no idea what the men were up to until a UPS security officer contacted him. Andrews said all three men have been fired from his company.

A phone call to UPS was not returned Wednesday. But a Sheriff's Office report of the thefts was filed Dec. 11 by security investigators, who said the pilfering occurred until Dec. 5.

"We were taken totally by surprise, but we've cooperated with UPS investigators and the detectives," Andrews Vice President Todd Andrews said.

According to various news reports, PlayStation 3's have had a rather scandalous launch this holiday season. Shoppers spent days in line waiting for the systems, which retailed in stores for $500 to $600 but can be found on eBay selling for as much as $1,000.

In Putnam , Conn. , a man waiting in line for the console outside of a Wal-Mart was shot by robbers. A North Carolina teen was gunned down by authorities as they stormed his apartment complex looking for the PlayStation 3 systems he allegedly stole from another student, who was beaten just after his three-day wait in line for the game system.

And scores of police departments from around the country have recorded robberies and thefts of the systems, including more than a few that ended in bloodshed.

Neither Weber, Joseph nor Bolden could be reached for comment Wednesday.

[BGPu]

Ah cool. I'll keep my eyes open for a stateside release date

It's supposed to hit the U.S. mid January.

[BGPu]

Based on the countdown on Sony's Japanese site, Gran Turismo HD should go live in the PlayStation Store (Japan) about 9 am Central time Saturday morning Dec. 23.

[BGPu]

Gran Turismo HD Concept is up now in the Japanese & US stores, although they must be getting hammered because I can't get into either one now.

It took about 3 hours to download the game. Fun, but hopefully they add some content to it.

[noble]

Updated PS3 release list 12/27

Keep in mind these dates from Gamestop are more of a general idea kind of thing instead of a solid date(specially the days where there are 15 games being released(5/1, 6/1, etc)


PS3 RELEASE LIST
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 1/30
ELDER SCROLLS 4 2/1
FEAR 2/13
BLADESTORM 2/15
FATAL INERTIA 2/15
VIRTUA FIGHTER 5 2/20
MOTORSTORM 2/27
COLLEGE HOOPS 2K7 3/1
EYE OF JUDGEMENT 3/1
FORMULA 1 3/1
GHOST RECON ADVANCED WARFIGHTER 2 3/1
LAIR 3/1
SINGSTAR 3/1
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL 2K7 3/5
DEF JAM ICON 3/6
HEAVENLY SWORD 3/6
MEDAL OF HONOR AIRBORNE 3/6
NBA STREET HOMECOURT 3/6
ARMORED CORE 4 3/20
THE GODFATHER 3/20
VIRTUA TENNIS 3 3/20
BURNOUT 5 3/26
CODED ARMS ASSAULT 3/30
GOLDEN AXE 3/30
HAZE 3/30
INDIANA JONES 3/30
MERCENARIES 2 3/30
SPLINTER CELL DOUBLE AGENT 4/1
TUROK 4/1
WORLD SNOOKER 2007 4/1
ARMY OF 2 4/2
ASSASSINS CREED 4/2
BROTHERS IN ARMS HELLS HIGHWAY 4/2
MLB 07 THE SHOW 4/3
SPIDER MAN 3 5/1
STRANGLEHOLD 5/1
THE DARKNESS 5/1
HALF LIFE 2 6/1
HEAVY RAIN 6/1
HELLBOY 6/1
INTERSTELLAR MARINES 6/1
PROJECT OFFSET 6/1
ROGUE WARRIOR 6/1
SEGA RALLY 6/1
STUNTMAN 2 6/1
THE CLUB 6/1
UNREAL TOURNAMENT 07 6/1
WARHAWK 6/1
COLIN MCREA DIRT 6/30
ALONE IN THE DARK 7/1
5TH PHANTOM SAGA 7/1
HOT SHOTS GOLF 5 7/1
KILLZONE 2 7/1
METAL GEAR SOLID 4 7/1
TEKKEN 6 7/1
THE GETAWAY 3 7/1
THE OUTSIDER 7/1
NCAA FOOTBALL 07 7/3
DARK SECTOR 9/4
MONSTER KINGDOM 10/1
MONSTER MADNESS 10/1
THE WALL 10/1
TIMESHIFT 10/1
GRAND THEFT AUTO 4 10/16
EIGHT DAYS 12/1
EYEDENTIFY 12/1
FINAL FANTASY XIII 12/1
FRONTLINES FUEL OF WAR 12/1
WARDEVIL ENIGMA 12/1
AFRIKA 12/31
FINAL FANTASY VERSUS XIII 12/31
ROMANCE OF THE THREE KINGDOMS 12/31
SAM SUEDE UNDERCOVER 12/31
URBAN MYSTERSIS 12/31