Commander Fury

October 11, 2024 – SEGA is thrilled to announce that Metaphor: ReFantazio, the latest RPG from ATLUS’s Studio Zero, has released on PlayStation®4, PlayStation®5. About Metaphor: ReFantazio ・A New Undertaking That Captures the Essence of ATLUS ATLUS is a console game developer that was formed in 1986. It has garnered popularity across the globe, with its Persona series reaching 22 million* units sold worldwide. ATLUS will celebrate its 35th anniversary this year. *As of March 5, 2024 ATLUS has worked on many contemporary stories, such as Shin Megami Tensei and Persona, and provided players with its own unique worlds and experiences. After the immense success of Persona 5, ATLUS is now set to explore the realm of classic fantasy. A fantastical story that could not have been explored within the framework of modernity. This anniversary project offers a fresh new take on the fantasy RPG genre. Rather than seeking solace in the past, this new adventure has been driven by a philosophy of creativity and empathy and aims to break new ground. ・A Groundbreaking Project Helmed by Renowned Creators and Artists A team of internationally recognized creators, who have earned accolades at various game awards, have assembled for this project to develop a totally new fantasy RPG, including director Katsura Hashino, character designer Shigenori Soejima, and composer Shoji Meguro. The team behind Metaphor: ReFantazio has an illustrious history, having developed Persona 3, Persona 4, and Persona 5. Notably, Persona 5 has become the franchise’s biggest success, with 10 million units sold worldwide. *As of December 22, 2023 Creators: Director: Katsura Hashino (Shin Megami Tensei III Nocturne, Persona 3, 4, 5) Character Designer: Shigenori Soejima (Persona 3, 4, 5) Composer: Shoji Meguro (Shin Megami Tensei III Nocturne, Persona 3, 4, 5) Joining this incredible team of creators is a team of equally exceptional artists, all united in their goal to deliver an out-of-this-world production. Artists: Concept artist Kazuma Koda (NieR:Automata) View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Gauntlet runner designer Ikuto Yamashita (Neon Genesis Evangelion) View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image ・The Story, the Art and Sound, the Mechanics, All Unique Story: Lose track of time and immerse yourself. Mysterious and unpredictable events unfold in a realm replete with the anxieties and aspirations of its inhabitants, calling you on a grand journey with plenty to experience. Art and Sound: Distinctive and charming character designs. Beautiful and fantastical background art throughout the game’s world. With stylish UI based on Western painting tradition, even just browsing the menus provides a sense of excitement. In addition, the game provides a new musical experience with a blend of orchestra, world music, choir, and chants, a sound developed from a reinterpretation of religious music. Mechanics: View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image A unique battle system combining quick action with turn-based combat. An unbelievably comfortable play tempo and exhilarating graphics. Players are given a high degree of freedom and ability to strategize, realized through Archetypes, a mechanic at the pinnacle of party customization. Ride gauntlet runners on a journey to change the world. The Daily Life mechanics present in the Persona series have evolved, allowing you to experience an entirely new type of journey. The Game’s Story ・Setting A world separate from our own, inhabited by 8 different tribes. Within one corner of this world exists the Kingdom of Euchronia. The kingdom is an alliance of nations that began with its valiant first king and saw unification and governance over the ages by the powerful royal bloodline in its immense magical prowess. However, the kingdom began to decay over the long years, now deteriorating into a land without virtue divided by prejudice and disparity. In addition to the vicious animals roaming its vast territory, the land is inundated with mysterious creatures known as “humans,” meaning not even the smallest of safe spaces remains outside of the cities. Then, the kingdom’s prince and king are assassinated, bringing even further confusion and anxiety to its citizens who now have no ruler. ・Prologue A young man embarks on a journey to lift a curse, with a fairy by his side The Elda are a minority tribe shunned in the Kingdom of Euchronia. The protagonist, a young Elda, is traveling alongside his fairy partner, Gallica, to lift the curse placed upon the kingdom’s prince. There is only one way to lift the deadly curse that eats away at the prince: Take the life of its caster. As the young man travels across the vast continent, he will have many chance meetings, form bonds, and eventually learn the truth of the kingdom. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The curtain unfolds after a terrible incident shakes the entire kingdom.. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image ・Introduction A race for the throne decided by majority vote, imposed by the power of magic. Just over ten years have passed since the Kingdom of Euchronia’s crown prince was assassinated. Then, the king himself is cut down, leaving the kingdom in chaos without any ruler or heir to the throne. Who will be the next king? The sanctifex serving as head of the state religion, a lord or lady of a nearby nation, or perhaps a leader of the military…? As the royal funeral is carried out with various powerful parties all vying for the throne, a spell is unexpectedly cast at the funeral site. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Time is finite before my soul departs this benighted world… Come October, there shall be a reckoning. A Day of the Hero. Upon that day, whosoever hath truly earned the greatest faith of the citizenry… shall ascend to throne and crown by right of kings. Ringing in the sky was the voice of the king who had been declared dead. He had a grand spell set to activate upon his death that would pit every one of his citizens against one another in a race for the throne, to be decided by popular vote. The people descend into utter chaos at the thought of electing their own king for the very first time. However, our protagonist decides he must throw himself into the fray in order to accomplish his mission. And so begins the great race for the throne, to be carried out all across the kingdom. Over the course of his journey, he finds various allies to join him. What awaits them is a grand journey that will change the world as they know it. Characters ・ The Protagonist Elda and His Fairy ・Allies of Differing Backgrounds Within this society rife with discrimination, allies belonging to various tribes come to join the protagonist. Each of them has their own reason for wanting to change the world, and when they come into contact with the protagonist’s awakened power, Heroic Embodiment (Archetype), they become able to use it as well. ▼ATLUS Exclusive – Metaphor: ReFantazio Archive ATLUS Exclusive – Metaphor: ReFantazio 4.23.2024 ATLUS Exclusive – Metaphor: ReFantazio | Archetypes Metaphor: ReFantazio ATLUS Exclusive Showcase – Story Metaphor: ReFantazio ATLUS Exclusive Showcase – Character Metaphor: ReFantazio ATLUS Exclusive Showcase – World Tour *English subtitles will be provided. Demo for Metaphor: ReFantazio Out Now! View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Play through the beginning of Metaphor with the new demo! You’ll be able to carry over your save data to the full game once you’re done! To pick up the demo, simply head over to your platform’s store to download it. *The demo’s content may slightly differ from the launch version. *You can play the demo as many times as you like. *All screenshots and footage shown during the broadcast are from the Japanese edition of the game, which is still under development. English support will be available at release. Product Information: TitleMetaphor: ReFantazioRelease DateOctober 11, 2024 (Fri)PlatformPlayStation®4 / PlayStation®5 Websitehttps://asia.sega.com/metaphor/en/Copyright©ATLUS. ©SEGA. View the full article

Neva is the next game from Nomada, the studio behind Gris. In it, the hero Alba forms a bond with a teenage wolf. Over time, the wolf will grow bigger and stronger, and the duo’s relationship will evolve. Play Video You’ll be able to play Neva on PlayStation 5 soon, and we have implemented a number of features designed especially for the console. The game’s original concept was about two human characters then morphed to an animal – including a bear – before settling on the wolf cub that the team felt will provide a more interesting relationship and striking visual. Neva will make full use of the unique features of the PS5, including utilizing the DualSense controller to draw you deeper into the game’s hauntingly beautiful world. We want you to be as immersed as possible in Neva’s story as Alba and her wolf, Neva, forge their bond and work together to defeat the strange creatures confronting them. There was a lot of gameplay testing to understand what sort of attacks would be interesting without getting in the players’ way. Neva doesn’t always auto-attack, as she grows and becomes more capable Abla will be able to direct her attacks using the thumbstick and adding a more strategic approach to combat and even puzzles. In combat, Alba can command her wolf companion Neva, to attack enemies that she can’t handle on her own. When the wolf lunges at a foe and unleashes a fury of teeth and claws, you’ll feel the full kinetic force of the attack through the DualSense’s haptic triggers. Alba is a woman of few words, but whenever she calls for her furry friend, you’ll hear her shout out Neva’s name. On PS5, her voice will echo through the DualSense controller’s built-in speaker. When Neva is a young cub, the mischievous wolf will be easily distracted, and you’ll have to call out his name to make him stick by your side. Early in the story when Neva is just a cub there will be tender, sweeter moments where she is a bit nervous about jumping over chasms or by the world around her so Alba will need to call to her, encourage her, or give her a comforting pet to reassure Neva of her capabilities. Neva is, as you can see from the screenshots, a vibrantly colorful game, and each lovingly hand-crafted level has its own distinctive palette. As you progress through Alba’s journey on PS5 , the light bar on the DualSense controller will change to reflect the current stage’s colors. So if Alba and Neva suddenly plunge into a part of the world lit with an atmospheric crimson red glow, your DualSense will shift hue to match it. This is a world being overrun with an unnamed evil, often taking form of ‘infected’ fauna that stand in the way of Neva and Alba. Almost everything is organic to the world so it was important to the team that this evil was present in once beautiful places and creatures and it’s the mission of Neva and Alba to cleanse the world of this evil and return the beauty that lies within these corrupt animals. Neva will also take advantage of the power of the PS5’s hardware to run at 4K and 120fps out of the box, making its lush artwork really sing on your TV. Neva features a minimal UI, delicate art, high-quality traditional animation, and an elegant musical score, all of which will come beautifully to life on PS5. We can’t wait for all you PlayStation players to lose yourselves in our story and world and enjoy Alba and Neva’s adventures together. View the full article

Prepare yourselves, Jedi! The Force is calling you back to exhilarating lightsaber action! We’re excited to announce that Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles is coming to PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, offering nostalgic thrills for returning Jedi and a gripping experience for new padawans. Play Video A long-awaited battle is back in full force Originally released in 2000, get ready to battle your way through iconic locations from Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. Whether you’re fighting to take back the Theed Palace from the Trade Federation or facing off against hordes of battle droids, destroyer droids, and deadly assassins, you’ll need all the skill and precision of a Jedi to succeed. In Jedi Power Battles, the power of the Force is in your hands. Grasp your lightsaber and cut through enemies in fast-paced, side-scrolling arcade action. The game allows you to play as beloved characters from the prequel trilogy, including Mace Windu, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Padme, Panaka, Plo Koon, Adi Gallia, and Qui-Gon Jinn. Celebrating 25 years with all new features The 2025 release includes new and improved features that enhance the gameplay experience: Lightsaber Toggle: For returning players who remember playing each Jedi with a distinctive color to their lightsaber, you may also remember those sabers not matching their looks in the films. For example, the original game showcased Mace Windu with a blue Lightsaber. For this release, we added a toggle that allows you to swap between his iconic purple saber or the classic blue saber. This also applies to Ki-Adi Mundi, Plo Koon, & Adi Gallia’s classic saber colors. All secret characters and levels unlocked at the beginning: Experience the full game right from the start, with all the original secret characters and levels unlocked, allowing you to dive straight into the battle without delay. Beyond the original lineup, we’ve introduced 13 newly unlocked playable characters! You’ll find the Rifle Droid, Staff Tusken Raider, Ishi Tib, and Weequay, ready to jump into the action, and more character announcements are coming before launch day. Who else is joining the roster? We’ll all find out soon enough. Gameplay improvements and expanded game modes: We’ve made enhancements to the character models, environments, and game modes based on the expanded post-PlayStation release, while also preserving elements of the original PlayStation UI. Enjoy smoother jumps, better balance, and new main menu art that transforms your battle from all of the original versions of the game. Additionally, we’ve included in-game UI toggle options for greater customization, and we’ve brought back Vs Mode and Training Mode from the expanded post-PlayStation release, adding depth and variety to your gameplay. Classic couch co-op: The entire 10-level campaign, along with additional bonus mini-games, can be played with a friend in local co-op mode. The joy of teaming up with a buddy to take down waves of enemies is a core part of the Jedi Power Battles experience, and it’s back in full force. Cheat codes and unlockables: Classic cheats like Big Head Mode, Big Foot Mode, and Lightsaber cheats are ready to be claimed! Additionally, unlock character progressions (combos, stats) by achieving high scores to keep the gameplay fresh and rewarding. Lastly, brand-new for the first time, the Loader Droid Boss is playable via cheat code! Ready to join the battle? Whether you’re a returning player or new to the battle, get ready for an adventure in the Star Wars galaxy. We’ve brought this classic back out of our deep love for Star Wars, and we hope you find joy in every lightsaber swing and every battle won. May the Force be with you—always. Get ready to join the battle on January 23, 2025! Prepare by pre-ordering Star Wars Episode I: Jedi Power Battles on PS5 & PS4 today. View the full article

