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Saturday, June 11, 2005
Opinion: Life after the Video Game Crash
Image Source: pointlesswasteoftime.com
Life after the Video Game Crash
"or Why Nintendo Won't Seem So Crazy in 2005
If there's one thing I learned from my embarrassing experience with my end-of-the world cult, it's that you've really got to do your research before putting forth a public lamentation of doom.
I did. This time. And this is no joke; this is not flame bait or Luddite wishful thinking. Beginning with the 2005 wave of consoles, the video game market is going to crash.
I'll begin taking questions now. "
I did. This time. And this is no joke; this is not flame bait or Luddite wishful thinking. Beginning with the 2005 wave of consoles, the video game market is going to crash.
I'll begin taking questions now. "
The author goes on to answer these 3 questions...
"1. Why does the industry have to crash at all? The movie industry is still around over a century later, dumbass.
2. Look, moron, as long as there are fun games, the industry will be just fine.
3. Big deal. Video games will become the new Hollywood, then. Stop wasting my time, you talking red baboon ass. "
2. Look, moron, as long as there are fun games, the industry will be just fine.
3. Big deal. Video games will become the new Hollywood, then. Stop wasting my time, you talking red baboon ass. "
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D.Vader // 6/11/2005 10:17:00 PM //
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Definition of the Future Hi-Def Update
"Are high-definition games the next big thing? Microsoft and Sony say yes. Nintendo says no. Who's right? Find out the facts in this IGN feature.
More and more, the videogame industry is being compared to Hollywood, but that wasn't always the case. Just 25 years ago, games were an unproven, unaccepted, uncool niche. The industry was the redheaded stepchild of the toy market. Usually, tiny teams of one or two people developed primitive software -- oftentimes out of someone's garage -- and these titles were by and large designed to appeal to kids and super nerds, while generally frowned upon by the mainstream consumer.
In hindsight, the industry's bumpy history is hard to believe because today games are big business, rivaling Hollywood with yearly sales of more than $10 billion and an ever-expanding audience of dedicated players. Games are also cool, enjoyed not just by kids and geeks, but by everyone, including hot girls and rock stars, professional football players and movie celebrities.
More and more, the videogame industry is being compared to Hollywood, but that wasn't always the case. Just 25 years ago, games were an unproven, unaccepted, uncool niche. The industry was the redheaded stepchild of the toy market. Usually, tiny teams of one or two people developed primitive software -- oftentimes out of someone's garage -- and these titles were by and large designed to appeal to kids and super nerds, while generally frowned upon by the mainstream consumer.
In hindsight, the industry's bumpy history is hard to believe because today games are big business, rivaling Hollywood with yearly sales of more than $10 billion and an ever-expanding audience of dedicated players. Games are also cool, enjoyed not just by kids and geeks, but by everyone, including hot girls and rock stars, professional football players and movie celebrities.
Parallels to early Hollywood and beyond may best describe the industry's metamorphosis. Hollywood sprang to life in black and white and games were born in 2D. Films added sound as game hardware advanced in power. Tinseltown introduced color and videogames made the jump to full-blown 3D. So what's next? Surprisingly, the answer may be the same for both Hollywood and the videogame industry: the emergence of the high-definition standard.
As movie pioneers like George Lucas shoot their films digitally, videogame giants Microsoft and Sony are counting on more advanced hardware and greater visual clarity to define the titles of the next-generation consoles. Nintendo, on the other hand, is fighting the movement, and instead embarking upon a plan that emphasizes simplicity and creativity over cutting-edge graphics. The company hopes that by doing so it can appeal to audiences who would not normally bother with the high-octane, guy-dominated games that top the current best-seller lists."
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D.Vader // 6/11/2005 09:01:00 PM //
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[A Few] More Nintendo Revolution Details
"The new console boasts high-quality materials and a smart, compact design, approximately the size of three standard DVD cases stacked together. A variety of prototype colors were showcased during E3. It will come with a silver stand that makes the system a welcome, artistic component of any multimedia setup, whether it's displayed vertically or horizontally.
A bay for an SD memory card will let players expand the internal flash memory. Instead of a tray, a single, innovative, self-loading media bay will play both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system as well as Nintendo GameCube discs. Owners will have the option of equipping a small, self-contained attachment to play movies and other DVD content.
The system boasts 512 megabytes of internal flash memory, wireless controllers, two USB 2.0 ports and built-in Wi-Fi access. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment. Revolution's technological heart, a processing chip developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway," and a graphics chip set from ATI code-named "Hollywood," will deliver game experiences not previously possible. The system will have wireless controllers. In addition, your GameCube Wavebirds will work with the system, which likely means the controller for the Revolution will be very similar to the Cube controller. Hit the links for the pictures. "
A bay for an SD memory card will let players expand the internal flash memory. Instead of a tray, a single, innovative, self-loading media bay will play both 12-centimeter optical discs used for the new system as well as Nintendo GameCube discs. Owners will have the option of equipping a small, self-contained attachment to play movies and other DVD content.
