To all KILLZONE 2 enthusiasts, this is no joke. If you ever wanted to have a hands-on preview of the most anticipated shooter in recent years, here is your chance. By pre-ordering KILLZONE 2 at GAMESTOP you will receive exclusive access to the KILLZONE 2 Demo. You must have access to Playstation Network in order to redeem promotion code. Available for online and in-store customers, while supplies last.

• Online Customers: Codes granting access to the Killzone 2 Demo will be sent via email starting on February 3rd.

• In-Store Pickup / Store Customers: A rave card granting access to the Killzone 2 Demo will be available at time of game reservation.

SOURCE

When it comes to gaming there really is nothing like grabbing your preferred instrument of destruction for your console of choice to perform whatever impossible manuver like only you can. When we become accustomed to a certain way of life it actually becomes hard to find an equal and many of us as gamers know what this feels like. This undeniable truth creates within us all a bias that we cannot escape. There was an article written by Mike Ferro on analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of both the PS3 and Xbox360 controllers which I believe is an interesting read for many of us open-minded gamers. Mr. Ferro does give his conclusional result as to which controller is more user friendly for a particular game genre which may just help some readers who are still on the fence as to which console and controller they might feel more comfortable utilizing. In the end it really is all about which controller compliments you and feels the best for you. Again, be sure to head on over to Gamer.blorge.com for the update and for you PS3 users, keep using your internet browser as I’m pretty sure you’ll wanna jump right back into Resistance 2, Prince of Persia or Crash Commando without leaving your console. Let me know how you feel about the article and please express which controller you prefer and why.

As the Playstation 3 completes it’s second year in existence, Sony must be very pleased with how 2008 has turned out overall. Selling almost 20 millions consoles in two years at a steep price point is extremely impressive. For 2008 Sony also offered an incredible exclusive software lineup as well. In fact, the 2008 PS3 exclusive software lineup was rated higher than the competition in the overall average based on Metacritic. Metacritic is an informational site which gathers game publication reviews and calculates the average for a given title. As gamers we definitely know what sells consoles and that my friends are triple A exclusive software for a given platform. In 2008 some of the best PS3 titles offered were Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, LittleBigPlanet, Resistance 2, MotorStorm: Pacific Rift, Gran Turismo 5 Prologue, SOCOM: Confrontation, SIREN: Blood Curse, Valkyria Chronicles, MLB 08: The Show, Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds, SingStar and Buzz! Quiz TV. A very impressive list indeed however, the PS3 2009 software line-up is looking even more promising. Here is a breakdown of some of the PS3 exclusive software being launch in 2009.

KILLZONE 2

• Two years after the Helghast assault on Vekta, the ISA are taking the fight to Helghan. Their goal: to capture the Helghast leader, Emperor Visari, and bring the Helghast war machine to a halt. You assume the role of Sev, a battle-hardened veteran and a member of the special forces unit known as the Legion. For Sev and his squad, the invasion of Helghan is just beginning. Tasked with securing Pyrrhus, the Capital City, they quickly discover that the Helghast are a formidable enemy on their home planet. Not only have they adjusted to the planet’s hostile conditions, they have also harnessed a source of power they can now use against the ISA. Sev and his squad aren’t just fighting the enemy forces – their fiercest opponent is the planet itself.

HEAVY RAIN: THE ORIGAMI KILLER

• This is an upcoming video game developed by French studio Quantic Dream for the PlayStation 3. The game is being directed by Quantic Dream’s founder and CEO, David Cage, who also wrote and directed the studio’s two previous games, Omikron: The Nomad Soul and Farenheit. The game is scheduled to be released in 2009.

UNCHARTED 2: AMONG THIEVES

• Fortune hunter Nathan Drake returns in UNCHARTED 2: Among Thieves, a pulse-pounding third-person action-adventure/shooter created by award-winning developer Naughty Dog. Down on his luck, Drake is lured back into the treacherous world of thieves and mercenary treasure-seekers he had sought to leave behind. When a mysterious artifact propels Drake on an expedition to find the legendary Himalayan valley of Shambhala, he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse against a fugitive war criminal who’s after more than just the fabled riches of the lost city. Caught in a web of deception and plunged into an increasingly deadly pursuit that tests the limits of his endurance, Drake will be forced to risk everything – but has his luck finally run out?

FINAL FANTASY VERSUS

• Final Fantasy Versus XIII is, according to its developers, a wholly independent story unfolding with different characters and a different visual design. Although it is set within the same Final Fantasy XIII universe, it is unrelated to any other entry within the compilation and is thus neither a sequel nor a prequel to any other entries in Fabula Nova Crystallis: Final Fantasy XIII.

MAG

• A PS3 exclusive, the game will utilize a new server architecture to support online battles with up to 256 players, with users divided into 8-player squads. Each squad will be led by a player who has advanced through the game’s ranking system. Character statistics and development will also increase with frequent gameplay. The players most advanced in rank will be able to either direct the battle or participate directly in combat.

