Deal of the Day: InvisibleSHIELD products half off

If you've been worried about your PSP getting scratched, whether it be on the screen or the sexy body of the handheld, we've got to alert you to a deal presented on the PlayStation Forums. Seems the InvisibleSHIELD products are all half off right now -- every model of the PSP has their own little protection piece, so knock yourself out. It might be a good idea, especially if you go rock climbing while carrying the PSP in an unzipped jacket pocket. Not that we've had that problem or anything.

[via PlayStation Forum]

FlatOut: Head On gets new March release

Filed under: FlatOut

Originally scheduled for a January release, this upcoming PSP racer features some stunning graphics and high velocity racing gameplay. We were psyched for this release, but when it mysteriously didn't show up on its release date, we wer bummed.

Empire Interactive announced today the title will be making a March release. In America, you'll see it on March 11th. In Europe, you'll see in on March 14th. Stay tuned for more.

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MTV and SCEA team up to bring back UMD

Filed under: News

It's not dead! Sort of. Sony Computer Entertainment of America and MTV have announced a collaboration to bring new UMD movies to store shelves. In fact, they should be available now. "Jackass," "Beavis & Butt-head," and "Aeon Flux" are all available for $14.99 (MSRP) beginning this week.

"This collaboration with MTV is a key first step in meeting the needs of our consumers, who are utilizing PSP as a video player more than ever and are thirsting for more content, particularly short-form videos," said Phil Rosenberg, senior vice president of sales and business development, SCEA in a press release. "MTV's programming is hugely popular, and SCEA can utilize our internal resources to appropriately manage the publishing and distribution of these hit shows on UMD. This demonstrates our commitment to supporting the UMD video format by delivering what consumers want to watch at the right price. SCEA will continue to license movie, TV, and other video content, leveraging our sales and marketing strengths, as a strategic focus moving forward.

The price is certainly nice, and this is planned to be the first of a growing library of UMD movies to release in the future. Does the $15 price make you want to bite? We'll see how consumers respond.

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God of War box art: gotta catch 'em all

Filed under: God of War

The American and European release of God of War: Chains of Olympus will feature the same tasty game core. But, their box arts will be quite different. The American box art is already quite familiar. However, the European art (pictured, above) focuses on Kratos' angry mug.

Check out Three Speech for more pictures from the game. And, yes, as expected -- it's still pretty.

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Return of the $35 4GB Memory Stick

Filed under: Peripherals

Once again, the $35 Memory Stick returns! For some reason, Memory Stick prices have refused to drop any further. Thankfully, FRYS.com is making it a bit easier to get a large Memory Stick. Considering you can now download PS1 games, full PSP games and more on the PLAYSTATION Store, it seems like most everyone will want to upgrade. We're quite pleased with the amount of music, videos and demos the 4GB card can hold (although we're keeping an eye out on the 8GB Memory Stick!).

Go to FRYS.com to take advantage of this great deal.

[Via SlickDeals]

Skype functionality gets delayed in Japan [Update]

Filed under: News

After making a big deal of this new feature at CES, SCEI has announced that they are delaying the introduction of Skype to the PSP. Originally planned for release tomorrow, the feature has been delayed ... in Japan, at the very least. The two Skype headsets being manufactured for release in Japan "did not meet the Skype specifications" and therefore, cannot be released.

With a delay in Japan, one can assume that the new firmware update will be delayed worldwide. Those anticipating free PSP-to-PSP calls will have to wait just a little longer, it seems. However, maybe we'll be surprised by a firmware release that comes out in the rest of the world. Considering that has never happened, we won't hold our breath.

[Update via Kotaku: This announcement "will make no difference to the European and USA launch, which will coincide with the end of January firmware upgrade." Thanks, Espiox!]

[Via Engadget]

Dungeon Explorer gets new fighting style on PSP

Filed under: News

Hudson's upcoming Dungeon Explorer Warriors of Ancient Arts will arrive on both DS and PSP. Howeverm players on Sony's handheld will have access to a new fighting style exclusive to the platform. Players, trained in weaponry and mystical forces as Warriors of Ancient Arts, will fight countless enemies in this classic dungeon crawler.

