PS3 Games of 2009 - Part I

[BizioEE]

2008 was undoubtedly a triumphant year for the PS3.

With the release of some of its long awaited AAA titles like Metal Gear Solid 4 and LittleBigPlanet, the console made up a lot of ground on its rivals and converted a large amount of naysayers who had previously designated Sony’s powerhouse a glorified Blu-ray player.

The introduction of Trophies, the redesign of the PlayStation Store, victory in the HD format war - the list of successes is definitely impressive though it would be unfair to claim the year was unblemished and without hiccups. There is still the sticking point of price and the loss of some heavy hitting exclusive properties such as Final Fantasy XIII and Tekken 6 but, as a whole, 2008 will go down as a good year for Sony.

But what of 2009? Crystal balls across the gaming journalistic world have been aglow with speculation, rumour and, in the pro-PS3 circles, hope that the final corner can be turned by Sony and even more great titles will emerge over the next 12 months. And at this stage in the console’s life-cycle it is all about the games.

We’ve spent some time researching press releases, looking at lists (and checking them more than twice) and have formulated what we think is a fairly comprehensive catalogue of PS3 games scheduled for release in 2009.

With 123 games researched, this piece will be presented over three separate articles with the obvious caveat: we’re sure we’ve missed some. There are still games currently in production that no one but the teams working on them are aware of. Some of these games will also invariably get cancelled or slip into 2010. Also, the gaming development world is a huge arena and undoubtedly we’ve missed something. If we have, feel free to let us know in the comments and we promise to add it to the (ever growing) list.

Check after the jump for Games A through E.

[size=+1]50 Cent: Blood on the Sand[/size]

Publisher: THQ
Developer: Swordfish Studios
Out: Feb 24th 2009

The start of 2009 sees the sequel to last-gen’s “50 Cent: Bulletproof” hitting like an A-bomb. Stop laughing. The first game was universally panned (but sold well) and its next-gen sequel will see more vehicular combat, a helicopter duel and even more 50 Cent exclusive tracks. Developer Swordfish Studios claim: “We are taking this sequel to the next level with exciting combat and gunplay, new original music, great graphics and a new story.” The game will feature multi-player drop-in/drop-out co-op, “interactive counter-kills, driving” and “aerial combat.” That would be the helicopter duel then.

[size=+1]Afro Samurai[/size]

Publisher: Namco Bandai Surge
Developer: Namco Bandai
Out: Jan 27th 2009

The cult classic Samuel L. Jackson infused anime hit gets the videogame treatment with the titular weapons-master appearing on January 27th. Namco are handling its development and the game will be the first game published under Namco Bandai’s western label Surge. Expect cel-shading, cool quips and limb loosening. If you’ve not already checked out the anime then we heartily recommend you do so. Now.

[size=+1]Aliens: Colonial Marines[/size]

Publisher: SEGA
Developer: Gearbox Software
Out: Q1 2009

Having already delivered such big hitters as Halo (PC) and the Brothers in Arms series, Gearbox unleash yet another FPS on the masses, this time based on the popular Aliens franchise. SEGA’s press release states that “players are part of a United States Colonial Marine squad and must prepare to face an alien assault more intense and horrific than ever before.” With a story written be acclaimed authors Bradley Thompson and David Weddle, the experience will feature “claustrophobic environments” and a “brooding soundtrack”. Apart from the single player mode on offer there will also be a four player co-op multiplayer mode. No definitive date has yet been announced but we can expect contact in 2009. Game over man! Game over!

[size=+1]Alien: RPG[/size]

Publisher: SEGA
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Out: 2009

Aliens are like buses. You wait for one all day and then … never mind. Details are scarce on the ground but SEGA (who feature heavily in the first of our Games of 2009 as you will see) announced on the 13th of December that Obsidian (more on these guys directly below) are working on an RPG set in the popular Alien universe. We don’t even know if this will make next year to be honest as the press release hints that “the first Alien-licensed game wouldn’t arrive before 2009.” But we’re dutifully intrigued.

[size=+1]Alpha Protocol[/size]

Publisher: SEGA
Developer: Obsidian Entertainment
Out: Q1 2009

SEGA are not just throwing xenomorphs at us in 2009 - expect some covert action RPG goodness as well. Alpha Protocol is (once again) from Obsidian Entertainment, the luminaries that brought us Star Wars: Knights Of The Old Republic II: The Sith Lords and Neverwinter Nights 2. You play Michael Thorton, a precocious young agent “cast out by his government” and possessing information that can divert an upcoming international catastrophe. “Every choice the player makes as Michael Thorton will carry consequences for his future and the fate of the world.” No precise release date as of yet but 2009 seems likely.

[size=+1]APB[/size]

Publisher: Realtime Worlds
Developer: Realtime Worlds
Out: 2009

Realtime Worlds brings us All Points Bulletin (APB), a MMO along the lines of GTA and Crackdown. Originally planned to be released on PC, 360 and PS3 concurrently, only the PC version is now being quoted as making a 2009 release date but that’s not to say its PS3 cousin won’t appear along side it towards the end of the year. Let’s just say we won’t be surprised if this game makes our “Games of 2010 list” this time next year. Considering the “GTA MMO” is often quoted as Rockstar’s “Holy Grail”, might Realtime Worlds swoop in and create a contender to the crown? Only time (and city-wide mass mayhem) will tell.