Battle zombies across Hell-A, attempt to outwit a serial killer and their trap-filled hotel, build the ultimate university campus and learn the devastating, hilarious art of riposte and more with October’s PlayStation Plus Game Catalog lineup*! Dead Island 2, The Dark Pictures Anthology: The Devil in Me, Two Point Campus, Return to Monkey Island and more games are available to play from October 15. On the same day, an awesome foursome of titles join PlayStation Plus Premium in the form of PS VR2 game The Last Clockwinder and three Classics – Capcom adventure Dino Crisis, terrifying horror Siren and iconic sci-fi shooter R-Type Dimensions EX. Let’s take a look at each game in turn. PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium | Game Catalog View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Dead Island 2 | PS4, PS5 Dead Island 2 is a thrilling First-Person Action RPG, stylish, vibrant and flooded with zombie infection. Explore an iconic, gore-drenched Los Angeles. Meet larger-than-life characters. Slay countless foes in exquisitely bloody detail. And evolve to become the ultimate Zombie Slayer! There are six characters to choose from, each with their own unique personality and dialogues. You can fully customize the abilities of each Slayer, with a brand-new skill system allowing you to re-spec instantly and try out the craziest builds. The game includes an over-the-top co-op mode for up to three players. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Two Point Campus | PS4, PS5 Take your simulation management experience to a class above with Two Point Campus, the sequel to the multi-million selling Two Point Hospital. Two Point Campus is jam-packed with new creative tools to help you build the university of your dreams. The academic year begins with a summer break, giving you enough time to get everything looking great before your students move in. Build libraries, hire the best staff, kit your campus out with the best courses and watch the academic potential of your students get unlocked. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The Dark Pictures Anthology: The Devil in Me | PS4, PS5 The Dark Pictures is a series of stand-alone branching cinematic horror games from the studio behind Until Dawn. Easy to pick-up and play in short sessions, alone or with friends. The Devil in Me is the fourth game in the series and the Season One finale. A group of documentary film makers receive a mysterious call inviting them to a modern-day replica of serial killer H.H. Holmes’ ‘Murder Castle’. It’s an opportunity that’s too good to pass up and could be just the thing they’re looking for to win some much-needed public interest. The hotel is the perfect set for their new episode, but things aren’t quite as they seem. The crew discover they’re being watched and even manipulated, and suddenly there’s much more at stake than just their ratings! Can you outsmart the killer and checkout all your cast? All playable characters can live or die in your version of the story. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Gris | PS4, PS5 Gris is a hopeful young girl lost in her own world, dealing with a painful experience in her life. Her journey through sorrow is manifested in her dress, which grants new abilities to better navigate her faded reality. As the story unfolds, Gris will grow emotionally and see her world in a different way, revealing new paths to explore using her new abilities. Grus is a serene and evocative experience, free of danger, frustration, or death. Players will explore a meticulously designed world brought to life with delicate art, detailed animation, and an elegant original score. Through the game light puzzles, platforming sequences, and optional skill-based challenges will reveal themselves as more of Gris’s world becomes accessible. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Return to Monkey Island | PS5 Return to Monkey Island is an unexpected, thrilling return of series creator Ron Gilbert that continues the story of the legendary adventure games The Secret of Monkey Island and Monkey Island 2: LeChuck’s Revenge developed in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games. Banter with old friends and new faces on familiar islands now under dangerous new leadership. Then, take to the high seas and explore the new and unknown as you work your way out of tough predicaments. Clever puzzles, bizarre situations, and devastating ripostes are all that stand between Guybrush and glory. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed | PS4, PS5 This fun multiplayer game is perfect for all skill levels. Four proton pack wielding Ghostbusters attempt to catch a Ghost haunting unique locations in asymmetrical multiplayer battles (online or offline). As players progress, they will unlock cosmetics and upgrades for both Ghostbusters and Ghosts to evolve their gameplay experiences. The look and feel will deliver to fans an immersive experience in the universe, allowing them to play out their Ghostbusting fantasies. This game will allow players to enjoy the game solo or with up to four friends and includes an online and offline single-player mode in the form of bot-assisted play. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Firefighting Simulator The Squad | PS4, PS5 Become part of a major US city’s firefighting team and experience how it feels to fight fires. Discover over 40 diverse deployment locations spread across the city inspired by the North American West Coast. Equip yourself with authentic firefighting gear such as helmets, firefighter boots, and a breathing apparatus model by well-known North American firefighting equipment manufacturers. In single player mode, become the leader of an experienced firefighting team. In multiplayer co-op mode, play with up to three friends and take on whichever role suits you most. Assign tasks to your team or jump into the action yourself. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Overpass 2 | PS5 Identify the best routes and balance of power, speed and precision to overcome obstacles at the controls of a UTV, ATV or Rock Bouncer in both solo and multiplayer modes, your talent and choices of technique will make the difference. Put your skills to the test in 5 game modes in which you have to come to grips with demanding challenges: off-road sprint, off-road circuit, hill climb, obstacle course, closed circuit. At the controls of powerful buggies and quads from major manufacturers such as Yamaha, Arctic Cat and Suzuki, you will travel across 30 routes in 5 regions: Baja Desert, East Central US, Johnson Valley, Utah Desert and Western Europe. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Tour de France 2023 | PS4, PS5 Play the mountain or flat stages and experience the intensity of the Grande Boucle. Pedal alongside the best cyclists, test your endurance and show your panache to triumph on the Champs-Elysées in the official game of the Tour de France 2023. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Wildlands* | PS4 Create a team with up to 3 friends in Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands and enjoy the ultimate military shooter experience set in a massive, dangerous, and responsive open world. In a near future, Bolivia has fallen into the hands of Santa Blanca, a merciless drug cartel who spread injustice and violence. Their objective: to create the biggest Narco-State in history. Create and fully customize your Ghost, weapons, and gear. Enjoy a total freedom of playstyle. Lead your team and take down the cartel, either solo or with up to three friends. *PlayStation Plus re-release. PlayStation Premium | PS VR2 & Classics View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The Last Clockwinder | PS VR2 Clone your actions into endlessly repeating loops to build assembly lines and contraptions. Harvest resources, grow plants, and restore life to an ancient tree in this award-winning VR game. Your mission is to repair the Clocktower, an ancient haven for the galaxy’s plants. Use the Clockwinder’s gloves to turn the actions you take into looping clockwork clones. They can do everything you can, from planting to cutting to throwing items through the air. Use their help to save the Clocktower! View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Dino Crisis | PS4, PS5 Three years ago, a scientist researching a new source of clean energy known as Third Energy died during an experiment. Now, alarming reports arrive from an agent dispatched to a small country in the South Seas. Regina, a member of a government spy team tasked with extracting the scientist, heads for the isolated island where the military facility is located. Experience Dino Crisis, originally released on the original PlayStation, now enhanced with up-rendering, rewind, quick save, and custom video filters. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Siren | PS4, PS5 Experience Siren, originally released on PS2, now enhanced with up-rendering, rewind, quick save, and custom video filters. Midnight. A siren calls and a sea of red water mysteriously surrounds the mountain village Hanuda. Slowly, a terrible force transforms the inhabitants into shibito, undead husks of their old selves, fueled by evil and hate.Play as one of ten characters caught in a living nightmare. You have three days to learn how their paths intersect as they try to stay alive. Survival depends on your ability to “sightjack” or the power to see through the eyes of friends and foes. There is no one hero. There is little hope. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image R-Type Dimensions EX | PS4 The coin-op classics, R-Type & R-Type II, are together on PS4! Fight through all 14 Bydo-infested stages in retro 2D graphics or shiny 3D graphics – and swap back and forth with the touch of a button ‘on-the-fly’. The new 3D graphics are accompanied by fully reimagined arrangements of the timeless R-Type music tracks. The classic game-play remains untouched while the new Infinite game mode allows continuous progression from game start to final boss. Both game modes can be played as single player or local multiplayer. View the full article

It’s time to see which PS5, PS4, PS VR2, PS VR, and free-to-play games topped the download charts last month. New releases stormed the charts with NBA 2K25, Astro Bot, and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 entering the top five of September’s PS5 list in the US and EU. Into the Radius claimed the top spot on September’s PS VR2 list in the US and EU. Check out the full listings below. What titles are you playing this month? PS5 Games US/CanadaEUNBA 2K25EA SPORTS FC 25Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2ASTRO BOTEA SPORTS FC 25Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2ASTRO BOTNBA 2K25Black Myth: WukongBlack Myth: WukongEA SPORTS Madden NFL 25Grand Theft Auto VGrand Theft Auto VHogwarts LegacyPalworldPalworldEA SPORTS College Football 25The Crew MotorfestHogwarts LegacyTest Drive Unlimited Solar CrownStar Wars OutlawsStar Wars OutlawsCall of Duty: Modern Warfare IIIThe Casting of Frank StoneTom Clancy’s Rainbow Six SiegeIt Takes TwoThe Casting of Frank StoneTom Clancy’s Rainbow Six SiegeThe Crew MotorfestSea of ThievesVampire SurvivorsVampire SurvivorsSea of ThievesUFC 5HELLDIVERS 2ELDEN RINGUFC 5Among UsLOLLIPOP CHAINSAW RePOPNo Man’s Sky *Naming of products may differ between regions *Upgrades not included PS4 Games US/CanadaEUMinecraftEA SPORTS FC 25The Crew 2The Crew 2MARVEL vs. CAPCOM Fighting Collection: Arcade ClassicsMinecraftRed Dead Redemption 2A Way OutEA SPORTS FC 25Red Dead Redemption 2Grand Theft Auto VGrand Theft Auto VKingdom Come: DeliveranceHogwarts LegacyNBA 2K25Kingdom Come: DeliveranceA Way OutFar Cry 5Mafia TrilogyUnravel TwoBatman: Arkham KnightMafia TrilogyWatch Dogs 2The Crew MotorfestFar Cry 5Middle-earth: Shadow of WarHogwarts LegacyBatman: Arkham KnightCall of Duty: Black Ops IIIGang BeastsGang BeastsNeed for Speed PaybacktheHunter: Call of the WildThe ForestCall of Duty: Modern Warfare IIIWatch Dogs 2EA SPORTS Madden NFL 25God of WarInjustice 2Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Campaign Remastered *Naming of products may differ between regions PS VR2 Games* US/CanadaEUInto the RadiusInto the RadiusBeat SaberBeat SaberPavlovSurvivorman VR The DescentArizona Sunshine 2PavlovAmong Us VRArizona Sunshine 2MADiSON VRAmong Us VRGun Club VRCreed: Rise to Glory – Championship EditionCreed: Rise to Glory – Championship EditionMADiSON VRSurvivorman VR The DescentGun Club VRWaltz of the WizardPrison Boss VR *PS Store purchases only. Game upgrades or games bundled with hardware not included PSVR Games US/CanadaEUASTRO BOT Rescue MissionASTRO BOT Rescue MissionThe Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim VRSniper Elite VRThe Walking Dead OnslaughtBatman: Arkham VRJob SimulatorThe Walking Dead OnslaughtSniper Elite VRJob SimulatorBatman: Arkham VRPrison Boss VRBeat SaberLethal VRSUPERHOT VRBeat SaberCreed Rise to GloryThe Guy VRArizona SunshineKill It With Fire VR Free to Play (PS5 + PS4) US/CanadaEUFortniteFortniteRobloxRobloxUNDEFEATEDVALORANTVALORANTAsphalt Legends UniteCall of Duty: WarzoneeFootballAsphalt Legends UniteRocket LeagueRocket LeagueCall of Duty: WarzoneFall GuysStumble GuysApex LegendsFall GuysThe First DescendantUNDEFEATED View the full article

