By Jon Bannister

JRPG fans rejoiced when news of a Studio Ghibli title was on the way. Now that it has arrived, all the excitement has been fully justified. The first thing everyone notices is the fantastical and lively animation that is the trademark of any Studio Ghibli film. This adds that same charm and sense of wonder we all take away from the movies, but in video game form this time. Traditional RPG elements are something a lot of gamers have been missing with this generation of game consoles. Ni No Kuni will take you right back to those fantastic memories of SNES and PS1 JRPG’s that you know and love so well. The game is going to get you a solid 50+ hours of gameplay, and that depends on how much of a completionist you are. All in all, any RPG lover who hasn’t tried this one out should do themselves a favor and give it a go.

Prices

Overview of Sony’s Playstation Move – Wii and Xbox Kinects Challenger

The Wii set new standards for motion activated gaming using its highly technical Wii-Mote to allow players to play games physically. Shortly after Xbox 360 launched its Xbox Kinect to compete. Then Sony released its version, the Playstation Move.

The Playstation Move 2 controllers in a charging dock

The Playstation move controller uses Bluetooth 2.0 wireless communication with an internal ion battery (which you can charge on the consoles usb port) – Up to 4 controllers can be used at once to allow your friends and family to participate in the fun. Unique in looks too, the top of the motion controller features a orb head that glows a full range of colors based on what’s happening in game.

The unique technology allows your motion controller to communicate with the Playstation Eye camera, to track every move you make and replicate them in game. Hard buttons are included on the Move controller to help you navigate in-game menus. The controller also features vibration feedback to compliments the glowing orb as well. As mentioned before the orb will turn different colors based on the game. If your firing a gun, it will replicated a muzzle flash. If your painting it will replicate the color of the paint.

Playstation move controllers on the left, vs Wii ones on the right

The Navigation controller is used supplementary with the Move motion controller to help you navigate. The navigation controller features a single analog stick, a d-pad, L1 and L2 analog triggers, and an X and O button. The Move also includes numerous add-ons such as a charging station and shooting attachment.

Play Playstation Move specific games such as Sorcery, Ninja Gaiden 3, Sports Champions, Just Dance, Eyepet, and Playstation Move Heroes. As well as the numerous games with compatibility such as Little Big Planet Karting, Dance Dance Revolution, Brunswick Pro Bowling, Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2013, Killzone 3, and many more.

Priced very well at just $79.99 – you can get a bundle with everything you need to get started with the Playstation Move. 1 Playstation Move Wireless Controller, Playstation Eye Camera, and a couple games to use it with. With a big library of games that utilize the Move as its primary controller, and many other supporting games that can use the Playstation Move with it.

Best PS3 Exclusive Titles

Our top ten favorite Playstation 3 exclusive titles that have launched on its 6 year run. From FPS’s, to RPG’s, it saw a lot of great titles that you should know about. Especially if you own one. We didn’t really have criteria to base the decisions on other than them being exclusive to the Playstation 3 and great games. Oh, and that it isn’t Call of Duty! Enjoy!… [more]

Should I buy a Playstation 3?

Sony is noted for the long life of their consoles, squeezing out every last drop it can until it releases a new console. We saw the Playstation 2 last 6 strong years, with games STILL coming out after that. With talk about the Playstation 4 and next Xbox coming sometime soon, would it be wise to get a Playstation 3 now? Or just wait for the Playstation 4?… [more]

When does the PS4 come out? Is it a good time to buy the PS3 in 2012?

Sony is noted for the long life of their consoles, squeezing out every last drop it can until it releases a new console. We saw the Playstation 2 last 6 strong years, with games STILL coming out after that. With talk about the Playstation 4 and next Xbox coming sometime soon, would it be wise to get a Playstation 3 now? Or just wait for the Playstation 4?

