Sony PSP July 2005

Dead to Rights: Reckoning

In Dead to Rights: Reckoning you play as Jack Slate, a cop whose new charge is now to find and rescue an important informant in a trial against a major crime lord. Reckoning continues the Dead to Rights franchise’s style of fast-paced, straightforward action.... [Full Story]

HBO to release shows on PSP

HBO Video has announced that it will release six of its programs on UMD for the PSP. The shows include: Da Ali G Show: Da Compleet First and Second Seazons, Entourage: The Complete First Season, Todd McFarlane's Spawn 1, Chris Rock: Bigger & Blacker and Chris Rock: Never Scared. "That... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 update warning posted

Sony Computer Entertainment's official Japanese website has been updated with the following warning regarding the version 2.0 firmware update released earlier this week: CAUTION: This update is only for customers who obtained PSP (PlayStation Portable) for Japan which model number is PSP-1000 or PSP-1000 K. Upon completion of preparing, we... [Full Story]

Vaja Classic PSPouch Case for PSP

Vaja today introduced their new line of Classic cases for the PSP, the PSPouch and the PSPouch Retro. They feature a double snap-magnetic closure, 2 slots for UMD storage, 4 slots for Memory Stick Duo storage, and a zip compartment for accessories. Personalization is also available, and there are several... [Full Story]

Silicone Armour Case for PSP

We’ve seen a number of different UMD cases come out in the few months the PSP has been available in the US. That said, the Silicone Armour Case for PSP from Dragonplus is basically a UMD case keychain, the first design like this we’ve encountered.... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 firmware roundup

+ Sony Communication Network launched a Web portal today through which owners of the PlayStation Portable (PSP) handheld gaming device can download video clips. + The Portable TV site offers at launch a small selection of movie previews, animated cartoons, entertainment, digests of TV dramas, music, lifestyle programming, and sports.... [Full Story]

Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition

We really enjoyed the last installment of Midnight Club for the PS2, so we had very high hopes for the first PSP version of the game — and we weren’t disappointed. The PSP version of Midnight Club 3: Dub Edition keeps the same open, roam-able cities as the console versions,... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 update released

As expected, the PSP 2.0 update was released by Sony Computer Entertainment today in Japan. The 16MB update adds several major enhancements, including a new web browser, new audio and video format support, photo sharing, custom wallpapers and more. Although the update will work on U.S. and Canadian units, some... [Full Story]

First Look: Madden 2006 for PSP

EA provided us with seven screenshots of the upcoming Madden NFL 2006 for the PSP. The first of the popular football franchise for the PSP will be released in September. It features a full franchise mode that lets you build a team or import and play an entire week of... [Full Story]

MisticAudio OTG PSP Case

MisticAudio has launched a new case for the PSP, the OTG Series PSP Case. The case features high quality leather, storage for an extra UMD and two Memory Stick Duos, a built-in stand, and extra smooth lining. The case is available now from MisticAudio's online store, and sells for $32.95.... [Full Story]

Vaja i-Volution for PSP

Leather cases are normally black, so the initial sight of a Vaja case is a sight for sore eyes. Their combinations of brightly colored leather make a great contrast against the stark black of the PSP. However, looks aren’t everything — protection, fit, and usability are all important, and the... [Full Story]

The Lord of the Rings comes to PSP

Electronic Arts has announced that it will publish a new game based on J.R.R. Tolkien's epic literary fiction, "The Lord of the Rings." The Lord of the Rings: Tactics for the PSP will put players in the universe of Middle-earth from the books and films and allow them to lead... [Full Story]

White PSP - Live photos, New details

Following last week's unveiling of a white PSP in Tokyo, we've collected new details and three new photos of the device. Here's what we know so far: The "ceramic white" PSP will be released in Japan on Thursday, September 15, 2005 for 26,040 yen (about $235) in a Value Pack... [Full Story]

PSP by the numbers

At the Playstation Summit in Tokyo yesterday, Sony Computer Entertainment provided updates on its PSP handheld, revealing latest sales figures for the device, games and UMD movies. We break it down for you below. + 5.07 million PSPs sold worldwide + 2.74 million PSPs sold in US + 2.33 million... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 Firmware Update Details

IGN has posted a complete rundown of all the new features included in the upcoming PSP v2.0 firmware update that was announced earlier today. Some of the enhancements include web browsing, photo sharing, support for AAC audio, custom wallpapers, and MP4 (AVC) playback. The detailed list can be seen after... [Full Story]

Sony unveils white PSP, web browser

At a special event in Tokyo, Japan today, Sony Computer Entertainment announced a white version of the PSP and said it will release a software update next week that will add several new features to the device. The version 2.0 firmware will bring an official Sony web browser with support... [Full Story]

WWE SmackDown! for PSP?

