I want to thank each and every one of you for voting, debating, and commenting on our first annual awards! As predicted, the process wasn’t entirely without its hiccups, but in general I think it was a pretty good first attempt. That said, we absolutely want your feedback on next year’s awards, which will be bigger and better in many ways. Please provide your feedback in the comments – we’ll be referring to it in preparation for next year!

Also, be sure to listen to our new episode of PlayStation Blogcast, where GamesBeat Editor in Chief Dan Hsu joins us for a discussion of our favorite games of the year.

‘Nuff said. Read on to see the very best in PlayStation gaming for 2012 as chosen by PlayStation gamers worldwide.

PS3 Game of the Year

Assassin’s Creed III

This one was a squeaker, but Ubisoft Montreal’s period epic inched past a strong showing by Gearbox Software’s well-received shooter. FIFA 13 Soccer landed the most write-in votes, but not enough to place in the winner’s circle.

Borderlands 2

Call of Duty: Black Ops II

Far Cry 3

Dishonored – “In my book, this was the smartest, most distinctive FPS of the year, shoehorning adult themes, nuanced characters and sophisticated gameplay mechanics into a wincingly visceral campaign. Oh, and it was great to see so many primary colors too! Sequel please!”

– Fred Dutton, Manager, EU PlayStation.Blog

Borderlands 2 – “Sequels don’t always manage to one-up their predecessors, but Borderlands 2 does just that — in nearly every conceivable way. From the vastly improved story, to the motley cast of characters, to the massive volume of guns, Gearbox has planted their foot firmly in the ground as one of this generation’s premier FPS developers.”

– Justin Massongill, US PlayStation.Blog

XCOM: Enemy Unknown – “This game scratched an itch I didn’t know I had, weaving tense turn-based firefights into a shockingly addictive management simulation. This is a refreshing and utterly fascinating game with a surprise and a delight around every corner. Highly recommended.”

– Sid Shuman, Manager, US PlayStation.Blog

PS3 Game of the Year (PSN Only)

Journey

Thatgamecompany’s wildly original opus was always the favorite to win this category, though Telltale Games’ heartbreaking series The Walking Dead nearly overtook it in the final hours of voting. Queasy Games’ Sound Shapes took the most write-in votes.

The Walking Dead: Episodes 1-5

Tokyo Jungle

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

Journey – “I’m going with the obvious choice here. Nothing else I played this year drew me in like thatgamecompany’s Journey. Despite the lack of communication and identity involved, I felt closer to my co-op partners in Journey than in anything else I’ve played this year… maybe ever. It’s an experience I wish I could wipe from my memory, just so I could have it for the first time again.”

– Justin Massongill, US PlayStation.Blog

Journey – “I won’t be alone in singling out thatgamecompany’s bewitching quest here. Some complained that it was too brief, but its three hours of playtime will surely live longer in the memory than almost any other release this year. This is joyful, uplifting, must-play material. And, no, there’s no shame in admitting its final moments set your bottom lip aquiver.”

– Fred Dutton, EU PlayStation.Blog

The Walking Dead: Episodes 1 – 5 – “Telltale’s memorable series starts small but slowly builds to towering emotional heights, culminating in what may be the greatest gaming moment of the year. This is a prime example of the narrative potential of videogames — don’t you dare miss it.”

– Sid Shuman, US PlayStation.Blog

PS Vita Game of the Year

UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss

The closest category in this year’s awards nearly ended in a three-way tie between Gravity Rush, Persona 4: Golden, and UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss. But in a photo finish, Bend Studios claims the Platinum prize. The most popular write-in vote was for Zero Escape: Virtue’s Last Reward, which is also available on PS Vita game card.

Persona 4 Golden

Assassin’s Creed III: Liberation

Gravity Rush

Gravity Rush – “Alternately careening and frolicing through the skies of Hekseville provided some of the most enjoyable, empowering moments in gaming this year for me. A lush world and loveable character wrapped around a set of mechanics that feels downright awesome in the palm of your hands.”

– Nick Suttner, PlayStation Blogcast co-host

Persona 4 Golden – “JRPGs have seen a relative lack of representation in this gaming generation. But now that Atlus has rebuilt one of PS2’s most highly regarded games for PS Vita, they’ve proven that a well-written, visually striking, character-driven RPG can still find an appreciative audience.”

– Justin Massongill, US PlayStation.Blog

PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale – “A tough choice, but my voracious appetite for portable pugilism ultimately tipped the scales in favor of the All-Stars. SuperBot’s slavish attention to detail shines on the OLED screen and the characters feel intoxicatingly powerful, making this a perfect choice for mobile encounters.”

