Switch things up a bit with Mr. Shizzy’s XMB Editor for custom firmware 3.90 M33. Longtime users may recognize Mr. Shizzy’s earlier work when PSP Wardrobe was the name. After steering his homebrew in a new direction, we’re now left with a full-fledged XMB editing tool.

Download includes 5 themes and plenty of XMB mods. Have fun.

XMBeditor V.2 changes:

• Should have fixed all compatiblity issues with PSP PHAT models
• Made process of flashing theme 2 - 3X faster
• Added color selector for XMB date/time
• Added color selector for XMB busy signal
• Added color selector for XMB Battery
• other small bugs fixed

Download: XMBeditor V.2

- source: pspplayground

After eliciting a positive response from the homebrew community, MK2k returns with yet another port of an Alpha Secret Base game you can barely pronounce — Ura Kaiten Patissier.

The game-play remains the same as Kaiten Patissier; however, Ura Kaiten Patissier introduces various new elements and 50 new brain-boggling levels.

What do I always say around this time? That’s right, get down with the get down, baby.

Download: Ura Kaiten Patissier 1.00 PSP

- release thread - mk2k.net -

Quake of SubZero DeZigns has two new versions of two apps that are bound to simplify your life…

First, PSP Extreme Link. This Windows app behaves as a front end for some of the most commonly used PSP tools — NetHostFS, USBHostFS, CisoPlus, etc… Not only that, Extreme Link manages your high scores, media content, you name it… It’s small, compact, and definitely worth checking out.

Next up for grabs — Pandora CMD. Another Windows front end for Team C+D’s Pandora tools. Easily partition and format your memory stick, copy the necessary files to your PSP, then watch the magic happen. You will need the official firmware updates to get started; find those here.

Extreme Link 1.6.0 B6 changes:

Load/ Explore:

• Added: Cancel Button Triangle

Options:

• Added: Hide Explore

Explore:

• Added: Auto Delete Destination file if Cancel is pressed
• Added: Auto Hide Explore while file transfer

Favourites:

• Resized Form

Pandora CMD v1.0.1 changes:

• Fixed: Bug issue on drive selection
• Added: Ads
• Added: 3.90 Support - Remains locked till an updated msinst.exe or multiloader_ipl.bin

Download:
Extreme Link 1.6.0 B6
Pandora CMD v1.0.1

- source: trading-post.sytes.net

“Bring the real arcade play home” with PSPVE — the Vectrex emulator ported by none other than the Z-Man, ZX-81. PSPVE is port of Valavan Manohararajah’s VecX emulator.

ZX notes: It’s a first release, work still remains, the sound is really crappy, the rot90 render mode should be improved, the speed is not so good as well, etc…

Download:
PSPVE v1.0.1 (fw 1.50)
PSPVE v1.0.1 (cfw 3.xx)

- source: ZX-81’s web site

I had every intention of posting this earlier, but the Homebrew Idol after-party in #area-51 got pretty wild leaving me incapacitated. So I’ll get straight to the point…

MK2k took home the Idol crown yesterday and in return left us with a little somethin’ somethin’ — the all-new Stakker PSP Idol Edition.

Stakker Idol Edition:

1. MP3 playback also from ms0:/PSP/MUSIC
2. Crash regarding the loading and listing of mp3 files (hopefully) fixed
3. In-Game platform is a bit higher now, loosing a level because of dropping a block too fast is less likely now (but still can happen)
4. Anti-Cheat implementation (play the game, don’t take it apart :-P)

Enjoy. And again, congratulations MK2k.

Download: Stakker PSP Idol Edition

- release thread - mk2k.net

Weltall returns with a brand new CWCHEAT revision. REV “C” primarily focuses on cleaning up the situation created with REV “B” and fixing other various problems. It’s all detailed in the changelog below.

And for those who continue asking the question, “is there a Game Shark equivalent to cheat PSP games?” Yes, you’re looking at it. Cheat each and every PSP title, as well as PSOne game under POPS emulation, using Weltall’s CWCHEAT. Read the documentation to get started.

CWCHEAT 0.2.2 REV. C:

• [ALL] Fixed a timing bug which could lead to the dump function not working after enabling the usb mass device. this is because the memory stick device wasn’t mounted when the dump was taking place: making the function fail.
• [ALL] Removed some optimizations which made some regressions (rev b’)
• [ALL] Changed slightly the behaviour of pointers codes. now the q part is effectively useful by itself (this change is be needed for upcoming cheats)
• [ALL] Now if connected to a hotspot like connection (so a connection requiring the browser to login in the network), the db downloader will automatically open the browser to let you login upon connection. Making so possible to download the database through this type of hotspot (available only on 3.x build)

Download: CWCHEAT 0.2.2 REV. C

Update: MK2k would like to say a few words –

During last week I had the one or other thought about what I would do if Stakker would actually make it top place, and I decided to not take all the CDN 500. I would like to donate parts of that to other people:

InsertWittyName ($100): Donation as an appreciation for the big amount of help and support. Best regards from MK2k.

