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August, 2000


August 31, 2000

Dreamland Chronicles preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:54 PM, EDT
A preview of Mythos Games’ strategy RPG Dreamland Chronicles has been added to the previews section.
A slice:

Set in the near future, the human race faces certain extinction after a devastating 70-day war against alien invaders. With the military forces and governments of the world in ruins the player commands humanity's last hope -- a resistance force known as the Terran Liberation Army. Starting with a meager supply of captured weapons and technology the player must drive back the invaders and free the Earth from alien domination.
Full preview




GT2000 for ECTS - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:54 PM, EDT
According to , Kazanori Yamauchi, the creator of the Gran Turismo series will be at ECTS showing off the latest build of Gran Turismo 2000.
Games as WipEout Fusion and DropShip will also be shown.



European Konami dev. studio - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:57 PM, EDT
also reports that Konami has confirmed its own European development studio.
Here’s a slice from the article:

This is a major step for Konami, who forced home the message of just how seriously it is taking Europe at its recent Cannes PlayStation 2 event. Deals between the company and Disney, Microsoft, ESPN and Universal Studios point to exciting times ahead for Europe.





Movie interview about Summoner - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:55 PM, EDT
Gamespot posted an interview with Jim Boone from THQ chatting about Volition’s RPG; Summoner: Movie (68.5 MB)


New Onimusha screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:53 PM, EDT
Capcom released 50 new screens of Onimusha. The screens are not the best quality though...
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5, pic #6, pic #7, pic #8, pic #9
Go here for more
DR also has three movies of the game.


Grid movies - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:48 PM, EDT
Midway released a movie of its upcoming arcade (and maybe PS2) game, which is described as a hybrid; combining the best features of fighting games and first-person shooters.
You can find the movie here, for more information on the game check out the official site.


Commandos 2 for PS2 confirmed - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:34 PM, EDT
According to , Eidos has confirmed that Pyro Studios' Commandos 2 will appear on PS2 and Dreamcast.


Smuggler's Run impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:34 PM, EDT
IGN posted new impressions of Rockstar Games’ PS2 racer, Smuggler’s Run.
Here’s a bit:

As far as the game itself is concerned, it looks and plays pretty much like the previous version of the game that we got to check out a few weeks ago -- which basically means that it looks and plays pretty damn well. As we've been saying since the first time that we check the game out prior to E3, the control and physics of the game are dead on. It's arcade enough for anyone to quickly jump into and the physics are real enough where players will actually feel like they're controlling an off-road vehicle.
Full article




August 30, 2000

Rayman Revolution - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:11 PM, EDT
reports that Ubi Soft will show its PS2 Rayman game at ECTS next week. Ubi Soft is also working on a PC strategy war game that will be ported to the PS2.
Rayman screens:
pic #1, pic #2



Olympics 2000 screens - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 7:08 PM, EDT
Core posted some new screens of Konami’s Olympics game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5


Sony acquires RTime - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:06 PM, EDT
FGN online reports that Sony recently acquired RTime, a company that provides products and services that support real-time interactivity on the Internet and broadband networks.
Here’s a bit of the article:

The acquisition will allow Sony America access to technologies, products and services developed by RTime for real-time interactivity for games and other multi-user applications.
Full article




1 million PS2s a month - Comments (3)
Posted by @ 7:05 PM, EDT
Starting in September Sony will make 1 millions PS2’s a month. Right now they are pumping out 400 000 units/month.
Thanks to for the info.


Carrier screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:01 PM, EDT
Gamespot fired up three screens of Jaleco’s action-adventure game Carrier:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3


Next-Gen Spyro - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 6:59 PM, EDT
Gamespot also reports that a Spyro the Dragon title is in the works for the PS2, PC and GBA.
Here’s a bit of the article:

"Spyro the Dragon is a terrific franchise, and we are pleased to have come to agreement on this property," said Hubert Joly, chief executive officer of Havas Interactive. "We have been exploring a strategic relationship with Universal Interactive Studios for some time, and we look forward to further opportunities under the Vivendi-Universal corporate umbrella."
Full article




Master Rallye for PS2 - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:54 PM, EDT
According to Gaming Age, Steel Monkeys is working on a PC/PS2 racer; Master Rallye. The game will be released late next year for PS2.
For more info go here


RC Revenge Pro screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:57 PM, EDT
IGN slapped up new screens of Acclaim’s remote controlled racer, RC Revenge Pro screens:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here for more screens and info


Go Go Golf screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:53 PM, EDT
Core posted some screens of Magical's golf game, Go Go Golf:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4


G-Saviour movie - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:54 PM, EDT
Core also posted a movie of Sunrise Interactive’s mech shooter; G-Saviour:
Movie (200 KB)


August 29, 2000

X Squad preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:33 PM, EDT
We added a preview of EA’s action game, X Squad.
Here’s a bit:

The year is 2037, the government lost contact with one of its secret military complexes soon after receiving disturbing news about suspicious behavior amongst some of the base's personnel. Fearing the worst and due to the highly sensitive material within the base, your extremely skilled X Squad team is asked to investigate the situation and recover any secret material the terrorists may have seized.
Full preview




New MGS2 movie for ECTS - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 3:32 PM, EDT
According to , Konami will show a new Metal Gear Solid 2 movie at ECTS next week.
The PS2 titles Konami will display:
- Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty
- Ephemeral Fantasia
- Zone of Enders
- International Superstar Soccer
- ESPN Winter XGames Snowboarding
- ESPN International Track & Field
- ESPN NBA 2Night
- Shadow of Memories
- ESPN NHL National Hockey Night
- Red
- Gradius III & IV
- 7 Blades
- Silent Scope



Empire's PS2 Projects - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:31 PM, EDT
Gamespot reports that Empire Interactive has three PS2 games in development; Ghost Master, World Sports Cars and Starsky and Hutch
Go here for more info on the games


August 28, 2000

TVDJ review - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 4:24 PM, EDT
We added a review of Sony’s music game, TVDJ.
A slice:

This game utilizes the same Cell-Shading technique found in Jet Grind Radio, and it looks fantastic. For those of you that don’t know what Cell-Shading is, I’ll be happy to tell you. Simply put, it’s a technique that draws black lines around a character composed of polygons; this creates the illusion of a hand drawn character. While you can still tell that you are watching a video game, there are moments where it looks just as good as a real cartoon. Each character is drawn nicely, and vibrant colors are used to detail the environments.
Full review




TimeSplitters impressions & media - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:25 PM, EDT
IGN posted their impressions along with new screens and a movie of Free Radical Design’s first person shooter, TimeSplitters.
Here’s a bit:

It's not entirely shocking to discover that, in essence, TimeSplitters feels a great deal like Goldeneye. What is shocking for a moment is how fast it moves, until you accept the fact that a Goldeneye-style FPS could actually run at a playable framerate, instead of giving you the impression that somebody slipped a few Quaaludes in your drink.
Full article
Movie (13.5 MB)




August 25, 2000

New Movie reviews - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:21 PM, EDT
This week Aaron reviews: Bring it On, Art of War and What Lies Beneath
Check them out


New Summoner screenshot - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:21 PM, EDT
Another screenshot of Volition's PS2 RPG Summoner has been released:
Screenshot


Motor Mayhem screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:20 PM, EDT
Gamefan posted new screens of Infogrames' car combat game, Motor Mayhem:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here for the rest


Quake3 info - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:19 PM, EDT
id Software's CEO Todd Hollenstead updated his .plan with some info on the recently announced PS2 port of Quake III:

I've had several requests for information about the Q3A port to PS2, so I'm just going to put the generic info here:

It's being done by EA and does involve some of their London employees (Bullfrog), but other people from other teams are involved as well. The release date is "when it's done", but everyone knew that already ;-)
It's still very early in the development process so we are still exploring what we can add to the PS2 version and what it's limitations will be. Our goal with the game will be to make
a fun game for PS2 players, but not necessarily mirror what is available on the DC or PC. As on all ports of our games, we will oversee the development process.

There will be more detailed information available as time goes on, but we're excited about getting started and seeing what all can be accomplished.



