Propaganda Games the developers of the latest TUROK adventure  which is fully funded and maintained by Disney Interactive has recently received their walking papers in recent news. Like many companies tasting the misfortunes of a struggling economy Disney Interactive has had to layoff some 70 staff members at Propaganda Games.

Propaganda Games was currently in development on their next dinosaur hunter adventure, TUROK 2 but unfortunately the project has been canned. With our economy in it’s current state game developers are pressed to hit homeruns with their development projects. Gone are the days where mediocre project titles can just be thrown at gamers who would grab anything with an interesting box cover. It is extremely unfortunate that Propaganda Games lost 70 employees and TUROK 2 is canned, however was TUROK really worth $60? The truth is, gamers literally cannot afford to throw money to the wind for $60 when the quality of a game is below par. Developers have to bring their A game and as gamers we should start seeing more quality games as a result.

SOURCE

According to IGN Madden 09 has chosen the Superbowl Champs. And the winning is…..HOLD ON!

How did they do it, well it was simple. IGN performed a simulation of the game utilizing  the most recent online roster update to find out  how the game might to play out. The result were rather ridiculous, I’m a Cardinal fan - LOL! According to the simulation results my Cardinals get stomped  28-0 while real world experts are predicting another Steelers championship who are favored to win by the margin of one touchdown.

Of course a simulation doesn’t factor in will, heart and discipline because as we all know anyone can be defeated on any given Sunday, just ask the Patriots. Yes, I’m rooting for the Cardinals and why not? No one expected them to completely obliterate the post-season like they have and since I currently reside in Arizona by way of California I have no problem painting myself red for one evening of football. Let me know who you think will win the Superbowl and be sure to check out IGN’s take on their Superbowl simulation results.

Straight from guys and gals at Playstation.blog here is the latest video content now available in your Playstation Store.  After the SUPERBOWL be sure to grab a couple movies from your Playstation Store and don’t forget the popcorn for the family. Enjoy!

HD

• 24 Season 7
• American Dad Season 4
• Xam’d: Lost Memories Season 2
• Girl With a Pearl Earring
• College Rated & Unrated
• RocknRolla
• Pride and Glory
• Damages Season 2
• Lair of the White Worm
• Traitor

And the following feature films:

Movies:

• 28 Days
• Adaptation
• American Psycho
• Anastasia
• Bandidas
• Batman: Mystery of the Batwoman
• Beverly Hills Ninja
• Broken Lizard’s Club Dread
• Carrie
• College Rated & Unrated
• Crocodile Dundee
• Deep Winter
• Escape from Alcatraz
• Fast Food Nation
• Fireproof
• Girl With a Pearl Earring
• Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco
• Island in the Sky
• Lair of the White Worm
• Lakeview Terrace
• Open Range
• Open Season 2
• Popeye
• Pride and Glory
• RocknRolla
• Rugrats Go Wild
• Swing Vote
• The Brothers Solomon
• The History Boys
• The Lords of Flatbush
• The Note
• The Rocker
• Till Human Voices Wake Us
• Traitor
• Uncommon Valor
• Underworld
• Zathura

And here’s our new video content from the following television series:

TV

• The Simpsons Season 20
• Deadliest Catch Season 1
• Deadliest Catch Season 3
• Just Shoot Me Season 1
• Moral Orel Season3
• Fringe Season 1
• Nip Tuck Season 5
• The Closer Season 4
• Watchmen Season 1
• American Chopper Season 3
• Friends Season 6
• MadTV Season 13
• Miami Ink Season 5
• Nip Tuck Season 4
• Sealab 2021 Season 3
• Shuffle Season 1
• The Drinky Crow Show Season 1
• 24 Season 7
• American Dad Season 4
• Xam’d: Lost Memories Season 2
• Damages Season 2
• Supernatural Season 4
• Smallville Season 8

And finally, here are our top 10 HD and non-HD movie and TV downloads for the week:

Top Movies

1. Max Payne (Unrated)
2. Step Brothers
3. Eagle Eye
4. Mirrors (Unrated)
5. Disaster Movie (Unrated)
6. Appaloosa
7. Babylon AD (Uncut)
8. Pride and Glory
9. Pineapple Express
10. RocknRolla

Top HD Movies

1. Eagle Eye
2. Step Brothers
3. Appaloosa
4. Wall-E
5. The Dark Knight
6. RocknRolla
7. Hancock
8. Disaster Movie (Unrated)
9. Pride and Glory
10. Chronicles or Narnia: Prince Caspian

Top TV Episodes

1. Smallville Season 8 “Bulletproof”
2. 24 Season 7 “Day 7: 12:00PM - 1:00PM”
3. Family Guy Season 7 “The Man With Two Brians”
4. Smallville Season 8 “Legion”
5. Family Guy Season 7 “I Dream of Jesus”
6. Family Guy Season 7 “Road to Germany”
7. Family Guy Season 7 “Tales of a 3rd Grade Nothing”
8. Family Guy Season 7 “Baby Not On Board”
9. Xam’d: Lost Memories Season 2 “Voices From Beyond”
10. Supernatural Season 4 “Criss Angel Is a Douche Bag”

Top HD TV Episodes

1. 24 Season 7 “Day 7: 12:00PM - 1:00PM”
2. Xam’d: Lost Memories Season 2 “Voices From Beyond”
3. 24 Season 7 “Day 7: 8:00AM - 9:00AM”
4. 24 Season 7 “Day 7: 11:00AM - 12:00PM”
5. 24 Season 7 “Day 7: 10:00AM - 11:00AM”
6. 24 Season 7 “Day 7: 9:00AM - 10:00AM”
7. The Beast Season 1 “Episode 100 - The Beast Pilot”
8. Burn Notice Season 2 “Do No Harm”
9. Sons of Anarchy Season 1 “Giving Back”
10. The Beast Season 1 “Two Choices”

For those of you who hate spoilers don’t watch, but for the rest of you who don’t care check it out.

The ability to  control a mech is simply awesome!

Recently, Sony announced that they would begin aggressively marketing for KILLZONE 2 and many have wondered myself included whether or not Sony would utilize the SUPERBOWL as a platform to get everyone’s attention about their upcoming shooter. Well, with the big game a day away rumor has it that we might just see Sony take advantage of this great opportunity with this interesting video. Check it out!

As the Playstation Nation heads into February there is plenty to get excited about. From returning classics with enhanced graphics and features like Street Fighter 4 to the new revolutionary shooter in KILLZONE 2, 2009  is starting off with a bang.

Let’s take a look at the list of titles heading our way in February.

FEBRUARY 10th

F.E.A.R 2: PROJECT ORIGIN

X-BLADES

FEBRUARY 12th

FLOWER

FEBRUARY 17th

STREET FIGHTER 4

FEBRUARY 24th

THE GODFATHER II

50 CENT: BLOOD ON THE SAND

SHELLSHOCK 2: BLOOD TRAILS

FEBRUARY 27th

KILLZONE 2

Yes it is true. As of this morning, Sony’s highly anticipated first person shooter, KILLZONE 2 has now taken the top pre-order spot on AMAZON . As the reviews from many of the gaming industries top publications are pouring in it seems more and more PS3 users are quickly connecting with this exciting shooter. Killzone 2 has actually made some amazing strides as the release date draws near.  Previously ranked 40th, KILLZONE 2 jumped to #7 and  then #2 on AMAZON’s pre-order list where it trailed behind WiiFit until this morning . According to AMAZON, KILLZONE 2 has seen an overall 1900% increase. With almost a month remaining until release, KILLZONE 2 is definitely gearing up for a spectacular reception.

Now PS3 users can add to their bluray library the non-stop thrill ride none as Jason Bourne or ‘The Bourne Trilogy’.  Sony/Bluray has just made this possible and can be puchase through Amazon or any retailer of bluray movies while supplies last.

