Remember that this guide only covers games that were released on PlayStation 3 during 2008. A multiplatform guide will be online in the coming days.
Christmas Buyers Guides:
Wii | PSP | Xbox 360 | Nintendo DS
BioShock
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1
Developer: Irrational
Publisher: 2K Games
BioShock first emerged in 2007 to the praise of both critics and players alike. Finally, PlayStation 3 owners can journey to the underwater world of Rapture, with the addition of a more challenging difficulty mode. Blending the first-person shooter and role-playing genres, players can expect a spooky and sinister adventure from the darkest depths of the ocean.
Our review said: Following up on the critically acclaimed System Shock and System Shock 2, last year's Bioshock on the Xbox 360 and PC garnered similar attention and plaudits upon its release. Not only for doing something different in the crowded shooter genre, but for combining a compelling story with intense and varied gameplay in a unique underwater setting. Over a year later, the PlayStation 3 finally gets some Bioshock love with a much belated release. Even though not much has changed since we last stepped foot in Rapture, that doesn't take away too much from the game. [FULL REVIEW: 8.5]
Buzz! Quiz TV
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-8
Developer: Relentless
Publisher: Sony
One of the success stories of the PlayStation 2, Buzz challenged players to pit their brains and wits against each other, all to the sound of Jason Donovan's voice. Now, the PlayStation 3 can partake in the quiz-show shenanigans, with the added benefit of wireless buzzers and online multiplayer. With a database of 5000 questions, on topics such as movies, music and TV, you'll be buzzing away to the wee hours of the morning in this one.
Our review said: It may not have reinvented the quiz game genre, but ultimately you'll find that Buzz! Quiz TV is an excellent game for the family or your next social gathering. The addition of four wireless controllers means that there will be no more PS2s being dragged across the lounge room floor or that you won't spend more time untangling the controller's cables than actually playing the game. For those that aren't interested in the new controllers, thankfully Sony's consideration has ensured that their wired PS2 counterparts are still compatible on the new hardware. Whether you're by yourself or playing with a large group, Buzz! Quiz TV will have you ensure that expanding your general knowledge can be a pleasurable experience. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Gran Turismo 5 Prologue
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-2
Developer: Polyphony Digital
Publisher: Sony
In anticipation of Gran Turismo 5, Sony have given players a taste test of its latest ‘real driving simulator’ in Gran Turismo 5 Prologue. There are over 40 automobiles to drive, including cars by Lotus, Mitsubishi and Ferrari, and six tracks to net the fastest lap on. Gran Turismo fans will be glad to know that the developers have finally included an online multiplayer mode, which allows you race up to 16 other players.
Our review said: Gran Turismo 5 Prologue is easily the most in-depth Prologue or Concept Gran Turismo title yet. With an extensive event mode, a pick up and play arcade option, as well as online and offline multiplayer anyone who picks up Prologue is sure to be left very satisfied with their cheap purchase. The franchise hasn't changed that much and the lack of damage is still disappointing, but Gran Turismo 5 Prologue features enough content that should sway even the most casual Gran Turismo fan. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
LittleBigPlanet
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-4
Developer: Media Molecule
Publisher: Sony
The latest platforming craze to sweep the globe, LittleBigPlanet has left a sizeable impression on fans for it's innovate design and charming gameplay. After creating your own little Sackboy or Sackgirl character, players can journey their way through LittleBigPlanet's warm and fuzzy world of mesmerising puzzles. Once the single-player game has been completed, there's an entirely separate mode for creating your own levels and challenges, which can also be shared online.
Our review said: LittleBigPlanet is not only one of those games that reminds us that play can be enjoyable without dealing with weighty narratives or overly visceral violence. It's also one of the most charming titles around, offering much to those who are kids at heart, regardless of whether they want to play, create or do both. At the end of the day if you can't find at least something to like about LittleBigPlanet then your problem is plainly obvious. You've forgotten how to have fun. [FULL REVIEW: 9.5]
Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1
Developer: Kojima
Publisher: Konami
The supposed conclusion to the overarching story of Solid Snake, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots has possibly become the visual benchmark of the PlayStation 3. Kojima's latest masterpiece hams up the meaning of ‘cinematic experience’, incorporating gorgeous cutscenes, inspiring sound and epic (but sometimes implausible) storytelling. Featuring an over-the-shoulder camera, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots once again calls of players to sneak their way around a deadly global conspiracy. Once part of your collection, this game will not remain in its box for long.
Our review said: There is only one way to describe Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots, and that's an unparalleled gaming and story-telling masterpiece. Kojima sticks to his guns, gets the formula right and answers all, as you won't get an experience like this anywhere else. We've purposely been vague, just so that it's that much more enjoyable when you play it. Never before has a game been so polished, so finely attentive to detail, have such an epic story behind it or such linear yet wonderfully dynamic gameplay. And with the way the gaming world is going, such a spectacle may never be seen again. [FULL REVIEW: 9.5]
MotorStorm Pacific Rift
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-4
Developer: Evolution Studios
Publisher: Sony
The monstrous vehicles of MotorStorm return with a vengeance in the follow-up to the crash-and-bash derby, MotorStorm Pacific Rift. This time, the location of the tournament has changed to a remote island filled with lush forests and soaring mountains. You can race in four-player split screen, or face up to 20 other vehicles online. With new vehicles and updated artificial intelligence, players will need all their wits to make it over the finish line in this racer.
