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PlayStation Network

Possible details on Sony's premium PSN service

So far all signs are pointing to Sony unveiling a premium PSN service at E3 next month. In fact this new PSN service will supposedly take up a good chunk of Sony’s E3 conference along with all the PlayStation Move goodness that will be bestowed upon us.  In the past we’ve gotten murmurs on what the premium PSN service will offer but now some more substantial tidbits have come forth.

PixelJunk Shooter 2 announced

We knew it was coming but now Q-Games President Dylan Cuthbert has given us our first tease on PixelJunk Shooter 2. Since PixelJunk Shooter was released on the PSN in December fans have been clamoring for more shmup style action done Q-Games style and now they're going to get it.

The PSN's film library is expanded with MUBI

The PlayStation Network is expanding once again with artsy flair this time round. Sony has announced that they’re teaming up with the online film service MUBI to provide PS3 owners with unique theatrical content.  Yes, the PSN currently has a Video section but MUBI is aiming to provide content that is outside the mainstream. So yeah, MUBI is going to the Independent Film Channel of the PSN in a way.

Killzone and tennis clash in Hot Shots Tennis: Get a Grip

Amidst all the powerhouse franchises Sony has now it’s nice to see they haven’t completely forgotten about their past with today’s announcement.  The famous Hot Shots franchise is making a return with Hot Shots Tennis: Get a Grip for the PSP.

Soldner-X 2 release date and price info revealed

Shmup fans can rejoice as it has just been announced that Soldner-X 2 will be out on the PlayStation Network this month. Set to drop on May 25th for only $12.99 in North American and May 26th in Europe, Soldner-X 2 will no doubt be a hit amongst the shmup community.

Featuring gorgeous 3D visuals combined with classic side-scrolling gameplay makes Soldner-X 2 a gem in this day and age.  With seven levels, two ships, unlockable modes and challenging yet entertaining gameplay Soldner-X 2 is a steal for only $12.

Blue Toad Murder Files: Episodes 4-6 [PSN Review]

Overall Feeling: 

Blue Toad Murder Files: Episodes 4-6 may not be the pinnacle of mystery gaming in the realm of video games but it’s a solid attempt. Combining nice humor and unique puzzles the game can at times be rather enjoyable. But things like annoying characters, puzzles that are too difficult and a lackluster ending prevent Blue Toad Murder Files from becoming the Sherlock Holmes of its genre.

The Pros: 

When the puzzles are good they’re really damn good. Nice visuals and art style that perfectly melds a cartoon ascetic with a realistic one. The presentation of the story is nice and I loved the musical cues that were hit at key moments.

The Cons: 

At times the puzzles are either too hard or feel like more a chore than actual fun. The ending doesn’t have that grand mystery finale feel to it. One voice actor does the voices for everyone in the game. All 10+ male & female characters is one dude and you can tell which at times is really distracting.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
7

This generation we’ve seen the rise of games released with an episodic nature.  While not every game is jumping aboard the bite sized game bandwagon, it is becoming a more acceptable thing amongst gamers.  One such title that took the episodic route was the PSN exclusive Blue Toad Murder Files. Combining a mystery backdrop with mini-game puzzle mechanics, Blue Toad’s premise perfectly fits the simple digital episodic approach.

New screens from Lara Croft's latest adventure

In case you haven’t heard there’s a new Lara Croft game coming out this year. I know in this post Uncharted era it may be a difficult to grasp how Lara would top the adventures of Nathan Drake. But Square Enix/Eidos is taking a different approach with Lara’s latest adventure as it’s an isometric co-op game.

After Burner Climax [PSN Review]

Overall Feeling: 

Not only is after Burner Climax a nostalgia trip to the glory days of arcade gaming but it’s an extremely solid PSN/XBL game. While short, the game is bolstered by addicting combo and skill based gameplay and unlockables which extend the core experience. After Burner Climax is a must own game for those out there who love arcade games and for only $9.99 After Burner Climax is a steal given what it offers and how damn addicting it is.

The Pros: 

Amazingly fast gameplay is arcade twitch goodness personified. The graphics are sharp and the diverse levels really keep things fresh. The EX Options is a terrific addition to the game since it adds to the replay factor for all the arcade perfectionists out there.

The Cons: 

It’s slightly disappointing that Sega didn’t add any meaty additions such as new weapons or stages to the console port. Despite the EX Options some may be turned off by how fast the game can be completed.

ShogunGamer.com Rating : 
8

 

These days pure arcade style game experiences are far and few between.  Outside of games like Burnout and a few PSN/XBLA games we really haven’t gotten a game that perfectly encapsulates that arcade experience.  Thankfully Sega has come to our rescue with the release of After Burner Climax, a console port of the arcade version that came out four years ago.  While being nothing more than a direct port of the arcade version, After Burner Climax is probably one of the best arcade games released on the PSN and XBL.

Watch baseball on your PS3 starting this week

With the baseball season now underway, Sony and Major League Baseball have announced a partnership which will bring baseball to the PS3.  If you’re a huge of the national pastime then starting this week you’re going to be able to watch baseball games on the PS3.

Starting today PS3 owners will be able to download the MLB.TV app.  Already accessible via the internet, MLB.TV is a service that allows people to view every MLB broadcast. Those who already subscribe to MLB.TV will be able to link their account to their PS3 and boosh; you have MLB on your PlayStation.

Bionic Commando swings back into action with Bionic Commando Rearmed 2 [Video/Screens]

When Capcom announced the plans for a HD remake/reboot of Bionic Commando everyone was pretty happy. But soon that happiness faded when people actually saw and played Bionic Commando.  Thankfully one good thing spawned out of the BC remake debacle and that was Bionic Commando Rearmed.  A remake of the original NES game, BC Rearmed was retro goodness with amazing production values. Essentially it’s what the HD Bionic Commando should’ve been.

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