Onimusha: Demon Warrior movies & screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:17 PM, EDT
Gamespot kicked up two movies and 70 screens of Capcom’s samurai action adventure Onimusha.
Go here for the goods.
IGN also smacked up some movies of the game here.


Delphine plans Moto Racer for PS2 - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:18 PM, EDT
According to IGN, there will be a fourth game in the Moto Racer series coming to the PS2.


Swing Away Golf movies - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:18 PM, EDT
IGN posted movies of T&E Software’s golf game.
Go here to check them out


August 24, 2000

Wild Wild Racing screens & website - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:43 PM, EDT
I received new screens of Rage’s PS2 Racer, Wild Wild Racing:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Rage is also launching its Wild Wild Racing Website today.


Wipeout Fusion screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:42 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK posted 9 new screens of Psygnosis’ PS2 Wipeout game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here for the rest


Jake Simpson Interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:35 PM, EDT
Evil Avatar kicked up an interview with Raven Software programmer Jake Simpson.
Here’s a bit:

Evil: Right, but the game still has to be coded to take advantage of those controllers in advance right?

Jake Simpson: Yeah - but trust me, it's not a hard thing. If you are going to produce a 3rd of 1st person game and you don't provide support for them then you should be shot. I dropped mouse support into what I'm doing in about an hour flat.

Evil: Awesome. Good news for PC gamers who also want to buy a console. But, most console gamers will still have to make due with the default controller. It will be all they know how to do.
You working on SoF for PS2? :-)

Jake Simpson: I can't tell you what I'm doing, but it isn't SOF. We don't do our own ports any more - they are always farmed out to other companies. Activision views us as an original content house - we are expected to produce new stuff all the time.
Full interview




European PS2 price cut early 2001? - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:36 PM, EDT
reports that there might be a price cut for the European PS2 next year.
Here’s a bit of the article:

But Deering promised a price cut could be on the cards: "If the exchange rate changes dramatically by early next year, then we can pass on the result - we'll always do it.





Acclaim Ferrari game canned - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:31 PM, EDT
FGN reports that Acclaims PC/PS2 Ferrari game has been canned.
A slice of the article:

"Instead, the company will continue to focus its efforts on the development of high-quality, next-generation product for PlayStation 2, Xbox and Gamecube, and marketing efforts for its upcoming releases.”
Full article




Jaleco's TGS lineup revealed - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:31 PM, EDT
According to Gamespot, Jaleco will show both Dream Audition 2 and Carrier at Tokyo Game Show.


Phil Harrison discusses PS2 support - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:32 PM, EDT
Gamespot also had a chat with SCEA's Phil Harrison discussing the number of PS2 titles in development.
A slice:

In fact, 31 third-party games and one first-party game - likely Gran Turismo 2000 - will be ready for launch. However, all 32 games will not be released at launch. According to Harrison, "It will be a number less than that, as [Sony] plans on providing a steady stream of game releases even after launch."
Full article




More Madden NFL 2001 media - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:32 PM, EDT
IGN posted more screens and movies of EA's Madden game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here for the rest


FIFA 2001 Major League Soccer screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:31 PM, EDT
IGN also posted 30 new screens of EA’s PS2 FIFA game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here for the rest


Unison preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:26 PM, EDT
IGN posted a preview of Tecmo’s dancing game, Unison
Here’s a bit:

That design sense is what takes the fore to begin with, in the game's character art and plans for a story (yes, a story in a dancing game). 200 years in the future, a rigorously controlled musical regime dominates public entertainment, and dancing in particular is strictly prohibited by Ducker, the municipal entertainment dictator. The most notorious musical enemies of the state are "Unison," four outlaws who broadcast a pirate TV show filled with righteous dancing action to counteract Ducker's control over the people - you take control of Unison in their quest to liberate the masses through rhythm action.
Full article




August 23, 2000

Mailbag updated - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 5:36 PM, EDT
Yes, it’s true. The mailbag has finally been updated.
Check it out


New Smuggler’s Run screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:36 PM, EDT
I received (thanks Peter) new screens of Rockstar Games’ Smuggler’s Run:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5, pic #6
Box Art


Midnight Club preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:34 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK posted a preview of Rockstar Games’ PS2 racer.
Here’s a bit:

Rockstar has described the cities of New York and London as caricatures of their real-life counterparts and I'd have to say that the description is spot on. Significant landmarks are all present and correct and in more or less the right positions but all of the boring stuff in-between has been filled in with generic shop fronts and the like.
Screens:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5
Full article & more screens




New Summoner screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:32 PM, EDT
C&VG posted new screens of Volitions RPG, Summoner:
pic #1, pic #2

Summoner Watch posted four Summoner screens.


SW: Starfighter interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:30 PM, EDT
Gamespot posted a recorded interview with Project Manager Daron Stinnett about the upcoming PS2 Star Wars game Starfighter.


Titanium Angels movie - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:22 PM, EDT
Gamespot also kicked up a movie of SCi Entertainment's PS2 action-adventure game, Titanium Angels:
Movie (26.9 MB)


New media at IGN - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:19 PM, EDT
IGN smacked up new screens and movies of a few games, so I’ll just give the links to the different articles:

NASCAR 2001 movies & screens

ESPN NFL Prime Time movies

Unreal Tournament screens

Oddworld: Munch's Oddysee screens


Infogrames' PS2 games - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:20 PM, EDT
IGN had a look at some of the PS2 games Infogrames is publishing.
A slice of the article:

After departing from their PS2 bashing at E3, the folks at Oddworld have gotten down to business and have created more playable levels, have solved anti-aliasing, and are looking to deliver a gorgeous, funny, and visionary game with Munch's Oddysee, which we saw and played today. This game is irresistible.
Full article




August 22, 2000

Powerful Pro Baseball 7 review - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:47 PM, EDT
We added a review of Konami’s PS2 baseball game.
A bit:

Anyone used to the Triple Play or World Series Baseball series is accustomed to realism; realistic graphics, realistic sound, and realistic heads. Upon watching this game's FMV introduction sequence you will probably ask yourself "How do these players get their heads off their pillows in the morning? They must weigh 80 pounds!"
I love RBI baseball, and while the players in that are not the most physically fit you might find in a baseball game, they look like fine tuned Olympic athletes compared to these fellas. Their feet, which are about half the size of their heads aren't even attached to their bodies. That said, the intro is nicely done, although it is nothing that couldn't have been done on the Playstation.
Full review




NFL GameDay 2001 on PS2 - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:46 PM, EDT
Sony has now officially announced NFL GameDay 2001 for the PS2.
Here’s a bit of the press release:

The original football franchise for the PlayStation game console raises the bar to a new level this fall as NFL GameDay 2001 takes gamers to gridiron trenches with unparalleled graphics, gameplay and NFL realism with the release of GameDay for PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system. Player-specific models are detailed so that every player looks like his real-life counterpart, including facial features with varying facemask styles, shoulder pad types, armbands and protective neck rolls.
Full press release (thanks to GamingFuture)




Dead or Alive 2: Hardcore screens - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 3:39 PM, EDT
Gamin Age smacked up 19 new screens of the US version of DOA2:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5
Go here for the rest


Interview with Magical - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:40 PM, EDT
Core had a chat with Magical Company director Masakazu Yanai about Magical’s upcoming PS2 sports lineup.
Here’s a bit:

CoreMagazine.com: Magical Sports Baseball is described as a 'high-school league' baseball title. Did you include actual teams and players from the Japanese high-school league or create fictional teams altogeter?

