While Rey is off in Miami enjoying mojitos, delicious Cuban sandwiches and a city that doesn’t close down at 2am (really, California? really??), I’ll drop this week’s new releases on you.

While publishers push most retail releases into stores in time for Black Friday (movie tie-in TRON: Evolution is a notable exception), it’s still a good week for fans of downloadable games. The PlayStation Store never closes, after all.

PlayStation 3

TRON: Evolution – This is an action game, based on the movie Tron: Legacy, in which players traverse a digital world populated by human-like characters to investigate the origin of a destructive virus. From a third-person perspective, players engage in melee-style combat, using punches, kicks, combo moves, and light-disc attacks to defeat humanoid enemies.

(PS Blog Coverage: TRON: Evolution)

PlayStation Network

Qlione – Enrique Galvez of Rockin’ Android says: “The Qlione Evolve bundle includes two games; Qlione and Qlione 2, at an unbeatable price ($6.99). While your goal in Qlione is to simply survive, Qlione 2 has you evolving, and even devolving, in an attempt to find the optimal form to fight off your assailants. With the Qlione Evolve bundle, you get both complete games and their PSN extras like custom soundtracks, online leaderboards and Trophies.”

Kung-Fu Live – Those crazy Finns at Virtual Air Guitar have made a virtual Kung-Fu simulator, placing you (via the PlayStation Eye camera) into a side scrolling beat ‘em up reminiscent of days of yore. The boss battles are pretty awesome, and it’s a killer workout!

Watch and read our previous coverage here.

Alien Breed 2 Assault – John Dennis from Team 17 Software recently shared: “It’s the direct follow-up to the PSN game Alien Breed: Impact. What’s more, it’s the middle entry in a trilogy of downloadable PS3 titles that reinvent Alien Breed, a series which has roots dating back to 1991. The game is an action-packed top-down science fiction shooter where you must conserve ammo, scavenge for gear, and upgrade your arsenal to survive against a vast alien threat.”

For PlayStation Plus members only (this week):

Sackboy’s Prehistoric Moves – This is a brand new spin-off PSN title that showcases all of the fun that can be had when Sackboy gets his hands on the PlayStation Move motion controller. The player with the PlayStation Move controller leads the charge, flicking switches and triggering platforms to help the other players, using DualShock Controllers, through each level.

Sackboy’s Prehistoric Moves is free for PlayStation Plus members on Tuesday, everyone else can purchase it for $5.99 starting next week (Dec 14).

For more info on Sackboy’s Prehistoric Moves, click here.

PSP

TRON: Evolution – This is an action game, based on the movie Tron: Evolution, in which players engage in futuristic battles and events. Players can compete in light-cycle races, light-tank battles, and arena-style fights.

Football Manager 2011 – This is a sports simulation game in which players select and manage a real-world soccer team from clubs and leagues around the world. Players must make managerial decisions that include negotiating contracts, trading athletes, and setting up the team’s strategies and tactics.

Military History Commander: Europe at War – This is a turn-based strategy game in which players choose to fight as the Axis or Allies during World War II. Players control troops on a hexagonal grid to defeat the enemy and gain territory until one side wins the war.

NEOGEO HEROES: Ultimate Shooting – This is an arcade-style shooter in which players control characters that fly through scrolling landscapes and battle various enemies.

Michael Jackson The Experience – This is a music and rhythm simulation game in which players can follow along with the music and dance moves of Michael Jackson. Players can match on-screen rhythmic cues to score points and unlock various award items.

The Lord of the Rings: Aragorn’s Quest – In this action-adventure game, based on the Lord of the Rings franchise, players assume the role of Aragorn on his quest to become king and bring peace to the land. The game features bright and colorful renditions of Middle Earth’s key locations, as the hobbit Sam retells “new” adventures to his young children. Players explore fantasy landscapes while using swords, bows, spears, and torches to defeat enemy creatures.

minis

Arcade Essentials – Alex Bravve from publisher Nordcurrent says “Arcade Essentials is a collection of 5 arcade games, remakes of the classic arcade hits of the 80s that (I’m sure) all of us are familiar with. Each game consists of 50 levels, so there is quite a lot of gameplay time here. We decided to make minimalistic visuals with lots of special effects, to get the feeling of the real arcades. To get an idea of how the game looks and plays, please check the trailer:”

Other minis this week:

• Boom Beats
• Blimp: The Flying Adventures
• Flying Hamster
• Aquattack

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

My full God-given name is Reynaldo Gutierrez, which sadly isn’t as savvy and feared as your main man in Assassins Creed: Brotherhood, Ezio Auditore da Firenze. If you need a key historical figure taken out, you call for Ezio Auditore — you need a mean Cuban pork sandwich, you call Rey Gutierrez. The third installment in the Assassins Creed franchise arrives on the PS3 this week and the blog boyz are ready to behead and slay some Templars — Cesare Borgia, you’re going down, son.

Igniting mass destruction and triggering powerplays goes portable this week when one my favorite racing games of 2010, Split/Second, comes to the PSP. In other PSP news: A popular but previously delayed minis title has a new date; you’ll be dribbling and shouting “Boom Shakalaka!”; and Criterion and EA are on Hot Pursuit for speed. Finally, your PlayStation.Blog Share request for two specific games are answered — you’ve got yourself to thank. Grab a pillow and blanket and join me in the Animus for this week’s (very deadly and fast) The Drop.

PlayStation 3

Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood – The critically acclaimed single-player experience of Assassin’s Creed is back and better than ever as Ezio returns in an epic struggle against the powerful Templar Order. Now a legendary Master Assassin, Ezio must journey into Italy’s greatest city, Rome, center of power, greed and corruption to strike at the heart of the enemy. Defeating the corrupt tyrants entrenched there will require not only strength, but leadership, as Ezio commands an entire Brotherhood that will rally to his side. Only by working together can the Assassins defeat their mortal enemies.