The system boasts 512 megabytes of internal flash memory, wireless controllers, two USB 2.0 ports and built-in Wi-Fi access. A worldwide network of Nintendo players can gather to compete in a comfortable, inviting environment. Revolution's technological heart, a processing chip developed with IBM and code-named "Broadway," and a graphics chip set from ATI code-named "Hollywood," will deliver game experiences not previously possible. The system will have wireless controllers. In addition, your GameCube Wavebirds will work with the system, which likely means the controller for the Revolution will be very similar to the Cube controller. Hit the links for the pictures. "
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D.Vader // 6/11/2005 09:00:00 PM //
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Friday, June 10, 2005
PS3 Dev Kits in Short Supply as Demand Soars
"Sony ships out more than 100 development kits for its next-generation console; says it can't manufacture enough to meet publisher demands.
Sony Computer Entertainment is starting to ship out its development kits for the PlayStation 3, but it's facing the same issues it had with the PSP. According to its own officials, the company can't manufacture enough to meet everyone's demand.
In an interview with Jiji News, SCE president Ken Kutaragi revealed that his company has shipped more than 100 PS3 developer kits to game publishers in Japan, America, and Europe. However, he also stated that SCE is running out of parts, and it can't ship enough units to meet the requirements of the publishers."
Sony Computer Entertainment is starting to ship out its development kits for the PlayStation 3, but it's facing the same issues it had with the PSP. According to its own officials, the company can't manufacture enough to meet everyone's demand.
In an interview with Jiji News, SCE president Ken Kutaragi revealed that his company has shipped more than 100 PS3 developer kits to game publishers in Japan, America, and Europe. However, he also stated that SCE is running out of parts, and it can't ship enough units to meet the requirements of the publishers."
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D.Vader // 6/10/2005 05:21:00 PM //
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Massive Multiplayer coming to PS3 (Sony, SOE & Blizzard)
Massive Multiplayer coming to PS3
Console Market has the most potiental for expanding the MMO genre.
By: Richard Allen
It appears that both Sony (Everquest, Star Wars Galaxies, PlanetSide, etc.) and Blizzard (World of Warcraft) will bring Massive Multiplayer gaming to the PS3. EGM (May 2005) confirms that Blizzard is going to be developing a MMORPG. Also you can see on Blizzard's website that they are actively hiring Console staff (Blizzard Jobs). On the Sony side, it seems they will be creating an action-oriented persistent world. Sony was the first to the marketplace with PlanetSide a true MMOFPS. PlanetSide is a cult hit supporting tens of thousands of players. Bringing a game simular to PlanetSide to the PS3 would give all the players on that platform a uniform system to work from, which should help with issues such as lag. Sony is looking to make their MMO's cross platform so PC and PS3 players can combat each other.
Related Links:
Moving beyond "EverQuest"
Blizzard Developing PlayStation 3 MMORPG
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D.Vader // 6/10/2005 04:08:00 PM //
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Unification of Blu-ray and HD-DVD Merger Dead
"Ken Kutaragi, Sony Computer Entertainment president, has spoken out about the issue of a unified next generation disc standard. He said that they have chosen to use Blu-ray for the PlayStation 3 because he feels the chances of a unified format are very slim. He said that 'There's very little chance that the negotiations will go through,' and went on to say that 'product planning' for the PlayStation 3 was the reason behind the decision.
It looks like we may see a format war between Toshiba's HD-DVD and Sony's Blu-ray. Toshiba claim that the HD-DVD format should be the format of choice because of its more standard disc manufacturing methods, similar to that of normal DVDs. Sony claims that Blu-ray should be the disc to choose because of its superior storage of 50GB, compared to HD-DVD's 30GB. With each company seeing their format as the best, analysts think the chances of a unified format are very slim.
In an interview with Mainichi Interactive, Sony Blu-ray management director Kiyoshi Nishitani showed little optimism about a future agreement. "There's too much difference between our beliefs," he said. "The Blu-ray can record 50GB, but the HD-DVD can only record 30GB. Without 50GB of capacity, we can't answer the demands of long hours of high-definition video recording and high-quality extras. The HD-DVD camp is saying that we don't need that much capacity, but it will be required in the future."
Similar doubts were also expressed by Toshiba managing director, Yoshihide Fujii. "Toshiba has no plans to agree with Sony," he said. "Most movie studios have said that the HD-DVD's 30GB capacity is enough. Normal households use HDs for long hours of recordings, and they record whatever they want to save long-term onto DVDs. So there's really no need for a recording media with an extreme capacity. The consumers are most concerned about inexpensive media. Therefore, the HD is better than the Blu-ray, since it can be manufactured by current DVD production machines and costs less to create.""
It looks like we may see a format war between Toshiba's HD-DVD and Sony's Blu-ray. Toshiba claim that the HD-DVD format should be the format of choice because of its more standard disc manufacturing methods, similar to that of normal DVDs. Sony claims that Blu-ray should be the disc to choose because of its superior storage of 50GB, compared to HD-DVD's 30GB. With each company seeing their format as the best, analysts think the chances of a unified format are very slim.
In an interview with Mainichi Interactive, Sony Blu-ray management director Kiyoshi Nishitani showed little optimism about a future agreement. "There's too much difference between our beliefs," he said. "The Blu-ray can record 50GB, but the HD-DVD can only record 30GB. Without 50GB of capacity, we can't answer the demands of long hours of high-definition video recording and high-quality extras. The HD-DVD camp is saying that we don't need that much capacity, but it will be required in the future."