[size=+1]Armed Assault 2 (Arma2)[/size]

Publisher: 505 Games
Developer: Bohemia Interactive Studios
Out: 2009

Bohemia Interactive Studio returns with Arma2, a military simulation game for multi-platforms and the latest addition in the popular Operation Flashpoint series. The game will introduce a “role-playing feel” and utilises the new “Real Virtuality” engine. If you’ve seen the trailers out there you know that this means the game will look gorgeous.

[size=+1]Astro Boy - The Videogame[/size]

Publisher: TBC
Developer: TBC
Out: 2009

Astro Boy gets the big screen treatment next year and the obligatory game tie-in should see itself exploding on shelves around the same time. Little is known about the game other than it’s coming some time in Q4 2009.

[size=+1]Avatar[/size]

Publisher: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft (we think)
Out: 2009

James Cameron stops messing about at the bottom of the ocean and crawls back into a director’s chair to give us Avatar next year. The premise is audacious with a heavy mix of typical Cameron traits: sci-fi, new film-making technology and an attention to detail that makes most actors cry. The game version of the film is being handled by Ubisoft and is, somewhat fittingly considering Cameron’s usual scope, an MMO. That’s all we know. Seriously, The King of the World is quite protective of his new toys.

[size=+1]Batman: Arkham Asylum[/size]

Publisher: Eidos
Developer: Rocksteady Studios
Out: 2009

The recently released new images we reported on last week are tantalisingly good but the jury is still out on the Caped Crusader’s latest escapade through the halls of Arkham Asylum. Having Kevin Conroy and the brilliant Mark Hamill on board to handle the voice duties is a great bonus but will it be enough to elevate this game above the usual punch-and-search mechanics of previous Batman games? Only time will tell - in 2009 no doubt.

[size=+1]Battle Fantasia[/size]

Publisher: 505 Games
Developer: 505 Games
Out: May 29th 2009

Previously released only in Japan, Battle Fantasia finally gets a European release nearly a full twelve months after it first appeared on the shelves of Akihabara. A NA PS3 release is still outstanding but, don’t forget, you can always import. Starting out as a two player arcade fighting game, Battle Fantasia very much borrows from the Guilty Gear series with battles played out in 2.5D. The game was greeted with favourable enough reviews (72%) so, if you’re looking for some smackdown before Tekken 6 hits, maybe this one is for you? Expect it on May 29th 2009.

[size=+1]Bayonetta[/size]

Publisher: SEGA
Developer: PlatinumGames
Out: Q3 2009

Hideki Kamiya, esteemed creator of the Devil May Cry series, returns to the shooting genre with Bayonette, a stylised action romp with the eponymous witch sporting guns on both her feet and hands. Yeah, we can’t wait to see how this is going to work either. Bayonetta also uses her hair to “en-wrap” herself and perform some dazzling magical powers. Plot is thin on the ground but we do know that it is set in modern day and there are monsters masquerading as angels who are in need of some lead salads. Expect Bayonetta some time in Q3 2009.

[size=+1]Beatles[/size]

Publisher: EA
Developer: Harmonix
Out: Q4 2009

Arguably the greatest (if not the most popular) band of all time gets the Rock Band treatment though, oddly, not the Rock Band moniker. A fully fledged game in its own right, expect to be rocking out on Rock Band peripherals to such classics as A Hard Days Night come Q4 2009.

[BizioEE]

[size=+1]Bionic Commando[/size]

Publisher: Capcom
Developer: GRIN
Out: Q1 2009

21 years after its original release on the NES, the re-imagining of Bionic Commando is released for the next-generation of swinging action junkies. You play Nathan Spencer (voiced by former lead singer of Faith No More, Mike Patton), a cybernetically enhanced ex-spook now scheduled to be executed for a crime you didn’t commit. On the day of reckoning, an experimental weapon is detonated wiping out Ascension City, and with terrorists moving in to take up vacuum, the government is left with little choice - the reactivation of the Bionic Commando. The game has an eclectic team of talent behind it from Swedish developer GRIN to a Japanese Creative Director.  We’re looking forward to see what they’ve come up with. Bionic Commando swings into action in Q1 2009.

[size=+1]BioShock 2 : Sea of Dreams[/size]

Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: 2K Marin/Boston
Out: 2009

Ah, Rapture. How you enthral me. Big Daddys and Little Sisters return in the sequel to the BAFTA winning (and Spike TV’s) 2007 Game of the Year. Despite rumours of being a timed PS3 exclusive, we expect the next episode in the watery dystopia to take story telling and game immersion to a new level on all platforms around Q4 2009.

[size=+1]Bomberman Ultra[/size]

Publisher: Hudson
Developer: HudsonSoft
Out: Q1 2009

We all know and love Bomberman. 2009 sees the blue bomber getting the ultra treatment so expect to see new online modes, character customisation and the full HD treatment.

[size=+1]Borderlands[/size]

Publisher: 2K Games
Developer: Gearbox Software
Out: February 2009

A sci-fi FPS with a twist, Borderlands replays the Gold Rush era on a galactic playing field. Seeking out the far flung planet Pandora, prospectors quickly realise their new home is devoid of the resources they were promised and all they’ve got for their troubles is anarchy and alien ruins. Hi-jinks ensure. Borderlands’ shtick comes from the ability to merge almost anything with anything else and form a weapon. With claims of 100,000s of weapons to be made (especially when you throw in that alien technology) this could be very interesting indeed. Borderlands will be with us in February 2009.

