Source: TheSixthAxis

According to NowGamer, GAME might be struggling to stock new videogame releases.

The site has quoted an unnamed source who said that the retailer has “lost credit assurance with most of its publishers.”

If the company has lost this assurance then publishers will not allow GAME to stock their games due to the financial risk involved.  “If true, it could have a huge impact on the upcoming PS Vita launch,” says the story, although doesn’t state that one of the publishers is Sony.

NowGamer’s source also states that staff wages will be withheld in an attempt to make GAME Groups finances appear better than they are, which seems baffling.

We’ve reached out to our contacts at the retailer for comment.

In the meantime, trade magazine MCV has refuted these claims, “we can absolutely confirm that GAME has NOT ‘lost credit assurance with most of its publishers’” it tweeted.

Update: NowGamer seems to have misunderstood or misrepresented the story.

MCV has already been in touch with Game and has been assured that, although there are concerns over the retailers credit insurance (markedly not “assurance”), their relationship with publishers is still good and new releases will, of course, still be available this Friday.

We’re still waiting to hear back from our contacts at Game.

Update 2: We’ve just heard from an anonymous employee at the retailer who told us their pay was late, confirming at least one of the allegations above.

Update 3: It appears it’s the ‘sale or return’ that GAME has lost with the publishers in question, something backed up by Eurogamer. This basically means that any games not sold can’t just be sent back to the publisher, and GAME is being asked to pay upfront for these games now.

Asphalt Injection (£24.99)

BlazBlue: Continuum Shift Extend (£39.99)

Dungeon Hunter Alliance (£34.99)

Dynasty Warriors Next (TBC)

Everybody’s Golf (£34.99)

FIFA Football (£44.99)

Formula One 2011 (£39.99)

Little Deviants (£24.99)

Lumines (£34.99)

Michael Jackson: The Experience (£24.99)

Modnation Racers: Road Trip (£34.99)

Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus (TBC)

Rayman Origins (£34.99)

Reality Fighters (£24.99)

Ridge Racer (£19.99)

Shinobido 2: Revenge of Zen (£34.99)

Touch My Katamari (£29.99)

Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 (TBC)

Virtua Tennis 4: World Tour Edition (TBC)

WipEout 2048 (£34.99)

These prices are definitely NOT quick fix gaming prices reflected by iPads and iPhones, there prices reflect the dedication required to complete a game. So are they too steep or just right?

Expect more from the PS3 Full Games category with new releases Duke Nukem Forever and Mortal Kombat hitting PlayStation Network today. In case you needed an introduction to these two pillars in gaming, Duke Nukem Forever marks the return of the FPS’s most tongue-in-cheek hero. Fight aliens and enjoy the one-of-a-kind humor that only playing a Duke Nukem game can bring.

Mortal Kombat also brings M-rated fun. Hailed as one of the best entries in the MK series, this entry sports great multiplayer (as always, play online free over PSN), and also contains a great new take on single player story telling in fighting games. And yes, this is the full PS3 version which contains Kratos as a playabe character.

If you’re looking for some great DLC this week, there’s tons of great new Add-Ons including new LittleBigPlanet 2 Muppets Premium Level Kits which let you expand your LittleBigPlanet 2 experience with the world of the Muppets. Includes 5 new levels, 2 mini-games, the new “Attract-O-Gel” Create feature, new stickers and decorations, and lastly the exclusive Rowlf costume.

Or, you can snag 6 new multiplayer maps in Assassin’s Creed: Revelations with the Mediterranean Map Pack. Journey to the holy city of Jerusalem, the Imperial District of Constantinople, and the colorful district of Dyers. You can also revisit the Italian Renaissance maps from Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, starting with the historic city of Firenze, traveling to the mountain sides of San Donato, and to spectacular night time Siena.

Finally, we’ve got a great deal hitting PlayStation Plus subscribers this week with a giant discount on the Capcom Super Pack! For just $12.50, snag 7 amazing Capcom games including Super Street Fighter 2 HD Remix, Age of Booty, Super Puzzle Fighter II Turbo HD remix, and a handful more.

That’s all for this week. Check out the full details of this week’s update below, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below or join the discussion on the PlayStation Community forums in the Official PlayStation Store Update thread.

Here is the weekly PlayStation Store update:

PlayStation Plus

Don’t have PlayStation Plus? Click here to purchase your subscription today!

PSN Games

Scarygirl ($9.99)
In this side-scrolling action game, you play as Scarygirl, who is trying to figure out who the man haunting her dreams is. Traverse unique, extremely vibrant, colorful, and magical worlds in a seamless mix of 2D and 3D platforming action. You can go it alone in single-player mode or grab a friend for local co-op play.
ESRB rated E10+
File size 1.03 GB

PS3 Full Games

Duke Nukem Forever ($19.99)
Put on your shades and prepare to step into the boots of Duke Nukem, whose legend has reached epic proportions in the years since his last adventure. The alien hordes are invading and only Duke can save the world.
ESRB rated M
File size 4.35 GB

Mortal Kombat ($49.99)
Fatality Lives! The deadliest tournament is back with all the kombatants and their unique fatalaties.
ESRB rated M
File size 9.76 GB

Game Demos (free)

PixelJunk SideScroller Demo
Download the demo for PixelJunk SideScroller today. Dodge flurries of alien bullets and battle your way through hazardous fluid and endless shooting mayhem. You can also retrofit your ship with sophisticated weaponry and search for hidden Power Up items to unleash massive destruction!
ESRB rated E
File size 52 MB

The Darkness II: Demo
Embrace the Darkness and download the demo. Become Jackie Estacado and master your demons as you experience the thrill of Quad-Wielding: slash, grab and throw with your Demon Arms while simultaneously firing two weapons.
ESRB rated M
File size 1.41 GB

Scarygirl Demo
In this side-scrolling game, you play as Scarygirl, who is trying to figure out who is the man haunting her dreams. Traverse extremely vibrant, and magical worlds in a seamless mix of 2D and 3D platforming action. You can go it alone in single-player mode or grab a friend for local co-op play. It’s a mesmerizing fairytale, but the creepy-cute tough-as-nails Scarygirl is no damsel in distress! Download this free demo today to see for yourself!
ESRB rated E10+
File size 1.03 GB

UFC Undisputed 3 Demo
The best selling fighting franchise is back with UFC Undisputed 3. In this demo, play a round in the legendary Octagon and a round in PRIDE Mode, new to the franchise this year!
ESRB rated T
File size 1.92 GB

Beta

Gotham City Imposters Beta
Download and play the Gotham City Imposters beta now! A 6 vs. 6 first person shooter, Gotham City Imposters is a multiplayer game unlike any other, giving players the opportunity to rebel against conformity as they customize their own characters.
ESRB rated T
File size 1.49 GB

Add-on Game Content

LittleBigPlanet 2 Muppets Premium Level Kit ($5.99)
Download this Muppets Premium Level Kit to expand your LittleBigPlanet 2 experience with the world of the Muppets. Includes 5 new levels, 2 mini-games, the new “Attract-O-Gel” Create feature, new stickers and decorations, and lastly the exclusive Rowlf costume. To download this pack, you must already own LittleBigPlanet 2.
File size 221 KB

Ultimate Marvel Vs Capcom 3 – Animal Pack ($3.99)
Get alternate costumes for Felicia, Amaterasu, Wolverine, and Rocket Raccoon! Unleash the animal within these ferocious new outfits!
File size 100 KB

The King Of Fighters XIII Unlock Customize Colors ($2.99)
Customize Colors for all characters are available to purchase. *These colors can also be unlocked by playing the game. With the triumphant return of fan favorite characters like Mai, K’, and Vice, extensive refinement of the core fighting engine based on community feedback, and vastly improved network functionality, THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIII represents the HD entry in the series that fans have been waiting for.
File size 6 KB

Elevator Action Deluxe Additional Character 4 (PSN Exclusive) (FREE)
Free character for ELEVATOR ACTION DELUXE owners! Vaus from ARKANOID! Enjoy the classic music and sound effects and be prepared for the unexpected!
File size 2.27 MB

Dynasty Warriors 7 Xtreme Legends – Wallpapers 1 – 4 ($2.99 each)
New wallpapers for all 16 officers of the Wei Kingdom will become available for selection under WALLPAPER.
File size 30 MB – 34 MB