– Sid Shuman, US PlayStation.Blog

PS Vita Game of the Year (PSN Only)

Sound Shapes

Innovative indie titles placed strongly in this category, with Queasy Games’ charming musical platformer handily securing the lead. Fun fact: Grasshopper Manufacture’s shooter Sine Mora was the top write-in vote.

MotorStorm RC

Super Stardust Delta

Escape Plan

Frobisher Says! – “Not many games are silly. Yet Frobisher’s minigame madness is supremely silly in all the right ways, a ton of fun, kind of beautiful, and free, free, free as a bird. Whether I was finding flan, making a terrible din, or not smiling at pandas, it was some of the most fun I’ve had on PS Vita this year.”

– Nick Suttner, PlayStation Blogcast co-host

Sound Shapes – “Jonathan Mak’s unique approach to game design yields one of the biggest surprises of the year: A whimsical musical platformer that whisks you away on a magical tour of five imaginative worlds, leading inexorably to a momentous meeting with Beck.”

– Sid Shuman, US PlayStation.Blog

When Vikings Attack! – “Okay, maybe I’m biased, but I found When Vikings Attack!’s bonkers Britishness impossible to resist. If there was a more satisfying mechanic in gaming in 2013 than flinging a skip at a gang of Viking invaders, I certainly wasn’t privy to it. If you’re after a hidden gem to discover this Christmas, you could do a lot, lot worse.”

– Fred Dutton, EU PlayStation.Blog

PS Mobile Game of the Year

Super Crate Box

In a surprisingly tight race with several favorites jockeying for position, Super Crate Box’s accessible, addictive formula came out on top in the PS Mobile arena. The most popular write-in vote? Lemmings.

Sixty Second Shooter

Aqua Kitty

Everybody’s Arcade

Rebel – “Super Crate Box is the easy choice, but with that well-trod I want to make sure that no one misses out on Rebel. A sort of anti-Crate Box that has you dodging falling weapons crates while turning enemies against each other, Rebel feels satisfying thanks to a brilliant reward loop of upgrades that turn time-waster into skillful navigator.”

– Nick Suttner, PlayStation Blogcast co-host

Super Crate Box – “This feels like the no-brainer of the group, though Bullion Blitz and Puzziball are definite gems. Simple but focused, Super Crate Box is one of those indefinable instant classics that you’ll understand the moment you lay hands on it. A sheer delight.”

– Sid Shuman, US PlayStation.Blog

Super Crate Box – “Believe it or not, I reckon I’ve played SCB more than any game in any category. Vlambeer’s bite-sized score-attack platformer was an ingenious confection, and nailed that just-one-more-game catchiness better than any other title this year.”

– Fred Dutton, EU PlayStation.Blog

Best Use of PlayStation Move

Portal 2 In Motion

Another tight race, with Sixense’s Portal 2 expansion pack beating back a potent showing from PlayStation Move favorite Sorcery and close runners-up Wonderbook: Book of Spells and Sports Champions 2, while Okami HD claimed the most write-in votes.

Datura – “Probably the best example yet of how PS Move can open up new ways to interact. Navigating the dreamlike forests of Datura from a first-person perspective using PS Move brings a hypnotic surreal quality, as well as a more tactile interface. Really cool stuff.”

– Sid Shuman, US PlayStation.Blog

Datura – “I like touching trees.”

– Nick Suttner, PlayStation Blogcast co-host

PixelJunk 4am – “Sure, it’s something of an acquired taste and plays best, as advertised, in the small hours after a night on the town, but Q-Game’s music plaything really got its hooks in me over the summer. If you like your digital entertainment arty, freeform and very, very bleepy, this one’s for you.”

– Fred Dutton, EU PlayStation.Blog

Most Anticipated PS3 Game

The Last of Us

Despite powerful resistance from Grand Theft Auto 5, Naughty Dog’s highly anticipated post-apocalyptic journey The Last of Us claimed the coveted Platinum prize. Bronze winner BioShock Infinite topped Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch by just a handful of votes, while Namco Bandai’s RPG Tales of Xillia earned the most write-in votes.

Grand Theft Auto 5

BioShock Infinite

God of War: Ascension

Puppeteer – “A close call between this and BioShock, but my innate predisposition towards anything involving 2D visuals, running, and jumping won through. Japan Studios’ lovely platformer is a true feast for the senses, shot through with a delightfully dark sense of humor and A-grade character design. One to watch out for.”

– Fred Dutton, EU PlayStation.Blog

The Last of Us – “An agonizing decision, but (sorry BioShock Infinite) I’m putting my money on Naughty Dog. I’m drawn to the game’s suffocating atmosphere of hopelessness, but I’m also dying to learn more about the fragile relationship between innocent Ellie and world-weary Joel. Fingers crossed that Naughty Dog pulls off something extraordinary here.”