Similar doubts were also expressed by Toshiba managing director, Yoshihide Fujii. "Toshiba has no plans to agree with Sony," he said. "Most movie studios have said that the HD-DVD's 30GB capacity is enough. Normal households use HDs for long hours of recordings, and they record whatever they want to save long-term onto DVDs. So there's really no need for a recording media with an extreme capacity. The consumers are most concerned about inexpensive media. Therefore, the HD is better than the Blu-ray, since it can be manufactured by current DVD production machines and costs less to create.""
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D.Vader // 6/10/2005 09:23:00 AM //
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Unified architecture gives Xbox 360 the graphical edge, claims ATI
Image Source: bit-tech.net
Unified architecture gives Xbox 360 the graphical edge, claims ATI
"PlayStation 3 may be faster on paper, but Xbox 360's easier to harness, says Huddy
Microsoft's Xbox 360 will have better graphics performance than the PlayStation 3 despite the better on-paper specifications of the Sony console, according to graphics chip designer ATI's Richard Huddy.
Speaking in an interview with techie website bit-tech.net, Huddy - ATI's developer liaison and technology evangelist - went into detail about the Xenos chipset used in Xbox 360, and how it stacks up against NVIDIA's RSX part for the PlayStation 3.
Although the RSX is more powerful in terms of raw specifications - it runs at a higher clock speed for a start, 550Mhz rather than the 500Mhz speed of the Xenos part - Huddy claims that the unified shader architecture used by ATI will give Xbox 360 the graphical edge.
'That mere 10 per cent clock speed that RSX has on Xenos is easily countered by the unified shader architecture that we've implemented,' he claimed. 'Rather than separate pixel and vertex pipelines, we've created a single unified pipeline that can do both.'
"Providing developers throw instructions at our architecture in the right way, Xenos can run at 100 per cent efficiency all the time, rather than having some pipeline instructions waiting for others," Huddy explained. "For comparison, most high-end PC chips run at 50-60% typical efficiency. The super cool point is that 'in the right way' just means 'give us plenty of work to do'. The hardware manages itself."
For its part, NVIDIA has repeatedly downplayed the importance of unified shader architecture, and has publicly stated that it doesn't believe that this is the best path to improved graphics performance.
Huddy believes that this position is marketing bluster from NVIDIA, rather than being based on any genuinely held beliefs about the technology in question.
"This time around, they don't have the architecture and we do, so they have to knock it and say it isn't worthwhile," he said. "But in the future, they'll market themselves out of this corner, claiming that they've cracked how to do it best. But RSX isn't unified, and this is why I think PS3 will almost certainly be slower and less powerful."
Of course, neither the RSX nor the Xenos exists in final silicon form yet, and the claims of both NVIDIA and ATI need to be taken with a hefty pinch of salt as a result. Although they're both based on IBM-manufactured chips and PC-like graphics parts, the architecture of the Xbox 360 and the PS3 is radically different and direct comparisons are difficult.
However, many developers working with both consoles up to now have privately concluded that Sony's system, which will be launched at least six months after Microsoft's, will have the edge in terms of overall performance."
Speaking in an interview with techie website bit-tech.net, Huddy - ATI's developer liaison and technology evangelist - went into detail about the Xenos chipset used in Xbox 360, and how it stacks up against NVIDIA's RSX part for the PlayStation 3.
Although the RSX is more powerful in terms of raw specifications - it runs at a higher clock speed for a start, 550Mhz rather than the 500Mhz speed of the Xenos part - Huddy claims that the unified shader architecture used by ATI will give Xbox 360 the graphical edge.
'That mere 10 per cent clock speed that RSX has on Xenos is easily countered by the unified shader architecture that we've implemented,' he claimed. 'Rather than separate pixel and vertex pipelines, we've created a single unified pipeline that can do both.'
"Providing developers throw instructions at our architecture in the right way, Xenos can run at 100 per cent efficiency all the time, rather than having some pipeline instructions waiting for others," Huddy explained. "For comparison, most high-end PC chips run at 50-60% typical efficiency. The super cool point is that 'in the right way' just means 'give us plenty of work to do'. The hardware manages itself."
For its part, NVIDIA has repeatedly downplayed the importance of unified shader architecture, and has publicly stated that it doesn't believe that this is the best path to improved graphics performance.
Huddy believes that this position is marketing bluster from NVIDIA, rather than being based on any genuinely held beliefs about the technology in question.
"This time around, they don't have the architecture and we do, so they have to knock it and say it isn't worthwhile," he said. "But in the future, they'll market themselves out of this corner, claiming that they've cracked how to do it best. But RSX isn't unified, and this is why I think PS3 will almost certainly be slower and less powerful."
Of course, neither the RSX nor the Xenos exists in final silicon form yet, and the claims of both NVIDIA and ATI need to be taken with a hefty pinch of salt as a result. Although they're both based on IBM-manufactured chips and PC-like graphics parts, the architecture of the Xbox 360 and the PS3 is radically different and direct comparisons are difficult.