The latest PS3 slim

We think there is no better time to get a Playstation 3 then now. The Playstation 4 (code named Orbis) is believed to be still a while away from release. Rumors have it for a Christmas 2013 release date. With 1.5 years and some odd months until then, you need something to hold you over. The Playstation 3 still has life in it, and games are still coming that you won’t want to miss.

The Playstation has been updated since its original release, deemed as the “fat” PS3. The Playstation 3 slim has been upgrading in size and features since launch. 120GB, 160GB, 250GB, 320GB – many different sizes at very competitive price points give you great control on how serious you want to get in purchasing a PS3. You can currently pick up a smaller 120GBPS3 for just around $200 – which makes the PS3 WELL worth it.

The Old "Fat" PS3 Model Compared to the newer "Slim" model

The PS3 exclusives alone are a great reason to get one. Killzone, Twisted Metal, Metal Gear Solid, Gran Turismo, Resistance, Little Big Planet, Demon Souls, Heavy Rain, the list goes on and on. Not to mention free online multiplayer, opposed to the Xbox 360s fee based online. Pay for the PS3, a game or two, and your good to go online. No more extra fees.

The PS3 also double as a blu-ray player – allowing you to watch blu-rays in HD on your TV’s. It’s a dual purpose machine that still has life in it. Sony has proven with it’s previous consoles that it can squeeze every last bit of life out of their products.

It has never been a better time to purchase a Playstation 3 then right now. With many different models available at very competitive price points, a huge catalogue of exclusive games, and other great features make this console a must have.

Best PS3 Exclusive Titles

Our top ten favorite Playstation 3 exclusive titles that have launched on its 6 year run. From FPS’s, to RPG’s, it saw a lot of great titles that you should know about. Especially if you own one. We didn’t really have criteria to base the decisions on other than them being exclusive to the Playstation 3 and great games. Oh, and that it isn’t Call of Duty! Enjoy!… [more]

What is Playstation Move?

The Wii set new standards for motion activated gaming using its highly technical Wii-Mote to allow players to play games physically. Shortly after Xbox 360 launched its Xbox Kinect to compete. Then Sony released its version, the Playstation Move. … [more]

By Jon Bannister

The Playstation 3 is old, real old. Released on November 17th in 2006, it is 6 years old and has seen a lot in its long run. Exclusive titles that define the system as well as the Sony Brand. It’s no doubt titles such as Call of Duty have been the most popular across all consoles, but gamers neglect to realize the real gems of the Playstation 3. The exclusive titles available only to loyal Sony Customers. We decided to bring you that list.

Our top ten favorite Playstation 3 exclusive titles that have launched on its 6 year run. From FPS’s, to RPG’s, it saw a lot of great titles that you should know about. Especially if you own one. We didn’t really have criteria to base the decisions on other than them being exclusive to the Playstation 3 and great games. Oh, and that it isn’t Call of Duty! Enjoy!

PS3 Buying Guide / Articles

Buying a Playstation 3

Quick Overview of PS3 Models and Prices – Which is best for you?

Different Models
The Playstation 3 comes in a variety of models ranging from 20GB to 320GB – The most prominent ones being the new Slim models available in 120GB, 160GB, 250GB, and 320GB. The only real differences in models is the “Fat” version of the PS3 and “Slim” – The Slim is more prominent. The biggest difference between slim models is simply the hard drive size.

120GB, 160GB, 250GB, 320GB?
This decision is based mostly on what you are planning on doing. If you are going to be copying music/videos/pictures to your PS3, you will want the larger 250GB or 320GB hard-drive. If your just a semi-hardcore casual gamer who only needs to save games, the 160GB is a great size that offers wiggle room. If your just a casual player the 120GB is fine and will hold tons of game saves.

Can I use HDMI with PS3?
All newer Slim models of the PS3 have HDMI outputs, so you can connect them to a TV with HDMI support. If you don’t have an HDMI ready TV, your PS3 can use the standard RCA hookups.