Assassin’s Creed Revelations – Mediterranean Map Pack ($9.99)
The Mediterranean Traveler Map Pack extends the Assassin’s Creed Revelations experience with the addition of 6 multiplayer maps. Journey to the holy city of Jerusalem, the Imperial District of Constantinople, and the colorful district of Dyers. Revisit the Italian Renaissance maps from Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, starting with the historic city of Firenze, traveling to the mountain sides of San Donato, and to spectacular night time Siena.
File size 742 MB

Assassin’s Creed Revelations – Mediterranean Map Pack Trial (DLC Trial) (FREE)
File size 742 MB

Magic 2012 Foil Conversion Beknighted ($0.99)
Convert all uncommon, rare, and mythic rare cards in the “Beknighted” white deck to premium foil cards. Additional content for Magic: The Gathering — Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012.
File size 100 KB

Magic 2012 Foil Conversion Trinity Of Elements ($0.99)
Convert all uncommon, rare, and mythic rare cards in the “Trinity of Elements” blue, red, and green deck to premium foil cards. Additional content for Magic: The Gathering — Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012.
File size 100 KB

Magic 2012 Full Deck Beknighted ($0.99)
Fully-unlocked “Beknighted” white deck. Let honor and steel carry you to victory. This deck is packed with Knights dedicated to the craft of battle. With inspiring leadership and martial dominance, your banner will inevitably fly over the battlefield. Additional content for Magic: The Gathering — Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012.
File size 100 KB

Magic 2012 Full Deck Trinity Of Elements ($0.99)
Fully-unlocked “Trinity of Elements” blue, red, and green deck. Haste is the cornerstone of this deck’s battle plan. Your furious assault will keep opponents off-balance until they are defeated. Capitalize on the strengths of three colors of magic and victory will be yours. Additional content for Magic: The Gathering — Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012.
File size 100 KB

Rock Band 3
Build your Rock Band library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.

• “Lodi” – Creedence Clearwater Revival ($1.99)
• “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” – Creedence Clearwater Revival ($1.99)
• “Susie Q” – Creedence Clearwater Revival ($1.99)
• “Without Morals” – Nevermore ($1.99)
• “Last Chance” – Tetrafusion ($1.99)
• “Now or Never” – Stagehands ($0.99)
• “Strangers” – Free Spirit ($1.99)
• “Be Right Here” – Mind At Risk ($0.99)
• Creedence Clearwater Revival Pack 02 ($5.49) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game album: Creedence Clearwater Revival Pack 02. This pack includes “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?,” “Lodi,” and “Susie Q” by Creedence Clearwater Revival.

File size: 17 MB – 44 MB (singles), 55 MB (track pack)

Updates

Revoltin’ Youth (Price Change) (minis) (now $0.99, original price $1.99)
Mad Blocker Alpha (Price Change) (minis) (now $2.99, original price $3.99)
Ninjamurai (Price Change) (minis) (now $2.99, original price $1.99)

Qore

Qore Episode 44: January, 2012
File size 1.26 GB

Game Videos (free)

EA Sports FIFA PS Vita Soccer First Action Trailer

Battlefield 3 99 Problems Trailer

Battlefield 3 Sharqui Penninsula Trailer

Wipeout 2048 Game Trailer

Grand Slam Tennis 2 – Wimbledon Venue Trailer

Hitman Absolution – ‘A Personal Contract’ Trailer

Motionsports: Adrenaline Urban Jungle Add-On – Trailer

Everybody Dance Launch Trailer

PS3 Themes

Scarface Theme ($1.99)

Gimp Galaxy Dynamic Theme ($2.99)

Dazzle Eye Dynamic Theme ($2.99)

Beyond Reality by SickSystems Theme ($1.99)

Buddhas by Hydro Static Theme ($1.99)

Cosmic Candy by Andrew McAttee Theme ($1.99)

Explosion by Craig Redman Theme ($1.99)

Hungry Eyes by Kristian Hammerstad Theme ($1.99)

Jagobah Systems by Mr Jago Theme ($1.99)

Le Theme by 123Klan Theme ($1.99)

Plant-Station by Serial Cut Theme ($1.99)

PlayStation Store for PSP

Bundle

Patapon and LocoRoco Dual Pack ($14.99)
File size 709 MB

MotorStorm & Twisted Metal Dual Pack ($14.99)
File size 836 MB

PSP minis (also available from PS3 Storefront)

Bermuda Triangle ($2.99)
File size 8.79 MB

Gold Medalist ($2.99)
File size 11 MB

Stick Man Rescue ($3.99)
File size 7 MB

PSP Themes (also available from PS3 Storefront)

A World Of Shapes PSP Theme ($1.49)

Happy Lovers Town PSP Theme ($1.49)

Play PSP Theme ($1.49)

Velvet Vs Mega PSP Theme ($1.49)

PlayStation Store (via PS3, PSP and Media Go)

Greetings! Another week brings another content update to the PlayStationStore!

To start with, we have AMY from Lexis Numerique – a survival horror game not for the faint of heart.

If you’re too frightened then there’s Zack Zero, a 3D platform action title from Crocodile.

Demo wise we have Final Fantasy XIII-2 and Asura’s Wrath to play around with – two games I am greatly looking forward to!

This week also brings more content for titles ranging from Battlefield 3 (pew pew pew!) to EyePet (pet pet pet?)

Finally, at the bottom of this post you will find answers to some of the most frequent questions in the comments from last week’s post. We’re taking this approach because, while we would love to answer everyone and everything instantly, sometimes giving an accurate answer requires further research, legal clearance or approval from one of our third-party partners. We will still get involved in the comments and endeavour to respond as much as we can; if you’re query isn’t answered right away then rest assured that we do read them and hopefully it will be addressed in the following week’s FAQ.

PlayStation Plus Discount

For PLUS this week we have a 20% discount on Darksiders. Additionally, PS Plus members also save extra on some of the special offers we’ll be announcing here later today.

Full Games (PS3)

• AMY (£7.99/€9.99) Rating: PEGI 16

Availability: All Locales
File Size: 1615MB

• Zack Zero (£9.99/€12.99) Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: All Locales
File Size: 783MB

• Darksiders (£11.99/€14.99)Rating: PEGI 18

Availability: All Locales
File Size: 10GB

minis (PS3/PSP)

• Psycho Soldier (£1.99/€2.49) Rating: PEGI 7

Availability: All Locales
File Size: 13.5MB

• Victory Road (£1.99/€2.49) Rating: PEGI 7

Availability: All Locales
File Size: 15MB

• Trailblazer (£1.99/€2.49) Rating: PEGI 7

Availability: Only available in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom.
File Size: 27MB

Demos (PS3)

• GRAND SLAM TENNIS 2 Demo Rating: PEGI 3

Availability: All Locales

• Final Fantasy XIII-2 Demo Rating: PEGI 16

Availability: All Locales
File Size: 1.5GB

• Asura’s Wrath Demo Rating: PEGI 16

Availability: Not available in Germany
File Size: 800MB

Add-On Game Content (PS3)

• The King of Fighters XIII – Mr.Karate (£3.19/€3.99) Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: All Locales

• Funky Lab Rat
• Challenges Pack (£2.39/€2.99)

(Includes the following content, also available separately)

• Even more challenges (£1.59/€1.99)
• Funky Lab Rat New Challenges (£1.59/€1.99)

Rating: PEGI 3
Availability: Not available in Australia and New Zealand.

