The release of the fifth iteration of Resident Evil is almost upon us, so today Capcom released a short demo to give players a taste of what the full game will be like. The demo contains two different areas, and we took it for a spin to see how the game stacks up.

The first area, called Public Assembly, is very reminiscent of the opening sequence in RE4. It starts with a brief cut scene (no pun intended), in which a man is beheaded by a giant axe in front of a giant screaming mob. Once the leader notices your presence, the game starts. Like in RE4, things kick off with a bang as you are forced to stay alive while being attacked from all angles by the bloodthirsty mob. Thankfully, with RE5’s focus on co-op, you’ll have a partner, named Shiva, with you at all times to help out.

Your AI controlled counterpart is actually very helpful. She’s pretty good at shooting incoming zombies (if that’s actually what they are this around), and will help you out occasionally when you’ve been completely swarmed. This works both ways, as the game will frequently prompt you to hit the O button, which will unleash an attack that frees your companion. The brief level is all about survival, and you have to keep yourselves alive until reinforcements arrive. Of course this is no easy task. Not only are their numerous enemies chasing after you, but ammo is limited, so you have to be very conservative with your shots.

The game controls just like its predecessor. You have the ability to run around the environment, but you can’t move while aiming. This means that if you want to shooting at the charging horde you’re going to have to stop in order to do this. The same goes for using items or changing weapons. Going into the equipment menu doesn’t pause the game, so you’ll have to be quick when using herbs or changing up weapons or try and wait until a quiet moment to do so.

It’s also important to note just how great the game looks. The characters are both incredibly detailed and well animated. And the washed out look makes the level feel slightly creepy, even though it’s set during the day. Like its predecessor, RE5 maintains a white knuckle pace that, while it may not necessarily be scary, is a good way to get your heart racing. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that a huge man with a gigantic axe is chasing after towards the end of the level.

The second area, Shanty Town continues the vibe, though it features much less open environments. The majority of the level takes place in cramped hallways, which give it a slightly different feel than Public Assembly. The twist here is that at one point you and Shiva have to separate, and you provide back-up, picking off zombies before they can get to her.

Unfortunately we didn’t get a chance to try out the online or split-screen co-op modes, but thankfully the AI in the game seems like it won’t be much of a hindrance. Still, playing with a buddy seems like it will probably be  ablast, so we can’t wait to try it.Overall the demo was quite impressive, and we’re looking forward to the full game when it finally hits store shelves March 13.

Post from: EveryJoe

Demo Impressions: Resident Evil 5

For those of you suffering from a case of the Monday’s, we have some great news as Sony is releasing a demo for one of the years biggest games today, instead of the usual Thursday. Read on to find out which game (if you couldn’t figure it out from the picture above) and to check out the rest of today’s headlines:

• The demo for Resident Evil 5 is hitting the PlayStation Network later today, expect some impressions once we get our hands on it.
• Some recent reports suggest that the PSP race WipEout Pulse is heading to the PS2.
• The downloadable title Under Siege has been given a release window, and will be coming out this Fall. Head here for a new batch of screens.
• For those of you who pre-ordered Killzone 2 (or live in Europe), the demo is going to be available on the PSN this Thursday.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today In PlayStation: February 2, 2009

5. Resident Evil 5

This one should probably rank a little higher, except for the fact that it hasn’t been released yet. But still, the idea of a co-op Resident Evil game is enough to justify a spot on this list, even though we have yet to play it. It won’t be long though, and once March 13 finally hits we’ll all be able to spend some quality shooting zombies with our friends.

4. Guitar Hero: World Tour/Rock Band 2

Music games are always a good bet, and they have the added benefit of being able to be played by up to four players at a time. The only real problem is deciding between Guitar Hero and Rock Band. My opinion: Guitar Hero has much better instruments, while Rock Band has a larger and better selection of songs.

