Category Archives: Playstation

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Sony knew Astro Bot long-term Playstation benefit

Evidently, despite claiming not to have a major launch for 2024, Sony and PlayStation Studios achieved unexpected success with the surprise announcement and release of Astro Bot. This established a new IP star, the first original PlayStation IP since LittleBigPlanet and its success, including winning The Game Awards’ Game of the Year title. This success suggests that PlayStation’s dormant IPs might receive a renewed focus and potentially benefit from a similar long-term strategy.

In a detailed interview with Famitsu, PlayStation co-CEO Hermen Hulst discussed Sony’s openness to reviving its classic game franchises.

Hulst emphasized that PlayStation aims to offer a broad range of experiences by leveraging both its first-party studios and external developers. He highlighted the importance of PlayStation’s extensive IP portfolio and the company’s goal to publish games by the world’s best creators.

Of course, Hulst took the opportunity to praise the success of Astro Bot, which has sold 1.5 million copies in its first nine weeks. He noted that nearly 40% of those sales came from players who were either purchasing a PlayStation game for the first time or for the first time in two years.

This success has contributed significantly to the expansion of the PlayStation community, attracting younger players and families.

Hulst also reflected on the legacy of PlayStation’s classic IPs, mentioning titles like Uncharted 2: Among Thieves and God of War as major inspirations for the company’s future direction. He acknowledged the challenges of the live-service model, referencing the infamous launch and quick shutdown of Concord this year.

Overall, Hulst’s vision for PlayStation involves a balance of honoring its rich history while continuing to innovate and collaborate with top developers to create new and exciting gaming experiences.

Gaming, News, Playstation

Sony became a big shareholder of Kadokawa

Sony Group Corporation and Kadokawa Corporation have announced a strategic capital and business alliance, which will see Sony acquiring 12,054,100 new shares of Kadokawa for approximately 50 billion yen (around $318 million).

This deal, set to be finalized on January 7, 2025, will make Sony the largest shareholder in Kadokawa, holding approximately 10% of its shares.

This alliance aims to maximize the value of both companies’ intellectual properties (IPs) globally. Sony and Kadokawa have a history of collaboration, and this new partnership will further strengthen their cooperation. The two companies plan to work together on various initiatives, including:

  • Adapting Kadokawa’s IPs into live-action films and TV dramas globally.
  • Co-producing anime works.
  • Expanding the global distribution of Kadokawa’s anime works through Sony’s extensive network.
  • Further expanding the publishing of Kadokawa’s games.
  • Developing human resources to promote and expand virtual production.

Takeshi Natsuno, CEO of Kadokawa, expressed his enthusiasm for the alliance, stating that it will strengthen Kadokawa’s IP creation capabilities and increase their IP media mix options with Sony’s support for global expansion. He believes this will greatly contribute to maximizing the value of their IP and increasing their corporate value in the mid- to long-term.

Hiroki Totoki, President, COO, and CFO of Sony Group Corporation, also commented on the alliance, highlighting that it will allow Sony to become the largest shareholder of Kadokawa, which consistently creates a wide variety of IPs, including publications, books, games, and anime. He emphasized that by combining Kadokawa’s extensive IP and IP creation ecosystem with Sony’s strengths, they aim to realize Kadokawa’s ‘Global Media Mix’ strategy and Sony’s ‘Creative Entertainment Vision’.

It was heavily suggested that Kadokawa was not interested on selling portions of its assets and wanted a full buyout from Sony if a deal in that height would have been in the table, because apparently Sony was just interested on all anime entertainment portion and FromSoftware, but evidently, this wasn’t the case.

Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Killzone has made its return but as a collab with Helldivers 2

The gaming world is buzzing with excitement as Helldivers 2 announces a thrilling collaboration with the iconic Killzone series! This crossover brings together the intense, cooperative gameplay of Helldivers with the gritty, futuristic world of Killzone, creating an unforgettable experience for fans of both franchises.

The collaboration features a range of Killzone-inspired armor sets, weapons, and cosmetics. Players can now gear up with the StA-52 Assault Rifle, AC-1 Dutiful Helmet, and AC-1 Dutiful Armor, all reminiscent of the Helghast faction from Killzone.

The collaboration also includes a high-capacity StA-11 SMG and a powerful PLAS-39 Accelerator Rifle, adding new layers of strategy and firepower to the game.

Community Feedback and Adjustments

Initially, the collaboration faced some backlash due to the high prices of the items. However, Arrowhead Game Studios listened to the community’s feedback and decided to offer some of the items for free. Players can now enjoy the StA-11 SMG and PLAS-39 Accelerator Rifle without spending any in-game currency. Additionally, the duration of items in the Superstore has been extended to reduce the fear of missing out (FOMO) effect.

The collaboration is just the beginning, with Arrowhead Game Studios planning more exciting updates and events. The developers are committed to bringing more content and ensuring that the collaboration remains a valuable addition to the game.

Meanwhile…

Sony announced a special Helldivers 2 Limited Edition of the PS5 DualSense controller that will be sold exclusively on the PS Direct on US market.

The controller will cost $84.99

Featured, Games, Gaming, News, Playstation

Naughty Dog What’s next – Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

Naughty Dog, the acclaimed studio behind The Last of Us and Uncharted series, has officially announced their latest project: Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. This new sci-fi adventure game was revealed during The Game Awards 2024, and it promises to be Naughty Dog’s most ambitious and creative story yet.

During The Game Awards 2024, Naughty Dog unveiled a captivating teaser trailer for Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet. The trailer introduced the game’s protagonist, Jordan A. Mun, a dangerous bounty hunter stranded on the enigmatic planet of Sempiria.

The planet, which has been cut off from the outside universe for hundreds of years, presents a host of challenges and mysteries for players to unravel.

Jordan A. Mun, portrayed by actress Tati Gabrielle, is a skilled bounty hunter on a mission that seems deeply personal. Stranded on Sempiria, she must use all her skills and wits to survive and become the first person in over 600 years to leave the planet’s orbit. The character-driven narrative promises to deliver an emotional and epic journey, staying true to Naughty Dog’s storytelling prowess.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is being developed exclusively for the PlayStation 5. The game has been in development since 2020, following the release of The Last of Us Part II.

Naughty Dog has assembled a stellar cast and crew for this project, including the talented Tati Gabrielle and renowned composers Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who are scoring the game’s soundtrack.

A Legacy of Innovation

Naughty Dog has a rich history of creating groundbreaking games that push the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay. With Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, the studio aims to blend its signature narrative depth with innovative gameplay mechanics.

The game draws inspiration from seminal sci-fi works such as Akira and Cowboy Bebop, promising a unique and immersive experience for players.

While specific details about Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet are still under wraps, fans can look forward to more information being revealed in the coming months.

The development team is committed to delivering a game that captures the magic of Naughty Dog’s previous titles while offering new experiences and challenges for players to enjoy.

The announcement of Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet has reignited excitement among Naughty Dog fans.

With a talented team of developers and a captivating new storyline, the future of Naughty Dog looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the studio’s games, this upcoming sci-fi adventure promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Breaking, Featured, Games, Gaming, News, PC, Playstation, Xbox

Surprising Cyberpunk 2077 Update 2.2 is About New Ways to Express Yourself

Cyberpunk 2077 continues to evolve and captivate its player base with the release of Update 2.2, introducing a variety of new features designed to enhance player customization and immersion in the vibrant world of Night City.

Of course, the entry of a surprising new Update is a big deal as since early this year, CD Projekt Red told its investor that further Cyberpunk 2077 development has ceased with the integration of its team in both Project Polaris (The Witcher new triology) and Project Orion (Cyberpunk 2077 sequel).

Enhanced Character Customization

One of the most exciting aspects of Update 2.2 is the addition of over 100 new customization options for the protagonist, V. Players can now tweak every aspect of their character’s appearance, from hairstyles and tattoos to clothing and accessories. This extensive customization suite allows players to create a truly unique version of V, reflecting their personal style and preferences.

