Infamous 2 Trailer Shows Off A Highly Evolved Cole

Infamous 2 is an upcoming 2011 open world video game for the PlayStation 3 video game console developed by Sucker Punch Productions and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. The game is the sequel to the 2009 video game, Infamous.

The game follows the events of Infamous with Cole MacGrath as the main protagonist once again. The game will take place in a new city called New Marais, a New Orleans-inspired city, and will involve Cole opposing the Beast. The game begins with Cole fighting the Beast and barely escaping with his life. He, along with his friend Zeke, flee to New Marais and prepare for Cole’s inevitable encounter with the Beast while combating The Militia, a shadowy group led by a man named Bertrand. The Militia has taken over New Marais in an attempt to keep all super powered or abnormal things away and do not take a liking to Cole. Cole will combat the Militia, explore New Marais, and learn about himself, Kessler, and The First Sons along the way.

Remote Play Software With PS3

Hey guys,

We have recently published a post regarding Remote Keyboard software that you can install on your VAIO. Remote Keyboard with PlayStation 3 allows users to establish a bluetooth connection between the VAIO computer and PlayStation 3 so that users can make use of the computer’s keyboard and touchpad to operate PlayStation 3 system non-game functions. As promised here is a piece of software for you all VAIO owners (though presumable there is a patch out there in the wild that will allow this app to run on a non-VAIO computers) called Remote Play with PlayStation 3.

Remote Play with PlayStation 3 allows you to display the PlayStation 3 system on a VAIO computer and remote operate from the VAIO computer, therefore it also allows your VAIO to remotely access and playback certain content on your PS3™ from virtually anywhere in the world. Once the remote play connection is established between the VAIO and the PS3™, the PS3’s XrossMediaBar(XMB) menu screen appears on the display of the VAIO giving the VAIO playback control of your PS3™. From here you can playback your photos, music or videos stored on your PS3™ with that content being streamed in real time to the screen of your VAIO. If you got any PS1 games as well as a handful of PS3 games that support Remote Play, you can always play those games on your VAIO. Lucky Europeans and Aussies who have purchased the Play TV Digital TV Tuner accessory for their PS3™ this remote Play software allows you to either watch the TV recordings you have made on your PS3™ or watch live TV on the display of your VAIO from anywhere in the world. It is very similar to Locationfree software if you remember that one (can be installed on your VAIO or if you have a PSP it is already preinstalled, all you have to own is the Locationfree device like LF-V30 or earlier models LF-B20).

To download Remote Play and Remote Keyboard software go here (though for the latter one, the latest version is available here).

MLB.TV Free This Weekend

Starting today through Sunday MLB.TV is free on the PS3.

The PlayStation network is giving fans an opportunity to enjoy this weekend by trying out MLB.TV. It’s not a limited demo either. During the free weekend, fans will be able to stream the live MLB games, and watch past games for free.

If you were on the fence about making a decision on MLB.TV, this may just tip the scales after you experience it first hand. I haven’t had a chance to try it yet, but I will now

Sony Refreshes Entry-Level DSLR Camera Line With A290 And A390

Sony has detailed its latest additions to the α range, the α390 (DSLR-A390) and α290 (DSLR-A290), due to arrive in stores over the next month. High quality, high resolution images are easily captured with the impressive 14.2-megapixel (effective) CCD image sensor and BIONZ image processing engine on the α390 and α290. Both cameras also sport a new ergonomic grip, making them ideal cameras for first-time DSLR users to snap photos on the go.

Dispelling the notion that DSLR cameras are bulky and heavy, the α390 and α290 are designed to be lightweight, compact and stylish, making it convenient for photography enthusiasts to carry with them at any time. The ergonomic grip design makes the cameras much easier for photographers to hold and use. In line with the grip design, buttons on the camera have also been laid out to ensure easy operation. Similar to its predecessors, the α390 and α290 are integrated with an on-screen Help Guide, Graphic User Interface and user-friendly navigation menus, so that users can maximize use of the camera’s advanced DSLR features conveniently.