According to Hudson, players will have access to "more than 150 different kinds of fighting arts." Among them,Big Bang Arts, is a style unique for the PSP system. Big Bang Arts lets three players to combine their powers via Ad-Hoc multiplayer, essentially allowing all three characters to unleash a threefold attack on an enemy. Akin to Crystal Chronicles on Gamecube, it appears this cooperative effort requires precision timing.

This new Dungeon Explorer is available in February.

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Need for Speed ProStreet gets exclusive features on PSP

Filed under: News

EA loves adding a few extra things to the PSP versions of their games. Although ProStreet on PSP is "at its core, a portable edition of the console version," there are a number of extras that PSP owners can look forward to. Driver Intuition, Driver Personas, and Speed Mode are all features exclusive to the system. An IGN interview reveals that the "Driver Persona also indicates the level of assist that you will receive from the game; this is called Driver Intuition."

Intuition, an optional assist feature, will show you the best line to take in each course. Racing enthusiasts know that this information is crucial for winning a race. Handheld owners can rejoice in having this very helpful feature. Finally, people will be glad to hear that EA is continuing their Infrastructure efforts on PSP through this latest title.

Monster Hunter returns to top 10 sales charts

Filed under: Monster Hunter

Japan, didn't all of you buy Monster Hunter already? The game has resurfaced on the Japanese top 10 sales charts, most likely for the impending release of 2nd G. If someone could make a picture of the Capcom president holding a PSP, saying "it prints money," that would help us a lot. Of course, does anyone even know what the Capcom president looks like?

[Via PSPHyper]

Bluetooth hack doesn't save time or space

Filed under: Hacks

Do you really need to use a Bluetooth headset on your PSP? Well, a complicated hack created by N3M3515 (aka Shane-O-Max) will let you do exactly that. The instructables page will give you every step needed for such a complicated surgery. Yes, we're impressed by the hacker's clever ingenuity. However, the final product makes us question if its even worth it ...

[Via Engadget]

Klonoa joins ever-expanding PS1 lineup

Filed under: Store

Namco's lovable platformer from the PS1 era is getting resurrected. The PEGI (European equivalent of the ESRB) has rated the game for the PLAYSTATION Network. Klonoa was a hit amongst hardcore gamers for its art and unique gameplay. Juxtaposing 2D gameplay in a 3D environment was pretty exciting when it first came out. We wonder if the game has survived the test of age. [Source: PS3 Fanboy]

In other news, the Japanese Store has recently been updated with I.Q. and Arc the Lad III. [Source: PSPHyper]

Capcom announces new Monster Hunter PSP

Filed under: Monster Hunter

It wasn't too long ago when Sony and Capcom partnered together to release a limited edition Monster Hunter 2nd Summer PSP bundle. Well, it looks like they're at it again with Monster Hunter Portable 2G. Called the Hunter's G Pack, the limited edition bundle will hit retail shelves on March 27 in Japan for 25,800 yen and will include the PSP, Monster Hunter Portable 2G, a carrying case and limited edition wrist strap, as well as the AC adapter and battery.

The system's model number is PSP-2000 ZN, so don't worry, you will be able to Skype with it. Admittedly, the new bundle looks a lot like something from Zelda, but we're not complaining because it looks darn sweet!

[Via Official PlayStation forums]

Patapon wallpapers for you to adore

Filed under: Downloads, Patapon

Click for high-resolution image.

In celebration of Patapon's upcoming release, we decided to give you a wallpaper to use on your PS3, PC and/or PSP. Choose the resolution that fits you best.

Download:
1024x768 | 1280x800 | 1280x960 | 1440x900 | 1440x1050 | 1600x1200 | 1680x1050 | 1920x1200 | 2560x1600 | PS3 (1080p) | PSP

PSP Fanboy review: Ape Quest

Filed under: Reviews, Ape Escape

Ape Quest took everyone by surprise when it stealthily launched on the PLAYSTATION Store. This download-exclusive title is unique in a number of ways. Not only is it one of the few original games for download on the PC Store, it combines RPG elements and mini-games into an experience that's inherent of the Ape franchise. The purchase model for the game sets a new standard that other games may follow in the future: a free demo can be further expanded by the purchase of one of three official expansions. Each content pack can be purchased for $10 each, or a bundle can be purchased at a budget price of $20.

