Speaking as a lifelong Simpsons fan, I’m just as excited for this game to come out as everyone else — the wait to finally see this game make its way to home consoles seemed endless! We worked closely with Gracie Films and Fox to time the release of the game with the 500th episode of The Simpsons so that fans of the show could experience the classic game during an important milestone for the series.
It’s been a great collaborative effort with Gracie Films to find a balance between preserving the authenticity of the original arcade game and making just enough tweaks to adapt it for PS3. The original game is already great, so we decided we would focus primarily on making it as faithful a port as possible while adding various gameplay modes and bonus content.
We also listened to fans’ suggestions from our previous arcade conversions, particularly in respect including more challenging ways to play these classic arcade games when you remove the quarter-crunching element. To that end, we’ve included several different gameplay modes in The Simpsons Arcade, so there’s a mode (and a leaderboard!) for everybody.
Freeplay is the usual “unlimited continues” mode found in most arcade-to-console ports. It’s best when you just want to sit back and do a full playthrough without having to worry about getting a game over screen. One of the best parts of Freeplay mode in Simpsons Arcade is being able to scour the levels at your leisure to find the many, many inside jokes placed there by the original programmers in 1991.
To provide a more challenging experience closer to that of the original coin-op game, we included two different kinds of “Quarters” modes that give the player a set amount of credits up front. One Quarters mode sees players pulling credits from the same pool, while the other gives each player their own stash. Finally, Survival mode is the ultimate test because it gives you just one life to progress through the game. I look forward to seeing how far players can get on only one life!
We really wanted to add a lot of replay value to this title, hence all the different gameplay modes, leaderboards, achievements, inclusion of both US and Japanese ROMs, and all the unlockable bonus content. There are some pretty cool unlockables in here, including my personal favorite, the sound test from the original game. There are a ton of hilarious sound effects in that lot that are just plain fun to listen to. We also dug up as much The Simpsons Arcade memorabilia as we could find and put it all in a “Flashback” section. We’re hoping it really rounds out the overall experience and adds to the fan appreciation for this arcade gem.
I hope you’ll enjoy playing this game as much as I have, and I hope it brings back nostalgic memories of the glorious early ‘90.
Sports! Apparently there’s a huge sporting event happening today? I’m not sure, something about Giants from New York? Anywho, I’m rooting for Mecha Godzilla.
The Drop this week is nearly as big as Super Bowl XLVI, with a massive blow-out of PS3 Blu-rays, PSN digital releases and a PS2 classic. Speaking of classics, the Jak and Daxter Collection arrives this week on Blu-ray as a full packaged HD triple-combo, or single jabs as individual purchases on PSN.
Also, it was a pleasure joining the stage with David Jaffe and members of Eat Sleep Play last Thursday at the Twisted Metal community event, where we raffled tons of prizes and booed each winner onto the stage. A big thank you to PlayStation fans that made it out and turned it into an amazing experience!
Hit the jump and bask in the glory of over ten PlayStation games on this week’s The Drop.
The Jak and Daxter Collection – The Jak and Daxter Collection features all three best-selling PlayStation 2 classic hits — Jak and Daxter, Jak II and Jak 3 — fully remastered in high definition and stereoscopic 3D. This collection follows fan-favorite Jak and his sidekick Daxter through a series of action-packed adventures. The Jak and Daxter Collection blends action, shooting, driving, and platforming into one complete PS3 package.
JAK AND DAXTER: (Available on PSN) While exploring some ancient ruins on a forbidden island off the coast, Jak’s best friend, Daxter, is knocked into a vat of Dark Eco–a terrifying and deadly substance that could corrupt the world forever — transforming him into a weasel-like rodent. The village sage, Samos Hagai, tells Jak that there’s only one person who holds the secrets to transforming Daxter back. Now the pair must set out on a quest in search of a wise old sage who has the power to restore Daxter to his former self.
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning – An open-world action RPG, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning is set in Amalur, a rich and deeply immersive world underpinned by 10,000 years history, created by 22 time New York Times bestselling author, R.A. Salvatore. Immersing players in a rich, living, breathing open-world dripping with magic and rife with danger, underpinned by strong storytelling, Reckoning lets players define their destiny as they engage in intense action combat while exploring the huge, vibrant and varied world of Amalur as envisioned by the visionary creator of Spawn and acclaimed artist, Todd McFarlane.
Designed by open-world RPG legend Ken Rolston, Reckoning offers players unparalleled choice in a world of infinite possibility. Together, the visionaries and development team behind Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning are creating a game that aims to forever change the RPG genre.
The Darkness II – The Darkness II takes players down a brutal and personal path as Jackie Estacado, wielder of The Darkness — an ancient and ruthless force of chaos and destruction. Based on the supernatural horror comic book series created by Top Cow Productions, Inc., The Darkness II breaks out of the sea of conventional first-person shooters with its fervid Quad-Wielding gameplay, which will allow players to slash, grab, and throw objects and enemies with their Demon Arms while simultaneously firing two weapons. The game is layered with the use of dark versus light, steeped in deep and twisted storytelling, and engulfed in stylistic violence that is visualized through a hand-painted graphic noir technique that stays true to its comic book origins.