[size=+1]Brütal Legend[/size]

Publisher: EA (we hope)
Developer: Double Fine Studios
Out: Q3 2009

We love Double Fine Studios for Psychonauts and now they return with the bizarrely themed “Brütal Legend”. You play Eddie Riggs (voiced by Jack Black, who else?), a heavy-metal roadie who gets into a series of adventures after his belt buckle, splashed with some of Eddie’s blood after a freak guitar tuning accident (happens to me all the time), shows itself to be a cursed talisman and transforms Eddie into a Heavy Metal inspired fantasy alternate reality. We could not make this stuff up. Brütal Legend was in the news recently after being categorically snubbed during the Activision/Blizzard merger. Luckily, EA swooped in and picked up the musically enriched tongue-in-cheek wail-a-thon. Brütal Legend will be released in the Fall of 2009.

[size=+1]Burnout: The Ultimate Box[/size]

Publisher: EA
Developer: Criterion Games
Out: February 2009

For the six or seven of you out there that don’t already own Burnout: Paradise, wait ’til you see what’s coming your way this February. You get the full game, the Cagney update, bikes and the recently announced Party Pack. That’s some good Burnout goodness right there. Get it.

[size=+1]Burn Zombie Burn[/size]

Publisher: Pinnacle Software
Developer: Double Six
Out: Q1 2009

DoubleSix unearths the undead for this isometric top-down frag-fest planned for download on the PSN. Play as Bruce and stomp some zombies this March, 2009.

[size=+1]Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2[/size]

Publisher: Activision
Developer: Infinity Ward
Out: Q4 2009

Confirmed and denied in the space of one crazy and hectic week, the existence of this game is a hot topic. We think it’s real and, irrespective of the setting or the developer, we expect to see a new COD experience hitting our shelves this time next year. It just wouldn’t be Christmas without some new COD now, would it?

[size=+1]Colin McRae: Dirt 2[/size]

Publisher: CodeMasters
Developer: CodeMasters
Out: 2009

Little is known about the sequel to the popular Colin McRae Dirt game apart from the fact that there will be new multiplayer modes. With McRae’s untimely and tragic passing there were some questions asked in the gaming world regarding how the series would progress. It’s good to see that the great man’s memory will be honoured with yet another fast paced rally offering.

[size=+1]Damnation[/size]

Publisher: CodeMasters
Developer: Blue Omega
Out: Feb 24th 2009

What do you do when you realise your game doesn’t fit into any of the traditional gaming genres? Why, create one of your own of course: the vertical shooter. There’s not much else to say about Damnation other than we’re looking forward to the dusky slice of Americana and “high octane vehicular acrobatics” promised in the press release.

[size=+1]Dark Void[/size]

Publisher: Capcom
Developer: Airtight Games
Out: 2009

Capcom and Airtight Games proffer us a heady dish of “fast-paced vertical combat” (there it is again!) mixed with “mid-air and on-foot action”. Mankind has already vanquished “The Watchers” once from earth and into a parallel universe but now they’re back for seconds. Sounds ominous. No concrete release date as of yet but expect Dark Void to surface in 2009.

[size=+1]Darksiders: Wrath of War[/size]

Publisher: THQ
Developer: Vigil Studios
Out: Q2 2009

In Q2 of 2009 Vigil Games brings us Darksiders: Wrath of War. The age old good versus evil, angel versus demon conflict is played out once again against the backdrop of the apocalypse. Taking on the duties of one of the Four Horsemen (War), the player will find the sword and guns combination similar to such games as Devil May Cry and God of War. Whether or not Darksiders matches up in the quality department to the aforementioned games is yet to be seen.

[size=+1]DC Universe Online[/size]

Publisher: Sony Online Entertainment
Developer: Sony Online Austin
Out: 2009

The PS3 goes all comic-book MMO next year with DC Universe Online. Fight along side the likes of the Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman while rubbing shoulders with such arch-villain greats as Luthor, The Joker and others. We’ve been skeptical here at PS3 Attitude about how this is all going to play out. The E3 footage was uninspiring to say the least but with comic book legend Jim Lee at the helm surely this can’t go wrong. Can it? DC:UO has yet to receive an official release date other than “next year”.

[size=+1]Disgaea 3 Absence of Justice[/size]

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Nippon Ichi
Out: Q1 2009

Everyone else but the oft spurned Europeans have already got their hands on the game but next year finally sees the overlooking of the Old World rectified with Disgaea 3’s EU release. Favourably received by many (81%), we’re looking forward to finally take Nippon Ichi’s Tactical RPG for a spin.

[BizioEE]

[size=+1]Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2[/size]

Publisher: Koei
Developer: Koei, Omega Force
Out: March 24th 2009

Out for just two weeks in Japan (and getting good reviews, Famitsu gave it 33/40 - but we all know how much they love their robots) we’ll be able to get our giant sized Western hands on the Gundam game in March 2009. Unfortunately we won’t be getting access to the DLC that will remain exclusive to the JP region but we will be compensated with new enhancements to the Versus mode.