Yanai-san: The player design and stadiums are modeled after the Japanese high-school league, but all the players are fictitious. There's more than 4,000 high-school teams, so it would have been impossible to include them all.
Full article




ICO preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:39 PM, EDT
Gamespot posted a preview of Sony’s action/adventure game, ICO.
A slice:

Gameplay generally follows the basic platform standards, but that isn't to say there won't be innovation in ICO. Besides the prerequisite capabilities of the main character to run, jump, duck, dodge, and perform multiple attacks, perhaps the most striking element is what's not in the game - any text or dialogue whatsoever. In a unique move - especially when you consider its puzzler nature - SCE is attempting to use a dynamic camera system to narrate the story of the game. This means that the camera will zoom in on important details and focus itself on certain items to give visual clues. This more subtle approach to the storytelling will be a refreshing change if it is accomplished with the grace the developers promise.
Full preview




Titanium Angels screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:32 PM, EDT
Gamespot also kicked up screens of Sony’s action/adventure game, Titanium Angels:
pic #1, pic #2
Go here for more screens and info


SW: Starfighter impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:32 PM, EDT
IGN posted their impressions along with screens and movies of Lucasart’s PS2 Star Wars game.
Here’s a slice:

In the five levels I saw today, a few aspects stood out that weren't as noticeable at E3. The game does control rather simply. Players use the left analog buttons to handle steering and the L2 and R2 buttons to control speed, while the secondary analog handles the ship's pitch and yaw. While the game is running at a relatively slow frame rate at present, several levels demonstrated the chosen Naboo fighter's sleek control, precision and handling.
Full article




New Summoner media - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:31 PM, EDT
IGN also posted new screens and movies of Volition’s RPG, Summoner.


Red Faction preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:30 PM, EDT
DailyRadar posted a preview of Volition’s PC/PS2 first-person-shooter, Red Faction.
A bit:

What's most exciting, though, is the release of Volition's Geo Mod engine, allowing for realtime, arbitrary geometry modification. Put another way, you can blow things up -- all sorts of things. While we haven't had a chance to test this out for ourselves, the potential for entirely new forms of destruction is huge. Imagine hiding in wait for a squad of Ultor goons, then bringing select chunks of ceiling down on them with a well-placed rocket. Environmental destruction won't be limited to caverns, though. Most of the screens we've seen so far detail subterranean shootouts with squads of Ultor thugs and vehicles, but we know that gamers will be able to take the fight to the pristine Ultor labs on the Martian surface and even the satellites orbiting above.
Full preview




August 21, 2000

Movie Reviews - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:59 PM, EDT
This week Aaron reviews: The Cell, Godzilla 2000 and The Original Kings of Comedy.


SW: Starfighter - Comments (3)
Posted by @ 6:59 PM, EDT
Lucasart released a new screenshot of its PS2 Star Wars: Episode 1 game:Screenshot
They also updated the "Ask the Team" section:

Has programming for the PlayStation 2 been substantially easier or harder as compared to coding for another platform such as the PC or Mac?

In many respects we've reached the point where building games for the next-generation consoles is very similar to building PC games. The development tools and language support have improved so much that most of the day-to-day work closely resembles PC development. Where the PC and PS2 part company is in the approachability of their graphics subsystems. The PS2's graphics pipe is an extremely complicated beast and it often requires a tremendous investment in time and effort to get the desired effect. Thankfully the Starfighter team has been blessed with the expertise of two of the company's most experienced graphics programmers (now PS2 experts); these guys have made the development process much easier for the rest of the programming team.



International Superstar Soccer impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:53 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK posted some impressions of Konami’s PS2 soccer game ISS 2000.
A slice:

A brand new feature for ISS 2000 is the oddly named Success Mode. I was expecting to this to be little more than the equivalent of the Survival Mode found in many beat 'em-up titles. Imagine my surprise when I discovered an RPG of sorts residing on the menu screen of my favourite footie game.

In Success Mode you play the role of a single footballer that you create, who starts out at a distinctly mediocre club with the goal of making it to the big leagues. You have conversations with coaches, fellow players and even your mum in-between matches and you even have to keep up a decent training regime if you want to stay on your boss' good side. The matches in this mode are initially played on pitches far less spectacular than you'll be used to and with far smaller crowds - the gameplay is no less exciting though.
Full article




Wild Wild Racing impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:51 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK also posted impressions of Rage’s Wild Wild Racing.
Here’s a bit:

The handling of the vehicles is extremely realistic and, as such, relatively difficult to pick up the first few times you play. The loose surfaces that you're racing on don't help matters and if you attempt to approach Wild Wild Racing in the same way as other racing games you'll find yourself facing the wrong way and smashing into walls on a frustratingly regular basis. Practice proves extremely rewarding though, and the satisfaction you'll get from winning a race after sliding around every corner successfully makes it all worthwhile. There are also numerous bonus vehicles and items to be unlocked, although most of these are obtained in races other than the single and championship races.
Screens:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5
Full article & more screens




The Bouncer screens - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 6:49 PM, EDT
Gamespot kicked up new screens of Square’s The Bouncer:
pic #1, pic #2
Go here for more


G-Saviour screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:47 PM, EDT
Core posted screens of Sunrise Interactive’s mech title G-Saviour:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4


Circus Maximus - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:48 PM, EDT
IGN posted information about Hasbro's Chariot racing game, Circus Maximus
A bit:

This particular title mixes racing with combat in full 3D and with realistic physics and powerful PS2 graphics. Players can vie as either the chariot driver or the well-armed warrior in a chariot of hier or her choice. Players can play against the computer or human challengers.
Full article




Madden NFL 2001movies - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:48 PM, EDT
IGN also smacked up nine more movies of EA’s Madden.


Summoner screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:47 PM, EDT
Voodooextreme fired up four new screens of Volition’s PC/PS2 RPG, Summoner:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4


Seven screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:46 PM, EDT
Namco recently released screens of its new PS2 RPG, Seven: (The games 2D graphic is hand-drawn)
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5, pic #6


Armored Core 2 review - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:43 PM, EDT
This time it is the boys over at DailyRadar that review From Software’s mech fighter.
Here’s a bit:

The extremely intricate mech-building system also returns to AC2. Players can customize the arms, legs, torso, weapons, radar, head, jet booster and much more. However, making modifications isn't as simple as it initially seems. When constructing a mech, there are many factors players must take into account. For example, if a player wishes to construct a light mech, equipping it with heavy firepower will be impossible since it will make the mech overweight. If anything is unbalanced, like the weight or power consumption, the mech can't be used. To make things even more difficult, parts will be limited by the player's money.
Full review




SCi Announces PS2 Racer - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:43 PM, EDT
DailyRadar also reports that UK-based Climax group will develop its Mille Miglia racing title for PS2.
A slice of the article:

The Mille Miglia event takes place between Brescia in Southern Italy, and Rome in the North every May. The next-gen game will be developed at Climax's Brighton, UK, studios and will concentrate on the classic 1929-1957 period of the race with such cars as the Aston Martin DB2 Berlinetta, the Ferrari 860 Monza Spider Scaglietti and the Mercedes 300 SLR all being available for gamers to drive around Italy's rural roads.
Full article




Soldier Of Fortune for PS2 - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:43 PM, EDT
Last week Gamefan had a chat with Pipe Dream.
Here’s the interesting part:

GFO: Can you give us the scoop on your current development projects? What consoles are you supporting, and why?

David: We are currently working on the Rainbow Six sequel, Rogue Spear for the DreamCast. Also in the DreamCast works are the classics Frogger 2 and Q*Bert. For PS2 we are working on Soldier of Fortune.
Full interview




August 18, 2000

GIFT for the PS2 - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 11:48 AM, EDT
French games publisher Cryo will launch its 3D-action adventure game GIFT for PC and Game Boy in November. A PS2 version of the game will be released in early 2001.
Here’s some info on the game, cut n’ pasted from the press release:

Gift is a breathtakingly innovative and altogether different kind of 3D-arcade action/adventure game that breaks the mould and depicts the adventures of a new affectionate and mischievous hero, Gift. Developed by Cryo's new in-house development team Eko Software, plans are afoot to exploit GIFT as a global brand, synonymous with video gaming.

