On The Drop this week, you can finally get your hands on the  graffiti spraying, side-scroller PSN exclusive, Sideway: New York.

Set the sky on fire with Ace Combat: Assault Horizon, Frank West returns in Dead Rising 2: Off the Record and zombies infest the wild west in Red Dead Redemption: Game of the Year Edition on PS3.

Enjoy The Drop.

PlayStation 3

Ace Combat: Assault Horizon – Ace Combat Assault Horizon intensifies the franchise, escalating combat to the next level with aircraft that are literally torn apart, spewing oil and debris across the sky. Players will engage in combat across the globe, dodging skyscrapers, and turning their enemies into fiery supersonic debris in both single player and online multiplayer. Never before has combat been so fast and in-your-face!

Dead Rising 2: Off the Record – Dead Rising 2: Off The Record, sees Wilamette survivor and hero of Dead Rising, photojournalist Frank West, take centre stage as players experience a very different interpretation of events in this, a reimagining of the Fortune City outbreak.

This alternate storyline means an all new Dead Rising 2 experience; with Frank facing new missions, new enemies, new combo-weapons with which to defeat them plus a brand new Fortune City attraction to explore. Complimenting the new narrative and action of Dead Rising 2: Off The Record are enhancements to elements such as the save system and the co-op experience to deliver more satisfying gameplay.

Red Dead Redemption: Game of the Year Edition – In addition to the award-winning original game, the Game of the Year edition of Red Dead Redemption comes packed with additional bonus content, including the add-on packs Undead Nightmare, Legends and Killers, Liars and Cheats Pack, Hunting and Trading Outfits Pack, Outlaws To The End Co-Op Mission Pack, Solomon’s Folly, and Myths and Mavericks.

Rune Factory: Tide of Destiny — Aden and Sonja, two lifelong friends, live a tranquil life on Fenith Island until they’re struck by a mysterious curse: they awaken to find both of their souls are now trapped in the same body! On top of this unusual calamity, the Fenith they knew is gone, replaced by a strange island populated with unfamiliar faces. Only by exploring this new world will they be able to solve the mystery of this curse and save their beloved Island.

During the course of their journey, Aden and Sonja will be aided by a colorful cast of characters, as well as take command of the towering golem Ymir. Using their newfound giant friend, they’ll cross vast seas, discover hidden islands and dungeons packed with riches, and battle fearsome monsters of the deep!

PlayStation Network

Sideway: New York (Only on PSN / Demo Available) – Set against the gritty art culture in New York City, Sideway follows the adventures of Nox, a 2D rebellious young artist, as he navigates the 3D urban streets.

Metal Slug 2 (Also on PSP) — Released in 1998 by SNK, Metal Slug 2 is a side-scrolling military-action game. Players choose from Marco, Tarma, Eri and Fio, setting their sights on wiping out Morden’s newly remobilized Rebellion Army. Just like the original Metal Slug, players blaze a trail by shooting and jumping, but Metal Slug 2 adds a new arsenal for you to command, including a heavy machine gun, a shotgun and even a laser gun, providing players with rich variety.

The King of Fighters ‘96 (Also on PSP) – The annual tournament to discover the new King of Fighters brings 27 of SNKs most powerful fighters together, throws them into teams of three, and lets you help them duke it out for the right to be called the best. The King of Fighters 96 entrants include Terry and Andy Bogard, Joe Higashi, Geese Howard, Wolfgang Krauser, and Mr. Big. There are nine pre-packaged teams, but with the custom-team option, you can create over 2900 of your own choosing.

Demos

• Stardrone
• NBA Jam: On Fire Edition
• The Cursed Crusade

PSone Classic

XS Junior League Football — XS Junior League Football is a Football game, developed by Wahoo Studios and published by XS Games, which was released in 2003.

[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 week, enter a world of enchantment and wonder when two highly acclaimed masterpieces return remastered in HD and 3D for PS3 with the ICO & Shadow of the Colossus Collection. Also, a kaleidoscope of synchronized music and 3D visuals combine in the battle to save Project Lumi with Child of Eden – go even deeper down the rabbit hole with the help of your PlayStation Move.