GOD OF WAR 3

• In God of War 3 finds Kratos raining carnage and destruction upon the Gods who have betrayed him and the entire Ancient Greek world. Armed with his deadly double-chained blades, Kratos will take on mythology’s darkest creatures while solving intricate puzzles on his merciless quest to destroy Olympus and the mighty Zeus himself. Set in the realm of Greek mythology, God of War 3 is a single-player game that allows players to assume the climatic role of the ex-Spartan warrior, Kratos, as he scales the intimidating heights of Mt. Olympus and descends into the dark depths of Hell once more to seek revenge on those who have betrayed him. - Playstation.com

THE AGENCY

GRAN TURISMO 5

• Exploring new territory in massively-multiplayer online gaming, this project from Sony Online Entertainment focuses on spies and mercenaries in the modern world. Gamers all over the globe will be engaging in action and espionage in the treacherous underworld, using physical prowess, ingenious gadgets and unerring marksmanship to get out alive.

• Gran Turismo 5 takes the series to a whole new level. A first for the franchise, The game supports online racing and features new tracks, a new physics engine, a new in-cockpit view, HD support, and much more.

QUANTUM THEORY

• Players take control of Sid and Filena as they attempt to climb a massive tower for their own specific reasons. Not too much has been announce as of yet other than tentative 2009 release window.

DC UNIVERSE ONLINE

• A massively-multiplayer experience, DC Universe Online brings high-energy action to the forefront with a combat system designed to deliver a fast-paced action experience with the extraordinary powers of your personally created heroes and villains at your disposal. Battle with or against their favorite DC Super Heroes and Villains including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, and The Joker. For the very first time, players and fans will be able to enter this fabled world as an active force for good or evil.

WARDEVIL

• Assume the role of the mysterious WarDevil, navigating what appears to be a post-apocalyptic world, ruled by the Chun Federation.

PUNISHER: NO MERCY

• Powered by Unreal Engine 3, No Mercy was designed with fast-paced online multiplayer FPS action in mind. With inspiration rooted in the Punisher’s rich comic book history, the game allows players to choose from an eclectic mix of Punisher allies and villains. Battle arenas span from shipyards rife with contraband to the “birthplace” of the Punisher’s archenemy, Jigsaw, and up to eight players can blast away at each other in a variety of solo and team-based missions.

MLB 09: THE SHOW

• The Show as initially reported on espn.com, MLB 09 will have a ton of additional visual enhancements such as more than 700 new gameplay animations, which will include more than 150 personalized pitcher and batter routines, 400 new presentation animations and wear and tear on the field. Road to the Show seems to have been expanded as well, with new steal and lead off systems and interactive training mini-games to improve player skills. Coach interaction will be expanded in this mode as well. Franchise has gotten a significant boost with features like salary arbitration, waiver transactions and player personalities affecting team play. Online will support flex scheduling, and players will also be able to customize crowd chants to include trash talk that can play for specific batters.

AFRIKA

• In Afrika, the player assumes the role of a photojournalist hired to take images of various animals. Gameplay is mission-driven; players receive e-mails at base camp instructing them as to which animals they must photograph. Players may then travel by foot, jeep, or hot air balloon to the areas where requested animals are found in order to photograph them. The in-game camera is controlled by the Sixaxis. Depending on the quality of the photograph taken, the player will earn in-game money. This money can be used to purchase new supplies such as an upgraded camera. Additional to the actual gameplay are unlockables such as various footage and real-life snapshots of the animals that can be encountered, which are collected and stored in the “Animal Library”.

INFAMOUS

• A massive explosion rips through six square blocks of Empire City, leveling everything and everyone in its path. At the center of the blast crater a lone man stands up miraculously unharmed… gifted with incredible powers. From the creators of the award-winning Sly Cooper series, Sucker Punch brings you Infamous, the first open-world action/adventure title by SCEA, for the PLAYSTATION3. Players experience what happens when a real person suddenly starts developing super powers. Exact revenge? Protect the innocent? Maybe a little of both? These are the situations you’ll face as you play inside of a richly interactive and organic living city. A place where your actions create broader reactions in the citizens and landscape around you. Infamous lets you unravel an evolving mystery, experience fame and/or infamy and battle powerful, iconic villains… all the while giving you the feeling of becoming a modern day superhero.

FLOWER

• In Flower, the surrounding environment, most often pushed to the background in games, is pulled to the forefront and becomes the primary “character.” The player fades from an external and stressful world in the opening of this fresh and genuine game only for PS3, and journeys through beautifully vivid landscapes, changing the his surroundings and exploring nature along the way. Playing as the wind, the player guides and grows a swarm of pedals by interacting with other flowers and the surrounding environment. The goals and journey in each level vary, but all involve flight, exploration and interaction with the level. Using simple SIXAXIS wireless controls, the player guides the lead petal and accumulates a swarm of flower petals as he moves at his own pace within the environment, causing the on-screen world to change. Flower’s gameplay offers different experiences, pacing and rhythm to all players. Along the way, the environment will pose challenges to the player’s progress. Both pastoral and at times chaotic, Flower is a visual, audio and interactive escape on PS3.