However, many developers working with both consoles up to now have privately concluded that Sony's system, which will be launched at least six months after Microsoft's, will have the edge in terms of overall performance."
Related Links:
Interview: ATI and the Xbox 360
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D.Vader // 6/10/2005 09:05:00 AM //
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Xbox 360 will have 20 Titles for Launch!
XBOX 360 WILL HAVE TWENTY LAUNCH TITLES
"Plus what's this 'secret function revealed in one year' malarkey all about?
"Plus what's this 'secret function revealed in one year' malarkey all about?
The Xbox 360 will have twenty titles available at launch at its debut in Japan - that's according to Munetatsu Matsui, editor-in-chief of the highly respected Famitsu Xbox mag, speaking in a round table discussion in the current issue.
Microsoft are clearly targeting Japan as an important market this time around after its disappointing experience in the current gen.
But twenty launch titles is an ambitious aim that far surpasses previous expectations, particularly since the Redmond giant is aiming for a simultaneous worldwide release in all three major territories.
Although Microsoft was understandably cagey about launch line-up and composition in public at E3, privately they admitted that between ten to fifteen triple A titles would be about right, with closely staggered releases keeping momentum and excitement going on into the new year. They also didn't want to swamp and dilute the launch line-up with a couple of major titles in the same genre.
This Japanese figure could include a couple of Japan-centric titles which wouldn't play too well in the west, but the figure is still much higher than expected.
Elsewhere in the piece Matsui-san also hinted that the Xbox 360 had some secret functions which were currently unknown at this time and would be revealed one year into market by a Live update.
Whatever can he mean and what does he know that we don't? Let the forum speculation commence."
Now the real question is, will there be more then 20 Xbox 360's available at launch?
Microsoft are clearly targeting Japan as an important market this time around after its disappointing experience in the current gen.
But twenty launch titles is an ambitious aim that far surpasses previous expectations, particularly since the Redmond giant is aiming for a simultaneous worldwide release in all three major territories.
Although Microsoft was understandably cagey about launch line-up and composition in public at E3, privately they admitted that between ten to fifteen triple A titles would be about right, with closely staggered releases keeping momentum and excitement going on into the new year. They also didn't want to swamp and dilute the launch line-up with a couple of major titles in the same genre.
This Japanese figure could include a couple of Japan-centric titles which wouldn't play too well in the west, but the figure is still much higher than expected.
Elsewhere in the piece Matsui-san also hinted that the Xbox 360 had some secret functions which were currently unknown at this time and would be revealed one year into market by a Live update.
Whatever can he mean and what does he know that we don't? Let the forum speculation commence."
Now the real question is, will there be more then 20 Xbox 360's available at launch?
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D.Vader // 6/10/2005 08:52:00 AM //
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Thursday, June 09, 2005
Epic has first 'PlayStation 3 hardware'
"WE READ quite an interesting document about Nvidia's RSX processor and upcoming Playstation 3 gaming console. Despite many people believing that Sony's decision to announce some of the Playstation 3 details at E3 was pure reaction to the XboX 360, it turns out that Sony might be more ready than we all could thought.
Some top notch game developers such as Epic gamers have already received their first Playstation 3 hardware. This occurred about two and a half months ago. Sony is definitely after the content as it needs as many cool games as possible. Epic is sure one of the companies that can supply some cool games. We saw cool looking Unreal Tournament 2007 announcement at E3, but we don’t know is this game for Playstation 3 or not. We heavily suspect yes, as we know that Epic is extremely close to Nvidia the graphic chip provider of Playstation 3.
The big Japanese company with an American CEO is after Microsoft's Xbox 360 and first reports imply that the Xbox360 console is going to be launched in October. We already reported that Sony Playstation 3 is going to be available in Spring 2006 but we don’t know whether Sony is going to launch first in Japan and then US and Europe or in all regions at once. This will heavily depend on console availability, as Sony already had availability issues with its super doper Playstation portable console. It launched Playstation Portable, PSP at Japan at the end of last year following with March launch in US but is still to launch it in Old Lady Europe on September 1st 2005.
If Microsoft manages to ship XboX 360, it might gain as much as six months advantage over Sony Playstation 3. This availability game is even more interesting if you know that XboX 360 has an ATI R500 chip in charge of graphic while Playstation 3 runs Nvidia RSX chip. In the end it comes to ATI in bed with Microsoft versus Nvidia in bed with Sony. "
Some top notch game developers such as Epic gamers have already received their first Playstation 3 hardware. This occurred about two and a half months ago. Sony is definitely after the content as it needs as many cool games as possible. Epic is sure one of the companies that can supply some cool games. We saw cool looking Unreal Tournament 2007 announcement at E3, but we don’t know is this game for Playstation 3 or not. We heavily suspect yes, as we know that Epic is extremely close to Nvidia the graphic chip provider of Playstation 3.