• Magic: The Gathering
• Magic 2012 Pack 3 (£1.99/€2.49)

Rating: PEGI 7
Availability: All Locales

• Eyepet
• Eyepet & Friends – Cookery Kit (£2.39/€2.99)

(Includes the following content, also available separately)

• Chef Costume (£0.79/€0.99)
• Cooking Stickers Pack (£0.40/€0.49)
• Cooking Soft Play Blocks Pack (£1.59/€1.99)
• Cooking Patterns Pack (£0.40/€0.49)

Rating: PEGI 3
Availability: All Locales

• Disgaea 4
• Adell (£2.39/€2.99)
• Laharl Kaiser V (£1.59/€1.99)
• Rozalin (£2.39/€2.99)

Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: Not available in Belgium, Netherlands

• Marvel vs Capcom 3
• Brawler Pack (£3.19/€3.99)

Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: All Locales

• Battlefield 3
• SPECACT Kit & Dog Tag Bundle (£2.39/€2.99)

Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: Not available in Netherlands, Slovenia

• Little Big Planet 2
• New Year Firework Costume (1 Week Only)

Rating: PEGI 7
Availability: All Locales

• Dancestar Party
• Mix 6 (£5.49/€6.99)

(Includes the following content)

• Alison Limerick – Where Love Lives
• Crystal Waters – Gypsy Woman (She’S Homeless)
• Tlc – Creep
• M-People – Movin’ On Up

Rating: PEGI 12
Availability: All Locales

Avatars

• Disney Universe
• Abu (£0.20/€0.25)
• Aladdin (£0.20/€0.25)
• Alice (£0.20/€0.25)
• Angelica (£0.20/€0.25)
• Ariel (£0.20/€0.25)
• Baloo (£0.20/€0.25)
• Barbosa (£0.20/€0.25)
• Blackbeard (£0.20/€0.25)
• Burne (£0.20/€0.25)
• Celia (£0.20/€0.25)
• Cheshire (£0.20/€0.25)
• Cockroach (£0.20/€0.25)
• Donaldduck (£0.20/€0.25)
• Duclu (£0.20/€0.25)
• Duquorra (£0.20/€0.25)
• Dusamflynn (£0.20/€0.25)
• Dutron (£0.20/€0.25)
• Eve (£0.20/€0.25)
• Gibbs (£0.20/€0.25)
• Goofy (£0.20/€0.25)
• Iago (£0.20/€0.25)
• Jacksparrow (£0.20/€0.25)
• Jafar (£0.20/€0.25)
• Jasmine (£0.20/€0.25)
• Madhatter (£0.20/€0.25)
• Mickeymouse (£0.20/€0.25)
• Mike (£0.20/€0.25)
• Minniemouse (£0.20/€0.25)
• Mo (£0.20/€0.25)
• Nemo (£0.20/€0.25)
• Pumbaa (£0.20/€0.25)
• Rafiki (£0.20/€0.25)
• Randall (£0.20/€0.25)
• Rapunzel (£0.20/€0.25)
• Redqueen (£0.20/€0.25)
• Robinhood (£0.20/€0.25)
• Scar (£0.20/€0.25)
• Simba (£0.20/€0.25)
• Stitch (£0.20/€0.25)
• Sulley (£0.20/€0.25)
• Sushichef (£0.20/€0.25)
• Timon (£0.20/€0.25)
• Tinkerbell (£0.20/€0.25)
• Walle (£0.20/€0.25)
• Whiterabbit (£0.20/€0.25)

• RED FACTION ARMAGEDDON
• Beserker (£0.20/€0.25)
• Darius Cover (£0.20/€0.25)
• Darius Hammer Drop (£0.20/€0.25)
• Darius Nano Forge (£0.20/€0.25)
• Darius Profile (£0.20/€0.25)
• Kara (£0.20/€0.25)
• Ravager (£0.20/€0.25)
• Rings (£0.20/€0.25)
• Rings Branded (£0.20/€0.25)

• SAINTS ROW THE THIRD
• Cyrus Temple (£0.20/€0.25)
• Fleur De Lis (£0.20/€0.25)
• Genki Ethical (£0.20/€0.25)
• Genkimobile (£0.20/€0.25)
• Joe Cola Logo (£0.20/€0.25)
• Johnny Gat (£0.20/€0.25)
• Killbane (£0.20/€0.25)
• Matt Miller (£0.20/€0.25)
• Oleg (£0.20/€0.25)
• Panda (£0.20/€0.25)
• Phillipe Loren (£0.20/€0.25)
• Pierce (£0.20/€0.25)
• Professor Genki (£0.20/€0.25)
• Shaundi (£0.20/€0.25)
• Sr3 City (£0.20/€0.25)
• Sr3 Logo (£0.20/€0.25)
• Stag Logo (£0.20/€0.25)
• Tiger (£0.20/€0.25)
• Viola And Kiki (£0.20/€0.25)
• Zimos (£0.20/€0.25)

• PixelJunk SideScroller
• Avatar Bundle 2 (£0.79/€0.99)

(Includes the following content, also available separately)

• 2P Machine Gun Ship Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• Bullet Swarm Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• Hermit Crab Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• Train Boss Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• Q-Games Logo Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)

• Avatar Bundle 4 (£0.79/€0.99)

(Includes the following content, also available separately)

• 1P Bomber Ship Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• Cannons Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• Bat Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• E.R.S. Pinita Colada Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)
• Pixeljunk Crown Avatar (£0.21/€0.25)

• Carnival Island

• Avatar Bundle 3 (£0.79/€0.99)

(Includes the following content, also available separately)

• Queenie The Numbat (£0.21/€0.25)
• Champ The Lake Monster (£0.21/€0.25)
• Fingers The Racoon (£0.21/€0.25)
• Nathan The Koala (£0.21/€0.25)
• Seth The Turtle (£0.21/€0.25)

• Avatar Bundle 4 (£0.79/€0.99)

(Includes the following content, also available separately)

• Oscar The Fox (£0.21/€0.25)
• Captain Spaghetti The Jellyfish (£0.21/€0.25)
• Harley The Hippo (£0.21/€0.25)
• Peaches The Elephant (£0.21/€0.25)
• Fallstaff The Swallow (£0.21/€0.25)

Studio Themes (PSP)

• PS3 DNA Static Theme by Craig Redman (£1.59/€1.99)
  PSP DNA Static Theme by Craig Redman (£0.79/€0.99)

Dynamic Themes (PS3)

• Places/Landmarks
• Dynamic holiday in Mediterranean theme (£1.59/€1.99)

• Nature
• Dynamic lions theme (£1.59/€1.99)
• Dynamic relaxing sunset theme (£1.59/€1.99)
• Dynamic sea and forest scenery theme (£1.59/€1.99)
• Dynamic snow dust theme (£1.59/€1.99)
• Glowing Jellyfish (£1.59/€1.99)

• Sci-Fi/Fantasy
• Dynamic space vortex theme (£1.59/€1.99)

• Seasonal
• Dynamic Claus of War Theme (£1.59/€1.99)

Videos (PS3)

• Access TV
• Sonic Cd Launch Trailer
• Top Gun: Hard Lock Official Trailer

Permanent Price Drops

• House of the Dead: OVERKILL (Was £27.99/€34.99 – Now £19.99/€24.99) Rating: PEGI 18

Availability: Not available in Germany

• Sonic Generations (Was £31.99/€39.99 – Now £19.99/€24.99) Rating: PEGI 7

Availability: All Locales

• Mad Blocker Alpha: ROTF (Was £3.99/€4.99 – Now £1.99/€2.49) Rating: PEGI 3

Availability: All Locales

• Ninjamurai (Was £2.49/€2.99 – Now £1.74/€1.99) Rating: PEGI 12

Availability: All Locales

• Revoltin’ Youth (Was £1.74/€1.99 – Now £1.24/€1.49) Rating: PEGI 3

Availability: All Locales

FAQ

Q. “I bought the Fortune Hunter’s Club membership, and I thankfully received three skin packs along with bonus Killzone merchandise. One problem I have though is that you cannot see the Doughnut Lazarevic skin once you buy it. I found it by ‘searching’ the store, but others might not think of that. Could you ask the store people to fix this little problem?”
A. This has now been fixed. Do let us know of other issues and we will try and work on solutions as quick as possible.

Q. Magic: The Gathering – Issue with DLC packs
A. This issue is being looked into and a solution is currently being worked on. We have been told this should be coming very soon. Fingers crossed!

Q. When will the MGS and UMvC3 avatars come out?
A. MGS avatars are currently being submitted so we should hopefully see these shortly. As for UMvC there are prolonging issues with these and are still being investigated.

Q. minis Pick and Mix issue.
A. If you are unable to download your Minimix bundle to your PSP, please contact PlayStation Support.

It’s a release of great new content on PlayStation Store, including new games and some amazing first looks at some of 2012’s most anticipated titles!

Today, we complete the Final Fantasy PS one Classics presence with the release of Final Fantasy Origins. See the roots of the Final Fantasy series with this collection, which includes Final Fantasy and Final Fantasy II. These versions sport updated presentations from their original 8-bit debuts but retain the same gameplay that launched this venerable franchise.