Again, 2009 is looking very promising for the PS3 and with the rumored price drop you can rest assured that the PS3 will be selling like hotcakes.

Since the announcement of Resistance 2, there has been high expectations for Insomniacs 2nd installment of the Resistance series. Resistance 2 was highly anticipated for the holidays and regardless of the competition the sales expectation were just as high. Unfortunately, at launch and with the weeks that followed Resistance 2 did not hit the homerun it was expected to drive home. Truth be told, the competition was underestimated and it definitely showed in the sales department. As a gaming consumer it is great to have the best of everything during the holidays, but as a developer and or publisher of a triple A title like Resistance 2,  it certainly is not good to put all your eggs in one holiday basket. Nevertheless, as recently reported by VGChartz, Resistance 2 has finally crossed the 1 million sold worldwide mark. Sales have definitely began to pick up for Sony’s #1 first person shooter for the holiays.

Developers of any game that surpass 1 million sold can certainly stand proud, but for a game this good and this expensive you can certainly believe Insomniac will pay closer attention their competitive surrounding the next go-around.

Regardless of the slow start Resistance 2 is picking up some steam worldwide and if you are a PS3 user and have not yet played Resistance 2, please do yourself a favor and get this game ASAP. It is an epic experience that throws you right into the battle from the very start.  From the huge boss battles and chaotic fire fights to the extremely robust multi-player features, Resistance 2 is the total package.  Please take the time to view both incredible videos of Resistance 2 courtesy of Gametrailers.com, enjoy!

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According to the Examiner.com there is reportedly 28 game based movies currently in production. Quibian Salazar-Moreno, a freelance journalist asks the question, “Will these video game movies suck as bad as the video game movies of years past?” Well we certainly hope not. With the list of game issued in the article, gamers have to be excited when games like God of War, Prince of Persia, Cold Fear, Metal Gear Solid and Bioshock are said to be in production. The gaming community just hopes these games to movies receive the proper attention to detail in order to bring these games to life on the silver screen. Please no quick fixes, from the scripting to the casting every detail should be carefully considered.  Here are the list of games which are reportedly in production;

Mortal Kombat (2010) – Yes, it’s yet another Mortal Kombat movie. Although the film hasn’t been cast, it’s rumored that Christopher Lambert will play as Raiden again. I think he may a bit too old nowadays. The screenplay is being written by Sean Catherine Derek who has written for animated shows like Spider-Man, Batman, and The Smurfs! The film is in pre-production

Spy Hunter (2009) – This was announced not too long ago with director Paul W.S. Anderson (Resident Evil, Alien vs. Predator) attached to direct. There are a number of writers attached to the film including Stuart Beattie who wrote Australia, 30 Days of Night, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End. No casting has been announced but the film is in pre-production.

Tekken (2009) - Tekken is currently in post-production. It was directed by Dwight H Little (Prison Break, Bones, 24) and written by a few people including Michael Colleary (Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Faceoff). The cast is mostly unknown but folks may recognize Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa (Heroes, Pearl Harbor) as Heihachi. Next summer maybe?

Driver (2010) – Driver, based on the Atari game, is currently on hold. Last we heard, the film was to be written and directed by Roger Avary who wrote and directed Killing Zoe, wrote Beowulf, Silent Hill and helped out Quentin Tarantino on Reservoir Dogs, True Romance and Pulp Fiction.
Splinter Cell (2010) – This one looks like it’s in limbo too. According to Wikipedia, Peter Berg (Friday Night Lights) was attached to direct and J.T. Petty, who wrote the Splinter Cell games, was attached to write, but neither are attached to the film now. Paramount has the rights but nothing is going on.

Fear Effect (2008) – Based on the great game from Eidos, everyone’s favorite video game movie director Uwe Boll (sarcasm) was originally attached to direct but now it’s Stanley Tong, who has directed a bunch of Hong Kong action flicks. The film is being written by Mark A. Altman who wrote the House of the Dead movies. The film is in production, but apparently there’s no cast? I would be surprised if it dropped in 2009.

Halo (2009) – There’s been a bit of drama behind this one. Alex Garland (28 Days Later) wrote a script, it was rewritten by author D.B. Weiss and Josh Olson (A History of Violence). The film is supposed to be executive produced by Peter Jackson with Neill Blomkamp, a short film director, to direct. Blomkamp said the film is dead, Jackson said it’s going to happen. Who knows when?

Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010) – This is currently in production with Jake Gyllenhaal as your prince. The film is being directed by Mike Newell (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire) and written by Jordan Mechner who wrote the video games. It’s coming to a theatre near you, probably in the summer of 2010.

Castlevania (2009) – The movie is supposed to focus on the origin of the beef between the Belmont crew and Dracula. It’s apparently in pre-production with Sylvain White (Stomp the Yard) as director and Paul W.S. Anderson as the writer. There’s no cast. And it doesn’t look like it’ll come out next year.

