Commander Fury

It’s another meditative, quiet program this week! Zac shares his love for Dishonored: Death of the Outsider, and Ryan finally plays Destiny 2 and defends games that take things slow. Join us, and enjoy the show! Subscribe via iTunes, Spotify, Google or RSS, or download here Stuff We Talked About Dishonored: Death of the Outsider Destiny 2 Star Wars Battlefront II Middle-earth: Shadow of War Recent Episodes 265: Spoiler Room 264: The End is Nier 263: …And I’ll See You at Evo The Cast Ryan Clements – Sr. Social Media Specialist, SIEA Zac Minor – Sr. Social Media Manager, SIEA Send us questions and tips! blogcast@sony.com Leave us a voicemail! (650) 288-6706 Thanks to Cory Schmitz for our beautiful logo and 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

As players around the world gear up for the start of the Gran Turismo Sport Limited Time Demo and the launch of the Gran Turismo franchise on PS4, we wanted to give you an insight into the cars and tracks you can look forward to racing. With its emphasis on selecting only the best and fastest cars to take to the track, players will be able to pick everyday cars, racing cars, and even concept cars that you’ll only be able to drive in GT Sport. Cars will be grouped into six categories from Group N (your everyday stock cars) through to Group X (those deemed too extreme for our other categories). Grp. N Grp. 4 Grp. 3 Grp. 1 Grp. B Grp. X This year you’ll be able to race from the streets of Tokyo, through the iconic Nurburgring to the dirtiest of rally tracks. With a total of 40 layouts (17 courses) you’ll have the chance to test your racing skills in a host of different environments from around the world, and customize your experiences by playing across different times of the day and through varied weather conditions. We’re really excited to introduce some of the fantasy tracks that the Polyphony team have created, using over 20 years of racing and driving game experience, tracks that are not only fun but will push even the most experienced of drivers. Tokyo Expressway Blue Moon Speedway Dragontrail But we’ve not forgotten the classics, including… Brands Hatch Interlagos Nurburgring And here’s the full track list: Alsace – Village Alsace – Village II Autodrome Lago Maggiore – GP Autodrome Lago Maggiore – GP II Autódromo De Interlagos Blue Moon Bay Speedway Blue Moon Bay Speedway II Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit Brands Hatch Indy Circuit Broad Bean Raceway Broad Bean Raceway II Colorado Springs – Lake Colorado Springs – Lake II Dragon Trail – Seaside Dragon Trail – Seaside II Fishermans Ranch Fishermans Ranch II Kyoto Driving Park – Miyabi Kyoto Driving Park – Yamagiwa Kyoto Driving Park – Yamagiwa II Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit Northern Isle Speedway Northern Isle Speedway – Infield Nürburgring 24h Nürburgring GP Nürburgring Nordschleife Nürburgring Nordschleife Tourist Layout Sardegna – Windmills Sardegna – Windmills II Suzuka Circuit Suzuka Circuit East Course Tokyo Expressway – Central Inner Loop Tokyo Expressway – Central Outer Loop Tokyo Expressway – East Inner Loop Tokyo Expressway – East Outer Loop Willow Springs International Raceway: Big Willow Willow Springs International Raceway: Horse Thief Mile Willow Springs International Raceway: Horse Thief Mile II Willow Springs International Raceway: Streets of Willow Springs Willow Springs International Raceway: Streets of Willow Springs II Don’t miss out on the chance to try some of these cars and tracks ahead of launch by taking part in the GT Sport Limited Time Demo starting October 9 at 10:00 AM Pacific. We look forward to seeing you all in game! View the full article

The arrival of Assassin’s Creed Origins on October 27 will mark a significant milestone for the series. Not only will the game explore an intriguing new era of history and tell the story of how the Assassin Brotherhood was formed, it will also release almost 10 years to the day after the first Assassin’s Creed launched. In the decade since the series’ inception, Assassin’s Creed games have sold hundreds of millions of copies and changed people’s lives, not least of whom are the developers who worked to bring each game to life. One of the developers that has been with the series since the first game is Jean Guesdon, the Creative Director of Assassin’s Creed Origins. We talked to Guesdon about what it was like to work on that first title, how the series has grown over time, and why now is the right time to take players to Ancient Egypt. “The angle was to ground the series in the real history.” For a series steeped in history, Assassin’s Creed didn’t exactly get started in the most iconic time period. Reflecting on the first game’s setting of the Levant during the Third Crusade in 1191, Guesdon says, “Who knew about this time period back in the day? Not a lot of people, for sure. But despite that, the angle was to ground the series in the real history. This is really important, this is where we’re coming from, from a place where there were no dragons, but that was incredibly fascinating nonetheless.” Players were fascinated, all right, and over the next year and a half, Assassin’s Creed went on to sell 8 million copies worldwide. A franchise had been launched on the strength of the core vision for the game: “total freedom of movement in a beautiful open world, set in an exotic time period, grounded in human history, with a strong mysterious narrative.” Guesdon’s description certainly captures the essence of the series, but there’s another important element he believes was crucial to the game’s success. “I also think that Desmond’s story played a big role,” he says. “This small layer (when compared to the global experience set in the past) really created a sense of continuity that made people wonder about ‘the next episode.’ This was the glue that stitched different time periods and heroes together in a consistent and coherent universe.” That universe continued to grow with Assassin’s Creed II and its Renaissance-era sequels, and with it, an increasingly passionate community who expressed their love for the series across a wide variety of artistic and social endeavors. From character portraits and cosplay outfits to fan club meet-ups and parkour videos, Assassin’s Creed brought people together from across all walks of life, and it’s something Guesdon has thought a lot about. “I really think that the power of the community and the attachment of the audience come from the positive values of the series,” he says. “Assassin’s Creed is not a competitive franchise, it’s more a collaborative universe. A real Brotherhood is very inclusive and respectful. Assassins fight for free will and for the people, all the people. This is a very positive message. And the community is based on that.” “We could feel that Assassin’s Creed was ‘special.’” Seeing the success of the series and the impact it has had on the gaming community, it’s hard not to wonder whether Guesdon and the team saw it all coming when they were working on that first game those many years ago. “We could feel that Assassin’s Creed was ‘special,’” remembers Guesdon. “Internally, like externally, there was a kind of ‘aura’ around the game. Something that was screaming, ‘I’m not a normal videogame! I’m special!’ Of course, nobody could have predicted that, 10 years later, our universe would have become what it is now, but the feeling that we were creating something huge, even if not fully understood, was definitely there.” So what about today’s team? As they prepare to launch Assassin’s Creed Origins and send players back to the earliest historical setting for an AC game yet, the team is gearing up to put players back in touch with the “strong mysterious narrative” Guesdon cited as core to the series’ appeal. “With Assassin’s Creed Origins, we really wanted to come back for the 10th anniversary of the series with something that would be a true milestone for the franchise,” says Guesdon. “And what better story to tell in Ancient Egypt, cradle of modern civilization, than the one clarifying the origins of the Brotherhood as we’ve known it since Assassin’s Creed?” Of course, narrative isn’t their only focus. The other pillars of the franchise — the historical setting, the immersive world, the engaging combat — are still a priority for the team, but they’ve also set their sights on making this “a major step in the evolution of the franchise, in terms of gameplay experience.” With a new combat system, a new quest structure, and a new AI framework, the team poured their efforts into “new stuff that would push [them] to give more control to players over their personal experience.” After all, playing an Assassin’s Creed game is a very personal experience; we each follow our own paths, use our own tactics, and identify with the characters in our own ways. So too has developing Assassin’s Creed games been a very personal experience for Guesdon, and he feels “incredibly lucky” to have been a part of what is, in his words, “a fantastic human adventure. One that I share with all my fellow colleagues that created this amazing universe with their passion and hard work, but also one that I share with our amazing community. We’ve always been there for each other and I hope it will continue for a long time.” Assassin’s Creed Origins is coming October 27 for PlayStation 4. View the full article

Samantha Cook here, Co-Founder and Producer at Artifact 5. We’re excited to announce that our first title, Anamorphine, is launching on PS4 and PS VR. In this surreal, introspective adventure game, you work through mental health issues like trauma and guilt by re-exploring warping memories. Let’s talk about what this looks like in-game and why it’s one of the most mind-bending narrative-driven games you’ll play this year. Have you ever been so sad you couldn’t get out of bed? So transported by a piece of music, you felt like you could see into the heart of the composer? So guilt-ridden you never wanted to see the sun again? Of course you have – or at least something like that. You’re human, and you experience a wide range of emotions, some minor and some paralyzingly major. Maybe, like many other humans, you have additional layers of anxiety stirring these feelings into their own unique patterns. Perhaps you suffer from depression that lurks in the background, sanding down the edges and dulling emotions you used to experience. Maybe you’ve experienced trauma that jumps out from around corners like the world’s most sinister prankster, dragging you back to places you don’t want to go. These demons all deeply affect our main character’s psyche, and you’ll discover how they contort his perception of the world as you explore his painful memories. Anamorphine centers on Tyler, a freelance nature photographer, and Elena, a cellist. The couple goes through both good and bad times, which we see from Tyler’s point of view. They’re Americans who have recently relocated to Montreal so that Elena can join a notable quartet. An accident triggers Elena’s depression and strips her of her livelihood, emotional outlet, and passion. Things get dark for the couple – not horror movie dark, but the type of dark that we all feel in our most isolating moments. As you can see in these GIFs, the game borders on hallucinogenic. We don’t use the usual text, voice-over, or UI to tell the story. You won’t be clicking buttons to navigate. Instead, we lean into visuals and evocative 3D sound, guiding you where you need to go to work through the life events and emotions that feel like they’ve sculpted themselves into a cage. They’ll show you how to look back at your past – only to have it shatter around you like a torn-up Escher painting. You’ll see yourself get stuck in a nihilistic self-fulfilling prophecy of alcohol abuse and denial. You’ll have to face the future, when living in your past may seem like a vastly more tempting option. By the end, your glass can be half full or half empty, and it’s your choice that determines how Tyler deals with his past and moves into his future. World Mental Health Day is coming up on October 10, and as developers making a game about handling emotional and mental fallout, it’s important to us that people realize that mental health is just as important as physical health. As a studio, we try to avoid common mental health minefields like crunch and overwork. As individuals, we’ve been affected by mental health in different ways, and all know friends and family members who have fought their own battles. We hope Anamorphine helps you think about how to take care of yourself, your partners, and your friends when life is at its harshest. You can play the demo of Anamorphine at IndieCade on October 6 – 8 in Little Tokyo, LA. Talk to us any time about our desire to bring you a game full of kaleidoscopically mind-blowing metaphors, as well as more traditional twisting staircases. View the full article

