Joystiq [Playstation]

Firmware 3.0 loading times contrasted with 2.8

by Ludwig Kietzmann { 2 months ago }

Aside from sparkly background support and an expanded XMB interface, we've yet to point-2 many of the smaller differences between the PlayStation 3's 2.8-version firmware and its latest 3.0 update. Thankfully, we have the internet for that, and it's given us some new pedantic comparison videos to mull over and possibly dispute!

Youtube user "PS3slimComparison" has documented console startup times, Blu-ray launch times and video game loading times on his PS3 Slim, first equipped with Firmware 2.8, and then Firmware 3.0. Waiting times appear to be shorter with 3.0 (and who doesn't want to get into Arkham Asylum as fast as possible?), but we were curious to discover if there would be a notable speed improvement on a 60GB PS3 with the latest software. Based on our informally derived test results (see them after the break), the answer appears to be a curt "no." It's possible that 3.0 is tailored to take advantage of the Slim's newer hardware, excluding longtime owners from any supposed speed gains.

Speculation aside, we were shocked to find just how much quicker 3.0 is when it comes to Uncharted -- on 2.8, the game takes forever to freeze.

[Via PlayStation forums; thanks, Garrett]

Continued →

Lumines Supernova hitting Euro PSN on Feb. 5

by Ludwig Kietzmann { 9 months ago }

Block-dropping synaesthesia news now, with Q Entertainment confirming the European PSN debut of Lumines Supernova. Launching this Thursday, February 5th, Supernova enhances the puzzle game's blend of beats 'n' bricks with new modes (including "Dig Down"), 40 psychedelic skins, a make-your-own-medley Sequencer and, of course, Trophies. Unfortunately, the 14.99 Euro asking price does not net you the US PlayStation Store's free, 20-skin "Holiday Pack."

We've queried Q about the add-on's European fate -- and why it's always 4AM when we stop stacking squares.