– Sid Shuman, US PlayStation.Blog

Sportsfriends – “If you’ve ever managed to catch one at a gaming event such as PAX, you know that Johann Sebastian Joust, Hokra, BaraBariBall and Super Pole Riders are already some of the best local multiplayer games EVER, even in their unreleased forms. Having all of them on PSN, upgraded and collected as Sportsfriends, is just too exciting for words. Get ready to Joust!”

– Nick Suttner, PlayStation Blogcast co-host

Most Anticipated PS Vita Game

Killzone Mercenary

Strong showings from Sly Cooper, Soul Sacrifice, and Tearaway weren’t enough to unseat Guerilla’s upcoming powerhouse. Intriguingly, Atlus USA’s mysterious Dragon’s Crown earned the most write-in votes.

Soul Sacrifice

Tearaway

Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time

Guacamelee! – “It’s been far too long since I got my hands on a unique exploration-based platformer. Guacamelee’s hyperactive art style and elbow-dropping personality promise to revitalize the genre popularized by games like Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.”

– Justin Massongill, US PlayStation.Blog

Soul Sacrifice – “Inafune’s dark fantasy promises to bring some serious emotional gravity to the co-op battlefields, such as tragic boss monsters that beg for mercy and an alarming array of life-or-death choices. I’m particularly drawn to the grim, almost grotesque art style.”

– Sid Shuman, US PlayStation.Blog

Tearaway – “Can’t wait. Expect wild innovation, free-wheeling creativity and charm in abundance. If you don’t covet a PS Vita now, just wait until this one lands on shelves.”

– Fred Dutton, EU PlayStation.Blog

I teamed up with Ray Bautista, Product Manager of Digital Platforms Strategic Planning to give you a sneak peek at the Instant Game Collection for PS Vita and all of the benefits and features that PS Plus has to offer. Today I’ll walk you through some of the other new features you can look forward to with the system software update, including an email app, the ability to transfer content wirelessly between your PS Vita and PC, and enhancements to the web browser.

With the addition of PS Plus, and such a great lineup of exclusive games launching by this holiday, now is the perfect time to purchase a PS Vita.

As Ray mentioned, PS Plus will offer exclusive discounts and bonus features for both PS Vita and PlayStation 3 members. In addition to online storage for game saves, automatic updates and Trophy synching, PS Plus members will get access to the Instant Game Collection, a constantly updated library selection of games, starting when the PlayStation Store updates on Tuesday, November 20th.

Once you update your PS Vita to v2.00 and PS Store publishes next Tuesday, PS Plus members will be able to download the Instant Game Collection, which includes PS Vita games Uncharted: Golden Abyss, Jet Set Radio HD, WipEout 2048, Gravity Rush and Tales From Space: Mutant Blobs Attack!, as well as (PSP) PlayStation Portable hit Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions.

Don’t forget that PS3 users with an existing PS Plus membership will be able to enjoy PS Plus features and services on both PS3 and PS Vita systems at no additional cost. You will be able to choose between the two subscription options — a three month plan for $17.99 and a one year plan for $49.99.

For more information on System Software Updates, please visit this page, which will provide additional details on v2.00 when the update goes live.

This week, the fight literally begins with Street Fighter X Tekken. Not only will we see head-to-head competition in the upcoming new game, but each gamer’s creativity will be tested when they must create new game characters and choreograph fight scenes for guest panelist, Capcom Special Combat Advisor, Seth Killian.

Check out this week’s preview of episode 4 below, and watch the full episode here. You can also watch the entire episode on the What’s New section of the XMB or download from the PlayStation Store when today’s update is published.

If you are looking to complete your PlayStation Home quest for The Tester 3, we have a marathon beginning Tuesday, March 6, where you can watch all previous episodes (1-4) in Theater 6. Be sure to stop in so you can rejoin the quest and earn limited edition “The Tester 3” shirts for your avatar!

Our fourth Twitter giveaway for The Tester 3 is next Monday, March 5. Follow @PlayStation to participate, and keep an eye out for a trivia question related to Episode 4. Congratulations to @_meridian for winning yesterday’s Episode 3 prize package!

For next week, the prize package is perfect for all you Street Fighter X Tekken fans:

• The Tester 3 t-shirt
• 1 month PlayStation Plus voucher
• Mad Catz Street Fighter X Tekken FightStickPro autographed by Seth Killian

As a reminder, please allow fans the chance to enjoy the show by NOT posting any spoilers in the comments below, or in the PlayStation forums.