The PlayStation Store is also surging with new releases, headlined by sidescrolling PSN exclusive Rochard. Other noteworthy releases include The Splinter Cell Trilogy and Resident Evil Code Veronica X, both available in HD for the first time on a console. Soccer fans will rejoice with the arrival of FIFA Soccer 12 on the PSP, PS2 and PS3, while Castlevania: Harmony of Despair comes to PSN.

Enjoy this week’s The Drop.

PlayStation 3

ICO and Shadow of the Colossus Collection (3D Support) – ICO, a mysterious boy, has been expelled from his village to an isolated castle. Within his confines, he begins to have eerie dreams of rescuing a young princess from the evil spirits that dwell within the fortress. Blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, ICO embarks on a quest to save the princess and, along the way, discovers his own cryptic fate.

Shadow of the Colossus is a majestic journey through ancient lands to seek out and destroy gigantic mythical beasts. With your trusty horse at your side, explore the spacious lands and unearth each Colossi. Armed with your wits, plus a sword and a bow, you’ll use cunning and strategy to topple each behemoth.

Child of Eden (PS Move and 3D Support) — Child of Eden is the “multi-sensory shooter” that will send players diving into a kaleidoscopic matrix of synchronized music and mind-blowing visuals, and will usher forth yet another landmark game experience from the mind of renowned game designer Tetsuya Mizuguchi. Child of Eden thrusts you into the center of a battle to save Project Lumi, a mission to reproduce a human personality inside Eden, the archive of all human memories. As the project nears completion, the archive is invaded by an unknown virus. The player’s mission is to purify Eden of the virus in order to restore hope and peace.

Tom Clancy’s: Splinter Cell Classic Trilogy — Experience the first three of the original action-packed Splinter Cell franchise games, now digitally re-mastered in high definition and available on one Blu-ray Disc or as a PSN download bundle. Explore the conspiracy like never before with enhanced graphics that deliver a truly visceral action gaming experience. Included are Splinter Cell, Splinter Cell: Pandora Tomorrow, and Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory.

FIFA Soccer 12 (Also on PSP & PS2) — FIFA Soccer 12 brings to the pitch the game-changing new Player Impact Engine, a physics engine built to deliver real-world physicality in every interaction on the pitch.All-new Precision Dribbling delivers a higher fidelity of touch on the ball for attacking players, while Tactical Defending fundamentally changes the approach to defending by placing equal importance on positioning, intercepting passes and tackling.

Pro Evolution Soccer 2012 — This year, Konami is determined to give global football fans a truly realistic, immersive and a delightfully playable take on the beautiful game. Creative Producer Shingo “Seabass” Takatsuka has been sourcing the desires of fans across the globe and working non-stop on marrying the digital game to the real life game so fans can get as close to the real thing. All elements have been examined – defense, offense, AI, penalties, officiating and of course, graphics!

Atelier Totori: The Adenture of Arland — The small fishing village of Alanyaon the Arland Republic’s southern border is home to the young alchemist-in-training Totooria Helmold. One day, she resolves to make the journey to Arland, become an adventurer, and explore the world beyond her hometown. She will make many friends along her journey of discovery —some new, some familiar. When her quest comes to a close, your actions over the course of the game will dictate whether she finds the answers to her questions, forge unbreakable bonds with friends, or take different paths entirely.

X-Men: Destiny — Players control the fate of one of three brand-new mutant characters forced to choose between saving humanity or ensuring its destruction. The branching storyline, penned by acclaimed Marvel writer Mike Carey, features a deep element of choice, allowing players to customize the path, powers and development of their character and to decide their role in the mutant cause alongside, or against, some of Marvel’s greatest X-Men franchise characters, such as Magneto, Cyclops, Wolverine and Gambit.

Cabela’s Big Game Hunter 2012 — With the world as their playground, players will explore a vast expanse of mountains and valleys with unprecedented choices in direction never before seen in a Cabela’s hunting game. Players can climb an area to get a better angle for the shot but risk being spotted, or they can take a low elevation route with poor visibility but plenty of concealment. In order to bag the trophies, players will have to avoid detection through cunning, skill, and deception.

PlayStation Network

Rochard (PSN Exclusive // Demo Available) — Rochard follows the story of the humble astro-miner John Rochard, who accidentally discovers an ancient structure hidden deep in an asteroid, thus proving mankind isn’t alone in the universe. After John finds himself stranded on the asteroid, space pirates attack the mine, and John quickly realizes there are surprising and dangerous forces at work. Using only his wits, everyday mining tools and a healthy dose of sarcasm, John must fend off the pirates, save his team and solve the mystery behind his discovery.