3. Bionic Commando: Rearmed

Old school games like Bionic Commando are tough as nails, so it’s always a good thing to have a buddy along for the ride. In the PSN remake Rearmed, this is an option, as players can choose to go through the entire game playing cooperatively with a buddy. But things aren’t all easier, as the enemies and bosses are adjusted when you bring another player along.

2. Warhawk

This over the top, multiplayer shooter is great, especially if you’re willing to put the time in to learn it properly. The level design is incredible, and there all sorts of cool weapons and vehicles to play around with. The only downside is that the game has garnered somewhat of a dedicated following, so playing with people you don’t know will almost definitely result in some frustrating times.

1. LittleBigPlanet

It may just be a simple platformer, but LBP is an absolute blast to play with friends. Players can either help out one another, or mess around creating all kinds of chaos. There are even a number of levels that have areas that can only be accessed by two or more players, creating even more incentive to bring along a pal.

Post from: EveryJoe

The Top 5 Multiplayer Games On PS3

With most of our American readers out enjoying Martin Luther King day, it’s been an extremely sloooooow news day at PSM HQ. But at least we have some good news when it comes to two of this years biggest games: Resident Evil 5 and flOwer. On to the headlines:

• While we already know that no demo is coming to North America, hardcore Final Fantasy fans can still import the FFVII Advent Children Blu-Ray on April 16 if they want a chance to play FFXIII early.
• It looks like the fabled PlayStation phone won’t be happening, as Sony has apparently refused Sony Ericsson use of the PS brand.
• The demo for Resident Evil 5 will be hitting the PlayStation Network on February 2.
• We also now have an official release date for flOwer, which will be coming out on February 12.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today in PlayStation: January 19, 2009

Whew, it’s a pretty busy news day. This morning we’ve got word of some new release dates and demos, as well as a few juicy rumors. Not a bad way to start the day. Check out the headlines:

• The developer behind Cuboid will be releasing another PSN puzzler this week, with the interesting looking Magic Ball.
• Ultimate Ghosts ‘n Goblins will also be making its way to the PSN, so PSP owners can get ready to download the classic remake.
• One of the more interesting PSN titles will be coming soon, as Sony has announced that FlOwer will be released this February.
• Also coming in February, Capcom has revealed that the demo for Resident Evil 5 will be ready on the 5th.
• It looks like Street Fighter IV won’t require a hard drive install like most of Capcom’s PS3 titles.
• Rumor mill: according to a new report, the next Grand Theft Auto game may be released as soon as this Holiday season.
• A look at what could’ve been; here is some leaked footage of the possibly cancelled Star Wars Battlefront III.
• Take a closer look at the upcoming PS3 exclusive Heavy Rain with this batch of recently released concept art.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today in PlayStation: January 15, 2008

It’s a sad day for the games industry, as one of the best gaming magazines out there has closed its doors. Electronic Gaming Monthly has been around for almost two decades, and over that time has provided some of the most insightful and entertaining games journalism on the planet. Sadly, the most recent issue will be that last. We here at PSM wish all of the staff member at EGM and 1UP who lost their jobs the best of luck in the future. On to the headlines.

• A new, exclusive puzzle game called Cuboid will be coming to the PlayStation Network.
• Disgaea 3 is finally coming to Europe, with Square Enix publishing the SRPG.
• Japan is getting yet another cool PS3 bundle, this time for Resident Evil 5.
• If you’re still playing SOCOM: Confrontation you’re in luck, as a recent update has added Trophy support.
• The Level 5 developed White Knight Chronicles has finally been confirmed for North America, though we don’t know exactly when it will be released here.
• A demo for the sequel to the excellent skateboarding title Skate will be available on the PSN next week.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today in PlayStation: January 7, 2009

It may be a bit disappointing that the next Metal Gear game will be hitting the iPhone instead of the PS3, but hey, at least we get a little MGS in our LittleBigPlanet. In the meantime, check out the latest PlayStation headlines, which cover a few interesting upcoming games.

