DigitalBattle.com » PlayStation 2

Toys R Us now accepting console trade-ins

Jeff Baker — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 21:30:32 +0000

Toys R Us has today released a press release letting us know that they will now begin accepting used console trade-ins much like competitor GameStop has been doing for some time now.

This program allows you to trade in everything from the Xbox 360 and Wii to the PS1 and Nintendo 64. Of course, you’re only going to be able to get yourself a gift card for the trade-in instead of cold hard cash but you win some you lose some, right?

Check out the press release after the break.

Toys“R”Us Expands ‘Big Gift’ Layaway to include video game hardware; adds video game hardware trade-in for gift card program

Company Promises Aggressive Video Game Hardware and Software Deals Throughout Holiday Season, Including Buy One, Get One Half Off and $25 iTunes Gift Card with Purchase of Select Hot Games Beginning Sunday, November 22

WAYNE, NJ (November 18, 2009) – Toys“R”Us today announced it has expanded its popular “Big Gift” layaway to include video game hardware and is also introducing a new video game hardware trade-in program. Now gift-givers have even more convenient ways to pay and save with these additional value offerings just in time for the holiday season, whether they are looking to buy new hardware, rid their basement of old items or both!

“Since the introduction of the ‘Big Gift’ layaway last month, the number one request we’ve received from customers is to expand the program to include video game hardware, and we’re responding by providing more convenient payment options for these items,” said Jerry Storch, Chairman and CEO, Toys“R”Us, Inc. “At the same time, we’re adding a video game hardware trade-in program in our stores for customers who may be looking for ways to save on Christmas gifts for loved ones or to upgrade their own gaming systems.”

“Big Gift” Layaway Expands to Include Video Game Hardware

Effective immediately, video game hardware is now included in the company’s “Big Gift” layaway offering. Through the program, customers can reserve some of the hottest items of the season early when supply is at its best, and make a series of small payments over time. Video game hardware such as Nintendo Wii, DS and DSi, Microsoft Xbox 360 and Sony PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable systems and related accessories can be placed on layaway. Customers nationwide have been taking advantage of the “Big Gift” layaway as an option for gifting large items such as bikes, Power Wheels®, play kitchens, dollhouses, cribs and more since its introduction in October.

Placing a product on layaway at any Toys“R”Us store requires a deposit of 20% of the total purchase, including all applicable taxes, and a $10 service charge. Payments may be made at the store at any time in the form of cash, check, credit card, debit card or gift card. Items must be paid for in full by December 6 to ensure the gift is available for pickup before Christmas. A fee will apply to canceled layaway orders*.

*The program is not available in Maryland at this time. Stores in Ohio and Rhode Island have different policies for canceled orders. See stores for details.

Video Game Hardware Trade-In Program Introduced

Beginning Friday, November 20, customers can trade in used video game hardware at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide in exchange for Toys“R”Us gift cards**. Whether a dad trades in the Nintendo Game Boy Advance from his childhood and uses the gift card he receives to buy toys for his own kids or an avid gamer wants to upgrade to the newest gaming system, customers will appreciate being able to turn outdated video game hardware into savings on their next Toys“R”Us purchase.

Video game hardware systems eligible for the trade-in program include:

Microsoft – Xbox 360 Core/Arcade, Xbox 360 Premium 20 GB, Xbox 360 Premium 60 GB, Xbox 360 Elite, Xbox 360 Halo Edition and Xbox Original

Sony – PlayStation 3 20 GB, PlayStation 3 40 GB, PlayStation 3 60 GB, PlayStation 3 80 GB, PlayStation 3 160 GB, PlayStation 3 Slim 120 GB, PlayStation 2 Original, PlayStation 2 Slim, PlayStation 1, PlayStation Portable Original, Slim and Go

Nintendo – Wii, DSi, DS Lite, DS, Game Boy Advance SP, Game Boy Advance, Game Cube and Nintendo 64

Customers can participate in the video game hardware trade-in program at Toys“R”Us stores in the United States as follows:

* Used video game hardware may be brought to a Toys“R”Us Guest Services desk.
* Hardware will then be scanned and prices will be offered for each item.
* Customers confirm that they want to accept the offer to exchange any, or all, of the hardware they brought to the store.
* Once the transaction is complete, customers receive an activated gift card equal to the total worth of all hardware traded.
* Immediately upon receiving the gift card, customers can purchase any product from iPods and toys to candy and diapers at any Toys“R”Us or Babies“R”Us location or online at Toysrus.com.