Hardhat/Team Sushi ($50): Donation as an appreciation for the obvious hard work on Resonate, have a good beer guys! Best regards from MK2k.

DJ Runningman ($50): Stakker PSP incorporating the tune “Warped Sense of Humour” has won in a competition, here is a share of the winning prize for an outstanding tune with best regards from MK2k.

The results are in amigo. What’s left to ponder? First and foremost, PSP-Hacks would like to thank each and every developer who contributed to the success of Homebrew Idol. Furthermore, I gotta give props to PSDonkey for his efforts in holding down the competition and spreading word. Thanks dude.

So, lets get down to business…

Recap of Homebrew Idol contestants and their ‘brew:
(in no particular order)

1. NIGathan: NIGathan’s Shootuh
   “NIGathan’s Shootuh” is the third self-titled shooter entered into Homebrew Idol. This fast-paced shooter centers your ship in a whirlwind while enemies attack from right to left. Use the slow-mo meter to maneuver enemy fire and increase your own shot accuracy. Very cool and definitely belongs in the competition.
2. CK: Ruckus DJ MOD LE
   CK’s modded version of Captain Dan’s Ruckus. Mix your own MP3 tracks with various DJ techniques — adjust the tempo, pitch-bend, create loops, etc… It’s a good time but not quite what I was looking for.
3. slicer4ever: PSPBilliards
   slicer4ever initially entered the contest with Pixel Attack; however, PSPBilliards later took its place. First time witnessing an 8 & 9-ball pool game in fine homebrew form, and I must say, I’m quite impressed by it. Good choice and mathematical skills, slicer. I’m anxious to see future iterations.
4. hardhat: Resonate
   Another shooter — in fact, it’s a 3D rail-shooter. Hardhat’s shooter puts a unique twist on things. Starting as a Zooplankton, you’ll remain undersea and eventually evolve into a Thresher Shark as you unleash chaos throughout the ocean. Play it, enjoy it — you’ll understand and dig the “rail-shooter” concept.
5. snowmydog: Pipeline
   One kick ass remake of the popular game, “Pipe Mania.” Same concept, same great fun. Build a free-flowing pipe from start to end before time is up and water begins to flow. Although Pipeline didn’t blow my face off, considering I’ve seen/played it before, it’ll still provide for hours of entertainment.
6. Playboy: Playboy’s Shooter
   Entered later in the competition is Playboy with Playboy’s Shooter. With the look and feel of a classic arcade-style shooter, this one still needs a bit of work. You’ll quickly beat all 5 levels with little frustration. No doubt later versions will show improvement.
7. XlaiR: Castle Wars PSP Beta
   A small yet enjoyable turn-based card game of strategy and timing. Destroy the enemy’s castle while at the same time protecting your own. Castle Wars is based off the flash game. Google it, you’ll see what’s up.
8. Pirata Nervo: NervOS
   Pirata Nervo has certainly shined through with NervOS. It’s probably the most improved/enhanced shell replacement since the iR Shell days. And it’ll only get better. If second place existed, NervOS would take it.
9. MaxTheBest: Protect Me
   The only PRX plugin submitted for Homebrew Idol. Protect Me simply protects your PSP from unauthorized use by forcing a password prompt before accessing the XMB. Unsuspecting folk wouldn’t know any better; however, fluent PSP hackers know exactly what it takes to disable the plugin, rendering it ineffective. Nevertheless, it serves its purpose. Kudos Max.
10. The Underminer: PReSS
    No doubt the preferred RSS reader for the PlayStation Portable. PReSS features an already populated catalog of feeds. It also stores the RSS feeds on your memory stick for immediate offline access. Add your own personal feeds, stream audio, skin the interface, do it all from one easy-to-use homebrew app.
11. Cpasjuste: MyPspMenu
    Cpasjuste’s shell replacement shows true potential as MyPspMenu presents a beautiful and nicely organized interface. Right from the get-go it supports all major functions you’d expect in a shell. It’s borderline toss-up between this and NervOS.
12. Sangheili: PSP Pileup
    As I said before, the homebrew reenactment of the game you’ve likely spent many pissed off hours in front of… Not to be confused with MK2k’s Stakker, PSP Pileup mimics the arcade game, Stacker. Pile bricks to the top, rack up points, and unlock the mini-games.
13. Brick: Rythm Engine: Rythm Box Mod
    Another shooter totally different from any other… RE:RBM is a rhythm-based shooter where you must remain in-sync with the beat. Do that by bouncing off the flashing walls and blowing-up perpetrators simultaneously. Take your time, you’ll need to adapt to RE:RBM’s style of game play.
14. MK2k: Stakker
    Ah, ha! Probably the most well crafted homebrew game in this year’s Homebrew Idol. The “Chipmunk” physics-driven game play adds a real challenge and sense of strategy while you compete for the top spot online. I spent the most time feeding my addiction with this one.
15. Birdman: Birdman’s Shooter
    Birdman’s Shooter actually influenced Playboy’s Shooter. You’ll notice the similarities and differences between the two; however, Birdman’s Shooter is undoubtedly more mature and ready for prime time. If you’re a fan of shooters like myself, you’ll find satisfaction in Birdman’s.
16. Royale: PSP Maps
    PSP-Maps is one of my favourite and most-used homebrew apps for the PSP. If it wasn’t for the Homebrew Idol rules, “update your existing homebrew/plugin to feature something new that will blow mine and everyone else’s face off” — PSP-Maps would probably take the cake. Unfortunately the additions/updates weren’t that mind-blowing; but the app in itself still kicks tremendous ass. Check it out.
17. titch.ryan: Light Cycle Clone
    A clone of “Tron.” Sadly Light Cycle Clone doesn’t live up to my expectations. The AI is somewhat lacking and with two-player mode, you share the same PSP. Should the AI improve and 2-player network support (Ad Hoc or WiFi) be introduced, we’d be in a whole different ball game.
18. jbastos: Xadrez (3D Chess)
    I love Chess, even though I suck. And it’s unfortunate this is another case of weak AI. Despite that, the 3D rendering and camera perspective is nicely done. If you were to take Xadrez’ sexy presentation and GNU Chess’ AI, the result would be something spectacular.
19. Deniska: BINIAX2PSP
    Densika never fails to portray his talent and skill… In this PSP adaptation of Jordan Tuzsuzovs BINIAX2 puzzle game, you must rely on your logic and reaction time to stay on the board. BINIAX2PSP packs 3 different game modes: time based, pure tactical, or challenge a friend in multi-player. Another homebrew game well deserving of its spot in the competition.