• After learning about the first level pack for LittleBigPlanet yesterday, which was Christmas themed, a new Metal Gear Solid 4 pack has been revealed. SnakeBoy!
• Though Sony continues to deny it, an unnamed publisher has said that the next iteration of the PSP is definitely in the works.
• Check out these videos of Noby Noby Boy. I’ve watched them all, and I’m more confused than ever.
• If those recent Resident Evil 5 screens got you excited for the game, you’re in luck, as Capcom has confirmed that a demo of the game will be coming early next year.
• It looks like Mark Hamil aka Luke Skywalker will be lending his voice talents to Batman: Arkham Asylum as the Joker. This is a good move, as Hamil also voiced the same character in the Batman animated series.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today in PlayStation: December 17, 2008

Whew, it’s a busy day in PlayStation news today, so let’s just head straight into the headlines.

• Media Molecule has revealed the first downloadable level pack for LittleBigPlanet, which has a very festive theme. The pack includes Christmas themed costumes, objects, decorations, and stickers, all for just $2.99. Expect to see more of these in the future.
• The PS2 versions of SingStar are finally backwards compatible with the PS3 version.
• Despite Sony’s denials, rumors suggest that games for the next iteration of the PSP are already in development.
• Gabranth from Final Fantasy XII will be in the upcoming fighter Dissidia, though in what capacity we still don’t know.
• A fresh batch of screens from Resident Evil 5 have been released, and man do they look sweet.
• PlayStation Home may not be all that impressive right now, but Sony is taking you suggestions on ways to improve the service.
• The PS3 version of Fallout 3 has been patched, and among other things, now supports Trophies.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today in PlayStation: December 16, 2008

Yes, you read that right: it’s December. Oh how the time flies. Before you know it Christmas will be upon us, and we’ll all be sitting by the tree hoping for plenty of great games to unwrap.

• Sony has revealed that the massively multiplayer online shooter The Agency won’t have a monthly subscription fee, unlike most MMOs.
• In possibly the best downloadable content news ever, it looks like LittleBigPlanet will be getting some Street Fighter themed DLC.
• Burnout Paradise will be eventually be getting a new island to race around on, and despite previous claims, it appears as though it will cost gamers some money.
• The PS3 version of Resident Evil 5 will include an exclusive “making of” documentary on the disc.
• The hit PC RPG The Witcher will be coming to the PS3. Though we have no idea when or what changes will be made.
• Rumors out of Sony Europe suggest that we could have a new Gran Turismo by this time next year.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today In PlayStation: December 1, 2008

Today is chock full of PlayStation news, so be sure to check out the following links to find out what’s new with the PS3 and PSP. And be sure to check out the latest PSN content, which is full of all kinds of great games and deals. If you haven’t played Pixeljunk Eden yet, this is the week to do so.

• We all know that the PS3 can do more then play games, but apparently it’s also one of the best Bul-Ray players on the market. At least, according to CNN.
• Unlike a number of PS3 titles, the upcoming Killzone 2 won’t require a hard drive install. In fact, it’s not even an option.
• We don’t know when, but it looks like a demo for Resident Evil 5 will be hitting the PlayStation Network sometime before the game is released in North America.
• In honor of the American Thanksgiving, this weeks LittleBigPlanet free DLC is none other then a turkey hat. But if you have some money to burn, you can also pick up a Resistance 2 Chimera costume.
• The PSN is also having an awesome sale, with 5 great games available for just $4.99 each: The Last Guy, Pixeljunk Eden, Echochrome, Commando 3, and Novastrike.
• It looks like the previously believed Wii-exclusive title Tenchu 4 will now be coming to the PSP as well.
• Sony has released a trailer for the PSP version of Everyday Shooter, and it looks pretty much exactly the same as the PS3 game. Which, of course, is a good thing.
• We also have prices for a couple of upcoming PS3 peripherals. The Wireless keypad will run gamers $49.99, meanwhile an AC adaptor for charging controllers and headsets will cost $24.99.
• And, in case you were wondering, Ubisoft is indeed hard at work on the sequel to Assassin’s Creed.

Post from: EveryJoe

Today in PlayStation: November 26, 2008