Used or new?
Though you can find abundant used PS3’s on Ebay or Craigslist, you run the risk of getting a broken system or being scammed. With the prices of the 120 and 160GB models so low, your better of investing in a new one. More often then not you will only save $20 – $40 buying used. We think it’s a wise choice to go new and pay the extra $20 and have a warranty + reliability.

Where can I buy a PS3?
You can buy a Playstation 3 from any online retailer such as Amazon – or in most electronics stores across the world.

Do I need any extra cables, plugs, hook ups? Or is buying the console come with everything I need?
Buying a PS3 console bundle should come with everything you need to hook up the PS3 and start playing – Power cord, Dual Shock Wireless controller, usb cable, and AV video cables (HDMI chord you will need to buy separate unless included in a special limited bundle)

Jon Bannister has always had an interest in the latest technology and gadgetry. A graduate of the Georgia Tech computer science program, Jon has a very technical and working knowledge on how computers interact with and improve… See more about Jon

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By Jon Bannister

The original Resistance launch title on PS3 was a huge hit. Though the 3rd version doesn’t have the insanely huge 40 player online matches, it is much stable at 16 players online, and is still extremely exciting. As with most FPS’s, them multiplayer is the core features. It has 5 game modes including Capture the Flag, Team Deathmatch, Chain Reaction, and Breach. All 5 of these extremely fun and addicting. Shoot and frag your way through the multiplayer and earn points to spend on upgrades for weapons and different combat attributes. This is an extremely fun post-apocalyptic science fiction game that does the series well. You will get hours of fun online in this game and the single player isn’t half bad for an FPS. If you want another unique FPS online experience that isn’t a Call of Duty clone, look no further.

By Jon Bannister

Killzone is a long running PS3 exclusive that has its place in fans hearts. In the over saturated market of FPS shooters it’s hard to stand out, especially when just on one console. But PS3 owners KNOW about Killzone, and for a good reason. One of the first games in the series to be presented in 3D and utilize Playstation Move. One of the coolest things about Killzone that set it apart is its extremely modified in-house game engine, created exclusively for the game. The developers had utmost control over everything in the game. While we do have to say the single-player story is kind of bland and your typical FPS SP, the multi-player of Killzone 3 is where the bread and butter is. Arctic tundra’s, alien jungles, and wastelands of nuclear destruction, you will battle it out online in up to 16 player warzone combat. A variety of game-modes and features makes this game shine online. In-fact, you can buy JUST the online multiplayer portion on PSN.

By Jon Bannister

No PS3 exclusive list would be complete without hands down one of the best racing games in video game HISTORY! The first game in the epic racing series to feature online races with up to 16 players. You will find well over 1,000 cars, race in over 25+ different locations, on over 70+ unique tracks. Talk about options. Other cool features included in Gran Turismo 5 is the fun night racing feature, which lets you race at night, changing how you decide to play. Weather effects, damage models, go-karting, all sorts of cool features are included in this game that it a really well balanced and rich featured game. Pick it up today, you honestly don’t want to miss this in your PS3 library.

By Jon Bannister

inFAMOUS (or inFamous) is an action adventure game set in an open sandbox type world. You play as a bike messenger caught in the middle of a devastating explosion that destroys several blocks of a fictional New York. Long story short, you gain special electric powers, which that game allows you to use for good or evil. These choices affect your character growth and overall game play.
The controls are easy to use and game play is fluid. You will have a blast zipping around fictional New York and zapping things with your new found powers. We do wish it had a multiplayer portion, but the single player enough is plenty of game to play through. We also chose the original over inFAMOUS 2, just because it felt like a more solid experience. If you want to be a superhero, but are sick of Spiderman, inFamous is the PS3 exclusive for you.