Vehicle Customization

In a city where your ride speaks volumes about who you are, the new vehicle customization options are a game-changer. Players can now use CrystalCoat and TWINTONE features to design their cars with unique colors and patterns. Whether you prefer a sleek, monochrome finish or a bold, eye-catching design, these new tools let you transform your vehicle into a reflection of your character’s persona.

Improved Photo Mode

For those who love to capture their adventures in Night City, the improved photo mode in Update 2.2 offers a range of new options. Players can experiment with different camera angles, aspect ratios, and lighting effects to create stunning images. Whether you’re capturing a high-octane chase through the neon-lit streets or a quiet moment of reflection on a rooftop, the enhanced photo mode provides all the tools needed to produce professional-quality shots.

Johnny Silverhand’s Return

One of the more immersive features of this update is the occasional appearance of Johnny Silverhand, the iconic character played by Keanu Reeves, in the passenger seat while V is driving. This unexpected interaction adds a layer of depth to the game’s narrative and makes for some memorable in-game moments.

Update 2.2 isn’t just about adding new features; it’s about giving players more freedom to express themselves within the game. These enhancements deepen the connection players have with their characters and vehicles, making the Cyberpunk 2077 experience even more personal and engaging. The continued support and updates from CD Projekt Red demonstrate their commitment to improving the game and delivering on their promise to the community.

As Night City grows and evolves, so too does the potential for unique player experiences. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a newcomer to its sprawling streets, Cyberpunk 2077’s latest update ensures there’s always something new to discover and enjoy.

Business, Gaming, News, Playstation

Former God of War Art Director Joins Naughty Dog

In a significant move that has the gaming industry buzzing, Raf Grassetti, the former art director of the acclaimed God of War series, has joined the renowned studio Naughty Dog. This exciting development brings one of the most talented and respected artists in the gaming world to a studio known for its groundbreaking titles like The Last of Us and Uncharted.

Raf Grassetti played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identity of the modern God of War games. His work was instrumental in revitalizing the series with its stunning art and character designs, contributing to the critical and commercial success of the franchise. Grassetti’s departure from Santa Monica Studio marks the end of an era, but his legacy there will undoubtedly endure.

Grassetti’s move to Naughty Dog is a strategic win for the studio, known for its commitment to pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual excellence in video games. His expertise and innovative vision are expected to enhance Naughty Dog’s upcoming projects, potentially bringing a fresh artistic direction and even more immersive worlds for players to explore.

While specific details about Grassetti’s role at Naughty Dog and the projects he will be working on have not been disclosed, the gaming community is eagerly anticipating the impact of his artistic prowess. Given Naughty Dog’s track record of high-quality, narrative-driven games, fans can look forward to exciting developments that may blend Grassetti’s distinctive style with Naughty Dog’s renowned storytelling techniques.

The announcement has garnered positive reactions from both fans and industry peers, who recognize the potential for incredible collaboration between Grassetti and the creative teams at Naughty Dog. This move also highlights the dynamic nature of the gaming industry, where top talent continues to seek new challenges and opportunities to innovate.

Raf Grassetti joining Naughty Dog represents a thrilling new chapter for both the artist and the studio. As the gaming world watches closely, the collaboration promises to deliver memorable and visually stunning experiences that will further elevate the standards of the industry.

Games, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, Playstation

Sony wants to trigger nostalgia with previous Playstation boot loading screens on PS5

In celebration of Playstation’s 30th anniversary, Sony has released a special update for the PS5 that brings back nostalgic elements from previous console generations. For a limited time, PS5 owners can now customize their console’s design and boot-up sequence to reflect their favorite Playstation eras.

The update includes the iconic PS1 boot-up screen, complete with the classic white flash and startup sounds that many gamers fondly remember. Additionally, players can choose from themes based on the PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4, and a special 30th-anniversary theme. Each theme not only changes the visual style of the home screen but also incorporates the unique sound effects from the respective console generations.