The big Japanese company with an American CEO is after Microsoft's Xbox 360 and first reports imply that the Xbox360 console is going to be launched in October. We already reported that Sony Playstation 3 is going to be available in Spring 2006 but we don’t know whether Sony is going to launch first in Japan and then US and Europe or in all regions at once. This will heavily depend on console availability, as Sony already had availability issues with its super doper Playstation portable console. It launched Playstation Portable, PSP at Japan at the end of last year following with March launch in US but is still to launch it in Old Lady Europe on September 1st 2005.
If Microsoft manages to ship XboX 360, it might gain as much as six months advantage over Sony Playstation 3. This availability game is even more interesting if you know that XboX 360 has an ATI R500 chip in charge of graphic while Playstation 3 runs Nvidia RSX chip. In the end it comes to ATI in bed with Microsoft versus Nvidia in bed with Sony. "
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D.Vader // 6/09/2005 05:33:00 PM //
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Add-on PlayStation 3 HDD will run Linux
Add-on PlayStation 3 HDD will run Linux
"Ken Kutaragi reveals the console's hard drive will use alternate OS, hints that it will ship separately and will come in more than one model.
Since E3, Sony Computer Entertainment president Ken Kutaragi has been calling the PlayStation 3 an 'entertainment supercomputer' rather than a gaming console. Now, he's revealed a new plan to make sure that it's acknowledged as one.
In an interview with Impress PC Watch, Kutaragi disclosed that he plans to install the Linux operating system on the PS3's hard disc drive (HDD) so it will be recognized as a computer, rather than a mere console.
But while Linux would require a hard drive to run on, Kutaragi told Impress PC Watch, 'We're not going to equip [the PS3 with] a HDD by default, because no matter how much [capacity] we put in it, it won't be enough.' It was unclear whether he was referring to the previously known fact that the PS3 would not have an internal hard drive or whether he was indicating that the device would not come with the external 2.5-inch detachable HDD outlined in the specs revealed at E3.
If the latter is the case, then hard drives will be optional--and will cost extra. Kutaragi seemed to confirm this when he said, "There are still some issues if the machine doesn't come with an HDD." Further comments seemed to indicate that there will be more than one model of optional add-on PS3 HDDs available at launch. "We've added a 2.5-inch HDD bay so that users can equip HDDs, such as 80GB and 120GB, even though that's still not enough [capacity]." By contrast, the Xbox 360 will ship with a 20GB hard drive, standard. No other 360 HDD models have been announced, although Microsoft officials have indicated larger-capacity models could be produced if needed.
A complete translation of Kutaragi's interview with Impress PC Watch is below:
Impress PC Watch: The PlayStation 3 has some extremely high specifications, but it doesn't come with an HDD. Why?
Ken Kutaragi: We're not going to equip [the PS3 with] an HDD by default, because no matter how much [capacity] we put in it, it won't be enough. The next step is definitely network drives. With the Cell server, they can be accessed from anywhere, via network. Whether it's your own house [or] your friend's house, you can access the [network hard drive] anywhere. That's the kind of world we're imagining. But there are still some issues if the machine doesn't come with an HDD. So this time, we've added a 2.5-inch HDD bay so that users can equip HDDs, such as 80GB and 120GB, even though that's still not enough [capacity]. Although a network drive would allow for terabytes of storage, there's still the necessity to run an operating system offline. A hard drive for running an OS will be required for [the PS3] to be recognized as a computer.
IPCW: Do you mean to say that you'll run an OS on the PS3 to use it as a computer?
KK: I believe its wrong that, while we've been calling PlayStations "computers," Nintendo, which is in our same business, keeps telling the world their consoles are "toys." So even though we're making something that has the capability to be recognized as a supercomputer and requires paperwork when exporting or importing, the government sees it as a "toy." The PlayStation 2 has something as great as the Emotion Engine, and it can even run Linux, but it's still considered a gaming machine. I thought that the situation would become better since Microsoft appeared [in the gaming industry] from the IT field. But they won't say it either, since they want to protect their business. They see problems if the Xbox could run Windows, so they keep calling the Xbox a "game machine." It is really a pain in the neck. This time, we're positioning the PS3 as a "supercomputer." But people won't recognize it as a computer unless we call it a computer, so we're going to run an OS on it. In fact, the Cell can run multiple OSes. In order to run the OSes, we need an HDD. So in order to declare that the PS3 is a computer, I think we'll have [the PS3's HDD] preinstalled with Linux as a bonus.
IPCW: So Linux can be run on the Cell?
KK: Linux is legacy, but it will be a start. In the case of the Cell, operation systems are applications. The kernel will be running on the Cell, and multiple OSes will be running on top of that as applications. Of course, the PS3 can run Linux. If Linux can run, so can Lindows. Other PC Operating Systems can run too, such as Windows and Tiger (Max OS X 10.4), if the publishers want [them] to do so. Maybe a new OS might come out.
IPCW: Does that mean that we can expect applications that take advantage of the Cell, aside from games?
