Perhaps alluding to a new higher-capacity disc format on the way for the Sony NGP, Sony today announced a new “PSP Remaster” game series is on the way for the PlayStation 3. The games in the PSP Remaster series will all be games that originally were exclusive for the PSP and have since been customized with features specifically for the PS3. The reason for the “new format” comment above? All PSP Remaster titles will ship on Blu-ray Disc.
PSP Remaster titles will feature high-definition graphics, additional new PS3-exclusive features for each title such as Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controller support, new add-on content and stereoscopic 3D support if appropriate. Ad-hoc mode will also be supported through the PS3 “adhoc party for PlayStation Portable” application.
The first “PSP Remaster” title to be introduced will be Monster Hunter Portable 3rd HD Ver. from Capcom. The graphics for the PS3 version will all have upgraded high-definition graphics, from the monsters and fields to equipment and Felyne Comrades. Sony claims it has strong support from software developers and publishers and “will deploy various measures to enhance the software title line-up for the PS3 system.”
One nice feature is that if a gamer has an existing game save from the original PSP game, he or she will be able to use that same data for the “PSP Remaster” version and enjoy the game on the go via PSP, while continuing the game at home on TV using the PS3.
The PSP Remaster series on Blu-ray Disc will first release in the Japanese market, then presumably release in other territories. Sony did not indicate when the Japanese or any future launch may occur. However, it will presumably be just before or when the Sony NGP launches, giving gamers two possible Sony-handheld options.
Details about Sony NGP handheld first surfaced in January.
The release of the PSP Remaster series may indicate that Sony’s NGP will either use a new, higher-capacity disc format for a handheld, or have a closer connection with the PS3 than originally thought. We’ll have more, of course, from E3 next month. In the meantime, here are the first official images of the Sony NGP, if you’re interested.
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