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    PlayStation Underground

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    PlayStation Underground was a CD magazine published by Sony for the original PlayStation from 1997 to 2001. Each of the 17 issues included demos, video interviews, behind the scenes content, and much more.

    Short summary describing this concept.

    PlayStation Underground last edited by Marino on 10/23/19 01:41PM View full history

    Overview

    Premiere Issue Packaging
    Premiere Issue Packaging

    PlayStation Underground was a CD magazine for the PlayStation. Subscribers received quarterly issues that consisted of two discs (except the final issue). The first issue was released in Spring 1997. At that time, Underground was a unique, revolutionary product in the world of gaming. Never before had gamers had access to this type of content.

    Each issue was divided into many sections. Here are the sections that appeared most often in the issues:

    • Alphas - Exclusive first looks at upcoming games.
    • Behind the Scenes - An inside look at PlayStation events, developer studios, commercial shoots, etc.
    • Bulletins - Info about the mag itself including Speak Your Mind (fan interaction), PlayStation Online news, Contests, Fan Art, Underwear/Threadz (merchandise), Next Transmission (subscription info), Hidden Codes from previous issues, Credits, and Fine Print.
    • Code Book - An encyclopedia of codes for tons of PlayStation titles.
    • Cool Moves - Members of the Tip Team go through walkthroughs and strategies for the most popular games.
    • Debriefing - Interviews with industry pros.
    • Download Station - Access to save files that you can download straight to your own memory card.
    • Event Center - Documentary footage of the industry biggest events like E3, Tokyo Game Show, Game Developers Conference, and more.
    • Imports - Demos from Japan and/or Europe.
    • R&D - Presentations on new PlayStation hardware/accessories, Net Yaroze, playabe Yaroze games, Project Wormhole, and CG Design.
    • Tech Q&A - Answers to commonly asked questions in the world of PlayStation.
    • The Vault - Playable demos.
    • Hidden Content - Each issue had various Easter Eggs hidden throughout the sections including codes, movies, demos, etc.

    Discontinued

    PlayStation Underground merged with Official PlayStation Magazine in Summer 2001. The PlayStation Underground brand lived on as a free portion of Sony's official PlayStation website where they run many contests, offer special deals to members, publish newsletters for many PlayStation products, and was home to the Retail Loyalty Site before being completely phased out nearly ten years later.

    Issue 1

    Issue #1 - Front Cover
    Issue #1 - Front Cover

    The premiere issue of PlayStation Underground was sent to anyone who registered their PlayStation via the card included in the system's box and arrived in the Spring of 1997. The opening sequence features a CG cutscene of characters starting up a satellite transmission that will beam the Underground content to the new subscribers. The main menu consisted of a stone portal of some kind that opened up to reveal the icons for each section of the issue as the user scrolled through them.

    Disc 1

    Main Menu
    Main Menu

    The Vault

    Imports

    Tech Q&A

    • "Why are PlayStation CD's black?"
    • "How are games tested and bugs caught?"
    Debriefing - Dave Jaffe
    Debriefing - Dave Jaffe

    Debriefing

    • Dave Jaffe interview about the development of Twisted Metal 2.

    Behind the Scenes

    • Twisted Metal 2 commercial
    • NFL GameDay '97 commercial

    Download Station

    Event Center

    Event Center
    Event Center

    Code Book

    • Codes for 24 games.

    Bulletins

    • Fan art submissions
    • Subscriber comments
    • Merchandise
    • Credits
    • Fine print

    Disc 2

    In Stores Now
    In Stores Now

    In Stores Now

    Coming Soon

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuCredits MovieSquare, Triangle, Circle, X
    Main MenuTwisted Metal 2 codesCircle, Triangle, Square
    The Vault"Momma Michelle" caricature of Michelle VercelliSquare, Triangle, Circle, L1, R1
    Tech Q&ACool Boarders hintsSquare, Triangle, Circle
    Behind the ScenesNFL GameDay '97 codesHold L1+L2+R1+R2
    Download StationBlasto promoR1, L1, R1, L1
    Code BookJet Moto tipsTriangle, Triangle, Triangle
    Disc 2 MenuMusic video from The Urge, "All Washed Up"Circle, Triangle, Square, Circle
    In Stores NowMusic video from Ginuwine, "Pony"R1, L1, R2, L2
    Coming SoonNHL FaceOff '97 sweepstakesTriangle, Circle, Triangle, Square
    Coming SoonResident Evil 2 Sneak PeekTriangle, Triangle, Triangle

    Issue 2

    Issue #2 - Front Cover
    Issue #2 - Front Cover

    The second issue was split with one disc for Underground and the second disc featuring products from Squaresoft. Many retailers including Babbage's, Software Etc., and Electronics Boutique offered this issue as a pre-order bonus for reserving/pre-ordering Final Fantasy VII.