Cold Fear (2008) – Based on the 2005 UbiSoft game, the most that was ever said about this movie is that the rights were acquired by Avatar Films and Sekretagent Productions. No word on a director, writer, cast or even if the movie is still being made.

Warcraft (2009)/World of Warcraft (2011) – It looks there are two movies in the works based off of the Warcraft universe. The first is simply called Warcraft with a screenplay written by Chris Metzen who write the scripts for the Warcraft video games plus Diablo and Starcraft. No casting or director has been announced. There is another film in the IMDB database called World of Warcraft, but there’s no information available on that one.

Metal Gear Solid (2009) – The Metal Gear Solid movie is being directed by Kurt Wimmer who is the man behind such classics as Equilibrium and Ultraviolet. The screenplay will apparently be written by Metal Gear Solid creator Hideo Kojima, which he sort of confirmed at the 2008 Spike TV Video Games Awards.

Clock Tower (2009) – This film was announced awhile back, based on the popular survival horror game from Capcom. Martin Weisz (The Hills Have Eyes II, 60 Seconds) is slated to direct while Brittany Snow (The Pacifier, Prom Night) is set to star. The film will include elements from all four games but have its own story.

The Suffering (2009) – This film was announced back in 2005 when the second video game from Midway Games hit store shelves. Three years later, there isn’t a screenplay or director attached. So far, all they have is Chiwetel Ejiofor (American Gangster, Inside Man) cast as the main character, Torque.

Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li (2009) - We’re sure you’ve heard about this one because it actually has a release date! February 27, 2009. It’s directed by Andrzej Bartkowiak (Doom, Cradle 2 the Grave, Romeo Must Die) and stars Kristen Kreuk (Lana Lang on Smallville) as Chun Li. You can get more info here.

Onimusha (2009) – Last we heard, the film was indefinitely put on hold. Christophe Gans (Silent Hill, Brotherhood of the Wolf) was attached to direct but everything was put on hold because of Heath Ledger’s death. No, he wasn’t cast in the movie but look at the details here.

Kane & Lynch (2009) – Not very many people liked the Eidos video game, but apparently Hollywood liked the story. Last we heard is Simon Crane (an assistant director on Hancock, Troy) is attached to direct and Bruce Willis was actually in negotiations to play the part as Kane. No other casting info was available.

Broken Sword: The Shadow of the Templars (2010) – All we have here is an announcement of game creator Charles Cecil trying to bring the Broken Sword series to the silver screen. There are four games and he’s hoping for four films, starting with the first game, The Shadow of the Templars. No casting or director has been announced.

King of Fighters (2010) – Gordon Chan, who is known for Hong Kong action films, is directing the film and will star Maggie Q, Sean Faris, Will Yun Lee and Ray Park. The film is currently in production in Canada.

Joust (2010) – Yes, it’s based on the video game that came out in the 80’s. We haven’t found a director or any casting announcements but apparently it’s supposed to be a mix of Gladiator and Mad Max but futuristic. Midway Games is hoping to restart the game franchise when the movie comes out.

The Legend of Spyro (2009) – Don’t worry, Spyro isn’t going live action. The movie will be an animated film with Elijah Wood reprising his role as Spyro and Gary Oldman as Ignitus. Not sure which movie studio will be behind this one. Dreamworks maybe?

Sabotage 1943 (2009) – Everyone’s favorite video game movie director Uwe Boll is behind this one. Also known as Velvet Assassin, the game is based on a British spy during the time of World War II. And if you’re wondering why you haven’t heard of this game, it’s because it doesn’t even come out until next year!

Resident Evil 4 (2010) – In October, Paul W.S. Anderson, writer and producer of the Resident Evil films, said that he will begin working on the fourth Resident Evil film after he’s finished working on the remake film Long Good Friday. We’re sure Milla Jovovich will reprise her role.

Bioshock (2010) – Yes, it’s scheduled for the summer of 2010. The film will be directed by Gore Verbinski (Pirates of the Caribbean, The Ring) and written by John Logan (Gladiator, The Aviator) of course with help from game creator Ken Levine.

Earthworm Jim (2010) – Earthworm Jim was a classic character on the Nintendo systems and its creator Douglas TenNapel is looking to bring him to the big screen. TenNapel is directing and most likely writing the film and since his direction experience is in animation, we guess we can expect the film to be animated?

God of War (2010) – Depending on how you feel about the Rush Hour films and X-Men: The Last Stand will determine how you feel about Brett Ratner directing the upcoming God of War film. No other casting news has been announced, but who would make a good Kratos?

Gears of War (2010) – Creator Cliff Bleszinski is executive producing with Len Wiseman (Underworld, Live Free or Die Hard) attached to direct and Chris Morgan (Wanted, Cellular) penning the script. Bleszinki guarantees that he will make “a video game movie that doesn’t suck.”