When we set out to create PS Vita, we were determined to deliver the best handheld gaming experience the industry has ever seen, an experience that would rival current consoles and set the bar infinitely higher for those exploring the portable gaming space. In the year following its announcement, you’ve heard us throw around words like “revolutionary,” “innovative,” “game-changing” and more. In the past few weeks, fans like yourselves and members of the press have begun to share in our sentiments. Early reviews have hailed PS Vita as “the best handheld ever made” and “the most advanced portable gaming system ever made.” It’s clear that PS Vita is making a phenomenal impression on gamers across the world.

Once you have your PS Vita in hand, the choices are yours. With 25 titles available at launch, more than 70 others in development, and fan-favorite franchises such as Call of Duty, UNCHARTED, Assassin’s Creed, Resistance, Mortal Kombat and new IP like Unit 13 coming to your PS Vita, the hardest decision will be where to start. Our goal is to ensure that PS Vita owners are never without new entertainment choices. We’ve worked hard to create a lineup of great content unlike anything you’ve ever seen from a handheld gaming device and to add social features, services and functionality the will continuously enhance those great experiences anytime, anywhere.

We know that PlayStation has the best fans in the business and we want to thank you for your ongoing passion and dedication. For those of you who may just be joining the PlayStation Nation we say “welcome” and to every proud new owner of a PlayStation Vita…we hope you never stop playing.

Since UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss is a portable game, it’s not always easy to hop online and look up an FAQ. For that reason, we decided to offer DLC that integrates the Treasure Maps directly into Drake’s Journal.

When you buy and install the maps, a new Treasure Map Icon appears on the Chapter page for each level. Tap the icon to bring up the map.

You’ll be greeted with a full-screen image of the level showing all of its major landmarks and the locations of rubbings, photos, artifacts, treasures and Mysteries. And in case you were wondering, there are 34 maps — one for each level in the game.

We wanted to offer the convenience of having the maps just two clicks away while you’re exploring the level… without having to leave the game. We’ve added a purchase button to the UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss Live Area page which links directly to the PlayStation Store to make it easier to find.

Good luck, and happy treasure hunting!

Read on to get answers to your questions regarding PS Vita, covering everything from the specs of the state-of-the-art OLED screen to support of Bluetooth peripherals and more. And remember: Please leave your burning questions in the comments and we’ll address them in a future update.

General Questions

Q: When will PS Vita be available?
A: In North America, Latin America, and Europe, PS Vita launches on February 22nd, 2012. A limited-run First Edition Bundle launched on February 15th in the US. In Japan, PS Vita launched on December 17th.

Q: How much will PS Vita cost?
A: The Wi-Fi version will retail for $249, while the 3G/Wi-Fi version will retail for $299.

Q: How many software titles will be available at launch in the US?
A: PS Vita will launch with 26 games on its February 22nd launch date in the US, and every PS Vita system will be packed with six AR Play Cards. You can use these cards to play a selection of Augmented Reality mini games that will be available soon on PlayStation Store. You can watch videos showing off AR minigames Table Soccer, Fireworks and Cliff Diving in action.

Additionally, there will be a selection of 275 legacy PSP titles available to download from PlayStation Store at PS Vita’s launch and 117 PlayStation minis titles, with more legacy PSP and minis titles to come in the future. See the full list of currently supported PSP and minis titles here.

The full list of launch-day PS Vita titles is as follows:

SCEA Launch-Day Titles
Escape Plan (PSN Only)
Hot Shots Golf: World Invitational
Hustle Kings (PSN Only)
Little Deviants
ModNation Racers: Road Trip
Super Stardust Delta (PSN only)
UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss
wipEout 2048

Third-Party Publisher Launch-Day Titles
Army Corps of Hell by Square Enix, Inc.
Asphalt Injection by Ubisoft, Inc.
BEN10 GALACTIC RACING by D3 Publisher of America
Blazblue: Continuum Shift EXTEND by Aksys Games Localization, Inc.
Dungeon Hunter Alliance by Ubisoft, Inc.
Dynasty Warriors Next by Tecmo Koei America Corporation
F1 2011 by Codemasters
EA SPORTS FIFA Soccer by Electronic Arts, Inc.
Lumines Electronic Symphony by Ubisoft, Inc.
Michael Jackson The Experience Ubisoft, Inc.
Ninja Gaiden Sigma Plus by Tecmo Koei America Corporation
Plants vs Zombies by Sony Online Entertainment LLC
Rayman Origins by Ubisoft, Inc.
Shinobido 2: Revenge of Zen by Namco Bandai Games America Inc.
Tales of Space: Mutant Blobs (PSN Only) by Drinkbox Studios
Touch My Katamari by Namco Bandai Games America Inc.
Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3 by Capcom Entertainment, Inc.
Virtua Tennis 4: World Tour Edition by Sega of America

Worldwide, there are more than 70 PS Vita games currently in development. What’s more, some of the most popular third-party franchises in gaming will appear on PS Vita, including Assassin’s Creed, BioShock, Call of Duty, and Mortal Kombat.