This new trade-in option for video game hardware supplements a video game trade-in program offered since September in Toys“R”Us stores nationwide.

** Video game hardware trade-in is unavailable at Toys“R”Us Holiday Express locations and select Toys“R”Us locations. See stores for details.

PS2 celebrates 9th birthday

James Hyde — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 06:15:40 +0000

This day, nine years ago, Sony launched what would become the best selling console of all time, the PlayStation 2. On the 9th anniversary of the launch, Sony revealed the staggering sales numbers: 140 million units sold worldwide, beating out the DS and GameBoy, with 120 million and 108 million units sold, respectively.

What’s even more amazing, is that some 10,000 (yes, ten thousand) games have been released for the PS2, developed by over 450 different developers, and there have been sold over half a billion PS2 games in the US alone. Wow.

Amazon holding buy 2 get 1 free game deal

Jeff Baker — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:34:42 +0000

Amazon.com has today announced that they will be holding a buy 2 games get 1 free deal through Saturday, October 17th. In such an economy, this is a perfect time for gamers to rejoice and hop on this deal as fast as they can.

What’s better is games such as Madden NFL 10, Need for Speed: Shift, NHL 10 and Call of Duty: World at War all make the cut, among other titles.

Check out the full list of qualifying titles for the various consoles here.

Madden NFL Arcade coming this December

James Hyde — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:03:19 +0000

EA has announced that a cut-down, arcade version of Madden will make its way to the Xbox 360 and PS3 in form of a download-only game. The game, which features 5-on-5 only play with all 32 NFL teams, and will cost $15 (or 1200 MS points) and will be available this December. NFL Arcade will also feature all the real stadiums with a shorter, 60 yard field and just enough team stars to build a decent 5 man squad.

Jak & Daxter: The Lost Frontier gets dated

Jeff Baker — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 17:11:44 +0000

Jak & Daxter: The Lost Frontier was first announced towards the beginning of April but at the time there was no release date announced.

High Impact Games has today come forth to let us know that Jak & Daxter: The Lost Frontier will be out for the PSP and PS2 on November 3rd.

via joystiq

DJ Hero to be made playable at GameStop this Sunday

Jeff Baker — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 23:43:19 +0000

If you’re dying to get get your hands on DJ Hero and happen to live by a GameStop, you’re in luck — Activision has recently announced that they are teaming up with GameStop to give the general public a chance to play DJ Hero this Sunday, October 11th from 10:00am – 6:00pm.

The best part about this promotion is that it is going on at every GameStop across the nation and even gives you the opportunity to win prizes scuh as a chance to meet Eminem and attend one of his concerts in New Orleans, among other things like Xbox 360s, the game and more.

Full list of prizes below courtesy of Joystiq:

Grand Prize (1 Winner)

VIP trip for you and a friend to EMINEM’s concert at the Voodoo Music Experience in New Orleans on October 30, 2009

Exclusive invitation to EMINEM’s sound check

VIP meet and greet with EMINEM

2 Xbox 360 DJ Hero Renegade Editions signed by EMINEM

2 Xbox 360 consoles

2 Xbox LIVE Messenger Gold Packs

2 DJ Hero exclusive prize packs

1st Runner Up (10 Winners)

Xbox 360 DJ Hero Renegade Edition signed by EMINEM

Xbox 360 console

Xbox LIVE Messenger Gold Pack

2nd Runner Up (1,000 Winners)

DJ Hero exclusive prize pack including: DJ Hero hat, keychain, pen and sticker

DJ Hero pre-order bonuses announced

Jeff Baker — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 02:07:26 +0000

DJ Hero’s October 27th release date is quickly approaching so it would only make sense that Activision would let us in on the various pre-order bonuses you will recieve while purchasing the game at various retailers.

