The week in news: 9 January

Sony has patented a technology that could stop used games from being playable on it’s next console. The patent describes a technology that ties individual game discs with specific user accounts, rendering the game disc unplayable on any other console.  The application  of a patent does not necessarily mean that the technology will be implemented in the PS4, however many game developers have gone on record to say that the second hand game market is hurting the industry.

Graphics card manufacturer NVidia has announced a new handheld console, called PROJECT SHIELD. The device, which will be powered by the Tegra 4 processor, will run android applications and games via the Jellybean operating system. It will also be able to stream PC games to itself when used in tandem with a compatible PC.    Several photographs have been released of the Shield, which resembles an xbox controller with a flip up screen attached.   No word so far on the price or release date.

Nintendo has announced 2 new pokemon titles to be released for the 3DS in October this year.  Pokemon X & Y will feature a new protagonist and a fully 3d world, and for the first time in the series history will launch in all territories simultaneously.

Travellers Tales, developers of the licensed LEGO games, has revealed that LEGO Marvel Super Heroes will launch sometime in the third quarter of this year across nearly all platforms.  The game will feature an original story and over 100 Marvel characters including Spider-man and the Avengers.