It’s been two years since Jackie Estacado, now the Don of the Franchetti crime family, used The Darkness to kill the men responsible for his girlfriend’s murder. He’s been unable to shake the memory of Jenny’s death since bottling up his supernatural power, and now The Darkness wants out. A sudden, unprovoked attack on 
Jackie’s life heralds the start of a full-scale mob war, which has clearly been orchestrated by some outside force. The botched attempt opens the door for The Darkness to reemerge, and sets Jackie on a journey to hell and worse, as he unravels the mystery behind the attack and the motivations of The Darkness itself.
Inversion – Set in the near future, the tranquil peace enjoyed by mankind shatters with an unforeseen invasion by an unknown enemy called the Lutadore. Armed to the teeth with futuristic gravity-controlling weapons, the Lutadore easily overrun the city’s defenses. Unbeknownst to all, mysterious anomalies have surfaced in conjunction with the invasion. Random regions in the city have entered zero gravity or have suffered vector changes, throwing the world into topsy-turvy chaos. Assuming the role of Davis Russel, a hotheaded 28-year-old cop, or Leo Delgado, Davis’ neighbor, players will embark on a journey through the disorienting war-ravaged, gravity twisted streets of their home town and beyond, to find Davis’ missing child.
Shank 2 – The avenging assassin Shank returns in this violent, action-packed sequel. With those closest to ex-mob hit man Shank under attack, Shank is once again forced on the offensive. Now he must put to use his trusty arsenal of dual handguns, chainsaws, machetes, plus all-new weapons and a brand new set of moves to protect those close to him. Shank 2 expands on the original game’s amazing visuals and combat system to redefine the 2D side-scrolling brawler.
Gotham City Impostors (Demo Available) – Gotham City Impostors is a multiplayer game unlike any other, giving players the opportunity to rebel against conformity as they customise their own characters. Posing as amateur vigilantes or villains, gamers will create their very own Bats and Jokerz characters using unprecedented 
customisation options including insane costumes, homebrewed gadgets and a wide range of traditional and imagined weapons. The game features maps and modes inspired by DC Comics’ Batman license.
Catherine (Full PS3 Game) – Vincent likes his girlfriend. Katherine’s pretty, smart, and successful. Trouble is, she’s starting to talk about long-term commitment, something Vincent’s spent his entire life avoiding. Since romantic complications are the last thing he wants to deal with, Vincent meets his friends for their regular night of drinks. Little does he know that 
he’s about to be blindsided by a beautiful, seductive, irresistible freight train named Catherine. Suddenly, he’s hung over in bed next to the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen, unsure about the previous night’s events. Was it just making out, he wonders, or did something more serious happen between them? Should he tell Katherine? Will he ever see Catherine again? Vincent’s about to find that a stumble on the staircase of love can turn into a horrific, fatal plummet…
Top Spin 4 (Full PS3 Game) – Top Spin 4 redefines the way you experience the game of tennis. Intuitive controls make gameplay immediately accessible yet deep and rewarding for the tennis experts who want to plan their strategy, target their opponent’s weaknesses and become an unstoppable force on the court. The most feature-rich title of the Top Spin franchise, Top Spin 4, puts you front and center of the professional tennis experience with the deepest player roster to date complete with 2K’s Signature Style, an enhanced Player Creator with new Coaching and Development systems, an incredibly immersive Career mode, all-new visually stunning TV Broadcast presentation elements, and a fully online World Tour Mode. Do you have what it takes to rise above the competition and become #1 in the world?
LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean (Full PS3 Game) – LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean: The Video Game re-creates the action, adventure and memorable moments of the Pirates of the Caribbean mythology in LEGO form, incorporating the humor of LEGO minifigures and fantastic worlds built from LEGO bricks and elements for players to explore.
The Simpsons: Arcade Game (Demo Available) – Bringing home the classic arcade brawler, Bart, Lisa, Marge and Homer smack their way through Springfield in this 2D beat ‘em up game based on the hilarity of The Simpsons TV series. Play through 8 levels of original arcade gameplay and join up to three of your friends in a journey to help the Simpsons on their quest to save Maggie! Chase down Smithers and Mr. Burns as you battle through classic Springfield locations in this memorable blast from the past!
This downloadable incarnation finally brings the coin-op excitement home, plus packs in an HD graphic remastering and four player online/local co-op.
Demos
The SpongeBob SquarePants: Movie – An all-new adventure for SpongeBob SquarePants, based on the animated feature film. There’s trouble in Bikini Bottom — again! Someone has stolen King Neptune’s crown and it appears as though Mr. Krabs is the culprit. Despite being passed over for a promotion by Mt. Krabs, SpongeBob and his faithful but dimwitted friend Patrick volunteer to make the perilous journey to Shell City (a place no one has ever returned from) to retrieve the crown and save Mr. Krabs’ life. Join our heroes on an epic and comedic quest to unexplored territory and see SpongeBob and Patrick as you’ve never seen them before.