Additional games headlining the New Releases include Crazy Machines Elements and Choplifter HD. Create series of chain reactions in the latest addition to the award-winning Crazy Machines series or jump into a classic arcade adventure reimagined in HD with Choplifter HD! Both also have demos available for download.

You’re not going to want to miss two new demos hitting today: Asura’s Wrath and Final Fantasy XIII-2. On one hand, you’ll be able to try out parts of two episodes from Asura’s Wrath, featuring larger than life combat. On the other, try out the gripping RPG combat with Final Fantasy XIII-2 and glimpse what awaits this classic cast on their next adventure.

We hope you’ve been enjoying this month’s PlayStation Plus free games, and this week, we’re rolling out some great discounts available for subscribers. With some of 2011’s biggest PSN releases on sale, you’ll want to check out the Plus category in PlayStation Store to pick up some titles you might have missed! We’re also throwing in free minis Mecho Wars and Stick Man Rescue, as well as discounts on Add-Ons and PS3 Full Games as well.

Lastly, for you college sports fans out there, we’re proud to roll out two new video apps: SEC Network and XOS Sports. SEC Digital Network offers video-on-demand access to the largest library of multi-sport full games and original programming from the most dominant and exciting collegiate sports conference. XOS College Sports brings college sports fans multi-sport, multi-conference access to full games and historic documentaries including many of the nation’s top schools and teams. Both are available now, free and ready to watch!

View the full content of this week’s update below and leave your feedback in the comments. You can also join the discussion in the Official PlayStation Store Update thread in the PlayStation Community forums as well.

Here is the weekly PlayStation Store update:

PlayStation Plus

PSN Games

Crazy Machines Elements + Trial ($9.99)
Hundreds of totally wacky chain reactions are just waiting to be created! Experience the latest chapter in the international, multi award-winning Crazy Machines series: “Elements”. This time with next gen visuals!
ESRB rated E
File size 340 MB

Choplifter HD ($14.99)
A classic arcade adventure, reimagined in stunning HD! Pilot your chopper through frantic war zones to rescue survivors and rain down destruction! Requires 300K free space on your hard disk. To use the vibration function, a DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controller is required.
ESRB rated T
File size 1.43 GB

PS3 Full Games

Sports Champions ($29.99)
Sports Champions will let you and your friends physically engage in an array of competitive sporting activities as you go head to head in six events. With the easy to use PlayStation Move motion controller, anyone can crush, spike and smoke the competition in the ultimate sports showdown.
ESRB rated E
File size 340 MB

Toy  Story  3:  The  Video  Game ($19.99)
In the Toy Story 3: The Video Game help Buzz, Woody, and the rest of the toys ensure no toy gets left behind. Dive into all new heroic adventures in Story Mode or let your imagination run wild in the exciting new open world of Toy Box Mode. Download the full game now.
ESRB rated E10+
File size 6.5 GB

PSone Classics

FINAL FANTASY ORIGINS ($9.99)
Explore the beginnings of the popular FINAL FANTASY series.
This collection contains the first two titles.
Download this PS one Classic today!
File size 119 MB

Bundles

Dante’S Inferno Super Bundle ($29.99)

Dead Space 2 Super Bundle ($49.99)

Need For Speed Hot Pursuit Super Bundle ($59.99)

Shift 2 Unleashed Super Bundle ($59.99)

Game Demos (free)

Choplifter Hd Demo
A classic arcade adventure, reimagined in stunning HD! Pilot your chopper through frantic war zones to rescue survivors and rain down destruction! Requires 300K free space on your hard disk. To use the vibration function, a DUALSHOCK 3 wireless controller is required.
ESRB rated T
File size 1.43 GB

Asura’s Wrath Demo
ASURA’S WRATH, the upcoming interactive cliffhanger-action game, lets you unleash your rage in two epic boss battles! Experience two of the game’s episodes: In Episode 5, face off against the planet-sized Wyzen; and in Episode 11, clash with the powerful sword-wielding Augus on the surface of the moon!
ESRB rated T
File size 718 MB

Crazy Machines Elements Trial
Hundreds of totally wacky chain reactions are just waiting to be created! Experience the latest chapter in the international, multi award-winning Crazy Machines series: “Elements”. This time with next gen visuals!
ESRB rated E
File size 340 MB

Grand Slam Tennis 2 Demo
Relive or rewrite the 2011 Wimbledon final match on Centre Court between the top 2 seeded players in the world, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. Feel the true excitement and emotion of championship tennis with Grand Slam Tennis 2 in this 3 game set. Play by yourself or against a friend.
ESRB rated E

Final Fantasy XIII-2 Demo
Join Lightning’s younger sister Serah, and her new companion Noel, on their quest through time! Experience the enhanced combat system in this action-packed demo that continues the saga of FINAL FANTASY XIII.
ESRB rated T
File size 1.74 GB

Wanted  Corp.  Trial
Play as a pair of intergalactic bounty hunters in this cooperative action-shooter demo to capture escaped intergalactic convicts who put up a big stinkin’ fight. Partake in pretty sweet destruction and defeat countless creatures in the name of makin’ fat wads of cash. Play alone or with a friend, utilizing both bounty hunters’ abilities to fight colossal giants and mechanical drones through multiple levels and across diverse environments.
ESRB rated T
File size 1.97 GB

Add-on Game Content

LittleBigPlanet  2  New  Year  Fireworks  Costume (free)
Download this costume to dress your Sackboy up in a brand new outfit. To download this costume, you must already own LittleBigPlanet™ 2.
File size 110 KB

Dante’s  Inferno  DLC  Bundle ($17.99)
This bundle includes all of the downloadable content for Dante’s Inferno. There are no refunds for this item.
File size 1.6 GB

Dead  Space  2  DLC  Bundle ($21.99)
This bundle includes all of the downloadable content for Dead Space™ 2. There are no refunds for this item.
File size 2.05 GB

Need  For  Speed  Hot  Pursuit  DLC  Bundle ($34.99)
This bundle includes all of the downloadable content for Need for Speed™ Hot Pursuit. There are no refunds for this item.
File size 721 KB

Shift  2  Unleashed  DLC  Bundle ($34.99)
This bundle includes all of the downloadable content for SHIFT 2 UNLEASHED. There are no refunds for this item.
File size 530 MB

Ultimate  Marvel  Vs  Capcom  3  -­‐  Brawler  Pack ($3.99)
Get alternate costumes for Spencer, Haggar, She-Hulk, and Iron Fist! Get down and dirty with these tough new outfits!
File size 100 KB

The  King  Of  Fighters  XIII  Mr.  Karate ($4.99)
“Mr. Karate” is available as an additional playable character. With the triumphant return of fan favorite characters like Mai, K’, and Vice, extensive refinement of the core fighting engine based on community feedback, and vastly improved network functionality, THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIII represents the HD entry in the series that fans have been waiting for.
File size 6 KB

The  King  Of  Fighters  XIII  Nests-­‐Style  Kyo ($4.99)
“NESTS Style Kyo” is available as an additional playable character. With the triumphant return of fan favorite characters like Mai, K’, and Vice, extensive refinement of the core fighting engine based on community feedback, and vastly improved network functionality, THE KING OF FIGHTERS XIII represents the HD entry in the series that fans have been waiting for.
File size 6 KB

Disgaea  4  -­‐  Battleship  Gargantua  (PSN  Exclusive) ($1.99)
Get everything you need to cruise around the Item World on the Battleship Gargantua from the original Disgaea!
File size 1.47 MB

Disgaea  4  -­‐  Celestial  Host  (PSN  Exclusive) ($2.99)
Recruit Main Hero B from Disgaea 2: Dark Hero Days to join your party! Celestial Hosts will be added to your list of creatable job and monster classes!
File size 1.55 MB

Disgaea  4  -­‐  Gargantua  Bridge  Map  (PSN  Exclusive) ($0.99)
Gargantua’s Bridge from the original Disgaea is now available! Decorate it through the Map Editor however you like, and upload it to share! Make sure your Map Editor is unlocked!
File size 1.55 MB

Disgaea  4  -­‐  Pirate  Survival  Duel  (PSN  Exclusive) ($5.99)
A powered-up version of Disgaea 4′s Pirate Duel. Will you be able to become the king of pirates?
File size 1.55 MB

Disgaea  4  -­‐  Prism  Ranger  (PSN  Exclusive) ($2.99)
Recruit Prism Red from the Disgaea series to join your party! Prism Rangers will be added to your list of creatable job and monster classes!
File size 1.55 MB

Magic  2012  Deck  Pack  3 ($2.99)
Explore two brand-new decks and expand your mastery of Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012. Includes “Beknighted,” a white deck filled with honorable Knights waiting to prove their dominance on the battlefield, and “Trinity of Elements,” a speedy blue, red, and green deck that blitzes the enemy before a defense can even be conceived of. Both decks are available for Campaign and Multiplayer play.
File size 100 KB

Rock Band 3
Build your Rock Band library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.

