Sony PSP August 2005

Pret a PSP comes to New York

Following the success of the first Pret a PSP in March, Sony today announced that they will be hosting another Pret a PSP fashion show in New York on September 10. The show will be held at Skylight Studios in West Village and feature PSP accessories designed by Tommy Hilfiger,... [Full Story]

JavoEdge JavoSkin for PSP

We’ve already reviewed plenty of silicone cases for the PSP here at PSPworld, but the JavoSkin for PSP is the first to claim that it doesn’t pick up dust. Since one of the complaints we’ve had about almost all the other silicone cases we’ve reviewed is they collect dust and... [Full Story]

UMD sales strong, Sony to boost production

At the Entertainment Media Expo in Hollywood, Sony executives touted the success of their UMD format. The company said it has already sold 9 million games on UMD and 8.2 million movies. Sony is currently producing 200,000 UMDs a day and future capacity is expected to be 500,000 per day.... [Full Story]

PSP Street Fighter Alpha details

The latest issue of Famitsu has details on Capcom's PSP version of Street Fighter Zero 3 (Alpha 3 in America). "Fully titled Street Fighter Zero 3: Double Upper, the game promises a number of improvements over the original arcade Zero 3 release. Players will be able to use Ingrid from... [Full Story]

Reebok launches PSP site

Reebok has launched a new site formatted specifically to be viewed with the PSP browser. The site is offering PSP wallpapers, videos, commercials, athletes' pro-tips and interviews. Some of the celebrities and sports stars featured include Jay Z, Allen Iverson, Christina Ricci, Yao Ming, and Mark Zupan. [via PSP Rumors]... [Full Story]

Vaja PSPouch

When we reviewed Vaja’s first PSP case, the i-Volution (PSPworld Rating: A) impressed us despite is lofty price tag. For their follow-up, Vaja released the PSPouch and PSPouch retro, two cases designed to carry UMDs, Memory Sticks, a set of earphones and the PSP’s remote along with the PSP. Surprisingly,... [Full Story]

Aspeed unveils PSP speaker systems

Aspeed Technology recently added three new PSP speaker systems to their website. The systems, PSP-002, PSP-006, and PSP-008 all feature two smaller speakers paired with a subwoofer. The PSP-002 is actually part of a leather case/stand for the PSP, while the 006 and 008 are both stand alone models, each... [Full Story]

Euro demand for PSP outstrips supply

Retailers are expecting Thursday's European launch of the PSP to be an "instant sellout" because demand has already begun to outstrip supply. "More than 150,000 machines will be available in Britain on launch day, more than double the biggest launch in this country so far of a games console, thought... [Full Story]

Logic3 Sound System for PSP

Our previous review of Logic3’s Sound Grip for PSP (PSPworld rating: A-) was largely positive, leaving us with high hopes for the company’s Sound System for PSP, and it was going to need high marks to compare well against Logitech’s PlayGear Amp (PSPworld Rating: A), it’s main competition. In fact,... [Full Story]

Sony outsourcing PSP production

Sony announced today that it is outsourcing some of it's PSP production to large Taiwanese manufacturer Hon Hai. This doesn't come as a complete surprise, since Sony itself had previously mentioned the possibility of outsourcing PSP production, and Hon Hai was an obvious possible partner, since they already produce PS2... [Full Story]

Brando adds new PSP Battery Pack

Brando Workshop today added the PSP 3600mAh Battery Pack to their accessory line. The battery pack holds extra juice while allowing the original battery to be plugged in to it, providing up to twice the gameplay time. The PSP 3600mAh Battery Pack retails for $32.00, and is available now from... [Full Story]

Sony VP takes jab at Nintendo

Phil Harrison, executive vice-president of Sony Computer Entertainment, says that any competition with Nintendo is "irrelevant." "The idea of a handheld rivalry with Nintendo is an irrelevance,” Harrison said in an interview. “Those formats don’t appear in our planning. It’s not a fair comparison; not fair on them, I should... [Full Story]

Sony plans online hub for PSP

Sony Computer Entertainment is developing an international website (YourPSP.com) to support the European launch of the PSP. "The main focus of the online hub will be to provide users with regular access to special add-ons that will enable them to enhance the size and playability of selected PSP games. Sony... [Full Story]

PSP game to offer custom soundtrack

The first PSP game to support custom soundtracks will ship in Europe alongside the PSP next week. Codemasters announced today that TOCA Race Driver 2 will feature an option that lets users replace the normal game soundtrack with music stored on a Memory Stick. Use of the feature requires a... [Full Story]

Logitech PlayGear Street

With the success of Logitech’s PlayGear Pocket (PSPworld Rating: B-) fresh in our minds, we were excited to review the PlayGear Street — a case that at first glance seemed very much like an older sibling of the PlayGear Pocket, but was obviously meant to be used differently.... [Full Story]

First look: Metal Gear Acid 2

We've posted 10 new screenshots from Metal Gear Acid 2, the upcoming successor to the popular card based strategy game for the PSP. Metal Gear Acid 2 features an all-new comic-style look, a new storyline focusing on Solid Snake, more expansive gameplay, a new tutorial stage, and an updated interface.... [Full Story]

