SOCOM 4 announced for PS3

Sony has revealed the identity of its surprise sequel” – a fourth instalment in the SOCOM series, which is headed to PS3 later this year.

Zipper Interactive, developer of the first SOCOM title and recently released online PS3 online shooter MAG, will take charge of the game.

European project manager for Sony, Richard Yap, said on the Playstation Blog: While retaining the pillars of previous SOCOM games – team work, authenticity and innovative online play, this is an all new SOCOM experience created from the ground up for the PS3.

You’ve never played a SOCOM game like this.”

SOCOM 4 will be a third-person shooter featuring a new single-player story mode and 32-player online multiplayer. Gamers will be able to command a five-man NATO squad against rebel fighters in jungles, city streets and urban ruins.

The PS3 exclusive is likely to be released in winter 2010.