“This update is our way of saying thank you to our fans for three decades of incredible memories and experiences,” said a Sony representative. “We hope it brings back some great nostalgia and allows players to relive those cherished moments.”

The limited-time nature of this update has created a sense of urgency among fans, who are eager to experience these retro features before they disappear. Sony has also launched a 30th-anniversary sale on the Playstation Store, offering discounts on games from all generations, further adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

While some fans have expressed a desire for more permanent customization options, many are appreciating this temporary nod to the past.

As the gaming community continues to celebrate this milestone, it’s clear that Sony’s efforts to honor its history are resonating with players. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newer player, this update offers a unique way to connect with the rich history of Playstation.

Update New Firmware for PS5

Sony announced the entrance of version 24.08-10.40.00 for Playstation 5 consoles and the changelog includes:

We’ve improved the process of transferring data from another PS5 and enhanced stability when transferring large amounts of data, such as captures.

We’ve improved the messages and usability on some screens.

Business, Gaming, News, Playstation

Shuhei Yoshida – One of the OG from they early days of Playstation development is retiring

In a heartfelt announcement, Shuhei Yoshida, a key figure in PlayStation’s history, has revealed that he will be leaving Sony Interactive Entertainment after 31 years. Yoshida, who joined the company in 1993 during the development of the original PlayStation, has played a pivotal role in shaping the gaming landscape.

I’m leaving Sony Interactive Entertainment on January 15 2025… it’s like announcing the launch date of a new game, [something] I haven’t done for a long time.

I’ve been with PlayStation from the beginning, and this is my 31st year with PlayStation. And when I hit 30 years, I was thinking, hmm, it may be about time for me to move on. You know, the company’s been doing great.

I love PS5, I love the games that are coming out on this platform. And we have new generations of management who I respect and admire. And I’m so excited for the future of PlayStation. So, you know, PlayStation is in really good hands. I thought, okay, this is my time.

Yoshida’s journey with PlayStation began as an account management lead, where he was responsible for securing third-party partnerships for the console. Over the years, he held various influential positions, including Vice President of SCE America and President of SCE Worldwide Studios. His tenure saw the release of numerous iconic games, such as Gran Turismo and Ape Escape.

Reflecting on his career, Yoshida shared some of his favorite moments, including the success of the digital-only game Journey, which won the Game of the Year award in 2012.

He also expressed his love for working with indie developers, describing it as “treasure hunting” for unique and innovative games.

GG and farewell good sir!

You can read more at Playstation Official blog post here.

Business, Gaming, Hardware/Console, News, Playstation, Technology

Bloomberg: Sony is already working on a return to portable gaming market

PSP and PS Vita wasn’t much of an example of dethroning Nintendo in the portable section of the gaming market by Sony and while it did gained fans from Playstation pro players, the company decided to focus on home gaming console with the entrance of the Playstation 4.

Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck with the respective responses from MSI, Lenovo and two gaming generations later, Sony might be making a return of the spiritual successor of the Playstation Portable but with the due diligence and homework.

Sony Interactive Entertainment is in the “early stages” of developing the device, which is still years away from a potential release according to sources close to Bloomberg.

Obviously, Nintendo being challenged as never before in the portable gaming front by all ways including portable PC devices and Smartphones, Sony sees the opportunity to try things again and it seems that the Playstation Portal build some confidence on Playstation actually trying again.

This comes as Microsoft Gaming CEO confirmed that Xbox is developing its original portable hardware which admittedly, will not be ready for this year, leaving Sony with the opportunity to capitalize by also, not competing directly with the successor of the Nintendo Switch, due to be announce between this month up to March 2025.

The original PlayStation Portable (PSP), released by Sony in 2004, was a groundbreaking handheld gaming console that brought console-quality gaming to the palm of your hand. Despite its unceremonious run without the expected success, the PSP was a significant competitor to Nintendo’s handheld consoles and was praised for its powerful hardware and multimedia capabilities. It sold over 80 million units worldwide and had a lifespan from 2004 to 2014.