Explore the new Britney Spears Music Pack, filled with Britney’s best hits everyone knows by heart, when it releases today on PS VR2 and PS VR. You bet you don’t want to miss it. Play Video Britney Spears is one of the most influential musicians, having sold over 150 million records worldwide. Now, you can experience her music in a whole new way in this energizing pop music pack. Slash and dance through some of her epic bangers and sing along with us. Full track list: “…Baby One More Time” “Circus” “Gimme More” “I’m A Slave 4 U” “Me Against the Music” (feat. Madonna) “Oops!…I Did It Again” “Overprotected” “Scream and Shout” (will.i.am feat. Britney Spears) “Till the World Ends” “Toxic” “Womanizer” Pssst… everyone knows that Britney’s music videos are so iconic thanks to her timeless choreography. Our beatmapping team turned those unique moves into the levels you will have so much fun with. Check the tracks ‘Oops!…I Did It Again’, ‘…Baby One More Time’, and ‘Circus’ for an ultimate Beat Saber party. Which one will you play first? The Britney Spears Music Pack comes with a beautiful new environment with unique light shows for each level. All levels feature Arc & Chain Notes and you can play them in multiplayer. Who will you challenge in this musical dance-off? Beat Saber players can get the full music pack for $13.99 or purchase individual songs for $1.99, and those who don’t have Beat Saber yet can get a discounted Beat Saber + Britney Spears Music Pack bundle for $39.99. View the full article

Scheduled for release on February 28, 2025, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii is a sequel to action adventure Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. This new title features the series’ fan-favorite, Goro Majima, as the sole protagonist. I recently had a conversation with Mr. Masayoshi Yokoyama, RGG Studio Director and the Like a Dragon Series Executive Producer, along with Mr. Hiroyuki Sakamoto, the Like a Dragon Series, RGG Studio Chief Producer, about the game’s highlights and the behind-the-scenes stories of its development. PlayStation Blog: As a fan of the series, I’m most curious about why you chose Majima and pirates. How did this title come about in the first place? Yokoyama: Around June or July 2023, long before the release of Infinite Wealth, the dev team was already mulling over the idea of an Infinite Wealth spin-off. Even if we were to make Like a Dragon 9, we knew that wouldn’t be enough to capture and tell the story. During the end of the Infinite Wealth development, we began percolating the idea of a spin-off that stars characters who are not Ichiban Kasuga. It was almost as if we were creating a blown-up sub-story for Infinite Wealth. For quite some time, I wanted to make a game called Like a Dragon: Tuna, where Kazuma Kiryu, as a tuna fisherman, sets off to sea to fight against fishing boats. Long story short, it never came to fruition, but keywords like “ship,” “sea,” and “fighting,” which had since then been engraved in my head, evolved into the concept of pirates. PSB: The series is known for starring different characters as the protagonists. For instance, Kazuma Kiryu takes the lead in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name while Majima steps into the spotlight in Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. I must say one of the perks of spin-offs is the freedom of starring new characters who are not just Ichiban Kasuga. Yokoyama: I agree. As the protagonist changes in spin-offs, you can follow the same story from a different perspective. Also, spin-offs are perfect in size for adults. The Like a Dragon series is like an all-you-can-eat restaurant where you can choose from meat, seafood, and anything else you want and eat however much you like. But as you mature, you start to appreciate well-balanced, good-proportion meals. Spin-offs are like that. PSB: Can you describe who Majima is? Yokoyama: He masks his feelings and hides his true self. His past is mentioned throughout the series, yet the true Majima remains a puzzle. He feels the need to live up to the image that others have of him and adeptly go along with them. However, in this entry, he suffers from amnesia, exposing his true self as the story unfolds. PSB: Does that mean we will finally find out who the true Majima is? Yokoyama: You’ll understand who he is through his interactions with a boy called Noah. It turns out he’s just a tough dude who likes to fantasize a lot [laughs]. In Gaiden, while remembering his past, Majima looks at himself objectively and realizes who he really is. This is a novel story development. However, Majima is not the most conventional choice for a protagonist. His unpredictability, while not the norm, is what sets him apart and makes him intriguing. When a character like Majima becomes the protagonist, it creates a discrepancy between actions and emotions; when you get frustrated in a scene, but Majima does not even look bothered, you may feel confused. To avoid that, we would need a neutral character who could act the way players anticipate from a protagonist. But the downside is that we’d end up with a boring protagonist. We gave Kiryu and Kasuga additional personalities to build them into protagonists, but if we did that to Majima, he’d turn out to be a boring guy. To make him a protagonist, we only had two options: amnesia or travel back in time. Without amnesia, Majima wouldn’t have worked as a protagonist. PSB: Next, I’d like to ask you about the battles. This time, Majima switches between two battle styles: Mad Dog and Sea Dog. Could you tell us about them? Sakamoto: In Gaiden, Kiryu also uses two different battle styles. We thought two was the right amount in order to keep battles from being too complicated. Since Majima uses nimble moves, we wanted to simplify his battle moves. Players can execute exhilarating moves by merely pressing the buttons. The Mad Dog Style is based on Majima’s battle style that executes combos, jumps, and other responsive actions. PSB:I played the demo version at the Tokyo Game Show 2024 and experienced some dynamic fights. What was the intention behind introducing jumping? Yokoyama: Introducing jumping changes the gameplay drastically. In fighting games, for example, players jump even when there’s no need to. Also, you’re defenseless while jumping, so if you get hit, you’ll be blown away. For that reason, in action games, you’re often invincible while jumping, but that can cause problems. Simply introducing jumping changes the game design, so we’ve avoided it until now. However, the team decided to incorporate jumping into the game because the character Majima looks good while jumping. This is the first time players can control the character’s ability to jump, rather than it just being a part of heated battles. It’s not a regular jump action but a form of jump incorporated into a combo. Play Video Yokoyama: Incorporating two battle styles in a game is quite complicated. If one style becomes way more entertaining, players will stop using the other one. It’s easy to label the battle styles under different characteristics, but it’s difficult to make them both equally enjoyable. The Sea Dog style turned out to be more interesting in this case and everyone ended up choosing this style. To top it off, the Sea Dog style has some fun costumes. Sakamoto: In the early stages of development, the Mad Dog style felt a bit plain, and no one was using it. So, we brainstormed ways to make this style more appealing, and we’re now in the fine-tuning stage to achieve the perfect balance between the two fighting styles. Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii launches Feb 28 2025 on PS5. View the full article

Wave after wave of enemy forces advance, seemingly without end. Attacks arrive from every angle at once. The lives of innocent Eliksni captives hang in the balance. In response, Guardians do what they do best: take up arms and run headlong into the fray. One of the major features introduced in Destiny 2’s latest Episode, Revenant, is Onslaught: Salvation. A defensive wave-based activity that pits three-Guardian fireteams against increasingly intense waves of enemies, Onslaught also allows Guardians to purchase powerful defensive units to use against the invading hordes. In its original form (introduced in Destiny 2: Into the Light), Onslaught was a packed and intense mode, full of ratcheting tension and ‘Did you see that?’ moments. Now, with Onslaught: Salvation, the development team is raising the bar. “There were a lot of great and constructive feedback from the community with the original Onslaught,” said Destiny 2 designer Clayton Kisko. “The one we heard most often was that they wanted Bungie to invest in the mode with new maps, new enemies, and new defenses, and that is exactly what we are doing with Onslaught: Salvation.” From a thematic perspective, Onslaught: Salvation’s three new maps – Widow’s Court, Eventide Ruins, and Kell’s Grave – are leaning into the gothic horror that is fitting with Revenant’s chilling visual theme. If the original Onslaught was about protecting the Last City from the forces of the Witness, this time around the theme leans into slaying monsters, fighting evil, and saving the innocent. Play Video By their nature, Onslaught maps need to pack a lot of punch into some relatively tight spaces to provide maximum tension and action. The three new maps each have their own unique layouts, while also building on lessons learned from earlier Onslaught maps. “This time around we were able to identify the design pain points early and got ahead of the enemy teleporting issues,” said Kisko. “We ensured that there were at least three wide lanes for each Advanced Defense Unit (ADU) location. For Eventide Ruins, the larger map, we took our learnings from Mothyards (from the original Onslaught) and set out to make sure enemy spawn locations were closer to the ADU to ensure a closer time-to-complete to the other two maps.” Alongside the new maps, Guardians will be pleased to know that they’ll have new defensive countermeasures available this time around. The new Air Strikes will rain down retribution on humanity’s enemies and, for those who want to get a bit more hands on, there’s the Rideable Turret. “The Rideable Turret is good at mowing down clumps of enemies or damaging a single heavy unit like those deadly Demolitionists who like to attack the ADU,” said Kisko. “It can overheat, though, so players will need to balance when they fire and for how long. The defensive upgrades increase the health of the turret and the damage. The final upgrade will add scorching rounds to the bullets. What is so cool about that is the sandbox team was able to design it so the turret will combo with any of the rider’s Solar fragments or buildcrafting around scorching rounds.” While defending the ADU is one of the key mission components in an Onslaught: Salvation game, it’s certainly not the only thing that will keep Guardians moving. Augmentation waves and bonus objectives will take players out of their comfort zones (and away from the safety blanket of relying on defensive countermeasures). This time, players will be infiltrating the Revenant Nest to free captured Eliksni. For one bonus objective, new shielded enemy units will appear, requiring Guardians to use special ether-light cannons to stop them. Jonathan To, narrative lead for Destiny 2, said the team has worked hard to include narrative hooks in Onslaught: Salvation to keep things moving from a story and character standpoint. “The main writers for Onslaught: Salvation created some excellent character-building and exchanges between Spider, Crow, Eido, Eramis, and others. Crow is figuring out a new role for himself in the City, Eido is the player’s partner this Episode in a role we can’t wait to share more about, and who knows what Eramis will be up to when she returns, having both helped and fought against us in the past. Fans of the Eliksni and the saga of the Fallen up to this point in Destiny will love what the team has done here.” Onslaught: Salvation is playable with the release of Destiny 2: Revenant, starting October 8. View the full article