In concept, Ape Quest should be a success. The blending of mini-games and RPG elements makes for an intriguing combination. However, the game is unable to capitalize on its unique formula. Both the RPG side and mini-games side of the game are lackluster, creating an experience that is vapid and wholly uninspiring.

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RPG fans will find themselves shortchanged with almost every aspect of the game. The "story," if one can call it such, is minimal at best. The main character haphazardly unleashes a Pandora's Box of monsters upon the world, and it's up to you to save the world. Though it's attempted to be told in jest, the potential humor is lost due to poor presentation. Where's the witty dialogue? Clever animations that'll crack a smile? Unfortunately, this Quest is fairly lifeless.

Navigation around the world is rather archaic as well, with your ape forced to follow pre-determined paths. There's very little incentive for exploration on the map, due to the rather restrictive routes your character is forced to traverse. The environments, with their bland textures, and uninspired art, do little to inspire a sense of wonder into the adventure.

Combat is also a bit too primitive, with a battle system that harkens back to the 8 and 16-bit era of game design. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but there's very little strategy beyond choosing a regular attack or a special attack (which uses a separate gauge, which continuously fills during battle after each successful hit). We give kudos to the development team for offering different speeds for battle. If you can't stand watching the battle animations, you can simply hit the Fast option and battles can be done in a matter of seconds.

There are a number of items you can collect on your quest, and we appreciate how any armor or weapons you equip will appear on your ape. With so many items, you can get a very distinct look for your ape very quickly. As is standard nowadays, there's also a rudimentary item creation system, where you can combine old items to form new ones.

The game is structured in a way that lets you choose from a number of quests and tackle them in any order you choose. We like the open nature of the quests, but most involve simply going to a predesignated area on the map and playing a mini-game. Along the way, you'll find various demonic minions, all of rather uninspired design.

Unfortunately, the mini-games are the game's weakest points. They are necessary for progress, but are generally not much fun to play. Many of the angel versus demon games are amusing in concept. For example, one mini-game has your ape tempted to look into a peep hole. An angel and demon must then duke it out to correctly steer his morals. These games range from badminton to arm wrestling. The simpler games work the best -- however, any requiring a bit more complexity don't work due to poor design and controls.

Using either the D-Pad or analog stick in these games proves to be rather futile. Regardless of your preferred control scheme, your ape will control much too stiffly. Compared to the likes of Mario Party, it's clear how much Ape Quest falls short. The inability to practice a game before it begins is also frustrating, as the player is simply thrust into a game that can potentially lead to a Game Over. It's more than frustrating to lose to a game, and be thrown all the way back to the last town you visited.

There are some smart design choices, however. The load times are non-existent and the save-anywhere functionality is a must for any RPG. However, by failing to provide either a compelling RPG or mini-game experience, Ape Quest fails to deliver on any of its potential. Even with its budget price, we simply cannot recommend this game. With its disappointing quality, one can see why the game was given the "surprise" treatment. We bought the game, unknowing of what was in store for us. Don't make the same mistake.

PSP Fanboy score: 5.0

Retro Review: Crash Bandicoot 2

Filed under: Reviews

Crash Bandicoot 2
Price: $5.99
Original Release Date: October 31, 1997

Recommended.
Crash's second outing on PS1 has hit the PS Store. While the original romp was an enjoyable experience (that we recommended), it's clear that the sequel is an improvement in every single way possible.

From the get-go, one can tell that the visuals are filled with far more detail and animation than the original. Although the story gives little reason for Crash to continue his adventure, it creates a far more manageable means of navigating from level to level. Crash can warp to any level he chooses, and will be able to tackle the challenges in any order he chooses. However, the best addition to the game is the ability to save any time you want. The original featured an archaic system that allowed players to save a limited number of times. With the ability to save in between each level, Crash Bandicoot 2 is far more suitable for handheld play.

The gameplay doesn't really offer more depth or variety than found in the original. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Once again, very linear (and fast) levels present challenges to Crash. It's up to the player to find secrets in each level, and finding 100% of all the boxes in each level can prove to be quite a task. Within the levels, Crash will do more than platforming: he'll ride a polar bear, run away from a rolling snowball (again), and go surfing. These additional excursions are nice distractions from the adventure, and give a nice pace to the game.

