PlayStation Underground is a now-defunct American video game magazine, originally published by Sony Computer Entertainment America. The magazine focused on the PlayStation fanbase, including gaming on the original Sony PlayStation and the PlayStation 2, and was promoted as a "PlayStation fan club". Unlike its paper-based counterpart the Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine, PlayStation Underground came in the form of CD-ROMs which could be played on the PlayStation and PlayStation 2 consoles. Subscribers were also given access to a members-only website. The magazine released its first issue on March 26, 1997 and its final issue in 2001. The magazine released a total of seventeen issues during its active years. The magazine was eventually merged with Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine in 2001 when it was discontinued. In 2015, PlayStation Underground returned as a video series where gameplay from upcoming games is shown in a Let's Play format while the PlayStation.Blog team discusses the game with the developer.
Content
Each issue consists of two CD-ROMs that can be played on a PlayStation or a PlayStation 2 console, or an emulator.
Download Station - Additional game content, such as extra secret levels or hidden characters, which are saved into the memory card for use with certain games, similar to DLC.
Tech Q&A - A section which asks and answers questions behind product development and the PlayStation's technological capabilities.
Behind the Scenes - A look at the "making of" video games, commercial spots, etc.
Event Center - A highlight of current happenings in the PlayStation brand, promotions and marketing events.
Bulletins - Exclusive special notices and opportunities for PlayStation Underground club members.
Transmission - A feature showcasing upcoming features and contests.
Alphas - Exclusive previews and premieres of upcoming games.
Hidden Content - Each issue had various Easter Eggs hidden throughout the sections including cheat codes, game movies, and game demos.
Disc two
The second disc contains mostly demos of upcoming games as well as game trailers. For example, in the second issue of PlayStation Underground the second disc was a Square themed disc containing demos to Final Fantasy VII and Bushido Blade as well as exclusive upcoming trailers of new Square games.
Notable interviews
PlayStation Underground featured video interviews with many high-profile game designers as well as other notable figures in the entertainment industry internationally during their Debriefing, Tech Q&A and Behind The Scenes segments, these include:
