PlayStation Suite SDK Archives

PlayStation Suite SDK

Sony Begins Free ‘Open Beta’ for PlayStation Suite SDK

by Sohrab Osati | Apr 19, 2012 | 0 comments

Sony has moved one step closer on their ambitious Android plans which evolves introducing PlayStation to a whole new host of users out there. Available now as a free download to any would be developer for Android, the PlayStation Suite SDK allows you to create games which utilize physical and touchscreen controls for certified devices which include the PlayStation Vita, select Sony’s Xperia smartphones and both Sony Tablets. Sony’s vision for PlayStation Suite has always been to expand the PlayStation brand in hopes that those who find value in the content will trickle back to the main machines like the Vita and the PS3. Due to this vision, the PlayStation Suite SDK is not limited to just Sony devices and other Android handset makers are able to apply for certification for the program which would allow their device to also gain access to the games and content made for the SDK.

Other benefits of the open beta include a PC-based simulator, test and debug tools and of course eventual application submission. The full application is expected to go live some in late 2012 where developers who are running the open beta will need to once again sign a new contract and pay for an annual subscription for continued access. After the jump, your chance to comment, read the official press release, and find the download link.

Sony Expands PlayStation Suite SDK, Allows for Android and PS Vita Apps

by Sohrab Osati | Nov 10, 2011 | 6 comments

Sony, like others in the industry, knows that the days of pure handheld gaming consoles are numbered and that the PS Vita will likely be Sony’s last foray of a standalone handheld gaming device. With the explosion of smartphones and the public’s distaste for carrying multiple devices as smartphones continue to get more and more powerful, it’s easy to see why the PS Vita will be the last of its kind. However, this doesn’t mean that the PS Vita experience will be lackluster or unsuccessful. Sony realizes that the ever so powerful Vita needs to be more then just a gaming machine; specifically, one that has access to apps and social networks that we are all so connected with.

Regarding the latter, Sony already has covered with a dedicated Facebook, Twitter, and FourSquare app which will launch alongside the Vita for free. Offering these apps, however, is an entirely new endeavor for Sony, but one that they are aggressively pursuing. Starting today, developers running on Windows XP (32bit) and Windows 7 (32 and 64bit) with access to the PlayStation Suite will be able to download a new SDK, based on C# coding that will allow a limited number of apps to be submitted for the closed beta testing. Those developers will have to be in UK, Japan and the United States with apps written in English. Though Sony will be selective about which app gets approved while also using a majority of the submitted apps to better improve the SDK, developers will be happy to know that they won’t actually need access to the PS Vita hardware in order to develop their apps.

Furthermore, these apps will be built on the PlayStation Suite SDK which will be available on the PS Vita, Sony Tablets, Sony Ericsson smartphones and any other Android tablet or smartphone that wishes to take advantage of the PlayStation Suite SDK as Sony has made it an open-ended platform. This is particularly compelling to developers as it will give them access to a far greater market share then just Sony branded machines. With this invasion of Android devices, Sony can now position the PlayStation brand as more then just hardware, but a platform, thus ensuring its position in the gaming market long after the fall of dedicated portable handheld consoles occurs. Well played, Sony, well played.