[size=+1]EA Sports Fight Night Round 4[/size]

Publisher: EA
Developer: EA Vancouver
Out: July 2009

Ding ding! Round 4. Hitting hard next July is an update to the popular boxing franchise, Fight Night. Round 3 was equally lauded for its realism and derided for the insane levels of product placement. Whether or not The Burger King (we’re not making this up) will return for the fourth round is yet to be seen but we have high hopes of being able to actually punch some Whoppers out of him this time. SpikeTV viewers had the opportunity to vote for who will adorn the box art this time around. Ali or Tyson. Or both! (Our money is on Ali)

[size=+1]EA Sports Tennis (Working title)[/size]

Publisher: EA
Developer: EA
TBC: Q4 2009

Peter Moore has already spoke out about how EA Sports has its work made out for it if it’s to counter the allure of the Wii and its bundled Wii Sports product. Even though each game is a considerably different take on a similar genre, it’s no secret that the waggle induced sports titles have stolen a lot of thunder from EA’s sporting wing. With the tennis aspect arguably the most popular of the Wii Sports mini-games, it will be interesting to see how EA responds with their own take on the serve and volley game.

[size=+1]Eat Lead: The Return of Matt Hazard[/size]

Publisher: D3
Developer: Vicious Cycle Software
Out: Q1 2009

Breaking the fourth wall is Vicious Cycle Software’s Matt Hazard game. What’s interesting to note is that Hazard is a videogame hero and attempting a comeback - in a videogame. Expect lots of in-jokes and camera winking as this game parody takes the concept of spoofing to new level. For example, the arch-villain of the piece is the actual CEO of the company making the game. Finally, if they don’t take the piss out of Duke Nukem then something is seriously wrong in the land of game comedy.

[size=+1]Edge of Twilight[/size]

Publisher: SouthPeak
Developer: FuzzyEyes Studios
Out: Q2 2009

We’re reluctant to give away too much about FuzzyEye’s Edge of Twilight as we have an exclusive interview with the guys from Brisbane that should be hitting very early in 2009. We will say this: the game was demoed at TGS to much aplomb and the dynamic of night and day changing the gaming environment, though not unique, is utilised wonderfully in this intricate steampunk fantasy. You play Lex, a bounty hunter, and apparently the only half-breed left who can travel between both worlds. Expect more next month in the aforementioned interview.

[size=+1]Eyedentify[/size]

Publisher: SCEE
Developer: SCEE
Out: February 2009 (if it still exists)

Eyedentify was announced way back at E3 in 2005 and then scurried off into the land of obscurity. Apparently it will see a release next year and find players controlling a team of characters using the PSEye. That’s about all we know at this stage.

[size=+1]EyePet[/size]

Publisher: SCEE
Developer: SCEE
Out:2009

EyePet was revealed at this year’s GDC in Leipzig to much praise. Utilising the latest gaming buzz of “augmented reality”, the game is seen as Sony’s secret weapon of breaking into the lucrative “family demographic”. Through the use of the PlayStation Eye, players are able to interact with their own cuddly creature on a table top or, well, wherever. Of course, for the rest of us, we equate EyePet as the reason why promising games such as Getaway 2 and Eight Days got cancelled but we’ll give it a break - it is undeniably cute.

Check back later for F through to O. This set of letters can only mean the arrival of big hitters such as Final Fantasy XIII (plus Versus), God of War III, Gran Turismo 5, Heavy Rain, inFamous, Killzone 2, L.A. Noire and M.A.G. That list alone means 2009 is looking increasingly awesome.

http://www.ps3attitude.com/new/2008/12/ps3-games-of-2009-part-i/

[clips]

Even tho i know i won\'t be getting fiddy\'s game....don\'t sleep...that game doesn\'t look or play as crappy as some think....well it\'ll still be crappy and have a garbage storyline, but it\'s not going to be as bad as some bad games traditionally are.

Lookin\' forward to Fight night rd 4 and of course RE5 and Heavy Rain and Uncharted in \'09.

[BizioEE]

[size=+1]F.E.A.R 2: Project Origin[/size]

Publisher: Warner Bros.
Developer: Monolith Productions
Out: February 10th,  2009

Alma is back and she’s as pissed as ever. Not as pissed as the people who voted for the game’s name to be Project Origin back when publishing woes meant the “F.E.A.R.” moniker couldn’t be used. That’s all ancient history at this stage however and at least they kept the fans’ naming suggestions in the final product title. The sequel promises “strategic environmental combat opportunities available to both you and your enemies” along with a more open environment. A destroyed (open) city, the result of a powerful teen gone awry? Sounds like Fallout 3 meets Akira to us. Oh, and for the fans of the “series”, Monolith will only be recognising the first game as official canon as the sequel’s story takes place immediately after the end of the first game.

[size=+1]Fairytale Fights[/size]

Publisher: Playlogic International
Developer: Playlogic Game Factory
Out: Q3 2009

Billed as “the most violent children’s story ever told”, Fairytale Fights will be with us towards the latter half of 2009. Powered by the Unreal 3 engine but with a graphical style more akin to cartoon kitsch, “players choose one favorite fairytale character with whom they will try and save a fantasy world from certain doom. Cute fairytale characters will fight each other until nothing else remains than a big puddle of blood!” Walt Disney would not approve.

[size=+1]Faith and a .45[/size]

Publisher: TBA
Developer: Deadline Games
Out: 2009 (maybe)

Advance warning: this game has “cancelled” written all over it. We don’t know much about Faith and a .45 other than the fact that Danish developer Deadline Games are working on it. The press release from nearly a year ago states that the game will be “an intense and atmospheric shooter, [with] a heavy focus on characters, co-operative gameplay, road movie storytelling, and cinematic aesthetics.” It’s definitely a little quirky. Set in the Depression with a distinctive Bonnie and Clyde outlaw feel, th”e bandit lovers (Luke and Ruby - that’s her above) road trip gone bad” is an area not visited much (at all?) in gaming. We’ll keep our fingers crossed. If anything because we have a thing for red-heads.

[size=+1]Fat Princess[/size]

Publisher: SCEA
Developer: Titan
Out: 2009

We love controversy as much as the next site so it was with a gleeful giddiness that we sat back and watched the furore about the upcoming 2009 PSN title Fat Princess unfold. Shakesville’s Melissa McEwan wrote “Congrats on your awesome new game, Sony. I’m positively thrilled to see such unyielding dedication to creating a new generation of fat-hating, heteronormative assholes.” Apart from the ability to use long words no one really knows, Melissa was offended by the gameplay mechanic of stuffing the eponymous Princess with cake so as to make it more difficult for the player’s opponents to carry her off. Why not coins? she asked. Come on woman. Have you ever tried to cart coins anywhere over any great distance? Have you not played Mario?

[size=+1]Fifth Phantom Saga[/size]

Publisher: SEGA
Developer:  Sonic Team
Out: 2009 (or 2010 - or never)

Mark this one down as “lost to the annals of time”. Ironically revealed back at E3 (in 2005!) this was one of the first ever PS3 games shown to the public. Then it disappeared. Are Sonic Team still working on it? Does the fact that the homepage has been taken down bode well for the possibility of this game ever seeing the light of day? We don’t think so but it makes the list as part of our “You Just Never Know” category.

[size=+1]Final Fantasy XIII[/size]

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Out: 2009 (in Japan anyway)

OK, let’s just get the whole “it’s not an exclusive” out of the way. We know. We were bummed too but we’ve learned to live with it. SE’s next chapter in the immortal Final Fantasy series hits in 2009 - at least for our Japanese brethren. With the 360 version now on the cards it appears that that version will require completion before the localisation of the PS3 edition is even begun so don’t be surprised if the NA and EU release spills into 2010. Blame Bill Gates (we’re kidding). FFXIII is directed by Final Fantasy stalwart Motomu Toriyama and sees a futuristic world inhabited by a race “beyond humanity”. Expect crystals, summons, gorgeous cut scenes and a host of other FF recurring themes like loss, nature and spiky hair to feature.

[size=+1]Final Fantasy Versus XIII[/size]

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Out: 2009

One year, two FF games. Square Enix is really spoiling us. We know surprisingly very little about the Versus flavour of the next Final Fantasy games other than the fact that it’s “dark”, the protagonists are called Noctis Lucis Caelum (Nokutisu Rushisu Cheramu) and Stella Nox Fleuret (Sutera Nokkusu Furūre) and the plot’s themes are isolation, war and yes, you guessed it, fantastic hairstyles. Developed using the same Crystal Tools Engine (a.k.a. The White Engine) as utilised by Final Fantasy XIII, the only other thing we know about FFVXII is that it should hit (at least in Japan) in 2009.

[size=+1]Flock![/size]

Publisher: Capcom
Developer: Proper Games
Out: 2009

Puzzle games plus comedy equals “sign us up” in our books. Elements of PixelJunk Monsters and Destroy All Humans appear to feature in Capcom’s upcoming Flock! Playing as a UFO, the main objective of the game is to coax sheep back to the mother-ship (”The Mother Flocker”. Genius!) over challenging terrains without losing any of the herd. So, a little like Lemmings too then.

[size=+1]Flower[/size]

Publisher: SCE
Developer: Thatgamecompany
Out: 2009

The makers of flOw return to the garden with the upcoming Flower.  From the press release: “Playing as the wind, the player guides and grows a swarm of pedals by interacting with other flowers and the surrounding environment. The goals and journey in each level vary, but all involve flight, exploration and interaction with the level. Using simple SIXAXIS wireless controls, the player guides the lead petal and accumulates a swarm of flower petals as he moves at his own pace within the environment, causing the on-screen world to change.” We couldn’t have summed it up better ourselves. Expect the hippy inspired zen experience to hit some time early in 2009.

[size=+1]Formula 1 2009[/size]

Publisher: CodeMasters
Developer: CodeMasters
Out: March 23rd 2009

The fifteenth edition in the popular racing series  and follow up to last year’s F1 Championship Edition, CodeMasters utilises their Ego engine (previously powering the likes of Dirt and GRID) for the 60th season of the popular motor sport. Based on the upcoming 2009 season (no Honda then) the game apparently has 350 people working on it.

[size=+1]Free Realms[/size]

Publisher: Sony Online Entertainment
Developer: Sony Online Entertainment
Out: 2009

Targeting the younger crowd, Sony’s free MMO for both the PC and PS3 will open its doors to the public in 2009. The online title is very much all mini-games with an educational slant. Will us older and more cynical gamers get any use out of it? Maybe if we have kids and are looking for a safe way to introduce the wonders of gaming to them. For the rest of us we’ll probably be shooting spies in The Agency but Free Realms receives its due kudos here at PS3 Attitude for what Sony are trying to accomplish.