(PS Blog Coverage: Free, PS3-Exclusive DLC Launching with Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood)

Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit – Need for Speed Hot Pursuit brings the franchise back to its roots with intense cops vs. racer chases. The game features Need for Speed Autolog where players compare racing stats and automatically get personalized gameplay recommendations from their friends. Need for Speed Hot Pursuit players can also experience the thrill of the chase and the rush of the escape as they play through full careers as both a cop and a racer – solo or connected.

(PS Blog Coverage: Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit – Social Modes and EA Answers Your Questions)

NBA JAM – NBA Jam will have players spinning with ankle breaking moves to the basket and on the way to high-flying, backboard-smashing dunks. The game delivers vintage NBA Jam gameplay, combined with all-new features that deliver a fresh new take on the classic game.

Dance Dance Revolution – In the debut version of Dance Dance Revolution on PlayStation 3, players will find the game offers much more than following the arrows with their feet. In this iteration of DDR, players will use both their hands and feet simultaneously, via PlayStation Move and controller mat, providing the most rhythmic and realistic dancing yet!

(PS Blog Coverage: DanceDanceRevolution: Comes to PS3 with Move Support – Demo it Today in LA)

EA Create – Create is a game powered by imagination, a title for the whole family that rewards players for being creative. The game presents imaginative gameplay challenges where the solutions are fueled by the creativity of the player. Creativity will be unleashed as players design environments with easy-to-use brushes and tools, including textures, props and animating objects that bring the scene to life.

(PS Blog Coverage: Create Will Move You November 16th)

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – In Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, players will be on the run, fighting for survival on a desperate and dangerous quest to locate and destroy Voldemort’s Horcruxes, engaging with Death Eaters and Snatchers in epic battle sequences at every turn.

Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet – In Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet, players can “Hero Up” with friends in cooperative play master the unique Factor Power of each of the Marvel heroes in three game modes: Story Mode, Freeplay Mode and Challenge Mode.

Nat Geo Challenge! Wild Life – Nat Geo Challenge! Wild Life allows players to discover the deadliest creatures, astonishing aquatic life, and all the wonders of this amazing planet all through an interactive trivia game that turns learning into adventure!

PlayStation Portable

Split/Second – In Split/Second, players don’t just race to the finish line to beat their opponents, they build up their power meter through deft driving and triggering “power plays,” explosive moments that take out opponents or alter the track. Split/Second for the PSP system includes unique handling and controls designed specifically for Sony’s premier handheld game platform. In addition, the game also includes four-player local multiplayer.

(PS Blog Coverage: Split/Second PSP Hands-on: Feeling the Burn, PSP Challenges detailed)

Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Predator – Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Predator offers an exclusive tactical experience for PlayStation Portable gamers, delivering a true Ghost Recon experience with sophisticated technology, weaponry, graphics, and challenging gameplay.

(PS Blog Coverage: Ghost Recon Predator Coming to PSP)

PlayStation Network

Crazy Taxi – This downloadable game brings the Director’s Cut of the arcade classic Crazy Taxi to PlayStation 3. Buckle up — it’s sheer asphalt anarchy! Crazy Taxi screeches offers one wild and hilarious joy-riding jaunt. As a fearless cabbie with attitude, you’re driven by a single goal: to rack up the mega-bucks in fares and tips before your shift ends.

(You Wanted! You Got It! – PS Blog Share: Dreamcast games on PSN store)

Peggle (PSP) – Wield mystifying Magic Powers, rack up huge bonus points and make shots you’ll smile about for weeks. Amidst all this fevered action, only one question remains: Can you become a Peggle Master?

(You Wanted! You Got It! – PS Blog Share: Peggle on the PSP)

Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 (PSP) – Pro Evolution Soccer 2011reinvigorates the series with the most advanced set of improved gameplay additions, control options and to catch up with the evolution of the real-life soccer.

3D Ultra MiniGolf Adventures 2 – In 3D Ultra MiniGolf Adventures 2, players are challenged to navigate their ball beyond obstacles using the help of secret shortcuts, game-changing power-ups and traps to sabotage the competition. Putt through over 50 fun-filled holes in diverse locations, such as a Haunted Manor, a Manic Museum and a Winter Wonderland.

Sky Fighters (Demo Available) – This is an action game in which players pilot small planes through combat objectives in a World War II-like setting. Players travel through a 2D game world and complete various missions. Players use bombs, missiles, and machine guns to destroy targets (e.g., planes, tanks, trucks, buildings).

(PS Blog Coverage: SkyFighter Comes to the PSN Next Week!)

PSone Imports

Sonic Wings Special – A compilation of all three popular top-down strafing shooters from Video System. Each games features 2-player simultaneous play, multiple playable jet fighters (each with its own anime-styled pilot, special attacks, and — in SW3 — a unique storyline path through the game’s various stages), and a massive amount of destructible scenery that yielded money for powering up your fighter.

Money Idol Exchanger – Money Idol Exchanger is a stacking game similar to the Magical Drop, Astro Pop, and Puzzle Bobble series whereby players race to prevent a perpetually falling array of coins in different values from filling up the screen.

PlayStation minis

Who’s That Flying?! – Who’s That Flying!? is a wildly different kind of shooter from the creators of Monsters (Probably) Stole My Princess. In it, you are the mysterious and powerful creature known only as the “Guardian of Earth.” Your steely eye and Hyper-Powered Laser Arm have kept the citizens of Earth safe for generations (as well as proving a hit with the ladies). Now, you must not only defend your cities from the ravenous hordes of Doom Beasts, you must defend yourself against accusations of gross incompetence from the Galactic Council of Justice!

(PS Blog Coverage: Coming Soon to PSN: Who’s That Flying?! for PSP and PS3)

DynoGems – DynoGems is an addictive and challenging puzzle game! Grab and group four or more diamonds of the same color to eliminate them from the screen, until you fill the level bar.

Jewel Keepers: Easter Island – One day Professor “H”, the world-class expert on Easter Island, received a strange letter from its capital Hanga Roa. It was a cry for help from somebody unknown. It said that something bad was going on the island. Without any hesitation, Professor, together with his assistant Joel and his granddaughter Ivie, rushed to the island, where the puzzles, mysteries and quests awaited them. Can you help him to reveal the biggest secret of Easter Island?