[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]
Most people have their Super Bowl plans locked up by now (I’ve got a rack of ribs with my name on it), but what about tomorrow? If you’re in the SoCal area, why not head on down to the Santa Monica Vita Hill Social Club for our (free) Tester Season 3 launch party. You can compete with Tester participants, meet host Meredith Molinari (she’s sweet!) and the judges, as well as my coworker Will “68 Platinum Trophies” Powers. And, you know, play some PS Vita. Click here for details.
Oh, and: Giants or Patriots? As an Eagles fan, I find the whole thing very depressing. Pass me another rib.
So you are probably thinking “Mutant Blobs Attack? Never heard of it. Why should I care about this game? Also, why does Reddit always have so many cat pictures on the front page?” Well, the first thing you need to do is unsubscribe from /r/aww. After that’s done, let me tell you a few reasons you should care about Mutant Blobs Attack.
First, you enjoy platformers but are maybe a bit tired of the typical offerings, and are looking for something fresh. You were thinking of buying a Vita, and need something fun to play in between your sessions of Michael Jackson the Experience. You also have a sense of humor and are tired of games that take themselves too seriously. Maybe you also enjoy monster movies that feature the destruction of all mankind, or perhaps have a slight Blob fetish?
And, if all of the above items apply, then this is REALLY the game for you.
Tales from Space: Mutant Blobs Attack is a follow up to Tales from Space: About a Blob released early 2011 on the PlayStation 3 (via PSN). Mutant Blobs Attack differs from its predecessor in a number of ways. We want to leave SOME surprises for those who buy the game, so without giving too much away here is some more info about what’s in Mutant Blobs Attack.
This time around the Blob has some new abilities that were designed to take advantage of the Vita’s inputs. The first of these is Telekinesis, which allows the Blob to move objects/platforms around in the game world. These objects are indicated to the player with a green dot, which can be touched and dragged on the Vita’s touchscreen. Having movable objects in the world allows us to challenge the player with unique platforming puzzles.
The second new ability the player will encounter in the game is Rocket Mode. While in this mode, the Blob begins floating in the air, and is controlled using a rocket thruster. While flying around, the back touch pad of the Vita can be used to apply an additional “boost” of speed to the Blob.
Those of you that played Tales from Space: About a Blob will already be familiar with the Magnetic power, which is making a return. Magnetism allows the Blob to stick or repel from fixed metal surfaces, and also pull / push smaller metal objects that are not fixed in place. This power is often used in the game to solve puzzles.
As a break to the normal platforming gameplay, and utilizing another input feature of the Vita, we have spread tilt-based bonus levels throughout the main story. We made these levels all take place in unique and interesting environments like a wooden labyrinth, an old-school retro hand-held device, and maybe even Tom Selleck’s moustache (Editor’s note: Tom Selleck moustache level is not actually included in the game).
We are really proud of how the game turned out, and can’t wait to share it with the world! With the Vita and the game coming out very soon, we really hope that you guys & gals will take some time to check it out.
For up-to-date development news, make sure to follow us on Twitter @DrinkboxStudios and @MutantBlob, and check out our blog at www.mutantblobsattack.com. Also, feel free to shoot us any questions you have in the comments below, and we will try to answer them the best we can!
Head over to the new Sony Entertainment Network Blog today for the latest updates on new movies, music and more!
This week, the Video Unlimited library adds Dream House, In Time, and The Thing. Plus, watch Tim and Eric’s Billion Dollar Movie before it hits theatres. See this week’s update here.
The Music Unlimited service features new releases from Lana Del Rey, Leonard Cohen, and The Jealous Sound, as well as titles from Jack White, M.I.A, Gotye, Scorpions, and more!
Subscription Links:
This week, we tackle one of this winter’s biggest PS3 releases: Final Fantasy XIII-2. We invited IGN editor, renowned JRPG expert, and K-pop enthusiast Ryan Clements to give us his detailed analysis of a game that Square Enix has described as “exceed[ing] Final Fantasy XIII in every aspect.” Ryan wrote IGN’s FFXIII-2 review, so he was able to lead a deep and thought-provoking discussion of how Square Enix incorporated fan requests to make a nonlinear, exploration-focused RPG, how Eastern RPG design differs from Western RPG design, and much more. Definitely worth a listen!
We also reveal the new PSN game lineup for Tuesday, February 7th, serve up a new PSN Gem of the Week, and answer a slew of user questions related to PS Vita: the PSN launch-day game lineup, Bluetooth capabilities, and where to go to play it right now (hint!).
In other news…Woo-hoo! PlayStation Blogcast has hit the big 1-0! Frankly, I’m shocked: it feels like only yesterday that we were taking crash courses in Garage Band and cobbling together audio gear in order to get our long-promised podcast off the ground. And now, 11 weeks and 10 shows later, we’re in a regular weekly recording routine. It just goes to show that if you work hard, take your vitamins, and trust in Nick Suttner, anything is possible. Thanks to PlayStation.Blog readers for your support and feedback!
How’s our driving? We want your feedback, comments, questions, and suggestions, so leave ‘em in the comments below!
Action Items-Twisted Metal community event in San Francisco tonight!
-Final Fantasy XIII-2 IGN review by Ryan Clements
-Vita Hill social clubs now open in eight US cities
-Soul Calibur V
-Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning (aka Jeff’s post-Skyrim obsession)
[Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]
PlayStation Network will be offline for routine scheduled maintenance on Thursday, February 2nd from approximately 6am until midnight PST. During the maintenance, you will be unable to access the following services:
Fortunately, most online play will be unaffected. Users who are already signed into their account on PlayStation Network before the start of the maintenance should be able to stay signed in to their online session, but will not be able to access any of the services listed above. Users who attempt to sign-in to their PlayStation Network account after the start of the maintenance may be presented with the site maintenance notification page if they haven’t signed in recently. During this maintenance, you can continue to collect in-game Trophies and these will be updated on your profile once PlayStation Network is back up and running.
Stay tuned to the PlayStation Twitter feed for updates and a notice when maintenance has concluded. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
>
Hello everyone! Today, I would like to share our brand new trailer for Disgaea 3: Absence of Detention for the PlayStation Vita system. Disgaea 3 for the PS Vita will be released in April. We are really excited about Disgaea 3 coming out on the PS Vita over here. Yes, it is a port of the PlayStation 3 version, but it will be equipped with new character stories, new systems, new attack levels, new bosses, and will include all the DLC that was released for the PS3 version, all on one card. So even if you have already played Disgaea 3 on the PS3 system, you’ll have something new to experience with this PS Vita version!
Of course, there will be some PS Vita specific systems integrated into the game, as well. For example, there is a system called “Honor Quotient,” which uses the GPS to track how far you’ve traveled while playing the game. The more you travel, the higher your Honor Quotient will rise (you’ll be able to increase your Honor Quotient by winning battles, increasing your total play time, and by other means as well). With a high Honor Quotient, you will be able to gain more experience points, Mana points, get discounts at item shops, etc. So, don’t forget to take your PS Vita with you wherever you go! Also, with the rear touch panel, you can view the map from any angle. It sometimes gets really crowded and busy on the map, but with this camera angle control, you’ll be able to see your map much easier.
Let’s talk about the new characters for Disgaea 3: Absence of Detention. You’ll be introduced to two new characters, Rutile and Stella. Rutile is half-Nekomata, half-human. She was raised in the Human World, so she doesn’t really know much about the Netherworld. She enters Evil Academy as a transfer student. The other character is Stella, who is the student body president and daughter of the dean of the rival school, Death Institute, Majin Academy. She is a snobby rich girl, but she also loves playing tricks on others. She loves elegance, and believes that everything she does is “elegant.” …We’ll see about that!
Disgaea 3: Absence of Detention will be jam-packed with new stuff! Please visit the official website for more information. And, now enjoy the official trailer of Disgaea 3: Absence of Detention!
Thank you for taking the time to read my post today! Have a great day!
Hi Everyone -
This week, the folks at Konami are excited to bring you the new PSN Release Puddle! Relying on the physics of water and other fluids (hot magma anyone?) in ever-evolving environments, you’ll need to guide the fluid flow with precision to get to the goal. While it seems like a simple concept, the gameplay requires a fun puzzle-focused mentality where you must tilt the entire environment, balancing the push of each fluid’s unique properties with the pull of environmental factors of gravity, friction, and obstacles. With PlayStation Move compatibility, and a demo available as well, Puddle is set to make a big splash on PlayStation Network.
You may have seen EA’s news predicting the Super Bowl winners with Madden NFL 12. If you haven’t picked up this year’s edition yet, you can set up your own Super Bowl match yourself as it’s now available in the PS3 Full Games category. Joining it is also Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days, its predecessor Kane & Lynch: Dead Men, and Mini Ninjas. PlayStation Plus subscribers will have access to a 1 hour rental of all of these via Full Game Trials as well.
Twisted Metal fans; the big day is almost here. Although you won’t be able to buy the game until February 14th, the demo is now available to download! Get your hands on the new online multiplayer experience in classic Free for All or the all-new Nuke mode. In other demo news, Syndicate is also now available to try via a 4 player co-op demo.
Since the new PlayStation Plus content for February, announced earlier today, won’t be hitting until next week, this week is your last chance to get some of January’s free content like Back To The Future: The Game – Full Series, PS one Classics Syphon Filter 1-3, and PSN Game Sword and Soldiers. But with January’s final update for Plus subscribers, there’s plenty of new Full Game Trials as well as some great new free Avatars and Themes. Check out the Abstract Art theme in particular.
That’s all for this week. Check out the full details of this week’s update below, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below or join the discussion on the PlayStation Community forums in the Official PlayStation Store Update thread.
Here is the weekly PlayStation Store update:
Don’t have PlayStation Plus? Click here to purchase your subscription today!
Puddle ($9.99)
In this one of a kind game experience, guide puddles of fluid (a cup of water, a drop of dew, molten lava, and others) through a variety of beautifully designed environments (the human body, a garden, a foundry, and more).
ESRB rated T
File size 1.08 GB
Madden NFL 12 ($29.99)
Madden NFL 12 continues the rich tradition of the storied franchise by bringing fans closer to the NFL than ever before. Featuring all 32 teams, stadiums, and your favorite players in the league, Madden NFL 12 is True to the Game.
ESRB rated E
File size 4.97 GB
Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days ($19.99)
What would you not do for love? For acceptance? When would you give-up? For Kane & Lynch, there is no limit.
ESRB rated M
File size 8.1 GB
Kane & Lynch: Dead Men ($14.99)
Kane & Lynch: Dead Men follows the violent and chaotic journey of two men – a flawed mercenary and a medicated psychopath and their brutal attitude towards right and wrong. This volatile partnership combined with innovative technologies allow for an unparalleled gaming experience.
ESRB rated M
File size 10 GB
Mini Ninjas ($19.99)
Join Hiro, the smallest hero on the biggest adventure, as he embarks on an epic and electrifying quest to restore harmony to a world on the brink of chaos. Use your skills and mighty Ninja training to battle a magical army of evil Samurai.
ESRB rated E10+
File size 6.3 GB
Twisted Metal Multiplayer Demo
Twisted Metal is here with an exclusive early access demo. Get your hands on the new online multiplayer experience in classic Free for All or the all-new Nuke mode. Download the Twisted Metal Multiplayer Demo today!
ESRB rated M
File size 1.49 GB
Syndicate Demo
Syndicate is a re-imagination of the classic 1993 Syndicate game – a cyber punk FPS set in a dystopian world where large Syndicates rule and Business is War. In the 4-player co-op demo, team-up to take down rival Syndicate Cayman Global as you battle for market dominance and your life. Some takeovers are more hostile than others.
ESRB rated M
File size 620 MB
Puddle Demo
Check out this demo! In this one of a kind game experience, guide puddles of fluid (a cup of water, a drop of dew, molten lava, and others) through a variety of beautifully designed environments (the human body, a garden, a foundry, and more). But to do so, you must tilt the environment, balancing the push of each fluid’s unique properties with the pull of environmental factors of gravity, friction, and obstacles.
ESRB rated T
File size 1.08 GB
LittleBigPlanet Groundhog Day Costume (Free)
A seasonal exclusive costume for SackBoy!
File size: 1.04 MB
Assorted PlayStation Home Packs x 15 ($2.99 – $4.99)
15 PlayStation Home Packs that include over 300 items combined!
File size: N/A
Dead Island – Ryder White ($9.99)
There are always two sides to a story! Experience the events on Banoi as seen through the eyes of the villain. Are things really as they seem?
File size 1.04 GB
Need For Speed: The Run – Italian Pack ($6.99)
The NFSTR Italian Pack contains the following: 1995 Lamborghini Diablo SV, 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera, 2009 Pagani Zonda R, 2010 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione, 2005 Maserati MC12, 1993 Lancia Delta HF Integrale Evoluzione, Italian Motor Racing Playlist, Italian Challenge Series, Italy vs. World Challenge Series, New Trophies.
File size 3.16 MB
The King Of Fighters XIII Unlock Icons ($2.99)
The entire Customize Icon set for personalizing your online match profile is available to purchase. *These icons can also be unlocked by playing the game. With the triumphant return of fan favorite characters like Mai, K’, and Vice, extensive refinement of the core fighting engine based on community feedback, and vastly improved network functionality, THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIII represents the HD entry in the series that fans have been waiting for.
File size 6 KB
Soulcalibur V Customization Equipment 1 ($1.99)
File size 134 KB
Soulcalibur V Downloadable Music 1 -10 ($0.99 each)
File size 136 KB each
Soulcalibur V Downloadable Music Pack 1 ($2.99)
This pack contains the stage music tracks: BRAVELY FOLK SONG, HORANGI ARIRANG, SOUL AND SWORD, THE WIND AND CLOUDS, and WORLD ATLAS COLLAPSED from SOUL BLADE. This content should only be purchased by those who have not already purchased one or more of the background music tracks in this pack.
File size 138 KB
Soulcalibur V Downloadable Music Pack 2 ($2.99)
This pack contains the background music tracks: CHASING DOWNSTREAM, DUELISTS, THE CURSED IMAGE, UNBLESSED SOUL, and WING OF FAITH from SOULCALIBUR. This content should only be purchased by those who have not already purchased one or more of the background music tracks in this pack.
File size 138 KB
Scene It? Movie Night Sci-Fi Movies DLC ($9.99)
Scene It? Movie Night: Sci-Fi Movies takes you across the universe in the ultimate science fiction trivia challenge, packed with film clips and captivating questions from blockbusters to cult classics. Sci-Fi Movies features fourteen different puzzle types to keep the excitement going, and a rapid-fire “Quick Pitch” battle that determines the victor. Play solo, or in lively 2-4 player matches.
File size 1.06 GB
Rock Band 3
Build your Rock Band library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.
File size: 19 – 32 MB (singles)
Rock Band Network v2.0
File size: 21 – 31 MB (singles)
Mahjong Tales: Ancient Wisdom (Sale) (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $9.99)
The Darkness II Avatars (x15) ($0.49 each)
The Darkness II Avatar Bundles (x3) ($1.49 each)
The King Of Fighters XIII Avatars (x9) ($0.49 each)
Atelier Totori Avatars (x9) ($0.49 each)
Rocketbirds: Hardboiled Chicken Avatar Bundle 1 ($2.99)
Assassin’s Creed Universe Avatars (x5) ($0.49 each)
Assassin’s Creed: Revelations Avatars (x9) ($0.49 each)
Jak and Daxter Collection Dark Jak Avatar 2 ($0.49)
Jak and Daxter Collection Jak and Daxter Avatar 3 ($0.49)
PixelJunk Shooter (x6) ($0.49 each)
Jak and Daxter Collection Jak and Daxter Avatar 2 ($0.49)
Jak and Daxter Collection Dark Jak Avatar ($0.49)
Jak and Daxter Collection Jak and Daxter Avatar ($0.49)
Carnival Island Avatar Bundle 1 ($1.49)
PlayStation B-boy Avatar (x3) ($0.49 each)
Pulse 1/31 Edition
Reality Fighters Features Trailer
Aliens: Colonial Marines Contact Trailer
The House Of The Dead III Announcement Trailer
UFC Undisputed 3 – Roster Video
The Darkness Ii: Official Theme (free)
Atlanta Hawks 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Charlotte Bobcats 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Cleveland Cavaliers 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Denver Nuggets 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Detroit Pistons 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Golden State Warriors 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Houston Rockets 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Indiana Pacers 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
LA Clippers 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Memphis Grizzlies 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Milwaukee Bucks 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Minnesota Timberwolves 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
New Jersey Nets 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
New Orleans Hornets 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Philadelphia 76ers 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Portland Trailblazers 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Sacramento Kings 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Toronto Raptors 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Utah Jazz 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Washington Wizards 2012 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Digital Blasphemy: Hidden Forces ($2.99)
Dynamic Temple Temptress ($2.99)
Wendy Premium Theme 5 ($2.99)
Vampire 5 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Dragon 3 Dynamic Theme ($2.99)
Technicolour Yawn by Tom Sewell Static Theme ($1.99)
PlayStation Store for PSPNaruto Shippuden: UN Impact ($39.99)
NARUTO SHIPPUDEN: Ultimate Ninja Impact revolutionizes the Ultimate Ninja series with the all new ‘Rush Battle System’. With this new battle system, players are challenged to trust their instincts as they face off against hordes of enemies in 1 Vs. 100 battles! Players will also be treated to a variety of giant boss battles to test their tactical prowess. Also experience the NARUTO SHIPPUDEN storyline from Naruto and Sasuke’s point of view.
ESRB rated T
File size 899 MB
Pulse 1/31 Edition
Redbox PSP Theme ($1.99)
Death Dealer PSP theme ($1.99)
Dragon 4 PSP theme ($1.99)
Dragon 5 PSP theme ($1.99)
With only one week until the season 3 premiere of The Tester on February 7, it’s time to give you a sneak peek at what you’ll be seeing in the first episode of the season, and a taste of what’s to come in future episodes. We have a lot in store this season, and we don’t want to ruin any surprises, but today’s preview should give you a good idea of what challenges this season’s group of contestants will be tackling as they vie for a chance to work as a Production Associate at Santa Monica Studio.
With hissing cockroaches, brutal obstacle courses, and much more standing in their way of the grand prize, our contestants this season will have their work cut out for them.
As always, you can get acquainted with this season’s cast, panelists, and special guests on our site here. Keep an eye out next Monday, February 6 for the full premiere announcement, and be sure to tune on Tuesday, February 7 for the season 3 premiere of The Tester on PlayStation Network!
February is nearly here, so it’s time to have a look at what’s coming to PlayStation Plus.
To start, we’re excited to bring new release The Simpsons Arcade Game as a free offering for PlayStation Plus subscribers! Releasing on February 7th, subscribers will be able to relive this classic title remastered in HD, complete with the online four-player cooperative play it’s famous for. To celebrate Valentine’s Day, Plus subscribers will have access to download a bonus PS3 full game – Far Cry 2.
You’re also going to want to check out the other free games coming throughout the month, including Square Enix’s PS one classic Final Fantasy V, two PlayStation minis, six additional PSN games, and the SEGA Genesis Bundle – timed with SEGA’s two-week release and sale on the Store put back in Plus just in case anyone missed them.
In the discount department, PlayStation Plus subscribers will want to keep their eyes out for great sales on games like new release The House of the Dead III (30% Off) Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition (Bundle) (20% off), and Hamilton’s Great Adventure (50% off PSN sale price). There’s plenty more we couldn’t squeeze into this post, so keep your eye on the Store Update PlayStation.Blog posts in February to keep up with Plus updates as they come.
Finally, next Tuesday we’ll release an early-access demo of The House of the Dead III exclusively for PlayStation Plus. Here’s a trailer of this PSN exclusive arcade shooter with HD graphics, Trophies and full PlayStation Move support.
Some content and/or release dates outlined may change including the addition or removal of content. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or continue the discussion on the PlayStation Community forums in the Official PlayStation Plus Update thread.
Don’t have PlayStation Plus? Click here to purchase your subscription today!
PS3 Full Games: Far Cry 2 – 2/14 (V-Day Special One Week Offer) PSN Games: The Simpsons Arcade Game – 2/7
Twisted Metal is nearly here, and to celebrate the return of our beloved PlayStation franchise, we’ve sweetened up this week’s The Drop with a demo on PSN. Get your skills checked and in-order just in-time for our big Twisted Metal community event on Thursday, Febuary 2nd.
Blu-ray releases make their triumphant return this week with a sequel, to a sequel. Final Fantasy XIII-3 changes things up with an adventure to search for the missing Lighting. New heroes join returning warriors in the fray that is SoulCalibur V. Wield a butterfly design-inspired sword and an arsenal of guns to decimate waves of ungodly enemies in the not-too-distant future in NeverDead.
On the digital front, guide fluid through several booby trapped mazes, in the physics based and puzzle/platform game, Puddle. The full PS3 version of Madden NFL 12, brings all 32 teams, stadiums and all your favorite player in the league to PSN. Join Hiro, the smallest hero on the biggest adventure, as he embarks on an epic and electrifying quest to restore harmony to a world on the brink of chaos with Mini Ninjas. This week’s The Drop brings us pig skins, puddles, medicated psychopath and miniature ninjas. Just another Sunday afternoon at PlayStation.
Final Fantasy XIII-3 – Cocoon, a utopia in the sky. Its inhabitants believed their world a paradise. Under the Sanctum’s rule, Cocoon had long known peace and prosperity. Mankind was blessed by its protectors, the benevolent fal’Cie, and believed that tranquil days would continue forever. Their tranquillity was shattered with the discovery of one hostile fal’Cie.
The moment that fal’Cie from Pulse – the feared and detested lowerworld – awoke from its slumber, peace on Cocoon came to an end. Fal’Cie curse humans, turning them into magic-wielding servants. They become l’Cie – chosen of the fal’Cie. Those branded with the mark of a l’Cie carry the burden of either fulfilling their Focus or facing a fate harsher than death itself. A prayer for redemption.
A wish to protect the world. A promise to challenge destiny. After thirteen days of fates intertwined, the battle begins…
Set several years after Lightning and the others saved Cocoon, some survivors have decided to start over by rebuilding on Gran Pulse. Lightning, however, is nowhere to be found and thought dead by many, but Serah believes otherwise. When her town is suddenly overrun by monsters, a mysterious man named Noel appears to save her. Together, the two set off to find Lightning…
SoulCalibur V – SoulCalibur V picks up 17 years after the events of SoulCalibur IV with new heroes and returning warriors clashing in an epic showdown between good and evil. The tale of Patroklos, son of Sophitia Alexandra, unfolds as his family’s destiny intertwines with the Soul swords.
NeverDead – NeverDead is a third-person action game set in a fantasy and horror-influenced universe where supernatural battles between humans and extraordinary creatures 
blanketa vast city landscape. Gamers wield a butterfly design-inspired sword and an arsenal of guns to decimate waves of ungodly enemies in the not-too-distant future.
The game begins in the waking hours of peace and calm, when the world is under threat of being consumed by a demonic plague. Centuries have passed since the world succumbed to an unforeseen shadow of evil, and a hero was made an immortal by demons. These demons have risen once again in the present day causing unrelenting mayhem reinforced by destructible environments within the game. Now using his immortalic regenerative powers re-assembling his own body to evade death, the hero carries out the only salvation the world will know, for he is Never Dead.
Madden NFL 12 (Full PS3 Game) – Madden NFL 12 continues the rich tradition of the storied franchise by bringing fans closer to the NFL than ever before. Featuring all 32 teams, stadiums, and all your favorite players in the league, Madden NFL 12 is True to the Game. All-new collision system, advanced defensive A.I. enhancements highlight the 2012 edition’s improved feature set, with Custom Playbooks also added provide a more authentic gameplay experience. Franchise mode includes more than 100 new features and enhancements, while Superstar mode now allows fans to control the growth of their superstar with an all-new progression system. Dynamic Player Performance creates unprecedented realism as a player’s skills and confidence will rise and fall based on his performance throughout a game or in Franchise mode, just like the real NFL.
