So many rumors surround Sony and its PSP2. Is it in development? Is it in the testing phase? Is it some other console they are tinkering with? Recently it was even suggested that the PSP2, if and when it comes out, and if that’s really what it’ll be called, would do away with the option of putting in a UMD. Also there were reports that Sony had half a mind to release Patapon 2 only in the form of digital download and not on UMD.
Ars Technica got in touch with Sony to seek the truth surrounding these reports. Patrick Seybold, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at SCEA replied with a confirmation, saying, “We are considering a digital only format for the Patapon 2 release as a one time test case as we continue to explore consumer preferences for digital content. The downloadable game will be available on May 5th at both retail and via the PlayStation Store. We remain focused on providing superior games and entertainment experiences in both the UMD and digital formats and are working closely with our partners to deliver the best PSP line up in our history.”
Patapon 2 is a sequel to Patapon. The game is a real time strategy that the player controls indirectly and in a way similar to rhythm games. It seems the game will hit retailers, but there will be no UMD inside the package. Instead, the PSP cases will contain a code which can be used to download the game.