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Featuring Sony’s exclusive Quick AF Live View, the α390 (above) offers users the speed and accuracy of phase-detection auto-focusing even when using the LCD screen to frame their subjects. The α390 also features a variable-angle 2.7-inch LCD screen that can be tilted 55° downwards and 135° upwards, offering more freedom in terms of shooting angles. This makes it easier for photographers to shoot images above the crowd during a free-standing concert and also comfortably take eye-level photos of pets and small children.

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Featuring a high resolution 14.2-megapixel (effective) CCD image sensor and BIONZ image processing engine, the α390 and α290 (above) integrate a large APS-C type CCD sensor that has approximately 15 times the surface area of the 1/2.5-inch sensors commonly used in compact cameras, efficiently capturing light. This combined with the high-speed BIONZ image processor delivers vivid images that are rich in tonal gradation with low noise. ISO sensitivity on the α390 and α290 is also adjustable from ISO 100 to ISO 3200, enabling easy capture of photos in low-light environments and twilight scenes with minimal noise.

In addition, SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization system is incorporated in the camera body, automatically countering unwanted camera shakes when capturing images on the move. Simplifying camera operation for entry-level photographers, image stabilization is on by default and the SteadyShot INSIDE system has been designed to work with any α lens, so α users will be able to enjoy capturing sharp photos any time.

The α390 and α290 are each equipped with a mini HDMI terminal, allowing for faster data transfers and smoother playback. Sharing stunning DSLR photos with friends and family is now hassle-free as the cameras support PhotoTV HD, which allows playback of optimised Full HD images when connected to any compatible BRAVIA TV in photo mode. BRAVIA Sync compatibility makes sharing a breeze by allowing control of the α cameras and a variety of HDMI-linked Sony devices by using just the remote of any compatible BRAVIA TV. Each camera also sports a dual memory card slot for SD and SDHC memory cards, Memory Stick PRO DuoTM and Memory Stick PRO-HG DuoTM media, so compatibility is never an issue.

Check out further specifications of these two new DSLR cameras at the incredible DPReview website.

New VAIOs Y and Z series Offer Tethering

Hot off the Sony Press release – new VAIO Z and Y series are offering a new option, and that is they can become a Wi-Fi hot spot and let you connect up to 5 devices. Sort of similar experience to MiFi device that lets you get online wherever there is a cellular network and share that sweet 3 or 4G connection with other devices.

Sony calls this new way of getting online as Share My Connection and states the following “select models of these [VAIO] series feature the exclusive new Sony embedded wireless technology called Share My Connection™ (SMC). With SMC you can turn your laptop into a mobile wireless access point that can connect up to five other PCs or networked devices, such as smartphones, mp3 players, and cameras”. Verizon has been chosen this time as your mobile access provider.

Share My Connection™ features at a glance

Killzone 3 Will Be The First 3D FPS For PS3 And Has Playstation Move Support

Killzone 3 is an upcoming first-person shooter for the PlayStation 3 set for release on February 2011, and is developed by Guerrilla Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It is the fourth installment in the Killzone series and the first game in the series to be presented in 3D and will be the first to include motion controls using the PlayStation Move.

The game picks up immediately after the ending of Killzone 2 and follows the previous games’ main protagonist, Sev, a Special Forces operative fighting for the Interplanetary Strategic Alliance against the Helghast Empire. The game’s story has been referred to being similar to the story of David and Goliath.

The game continues shortly after Sev successfully defeated Radec and Rico having killed Visari, the Helghast dictator who leaves them to a fleet of Helghast ships approaching them destroying ISA vessels. The death of their dictator has left the Helghast Empire in a state of internal struggles with political scheming against each other gripping the Helghast Empire. Now, Sev and his comrade Rico are trapped in the cross-fire between the various political factions in the Helghast Empire without any reinforcements and are left to fight alone in order to escape as the ISA struggles to regroup its forces. The game will also give players a deeper look in to Helghan culture such as their language and showcase whatever humanity they have left within them.