File Size 25 MB – 42 MB (Singles), 95 MB (Track Pack)

• “Private Eyes” – Hall & Oates ($1.99)
• “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do)” – Hall & Oates ($1.99)
• “Maneater” – Hall & Oates ($1.99)
• “A Prophecy” – Asking Alexandria ($1.99)
• “Ziltoidia Attaxx!!” – Devin Townsend ($1.99)
• “Hold Me In Your Arms” – The Trews ($0.99)
• “Easy Days” – Free Spirit ($1.99)
• “Just a Game” – The Blue News ($0.99)
• “Private Eyes (Pro Guitar)” – Hall & Oates ($0.99)
• Hall & Oates Pack 01 ($5.49) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game album: Hall & Oates Pack 01. This pack includes “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do),” “Maneater,” and “Private Eyes” by Hall & Oates.

Updates

Shift 2 Unleashed (Price Change) (PS3) (now $19.99, original price $29.99)
Dante’s Inferno Dlc Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $14.99, original price $17.99)
Dead Space 2 Dlc Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $14.99, original price $21.99)
Dragon Age 2 -­‐ Legacy Pack (Sale) (PS3) (now $7.99, original price $9.99)
Ncaa Football 12 -­‐ All Dynasty Time Savers (Sale) (PS3) (now $7.99, original price $14.99)
Ncaa Football 12 -­‐ Ncaa Fb 12 Power Pack (Sale) (PS3) (now $12.99, original price $24.99)
Need For Speed Hot Pursuit Dlc Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $29.99, original price $34.99)
Nhl 12 -­‐ Skater Slap Shot Power Boost 3 (Sale) (PS3) (now $0.99, original price $1.99)
Shift 2 Unleashed Dlc Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $24.99, original price $34.99)
Mass Effect 2 -­‐ Arrival Dlc (Sale) (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $6.99)
Tiger Woods Pga Tour 12 Birdie Pack (Sale) (PS3) (now $10.99, original price $14.99)
Tiger Woods Pga Tour 12 Eagle Pack (Sale) (PS3) (now $24.99, original price $34.99)
The King Of Fighters Xiii Nests Style Kyo (Sale) (PS3) (now $2.99, original price $4.99)
Burnout Crash! (Sale) (PS3) (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Dante’s Inferno Super Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $19.99, original price $29.99)
Dead Space 2 Super Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $44.99, original price $49.99)
DeathSpank (Sale) (PS3) (now $9.99, original price $14.99)
Dragon Age II (Ps3 Full Game) (Price Change) (PS3) (now $19.99, original price $29.99)
Fancy Pants Adventures (Sale) (PS3) (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Gatling Gears (Sale) (PS3) (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Nba Jam On Fire Edition (Sale) (PS3) (now $9.99, original price $14.99)
Need For Speed Hot Pursuit Super Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $49.99, original price $59.99)
Risk: Factions (Sale) (PS3) (now $6.99, original price $9.99)
Shift 2 Unleashed Super Bundle (Sale) (PS3) (now $49.99, original price $59.99)
Max & The Magic Marker -­‐ Gold Edition (Sale) (PS3) (now $4.99, original price $9.99)
Army Of Two: Fortieth Day Digital Voucher Only (Price Change) (PSP) (now $19.99, original price $39.99)
Burnout: Dominator Legacy (Price Change) (PSP) (now $9.99, original price $14.99)
Dante’S Inferno Digital (Price Change) (PSP) (now $19.99, original price $39.99)
Dante’S Inferno French Digital (Price Change) (PSP) (now $19.99, original price $39.99)
Fifa Soccer 11 Digital -­‐ English/Spanish (Us And Mexico Store) (Price Change) (PSP) (now $29.99, original price $39.99)
Fifa Soccer 11 Digital English/French (Canada Only) (Price Change) (PSP) (now $29.99, original price $39.99)
Fight Night Round 3 (Price Change) (PSP) (now $9.99, original price $19.99)
Madden Nfl 11 Digital -­‐ Public Release (Price Change) (PSP) (now $29.99, original price $39.99)
Ncaa Football 2010 Digital (Price Change) (PSP) (now $19.99, original price $39.99)
Need For Speed Shift Digital (Price Change) (PSP) (now $14.99, original price $39.99)
Need For Speed: Pro Street Umd Legacy (Price Change) (PSP) (now $14.99, original price $19.99)
Tiger Woods Pga Tour 10 -­‐ Digital (Price Change) (PSP) (now $19.99, original price $39.99)

Avatars

Blue  Toad  Murder  Files Avatars (x10) ($0.49 each)

Monster  Hunter  Freedom  Unite Avatars (x10) ($0.49 each)

Game Videos (free)

Jak and Daxter Collection Announcement Trailer

Escape  Plan  Features  Trailer

Duke  Nukem  Forever  -­‐  The  Doctor  Who  Cloned  Me  Trailer

The  Darkness  II  -­‐  Vendettas  Co-­‐Op  Trailer

NFL  Blitz  Gameplay  Sizzle  Trailer

Assassin’s  Creed:  Revelations  Ancestors  Character  Pack  Trailer

PS3 Themes

Twisted  Metal  Theme  (Qore  D/L  Center  Only) (free)

Glowing  Jellyfish  Dynamic  Theme ($2.99)

I really get a kick out of the fact that I am now considered an “indie” again after all these years. I have been making games for nearly 30 years, having built a top-five PC publishing house called Interplay around such major franchises as The Bard’s Tale, Wasteland, Baldur’s Gate, Fallout, Descent and more. In the early days, I developed games for other companies and moved up the food chain to become a publisher so that I could make games “my way.” And here I sit, again readying our first major release in Choplifter HD as a digital publisher and having created the game the way I wanted. Our company tagline at Interplay was “By Gamers. For Gamers” and it is those same values we used in creating Choplifter HD.

Choplifter was a very important game when it was originally released back in 1982 and achieved #1 status at the time. Dan Gorlin, the original creator, really understood the humanness of saving little people from tough situations. It was a great action game for sure, but there was something about saving those little guys. And certainly it just never gets dull blowing things up in a big way! I felt that Choplifter would be a perfect game style to bring back, but fully realized with all the modern gameplay expectations.

I’m not too fond of the word “retro game” since it sometimes conveys an over-reliance on nostalgia. I can assure you we went all out to make this a state-of-the-art game that goes way beyond the goals of the original game. We took some of the industry’s top artists and used the Unreal engine to power an intense over-the-top action experience. The entire team put its heart and soul into the game and it was great to see such passion. In fact, some people might even say we spent too much money when compared to other digital titles, but we believe that quality comes first.

We pit you against over 30 levels of mayhem that introduce a number of variables all the way to the end. You will be commanding three different helicopter types, each with its own set of upgrades. You will need to deal with your guns and keep an eye on their overheating, utilize your missiles intelligently, boosting when necessary, and of course, keep track of your fuel. You will come up against AA guns, RPGs, jets, tanks, snipers, jeeps, hordes of zombies and more. We guarantee to keep you on your toes and even laughing here and there until the very end. You will definitely feel accomplished when you finish this baby!

We proudly announce Choplifter HD will go on sale this January 10th for $15 on PSN. And keep an eye out for free DLC with lots more zombies very soon…

With football action in full swing, now may be the perfect time to up the action with NFL Blitz; especially if your favorite team might not be looking so good to make it to the playoffs! Rewrite your season with the arcade-style gameplay that made the original a hit, packed with the immersive game modes of today. NFL Blitz is recharged and available now on PlayStation Network.