The shortcomings of the original also rear their ugly head in this sequel. If you didn't like the first, chances are slim you'll enjoy this sequel. The controls are hit-and-miss. For the most part, you'll want to use Type 1 controls, switching to Type 4 whenever diagonals are necessary. Platforming can be very frustrating at times, due to the game's insistence on trial-and-error memorization through levels. Crash will die in a number of ways, some amusing, and all infuriating.

There isn't much content, but each level can be replayed for 100% completion, if that's your kind of thing. Crash looks great on the small PSP screen (looks good upscaled on the PS3 as well), and has the kind of pick up and play gameplay that's perfect on the go. Loads are non-existent, and the game can be quite fun at times. Easily worth the $6 for a download.

Retro Review: 6.5

PSP Fanboy hands-on: N+

Filed under: Previews, N

N+ is one of the most stressful games ever made. Its simple exterior hides some of the most gruesome platforming challenges we've ever had to face. There are so many ways to die: fall from to far a height, you die. Get hit by lasers, homing rockets, bombs, mines, flying orbs -- you name it, and it will kill you. Even the most skilled gamer will find themselves getting completely destroyed by each of the game's 200 (!) levels.

While there were clear moments where we felt like simply throwing our PSP systems on the ground, we couldn't help but continue trekking onward. Strangely, you do feel like a ninja while playing the game, and when you're able to successfully complete an episode (which contains multiple levels), you feel truly accomplished. Like any good ninja, your character will be able to make some truly spectacular jumps. Over time, you'll learn how to exploit the wall jump and fly long distances like a pro.

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What has us most excited is the online functionality of the game. There is a built-in level editor that will let you create your own devious stages. Save your creations to Memory Stick and get your system online via Infrastructure. After a simple two-step registration process, you'll be part of the online N+ community. There, you'll be able to play user created levels, rate them and download them to your game. You can also upload your own creations for the world to judge. There's the potential for an infinite amount of gameplay, so long as the community continues to thrive.

There's a lot of potential in N+, thanks to its lengthy single player campaign, level editor and online features. Yes, the graphics may be quite primitive, but the community aspect of the game is cutting-edge. We're going to spend more time with this intriguing PSP title over the next few weeks. Expect more before the game's release in March.

Custom firmware 3.80 released by Dark_Alex

Filed under: Homebrew

Homebrew users will rejoice at the release of the newest version of M33. The newest release promises to have most functionality of Sony's latest firmware release, but also gives users the ability to launch homebrew applications and mods. A big new feature in this release is the ability to use a Network Update-styled interface to automatically upgrade to later versions of this CFW. To download the update, and get instructions on how to use the program, visit Dark_Alex's website now.

You will need to download firmware 3.80 from Sony's official website in order to use this installer. Please note that use of any hacks to your system will void its warranty. Do not attempt installing custom firmware without carefully reading all instructions. This update will not work on PSPs with official firmware.

PSP Fanboy mini-interview: Ape Quest

Filed under: Interviews, Ape Escape

Everyone was surprised by the release of Ape Quest on the PLAYSTATION Store last Thursday. The game received zero publicity before it was sprung upon the PSP community. If you haven't yet, feel free to download a free demo of the game from the Store. A full review will be coming in the next few days.

We chatted with Scott Goryl from SCEA quickly about the game's surprise release.

Why the surprise release? Shouldn't games like Beats and Ape Quest get a bit more attention before being sprung upon the PSP community?
SCEA is excited to bring titles like Beats and Ape Quest to consumers via the PC Store. Even with limited hype before release, consumers are downloading and enjoying these great games for PSP.

The game hasn't come in Japan yet. Will it also be downloadable there, or will it be on UMD?
The current plan is to release it as a download.

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Will any of the other Ape Escape games make it to the States (perhaps as a downloadable title)?
There are plans to release a number of PSP and PS1 Classic titles for download through our PlayStation Store on both the PS3 and PC. This will potentially include other "Ape" games. [Editor's note: A number of games, such as Ape Racer, are available in Japan exclusively.]