KK: As an example, HD video-editing software is basically the same as the nonlinear editing system used in broadcasting stations. What we're trying to do on the PS3 is that level of software. Nonlinear editing systems are incredible, but if it was done on the Cell, it would be even more incredible... The difference will be obvious. I think other PC applications, like photo-retouching software, will also be able to be done on the PS3. The user interface will also get interesting. In the case of the PC, users will have to wait for years between XP's UI to Longhorn's. But the PS3's UI will evolve much faster. For example, if we had an interface where we could control applications using gestures and words using the EyeToy, it would be like Minority Report. Of course, that kind of an evolution will also reflect on games. This will be the first form that [the Cell] will be spread. It can connect a keyboard, and it has all the necessary interfaces. It can run media, and it can run on a network. It's got such an all-around purpose, and it's open. It will become completely open if we equip it with Linux, and programmers will be able to do anything with it. It's the same thing with the graphics, since it's got the shaders. "
In an interview with Impress PC Watch, Kutaragi disclosed that he plans to install the Linux operating system on the PS3's hard disc drive (HDD) so it will be recognized as a computer, rather than a mere console.
But while Linux would require a hard drive to run on, Kutaragi told Impress PC Watch, 'We're not going to equip [the PS3 with] a HDD by default, because no matter how much [capacity] we put in it, it won't be enough.' It was unclear whether he was referring to the previously known fact that the PS3 would not have an internal hard drive or whether he was indicating that the device would not come with the external 2.5-inch detachable HDD outlined in the specs revealed at E3.
If the latter is the case, then hard drives will be optional--and will cost extra. Kutaragi seemed to confirm this when he said, "There are still some issues if the machine doesn't come with an HDD." Further comments seemed to indicate that there will be more than one model of optional add-on PS3 HDDs available at launch. "We've added a 2.5-inch HDD bay so that users can equip HDDs, such as 80GB and 120GB, even though that's still not enough [capacity]." By contrast, the Xbox 360 will ship with a 20GB hard drive, standard. No other 360 HDD models have been announced, although Microsoft officials have indicated larger-capacity models could be produced if needed.
A complete translation of Kutaragi's interview with Impress PC Watch is below:
Impress PC Watch: The PlayStation 3 has some extremely high specifications, but it doesn't come with an HDD. Why?
Ken Kutaragi: We're not going to equip [the PS3 with] an HDD by default, because no matter how much [capacity] we put in it, it won't be enough. The next step is definitely network drives. With the Cell server, they can be accessed from anywhere, via network. Whether it's your own house [or] your friend's house, you can access the [network hard drive] anywhere. That's the kind of world we're imagining. But there are still some issues if the machine doesn't come with an HDD. So this time, we've added a 2.5-inch HDD bay so that users can equip HDDs, such as 80GB and 120GB, even though that's still not enough [capacity]. Although a network drive would allow for terabytes of storage, there's still the necessity to run an operating system offline. A hard drive for running an OS will be required for [the PS3] to be recognized as a computer.
IPCW: Do you mean to say that you'll run an OS on the PS3 to use it as a computer?
KK: I believe its wrong that, while we've been calling PlayStations "computers," Nintendo, which is in our same business, keeps telling the world their consoles are "toys." So even though we're making something that has the capability to be recognized as a supercomputer and requires paperwork when exporting or importing, the government sees it as a "toy." The PlayStation 2 has something as great as the Emotion Engine, and it can even run Linux, but it's still considered a gaming machine. I thought that the situation would become better since Microsoft appeared [in the gaming industry] from the IT field. But they won't say it either, since they want to protect their business. They see problems if the Xbox could run Windows, so they keep calling the Xbox a "game machine." It is really a pain in the neck. This time, we're positioning the PS3 as a "supercomputer." But people won't recognize it as a computer unless we call it a computer, so we're going to run an OS on it. In fact, the Cell can run multiple OSes. In order to run the OSes, we need an HDD. So in order to declare that the PS3 is a computer, I think we'll have [the PS3's HDD] preinstalled with Linux as a bonus.
IPCW: So Linux can be run on the Cell?
KK: Linux is legacy, but it will be a start. In the case of the Cell, operation systems are applications. The kernel will be running on the Cell, and multiple OSes will be running on top of that as applications. Of course, the PS3 can run Linux. If Linux can run, so can Lindows. Other PC Operating Systems can run too, such as Windows and Tiger (Max OS X 10.4), if the publishers want [them] to do so. Maybe a new OS might come out.
IPCW: Does that mean that we can expect applications that take advantage of the Cell, aside from games?
KK: As an example, HD video-editing software is basically the same as the nonlinear editing system used in broadcasting stations. What we're trying to do on the PS3 is that level of software. Nonlinear editing systems are incredible, but if it was done on the Cell, it would be even more incredible... The difference will be obvious. I think other PC applications, like photo-retouching software, will also be able to be done on the PS3. The user interface will also get interesting. In the case of the PC, users will have to wait for years between XP's UI to Longhorn's. But the PS3's UI will evolve much faster. For example, if we had an interface where we could control applications using gestures and words using the EyeToy, it would be like Minority Report. Of course, that kind of an evolution will also reflect on games. This will be the first form that [the Cell] will be spread. It can connect a keyboard, and it has all the necessary interfaces. It can run media, and it can run on a network. It's got such an all-around purpose, and it's open. It will become completely open if we equip it with Linux, and programmers will be able to do anything with it. It's the same thing with the graphics, since it's got the shaders. "
Sorry for the long post, but this is the most information we have received from Sony since E3. By utilizing Linux Sony will open the PS3 up to so many opportunities. Anything MS has created has been replicated in Linux for free and it's 100% customizable. Very good move on Sony's part.