    The opening sequence of the Underground disc features out-takes from the infamous "PlayStation $149" commercial that featured an elderly British couple. Despite only having one disc to work with, the PlayStation Underground team still crammed so much content into the issue that the Final Fantasy VII and Bushido Blade demos felt like a bonus.

    Underground Disc

    Main Menu
    Main Menu

    The Vault

    Imports

    Debriefing

    Debriefing with Hironobu Sakaguchi
    Debriefing with Hironobu Sakaguchi

    Behind the Scenes

    Event Center

    Download Station

    R&D

    • Interviews covering the Net Yaroze project plus two playable demos.
    • Funky Beans (demo)
    • The Appointed Station (demo)
    R&D - Net Yaroze
    R&D - Net Yaroze

    Tech Q&A

    • "How is a PlayStation character created?"
    • "Why did PlayStation choose CD's over cartridges?"

    Code Archive

    • Codes for 36 different games.

    Bulletins

    • Official Underground website info
    • Issue 1's Hidden Codes
    • "UnderWear" merchandise
    • How to submit comments
    • "WIN BIG!!!" Contest
    • Credits featuring the UG Candidcam
    • Fine Print

    Squaresoft Disc

    Disc 2 Menu
    Disc 2 Menu

    Demos

    Videos

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuK-1 The Arena Fighters codesL1+L2+R1+R2
    Main MenuMech Warrior 2 codesSquare, Triangle, Circle, X
    The VaultGary Barth's proofHold All, Tap X
    ImportsIntelligent Qube videoCircle, Triangle, Square, Triangle
    DebriefingBlasto videoTriangle, Circle, Square, Triangle
    Download StationTwisted Metal tattoosSquare, Circle, Triangle Circle
    R&DQA Tester Bruce Cochrane fell asleepSquare, Circle, L1, R1
    Tech Q&ABlasto adCircle, Square, Triangle, Circle
    BulletinsPeak Performance codesR1+Triangle, L1

    Issue 3

    Issue #3 Front Cover
    Issue #3 Front Cover

    The third issue starts with another CG cutscene. This time it features an Area 51-type warehouse where two FBI-type guys enter to find a UFO. One of them seems surprised to see it, while the other generally ignores it in favor of something even more top secret. Locked away in its own super secure room is the third issue of PlayStation Underground.

    The main menu of issue 3 is basically the same as the one found in issue 2 with some color tweaks. This issue is best known for its video footage from that Summer's E3 in Atlanta, which is something that wasn't typically available at the time (1997).

    Disc 1

    Debriefing - Buzz Burrowes
    Debriefing - Buzz Burrowes

    The Vault

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Behind the Scenes - Phil Hartman
    Behind the Scenes - Phil Hartman

    Event Center

    Download Station

    R&D

    Tech Q&A

    • "How are those black PlayStation CD's made?"
    Event Center - E3 1997 Brad Lynch & Christopher Gordon
    Event Center - E3 1997 Brad Lynch & Christopher Gordon

    Code Archive

    • Codes for 35 games.

    Bulletins

    • Underground Online news
    • Issue 2's hidden codes
    • Wearhouse merchandise
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Win BIG Contest
    • Subscription info
    • Credits featuring the UG Candidcam

    Disc 2

    Disc 2 - Main Menu
    Disc 2 - Main Menu

    Demos

    Videos

    Nobuo Uematsu
    Nobuo Uematsu

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    The VaultMachine Hunter codesSquare, Triangle, Circle, Square
    Event CenterPlayStation Birthday CakeCircle, Triangle, Circle x2, Square
    Code ArchiveHelene Sheeler photoCircle, Square, Triangle, Circle
    Disc 2Blasto preview videoL1+L2+R1+R2
    Disc 2Music video from Apollo 440, "Ain't Talkin' 'Bout Dub"Triangle, Circle, Triangle x2, Square x2
    Disc 2Spawn: The Eternal trailerTriangle, Circle, Triangle, Circle
    Disc 2Crash Bandicoot 2 trailerCircle, Triangle, Square, Circle

    Issue 4

    Issue #4 Front Cover
    Issue #4 Front Cover

    The fourth issue arrived during January 1998 and included 3D glasses to use while going through the packaging. The issue starts up with a CG cutscene featuring Santa Claus coming down the chimney to deliver presents to a random family. After dropping off some gifts, one of the boxes begins to move. Santa checks it out by opening it and gets sucked into a present that leads to Underground.