Will other games utilize the same pricing model as Ape Quest?
Ape Quest features a unique 3 chapter system that allows players to purchase and download only the content they want. There may be other games down the road that feature a similar episodic-like system of purchasing the game in chunks, but none have been announced at this time.

PSP Fanboy Theatre: Volume 46

Filed under: Theatre

CES 2008 interview with John Koller (28.6MB)

Also featured: Wipeout Pulse, SoulCalibur IV, LittleBigPlanet and Downstream Panic!

Wipeout Pulse online gameplay (11.2MB)


SoulCalibur IV with Dark Vader (8.7MB)


LittleBigPlanet custom levels (6.9MB)


Downstream Panic! gameplay trailer (6.2MB)

Retro Review: Warhawk

Filed under: Reviews

Warhawk
Price: $5.99
Original Release Date: November 10, 1995

Not Recommended.
It seems unfair to capitalize on the popularity of the PS3 multiplayer game, Warhawk. Although largely heralded when it first arrived on PS1 more than a decade ago, it's clear that this PS1 legend hasn't aged well. Every aspect of the game feels antiquated, from the dated visuals, painful cinemas, and frustrating controls that simply don't translate well on the PSP (the PS3 controller works far better).

An ominous feeling sinks in when you experience the game's introductory sequence. Real actors are rarely used in modern game cinemas -- for good reason! While there is a certain charm in the camp on display, the cinematics do little do actually further the paper-thin story that's being told. The PS1 original has as much narrative as the PS3 sequel (that is, none at all).

Of the retro releases so far, Warhawk stands as one of the worst looking ones. Yes, it's over a decade old. But, questionable color choices make it hard to really see enemies, projectiles, and more. Jumping Flash! may look similar, due to its first person presentation, but at least the colorful visuals and inspired art make it look far more memorable. At the very least, the framerate is very solid.

The controls simply don't work without the extra shoulder buttons found on normal PS1 controllers. We used control Type 4 for the game, which maps the D-Pad to the analog nub. This felt the most comfortable, and allowed us to adjust our speed using the left and right button on the D-Pad. Analog control of the ship feels solid, but the sluggish nature of the controls make it hard to do evasive maneuvers. Playing from first person perspective doesn't help either.

Even if you can adapt to the sluggish controls and lackluster visual presentation, there are still a few more flaws that make Warhawk simply not worth the $6 that the Store asks for. Firstly, the use of passwords for progress is ridiculous for a portable game. It may have made sense back then, but it just doesn't work anymore. Finally, there's only six levels, and not much variety amongst them. Warhawk may have been considered a classic back then, but there are simply much better options for PSP owners.

Retro Review: 5.5

First-person Wipeout will make you lose your lunch

Filed under: Wipeout, Video

Be warned, Wipeout Pulse can, and will, get dangerously fast. The speeds of Phantom and Zone are mind-shattering (could this iteration outdo every previous game in the series?). However, to really understand how exhilaratingly fast the game moves, one has to play in first person. Only then, will you really feel like you'll lose your lunch. Catch more videos, after the cut.

Ape Quest sneaks onto the PSN Store [UPDATE]

Filed under: Store

Imagine our surprise. We usually take a little time to center ourselves before we check the PC PSN Store. While the PS3 gets lots of goodies every week, PSP owners are lucky if they get a PS1 game or two. Today, however, an unexpected surprise was waiting for us. Not only is Crash Bandicoot 2 available but so is something called "Ape Quest". From the description it seems to be a mini-game based RPG experience thing and is split into three different chapters, each of which is downloadable from the PS3 or PC Store.

The bundle of all three chapters (Blue, Red and Gold) is available for $19.99 with each chapter sold separately at $9.99 each. In order to "complete" the game you must download either the Blue or Gold chapter as well as the Red chapter. All of this is worthless, however, unless you download the Starter Pack, which no doubt contains the majority of the game information. We're not sure exactly how the game will play out, but we're looking forward to finding out.

[UPDATE] The PC store has now been updated to include Crash Bandicoot 2 and Ape Quest. Enjoy!

