CPS1PSP/CPS2PSP/MVSPSP Binarys Released

December 1st, 2006, 00:22 Posted By: wraggster

NJ yesterday released the sources to his CPS1, CPS2 and NeoGeo MVS Emulators and thanks to EvilDooinz we have compiled binarys of all 3 emulators, heres whats new via elations translation:

1.21

Reverted the masking process in Street Fighter ZERO 3 to what it was previously.
This doesn't mean that I've checked everything, so don't pay much attention.

1.20

I've rewritten the sprite management processing, and as it was more effective then I had anticipated, I'm updating this.
It looks as though CPS2 games that were on the verge of reaching 60fps, such as T.Hawk's stage in Street Fighter IIX, etc... are now running at 60fps.
(of course, this is at 333MHz with Vsync Off/Raster Effects Off) I'd bet that you can even play games such as Street Fighter Zero with Raster Effects On with no problem.
There just isn't enough memory for MVS, so there's nothing I can do about that.

Gpsp GP2x WIP

December 1st, 2006, 00:29 Posted By: wraggster

More GBA Emu for GP2X WIP News from Zodttd

Hi everyone,

I got gpSP, a GBA emu made by Exophase, running on the GP2X. It currently is using SDL for video and sound, and an interpreter (slower method compared to a dynarec) for CPU emulation.

Great news though, it's running fast already! I was able to play through some Chu Chu Rocket, and yes, with sound! What's amazing though, is I did this all *without* overclocking!

I'm going to discuss what to do about the dynarec and some fancy optimizations we have in mind, but to be honest, they seem to not be needed. At least not nearly as much as we thought!

Wow, this is an amazing stuff!

I had an early build sent to someone to test, maybe they can grab some video/screens. Who knows

Shash DeSmuMe WIP News

December 1st, 2006, 00:37 Posted By: wraggster

Shash has posted some more news of his progress with the DS Emulator DeSmuMe, heres what he posted:

I've spent the past few days working on 2D related stuff and minor fixes. Quite a few hours have been invested "only" logging and debugging some demos still not working properly, because, for example, some basic stuff seems to be still failing. Also, I've worked a bit onto getting more speed from 3D, which got a bit faster, but still needs quite a lot of work.

Today I'll talk a bit about the last one I've been working on, even if the actual implementation is more a raft from what it should be. I'm talking about the pixel blending, which can be used, for example, to cross fade from one image to another (as used in Zelda Gallery), or blending multiple images (for example, I think that's what it's used for "MP: First Hunt" menus). You can get a proper reference here. I've still to make some proper improvements, because I still don't support some effects that can be achieved with multiple source selections, for example, but I'll fix them in a few days.

Today I prefered to leave the technical details aside, as I don't really still feel confident about how the special color effects work. Anyway, here's the blend support as seen in Zelda Gallery (source, half blended, and destiny):

WiiMote Working on the PC - Video

December 1st, 2006, 00:42 Posted By: wraggster

Want to use your Wiimote on your PC, well some hackers already have, check out the video here --> http://youtube.com/watch?v=9iBaKsh5z_o

EA announces Theme Park DS

December 1st, 2006, 00:49 Posted By: wraggster

If building and managing cities isn't your bag, how's a theme park sound? Electronic Arts announced, according to GameFront, that they'll be releasing another port of one of their popular games, Theme Park, for the DS. There are very few details thus far on Theme Park DS, though there's word of a tentative Japanese release date in March. Some German sources are listing a similar date for Europe, but there's no word yet on any other region. As soon as we hear anything else, we'll let you know. Whether you love or hate EA (there seems to be no middle ground on that subject), it's nice to see that they're dedicating resources to the DS, since the building games seem so well suited to the stylus.

This Will be a Killer release for DS
via dsfanboy

Point, click and blow in DS' Undercover: Dual Motives

December 1st, 2006, 00:50 Posted By: wraggster

Via pocketgamer

Would weapons of mass destruction seeker Hans Blix have done any better in Iraq if he had the advantage of working within a point-and-click adventure? Illicit movements across the Iranian border? Just drag your mouse over the trail and solve the brain-teasing puzzle with the help of a magnifying glass and chewing gum wrapper...

Okay, so maybe we're being overly controversial with respect to the luckless Swede, but head back in time 70-odd years to the setting of Undercover: Dual Motives, and the task is somewhat similar.

Playing as scientist Dr. John Russell, you're investigating a British research facility within which something fishy is occurring. Making full use of the DS's two screens, second playable character, secretary Audrey, will also be on hand to help out. Indeed, you'll have to coordinate their actions to solve many of the game's puzzles – control can be switched between the two instantly.

The other tricky element of Undercover is its mini-games. One that uses the DS' stylus, touchscreen and microphone has been revealed by publisher dtp. It's a paper dart blowing game that sees you blowing little darts across a laboratory to get the attention of the deaf professor who's working within. The direction of the shot is controlled by the touchscreen and stylus, while the power is calculated from the volume of your breath on the mic.

And no doubt a similar mechanic will be used later in the game, perhaps with something more lethal or soporific than paper darts, as Russell attempts to avoid the attentions of Colonel Travers and his subordinates, agents Miller and McAllistair, while accessing the facility's top secret areas.