    The main menu of issue 4 was the same as the previous two thematically, but this time everything was covered in snow. In this issue, and for all issues following, The Vault was moved to Disc 2 so that all demos would be on one disc and in the same place.

    Disc 1

    Todd McFarlane
    Todd McFarlane

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Event Center

    • ComicCon '97 - PlayStation Underground had a booth and showed several new games including Spawn: The Eternal.
    • PlayStation Truck - A 20 wheel big rig that expands into a PlayStation convention anywhere it goes. The feature includes interviews with the truck's crew, Michael "Jolly" Cole and Shane Hicke.
    Jason Rubin
    Jason Rubin

    Download Station

    R&D

    More demos of Net Yaroze games

    Event Center
    Event Center

    Tech Q&A

    Code Archive

    • Codes for 40 different games.

    Imports

    Bulletins
    Bulletins

    Bulletins

    • Underground Online info
    • Issue 3's Hidden Codes
    • Threadz merchandise
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Sweepstakes winners
    • Subscription Info
    • Credits featuring the UG Candidcam
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2

    The Vault
    The Vault

    The Vault

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuPaRappa the Rapper codeSquare, Triangle, Circle, Triangle x2
    Main MenuJet Moto 2 Tips & HintsSquare, Circle, Square, Triangle, Square, Circle
    Event CenterPerry Rodgers - Where Are They Now?Circle, Square, Triangle, Circle, Square
    Code ArchiveColor Memory Cards AdCircle, Square, Triangle
    BulletinsSweepstakes ContestTriangle, Circle repeating
    The VaultRed Asphalt codesSquare, Triangle, Square, Circle
    The VaultTwisted Metal Cut FootageCircle x2, Triangle, Circle, Square
    The VaultResident Evil 2 trailerSquare, Triangle, Square, Triangle
    The VaultMusic video from Our Lady Peace, "Clumsy"Circle, Triangle, Circle, Square, Circle
    The VaultCool Boarders 2 Tips & HintsTriangle x2, Circle, Triangle, Square
    The VaultStarts SnowingL1+L2+R1+R2

    The Best of Year One

    Best of Year 1 Front Cover
    Best of Year 1 Front Cover

    This special one disc edition of PlayStation Underground is not an actual issue. This disc was given to attendees at E3 1998 to give them a taste of what the CD mag was all about. The intro to this issue is the MST3K video from Issue 2.1 followed by a promo for selling the mag to new viewers. While the title says it's the best of Year 1, much of the disc is actually from Issue 2.1.

    The Vault

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    • The Making of Blasto (Issue 3)
    MST3K makes fun of the opening videos from Issues 1-4
    MST3K makes fun of the opening videos from Issues 1-4

    Event Center

    • PlayStation Truck (Issue 4)

    Download Station

    R&D

    • Intro to Software Development Project (Issue 2.1)

    Code Archive

    • Codes for 48 games.

    Imports

    • Tamagotchi (Issue 2.2)

    Issue 2.1

    Issue 2.1 Front Cover
    Issue 2.1 Front Cover

    The first issue of Volume 2 begins with the guys from Mystery Science Theater 3000 making fun of the four previous intro videos. Mike, Crow, and Tom Servo make MST3K fans proud by ripping on everything, especially the elderly couple in the "PlayStation $149" commercial.

    The second volume came with revamp of the main menu. Now set in some sort of sci-fi facility, this issue had a distinct focus on Japan with a tour of Polyphony Digital, interviews about localization, and two titles in the Imports section.

    Disc 1

    Issue 2.1 - Main Menu
    Issue 2.1 - Main Menu

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Download Station

    Behind the Scenes Kazunori Yamauchi
    Behind the Scenes Kazunori Yamauchi

    R&D

    • Previews a new "Software Development" section that will take subscribers step by step through building a game.

    Tech Q&A

    Code Archive

    • Codes for 48 games.

    Imports

    Tech Q&A - Gary Barth & Perry Rodgers
    Tech Q&A - Gary Barth & Perry Rodgers

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online news
    • Issue 4's Hidden Codes
    • UnderWear/Threadz merchandise
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Get the Next Transmission
    • Credits featuring the UG Candidcam and MST3K
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2 - The Vault