“The Bourne Trilogy’ represents one of the most popular action film franchises in the past decade. Oddly enough, its not the use of high tech computer effects or overly-stylized fighting, but rather the lack thereof which makes these films standout. There are very few in the world who could honestly see themselves in such a unique character as Jason Bourne, but his struggle to discover his own identity and purpose is something that many can identify with. “ - Blu-ray.com

Is it me or does it seem extremely hard to watch regular dvd movies if the same movie can be viewed on blu-ray? Just asking.

Square Enix introduces a brand new game trailer that looks absolutely incredible. As a multiplatform title Final Fantasy XIII is getting primed for stellar sales at it’s release. Be sure to check the latest video. Enjoy!

According to Playstation.blog, there has been an overwhelming response for the Playstation Credit Card. Sony has now decided to extend the credit card offer.

“You have until the end of March to apply for your PlayStation Card” - Playstation.blog

Those who are approved will receive a credit of $100 on your next billing statement when you purchase a PS3.

“Not only are you getting a huge savings on the purchase of a PS3, but you now have direct access to Sony Rewards Points that are redeemable towards all the latest Sony and PlayStation products.

Every time you use the PlayStation Card to buy digital goods in PlayStation Network or for everyday purchases like clothes and groceries, you’re earning more points.”

If Sony drops the price of the PS3 to $299 in the near future then that $100 credit looks like a bargain right in time for tax season.

Sony hurry up and drop the price

Hello Playstation Nation, yes it is time for yet another Playstation Update and this update comes with some cool new add-on features - Enjoy!

PULSE

PULSE 01/29 Edition (also available from the PSP store) (free)
PULSE presented by the PlayStationNetwork 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: 189 MB (HD) 311 MB (1080)

Price Update

Burnout Paradise Price Drop (now $19.99)
Shaun White Mile High Target and Regular Editions Price Drop (now $4.99)

Downloadable Games

Bejeweled 2 ($9.99)
Experience the classic gem-swapping puzzler! Now available on the PlayStation Network, Bejeweled 2 lovers can now earn over 10 unique PS3 trophies and play Bejeweled 2 on the PSP via remote play. Swap gems to match 3 or more, and delight in four different game modes and explosive new gem types. With amazing planetary backdrops and awesome special effects in 1080p, Bejeweled 2 will dazzle you!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 23 MB

Savage Moon ($9.99)
This action-packed tower defense strategy game takes you to distant planets where you must defend mining facilities from relentless Insectocyte monsters. Build towers in strategic locations to fend off the attackers, then use funds from kills and mining to build, upgrade, or research new weapons and technologies to strengthen your defenses. It will take equal parts skill and strategy to survive in Savage Moon. Download the game today!
ESRB Rated T
File size: 207 MB

Brain Challenge PS3 + PSP games Bundle ($12.99)
Now train your brain anywhere you want without restriction! Boost your brain abilities through fun gaming sessions from the comfort of your sofa or on the go. 25 Visual, Memory, Logic, Math and Focus mini-games will put your neurons to the test. Additional stress-management exercises will push the challenge even further and help you develop resistance to real-life stress. Compare yourself with other players in exciting multiplayer modes.
Offer valid until February 26th 2009!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 268 MB

Add-on Game Content

LittleBigPlanet God of War Mini Pack ($2.99)
Exclusive God of War mini pack.
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Kratos Costume ($1.99)
A new costume for Sackboy!
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet GroundHog Day Costume (free)
A seasonal exclusive costume for SackBoy!
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Ape Escape Costume ($1.99)
A new costume for SackBoy!
File size: 1.04 MB

LittleBigPlanet Toro Costume ($1.99)
A new costume for SackBoy!
File size: 1.04 MB

Skate 2 Filmer Pack ($7.49)
Upgrade skate.Reel with advanced camera controls for the replay editor, custom watermarks, expanded online storage (share up to 5 minutes of footage) plus extra gear for your skater.
File size: 166 MB