The Star Wars Battlefront II Beta officially lands this week! For players who pre-ordered, you can access the beta now. For everyone else, it opens up on October 6 and runs through October 9th. Players can look forward to experiencing four different ways to play in battles across all three cinematic eras. In Galactic Assault, join a team of Separatist battle droids in a three-stage attack on the royal palace in the capital city of Theed on Naboo. As you fight, you’ll earn Battle Points which can be redeemed during respawns to call in supporting vehicles, upgrade to a B2 Super Battle Droid, or become iconic characters like Darth Maul. And when you want to take a break from multiplayer, hop into Arcade mode and play against AI opponents. In the space above Fondor, engage in Starfighter Assault mode and hop into the cockpit of an A-wing, X-wing, or Y-wing to start your attack run on an Imperial Star Destroyer. You can collect Battle Points in this mode as well, redeeming them to activate Hero Ships like Han Solo’s Millennium Falcon and Poe Dameron’s X-wing, Black One. When the battle ends, join the Empire and help fight off the opposition. Playing in Strike mode, players join a team of eight on the forested planet of Takodana. Take advantage of the special abilities of all four distinctive trooper classes to claim victory for your team in in a bid to breach Maz Kanata’s castle. These Beta scenarios represent just a small portion of what you’ll be experiencing in the full release of Star Wars Battlefront II, available November 17. In the full game, play eleven different Galactic Assault maps, travel across five Starfighter Assault maps, embark on a journey through an all-new Star Wars story in the single-player campaign, and get ready for additional multiplayer action, plus much more. View the full article

It’s that time of year again! Celebrate Halloween all month long with PlayStation Now by streaming these fantastic horror and action games to your PS4 and Windows PC. Welcome to the Zombie Apocalypse experience of a lifetime with Dead Island: Definitive Edition on PS4. Your objective is to survive an epic zombie outbreak on the tropical island of Banoi. With an open world to explore and many missions to complete, Dead Island features more zombies than you can shake a stick at, or in this case swing an axe. Experience the critically acclaimed The Vanishing of Ethan Carter, a first person mystery game about an occult-minded detective who receives a disturbing letter from a missing boy. Arriving at the Ethan’s home, you discover he has disappeared in the wake of a brutal murder. With unique immersive storytelling and a focus on atmosphere and mood, there’s nothing quite like it. The radio is dead, food is running out, and the machines have started to think they are people. Discover the world of the critically acclaimed SOMA, where danger lurks in every corner: corrupted humans, twisted creatures, insane robots, and even an inscrutable omnipresent A.I. Just remember there’s no fighting back, either you outsmart your enemies or you get ready to run. Role-playing fans will love Divinity: Original Sin Enhanced Edition, the award-winning fantasy RPG that blends deep customization and dynamic turn-based combat with witty humor, a deep, engaging story, and 100 hours of quests and storyline. Supports local split-screen and online coop. Deadlight Director’s Cut is a tense indie side-scroller set in 1986 after an apocalyptic zombie outbreak has brought humanity to its knees. Play as Randall Wayne, a father desperately searching the ravaged streets of Seattle for his family. Fight your way through using scarce resources, or sneak past undetected utilizing the environment to your advantage. Other PS Now games perfect for playing this October include Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare, The Last of Us and the TLOU Left Behind DLC, The Walking Dead from Telltalle Games, Resident Evil 4, 5 and 6, Silent Hill HD Collection, The Darkness 1 and 2, Dead Nation, Costume Quest 2, Dead Rising 2, F.E.A.R., Siren: Blood Curse, Rage, and many more. Checkout the “Frightfully Fun Games” category within PS Now for more. This month we’ve also got new RPGs, indie games, RTS football with Orcs and monsters, murder mysteries, and much more. Here are all the PS4 games now available to stream on PS4 and Windows PC starting today. Dead Island Definitive Edition The Vanishing of Ethan Carter SOMA Deadlight: Director’s Cut Divinity: Original Sin (Enhanced Edition) Blood Bowl 2 The Swapper Toukiden: Kiwami The Witch and the Hundred Knight: Revival Edition Akiba’s Trip: Undead and Undressed Lone Survivor: The Director’s Cut Overlord: Fellowship of Evil Tokyo Twilight Ghost Hunters: Daybreak Edition Whispering Willows Extreme Exorcism Styx: Master of Shadows Technomancer Agatha Christie – The ABC Murders Here are the 10 most popular games on the service last month. Red Dead Redemption Fallout: New Vegas Fallout 3 Mortal Kombat WWE 2K16 Mafia II Injustice: Gods Among Us LEGO Batman 3 Beyond Gotham The Last of Us Rage If you haven’t given PS Now a try yet, the seven-day free trial for PS4 and Windows PC is the perfect way to experience the streaming service for yourself. PS Now provides unlimited on-demand access to a growing library of over 500 PS4 and PS3 games, with new games added every month, and no game downloads required. PS4 save data in PS Now is even compatible with PS Plus cloud saves, so you can upload/download save files to/from your own console. View the full article

Greetings Gran Turismo fans! Now that we are in the final countdown to the launch of GT Sport, we thought there was no better way to show our appreciation than by giving the PS community a head start on their racing journey. We are excited to announce a free GT Sport 4-day demo, available via PlayStation Store from October 9th through October 12th. PS Plus members will be able to pre-load the demo starting from October 7th at 8:00am PT, with access to the game on October 9th, at 12:00am PT. For everyone else, download and access to the demo starts October 9th at 6:00pm PT. The demo officially ends October 12th at 8:00am PT. You won’t want to miss this limited time demo, as your earned in-game credit (up to $1MM) and unlocked vehicles are transferable to the full game when it launches October 17th. The GT Sport demo will give fans an in-depth look at some of the new features, geared to define the future of motorsports for all levels of drivers, from first timers to 20 year veterans of the franchise. You drive and tune on your own terms, while the new matchmaking system ensures you’re always racing against others of similar abilities. At the start of the demo, drivers will have the option to experience a taste of Sport, Campaign, or Arcade mode. New features such as the innovative Scapes Photography mode and Custom Livery Editor are also available for the very first time. In Sport mode, drivers can prove just how fast they are by putting down their fastest lap time. At the end of each qualifying session, it’s an all-out battle against other drivers with similar performance abilities ensuring each race is equal, fair, and highly competitive. Campaign mode gives players the chance to improve their driving skills across numerous challenges, missions, and circuit experiences. Each of these modes play a key role in making every driver better prepared for racing online against others. As you complete various trial and Daily Workouts, you will be awarded with numerous vehicle unlocks, in-game currency, and Experience Points, furthering your Driver Profile and personal garage. For those looking to just jump in and drive, the Arcade mode offers a wide range of vehicle classes on three pre-selected circuit configurations with different terrains. Whether you want to go for high-speed oval racing on Northern Isle, hone your technical skills on Dragon Trail, or drift sideways through the corners in rally, race on your own terms as you choose from multiple driving aids including braking and or steering to hone your skills. You can also race against a friend offline in the classic 2-player split screen mode. The True HDR workflow and physics-based rendering tech of Scapes must be experienced firsthand to be truly appreciated. This is not your traditional photo mode as each photo location contains all the light energy information of that scene, enabling you to place your personalized car in hundreds of real world locations. To round out the demo experience, the Livery Editor allows you to add your own personal touch of customization through numerous logo designs. You can also change the color of the car, wheels, mirrors, hood, spoiler, and much more. That’s all for now, but not everything GT Sport has to offer. Be on the lookout for more insider information and videos from our GT Academy athletes as well as Kazunori Yamauchi through our GT Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram channels. View the full article

Our next system software update for PlayStation 4, version 5.00 (codenamed NOBUNAGA), is available now! This update introduces features like the new “Family on PlayStation Network” system, an enhanced Twitch broadcast option on PlayStation 4 Pro, and a variety of new features for Notifications, Messages, and much more. We’ve already outlined a number of key features before our beta program started, but we wanted to share some additional features that are coming to PS4 with this update. Team Tournaments Prepare to recruit the best players you know, because Team Tournaments on PS4 are almost here. With this new functionality, you’ll be able to compete against other teams for prizes and status. Team Tournament functionality will kick off on October 5, shortly after the release of the 5.00 update. The initial batch of titles supporting Team Tournaments will be Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End, Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, World of Tanks and Mantis Burn Racing, with more on the way. Head over to the Events section on your PS4 to check out details for different Events and Tournaments, and to start creating your team. You can join or own up to a maximum of 60 different teams, and each team will have an owner and captain(s) who can manage the team. Only teams will be able to register for official Team Tournaments. Your team will have its own customizable team page where you can see team member information, and view upcoming and ongoing events that your team is currently registered for and competing in. In addition, you can easily check out your team’s results in past tournaments with a new bracket viewer that shows full tournament standings for Single and Double Elimination tournaments directly on PS4. Communicating and coordinating with your teammates is also simple via the integrated team chat feature. Follow Anyone Before 5.00, you were only able to follow Verified Accounts, but now you can follow any user without having to be friends with them (subject to privacy settings). This allows you to follow content creators, game broadcasters, and other gamers in a community without having to dip into your friends list. And at the same time, this will allow these users to expand their reach and build more interest in what they’re doing. Your What’s New feed will be updated with the activities of the users you’re following, so you can easily keep up on what they’re up to. And under Friends, you’ll see a new Who to Follow section that will give you customized recommendations of who you can follow. The recommendations will be displayed in separate categories, such as Featured Verified Accounts, trending users, and suggestions based on games you’ve recently played. Messages Update We have one more feature to add to the list of updates coming to Messages on PS4. If you send a message that contains a link to a website, messages will now display a preview of the website, like headlines and thumbnails. App Updates Outside of PS4, some of our apps are getting updates today too: PlayStation Communities Following this update, you can switch the app into landscape mode when you flip your phone sideways, so you get a wider view of the app and it makes it easier to scroll through. In addition, you’re now able to view and post animated GIFs on community walls. We’re also adding the following languages to the app: Czech, Greek, Hungarian, Indonesian, Romanian, Thai and Vietnamese. PlayStation Messages Stickers for Uncharted: The Lost Legacy and Horizon Zero Dawn are being added. And similar to the PS4’s Messages update, the PlayStation Messages app will also be updated to display previews of a website if you’ve received a link. Support for Czech, Greek, Hungarian, Indonesian, Romanian, Thai and Vietnamese are being added to the app. We’re excited for you to test out these features for yourself, and let us know what you think in the comments. We’re listening and always appreciate your feedback! View the full article

