May 4, 2006
Sony Computer Entertainment
America Announces New PlayStation(R)2 and PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R) Portable)
Software Titles to Be Unveiled at E3 2006
Software Lineup Includes
Market-Leading Franchises and Original IP’s for Both the PSP and PlayStation 2
Systems
Sony Computer Entertainment
America announced a stellar line up of new software titles due out this year for
the market-leading PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system and PlayStation(R)2
computer entertainment system, including nine new titles for the revolutionary
PSP system and five new titles for the most popular gaming
The PSP system and PlayStation 2
bring unparalleled gaming experiences to consumers, and with the addition of
these action-packed first-party titles that span across multiple genres,
consumers can look forward to a wide variety of exciting entertainment
experiences for the coming year.
"Our goal for 2006 is to continue to
lead and define the market for interactive entertainment and our exciting
software line-up for the PSP and PlayStation 2 does just that," said Jack
Tretton, executive vice president, co-coo, Sony Computer Entertainment America.
"In addition to providing gamers and retailers with exciting sequels to
best-selling franchises, we’re continuing to broaden the portfolio with terrific
new content from some of our best development teams, further demonstrating our
dedication to our long-term vision for the PlayStation 2 as well as evolving the
multimedia capabilities of the PSP system."
Following a record-setting launch
last year, the PSP system has quickly become a cultural icon and a
market-altering force with more than 17 million units shipped worldwide. As of
this month in North America, there are more than 100 games available for the PSP
system and more than 350 feature films, TV programs and videos from major
studios combining with downloadable content from the Internet to create an
unmatched library of entertainment content. The PSP system has also served as an
important driver in retail sales, bringing in more than $1.6 billion as of
calendar year 2005.
As the only gaming platform to enjoy
such widespread global success, to date, more than 103 million PlayStation 2
units and approximately one billion pieces of software for the PlayStation 2
have shipped worldwide, making it the fastest-selling gaming platform in the
world. According to The NPD Group, PlayStation 2 continues to lead console unit
market share with 55.6 percent in the U.S., more than double of any other
console on the market to date. PlayStation 2 also leads on the software front
with nearly a 70 percent lead over any other competitor when it comes to
software titles available at market in March. (Source: The NPD Group as of March
2006)
Below is a list of the
highly-anticipated first-party PSP system and PlayStation 2 titles due out this
year:
ATV Offroad Fury(R) Pro
(Available October, 2006 / Not Yet Rated) The most intense handheld off-road
racing package is back with ATV Offroad Fury Pro for the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable)
system. In addition to racing on ATVs, players can now choose from more than 30
total vehicles, including MX bikes, buggies, and Trophy Trucks to compete on 64
all-new tracks, including tracks from the original ATV Offroad Fury titles.
Supporting up to four players via wireless multiplayer connectivity, gamers will
speed through more than 30 visually stunning environments with six distinct
terrain types and can choose from more than 60 unique tracks. Featuring five new
events, new vehicles and mini-games, and cross compatibility with ATV Offroad
Fury(R) 4 for the PlayStation 2, ATV Offroad Fury Pro will provide players the
opportunity to tackle the trickiest off-road courses anytime, anywhere.
ATV Offroad Fury(R) 4
(Available September, 2006 / Not Yet Rated) The multi-million selling ATV
franchise is back this Fall for an all-new installment of intense racing action
with ATV Offroad Fury 4 for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system.
Select your favorite ATV, or for the first time in franchise history, MX Bikes,
Buggies, and Trophy Trucks to race through 72 tenacious tracks on six different
continents. Featuring an all-new story mode, players will be able to live the
life of a rookie rider and earn a path to the ranks of professional racer.
Additionally, ATV Offroad Fury 4 adds cross communication capabilities with ATV
Offroad Fury(R) Pro for the PSP system, including vehicle exchanges and
upgrades, shared online communities, and the ability to share user created
circuits. The game will support up to eight players online, with other key
features including a track editor as well as extensive vehicle tuning and
customization options.
Gangs of London(TM)
(Available Fall, 2006 / Not Yet Rated) Created by Sony Computer Entertainment
Europe’s London Studio, developers of The Getaway(TM) franchise, Gangs of
London(TM) was designed specifically for the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable)
system and will be presented in stunning graphic-novel style narratives. Dynamic
storylines enable each player to experience their own unique progression in
nearly 60 different missions that immerse gamers in an elite criminal underworld
in modern day London. Offering a variety of gameplay modes including Story Mode,
Gang Battle, Free Roaming, London Pub Games and a unique Game Sharing mode,
Gangs of London provides intense free-roaming gameplay perfectly tailored for a
handheld system.