Undercover: Dual Motives is due for release in summer 2007.

Star Wars: Lethal Alliance Hands-on

December 1st, 2006, 00:53 Posted By: wraggster

Heres an excerpt

Any videogame born of the Star Wars license should rock. Taking the caliber of the source material, it seems like a logical thing to assume. But as most astute gamers will attest, that's simply not the case. It was in times past, back in the glory days of the PC, but not anymore. On the contrary, gamers now receive the announcement of a new Star Wars project with concern. After all, there's almost nothing worse than perfectly good geek material gone to waste.

The latest title to come down the pipeline is Star Wars: Lethal Alliance for the PlayStation Portable. It's only the second Star Wars title in development for Sony's handheld, which makes it even more of a special occasion than usual. To give IGN a look at the latest build, the folk at Ubisoft set up a demo at their offices in San Francisco. They only wanted a few particular levels talked about, which turned out fine since they provided a nice cross section of the action. The brief tour took place in a variety of Star Wars locations, including the Death Star, Tatooine and Danuta. At the heart of the adventure sits a curvaceous space pirate by the name of Rianna Saren and her sidekick droid, Zeeo.

After a life of petty crime and mercenary work -- usually against the Empire that enslaved her years earlier -- she decides to get serious. After an encounter with members of the Rebel Alliance, Rianna is tasked with sneaking into a secret research facility and stealing plans for the Death Star, which is still under construction. Along the way, she'll meet up with familiar faces like Kyle Katarn and throw down with the best the Empire has to offer. Her previous line of work did a fantastic job of getting her ready. Rianna has an arsenal of weapons at her disposal. She's also ridiculously limber and athletic, making her a fast-moving target and a tough opponent to beat in hand-to-hand combat. Plus, she can join with Zeeo, her droid, to perform a number of combo attacks and hack into enemy networks.

Full Article at IGN

Real PS3 Power Usage Figures

December 1st, 2006, 01:00 Posted By: wraggster

The PS3, impressively, uses barely anything when off; the Watt display on the Kill-A-Watt metering device showing between 0 and 1 watts.

When sitting idle at the crossbar navigation system, the equivalent to the Xbox 360 dashboard or the Wii's home menu, the PS3 used anywhere from 185 to 205 watts. When doing similar work the Xbox 360 uses 145 watts and the Wii just 15-20.

Now, for the gaming. We tested with three games and found consumption to be lowest when playing Tiger Woods 07, registering at 185-190 watts, and highest when playing Formula One Championship Edition, which demanded a rather more disconcerting 217 watts on average. By comparison the Xbox 360 comes in at 165 watts during gameplay with the Wii using only around 120. Finally, during Blu-ray playback the PS3 continued to draw a surprising 205 watts, just to spew the rather craptacular Ricky Bobby to my HDTV.

New Metal Slug trailer makes next week's Metal choice difficult

December 1st, 2006, 01:05 Posted By: wraggster

The Metal Slug Anthology is finally coming out next week on the PS2, Wii and PSP. Of course, there's really only one platform you'll want this on: the PSP. Handheld 2D carnage to go sounds like a blast, and this new trailer proves it. But with Metal Gear also coming out on the same day, PSP gamers will have a rough choice to make. (Of course, the best course of action would be to get both!)

Video Here --> http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/7755
Via PSPFanboy

PSP Site being worked on

December 1st, 2006, 01:28 Posted By: wraggster

Some weirdness for an hour, dont panic :P

gpSP for GP2X released

December 1st, 2006, 04:39 Posted By: zodttd

For those of you looking for the gpSP (GBA) port released for the GP2X, here it is!

gpSP is a GBA emulator originally made for the PSP by Exophase. It has now been "ported" to the GP2X. The GP2X port is still a work in progress and needs a little bit of polishing. Many games are running and run very well with sound. This is quite amazing considering it is using an interpreter (dynarec is being worked on), and SDL for video/audio.

This port follows the GPL, and includes the sources required to build gpSP for the GP2X. It also includes the GPE binary for those who don't want to bother compiling. Please read the readme_gp2x.txt and readme.txt before asking for support.

Since this is an open source project, those who are interested in the development of this project are asked to join this thread. There is also a large GP2X development community at www.gp32x.com forums where gpSP development is discussed.

Enjoy this great find!

EDIT: Updated to Release #3 recently. Many improvements in bug fixes and performance. See the readme_gp2x.txt for a list of changes.

Download and Give feedback Via Comments

PSP News Revamped

December 1st, 2006, 07:30 Posted By: wraggster

Our PSP News site has finally had a makeover using the new Network design and much better it looks for it, Check it out here --> http://psp-news.dcemu.co.uk/

Unless your already viewing this on the PSP site

PSP Revolution v0.3a

December 1st, 2006, 07:35 Posted By: wraggster

Denitro has released a patch for his excellent PSP Revolution game which is a game like the Dance Dance Revolution games, heres what he posted:

Here's a Patch to bring the game up to version 0.3a

It's mainly fixes in this update. I'm hoping it fixes the few problems that have been reported in v0.3.

Intallation:
(Must have version 0.3 installed prior to installing this patch)
Copy the proper PSPR Folders(s) to your PSP's "/psp/game/" folder. Click yes to overwrite the files when prompted.