    Intro Video with MST3K
    Intro Video with MST3K

    Demos

    Videos

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuHidden ScreensaverCircle, Triangle, Square, Triangle,
    Triangle, Circle x3
    Main MenuCode Denied!Circle, Triangle, Triangle, Circle,
    Square, Circle, Triangle, Circle
    ImportsTomba! trailerCircle x2, Square, Triangle x2
    Code ArchiveONE codeTriangle x2, Circle x2, Triangle x2
    Code ArchiveMTV's Gamebrain trailerCircle x4, Triangle
    BulletinsHologram ContestCircle, Square, Triangle, X
    The VaultWCW Nitro codesTriangle x2, Circle, Triangle x2
    The VaultMusic video from HeadswimCircle x2, Square, Circle x2
    The VaultMusic video from Hooverphonic-InhalerCircle x2, Triangle, Circle x2

    Issue 2.2

    Issue 2.2 Front Cover
    Issue 2.2 Front Cover

    The sixth issue opens with a CG cinematic showing an archaeological dig site in the year 2306 where the excavators find a PlayStation. The PlayStation is then placed in a museum of natural history along with the previous issues of Underground.

    The majority of this issue's segments were filmed in London, England including trips to Core Design, SCE's Cambridge Studio, and some London night clubs that feature PlayStation themed rooms.

    Disc 1

    Debriefing - Chris Sorrell
    Debriefing - Chris Sorrell

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Event Center

    • The crew goes on a tour of London night clubs that feature entire rooms dedicated to PlayStation.

    Download Station

    Behind the Scenes - Jeremy Smith
    Behind the Scenes - Jeremy Smith

    R&D

    • Software Development 101: How a Game is Made - Project Wormhole is introduced by Gary Barth. This is a game development project that will allow subscribers to help build a small game through the magazine. This installment teaches the basics of 3D design and let's members play around with the objects in a virtual space.
    • Net Yaroze - New playable titles include Little Wing, Asobu Rakugaki, and Hover Racing.

    Alphas

    R&D - Project Wormhole
    R&D - Project Wormhole

    Code Archive

    • Codes for over 90 games

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online news
    • Issue 2.1 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz/UnderWear merchandise
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Get the Next Transmission
    • Credits featuring the UG Candid Cam and "Mean" Gene Okerlund
    • Fine Print

    Imports

    • Tamagotchi

    Disc 2 - The Vault

    Hiddden WCW Video with Mean Gene Okerlund
    Hiddden WCW Video with Mean Gene Okerlund

    Demos

    Videos

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuRaystorm codeCircle, Square, Triangle, Circle
    Main MenuCommand & Conquer: Red Alert codesTriangle, Square, Circle, Triangle
    The VaultGary Barth fell asleepSquare, Circle, Triangle, Triangle
    The VaultWCW Nitro interviews with Bret Hart, Gene Okerlund, and Rey Mysterio.Circle, Square x3, Circle
    The VaultJet Moto 2 tips videoTriangle, Circle, Triangle, Circle, Triangle
    The VaultCroc 2 trailerTriangle, Circle, Square, Circle, Triangle
    The Vault"The Glove" videoSquare, Circle x3, Square
    The VaultPitfall 3D tips videoSquare, Triangle, Circle, Triangle, Square

    Issue 2.3

    Issue 2.3 Front Cover
    Issue 2.3 Front Cover

    The issue begins with a view of a pyramid with a "U" at the top followed by an Indiana Jones style run through the dungeon to find Issue 2.3 resting on a trap pedestal. The adventurer narrowly escapes through a quickly closing stone door and we're taken to the main menu, which is now set in the streets of an unknown city.

    This issue is most notable for its tours of Naughty Dog and Insomniac Games' studios, plus coverage of E3 1998 in Atlanta, Georgia and GDC in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    Disc 1

    Intro Video
    Intro Video

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Debriefing with Masaya Matsuura
    Debriefing with Masaya Matsuura

    Event Center

    Download Station

    Behind the Scenes with Clancy Brown
    Behind the Scenes with Clancy Brown

    R&D

    • Project Wormhole (Part II) - This episode features how to build tunnel tracks, showing weapon ideas from subscribers, and the ability to start building your own tracks.

    Alphas

    • The Underground crew straps a camera to Naughty Dog studio's pet labrador, and the dog sneaks around the office to get the scoop on Crash: Warped from unsuspecting developers such as Jason Rubin.

    Code Archive

    • Codes for over 90 games.
    Alphas - Jason Rubin
    Alphas - Jason Rubin

    Tech Q&A

    • "Inside Your Console" explains how the PlayStation works.