Area 51 (2011) – Back in 2004, Paramount Pictures said they were making this video game into a movie. They hired a screenwriter to adapt, Grant Morrison who is an accomplished comic book author, but the film is still in “development.”

All the nominees are in for the Gamespot Game Of The Year honor and with their decision the Playstation Nation should be extremely excited.

Metal Gear Solid 4 was definitely a gaming masterpiece. Hideo Kojima and Kojima Production took gaming to another level balancing movie quality scripting and visuals with top-notch gameplay that will be remembered for decades. The Playstation world certainly hopes this is not the last installment of the Metal Gear series.

Today on the Playstation blog, SCEA has put together a series of videos to better explain all the many features available though the PS3 for their future and current users.  The series of videos are referred to as “How To” videos as stated by Kristin Neirinckx, Associate Product Manager, SCEA.

“These instructional videos take you through each feature, step by step. New videos will be posted each day next week, so you should all be experts by the end”, stated Kristin Neirinckx.  Today’s video showcased how to implement the creation and viewing of a slideshow. For all you new PS3 owners please take notes as you will learn a lot about PS3 in the coming week. Please enjoy the video below.

Since the launch of the PS3 in 2006, Sony has been trying to market the PS3 through thought provoking yet confusing commercials.  The messages have all tried to communicate the depth of the PS3 and its multi-functional features with no simplicity.  Let’s be honest, when your product is $100-$200 more expensive than the competition, it’s important that consumers have a full understanding of what your product is capable of.

In light of the current economic state, consumers are very price sensitive, every dollar spent is an investment and consumers today are not looking for messages that they have to decipher.  For example, what does the commercial below mean?

Not to be funny but if I was a curious or potentially casual gamer which I am not (totally hardcore) the message I see here is, like many gamers in the world I am longing to play the most powerful videgame system on the planet but unfortunately I have no clue what it does and if I am depending on my parents to make the purchase, based on the commercial they probably have no clue either.  So, do I really need the PS3?  There have been PS3 commercials that have featured baby dolls crying while sitting in front of the PS3, what does this mean?  Unfortunately, I can only use my imagination and I really don’t want to, I would like for the PS3 to do that for me. There has also been a commercial that displayed a rubicks cube floating in a clean white walled room being controlled by a PS3, suddenly the rubicks cube explodes onto all the walls with bright and vibrant colors  and eventually the PS3 begins to float as if to say “YOU KNOW YOU WANT ME”. While most of the PS3 commercials have been imaginative and very creative,  many consumers don’t see a difference from the competition and in many cases game store associates as we know are anything but honest and non-bias.  Sony has displayed some promising commercials bridging the connection of the PS3 with blu-ray high definition movies but as the PS3 continues to evolve other features of the PS3 should be exploited as well. Recently Sony ran a PS3 commercial that was truly a breathe of fresh air. There were no explosions, no dragons busting through walls and certainly no creepy Chucky doll plug-ins, just simple and clear awareness of some of the many features of the PS3, enjoy.

Clear consumer awareness never gets old and the Playstation Nation hopes that Sony can continue to deliver clear and positive knowledge of the software and features available on the PS3.

Currently in developement, WARDEVIL: UNLEASH THE BEAST WITHIN, another highly anticipated PS3 exclusive, is being designed as both a Blu-ray HD movie and videogame by the developer Digi-Guys. What makes WARDEVIL a interestingly unique title is the game’s RTE 1080 engine which is said to give movie quality visuals and effects in real time on the PS3 while running in full 1080p at 60fps. Similar to the aggressively ambitious developers at Guerrilla Games, the developers Digi-Guys are hard at work trying to achieve the visual quality of pre-rendered sequences in order to create a true cinematic game playing experience. WARDEVIL is scheuled for release sometime in 2009, so stay plugged in as I’ll have the latest on this PS3 exclusive. Check out the video courtesy of  IGN. Enjoy!

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The original F.E.A.R was received with high remarks when it debuted on the PC some years back and after a lackluster home console debut, Monolith the developers of the original title are back to right the wrongs of the next-gen home entertainment consoles.  In fact, Project Origin is being created to offer higher levels of tension and suspense. The original F.E.A.R offered a nice level of fire fights with only touches of scare moments, however Monolith is developing Project Origin with a balance of combat and jump out at you scare moments among other additives. This go around Project Origin is coming with the ability for players to create cover for themselves by kicking over bookshelves and pulling over tables.  Also new to this franchise will be the ability to commandeer super-powered EPA Mech. Nice! F.E.A.R 2: Project Origin is on track for release February 10th, 2009 so be sure sure to check out the 18 minute video provided by IGN. Enjoy!

