At Sony's press briefing, the PlayStation Portable (PSP) was announced much to our delight. Not only will this device be able to play-better-than-PSone quality and above titles, it will also be able to seamlessly connect with PCs and PS2s. Additionally, with the new media format developed by Sony, Universal Media Disc, or UMD, you will also be able to play music and movies on the PSP's 4.3-inch, 16:9 aspect ratio TFT LCD screen. Sony also announced several of its core titles would be coming out with sequels as well. The most interesting of which was Ratchet & Clank 3: Up Your Arsenal. Perhaps it was the gripping online play or just the fact that this amazingly cool console game would finally be available online.
Finally, Nintendo's press conference was the one we held our breath for. Not only because Nintendo is known for good swag, but because we were all waiting to see what the Nintendo DS would be like. And it is good. Two screens. Yes, two screens and limitless new possibilities. The Nintendo DS will not only play its own proprietary games on two screens, but it will be able to play GBA games as well, in addition to having wireless multiplayer and WiFi multiplayer. Nintendo also hinted at a forthcoming console that would not improve on existing hardware, but advance and revolutionize gaming. After seeing the DS, I am more inclined to wonder and wildly imagine what that might be.
Taking all into consideration, it's safe to say that now is an amazing time to be a gamer.
Socom II: U.S. Navy seals
Publisher: SCEA
Platform: PS2
You've read the preview and you've seen the commercials. But is SOCOM II really all it's cracked up to be? The answer: A resounding yes. With all of the minor tweaks I reported on [MAY 2004], along with some really killer improvements, SOCOM II is by far the best multiplayer experience currently available for the PS2. The graphics are light years ahead of its predecessor and the gameplay mechanics are vastly improved. The original was awesome and the sequel is drool-inspiring. Sony has done well for itself with this one.
As reported previously, the graphical tweaks involve "focus" time when you look through a scope. Your target won't be as easy to spot when you use your scope. You have to wait for your "eyes" to catch up to you. Same goes for entering light and dark areas. Of course, flash-bang grenades also blind and deafen you temporarily, especially when you're too close to them.
And a word about the multiplayer experience: Awesome. Truly inspiring. SOCOM II's multiplayer mode is what it's all about. Once you're in and playing, you're going to be there a long time. If I am any sort of proof for this, just look at the stacks of dirty laundry, rotting boxes of Chinese take-out, and unpaid bills sitting around my apartment.
Altogether, if you don't have SOCOM II and a USB headset already, then you need to go to the store right this instant and get them.