Below is the full list of pre-order bonuses you will recieve courtesy of Destructoid:

Amazon.com – Pre-order DJ Hero and DJ Hero Renegade Edition from Amazon.com and get a $5 credit towards the music tracks that inspired the music for the game
Best Buy – Pre-order DJ Hero from Best Buy and receive a free code that unlocks a Daft Punk level
GameStop – Pre-order DJ Hero and DJ Hero Renegade Edition and receive two free playable song downloads
Guitar Hero Store – Pre-order DJ Hero and DJ Hero Renegade Edition and receive free two-day shipping
Hollywood/GameCrazy – Pre-order DJ Hero and receive an exclusive turntable slipmat
Walmart.com – Pre-order DJ Hero at Wal-Mart.com and receive a $10 electronic gift card

Honestly? I think I’d go with the Guitar Hero Store and get free 2 day shipping because everything else seems, well, not exciting whatsoever. I mean honestly, a turntable slipmat from GameCrazy? What were they thinking?

Guitar Hero 5 launch trailer

Gibran Nawaz — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 21:55:04 +0000

Yesterday, Guitar Hero 5 launched in North America, and with game launches come the obligatory trailer. If you want any gameplay footage, you won’t exactly find it here, but I’ve always wanted to go skydiving, so I put it up here anyways.

If you haven’t checked out the Playboy marketing strategy yet, I highly recommend it. Guitar Hero 5 will be seeing a European launch on the 11th, followed by an Australian release on the 16th.

Guitar Hero 5 ad features Hugh Hefner and his Playmates

Jeff Baker — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 23:58:58 +0000

Activision has recently released the above advertisement for their forthcoming multiplatform title, Guitar Hero 5. Just like their previous slew of advertisements this one features Guitar Hero being played in nothing more than button downs and socks. However, Activision has replaced Michael Phelps and Tony Hawk with Playboy Playmates and Hugh Hefner.

Need I say more?

NHL 2K10 teaser trailer

Gibran Nawaz — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:10:18 +0000

2K Sports has unveiled a new teaser trailer for their upcoming hockey game NHL 2K10. The video doesn’t show much, just left winger Alexander Ovechkin getting floored and making an unbelievable goal.

Improvements from the last installment include new gameplay mechanics, enhanced online modes, and co-op play. NHL 2K10 will be released on September 15th for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 2, and Wii.

Shadow of Destiny PSP port coming to US, à la ESRB

Gibran Nawaz — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 19:48:39 +0000

An ESRB listing of the Shadow of Destiny port for the PlayStation Portable reveals that the game will be getting a North American release. The game was rated Teen for Alcohol Reference, Animated Blood, and Violence. Nothing official from Konami says anything about the release, but at least we know that it’s definitely on its way.

The Japanese version is set to debut on October 1st, so it could be possible that it’ll be released not too far after. Unfortunately, no word on a European or Australian release yet.

[Thanks, Leland!]

DJ Hero box art revealed

Jeff Baker — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 22:56:04 +0000

It seems that the guys over at Destructoid got their hands on the official box art for Activision’s upcoming DJ Hero.

The above art will evidentally find its way onto the cover of the DJ Hero + turntable controller bundle. Other than that, there’s not much we don’t know; 94 originial mixes including Jay-Z, Daft Punk, 50 Cent, etc.

However, if you notice in the bottom right hand corner the Guitar Hero logo is prominentaly displayed, but why? Well, most likely because Activision wants buyers to know that the game is from the same makers of the much more popular Guitar Hero franchise.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Republic Heroes launch trailer

Gibran Nawaz — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:01:53 +0000

The television series game tie-in, Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Republic Heroes has a new launch trailer, straight from last weekend’s San Diego Comic-Con. I’ve only watched the Clone Wars cartoon once, and I didn’t exactly fall in love with the show, but I know there are fans who will enjoy this game.