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D.Vader // 6/09/2005 04:23:00 PM //
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Seagate to provide 20GB 2.5" Hard Drive for Xbox 360
"Hard drive manufacturer Seagate Technology will provide the 20GB hard drive for Microsoft's next-generation console, Xbox 360. The new LD25 series drive will be housed in a compact 2.5-inch form factor that provides a small footprint and cooler performance for game consoles.
The Xbox 360 hard drive will support features for Microsoft's online gaming service, Xbox Live. The company plans to let users purchase additional content that can be stored on the hard drive. In addition, the hard drive can be used to rip music and create custom soundtracks for games.
'The hard drive extends the gaming experience on Xbox 360,' said Todd Holmdahl, corporate vice president, Xbox hardware. 'From downloading trailers, new game levels, maps, weapons, vehicles, and more to supporting custom playlists in every game and storing video messages from friends, Seagate's LD25 Series 2.5-inch hard drive brings gaming and digital media together for the ultimate entertainment experience.'"
The Xbox 360 hard drive will support features for Microsoft's online gaming service, Xbox Live. The company plans to let users purchase additional content that can be stored on the hard drive. In addition, the hard drive can be used to rip music and create custom soundtracks for games.
'The hard drive extends the gaming experience on Xbox 360,' said Todd Holmdahl, corporate vice president, Xbox hardware. 'From downloading trailers, new game levels, maps, weapons, vehicles, and more to supporting custom playlists in every game and storing video messages from friends, Seagate's LD25 Series 2.5-inch hard drive brings gaming and digital media together for the ultimate entertainment experience.'"
Related Links:
www.seagate.com
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D.Vader // 6/09/2005 11:51:00 AM //
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Kutaragi makes more Xbox 360 digs
Ken Kutaragi has been at it again. Keen to put down Microsoft's Xbox 360 at every opportunity, he has once again given his opinion on the new console, this time in an interview with Japanese tech site Watch Impress.
Ken was asked to compare the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360. 'This time, Microsoft has stated clearly that it is going after the PlayStation,' said Ken. 'However, they're going not after the PlayStation 3, but the PlayStation 2. They were looking at 2, and that's why [the Xbox 360] became like that.'
While it's unlikely that he would have said anything too positive about his Rival's next console, the endless digs are becoming a little childish. To hammer home his point he pulled out the, now famous, Xbox 1.5 joke, saying that: 'One famous reporter let slip, Xbox is 1.5, the PS [3] is more than I was expecting, so it's 3.5. That's the difference.'
When will the childish bickering end? I doubt it will be anytime soon."
Ken was asked to compare the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360. 'This time, Microsoft has stated clearly that it is going after the PlayStation,' said Ken. 'However, they're going not after the PlayStation 3, but the PlayStation 2. They were looking at 2, and that's why [the Xbox 360] became like that.'
While it's unlikely that he would have said anything too positive about his Rival's next console, the endless digs are becoming a little childish. To hammer home his point he pulled out the, now famous, Xbox 1.5 joke, saying that: 'One famous reporter let slip, Xbox is 1.5, the PS [3] is more than I was expecting, so it's 3.5. That's the difference.'
When will the childish bickering end? I doubt it will be anytime soon."
Now all I have to say here is if Sony's bark does match their bite, they may just be exceptionally confident.
Related Links:
Horrid Little Troll Scared of Xbox 360
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D.Vader // 6/09/2005 11:33:00 AM //
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Nintendo Revolution News Trickle
Image Source: nintendo.com
Nintendo Revolution Slighty Clarified
"Backward compatibility, back-catalogue of classic games, but forward-thinking stuff is still under wraps
Nintendo Revolution Slighty Clarified
"Backward compatibility, back-catalogue of classic games, but forward-thinking stuff is still under wraps
Nintendo officially unveiled their Revolution console in Japan today, releasing some interesting new details regarding the console itself and its functionality. As previously rumored, the Revolution will support GameCube controllers and peripherals, so backward compatibility with GameCube games will be no big issue for existing Cube owners. The Revolution controller, touted as the main 'revolution' of the whole deal, unfortunately remains a mystery and will continue to be so until sometime later this year when Nintendo thinks we're finally as cool as they are or something.
According to Cube IGN, the Revolution will sport about 512MB of free internal flash memory that gamers can use to store data like game saves, console firmware, and downloadable games and demos (those sound like some small demos). Should the 512MB prove insufficient, additional storage is made possible thanks to Secure Digital memory card media support. Data stored on the removable SD cards can also be transferred onto your computer for... something useful, we assume. Perhaps the converse functionality is true as well. Anti-piracy measures will be put into effect to prevent unauthorized distribution of Revolution files through the PC and internet, but no concrete details were released regarding this."
According to Cube IGN, the Revolution will sport about 512MB of free internal flash memory that gamers can use to store data like game saves, console firmware, and downloadable games and demos (those sound like some small demos). Should the 512MB prove insufficient, additional storage is made possible thanks to Secure Digital memory card media support. Data stored on the removable SD cards can also be transferred onto your computer for... something useful, we assume. Perhaps the converse functionality is true as well. Anti-piracy measures will be put into effect to prevent unauthorized distribution of Revolution files through the PC and internet, but no concrete details were released regarding this."