(PS EU Coverage: Introducing Jewel Keepers: Easter Island)

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

The Call of Duty franchise returns this week with its seventh title, Call of Duty: Black Ops. The hype train finally pulls up to the PlayStation 3 promising to deliver a blockbuster experience when you take on the role of an elite special units officer engaging in classified operations and saving the world from destruction — all in a days work. Sure, the Call of Duty franchise is popular for its excellent and silky smooth multiplayer, but call me old fashioned, I’m looking forward to its epic story and single player campaign.

The Sly Collection, SingStar Dance and The Fight: Lights Out deliver a triple PlayStation combo this week and promises to make good use of your PlayStation Move controllers when you dance to the beat, or beat someone down until they dance. Join me in this week’s The Drop as we kick down the Pentagon doors and hunt down some zombies — I call dibs on Fidel Castro.

PlayStation 3

Call of Duty: Black Ops – Hear the call of duty once again with this seventh entry in this blockbuster first-person shooter franchise. Call of Duty: Black Ops takes you deep behind enemy lines into the world of deniable operations as a member of an elite special forces unit engaging in covert warfare, classified operations, and explosive conflicts across the globe. With access to a variety of exclusive weaponry and equipment, your actions will tip the balance during the most dangerous time period mankind has ever known.

(PS Blog Coverage: Little-Known Facts: Call of Duty: Black Ops Multiplayer)

The Sly Collection – The critically-acclaimed Sly Cooper series makes its triumphant return with The Sly Collection. This triple-pack features three PlayStation 2 action-packed classic hits (Sly Cooper and the Thievius Racconus, Sly 2: Band of Thieves and Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves) fully remastered in high definition and delivered on a single Blu-Ray Disc. The Sly Collection contains extra features and content, such as Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves in 3-D and all-new PlayStation Move mini-games that showcase the latest technology for a fun and immersive experience on the PS3 system.

(PS Blog Coverage: The Sly Collection Sneaks onto PS3 November 9th)

SingStar Dance — The newest installment in the multi-million selling franchise, SingStar Dance adds dancing to the traditional vocal gameplay for a completely fresh SingStar experience. Now can you sing along to the hottest new hits and learn how to shake and groove alongside your favorite pop stars!

(PS Blog Coverage: SingStar Dance Coming November 9th, Party Pack Details)

Monster Jam: Path of Destruction (Also on PSP) – Monster Jam 2011 is all about authenticity, personality, and fun, with 30 officially licensed Monster Jam trucks, including fan-favorites Grave Digger, Maximum Destruction, and Grinder. Players can also create and customize their own trucks with thousands of options, unlocking new parts and upgrades as they progress through the game.

Apache Air Assault — Apache: Air Assault is a modern combat flight simulation game where players control a variety of lethal Apache attack helicopters outfitted with cutting-edge military weaponry. The goal is to prevent terrorist attacks by raining down destruction from above in the world’s most volatile warzones.

PlayStation Move

The Fight: Lights Out — The Fight: Lights Out allows players to infiltrate the gritty and brutal world of underground fighting as a rugged bare-knuckle boxer. Players must brawl their way through the ranks of the world’s most dangerous fighters using PlayStation Move motion controllers and the PlayStation Eye camera to track their movements with one-to-one precision, allowing for seamless execution of every jab, uppercut and headlock.

(PS Blog Coverage: How to Fight Dirty in The Fight: Lights Out for PlayStation Move)

PlayStation Portable

Knights in the Nightmare – Not easily placed in any one genre, the game requires players to throw out everything they know about roleplaying and strategy games and embrace something altogether new and fresh. Frantic, energetic action mixes with thought-provoking tactical gameplay, all within a beautifully-rendered fantasy setting and presented through a captivating, emotional narrative.

(PS Blog Coverage: Knights in the Nightmare: Mastering Bullet Hell in a Strategy RPG)

PlayStation Network

Crescent Pale Mist — Crescent Pale Mist combines tense exploration platforming with rapid fighting and bullet-hell shoot-’em-up mechanics into one thrilling experience. You are the sorceress Yunou, the only magician capable of wielding powerful and deadly magic known as Pale Mist in Gasyukal, a beautiful and explosive dimension between worlds, rife with monstrosities.

(PS Blog Coverage: Next Week on PSN: Crescent Pale Mist)

PlayStation 2

Dora the Explorer: Dora’s Big Birthday Adventure — It’s Dora’s birthday and you know what that means … a fun-filled party with all her friends. The only problem is Dora and Boots are stuck in storybook land and must go on an exciting, magical journey if they hope to make it to the party on time. Along the way they’ll ride on a magic unicorn, bounce in a bubble over Sea Snake Lake and move to the beat in the Dancing Forest!

PlayStation minis

321… SuperCrash! — You thought you’d seen it all? Well, get ready to discover in 3, 2, 1… SuperCrash! A fun, original and extraordinarily addictive game. Run, jump and pass through walls while wrapping your arms around you to avoid messing your hair. Dodge all the obstacles that cross your path to reach the goal.

Fort Commander II: Counter Attack – This is a tower defense/strategy game in which players attempt to conquer opponents’ strongholds via brief battle sequences. From a bird’s-eye perspective, players deploy small characters on a grid to fight enemy units. Sword-clanging sounds and brief cries of pain can be heard during battles.

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

Happy Halloween! Not only do I bring you this week’s new releases on your favorite PlayStation console, but I bring you a collection of last minute Halloween costume ideas. Zeus! Ares! Athena! Oh my. Your favorite mythological Greek God-killer, Kratos, returns on the PSP this week with God of War: Ghost of Sparta. Stayed tuned this week when we debut my latest video feature when I visit the set of “God of War: Game Director’s Live,” where the game directors of God of War reunite and dissect the making of their epic saga. David Jaffe’s and Cory Barlog’s PlayStation 2 classics God of War and God of War II are remastered in high definition and bring the Blades of Chaos to the PlayStation Network this week.

