socom

Another game, another used-game penalty

SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALS launched yesterday with free downloadable content to first-time buyers. But those who plan to buy a used version of the game will need to dole out extra cash to access it.

The title, which is published by Sony and developed by Zipper Interactive, places gamers into the familiar modern-combat scenario. Gamers can choose to play through the single player campaign or try their luck with squad-based multiplayer. The game also supports 3D.

When people buy a new copy of SOCOM 4, they will also receive free access to SOCOM Pro. Upon loading the game, owners need to input a voucher code, which turns their PlayStation Network IDs into SOCOM Pro accounts. According to Sony, by becoming Pro members, gamers have access to "downloadable content, including custom game queues, weapons packs, and bi-weekly custom co-op challenges." In addition, Zipper Interactive noted on Sony's official blog last week that Pro members will soon have access to two guns, the M-16 and the AK-47.… Read more

preGame 47: Inversion teaser; SOCOM 4; WWE All Stars

On today's preGame, we'll be screening the teaser-trailer for Inversion, a game set to hit consoles in February 2012. So why all the excitement now? Let's just say the live-action trailer leaves us with a few unanswered questions.

Next we'll take a look at the technology behind the next installment of the SOCOM franchise in SOCOM 4. Find out how the game attempts to max out the PlayStation 3 and how development made PlayStation Move a major factor in the title's creation.

Jeff will then take a look at WWE All Stars for Xbox 360 … Read more

Modular Special Forces weapon one step closer to deployment

The new Special Forces combat assault rifle (SCAR) meant to replace a hodgepodge of weapons currently used by U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is undergoing its field assessment phase, the last step before full-production and battlefield deployment.

Available as the MK-16 or MK-17, (accepting 5.65 and 7.62 NATO ammunition respectively) the SCAR is a highly modular system designed to adapt easily to future upgrades and new ammunition. The weapon, produced by the Belgian company Fabrique Nationale Herstal (FN), with replace the Colt M4, long a source of bitter gripes throughout the SF community due to its lack … Read more

Another Bluetooth headset goes into battle

Anyone can have a Bluetooth headset nowadays and, unfortunately, it often seems like everyone does. But there's one way you can separate yourself from the loquacious crowd--with a model branded specifically for your favorite game.

Just as Metal Gear Solid 4 got its own headset, SOCOM Confrontation--another PlayStation 3 title--will get one as well. Sony says it will available both as a standalone product and as part of a bundle with the Blu-ray version of the game, according to SlashGear, though no pricing has been disclosed yet.

The headset will come with its own USB charging dock and, … Read more

The 404 128: Where Jeff's not late

Apologies for the late start, but Jeff was with some good ole folks from Sony. Today, Russ Frushtick from UGO.com joins us today to talk about video games and the such. Justin has to leave early because of an unexpected meeting, but MTI dawns his superhero shorts to save the day. Along the way, we talk a lot about boobs. I mean a lot. And how not to make chocolate at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. EPISODE 128 Download today's podcast

Hydrogen to fuel long-distance drone for special ops

The U.S. Special Operations Command is going green with its purchase of a hydrogen-fueled robo-plane that can loiter in the stratosphere for up to five days at a time.

The high-altitude long endurance (HALE) Global Observer will cost $57 million for the first drone, with two more in the pipeline for an additional $108 million. The drone, or unmanned aircraft system (UAS), is powered by a hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engine designed and built by AeroVironment, which has already successfully tested a scaled down model during a five-day stretch in an altitude chamber above a simulated 65,000 feet.

The … Read more

Boeing upgrades cowboy-copter for special ops

If you see this bird hovering outside your window, you may be in trouble.

The Boeing A160T Hummingbird, the latest in unmanned chopper stealth and endurance, is under serious consideration by the U.S. Special Operations Command. Possible missions would include direct action, precision resupply and hairy extractions from behind enemy lines.

Remote-controlled helicopters are nothing new, as Boeing is quick to point out. This one is based on an old Robinson R22, which is still used as a trainer and to round up cattle. The main feature that makes the A160T unique is that it uses a rigid rotor … Read more