Anyone familiar with Atlus’s deep and involving role-playing games has been eager to see what the strange and magical Metaphor: ReFantazio has in store. And while it’s not directly connected to the popular Persona series, there are some intriguing touchstones across its aesthetics and mechanics to hook fans and newcomers alike. Let’s take a close look at some of these intriguing similarities and differences ahead of the October 11 release date. Combat is unleashed Fans of Persona’s fast-paced yet detailed turn-based combat will find themselves at home here, but Studio Zero has given it a little twist, too. You can engage in real-time combat with low level enemies, taking them out with a handful of targeted strikes or even a single blow if your current level totally outclasses them. There’s a dedicated dodge button to avoid their attacks if they see you before you can act, which is also handy for foes which are too tough to take out in real-time. In which case, you can initiate a turn-based battle after you’ve softened them up with an action strike – especially handy if you can catch an enemy off-guard first, giving you a free hit during the turn-based Squad Battle. Real-time combat can be used to any monster’s advantage, too. During one instance I thought some vicious beasts were blocked by some barrels, but they smashed right through them, initiated the Squad Battle, and got a free hit on my party in the process. Lesson learned – I used the protagonist’s Fae Sight a lot more often from that point to be more aware of nearby enemies and have Gallica assess their threat levels. But if things are going really badly, you can also press L3 to restart the battle. Time management is key As the game’s main plot develops, one of your aims becomes balancing tasks through the day to gain democratic popularity while completing other objectives to become more powerful, creating bonds with other party members or hitting certain story milestones. As in Persona, each of these consume time as you creep towards specific events, and not meeting deadlines for critical ones results in a game over. So mapping out each day, knowing when to enter time-consuming dungeons and when to rest – or even kill time by doing more peaceful tasks – can make all the difference. Thankfully, all activities are clearly denoted with how much time they eat up, so you shouldn’t be caught off guard. Exploring the United Kingdom of Euchronia Metaphor: ReFantazio wastes no time establishing that we’re not on our Earth… or in a particularly safe land. The game’s inciting incident comes from a savage act of regicide, and things only get wilder from there with its medieval fantasy setting exploring themes of bigotry and the value of imagination, especially when overcoming our own fears and anxieties. Humans are far from human In fact, the term ‘human’ in the game is synonymous with often giant, grotesque monsters feared by the varied fantasy races of the game. Even our blue-haired protagonist – who arguably looks the closest to a traditional Persona character – is a rarity in a world full of the horned Clemar Tribe, elven looking Roussainte Tribe, fairies, and many other species. The music is more operatic Persona is known for its eclectic range of tunes, from rock to acid jazz to electronic inspired beats. Given its setting, Metaphor: ReFantazio soundtrack leans towards the more orchestral, with tense strings, dramatic drums, and chants present in its wonderfully composed battle themes that are already subject to deservedly flattering memes. Fans of the parent series, Shin Megami Tensei, might find their toes tapping in its sweeping tonal familiarity. Less summoning or fusing, more transforming While Metaphor: ReFantazio’s powerful Archetype forms are similar toPersona’s summoning system, there are some notable differences. Archetypes are typically awakened when a party member confronts and overcomes a certain fear or anxiety, causing them to tap into a magical armored form capable of enhanced attacks and abilities. These transformed figures are part of a job system where your party members can switch between the 40+ differently skilled Archetypes, spread across 14 different lineages to suit your playstyle. For example, despite which characters you have in your party, you can put together a Saviour from the Healer lineage, a Ninja Thief and a Devil Summoner. Or a Magic Knight, Dragoon Gunner and Martial Artist Brawler. And with them create combos in battle via spectacular Synthesis Skills. Exploring a safe haven It isn’t long in the game before you’re transported to the mysterious Akademeia, by the equally mysterious More. This magical library is a spirit home where you can learn about Archetypes via books and lectures, and unlock additional aspects of their abilities. Initially you’ll not have much choice in going to Akademeia, but as the game progresses, you’ll be able to choose when you visit via the protagonist’s novel or More’s ghostly figure. There’s much More to Akademeia than first appears While acting as an enemy-free hub to study and grow, Akademeia also gives space for Metaphor: ReFantazio to delve into the tale’s meta commentary, examining the power of imagination and the nature of storytelling. Without giving too much away, this is also tied to one of your very first acts in the game, where you as the player type in your own name. Oh, and there’s also a cute cat you can pet… which I often did. Priorities, right? Persona’s not the only one with style Sure, you might have played medieval fantasy RPGs before, but have you played one as stylish as this? From its anime cutscenes to its fun battle chatter to its slick victory outros, Metaphor: ReFantazio rivals Persona for its sheer sense of flair. The UI also maintains a sense of familiarity without being a direct mimic, opting for a slightly more uniform aesthetic. Similarly, the game knows when to use a bold mixture of colors and when to opt for a more naturalistic palette, delivering an eye-pleasing blend of what we’d expect for a classic fantasy genre without sacrificing the Atlus panache and polish. Your protagonist has a voice Perhaps the most notable aspect of Metaphor: ReFantazio’s cast is that your protagonist is voice acted in the same way the rest of the characters are. Although you can name him whatever you wish, as the bulk of the in-game dialogue is still delivered via text with occasional vocalizations. A union of tribes Tellingly, every party member you develop throughout the game represents each of the main tribes of the land. For example, the stoic knight Hulkenberg is a Roussainte, while the rodent looking Eugief tribe is represented by Heismay, who awakens the thief archetype. And the diminutive but faithful fairy Gallica might not be able to fight, but offers valuable advice and guidance on your journey. Creating bonds with Followers Romantic Persona fans won’t necessarily find the same starry-eyed connections in Metaphor: ReFantazio, but building relationships is still important. At various points you have the opportunity to interact with other party members and NPCs, and spending specific time with them forms a bond. In turn, this can help awaken new Archetypes, with deeper rapports unlocking further abilities. Real life connections help, too Staying online with the game gives you the option to explore the handy Travellers’ Voices page. A press of the Touch Pad shows you what other players have done in the section you’re currently in. So if you’re stuck in a dungeon, you can check out what party formations others have used and what levels they cleared that area with, as well as changing your formation to match another player’s for a better chance of success. Travellers’ Voices also works in towns as well, handily letting you know where players have spent their time most during the day. A nice little feature if you’re looking for a bit of guidance as to how to while away some free time in Euchronia. Rich, constantly surprising and stylishly elegant, Metaphor: ReFantazio is not only a delight for fans of Atlus’s games, but will charm newcomers with its magic, too. If you’ve not already found out for yourself via the PS5 demo, you’ll get the chance when the full game launches October 11 on PS4 and PS5. View the full article

Last week, we asked you to showcase the best Astro Bot levels using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights: NightmarexDoll shares a spooky level with a mansion and a smiling moon in the background. pavesoint shares a level in the clouds featuring a mechanical sun. SoundwaveXP shares a level featuring a Japanese-style bathhouse and mountains. kanon06 shares a level in space with a giant meteor and space debris. Jeff_Bytes shares an aquatic level featuring a row of birds sitting on a wire. Boargs shares a snow theme level with a snow slide and frosty vistas. Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week? THEME: Spooky Settings SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on October 9, 2024 Next week, showcase where things go bump in the night with Spooky Settings. Highlight spooky settings for Share of the Week using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured. View the full article

Hi everyone, it’s Samar Louwe here, game director at Vertigo Games. Just last week during State of Play, we were thrilled to finally announce that Metro Awakening is coming to PS VR2 on November 7. Today, we’re excited to share another glimpse into the game with a new video showcasing extended gameplay on PS VR2. Play Video Verify your age to view this content. Verify your age to view this content. We’ve crafted a journey that intertwines gripping storytelling with deeply immersive gameplay. In Metro Awakening, you’ll confront the mysteries and dangers of a post-apocalyptic world, where survival and exploration are more critical than ever. As you navigate both familiar and new locations, each filled with supernatural threats, you’ll uncover the origin story of Khan, one of the Metro series’ most enigmatic characters. Become what you fear… At the heart of Metro Awakening lies the powerful story of Serdar—a doctor searching for his missing wife. Throughout his journey, Serdar undergoes a profound transformation that leads him to awaken as Khan, a mystic figure who plays a recurring role throughout the Metro series. Known for his deep connection to the supernatural, Khan appears at critical moments, offering guidance to Metro’s protagonist, Artyom, and all who dare to navigate the dangers of the tunnels. Verify your age to view this content. Verify your age to view this content. This standalone narrative was crafted by series creator Dmitry Glukhovsky and explores the events that shaped Khan into who he is, immersing players in the philosophical struggles defining his path for the first time. As a prequel to Metro 2033, it also serves as an excellent starting point for newcomers to the franchise, while offering longtime fans a story that complements the rich lore they have come to love. Classic Metro mechanics In Metro Awakening, we’ve translated the series’ iconic elements to VR. You’ll engage with classic mechanics, including the wristwatch, gas mask, flashlight, universal charger and lighter—each playing a key role in stealth and survival. The watch not only shows whether you’re in the light or in the dark but also counts down the time until your gas mask filter needs replacing. The mask, in particular, requires constant attention; fogged lenses require you to physically wipe them during tense moments, while the watch’s timer beeps in a countdown, warning you before your filter clogs with radioactive dust, adding to the mounting pressure. Charging your flashlight is also essential for survival. When darkness envelops you, you’ll need to wind it manually using the universal charger, increasing the stakes as every action pulls you deeper. The lighter is extremely important for burning through cobwebs and illuminating tight spaces when your flashlight is no longer enough to keep the darkness at bay. These mechanics create a great immersive experience on PS VR2, making every interaction feel immediate and vital, and drawing you even more into the atmosphere of the Metro universe. Elevating Metro Awakening with PS VR2 Immersion is the essence of both VR and the Metro series, and the PS VR2 elevates this experience. As the story unfolds, you’ll dive into the mysterious, supernatural aspects of Metro. VR allows us to amplify these moments, enveloping players in eerie atmospheres and using spatial audio to draw you into the unknown. Every shot fired is intentional. With adaptive triggers, you’ll add weight and precision to your actions. Combat isn’t just about pulling the trigger; it’s about survival. The subtle resistance of the triggers heightens the tension, making every shot count when resources are scarce. Headset feedback introduces a new level of physicality to gameplay, immersing you in your environment. You’ll feel the impact of debris from explosions or when you’re hit by enemy attacks, amplifying your experience. Metro Awakening thrives on contrasts—light and dark, hope and despair. The PS VR2’s 4K HDR display brings this to life, especially in haunting locations. Dynamic lighting enhances the atmosphere. Using your headlamp to navigate dark tunnels or strategically shooting out lights to sneak past mutants adds a tactical layer to gameplay. While visibility is key, mastering the shadows can give you a strategic edge in your encounters. We designed every interaction in Metro Awakening to feel natural and grounded. From wiping your gas mask to managing your backpack, every action in VR is a manual endeavor. With no on-screen UI to rely on, you must adapt and survive as you would in real life. We can’t wait for you to step into Metro Awakening on PS VR2 starting November 7—or pre-order the Deluxe Edition to begin your journey early on November 5. View the full article