New PSN Game release TNT Racers also races to the PlayStation Store today. Featuring lightning fast racing action, diverse multiplayer modes, cool tracks and snappy gadgets, TNT Racers may be just the kick you need to jump start your year.

As mentioned in the PlayStation Plus January Sneak Peek post, Plus subscribers are able to download the entire Back to the Future The Game – Full Series, free for the entire month! Additional free content this month includes PSN Game Sword and Soldiers, and PS one Classics Syphon Filter, Syphon Filter 2 and Syphon Filter 3; all available for subscribers with today’s update.

That said, have a full look at the list below and leave your comments below. You can also join in the discussion on the PlayStation Community forums in the PlayStation Store Update thread.

Here is the weekly PlayStation Store update:

PlayStation Plus

Don’t have PlayStation Plus? Click here to purchase your subscription today!

PSN Games

TNT Racers + Trial ($9.99)
TNT Racers is a fun multiplayer racing game full of variety, combining fast as lightning race action with brand new features. The Shadow Race feature lets every player stay in the race even if a driver is clearly in an inferior position.
ESRB rated E
File size 150 MB

NFL Blitz ($14.99)
The all-new NFL Blitz combines the arcade-style gameplay from the original with the deep, immersive game modes of today! Whether you’re battling your rival in a 7-on-7 grudge match or fighting your way through a season of the Blitz Gauntlet, Every Game Is a Two-Minute Drill!
ESRB rated E10+
File size 1.9 GB

PS3 Full Games

Darksiders ($19.99)
Darksiders is a third-person, single player action/adventure game inspired by the characters, themes and mythology of the apocalypse and the battle of Armageddon described by the Book of Revelation.
ESRB rated M
File size 10 GB

Game Demos (free)

TNT Racers
TNT Racers is a fun multiplayer racing game full of variety, combining fast as lightning race action with brand new features. The Shadow Race feature lets every player stay in the race even if a driver is clearly in an inferior position. But the best things are the wicked pick-ups which will ultimately decide about victory or defeat. TNT – Tracks N Tricks – cool tracks and snappy gadgets!
ESRB rated E
File size 150 MB

Learning With The Pooyoos – Episode 2 Demo
With the PooYoos, a merry band of adorable baby animals, children will have fun while learning the basics for his or her development: numbers, letters, space, colors and more.
ESRB rated E
File size 272 MB

Add-on Game Content

Resistance 3 The Legacy Grenade (free)
The No. 60 Air Fuel Grenade has been issued for combating Chimera in tight spaces commonly found in urban conflicts. The grenade will adhere to almost any surface, biological or otherwise, and deployed a cloud of flammable vapor. Once released, the cloud ignited, creating a massive explosion.” This fan favorite grenade makes a special return to the single-player campaign of Resistance 3
File size 103 KB

Resistance 3 SPRA Black Ops Skin (free)
The backbone of the US effort against the Chimera during the war, Black Ops troops were a common site at SRPA facilities and during special operations. Mostly killed and destroyed, this special multiplayer skin lets you return as one of the most mysterious soldiers from R:FOM and R2.
File size 103 KB

Resistance 3 Infected Nathan Hale Skin and Taunt (free)
Lt. Nathan Hale skipped his viral inhibitor treatments in the final hours of Resistance 2, in order to continue the fight against the Chimera. Play as him in his final hours with this special multiplayer skin, letting you bring Hale to the battlefields R3. Then, ridicule your enemies with a throat-slashing taunt!
File size 103 KB

Champion Jockey – Music Pack 4 ($1.49)
Fourth batch of BGM you can use during the race. Listen to four tracks from the Gallop Racer series with two brand new tracks for your racing enjoyment! Hand-picked by the Gallop Racer and G1 Jockey Sound Directors!
File size 27 MB

Apples to Apples A Bushel of Fun ($2.99)
Pick up this outrageous expansion pack for Apples to Apples the video game and choose from new animated Apple Avatars, like Robot, Alien, Fairy, Barbarian and Luchador. Sample the never-before-seen Zen, Undersea, and Jungle deck skins. Challenge your friends with powerful Golden Apple Cards, including Bad Apple and Apple Sauce, and make fresh comparisons with over 500 new red and green cards!
File size 100 KB

Rocksmith – Gold On The Ceiling By The Black Keys ($2.99)
File size 2.94 MB

Rocksmith – Just Got To Be By The Black Key ($2.99)
File size 2.21 MB

Rocksmith – Mind Eraser By The Black Keys ($2.99)
File size 2.40 MB

Rocksmith – The Black Keys Song Pack (Bundle) ($7.99)
File size 7.56 MB

Rock Band 3
Build your Rock Band library by purchasing these song game tracks. For song credits, visit www.RockBand.com.

• “2112: Discovery, Presentation” – Rush ($1.99)
• “2112: Oracle: The Dream, Soliloquy, Grand Finale” – Rush ($1.99)
• “2112: Overture, The Temples of Syrinx” – Rush ($1.99)
• “Billionaire” – Travie McCoy ($1.99)
• “Boy” – Ra Ra Riot ($1.99)
• “Can You Tell” – Ra Ra Riot ($1.99)
• “Dawn of Spring” – Christopher J ($0.99)
• “Found Me the Bomb” – Buckmer & Garcia ($0.99)
• “Frankenstein Teaser Trailer” – Richard Campbell ($0.99)
• “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” – Panic at the Disco ($1.99)
• “Panic” – Sublime With Rome ($1.99)
• “Pressure” – Paramore ($1.99)
• “Revenants” – The Cold Goodnight ($0.99)
• “Riptide Resort” – Freen in Green ($0.99)
• “Rush ’2112″ – artist ($5.49)
• “Stereo Hearts” – Gym Class Heroes (ft. Adam Levine) ($1.99)
• “The End of Progress” – Mystakin ($0.99)
• “The Thief in the Night – Part I” – Chaotrope ($0.99)
• “The Way It Ends” – Prototype ($0.99)
• “You Make Me Feel.” – Cobra Starship ($1.99)
• Fueled By Ramen Pack 01 ($9.99) – Build your Rock Band library by purchasing this song game album: Fueled By Ramen Pack 01 . This pack includes “You Make Me Feel…”, “Stereo Hearts”, “I Write Sins Not Tragedies”, “Pressure”, “Panic”, and “Billionaire” by various artists.

File size: 8.7 – 33 MB (singles), 141 – 183 MB (track pack)

Avatars

Just Dance 3 – Baby One More Time ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – Barbra Streisand ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – Da Funk ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – I’m So Excited ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – Kurio Ko Uddah Le Jana 2 ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – Lollipop ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – Master Blaster ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – Party Rock Anthem ($0.49)

Just Dance 3 – Take On Me ($0.49)

Game Videos (free)

NBA 2K12 – Legends Showcase Launch Trailer

Battlefield 3 Back to Karkand Gameplay Premiere Trailer

EA SPORTS FIFA STREET Announcement Trailer

FIFA Street 4 Announce Trailer

Sonic CD Time Trailer

Sonic The Hedgehog 4 Episode II Announcement Trailer

Wwe ’12 Launch Trailer

Assassin’s Creed Embers Trailer

PS3 Themes

Metal Gear Solid 2 Art Theme ($1.99)

Metal Gear Solid 3 Art Theme ($1.99)

Mayan Temple Dynamic Theme ($1.99)

PlayStation Store for PSP

Bundle

Alien Havoc & Bubble Trubble Bundle ($3.99)

I ordered 2 of the upcoming PS3 controllers (invoice xxxxxxxxx—Nov 3, 2011). Any chance of getting an update of when these items will ship? I’m not really happy about being forced to pay upfront then have the advertised date of “Early December” be completely missed without any sort of update on availability. I really need one of them for a X-mas present as well. Anyways, looking forward to finally using one of these bad boys. Thanks and happy holidays.

-Dave

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Dave
Dec 16, 2011 2:45 PM

Dec 17

- Paul Christoforo

From: Dave
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 19, 2011, at 11:02 AM

Thanks for the reply Paul.  Can you clarify whether my particular order already sent or if Dec 17 was the first day shipments went out?  I have not received any sort of shipping confirmation email or tracking information.