Vib Ribbon coming to PlayStation Network

Filed under: News

If you were in the video game news business many years ago, you may remember a game called Vib Ribbon. It was a sort of musical game, a rhythm game in the vein of PaRappa the Rapper. This game was different on the original PlayStation though, as it allowed you to slide in any audio CD you wanted to use as your rhythm tracks.

Unique levels and clever programming were everywhere and now the title is coming to the PSN and will hopefully get supported via the PSP as well. It's a natural fit for allowing the use of any music you want. Our only query is how we'll get the music on the PSP. Hopefully the game will be tweaked to allow our Memory Sticks to carry the music we want. We'll keep you posted as more information becomes available, but this is a classic game that should not be overlooked.

Handheld echochrome ready for Japan in March

Filed under: echochrome

Unfortunately for US gamers, echochrome is still unannounced for PSP in the States. While the PS3 version will be ready in the coming months, SCEA has made it unclear if they intend to bring the portable version out to America. Fear not, though. According to Siliconera, Japan is getting the game in March, and thanks to the PSPs region-free gaming, puzzle fans will be able to import the title. Hopefully, it won't come to that, though.

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Meet the convicts of Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice

Filed under: Pursuit Force, Video

These convicts look crazy. The one dude has a mini-gun for a mouth. Seriously. These jerks belong in a MegaMan game under normal circumstances, but luckily we have the ability to smash the convicts with our hammer of justice -- Extreme Justice. It seems you'll get to can the antics of a wild bunch of brutes in Pursuit Force: Extreme Justice and based on how these baddies are handling themselves ... it'll be fun and rewarding.

Users plagued with mysterious PSP Store errors

Filed under: Store

A number of people are having trouble using the PSP Store. A thread on the PlayStation Forums shows the growing frustrations of those that have met error 80048516. They rightfully purchased content from the Store, and simply cannot transfer the data over to their systems. Some users complain they've purchased over $30 worth of content that they're no longer able to access.

Calls to PlayStation support lines have left the users frustrated at the seeming lack of a solution. Constant days of "research" on their part seems to suggest only one solution: returning the system for a new one. We haven't encountered issues with the Store on our end, but we also don't manage more than one license at a time per system. A word of warning: don't deactive your PSP systems unless you really mean it! And don't try having multiple licenses (from different territories, for example) on your system.

We wish the best of luck to those affected, and hope to have an update regarding their situation in the near future.

[Thanks, Hashbrown_Hunter!]

Engadget ears-on says Skype has lag

Filed under: News

At the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, our friends at Engadget were able to go ears-on with the upcoming Skype feature for PSP. The UI and sound quality were commended -- "pretty decent" according to the team.

Unfortunately, there is one major flaw holding the feature back. "The only caveat is a bit of lag time in the audio transmission, less than a second but enough to be noticeable." A second of lag isn't too bad, especially for a free feature. However, those that wanted to use SkypeOut to make calls to traditional phone lines may find this unacceptable. We're going to have to find out for ourselves when the firmware update goes live at the end of the month.

[Thanks, Gregger!]

God of War trailer has us screaming: THIS IS PSP!!!

Filed under: Video, God of War

Can this game get any more beautiful? It seemingly does every time we see it. It looks stunning in screens, but looks even more gorgeous in motion. You may think it's a PS2 game, but then when you remember it's on a handheld, you'll also be screaming, just like our obnoxious headline.

New PSP is minty green

Filed under: Imports

Japan continues expanding their colorful selection of PSPs. Next up for the territory is the Mint Green system. Releasing on February 28th, this soft colored system (part of the Blume series) will retail for ¥19,800.

[Thanks, Alex C.]

Yggdra Union trailer, filled with epic 2D fights

Filed under: Video, Yggdra Union

So you finished Disgaea and Final Fantasy Tactics (how did you manage that?!). And now you want something more. Yggdra Union is hitting Japan very soon, and will offer PSP fans yet another opportunity at tactical RPG action. This remake of the GBA original features brand new cutscenes and widescreen presentation. It goes to show that good 2D will always look good.

Welcome to Eos Cave, a new God of War level

Filed under: God of War

Click for full-resolution image.