Hey all, this is Joe Madureira, Creative Director of Airship Syndicate and creator of the Battle Chasers comic series on which Battle Chasers: Nightwar is based. With the beta already in the hands of thousands of our Kickstarter backers, and since we’ve just about made it to the official launch, I thought I’d shed some light on the epic journey that’s gotten us here. Battle Chasers started, in comic form, back in 1998. I had been drawing super hero comics for years, eventually graduating to Marvel’s Uncanny X-Men, which was a dream come true for me, as I had been an avid collector of the series since childhood. It was the #1 selling comic book, and had been for some time. So when I announced after my three year run that I was moving on from Marvel to do my own thing, and that it wouldn’t be another mainstream hero book, but a Steampunk/Fantasy series, there were a few who questioned my sanity, including me (admittedly, it did sound super nichey when I described it out loud). Back then, there wasn’t really anything to compare Battle Chasers to in the states, but in Japan, fantasy and sci-fi were all the rage, in manga (comics), anime, and of course video games. And I was obsessed with the stuff. I would go so far as to play games in Japanese with no translation, and buy import gaming magazines just to drool over the art to games I didn’t even know the titles of. Samurai battling mechs? Gunslingers, trains and airships in a medieval setting? It blew my mind. This stuff seemed to break all the rules of the traditional Tolkien/Dungeons & Dragons fantasy I grew up with (and still love to this day). As I played through ‘JRPGs’ like Lunar, Final Fantasy, Chronotrigger, Suikoden and the like, I couldn’t help but wonder how awesome it would be to create a similar world in comic book form. And so I got to work on Battle Chasers, channeling all that raw inspiration, a little bit of Capcom style, and a dash of the superhero comics I was known for. The formula was a success, and Battle Chasers went on to rival the top mainstream hero books from Marvel and DC. But, the adventures of Gully, Garrison and friends came to a halt after issue #9, when I left comics altogether to pursue a career in the game industry (something that fans never let me forget). As a life-long gamer, I had to seize the opportunity when it presented itself. It was a rocky start, but over the next couple years, I would meet the people that would help bring everything full circle. Together we co-founded Vigil Games and created the Darksiders franchise. Some 7+years later, after Vigil shut its doors, our team largely split up into what would become Gunfire Games (who are hard at work on Darksiders 3) and our little studio, Airship Syndicate. We had no game, no funding, no office (we worked from home, or at coffee shops). Even the name Airship Syndicate didn’t stick until later (after some hilarious name and logo fails). What we did have was a small, dedicated and experienced team, some of us having worked together for nearly 15 years. We decided almost immediately that our first game would be a party based RPG with tactical turn based combat, like the classic JRPG’s of old. One question kept popping up—“what if this game was set in the Battle Chasers universe?” As the game’s design began to take shape, it all sort of clicked. We really did have a diverse cast of memorable heroes who were themselves influenced by the same RPG’s we were now making. Would fans of the old comic series still care, though? Would it appeal to new gamers that had never heard of the comic? Would investors and publishers dig it? After nearly a year of developing a playable prototype, pitching to publishers and striking out, it became apparent that Kickstarter was our best bet, and possibly our last resort. This campaign would make or break us. Our fans would decide. The next few months were tense. Exciting. Exhilarating even, but so stressful! As you may have guessed, our Kickstarter campaign was a resounding success. We made enough of a splash that we garnered the attention of the gaming press, and publishers that were interested in taking another look. Our friends at THQ Nordic, owners of the Darksiders franchise partnered with us to take the game even further. So here we are, a day away from our official launch, once again waiting with baited breath for the world’s reaction to this game that our team has slaved over for two years. I’d like to use this opportunity to personally thank our longtime fans that beat the Battle Chasers war drums so loudly, they couldn’t be ignored, our amazing backers who in our darkest hour, stormed the field and helped carry us to victory, and of course the stalwart crew of cutthroats and scalawags that are Airship Syndicate, who have devoted their lives to making this game the best it can be. Cheers to you all, and here’s to to the battles ahead! View the full article

Bonjour! PlayStation is making some big plans for Paris Games Week next month, and it’s time to start talking specifics. On October 30th starting at 8:00am Pacific Time, PlayStation Live From Paris Games Week will kick off with a slew of updates and announcements before moving straight into the Paris Games Week 2017 Media Showcase, where you’ll get a new look at some spectacular games coming to PS4 and PS VR. After the Showcase, stick around – we’ll have further details and info to share in our post-Showcase debrief. Here’s the best part: you can watch all the fun from the comfort of your home, office, or home office via live.playstation.com, Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. No need to book a pricey international flight — all you need to do is tune in to and enjoy the show! So mark your calendars — we’ll see you later this month. Merci! PlayStation Live From Paris Games Week schedule Monday, October 30 | PlayStation Live From Paris Games Week 2017 featuring the PlayStation Media Showcase | 8:00 AM Pacific Time Watch it live: live.playstation.com, Twitch, YouTube, Facebook View the full article

