New Sly Cooper Thieves in Time Video Reveals Details of AR Cross-Play Feature

November 8, 2012

A recent video released by Sony and Sanzaru Games has revealed the details of the augmented reality feature between the PlayStation 3 and Vita versions of Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time. The Vita can be used as an X-ray window into the PS3 version of the game, revealing locations of hidden collectibles and treasures.

After syncing the Vita screen to the image on your TV, you are able to see through the environment on the Vita’s screen to the collectibles highlighted in orange. Tapping on the touchscreen makes a marker appear on the TV screen to help guide players to the treasure. Sanzaru’s Glen Egan states that the game is “absolutely packed full of collectibles” from costumes and clue bottles to Sly masks and treasure challenges. Interestingly, the Wii U version of Batman Arkham City uses a very similar method to make the most out of the console’s touch screen controller.

As evidenced by the two players in the video, the AR treasure mode could be good for including a second person while playing, whether it be a spouse, sibling, friend or parent that wants to play along. However, it seems like it may be awkward when trying to utilize the feature while playing solo, as you need to be holding the Vita up to the TV. A cross-controller feature could rectify this problem but there is currently no evidence that one will be implemented.

Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time is set to release on the 5th of February next year with cross-buy, meaning if you buy the PS3 version, you get the Vita version free. Let us know if you’ll be utilizing the AR treasure mode for Sly’s upcoming adventure in the comments below.

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