Puddle (Demo Available) – Experience a brilliantly designed physics-based puzzle/platform game where you must guide a puddle of fluid to its target destination, not by moving the fluid, but by tilting the game world. The player must work with friction, momentum, and the unique properties of each type of fluid and environment to send as much of each puddle past fires, rifts, potential spills and more. But watch out: the fluid motion is realistic! Tilt too quickly and you will lose control.
Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days (Full PS3 Game) – Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days is a raw and brutal crime shooter designed to take players on an even more intense story experience, following two of gaming’s most disturbed criminals, through the gritty Shanghai underworld. Introducing a new visual experience, Kane & Lynch 2: Dog Days is inspired by documentary filmmakers and the user-generated era. Every aspect of the game has been designed to deliver a fresh perspective to the words ‘intensity’ and ‘realism’ in videogames.
Kane & Lynch: Dead Men (Full PS3 Game) – Kane & Lynch: Dead Men is a violent and chaotic journey of two men – a flawed mercenary and a medicated psychopath – and their brutal attitude towards right and wrong. Now, they must partner up as a mess of cash makes for hell on Earth in this co-op action game. 
Mini Ninjas (Full PS3 Game) – Prepare yourself for a Ninja adventure like you have never seen before! Use your skills and mighty Ninja training to battle a magical army of evil Samurai. Harness the power of your Kuji magic and utilise the special skills of your Mini Ninja friends as you travel through a perilous world to reach the final confrontation with the Evil Samurai Warlord in his Fortress of Doom.
Demos
PlayStation Portable
Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Impact (PSN Download) – Featuring large-scale battles against massive groups of enemies, Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Impact puts players in the middle of epic fights as their favorite Naruto Shippuden characters through electrifying single-player and multiplayer modes. Deliver an action-packed and dynamic fighting experience, Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Impact lets players unleash their honed Jutsu skills through exciting single-player and multiplayer modes. Story Battle lets fans become part of explosive Naruto Shippuden fights straight from the anime with more events and battle sequences than ever before on the PSP.
[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]
Finally – games are coming out again! This Tuesday brings us some high-profile new releases, including Final Fantasy XIII-2 (find a couple of reviews below). You’ll be able to find the week’s entire release list (retail and digital) right here later on today.
Don’t forget: if you’re in the Bay Area, please join us on Thursday for David Jaffe’s Twisted Metal tournament at Mezzanine.
A few weeks back I shared the big news that you would soon have the chance to win your PlayStation Vita only at Taco Bell before it hits retail this February 22nd. Well, it’s official! Starting now through March 11th, PlayStation and Taco Bell are giving you three ways to win your PS Vita: Unlock the Box, Battle, and Boast. On average, one winner will be selected every 15 minutes through March, so there are a lot of chances to win! Here’s how:
Unlock the Box: Head to your local Taco Bell today to pick up a specially marked $5 Big Box – which includes a Cheesy Gordita Crunch, Crunchy Taco, Burrito Supreme and medium fountain drink. You’ll see a code printed on the top of the box; enter that code at unlock.tacobell.com for a chance to win your PS Vita!
Battle: We worked with Taco Bell to develop an exclusive Augmented Reality game based on the upcoming PS Vita game Reality Fighters. You can play Reality Fighters Dojo by downloading Taco Bell’s new mobile app for your Android or iOS device. Then pick up your specially marked Taco Bell $5 Buck Box, start Reality Fighters Dojo, point your device’s camera at the top of the box and get ready to battle. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect as you battle for a chance to win a PS Vita:
Boast: This one’s easy! Create a photo or video boasting about what you’d do to nab a PS Vita and submit it here. Submissions are already pouring in, so head to unlock.tacobell.com and click on “Boast” for more details on what you need to do to participate and how to vote for your favorite boast.
Prize Packs will include one PS Vita 3G/Wi-Fi system, one copy of the PS Vita-exclusive Little Deviants, one 4GB PS Vita Memory Card and your choice of one of the following: ModNation Racers: Road Trip, MLB 12 The Show or LittleBigPlanet. PS Vita winners will begin receiving their devices after February 8th and your selected game choice will be shipped on its respective launch date.
For additional details, information, and rules head to unlock.tacobell.com.
Good luck! If you won a PS Vita before it hit stores, what game would you most want to play? Let us know in the comments!
Street Fighter X Tekken‘s roster is already bursting with fan favorites from both sides, and today we can add two more iconic characters to the list – and in this case, they’re exclusive to PS3 and PS Vita players…
Two iconic mascots, Pac-Man and Mega Man, join the fray with existing PlayStation exclusives Cole, Kuro and Toro. However, both mascots arrive in altered forms to create battles unique to Street Fighter X Tekken; Pac-Man rides Tekken’s Mokujin, while Mega Man references the “classic” bad box art from the original US Mega Man.
Street Fighter X Tekken for the PS3 launches March 6, with the PS Vita to follow!