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Are home theater systems too expensive, too loud after hours, too bulky and taking up too much of your gaming space? Well, if anyone of you are having any one of these issues please look no further. Tritton Technologies has the remedy with their newly enhanced AX Pro 5.1 surrond sound headset which supports true 5.1 output without you ever waking your family.  The AX Pro is compatible with your PS3, very lightweight and comfortable after those extended hours of dismembering aliens in DeadSpace, breaking back into Shadow Moses in Metal Gear Solid 4 or blasting your way through the Chimeran forces in Resistance 2. For more on the features below is a list and be sure to head over to Tritton Technolgies for more on the AX Pro.

• True 5.1 Digital Audio Headset
• Detachable microphone compatible with Xbox Live, Playstation Network, and PC/Mac
• Digital audio connection for DVD, PC, PS2, PS3, XBOX, XBOX360, and all other devices with Optical digital audio or analog 3.5mm 5.1 output
• Dolby Digital and Dolby Prologic Certified
• 8 speakers, 4 in each ear cup
• Illuminated In-line volume adjustment for Front, Center, Rear and Subwoofer controls
• Separate volume control for voice chat
• Inline microphone and volume mute switches
• Adjustable time delay for center and rear speakers
• Dynamic Range Control
• Includes external 5.1 audio controller with analog 3.5mm 5.1 output
• Lightweight headset with deep circumauraul (around the ears) design allows for comfort even during periods of extended gaming.

Quantic Dream the developers behind the highly impressive Indigo Prophecy and Nomad Soul titles are hard at work on their next emotional rollercoaster, Heavy Rain. Quantic Deam is looking to heavily envolve players by engaging character storytelling.  Based on the decisions and choices of the player the  story will change which will hopefully give the game more replayability. Quantic Dream hopes to create an emotional journey based on the fact that you tell the story, not cutscenes. After looking at the screenshots and gameplay footage it is very clear that Heavy Rain is aiming to push the PS3 hardware in the graphic department. For your viewing pleasure check out  the Gametrailers video interview and screenshots below. Enjoy!

Playstation HOME, the virtual interactive world which allows users from around the world to come together and interact like never before now has item that users can purchase to customize their avatars and living space. The virtual items are reportedly selling extremely well. An interview conducted by Silicon Valley Insider with Susan Panico ( Sr. Director of the Playstation Network she stated that in HOME’s first four days, their virtual items which sold for as much as $4.99 has generated more revenue than the PS3 movie and video feature. It is interesting to know that some movies are priced up to $14.99. It is also important to note that the Playstation HOME in currently in it’s beta stage of developement so it is pretty bare bones yet Sony is generating impressive revenue through HOME. Here’s to 2009 when HOME will finally be official. Source

Today the Playstation Nation has received their lastest update from the Playstation Network. Users can expect tons of add-on game content along with multiple themes and wallpapers to customize their PS3. New to the Playstation Nation is PULSE, presented by the PlayStation Network is a free high definition video presentation of whats going on in the world of PlayStation. Featuring new game releases, demos, movie and television arrivals available for your PS3.  Be sure to check out the latest game demo of Lord Of The Rings: Conquest, it looks and plays AWESOME! This update info  is courtesy of the Playstation blog. Enjoy the latest update below.

PULSE

PULSE 12/23 Edition
Today, as requested, we’re making PULSE presented by the PlayStation Network available as a free video download through the PlayStation Store. This original program is a high definition video showcase of what’s happening right now on PlayStation. You’ll find the current edition of Pulse in the New Releases section of the PS3 store.
File size: 184 MB (HD)

Price Update

Jeopardy (permanent price drop to $9.99)

Downloadable Games

LUMINES Supernova ($14.99)
Indulge in the fusion of puzzle, lights and music! The latest installment to the blockbuster franchise from Tetsuya Mizuguchi and Q Entertainment is packed with brand new skins and modes, exclusive to the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system. Puzzles, block-dropping beats and video entertainment combine to create a pulse-pounding experience that will keep you playing day after day!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 669 MB

Add-on Game Content

BUZZ! Quiz TV National Geographic: Undersea ($7.99)
The world famous National Geographic archives brings you the ultimate quiz on aquatic trivia. This BUZZ! Quiz TV quiz pack features over 500 new questions about everything undersea to play in any of your favorite BUZZ! Quiz TV game modes. Download this quiz pack today and turn your party into the ultimate trivia showdown. Challenge your friends and family with new questions and “Show ‘em Your Trivia!”
File size: 340 MB

High Velocity Bowling: Patches Pack One (free)
It’s time to bowl – High Velocity style! Add this free downloadable Trick Shot Pack to your High Velocity Bowling selection, and get another opportunity for a gold star and some of those tough patches.
File size: 100 KB

High Velocity Bowling: Gutter Bird Ball (free)
It’s time to bowl – High Velocity style! Spice up your bowling game with this cool custom “Gutter Bird Ball” bowling ball, complete with a turkey inside cooked to a delicious golden brown. Download this free bowling ball today.
File size: 1.20 MB

Hot Shots Golf New Character Toro (free)
Happy Holidays everyone from your friends on the Hot Shots golf development team. As a gift from us to you, please enjoy this new playable character “Toro”. Toro is a fun loving character who likes to do things the easy way especially in the ways he plays golf.
File size: 100 KB