Cryo UK's MD, Stuart Furnival, "We've taken some of the elements from Crash Bandicoot and Tomb Raider, and developed a hybrid of the platform and action adventure genres to create a contemporary, sophisticated and unique game."
Go here fore more information




Dance Summit 2001 screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 11:44 AM, EDT
Gamespot posted screens of Enix Dance game, Dance Summit 2001:
pic #1, pic #2
Go here for more screens


More Madden NFL 2001 media - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 11:39 AM, EDT
Gamespot also posted new screens and movies of EA’s Madden game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here for the rest


Seven preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 11:37 AM, EDT
IGN kicked up some info on Namco’s recently announced RPG, Seven
Here’s a bit:

The proper title of the game appears to be "Seven - Morumosu's Cavalry Corps," a transliterated mouthful that encompasses some of the game's backstory, present setting, and main characters. "Seven" refers to seven great heroes, warriors who took up seven legendary weapons to drive a legion of demons from the world of Akurarind. One thousand peaceful years passed after the cataclysm, but the millennial anniverary of their victory is not going to be a pleasant celebration. The demons are returning, and mankind will be tried once again.
Full preview




Wild Wild Racing interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 11:40 AM, EDT
IGN posted an interview with Wild Wild Racing producer Kristian Ramsay-Jones.
A slice:

IGNPS2: So why did you decide to go for an off-road experience rather than a track based game?

KR-J: The game started from an off-road engine, so we inherited that at the start. The game engine allowed us to get right in and start making tracks. To give you an idea we got this last August, and in September we began to make tracks. We had our first tracks up and running by November. Each of the tracks are big, at about three minutes each, so it can really take a long time to build a level. Also we wanted to get some exploration element into the game as well, some sense of not knowing where the track is going. Short cuts that open up, so you have to explore all the time and the courses can keep on changing.
Full interview




Army Men: Sarge's Heroes 2 screens - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 11:39 AM, EDT
IGN also posted screens of 3DO’s PS2 Army Men title:
pic #1, pic #2
Go here fore screens & info


August 17, 2000

Smuggler's Run interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:55 PM, EDT
GameFusion kicked up an interview with Jeronimo Barrera, Smugglers Run's producer.
Here’s a bit:

What does it take to lose? Obviously if you're ride gets trashed you won't be able to continue racing but can cops force you to stop and make the bust?

"There are two ways for your mission to end. One is to run out of time, obviously. The second is to run out of energy. You have an energy bar, and when you take damage or do big jumps it takes it down. It does refill however, over time, but if you're almost out of energy and a cop smashes into you you'll get busted. If you lose a lot of energy from an opposing gang you'll 'damage out' but that's really like a time penalty and you'll sit on the terrain for a little bit, smoking, and then your health will pop back up to about a quarter of a bar.”
Full interview




Dead or Alive 2: Hardcore movie - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:52 PM, EDT
Gaming Age posted a movie of the US version of DOA2:
Movie (16.2 MB)
To download smaller parts of the movie go here.


Wild Wild Racing screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:52 PM, EDT
Gamefan posted four new screens of Rage’s PS2 racer:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4


Madden NFL 2001 impressions - Comments (3)
Posted by @ 6:50 PM, EDT
Dailyradar posted their impressions of EA’s PS2 madden game.
A slice:

Off the field, the graphics are just as spectacular. The stadiums look absolutely fantastic and the polygonal characters on the sidelines make the game feel like a real football game. It's amazing how much impact a little detail like that has on a game's realism.

The control is incredibly complex and offers a world of different in-game options. If we have any complaints about the control whatsoever, it would be that the complexity is, at first, a bit daunting. In fact, certain controls switch as you go from offense to defense. This causes a great deal of confusion and requires new players to keep the manual close at hand at all times.
Full article




Dynasty Warriors 2 review - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:50 PM, EDT
The boys over at Gamespot smacked up their review of Koei’s samurai action game, giving it a 7.8 score.
Here’s a bit:

At the beginning of every stage, a map of the battlefield is displayed with the locations and quantities of troops from your kingdom's battalion, as well as those of the enemy. A little bit of strategy helps in playing the game, but as your level increases, you can pretty much overpower enemies all by yourself. Cutting off enemy lines to prevent them from calling in reinforcements and defeating enemy generals to decrease morale are the fastest ways to increase your level and finish the stages quickly.
Full review




RC Revenge Pro screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:49 PM, EDT
Gamespot also posted screens of Acclaim’s recently announced PS2 RC car racing game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here for info & more screens


Ready 2 Rumble: Round 2 media - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 6:52 PM, EDT
Gamefan posted new screens of Midway’s PS2 boxing game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here for more
IGN posted new movies of the R2R2 here.


New RPG from Nippon Software - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:47 PM, EDT
According to MagicBox, Nippon Software is working on a new PS2 RPG called "Angel's Present: Marle Kingdom Story", the 3rd installment of the popular musical drama RPG (Rhapsody in US).


August 16, 2000

FIFA 2001 Major League Soccer preview - Comments (7)
Posted by @ 7:14 PM, EDT
We added a preview of EA’s PS2 soccer game, FIFA 2001.
Here’s a bit:

The AI has been enhanced to give teammates the intelligence they need to properly support the player with the ball so passing options should be more accessible. This should also enable players to use some real fancy tactics for getting past their opponents. Players also stay in position more often and don't get all bunched up on the field.
Full preview
You can also check out our review of the Japanese version of FIFA here.




Smuggler's Run preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:17 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK posted a preview of Rockstar Games’ PS2 racer, Smugglers Run.
Here’s a bit:

In some of the later missions fellow gang members in vehicles of your choosing will accompany you. It's not actually possible to issue them with instructions at this stage but they do a pretty good job of keeping your enemies off your back. Wingmen are also present in some of the multiplayer games and the quality of their AI will, at times, have you thinking that you're playing as part of an online team. There are currently six different vehicle types that can be used by the player (not including those found in ambient traffic) which include buggies, trucks and rally cars. All of these have their own advantages and disadvantages, with durability proving to be at least as important as speed.
Full preview & screens




Cool Pool: Billiards Master screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:17 PM, EDT
Gaming Age posted new screens of Take-Two’s recently announced Cool Pool: Billiards Master:
pic #1, pic #2
Go here for more


New Summoner screenshot - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:12 PM, EDT
A new screenshot of Volition’s PS2 RPG has been released:
Screenshot


Interview with Imagineer - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:11 PM, EDT
Core kicked up an interview with managing director Chicora-san and staff supervisor Ms. Morishige discussing development on their upcoming PS2 puzzle title AquaAqua.
A slice:

Question: What's changed the most from the original Wetrix?

Morishige-san: It was difficult to grasp the concept of the original. We made it more clear on the Nintendo 64, where you simply competed for a high score. The theme of the PlayStation2 incarnation is 'Earth Creation,' with enhanced graphics and new stages.

Question: Can you explain the game-play?

Morishige-san: You have to build land in patterns to trap water and form lakes. If you pile up too much land, you'll have an earthquake. It's a balancing act between making small and large lakes.
Full interview




SSX movie - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:11 PM, EDT
Gaming Age posted a movie of EA’s snowboarding title:
Movie (14.7 MB)


Madden NFL 2001 media - Comments (3)
Posted by @ 7:10 PM, EDT
IGN posted new screens and movies of EA’s PS2 Madden game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here more screens & movies


Gun Griffon Blaze review - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:09 PM, EDT
IGN also posted a review of Game Arts’ mech-fighter Gun Griffon Blaze.
A bit:

Being agile contraptions, your HIGH-MACS can fly for a limited amount of time, but you're required to maintain forward or backward velocity when airborne. This makes targeting ground-based targets a tricky proposition, though you'll eventually get it with copious practice. Your altitude also decays as soon as you take to the skies, and you'll hit the ground after around fifteen seconds of flight.
Full review




August 15, 2000

Cool Pool: Billiards Master - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:27 PM, EDT
Take-Two announced today that it will bring Cool Pool: Billiards Master to the PS2 this fall.
A bit from the press release:

"We are pleased to announce Cool Pool: Billiards Master for PlayStation 2," said Larry Muller, COO of Take-Two Interactive. "Fans of the sport of pool and billiards will surely be delighted with the amazing gameplay and realism that Cool Pool: Billiards Master has to offer."

The Lost info - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:27 PM, EDT
FGN posted a small blurb about Irrational Games’ PS2 RGP, The Lost:

Ken revealed that he learned valuable lessons from System Shock 2 when he was making The Lost. He said, "It is our general opinion that System Shock 2 was pretty hard to learn at the beginning. The Lost, on the other hand, while having tons of depth, scales that depth much better throughout the game. When you start the game, you can only be Amanda, our main character, and you can only do a small amount of what Amanda can do throughout the game. As the character acquires more abilities, the game will naturally become more complex and interesting. But we’re burning the midnight oil to make sure the game never gets ahead of the gamer."
Full article




Raven interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:26 PM, EDT
PSXNation smacked up an interview with Raven's Jake Simpson, talking about his experience developing for the PS2.
Here’s a bit:


Is the programming for PS2 so hard that it will hinder making a good game?