Resident Evil: CODE Veronica X HD (PS Plus: 50% Off)– After narrowly surviving the horrific onslaught in Raccoon City, Claire Redfield now seeks clues in search of her missing brother, Chris. To her horror, she discovers Umbrella Corporation’s insidious activities are not isolated to the remote, mid-western city. No. Something much larger is going on here. Flesh-eating zombies and horrific beasts haunt Claire’s every move. Just how far does this twisted conspiracy extend? What is Umbrella Corporation really up to? And who is behind this biotech terror? The answer lies within.

Tiger Woods PGA Tour 12 — For the first time in the history of this award-winning sports franchise, players are able to step onto the hallowed grounds of Augusta National, experience the rich history and tradition of the Masters Tournament and begin their own journey to capture the most sought-after prize in professional golf — the Green Jacket.

Castlevania: Harmony of Despair — Featuring the classic fast paced 2D, side scrolling action the series is known for, fan favorite vampire hunters from across the series will join forces to return Dracula, the Lord of Darkness, to his eternal slumber. Designed by the legendary producer of the Castlevania series, Koji Igarashi, Castlevania Harmony of Despair allows up to six friends to play together via online co-op story mode or see who the best vampire hunter is in Survival Mode, which challenges players to fend off their friends while fighting for their very survival.

Mercury Hg (Demo Available) — The ‘Mercury Blob’ is still as mesmerizing as ever, moving uniquely under player control, changing color in order to progress through the level and dividing if cut by a protruding surface. While this dissection is important to solve puzzles, the real test of a player’s skill is the ability to navigate strategically through varying types of slippery objects and sticky tiles with the use of balance and momentum in order to get to the finish line with their blob fully intact. A scoring system with full online leaderboard support adds a competitive touch to an already engrossing single-player experience.

minis

• Jelly Pops
• Galcon Labs
• Revoltin’ Youth

[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.]

UPDATE: This post incorrectly identified the release of two PSone Classics, Final Fantasy VI and Chrono Trigger. These titles will not be releasing on PSN at this time. We sincerely regret the error.

PlayStation 3

Supremacy MMA – Supremacy MMA brings the brutality of unsanctioned and unlicensed MMA fighting to the bigtime, favoring fast-and-furious gameplay and underground aesthetics over official branding and television-style presentation. The game aims to raise the bar in the MMA space by bringing an unprecedented level of fast, fluid combat, intuitive controls and true-to-the-sport brutality.

PlayStation Portable

Persona 2: Innocent Sin (Also on PSN) – The story takes place in Sumaru City, Japan, population 1,280,000. Its protagonist attends Seven Sisters High School (“Sevens” for short), whose emblem is considered a status symbol even amongst students from other schools. Soon, though, a rumor that Sevens’ emblem was actually cursed, and that wearing it would disfigure one’s face, had spread around the city. Even worse, the rumor came true. And it was only the beginning of a string of rumors becoming reality, one after another. Before long, the protagonists discover the power to summon another side of them called “Personas,” which they use to investigate the strange incidents around the city, all while facing their own personal demons as well. Time is once again on the march…

PlayStation Network

Saints Row 2 — Saints Row 2 takes place a few years after the original. Several new upstart gangs have been able to sweep in and make their mark on Stilwater. At the same time, a multi-national conglomerate known as the Ultor Corporation has become a pivotal player in city politics, pumping millions of dollars into rebuilding the metropolis.

As leader of the Saints, you’ll have to do whatever it takes to protect the members of your gang from new enemies, including the Ultor Corporation and rival gangs.

Resident Evil 4 – The HD version of Resident Evil 4 comes to the PS3, featuring improved visuals that will enhance the player’s gaming experience. Six years have passed since Raccoon City was destroyed and the government has dismantled the Umbrella Corporation from the inside-out. But the terror is not over. Now a U.S. Agent, former Raccoon Police Officer Leon Kennedy has been dispatched on a mission to Europe to save the President’s daughter from a “crazed organization” that bares a striking behavioral resemblance to creatures found in the Arklay Mountains. Is there a connection between these foes and the horrible nightmares from the past?