By Jon Bannister

God of War 3 is a sequel in the award winning God of War series, started on the Playstation 2. You play again as the character Kratos in a mix of 3rd Person and 1st person combat, sprinkled with quick time events. The puzzle game elements are back in this mature themed platform adventure. Hack and slash your way through the Romanian times. You will come across many characters from ancient tales such as the powerful god Poseidon and Zeus. It’s a really fun single-player experience, which we believe you have to experience. Enemies on screen at once can go from 15 to 50, these major battles are what makes this game have a new level of gameplay. Pick up God of War 3, and the other 2 while your at it for one of the best game experiences, exclusive to PS3.

By Jon Bannister

Twisted Metal is known as a classic, a grandfather of games. If you ever had the original Playstation in the 90s, you know about Twisted Metal. It’s returned once again on the PS3, released on February 14th of this year (making it a newer title) – it brings back all the crazy carnage you may or may not remember. In Twisted Metal you mainly take it online where the game focuses on heavy multiplayer combat, using vehicles. Yes vehicles. Each player gets their own vehicle of destruction and drives around, trying to find other players and destroy their vehicles. The multiplayer in the new Twisted Metal has many new game-modes that you will appreciate. This is an extremely fun game, a revision of a classic brought to life. We love it and highly recommend it, it will last you many months!

By Jon Bannister

Of course this wouldn’t be a complete list without any of the Uncharted games on it. Hounded as one of the best Playstation exclusive series ever, and even in the game industry, Uncharted 3 is the latest in the series. It is the direct sequel to Uncharted 2: Among Thieves and is just as good if not better. You play as Nathan Drake again in his world traveling antics including deserts and lost cities, just about everything in between. For those new to the series, this is the Indiana Jones of Playstation. Featuring an amazing cinematic movie like single-player experience, and EXTREMELY rewarding and fun multiplayer, this is an extremely good buy that you NEED in your library right now. Don’t neglect this game (or any others in the series) – Uncharted 3 is a really exciting 3rd person action story game with an electrifyingly fun multiplayer.

By Jon Bannister

An extremely challenging yet rewarding action RPG developed just for us PS3 gamers. Set in a dark fantasy world, you venture through the world of Boletaria, where you will be fighting against the demons who feast on your living souls. The games takes a 3rd person perspective and allows you to choose from 10 starting classes such as mages or thieves, each with different skills, gears, and weapons. This is a INCREDIBABLY hard game – you can’t pause in the middle of the battle. The enemies are ruthless. This game will NOT hold your hand, instead it will challenge you. You will die, over and over again. But when you finally do succeed, beat that one enemy, you will have a great feeling of satisfaction that you haven’t felt since you played a game on Super Nintendo. Another mechanic included to test your might, the game gets harder the more you die. Try not to die much in Demons Souls. Don’t be scared, it is a rewarding experience and you can pick it up as a PS3 Greatest Hits game, thats for a reason too!

By Jon Bannister

Heavy Rain is a different kind of video game and exclusive to the PS3 – which makes us happy to have rights to such an exhilarating game play experience. An interactive psychological thriller, full of drama and emotion to suck you into the story. When was the last time a game did that for you? The game plays on a story of a mysterious killer called the Origami Killer, who drowns his victims in extended periods of rainfall. The game has many different paths and great replay ability. How you play the game changes how the game is narrated, and if your main character dies, the story changes too. It has won numerous game of the years in 2010 and noted as one of the games you must play before you die. You can find it as a Greatest Hits game on PS3, because thats exactly what it is.

By Jon Bannister

Directed by the genius Hideo Kojima Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots is another episode in the tactical espionage action game series. Pitting you as a much older Solid Snake you embark on what could be your final mission, utilizing stealth alongside traditional combat. This version of the game features a more 3rd person view with its greater emphasis on gunplay. But, all the fun sneaking around and stealth is still here. You can choose to play this game how you want. MGS4:GOTP also features a super addicting online multiplayer mode called MGO, which is unfortunately going offline in the up-coming months of 2012. Still, the single player story is what most fans enjoy in the MGS series. You will spend 5+ hours in the single player following a simply amazing story. For under $20 this is a MUST HAVE PS3 exclusive with a great single player + fun online.