Jake: As with any new machine everyone has a 'ramp up time' in terms of getting familiar with the hardware, what it does, how to get the best out of it and so on. I'd say for most PC developers this is going to be much steeper than for those who are used to getting close to the metal. With the PSX2 its exacberated by the fact that it has some on the face of it strange architecture. PC developers are not used to having to program Vector Units directly, or dealing with DMA channels, or streaming texture info directly into video ram - there are API's to do all that for them. There is some understanding required, and concepts that are not instantly graspable in all their nuances by those facing something like this for the first time.
Full interview




Tokyo Game Show games - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:25 PM, EDT
Gamespot kicked up a list with the games that will be shown at the Tokyo Game Show.
IGN also posted a list of PS2 games that will be shown.


Dynasty Warriors 2 review - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:29 PM, EDT
Gaming Age posted a review of Koei’s Dynasty Warriors 2.
A bit:

However, instead of coming in the form of an RPG or strategy game (as it usually does), Shin Sangokumusou is a scrolling 3D beat 'em up where you get to control one of nine of the historical characters, including Guang Yu and the irrepressibly drunk Zhang Fei. This in itself should have fans wild with excitement.
Full review




Acclaim reveals two PS 2 launch titles - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 4:28 PM, EDT
Two games from Acclaim will be available at the US PS2 launch, 26th Oct.
A slice from the press release:

“Acclaim is pleased to announce that the company will support the launch of the PlayStation 2 beginning with Super Bust-A-Move and RC Revenge Pro,” said Evan Stein, Brand Director at Acclaim Entertainment. “Armed with a dedicated brand following and strong sales history, both games deliver simple, yet highly entertaining and addictive gameplay that appeal to a mass consumer audience.”
Thanks to Gamefan for the info.




Surfroid review - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:28 PM, EDT
IGN posted a review of ASCII’s surfing game, Surfroid.
A slice:

Well, apparently I should eventually get to the gameplay. I guess I have been putting it off, because it's so damn ba...well, OK, it's horrib.... How best to word this? It's interesting... Oh! One more novelty is that the game comes with its own surfboard. Yesssirrree! In the package you receive your very own finger surfboard that fits over the two analog controllers, and which you need to play this game. I'll explain why in a second. The surfboard idea is at least neat.
Full review




Street Fighter EX3 Speeds Up for US - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:27 PM, EDT
IGN also reports that Capcom’s SFEX3, will be fixed for the US release. No slowdowns etc.
Here’s a bit of their article:

There is a four-point laundry list of improvements that Americans can look forward to come October 26, 2000. The first and most significant of the changes is the acceleration of frame rates and the subsequent improvement in character response. In that scenario, the American version has been "fixed," or as a Capcom representative puts it, "massively improved." "There is no slowdown anymore, none," said Capcom. "I've been playing through it and I haven't seen any section with slowdown in it."
Full article




New DOA2: Hardocre details - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:26 PM, EDT
Dailyradar revealed new features in the US version of DOA2:
* New costumes, moves, and cut scenes
* Improved lighting and effects
* Six new tag-team levels
* All new playable characters, including Tengu and others!
* Localized English subtitles and voiceovers
* Mix and match Japanese and English subtitles and voiceovers
* CG art gallery
Full article


New RPG from Namco - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:21 PM, EDT
MagicBox posted first details on a new RPG from Namco:
"Seven ~ Moralus's Cavalry Troop (rough translation), will be Namco's first PS2 title to be released in DVD format, and on the graphics side, the game will use hand drawn / Disney cartoon style 2D graphics and animation."
Go here fore more info


August 14, 2000

Star Wars: Starfighter preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:33 PM, EDT
We added a preview of the PS2 Star Wars title, Starfighter.
A slice:

Your ultimate goal will be to break through the defenses and destroy the mothership to save the planet. The story will unfold throughout the twenty some missions in the game and feature an equal number of ships to fly as well, although details on them are sketchy.
Full preview




Stunt Driver preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:32 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK kicked up a preview of Climax’s PS2 racer.
Here’s a bit:

The game sports several different modes - quick race, single race, championship, time attack, test drive, and scenario. Most of the modes are your standard fare, while the test drive and scenario modes are still somewhat of a mystery. They will probably require you to complete certain objectives in predetermined orders. Additionally, the game will most likely feature a track editor that will let you create tracks in any way you desire.
Two screens:
pic #1, pic #2
Full preview & more screens




Warriors Of Might And Magic screens - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 2:30 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK also posted 3 screens of 3DO’s Might and Magic game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3


Disney's Dinosaur Roars screens - Comments (3)
Posted by @ 2:33 PM, EDT
More from Gamespot UK... This time it is screens of Ubi Sotf’s PS/PS2/DC Disney game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here for more screens


Project Eden Interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:29 PM, EDT
Nextgame smacked up an interview with Core Design about their PC/PS2 game, Project Eden.
A bit:

Nextgame.it: We heard our characters will have different skills. Are these abilites fixed or could we raise them with the experience, as in a RPG?

Project Eden Team: The abilities of the characters are fixed throughout the game - it is the problems they encounter that get more difficult. There is no experience or other RPG type statistics, as we prefer to leave it to the player's skill. For example, hacking a computer requires playing a mini-game that gets harder as the game progresses, so it is up to the player to get more experienced at this game rather than their character.
Full preview




New Silpheed: The Lost Planet screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:23 PM, EDT
Gaming Age posted new screens of Game Arts’ and Treasure’s PS2 shooter:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5
Go here for more screens


Gungriffon Blaze impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:23 PM, EDT
Core posted their impressions of GameArts’ mech-shooter.
Here’s a slice:

With Gungriffon Blaze, GameArts brings another fairly solid title into the recently glutted mech-shooter market. While the game looks almost sim-like at first glance, the frenetic, distinctly action-driven missions reveal a pure shooter lurking just beneath the surface. Nicely modeled mechs, good control, eye-popping particle effects and the chance to run wild on a lot of breakable stuff with a 30-meter tall, hulking killing machine, are sure to delight fans of the original Gungriffon and mass-destruction enthusiasts in general. Some serious questions remain about this game’s shelf life though.
Full article




August 11, 2000

Movie reviews - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 5:39 PM, EDT
Reviews of Bless the Child and Hollow Man have been added.


Criterion PS2 racer update - Comments (8)
Posted by @ 5:39 PM, EDT
C&VG posted a small update on Criterio’s racer:

“Take a look at these awesome shots taken from their concept AVI, which is truly amazing. Criterion maintain that they can bring a look to the final game matching the quality of these renders, and from what we've seen they are more than capable of this claim - the game is stunning.”
One of the screens





Interview with Imagineer - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:38 PM, EDT
Core kicked up an interview with Imagineer talking about Wild Wild Racing.
Here’s a bit:

Question: Interesting, so the car will react differently in rain?

Yasuda-san: Yes, it's awesome. [laughs..] I've had experiences where I've been driving in the rain on a mountain and my brakes didn't work well, and I wanted to express that nervous feeling in Wild Wild Racing. We're incorporating different friction coefficients depending on road conditions and weather, so mud and dirt can even effect braking.
Full interview




ESPN International Track & Field impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:37 PM, EDT
Gamespot posted their impressions of Konami’s PS2 Track & Field game.
Here’s a bit:

With a wide assortment of events, sharp visuals and sound, and gameplay that's more than mindless button mashing, ESPN International Track and Field is shaping up to be the most appealing track-and-field game yet. ESPN International Track and Field will hit store shelves this October.
Full article
Screens:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here fore more screens & movies




Oddworld: Munch's Oddysee info & media - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 5:34 PM, EDT
IGN posted some new information along with screens and movies of Oddword Inhabitants’ upcoming PS2 title.
A slice:

The game is up and running, with perfectly designed levels, but with not much in them. Just like so many PlayStation2 games, the first thing that's noticeable is the size, depth and scope of every level. It's like somebody finally permitted developers to design high roofs on houses, and then stretched out the length of the sky. The indoor levels we saw were simply huge, and the outdoor level we witnessed was even bigger. By simply opening up the levels this game instantly seemed massive, immersive, and intriguing.
Full article




Gun Griffon Blaze movies - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:35 PM, EDT
IGN also posted a movie of Game Arts’ mech game, Gun Griffon Blaze:
Movie (4 MB)
Capcom (they will publish the game) also released three smaller movies:
Movie1 (2.4 MB)
Movie2 (2.5 MB)
Movie3 (2.5 MB)


PS2 Boxing title announced - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 5:31 PM, EDT
Core reports that the Japanese developer NEW announced they're working on a PS2 boxing title, Victorious Boxing.
The game is scheduled for release this Fall in Japan.