Undisputed launches October 11 on PS5, and has been in development for nearly five years, starting as the humble Esports Boxing Club and then evolving into the first major boxing game in over a decade. With over 70 of the most prestigious prizefighters on the roster, including Canelo Álvarez, Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, Roy Jones Jr. and Joe Frazier, it was our priority to make sure that they not only looked amazing, but that they moved in their own, unique, signature ways too. Play Video From scan to sculpt How do you get the longest reigning super middleweight world champion, Joe Calzaghe, to look as authentic and life-like as possible? It all starts with the scanning process. We work with a variety of scanning studios all over the world to create the most accurate reference images for us to work from. The Steel City Interactive art team then use this to sculpt the in-game models, recreating every muscle, vein, hair, and bead of sweat. For our boxing legends, we also have a de-aging process. Players want to experience these fighters in their prime, so we try to recreate exactly what they looked like at that time. “One of the most challenging parts of bringing characters from the past to life is the de-aging process. Lots of things usually change with age: eye shape, lip volume, cheekbones, body fat, even ear size, but my aim is to get them back to their fighting shape, recreating the look of their greatest fights. First, I collect a lot of references from every possible angle to have an overview of what I want to achieve. Then, I check the model to understand what to keep and what to change according to the pictures and footage. I then work on the tone and symmetry, removing some fat, wrinkles, and imperfections from the body and face. After this, I sculpt the main muscles and tweak the facial features. Eventually I get to a point where the boxer is recognizable both from a distance and up close. When I’m happy with the result, I proceed to fix the textures as well.” – Francesco Primiceri, 3D character artist at Steel City Interactiver Motion capture We also try to get as many fighters as possible into our motion capture suits, so we can record their unique footwork, punches, slips, dodges – and even taunts! When you play as Oleksandr Usyk, we want it to feel like you are Oleksandr Usyk, so our art and animation teams spend days processing the output from the motion capture and then applying that to our detailed character models. British and Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion, Dalton Smith, was one of the fighters we worked closely with to capture his boxing style. He also helped mimic some of the fighters who are no longer with us, studying their movements then performing them so we can immortalize them in Undisputed. “I am used to boxing in the ring or the gym, but throwing punches in a motion capture suit is a whole different ball game. I got suited up and spent a few days working with the team at Steel City Interactive to capture not only my own personal in-ring moves, but those of some of the old school boxers as well. You don’t realise how intense and detailed the process is until you’re throwing the same punches and performing the same blocks over and over again until it’s captured from every angle. Seeing the results in-game is incredible – my avatar really does look like me.” – Dalton Smith, British and Commonwealth Super-Lightweight Champion Styles (and stats) make fights There’s a saying in boxing that ‘styles make fights’ and we think it’s really important that those styles are backed up with real life statistics too. There’s no point in having the undefeated legend of boxing, Rocky Marciano, in the game if we don’t also give him the punching power and stamina he was known for. That’s why we work with CompuBox to define each fighter’s ratings, statistics and behaviours. When you’re playing as a boxer with a fantastic knockout ratio, like Deontay Wilder, his ability to land KO’s in the game is boosted. And this works the same for the AI version of them too; each fighter has their own skills and abilities – taken from their real-life fight records – that will change the outcome of the fight in a meaningful way. It’s your job to figure out how to counter that! Rule the ring Undisputed has the most expansive and authentic licensed fighter roster of any boxing game yet, and we’re excited for you to experience that. You can pick up the Undisputed Deluxe WBC Edition on October 8 on PS5 and play three days early. Undisputed Standard Edition launches on October 11 on PS5. View the full article

The release of Silent Hill 2 is just around the corner on October 8. We’re honored to be able to share detailed information about Silent Hill 2 with PlayStation players. Konami and Bloober Team have focused on respecting the original 2001 Silent Hill 2’s storyline, emphasizing the emotional expressions of each character through the highly skilled performances of their respective actors, and modernizing the overall gameplay. We hope that this very clear comparison will show you which aspects of the original the production team has respected and emphasized, as well as which aspects have been improved upon. Spoiler Alert: This article and video reveal some narrative and gameplay surprises within Silent Hill 2. For this episode of PlayStation Underground, Bloober Team partnered up with the SIE crew to bring you an exclusive look at James’ confrontation with Flesh Lip inside Brookhaven Hospital, presented in a head-to-head comparison with the same boss battle as it appears in the original game. Play Video Caption: Join Bloober Team’s Mateusz Lenart, Creative Director, and Andrzej Mądrzak, Lead Writer, for a look inside Brookhaven Hospital. In many ways, this boss fight, alongside its accompanying cutscene, exemplifies the approach we took when reimagining Silent Hill 2. It shows our reverence for the original game by staying true to its original design, while also expanding upon it using modern technology that allows players to feel more in control of James. As you can see, the general set-up for Laura’s cutscene that predates the battle and the Flesh Lip encounter itself are quite faithful to the original game, but with a few key changes that enable us to take full advantage of current storytelling and combat design techniques. Caption: Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake Familiar characters come alive For Laura’s cutscene, the interaction between her and James maintains the same story beats as in the original. Both James’ and Laura’s personalities have been preserved, with the most significant changes coming in the form of more involved camera work and top-notch voice acting. Play Video Caption: The full cutscene between James and Laura from the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake, without commentary. Full-body motion capture, used in conjunction with detailed animation, has allowed us to make these characters come alive through subtle facial expressions and gestures. The performances of the actors were key in this respect, with both Evie Templeton and Luke Roberts really embodying the characters of Laura and James, respectively. When it comes to the script itself, we wanted to avoid changing things for the sake of changing them. While minor deviations from the original game’s script can be expected, our main objective with this cutscene and all others was to capture the complex character dynamics that made the original Silent Hill 2 such a landmark in the history of interactive storytelling. Caption: Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake A boss battle for the ages The encounter with Flesh Lip is one of Silent Hill 2’s most startling moments. With its unique and unnerving look, Flesh Lip was groundbreaking in terms of integrating symbolism into the design of a monster. Doing this boss battle justice in the new game was a challenging but ultimately rewarding task. Unlike the fixed camera system in the original Silent Hill 2, adopting an over-the-shoulder perspective brought with it a series of changes to the encounter’s design. For instance, the scale of the room where the fight occurs has been expanded to allow players more space to roam. Caption: Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake But the biggest change in the design of the boss fight has to do with Flesh Lip himself. Instead of facing two of them right from the start, the battle now begins with a single foe, but one who can dynamically move through the ceiling, ready to pounce on James at any point. Verify your age to view this content. Verify your age to view this content. Caption: The Flesh Lip battle takes on a new shape in the Silent Hill 2 remake Moreover, once players manage to bring Flesh Lip down to the ground, he unveils his second phase, adopting a menacing spider-like pose that greatly enhances his speed and range of attack. To counteract this, players will have to use a combination of melee and ranged attacks, while also dealing with Flesh Lip’s terrifying scream, which can temporarily stun them during the fight. Once Flesh Lip is defeated, players will likely breathe a sigh of relief. But that’s when the battle’s final surprise arrives. A second Flesh Lip appears and instantly grabs James by the neck, dragging him further into the underbelly of Brookhaven Hospital. This functions as both a jump scare in its own right, and also as a kind of easter egg for fans of the original game. They will likely be taken aback by the appearance of a second Flesh Lip just as the battle wraps up. Caption: Comparison between 2001 Silent Hill 2 and the 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake Final thoughts　 As the new Silent Hill 2 remake inches ever closer to release on October 8, we wanted to take the time to present a head-to-head comparison depicting one of the game’s defining moments. We hope this manages to convey our approach towards the whole game, which emphasizes the original’s strengths and seeks to expand upon them while staying true to the game’s spirit. View the full article

Hi all – Luke Karmali here from the team over at Larian Studios, bringing you the exciting news that Baldur’s Gate 3’s Patch 7 is now officially available on PlayStation 5. There’s quite a meaty buffet that stands before us, and a lot of ground to cover, so let’s dive in. First up, the dastardly-minded among you will be pleased to know Patch 7 brings a whopping 13 new cinematic Evil Endings, including unique ones for each Origin Character. Unsatisfied with how much The Sword Coast has suffered to this point? Well now’s your chance to set the world to rights…or wrongs, as it turns out. Alongside this, we’ve revamped our split screen gameplay offering for couch co-op play. Dynamic split screen means each side of the screen will merge when you near each other and split back up as you head off on your own adventures. No more arguments over which direction to head in! But the addition that we’re especially keen to talk about today is our brand new Mod Manager, allowing console players to experience a fresh brand of mutable mayhem authored by community members like yourselves. With mods running the gamut from the mad to the macabre, we can appreciate it may be a bit overwhelming for some to know where to start. With that in mind, we’re here to offer a rundown of five of our favourites, showing just what’s possible with this latest toolkit. Five game-changing Mods to get you started 1) Adjustable Party Limit by PixellBytes If you’ve been suffering from choice paralysis when it comes to building your party, then rejoice! Our first mod adds spells that allow you to adjust the number of companions in your party, up to 16, and can even work in multiplayer. Not content with your fellows swearing just their swords, bows and axes to you? Well now you can add their daggers, flails, glaives, staves, salamis and even their lutes at the same time! Speaking of which… View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image 2) Underwear of Rituals by Xelphos Undercrackers. Budgie-smugglers. Banana hammocks. Words that no doubt conjure an array of images to your mind. But what if they could conjure more than just that? What if they unlocked your latent ability to read minds, shapeshift, or even speak with the dead?! Well, wonder no more, as this mod realizes this potential via the Gilded Chest of Ritualistic Underwear. We promise, it’s anything but pants. 3) Underdark Dice by elliegreenart Spores spores spores! How do you like them, why don’t you like them!? Amid a SPOREgasbord of options for dice reskins, it’s these Underdark-themed beauties that really caught our (fung-)eyes. While other dice are available, we don’t think there’s mushroom for improvement. Okay, I’ll stop now. 4) Kuo-Toa Playable Race by Gonzalo_Marcos Of all the myriad races inhabiting Faerun, there’s one in particular that never fails to leave an impression – one could even say, BOOOAL us over. We’re talking, of course, about the enigmatic Kuo-Toa. Just look at his face – what is he thinking? What does he know!? Well, wonder no more as these questions and more can finally be answered. And remember – where there’s a gill, there’s a way. 5) Mystic Class by Xhevo Unable to choose between the initial offering of 12 classes and 46 subclasses in Baldur’s Gate 3? Well, the choice just got even harder, with a bevy of new classes being added as I type thanks to our illustrious modders. Though there’s some very interesting variations on offer on the Paladin and Warlock fronts, this take on the Mystic class from the Unearthed Arcana is a great place to start. This is just a taster of all that’s on offer with new mods being added all the time. We hope you’re inspired to give some of them a go…and perhaps even look into authoring some yourself! Who knows what mayhem you may be capable of wroughting with your very own hands? Verify your age to view this content. Verify your age to view this content. View the full article

September had many games for the kid and the warrior in us all. What did you enjoy most about last month’s title lineup? How does it work? At the end of every month, PlayStation Blog will open a poll where you can vote for the best new game released that month. After the polls close we will tally your votes, and announce the winner on our social channels and PlayStation.Blog. What is the voting criteria? That’s up to you! If you were only able to recommend one new release to a friend that month, which would it be? Note: re-released games don’t qualify, but remakes do. We define remakes as ambitious, larger-scale rebuilds such as Resident Evil 4 (2023) and Final Fantasy VII Remake. How are nominees decided? The PlayStation Blog editorial team will gather a list of that month’s most noteworthy releases and use it to seed the poll. View the full article