Welcome to your official resource hub for information on PlayStation VR. We’re covering everything, from the setup requirements to the technical specifications and beyond. If you have a question about PS VR, this guide should have an answer. And if it doesn’t have what you are looking for, just leave us a note in the comments below. We’ll do our best to update this continually before, during, and after launch. Now… on to the Ultimate FAQ! New Questions Added October 2, 2017 Is there a new PlayStation VR model? How is it different? A hardware update to PlayStation VR is being prepared. The new version, model number CUH-ZVR2, features an updated design that enables the stereo headphone cables to be integrated with the VR headset and a slimmer, streamlined connection cable. There’s also an updated Processor Unit that supports HDR pass through, enabling users to enjoy HDR-compatible PS4 content on a TV without having to disconnect the Processor Unit in between the TV and the PS4 system. This function can be used only when the VR headset is turned off. When will the new PS VR model become available in North America? How much will it be? We will share details on the launch timing in North America at a later date. The pricing of the PS VR bundles will remain the same. How can I distinguish between the old PS VR headset and the new one when I’m purchasing? The packaging for PlayStation VR will change slightly when the new model hits stores. To differentiate, look for the model number printed on the box. The previous PS VR’s model number is CUH-ZVR1, and the new PS VR’s model number is CUH-ZVR2. Also, the product image on the packaging will be updated to show changes on the new model, like the integrated headphones on the VR headset. If I already own a PS VR, can I swap out my old Processor Unit with the updated one? Because the cables of CUH-ZVR1 and CUH-ZVR2 are different, you cannot swap the Processor Units. Are the PS VR games I already own compatible with the new model? Yes, all PS VR games are compatible with both PS VR models. PlayStation VR: The Basics Q: What is PlayStation VR? How much does it cost? PlayStation VR is our virtual reality system for PlayStation 4 available October 13. The core product includes the PS VR system which includes the PS VR headset, headphones and all cabling required with a suggested retail price of $399.99 USD / $549.99 CAD. The PlayStation VR Launch Bundle was available to customers that pre-ordered for a suggested retail price of $499.99 USD / $699.99 CAD. It includes the PS VR system, PlayStation Camera, two PlayStation Move Motion Controllers, and a copy of PlayStation VR Worlds. Both versions include a demo disc (which will also be available on PS Store after the product launches) and The Playroom VR will be available as a free download from PlayStation Store to all PS VR owners. Q: What do I need to own to experience PS VR? PlayStation VR allows you to experience the future of gaming through virtual reality with a PS VR system, your PS4 and PS Camera. Most games utilize the DualShock 4 Wireless Controller. Many PS VR games give you an option to enhance your experience through the use of two PlayStation Move motion controllers, while there are a limited number of games that require two PlayStation Move motion controllers. The PS VR exclusive sci-fi FPS game, Farpoint, utilizes the PS VR Aim Controller to offer a realistic and precise way to control the game. Q: What are the weight and measurements of PS VR? It is approximately 1.3lb (excluding cable) and approximately 7.4 x 7.3 x 10.9 inches (width × height × length, excludes largest projection, headband at the shortest) Q: What is VR? VR stands for Virtual Reality, which is a simulation of another reality created by designers and programmers. Currently the PS VR system delivers a virtual reality experience for your eyes and ears through the combination of the 360-degree 1:1 tracking of your head, wide field of view, stereoscopic images delivered with a high refresh rate at 120Hz, and binaural 3D audio. These combine to make your brain think you’ve been transported to another world. This feeling is often referred to as a “sense of presence.” Q: Will I be able to play non-VR games and watch video content on PS VR? PS VR has a feature called Cinematic Mode, which lets users enjoy content in 2D, including PS4 games and movies, on a giant virtual screen while wearing the VR headset. The PS Camera is required for initial setup, but not when actually using Cinematic Mode. Q: Where can I try PS VR before I decide to buy?​ In the US and Canada, hundreds of retail stores are conducting hands-on demos of PlayStation VR. You can find the closest store to you right here. Q: When can I buy PS VR? In the US and Canada, PlayStation VR preorders opened in March and have sold out. But there will be units available at participating retailers nationwide on launch day, October 13, 2016. Click here to learn more. Q: How can I pre-order PS VR? Our three separate waves of pre-orders for PS VR have concluded. If you were not able to pre-order, we are planning to have units available to purchase at retailers nationwide once the device is available on October 13, 2016. Q: When I’m using PS VR, will other people in the room be able to experience what I’m seeing? Yes, PlayStation VR displays what you’re seeing in VR or a completely different image as a 2D image on your TV screen via a feature we call “Social Screen.” This allows others to observe and, in some cases, play alongside you. For example, the free launch game The Playroom VR offers several experiences where players are working with, and against, one person wearing the PS VR headset. Q: Is there a particular age I should be at to use PS VR? Age 12 and up. PS VR: Hardware Specifications Q: How does PS VR work? PlayStation VR (PS VR) is a headset that displays a stereoscopic (a different image is in each eye) view of Virtual Reality (VR) content generated by the PS4 system. The headset contains blue LED tracking lights and motion sensors that are used in conjunction with the PS Camera to track the position and orientation of your head in real-time. VR games and applications use this tracking of your head to render immersive 3D visuals and audio that put you into a virtual world. The PS4 and PS Camera also track DualShock 4, PlayStation Move motion controller, and PlayStation VR Aim controller to allow you to interact with this virtual world. PlayStation Move controller and PlayStation VR Aim controller offer a more realistic and precise way to control games, and provide an unbelievable sense of presence in the virtual world. Q: What are the specs on PS VR’s screen? PS VR uses a single 5.7” 1920 x 1080 resolution full-color OLED RGB display, also known as “1920 x RGB x 1080.” Unlike other VR displays, the PS VR display uses full Red, Green and Blue sub-pixels to produce a full color pixel. There are 1920 Red, Green and Blue sub pixels for each of the 1080 lines of pixels, so this is referred to as 1920 x RGB x 1080. This enables PS VR to further immerse the player and deliver a strong sense of presence. Q: What is PS VR’s latency? Low latency is critical to delivering an engaging and comfortable VR experience, and PS VR’s latency comes in at less than 18ms (0.018 seconds). *Recent research in VR has deemed 20ms as being the highest acceptable latency before people notice the lag in VR. Q: What is the refresh rate of the PS VR display? The PS VR OLED display can refresh at 90Hz (90 times per second) or at 120Hz (120 times per second) depending on the VR game or application. Q: How can a game run at 60 frames per second, but we see it at 120Hz in PS VR? PS VR games and applications utilize a feature called “reprojection.” This technique takes the last output image at 60Hz and creates a new image at 120Hz based on the latest head movements made by the user. This is not the same as video frame interpolation and does not introduce any lag in the images being presented by the PS VR OLED screen. Q: Will we see PS VR games running natively at 90fps and 120fps? Yes. There are already games in development that run natively at 90fps and in the future we may potentially see some games running natively at 120fps as developers become more experienced with creating games for PS VR. Q: What is the Processor Unit and what does it do? The Processor Unit is a small box that comes with your PS VR, and connects your PS VR to your PS4 and TV and provides HDMI cable management, enabling Social Screen TV output, 3D audio processing, and Cinematic mode. Front A ) Status indicator – White: Powered on – Red: Rest mode B ) AUX port C ) HDMI output port Rear A ) HDMI TV port B ) HDMI PS4 port C ) USB port D ) DC IN 12V connector E ) Vent Q: What do you mean by “HDMI cable management”? The Processor Unit acts as an HDMI splitter, providing images to PS VR and to your TV. When the PS VR headset is off or in the system User Interface, the TV will show the normal PS4 output. When a PS VR game or application is launched, the TV will show the Social Screen output image. Q: Does the Processor Unit provide extra processing power to PS4? No. The Processor Unit only assists the PS4 with 3D audio processing, HDMI cable management, Cinematic Mode, and the Social Screen TV output. Q: How big is the Processor Unit, and how much does it weigh? It is approximately 12.9oz in weight and approximately 5.6 x 1.4 x 5.6 inches (width × height × length, excludes largest projection) Q: Does the Processor Unit support 4K and HDR pass through? The PS VR Processor Unit (PU) supports video pass through so that you can enjoy regular non-VR content on your TV when you have the PS4 connected to the TV via the PU and the PU is connected to power via the AC adapter and the PS VR headset is not in use. This pass through support works for regular 1080p signals and also supports 2160p (UHD or ‘4K’) content in YUV 420 color format at up to 60 Hz from a PlayStation Pro. However, HDR signals are not supported for pass through by the PU. This applies to both 1080p and 2160p HDR. If you have a HDR capable TV and want to view PS4 content in HDR, it is necessary to cable the PS4 directly to the TV. Q. How long is the cable between the PS VR headset and the Processor Unit? The cable between the PS VR headset and Processor Unit is made up of two parts – one that extends out of the headset itself, and the Headset Connection Cable. The total length of the two cables is approximately 14.4ft. PS VR Games Q: How many games are currently in development for PS VR? Hundreds of developers are currently working on games and experiences for PS VR, with approximately 50 titles slated to launch before the end of 2016. Stay tuned to PlayStation.Blog for more information on games and experiences in development. Q: What types of games are available for PS VR? PlayStation VR is a brand new medium for playing games and experiencing media, and its game lineup spans across genres including shooters (RIGS Mechanized Combat League, Until Dawn: Rush of Blood), puzzle (SuperHyperCube), racing (Driveclub VR), horror (Resident Evil 7 biohazard, due out 2017) and more. However, given the massive leap in interactivity and engagement that PlayStation VR provides, we are eagerly anticipating the creation of all-new gaming genres and entertainment experiences. Q: How will I know what games are PS VR-compatible? Whether on PlayStation Store or in your local retailer, you will see prominent branding elements that will indicate PlayStation VR support and whether peripherals such as the PlayStation Move Motion Controller is required. See below for an example. Q: Will there be a specific section on PlayStation Store for PS VR games? Yes. PlayStation Store will feature a PlayStation VR-specific category. Q: Can I play PS VR games without the headset? You’ll need to wear the headset to experience VR. However, certain titles such as The PlayRoom VR will support local multiplayer modes that allow a PS VR user and other players to play together using PS VR’s Social Screen. In addition, there are PS4 games like Bound and Resident Evil 7 biohazard that are PS VR compatible, which gives players the option to play in or out of VR. To play these games in VR, you must wear the headset. Q: Are any games included when I buy a PS VR headset? The PlayRoom VR will be a free download for all PS VR owners. Both PS VR packages (core and Launch Bundle) will come with a free demo disc featuring a wide variety of playable demos. The PlayStation VR Launch Bundle includes a copy of PlayStation VR Worlds, in addition to a PS Camera and two PlayStation Move Motion Controllers. Q: What games are on the demo disc that comes with the headset? The included PS VR Demo Disc will feature a number of playable demos spanning across many different games. Click here to see the full list. Q: What is The PlayRoom VR? The PlayRoom VR is a brand new collection of six VR games especially created for use with the PlayStation VR headset. Players can use their VR headset while up to four friends can join in on the multiplayer fun in the same room on the TV. Every game in The PlayRoom VR offers a unique experience and is the perfect introduction to the magic of VR. VR Bots is a welcome lobby that places the user inside a room filled with adorable interactive robots. Monster Escape is a competitive party game for up to five players (1 VR player vs 4 players on TV). The player in the PS VR headset becomes a huge monster destroying a miniature city. One to four additional players use their DualShock 4 controllers to fight the Monster in a fun and epic battle. Cat and Mouse is a competitive party game for up to five players (1 VR player vs 4 players on TV). The player in the PS VR headset becomes a cat ready to pounce to protect his kitchen from the mice players controlled with the DualShock 4 on the screen. Ghost House is a cooperative communication game where players must work together to clear a haunted house from the ghosts within a time limit. The player in the PS VR headset uses the DualShock 4 to shine a flashlight and shoot ghosts, which aren’t visible to him. He must rely on the players watching the TV for instructions as to where to aim and shoot. WANTED! is a cooperative communication game set in the wild west, where players enter a saloon and can see several characters sitting around drinking. One of them is the bad guy, but which one? Platformer is a cooperative communication game, where two players (1 VR player and 1 player on TV) work together to fight their way through enemies to rescue stranded VR bots. The player in the PS VR headset takes control of a VR bot jumping, punching and using a grappling hook to rescue his lost VR Bots comrades. The TV player gets a different viewpoint on the action, flying a UFO and giving air support to the VR player. Q: What is PlayStation VR Worlds? PlayStation VR Worlds is a collection of five different VR experiences that have all been built from the ground up exclusively for the PS VR headset. PS VR Worlds is included with the PS VR Launch Bundle, and is available separately for $39.99. Developed by SIE Worldwide Studios London Studio, VR Worlds presents a collection of varied experiences, each designed to showcase VR in different ways. Check out detail about each experience in the PS VR Worlds collection here. Q: How much will PS VR games cost, on average? This will be up to the individual developer and publisher, but we expect a wide range of prices and experiences from the publishing community. Some smaller, digital-only titles may be free or cost considerably less, and titles such as RIGS: Mechanized Combat League will be $49.99 USD at launch. Q. Do you have plans to offer PS VR games on PlayStation Plus? We have nothing to share at this point in time, but we are looking into it. Cinematic Mode Q: What is PS VR Cinematic mode? This is a mode to view the PS4 system UI and all non-VR games and applications on a virtual screen. This screen has varying sizes from Small (117 inches), Medium (163 inches) and Large (226 inches), placed virtually at 6 – 10 feet away (the size of the screen may feel different depending on the individual). Q: Will my existing, non-VR PS4 games work with the PS VR headset? Yes, PS4 games will work using Cinematic Mode, which is used to view the PS4 system interface and non-VR games and applications on a virtual screen. Non-VR games which use the PS Camera like the original non-VR PlayRoom and Tearaway Unfolded are not supported by PS VR Cinematic mode. Q. Can I use the SHARE button when playing non-VR PS4 games during Cinematic mode? Yes. All SHARE features will be available for non-VR PS4 games during Cinematic mode, as long as it is supported by the game. Q: What is the resolution of PS VR’s Cinematic mode? PS VR presents images from a single 1920 x 