Burnout Crash (Demo Available) – Burnout Crash packs countless hours of reckless chaos into an easy to pick up, but difficult to master gameplay experience. There are three explosive game modes available across 18 crash junctions in six unique locations, each requiring different skills and strategies to maximize damage and destroy everything in sight. With a variety of player vehicles to unlock, high-value targets to seek and destroy, and crazy surprise features to discover, players will be hooked on an adrenaline-fueled rampage to the top of the Crashwall.

Cubixx HD (Demo Available) – Use your laser to cut away the surfaces of a mysterious cube and free the energy within. Cutting longer lines and crossing multiple cube surfaces gives you bigger combos, but at far greater risk. Can you brave this hazardous environment and complete all 20 levels? Old-school, high score-chasing gameplay with a modern twist. Do you have what it takes to top the high score table and become number one?

Altered Beast – Destroy all enemies to rescue the fair maiden. Your powers increase when you destroy certain enemies and take their energy; once you achieve a certain energy level, you can alter your shape into that of a beast!

Bolt — In Disney’s Bolt, players take on the heroic personas of the TV star dog, Bolt, and his owner, Penny, from the high-action television series featured within the film. As Bolt, players can use his superpowers, including laser vision and his superbark, which sends out a sonic blast to devastate opponents, and as Penny, players utilize stealth, hacking skills and a wheelbar, inspired by her scooter seen in the movie, to outwit enemies.

minis

• Edge — Develop your telekinetic strength by pushing a Cube within a geometric universe. Platforms, enigmas and reflexes combine to make Edge a rich and very comprehensive game.

PSone Classic

Chrono Trigger — Living in the seemingly peaceful kingdom of Guardia in 1000 A.D., the child Crono was chosen by guardian spirits to save the world from ultimate devastation. Though Doomsday will not happen until the year 1999, the ancient seeds of destruction were planted long ago the the evil LAVOS. Your mission in the world of Chrono Trigger is to travel back and forth through time to change the course of history, and stop LAVOS from succeeding in his dark plan. On your journey, you will battle monsters and meet many helpful people in both the past and the future. Some will become your faithful and powerful companions, while others will give you clues by telling you stories.
Final Fantasy VI — With Edgar’s tools, Terra’s magic, Sabin’s fists and the skills of a dozen additional characters, the Returners need only your help to seize victory from the Empire. Summon the power of the espers, magical creatures enslaved by the Empire.
[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.]

PlayStation 3

Child of Eden (PlayStation Move & 3D Support) – Child of Eden thrusts the player into the center of a battle to save Project Lumi, a mission to reproduce a human personality inside Eden, the archive of all human memories. As the project nears completion, the archive is invaded by an unknown virus. The player’s mission is to save Eden from the virus, restoring hope and peace.

This game is a collaboration between publisher Ubisoft and acclaimed videogame creator Tetsuya Mizuguchi — the mastermind behind the acclaimed game Rez. The player becomes truly immersed in the game, between him and the game world.

Supremacy MMA – Supremacy MMA brings the brutality of unsanctioned and unlicensed MMA fighting to the bigtime, favoring fast-and-furious gameplay and underground aesthetics over official branding and television-style presentation. The game aims to raise the bar in the MMA space by bringing an unprecedented level of fast, fluid combat, intuitive controls and true-to-the-sport brutality.

PlayStation Portable

Persona 2: Innocent Sin (Also on PSN) – The story takes place in Sumaru City, Japan, population 1,280,000. Its protagonist attends Seven Sisters High School (“Sevens” for short), whose emblem is considered a status symbol even amongst students from other schools. Soon, though, a rumor that Sevens’ emblem was actually cursed, and that wearing it would disfigure one’s face, had spread around the city. Even worse, the rumor came true. And it was only the beginning of a string of rumors becoming reality, one after another. Before long, the protagonists discover the power to summon another side of them called “Personas,” which they use to investigate the strange incidents around the city, all while facing their own personal demons as well. Time is once again on the march…

PlayStation Network

Mass Effect 2 — Returning to PSN and once again stepping into the role of the heroic Commander Shepard, gamers command their crew on a suicide mission in space. Players must assemble their squad from amongst the galaxy’s most powerful mystics, geniuses, and convicts and lead them on a suicide mission to discover why humans are vanishing from the galaxy. The success of the mission hinges on the squad recruited and their loyalty to the mission. Shepard’s future depends on it.