Not big on dressing up with you family’s ashes for Halloween? Maybe dressing up as the adorable EyePet is a good alternative to the blood spilling and vengeance of Kratos. Grab your PSP, PSP Camera and your EyePet and take your virtual critter out to the park this week, when EyePet: Your Virtual Pet comes scratching at your door. The PlayStation horizon is filled with games this week branching from the PlayStation 3, PSone and even the PlayStation 2. Ditch the candy corn and get ready for delicious PlayStation Halloween treats in this week’s The Drop.

PlayStation 3

James Bond 007: Blood Stone – An international conspiracy has placed the UK’s most secretive bio-chemical project into deadly hands, and only Her Majesty’s most lethal agent, James Bond, can unravel the mystery. To navigate through layers of corruption, you, as Bond, will embark on a global chase that will have you battling on land, sea and air through Athens, Istanbul, Monaco, and Bangkok. Nothing is what it seems as each adventure reveals a deeper and more sinister conspiracy.

First of the North Star: Ken’s Rage – Sworn to protect the weak and innocent from malicious gangs roaming the post-apocalyptic planet, players use Ken’s trademark moves to decimate enemies on his quest to find his long-lost love. Tearing through the scorched landscape, manga and action fans will pummel their way through dozens of enemies at once and crush obstacles in their path, using them against their foes.

Megamind: Ultimate Showdown (Also on PSP) – Just as Megamind has become our new Mega Hero, a sudden crime wave hits the city. The Doom Syndicate & their Doom Goons have emerged and are looking to take over! Only Megamind and his arsenal of gadgets can stop them! Now, in three unique game play experiences, players can be the ultimate Mega Hero!

Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Defenders of the Core (Also on PSP) – In Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Defenders of the Core, players will create a new hero and lead the brawlers on an epic adventure to save Earth’s cities from Spectra and his Vexos minions.

Blood Drive – In Blood Drive, contestants must use their motorized death steeds of steel in a televised game show where drivers battle each other and hordes of revolting flesh eaters in an all-out fight to the death. Face undead frat boys, cops and strippers, each with their own special brand of death and devastation – and ways to die! While these rotting monsters wander the streets of a desert sin city craving sweet, succulent brains, your enemies have come equipped battle hardened armed vehicles, including heavily weaponized muscle cars, hot rods, and more.

Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2 — The second game in this high-flying, fast-hitting, and intense versus battles series, Dragon Ball: Raging Blast 2 promises over 90 characters from the massively popular anime franchise. Dragon Ball Z fans can rest assured that the destructible environment, and character trademark attacks and transformations will be true to the series.

Get Fit With Mel-B — In Get Fit With Mel, the former Spice Girl will bring you real-time advice and feedback on several disciplines like dance fit, cardio, step, pump and tone and kickboxing. The game also delivers a personal nutritional program (six meals plans and 140 recipes) totally aligned to your fitness workout.

PlayStation Portable

God of War: Ghost of Sparta – Set in the realm of Greek mythology, God of War: Ghost of Sparta is a single-player game that allows players to take on the powerful role of Spartan warrior Kratos. This new adventure picks up after the first God of War concludes, telling the story of Kratos’ ascension to power as the God of War. In his quest to rid himself of the nightmares that haunt him, Kratos must embark on a journey that will reveal the origins of lost worlds, and finally answer long-awaited questions about his dark past.

(PS Blog Coverage: God of War: Ghost of Sparta “Origins” Trailer + Bonus)

EyePet: Your Virtual Pet – EyePet on the PlayStation Portable uses the functionality of the camera peripheral to bring the cute little critter into your own world. Point the camera somewhere, slap down the included card and watch it interact with you in all kinds of surroundings. Take your EyePet to the park, train him in various activities on the bus or feed him at the restaurant with your own brand of virtual food.

Ys: The Oath in Felghana — Ys: The Oath in Felghana once again follows the adventures of friends Adol and Dogi who find themselves making an unannounced visit to Dogi’s hometown of Redmont in the land of Felghana. Since his departure eight years earlier, Dogi finds himself returning home to find that things have changed dramatically, and not for the better.

Archer Maclean’s Mercury & Mercury Meltdown: 2 Games in 1 – This double-pack of games combines both hit puzzlers created by industry veteran Archer MacLean. Included are the original Mercury and Mercury Meltdown.

No Heroes Allowed! – No Heroes Allowed! is the third in the acclaimed Badman franchise, a series of dungeon strategy games where you play the God of Destruction, summoned by the Evil Overlord Badman to dig a dungeon full of monsters to destroy the invading heroes, and help Badman conquer the known world!

(PS Blog Coverage: No Heroes Allowed! Announced for PlayStation Portable)

PlayStation 2

Toy Story 3: The Video Game – Embracing the adored and inspired fun of the Toy Story franchise, Toy Story 3: The Video Game features a story mode that follows the Toy Story 3 film adventures in which Buzz, Woody and friends grapple with their uncertain future as Andy prepares to depart for college.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2011 – Central to the heart and soul of PES 2011 is the idea of freedom of play. This freedom invigorates the series with the most advanced set of gameplay improvements ever attempted by the Winning Eleven Production team, coupled with the greatest stride in new content.

PlayStation Network

God of War: Collection — These PlayStation 2 games are remastered and pack 60 frames-per-second action, 720p graphics, and PlayStation Network Trophy support. In God of War, players take on the role of Kratos, a Spartan warrior. Plagued by the nightmares of his past, the ash covered warrior would do anything to be free of his debt to the Gods and the memories that haunt him. In God of War II, Kratos sits atop his Olympus throne, as the new God of War – far more ruthless than Ares ever was. To end his continued torment, Kratos must journey to the far reaches of the earth and defeat untold horrors and alter that which no mortal, or god has ever changed his fate.

(PS Blog Coverage: God of War: Collection on the PlayStation Store 11/2)

Hoard – Hoard is a fast-paced action game that promises addictive, thrilling action themed around dragons and their quest for treasure. The game gives players the chance to amass giant piles of gold by raiding medieval commerce, roasting knights with fire-breath, kidnapping princesses, scaring towns, and defeating powerful wizards.