Changes:
-Fixed problem loading songs created with Dancing Monkeys/Gorilla (Causing Crash)
-Fixed rare (but repeatable) crash when Dizzy mod was enabled
-Fixed preview music not at right position in VBR encoded songs
-Fixed preview music playing only playing first 2 seconds of some songs
-Fixed arrow colors shifting off during some songs
-Fixed error when the PSP comes back from being suspended during gameplay
-Fixed rare case of a single step being read out of order
-Added support for #DISPLAYBPM tag in .SM files

Thanks for all the great feedback you guys have given =)

--DeNitro

Nintendo Wii Jap version

December 1st, 2006, 07:45 Posted By: wraggster

New from SuccessHK



Price:USD 378.00

Product Features of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Jap version

Supports 12cm Wii Disc & 8cm GameCube Disc
Supports NES, SNES, N64, Genesis, TurboGrafix16 games
Wireless controller
2 SD card expansion slots

More Description of Nintendo Wii Nintendo Wii Jap version

The cool look: The new console boasts high-quality materials and a smart, compact design, approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together.
Backward compatibility: The new console plays all games from the current Nintendo GameCube generation.
The secret weapon: The console also will have downloadable access to 20 years of fan-favorite titles originally released for Nintendo64 the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and even the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES).
The specs: The system boasts 512 megabytes of internal flash memory, wireless controllers, two USB 2.0 ports and built-in Wi-Fi access. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment. Revolution's technological heart, a processing chip developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway," and a graphics chip set from ATI code-named 'Hollywood', will deliver game experiences not previously possible.
The stars: Introduction of a number of new franchise properties will add to the world's richest stable of stars, including Mario, Zelda, Super Smash Bros. Metroid.
Wireless freedom: A number of Wi-Fi-enabled launch titles are in development that will employ Nintendo's newly announced wireless gaming service, Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. *The price is higher than the retail price as the demand is too much while the supply is limited. *We also have to pay premium prices to get the goods. However, prices will come down gradually although it may be difficult to get the goods within this year unless you are willing o pay the premium prices.

Irshell 3.0

December 1st, 2006, 08:30 Posted By: Kramer

iR Shell 3.0 public release is finally out. With the help from Dark_Alex, this version can now run under firmware 2.71. Below is a highlight to some of the new features. For a complete list, refer to the "Revision History.txt" document.

Feature Summary
- Full support on firmware 1.5, 2.71 with HenD, Dark_Alex 2.71 SEC, Devhook firmware emulation with 1.5 & 2.71.
- Added "Mute Game Audio" function to allow muting of game specific audio channels. For example, you can mute the game music and leave the sound effort intact while playing your favorite mp3s via iR Shell mp3 player.
- Allow use of PC Joysticks or keyboards instead of PSP keypad to control iR Shell, UMD Games or homebrews via USB or WiFi. You can even use the 2nd analog nub on a PC joystick to control the game, such as aiming in a FPS.
- Besides launching XMB from fw 1.5 iR Shell. you can now launch XMB from fw 2.71 iR Shell. Together with host redirections, you can use firmware 2.71 XMB Moive Player to view MP4 & AVC movies stored on a PC. You can also use the built-in iR Shell MP3 player after launching XMB.
- Updated the launch XMB function, so you can leave the game disc in the UMD drive when launching XMB.
- Allow the use of maximum LCD brightness settings (4th brightness normally available only with a power adapter).
- The following plugins have been ported/converted for firmware 2.71 iR Shell, which means these types of files can be opened directly when running iR Shell under firmware 2.71. They can also be run standalone under firmware 2.71 if you wish. The source code can be downloaded from iR Shell forum.
* Pmf Player (PMF)
* Bookr 0.71 (TXT & PDF)
* PMPMOD AVC 1.02 (AVC)
* Atrac3 Player (AT3)
* ZIP & RAR Unarchiver (ZIP & RAR)
- Added a firmware version indicator to tell you what firmware version iR Shell is running.
- Allow pmf movie as splash screen.
- Changed the maximum number of plugins from 10 to 20.
- Changed the maximum mp3 playlist size from 10 to 30.
- Changed the maximum highlighted files from 10 to 30 for File Manipulation.
- You can associate an icon image to each sub-folder under APP view.

Special Thanks to:
- Dark_Alex for helping to crack several Sony protections to allow iR Shell to run under firmware 2.71 environment.
- StoneCut for managing the iR Shell forum, providing technical supports and releasing an ISO plugin for iR Shell which is bundled with this release. The ISO plugin is for Dark_Alex 2.71 SEC and should only be used to play legally owned backups. Suloku has also released another ISO plugin for iR Shell in the iR Shell forum.
- AnonymousTipster for releasing a modded version of usbhostfs & nethostfs which allows user to customise the PC joystick and keyboard layout when using keypad redirection feature.
- Terdinglage for making a Package Generator for iR Shell. This is a very user friendly and powerful generator which allows the users to pick the specific iR Shell packages via a web interface. You can choose different skins with PMF splash intro (many of which are not included in the default 3.0 release) and Infra-Red Remotes, and it will generate a compressed archive which you can then install to your PSP. Here is a direct link to the iR Shell package generator: http://www.pspbrew.com/index.php?pag...r.php&packId=2
- All Beta Testers for their torture testing and valuable suggestions.
- All Skins Makers for enhancing the interface look and feel.