Bringing this blockbuster franchise to PlayStation 3 for the first time, this edition of Mass Effect includes the full Mass Effect 2 game and hours of bonus content, introducing PS3 players to BioWare’s award-winning action RPG franchise.

Saints Row 2 — Saints Row 2 takes place a few years after the original. Several new upstart gangs have been able to sweep in and make their mark on Stilwater. At the same time, a multi-national conglomerate known as the Ultor Corporation has become a pivotal player in city politics, pumping millions of dollars into rebuilding the metropolis.

As leader of the Saints, you’ll have to do whatever it takes to protect the members of your gang from new enemies, including the Ultor Corporation and rival gangs.

Resident Evil 4 (PlayStation Move Support) – The HD version of Resident Evil 4 comes to the PS3, featuring improved visuals that will enhance the player’s gaming experience. Six years have passed since Raccoon City was destroyed and the government has dismantled the Umbrella Corporation from the inside-out. But the terror is not over. Now a U.S. Agent, former Raccoon Police Officer Leon Kennedy has been dispatched on a mission to Europe to save the President’s daughter from a “crazed organization” that bares a striking behavioral resemblance to creatures found in the Arklay Mountains. Is there a connection between these foes and the horrible nightmares from the past?

Burnout Crash (Demo Available) – Burnout Crash packs countless hours of reckless chaos into an easy to pick up, but difficult to master gameplay experience. There are three explosive game modes available across 18 crash junctions in six unique locations, each requiring different skills and strategies to maximize damage and destroy everything in sight. With a variety of player vehicles to unlock, high-value targets to seek and destroy, and crazy surprise features to discover, players will be hooked on an adrenaline-fueled rampage to the top of the Crashwall.

Cubixx HD (Demo Available) – Use your laser to cut away the surfaces of a mysterious cube and free the energy within. Cutting longer lines and crossing multiple cube surfaces gives you bigger combos, but at far greater risk. Can you brave this hazardous environment and complete all 20 levels? Old-school, high score-chasing gameplay with a modern twist. Do you have what it takes to top the high score table and become number one?

Altered Beast – Destroy all enemies to rescue the fair maiden. Your powers increase when you destroy certain enemies and take their energy; once you achieve a certain energy level, you can alter your shape into that of a beast!

Bolt — In Disney’s Bolt, players take on the heroic personas of the TV star dog, Bolt, and his owner, Penny, from the high-action television series featured within the film. As Bolt, players can use his superpowers, including laser vision and his superbark, which sends out a sonic blast to devastate opponents, and as Penny, players utilize stealth, hacking skills and a wheelbar, inspired by her scooter seen in the movie, to outwit enemies.

minis

• Edge — Develop your telekinetic strength by pushing a Cube within a geometric universe. Platforms, enigmas and reflexes combine to make Edge a rich and very comprehensive game.

PSone Classic

Chrono Trigger – Living in the seemingly peaceful kingdom of Guardia in 1000 A.D., the child Crono was chosen by guardian spirits to save the world from ultimate devastation. Though Doomsday will not happen until the year 1999, the ancient seeds of destruction were planted long ago the the evil LAVOS. Your mission in the world of Chrono Trigger is to travel back and forth through time to change the course of history, and stop LAVOS from succeeding in his dark plan. On your journey, you will battle monsters and meet many helpful people in both the past and the future. Some will become your faithful and powerful companions, while others will give you clues by telling you stories.

Final Fantasy VI — With Edgar’s tools, Terra’s magic, Sabin’s fists and the skills of a dozen additional characters, the Returners need only your help to seize victory from the Empire. Summon the power of the espers, magical creatures enslaved by the Empire.

[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.]