God of War(R) II (Available
Q1, 2007 / Not Yet Rated) Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment America’s
Santa Monica Studios, God of War(R) introduced a groundbreaking, combat
action-adventure videogame based on Greek mythology that went on to capture more
than a dozen "Game of the Year" Awards. In God of War, players were introduced
to Kratos, a mortal warrior, who set upon an epic quest to dethrone a God. But
his journey did not end there. In God of War II for the PlayStation(R)2 computer
entertainment system, players will retake the role of Kratos. Armed with the
deadly blades and aided by new breath-taking magic and new brutal combat moves,
the journey will take players through vividly striking environments where they
will be faced with a labyrinth of challenging puzzles and mini-games intricately
woven into the story. The violent world of Greek mythology will come to life in
gory detail as Kratos encounters new mythical characters, and competes in epic
boss battles in his quest to the far reaches of the earth in order to alter that
which no mortal, or god has ever changed, his fate.
Killzone(TM): Liberation
(Available October 31, 2006 / Not Yet Rated) Developed by Guerilla, a wholly
owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, Killzone: Liberation for
the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system is a third-person action game that
puts the players into various missions to rescue hostages from the evil Helghast.
Inspired by the events in Killzone for PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment
system (released in November, 2004), the story continues in Killzone: Liberation
with the battle against the Helghast still raging on. Featuring an intelligent
third person camera system, Killzone: Liberation allows players a more tactical
surveillance viewpoint to view their action and read the enemy’s behavior during
gameplay. Set in an intense postmodern war reminiscent of the previous
PlayStation 2 title, Killzone: Liberation features the unique graphical style to
showcase pure grit and realism. During gameplay, players will have access to
online and offline missions, supported with a variety of weapons that are unique
and innovative, inspired by modern military equipment.
Lemmings(TM) (Available May,
2006 / Rated "E" for "Everyone") Developed by Team 17, Lemmings(TM) delivers the
ultimate in puzzle gameplay, perfect for quick, on-the-go gaming on the PSP(TM)
(PlayStation(R)Portable) system. In Lemmings, players will guide a group of
cute, but hapless little creatures within each level from an entrance point to
an exit point. Fast reflexes and quick wits are necessary to ensure the Lemmings
don’t walk to their doom. Disaster is at every step, including the perils of
raging rivers, steep cliffs, pits of lava, and mechanical spikes that stand
between the Lemming masses and safety of the exit. Lemmings will feature more
than 150 levels, including new puzzles exclusively for the PSP system. In
addition, the game will host a new mix of music, custom level creation, and
wireless capability for players to share newly created levels.
LocoRoco(TM) (Available
September 2006 / Not Yet Rated) Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment Japan,
LocoRoco(TM) is an innovative 2D platform/action game available exclusively for
the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system. Featuring unique controls utilizing
the "L" and "R" shoulder buttons, players are tasked with controlling via
"tilting or bumping" the landscape of the LocoRoco in order to help them
navigate through the level and keep out of harm’s way. With more than 40 stages,
players control and guide the LocoRoco through vibrant, thriving and lush worlds
filled with slippery slopes, swing ropes and more. Featuring six different types
of LocoRoco that include their own voices and actions, players will be enchanted
by captivating music that communicates the joyous world of these LocoRoco. In
addition, LocoRoco features the rewarding LocoHouse, three mini-games, and
wireless features.
NBA ’07 — PlayStation(R)2
(Available September 2006 / Not Yet Rated) Developed by SCEA San Diego Studios,
NBA ’07 for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system delivers the most
detailed and engaging NBA experience both on the court and behind the scenes.
Picking up where NBA ’06 left off, NBA ’07 hits the hardwood with new features,
enhanced gameplay, and "The Life: Volume 2." In the sequel to "The Life," gamers
are exposed to the successes and failures of life in the NBA both on and off the
court — this time as the league’s star player. An all-new Smart Shot Indicator
provides a visual gauge of the impact defense has on shot opportunities, and a
new Power Boarding System is now in place to offer a true 3D approach for
players to position themselves for rebounds. Additionally, NBA ’07 includes
refined core gameplay elements including new mechanics for stealing, passing,
and shot selection as well as more intuitive AI.
NBA ’07 – PSP(TM) system
(October 2006 / Not Yet Rated) Developed by SCEA San Diego Studios, NBA ’07 for
the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system brings fast, fluid gameplay and
delivers the most engaging portable NBA experience available. Featuring new
mini-games, players can participate in an all-new rhythm-based dunk contest as
well as carnival-style games including pop-a-shot, skee-ball, and pinball. NBA
’07 also features a new Conquest Mode, where players take a team and challenge
NBA squads across the country, as well as a new Pick Up Mode, where gamers can
choose from 10 randomly selected NBA players for a full game match-up.