(PS Blog Coverage: Stash Your Gold – HOARD Loots PSN November 2nd)

PSone Classic

Virtual Pool 3 – Experience all physical action including friction, speed, collision, and roll to give your game of pool unmatched realism.

PlayStation minis

Breakquest – BreakQuest is a new concept break-out-style game, featuring vibrant graphics, sparkling visual effects, and funky sound. Enjoy 100 unique levels! All of them with their own colorful designs, crystal clear sound and elements behavior. Arkanoid fans must check this out. The game is specially adopted for the PSP (and PS3) wide-screen and AnalogStick for the best console experience.

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

This is the week when I begin my official training in the art of Sith. Not just any ordinary Sith Lord, but one that can play a mean Keytar. I can picture it now, with one hand I’ll be Force Choking helpless Wookies and Ewoks, and with the other, I’ll be romancing Twi’lek women when I become the new front man in the Max Rebo Band.

If you’re anything like me, you spent an unhealthy amount of time building, painting and furnishing the perfect home for your Sim. Rejoice! Spend your hard earned simoleons (again) on the PlayStation 3 version of The Sims 3 this week. Take it to the top rope and become the ultimate WWE Superstar with the latest installment in the Smackdown vs Raw franchise for 2011, and finally, Blacklight: Tango Down arrives on the PlayStation Network. All this and much more with this week’s lineup of new titles. Can you smell what The Drop is cooking?

PlayStation 3

Rock Band 3 — Master an instrument through the gameplay fun of Rock Band Pro, add another member to your band with a keyboard controller, or experience 83 new hits from 83 unique bands, along with your current library of songs from the over 1,500 songs available to date and counting.

Star Wars: The Force Unleashed II – Explore more of the hidden shadows of the Sith with this sequel to the hit game Star Wars: The Force Unleashed. Starkiller, Darth Vader’s apprentice, returns with over-the-top Force powers and embarks on a journey to discover his own identity and to reunite with his one true love, Juno Eclipse.

The Sims 3 – In this home console version of The Sims 3, players will be able to create Sims with unique personalities, fulfill their desires and control their lives within a living neighborhood. Facing short and long term challenges, players will reap rewards and trophies and can even share achievements with friends by connecting to Facebook.

WWE Smackdown vs Raw 2011 — (Available on PSP) WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011 empowers players more than ever to to define their gameplay experiences in a dynamic and ever-changing WWE. Along the way, gameplay scenarios change based on player decisions, allowing for more spontaneous WWE action in and out of the ring. Players can also enjoy a greater level of interactivity and have increased control of their destinies in the game’s popular Road to WrestleMania story-driven mode.

Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete Edition — GTA IV reinvented the series with a renewed version of Liberty City detailed to the last pothole and rooftop vent. This Complete Edition combines all three chapters of the blockbuster release, including the original Grand Theft Auto IV storyline as well as its two expansions, The Lost and Damned & The Ballad of Gay Tony.

Tony Hawk: Shred – A skateboarding experience created for a younger audience, Tony Hawk: Shred allows players to GO BIG and feel the exhilaration of super sized skate and snowboarding using the game’s innovative, motion-sensing board controller right at their feet.

CSI: Fatal Conspiracy – CSI: Fatal Conspiracy features five connected cases that will allow players to experience an authentic crime-solving video game with real CSI characters, heart-pounding interrogations and enhanced graphics.

Monopoly Streets – Monopoly Streets has everything you love about the board game, presented as a street level tour of Mr. Monopoly’s fully animated world. Players can experience Monopoly, one of the world’s favorite family game brands, as a fully dynamic, living, 3D world that continuously evolves with the video game action.

Cabela’s Dangerous Hunts 2011 – Dangerous becomes deadly in Cabela’s Dangerous Hunts 2011 where the player steps into the boots of American marksman Cole Rainsford, who has joined his estranged father on an African safari to hunt savage animals that have been terrorizing remote villages.

Shaun White Skateboarding – As the first skateboarding game in the best-selling Shaun White video game franchise, Shaun White Skateboarding will provide an innovative twist and fresh take on the skateboarding and action-sports genre.

PlayStation Portable

Z.H.P. — A unique gaming experience created by the same team that brought the Disgaea series, Z.H.P. is the only turn based strategy RPG that allows you to create your own unique super hero to fight vicious villains. Z.H.P. gives you the chance to relive your childhood fantasy of making your own superhero and superhero base.

Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D’s Tag Force 5 – Six months after fighting against the Dark Signers, New Domino City and Satellite lived peacefully together, Until the arrival of three mysterious people claiming to be from Yliaster and a mysterious Turbo Duelist called Ghost.

Bakugan Battle Brawlers: Defenders of the Core – Players will discover a whole new aspect of Bakugan by being given complete control over their creatures when taking on their opponents as Bakugan transform from small balls into towering creatures. In the midst of intense battles, players will find themselves bravely exploring dangerous and dark areas to stop the evil spirits that are sucking the life force from the world.

PlayStation Network

Blacklight: Tango Down – In the near-future, the Blacklight Tango Team has been sent to find recently missing Colonol Klein and his personal Blacklight team in the city of Balik. The country has recently broken out in war after the assassination of the president. The rebel group that had killed the president, The Order, is thought to have captured or killed the missing Blacklight team. Tango Team is ordered to stop The Order at all costs…

Superstars V8 Racing – Licensed by the Italian Championship racing league, Superstars V8 Racing gets you out on the track to test your skills with V8 engines! Powered by some of the most important car manufacturers in the whole world, such as BMW, Audi and Jaguar, and sporting top class production cars, Superstars V8 Racing offers the utmost realistic impression of the Championship.

(PS Blog Coverage: Superstars V8 Racing Hits PSN Tuesday: Exclusive New Trailer, Giveaway)

PlayStation minis

Flick Fishing – With a skillful combination of bait, location, and technique you’ll hook a fish — now you just need to reel it in! Reel carefully to avoid snapping the line and losing your fish. Larger fish are strong, and won’t be hauled in easily.