Q: What will software pricing look like?
A: Pricing for PS Vita software ranges from $9.99-$49.99 (MSRP) and will be available for purchase at retail locations as well as downloadable on the PlayStation Store.

Q: Does the First Edition Bundle come with a digital or physical copy of Little Deviants?
A: The First Edition Bundle includes a copy of Little Deviants on a physical PS Vita game card.

Q: What accessories will PS Vita launch with in the US?
A: PS Vita will launch with a wide array of accessories. For gamers looking for a complete solution, a Starter Kit with Memory Card will be available for $39.99 (MSRP), which includes a 4GB Memory Card, Pocket Pouch, Protective Film, Game Card Case, Headphones, and Cleaning Cloth. Standalone Memory Cards will start at $19.99 (MSRP), providing plenty of options for storing games and save data, videos, music, photos and more.

The full list of upcoming PS Vita accessories is as follows:

Product Name Starter Kit with Memory Card 4 GB Memory Card 8 GB Memory Card 16 GB Memory Card 32 GB Memory Card In-Ear Headset Carrying Case Travel Pouch Protective Film (2 pack) Card Case Cradle AC Adaptor Car Adaptor USB Cable Portable Charger

Release Date February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 February 15, 2012 Spring 2012

MSRP $39.99 $19.99 $29.99 $59.99 $99.99 $19.99 $19.99 $19.99 $9.99 $5.99 $19.99 $14.99 $14.99 $14.99 $49.99

Q: What wireless 3G plans will be available for the 3G/Wi-Fi model of PS Vita?
A: The AT&T Data Connect plans are month-by-month and are not contract based, and all plans include complimentary AT&T Wi-Fi hotspot access in the United States. There are two plan choices:

Q: What are the advantages of choosing the 3G/Wi-Fi model of PS Vita? What will I get with it that I can’t get with the Wi-Fi model?
A: With access to AT&T Broadband Network you can game with real-time connection, immediately socialize with your gaming community through news feeds, multiplayer game sessions, and compete for in-game achievements (Trophies). You can also stay up-to-date with continuous LiveArea news feeds, and cross-game text messaging with Party. 3G connectivity also benefits social apps such as Facebook, Twitter, foursquare, Skype and more, all optimized specifically for PS Vita.

PS Vita 3G/Wi-Fi model also includes GPS for the most accurate geo-location reading, giving you an advantage when using “near” in that you can interact when you’re away from a Wi-Fi hotspot, whether you’re scooping up new track parts for ModNation Racers or accepting a new lap-time challenge in WipEout 2048.

Q: Do all PS Vita users have to sign up with a cell phone provider?
A: No. Users can enjoy either model of PS Vita using only Wi-Fi functionality.

Q: What is “near”?
A: “near” is PS Vita’s integrated social networking app that enables you to check in to real-life locations and pick up or leave gifts for other gamers to find and use in their games. You can also locate and connect with your PlayStation Network friends and other gamers nearby for ad-hoc communication and multiplayer sessions, whether you set up lap-time challenges in WipEout 2048 or trade costumes with a competitor in Ultimate Marvel vs Capcom 3. Using “near,” you can also see which games are the most popular and highest rated by fellow gamers near your location, which can help you locate new and interesting games..

”near” can calculate your location using a Wi-Fi location service; the 3G/Wi-Fi model includes GPS technology, which enables you to be the first to find valuable game gifts by logging into “near” via 3G with more precision…and no need to wait for a Wi-Fi hot spot!

Q: Do you need 3G network connection to enjoy “near”?
A: No. PS Vita users can enjoy “near” using Wi-Fi, but a 3G connection is preferred in order to maximize “near”’s capability. By using a 3G connection, users will be able to obtain more information and encounter new players in real time via “near”. Think of it as a geo-social gaming network that taps into your location, wherever you might be.

Q: What kinds of “gifts” can you give and receive using “near”?
A: ”near” enables PS Vita owners to access virtual game-related items that other users are sharing by checking in at geographic locations that other PS Vita users have also visited. The virtual items can come in many forms: new character costumes, weapons, and treasures, just to name a few. Sharing these items between users adds a unique dimension to the portable gaming experience on PS Vita while enhancing the social connectivity among the PS Vita community.