Eos Cave is a brand new Chains of Olympus level, and boy oh boy does it look pretty. Dare we say this PSP-exclusive God of War game looks even prettier than before? The character models, the lighting effects all look top-notch. We know the game is going to play well, and look even better. Who couldn't get excited for this?

Check out all the new images in our gallery below:

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Video: how to Skype

Filed under: Video

Unless you've been hiding under a rock, you know that PSP is getting Skype functionality later this month. But how will it look on your PSP? This new video from GameTrailers will show you how to use this free VoIP feature. It integrates fully into the XMB, making it seem like a natural fit to the PSP experience.

Original PSP doesn't have enough RAM for Skype

Filed under: News

As reported earlier, Skype will be available exclusively on PSP-2000 systems only. The revised handheld features additional RAM, previously used for UMD caching. According to Nick Sharples from SCEE, the additional memory onboard the new PSP is crucial for running the VoIP application. He told Pocket Gamer: "We had studied the possibility of supporting Skype with PSP-1000 but had to give it up because of the smaller size of main memory on PSP-1000 series."

Skype is coming before month's end. For more images of the application, visit GPara. For those with homebrew-capable PSP-1000 systems, new homebrew VoIP applications may be worthwhile to you.

PSP moves 1.4 million units over holiday season

Filed under: News

The PSP Slim is showing no signs of slowing down! Over the holiday rush, documented as November 23 through December 31, Sony has released a press release detailing the sales of the PSP. Over 1.4 million units were moved and a lot of the success is attributed to the Slim and its Daxter and Star Wars Battlefront bundles.

In addition to PSP sales, the PS3 and PS2 both held their own over the holiday season. The PS3 moved 1.2 million units and the PS2 moved over 1.3 million units -- it's eighth holiday season and it's keeping up with its younger brothers. We're very impressed with these results and so is SCEA CEO, Jack Tretton. "The PlayStation brand ended the year in a very strong position and clearly indicates more positive momentum going into 2008." We hope the momentum continues, also.

CES: GPS peripheral coming soon to the US

Filed under: Peripherals

The Consumer Electronics Show has been big for the PSP. Sony officially revealed plans for Skype on the PSP. Now, they've shown off GPS navigation for use with the PSP. The peripheral has been readily available in Japan for quite some time now, but this is the first official sign that the US will also receive the device.

The Sony CES website reveals that the peripheral will work with navigation software, provided on UMD. "Your PSP will provide 2D/3D locations, driving directions, POI's, and even downloadable city guides. With an easy search feature feature and customizable settings, GPS on PSP is the easiest way to navigate new areas and new cities."

An official release date and price have yet to be revealed, but we're glad to see it's finally coming. Hey, didn't we predict GPS coming out this year?

[Thanks, kspraydad!]

Worldwide PSP release for the week of Jan. 6

Filed under: Software

Last week was pretty bad since there wasn't any PSP release across all major regions. However, we told you that there'd definitely be something coming out this week, and here we are.

North America Games

• Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law
  

Europe Games

• Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters Platinum
  

Asia Games

• Wipeout Pulse
• Zero Shiki Kanjou Sentouki Ni

Now see there? Hopefully, everyone will be pleased with what will be new to the PSP section this week. Of course, North American gamers are finally going to experience all the fun those DS guys had with Phoenix Wright when Harvey Birdman drops.

4GB Memory Stick drops to $35 again

Filed under: Peripherals

Wait, didn't this deal already happen a few months ago? For some reason, Memory Stick prices have refused to drop any further. Thankfully, FRYS.com is making it a bit easier to get a large Memory Stick. Considering you can now download PS1 games, full PSP games and more on the PLAYSTATION Store, it seems like most everyone will want to upgrade. We're quite pleased with the amount of music, videos and demos the 4GB card can hold (although we're keeping an eye out on the 8GB Memory Stick!).

Go to FRYS.com to take advantage of this great deal.

[Via SlickDeals]

New Patapon screens for the new year

Filed under: Patapon

One of our most anticipated PSP games in 2008 is Patapon. Why? Because we find everything about the game oh-so-charming. The endearing character models and innovative gameplay make it stand out as one of the best upcoming games of the year. That's why we're proud to give you five new screenshots of the game -- if only to ease the pain of waiting.

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