[BizioEE]

[size=+1]FUEL[/size]

Publisher: CodeMasters
Developer: Asobo Studio
Out: 2009

The makers of Dirt keep on racing with FUEL, scheduled to hit some time next year. French developer Asobo are at the helm and promise to “revolutionise multi-terrain racing with the largest environment ever created in race gaming.”  This would be the 14,000+ km² open environment then. Will FUEL take MotorStorm’s crown of top PS3 off-roader? We’ll find out next year.

[size=+1]Ghostbusters: The Videogame[/size]

Publisher: Atari
Developer: Terminal Reality
Out: 2009

There was a time there when we truly didn’t know who to call. Now that Atari have answered the ectoplasmic phone we can expect to finally see Ghostbusters proton packing their way into 2009. Interestingly, the game is written by Dan Ackroyd and is set just two years after the events of the second hit film. With all of the voice actors returning to reprise their roles, it’s safe to say that this is the closest we’ll ever get to a third Ghostbusters adventure. At least with the original cast. No firm release date at the moment but expect to cross streams in June of next year.

[size=+1]God of War III[/size]

Publisher: SCE
Developer: SCE Santa Monica
Out: October 2009

If the recent SpikeTV footage didn’t get your heart racing then you are officially dead my friend. The portents are all there to suggest that the latest (and final?) edition in the God of War series is squaring up to be an absolute juggernaut of a game.  Original creator David Jaffe has been quoted that the recent secret footage he saw over in Santa Monica was “the best thing he had ever seen graphically” and we know Kratos won’t go off without a stellar display of God-slaying and ultra-violence. Definitely one of the big hitters in 2009 for the PS3 - we officially can’t wait.

[size=+1]Gothic 4: Arcana[/size]

Publisher: JoWood
Developer: Spellbound Entertainment
Out: Q4 2009

Taking over from Piranha Bytes, Spellbound take a stab at the next instalment of the Gothic series. The game was announced over a year ago and then everything went silent. Is it still in development? Probably. Will it make the 2009 release window? Maybe. Note: The PS3 version has been hinted at but, as of this time, the game is not officially bound for the PS3. Don’t be surprised if this one doesn’t make the cut for next year.

[size=+1]Gran Turismo 5[/size]

Publisher:  SCE
Developer: Polyphony Digital
Out: Q4 2009

With the popular prologue still selling well it’s no surprise to hear that the full version of the GT5 experience will be coming our way next year. We’ve heard rumour of multiple release dates but considering the guys over at Polyphony Digital have been under the hood of this game now for nigh on four years, we think it’s safe to assume that the game will hit our (or at least Japanese) shelves just in time for the holiday season next year.

[size=+1]Guillermo del Toro’s Sundown[/size]

Publisher: TBA
Developer: Terminal Reality
Out: Q4 2009

The director of HellBoy and the upcoming Hobbit movie moves into the videogame genre with the zombie apocalypse themed Sundown.  You now know as much as we do.

[size=+1]Guitar Hero: Metallica[/size]

Publisher: Activision
Developer: Neversoft
Out: Q1 2009

When certain Metallica tracks didn’t re-appear on the Rock Band rosta it was almost sure-fire confirmation that a Guitar Hero Metallica game was in the works. The game will feature 48 tracks but don’t fret if you think that much metal could overpower your mind. 17 of the 48 songs will be by other bands that are “personal favourites” and who have “influenced the band” over the years.

[size=+1]Half-Life: Episode 3[/size]

Publisher: Valve Corporation
Developer: Valve Corporation
Out: Q4 2009

With the hullabaloo regarding The Orange Box out of the way expect to see the next Gordon Freeman episode towards the end of next year. Whether or not Valve will handle the PS3 development duties is currently unknown but we wouldn’t be surprised if they ferry it out to EA again. Not that we’d complain; we didn’t have any issues with their previous attempt in the popular franchise.

[size=+1]Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince[/size]

Publisher: EA
Developer: EA Bright Light Studio
Out: Q2 2009

Another Potter movie, another Potter game. According to sources the game will “include multiplayer games, online play, classes, different times of day, Quidditch, Wizard Duels and Potion making.” Sounds cool.

[size=+1]Heat[/size]

Publisher: TBA
Developer: Gearbox
Out: When Hell Freezes Over (Maybe 2009)

It’s been nearly fifteen years since deNiro and Pacino tore up the streets of downtown L.A. with pony-tail sporting Kilmer in cahoots. Gearbox, who’ve already featured on our 2009 list with such games as Aliens: Colonial Marines, are working on game version based around the Heat universe but little has been firm since its announcement over six months ago. Could the game still happen and surface in 2009? Ho-Ha! What have you got! ? ! Pacino impressions aside we will have to wait to see.

[size=+1]Heavy Rain[/size]

Publisher: SCEE
Developer: Quantic Dream
Out: 2009

Heavy Rain is going to completely polarise the gaming community. There will be those that will get its beautiful presentation, the abstract story-telling techniques and the adult themes seen in the footage already shown. Then there are those that will deride the dependence on QTEs and the fact that the focus is not on gameplay but story immersion. PS3 Attitude is all for new ideas and breaking boundaries so we’re looking forward to Heavy Rain and seeing if the guys at Quantic Dream can pull off something truly wonderful.