Killzone 3′s story will also be a lot more light-hearted as compared to its predecessor which Guerrilla felt suffered from an overly serious and dark story which was one of the major complaints of the original, though they mentioned that it would not be too light-hearted as it is still a war. In addition, Guerrilla Games has also hired an external writer to focus on only writing the story-line so as to give a fresh perspective to the story as well as hiring a lot more Hollywood actors to elevate the level of storytelling within the dialogue of the game. Guerrilla Games has also mentioned that the game’s story will be an integral part of the game with dialogue and character development being greatly improved from its 2009 predecessor. In addition, Guerrilla Games has also said that they are curtailing the swearing in Killzone 3, which many felt were unnecessary in the dialogue of Killzone 2. They mentioned that the dialogue in the game should be focused on advancing the story rather than “gratuitous” off the scale swearing without reason.

The gameplay will strongly resemble that of Killzone 2 albeit with several tweaks and changes. Unlike previous games in the series, the game will take place in various harsh environments such as Arctic landscapes, a lethal alien jungle, nuclear wastelands as well as space battles rather than only the city-scape environment which were present in its predecessors. Another notable new feature is the ability to use jet packs in the game, which were seen in Killzone: Liberation, however, these new jet packs will be used in a different manner than that of those that appeared in Killzone: Liberation. The game will also feature a revamped close combat melee system which include new brutal melee attacks as well as the ability to string together multiple attacks in a combo. Unlike its predecessor, Killzone 3 will feature fully destructible environments which is an improvement from its predecessor which featured only partially destructible environments in limited areas. A new weapon called the Wasp has also been revealed, which acts as a multi-firing Rocket Launcher.

Guerilla’s managing director, Hermen Hulse, has stated Killzone 3 will use close to 100% of the PS3′s power.

Dead Space 2 Coming To PS3 On January 2011

Dead Space 2 is an upcoming survival horror third-person shooter video game developed by Visceral Games and published by Electronic Arts for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Microsoft Windows. The game is being developed by EA and will debut on January 25th, 2011. It is the sequel to Dead Space, and has a multiplayer mode. The PlayStation 3 will receive an exclusive limited edition of Dead Space 2 which will include Dead Space: Extraction as a PlayStation Move compatible title.

Dead Space 2 is a survival horror game, which takes place on a densely populated space station, dubbed the “Sprawl”. The mental illness caused by the marker appears to be permanent and continues to have an effect on the protagonist Isaac Clarke, along with apparent PTSD from his experiences aboard the Ishimura. The Church of Unitology and the government will continue to have a large place in the storyline. The game will begin in a hospital on board the Sprawl. Players will witness the horror of the Necromorph infection as it begins in the station.

Sony Details New $199 All-In-One Surround Sound System For PS3

Sony has detailed an all-in-one Surround Sound System (with built-in subwoofer) for the PlayStation 3 (PS3) system in fall 2010 in Japan, North America, Europe/PAL territories, and Asian countries/regions at a recommended retail price of 19,800 yen (including tax), US$199, and euro 199 respectively. Users will be able to enjoy immersive audio on the PlayStation 3 system, including upcoming games supporting PlayStation Move motion controllers, Blu-ray movies, as well as stereoscopic 3D content by simply placing the speaker in front of the television and connecting it to the PS3 system with the optical digital cable.

The Surround Sound System, model name CECH-ZVS1, utilizes cutting-edge technologies, including Sony’s S-Force PRO Front Surround Sound that generates rich realistic surround sound over one front speaker. Delivering a dynamic sound environment with audio virtually coming from all directions, the Surround Sound System will immerse users into a cinema-like experience in the living room, making them feel like they are actually in the game or movie itself. Bringing in SCE’s expertise in both entertainment and technology acquired from developing games, four sound fields of the speaker system have been designed with the help of SCE’s expert game sound designers, to optimize the cinematic experience of all forms of entertainment.

The Surround Sound System comes with two audio inputs – an optical audio input for connecting high-end entertainment systems including PS3, and an analog audio input for connecting portable devices like the PSP (PlayStation Portable) system to enjoy listening to music in the living room. It’s compatible with the Dolby Digital, DTS, MPEG-2 AAC, Linear PCM formats. The form factor of the system features a sleek and casual design that matches perfectly with the PS3 system, and delivers dynamic sound without the physical space required by a traditional home theater system. The amplifier has 10W per channel, and 15W + 15W for the subwoofer.