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online news
    • Issue 2.2 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz
    • Next Transmission info
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2 - The Vault

    The Vault
    The Vault

    Demos

    R&D - Project Wormhole
    R&D - Project Wormhole

    Videos

    Import Demos

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuC: The Contra Adventure codesSquare, Circle, Square, Circle
    Main MenuForsaken codesTriangle, Square, Triangle, Square
    The VaultMusic video from Soul Asylum, "I Will Still Be Laughing"Square x2, Circle, Square x2
    The VaultTurbo Prop Racing trailerTriangle x2, Circle, Triangle x2

    Issue 2.4

    Issue 2.4 Front Cover
    Issue 2.4 Front Cover

    The eighth issue opens with a blooper reel from the Crash: Warped commercial that featured 7-time Olympic gold medalist Mark Spitz and stuntman Robby Kneivel. This issue was Christmas themed, arrived in the Winter of 1998, and included an Underground logo sticker.

    The main menu of this issue is mostly the same as the previous one. Still set in an urban environment and projecting images on the side of a building, the main difference in this issue is that the city was in daylight instead of at night.

    Disc 1

    Intro with Mark Spitz
    Intro with Mark Spitz

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Main Menu
    Main Menu

    Event Center

    R&D

    • Project Wormhole (Part III) - Video explaining how collision detection works and physics in general. Playable courses are available, but no enemies yet.

    Imports

    Debriefing with Stewart Copeland
    Debriefing with Stewart Copeland

    Download Station

    Tech Q&A

    • Inside look at how the new Dual Shock controller works.

    Code Archive

    • More codes than ever before.
    R&D - Project Wormhole
    R&D - Project Wormhole

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 2.3 Hdden Codes
    • Threadz merchandise
    • Next Transmission
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2 - The Vault

    The Vault
    The Vault

    Demos

    Videos

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuPlayStation Kids (Baby)Triangle, Triangle, Square, Circle
    Main MenuPlayStation Kids (Adult) Triangle, Circle, Triangle, Circle, Triangle, Circle
    Main MenuNFL Blitz codesCircle x2, Square, Circle x2
    The VaultSpyro the Dragon demoTriangle, Circle, Triangle
    The VaultMaking of Tenchu videoSquare, Circle x3, Square
    The VaultMusic video from KoRn, "Got the Life"Triangle, Circle, Square, Circle, Triangle

    Issue 3.1

    Issue 3.1 Front Cover
    Issue 3.1 Front Cover

    The third year of PlayStation Underground starts with a trailer featuring all the content featured within the issue. Then, a CG video plays that starts in a wrestling arena then goes backstage where the menu for the issue loads. This issue has heavy influences from the WCW footage that was shot.

    This issue also is the debut of the Cool Moves section, which features tips and tricks for several games presented by the QA testers that know the games best.

    Disc 1

    Behind the Scenes - The Giant & Vincent
    Behind the Scenes - The Giant & Vincent

    Behind the Scenes

    R&D

    • Project Wormhole (Part IV) - This time they explain enemy AI. The project was planned to be only four parts, but continued due to its popularity. In this issue, members could play another build that now included enemies and weapons.
    Event Center - Tommy Tallarico
    Event Center - Tommy Tallarico

    Event Center

    • Spyromania - Sony held a party in Las Vegas in September 1998 to mark the 3rd Anniversary of PlayStation, and the release of Spyro the Dragon. The festivities included a scavenger hunt through Vegas in which Tommy Tallarico successfully delivers on a guaranteed victory.

    Download Station

    Alphas
    Alphas

    Alphas

    Imports

    Code Book

    • Still tons of codes added.
    Tech Q&A - PocketStation
    Tech Q&A - PocketStation

    Tech Q&A

    • Feature on the PocketStation accessory only available in Japan and the support it has for Street Fighter Alpha 3.

    Bulletins

    • Announcing Underground Radio Netcast
    • Issue 2.4 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz merchandise
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Next Transmission
    • Credits
    • Fine Print
    The Most Important Man in the Video Game Industry
    The Most Important Man in the Video Game Industry

    Cool Moves

    Disc 2 - The Vault

    The Vault
    The Vault

    Demos

    Videos

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuTomb Raider III codesTriangle, Square, Circle
    Main MenuThe Giant vs Dual Shock videoTriangle x3, Circle x2
    BulletinsPool Hustler tipsTriangle, Circle, Square
    AlphasDuke Nukem: Time to Kill codesCircle, Square, Triangle
    The VaultHollywood Hogan promo videoL2, L1, L1
    The VaultBloody Roar 2 trailerL2, R1, R1

    ISSUE 3.2

    Issue 3.2 Front Cover
    Issue 3.2 Front Cover

    The 10th installment of Underground introduced a new host for the mag, a CG woman by the name of Maggie. Maggie would introduce subscribers to the new issue with a rundown of what they were about to find while bickering back and forth with Gary Barth (off-screen).

    The new main menu is centered around the front doors of a movie theater. Scrolling through the different categories changes the marquee above the entrance.

