Playstation 3D
3D is a huge initiative for Sony - in terms of importance it's similar to the launch of Blu-Ray. Just like Sony used the PS2 to push DVDs, the PS3 to push Blu-Ray, they are now using the PS3 to push 3D. It’s a compelling offering, and the games in 3D are pretty damn cool. I saw the KillZone 3 demo in 3D and it was pretty damn sweet. I think video games are going to be the main source of 3D content for the near future and the PS3 is the go-to console for 3D games.
Now, the two major issues with 3D are the fact that you need to buy a new expensive TV, and wear those annoying glasses. These two things are going to keep the vast majority of households from owning a 3D TV. Of course you’ll have the rich early adopters, but in 5 years you just know that you’ll be able to walk into Best Buy and pick up a 50” 3DTV that requires no glasses for under $1500. It’s just the way technology works. However, if you’re one of those people that’s already bought a 3DTV, or are going to buy one in the near future, then you’d be stupid to miss out on the PS3’s offerings. It really is that cool.
Gran Turismo 5 – under development for a hell of a long time, is it worth the wait? Honestly, I wasn’t very impressed. When you’re actually driving the graphics aren’t so insanely awesome. They’re nice, and better than Forza, but they don’t absolutely blow away the competition or anything. As for the driving itself, I found it quite difficult. Once I turned on more assists like higher traction control and powered steering I was able to drive a lot better without screwing up. It’s good that the game can be customized to make it easier/harder to be more accessible. Overall I think GT5 will sell a lot, but it’s not going to be the next GT3 and sell a ridiculous amount, and I don’t think it’ll be a PS3 killer app that has everyone buying it.
Super Stardust HD – with 3D this game is damn cool. It’s your usual twin-stick shooter a la Geometry Wars with a few twists. The fact that you’re playing on the surface of a sphere really highlights the depth enhancing capabilities of 3D. When you see your shots wrap around the sphere it’s a pretty cool experience. If you’re committing to 3D then you’re going to get this game, it’s a showpiece.
WipEout HD – pretty fun. Again the 3D was pretty cool here. You can definitely see the 3D, and it is cool, but not as impressive as SSHD.
Well, obviously Nintendo realized what two of the biggest issues with 3D are, and has tried to alleviate them. While we don’t know the price of the 3DS it’s safe to say that it will follow the Nintendo tradition and fit firmly in the ‘affordable’ range – educated speculation is $199. That solves the price issue, and as for the glasses? Well Nintendo solved that as well.
I mean, really – who are we kidding. This is the next Nintendo handheld. It’s going to sell millions upon millions. I don’t think the 3D is going to convince anybody that wasn’t going to buy a DS to buy one, but for people that are in the market for something new and fresh the 3DS is one of the coolest things around.
I must also make special mention of the fact that the game lineup is looking absolutely crazy. Metal Gear Solid, Resident Evil, Super Street Fighter 4, Legend of Zelda Ocarina in Time, etc. The 3DS is going to be a very exciting system - which it damn well needs to be to compete with the onslaught of high-performance smart phones.