On October 31, Starship Troopers: Continuum will be released on PS VR2. This multiplayer co-op shooting game is the first to recreate Starship Troopers in virtual reality. This blog will explain what the game’s name actually means. But first, please welcome a very special guest! The face of FedNet, hero of Klendathu, General Johnny Rico! A word from Casper Van Dien “I guess I’m the closest thing Starship Troopers has for a hero. My character, Johnny Rico, has been with me for nearly 30 years. He spends most of the first movie surrounded by death. He’s responsible for a death in training. He’s mistakenly K.I.A on Klendathu. He’s promoted when Troopers die around him, falling upwards through the ranks. ‘A citizen accepts personal responsibility for the safety of the body politic, defending it with his life; a civilian does not.’ In the end, Rico’s changed. He takes that quote to heart and becomes willing – even keen – to die for the cause. He becomes harder, stronger, more pragmatic… but at what cost? In Starship Troopers: Continuum, Rico’s a figurehead for FedNet’s ‘Klendathu 25’ celebration. I’m helping recruit new meat for the grinder, and you’re the meat. You play Mobile Infantry Troopers as they battle the opposing Arachnid force. Thousands will die on both sides. You’re disposable. Mobile Infantry does the dying, and that’s what this game is all about. VR puts you right there, on the battlefield with your squad, facing big, fast, mean and lethal bugs. Like Rico, you’re surrounded by death. So eyes front, Trooper! It’s your duty to take responsibility and defend the Federation with your life! Or do you wanna live forever?” Play Video Verify your age to view this content. Verify your age to view this content. Authenticity evolved In developing Starship Troopers: Continuum, we at XR Games wanted to capture the essence of Starship Troopers. As Casper says, that’s the meat grinder. This war is dangerous, and the bugs are lethal. You will die. Then accept your rewards, choose a new Trooper, and start again. Kill bugs, earn money, gain EXP. Survive long enough and you can retire your Trooper into citizenship, with the extra bonus that brings. Or don’t, and die, and try again. This is the meat grinder. Of course, you bank your progress. You earn new perks and guns to arm your next Trooper with. You get to make a stronger build. The mechanism by which you do this is called the Continuum. Enter the Continuum Remember Cyrano the ferret? Starship Troopers: Continuum takes place 25 years after Klendathu, and there’s been a breakthrough in psychic research – the Continuum. This technology creates a psychic interface through which soldiers called PsyCommanders can control other human beings, like Cyrano in the movie. In Starship Troopers: Continuum, the moment you don your VR headset, you’re connected to the Continuum in the role of a PsyCommander. You control one Trooper at a time. Die, and you can immediately take a new Trooper. Your goal is to keep them alive… but accidents happen! As a PsyCommander, you have access to perks via the Continuum. As you level up, you gain access to more perks and super-perks, which can be injected into your Trooper to improve their performance. As your Trooper ranks up, they can take on more perks simultaneously, allowing for build combinations to tune your play. For instance, equip Psychosis Blast to add damage to your dash ability, then complement it with Adrenaline to reduce your dash cooldown time. Throw in Tactical Relocation – move faster as you kill more – and you have a speed build! Plus, the more you use your perks, the stronger they get. Even if your Trooper dies, a future Trooper can take on that perk at its advanced level. This is the meaning of the Continuum. Even as Troopers die, the Continuum becomes stronger, justifying every Trooper sacrificed on the battlefield, redeeming every drop of blood that’s shed! Build your Trooper, form your squad Starship Troopers: Continuum is an online multiplayer game, great with 1 to 3 players. So build complementary Troopers for battlefield dominance! 20+ weapons and 40+ perks allow you to create a different Trooper every time. Keep them alive, hit the criteria for citizenship, and gain big bonuses that’ll make you even more powerful. But don’t underestimate the bug! They’re fast and lethal, with some tricks you’ve not seen yet! I’m doing my part! How will you do yours? Starship Troopers: Continuum for PS VR2 is released on October 31.. There are many other ways to kill bugs this October! Starship Troopers: Extermination, the 16-player co-op FPS developed by Offworld Industries and published by Knights Peak, will arrive on PlayStation 5 on October 11. View the full article

Email us at PSPodcast@sony.com! Subscribe via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or download here Hello listeners, we’ve got a bunch to unpack! This week, the PlayStation Podcast team dives into some of the hottest reveals coming out of this week’s news-packed State of Play. Plus, Sid discusses his recent hands-on experience with PS5 Pro launching on November 7. Stuff We Talked About Next week’s releases: Until Dawn | PS5, PC Sword Art Online: Fractured Daydream | PS5 Spongebob SquarePants: The Patrick Star Game | PS5, PS4 PlayStation Plus Monthly Games for October: WWE 2K24 Dead Space Doki Doki Literature Club Plus Ghost of Yōtei Astro Bot new content announced The Midnight Walk Hell is Us Chroma Collection – PS5 accessories Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver 1 & 2 Remastered Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered PS5 Pro The Plucky Squire Doom + Doom II Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 The Cast View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Sid Shuman – Senior Director of Content Communications, SIE View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Tim Turi – Content Communications Manager, SIE Thanks to Dormilón for our rad theme song and show music. [Editor’s note: PSN game release dates are subject to change without notice. Game details are gathered from press releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.] View the full article

Last week, we asked you to share your favorite VIP Bot cameos in Astro Bot using #PSshare #PSBlog. Here are this week’s highlights: TheFourthFocus shares the Machine Hunter/Aloy VIP Bot in action. DiogOliveiraVP shares Astro posing with the Lovestruck Lyricist/PaRappa VIP Bot. omegangell shares the Roguish Conduit/Delsin Rowe VIP Bot blazing through the skies. shimo_ps shares the Dependable Smuggler/Joel VIP Bot protecting the Immune Survivor/Ellie VIP Bot from the Fungus Head/Click VIP Bot. spideyfan0480 shares Astro decked out to match the Dad of Boy/Kratos VIP Bot. i3ecci shares the Tooled-Up Mechanic/Ratchet standing beside the rift jumping Multiversal Rebel/Rivet. Search #PSshare #PSBlog on Twitter or Instagram to see more entries to this week’s theme. Want to be featured in the next Share of the Week? THEME: Astro Bot – Levels SUBMIT BY: 11:59 PM PT on October 2, 2024 Next week, we’re blasting across the galaxies to highlight Astro Bot’s levels. Share your favorite level using #PSshare #PSBlog for a chance to be featured. View the full article

Join us for a tour of the PlayStation booth at the Tokyo Game Show 2024, featuring some memorable photo ops as well as hands-on with a few anticipated PS5 games. Let’s dive into the booth plus gameplay reports for Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, Sonic x Shadow Generations, Dragon Quest III HD-3D Remake, and Metaphor ReFantazio. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image At the PlayStation booth, visitors can take a look at the PS5 Pro console – displayed publicly for the first time and set to be released on November 7 – and also play Final Fantasy VII Rebirth or Gran Turismo 7 on the new console. Additionally, the entire lineup of the PlayStation 30th Anniversary Collection is also displayed at the booth. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image SIE is showcasing an exciting lineup of PS5 titles, including Astro Bot and the highly-anticipated Monster Hunter Wilds. Let’s dive in! Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater | Publisher: Konami Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a remake of the 2004 game Metal Gear Solid 3 Snake Eater for PS2. I had a chance to play a versus mission at the PlayStation booth. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image As Snake descends into the jungle, he calls up his mentor, The Boss. The excellent voicework for these iconic characters immediately brought me back to my PS2 days with the original. The map design, where players move between sub-areas, is also faithfully recreated in the remake. While it may have been highly possible to create a single large map using today’s advanced technology, the sub-area design helps make each jungle section feel distinct. The new high-definition visuals are stunning, with the character’s textures and the jungle’s atmosphere being realistically rendered. The change in the camera angle, from bird’s eye view to third-person, also elevates the immersive feeling of exploring the dense jungle. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a game that not only feels novel with its updated graphics and controllability but also brings a wave of nostalgia as it remains faithful to the original story, dialogue, and map design. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake | Publisher: Square Enix Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, launching on November 14, is a vivid reimagining of the beloved 1998 RPG The game provides richer aesthetics by adding 3D effects to pixel-based backgrounds. The pixelated characters and monsters coexist harmoniously with the 3D backgrounds, and I was captivated by the meticulous depiction of the rippling water surfaces and the details of the interior decorations. The scenery also gradually transitions from day to evening to night as time passes. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image With the new Monster Battle Road feature, I was able to send three captured monsters into battle arenas against other teams of creatures. While you can’t directly control the monsters, you can still choose from four preset tactics to influence your monsters fight. I learned that frequently switching tactics paves the road to victory. During the playthrough, I also explored the Skyfell Tower and battled against the boss bandit, Robbin’ ‘Ood. Just as in the original, combat is based on random encounters. Instead of assigning actions to each party, I opted for a group command for some AI combat actions. The combat offers three options for speed, so I chose the quickest option for fast-paced, hassle-free battles. Waiting for me at the top of the tower was Robbin’ ‘Ood and his three henchmen. Skillful use of spells, special skills, and recovery commands is key to toppling these lethal foes. Metaphor: ReFantazio | Publisher: Atlus Metaphor: ReFantazio, launching October 11 on PS5 and PS4, is a new IP from the creator of the Persona series. In the Dungeon modes, Occupied Cathedral, I explored with friends who possessed awakened abilities, Archetypes, and experienced a unique combat system called Fast & Squad. Combat began with enemy encounters that triggered a turn-based command battle called Squad. However, against lower-ranked opponents, I could immediately assault them with a Fast Attack, defeating them with a single blow instead of initiating a turn-based fight. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image The Squad command battle is based on Atlus’s signature Press Turn Battle system. You can use the Press Icon to determine how many actions are remaining for each turn since normal attacks, stronger attacks called Synthesis, and Archetype skills each consume a different amount of press. Notably, attacking the enemies’ weak points don’t consume Press and provide more options for additional actions. The thrill of a successful strategy is matched only by the disappointment of a failed one, creating an emotional roller-coaster where every decision carries significant weight. This intensity and excitement are particularly palpable during combat against formidable foes. The stylish ultimate move skill Synthesis perfectly capture the essence of Persona. In Journey mode, I traveled on the gauntlet runner and mingled with friends to find out more about their identity and what they mean to my character.. Sonic X Shadow Generations | Publisher: Sega Sonic Generations is remastered with new content featuring Shadow in this high-speed action-adventure, launching on October 25. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image I dropped into the Space Colony Ark: Act 1 from Shadow’s storyline, guiding the hedgehog through a space station with lightning-fast reflexes. With missiles, lasers, and robots all trying to halt my advance, the power of Chaos Control helped meoutmaneuver them. Later in the game, I faced a familiar but stronger boss, Metal Overload, from a 2003 PS2 Sonic game. For this part of the game, Doom Surf is the only way of traversal as the stage is set on the ocean. Using L1 and R1, I spun to deflect the enemy’s missiles to attack the boss. Between jumping over a barrage of lasers and dodging the boss’s tail swiping, this game is packed with endless action and kept me on my toes the whole time. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image You can also find the recent hands-on reports for my experience with Monster Hunter Wilds, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Dynasty Warriors: Origins at Tokyo Game Show 2024. View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View the full article