    Disc 1

    Main Menu
    Main Menu

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Maggie
    Maggie

    Event Center

    Debriefing - Ken Kutaragi
    Debriefing - Ken Kutaragi

    Imports

    R&D

    • Project Wormhole (Part V) - This episode focuses on special effects and how they are applied in ways like the smoke trails on missiles. A new vehicle, based on subscriber suggestions, is introduced. The beta of the game is now Dual Shock compatible.

    Download Station

    Event Center - Jason Rubin
    Event Center - Jason Rubin

    Alphas

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 3.1 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz & Accessories
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Coming Next Issue
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2

    The Vault
    The Vault

    The Vault

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuUnderground Staff PhotoCircle, Square, Circle, Triangle
    Main MenuMedal of Honor trailerSquare, Circle, Square, Circle
    BulletinsSilent Hill codesCircle, Triangle, Circle, Triangle
    The VaultAlexi Lalas Soccer codesL2, L1, R1

    Issue 3.3

    Issue 3.3 Front Cover
    Issue 3.3 Front Cover

    This installment begins with a shot of an Underground blimp in the sky and pans down to street level to enter a movie theater where Maggie greets us once again. The war of words between Gary Barth and Maggie continues.

    Disc 1

    Tech Q&A
    Tech Q&A

    Tech Q&A

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes Masaya Matsuura
    Behind the Scenes Masaya Matsuura

    Behind the Scenes

    Event Center - Tony Hawk
    Event Center - Tony Hawk

    Event Center

    Download Station

    R&D - Project Wormhole
    R&D - Project Wormhole

    R&D

    • Project Wormhole (Part VI) - This time they have a lesson on articulation and animation plus an updated version of the game.

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 3.2 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz & Accessories
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Coming in Issue 3.3
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2

    The Vault
    The Vault

    The Vault

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuR-Type Delta codesR1, R2, L1, L1, L2
    The Vault3Xtreme codesL2, L1, R1, R2
    The VaultSyphon Filter codesL2, R2, R1, L2

    Issue 3.4

    Issue 3.4 Front Cover
    Issue 3.4 Front Cover

    The final issue of year three is yet another Christmas themed issue, right down to Maggie being dressed as Santa's helper, which of course gets a comment from Gary.

    Disc 1

    Intro Video
    Intro Video

    PlayStation2

    R&D

    • Project Wormhole Finale - The video teaches you how to create well-rounded levels and introduces all new level editor that allows you to save your work on a Memory Card. This is the second to last installment, as Issue 4.1 will feature the final game.
    Behind the Scenes - Jason Rubin
    Behind the Scenes - Jason Rubin

    Behind the Scenes

    Event Center

    • Tokyo Game Show Autumn '99 - This feature talks about how 600 games are on PlayStation in America, but over 2000 are in Japan and why that is.
    • Lammy Rocks New York - Sony threw a party at the Roxy to celebrate Um Jammer Lammy and Lammy's band, Milk Can, had an on-stage performance. Tokura Fujiwara also sits down for an interview.
    Debriefing - Tokoru Fujiwara
    Debriefing - Tokoru Fujiwara

    Debriefing

    Download Station

    Event Center
    Event Center

    Tech Q&A

    • CG Design is introduced as an upcoming section in future issues and it will show the process of creating 3D renders. They request that subscribers send in drawings of objects they'd like to see created.

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 3.3 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz & Accessories
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Coming in Issue 4.1
    • Credits
    • Fine Prin

    Disc 2

    The Vault
    The Vault

    The Vault

    Hidden Codes

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuTrickin' Snowboarder codesL1, L2, L1, R1, R1
    Behind the ScenesSuikoden II tipsR2, R2, L1, L1
    The VaultCroc 2 trailerR1, R1, L2, R1, R2, L2

    Issue 4.1

    Issue 4.1 Front Cover
    Issue 4.1 Front Cover

    This first issue of year four opens with another view of the blimp, but this time missiles are being shot at it. A defense system takes out the missiles, which is good since Maggie is inside the blimp to introduce the new issue.

    Disc 1

    Kazunori Yamauchi
    Kazunori Yamauchi

    PlayStation2

    The crew goes to Japan to get footage of Gran Turismo 2000 and to talk to Kazunori Yamauchi about he depth of control that GT2000 will feature thanks to the Dual Shock 2 controller. They also take a look at how the lighting techniques that the game uses bring unbelievable graphics to the game. They even discuss the future of the franchise being about online racing. The crew then takes a trip to Tokyo Game Show again to chat with the likes of Jason Rubin and Takatsuka Susumu about the potential of PS2.

