PSP gets expanded online multiplayer with adhocParty feature

by: Tina - posted: 11/13/2009 11:42:00 AM

Social integrations to gaming are becoming an incredibly popular feature as we can see from many different facets. Obviously, multiplayer gaming is a dominant one. So, the only question is: do you own a PSP and PS3? You do? Good news for you, then.

SCEA just announced a new online service for the PSP that goes by the name of “adhocParty.” The service is already available in Japan as of last year, but North Americans will now get a taste of an expanded online multiplayer. The Ad Hoc mode utilizes the PlayStation Network through your PS3 to connect you the other players online. You can look forward to this feature for games like Gran Turismo and Monster Hunter Freedom Unite for the PSP.

November 13, 2009 – Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today announced the availability of the online service, “adhocParty for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system,” coming to North America in November. The service, which launched in Japan last year, enables PSP system owners to play select online multiplayer games featuring Ad Hoc mode over the Internet through the PlayStation®3 (PS3™) computer entertainment system. PSP titles with Ad Hoc mode traditionally require users to play within close proximity to each other, but with “adhocParty,” PSP owners with a PS3 system can play one another through the PlayStation®Network.



“The PlayStation brand is synonymous with creating exciting new gameplay experiences that connect and challenge people in ways they never thought possible,” said Scott A. Steinberg, vice president, product marketing, SCEA. “AdhocParty for the PSP system creates an avenue for gamers to connect, strategize, and compete with each other – Gran Turismo is a great example of this. Polyphony Digital developed robust Ad Hoc features within the game, which are now even more accessible through adhocParty. We saw this as a tremendous opportunity to enhance the PSP system’s online gaming experience and bring the service to our North American consumers.”



Popular titles such as SCEA’s Gran Turismo® for PSP and Monster Hunter Freedom Unite from Capcom® will soon have access to this new social gaming service.



“The secret to Monster Hunter’s fantastic success on PSP around the world has been the social aspect of the game, which brings together players from all walks of life,” said Mark Beaumont, chief operating officer, North America and Europe, Capcom. “AdhocParty for the PSP system will connect gamers to the content they love as well as to those who share the same passion for gaming. At last, Monster Hunter fans will be able to adventure together, regardless of where they are in North America.”



Interoperability between the PSP and PS3 systems through features such as “adhocParty for the PSP system” enable users to interact with other PlayStation gamers in new and innovative ways – all of which is only possible on the PlayStation platform.