Keypad Redirection Video preview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yOYlEFUsyk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-tb4jD-GBIU

Download and Give Feedback Via Comments

Gran Turismo HD Concept demo

December 1st, 2006, 09:12 Posted By: happy_mak

The gran turismo HD concept demo will be launched on the Playstation Store from the 24th of December 2006.

The details albeit in japanese are here
http://www.gran-turismo.com/jp/sp/d374.html

And more interestingly Yamauchi san also has posted his comments there saying that Gran turismo 5 is being given preference over gran turismo HD and he expects that to be released earlier.

Anyways lets be content with Santa yamauchi's gift of a demo this christmas. By the way its been quite some time since we have heard of that GT-Mobile... maybe its no more on cards for the PSP???

Talkman and PSP Camera, yes we are talking integration

December 1st, 2006, 10:28 Posted By: happy_mak

The Talkman software for PSP comes with a microphone which fits on the upper USB port the same way the PSP camera chotto shotto does.

Well the news is that the PSP Camera itself has a
microphone built in and the idea popped up to the PSPgadgetz blogger that would that work...

Well he tried and viola... the PSP Camera works with the talkman software as IS! it is indeed cool that one need not shift accessories once for a talkman mircophone, then a camera etc etc. Uh-oh there is the GPS thing too right? yeah me wonders why all these 3 are not clubbed into one unit and sold too...

I would love to have a camera and a GPS bundled in one personally. How about you.

Oh yes, PSPGadgetz blog has uplaoded cool pics of the talkman actually working with the PSP camera and things which you can check up here.

Sony reckons it'll do a PS4 (An analyst had his doubts.)

December 1st, 2006, 10:51 Posted By: Darksaviour69

Sony says it would be "rather short-sighted" to suggest there won't be a PlayStation 4, after Nomura analyst Yuta Sakurai did just that.

Speaking to the Financial Times in the wake of Sony's decision to to promote Kaz Hirai, Sakurai said he thought SCE's future would be determined by the former US boss's relationship with worldwide studios boss Phil Harrison.

But far more interesting were his thoughts on Sony's direction. "The appointment of Hirai could be the start of a shift from hardware to software," he suggested. "I cannot now imagine a PlayStation 4." (You think you've got it bad, Yuta - most of us in Europe cannot now imagine a PlayStation 3.)
Advertisement

Inevitably, Sony has responded, with US spokesperson Dave Karraker telling GameSpot: "Following the launch of the PlayStation 3 just a few weeks ago, and witnessing the huge consumer demand for the product, I think it would be rather short-sighted for anyone to predict there might not be a next generation of PlayStation product."

Indeed, Sony's never made any suggestion that it plans to stop with PS3 - Hirai himself having noted that a PS4 is in his plans, and Phil Harrison having speculated on whether it will use discs or an e-distribution model.
Eurogamer.net

Japan Sales: November 20- 26, 2006

December 1st, 2006, 11:39 Posted By: Darksaviour69



Source

The DS sells over twice as much as all the other hardware sales combined, nothing new there.

The PS3 drops its sales by near 10,000 but that is most likely because of lack of supply rather than demand.

Good news for the PSP and the PS2 near double their sales after a few weeks of declining sales.

With Dead or Alive Xtreme 2 released (selling 45k units) driving the Xbox 360 sales up to 7k, the question is how much will Blue Dragon will drive xbox 360 sales? It goes on sale on the 7 Dec.

Next week: The Wii......

Electronic Arts CEO calls on Sony to introduce lower PSP price point

December 1st, 2006, 13:59 Posted By: Darksaviour69

Smaller version of handheld is likely, says Probst

Electronic Arts boss Larry Probst has said that Sony should consider slashing the price of PSP and introducing a new, smaller model in order to boost sales.

Speaking in an interview with Newsweek, Probst said, "I think what moves the needle is a new form factor that's smaller than the existing unit, at a lower price, and hopefully that price is US$100 or lower.

"I think the price point needs to be lower, and I think you're going to see that next year, along with a different form factor," he added.

Whilst Probst was careful to identify his comments as "pure speculation", he said it "would not be hugely surprising" if Sony was to cut the price of the PSP to US$149, offering "a more fully-featured upscale unit that retails at US$249 or US$299".

Probst dismissed suggestions that EA is focused on producing new IP for the PSP, stating, "It's more likely that we would target platforms like the PS3, Xbox 360 or Nintendo Wii if we had an original in mind. Our strategy on PSP has typically been to take the franchises that we build on other platforms and exploit them on the PSP."

However, he went on to concedethat consumers won't necessarily want to buy PSP versions of a franchise title if they already own console versions of the same game. "If someone owns Madden on multiple systems already, they're less likely to buy it on PSP. It's true. If you've got Madden on PS2 and Xbox 360, how likely are you to buy it on PSP?"

According to Probst, EA is "interested in interoperability between PSP and Sony's other platforms, and if we can do something along those lines, that would be helpful".

