We're undoubtedly intrigued by SOCOM Tactical Strike. It's taking the series in a brave new direction, with some amazing graphics to boot. When we spotted a new gameplay video on GameVideos.com, we had to check it out. Too bad the compelling gameplay is nearly ruined by the awful computer synthesized voice. We're hoping its merely a placeholder -- otherwise, we may be laughing too hard to gun down terrorists as efficiently as we can.

SOCOM Tactical Strike is a radical departure for the series. In an interview with IGN, Dan McBride, director of development at Slant Six, commented on the new direction they're taking the franchise. "We set out to make a game that exists very solidly in the SOCOM universe but presents gameplay that is brand new to the franchise- it's not a shooter! So there is a risk there, but we are pretty confident that the tactical play will in fact appeal to the hardcores in particular."

In order for gamers to understand the unique play of Tactical Strike, McBride reveals that a demo will be made available this summer. "I am pretty sure there will be a playable demo this summer so people can take a test drive for themselves."

Is Syphon Filter returning to PSP? According to an updated GameStop release list, the answer is yes. Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow joins the newly revealed SOCOM: Tactical Strike and a US-release for Pursuit Force 2 in the retailer's latest update to their database. If Gamespot's investigating is to be believed, Logan's Shadow should hit PSP systems first -- September 4th. Afterwards, Pursuit Force 2 and Tactical Strike should release on September 25th and October 2nd, respectively.

Retailers are notorious for revealing unannounced titles accidentally, giving this report a great deal of weight. With Syphon Filter joining the PSP lineup again later this year, it's clear that PSP owners are going to have a lot of games to play this fall.

The SOCOM series has found a great deal of success on PSP. The Fireteam Bravo series have pushed the limits of Infrastructure play on the handheld. Now, Sony's taking the series in a bold new direction. Tactical Strike adds tactical strategy to the franchise. According to IGN, "Tactical Strike is something of a cross between Full Spectrum Warrior and the squad command element from Brother in Arms. You're in command of four soldiers broken into two smaller fire teams, and you're able to issue commands to either team, an individual soldier or all four guys at the same time."

The game promises to offer as much action as the rest of the series. The franchise is famous for its online play, and Tactical Strike looks to continue the trend: four players can control four soldiers each via Infrastructure. One of the most exciting aspects of the title has to be its visuals: the incredible amount of foliage and impressive lighting make it look like one of the most impressive SOCOM games, on console or handheld.

Tactical Strike is scheduled for an October release. Check out IGN for more details.