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Dave
Dec 19, 2011 11:21 AM

They still haven’t shipped yet on the way here from china

From: Dave
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 20, 2011 4:29 PM

So then delivery to customer doors by December 24th is no longer likely correct?  Do you have an estimated date of when units will arrive in California? Thanks.

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Dave
Dec 20, 2011 5:11 PM

They are in the USA now in customs so its wither before or after Christmas.

From: Dave
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 26, 2011, at 9:47 AM

I noticed the updated info on the webpage, and I don’t understand why there is absolutely no benefit given to those like me who have already ordered, and paid their money.  You’ve had my money interest free for nearly two months, yet now ANY new order will get $10 off….meaning I should just cancel my order for 2 controllers, get my money back, then re-order.

My other questions is regarding item compatibility.  Ocean Marketing seems to be involved with the Xtendplay controller holder, so I was wondering if the Avenger N-Controller can be used in conjunction with the Xtendplay (for both Xbox and PS3)?  Thanks

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Dave
Dec 26, 2011 10:14 AM

Yes it can be used with xtend play if you remove the stand and no one is allowed to cancel and re order if we catch anyone doing it we will simply just cancel your order all together and you can buy it retail somewhere else.

Things happen in manufacturing if your unhappy you have 7 days from the day your item ships for a refund. You placed a pre order just like any software title the gets a date moved due to the tweaks and bugs not being worked out and GameStop or any other place holds your cash and im sure you don’t complain to activision or epic games so put on your big boy hat and wait it out like everyone else. The benefit is a token of our appreaciation for everyone no one is special including you or any first time buyer . Feel free to cancel we need the units were back ordered 11,000 units so your 2 will be gone fast. Maybe I’ll put them on eBay for 150.00 myself. Have a good day Dan.

At this point Dave is (I think) understandably frustrated. His next email is sent to me as well as Kotaku and a few other news sites.

-Gabe

From: Dave
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 26, 2011 12:11 PM

Then cancel my order if you want to.  I’m making a legitimate complaint about your poor communication and you’re the one stooping to childish levels, a patronizing attitude, and threats.  Hell you can’t even get the spelling of my name right.

And Gamespot pre-orders…wow what a terrible comparison.  Retailers take a couple dollars IF THAT for you to guarantee your game availability on the release date, whatever that is. That’s the understanding and that’s what you get.  Plus, I don’t have to complain to Activision or Epic games about these issues because they’re usually not missing the street dates for their AAA titles.

Now let’s take YOUR situation:
1) You’ve promised a new product based off the design for an existing, working product
2) For the longest time, you’ve stated on your website (your failure to update regularly is another issue) the initial/special/limited batch of your new product by early December, obviously in time for the all-important holiday gift-giving season.  I and thousands of other customers GIVE YOU OUR MONEY, INTEREST FREE on the promises you made online.
3) I reach out to you, on Dec 16 (AFTER you have FAILED TO MEET YOUR ADVERTISED DEADLINE AND FAILED TO COMMUNICATE TO ANYONE WHAT THE SITUATION IS) obviously a little frustrated but more curious about when I and other customers can expect the product we paid for.
4) Your reply to me is a cryptic “Dec 17” with absolutely no explanation of what that means.  In the mean time you having been using funds from pre-paid customers to complete Research & Development, product redesigns, and manufacturing mis-steps.
5) You force me to follow-up with an email asking for clarification about what “Dec 17” means since the day has passed and I have yet to receive any new information about my order.  Now you instead of ANSWERING MY QUESTION OF WHAT THE NEW DELIVERY DATE IS, you tell me the goods have yet to leave China…  Why are you telling me this?  I’m not your employee I’m your goddamn customer!  TELL ME WHAT THAT MEANS IN TERMS OF MY TIME AND WHEN I CAN EXPECT MY PRODUCT I PAID FOR.
6) So great…I have to email you AGAIN trying to get a CLEAR answer from you whether a Dec 24th delivery date is possible and if not, what the new date is.  Rinse & repeat: You give me an update of the delivery process (wow, thanks…you haven’t told me anything I don’t know about the order of international shipping procedures) but instead say “…so its wither before or after Christmas.”  WHAT THE HELL DOES THAT MEAN?  GIVE ME A DATE!?  One that you’re actually going to follow, because I already see “late Nov to early Dec”;  “Dec 17”; and now “CHRISTMAS” in my rear-view mirror.
7) So I guess what’s left for me to do but just wait?  Oh but what’s this, you’ve updated your website…Ok at least you’ve clarified the dates more, I can expect my controller my latest first week of January.  But now as a “token of our appreciation” to all your “loyal customers” (you mean like customers who put up cash for you hold an use?) you’re giving a $10 coupon.  Let me get this straight…so you held my money interest free for 2 months to help bring this product to market, and now some new customer can place an order and pay $10 less than what I paid?  You have financially penalized me in two ways for being a “LOYAL CUSTOMER.”

I’m SURE you’re getting tons of other inquiries and I’m sure you’re not enjoying the fact that your product is not out when you wanted it to be.  I and everyone else understands that “sh*t happens,” but if you want us to be understanding of that, then you need to keep us in the loop.  You’ve already set yourself up for failure by making explicit promises that aren’t even “likely” given that the design and manufacturing are still be refined.  Then you make sure you’re going to fail by actually taking all of our money, Not just a little bit….THE WHOLE F*CKIN BEEFALO.  Why wouldn’t we trust that you’re going to deliver our merchandise on time?  Besides…it’s based off an existing product so how hard can it be?  Well as your youtube video shows, making any consumer device is hard and requires many iterations and improvements.  But I’m not going to apologize for holding your feet to the fire.  You created these expectations by acting like the release was already a done deal and by hiding the fact that it was faaaar from it.

I want my two n-controllers.  I 1) PAID FOR THEM   2) WAITED   3) DEALT WITH YOUR UNHELPFUL ASS.  I also didn’t want to feel like my trust and loyalty as a customer was being abused and then actually punished in comparison to other customers.  But I guess we can’t have it all… so right now I’ll settle for getting my merchandise and hopefully never having to deal with you again.  I’ve spent enough time writing this email which I hope you gain some insight from.  If you actually do want to screw me over by not fulfilling my order, then I assure you be hearing more from me or people representing me.

You show a surprising lack of business polish for someone who’s quite established, AND an lack of awareness of your customer base: Hardcore gamers.  We’re a demanding, vocal customer but the flip side is we’re loyal and eager to spend.  It’s lucky for you that I really want this product because it seems really deliver on making the gaming experience more effective and enjoyable.  Hell, I want to combine the aventer-controller with the xtend play to make the ugliest, most comfortable, most awesome controller ever.  And I’ll still buy the xtend, so let that be a testament to your products, the rise above your poor representation.

-DAVE with a V

p.s. You look really douchy be having one youtube video complaining about the noise of traffic next to your home and then another video showing off your obnoxiously loud rice rocket (which is nice, I gotta hand it ya).

p.p.s. Welcome to the internet, bitch.  That’s how I roll.

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Dave
Dec 26, 2011 2:19 PM

LOL Thanks for the Free PR I know the Editor N Chief of Kotaku , IGN , Engadget I’ll be meeting them at CES .The noise complaint was for people high up on the food chain in a corporate world of real estate you have no clue about.  Thanks for the Rice Rocket Compliment too love me some motorcycle . Send that over to Engadget you look like a complete moron swearing and sending your customer service complaints to a magazine as if they will post it or even pay attention do you think you’re the first or the last what are they going to do demand us to tell you were your shipment is or ask for a refund on your behalf … Really … Welcome to the Internet ? Son Im 38 I wwebsite as on the internet when you were a sperm in your daddys balls and before it was the internet, thanks for the welcome to message wurd up.  Grow up you look like a complete child bro. I Don’t have my controller so im gonna cry to the world … Really ?? Hey take that free time and do something more productive. All you had to do was check the like everyone else , people have inquired but you’re the douchiest of them all J

To all our pre-order customers looking for information on the status of their orders after a busy couple of months The PS3 Avengers are on their way from our Manufacturing plant overseas. We are aware that everyone is anticipating having their Avengers under their Christmas Tree and were doing our best to get these orders shipped out as fast as possible. We appreciate you as loyal customers and for supporting our company. Customers will start receiving their products this week before Christmas and After Christmas and into the New Year. As a token of our appreciation we are offering all our pre-order customers and new customers 10$ off your next order with us just enter Avenger1001 at Checkout. Thank you and Happy Holidays!