Gameindustry.biz

New Halo 3 trailer (5th Dec)

December 1st, 2006, 15:20 Posted By: Darksaviour69

posted at xbox.com

See Master Chief as you have never seen him before in our exclusive showing of the new Halo 3 ad. Sixty seconds of tantalising new Halo 3 goodness awaits. Don't miss out on the high definition all-singing, all-dancing version on Xbox Live Marketplace at the same time.

Building up to the launch of Halo 3 next year, you'll see new footage from the Halo 3 universe and learn more about the man behind the MJOLNIR armour. Soon the Covenant will learn what it means for humankind to make its last stand.

In Spring 2007, you'll also have the chance to join the Halo 3 multiplayer beta. Halo 3 is coming, are you ready?

While you wait a nice pic





Halo 3 tailer on xbox.com

Sony shifts from hardware to software?

December 1st, 2006, 16:44 Posted By: wraggster

Via CVG

With the news of Sony taking yet another hit by way of the recent canning of GT HD, one analyst seems to think that this is the end of Sony as a hardware manufacturer.

"The appointment of Hirai could be the start of a shift from hardware to software," Nomura Securities' Yuta Sakurai told the FT. Putting all his eggs in one basket he went on to say, "I cannot now imagine a PlayStation 4."

Brave words indeed but he says the shift of power at the top is that Kaz Hirai's new global portfolio puts a predominantly software-focused manager in charge of the company.

Don't underestimate the power of the PlayStation people...

SSX Wii hits the slopes

December 1st, 2006, 16:53 Posted By: wraggster

Originally announced back in July, SSX Wii will make its first appearance this weekend as the debut gameplay trailer airs on Spike TV in the US.

Last instalment SSX On Tour took the series in a relatively different direction, getting a style overhaul and ditching the series' traditional electronic beats for some good old Rock and Roll - so it'll be interesting to see where EA takes things on the Wii.

New Xbox 360 Modchip: All 360 Released

December 1st, 2006, 17:01 Posted By: wraggster



News from Divineo China

We have just received stocks of a new Xbox 360 chip called the All 360 which offer the big advantage to have only one model compatible with both LG and Samsung drives

EA acquires Headgate Studios

December 1st, 2006, 17:08 Posted By: wraggster

Electronic Arts has acquired developer Headgate Studios, the company it has partnered with since 2000 on the Tiger Woods and Madden franchises.

Rebranding the company EA Salt Lake, the team will now focus exclusively on titles for Nintendo's recently launched Wii console.

"Having worked with EA for the past six years, we know their teams share work ethic, passion for creative excellence and commitment to quality," said Vance Cook, founder of Headgate and now newly appointed as executive producer at EA Salt Lake.

"By joining EA, we are making official what we all already feel – that we are part of the EA family," he added.

Paul Lee, president of EA Studios commented: "Salt Lake City is a terrific place to make games – it's a dynamic city with a vibrant creative community and a great quality of life. We are thrilled to have them join EA."

Sony reshuffle says 'nothing' about PS4 plans - Pachter

December 1st, 2006, 17:15 Posted By: wraggster

Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter has dismissed suggestions that Sony's executive reshuffle signals the company's exit from the console hardware market as "foolish" and "embarassing".

"I think Kutaragi's promotion signals absolutely nothing about Sony's plans for a PlayStation 4," Pachter told GamesIndustry.biz.

"It is embarassing that an analyst could reach that conclusion so soon after launch. Sony cannot have made such a decision, and to draw such an inference is foolish."

Pachter's comments come after former SCEA boss Kaz Hirai was announced as the new president of SCEI - a move which, according to Nomura analyst Yuta Sakurai, suggests a shift by Sony away from hardware and towards software.

It's not just Pachter who disagrees - speaking to consumer site Gamespot, SCEA communications boss Dave Karraker said, "Following the launch of the PlayStation 3 just a few weeks ago, and witnessing the huge consumer demand for the product, I think it would be rather short-sighted for anyone to predict there might not be a next generation of PlayStation product."

Pachter went on to say that he was in agreement with another analyst, Hiroshi Kamide, who has stated that he believes Ken Kutaragi will now be responsible for managing relationships with third-parties.

"I have said repeatedly that this is the last console 'cycle' as we know them, and that future hardware would contain new features and functions, but not change the architecture until we are ready for virtual reality or holographic gaming," Pachter concluded.

Surprise! It's Cipher Complex

December 1st, 2006, 17:18 Posted By: wraggster

New screenshots of next-gen action title Cipher Complex have just snuck in; a game which developer and publisher Edge of Reality hopes will change the stealth genre forever.

For Edge of Reality all stealth games are incredibly slow, full of careful positioning and skulking in shadows; in Cipher Complex the stealth attacks will consist of lightening-quick attacks with hero John Cipher dashing towards opponents and taking them out before they're aware of what's hit them.

This 'aggressive infiltration' is at the heart of the game which sees a Russian missile complex taken over by a mysterious military faction. Taking on the role of US military operative John Cipher, gamers must regain control of the base before any of the nuclear warheads are launched.

