Microsoft Xbox 360 owners have been enjoying Castlevania: Harmony of Despair for nearly a year now, but soon Sony PlayStation 3 owners will be able to get in on the action as Konami has announced that the high definition 2D co-operative multiplayer side-scroller is bound for the PS3 later this summer just as rumors predicted last month.  Not only that, the PS3 version will sport enhancements and additions not found in the X360 release.  For instance, the PS3 version includes local co-op play for up to four players.  Here's some of the press release:

In Castlevania Harmony of Despair, fan favorite vampire hunters from throughout the series come together in order to return Dracula to his eternal slumber. Joining forces with friends on the PlayStation Network, up to six players can explore massive levels inspired by the worlds of Castlevania Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin and Order of Ecclesia via online co-op play. Players will also be able to join in on the fun locally as a new 4 player local co-op mode has been added to the PlayStation version. As players employ their cooperative skills to unleash devastating attacks and fight the forces of darkness, they can discover hidden locations, special items and equipment to help in their quest. Fearless players can even choose to engage in competitive Survival Mode with friends to and determine the best slayer of evil. Featuring detailed 2D art and now including bonus content in the form of map and character packs on the first day, Castlevania Harmony of Despair will provide players with a thrilling, next generation gaming experience coupled with the classic Castlevania aesthetic.

I know that Despair has met with its share of criticism, but I still want to try it for myself.  My trials with the 3D Castlevania titles have taught me time and again that when it comes to slaying vampires, I'm a 2D man.  The PS3 version also includes some of the X360 version's downloadable expansions as part of the base experience; Chapter 7 ("Beauty, Desire, Situation Dire") is part of the core purchase price and features additional playable characters Julius Belmont and Yoko Belnades to go with starter characters Alucard, Soma Cruz, Jonathan Morris, Shanoa, and Charlotte Aulin.  The remaining four DLC packs will undoubtedly be along in due time.