1080 display split between both eyes, so the content can have a maximum resolution of 960×1080 in stereoscopic 3D. The actual resolution of the Cinematic Mode screen depends on the screen size and the resolution of the content being displayed. Q: Does Cinematic Mode impact the framerate performance of non-VR games? No. Cinematic Mode is provided by the PS VR’s Processor Unit and does not impact the performance of PS4 games and applications in any way. Q: Can I change the backgrounds in Cinematic Mode to watch movies in different virtual settings? No. The current Cinematic Mode is a virtual screen floating in a black space, like being in a dark movie theater. Q: Will PS VR display 3D content in Cinematic Mode? No. In Cinematic Mode, PS VR will display 3D games and films in 2D when playing on a 3D-compatible TV. When playing with non 3D-campatible TVs or without a TV, PS4 won’t play 3D games and films. Q: In the future will PS VR support 3D content in Cinematic Mode? We have nothing to announce at this point in time. PS VR Social Screen Q: What is the Social Screen? The term Social Screen is what we refer to as the 2D image being shown on the TV when running a VR game or application. This output allows users who are not wearing the PS VR headset to see what the PS VR player is seeing, or to play alongside the VR player in certain games by having completely separate audio and image outputted to the TV, like The PlayRoom VR. Q: Why is the Social Screen image displayed on the TV in 2D? The Social Screen image displayed on the TV is a 2D, undistorted and cropped version of the right eye image that would be displayed in the PS VR headset. PS VR outputs a standard 2D image as this is supported by most TVs and no other accessories are required, so everyone in the room can enjoy it. PS VR: Health and Safety Q: How long can people safely wear PS VR? PS VR has been designed to be the most comfortable VR headset on the market, and it can be worn for extended periods of time. However, we recommend you take frequent breaks when using PS VR. Q: Is PS VR safe for my eyes? Yes. But as with all display devices (TVs, mobile phones, tablets, etc.), we recommend taking frequent breaks. Q: The PS VR display is very close to my eyes, will I become nearsighted with prolonged use? No. The focal distance of the images presented by PS VR is at a distance of about 6 – 10 feet. This is similar to the optimal viewing distance required to view a 60” TV. But again, we recommend taking frequent breaks when using PS VR, just like when viewing other display devices. Q: Can I wear my glasses inside of the headset? Yes, the PS VR headset is designed to accommodate users that wear glasses. You can telescope the lens closer to, and farther away from, your face to get the optimal fit. Q: I’m nearsighted, so can I use PS VR without my glasses? This depends on the prescription of your glasses. The focal distance of the images presented by PS VR is at a distance of about 6 – 10 feet, so if you require glasses while driving or seeing your TV, you will most likely need to wear your glasses to see PS VR images clearly. However, some very wide or unusually shaped glasses may not fit. Q: Can I walk around while wearing PS VR? Walking is not advised. We recommend that users play PS VR games while seated for the most comfortable and safest VR experience. Q: My head is larger than average – will the PS VR headset fit? PS VR can adjust to comfortably accommodate a wide range of head sizes. That said, it’s a good idea to visit a local retailer to try it out for yourself! Q: Will PlayStation VR make me feel nauseous while playing? Players’ responses to VR gameplay can differ, but generally, the vast majority of gamers should be able to enjoy PlayStation VR gameplay. Make sure to try the PS VR demo disc to get a sense of the games and experiences you prefer. In many cases, initial discomfort experienced can fade as you become more accustomed to VR gameplay. We recommend taking frequent breaks when using PS VR, and if you experience any discomfort, discontinue playing. Q: How much physical space will I need to play? The recommended play space measures approximately 10 feet by 10 feet total, with the user in VR sitting about 5 feet in front of the PlayStation Camera / TV. Clear an area larger than the Play Area of all obstacles before using PS VR, and make sure that no walls, furniture, or objects can impede your VR play space. PS VR: Entertainment & Media Q: Will there be VR experiences beyond games? Yes, there will be several non-game VR experiences coming to PS VR, including VR storytelling experiences from Penrose Studios and others. Further details of these VR experiences will be released at a later date. Q: Will PS VR support VR entertainment apps? In the weeks and months ahead, there will be a variety of VR experiences and media applications coming to PS VR, including those such as Hulu (in the US only), Allumette (Penrose), Invasion! (Baobab), Kismet (PsyOp), Within, LittlStar, Vrideo, and The Martian (Fox). Q: Can I watch movies, YouTube videos and other media through the PS VR headset? Yes, you can watch all your existing media in Cinematic Mode using PS VR. There will also be media applications designed to support PS VR. Q: Can I play 360 video using my PlayStation VR? A: An update is available for PS4’s Media Player that makes it possible to view videos / photos captured on a 360-degree omnidirectional camera (in equirectangular file format) on PS VR. PS VR: Controls & Peripherals Q: What is the PS Move motion controller? The PS Move motion controller is a single hand controller first introduced on the PlayStation 3 system, providing accurate 1:1 hand tracking. For supported PS VR games, the PS Move motion controller can be used in each hand, allowing you to interact with the VR worlds intuitively. In VR, the PS Move motion controller can be a representation of your own hands, a sword, a flashlight, or anything developers can imagine. The position and orientation of the PS Move motion controllers are tracked by the same PS Camera that also tracks the PS VR headset and the DualShock 4. Q: Do I need a PS Move motion controller to play PS VR games? The vast majority of PS VR games support DualShock 4, while offering PlayStation Move as an option for an enhanced experience. There are a limited number of titles that require the use of two PS Move motion controllers. Please check the requirements of individual games from the descriptions on the front of the PS VR software packaging or from PlayStation Store. Q: Can I use my DualShock 4 wireless controller with PS VR? Yes, and in some PS VR games you will see DualShock 4 with you inside the PS VR experience for even more immersion. PS Camera can track the light bar on DualShock 4, just like tracking lights on the PS VR headset. Q: What is the PS VR Aim Controller? The PS VR Aim Controller is a new two-handed controller designed for PS VR first-person shooter games. It will be launched at the same time as the PS VR exclusive sci-fi FPS game Farpoint. For more information about the PS VR Aim Controller, see here. Visit here for more information on the PlayStation VR exclusive, Farpoint. Q: What is 3D audio? 3D audio simulates the effect of audio arriving at your ears from different directions and distances to more closely mimic the behavior of sound in real life. Not only does PS VR create sounds coming from front, behind, left and right, but also above and below. This type of audio greatly enhances the feeling of immersion and presence in VR over traditional audio systems like 7.1 surround sound. Q: Do I need new headphones to experience 3D audio? No, any wired stereo headphones or wired earbuds can support 3D audio. Stereo headphones are included with PS VR, but you can also use your preferred audio headsets if they feature a standard 3.5mm male connector. Q: Are surround sound headphones better for PS VR? No, any surround sound generated by the headphones themselves will interfere with the 3D audio from the PS VR headset. It is recommended to turn off surround sound mode or use standard wired stereo headphones that do not use surround sound. Q: Can I use my PULSE wireless headset or other wireless headsets with PS VR? Yes, but you should connect the wireless headset using a standard 3.5mm wired cable. A wireless audio connection will not work with PS VR. Q: What controls are on the PS VR headset? The PS VR headset has three mechanical controls to adjust the fit of the headset, and four digital controls on an inline remote to adjust volume, muting of the microphone and turning on/off the VR headset power. Q: How can I adjust the fit of the PS VR headset? The PS VR headset has been designed to mechanically adjust for most head shapes and allow you to wear glasses if needed. There is a button on the back of the headset that unlocks the headband mechanism and allows you to stretch open the headset over your head. Once placed on your head, above and below the button is a dial that can be turned to tighten the headband on your head to ensure a secure fit. The main part of the headset is the visor. On the underside of this, to the right is a button, that when pressed allows you to slide the visor forwards and backwards to adjust the view. You press the button to move the visor forward to accommodate your glasses or when taking a break to see your surroundings. With the button pressed you can also move the visor backward, closer to your face to get a more encompassing view of the action or when just returning to your game from a break. Q: What is the PS VR inline remote? Attached inline to the cable coming out of the PS VR headset is a white pendant style array of buttons and a standard 3.5mm female audio jack. This is the remote for PS VR and it allows you control some functions of the PS VR headset. This is also where the headphone jack is located, and you can plug in your standard stereo headphones or the headphones provided in the box. We designed the remote to be easy to use even while you have the headset on. Q: What are the buttons on PS VR inline remote for? There are four buttons: The top recessed button is for power on/off, the next is for muting the microphone built into the PS VR, the next is for increasing the volume of the audio delivered to the audio jack, and the final button is for decreasing the volume. PS VR: Multiplayer and SHARE Q: Can I play online games with PS VR? Yes, developers can support online multiplayer features in PS VR titles. Examples include RIGS Mechanized Combat League from Guerrilla Games, EVE Valkyrie from CCP Games, and Eagle Flight from Ubisoft. Q: Can two people using PS VR headsets play together on one PS4 console? No. PS4 only supports one PS VR headset at a time. Q: Can I use game and system voice chat with PS VR? Yes the PS VR has a built in microphone that can be used for multiplayer voice chat. Q: Does the SHARE button work when playing PS VR games? Yes, you can capture photos and videos using the SHARE button. The resulting capture will be similar to the image presented on the Social Screen. Q: Can I broadcast / live stream PS VR gameplay? Yes, you can broadcast your PS VR experiences via Twitch, YouTube, or other streaming video services using the SHARE button located on DualShock 4. The resulting video feed will be similar to what users experience on the Social Screen. Q: Can I capture or live stream my PS VR gameplay session? Yes, in the same way you can stream or capture your standard PS4 gameplay, the PS VR streaming works the same way. The stream view will be the same view as the Social Screen mentioned above. Q. Can I live stream myself (show my face) while broadcasting PS VR gameplay? No, when playing PS VR, the PS Camera is being used to track the LEDs on the headset, so it cannot be used to record your face during the broadcast. Other Questions Q: Do I need to be connected to the internet to play PS VR games? An internet connection is not required, unless you plan to play an online multiplayer-enabled title or want to download a title from PlayStation Store. Q: Do I need a TV to play PS VR? You will need a TV for certain system settings, and also for certain local multiplayer games that require other users to see content on the TV using the Social Screen feature. Q: Can someone else change the channel on my TV, or turn it off, while I play PS VR? Yes, you can change the channel or inputs without affecting a PS VR user. Q: Can I use PS VR with my PC or Mac? PS VR is designed to work with PS4. Q: Do I need a PS Camera to use PS VR? Yes, you will need the PS Camera to use PS VR. It’s available separately, or as part of the $499.99 USD Launch Bundle. Q: Do I need the new PS Camera for PS VR? Are there any features that will only work with the new camera? No, the redesigned PS Camera will work just the same as the older design. Q: Can I use PS VR that was purchased outside of the US and Canada? PlayStation recommends that all users purchase PS VR at the region of their residence to fulfill safety regulations of the product and to guarantee the best customer service. Q: Does the room need to be dark when I play PS VR? Ambient lighting will generally not affect PS VR gameplay. Bright light sources directly behind the person using PS VR, lights coming in from windows and room lights, and lights reflecting off mirrors can interfere with the PS Camera and interrupt the tracking of the LED lights on the headset. It is recommended to eliminate bright light sources behind the PS VR player. Q: I heard that mirrors and shiny surfaces can be a problem when using PS VR. Is that true? Yes, the PS Camera is expecting to see only a single set of tracking LEDs. Mirrors that are in the view of the PS Camera will confuse the tracking. Smaller shiny surfaces are generally fine, but if you have problems with tracking performance then these may be contributing to the issue. Q: How do I pair a PS VR headset to a PS4? Unlike a DualShock 4 and other wireless devices that can connect to a PS4, the PS VR does not need to be paired to a PS4 as it is directly connected via HDMI and USB cables. Please refer to the Quick setup guide in the box or the tutorial video for how to connect your PS VR system to your PS4. Q: How do I navigate the PS4 interface using PS VR? The PS VR headset will show PS4’s standard home screen in Cinematic Mode. From there, you can select and launch PS VR games. Q: Are there “settings” I can enable for PS VR, i.e. sensitivity, etc? Within the PS4 “Settings” section, under “Devices” you can find the “PlayStation VR” device menu. From here you can change “Screen Brightness” of the PS VR screen, “Screen Size” of the virtual theater screen when PS VR is in Cinematic mode, “Measure Eye-to-Eye Distance” to optimize the 3D video you see inside the headset, and “Adjust Tracking Lights” to make adjustments so that PS Camera can correctly track the VR headset and peripherals such as DualShock 4 and PS Move motion controllers. There are also options to check your placement and surroundings by seeing what the PlayStation Camera can see. There is also an option to check if you are wearing the PS VR headset correctly, and you can adjust the camera after it has been initially placed in your environment. Some of these settings are also available through a long press of the PS button on your DualShock 4, which will bring up the PS4 interface over the current paused game or application. Q: Does PS VR require its own device software updates? If your PS4 system has a new PS VR device software installed, your PS VR will begin updating automatically once it is connected to PS4 and turned on. Also, your PS4 must be installed with the latest system software for PS VR to update. You can also check for new PS VR device software updates through your PS VR device menu under Settings. Q: How do I switch between playing PS VR games, and PS4 games on my TV? Once you have finished playing a PS VR game, just take off the headset and press the PS button on DualShock 4 to return to the home screen. You’ll be able to launch non-VR games. If you wear the headset, you will see the non-VR game on a virtual screen in the PS VR’s cinematic mode. Q: Will standard PS4 games run slower if I leave the PS VR headset plugged in? No. There is no gameplay performance penalty with leaving PS VR plugged into your PS4. Q: Can I travel with PS VR? Yes. The PS VR system is a certified consumer electronics device and there are no issues travelling with this. We advise you purchase a PS VR carrying bag to secure your PS VR headset and processor unit during your travels. Q: Will I need to clean or maintain PS VR? We recommend that you routinely clean and maintain your PS VR for the best experience. For further details, please refer to the PS VR Care & Maintenance support article. View the full article