PlayStation 3

Madden NFL 12 (Also Available on PSP) — Madden NFL 12 continues the rich tradition of the storied franchise by bringing fans closer to the NFL than ever before. Featuring all 32 teams, stadiums, and all your favorite players in the league, Madden NFL 12 is True to the Game. All-new collision system, advanced defensive A.I. enhancements highlight the 2012 edition’s improved feature set, with Custom Playbooks also added provide a more authentic gameplay experience. Franchise mode includes more than 100 new features and enhancements, while Superstar mode now allows fans to control the growth of their superstar with an all-new progression system. Dynamic Player Performance creates unprecedented realism as a player’s skills and confidence will rise and fall based on his performance throughout a game or in Franchise mode, just like the real NFL. No two players will play the same in Madden NFL 12. Further adding to the experience, Online Communities will provide an all-new way for Madden NFL gamers to meet and play, and Madden NFL Ultimate Team continues to offer the perfect combination of Madden NFL Football, fantasy football, and trading cards.

Bodycount — Set to rip apart the First Person Shooter genre with an orgy of bullets and destruction, Bodycount blasts outrageous action and spectacular fire-fights from both barrels. In the game, players become ensnared in a clandestine global power struggle as a powerful combat asset with a green-light to eliminate enemies known only as “Targets” on behalf of the “Network”. Equipped with a mouth-watering selection of contemporary weapons, players and opponents tear through destructible cover to execute explosive kills in a shreddable world where operatives are encouraged to leave no witnesses. Powered by the award-winning EGO Engine, all of this action is complimented by online multiplayer and co-operative game modes.

Air Conflicts: Secret Wars — Air Conflicts: Secret Wars is an arcade flight simulation set in World War I & II scenarios. During the 7 campaigns the player has to fly and fight through over 48 missions. Before taking off, the player can choose between different aircrafts, each with different strengths and weaknesses.

PlayStation Network

Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection — Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection offers fans the chance to play through the games in their original arcade state and rediscover all their favorite characters, fatalities and environments as well as relive some of the franchise’s most memorable secrets. In addition, this new collection features online play, leaderboards, achievements and trophies. Mortal Kombat Arcade Kollection marks the first time the original Mortal Kombat arcade trilogy — Mortal Kombat, Mortal Kombat 2 and Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 — have been brought together in a single collection.

4 Elements HD — 4 Elements HD takes place in an ancient kingdom where evil forces have corrupted the balance between the four elements causing the altar of life to run dry. You have to unlock four ancient books of magic, collect 16 cards and restore this kingdom to life.

The Baconing (Demo Available) — A stand-alone gaming experience for fans of DeathSpank, The Baconing is about the mythology of the Bacon Fires. Players will be able to meet some old friends and new acquaintances in this new high profile comical adventure.

Ugly Americans: Apocalypseageddon (Demo Available) — Uniting the spirit and humor of the animated horror-comedy series with addictive game play, this four player co-op side-scroller shooter game features an exclusive script written by the show writers and creators – including a new character unique to the game and custom voiceovers from the show’s actors. Players will hit the streets to clean up the chaos and prevent the impending apocalypse by resolving case files and fighting otherworldly citizens.

More on PSN

• Shock Troopers (Also on PSP)
• World Heroes
• Elevator Action Deluxe

minis

• Snowy: The Bear’s Adventures
• Carnivores: Ice Age

PlayStation Portable

ClaDun X2 — Dive back into the world of ArcanusCellawith a new cast and a new adventure! Take on the role of a wandering warrior trapped in a dangerous pocket-sized world filled with more monsters, more weapons, more dungeons and more danger than ever before—and there’s only one way out. ClaDunx2 has twice the thrills, twice the spills, twice the lovable classic-nessof the first!

World Heroes — This super-charged fighting game features eight characters, including Hanzo, Janne and Rasputin, modeled on historical figures from throughout the ages. The fighters compete against each other to become the world’s toughest combatant, with players using a setup consisting of only three buttons (one each for punching, kicking and throwing). and held.

[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 Danish game developers that make up Playdead bring their monochromatic 2D side-scrolling puzzler Limbo to PSN this week. Its game mechanics thrive on “trial and death,” so expect to be treated to a gruesome untimely death after failing its addictive puzzles. Who knew saving your little sister could be such a burden?

Sega brings Captain America into the third dimension with Captain America: Super Soldier on PS3 in 3D. You play as Ben McCall in Ubisoft’s vision of the Wild West hunting down the Cartel in a lawless Los Angeles in Call of Juarez: The Cartel. PSone Japan imports return, and minis dishes out 10 unique digital titles for your PSP and PS3.