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

This is probably the last time you’ll ever see the outside world thanks to the truck load of titles dropping this week on your favorite PlayStation platform. Strap on your Pipboy, grab a glass of radioactive purple drink and step out of your Vault as you join me for this week’s The Drop.

PlayStation 3

Fallout: New Vegas — Experience all the sights and sounds of fabulous New Vegas, brought to you by Vault-Tec, America’s First Choice in Post Nuclear Simulation. Explore the treacherous wastes of the Great Southwest from the safety and comfort of your very own vault: Meet new people, confront terrifying creatures, and arm yourself with the latest high-tech weaponry as you make a name for yourself on a thrilling new journey across the Mojave wasteland.

PS Blog Coverage: Your Fallout: New Vegas PS3 Questions Answered: Hardcore Mode, Morality, Combat and More

Vanquish — Russia and the United States are vying for ownership of the world’s fast-depleting energy resources and the US has constructed a space station in order to harness energy from the sun. Russian forces capture this space station and divert its harvested solar energy into a blast wave that destroys San Francisco, aiming to force the US into a total and unconditional surrender. In response, the US tasks its armed forces with recapturing the space station before the Russians can annihilate their next target – New York. Players take the role of Sam, a government agent who must stop the threat before it is too late.

PS Blog Coverage: Vanquish DEMO Coming to PSN Next Week!

Power Gig: Rise of the SixString — Power Gig: Rise of the SixString will transport players to an entirely new universe, with its own mythology, politics, settings, heroes and villains, where music rules all. On the gameplay front, Power Gig uses technology that represents the next evolution of music performance games to provide all players — from casual gamers to the hardcore, from those who have never before picked up a guitar to those who play guitar on a regular basis — with an authentic and fun experience.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 — Naruto: Ultimate Ninja Storm 2 faithfully recreates the anime series and envelops players into the mythical world of ninja with expansive environments, missions, battle systems and gameplay modes. With more than 40 characters to choose from, engaging in bigger and more epic cinematic boss battles has never been this explosive.

DJ Hero 2 — Picking up where the award-winning DJ Hero soundtrack left off, DJ Hero 2 spins together the hottest tracks blazing up the charts and legendary club anthems from the biggest artists in pop, dance and hip hop including Dr. Dre, The Chemical Brothers, Kanye West, Metallica, Lady Gaga, Rihanna and over 85 others.

Saw II: Flesh & Blood — Step into the dark and tormented world of Saw 2 and experience the gruesome traps that Jigsaw has created to test your will to survive. With new traps, puzzles, and combat system players will need to think fast and act quick to pass the rigors of the tests Jigsaw has engineered.

Rock of the Dead — Grab your axe and jump off stage as you transcend from aspiring musician to global rock god! The planet is under attack, and the only chance we have is through the power of rock! Use rippin’ riffs to unleash sonic blasts on hordes of flesh eaters! With a cast of characters voiced by Neil Patrick Harris, Felicia Day and Rob Zombie, huge boss battles and dozens of unlockables and upgradeable special attacks, the fate of the planet is in your hands!

EA Sports MMA — In EA Sports MMA, choose from the world’s top fighters or climb the ranks of the worldwide circuit with your created prodigy to become the ultimate MMA champion. Select from various weight classes, rule sets, and take on all challengers in multiple cage types or a ring.

SBK X Superbike World Champions — SBK X: Superbike World Championship brings racing excitement to players all over the world. Go wheel to wheel with up to 15 of your gearhead friends, enjoy three different modes of gameplay, and face over 90 actual racers on their bikes and in their circuits.

PlayStation Move

The Shoot — Become the ultimate action hero, using the PlayStation Move motion controller to shoot, punch and dodge your way through five exciting Hollywood movie sets in The Shoot. This is a shooting game designed for use with the PlayStation Motion Controller.

PS Coverage: The Shoot for PlayStation Move Hits on October 19

Time Crisis: Razing Storm — Destroy everything in sight, from the environments to the futuristic terrorists aiming to take you down! Get your gun ready for combat and keep the ammo This megapack contains three games: Razing Storm, Deadstorm Pirates and Time Crisis 4: Arcade Ver.

PS Coverage: Hands-on with Time Crisis: Razing Storm for PS3 and PlayStation Move

PlayStation Portable

Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi Tag Team — For the first time ever Dragon Ball Z fans can enter into high-impact two vs. two combat in Dragon Ball Z: Tenkaichi Tag Team for the PSP system. Play solo or team up via Ad Hoc mode to tackle memorable battles in a variety of single player and multiplayer modes, including Dragon Walker, Battle 100, and Survival Mode.

Blazing Souls Accelate — The story of Blazing Souls Accelate begins with Zero the protagonist making his living as an independent contractor. One day he is investigating a certain site. It is there that he finds a mysterious stone infused with a powerful magic known as the Core Elemental. On his travels, he begins to encounter the Human Genomes; one thirsts for power, one desires only the eradication of mankind and one hopes to retrieve what he has lost.

DJ Max Portable — DJ Max is a special PSP version of the web-based and mobile music mixing game from Korean game maker Pentavision. The game features four levels of difficulty for mixing the game’s assortment of tracks, plus a freestyle mode and a gallery of images and music videos from and inspired by the game.

Costume Quest — A childhood dream come alive created by Double Fine’s lead animator, Tasha Harris, Costume Quest follows the adventure of a group of young friends who must rid their neighborhood of monsters using only their wits, their bravery, and their home-made costumes. Players go door-to-door collecting candy, points, cards, battle stamps and quest assignments as they prepare themselves for Combat Mode — where they transform into larger-than-life versions of their costumes. Explore the various neighborhoods, complete quests, discover hidden areas and trick-or-treat your way through this spooky Halloween night.

PS Blog Coverage: 5 Inspirations Behind Costume Quest, Coming to PS3 October 19th

Tomb Raider Underworld — For generations, stories have been told of the fearsome weapon of Thor, the Norse god of thunder. In an ancient ruin on the floor of the Mediterranean Sea, Lara Croft uncovers proof of the Norse underworld and the mythical hammer. As she attempts to unravel the secrets behind these myths, Lara’s perilous journey leads her toward a forgotten power that, if unleashed, could lay waste to all civilization.