Recently, we were thrilled to announce PlayStation’s Limited Edition Call of Duty: WWII PS4 Bundle, which launches November 3, and is available for pre-order now. It includes a custom-designed 1TB PS4 console, complete with matching DualShock 4 controller and Call of Duty: WWII. We are excited Call of Duty: WWII returns the franchise to the roots that made Call of Duty a household name. Our latest campaign highlights the courage, strength, and brotherhood of this era, and we can’t wait to dive in. We’re proud that PlayStation is the best place to play the latest installment of this classic series. Check out our latest spot highlighting the game and our upcoming bundle, and let us know what you think! *DLC Map Packs, when available, will launch on PS4 30 days prior to launch on other platforms. Map Packs sold separately. View the full article

It’s been almost one year since the launch of PlayStation VR! And in that time, PlayStation and its development partners have built a library of more than 100 games that cut across all genres… and created a few new ones in the process. To celebrate, we’re kicking off a new series of videos, the first of which you can watch above. We’re just getting started with this powerful new entertainment medium. This new video series expresses the physical sensations you experience when PS VR transports you to the amazing gaming worlds like Skyrim VR and Gran Turismo Sport. It’s a good time to join the VR gaming revolution. We’ve been hard at work building up a library of the best VR gaming content in the business — check out the list of what’s available on PS VR below, including some favorites picked out by the PlayStation.Blog team. And keep your eyes peeled — we have a lot more to say about PS VR. Stay tuned! Game Title Publisher Release Dreamworks: Voltron VR Chronicles Digital Domain Interactive September 26, 2017 DWVR Perziur Slu September 26, 2017 Light Tracer Oasis Games Limited September 26, 2017 End Space Orange Bridge Studios Inc September 19, 2017 Solus Grip Digital S.R.O. September 18, 2017 Bloody Zombies NDreams Ltd September 13, 2017 Batman: Arkham VR Sporting some of the highest polish and production values seen on PS VR, this immersive detective adventure equips you with Batman’s impressive forensics equipment. VR Karts Viewpoint Games Ltd September 12, 2017 The Lost Bear Fabrik Games Ltd September 5, 2017 Don’t Knock Twice Wales Interactive September 5, 2017 Sparc CCP Games August 29, 2017 Sneaky Bears War Ducks Ltd August 29, 2017 Soul Dimension Time of Virtual Reality August 22, 2017 Paranormal Activity: The Lost Soul VRWerx, LLC August 15, 2017 Neptune Flux Zoxide Games August 8, 2017 Battlezone A sprawling arcade-action masterpiece that fully connects with PS VR’s immersive potential. A very safe bet for any new PS VR owner. Dino Frontier Uber Entertainment August 1, 2017 CastleStorm VR Edition Zen Studios August 1, 2017 Theseus Forge Reply S.R.L. July 26, 2017 Smashbox Arena Archiact Interactive Ltd July 25, 2017 Tiny Trax FuturLab Limited July 25, 2017 Heroes of The Seven Seas Time of Virtual Reality July 25, 2017 Infinite Minigolf Zen Studios July 25, 2017 Superhot VR Superhot Sp. z o.o. July 21, 2017 The Idolm@ster Cinderella Girls Viewing Revolution Bandai Namco Games America Inc. July 18, 2017 Manifest 99 Project Flight School Inc July 18, 2017 Archangel Skydance Interactive LLC July 18, 2017 Carnival Games VR A real crowdpleaser. The shooting gallery segments demonstrate how PS VR can breathe new life into even well-worn gaming mechanics. Apollo 11 VR Immersive VR Education Ltd. July 12, 2017 The Bellows Castle Steps LLC July 11, 2017 Fantastic Contraption Radial Games Corp. July 11, 2017 Arizona Sunshine Vertigo Games B.V July 5, 2017 Spider-Man: Homecoming – VR Experience Sony Pictures Virtual Reality June 30, 2017 Cavernous Wastes PouncingKitten Games LLC June 27, 2017 Ancient Amuletor Time of Virtual Reality June 27, 2017 Eagle Flight Fly like an eagle in this dazzling experience set high above a post-apocalyptic vision of Paris. A favorite of Boss Key Productions CEO Cliff Bleszinksi. Arizona Sunshine Launch Edition Vertigo Games B.V June 27, 2017 Chess Ultra Ripstone LTD June 20, 2017 Air Force Special Ops: Nightfall Sony Interactive Entertainment June 20, 2017 Race the Sun Flippfly June 13, 2017 (VR Update) Special Delivery Meerkat Gaming LLC June 6, 2017 Tekken 7 Bandai Namco Games America Inc. June 2, 2017 Farpoint One of the more magical entries in the VR shooter market, thanks to the precision and immersion of the PlayStation VR Aim Controller. Star Trek: Bridge Crew Ubisoft Entertainment May 30, 2017 Dick Wilde PlayStack Limited May 16, 2017 Farpoint Sony Interactive Entertainment May 16, 2017 Moonshot Galaxy Big Fish Games May 9, 2017 Polybius Llamasoft Ltd May 9, 2017 Gnog Ko-Op Mode Inc. May 2, 2017 Gnog Part game, part toybox, Gnog is a true delight made even more magical in virtual reality. Oasis Games Shooter VR Bundle Oasis Games Limited April 25, 2017 Symphony of the Machine Stirfier Pty Ltd April 25, 2017 Statik Tarsier Studios April 24, 2017 Quiz Night Tonight! Mardonpol Inc April 21, 2017 Bandit Six: Combined Arms Climax Studios Limited April 19, 2017 HeroCade Lucid Sight, Inc. April 18, 2017 Hatsune Miku: VR Future Live Even casual Miku fans will be impressed by VR Future Live. Cheer along with dozens of performances from various spots in the crowd, or even on stage. VR Invaders – Complete Edition My.com B.V. April 18, 2017 StarBlood Arena Sony Interactive Entertainment April 11, 2017 Mortal Blitz Skonec Entertainment April 4, 2017 Fated: The Silent Oath Frima Studio March 28, 2017 Korix StellarVR Limited March 28, 2017 Leave the Nest Kaio Interactive LLC March 14, 2017 Job Simulator Who knew work could be so much fun? Owlchemy Labs’ satirical distillation of the human workforce makes for one of PSVR’s most riotous experiences. Darknet Archiact Interactive Ltd March 7, 2017 Unearthing Mars Winking Skywalker Entertainment Limited March 7, 2017 Dying: Reborn Oasis Games Limited February 28, 2017 Psychonauts In The Rhombus Of Ruin Double Fine Productions February 21, 2017 Mervils: A VR Adventure Vitruvius Technologies Inc. February 21, 2017 DiRT Rally Plus PlayStation VR Bundle Codemasters Inc. February 17, 2017 PlayStation VR Worlds Hard to top in the “bang for your buck” department, PlayStation VR Worlds combines five excellent experiences into one polished package. Joshua Bell VR Experience Sony Interactive Entertainment February 14, 2017 VR Ping Pong Merge Games Limited February 7, 2017 Dexed Ninja Theory Limited January 31, 2017 Moto Racer 4 Anuman Interactive January 24, 2017 Resident Evil 7 biohazard Capcom U.S.A., Inc. January 24, 2017 Eve: Valkyrie CCP Games December 23, 2016 Polybius Jeff Minter’s games specialize in “just-crazy-enough-to-work” mechanics and presentation, and his take on the fabled Polybius is no exception. Rollercoaster Dreams Bimboosoft December 20, 2016 Fruit Ninja VR Halfbrick Studios Pty Ltd. December 20, 2016 Lethal VR Team17 Software Ltd. December 20, 2016 Fat City Heavy Iron Studios December 15, 2016 Starship Disco Solus Games December 15, 2016 Perfect NDreams LTD December 13, 2016 Resident Evil 7 biohazard Perhaps the finest example of the possibilities of VR gaming, this bone-chilling masterpiece shines brightest in VR. I Expect You To Die Schell Games LLC December 13, 2016 Werewolves Within Ubisoft Entertainment December 6, 2016 Surgeon Simulator: Experience Reality Bossa Studios Limited December 3, 2016 How We Soar Penny Black Studios Ltd November 29, 2016 Crystal Rift Psytec Games Ltd November 29, 2016 Pinball FX2 VR Zen Studios November 29, 2016 Rez Infinite The ultimate realization of Tetsuya Mizuguchi’s seminal audiovisual masterpiece, Rez Infinite in PS VR is something everyone should experience. NBA 2KVR Experience 2K November 22, 2016 Gary the Gull Limitless Sky Squadron, LLC November 22, 2016 HoloBall Treefortress Inc. November 22, 2016 VirZoom Arcade VirZoom, Inc November 22, 2016 Proton Pulse Plus ZeroTransform LLC November 22, 2016 Space Rift – Episode 1 bitComposer Interactive GmbH November 15, 2016 StarBlood Arena A slick multiplayer-focused arena shooter in the grand tradition of Descent. Time Machine VR Minority Inc. November 15, 2016 Trackmania Turbo Ubisoft Entertainment November 11, 2016 (VR Update) Robinson: The Journey Crytek November 8, 2016 Eagle Flight Ubisoft Entertainment November 8, 2016 Call Of Duty: Infinite Warfare Jackal Assault VR Experience Activision November 4, 2016 O! My Genesis VR Xpec Entertainment Inc. November 4, 2016 Superhot VR One of the most stylish and addictive titles on PS VR, with a meta-presentation that will melt your brain. Carnival Games VR 2K October 28, 2016 Weeping Doll Oasis Games Limited October 27, 2016 Windlands Psytec Games Ltd October 25, 2016 Tethered Secret Sorcery Limited October 25, 2016 Pixel Gear Oasis Games Limited October 20, 2016 Sports Bar VR Cherry Pop Games October 18, 2016 Waddle Home Archiact Interactive Ltd October 13, 2016 Gunjack CCP Games October 13, 2016 Rez Infinite Enhance Games October 13, 2016 Headmaster Frame Interactive Studio LLC October 13, 2016 Loading Human: Chapter 1 Maximum Games October 13, 2016 SuperHyperCube A perfect example of how to make a game in virtual reality, SHC takes a simple puzzle concept and gives it just enough of a VR twist to really sell the magic of the medium. The Assembly NDreams Ltd October 13, 2016 Ace Banana Oasis Games Limited October 13, 2016 Catlateral Damage Fire Hose Games October 13, 2016 (VR Update) Job Simulator Owlchemy Labs, Inc. October 13, 2016 The Brookhaven Experiment Phosphor Games October 13, 2016 Battlezone Rebellion October 13, 2016 Hatsune Miku: VR Future Live Sega of America Inc. October 13, 2016 RIGS Mechanized Combat League Sony Interactive Entertainment October 13, 2016 Here They Lie Sony Interactive Entertainment October 13, 2016 Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes Steel Crate Games, Inc. October 13, 2016 Volume: Coda Bithell Games October 13, 2016 World War Toons Beta Studio Roqovan, Inc. October 13, 2016 Rise of the Tomb Raider: 20 Year Celebration Square Enix Co. Ltd. October 11, 2016 Batman: Arkham VR Warner Bros. Interactive October 11, 2016 EVE: Valkyrie CCP Games October 10, 2016 Thumper Drool LLC October 10, 2016 Harmonix Music VR Harmonix Music Systems, Inc October 10, 2016 100ft Robot Golf No Goblin LLC October 10, 2016 Thumper Perhaps the most intense rhythm game ever made, Thumper excels in VR. An easy recommendation for all PS VR owners. SuperHyperCube Polytron Corporation October 10, 2016 The Playroom VR Sony Interactive Entertainment October 10, 2016 Until Dawn: Rush of Blood Sony Interactive Entertainment October 10, 2016 PlayStation VR Worlds Sony Interactive Entertainment October 10, 2016 Tumble VR Sony Interactive Entertainment October 10, 2016 Hustle Kings VR Sony Interactive Entertainment October 10, 2016 Super Stardust Ultra VR Sony Interactive Entertainment October 10, 2016 Wayward Sky Uber Entertainment October 10, 2016 Tiny Trax FuturLab are masters of pure gameplay, and Tiny Trax is a brilliant, vibrant take on the age-old tradition of racing slot cars. Driveclub VR Sony Interactive Entertainment September 21, 2016 Nebulous Namazu Studios August 30, 2016 Hatsune Miku: Project Diva X Sega of America Inc. August 30, 2016 Bound Sony Interactive Entertainment August 16, 2016 VEV: Viva Ex Vivo‎ Truant Pixel, LLC May 17, 2016 View the full article