August 10, 2000

Metal Gear Solid 2 vs. Onimusha - Comments (15)
Posted by @ 3:45 PM, EDT
Gamers.com posted an interview where Hideo Kojima and Keiji Inafune (producer of Capcom's upcoming Onimusha: Warlords for PS2) talk about the start of their careers in gaming, and the current progress of their latest projects.
Here’s a bit:

Kojima: With the PS2, the graphics capabilities are up, but developing for it is very difficult. Even making one room, there's a five-fold difference in the amount of labor it takes between the PS and PS2. But then what the user wants is 20 to 30 of those rooms that take five times the effort. If you take that head on, it will take three to four years to finish one game. That's the difficulty.

Inafune: We use all the people we can throw at the game, but it's still hard.

Interviewer: How many people are on the Onimusha development team currently?

Inafune: 50 people.

Kojima: Woah!

Interviewer: What about MGS2?

Kojima: We have 35 people.
Full interview




Thief III for PS2 - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 3:40 PM, EDT
Ion Storm recently announced Thief III for the PS2.
Here’s a bit of GIA’s article:

Spector said regarding the Thief III project, "With Thief, Looking Glass Studios created an entirely new kind of game and, in so doing, changed the face of gaming forever. We here in the Austin office are thrilled, proud and a bit humbled at the prospect of continuing and building on the work of the talented men and women who made Thief and Thief 2. Several of us cut our teeth working with those folks, our design philosophies were developed in collaboration with them and, plain and simple, we're fans ourselves. To all the other fans out there, we say: Rest easy. We respect the Thief tradition and we'll do everything in our power not only to live up to everyone's justifiably high expectations but to surpass them."
Full article




Timsplitters preview - Comments (3)
Posted by @ 3:35 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK posted a preview of Free Radical Design's first-person-shooter.
A slice:

Playing the game, the first thing that becomes apparent is that when it gets hectic it gets really hectic, with bad guys coming at you from all angles. Carter claims the AI is so strong the enemy bots will try and out-flank you, running around buildings so that they can attack from the rear. Also they have no fear of heights, so when creeping through a level trying not to get noticed (stealth plays a part) keep an eye on the tall buildings - chances are there'll be someone up there with a gun.
Full preview




Midnight Club screens - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 3:34 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK also posted new screens of Rockstar’s PS2 racer:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5
Go here for more


Summoner impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:32 PM, EDT
IGN kicked up some impressions along with screens and movies of Volition’s RPG, Summoner.
Here’s a bit:

When you're fighting these little fellows, you can't just sit and let battles unfold - to involve you in things a bit more, the combat system has been updated with a chaining technique reminiscent of Vagrant Story. When you land one strike on an opponent, a little infinity symbol appears briefly, during which time you have a chance to add another attack to that last one. You do this by tapping a D-pad direction - the four directions each correspond to an extra magical or physical attack. After that attack hits, another infinity appears, and you can try for a third hit, a fourth one, and so on. How effectively you can chain attacks depends on your character's abilities and weaponry.
Full article
Daily Radar also posted new Summoner movies.




Reiselied: Ephemeral Fantasia impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:29 PM, EDT
Gamespot posted their first impressions of Konami’s RPG.
Here’s a bit:

The character polygons are well made, but nothing else lives up to PS2 standards. The backgrounds are particularly drab and plain - you'll find that the towns are laid out in simple rows of houses, as if they were drawn on graph paper. When you come to the ocean, you'll find that it's just a plain blue mat, without any motion or distinctive waves at all.
Full article




Sunrise Hero R for PS2 - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:32 PM, EDT
According to MagicBox, Sunrise Interactive will release Sunrise Hero R for PS2 in Japan this November, the sequel of last year's popular robot battle simulation game for Dreamcast.


Sucker Punch makes a PS2 title - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:31 PM, EDT
IGN reports that the makers of Rocket: Robot on Wheels is working on an action-adventure platformer-style title for the PS2.


August 9, 2000

Tekken Tag Tournament Reader Review - Comments (27)
Posted by @ 4:05 PM, EDT
We added a reader review of TTT.


Surfroids screens - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 4:00 PM, EDT
ASCII posted two rather poor-quality screens of its PS2 surfing game:
pic #1, pic #2


Armored Core 2 movies - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:55 PM, EDT
Gamespot posted new movies of From Software’s mech title.


NHL 2001 screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:56 PM, EDT
IGN posted new screens of EA’s hockey game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5
Go here for more


Mobile Suit Gundam media - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 3:51 PM, EDT
IGN also posted screens and movies of Bandai’s Mech game.


Smuggler's Run screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:49 PM, EDT
Game Informer smacked up new screens of Rockstar’s PS2 racer:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here for the rest


New Reviews - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:39 PM, EDT
DailyRadar reviewed Konami’s Jikkyou World Soccer 2000.
Here’s a bit:

As ever, playing through balls (passes that split the defense) and sprinting are two integral facets of the gameplay. The results are seamless, with opportunities for seemingly impossible precision and highly complex teamwork arising regularly. And in the moments between major incidents, there is a coherence to proceedings that is unmatched by any other soccer sim (FIFA included). In the end, that's what counts.
Full review
IGN also posted some impressions and screens of this game here.

Reviews from IGN:

Dynasty Warriors 2
The goal of each battle is simple – get to the other side of the battlefield in one piece, and make sure the enemy commander gets skewered. But between you and your goal are several thousand enemy soldiers, and you’ll need to lead your troops into the thick of it before you can get close to your ultimate goal. As the game starts, you’re dropped onto the battlefield, and where you go and who you slaughter is entirely up to you.
Full review

Armored Core 2
Though the vast majority of the missions will take more than a few play-throughs to beat, most of them are well-designed, ranging from nighttime strikes on rival companies to chase sequences through dark tunnels. I have one complaint, though: if the Playstation 2 is capable of rendering enormous outdoor battle scenes, it sure isn’t evident here – most of the missions keep you locked into a tiny mission area, or stuck in cramped interiors. While Game Arts’ Gun Griffon Blaze has the player romping across miles of terrain, Armored Core 2 feels comparatively claustrophobic.
Full review

X-Fire
In terms of gunplay, X-Fire does not disappoint. Peeking around a corner, then somersaulting out into the open with a blazing machine-gun is enormously satisfying, and clearing out hordes of bad guys in one fell swoop just feels right. Aiming is facilitated with an automatic targeting reticule, which pops up whenever your crosshairs sweep into an enemy’s vicinity. This works well most of the time, but occasionally flubs up when you’re aiming at an enemy who’s standing on a higher level.
Full review




Dynasty Warriors 2 movies - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:34 PM, EDT
Core posted three new movies of Koei’s Dynasty Warriors 2:
Movie1 (5.5 MB)
Movie2 (5.5 MB)
Movie3 (2.2 MB)


August 8, 2000

Summoner interview - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 2:59 PM, EDT
Combat World posted an interview with Volition, talking about their PS2/PC RPG, Summoner.
Here’s a slice:

14. Who is the lead character? and some background? (how many characters to choose from?)

As I said before, Joseph is the main character. When he was a child a party of raiders attacked his village. To protect himself and his village he tried to summon a monster to attack the raiders. Unfortunately, he ended up summoning a demon, which massacred the raiders and his whole village. After that he vowed never to use his summoning ability again. In addition to Joseph there are 3 other characters that he encounters who join him. Flece, a thief who thinks only of money, Jekhar, a warrior who hails from the village that Joseph destroyed and has vowed to kill him, and Rosalind, a spell-casting monk-in-training, who is jealous of Joseph's summoning ability.
Full interview




World Soccer 2000 screens - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 3:02 PM, EDT
Core posted new screens of Konami’s PS2 soccer title:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5


DOA2: Hardcore media - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:56 PM, EDT
Daily Radar kicked up movie of the US PS2 version of DOA2, Dead Or Alive: Hardcore.
Movie (19.6 MB)
They took some screens from the movie which can be found here.