Q: What is “LiveArea”?
A: Every PS Vita game features a space called “LiveArea” where you can access new game information from Sony Computer Entertainment and third-party developers and publishers via PlayStation Network. You’ll also be able to view an “Activity” log that includes your PSN Friends, which is constantly updated with accomplishments from users who are playing the same game, which in turn can trigger active real-time communication and gameplay among users.

Q: What is “Party”?
A: “Party” brings the flexibility and power of cross-game chat or text chat to PS Vita’s online gaming, and it’s available even when users are playing different games or using different applications such as the Internet browser . Users who are chatting together can also seamlessly join an online game to play together, making it easy to hop into a quick match of Unit 13 or wipEout 2048. You’ll also be able to bookmark your favorite groups so you can easily reconnect with them later. Combined with near, a powerful geo-social gaming network, Party will give PS Vita owners more options to interact, communicate, and compete than ever before.

Q: What system software will come pre-loaded on the final retail version of PS Vita in North America?
A: PS Vita comes pre-installed with Welcome Park, “near,” “Party,” Trophies, Friends, PlayStation Store, Remote Play, Video player, Music player, Photos and Camera, Group Messaging, and Content Manager.

Q: What is PS Vita’s battery life?
A: Officially, PS Vita is rated at approximately 3 to 5 hours of gaming, 5 hours of video playback, and 9 hours of music playback. Recharging the battery from 0 percent will take approximately 2.5 hours.

From a gaming perspective, you’ll notice that the most graphically intense games such as UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss are slightly more demanding on battery life, while simpler games such as Escape Plan are less demanding. To further maximize battery life, you can employ measures such as reducing the screen’s brightness or deactivating Wi-Fi. By and large, PlayStation employees who have used PS Vita extensively in the real world have praised the unit’s battery life – if you pick up PS Vita on day one, be sure to let us know what your experiences are.

Technical Specifications

Q: I’ve heard that PS Vita uses OLED display technology. How does it work? What are the benefits of OLED? Why is it superior to traditional LCD-based displays?
A: OLED technology is the most cutting-edge display technology on the market, boasting higher contrast and brighter color than LCD-based displays found in other devices. This next-generation display technology makes PS Vita games look dazzlingly bright.

Q: What are the specs of the OLED screen?
A: PS Vita’s OLED screen measures 5 inches, with a resolution of 960×544 pixels (16:9 aspect ratio) and a color depth of approximately 16,770,000 colors.

Q: Is a memory card required for game play?
A: You will need a memory card for those games that require game saves or have downloadable content. You will also need a memory card in order to take photos or videos using PS Vita’s integrated cameras.

Q: Does PS Vita support Bluetooth headsets or Bluetooth headphones?
A: Commercially available headphones/headsets supporting A2DP, HSP and AVRCP can be used on PS Vita, however they may function differently depending on the device’s specifications. Stereo Bluetooth is also supported, an important feature for users of Bluetooth headphones.

Q: Can you use a commercially available Bluetooth keyboard or mouse? Can you connect the PS3 wireless controller to PS Vita like PSPgo?
A: No. You won’t be able to connect a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse or a PS3 DualShock 3 wireless controller with PS Vita.

Q: Can you access the Internet by connecting PS Vita to a Bluetooth-supported cell phone?
A: No.

Q: What video and audio formats will PS Vita support?
A: PS Vita supports a wide array of audio files, including: MP3 (MPEG-1/2 Audio Layer 3), MP4 (MPEG-4 AAC), and WAVE (Linear PCM). Video formats supported include: MPEG-4 Simple Profile (AAC) and H.264/MPEG-4 AVC High/Main/Baseline Profile (AAC). Image and photo formats supported include JPEG, TIFF, BMP, GIF, and PNG.

Q: Do you have any plans to introduce a video output cable? Will PS Vita have HDMI output?
A: No, PS Vita does not have a video output feature.

Q: Can you take out the battery from the system?
A: No. PS Vita’s rear touchscreen requires the use of an internal embedded battery.

Q: Is there a possibility of certain PS3 games using PS Vita as a second screen or peripheral at some point in the future?
A: Remote Play on PS Vita will allow you to see and control your PS3 from your PS Vita; we’ll have further details to share in the future.

Q: What colors will be available for the North American launch?
A: Crystal Black will be available for launch.

Other Questions

Q: What does the name “PS Vita” mean?
A: “Vita,” which means “Life” in Latin, was chosen as the name for PlayStation’s next-generation portable entertainment system because it enables rich gaming and social connectivity within a real-world context.