Ratchet & Clank(R): Size Matters
(Available Q1, 2007 / Not Yet Rated) Developed by High Impact Games, Ratchet
& Clank(R): Size Matters is an all-new action platformer made exclusively for
the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system. Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters
returns the franchise to its roots with hallmark Ratchet & Clank gameplay sure
to please fans of the series. Ratchet & Clank: Size Matters features all new
gameplay for Ratchet’s brainy robotic sidekick, Clank, who steps out from the
shadows to assume a prominent role alongside Ratchet. Capturing all of the humor
from previous PlayStation 2 installments with engaging cinematics, Ratchet &
Clank: Size Matters will allow up to four players to compete in action-packed
wireless multiplayer gaming.
Rogue Galaxy(TM) (Available
October, 2006 / Not Yet Rated) Developed by Level 5, Rogue Galaxy(TM) for the
PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system delivers an unparalleled
role-playing game (RPG) experience with visually stunning backdrops, an
immersive storyline with plenty of unexpected twists, and a proprietary combat
system that gives the player total control of an epic adventure. Set in a vast
world, this action-RPG allows players to run, jump, swim, climb, and engage in
combat real-time, as they explore active environments in a quest to locate a
legendary planet. Players can control up to three characters at a time, each
colorfully brought to life within highly detailed environments. In addition to
the compelling storyline, gamers will have access to multiple sub-quests and be
able to generate custom weapons and items by creating their own factory.
SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam
Bravo 2 (Fall 2006 / Not Yet Rated) In SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo
2 for the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, players will command a secret
subset of the most elite and deadly fighting force on the planet through broad
combat experiences including new non-linear mission progression, over 40
authentic real world weapons and a huge area of operation spanning multiple
terrain types and environments. Multiple players will once again be able to form
clans and take on their friends for team based high-action gameplay via a Wi-Fi
connection. Up to 16 players in close proximity in Ad Hoc mode, and online in
Infrastructure mode, can compete wirelessly through three new game types across
all new multiplayer maps and original SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo
maps. SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo 2 is complete with a variety of new
gameplay features including non-linear mission progression and a persistent
performance rating system. In this system "Command Equity" points can be used to
add new weapons to the armory or purchase in-game air strikes and supply drops,
and a new "Local Influence" rating system gives players access to black market
weapons and intelligence from locals.
SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Combined
Assault (Fall 2006 / Not Yet Rated) Protect America and freedom from enemy
forces in urban and rural warfare in SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Combined Assault for
the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system. The PlayStation 2’s top
online gaming franchise continues its assault with an all-new 4-player
cooperative play, improved enemy behavior and tactics, and new vehicles and
weapons. Command the most feared Special Forces team ever assembled through a
single, massive Area of Operation with varied missions spanning across multiple
diverse regions. Players will have the ability to select an individual tactical
mission area that was previously completed, and play it as a stand-alone, or
‘Instant Action’, mission in 4-player online cooperative play. Players can then
customize these Instant Action missions for nearly endless replay. SOCOM: U.S.
Navy SEALs Combined Assault will also contain the full SOCOM 3: U.S. Navy SEALs
multiplayer online game with all maps, patches and updates included and it will
be completely compatible with SOCOM 3 Online multiplayer. Improved Crosstalk
functionality between SOCOM: U.S. Navy SEALs Fireteam Bravo 2 and SOCOM: U.S.
Navy SEALs Combined Assault allows each game to have even more dramatic effects
on the progression of the other, in addition to unlocking special features
across the titles.
World Tour Soccer ’06
(Available June, 2006 / Not Yet Rated) As four year’s worth of waiting brings
about soccer frenzy and 32 nations prepare to compete in Germany this summer,
World Tour Soccer ’06 for the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system lets
soccer fans bring the game with them anywhere, anytime. Redesigned specifically
for on-the-go gaming, World Tour Soccer ’06 offers a multitude of quick and
thrilling game sessions and the opportunity to take on the world’s best from
Africa, Asia, North America, South America and Europe. To highlight the
fundamentals of the sport, World Tour Mode takes players through 10 all-new
challenges that emphasize passing, ball control, possession, and style of play.
Through Ad Hoc mode, World Tour Soccer ’06 supports up to four players
wirelessly and the unique game sharing feature allows players to compete
head-to-head with only one copy of the game. World Tour Soccer ’06 embraces the
brilliant and stylish play of Pavel Pardo as he joins the franchise as its
newest cover athlete. Pardo, who has over 110 international appearances, will
take a break from his starring role with Club America in Mexico’s first division
to represent Mexico in this summer’s World Cup.