PlayStation 2
Hardware, storefront and ecosystem news for PlayStation 2.
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20 years later, I just realised the Final Fantasy 12 save on my PS2 memory card looks like it says Final Fantasy 9
A retro gaming enthusiast discovered that a PlayStation 2 save icon for Final Fantasy 12 on their memory card visually resembles the Final Fantasy 9 logo due to upscaling and deinterlacing artifacts. This article explains the technical reasons behind the visual quirk, attributing it to how low-resolution graphics are processed on modern displays rather than a game development error.
I've finally found an upscaler for my PS2 that kicks jitters to the curb, and it's affordable compared to its…
This article discusses the challenges of upscaling interlaced graphics from the PlayStation 2 era on modern displays, highlighting the jittery visuals that result. It introduces the GBS-C (GBS Control) as an affordable open-source HDMI converter that utilizes motion-adaptive deinterlacing to significantly reduce this jitter, offering a superior experience compared to standard deinterlacing techniques.
Modder restores missing PS2-era visual effects to Metal Gear Solid 2, including 'a ton of things that were literally left marked as BLUEPOINT TO-DO still in the source code'
A modder has restored numerous missing PS2-era visual effects to Metal Gear Solid 2, which were left unimplemented in the Bluepoint Games HD remaster. The MGSHDFix 4.0.0 update effectively returns the game to its original state, restoring effects like depth of field, water effects, and motion trails. This mod aims to provide the visual experience intended by the original designers for the PC version.
Total Chaos gains new Retro Graphics mode update
Apogee Entertainment and Trigger Happy Interactive have released a new update for the survival horror game Total Chaos, introducing a Retro Graphics mode that emulates the visual style of Doom 2 and PlayStation 2-era classics. The update also includes a new fifth ending, map markers, playtime tracking, a garbage chute for item management, and a reworked 'Forgotten' chapter. The update is available on Nintendo Switch.
Square Enix just dropped Final Fantasy 10 and 10-2 for Nintendo Switch 2 with some key upgrades — but there's…
Square Enix has released new versions of Final Fantasy 10 and Final Fantasy 10-2 for the Nintendo Switch 2, featuring higher resolutions, improved textures, and quality-of-life additions like game speed-up and encounter toggles. However, there is no upgrade path for existing owners of the original Nintendo Switch versions, requiring a full repurchase of the $49.99 bundle.
Ex-PlayStation Boss Calls For A Return To The Good Old Days Of AA Gaming
Former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden believes the current game development model is unsustainable due to ballooning budgets and a lack of diverse titles. He advocates for a return to the 'AA' gaming era of the PlayStation 1 and 2, aiming to create a publishing concern that supports smaller studios and offers more varied experiences for players.
Disney’s Former CEO Seems To Have No Memory Of Approving Kingdom Hearts
Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner appears to have no recollection of approving the creation of the Kingdom Hearts video game franchise. Despite being a pivotal figure in Disney's entertainment ventures from 1984 to 2005, Eisner stated he did not remember greenlighting the crossover title between Final Fantasy and Disney characters, which launched on PlayStation 2 in 2002.
Halo: Campaign Evolved Review – Remaster Chief
Halo: Campaign Evolved is a faithful remake of Halo: Combat Evolved, featuring updated visuals with Unreal Engine 5 and incorporating gameplay elements from later entries. While online multiplayer is absent, it includes expanded co-op and new prequel missions written by Troy Denning. The game preserves the original's art direction and captivating story, offering a refined first-person shooter experience with faster movement and additional abilities.
We Need Physical Video Games
This opinion piece argues for the continued importance of physical video game media, contrasting it with the perceived downsides of an all-digital future. The author highlights personal experiences with physical games and discusses concerns about ownership, preservation, and the impact of digital-only distribution on the gaming landscape.
Final Fantasy X and X-2 on Switch 2 get the job done
The Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster has been released for the Nintendo Switch 2, offering improved resolution and performance compared to the previous Switch version. While not a massive upgrade, it brings the portable experience up to par with PC and other console versions, featuring enhancements like 4K output in TV mode and 1080p in handheld mode, along with gameplay speed-up options. The review notes that while save transfer issues and the lack of upgrade paths for existing Switch owners are drawbacks, it's a solid way to experience these classic RPGs on the go.