LucasArts will be releasing the game onto shelves on October 6th, as opposed to a September 15th release announced back in May. The game will be published on every current generation console, including the PC and PS2.

Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 5 coming to USA

Gibran Nawaz — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 22:39:05 +0000

Namco Bandai Games has announced that Naruto: Ultimate Ninja 5 will be localized and brought to the United States. The original game, titled Naruto Shippuden: Narutimate Accel 2, was released back in winter 2007 in Japan for the PlayStation 2. However, the plot of the manga and television series in the Western hemisphere are way behind the much recent Japanese releases.

The story of the game will go up to the end of the Sasuke rescue arc. Sixty playable characters and twenty-four maps will be featured in the game. For any fans who have issues with the English dub, a Japanese audio will be included. The game is currently under localization by CyberConnect 2.

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 Comic-Con 2009 trailer

Gibran Nawaz — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 22:02:07 +0000

Comic-Con has been over for a few days, but the media keeps on rolling in. Today, we get our hands on a new Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 trailer. The video features all of your favorite comic book heroes and villains.

Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2 will be hitting stores September 15th for the Nintendo DS, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Wii, and Xbox 360. Be sure to check out some of the attractive 3D screenshots while you’re in the comic book mood.

NHL 2K10 gameplay detailed

Gibran Nawaz — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 21:00:14 +0000

2K Games has unveiled all of the specific gameplay changes and improvements to be expected in their upcoming hockey game NHL 2K10. The Wii version of the game will finally be seeing online play, a first for an NHL 2K title for Nintendo’s home console. An entirely new control scheme will also be introduced. Here are all of the changes broken down:

New Gameplay Mechanics – Completely rewritten AI, enhanced defensive controls and stick lifts, stumble shots, a new defensive skating model and new incidental contact and small animation systems
Enhanced Presentation – All-new rink intros for each arena, improved goal celebrations, enhanced visuals, and greatly improved, true-to-life character models, with San Jose Sharks commentators Randy Hahn and Drew Remenda returning with new broadcast commentary
Improved Franchise Mode – NHL 2K10 features a new contract/free agency system, improved roster management, an updated financial model, dynamic player progression, and fantasy drafts
New Franchise Co-op Play – Play a franchise season game with or against a friend on- or offline, or play a traditional game against the CPU
Franchise Blog / 2KSports.com Integration – Publish your franchise stats and standings, and upload game highlights and screenshots to your personal page at 2KSports.com
Enhanced Online Modes – New seamless online integration connects players in Team Up games, tracks your progress with My Player Card, and offers full league, leaderboard, tournament and 2K Share support
Create Team Mode – Create a persistent team with friends by designing your uniforms, developing a unique team identity, and then competing against other created teams online, offline and in Franchise mode

Wii Specific Changes:

New Control Scheme – Choose between fun, easy-to-use Wii Remote and Nunchuk controls and Sideways Wii Remote support, or plug in a Wii Classic Controller for three ways to play
Full Online Modes – For the first time, enjoy full online support for Wii, including multiplayer and multi-console match-ups, downloadable rosters, online leagues, tournaments, leaderboards and Team Up mode featuring persistant created teams and regular Pick-Up Games
WiiMotion Plus and WiiSpeak Support – Enjoy online voice chat capabilities via WiiSpeak and precise one-to-one control with WiiMotion Plus

NHL 2K10 will be hitting stores September 15th for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation 2.

Read (IGN)

EA releases Command & Conquer 4 debut trailer

Jeff Baker — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 18:08:38 +0000

The wait between Command & Conquer: Generals and its successor, Command & Conquer 3, was about 5 years. EA seems to be avoiding a repeat as they have just released the debut trailer for Command & Conquer 4.

RTS fans, don’t expect any actual gameplay footage as the trailer features exclusivly what looks to be just cinematics. However, if you’re following the plot of the franchise you’ll be intrigued to hear that Nod head-honcho Kane makes an appearance in said trailer.