Oh and FYI When a street date gets pushed by a publisher on a video game you pre ordered do you cry to them too ?

You just got told bitch … welcome to the real internet check kotaku in 2 weeks when they are reviewing free PS3 Avengers we send them as well as G4 and all the other majors hell yeah , don’t forget to check Amazon, gamestop.com, play n trade , Myers , Frys and a ton of other local stores coming your way you think you speak for billions son your just a kid you speak for yourself no one cares what you think that’s why were growing and moving 20-50 thousand controllers a month. We do value our customers but sometimes we get children like you we just have to put you in the corner with your im stupid hat on. See you at CES , E3 , Pax East ….? Oh wait you have to ask mom and pa dukes your not an industry professional and you have no money on snap you just got told.

The Pax East comment gets my attention and I decide to engage. I tend to have a calming effect on these sorts of arguments.

-Gabe

From: Mike Krahulik
To: Dave, Ocean Marketing
Dec 26, 2011 at 8:45 PM

Holy shit this is unbelievable. Dave, if this guy has a booth at Pax east we will cancel it.

From: Dave
To: Mike Krahulik
Dec 26, 2011 at 8:53 PM

Hey thanks Mike.  It’s truly a shame because I think this device is great for gamers with disabilities and problems.  I think of Child’s Play and if anyone’s gonna need greater accessibility when using complicated gamepads…it’s sick kids!  Shit man, I’m really gonna feel bad if I think that sick children may somewhere down the line have fewer avenger controllers because I got into a pissing match with a sad old man.  Please don’t cancel their booth on my account.  As much as I hate this asshole, I still WANT his product and think it should be out there.  GAH, I wish I was in a position to make a competing product to really stick it to guy.

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Mike Krahulik
Dec 26, 2011 at 8:54 PM

Hey Mikey,

We’re not renting a booth at pax east this year , bigger and better shows to be at we got nothing from the show . Oh so you know this guy has sold over 500 thousand dollars of product in Dec and is my main distribution arm landing us in GameStop , fry’s , Myers , Best buy , Activision , MLG , play N trade and a lot more . Were in 6 countries and you’re not going to take my money for a booth that’s a crock I can guarantee I’ll get a booth if I want one money buys a lot and connections go even further.  He’s a native Bostonian from Little Italy . Who are you again ?

Oh Teh Noes!

-Gabe

From: Mike Krahulik
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:08 PM

I am mike krahulik, Pax is my show. Feel free to google me=) I can promise you that you will never have space at any future Pax event.

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Mike Krahulik
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:33 PM

OK Mike whatever you say lol , are you sure hour not in Boston I spoke to the person who ran the show in Boston last year. If you let some little kid influence you over a pre order then we don’t want to be a your show ,Ill be on the floor anyway so come find me , I’m born and raised in Boston I know the people who run the city inside and out watch the way you talk to people you never know who they know it’s a small industry and everyone knows everyone. Your acting like a douchbag not that it matters pax east pax west , e3 , CES , Gamer Con , SSXW ,Comic Con, Germany I’m all over the place. If we want to be there we will be there with industry badges or with a booth you think I can’t team up with turtle beach , Callibur or Koy Christmas , I can’t get Kevin Kelly to pull some strings or G4 , Paul Eibler Ex CEO of take 2 ,  Rich Larocco Konami , Cliff Blizinski Epic who were working with on a gears version , Activision who were working with on a MW3 and Spider man Bundle , The Convention Center Owners themselves , Mayor of Boston come on Bud you run a show that’s all you do and lease a center in Cities you have no pull in its all about who you know not what you do.  I’ll see space where ever I want , with who I want when I want and where I want so many ways around you and so many connections in this industry its silly. Anyway , I have no issue with you Sean Buckley Engadget, Scott Lowe IGN and the list goes on and on. Little kids unhappy with a PRE ORDER starting trouble and you email that to us , he’s a customer unless you’re his boyfriend then you should side with the company not the customer. Be Careful

From: Mike Krahulik
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:40 PM

I do run Pax, but I also run a website called penny arcade. It’s kinda popular.

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Mike Krahulik
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:41 PM

Love penny Arcade !!

From: Mike Krahulik
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:42 PM

I’m glad you like it! You will be on it tomorrow:)

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Mike Krahulik
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:46 PM

Great !! Love PR

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Mike Krahulik
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:46 PM

Mike I’m not trying to fight with you I’m really not , you should give me the benefit of the doubt before judging over one person’s bitching . Did I feed into his emails a little bit too much yeah ok . But it’s one person dude for real. No disrespect intended for you , My name is good in this industry and I know a lot of people. I’ll be at CES are you going ?

From: Mike Krahulik
To: Ocean Marketing
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:47 PM

Please remove me from this mailing list

From: Ocean Marketing
To: Mike Krahulik
Dec 26, 2011 at 9:57 PM

Your spamming me you’re not on a mailing list you idiot ! You sent me an email remember . Make sure you stir up a lot of controversy about us the more the better we needed some drama gets good blood flow going about the new product launch .  Your sites amateur at best my son could put together a better site than yours and you run PAX ?? Wow , Ill put my marketing team on a smear campaign of you and your site and your emails , I have about 125 dedicated people to run PR , Blogs , Articles , Videos you have no clue who I am . Thanks again

I can’t wait for the Penny Arcade smear campaign!

Oh and I’ll just leave this here:

-Gabe out

info@avengercontroller.com
Ocean Marketing Paul Christoforo on Twitter – @OceanMarketting
800-492-5455#

Source: Penny Arcade

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SCEA seeks out the best development talent from colleges and universities through our academic program as well as at industry shows like IndieCade (where our PlayStation Home partnership with Codename was born), the IGF pavilion at GDC and E3. We also host developer mixers, where we’ve discovered some of the most talented developers on PSN. Once developers are discovered, we can determine which development model will give them the best support to help them thrive. PSN has been the only platform to fully embrace indie developers, and in 2012, more indie-developed PSN exclusives are on the way, including Papo & Yo, Retrograde, Closure, Dyad, and many more.

With the 2011 coming to a close, we also wanted to highlight some of the most successful indie game development efforts on the year. If you haven’t already, give these games a shot during your holiday vacation.

SCEA empowers some indie developers to self-publish on PSN, and the results are often very successful. Here are 2011′s top-selling PSN self-published indie games:

Top 10 Best-Selling Indie PSN Games of 2011 – Third-Party Self-Published

1. Limbo
2. Castle Crashers
3. TestYourself Psychology
4. Marvel Pinball
5. Worms 2 Armageddon
6. Dungeon Defenders
7. Armageddon RidersTargem Games)
8. Braid
9. UnderSiegeSeed Studios)
10. HamsterballTikGames)

To help keep the indie spirit vibrant, we also incubate some indie developers to give them access to our resources, enabling them to realize their full artistic vision while being able to tap into the expertise and experience of SCEA’s World Wide Studios development ecosystem. Here are 2011′s top-selling PSN indie titles published by SCEA:

Top 10 Best-Selling PSN Games of 2011- SCEA-Published Indies

1. PixelJunk Shooter 2Q-Games)
2. Fat PrincessTitan Studios)
3. Flowerthatgamecompany)
4. AquatopiaPlaylogic Entertainment)
5. Hustle KingsVooFoo Sudios)
6. Eat Them!FluffyLogic)
7. Top Darts Devil’s Details)
8. Super Stardust HDHousemarque)
9. Linger in ShadowsPlastic)
10. Rag Doll Kung FuQi Studios)

For some newer, smaller teams who have creative and innovative ideas, SCEA also has the Pub Fund, which provides additional development budget for those teams that might not otherwise have the footing to make their game a reality. We’ve committed $20 million over the next three years to the Pub Fund because we believe this visionary and unique development mindset will ultimately advance and evolve PSN games as an art form.

Top 5 Best-Selling Pub Fund Titles of 2011

1. HoardBig Sandwich Games)
2. Tales From Space: About a BlobDrinkBox)
3. Joe DangerHello Games)
4. EufloriaOmni Systems Limited)
5. Explodemon!Curve Studios)