Our review said: [FULL REVIEW: Coming soon]
Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-2
Developer: CyberConnect2
Publisher: Namco Bandai
Featuring the signature ninja fighting style from the cartoon television series of the same name, the beloved Naruto makes another appearance in Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm. Over the course of the game, players can personalise their battle style and gain the assistance of two other characters. With a total of 100 missions to complete and a sprawling but familiar world to explore, this is one game Naruto fans will want in their hands – at any cost.
Our review said: [FULL REVIEW: Coming soon]
Ratchet and Clank: Quest for Booty
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1
Developer: Insomniac Games
Publisher: Sony
Ratchet and Clank hit the digital scene earlier this year in Ratchet and Clank: Quest for Booty. The game has all the puzzles, combat and platforming that series regulars would come to expect. And if Ratchet and Clank: Tools of Destruction left you wondering, this game is definitely for you. Fans can experience the memorable but short adventure that is Ratchet and Clank: Quest for Booty for a reasonable price, by logging onto the PlayStation Network.
Our review said: As far as a downloadable episode goes, Ratchet and Clank: Quest for Booty serves its purpose extremely well. The experience is fun, fast and furious throughout the four hours that it lasts and fans will definitely get a kick out of seeing how the story has progressed. Minor faults have carried over from previous games, and there are aspects of the package that could have been handled better. However, overall it's a great little game at a very reasonable price and a great advertisement for future downloadable content. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Resistance 2
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-2
Developer: Insomniac Games
Publisher: Sony
The Chimera are back, and this time the deadly creatures have advanced across the ocean to the United States of America. Resistance 2 places you once more into the shoes of Sergeant Nathan Hale, as he defends mankind from the threat of eradication. The sequel to the PlayStation 3 launch title not only looks better, but plays better with rechargeable health and more aggressive enemies. Resistance 2 also allows for 60 players to battle it out online, so expect this game to be in the disc tray for some time to come.
Our review said: [FULL REVIEW: Coming soon]
SingStar Volume 2
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-8
Developer: SCE Studios London
Publisher: Sony
SingStar's second outing on the PlayStation 3 arrived in the middle of the year, with a track list of 30 more songs for aspiring recording artists. With the likes of Gorillaz's ‘Dare’ and Hot Chocolate's ‘You Sexy Thing’, there is plenty in this package to keep your neighbours annoyed late on a Saturday night. Pick up your microphones peoples, SingStar is a callin'.
Our review said: SingStar Vol. 2 is a decent game and a worthy addition to any PlayStation 3 owner's library. It's not the type of game you'll play through in a few days, but you will keep dragging the game out over time and the more of these games you purchase the larger your song library will get. [FULL REVIEW: 7.5]
Siren: Blood Curse
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1
Developer: Sony
Publisher: Sony
Available as episodic instalments on the PlayStation Network or over the counter at your local games retailer, Siren: Blood Curse is once of the more spine-tingling titles to grace Sony's console. The game takes place from the perspective of many different characters, as you travel to the island of Hanuda. Players are tasked with saving surviving inhabitants of the island from an ancient curse that is spawning zombies and other terrifying creatures. For maximum impact, we recommend playing after dark.
Our review said: [FULL REVIEW: Coming soon]
Valkyria Chronicles
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1
Developer: SEGA
Publisher: SEGA
Fans of manga and Japanese role-playing games are sure to love Valkyria Chronicles, a beautifully animated tale of good-versus-evil. The small country of Gallia has been invaded by a powerful neighbouring nation, and it's up to a hero by the name of Welkin to defend the land. Managing a platoon of courageous and colourful warriors, players can strategically plan battles via a top-down view, before delving into the fight in third-person mode. Soldiers, the next great RPG awaits!
Our review said: [FULL REVIEW: Coming soon]
Wipeout HD
Release Date: Out now
Players: 1-8
Developer: Sony
Publisher: Sony
The next instalment in the Wipeout series – Wipeout HD – became the prize download of the PlayStation Network this year, offering the best action anti-gravitational racing to date. With a plethora of tracks and racing modes, Wipeout HD dazzled with its blistering visuals and edge-of-your-seat driving (of flying, depending on your perspective). If you only venture online once this year, Wipeout HD should be the one thing return with.
Our review said: There is a lot to love and little to dislike in Wipeout HD. The game screams of polish, and with several game modes, a very functional multiplayer component, trophies, and many unlockables, you could be playing this game for a long time. For returning fans, there is not much new to be seen, as essentially the game is a rehash of all the old tracks and music from the previous iterations. But regardless of this, Wipeout HD does a fantastic job in making things feel fresh, especially on the jump to the PS3, making this game a resounding success, and well worth the low price point it offers. [FULL REVIEW: 9]
Any people that follow that guide are in for some good times.
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