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Rumor: Vita Will Keep Skype Feature

Ben-Dutka 39 Comments

The PlayStation Vita is a remarkable little unit with a ton of potential.

It enjoyed a full unveiling at E3 last week and gamers, journalists, and analysts came away impressed. But there may have been one feature that didn't get announced:

Skype functionality. Brazilian site GameGeneration has posted up an intriguing pic from Sony's Key Account Meeting in Sao Paulo. There are quite a few logos associated with Vita – PSN, Wi-Fi, and DLNA – but there's one we didn't expect, and it's the Skype logo. Currently the PSP has Skype but Microsoft recently purchased the service, so there was some question as to whether or not the "PSP2" would have access. But remember, when MS got Skype, they said they would continue to support versions that weren't on MS platforms, so this isn't out of the realm of possibility.

Then again, it could just be a mistake. It's a big mistake – usually don't see those at events where the manufacturer presents its own product – but we suppose it's possible.

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Sony Files European Trademarks For “PlayStation Vita”

Ben-Dutka 46 Comments

We'll probably find out later this evening but in the meantime, "PS Vita" is getting more traction amongst journalists and online communities.

Originally dubbed the "Next Generation Portable" (NGP), the PSP successor should take up a large portion of Sony's E3 2011 press conference. It should also receive a finalized name, which, according to recent trademark filings , could very well be the "PlayStation Vita." Sony has filed two trademark applications for the latter name (as well as "PS Vita") in Europe; these trademarks cover different areas of entertainment, including "game programs for handheld games with liquid crystal displays." This supports other leaks that indicate the true name of the PSP2 (we still kinda like that title), and certain E3-related materials have also hinted at the name, "Vita." Well, what's in a name…really?

Whatever it's called, the nifty unit should end up with quite the impressive lineup of launch software , and that's what matters.

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E3 2011: NGP Officially Named “Vita,” Games Previewed

Ben-Dutka 46 Comments

"Vita" means "life."

As Kaz Hirai is saying right now, it'll be the first product that truly blurs those lines between entertainment and your real life; it'll let you interact with gamers and friends like never before.

It's certainly a slick-looking device and Kaz has also announced that they'll be partnering with AT&T as the exclusive carrier in the United States. Kaz also talked about two new features – Party and Near – which will enhance the connected experience for the Vita, and "more specifics will be unveiled in the very near future."

They also moved on to show off Uncharted: Golden Abyss , which looks damn amazing on that sweet little screen! And their motto is "play the way you want;" you can either use the standard analog sticks to play, or you can use the touch-screen. We love having options, ya know. They also showed off a few other games, all of which look pretty damn cool. But the coolest? Has to be LittleBigPlanet on the Vita, which should make your trips infinitely more enjoyable in the very near future.

Still, that Street Fighter X Tekken announcement has got to satisfy the long-time fighting fans, right?

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E3 2011: Vita Priced, Will Release This Holiday Season

Ben-Dutka 130 Comments

It's what we've been waiting for: the price!

After a lengthy PlayStation Vita presentation – which was most impressive, by the way – Kaz Hirai has revealed that this fancy new portable will be available "this holiday season." Also, the two prices: the wi-fi only model will retail for $249.99 and the 3G-enabled version will have a $299.99 price tag. That's not bad, especially considering the technology involved and the prices are also competitive with the Nintendo 3DS. This is one of those items that the gadget-lovers and gamers are going to love, and you can bet that it'll be huge when it arrives. Plus, with over 80 games currently in development from all sorts of designers and studios, the Vita should be well supported. The question is- how interested are you? Gonna get one?

And by the way, that's it for Sony's press conference. Indeed, it was all about the games.

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Uncharted, Wipeout NGP Explored In New Developer Videos

Ben-Dutka 30 Comments

Now that Sony has confirmed a bunch of launch titles for the NGP, it's time to take a closer look at two of the most anticipated.

First up is Uncharted: Golden Abyss , in development at Sony Bend and featuring more of an emphasis on exploration, puzzle-solving and platforming. The developers talk about making this adventure for Sony's slick portable, and we also get great new looks at the game in action. It really moves beautifully.