In what must surely be regarded as something of a coup for the Online (given EA's disinterest in Live), the world's largest games publisher recently confirmed a horde of new modes for future PS2 titles.

Not only will this have rubbing their hands with glee, especially when you see brands like The and The being mentioned, but it will also pile pressure on who are desperate to utilise the strengths of as a selling point over their Japanese rival.

Apparently, declined to get involved with Xbox Live support in their titles, because of the tight control over every aspect of Xbox Live gaming that Redmond wished to maintain.

First things first The Return of the King will feature a two-player co-operative mode, player matching, instant messaging and buddy lists. Bustin' Out will offer a two-player co-operative mode as well, and object swapping, whilst Medal of Honour: Rising Sun will support eight-player deathmatches and team deathmatches. Finally, Underground will offer four player races online, and the rather cunning ability for both and PS2 gamers to race each other online. Which is jolly clever.

All these games will also be compatible with the PS2's USB headset.

By Luke Guttridge