    Behind the Scenes

    Main Menu
    Main Menu

    Cool Moves

    Debriefing

    Debriefing - D'Lo Brown
    Debriefing - D'Lo Brown

    Event Center

    • Covert Gaming Journalists - 989 Studios invited a bunch of journalists to compete in a Syphon Filter 2 style covert operation with paintball guns.

    Tech Q&A

    • Christian Lowe took a drawing submitted by a fan and quickly rendered it in 3D to show how simple CG design is done.

    Imports

    Intro Video
    Intro Video

    Download Station

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 3.4 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz & Accessories
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Coming on Issue 4.2
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2

    The Vault
    The Vault

    The Vault

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuSled Storm codesL1, L2, L2, R1
    Main MenuGrand Theft Auto 2 codesL1, L2, R1, L1
    Cool MovesKnockout Kings 2000 codesL2, R2, R1, R1
    BulletinsNBA ShootOut 2000 codesL2, R2, L2, R2, L2
    The VaultWCW Mayhem codesL1, L2, L2, L1
    The VaultNFL GameDay 2000 codesL1+L2, R1+R2
    The VaultYou Don't Know Jack codesL1, L2, L2, R2

    Issue 4.2

    Issue 4.2 Front Cover
    Issue 4.2 Front Cover

    This issue again opens in the PlayStation blimp with Maggie, who talks a bit about PlayStation 2 and all the E3 2000 coverage including Frankie Muniz.

    Disc 1

    PlayStation2

    Frankie Muniz
    Frankie Muniz

    Underground heads to E3 2000 and finds Frankie Muniz, the star of Malcolm in the Middle, who quickly realizes that you have to be 18 or older to enter E3. Muniz runs through trying to play as many games as possible while being chased by a security guard. He checks out:

    Event Center

    Event Center
    Event Center

    E3 2000 Roundup

    Slam City Jam - The crew went to Vancouver for this skate competition in order to build hype for Grind Session.

    Intro Video
    Intro Video

    Behind the Scenes

    Download Station

    Main Menu
    Main Menu

    Tech Q&A

    • The CG Design crew picked "Land Crusher" from an 11-year old kid from Pennsylvania.

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 4.1 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz & Accessories
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Coming on Issue 4.3
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2

    The Vault
    The Vault

    The Vault

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    The Vault - Security DoorMetal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty videoL1, L2, X, R2, R1, Triangle, Circle, Square

    Issue 4.3

    Issue 4.3 Front Cover
    Issue 4.3 Front Cover

    Maggie's still in the blimp as this issue begins, and she's talking to Frankie Muniz on a video wall. Apparently Frankie forgot to get games to go with those two PS2's he stole from E3. Maggie refuses to help him and we head into the menu.

    Disc 1

    Debriefing - Hideo Kojima
    Debriefing - Hideo Kojima

    Debriefing

    Behind the Scenes

    Intro Video
    Intro Video

    Download Station

    Event Center

    • The PlayStation Truck returns to Underground to show off it's PS2 make-over as it went to Rockfest 2000, which was headlined by Metallica.
    R&D - Andrew House
    R&D - Andrew House

    R&D

    • Andrew House (VP Marketing) shows the newly designed PSone, along with the optional 4-inch screen attachment.

    Cool Moves

    Cool Moves - Saul Villegas
    Cool Moves - Saul Villegas

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 4.2 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz & Accessories
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Coming on Issue 4.4
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    Disc 2

    The Vault
    The Vault

    The Vault

    PlayStation 2 Round Up
    PlayStation 2 Round Up

    PlayStation 2 Round Up

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    Main MenuMediEvil II codes
    Cool MovesSpyro 2: Ripto's Rage tips
    The VaultHot Wheels Turbo Racing codesR2, L2, R1, L2
    The VaultFighting Force 2 codesL1, R1, R2, R2

    Issue 4.4

    Issue 4.4 Front Cover
    Issue 4.4 Front Cover

    The sixteenth installment of Underground is split between PlayStation and PlayStation 2 (one disc for each). The final PSone issue of Underground starts with Maggie at the launch of PlayStation 2. On Disc 2, Maggie is wearing a red jumpsuit in what appears to be a space station to unveil the mag's new look for PS2.