Gamefly launches UMD movie rentals

Gamefly has become the first major company to offer UMD movie rentals through the mail. Gamefly has just added a huge selection of UMD movies for the PSP that can be rented just like the company's video games — you pay one flat monthly fee, rent as many titles as... [Full Story]

Sony to ship first multi-UMD titles

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced its first multi-disc UMD titles. The videos are: Good Times - The Complete 1st Season (2 UMDs) and Sanford & Son - The 1st Season (3 UMDs). These multi-UMD videos will both be released on November 1 and will retail for $29.95.... [Full Story]

PSP user survey conducted

A recent survey of 1,000 PSP owners conducted by market researcher Info Plant found that over 60% of the respondents purchased the device within the first three months of its release, and that an average user owns 3.1 titles.... [Full Story]

Death Jr.

In Death Jr. you play as the Grim Reaper’s son, trying to save your friends from an eternity of suffering at the hands of Moloch. Armed with his scythe and an arsenal of guns and explosives, Death Jr. will battle through numerous levels towards a final confrontation with Moloch himself.... [Full Story]

New on UMD this week

Several movies were releaed in UMD format for the PSP this week. Among the new titles are: + Snatch + Evil Dead + Halloween + House of 1,000 Corpses + House of the Dead + Layer Cake + Ninja Scroll + Blood the Last Vampire + Cabin Fever + Time... [Full Story]

Sony to release Kingdom of Paradise

Sony Computer Entertainment America has announced Kingdom of Paradise, a new action-RPG that will be released exclusively for the PSP in November. "Players take the role of a young warrior outcast named Shinbu in a vast, living world, developing sword fighting skills and exploring active environments in a crusade to... [Full Story]

PSP 101: Surf the web like a pro

Now that Sony has released the version 2.0 system software for North American PSP owners, we can finally begin to enjoy the update's new features — and by far the biggest addition is the mobile web browser. We've put together this guide to help you quickly get started browsing the... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 update now available

The North American version of the PSP 2.0 firmware update is now available via the wireless Network Update feature on your PSP. As expected, the 16MB update is nearly identical to the Japanese version released last month. The version 2.0 software brings a mobile web browser, new audio and video... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 udpate coming tomorrow?

The placeholder page for the PSP 2.0 firmware update has been removed — but not before sharp-eyed PSPworld readers caught this interesting line hinting that the update will finally be released tomorrow. "An update to the PSP system features was made available on August 24, 2005. With this update, the... [Full Story]

PSP to get mouse, keyboard, GPS, Flash

Following his statements on future PSP expansion earlier this month, Sony Computer Entertainment platform development chief Izumi Kawanishi has revealed more possible PSP plans to Japanese technology Web site ITmedia. While last time it was Web-based game content, downloadable movies, and e-mail support, Kawanishi is now discussing Macromedia Flash and... [Full Story]

Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories Box Art

Wal-Mart.com today inadvertently posted the official boxart for Rockstar's upcoming game Grand Theft Auto: Liberty City Stories. The picture has since been pulled down, but we've got the full size pic for you after the jump. The release date for Liberty City Stories has yet to be finalized. [Thanks, Rob!]... [Full Story]

Logic3 Sound Grip for PSP

When we first got our PSPs, we were really excited to take PS2-level graphics with us wherever we went — but we found out all too quickly that the PSP’s internal speakers are easily drowned out. Since it’s not cool to be wearing headphones all the time, we were thrilled... [Full Story]

Action Replay for PSP announced

Datel today announced its Action Replay MAX for the PSP. The $39.99 product offers the ability to use "PowerSaves" from CodeJunkies and includes a 64MB Action Replay Memory Card, a USB 2.0 cable to connect your PSP to your PC, and a CD containing PC software which allows you to... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 update placeholder page

Sony has put up a placeholder site that details the list of new features for the North American version of the PSP 2.0 update. Unsurprisingly, the update is nearly identical to the Japanese version released last month. While there is a "Download Now" link, when clicked the eventual download is... [Full Story]

Gamespot previews upcoming PSP titles

Gamespot has posted previews of three upcoming PSP titles — Need For Speed Most Wanted, Burnout Legends, and X-Men Legends II. Need For Speed Most Wanted: "Electronic Arts' latest entry in the NFS franchise and the follow-up to the PSP launch game NFS Rivals is looking like a smart next... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 firmware due this week (again)

Sony has broken its silence to state that the long-awaited version 2.0 firmware update will be released this this week. "The PSP Firmware 2.0 Upgrade for the North American market will be available during the week of August 22nd," a new message posted on the official Sony PSP message boards... [Full Story]

PSPStyles offers PSP accessories

ObjectsFusion today announced the launch of PSPStyles, a new online store with a focus on fashion accessories for the PSP. With the launch of the store comes the PSP Skins Collection featuring over 136 different designs, the PSPStyles Silicone for PSP which features a special material designed to reduce dust... [Full Story]