Cipher took a bullet to the head in an earlier mission and had to be brought out of the resulting coma with experimental surgery that affected his adrenal glands, and it's adrenaline that fuels these devastating stealth kills. Therefore the trick is to manage the amount of adrenaline Cipher uses so he has enough to cope with any situation.

Cipher Complex is currently in development for PS3 and Xbox 360 with a release date yet to be confirmed.

screens here

World Snooker Championship 2007 trailer rolls in

December 1st, 2006, 17:22 Posted By: wraggster

If you want to know what Sega's excellent World Snooker Championship has in line for its 2007 edition then look no further, as this new trailer has all the answers.

World Snooker Championship 2007 takes cue sports into the next generation with PS3 and Xbox 360 versions due early next year that allow for shinier balls, smarter physics and spookily real-looking players. There's even online play!

You can choose to play as, or beat, one of over 100 of the world's best players in the numerous officially licensed tournaments. But if snooker isn't your thing there a comprehensive pool game in there as well.

If you don't believe us about the spooky-looking players, watch out for Graeme Dott in the trailer. Terrifying

Trailer Here

Crystals of Xaz news- 12/1/2006

December 1st, 2006, 19:28 Posted By: Atari

Crystals of Xaz is a Dreamcast and Gamepark game written using Fenix. More information about Fenix for Dreamcast can be found at http://atari.vg-network.com.

Work continues steadily on the game, and it's shaped up to be really fun! I'm currently rewriting the enemy generation code to support multiple enemies, added level (now called Quadrants) transitions, bonus enemies that fly across the screen and drop items when shot, the ability to warp ahead levels, "skil-step" code (allows you to select a starting level based on the last level you finished, a la Tempest arcade game), and have found an artist to whip up some real graphics for me. There have been so many changes in the past month that the original code I worked from (Istappen, http://fenixonfire.gp32x.de/html/sources.html, scroll to the bottom) has been completely obliterated and none of the original code has been retained. I've attempted to contact Chui about adding VMU saving to the fenix codebase so I could implement high score saving for the DC version, but he's extremely busy and I haven't heard back from him.

Here's a current screenshot using placeholder graphics:



Timeframe for release is "when it's finished", as I don't like to toss things out there just to say I put something out, and want to create a homebrew game using Fenix that will be playable, complete, and fun. Maybe this will spur others to create their own games using Fenix and rekindle interest in it.

The $600 PSP Case cheap at twice the price !!!

December 1st, 2006, 22:00 Posted By: The_Ultimate_Eggman



Ladies and gentelmen, meet the PSP case which retails for $600. The metallic case is made by Halliburton and should be bullet proof, suitable for those gamers living in the rough streets of the world .

Screenshot Via Comments

PSP: Phil's Shooting Range v0.3

December 1st, 2006, 23:07 Posted By: blackrave

myschoo has released an update to the homebrew game "Phil's Shooting Range" bringing it to v0.3. It's a game coded in LUA, and is already kxploited. Great work, myschoo.

Here's what myschoo said:

Hello,

finally i have completed my 1st LUA game called "Phil's Shooting Range".

Controlls:

Same controls as in GTA

Things to do:

Objective - Complete
Highscore system - Complete
Better GFX -
Remove BUGS (if any) - Shorter code = same work
Time trial -
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Via qj

The NES Advantage Belt Buckle: so much retro it hurts

December 1st, 2006, 23:12 Posted By: wraggster

via engadget

These days, with everybody out to prove how "old school" they are via t-shirts, game controller buckles, game cart collections and even Mario score comparisons (sorry guys, but CliffyB beats you all, sez Nintendo Power), it can be hard to stick out of the crowd -- until now. From the very kids responsible for the brash commercialism behind the NES Buckle, comes the NES Advantage Belt Buckle, which brings a bit of arcade nostalgia to the front of your pants. Honestly, we never found the controller to be much of an Advantage at all, unless you count those isolated incidents where it was wielded as a weapon against a particularly sucky Contra companion -- not that that ever happened, of course -- but there's no arguing with the look here, and you really never know when you and a couple turbo buttons will be needed to wield control over the Statue of Liberty. The buckle is available now for $50.

Screenshot Via Comments

Wisconsin / NIU players huddle up, steal an Xbox

December 1st, 2006, 23:14 Posted By: wraggster

Via engadget

As if breaking into a home, jacking a mysterious PlayStation console, only to return for the power cord used to hold victims captive with wasn't zany enough, now we've got a Big Ten all-star (and his twin brother) reportedly swiping an Xbox. While nothing's been "confirmed," Wisconsin cornerback Jack Ikegwuonu and Northern Illinois safety William Ikegwuonu have been accused of "breaking into an off-campus apartment and trying to steal an Xbox console." Both players now face burglary and criminal trespassing charges, and if convicted, will probably not face the maximum "four years in prison" penalty. Interestingly, Wisconsin is refusing to suspend their guy until "all the facts are gathered," presumably hoping to squeak him in the lineup for the team's January bowl, while NIU has already dropped the axe on ole William, who didn't start a single game all season. But hey, at least he can simulate the team's Poinsettia Bowl matchup on a (rightfully purchased) Xbox, right?