Aqua Panic! — A giant cyclone has sucked up thousands of fish from the oceans! It’s an ecological disaster! Tanks of water are immediately assembled throughout the world, so that all the fish can be returned to the oceans. As the sea creatures start falling back to Earth, someone must make sure they land safely and quickly since they cannot survive for long out of water.

PSone Classic Imports

Shienryu — Twisting alien dogfights. Towering armored mechs. Smoldering molten metal. Your life expectancy here is measured in seconds. If you’re not one of the best, you’re a smoking crater. Fly alone or with a friend-this is survival of the quickest!

Tall Unlimited – A challenging puzzler where gamers must build a tower with different colors of blocks. Combo and chain moves can be put together to rack up points and build the tower to the top.

PlayStation minis

Age of Hammer Wars — Age of Hammer Wars unlike any other game features battles of flying machines equipped with various slashing, piercing and blunt weaponry. Previously known as Hammerfall on PC it achieved critically acclaimed status by becoming IGF finalist in 2008. The game is set in steam punk universe with rich storyline and breathtaking scenery. A unique combat system is based on realistic physics simulation, and it ties the movements of the rider to the movements of analog stick. As you wave it, your rider swings his sledgehammer, smashing the foe into the wall! This creates an unmatched feel of the real strike, a feel of the mass of the weapon in your hands. The aesthetic conjures stark imagery of an industrious, romanticised era, and there’s a variable and long campaign that will bring hours of entertainment.

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

Did you know the word autumn comes from the Old French word autompne, and was later normalised to the original Latin word autumnus? Well neither did I, until I trolled Wikipedia to find a clever way to introduce this week’s The Drop and the beginning of the fall gaming season. Aside from the air getting cooler, and the trees shedding their leaves, a true gamer knows it’s a time for celebration and the end of the gaming summer drought. Publishers and developers have been hard at work polishing their blockbuster titles getting them ready for our grubby and dirty (and I mean dirty) hands. The first wave of fall titles promises to deliver endless amounts of gaming across all PlayStation fronts.

With controversy surrounding Ninja Theory’s new Devil May Cry, they have nothing to worry about when it comes to their latest title on the PlayStation 3 — Enslaved: Odyssey to the West is receiving a very warm welcome among game reviewers. Konami throws a jab and an uppercut with the devastating combo of Castlevania and Def Jam Rapstar this week, both landing on the PS3. The PlayStation Network delivers dual-stick shooting in the form of Alien Breed: Impact, The PSone Import Store gets two new Japanese classics, and PlayStation minis rounds out the pack with five new games hitting the digital front.

Grab your carving knives and pumpkins, we’ve got the PlayStation logo to carve out, kids. Join me for this week’s The Drop.

PlayStation 3

Enslaved: Odyssey to the West — In Enslaved, players take on the role of Monkey, a strong and brutish loner. His partner is Trip, a technologically savvy but sheltered young woman from a peaceful community. Both become captured by a mysterious slave ship, which are rumored to harvest people and take them out West, never to return. As they each attempt to escape, Trip quickly realizes that Monkey, with his raw strength and power, is the only hope she has of making the perilous journey back home. Check out our Q&A session with the Enslaved: Odyseey to the West team.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow — You play as Gabriel Belmont, a member of the Brotherhood of Light, an elite group of holy knights who protect and defend the innocent against the supernatural. His beloved wife was brutally murdered by the evil forces of darkness and her soul trapped for eternity. Neither living nor dead, she realizes the horrific truth of what is at stake and guides Gabriel to his destiny – and, hopefully, salvation for the world. Learn more about Gabriel Belmont from producer Dave Cox’s visit on the PS.Blog.

Def Jam Rapstar — A music game based hip-hop music and culture, Def Jam Rapstar provides a comprehensive emcee video game experience, and captures the essence of what hip-hop is all about: the music, the flow, the battles, and of course, the swagger.

NBA 2K11 (Also on PS2 & PSP) — In a gaming first, players can finally experience what it’s like to play in Michael Jordan’s shoes! Relive 10 different legendary games from Michael Jordan’s career and replicate in NBA 2K11 what MJ did on the court. You can even unlock MJ: Creating a Legend, a special mode where you get to take control of a newly drafted rookie Michael Jordan and craft your own version of Michael’s career in the NBA.

Ben 10 Ultimate Alien: Cosmic Destruction (Also on PSP) — Wield the power of the Ultimatrix, the strongest Omnitrix to date, to transform Ben into more powerful, hyper-evolved alien forms and experience impressive battles. Journey to iconic worldwide locales, including Paris, Tokyo, China, and Rome, in search of an ancient alien artifact that will help save humanity from a mysterious cosmic storm. As a bonus, players will receive the immensely strong Fourarms only on PS3.

PlayStation Network

Alien Breed: Impact — A science fiction arcade-shooter that resurrects a much revered franchise with an epic story, swarms of intelligent alien enemies, high-impact weapons and detailed rich environments.

Deadliest Warrior: The Game — Based on the the Spike TV series that regularly pits two of the most feared warriors civilization has ever known against each other in order to provide insight into what makes these combatants tick and determine which of these legends of the battlefield were truly the deadliest of all warriors.

PSone Japan Imports

Magical Drop F — This is a puzzle game in which players align falling colored orbs into matching groups of three. During the puzzle portion, female characters with revealing outfits (e.g., bikini tops, tube tops) are displayed in the background.

Arcade Hits: Outlaws of the Lost Dynasty — A fighter that features 13 characters from the Chinese classical novel Water Margin. An Arcade Mode that reproduces the arcade version of the game and an extra “Beginners’ Mode” are put in place to let different kinds of fans enjoy the fighting experience to the fullest.

PlayStation minis

Actual Crimes: Jack the Ripper — Travel back to 1880’s London to help Scotland Yard’s detectives solve the crime of the century. Search scenes of crime and solve puzzles in your hunt for clues. Was Jack a doctor, a royal prince, a barber, or something else?