    PSone Disc

    Disc 1 - Intro Video
    Disc 1 - Intro Video

    Download Station

    Event Center

    Behind the Scenes

    Disc 1 - Event Center
    Disc 1 - Event Center

    Cool Moves

    Disc 1 - Main Menu
    Disc 1 - Main Menu

    Bulletins

    • PlayStation Online
    • Issue 4.3 Hidden Codes
    • Threadz & Accessories
    • Speak Your Mind
    • Next Transmission
    • Credits
    • Fine Print

    The Vault

    PlayStation 2 Disc

    Disc 2 - Intro Video
    Disc 2 - Intro Video

    Arcade

    Download Station

    Behind the Scenes - Tom Itagaki
    Behind the Scenes - Tom Itagaki

    Behind the Scenes

    Cool Extra

    • Theatrical trailer for The Grinch starring Jim Carrey.

    Cool Moves

    Hidden Content

    WhereWhatHow
    ArcadeDynasty Warriors 2 codesL1+R2+Circle
    ArcadeX-Squad codesL2+R1+Square
    PS1 Main MenuDave Mirra Freestyle BMX codesL1, L1, R1, R1, R2
    PS1 Download StationTony Hawk's Pro Skater 2 codesR1, L1, R1, L2
    ArcadeTwisted Metal Black videoHold Left when entering Arcade

    Issue 5.1

    Issue 5.1 Front Cover
    Issue 5.1 Front Cover

    The final issue of Underground is also the only one that is exclusively for PS2 and also is the only issue that is not two discs. Maggie introduces all the new content one final time and continues bickering with UG Producer, Gary Barth. Maggie says "See you next issue" and in the Bulletins section there is info about what will be on the next issue, but unfortunately it never came.

    The Vault

    The Vault
    The Vault

    This time, The Vault featured seven PS2 demos as well as seven trailers for upcoming PS2 games.

    Behind the Scenes

    Behind the Scenes - Dave Jaffe at work on Twisted Metal Black
    Behind the Scenes - Dave Jaffe at work on Twisted Metal Black

    Spyro: Year of the Dragon

    • The Insomniac crew, including Ted Price (President), Craig Stitt (Art Director), and Brian Allgeier (Game Designer), are back to talk about their little field trip to go hang gliding in order to get the physics of flying right for the game.

    Twisted Metal Black

    • Dave Jaffe has returned to the helm of the franchise along with Scott Campbell (President of Incognito) and Randy Zorko (Technical Director). They talk to Underground about the development of the game and how it's going back to its roots.

    Download Station

    Event Center

    Qadry Ismail vs. Jason Sehorn
    Qadry Ismail vs. Jason Sehorn

    Maggie joins the crew on a trip to Super Bowl XXXV in order to watch the "Game Before the Game," which is a traditional game of NFL GameDay between opposing players in the Super Bowl. The GBtG correctly determined the winner of the Super Bowl for the 7th year in a row as Qadry Ismail's Ravens defeated Jason Sehorn's Giants in GameDay.

    Tech Q&A

    Professional snowboarders Todd Richards, Barrett Christy, and Kevin Jones get their faces scanned at 989 Studios for Cool Boarders 2001. Chip Parsons, Kolbe Launchbaugh, and Gerald Ashworth from 989 discuss the first Cool Boarders title for PlayStation 2 and how they used motion capture technology to make the game more realistic.

    Cool Moves

    Credits

    Gary Barth
    Gary Barth

    Many people contributed to the PlayStation Underground CD Magazine project. Since this is a concept page, there is not a way to add them the way Giant Bomb would normally do so. So, here is a list of some of the most important people involved, plus others notables that appear throughout the issues in the "Special Thanks" category.

    NameTitleIssues
    Gary BarthProducer
    Narrator
    All
    12 - 17
    Perry RodgersSenior Producer1 - 14
    Andrew HouseSenior Executive ProducerAll
    Peter DilleExecutive Producer1 - 9
    Colin MacLeanMarketing Manager
    Senior Marketing Manager
    Marketing Director
    Director
    1 - 6
    7 - 11
    12 - 14
    15 - 17
    Michelle VercelliAssistant Marketing Manager
    Marketing Manager
    1 - 6
    7 - 14
    Buzz BurrowesAudioAll
    Nathan BrenholdtMusic Composition
    Sound Effects
    1 - 9
    7 - 17
    Chuck DoudMusic Composition6 - 9
    Yvonne SmithMarketing Coordinator1 - 11
    Kim YuenMarketing Coordinator
    Product Manager
    9 - 15
    16 - 17
    Alan DrummerCreative DirectorAll
    Mark PentekTest Manager1 - 11
    Christian LoweArt Staff-
    Chris ColonNarrator6 - 11
    Francesca ReyesTip Team1
    Frank LaudoGroup Creative/Art DirectorAll

    Special Thanks

    Issue #1 Front Cover
    Issue #1 Front Cover

    These individuals appeared in the Special Thanks section of the credits. Many more than once.

    This edit will also create new pages on Giant Bomb for:

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