Mirror’s Edge Exclusive Free DLC Map (free)
Mirror’s Edge gameplay distilled down to its purest form in this free and Sony exclusive Time Trial Map. No cops, no guns, no city. Pure aesthetics, agility and flow that will challenge any runner.
File size: 14 MB

The Lord of the Rings: Conquest Content Pack (free)
Download a new way to play Hero Team Deathmatch for The Lord of the Rings: Conquest. Hero Arenas let you pit Good and Evil heroes against each other in a 1v1 or 2v2 showdown!
File size: 134 MB

Disgaea 3: Absence of Justice Character: Hanako ($1.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Hanako from Disgaea 2.
File size: 1.22 MB

Disgaea 3: Absence of Justice Character: Taro ($1.99)
This package file adds a new custom character called Taro from Disgaea 2.
File size: 1.22 MB

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

• “Cold Rain and Snow” - Grateful Dead ($1.99)
• “Doin’ That Rag” - Grateful Dead ($1.99)
• “Don’t Ease Me In” - Grateful Dead ($1.99)
• “Fire on the Mountain” - Grateful Dead ($1.99)
• “Hell in a Bucket” - Grateful Dead ($1.99)
• “Uncle John’s Band” - Grateful Dead ($1.99)
• Grateful Dead Pack 02 ($9.99) - Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game track pack: Grateful Dead Pack 01. This pack includes: “Cold Rain and Snow,” “Doin’ That Rag,” “Don’t Ease Me In,” “Fire on the Mountain,” “Hell in a Bucket,” and “Uncle John’s Band” by Grateful Dead.

File sizes: 16 MB - 50 MB (singles), 185 MB (track pack)

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

• “Bag It Up” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “The Turning” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “Waiting for the Rapture” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “The Shock of the Lightning” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “I’m Outta Time” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “(Get Off Your) High Horse Lady” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “Falling Down” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “To Be Where There’s Life” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “Ain’t Got Nothin’” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “The Nature of Reality” by Oasis ($1.99)
• “Soldier On” by Oasis ($1.99)
• Full Album “Dig Out Your Soul” by Oasis ($18.99) - Downloadable Full Album for Guitar Hero World Tour featuring “Bag It Up”, “The Turning”, “Waiting for the Rapture”, “The Shock of the Lightning”, “I’m Outta Time”, “(Get Off Your) High Horse Lady”, “Falling Down”, “To Be Where There’s Life”, “Ain’t Got Nothin’”, “The Nature of Reality”, and “Soldier On” by Oasis.

File sizes: 25 MB - 51 MB (singles) 458 MB (track pack)

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

• Twist & Shout ($1.49)
• Irreplaceable ($1.49)
• Sister Christian ($1.49)
• Killing Me Softly With His Song ($1.49)
• If You Don’t Know Me By Now ($1.49)
• Breakaway ($1.49)

File sizes: 17 MB - 31 MB

Game Demos (free)

Bejeweled 2 Demo
Experience the classic gem-swapping puzzler! Now available on the PlayStation Network, Bejeweled 2 lovers can now earn over 10 unique PS3 trophies andplay Bejeweled 2 on the PSP via remote play. Swap gems to match 3 or more, and delight in four different game modes and explosive new gem types. With amazing planetary backdrops and awesome special effects in 1080p, Bejeweled 2 will dazzle you!
ESRB Rated E
File size: 23 MB

Game Videos (free)

PULSE 01/29 Edition (also available from the PSP store)
File size: 189 MB (HD) 311 MB (1080)

Final Fantasy XIII Trailer
File size: 121 MB (HD)

Wanted: Weapons of Fate Teaser
File size: 49 MB (HD)

Movie Trailers (free)

The International Trailer
File size: 29 MB (SD) 99 MB (HD) 151 MB (1080)

Angels & Demons Trailer
File size: 15 MB (SD) 41 MB (HD) 81 MB (1080)

The Making of Hulk Vs. Wolverine
File size: 914 MB (HD)

The Making of Hulk Vs. Thor
File size: 808 MB (HD)