Q: What was the hardware design concept behind PS Vita?
A: While succeeding the basic design philosophy of PSP, PS Vita’s “Super Oval Design” form factor was designed to ensure the system fits comfortably in users’ hands. Another key goal was the introduction of dual analog sticks – a first for a portable gaming device – which will enable a much wider range of game experiences such as shooters, action games, and fighting games.

Q: How do you buy PS Vita games?
A: You can download PS Vita games and other content from PlayStation Store to a PS Vita memory card, or buy a physical PS Vita Card at retailers.

Q: If you buy download content for PS Vita, up to how many systems can you copy it to?
A: Users can activate two portable systems (either two PSPs, two PS Vitas, or one PSP and one PS Vita) to their PSN account.

Q: Will users be able to access PlayStation Store from both 3G and Wi-Fi?
A: PlayStation Store can be accessed from both 3G and Wi-Fi network connections, though you’ll want to reserve large downloads for a Wi-Fi connection.

Q: Will the PlayStation Plus service extend any benefits to PS Vita?
A: There are no details to share on PlayStation Plus support at this time.

Q: Will PlayStation Protection Plan be available for PS Vita?
A: Yes. PlayStation Protection Plan options are available for owners of PS Vita.

Q: Will PS Vita support Netflix, Hulu, Video Unlimited, or other video services?
A: Netflix will be heading to PS Vita in the US around the unit’s launch timeframe. Additional video content will be available to download on the PlayStation Store at launch in North America, but details on other video services have not yet been announced.

Q: Will YouTube support, Flash content, and specialized files like PDFs be viewable on PS Vita?
A: There are no details to share at this time.

Q: Can I take in-game screenshots on my PS Vita?
A: Yes. You can press the Start and PlayStation buttons together to instantly take a snapshot of your in-game exploits. You’ll find the game screenshot in your PS Vita’s photo gallery. You may not be able to take a snapshot of certain games or of certain parts of games.

Q: There are three slots on the PS Vita, what are they for?
A: There is one slot is for PS Vita Cards, a slot for the SIM card (3G/Wi-Fi model only) and a slot for PS Vita’s removable media that stores save game files and downloaded content.

Q: Are PSP and PS3 user’s PSN accounts also available on PS Vita?
A: Yes. Your PSN account will be available on PS Vita once you log in, and will carry over your Trophy collection and user data to your PS Vita.

Q: Is PS Vita compatible with other PlayStation platform games like PS3, PS2, or PSP? Do you have any plan to support other PlayStation platforms in the future?
A: Users can play supported digital PSP titles and supported minis. In regard to PSone classics titles, we will announce further details when they are ready. PlayStation does not have plans to make PS Vita compatible with PS3 or PS2 titles at this point.

Q: I have UMD games for my PSP. Do I need to buy them again from PlayStation Store to play the same game on PS Vita?
A: Yes. PS Vita does not support UMD discs. Digital PSP games that were purchased via PlayStation Store will be available to download to PS Vita as long as they are included on the list of supported PSP titles. This list of legacy PSP titles will grow in time and we will confirm when new titles are added.

Q: PS Vita doesn’t support UMD but do you have any plan to introduce peripherals like “UMD readers” for PS Vita in North America?
A: Not at this time.

Q: Is PS Vita compatible with video content available on PlayStation Store?
A: Yes, PS Vita can play free and premium SD video content. If you purchased premium video content for your PSP, you will be able to access that content on your PS Vita by downloading it again via PlayStation Store.

Q: What are the privacy settings on “near”?
A: ”near” includes parental controls that automatically prevent the service from working based on the user’s age. Additionally, users can set privacy zones (i.e. their home, office, etc.) when they don’t want to be seen on the radar. There is also a setting to make certain games private, so you’ll retain full control over your public visibility.

Q: What is Augmented Reality?
A: Augmented Reality (AR) is a feature in certain games that allow you to insert elements of the real world into the game, whether it’s mapping your face onto a kung-fu champion in Reality Fighters or playing a digital game of soccer on your real-world coffee table with Table Soccer. PS Vita harnesses this technology using two cameras that were designed to excel at AR gameplay.

Q: Does PS Vita’s VGA camera take high-quality photos?
A: The key usage of PS Vita’s cameras is to support responsive gameplay and deliver experiences such as Augmented Reality (AR). We decided on the specifications with this in mind, and we specifically focused on frame rate and quality of video shooting.

Q: Will you add new features to PS Vita through the system software update like you are doing with PSP and PS3?
A: We will introduce new features, enhancements, and upgrades to PS Vita through system software updates.