Ready 2 Rumble 2 movies - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:52 PM, EDT
IGN posted 10 new movies of Midway’s boxing game:
Movie1, Movie2, Movie3, Movie4, Movie5, Movie6, Movie7, Movie8, Movie9, Movie10
Go here for info on the game


August 7, 2000

Interview With SCEE President - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 4:45 PM, EDT
The lads over at Gamespot UK posted an interview with the SCEE president, Chris Deering.
Here’s a slice:

Deering, speaking after a hectic week dealing with speculation surrounding the price and launch date of the new platform, said: "We're very excited. There will be 150 titles in the first 6-8 months, forty between launch and Christmas and of those 40 between 5 and 10 at least will be Triple-A.”
Full article




Madden NFL 2001 preview - Comments (9)
Posted by @ 12:56 PM, EDT
We added a preview of EA’s PS2 Madden game.
A slice:

Another aspect of Madden, which has also been dramatically enhanced, is the game physics. It has been said that Madden 2001 will set the new standard, raising the bar of realism in sports games. Collisions for example, happen to be a major part of any football game and in Madden, collisions with players have a highly realistic and dynamic outcome.
Full preview




Movie reviews @ PS2 Central - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 12:55 PM, EDT
Our reviewer, Aaron, gets to see most movies before they come out and he’ll let you know if a movie was great or pathetic.
The movies reviewed this week are:
Space Cowboys, Coyote Ugly and The Replacements


Quake3 on PS2? - Comments (5)
Posted by @ 12:53 PM, EDT
Stomped kicked up an interview with id Sofware's CEO Todd Hollenshead.
Here’s a bit of the interview

Stomped: Any chance to see any other id products on other next-generation consoles like PS2, Dolphin or whatever they are going to call it, or Xbox?

Hollenshead: Well, we don't have dev kits for any of those yet so we haven't really started working on anything. I know that John Carmack is on the technical advisory board for Xbox but I really don't know what the lastest is on what the anticipated specs are for Dolphin and we really haven't put a lot of thought into it. But I think we will have an announcement pretty soon about plans for Quake 3 on the Playstation 2.
Full interview




Armored Core 2 impressions - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 12:50 PM, EDT
IGN slapped up some impressions of From Software’s mech fighter.
Here’s a bit:

This missions, which vary in location and goals, range from simply taking out some rogue robots at a factory to doing battle against 50 different mechs in an arena battle league that rewards you by how well you've ranked. Players are given credits for being successful in the missions that they can use to buy new parts for their mechs. This is one of the most important aspects of the game because there is a large amount of parts available that will surely please diehard mech junkies.
Full article




Cyber Tiger 2001 screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 12:48 PM, EDT
Gaming Age posted some screens of EA’s Cyber Tiger 2001:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here for more


Swing Away Golf screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 12:49 PM, EDT
Gaming Age also posted some screens of EA’s Swing Away Golf:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here for more


Wipeout Fusion movie - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 12:48 PM, EDT
IGN posted a movie of the PS2 Wipeout game:
Movie


August 4, 2000

PS2 European launch delay confirmed - Comments (39)
Posted by @ 7:11 AM, EDT
Today SCEE confirmed that the European PS2 launch has been delayed to November 24th.
Here’s a bit of the PR:

London 4th August 2000, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe today announced that it would be releasing its PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system at recommended retail prices of 299 in the United Kingdom, 2990 FF in France and 869 DM in Germany. All other European prices are aligned with the varying trade margins and VAT rates across the European markets.

SCEE also confirmed that due to unprecedented consumer demand for PlayStation 2 in Japan, it would be realigning the launch date in Europe to November 24th. Since its Japanese debut on March 4th 2000, a staggering 3 million PlayStation 2 units have been shipped, making it one of the most successful electronic entertainment product launches ever.
Full press release

SCEE also announced the prices for the PS2 outside US and Japan:
UK:
299
France:
2990 FF
Germany: 869 DM
Italy: 899K
Spain: 74.9K
Benelux: 1090
Benelux: 19.9K
Austria: 6390
Switzerland: 699
Ireland: 379
Australia: 749
NZ: 899


Dynasty Warriors 2 screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:14 AM, EDT
Core posted new screens of Koei’s action title:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4


X-Fire review - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 7:13 AM, EDT
Gamespot posted a review of EA’s action game, X-Fire.
Here’s a bit:

Though X-Squad has some good ingredients, it feels like it could have been better with more time in development. The game is fun in the beginning, but becomes a bit tedious after a few stages. It's similar to old FPS titles such as Doom and Quake where you run around hitting switches to unlock doors - elements that were exciting enough back in the day, but feel dated now since recent games have raised the bar with more in-depth gameplay. X-Squad attempts to provide this by making you the leader of a group and letting you give orders to other members of your team, but the soldiers end up really being useful only as decoys.
Full review


PS2 Launch title from Working Designs - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 7:08 AM, EDT
Working Designs has announced it will release a PS2 game Oct 26th. However, they didn’t say which game it was...


The Bouncer characters - Comments (8)
Posted by @ 7:08 AM, EDT
Daily Radar posted screens of the different characters in Squares action/RPG game, The Bouncer:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3


August 3, 2000

PS2 Euro launch delayed? - Comments (11)
Posted by @ 3:48 PM, EDT
The weekly trade newspaper CTW reports about a possible delay for the European PS2 launch.
Here’s a bit of the article:

Our European sister paper CTW Benelux this week stated that the console will now be launched on November 17th, rather than the originally slated October 26th, three weeks later than announced. CTW Benelux has reported that the main reason for the delay, according to Sony, is the production target for the United States.



Madden NFL 2001 screens - Comments (8)
Posted by @ 3:47 PM, EDT
EA released some new Madden screens:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5, pic #6


Activision's PS2 titles - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:49 PM, EDT
In a financial report from Activision posted yesterday some PS2 games was revealed.
Here’s the interesting part of the article:

``We look forward to the impending launch of PlayStation 2 in October and currently have 12 titles in various stages of development, including four extreme sports games -- Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3, Mat Hoffman's Pro BMX 2, Kelly Slater's Pro Surfer and Shawn Palmer's Pro Boarder Cross. We expect that the release of our first PlayStation 2 game, Orphen, will coincide with or shortly follow the platform's launch. We believe that Orphen will be a leading game for the PlayStation 2.''
Full report


New FIFA 2001 screens - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 3:49 PM, EDT
The Sports Gaming Network posted 29 new screens of EA’s soccer game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5
Go here for the rest


NBA Live 2001 Interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:44 PM, EDT
The Sports Gaming Network also kicked up a big interview with EA about its next NBA game.
Here’s a bit:

Q: Have the street courts been worked on at all? Any chance we'll see cars passing by as we play on the streets?

A: There is a brand new street court in the game for Live 2001, we recently reviewed it in the game and I have to say it looks amazing. We are hoping to get some moving objects going as well.
Full interview


Orphen movie - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:43 PM, EDT
Gamespot posted a movie of Activision’s adventure/RPG game, Orphen:
Movie


Interview With Tecmo's Team Ninja - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:41 PM, EDT
IGN posted an interview with Temco about the US version of DOA2 (DOA2: Hardcore), the PS2 and Ninja Gaiden.
Here’s a bit:

IGNPS2: It has been announced that DOA2: Hardcore will have a new graphics engine. Can you elaborate on that? Is it being created from the ground up for PlayStation 2? Or is Team Ninja just using the extra six months to enhance the engine that was used in the Japanese version of Dead or Alive 2 for PS2?