Quench your summer thirst with this week’s The Drop.

PlayStation 3

Call of Juarez: The Cartel – When a Mexican drug cartel bombs a U.S. law enforcement agency, the U.S. government puts together a special task force to bring them down. You can explore each character’s dedicated storyline, choosing to play as Ben McCall, a brutal LAPD cop and descendant of Ray McCall; Eddie Guerra, a DEA agent who gambles compulsively; or gangbanger-turned-FBI agent Kim Evans. As you fight to dismantle the Cartel and unfurl the mystery of the bombing, you’ll embark on an epic, bloody road trip from the streets of Los Angeles to Ciudad Juarez.

Captain America: Super Soldier – Captain America: Super Soldier combines an athletic combat system with fluid platforming and a finely tuned suite of shield attacks as Cap explores a massive castle that’s been converted into a military installation. His shield is a versatile weapon, capable of taking out multiple enemies at once, deflecting incoming fire back at enemies, solving puzzles, and helping Cap scale walls. As the world’s first super soldier, you’ll need every bit of that strength to overcome this playground for the Captain’s physical prowess.

PlayStation Network

Limbo — (Demo Available) Limbo is a monochromatic puzzle-platforming adventure that puts players in the role of a young boy traveling through a hostile world in an attempt to discover the fate of his sister.

Fast Draw Showdown — Do you think you’re the fastest gunslinger in the West? Let’s see how you fair in Fast Draw Showdown. Fight against the roughest thugs, cowboys and outlaws in this Western shootout!

Dead Block — (Demo Available) Dead Block focuses on innovative defensive gameplay in which the few remaining survivors, Jack Foster (a construction worker), Foxy Jones (a traffic warden), and Mike Bacon (a perpetually hungry boy scout) have formed an unlikely alliance to protect themselves from the invading undead. Hiding in various shelters around town, they avoid Zombies by building blockades, setting fiendish traps or – as a last resort – using their weapons to fight.

Baseball Stars 2 (Also on PSP) — Lace up your cleats and step onto the diamond with the pros of Baseball Stars 2. You’ll find everything you’d expect in a classic game of baseball, but with an arcade feel and intense action that distinguish it from the pack. Pick one of six unique teams from cities around the world, then get ready for nine innings of excitement, whether you’re taking on the computer in a 15-game tournament or squaring off against a friend.

The King of Fighters ‘95 (Also on PSP) – Choose from 26 different characters and let the brawling begin. Play the Normal mode and face a series of one-on-one fights. After beating all of the competition, you will learn of each character’s unique motivation for entering the King of Fighters tournament. In addition to the Normal mode, a Team Battle option has been included, where two teams of three of fighters compete against each other. You can choose from eight different teams or create your own with the team edit feature. No matter what mode you play, you must be aware of the last resort moves whenever a character is about to be defeated, he or she has access to huge fireball or massive hit combinations that can level the playing field in an instant.

minis

• Me Monstar: Hear Me Roar
• Angry Birds
• Athena
• Guerilla Wars
• Hal 21
• Ikari Warriors
• Marvin’s Maze
• Ozma Wars
• Sauke vs Commander
• Vanguard

PlayStation Portable

Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions — Originally released in 1997, Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions is a portable update on the classic turn-based strategy game that gave birth to the world of Ivalice. New features include all-new CG sequences, all-new jobs, new 16:9 widescreen presentation, new head-to-head multiplayer and new storyline elements that refine the genesis of the Ivalice Alliance.

PSone Japan Import

Kyuiin – You play as a boy or a girl who flies around on a vacuum cleaner. You have a choice between four standard weapons: Vulcan, laser, homing and rapid shot. These can all be powered up three times by collecting flying orbs. Another vital part of your arsenal is your vacuum hose, which plays a very important part in the game. You can suck up certain types of enemies like birds, paper planes and angels.

[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.]

July is packed with amazing PlayStation Plus content – including Assassins, Fighters, Guerrillas, Axe-men, and much more – all coming in two publishes on July 12th and 19th. Don’t miss the July 19th update when the hot 2K Summer Sale starts. A Special Offer for PlayStation Plus users includes the Borderlands full bundle for $14.99 (sale price $19.99). This bundle includes the full game, and all 4 pieces of add-on DLC. Purchased individually these items would add up to more than $65!