[size=+1]HEI$T[/size]

Publisher: CodeMasters
Developer: inXile Entertainment
Out: January 1st 2009

Hei$t has the accolade of being the first game of 2009 with an official release date in NA of Janaury 1st - which is tomorrow. It’s literally has just hit the shelves here in Europe. The premise is something familiar (rob banks, blow things up) with the added flavour of 1969 San Fran. The ultimate goal is to pull off the super-heist: the San Francisco Mint. Groovy.

[size=+1]Heroes Over Europe[/size]

Publisher: Atari
Developer: Transmission Games
Out: 2009

Those plucky heroes who featured “Over the Pacific” return in the sequel to dare and die in the skies over Europe. Tactical flight combat games are either your bag or they’re not but, either way, we like the footage shown so far. Interested in WWII aerial combat? This game is a must.

[size=+1]Highlander[/size]

Publisher: Eidos Interactive
Developer: Widescreen Games
Out: March 31 2009 (if it even exists)

We’re torn over the new Highlander game. We’re big fans of the films (ok, the second one not so much but at least the director’s cut cleared up all that alien nonsense) but we’ve seen next to nothing on the new game or anything else to suggest it will be anything spectacular. There can be only one. But is this it? It’s been a long time since we’ve received any word about Highlander. Don’t be surprised if it stays that way.

[size=+1]History Channel’s: Civil War - Secret Missions[/size]

Publisher: Activision
Developer: Activision
Out: 2009

The press release says it all: “The action in HISTORY Civil War: Secret Mission accurately reflects the guerrilla tactics of the time period. Weapons include the shotgun, the pepperbox revolver and the coffee mill gun, and there is heavy reliance on scouts and naval warfare.”

[BizioEE]

[size=+1]Hospital Hustle[/size]

Publisher: TBA
Developer: Big Fish Games
Out: 2009

Hospital Hustle is already out on the PC and it appears it will be making an appearance on the PS3 next year through the PSN. The site describes the game as the following: “Get in on the hospital hijinks, diagnosing and treating outlandish outpatients in this energetic Time Management game! Help Nurse Sarah save lives in increasingly hectic hospitals with an assortment of wacky treatment stations and patient-pleasing power-ups! Leave your mark on the field of medicine in Story mode or push your skills to their limits with Endless play! Scrub up and get into the first-aid frenzy of Hospital Hustle today!”  We never knew being in hospital could be so chirpy.

[size=+1]Hydrophobia[/size]

Publisher: Blade Interactive
Developer: Blade Interactive
Out: Q2 2009

Ever since we ran our exclusive interview with the guys from Blade Interactive back in October we’ve been keeping a keen eye on Hydrophobia. With state of the art fluid dynamics and an intriguing futuristic story focusing on Malthaus theory and the last remnants of mankind floating around on a super-ship, consider our interest officially piqued.

[size=+1]I Am Alive[/size]

Publisher: Ubisoft
Developer: Darkworks
Out: Q2 2009

How do you follow up a super success like Assassin’s Creed? Well, for Jade Raymond it’s “I Am Alive”, a survival thriller with elements of I Am Legend and various other apocalyptic scenarios depicting the world going to hell. The recent trailer shows Chicago ravaged by earthquakes and the social system breaking down as survivors resort to marauding and tribal attitudes. You play Adam, a fellow survivor with Ubisoft promising a “rich palette of emotions while challenging players to make life-changing decisions.”

[size=+1]IL-2 Sturmovik: Birds of Prey[/size]

Publisher: 505 Games
Developer: Gaijin Entertainment
Out: 2009

Similar to Heroes Over Europe we get another war time aerial sim in the form of “Worst Named Game of 2009″ contender: IL-2 Sturmovik: Birds of Prey. The press release reveals: “28 different aircraft are available as they fly through some of history’s most famous aerial battlefields: The Battle of Britain, Stalingrad, Berlin, Sicily and Korsun. Each aircraft has been painstakingly researched by the dedicated team at Gaijin Entertainment, to make sure they are recreated with fantastic levels of detail and precision, ensuring a rich level of realism.”

[size=+1]Indiana Jones[/size]

Publisher: LucasArts
Developer: LucasArts
Out: 2009 (maybe)

The game has been in development before Harrison Ford went grey so it’s safe to assume that, eventually, it will see the light of day. Plot details are light on the ground with suggestions that old baddie Lao Che is the main villain. The tech behind the game includes Euphoria and DMS, both engines that featured heavily in The Force Unleashed, so we have high hopes that environment interaction (read: slapping things with a whip) will be both exciting and realistic.

[size=+1]inFamous[/size]

Publisher: SCE
Developer: Sucker Punch
Out: Q2 2009

Anti-hero morality tale, inFamous has been gaining some momentum of late with new footage depicting sub-plots and new powers. Players control “Cole”, the electricity wielding protagonist who is the sole survivor of an explosion that rips apart Empirical City. Similar in scope and style to Prototype, the sandbox game has a lot to live up to but if anyone can pull off superior gameplay it’s the guys who gave us Sly Cooper.

[size=+1]Islands of Wakfu[/size]

Publisher: TBA
Developer: Ankama Games
Out: 2009

Coming to the PSN is Ankama’s adventure beat’em up Islands of Wakfu. Little is known at the moment but we’ll be sure to keep an eye out for more information and keep you informed as it emerges.