As PlayStation celebrates its 30th Anniversary, we’re excited to share some thrilling news with our PlayStation Plus members. To make this milestone even more special, we’re adding one of the most beloved titles to the Game Catalog: The Last of Us Part I. PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members* will have the chance to experience or revisit the unforgettable journey of Ellie and Joel. Fittingly, the game will be available today, in time to mark the series’ own The Last of Us Day celebrations, September 26. To make this occasion even more memorable, we’ve lined up several exclusive activities for our community: PlayStation Star Campaign From September 26 to November 26, all PlayStation Stars members that play The Last of Us Part I, which is in the PlayStation Plus Game Catalog*, will earn a fearsome Clicker Digital Collectible. New PlayStation Plus Avatars Starting September 26, known by fans and Naughty Dog as The Last of Us Day, you can redeem a voucher code for new PS5 and PS4 avatars featuring key characters from The Last of Us. Choose from Ellie, Joel, or even a Clicker to personalize your profile. The voucher will be available on the PlayStation Plus website and on The Last of Us Page on the PS Plus Hub on your console. The avatars will be available until October 26. Discount on PlayStation Gear Show off your fandom with official The Last of Us merchandise! From September 26 to October 26, PlayStation Plus members can enjoy a 10% discount on select The Last of Us merchandise at PlayStation Gear. Simply use the promo code TLOUPLUS10 at checkout. Visit gear.playstation.com to explore all the items and find the perfect addition to your collection.** We hope you enjoy these activities as well as the chance to revisit or experience Ellie and Joel’s unforgettable journey when The Last of Us Part I launches onto PlayStation Plus Game Catalog later today. *Game Catalog varies over time, region/country, and plan. PS Plus is subject to a recurring subscription fee taken automatically until cancellation. Terms apply: play.st/psplus-usageterms. **Some exclusions Limit one per customer. Must use code at checkout for discount. Only valid on The Last of Us Products. View the full article

Monster Hunter Wilds, the next entry in the popular hunting action game series is set to release on February 28 on PS5. I had an opportunity to play the Story Quest at the Tokyo Game Show 2024, where I immersed myself in the gameplay from the introduction of the new story to the intense battle against a frog-like amphibian monster, the Chatacabra. Play Video Monster chase in Windward Plains The Story Quest kicked off with the enjoyable process of creating my character. I had the freedom to customize every detail of the hunter’s appearance and even that of the hunter’s trusted partner, Palico. As the story began, I found myself traversing Windward Plains in a sand ship with the Forbidden Lands Research Commission. Through flashbacks you’ll learn how your character became a part of the commission. Suddenly, the scene cut to a nerve-racking chase, where a herd of desert-dwelling Balaharas are in hot pursuit of a girl riding a Seikret. Without a moment of hesitation, I leaped onto a Seikret and gave chase to rescue the girl. Balahara chase During this chase scene my Seikret was on autopilot to catch up to the girl. However, with some freedom to control the camera view and my ridable partner, I immersed myself in the action as I jumped over boulders and slalomed through the air to close the distance. When I finally caught up to the girl, it was my turn to be pursued by the hordes of formidable Balaharas in a heart-pounding chase. They were relentless, closing in on us from every possible direction as I dashed through the desert, attacking them with my slinger to fire sonic bombs. Seikret joy ride Upon discovering that the young girl was separated from her brother, the hunter decided to find him. To gain more insight before embarking on the mission, I sought the advice of the Handler, Alma. She gave me a valuable recommendation on which one of all 14 available weapons I should take on the journey. Luckily, the girl’s Seikret remembered the scent of her missing brother so it knew exactly where to go. Though I was guided to the location automatically, having complete control over the Seikret’s movements was liberating. I could accelerate and decelerate using the R1 and R2, respectively, while holding them made it dash forward or come to a quick stop. With the left stick, as expected, I guided my mount in the direction I wanted it to go. From time-to-time, I made detours, stopping off at places that grabbed my attention. I even took advantage of the hands-free ride to gather hunting items, materials, and wield my weapon. New wound system and SOS flare in the Chatacabra hunt Soon after arriving at the locale, a simple mission of searching for the brother quickly escalated to a hunt for a formidable foe as I found the girl’s brother in imminent danger from a Chatacabra’s attack. Leveraging the new wound system, I attacked the same weak point persistently to inflict significant damage. Also new to Monster Hunter Wilds, Focus mode is activated by holding down L2 to display a reticle on the screen for guidance on where to attack, and a red highlight on the monster’s wounds for easier aiming. The ability to change the target point, even during the attack motion, allowed me to effectively attack the weak point despite using a weighty, slow-motion weapon like the Great Sword. By pressing R1 in Focus mode, I uncovered the strategic Focus Strike. This special attack works by connecting with a wound or weak point, and it proved to deal massive damage and stun the foe. Undoubtedly one of the most satisfying moments in the game was when I managed to destroy multiple wounds with a single Focus Attack. During hunting, you can summon your Siekret by pressing the directional key for swift mounting. Once mounted, I strategically drank a healing potion to restore my health and used a whetstone to sharpen my weapon. Another unique feature is the SOS Flare, a tool that calls in aid from NPC support hunters. The monster’s rage is likely to be redirected when other hunters join the fray. This is an excellent way for novice players of this series to divert damage. Although this feature wasn’t available during the offline single-player demo, I learned that you can recruit other players while summoning support hunters while online. New stories unfold in the Forbidden Lands After defeating the Chatacabra, I hurried back to the camp with the rescued brother. The main mission in the first chapter concluded with the newly reunited siblings sharing tales to catch up. The Story Quest was rich in content, from the gripping Balahara chase scene to leveraging the wound system and Focus mode in the challenging hunt for the elusive Chatacabra. As players step into the main mission, I’m convinced new hunters and those about to uncover the series for the first time will find themselves mesmerized by the world that unfolds when Monster Hunter Wilds launches February 28 on PS5. View the full article

The Dynasty Warriors series, known for its 1 vs. 1,000 gameplay, is set to make a grand return in 2025 with its latest entry for PS5, Dynasty Warriors: Origins. This upcoming title debuted its first hands-on exhibit at the Tokyo Game Show 2024, where I had the unique opportunity to be guided through the demo play by Mr. Tomohiko Sho, producer & head of Omega Force, Koei Tecmo Games. Here’s a full breakdown of the demo with the tips and insights I received from Mr. Sho. Play Video Choose your companion and set off to battle As the game began, I found myself amid the Battle of Sishui Gate, standing at a war council meeting with General Yuan Shao, a key figure spearheading a coalition to overthrow Dong Zhuo. My mission was clear and the stakes were high – I was to defeat Dong Zhuo’s officers, Li Jue and Hua Xiong, who were defending the Sishui Gate. As the council concluded, it was time to ready myself for battle. I checked the positions of various armies on the map, selected the protagonist’s armor and weapons, and chose the companion to fight alongside me. There were three types of weapons to choose from: the General’s Sword, the Gnashing Fang, and the Crescent Blade. While Mr. Sho recommended the versatile General’s Sword for its easy handling, long-time Dynasty Warriors players and skilled action game players are encouraged to opt for either of the other two. Next, I selected my companion from Xiahou Dun, Guan Yu, and Sun Shangxiang to fight with me on the battlefield. Interestingly, each warrior had a different starting position on the map. 1/3Now showing slide 1 of 3Show all View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Exhilarating and gratifying 1 vs. 1,000 hack-and-slash action As I embarked on my quest, a horde of Dong Zhuo’s army emerged, sparking a swift battle. Balancing between the Square button for normal attacks and the Triangle button for power attacks, I cleared the enemies from my path, building up my spirit gauge with each strike. Once full, I triggered the Rage mode to unleash a chain of Battle Arts moves. The control of the protagonist was intuitive and easy, making it a game that even new players to the series would quickly get the hang of. While defeating regular soldiers is straightforward, fighting duels with army commanders or prominent generals requires strategic thinking. These formidable foes are distinguished by a special aura, Fortitude, indicated by a shield icon. While they are glowing, your attacks are significantly less effective. The key to dealing heavy damage is to deplete their Fortitude by using special Battle Arts moves or perfectly timing a block. However, it’s important to note that some generals can launch special attacks that are impossible to guard against. In such situations, you must rely on evasion, distance, or kinetic energy to counteract their attacks. These tangibly strong enemy generals added to the electrifying experience of this battle action title. 1/2Now showing slide 1 of 2Show all View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image Strategic orders to wipe out the foes The protagonist commands and fights alongside an army of as many as 21 guards. Pressing the L2 button activates the Eyes of the Sacred Bird, a feature that allows you to switch to an aerial view of the battlefield. From this vantage point, you can devise strategic orders for the allied guards, such as volleys to fire a hail of arrows, charge to storm through the enemy lines with spears in hands, and encirclement to surround foes. Mr. Sho explained that the guards system was implemented in the series’ earlier works, but was removed midway through to place a stronger emphasis on the companions. However, the developers’ unceasing desire to bring them back led to the reinvention and reintroduction of the guards in the series’ latest installment to amplify the sensation of large-scale battlefields. Thousands of individual soldiers stir the tide of war Dynasty Warriors: Origins boasts an unprecedented scale of soldiers in the series’ history. Governed by individually assigned algorithms, thousands of soldiers independently jostle in a single screen, either under the command of their leaders or with their own volition. Indeed, the game meticulously recreates an entire battlefield, with each clash erupting on every inch of the map, stirring up the tide of war. Duals, supporting companions, and intense final battle As I made my way toward Sishui Gate, I was confronted by a massive army led by Li Jue and Hua Xiong. The dynamic clash between the two forces instantly ignited my adrenaline. I tactfully deployed the guards, who then charged into the enemy camp, wreaking havoc. With the successful ambush on Sun Jian, my punitive force’s morale skyrocketed. However, as if to stop this momentum, the enemy general, Hua Xiong, challenged me to a duel. Encircled by enemy soldiers, only the winner could walk away alive. As Hua Xiong fiercely attacked with his giant hammer, I felt a jolt of exhilaration as I dealt with his blows and counterattacked. The opposing army’s next move was a grand assault, launching a constant flow of multiple army units. This meant I had two minutes to defeat 500 soldiers. I quickly switched to the Musou Warrior I was saving for this battle and went for the kill. 1/2Now showing slide 1 of 2Show all View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image My Musou Warrior, Sun Shangxiang, was peerless. Once her Musou awakened, she annihilated the enemy with her unmatched attack power and prowled through attacks, completely unfazed. She used her powerful move, Musou Ranbu, or unmatched dance, to wipe out the enemy’s army. The protagonist was strong, but the power of the Musou Warrior was a true representation of 1 vs. 1,000 action. Facing Lu Bu, the strongest warrior After the landslide victory at the Battle of Suishui Gate, my S-rank proudly displayed on the demo result screen. I was taken by surprise when an extra stage unexpectedly began. The formidable Lu Bu, known as the strongest general, stood before me. His powerful and wide-ranged attacks were a sight to behold. As the level 10 Fortitude indicated, he was a force to be reckoned with. His strength was beyond my expectations, and I could only manage to deplete his Fortitude ever so slightly before I was defeated. Despite the setback, the sense of accomplishment for having faced the strongest general in the Three Kingdoms was undeniable. 1/2Now showing slide 1 of 2Show all View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image View and download image Download the image close Close Download this image In this demo gameplay, I primarily experienced battles against enemy generals. The tactical elements of large-scale battles can only be thoroughly explored in the full version of the game. The@ tactical action title to date when Dynasty Warriors: Origins launches on PS5 in 2025. View the full article

Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, slated for release on February 28 is an action-adventure game that stars Goro Majima as the sole protagonist for the first time. After losing his memory and being stranded on Rich Island near Hawaii, Majima takes on the role of a pirate and sets out on a grand oceanic adventure. Recently showcased at the Tokyo Game Show 2024, I had the opportunity to get hands-on with this highly anticipated title, and here’s my impression of the gameplay experience. Play Video Pirate’s life In this hands-on preview, players control Majima as he embarks on an adventure in Hawaii, engaging in battles and activities. At the start of the game, Majima is shown traveling by ship with his crew, including Jason, his son Noah, and Masaru, a chef and bodyguard. Their goal is to reach the imaginary island of Madlantis, but they make a stop in Honolulu to prepare. Mad Dog and Pirate style As Majima and Noah stroll along the beach, the battle tutorial begins. Unlike the RPG live-command system of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, this title returns to Majima’s action-packed, brawling roots, last seen in Yakuza Kiwami 2. Players can switch between two battle styles, Mad Dog and Pirate, with the latter involving a transformation into pirate-themed attire. In the Mad Dog style, Majima primarily uses his fists and a knife for combat. Compared to Kazuma Kiryu, Majima’s movements are noticeably quicker, with agile footwork and rapid attacks. A standout feature of this style is the ability to jump, allowing Majima to perform air combos. Players can enjoy the satisfaction of launching enemies into the air and continuing their attacks mid-air. The extended airtime makes it easy to execute aerial combos for those unfamiliar with action games. Additionally, as time passes or when Heat Actions are activated, the Madness Gauge in the top left corner of the screen fills up, allowing Majima to create clones. Once triggered, four shadowy duplicates of Majima appear and begin attacking nearby enemies. It’s exhilarating to see Majima at the center, spinning like a top with his clones and knocking enemies around. The Pirate style focuses on attacks using pirate-themed weapons, especially the cutlass, a curved, single-edged sword pirates carry around in films. Majima can dual-wield cutlasses to slash enemies and even throw them like boomerangs. The Charge Gun increases in power the longer the button is held, and there’s also the option to use wire hooks. This allows Majima to either attack from a distance or quickly close the gap with enemies, offering versatile combat strategies depending on the situation. In combat, you can seamlessly switch between the two battle styles at any time. Even players who aren’t comfortable with action games can enjoy flashy, dynamic moves by mixing and matching these styles. The Pirate style in particular, with its use of pirate-themed tools and unique actions, is sure to become addictive. Similar to Kiryu’s gadget-based Agent style from Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name, Majima’s Pirate style offers a tricky way to fight. Play around in Honolulu After completing the battle tutorial, I was able to explore and enjoy various activities in Honolulu freely. I got to try out popular features like Karaoke and Boutique, along with the explosive race Dragon Kart and the stunt-based delivery game, Crazy Delivery. Though these activities are familiar to players, experiencing them as Majima instead of Ichiban Kasuga brought a fresh twist to the gameplay. Mobs of Madlantis After playing for a while, you can talk to Jason, and finally set foot on the island of Madlantis. It’s a desolate place known as a ship graveyard, where mafia and gangs gather. The island exudes an atmosphere of decay, and you’ll frequently get into fights with rowdy individuals. Additionally, there are gambling spots to enjoy games like poker. As you gather information from the roughnecks and head towards the bar where Keith resides, a battle ensues. Surrounded by a horde of henchmen, Majima’s combat skills truly shine. Using the Mad Dog style, you can confuse enemies with swift, acrobatic moves while wielding your knife. On the other hand, the Pirate style allows you to unleash wide-range attacks with dual swords. The one-on-one fight with Keith offers thrilling action, as you dodge, guard, and strike at opportune moments. While the idea of Majima becoming a pirate might seem far-fetched, the gameplay proves to be a solid action-adventure experience. Majima’s characteristic Mad Dog persona shines through, showing that even with memory loss, he can’t help but enjoy the thrill of battle. There’s much to look forward to when Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii launches on February 28 on PS5. View the full article

Kristen and I got a chance to go eyes on (and hands on) with the PlayStation Pro console for the first time, and first impressions are promising. Though we didn’t have to time fully investigate every one of the games at last week’s hands-on event, even a cursory review of the PS5 Pro Enhanced games on display revealed immediate and noticeable benefits compared to the current PS5 console. It was interesting to see how different studios leveraged PS5 Pro’s advanced hardware. Many PS5 games currently allow players to choose between Fidelity and Performance modes to cater to players’ tastes. Some of the PS5 Pro games we saw seemed to combine the benefits of both high fidelity and high performance, taking the experience to another level. This “best of both worlds” approach was fully apparent in Horizon Forbidden West‘s Pro Performance mode expected to land on November 7 with the launch of PS5 Pro. Compared to the stock Performance mode on PS5, the extra horsepower afforded by PS5 Pro allows for the same high framerate while massively improving image quality. Visual grittiness in fine environmental details like moss, leaves, and the red stealth bushes is banished, but even some textures and holograms looked noticeably cleaner and crisper. The Pro Performance mode also benefits the game’s volumetric effects; misty sunbeams were free of distracting shimmers and strobing we noticed in the PS5’s stock Performance mode. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth sported an impressive PS5 Pro glow up, sporting a high framerate and pin-sharp presentation in its new Enhanced Mode due out November 7. While exploring the countryside, we observed crystal clear vistas devoid of distracting shimmering and visual noise, particularly in classic trouble spots like far-off trees and structures. Then we visited the Gold Saucer’s high-contrast environments, where the neon lights resolved cleanly against the darker environment surfaces. Perhaps more importantly, the high framerate had tangible benefits for combat and traversal, making this a significant upgrade. The Last of Us Part II Remastered gave another impressive demonstration of PS5 Pro’s vision of high visual quality married to a high framerate. Blades of grass and leaves resolved cleanly, without any distracting shimmering effects or visual noise. Similarly, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 was observed running at both a high frame rate and crisp Fidelity-mode resolution and feature set, including its signature ray-traced reflections. It wove a gorgeous presentation overall, balancing small trade-offs to provide the best-looking Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 experience we’ve seen on PlayStation. Which brings up another topic: ray tracing has seen a more than 2x performance boost on PS5 Pro. And while not every game leverages this unique technology, we’re seeing some very interesting results in early PS5 Pro testing. Hogwarts Legacy is taking a unique approach for PS5 Pro by emphasizing ray tracing quality via its new Fidelity ray tracing Mode due out at the console’s launch. Based on what we saw, this new mode provides a big boost to the lighting system by adding raytraced shadows and enhancing raytraced reflections, all while targeting a stable 30 fps. Seeing your character realistically reflected in a suit of armor is a stunning demonstration of ray tracing’s potential, while the upgraded RT shadows bring another visual flourish to an already polished game. Though ray tracing seems to be the main focus for developer Avalanche, the game’s Performance Mode and Fidelity Mode will see quality enhancements too. GT7 is targeting a November release for a new patch that will add several new PS5 Pro-focused rendering modes, including a Raytrace Priority mode that adds eye-catching new car reflections. F1 24 is upgrading its Quality mode to add new ray tracing effects that shined particularly on rain-soaked courses and made the tracks feel more realistic and immersive. Play Video GT7 will also include an optional and experimental 8K/60fps rendering mode that emphasizes hyper-crisp, hyper-clean visuals (yes, you have to have an 8K display). Those are just our first impressions. We can’t wait to get more time with PS5 Pro when it launches on November 7. Learn more about how game creators are taking advantage of the PlayStation 5 Pro console. Ray tracing and high frame rate gameplay features only available on select PS5 games that have been enhanced for PS5 Pro when compared with PS5. PS5 Pro enhanced features will vary by game. Enhanced features require a compatible display. View the full article

Gran Turismo players! The world’s fastest drivers will be in Tokyo on September 28 for GT World Series 2024 Round 3. Get involved with special campaigns on Gran Turismo 7 including the Predict the Winners challenge where you can earn up to 2,000,000 in-game Credits Tokyo is the penultimate round, with the Manufacturers Cup and Nations Cup Champions set to be crowned at the World Finals in Amsterdam from December 6-8 (tickets go on sale this weekend) Play Video Round 3 of the Gran Turismo World Series 2024 takes place on Saturday, September 28 at Theater Milano-Za at the Kabukicho Tower in the Shinjuku area of Tokyo. After a season full of stunning action and drama on track the event is sold out. But you can catch all the action live at the following times and platforms. Manufacturers Cup – 00:00 PDT | EDT 03:00 | UTC 07:00 | CEST 09:00 | Local time JST 16:00 Nations Cup – 03:00 PDT | EDT 06:00 | UTC 10:00 | CEST 12:00 | Local time JST 19:00 The Gran Turismo website – https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/live/ YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@GRANTURISMOTV Twitch – https://www.twitch.tv/granturismoofficial Win big and race like the best on Gran Turismo 7 As ever, there are plenty of ways to get involved in the World Series in-game. By clicking on the Predict the Winners campaign banner on the GT7 World Map, players can win one million credits for each of the Nations Cup and the Manufacturers Cup with votes cast right up to the start of the final race of each. Simply watching the broadcast in-game will also unlock some special iconic Japanese race cars in GT7 through the Viewers Gift campaign. Players watching the Manufacturers Cup will receive the Mazda 787B while watching the Nations Cup in-game unlocks the Xanavi Nismo GT-R (GT500) ’08. Players can also take part in two special challenges in Gran Turismo 7 that reflect the car and track combinations from the show in Tokyo. The Nations Cup Grand Final is mirrored with an Online Time Trial featuring the X2019 Competition car on the Grand Valley Highway 1 so that players can check how they compare with the Nations Cup qualifying times. A Daily Race in Gran Turismo 7 will feature Gr. 3 cars on Australia’s Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit, the same combination as the Manufacturers Cup Grand Final. Gran Turismo World Series 2024 – The story so far Round 1 Usine-C, Montreal, Canada Saturday, July 6 The Manufacturers Cup race saw a familiar face back on top of the podium when Igor Fraga drove a faultless race for Team Lexus at the Autódromo de Interlagos. The Brazilian headed Italy’s Valerio Gallo, driving for Team Honda, and Japan’s Team Porsche driver Takuma Sasaki. In the Nations Cup Japanese driver Takuma Miyazono, 2020 Nations Cup Champion, showed exceptional speed and strategic guile at the Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta circuit to take the win by less than a second from hard-charging Spaniards Jose Serrano and Coque López. Round 2 Divadlo Hybernia, Prague, Czech Republic Saturday, August 10 The Manufacturers Cup field was packed with some of the biggest names in competitive Gran Turismo racing. After a tense race, with weather conditions on Gran Turismo’s Dragon Trail Seaside circuit adding to the intensity, few would have predicted that a World Series rookie would take a highly impressive victory for Team Ferrari. Mohamed Buhdeima, a 20-year-old Briton, held off a strong challenge from another debutant, Team Porsche’s Benjamin Hencsei from Hungary, by just 0.092 seconds. France’s Thomas Labouteley, driving for BMW, completed the podium. Team Porsche now heads to Tokyo with the series lead on 9 points. Montreal winners Team Lexus sits in second on 7 points, while Buhdeima’s excellent win in Prague takes Team Ferrari to third. The Italian national anthem sounded a second time in Prague when popular 2021 Nations Cup Champion Valerio Gallo returned to form with an emotional victory in a truly spectacular Grand Final held at the Red Bull Ring. Gallo narrowly defeated France’s Kylian Drumont and an incredible drive saw Spain’s Coque López storm from the very back of the grid to claim 3rd place. The results leave 2022 and 2023 champion López sitting atop the Nations Cup standings with 8 points. Valerio Gallo’s win moves him to second with 7 points, while Takuma Miyazono (who failed to score in Prague) is third on 6 points. Watch this weekend for World Final ticket details Details of how and where to buy tickets for the 2024 World Finals will be announced during the broadcast on Saturday. Amsterdam will host three days of the very best SIM racing action in early December: The Toyota Gazoo Racing GT Cup starts proceedings on Friday, December 6; the Manufacturers Cup will re-unite all three drivers from the 12 manufacturer teams on Saturday, December 7; and on Sunday, December 8 the Nations Cup World Champion will be crowned at Theater Amsterdam. Keep an eye on https://www.gran-turismo.com/world/news/ for more details. View the full article