PS3 Themes

Bejeweled 2 Theme (free)
File size: 1.65 MB

Command and Conquer Red Alert 3 Ultimate Edition Theme (free)
File size: 4.65 MB

PS3 Wallpaper (free)

Lord of the Rings: Conquest Wallpaper (x3)
File size: 387 MB - 434 MB (SD) 1.4 MB - 2.12 MB (1080)

Oftentimes many superhero based video games unfortunately fall victim to very generic PG rated development quality that leaves the experience with no real substance or connection to it’s comic book counterpart. There have been a few web-slinger games that have slightly impressed but it’s latest title, Web of Shadows is definitely not a step in the right direction. Batman games on the other hand have been fairly absent. There have been a few but definitely nothing to cry home about, however this latest title, BATMAN: ARKHAM ASYLUM which is utilizing the Unreal engine looks to be throwing out the PG rating and embracing a rated R experience all together. Currently in development by RockSteady Studios, BATMAN: ARKHAM ASYLUM is scheduled for release Q2 2009.

Check out this New Trailer. This looks promising - Enjoy!

The gaming guru’s at IGN have fianlly posted their review of KILLZONE 2 and if you have not read it head on over, it’s a great review. However, some red flags have been raised in regards to the score in the graphics department.

Every since the infamous 2005 E3 CG video, KILLZONE 2 has been the most talked about first person shooter by the media due to the CG videos unbelievable graphical impression. Truth be told, how could you not be overly curious on whether or not Sony could actually deliver on such a burden of a task. The E3 video displayed some of the most awe-inspiring graphics ever seen for a video game and even the most faithful Sony enthusiasts questioned whether the PS3 could actually deliver on this vision

Well four years later the verdict is finally in and Sony/Guerrilla Games has by all accounts delivered on their promise. Based on the IGN review KILLZONE 2 delivers;

“Everything from the first entrance onto the battlefield to the last cutscene creates a hectic, fun and fast-paced thrill ride through a warzone where each step you take could be your last.” - IGN 9.4

Yet it does appear that some people are not fully satisfied with the overall review. After reading some of the user comments it is clear that the IGN score on KILLZONE 2’s graphics are definitely in question. There are some great titles that have come before KILLZONE 2 that have boasted some rather amazing graphics and IGN has handsomely rewarded these games with high marks. For example,  Gears of War 2 was an amazing game that received a 9.5 in the  graphics category.  It is clear that Gears of War 2 does deserve it score 0f 9.5 graphically but one has to question comments made in IGN review such as;

“Phenomenal visuals prove that Guerrilla either met or surpassed that infamous E3 trailer. Some technical issues hold it back from being a completely flawless masterpiece.”  - IGN

The 2005 E3 trailer was considered impossible to meet by many, IGN included and rightfully so, but  to suggest that KILLZONE 2 met or supassed the 2005 E3 trailer is absolutely amazing, an accomplaishment in itself, yet the 9.5 score it received just doesn’t add up. Also, surprisingly, despite how well received KILLZONE 2 has been by the media and IGN, it did not receive a 10 in any of IGN’s distinct categories, however Halo 3 did receive 10’s in three of the disticnt categories, interesting?

Does all this really matter? No! It will not hurt the sales of KILLZONE 2. Not in the least.  KILLZONE 2, despite the questions at hand will be well received by the Playstation Nation for months to come. Unfortunately fairness and integrity is in question and as gamers we deserve the absolute truth despite outside influences that might be a factor.

Regardless, February 27th really cannot get here fast enough. Keep Gaming!!

As we all anticipate the release of potentially the greatest first person shooter to date, I thought we should take a look at some of the weapons we will be wielding in KILLZONE 2. For starters I wanted to take a look at the new sniper rifle because I am one of those online multiplayer snipers who enjoys being affective from great distances.