[size=+1]James Bond Driving Project (Untitled)[/size]

Publisher: Activision
Developer: Bizarre Creations
Out: Q4 2009

When Quantum of Solace shunned the inclusion of any driving missions we knew it was only a matter of time for someone to fill the void. Enter Bizarre Creations. It’s still eons away at this point but at least we know it exists. Expect to see multiple cars from Aston Martins to Jags and Bond dutifully smashing each and every one of them to pieces. Nice job - if you can get it.

[size=+1]John Carpenter’s Psychopath[/size]

Publisher: TBC
Developer:  TBC
Out: 2009? (what the heck - TBC)

The master of suspense returns with a new movie and apparently there will be a complimentary game tie-in. That’s it. Nothing to see here.

[size=+1]Just Cause 2[/size]

Publisher: Eidos Interactive
Developer: Avalanche Studios
Out: Q1 2009

Swedish outfit Avalanche Studios unleash their proprietary Avalanche Software (nice name) once again in the the sequel to 2006’s Just Cause. Rico is back, and so are some smarter enemies. Expect more insane stunts, action and “an incredibly detailed and vast 1000 sq km game world of different climates and ultra-realistic weather effects.” The press release continues with such hyperbole like: “Leap from your plane and skydive from 10,000 feet down into a tropical jungle, tear across an arid desert in a dune buggy or climb your way up a snowy mountain in a 4×4!” That actually sounds like fun.

[size=+1]Kart Attack[/size]

Publisher: TBA
Developer: Blimey! Games
Out: 2009

PSN game. Karts. Attacking. That’s all we know. Other than the fact that Blimey! Games signed a deal with Ferrari to make games based on the popular auto franchise. Ferrari Kart anyone?

[size=+1]Killzone 2[/size]

Publisher: SCEE
Developer: Guerrilla Games
Out: February 2009

Ever since its infamous showing at E3 all those moons ago the gaming community has been abuzz about Killzone 2. Sure, it appears that Guerrilla were not able to reach the heady heights of the graphical fidelity presented in the E3 pre-render but, by God, they’ve come very close. Killzone was heralded as the PS2’s much needed Halo killer (which, technically, was a long shot considering the advances the Xbox had over the PS3’s predecessor) but it’s its sequel that people have started to truly believe will re-write the rules of the popular FPS franchise. Don’t believe us? Even staunch anti-Sony people who have played the game have all pretty much unanimously lauded its virtues. February is the month of love. Prepare to be intoxicated by Killzone 2.

[size=+1]L.A. Noire[/size]

Publisher: Rockstar Games
Developer: Team Bondi
Out: Q4 2009

Boasting a “perfectly recreated Los Angeles of the late 1940’s” players enter the murky environs of post-WWII era L.A. Heavily influenced by James Elroy’s L.A. Quartet (The Black Dahlia, The Big Nowhere, White Jazz and (the one you’ve probably heard of) L.A. Confidential), the game features a heavy dose of open ended exploration and noire tinted murder solving. This and Heavy Rain are why we believe the gaming genre has finally grown up and should be taken seriously as a medium for narrative based story telling.

[size=+1]Lord of the Rings: Conquest[/size]

Publisher: EA
Developer: Pandemic Studios
Out: January 2009

By now we hope you’ve already enjoyed the demo on the PSN so this should be old news. Considering Pandemic’s forte with such battlefield games like Star Wars: Battlefront there should be no real surprises about what type of game we’re getting here. With help from Weta Studios in terms of digital models etc. we can at least be assured that the game will look fairly close to the popular movies. The full game is out in a matter of weeks.

[size=+1]Leisure Suit Larry: Box Office Bust[/size]

Publisher: Sierra Entertainment
Developer: Team 17
Out: Q1 2009

There’s a new Leisure Suit Larry Game. Apparently it’s coming to the next-next-gen of consoles. There’s a plot but it’s too painful to write. Let’s just say that it will be out in 2009 and we’ll leave it at that.

http://www.ps3attitude.com/new/2008/12/ps3-games-of-2009-part-ii/

[clips]

Definitely interested in "I\'am Alive" & "Hydrphobia"....both of those concepts sound interesting.

[Viper_Fujax]

operation flashpoint 2 might be good..depends how much having it on console affects the game. wouldnt mind a super-realistic, open world, military fps to break up the monotony. but im skeptical of a huge game with that type of gameplay on a console

arma 2 might be more like the first OFP, but the first one just felt clunky. doesnt help my computer could barely run it

[Viper_Fujax]

anyone else reading up on infamous and prototype?

pretty crazy how similar 2 games are that are being developed at the same time. both of them you choose good or bad, human given super powers that progess over time, read peoples memories/thoughts, open world cities

I was leaning towards infamous because how the character moved around in that game looked a lot more fun than the arcadey jumping around of prototype, but after seeing more of prototype\'s fighting, its looking better than infamous\'s lightning stuff..doesn hurt you can cut everyone in half and body surf people as their blood scrapes along the cement in prototype

I am Alive concept seems interesting. At least, the trailer seems to suggest you\'ll need some wit to get to safety.

Heavy Rain ; adventure game woohoo !

F1 2009 ; a weak spot for F1 games

Killzone 2 ; the 2009 build video\'s look really good

* Edit : scrap I am alive. This news is just in : http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/jade-raymond-not-doing-i-am-alive

Quote : However, senior producer Alexis Goddard told gamesTM (thanks 1UP) that the game is played from the first-person perspective - in order to heighten players\' emotional reaction to set-pieces and other events. Even more first person games. Great....... NOT !