This edition of Pulse also takes the Mass Effect 3 demo (coming to PSN later today) and SSX demo (coming soon) for a test drive. And, with only a week until PS Vita rolls out here in North America, Christina Lee takes a quick look at the must-have launch titles such as Escape Plan, wipEout 2048, and UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss. We also take you behind the velvet rope of PlayStation Home’s exclusive VIP Club ‘X7.’

Remember, you can watch the full editions of Pulse in the “What’s New” section under the PlayStation Network icon when the PlayStation Store updates later today and download in full HD or to your PSP.

From the beginning, our goal was to create a great UNCHARTED game. We wanted to give players, including ourselves, more of what they love, but with the PS Vita’s unique spin. The cinematic experience, the gunplay and weapons, the compelling story and characters, the mystery and treasure hunting based on real history, the puzzles, the platforming, and of course, the colorful and detailed imagery… it’s all there. But it’s on a gorgeous five-inch screen that you can take with you.

If you’ve been following all the pre-release news, then you know that UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss also has a ton of collectibles — more than 300, in fact. We wanted to not only give the game some replayability with some additional exploration, but also to tell more backstory, which we do through the items you collect, locations you photograph, and other puzzles you solve. All of these are tied to Trophies that can be earned. We didn’t forget the gamer who prefers gunplay, either: one of the collectible types in UNCHARTED: Golden Abyss are the Bounties. These drop randomly from fallen enemies throughout the game and represent things that might have been found in the area you’re fighting in: old Spanish playing cards, gold and silver coins, and so forth. Many of these items are scarce, and some are really rare. You’re not going to collect all these on a single playthrough!

But we’re not cruel. To make it a little easier to collect all the Bounties, we created The Black Market. This is a near application that allows you select a Bounty type from your collection and send a request out to the Black Market. If any other PS Vita players out there (in the area where you made the request) have a Bounty that you’re missing, the Black Market will send you a copy of their Bounty, even the rarest collectibles. We even created a sixth Bounty type that you can obtain only through near: if you send a request to the Black Market and no one has what you need, the Black Market will send you a carved Fetish for you troubles. While the five bounties are tied to Trophies, the Fetishes are not… so you don’t have to use near to achieve Platinum. But for those of you who want to try a little Black Market trading, take your PS Vita with you!

PS Vita’s launch is right around the corner. We can’t wait!

I’m no stranger to writing, having written all the Syphon Filter games, but this title taught me some new tricks. By the time we started shooting in February 2011, I had gone through over 40 revisions, changing everything from setting, characters, names, dialogue and action. If we count all the in-game VO dialogue, we ended up with over 400 pages of script for Uncharted: Golden Abyss.

Of course, writing and performance capture was just beginning. What followed was an intense year of motion capture clean-up, animation, camera work, set building, lip-synching, prop building, editing, sound and music, by a team of over 50 artists working across five different studios.

Yes, Uncharted’s stunning visuals require next-gen hardware, but in the end, Uncharted’s charm comes from its characters, their friendships and chemistry. The great thing about story is that it’s hardware independent. Players can tell a good story from a bad one, great production values from not-so-great. We knew that the end result – all of that effort by all those people – would pay off in an Uncharted experience that would lose nothing simply because it was on a portable console. It’s the main reason I was so excited to learn the Uncharted approach to cinematic storytelling. On February 22nd, you’ll be able to see for yourself.

Starting next week, Vita Hill Social Clubs are opening in five of America’s great cities, and we’ll be holding grand opening meetups in all of them:

Tuesday, January 17th

Chicago (click here to RSVP)
1444 N. Milwaukee Ave
Your host: Jeff Rubenstein from PlayStation.Blog

Miami (click here to RSVP)
749 Washington, Miami Beach
Your host: Rey Gutierrez from PlayStation.Blog

New York City (click here to RSVP)
154 Stanton St.
Your host: Sid Shuman from PlayStation.Blog

Wednesday, January 18th

Atlanta (click here to RSVP)
800 Peachtree St.
Your host: Rey Gutierrez from PlayStation.Blog

Boston (click here to RSVP)
579 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge
Your host: Sid Shuman from PlayStation.Blog

All meetups start at 5.30pm local time, ending at 8.30pm. Attendees will feast on free food and beverages, have unfettered access to a dozen PS Vita titles, and enter for chances to win PlayStation prizes. PlayStation.Blog’s design guru Rey Gutierrez even whipped up a special T-shirt for the occasion, which will go to the first 100 people to show up to each meetup. So, you know, don’t be late.

These new Social Clubs are opening in addition to the existing location in San Francisco. We’ll also be opening Social Clubs in Austin, TX and the L.A. area soon. Click here for all locations, addresses, and hours of operation.

Be sure to RSVP to let us know you’re coming (ATL BOS CHI MIA NYC). Hope to see you next week!