GamesCom 09: Sony Conference Recap

So it looks like Sony decided to release some pretty big news at GamesCom this year, the biggest of which is the new PS3 model, the Slim, and the fact that all PS3s are getting a new price point, $299. Well, rest assure that there was plenty of other information given at the press conference, and here are a few of the bigger highlights:

• PlayStation Network and Home are getting some upgrades. Home is getting a SingStar space, more dance moves, and an Audi Cinema among other things. Most of the PSN news was info on the European market getting a lot of games in the next months released for them, as well as a video service called VidZone.
• The PSP had a few items announced for it, one of the biggest being the Digital Reader for the PSP, similar to the Kindle reader. It seems that Marvel has teamed up with Sony to offer the entire Marvel catalog through this new service, which means you can read your comics frame by frame on the PSP.
• The PSP will also be getting "miniS" on the PSN, which seem to be Sony's solution similar to the App Store for the iPhone. Apparently all miniS downloads are capped at 100MB, so think casual games and applications.
• On top of all of that, the PSP-3000 will be coming in three new colors: turquoise green, blossom pink, and lilac purple. All great new colors that I'm sure many gaygamers will want to get their hands on.
• EyePet was confirmed to be bundled with the PS Eye for Europe for 49 Euros; however, no info given on US release/bundle
• Tons of Heavy Rain information was given about the four main characters in the game, and how their emotional relationships will play a large part in the way the game pulls players into the experience. It was said to be "a story of guilt, love and redemption." All cut scenes are 3D and full interactive. Sounds so good, can't wait to play it!
• Then there was the biggest kicker of the event on the PS3 Slim information and price point, which you can read about here.

Overall, the conference seemed like a good one for Sony, and hopefully it is just what they need to get a deeper foothold with the PS3 and PSP. Saty tuned for more coverage of GamesCom 2009.