A cult classic finds a new home with Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen coming to PS4 this Tuesday. Set in a dangerous open world, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen pits players against spectacular monsters. Master a variety of vocations, each with its own set of skills and strategies to wield. Dark Arisen includes all the DLC from the original Dragon’s Dogma as well as the expansion content. Train your party and fight back against overwhelming odds in this ambitious adventure from the team at Capcom. For a full list of new games coming next week, read on. And enjoy The Drop! New Releases: Week of October 3, 2017 Batman: The Enemy Within PS4 — Retail Descend into darkness! In this latest chapter from the award-winning studio behind Batman – The Telltale Series, both Bruce Wayne and Batman will be forced into precarious new roles. The Riddler has returned to terrorize Gotham City, but his gruesome puzzles merely foreshadow an even greater crisis… Battle Chasers: Nightwar PS4 — Digital, Retail Battle Chasers: Nightwar is an RPG inspired by the console genre-greats and the 90’s cult comic book. Experience deep dungeon diving, turn-based combat presented in classic JRPG format, and a rich story driven by exploration of the world. Battle Garegga Rev.2016 PS4 — Digital (Out 10/6) A classic takes to the skies once again! The retro game masters at M2 have poured their passion into the first release in the M2 Shot Triggers series! Detention PS4 — Digital Detention is an unique atmospheric horror game heavily influenced by Taiwanese/East Asian culture, religious elements, and mythology based on 1960’s Taiwan under martial law. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen PS4 — Digital, Retail The critically acclaimed action-RPG Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen combines exhilarating and deep combat with the freedom to explore the huge open world of Gransys in 1080p. Choose between nine different classes and embark on your own adventure along with three AI companions known as Pawns. Expand PS4 — Digital Expand is a 2D indie game in which you guide a pink square through a circular labyrinth that constantly rotates, unfolds, and expands around you. The Hunter: Call of the Wild PS4 — Digital, Retail Experience the thrill of the hunt in a visually breathtaking, technically groundbreaking, vast open world. Jydge PS4 — Digital Jydge is a lawful but awful roguehate top-down shooter where you get to build your own cybernetic Jydge and eradicate crime in the never-sleeping megacity of Edenbyrg. Mystik Belle PS4 — Digital Trouble is brewing at the Hagmore School of Witchcraft, and only freshman witch-in-training Belle MacFae can put things right. Save the Ninja Clan PS Vita — Digital (Out 10/6) Save the Ninja Clan is a platformer for casual players as well as speedrunners. There are two ways to play this game: play through the normal story mode or find secrets or “bugs” in the game to annoy the Game Manager watching. Twin Robots PS4, PS Vita — Digital (Cross Buy) Twin Robots is a platformer where you control two little robots. They have been imprisoned and need to find the way out of each level! WRC 7 PS4 — Digital, Retail Test yourself in the 13 WRC rallies and their true-to-life environments. Play as the best drivers in the Championship at the wheel of their new cars. Girls Trip Cult of Chucky An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power The information above is subject to change without notice. View the full article

A cult classic finds a new home with Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen coming to PS4 this Tuesday. Set in a dangerous open world, Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen pits players against spectacular monsters. Master a variety of vocations, each with its own set of skills and strategies to wield. Dark Arisen includes all the DLC from the original Dragon’s Dogma as well as the expansion content. Train your party and fight back against overwhelming odds in this ambitious adventure from the team at Capcom. For a full list of new games coming next week, read on. And enjoy The Drop! New Releases: Week of October 3, 2017 Batman: The Enemy Within PS4 — Retail Descend into darkness! In this latest chapter from the award-winning studio behind Batman – The Telltale Series, both Bruce Wayne and Batman will be forced into precarious new roles. The Riddler has returned to terrorize Gotham City, but his gruesome puzzles merely foreshadow an even greater crisis… Battle Chasers: Nightwar PS4 — Digital, Retail Battle Chasers: Nightwar is an RPG inspired by the console genre-greats and the 90’s cult comic book. Experience deep dungeon diving, turn-based combat presented in classic JRPG format, and a rich story driven by exploration of the world. Battle Garegga Rev.2016 PS4 — Digital (Out 10/6) A classic takes to the skies once again! The retro game masters at M2 have poured their passion into the first release in the M2 Shot Triggers series! Detention PS4 — Digital Detention is an unique atmospheric horror game heavily influenced by Taiwanese/East Asian culture, religious elements, and mythology based on 1960’s Taiwan under martial law. Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen PS4 — Digital, Retail The critically acclaimed action-RPG Dragon’s Dogma: Dark Arisen combines exhilarating and deep combat with the freedom to explore the huge open world of Gransys in 1080p. Choose between nine different classes and embark on your own adventure along with three AI companions known as Pawns. Expand PS4 — Digital Expand is a 2D indie game in which you guide a pink square through a circular labyrinth that constantly rotates, unfolds, and expands around you. The Hunter: Call of the Wild PS4 — Digital, Retail Experience the thrill of the hunt in a visually breathtaking, technically groundbreaking, vast open world. Jydge PS4 — Digital Jydge is a lawful but awful roguehate top-down shooter where you get to build your own cybernetic Jydge and eradicate crime in the never-sleeping megacity of Edenbyrg. Mystik Belle PS4 — Digital Trouble is brewing at the Hagmore School of Witchcraft, and only freshman witch-in-training Belle MacFae can put things right. Save the Ninja Clan PS Vita — Digital (Out 10/6) Save the Ninja Clan is a platformer for casual players as well as speedrunners. There are two ways to play this game: play through the normal story mode or find secrets or “bugs” in the game to annoy the Game Manager watching. Twin Robots PS4, PS Vita — Digital (Cross Buy) Twin Robots is a platformer where you control two little robots. They have been imprisoned and need to find the way out of each level! WRC 7 PS4 — Digital, Retail Test yourself in the 13 WRC rallies and their true-to-life environments. Play as the best drivers in the Championship at the wheel of their new cars. Girls Trip Cult of Chucky An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power The information above is subject to change without notice. View the full article

Working with our colleagues over at Sony Rewards and Capital One, we are excited to present a new PlayStation Credit Card with rewards designed specifically with gamers like you in mind. Beginning today, we’re inviting all of our fans to start turning your everyday purchases into a number of amazing rewards and benefits. Now the good stuff – what you can get! When you apply and get approved, after your first card purchase, you get a $50 PlayStation Store code. That could be a free new game! And that’s just the beginning… 5X points when you use the card at PlayStation Store 5x points on all PlayStation and Sony purchases at authorized retailers with purchase confirmation using a Sony Rewards Bonus Points form 3X points when you use the PlayStation Card to pay your mobile phone bill 1X points on all other every day purchases No annual fee Customize your card for free with multiple game-inspired designs (after you become a card member and create an account at capitalone.com) Once you start racking up your Sony Rewards points (100 points is like $1 in Sony Rewards), the possibilities are endless! Redeem the points you earn for PlayStation games, consoles, downloadable content, subscription services, Sony electronics, movies, music, experiences and more. Not a member of Sony Rewards? Check it out here. This is a great opportunity for any gamer looking to earn rewards just by purchasing the items you already enjoy. To learn more about the new Capital One PlayStation Card and to apply today, click here. View the full article

Working with our colleagues over at Sony Rewards and Capital One, we are excited to present a new PlayStation Credit Card with rewards designed specifically with gamers like you in mind. Beginning today, we’re inviting all of our fans to start turning your everyday purchases into a number of amazing rewards and benefits. Now the good stuff – what you can get! When you apply and get approved, after your first card purchase, you get a $50 PlayStation Store code. That could be a free new game! And that’s just the beginning… 5X points when you use the card at PlayStation Store 5x points on all PlayStation and Sony purchases at authorized retailers with purchase confirmation using a Sony Rewards Bonus Points form 3X points when you use the PlayStation Card to pay your mobile phone bill 1X points on all other every day purchases No annual fee Customize your card for free with multiple game-inspired designs (after you become a card member and create an account at capitalone.com) Once you start racking up your Sony Rewards points (100 points is like $1 in Sony Rewards), the possibilities are endless! Redeem the points you earn for PlayStation games, consoles, downloadable content, subscription services, Sony electronics, movies, music, experiences and more. Not a member of Sony Rewards? Check it out here. This is a great opportunity for any gamer looking to earn rewards just by purchasing the items you already enjoy. To learn more about the new Capital One PlayStation Card and to apply today, click here. View the full article

Stripped to its basics, Slayaway Camp is ‘just’ a sliding block puzzle, similar to Sokoban or any number of move-a-thing-around-a-grid mini-games that most gamers will undoubtedly be familiar with. These kinds of puzzles can range from mindlessly simple to maddeningly complex, but they do have a tendency to be, well, boring. The challenge we set ourselves in Slayaway Camp was this: can we make a dry, cerebral sliding block puzzle game that is not boring? Sliding a block around to reach an objective can be tedious. But what if the block was, say, a person, and the objective of the puzzle was, say, to gruesomely murder them? Whatever that is, it’s not boring! From this concept, we quickly made the jump to ‘80s slasher movies. Thematically, it fit with our game mechanics, where you had multiple helpless, immobile victims waiting for you to slaughter them. And conceptually it was a blast, with all sorts of opportunities to indulge in retro-horror nostalgia, ‘80s metal and synth-rock, VHS tape artifacts, and creatively disgusting murders. Once we had embraced that theme, we started evolving and tweaking game mechanics to support it. For instance, we added the ability to ‘scare’ victims so that they flee from the killer, potentially sending them into a more strategically advantageous position… or right into some kind of flame-based hazard or man-mincing woodchipper. While we were having tons of fun including dozens of hidden (and not so hidden) references to 80’s horror flicks, we did have to make some careful decisions regarding the game’s violence. By any normal standards, it’s incredibly over the top, with multiple campers getting decapitated, defenestrated, disembowelled and dismembered (or worse!) every few minutes. A realistic art style would have resulted in a truly nauseous experience for all but the most hardened gorehounds. But making a bloodless slasher film homage would remove the very essence of what it’s paying tribute to. Ultimately, we decided to crank the violence to ultra levels, but reduced the detail of the characters to the point that they are basically adorable shoeboxes with eyes. As a result, the bloodshed and slaughtering – despite being utterly brutal – is more comical than it is disturbing. But it’s not just kooky kills and humorous homicides that we rely on for tickle-funnies and happy-smiles. For example, one level is effectively a labyrinth and, as you wind your way through, a guy sitting by a campfire is playing his guitar and singing especially badly. Each turn gets you closer, but one false move means you’re doomed to listen to another outburst of his horrifying campfire ballad. There are jokes and moments like these lovingly peppered through the entire game, and we feel it’s this type of attention that gives Slayaway Camp its black-but-ever-so-lovable soul. After all our efforts, some of the most satisfying feedback we have received is from fans of the game who wholeheartedly admit that before they played Slayaway Camp, they hated puzzle games. We believe that by drenching the puzzles in a thick layer of style and substance (and gore), there’s always something new to work towards… be it unlocking a secret homage to a horror movie killer or the promise of savagely beating a camp leader over the head with his own guitar. So, whether you love puzzle games or you hate them with all your guts, Slayaway Camp: Butcher’s Cut is for you. And with more than 300 puzzle levels to massacre your way through, 90 ‘Gorepacks’ with delightfully OTT kill scenes, and over 60 killers to cause comical carnage with, Slayaway Camp: Butcher’s Cut is undoubtedly the meatiest and most murdery version of the game yet. Coming to a PS4 near you in time for Halloween! View the full article

