Rockstar has revealed that they are using NaturalMotion’s Euphoria engine in their upcoming PS3 and Xbox 360 titles. Euphoria gives developers the power to "simulate humans", allowing for an unparalleled gameplay experience as the characters always react differently to the world surrounding them.
Will we see Euphoria tech in GTA IV? Rockstar has yet to announce any titles using the technology, but its likely that we’ll see something soon.
Via GamesIndustry
Sociologist Karen Sternheimer has put some heavy doubt into the theories that video game violence directly result in real-world violence, citing that annual sales of video games and accessories has risen to over $10 billion, while juvenile homicide arrests have fallen 77 percent.
Via IGN
Sony has confirmed that the 20GB PS3 will stay as part of the PS3 pricing model in the US, despite the recent rumors of it being pulled from store shelves. SCE PR head David Karraker said the ratio of 60GB to 20GB remains at 80:20, the same ratio that stood at the PS3’s launch.
Via Next-Gen
LiGHTFORCE have released the first public version of PSPForce, a tool for ISO management featuring CSO support, scripting capabilities, and a built-in popstation converter.
Download / Official Website: PSPForce
Capcom announced today that the sequel to their remarkably successful Monster Hunter Freedom will be released across PAL territories in September 2007.
Alekmaul has updated his Game Gear / Sega Master System emulator for the Nintendo DS. Additions include a new feature that lets you list which games are compatible then send it via WiFi, and rewritten DRZ80 CPU support.
Old-school RPG gamers will love this bit of news - Gust-developed title Atelier Iris: Grand Phantasm is now slated for US release under the title Atelier Iris 3: Grand Phantasm. Published by NIS America, look for the title to hit North American shores in May 2007.
Electronic Arts announced today that the classic SimCity franchise is returning in dual-screen style to Nintendo’s new handheld. Interestingly, the game will feature use of the DS microphone controls for blowing out fires in the city.
Sony has posted up Firmware 1.54 on the JP site. There are reports of compatibility problems with PS2 games after this update (such as Okami), so run with caution.
Konami has put up a notice on the official Metal Gear Solid website saying that the online service for MGS3 will be coming to a close after April 2nd.
Bad news for MGS fans, but thankfully MGS4 is around the corner and you still have the PSP Portable Ops installment for online play.
Via Konami
