PSP 2?

Sony is currently developing a second PlayStation portable device.  They're currently calling it the NGP, or the Next Generation Portable.  It looks like it's truly going to revolutionize their portable gaming sector.

The PSP itself is a pretty disappointing product.  This isn't because it isn't user-friendly or capable, but because it was overshadowed by the Nintendo DS, which decided to add a revolutionary touchscreen that is actually usable for many of its games.  Also, the PSP has such a small selection of good games.  Sony focused far too much on making the PSP versatile and high-performance and not enough on getting contracts for successful games.  The Nintendo DS, on the other hand, revolutionized handheld gameplay.

The so-called NGP looks like it may actually be able to turn the tides when it comes to handhelds.  It offers a lot of new specs:

- Two Analog Sticks (the PSP has one)
- Front and Rear Cameras (DS and PSP have none - skype, anyone?)
- Front Multitouch display and a Multitouch rear pad (to be used like a laptop mouse maybe?)
- GPS (that's right.  lost?  Pull out the NGP)
- SIXAXIS motion sensors (the same technology PS3 uses in its controllers for games like Uncharted (one) and GTA 4 - I'm not a fan of this, but if you are, whatever floats your boat)
- 3 axis Electronic compass (yeah.  a 3d compass.  'nough said)
- 5 inch OLED display (far outshines DS - did I mention that this display is touchscreen?)
- Wifi and 3G connectivity
- Location-based multiplayer (find others to play against based on location - also completely wireless)

And they're already working on developing games for it, and they're advertising that they will actually be worth buying.  I'm still skeptical on this, but they are making a new Uncharted game for it, temporarily dubbed "Uncharted Portable," and I am definitely  excited for that.  So far the Uncharted franchise has yet to disappoint.  Let's hope they can keep it up.

For more information on this portable device, you can go to this link:
Sony - Next Generation Portable

We're talking about what essentially could be a iTouch for gamers, but made with Sony technology, which (in my opinion) outshines Apple technology.

Will it be successful?  Only time will tell.

I'm excited.

Dragon Age II DLC

Bioware announced that they will will be unleashing some DLC for Dragon Age II. There will be three separate DLC weapons' packs available for $3 or all three bought in a bundle for $5. Seems overpriced and to have been done just to make more money. This DLC should have come with the Collector's Edition and will likely be part of the Ultimate Edition. The DLC is currently available for the PC and Xbox 360 versions and would be available for the PS3 if the network wasn't down.

PSN Update

Sony has today said that they expect the PSN to be back up next Tuesday, though they were unclear what will be available. Sony also affirmed that they will be pursuing these hackers wherever they are in the world.

The good news: there's a date on when PSN is suppose to come back and it'll be more secure than ever.

The bad news: What functions will be available, what's happening with your personal information, and that Sony may not meet this date.

Update on PlayStation Network

According to various media sources, there is a class action lawsuit against Sony currently happening. People are now suing because their credit card information was leaked and Sony allegedly neglected to tell people about it for about a week.

And now Sony is rebuilding PlayStation Network. At least they're doing something right.

Playstation Network Down

Today, for the seventh day, PlayStation Network is still undergoing maintenance and about 70 million registered users are unable to play online multiplayer, a staple of this generation of gaming.  Also, news reports are now saying that some information may have been leaked in this security breach - information including people's credit card numbers.  I think I stand for all PS3 users when I say that Sony really dropped the ball on this one.  Sony is saying that PlayStation Network should be back online within a week.


Damn it, I just want to play MAG!