The latest issue of Japan's Famitsu gaming magazine reports that WWE SmackDown! is coming to Sony's PSP. "The game would be the first WWE game for either of the top two current-generation handhelds. The Game Boy Advance, however, has seen two WWE games: WWE Survivor Series and WWE Road to... [Full Story]

Crash Bandicoot races onto PSP

Crash Tag Team Racing, a humorous action/racing game starring Crash Bandicoot, is coming to the PSP this Fall. Developed by VU Games' Radical Entertainment studio (creators of The Simpsons: Hit & Run), the newest addition to the best-selling Crash Bandicoot video game franchise will combine "crazy combat racing with on-foot... [Full Story]

Amazon adds to UMD movie offerings

The selection of UMD movies for Sony's PSP just keeps getting larger. Following our report from yesterday on the numerous new UMD titles being offered by DeepDiscountDVD.com, Amazon has updated its selection and now offers more than 120 UMD movies including: Sin City, Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill: Volume 2, Family... [Full Story]

New UMD releases revealed

Deepdiscountdvd.com has added cover art and release dates for a slew of new UMD releases, including American Pie 1&2, American Wedding, The Amityville Horror, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, Batman — The Movie, He-Man — The Animated Series, Tomb Raider, Tomb Raider — The Cradle of Life, Mr. Deeds, Pride... [Full Story]

Coded Arms

We had high hopes for the first first-person shooter for the PSP — it was eagerly anticipated by mobile gamers everywhere, but Coded Arms doesn't exactly impress. The title has a decidingly sci-fi feel as it takes place in "an abandoned virtual reality system and its portal site inside a... [Full Story]

PSP games at Ozzfest, Warped tours

Sony is giving concert-goers at this year's Ozzfest and Vans Warped tours the chance to get their hands on new and upcoming PSP and PS2 titles. "When attendees along the Vans Warped Tour aren't listening to performances by Billy Idol, The Offspring and Simple Plan, they can kick back in... [Full Story]

Godfather release delayed until 2006

EA has announced that its forthcoming game The Godfather will be delayed until Q1 of 2006. The game, based on the storied movie franchise, was expected to be on the shelves this holiday season. "The Godfather is one of the most cherished franchises in entertainment," said executive producer David DeMartini... [Full Story]

PSP games at EA Hot Summer Nights

IGN has posted first looks of several upcoming PSP games from Electronic Arts' annual Hot Summer Nights press event. You can check out a combination of impressions, screens and video for Madden NFL 06, Burnout Legends, SSX On Tour, The Sims 2, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 06, NBA Live 06,... [Full Story]

Bandai announces The Legend of Heroes

Bandai Games today announced The Legend of Heroes exclusively for the PSP. The game, which will be released in September, is a single-player turn-based role-playing game featuring "more than 100 unique characters to interact with, over 50 hours of gameplay and a deeply involving story line that unfolds in one... [Full Story]

Wipeout Pure Gamma Pack 3 Released

Sony today released Gamma Pack 3 for Wipeout Pure on the PSP handheld system, providing Wipeout Pure gamers a new track (Sebenco Peak), and new ship (the Van Uber) and a new game skin (Feisar). With the release of Gamma Pack 3, the Gamma series of tracks is complete, allowing... [Full Story]

Ghost Rider coming to PSP

Majesco has secured the video game rights to 2006's Ghost Rider, reports Hollywood Reporter. "The third-person action game will sport villains from the comic book and the film, including Blackheart and Mephistopheles. It will also feature 'such weapons as the hellfire chain- and hellfire shotgun,' and, of course, the Ghost... [Full Story]

New Line announces UMD movies

You could soon be watching The Lord of the Rings on your PSP due to the fact that New Line Cinema announced this week that it will be supporting Sony's UMD disc format. "The first batch of New Line UMD will be released on October 4--but will not include any... [Full Story]

Noreve Tradition Leather PSP Case

As we mentioned in a previous review, most of the leather cases produced for the PSP thus far have been a PDA-style design. The Tradition Leather Case for PSP from Noreve doesn’t exactly buck this trend, but it definitely has some interesting features to offer. From (mostly) protecting the sides... [Full Story]