Stripped to its basics, Slayaway Camp is ‘just’ a sliding block puzzle, similar to Sokoban or any number of move-a-thing-around-a-grid mini-games that most gamers will undoubtedly be familiar with. These kinds of puzzles can range from mindlessly simple to maddeningly complex, but they do have a tendency to be, well, boring. The challenge we set ourselves in Slayaway Camp was this: can we make a dry, cerebral sliding block puzzle game that is not boring? Sliding a block around to reach an objective can be tedious. But what if the block was, say, a person, and the objective of the puzzle was, say, to gruesomely murder them? Whatever that is, it’s not boring! From this concept, we quickly made the jump to ‘80s slasher movies. Thematically, it fit with our game mechanics, where you had multiple helpless, immobile victims waiting for you to slaughter them. And conceptually it was a blast, with all sorts of opportunities to indulge in retro-horror nostalgia, ‘80s metal and synth-rock, VHS tape artifacts, and creatively disgusting murders. Once we had embraced that theme, we started evolving and tweaking game mechanics to support it. For instance, we added the ability to ‘scare’ victims so that they flee from the killer, potentially sending them into a more strategically advantageous position… or right into some kind of flame-based hazard or man-mincing woodchipper. While we were having tons of fun including dozens of hidden (and not so hidden) references to 80’s horror flicks, we did have to make some careful decisions regarding the game’s violence. By any normal standards, it’s incredibly over the top, with multiple campers getting decapitated, defenestrated, disembowelled and dismembered (or worse!) every few minutes. A realistic art style would have resulted in a truly nauseous experience for all but the most hardened gorehounds. But making a bloodless slasher film homage would remove the very essence of what it’s paying tribute to. Ultimately, we decided to crank the violence to ultra levels, but reduced the detail of the characters to the point that they are basically adorable shoeboxes with eyes. As a result, the bloodshed and slaughtering – despite being utterly brutal – is more comical than it is disturbing. But it’s not just kooky kills and humorous homicides that we rely on for tickle-funnies and happy-smiles. For example, one level is effectively a labyrinth and, as you wind your way through, a guy sitting by a campfire is playing his guitar and singing especially badly. Each turn gets you closer, but one false move means you’re doomed to listen to another outburst of his horrifying campfire ballad. There are jokes and moments like these lovingly peppered through the entire game, and we feel it’s this type of attention that gives Slayaway Camp its black-but-ever-so-lovable soul. After all our efforts, some of the most satisfying feedback we have received is from fans of the game who wholeheartedly admit that before they played Slayaway Camp, they hated puzzle games. We believe that by drenching the puzzles in a thick layer of style and substance (and gore), there’s always something new to work towards… be it unlocking a secret homage to a horror movie killer or the promise of savagely beating a camp leader over the head with his own guitar. So, whether you love puzzle games or you hate them with all your guts, Slayaway Camp: Butcher’s Cut is for you. And with more than 300 puzzle levels to massacre your way through, 90 ‘Gorepacks’ with delightfully OTT kill scenes, and over 60 killers to cause comical carnage with, Slayaway Camp: Butcher’s Cut is undoubtedly the meatiest and most murdery version of the game yet. Coming to a PS4 near you in time for Halloween! View the full article

The death of the Emperor wasn’t the end of the Empire. While the fall of the nefarious leader sewed confusion among the ranks, the surviving officers of the Imperial navy still wield influence over vast fleets and powerful forces. But even from beyond the grave, the Emperor’s destructive control holds sway over the galaxy… not just over his enemies, but also over the servants who failed to protect his life. Part of that vengeance is enacted by Messenger droids, one of which plays a key role in the single-player story of Star Wars Battlefront II. Messengers are agents of the Contingency – the Emperor’s sinister plan put into effect in the event of his untimely demise. Outlined in Star Wars Shattered Empire and Star Wars Aftermath, the Contingency punishes Empire and Rebellion alike. Messengers are foreboding droids. They bear the visage of the dead Palpatine, and some are equipped to enforce his will not just with words, but with violent action. Early in Star Wars Battlefront II, a Messenger tasks Iden and her father, Garrick Versio, with terrifying instructions. We don’t want to reveal much more about this critical sequence, but its pretty clear that Iden’s “unusual” mission will place her on a collision course with the last wishes of the fallen Emperor. The Messenger is just one of many story connections to the broader Star Wars galaxy revealed in the new single-player campaign. You’ll be learning much more about Iden, her teammates Del and Hask, and many of your favorite Star Wars characters in Star Wars Battlefront II, launching November 17. However, you won’t have to wait until then to go hands-on with the game. The Star Wars Battlefront II multiplayer beta* is coming October 6 (or October 4 if you pre-order). Stay tuned for more news leading up to the game’s release. *Conditions and restrictions apply. Click here for details. View the full article

The death of the Emperor wasn’t the end of the Empire. While the fall of the nefarious leader sewed confusion among the ranks, the surviving officers of the Imperial navy still wield influence over vast fleets and powerful forces. But even from beyond the grave, the Emperor’s destructive control holds sway over the galaxy… not just over his enemies, but also over the servants who failed to protect his life. Part of that vengeance is enacted by Messenger droids, one of which plays a key role in the single-player story of Star Wars Battlefront II. Messengers are agents of the Contingency – the Emperor’s sinister plan put into effect in the event of his untimely demise. Outlined in Star Wars Shattered Empire and Star Wars Aftermath, the Contingency punishes Empire and Rebellion alike. Messengers are foreboding droids. They bear the visage of the dead Palpatine, and some are equipped to enforce his will not just with words, but with violent action. Early in Star Wars Battlefront II, a Messenger tasks Iden and her father, Garrick Versio, with terrifying instructions. We don’t want to reveal much more about this critical sequence, but its pretty clear that Iden’s “unusual” mission will place her on a collision course with the last wishes of the fallen Emperor. The Messenger is just one of many story connections to the broader Star Wars galaxy revealed in the new single-player campaign. You’ll be learning much more about Iden, her teammates Del and Hask, and many of your favorite Star Wars characters in Star Wars Battlefront II, launching November 17. However, you won’t have to wait until then to go hands-on with the game. The Star Wars Battlefront II multiplayer beta* is coming October 6 (or October 4 if you pre-order). Stay tuned for more news leading up to the game’s release. *Conditions and restrictions apply. Click here for details. View the full article

Subscribe via iTunes, Spotify, Google or RSS, or download here Spoiler warning! Near the end of this episode, we openly talk about the ending of the classic anime Cowboy Bebop! We call it out pretty clearly before we spoil anything, but please be aware of this if you haven’t seen the show yet (in which case, you should watch it). In this week’s PlayStation Blogcast, our intrepid heroes venture once more into the heated waters of Spoiler Territory. It leads to perhaps our most heated discussion yet on the show, but fret not — Sid and Justin did not quite attack each other off-set. Stuff We Talked About Spoilers! The Evil Within 2 Doom VFR Skyrim VR Cowboy Bebop Shakespeare Recent Episodes 264: The End is Nier 263: …And I’ll See You at Evo 262: Knack Attack The Cast Sid Shuman – Director of Social Media, SIEA Justin Massongill – Social Media Manager, SIEA Ryan Clements – Sr. Social Media Specialist, SIEA Send us questions and tips! blogcast@sony.com Leave us a voicemail! (650) 288-6706 Thanks to Cory Schmitz for our beautiful logo and 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

Subscribe via iTunes, Spotify, Google or RSS, or download here Spoiler warning! Near the end of this episode, we openly talk about the ending of the classic anime Cowboy Bebop! We call it out pretty clearly before we spoil anything, but please be aware of this if you haven’t seen the show yet (in which case, you should watch it). In this week’s PlayStation Blogcast, our intrepid heroes venture once more into the heated waters of Spoiler Territory. It leads to perhaps our most heated discussion yet on the show, but fret not — Sid and Justin did not quite attack each other off-set. Stuff We Talked About Spoilers! The Evil Within 2 Doom VFR Skyrim VR Cowboy Bebop Shakespeare Recent Episodes 264: The End is Nier 263: …And I’ll See You at Evo 262: Knack Attack The Cast Sid Shuman – Director of Social Media, SIEA Justin Massongill – Social Media Manager, SIEA Ryan Clements – Sr. Social Media Specialist, SIEA Send us questions and tips! blogcast@sony.com Leave us a voicemail! (650) 288-6706 Thanks to Cory Schmitz for our beautiful logo and 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

Any day that Rockstar Games issues a new trailer is a special day. And today, we’ve got the all-new trailer for Red Dead Redemption 2, which was captured on PlayStation 4. Red Dead Redemption 2 is coming to PS4 this Spring. Here are the latest details, straight from Rockstar: Red Dead Redemption 2 is the story of outlaw Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang as they rob, fight and steal their way across the vast and rugged heart of America in order to survive. A friendly reminder that PlayStation owners will get additional benefits for Red Dead Redemption 2, including first access to select online content. We’ll have more specifics to share there in the months ahead. View the full article

Any day that Rockstar Games issues a new trailer is a special day. And today, we’ve got the all-new trailer for Red Dead Redemption 2, which was captured on PlayStation 4. Red Dead Redemption 2 is coming to PS4 this Spring. Here are the latest details, straight from Rockstar: Red Dead Redemption 2 is the story of outlaw Arthur Morgan and the Van der Linde gang as they rob, fight and steal their way across the vast and rugged heart of America in order to survive. A friendly reminder that PlayStation owners will get additional benefits for Red Dead Redemption 2, including first access to select online content. We’ll have more specifics to share there in the months ahead. View the full article