Introducing the NEW VC32 Sniper Rifle

If you are wondering about how affective this rifle can be I promise you, you will not be disapointed. Check out the description and features of this rifle taken from killzone.com;

Description:

A precision rifle equipped with an illuminated x2 and x5 sniper scope and an extended barrel for increased bullet speed and precision, the sniper rifle is a most accurate and deadly weapon, especially over long distances. However, despite being extremely lethal, the rifle is hampered by its slow rate of fire and limited magazine capacity and its extreme accuracy is only available when scoped.

Features:

• Fires high caliber armor- and helmet-piercing 7.62x51mm USO rounds
• Highly effective over longer ranges
• Lethal damage with slow rate of fire
• Perfect as both a defensive and offensive weapon for forward operating scouts

Eventhough the VC32 Sniper Rifle according to the KILLZONE 2 universe is manufactured by the Helghast, it is the primary weapon of the Helghast scouts and sometimes ISA scouts. Scouts are highly trained snipers who are extremely affective from great distances with the VC 32 Sniper Rifle. Helghast scout are also able to manipulate their appearance like that of the ‘Predator’ by remaining very still from their respective sniper position.

Helghast Scouts with VC32 Sniper Rifle

Be sure to check out the video as Sev put the VC32 Sniper Rifle to good use. This rifle is NASTY!

Playstation.blog breaks down how to go about creating your very own survivor challenges in Little Big Planet. I’m pretty sure Little Big Planet creators like Sirbeefer of the IGN community will be all over this. Here is a list of some of the items that the video will include;

• Ingredients – Recipe for all materials required to make your own Survival Challenge
• Moving Entrance – How to accurately place your Start and Finish entrances
• Crank Up The Difficulty – Proper methods in making your mechanics and contraptions more challenging through time
• Sequentialness – Learn how magnetic key switches can be used as event sequencers.
• Don’t Forget The Instructions – Make your levels more fun and accessible by adding instructions to give the player a form of guidance.
• Community Examples – Survival Challenges created by fans of the LBP Community. See if your creation was selected by Mm as a challenge example!

As we all know, today many major corporations are restructuring their business models due to our nations current financial strain. Of the many issues our nation is currently facing, job cuts are skyrocketing like crazy. In a previous article entitled ‘Sony and Microsoft Cutting Jobs’ I talked about the job cuts and how these financially troubled times are affecting Sony and Microsoft. On the gaming front gamers are anxiously waiting to see how today’s economic strains are affecting both Sony and Microsoft’s gaming divisions.

Well, some light has been shed on how Microsofts gaming division is dealing with all the fuss. In recent news it has been reported that for the fist time in the history of the company Microsoft will be cutting some 5000 jobs and effective immediately 1,400 of those 5,000 jobs were to be cut. Again, how does this affect their gaming division whether it be their PC or Xbox division, what moves have been made?

Well, as of Friday, Jan 23rd Microsoft announced Friday that the Microsoft owned ACES Studios, the creator of the Flight Simulator series, will be closing it’s doors, as an implication of Microsoft’s 5,000 worker layoff according to PCeverthing.org In response to this announcement Microsoft spokeswoman Kelda Rericha stated;

“We are committed to the Flight Simulator franchise, which has proven to be a successful PC-based game for the last 27 years. You should expect us to continue to invest in enabling great Live experiences on Windows, including flying games, but we have nothing specific to announce at this time.”

According to pcworld, Microsoft spokeswoman Rericha also mention; “It’s definitely confusing; I wish I had more clarification on that that we could provide. At this point, they’re just not talking about it yet – how the product will, and if the product will, live within Microsoft.”

The Flight Simulator is definitely a longtime running franchise that stood the test of time for 27 years and hopefully through some shape or form Microsoft will find a way for users to experience this franchise.

On other fronts the very popular Microsoft blog site, GAMERSCOREblog.com has been shut down as well. The very popular site was home to thousands of Xbox enthusiast who wanted latest on the Xbox and 360 news, updates and previews. From experience the site was a very cool place to lay your hat, the writers were some of the best in the industry and kept a very upbeat feel to their blog community. For more on this or how you can stay connected with those responsible for maintaining the site click here .