One Year of Xbox 360

December 1st, 2006, 23:17 Posted By: wraggster

Via Slashdot

Gaming Nexus has up an article marking (kinda) the one-year anniversary of the 360's launch. Author Charles Husemann touches on the important moments in the console's first year on the market, discusses what Microsoft has done right, and talks about where the console is probably going in the future. From the article:

"Obviously digital content such as TV and movies are going to be a big deal (assuming Microsoft can get those servers running smoothly and release bigger hard drives). I know I can stream it from my PC but I'd love to have Major Nelsons' podcast automatically downloaded to my 360 every week. I'd also like to see Microsoft resist the temptation to cram a browser into the system as I know they are going to get pressure to do so with the Wii and the PS3 having that built in. Instead I'd love to have a simple, easy to use RSS reader that can stream headlines along the bottom of the screen when I'm in the dashboard. "

Lost Planet hype amps up

December 1st, 2006, 23:19 Posted By: wraggster

via gamespot

Capcom's promotional efforts for its frigid Xbox 360 sci-fi shooter Lost Planet are heating up. The company has already announced one preorder incentive program and released two demos of the game over the Xbox Live Marketplace, but now it is introducing a second promotion to drive preorders and a deal that will put its commercial in front of millions of people.

Lost Planet preorder bonus.Specialty retailer GameStop is currently offering an exclusive bonus for those who preorder Lost Planet in the form of a figure of one of the game's Vital Suits. Customers can get the figure by preordering either the regular or collector's edition versions of the game, and while supplies last they will also receive a scratch-off card with a code for a version of the game's multiplayer demo that comes with an extra map.

In addition, Capcom has landed some prime ad space for the game. From December 4 through December 31, a 60-second trailer for Lost Planet will be broadcast on NBC's giant-screen TV in Times Square. Capcom expects the trailer to be seen more than 40 million times in that span, which includes Times Square's annual New Year's Eve celebration.

Lost Planet is rated T for Teen. It will be available at North American retailers beginning January 12, with a regular edition selling for $59.99, and the collector's edition going for $69.99.

PSP: Extreme Link v1.2.8b

December 1st, 2006, 23:20 Posted By: blackrave

Quake has again updated their very useful application Extreme Link. This is just a bug fix release, concerning the extension list problems when managing the Photo and Music.

This should be run with firmware 1.50, and after you run DevHook, do this:

• PSPGAMESMemory StickDevHook or DevHook Shell
• Put in a UMD Game or UMD Sampler Disc
• Select DevHook or DevHook Shell. - Wait for reboot
• At this time if it asks you for the drivers you will need to install the drivers I have provided in with the installer. Then Follow the driver install instructions Provided in the installer.
• Settings are as follows:
• UMD MOUNT....> ISO ANYUMD - Enter(X-O)
• UMD VERSION..> 2.xx to 2.0 - Enter(X-O)
• FIRMWARE......> 2.71 - Enter(X-O)
• CPU CLOCK.....> 222MHZ / 111MHZ - Enter(X-O)
• BOOT SELECT.> REBOOT XMB
• OTHER.......> USB OPTION(X-O) ...> ENABLED (You might have to disable this then enable it for it to see your connection) - RETURN
• Scroll up to UMD SELECT - Enter (X-O)
• Once this has been done correctly. You shouldn't have to go through all the settings again. Accept for maybe the USB enable and disable
• Select your game - Enter(X-O)
• Scroll up to START - Enter(X-O)

Full Auto 2 pulls into factory

December 1st, 2006, 23:36 Posted By: wraggster

via gamespot

The PlayStation 3 is just about to fill the combat racing game hole in its 2006 lineup. Sega has announced that Full Auto 2: Battlelines has gone gold and will ship to stores on December 7. The game was developed by Pseudo Interactive, who also created Battlelines' predecessor, Full Auto for the Xbox 360.

Battlelines features more than two dozen cars, each outfitted with firepower from a roster of 20 weapons. The backdrops of fictional Meridian City are fully destructible, meaning on one pass a turn may be clear and an another lap it could be littered with rubble. Full Auto 2 also features an "unwreck" feature, allowing gamers to rewind short periods of time.

PS3 Greymarket Watch: Jackass Wants $5 Million

December 1st, 2006, 23:40 Posted By: wraggster

Via gizmodo

As if asking upwards of a couple thousand bucks for your PS3 wasn't enough, a jackass wants all of $5,000,000 for his PlayStation 3. He whines:

This auction is being listed to help raise money for me to pay my medical school tuition. I waited on line at Wal-mart for over 57 hours. I was even there a whole day before anyone else arrived. I was first in line and when all the PS3's were finally released to the public, I bought everything they had available and therefore, THIS IS THE ULTIMATE PS3 AUCTION! I haven't seen a bigger PS3 auction on eBay yet!
Unfortunately for him, eBay's taken down his auction. Unfortunately for everyone else, he'll no doubt scam enough money to pay for his education, after which he'll become your local doctor.

JPN Wii Launch: Waiting In A Parking Garage

December 1st, 2006, 23:43 Posted By: wraggster

via kotaku

There's one line and only one line. It's long, and it's for the bathroom. Two toilets for me, two for women. Four total. The space is immense. There must over thousand people crammed in here. Time is passed with DS Lites. Smoking. More DS Lites. And more smoking. A sole figure with a PSP explains the system to the first guy in line. Cold air cuts straight through the exits. People cover themselves with space blankets. Old men play Japanese chess. We're killing time, folks.