Team Ninja: We have made considerable improvement on the performance ability over the Japanese version. I think that the graphics engine of DOA2: Hardcore will be one of the few software that fully utilizes the capability of PS2.
Full interview


Outrage's PS2 projects - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:41 PM, EDT
Outrage is currently working on two projects. The first is an Adventure/Action game to be published by Interplay for the PS2. The second, which has not yet been signed to a publisher, is a Tactical Action game targeted at next-generation consoles.
Check out the official site for info on the games.


Famitsu review scores - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 3:40 PM, EDT
The Japanese mag Famitsu reviewed a few PS2 games.
The scores:
Xfire (7,7,8,8)
Dynasty Warriors 2 (8,8,7,8)
Armored Core 2 (8,8,8,9)
Thanks to IGN for the info.


August 2, 2000

New Summoner screenshot - Comments (9)
Posted by @ 6:51 PM, EDT
Volition released a new screen of the PS2 RPG, Summoner:
Screenshot


Gekikuukan Pro Baseball media - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 6:50 PM, EDT
Square posted new screens and movies of its PS2 baseball game.
Check out the official site for the goods.


All Star Pro Wrestling Review - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 2:05 PM, EDT
We posted a review of Square’s wrestling game.
A slice:

One thing I found amusing was that one of the most intimidating looking wrestlers in the game comes out to horrible Japanese pop music. Picture Kane coming out to Britney Spears and you'll get the picture.
Once the match starts, the games (not Triple H) problems are exposed. The overall pace of the game is very sluggish. The wrestlers approach each other slowly and once you have knocked the other guy down it is not difficult to kick him and keep him down for two minutes at a time. It is very frustrating watching your wrestler roll around on the mat, not having any control over what is going on. Once your wrestler begins to come to his senses he will get up on one knee. Most likely he will get kicked back onto the mat, but if you are lucky and you make it to your feet, your wrestler will probably be dazed, only able to limp around the ring.
Full review


Reflections announces Stuntman for PS2 - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:05 PM, EDT
‘Driver’ developer Reflections announced their new PS2 game, Stuntman.
Here’s a bit from article:

Reflections is calling on its illustrious heritage for its first PlayStation 2 title, now confirmed as Stuntman by the developer and publisher Infogrames. Based around the exploits of a rookie movie risk-taker, the game will take you from humble beginnings on B-movies to the dizzy heights of multi-million dollar Hollywood blockbusters.

"As you progress through the game the stunts get more difficult," said Reflections MD Martin Edmonson. "All the action is vehicle-based, not just involving cars."



Timesplitters screens - Comments (1)
Posted by @ 2:04 PM, EDT
also posted new screens of Free Radical’s first-person-shooter game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4


Wild Wild Racing screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:59 PM, EDT
The lads over at Gamespot UK posted new screens of Rage’s PS2 racer:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3
Go here fore more screens


X-Fire screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 2:02 PM, EDT
EA released some new screens of their action game, X-Fire:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5, pic #6, pic #7, pic #8, pic #9, pic #10, pic #11, pic #12


New movies from Gamearts - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:58 PM, EDT
GameArts posted movies of GunGriffon Blaze and Slipheed. All movies are in Real Movie format...

Sleepheed Movie (5 MB)

GunGriffon Blaze Movie1 (6.8 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie2 (0.8 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie3 (3.3 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie4 (2.1 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie5 (2.6 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie6 (1.5 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie7 (0.8 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie8 (0.9 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie9 (0.9 MB)
GunGriffon Blaze Movie10 (0.6 MB)


SSX media - Comments (3)
Posted by @ 1:53 PM, EDT
IGN kicked up tons of new screens and movies of EA’s snowboard-racer...
Some screens:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here fore more

also posted some screens of this game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4



EA contest - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:53 PM, EDT
EA is holding a contest where you can win a visit to EA’s European HQ. You will also be able to play EA’s PS2 games a month before they are released.


Square & online games - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:52 PM, EDT
Here an bit of an article from the Nikkei Industrial Daily Wednesday edition about Square and its online plans:

Square in January announced a project to develop an online gaming service on its Web site that will be accessible from personal computers, handheld devices and Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.'s PlayStation2 console. The service's revenue will come from a monthly membership fee of about 500 yen, game-playing fees of nearly 1,000 yen, and advertising and online product sales.

The reaction from the investment community has been lukewarm. Analysts estimate that to break even, Square will need to sign up 3.5 million gamers, about as many subscribers as leading Internet service provider Nifty Corp. An analyst at Commerz Securities (Japan) Co. questions whether Square will be able to bring in enough online revenue to cover the considerable costs of game development and servers to run the site.

The Bouncer website open - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:51 PM, EDT
Yesterday Square opened the official The Bouncer website.
Check it out


Jet Ion GP interview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:49 PM, EDT
GameSpot posted an interview with Matthew Paul, the producer at Crave Entertainment in charge of the US translation of Jet Ion GP (Hresvelgr in Japan)
Here’s a bit:

GS: Other than the frame rate, are there any other graphical enhancements being developed for the US version?

Paul: We've enhanced the tracks, added more "fireworks" as a reward when the player wins a race, and even changed the color of the tracks. We've also fixed the jagged edges and graphic flickering that I've seen in some PS2 games.
Full article


Red Faction: The Story Behind Parker - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 1:50 PM, EDT
IGN posted part1 of the story behind Voilition’s upcoming PC/PS2 first-person shooter.
Go here to check it out


August 1, 2000

Rayman 2 screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:48 PM, EDT
Gamespot UK posted some new screens of the PS2 Rayman title:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4
Go here for more screens


Galleon for PS2? - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:45 PM, EDT
Looks like there is a chance Confounding Factor adventure title will be released for the PS2.
Here’s a bit of article:

"It's up to Interplay to make the final decision," said Confounding Factor co-founder and Lara Croft creator Toby Gard. "It's no secret that we want to put Galleon out on as many platforms as possible, but I can't confirm or deny a PlayStation 2 version yet. But yes, we do have dev kits."



GT2000 next year - Comments (8)
Posted by @ 4:46 PM, EDT
According to , Sony insiders confirmed that Gran Turismo 2000 will ship early next year.


Starfighter screens - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 4:45 PM, EDT
Lucasarts released some new screens of the PS2 SW game:
pic #1, pic #2, pic #3, pic #4, pic #5, pic #6, pic #7


Sorcerous Stabber movie - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:42 PM, EDT
Core smacked up a movie of Kadokawa Shoten's action/shooter game:
Movie (10 MB)


More info on the GScube - Comments (2)
Posted by @ 4:42 PM, EDT
spoke to Criterion chief David Lau-Kee about the demos shown at SIGGRAPH expo.
Here’s a bit:

We showed a sequence from the Antz movie from PDI/Dreamworks, running in real-time, actual models and animation from the movie," he said. "It looked pretty damned cool: it was the bar fight scene from the movie, and you could navigate fully in 3D.

"In that specific demo, we had 140 fully animated 7,000 polygon ants inside a complex world which totalled over 1 million polys per frame at a sustained 60hz - about 65 million polys/sec. This is at HDTV resolution [1920 x 1080 x 60]. With some level-of-detail and other tricks, I guess we could drive 5-10 times that number of characters."



X-Squad screens - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:38 PM, EDT
IGN also kicked up two new screens of EA’s squad-based 3D shooter:
pic #1, pic #2


Project Eden preview - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:38 PM, EDT
DailyRadar posted a preview along with some screens of Core Design’s action/adventure game Project Eden.
Here’s a slice:

Throughout the adventure, as the plot (not yet disclosed by the secretive Core) untwines, players will be able to control various characters. In addition to the four basic cops -- Carter, Minoko, Andreas and Amber -- other human-controlled robots will be present. Switching control to other persons/robots is vital in order to succeed, so learning about characters' traits and abilities will be a must. The controllable robots are much smaller than the human characters, so infiltrating establishments is best accomplished with robotic forces.
Full preview


Munch's Oddysee Delayed - Comments (0)
Posted by @ 4:36 PM, EDT
According to IGN, Oddworld Inhabitants PS2 game, Munch's Oddysee has been delayed to Q2 next year.




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