PS5 Port of Acclaimed PS2 Action Game Out Today on PlayStation Store
Ports of the 2004 PlayStation 2 action-adventure game Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy are now available on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 via the PlayStation Store and the PS Plus Premium catalog. Developed by Midway, the game allows players to wield psychic powers as elite agent Nick Scryer to unravel a conspiracy. The release includes 20 trophies, with a Platinum trophy available.
Final Fantasy 10 gets first Nintendo Switch 2 gameplay
Square Enix has released the first gameplay footage of Final Fantasy 10 and Final Fantasy 10-2 HD Remaster on the Nintendo Switch 2. The upcoming release will feature graphical enhancements, a high-speed mode, and the option to turn off random encounters, offering over 100 combined hours of gameplay. The HD Remaster is scheduled to launch on July 23.
Neoshphere of The Deep-blue Sky: Legacy coming to Nintendo Switch
A remaster of the 2005 PC title Neosphere of The Deep-blue Sky is coming to Nintendo Switch in Spring 2027. The game, originally released on PC, PlayStation 2, and PSP, will feature updated graphics and optimized systems for modern gameplay. The remaster shifts the setting to a "sky kingdom" where players help an inventor rebuild the realm.
Neosphere of The Deep-blue Sky: Legacy coming to Nintendo Switch
A remaster of the 2005 PC title Neosphere of The Deep-blue Sky is coming to Nintendo Switch in spring 2027. The game, originally released on PC, PlayStation 2, and PSP, will feature updated graphics and systems optimized for modern gameplay. The remaster shifts the setting to a "sky kingdom" where players assist an inventor in rebuilding the realm.
Square Enix assembles Final Fantasy X 25th anniversary trailer
Square Enix has released a trailer to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy X, which originally launched on PlayStation 2 in 2001. A Final Fantasy X | X-2 HD Remaster is also slated for release on Nintendo Switch. The trailer invites players to relive memories from the beloved title.
Shack Chat: What is your favorite Grand Theft Auto game?
Shacknews staff members share their favorite entries in the Grand Theft Auto series, with Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Grand Theft Auto: Vice City, and Grand Theft Auto 5 being frequently cited. Contributors recall memorable missions, soundtracks, and the overall impact these games had on their gaming experiences.
Final Fantasy 10 is turning 25, and I've gathered the best merch worth collecting for fans of the iconic RPG
This article celebrates the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy 10, released on July 19, 2001, for the PlayStation 2. It highlights various merchandise options for fans, including a vinyl soundtrack set, a music box featuring the song 'Suteki Da Ne,' TCG accessories with characters like Tidus and Yuna, and new plushies available for pre-order from the official Square Enix store.
After 15 years, I've got Microsoft's shunned Fable 3 port to work on PC – and it feels like a new RPG
Despite being 16 years old, the PC version of Fable 3 offers a surprisingly fresh RPG experience, especially when run at 4K resolution. The author argues that this version surpasses the current Xbox Game Pass streaming option and advocates for its preservation, suggesting it could serve as a suitable replacement for fans awaiting Fable 4.
2016 PS4 Port of Hit PS2 Game Will Be Delisted From PlayStation Store
Sony announced that the 2016 PlayStation 4 port of Quantic Dream's Indigo Prophecy will be delisted from the PlayStation Store on July 21. A new emulated version will be added to PlayStation Plus Premium and available for purchase on the same date, replacing the older version. Players who own the original PS4 version may receive the new PS5/PS4 port at no additional cost.
The NES is 45 years old – here’s why there’s no nostalgia for it in the UK
The Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), despite its global importance and iconic franchises, had a minimal cultural impact and generated little nostalgia in the UK. This is attributed to its late release in 1987, high price point compared to dominant home computers like the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64, and a perception of being for children, unlike Sega's offerings. While foundational for many genres and franchises in North America and Japan, the NES's legacy in the UK is largely overshadowed by these market factors.