FFVII Crisis Core Trailer

December 1st, 2006, 23:44 Posted By: blackrave

New, exciting trailer for the upcoming Final Fantasy: Crisis Core out.

You can watch it here and read the English translation here

Awesome trailer, looking very much forward to the release of this game, at least the demo which should come out this month.

Nintendo Comments On Broken Wii Strap

December 1st, 2006, 23:47 Posted By: wraggster

Via Kotaku

I think people are overlooking a huge issue here. I've had my Wii since launch day. I've got 4 controllers total now and I've studied it pretty dubiously. Let's delve...
The strap consists of 3 parts, the fabric-y strap part, and the thin twine-like part that you loop through itself to attach it to the controller, and the plastic bezel used to tighten the fabric loop. The twine material is the same exact thing I'm staring at right now, attached to my USB flash drive. It's not incredibly strong.

Now it looks like the issue isn't the strap being too weak. Proof? Every video we've seen involving Wiimotes flying out, have been of ridiculously exaggerated movements. There is no need for that much force. It comes down to simple wear and tear...if you use something the way it was intended it should last a considerable amount of time. If you ABuse something, ie using it in the manner it was not intended for, you will shorten its lifespan. We see this is the case with the Wiimote.

I think we can all agree that the remote is not meant to be used like you were Kournikova on meth. The manual for system, games, and on-line support all state gentle force should be usd. I'm sure Nintendo thought of the dangers of flying controllers breaking the speed of idiocy to pummel into things. How does this relate to the strap and its tensile strength?

When used properly, the strap does it's job. If you fasten that little sliding bezel it gives the strap more "grounding," (been a long time since i thought physics-wise, so if someone can explain this better and understands what I'm getting at go for it) and a larger tension area to distribute energy when it changes from potential to kinetic. Simply put, most of the force is exerted throughout the ENTIRE strap not just the little connector When worn properly. When it's not fastened properly you're basically treating the Wiimote like a bullwhip, a sharp acceleration following by an abrupt stop. All that force is exerted onto the little strap!

The safety strap was designed for 2 purposes, as I see it. You might just drop the controller in which case the strap works flawlessly. It's got nowhere to go but hang from your wrist! The other method is sweaty hands or losing grip of it during play. At this point the strap will save it....for a time. It's not meant to take the repeated beating its getting.

Granted if you're playing with the force Nintendo recommends, you won't send any Wiimote into a tv, window, PDA, wall or laptop. However if you play like a majority of these "get into it" players, and you repeatedly exert force onto that little strap, it's simple physics it won't last that long.

I don't really think this is Nintendo's fault, and it's isolated cases. If thousands of people were losing electronics due to this strap breaking it might be a larger scale proble, but this is just a small small percentage like the 360 system fails. If you're really worried about your strap breaking, either tone it down Wizard, reinforce your strap with something stronger, or replace it completely. After a quick Google search or two I've found a few straps that look more than capable of never breaking...

...I wouldn't recommend connecting the strap to the nunchuk through that little hook part, because putting it in and taking it out of that poorly designed clasp involves nicking or pulling the twine strap which could weaken it as well.

Just things to think about! This has to be my longest Kotaku post in 3 years.

Trading Babies For PS3s

December 1st, 2006, 23:50 Posted By: wraggster

Via Kotaku

A radio station in Minneapolis held on on-air joke promotion this past Wednesday, offering parents a chance to give away their babies for an overnight in exchange for a PS3 system. 101.3FM's Dave in the Morning show found their phone lines flooded with folks seriously willing to make the trade.

I think the station should have agreed to make the trades and then had child services waiting when the parents showed up. I cannot believe people could possibly be that stupid and careless, to try and trade their own flesh and blood for a $600 video game console while on the air with a major radio station. The blackmarket is there for a reason, people.

Another analyst: Microsoft execs feeling good about Xbox

December 1st, 2006, 23:53 Posted By: wraggster

Via Joystiq

Now, some psychoanalysis on Microsoft executives would be quite entertaining ("Tell me about these lucid dreams, Peter."), especially when compared to the recent observations made by Colin Sebastian of Lazard Capital Markets. In his earth-shattering report, Mr. Sebastian describes the folks behind the Xbox brand as "upbeat" given the commercial success of Gears of War, the company's considerable launch lead against competitors and consistent growth in Europe. Japan, not so much.

The Xbox 360's 2007 lineup (featuring Space Ring 3) and catalogue of HD shows and movies are also expected to have a positive effect on this year's holiday sales. Sebastian believes that fleeting Wii and PS3 stock will prove to be Microsoft's greatest advantage, with desperate parents picking up a 360 and convincing their rotten brats that it was the only console they could find. It's a likely scenario, but if recent sales in Japan have proven anything, it's that the PS2 and DS Lite are far more likely (and cheaper) replacements -- if indeed a replacement is sought at all. How about a nice fruitcake instead?

BBB rates Toys 'R' Us "unsatisfactory" amidst reports of Wii bundling shenanigans

December 1st, 2006, 23:55 Posted By: wraggster

via joystiq

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