EA has no set release date for Command & Conquer 4 but they hope to have it hit the market sometime in 2010. Will the game have what it takes to oust Blizzard’s forthcoming Starcraft II? We’ll have to wait and find out.

24 more Guitar Hero 5 tracks confirmed

Gibran Nawaz — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 21:03:39 +0000

Activision and RedOctane have confirmed a twenty-four Guitar Hero 5 tracks today, including many unreleased songs. Most of these tracks were already leaked in the past, but it’s official this time. This brings the total track list on the CD to a whopping eighty-four songs. And don’t forget that there are even more songs through DLC.

The post-hardcore AFI’s unreleased single off their new album, Medicate, will be making its debut on the game before it releases in stores. A never before released live recording of “The Spirit of Radio” from Rush will also be included. Here’s the full list:

AFI – “Medicate”
A Perfect Circle – “Judith”
Billy Idol – “Dancing With Myself”
Brand New – “Sowing Season (Yeah)”
Bush – “Comedown”
The Derek Trucks Band – “Younk Funk”
Duran Duran – “Hungry Like The Wolf”
Eagles Of Death Metal – “Wannabe In L.A.”
Gorillaz – “Feel Good Inc.”
Gov’t Mule – “Streamline Woman”
Grand Funk Railroad – “We’re An American Band”
Iron Maiden – “2 Minutes To Midnight”
King Crimson – “21st Century Schizoid Man”
No Doubt – “Ex-Girlfriend”
Peter Frampton – “Do You Feel Like We Do? (Live)”
Public Enemy Featuring Zakk Wylde – “Bring the Noise 20XX”
Rush – “The Spirit Of Radio (Live)”
Scars On Broadway – “They Say”
Smashing Pumpkins – “Bullet With Butterfly Wings”
Spacehog – “In The Meantime”
Sunny Day Real Estate – “Seven”
T. Rex – “20th Century Boy”
Weezer – “Why Bother?”
Wild Cherry – “Play That Funky Music”

A full list of songs can be viewed here. Guitar Hero 5 will be hitting stores on September 1st for the Xbox 360, PS3, PS2, and Wii.

via IGN

New Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2 screenshots, now in 3D

Gibran Nawaz — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 21:47:41 +0000

Activision is rolling out some new interactive 3D screenshots for the upcoming Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2. Featured in the screenshots is the GameStop pre-order exclusive character Juggernaut, along with Songbird, Deadpool, Iron Fist, Thor and the Human Torch.

The sequel to the first action RPG title is built on the same premise, but features improvements to gameplay along with an array of new and updated comic book characters.

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2 is set fly into North American stores this fall for the Nintendo DS, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation Portable, Wii, and Xbox 360. Make the jump for the rest of the rotational screens.

NPD Sales Results for June 2009, Prototype tops charts

Gibran Nawaz — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 23:29:18 +0000

The NPD Group have released the sales figures for the month of June today.

The DS is currently holding the top spot in hardware sales, with its home console counterpart trailing behind. Amazingly, the PlayStation 2 is still almost selling as much as the PlayStation Portable. The price is obviously a big factor in consumer decisions, with the failing economy and other circumstances.

As for software, Prototype debuted and sold over 400,000 copies, topping the charts. Many sports titles follow the sandbox action game, including Tiger Woods PGA Tour and Fight Night Round 4.

Hardware:

Nintendo DS 766.5K

Wii 361.7K

Xbox 360 240.6K

PlayStation 3 164.7K

PSP 163.5K

PlayStation 2 152.7K

Software:

PROTOTYPE (360) 419.9K

UFC 2009:UNDISPUTED (360) 338.3K

EA SPORTS ACTIVE BUNDLE (Wii) 289.1K

TIGER WOODS PGA TOUR 10* (Wii) 272.4K

WII FIT (Wii) 271.6K

FIGHT NIGHT ROUND 4 (360) 260.8K

FIGHT NIGHT ROUND 4 (PS3) 210.3K

MARIO KART W/WHEEL (WII) 202.1K

RED FACTION:GUERRILLA (360) 199.4K

INFAMOUS (PS3) 192.7K

via NeoGAF