Sony offers 'Stealth' PSP downloads

Sony has created a website for the summer action movie "Stealth" with content formated specifically for the PSP. The site offers two official trailers, a collection of "Caught On Video" clips, and seven scenes from the movie. About "Stealth": "In the near future, the Navy develops a fighter jet piloted... [Full Story]

Tego customized PSP skins available

MyTego.com is offering a service for creating customized sticker-like skins for the PSP, mobile phones, MP3 players and PDAs. "We are about providing you with tools to help you design custom covers for your device. We are the first company to offer a product that changes with your tastes and... [Full Story]

PSP 2.0 update still MIA

Despite stating that the version 2.0 firmware update for the U.S. would be "available during the week of August 15," Sony has yet to release the update. The company has already delayed the release of the update once — it was originally due on August 12. Sony has provided no... [Full Story]

Virtua Tennis, Snooker coming Sept. 1

Sega Europe has announced its full game line-up for the holiday season, and confirmed release dates for its two PSP games. The company said that both Virtua Tennis: World Tour and World Snooker Challenge 2005 will be released on September 1 to coincide with the launch of the PSP in... [Full Story]

White PSP now available for pre-order

Sony's ceramic white PSP is now available for pre-order through the Japanese PlayStation website for 24,800 yen ($225), and through Lik-Sang for $250. As previously reported, the white PSP is only available in a value pack, and comes with an AC adapter, battery pack, 32MB Memory Stick Duo, headphones, hand... [Full Story]

World Poker Tour details

Take-Two Interactive today released more details about their forthcoming World Poker Tour game for the PSP. Players in the game will include Erick Lindgren, Evelyn Ng, Lyle Berman, and Phil “The Unabomber” Laak, and the action will take place in realistic recreations of real-life venues such as the Borgata Hotel... [Full Story]

Kor hotels offer PSPs to guests

The Kor Hotel Group today announced that they are now offering PSP (and PS2) systems to both overnight and day guests as amenities at their Viceroy Santa Monica, Palm Springs, Avalon, and Chamberlain hotels and resorts.... [Full Story]

Winning Eleven 9 coming to PSP

World Soccer Winning Eleven 9, Konami's newest soccer game, is coming to America and onto the PSP. "World Soccer Winning Eleven 9, which was released in Japan earlier this month and sold more than half a million copies in its first seven days in retail, will be released in North... [Full Story]

Memory Stick PSP adapter available

PSP Hardware is offering a Memory Stick to Memory Stick Pro Duo adapter that will let you use the full size Memory Sticks with your PSP. The Memory Stick to Memory Stick Pro Duo adapter are being sold for $25 and will work with all Memory Sticks (including 4GB). [via... [Full Story]

Konami delays Ys: The Ark of Napishtim

Konami today announced that the PSP port of Ys: The Ark of Napishtim would be delayed until spring of 2006. The game follows hero Adol Christin as he is blown from island to island. Ys was originally slated for release this fall. [via Gamespot]... [Full Story]

EA shows off upcoming PSP titles

Following an Electronic Arts media event to show off the company's upcoming PSP lineup, IGN has posted an extensive report on the five new games shown. You can check out their impressions, videos and screenshots for Madden NFL 06, FIFA Soccer 06, Marvel Nemesis, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 06 and... [Full Story]

Archer MacLean's Mercury

As a portable platform, the PSP was bound to see its share of puzzle games, and three in the first few months of existence seems like a “fair share.” Archer MacLean’s Mercury is one of the three, and once again delivers a completely different puzzle experience than Lumines or Smart... [Full Story]

Death Jr. now shipping

Konami today announced that they are now shipping Death Jr. to stores nationwide. The games blends elements from a first-person shooter with the exploration aspects of a third-person platformer. “Death Jr. offers an exciting original experience with fresh new characters that will appeal to a wide range of gamers,” said... [Full Story]

Full-length Graphic Novel for PSP

“NYC2123: Dayender” has been issued in a PSP-friendly format, marking the first full-length graphic novel to be released for the PSP. Although only the first chapter (59 frames) of the novel have been released thus far, the authors plan on extending the the work to six chapters and approximately 350... [Full Story]

Fox bringing three more to UMD

Fox Home Entertainment announced yesterday they will be bringing three more titles to UMD this October. October 4 will bring Never Die Alone and the martial arts flick Ong-Bak: The Thai Warrior. October 18 brings us the original Batman the Movie, starring Adam West, the same actor that portrayed the... [Full Story]

Nintendo drops DS price, Sony to follow?

Further widening the price gap between the PSP and DS, Nintendo today cut the price of its portable gaming device by $20. Effective August 21, the DS will cost $129.99 — $120 less than the rival PSP. Many industry watchers expect Sony to lower PSP prices before the holiday season.... [Full Story]

PSP to launch in Australia next month

In addition to Europe, Sony will also launch the PSP in Australia on Septebmer 1, the company has confirmed. Sony said it believes it can sell AU$100 million worth of PSPs in the lead-up to Christmas. Sony Computer Entertainment Australia chief Michael Ephraim said the company expects to sell between... [Full Story]