LittleBigPlanet - Solid Snake Costume ($1.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this costume to dress up like Solid Snake from Metal Gear Solid.
NOTE: to download this costume, you must already own LittleBigPlanet.
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet - Meryl Silverburgh Costume ($1.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this costume to dress up like Meryl Silverburgh from Metal Gear Solid.
NOTE: to download this costume, you must already own LittleBigPlanet.
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet - Screaming Mantis Costume ($1.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this costume to dress up like Screaming Mantis from Metal Gear Solid.
NOTE: to download this costume, you must already own LittleBigPlanet.
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet - Raiden Costume ($1.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this costume to dress up like Raiden from Metal Gear Solid.
NOTE: to download this costume, you must already own LittleBigPlanet.
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet - Metal Gear Solid Costume Kit($5.99)
The best thing about Sackboy is that you can make him look and act exactly how you want. Download this costume kit to dress up like Screaming Mantis, Meryl Silverburgh, Raiden or Solid Snake from Metal Gear Solid.
NOTE: to download these costumes, you must already own LittleBigPlanet.
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Metal Gear Solid Level Kit ($5.99)
Send Sackboy into a covert world of stealth and intrigue with this downloadable collection of Metal Gear Solid goodies.
NOTE: to download this Level Kit, you must already own LittleBigPlanet.
File size: 1.04 MB

PAIN: Ao No Kutsu Character ($0.99)
Say hello to PAIN’s biggest launchee yet (literally), Ao No Kutsu! Sumo wrestler by day, and Rock & Roll idolizer by night, “The King of Sumo” is available now to serve up the PAIN in mammoth portions.
File size: 100 KB

Disgaea 3 Adell DLC ($1.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Adell from Disgaea 2.
File size: 100 KB

Disgaea 3 Disgaea 2 Character Pack ($4.99)
This package file adds a new custom characters Adell, Rozalin, Nekomata. You also receive the Disgaea 2 Main Char Theme for free with purchase!
File size: 100 KB

Disgaea 3 Nekomata DLC ($0.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Nekomata.
File size: 100 KB

Disgaea 3 Rozalin DLC ($1.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Rozalin from Disgaea 2.
File size: 100 KB

LUMINES Supernova Holiday Pack (free)
This free LUMINES Supernova download pack contains 20 special holiday-themed skins! Seasons greetings from Q Entertainment!
File size: 148 MB

Guitar Hero World Tour
For all song credits please visit www.guitarhero.com

• “Because of You” by Nickelback ($1.99)
• Light It Up” by Rev Theory ($1.99)
• “Use Me” by Hinder ($1.99)
• Hard Rock Track Pack ($5.49) - Downloadable Track Pack for Guitar Hero World Tour featuring “Light It Up” by Rev Theory, “Because of You” by Nickelback, and “Use Me” by Hinder.
• Reggae Rock Track Pack (free) - Downloadable Track Pack for Guitar Hero World Tour featuring “Your Face” by Pepper, “Jimi” by Slightly Stoopid, and “Sacrifice” by Expendables.

File sizes: 38 MB - 44 MB (singles), 118 MB - 123 MB (track packs)

Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol Encore 2
Expand your Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol Encore 2 library by purchasing these tracks.

• In the Air Tonight ($1.49)
• Time Of The Season ($1.49)
• Too Little Too Late ($1.49)

File sizes: 18 MB - 29 MB

Rock Band
Build your Rock Band library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.

• “DOA” - Foo Fighters ($1.99)
• “This is a Call” - Foo Fighters ($1.99)
• “Times Like These” - Foo Fighters ($1.99)
• Foo Fighters Pack 1 ($5.49) - Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack: Foo Fighters Pack 01. This pack includes: “DOA,” “This Is A Call,” and “Times Like These” by Foo Fighters.
• “Blue Christmas” - The Pretenders ($0.99)
• “Christmas Is The Time To Say I Love You” - Billy Squier($0.99)
• “Hanukkah Blessings” - Barenaked Ladies ($0.99)
• Rockin’ the Holidays 2008 Pack ($2.99) - Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack: Rockin’ the Holidays 2008 Pack. This pack includes: “Blue Christmas” by The Pretenders, “Christmas is the Time to Say I Love You” by Billy Squier, and “Hanukkah Blessings” by Barenaked Ladies.