Valve Stuns Gaming World With Announcement Of Portal 2 For PS3

Portal 2 is an upcoming first-person action/puzzle video game, developed by Valve Corporation. Though initially expected to be released in the last quarter of 2010, Portal 2 has been pushed back for a 2011 release on nearly every major platform.

Portal 2 will continue to challenge the player by solving puzzles in test chambers within the Aperture Science Enrichment Center using the portal gun (the Aperture Science Handheld Portal Device), a device that can create two portals connecting two surfaces across space. Players solve puzzles by using these portals to move unconventionally between rooms or to use the ability to fling objects or themselves across a distance. The functionality of the gun has not changed between the games, but within Portal 2, players can take advantage of the bleeding of other physical effects through the portals. Game Informer identified two examples of this: one was the ability to use air currents created by a series of transport pneumatic tubes through a set of portal openings to push a turret over or to draw objects into the suction. The second example was to use the power of tractor beams through portals to bring Chell or other objects to otherwise inaccessible areas.

The game also introduces special paint that can be used to impart certain physical effects to a surface (for example, one identified by Game Informer is an orange paint that when stepped on will impart high speed to the player). The player will be required to determine how to transport that paint to appropriate surfaces using portals in order to progress. This paint can also be applied to objects, such as the Weighted Storage Cube crates that affect their own physical nature. In addition to the Storage Cube, there are new types of portable objects that assist the player, including Redirection Cubes with mirrored, reflective surfaces, Aerial Faith Plates that can launch objects placed on them, and spherical Weighted Storage Balls, which made a brief appearance in the original game in one of the advanced chambers.

While most of the single-player game will take place in the test chambers created by GLaDOS or her personality cores, there will be times where the player will need to move behind-the-scenes in areas beyond the test chambers as they are reconfigured, leaving the player free of GLaDOS’s observation and control.

The game will include a two-player co-operative mode in addition to the single player mode. Both players control separate portal guns and can use the other player’s portals as necessary; the second player’s portals will be of a different color to help distinguish between the two sets. Because of the number of possible portal combinations, the test chambers that the players proceed through are much more difficult than the single-player campaign, encouraging the two players to work together. This includes complicated laser redirections using both series of portals, or working in two separate chambers, performing actions in their side of the chamber to allow the other player to progress in theirs. The game includes voice communication between players for this mode as well as split-screen for players playing locally. Online players will have the ability to temporarily enter a split-screen view to help coordinate actions. Players have the ability to place icons on the game’s levels as a means of informing the other player what they need to do.

As part of the Sony press conference at E3 (seen in the above video), Portal 2 was revealed by Gabe Newell, co-founder and managing director of video game development at Valve, that Portal 2 will be available for the PlayStation 3; the game will include some features of Steamworks used in the PC and Mac versions and will be the only console version of the game to do so, making the game in Gabe’s words “the best console version”. The news came as a surprise to many journalists, as previously, Newell has made negative comments about the system, calling it “a total disaster on so many levels”; Newell jokingly referred to these comments by thanking Sony for “their gracious hospitality and not repeatedly punching me in the face”.

Sorcery For PS3 Uses Playstation Move And Looks Amazing

Sorcery is an upcoming 2011 video game developed and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation 3 utilizing the PlayStation Move. The game was first announced at the E3 2010 and will be released in Q2 2011. Players take the role of a young sorcerer’s apprentice and must master the arcane arts in order to protect her homeland. The Nightmare Queen has broken the ancient pact with mankind and threatens to cover the land in eternal night, sending her foul minions across the land. Players must travel through the dark Faerie Kingdoms to save the land from the darkness that has enshrouded it. The world is based on Irish mythology and tradition.

The game features over 12 upgradeable spells, hundreds of potions and numerous items to collect. Players must defeat numerous enemies, solve puzzles and craft new spells as they progress through the game. Players can use the PlayStation Move to cast magic spells to attack enemies and brew elixirs. Players must take on various quests and journey throughout Faerie Kingdom, rescue kidnapped children, recover ancient knowledge from the City of the Drowned and aid the local townsfolk.