Fort Commander: King’s Gambit — There has been a recent surge in games fulfilling the tower defense categorisation, and Fort Command: King’s Gambit is no exception. It features forts, fighting and fun in a neatly addictive little package.

Urbanix — You play as Urbanix, a tiny little tractor that has to build a town on an empty field. Avoid enemies, catch and chase away house crashers – they will try to spoil your game. Play on Earth, in the North Pole or on the Moon – all locations have different gameplay mechanics. Be accurate, be quick, collect bonuses on your way, and you will be the winner!

Apache: Overkill — An intense helicopter shoot ‘em up with 99 levels of non-stop explosive action. Blast away waves of choppers, trucks, jets, and tanks before facing the bombers, armoured airships and Special Ops. Use upgrades to boost your firepower, blitzing the enemy in a torrent of destruction.



Shapo — Get ready to test your skills of speed, balance, and strategy in this unique puzzler. Catch clusters of marbles and quickly place them on the teeter-totter grid. This seemingly simple task is complicated by an increasing number of heavier and heavier marble types.

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]

I hope my absence and the lack of updates on The Drop last week didn’t scare anyone. No need to fear, Sid and I arrived from the Tokyo Game Show unscathed and in one piece (sorta.) Make sure to check out Sid’s interview with Ueda-san on The Last Guardian, and my video interview with the boys behind Dante’s new look and their re-imagining of Devil May Cry.

The Drop returns fashionably late, with quite the ensemble — sporting a Terror is Reality shirt, bowling wrist guards, virtues thongs, Mega Man boots and a Guardian of Light as it’s wing man. Our lavish PlayStation party has the Warriors of Rock headlining, and everyone invited brought their PSPs for a quick game of soccer. Also, don’t mind the air-born Sims, they tend to fly extremely low. Sit, grab a soda and stay a while, we’re just getting started.

PlayStation 3

Dead Rising 2 — Like millions of Americans, former national motocross champion Chuck Greene is gripped by the TV sensation that is Terror is Reality. Hosted by the flamboyant Tyrone King, Terror is Reality pits ordinary members of the public against an arena full of zombies with a simple challenge – kill more zombies than your opponents and stay alive with the winner collecting big money and the chance to come back and secure even greater prizes.

Brunswick Pro Bowling — Strap on the wrist guard and roll on accurate oil patterns, earn tons of trophies, and unlock hidden items on your way to winning the world championship. Customize your bowler with genuine Brunswick equipment from bowling balls, shoes, and clothing. PlayStation Move friendly.

Quantum Theory — In this hyper-real action-shooter, players experience Syd and Filena’s adventurous ascent through a treacherous tower, presented in an art nouveau style, merging the beauty of organic motifs with technology and action-packed gameplay.

Front Mission: Evolved — Front Mission Evolved brings the classic Front Mission franchise into an action-packed third-person shooter that gives players full control of a massive humanoid war machine — the Wanzer. Choose from dozens of weapons and parts, including weapons that can be equipped on both hands and shoulders, to customize your Wanzer and blast your way to victory. When you think you’re ready for a new challenge, join the ranks of online pilots for multiplayer battles.

Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock — Featuring more than 90 tracks that include guitar shredding hits from bands such as Black Sabbath, Megadeth and Slipknot and larger than life anthems from Queen, Muse and KISS. Additionally, Dave Mustaine of Megadeth wrote and recorded “Sudden Death,” an original track for the game, which was inspired by Quest Mode’s storyline. Along with original songs, the set list also includes special re-records by famous artists and tracks from bands that are making their music video game debut.

Atelier Rorona: The Alchemist of Arland — The popular alchemic RPG series from Gust makes an evolutionary change with Atelier Rorona. The anime style characters and backgrounds remain, but they have been upgraded with a cell-shaded animation style. The basic game play carries over the tradition of the Atelier series, using alchemy as the main focal point. Like the previous series, players can craft new items and also battle enemies using the power of alchemy.

My Sims: Sky Heroes — Starting as an unknown pilot, players fight to become a celebrated hero as they defeat dangerous enemies in aerial combat, test their reflexes in fast-paced speed challenges, and take on massive enemy bosses that demand all their skills as a pilot to survive. As they progress, players build, customize and tune their aircraft to give them an edge in combat – upgrade wings for swifter maneuvers, switch out the engine for a speed boost, or change the paint job to camouflage the plane and avoid enemy fire.

Rapala Pro Bass Fishing (Also on PSP) — For the first time ever in a fishing game, the competition is set up in a professional tournament structure and the action is presented as a live TV event with announcers (including Barry Brueland, the voice of InFisherman TV), live updates, competitive leader boards, analysis, and final weigh-ins.

PlayStation Network

Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light — Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light showcases an isometric cooperative adventure that aims to deliver instant, intense action and bite-sized puzzles. Follow Lara as she goes in search of the Mirror of Smoke, an ancient artifact located in a ruin known as the Temple of Light. When she finally reaches the mirror, she is ambushed by a mercenary army who takes the mirror and release an evil entity. The Guardian of Light joins Lara as her unlikely ally to save the world from never-ending darkness.

Sword & Soldiers — A side scrolling real time strategy game in which three distinct factions battle for the powers of the gods. The game features a single player campaign and a competitive split-screen multi-player mode as well as several other game modes.

Megaman 9 & Megaman 10 Bundle — Three pellets of energy from your Mega Buster is all you need when Capcom goes double, delivering a bundle of Mega.. men. Game up, I better not see you running and gunning on easy mode, I’m sure you know — Capcom’s blue mascot cannot get a break.

PlayStation Portable

Fifa Soccer 11 (Also on PS3) — Building on the FIFA 10 gameplay that won 50 sports game of the year awards, FIFA 11 introduces new Pro Passing where pass accuracy is determined by a gamer’s ability on the control pad, and player skill, situation and urgency on the pitch, yielding a deeply rewarding passing system. Plus, a series of new customization tools will enable fans to transform FIFA 11 in new and personally meaningful ways.

[Editor’s Note: The following dates are subject to change. Game details are gathered from Press Releases from their individual publishers and/or ESRB rating descriptions.]