SSX On Tour Previewed

Today stories and first looks at EA’s expected but previously unannounced SSX for the PSP were posted. The game’s working title is SSX On Tour, and it will feature game modes similar to the console versions, as well as ad hoc wireless multiplayer. Fifteen different courses are expected in the... [Full Story]

Madden signs extension with EA

EA Sports today announced that John Madden has signed a multi-year agreement to continue to license his name and appear in and consult on the development of future releases of Madden NFL. “John Madden personifies authentic football in any medium — television or interactive,” said Electronic Arts Chairman and CEO... [Full Story]

Space Invaders coming to PSP

The coin-op classic Space Invaders is landing on the PSP with new features. Marvelous Interactive said it's developing Space Invaders: Galaxy Beat, which is slated for release in Japan in September. "Marvelous Interactive didn't just slap a fresh coat of paint on the old arcade classic. Galaxy Beat plays almost... [Full Story]

Sony to test UMD movie rentals

Sony Pictures Entertainment will soon begin a test rental program for UMD movies in Japan. "Starting 7/16, the company plans on making twelve UMD movies available for rental at 50 shops throughout the island nation. This initial batch will be joined by two more titles starting 7/27. Pricing and specifics... [Full Story]

VNC, FTP software for PSP

New VNC software (control a PC remotely) and new FTP software (send and retrieve files) has been released for the PSP. "Homebrew code development is moving forward very fast on the Sony PSP showing the first applications with powerful features. The Sony PSP could soon be the portable device of... [Full Story]

'Lost' coming to UMD

Buena Vista Home Entertainment has announced that the two-part pilot episode of the TV hit "Lost" will be part of the studio's latest wave of UMD titles, which will hit shelves in September. The "Lost" UMD will arrive in stores September 6, the same day as the complete first season... [Full Story]

Virtua Tennis PSP details

Sega has announced the full roster of tennis all-stars that will be featured in its upcoming Virtua Tennis: World Tour for PSP. The game will also feature a make-your-own player mode. "At the forefront are three-time Wimbledon champions Roger Federer and Venus Williams, followed by other famous pros including Andy... [Full Story]

PSP drum machine/sequencer released

Nathan Wray and Noah Vawter have released PSP Kick, new software that turns your PSP into a drum machine/sequencer. "You get 12 drum sounds and a large grid where you are able to compose your own beats. You can change patterns to make as many beats as you want and... [Full Story]

Coded Arms ships

Konami today announced that Coded Arms is now shipping to stores nationwide. The game offers five multi-level game worlds and wireless multiplayer. "Coded Arms is the first FPS from Konami and the first FPS for the PSP," said Wilson Cheng, product manager at Konami Digital Entertainment - America. "Through its... [Full Story]

MTV goes all in for STACKED

MTV and MTV Games today announced a partnership with Myelin Media, publishers of STACKED with Daniel Negreanu. The agreement calls for MTV to work with Myelin to promote the STACKED brand as well as host the official game site on MTV.com. "STACKED and MTV are a perfect fit," stated Daniel... [Full Story]

McDonald's launches PSP promo

McDonald's and Sony Computer Entertainment have teamed for a PSP giveaway called "Only the Mac Code Knows." "People who buy a Big Mac sandwich or large fries get a code that they can enter online at the PlayatMcD.com website. Site features include the ability to view trailers for PSP titles,... [Full Story]

PSP outselling DS by large margin

Sony shipped approximately 250,000 PSPs to U.S. consumers in May, compared to only 57,000 Nintendo DS units in the same month. However, Game Boy Advance sales are still strong with 237,000 being sold in May. "Combined, the GBA and the DS overpower the PSP... but not for long. While Nintendo... [Full Story]

Silver PSP on the way?

Sony is reportedly planning to debut a silver version of the PSP. "No price or date has been mentioned and Sony has yet to officially announce anything, although reading between the lines, it’s not beyond the realm of possibility that the Japanese hardware giant is planning such an action —... [Full Story]

PSP launcher for Lumines released

The underground PSP hacking continues with the release today of a new launcher that lets you play Lumines from a Memory Stick without having the UMD. "So the PSP Launcher for running homebrew code on your PSP has been out for a couple of weeks, and now the commercial cat... [Full Story]