File sizes: 15 MB - 35 MB (singles) 65 MB - 94 MB (track packs)

Shaun White Snowboarding Glamour Pack - Regular Edition ($4.99)
Get ready for new gear that’s guaranteed to turn heads on the mountain! With new boards, jackets, pants and a bunch more, we will get you outfitted from head to toe in style with this first Shaun White Snowboarding gear pack. Not compatible with the Target Edition. The Target Edition version of this pack is available separately – please be sure to download the correct one for your edition of the game.
File size: 44 MB

Shaun White Snowboarding Glamour Pack - Target Edition ($4.99)
Get ready for new gear that’s guaranteed to turn heads on the mountain! With new boards, jackets, pants and a bunch more, we will get you outfitted from head to toe in style with this first Shaun White Snowboarding gear pack. Only compatible with the Target Edition. The regular edition version of this pack is available separately – please be sure to download the correct one for your edition of the game.
File size: 44 MB

Game Demos (free)

The Lord of the Rings: Conquest Demo
Download The Lord of the Rings: Conquest online multiplayer demo and choose your side! Fight for either Good or Evil in the battle for Middle-earth!
File size: 1.28 GB

Game Videos (free)

PULSE 12/23 Edition
PULSE presented by the PlayStation Network is a free high definition video showcase of what’s happening right now on PlayStation. Featuring new game releases, demos, movie and television arrivals available for your PS3 and PSP systems, PULSE is a fast-paced new source to keep you connected and informed about the world of PlayStation. Hosted by Christina Lee.
File size: 184 MB (HD)

PS3 Themes

Disgaea 3: Absence of Justice Disgaea 2 Character Theme ($0.99)
File size: 1.38 MB

The Dark Knight: Batman Theme ($1.99)
File size: 2.37 MB

The Dark Knight: Harvey Dent Theme ($1.99)
File size: 1.92 MB

The Dark Knight: Joker Theme ($1.99)
File size: 2.36 MB

Resident Evil: Degeneration Theme (free)
File size: 7.59 MB

University of Virginia ($1.99)
File size: 5.20 MB

School Girls ($1.49)
File size: 4.82 MB

Digital Blast ($1.49)
File size: 5.92 MB

Bikini Photo Shoot ($1.99)
File size: 5.29 MB

Alpine Winters ($1.49)
File size: 6.16 MB

PS3 Wallpaper (free)

Savage Moon Wallpaper 1
File size: 223 KB (HD) 949 KB (1080)

Savage Moon Wallpaper 2
File size: 198 KB (HD) 953 KB (1080)

Today on the Playstation.blog the Sony maketing team working on the highly anticipated first person shooter KILLZONE 2 has finally revealed the final software cover to the Playstation Nation. KILLZONE 2 is still on track to hit store shelves February 27th, 2009. KILLZONE 2 will be a killer app for the Playstation Nation and I recommend you all pre-order your copy today.

As 2009 draws near, it is obvious that the ever evolving PS3 is gearing up for an incredible year of updates. From Playstation HOME and future PSN updates to rumored Blockbuster streaming features and potential hardware price cuts the beautiful black box has a lot up it sleeves for the near future. However, what’s most apparent today is the PS3’s software lineup for 2009 which looks absolutely ridiculous. There are some amazing titles on the horizon for the PS3 and many of these great titles are exclusive to the system. Infamous is one of those great titles. As a PS3 exclusive, Infamous is a game based around a character named Cole, an average guy who is somehow altered into a superhero who has the ability to channel high charges of electricity into anything. Infamous plays as an open world environment so Cole has the ability to go wherever he likes. Cole also has the cool ability to scale buildings much like Mr. Altair of the blockbuster hit Assassins Creed. Dive into both videos below to get a glimpse into the world of Infamous. Enjoy!

Infamous is scheduled for release in 2009

For all you comic book enthusiast out there wondering if there is a Watchmen game in developement the answer is yes. Currently Watchmen the game is being developed by Deadline Games and being published by Warner Bros. Interactrive. The game plays as a prequel to the highly anticipated Watchmen The Movie which are both due out March 2009. For a more in depth preview of the game head on over to IGN. Be sure to check out the nice video of Watchmen the game in action.

Will Sony be cutting the price of the PS3 in 2009?  Well, we definitely hope so. Based on a Business Week article, iSuppli a performance driven analysis group on electronics conducted an analysis on the current state of the PS3 and found that the manufacturing costs for the PS3 has decreased significantly. At launch in 2006 the PS3 manufacturing costs were a whopping $840 for the $599 model and $804 for the $499 model. Today the manufacturing of a PS3 costs $448.73 for the $399 model. Even though Sony is still losing money on their hardware, this red area is subsidized while software sales are allowing Sony to see a profit on many of the triple A titles available today. iSuppli points out that manufacturing costs have decreased largely because of chip reduction. The Cell and RSX were built on 90-nanometer technology in 2006, today they are built on 64-nanometer processes. This allows for less energy to be used while maintaining the same level of performance. iSuppli analyst believe that Sony might see their profits in the black or break-even for the PS3 in 2009. “Sony is one step ahead of us and probably has plans to re-spin the hardware to reduce the costs yet again,” says iSuppli analyst Andrew Rassweiler. The real question is not whether or not  Sony will reduce the price on the PS3 but how much will they reduce it. A nice sweet spot for the PS3 with all its multifunctions is somewhere around $299 to $249. With the main competition seven million plus consoles ahead in the gaming market, Sony it appears is looking to make a splash by reducing those numbers in 2009.