As you can see, over the last 2 months we received several diverse and terrific entries, all unique in their own way. Unfortunately, we can only crown one developer the Idol of Homebrew.

So without further ado… The winner is…

*Drum Roll*

…MK2k for his homebrew, Stakker.

And once again thanks to everyone who made Homebrew Idol a smash hit.

Looking for a simple means of converting just about any video format for playback on the PSP? Then look no further — Nick has a new version of his free PSP Video Converter set for download.

PSPVC requires .NET Framework 3.0 and the Combined Community Codec Pack.

PSPVC v2.7 changes:

• A new version of FFmpeg and Avisynth has been added
• Improved internal commands for increased image quality
• Added support for .ass/.ssa subtitles (Substation Alpha)
• Improved “UPLOAD” feature
• Added a PSP-n00b folder check, if the VIDEO and/or MUSIC folder is missing, it will automatically be created on your PSP before upload
• Added video-download stats showing the progress in MB
• Fixed a video-download bug that caused PSPVC to crash
• Fixed an AUTO-resolution bug
• Misc small improvements + a small facelift as a little extra

Download: PSPVC v2.7

- source: pspvc.nswardh.com

Impress the ladies by speaking and understanding several different languages using foebea’s RosettaShard.

RosettaShard is compatible with the Rosetta Stone language sets making RosettaShard the top language-learning homebrew app available. So before heading to Bellini’s, you know what to do. I just hope your date doesn’t speak Greek, for your sake.

While the version .8.7 improvements are nearly one year old; here they are:

• added ‘wordwrap’ support;
• two installation methods:
  1. current users, simply replace the EBOOT.PBP;
  2. new or current users, copy the entire “RosettaShardv.8.7″ directory to PSP/GAME;
• if you chose #2 above, it will revert to using the Demo Language Set; edit the CDID to start with your language set;
• the image directory contains 3 replacement images — correct.png, incorrect.png, and temp.png; these replace the floating icons with better transparency and presents a cleaner interface.

And for those interested keeping up-to-date, you may view the RosettaShard v2.0 development road map right here.

Download: RosettaShard v.8.7

If you don’t got it, you need it, and here it is — MIRIAM’s custom firmware 3.95 GEN update numro deux.

CFW 3.95 GEN-2 changes:

• Fixed issue which crashed the PSP if you had vshmenu mode ‘None.’ (if you have a GEN-1 pseudo-brick, change the vshmenu mode to fix it)
• Fixed SNES emulator issues, now works fine.
• Fixed few homebrew issues with the Slim.

Download:
CFW 3.95 GEN-2
Custom Firmware 3.95 GEN
Sony (Official) PSP 3.95 Update

- source: pspgen