Check out our highlighted offers below, along with the full list that follows:

Free Games and DLC

As a reminder, the free monthly games for Plus were released on July 5th, so the next set of free titles will be on August 2nd and announced on the blog on July 20th. With that said, Plus is still offering the SEGA Genesis classic title Golden Axe for free (and early) to Plus on July 12th!

Get ready to battle rebel soldiers and rescue hostages because Guerrilla War, a PS mini from SNK, is also available for free starting July 19th! This mini title is being offered as a bonus for the month of July in celebration of all the SNK minis releasing on PSN.

Huge Discounts

Speaking of SNK, PlayStation Plus is offering the following SNK minis titles each at 20% off their regular store price starting July 19th:

• Baseball Stars 2
• The King of Fighters ’95
• Athena minis
• Hal 21 minis
• Ikari Warriors minis
• Marvin’s Maze minis
• Ozma Wars minis
• Sasuke vs. Commander minis
• Vanguard minis

Plus is offering One Epic Game mini a month early to its release and at 50% off starting July 19.

Exciting Exclusives

Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood Full Game Trial comes free and exclusive to PlayStation Plus on July 12th!
As always be sure to check the full list of new items as well as items that are being taken down from the PlayStation Plus storefronts below:

PlayStation Plus Highlights for 7/12:

Full Game Trial

• Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (Free and exclusive to Plus)

Featured Games

• Golden Axe (Full game) (Free and exclusive to Plus)

Featured Themes & Avatars

• Dino Crisis 2 – 10 Avatar Bundle (Exclusive to Plus for $0.99)
• PlayStation Plus Anniversary Dynamic Theme (Free and exclusive to Plus)
• Summertime Static Theme (Free with Plus – a $0.99 value)

PlayStation Plus Highlights for 7/19:

Featured Games & DLC

• Guerilla War minis (Free with Plus, a $2 .99 value)

Discounted Games

• Borderlands Bundle (PlayStation Plus price $14.99 – a $65 value)
• Cuboid (PlayStation Plus price $3.99; a 20% discount)
• Interpol: The Trail of Dr. Chaos (PlayStation Plus price $3.99; a 20% discount)
• Magic Orbz (PlayStation Plus price $3.99; a 20% discount)
• Sky Fighters (PlayStation Plus price $3.99; a 20% discount)
• Smash Cars (PlayStation Plus price $5.99; a 20% discount)
• Wakeboarding HD (PlayStation Plus price $3.99; a 20% discount)
• Hamsterball (PlayStation Plus price $3.99; a 20% discount)
• Richochet (PlayStation Plus price $3.99; a 20% discount)
• Baseball Stars 2 (PlayStation Plus price $7.19; a 20% discount)
• The King of Fighters ’95 (PlayStation Plus price $7.19; a 20% discount)
• Athena minis (PlayStation Plus price $2.39; a 20% discount)
• Hal 21 minis (PlayStation Plus price $2.39; a 20% discount)
• Ikari Warriors minis (PlayStation Plus price $2.39; a 20% discount)
• Marvin’s Maze minis (PlayStation Plus price $2.39; a 20% discount)
• Ozma Wars minis (PlayStation Plus price $2.39; a 20% discount)
• Sasuke vs. Commander minis (PlayStation Plus price $2.39; a 20% discount)
• Vanguard minis (PlayStation Plus price $2.39; a 20% discount)

Featured Themes & Avatars

• Fast Draw Showdown Dynamic Theme (Free with Plus, a $2 .99 value)
• Amazing Earth: Volcano Dynamic Theme (PlayStation Plus price $0.90; a 70% discount)
• Apache Gunship Dynamic Theme (PlayStation Plus price $0.90; a 70% discount)
• Divine Light Dynamic Theme (PlayStation Plus price $0.90; a 70% discount)
• Destination: Japanese Temple Dynamic Theme (PlayStation Plus price $0.90; a 70% discount)

Last Chance, Get Them While You Can – Coming Down on July 12th

Featured Offers to PlayStation Plus Subscribers

• Streets of Rage 2 (Free with Plus, a $4 .99 value)

Discounted Games

• Magic the Gathering: Duels of the Planeswalkers 2012 (PlayStation Plus price $7.99; a 20% discount)