Entries from August 2006 ↓

Microsoft has announced that the XNA Game Studio Express public beta is now available from MSDN. So all new devs (and old school devs) got downloaded it and get started on the game you've always wanted to make. This version will only compile for Windows XP and Windows Vista. Once the final build is released developers will be able to purchase a subscription for $99 a year that will give them the ability to compile for the Xbox360.

I've got an idea for a game that I could make. It will feature a hapless blogger wading through press releases and PR sites trying to find something no one else has yet, all while dodging spam and pop ups. Maybe I'll call it blogwars. Heh.

Via TeamXbox::MSDN

*Update* I'm not sure why Wordpress keeps butchering this post but hopefully its fixed now.

Yesterday, PSP Fanboy linked to an IGN exclusive on Codemasters remake of Cannon Fodder well, this morning I received an e-mail with some screens that were not part of the IGN write up…

*Click for Full Size*

I'm really excited about this one. I have many fond memories of the Amiga version so hopefully this will live up to the original. In fact, I think I need to break out my WHDLoad DVD and play for a while.

*update* Fixed WHDLoad link.

Wraggster over at DCEmu has posted an interview with homebrew developer Exophase. Exophase is the author of the "fullspeed" GameBoy Advance emulator for the PSP. I have yet to try the emulator out but, word on the interweb is that its a good piece of software. Maybe I'll take a few moments to try it out tomorrow.

Via DCEmu

I just recieved some screens for the PSP version of the upcoming Lego Star Wars game.

*Click For Full Size Image*

Looking good.

Yesterday, word came down the interweb that a new exploit has been successfully tested.

From the test app:

Hello World for the PSP on 2.0.0 to 2.8.0 - "Paving the way to a new homebrew area"
27/08/2006

http://www.noobz.eu

Contributors:

Fanjita, psp250, Skylark, cswindle, JoeK, jim and libtiff
Initial PoC on x86 by NOPX86

Greetings:
Ditlew, matrix, FloHimself, boosty, nexger

You can download the proof of concept code from QJ.net

Via QJ.net::noobz.eu

I will be unable to post most of the week.  However, there are some big things in the works for when I get back!

It seems Sony Japan is releasing a couple of Limited Edition PSP's. There are two models (called Tsukimi and Kachofugetsu) in the signature line each comes with a battery pack, AC adapter and a stand. And at 31,500yen ($271.99) they are certainly a steal!

Has the plain white PSP even come out in the states yet?

Via DCEmu::PlayStation Signature

Just saw this over at TeamXbox and figured I should share… The writers have announced all the Transformers making an appearance in the film.

Autobots:

• Optimus Prime
• Bumblebee
• Jazz
• Ratchet
• Ironhide

Decepticons:

• Megatron
• Starscream
• Brawl
• Bonecrusher
• Barricade
• Scorponok
• Frenzy
• Blackout

I'm a bit disappointed I was hoping SoundWave would be in it also…

Via TeamXbox

*edit* Because English and I don't get along.  ;) 

Xplosiv has revealed this morning the existence of a party game known as KAZooK. Developed by MonteCristo KAZooK features 30 bizarre mini-games with 16 characters to choose from. Throughout the game you will have to face with killer Zombies, pilot out of control UFOs, fight with mad sweaty Sumo’s, cause mayhem at an outrageous pool party and encounter many other thrills and oddities.

Game Features:

30 bizarre mini-games - simple shoot-em-ups to dance games, Fighting to Racing - Offering a variety of game styles, each with its own challenge – something for everyone.

16 playable characters – take control of one of 16 characters – all-star rappers, skate-kids, wild goths girls and cool street dudes among others as you take on the many challenges KAZooK has to offer.

3 solo game modes:

Normal – Battle through each mini-game one-by-one, unlocking more levels and bonus’.

Survival – Test your staying power – play through all the minigames, lasting as long as possible.

Party – take on the challenge of completing all minigames to become the ultimate party superstar!

Wi-Fi Multiplayer – 27 mini-games can be played 2 player using the PSP wi-fi feature and 6 can be played hot-seat on one PSP - beat, blast and race your friends. Are you KAZooK?

Game Sharing – 5 of the minigames can be shared with other PSP’s using only one game UMD.

Controls – Simple controls allows gamers of all abilities to pick it up and play but impossible to put down!

*Click Image For Full Size*

A blast from the past!  Gamespot is reporting that System 3 has acquired the rights to Epyx's back catalog of games. I might be dating myself a bit but, I can tell you I spent many a night in front of the Commodore 64 trying to beat Impossible Mission when I was young.  According to the article we can expect to see, not only Impossible Mission, but also California Games and a compilation of The Last Ninja released in 2007 - for the DS, the PSP and even the Wii.

I may be just jaded but, do these classics really need to be updated? Maybe I'll just pull out the C64…

Via QJ::Gamespot