More of the same that we have heard, but the small tid-bit about the Anti-Piracy measures and verified Game Cube compatability. Image above shows the GameCube controller ports.
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D.Vader // 6/09/2005 10:10:00 AM //
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Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Cell processor to be revealed to Open Source community
"IBM is planning to reveal details on Cell to help support open-source computing designs.
IBM is set to support open-source computing designs by revealing key details of its Cell processor. The processor which is being co-designed by IBM, Sony and Toshiba is set to power Sony's upcoming PlayStation 3 console. IBM is going to great lengths to ensure developers can write software for the processor, charging them no licensing fees.
Jim Kahle, IBM's lead designer for Cell, commented on the company's decision to reveal details on the processor saying that they will effectively 'donate four years' worth of intellectual property to the open-source community.'
While the PlayStation 3 is set to be the most high-profile use of the Cell processor, it will be used in many other electrical devices, including supercomputers and military devices."
This will definitly get the Cell and PS3 off to the right start. Liscensing and patents could kill the Video Game market due to high competition.
IBM is set to support open-source computing designs by revealing key details of its Cell processor. The processor which is being co-designed by IBM, Sony and Toshiba is set to power Sony's upcoming PlayStation 3 console. IBM is going to great lengths to ensure developers can write software for the processor, charging them no licensing fees.
Jim Kahle, IBM's lead designer for Cell, commented on the company's decision to reveal details on the processor saying that they will effectively 'donate four years' worth of intellectual property to the open-source community.'
While the PlayStation 3 is set to be the most high-profile use of the Cell processor, it will be used in many other electrical devices, including supercomputers and military devices."
This will definitly get the Cell and PS3 off to the right start. Liscensing and patents could kill the Video Game market due to high competition.
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 05:58:00 PM //
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Xbox 360 Games $60? EA Games $70?
"Tired of the pricing rumors for next-generation videogames, specifically the Xbox 360 titles shipping later this year, DailyGame contacted several retailers to get to the bottom of the pricing conversation.
Will Electronic Arts charge $70 for next-gen games, as Sega executives surmised earlier this year (read one DailyGame columnist's reaction)? Will prices stay the same in the next generation? According to several Electronics Boutique outlets, the answer is somewhere in between.
Although EB could not confirm final pricing, the company's most-recent pricing guide shows Xbox 360 games costing $60. Likewise, final pricing information was not available for the Xbox 360 console itself, but the retailers said '$300 to $350 is the best ballpark I can give you right now.'"
EA is really starting to tick me off. They buy out small developers, then they throw out any projects that don't seem to fit the best seller mold. Now it seems there are rumors that they will charge $70 per game. Don't companies compete any more?
Will Electronic Arts charge $70 for next-gen games, as Sega executives surmised earlier this year (read one DailyGame columnist's reaction)? Will prices stay the same in the next generation? According to several Electronics Boutique outlets, the answer is somewhere in between.
Although EB could not confirm final pricing, the company's most-recent pricing guide shows Xbox 360 games costing $60. Likewise, final pricing information was not available for the Xbox 360 console itself, but the retailers said '$300 to $350 is the best ballpark I can give you right now.'"
EA is really starting to tick me off. They buy out small developers, then they throw out any projects that don't seem to fit the best seller mold. Now it seems there are rumors that they will charge $70 per game. Don't companies compete any more?
Related Links:
Duke’s Diary: Reactions to the Rumor about $70 Games
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 05:28:00 PM //
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High-Def DVD: Blu-ray vs. HD-DVD Primer
"The gloves are about to come off in the fight for the next-generation high-definition DVD standard, and this war may make the VHS versus Betamax battle of the '70s and '80s look like a school-yard brawl. The players this time around are Blu-ray and HD-DVD (High-Definition DVD), and manufacturers and movie studios are already dividing up to champion their favorite contender so they'll be ready when the first commercial discs are available by the end of 2005.
That's all well and good for movie buffs hoping to buy their favorite flicks in glorious high definition, but what are the implications for gamers? How do these new technologies work, how can they help make our games better, and how much do we need to worry about upgrading to accommodate whichever of the new standards emerges victorious?"
That's all well and good for movie buffs hoping to buy their favorite flicks in glorious high definition, but what are the implications for gamers? How do these new technologies work, how can they help make our games better, and how much do we need to worry about upgrading to accommodate whichever of the new standards emerges victorious?"
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 03:40:00 PM //
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Capcom considering legal action against GTA3 age ban in Japan
"Capcom retaliates to GTA3's age restriction in a Japanese region, citing that the movement can cause issues in freedom of expression in future games.
TOKYO--Last week, the local government of Kanagawa prefecture, a region located immediately south of Tokyo, announced that it will ban the sales of Grand Theft Auto III to minors as of June 7. Saitama, another region neighboring Tokyo, also announced that it is considering the age restriction on the gratuitously violent game as well.
The possibility that the ban may spread into neighboring regions has caught the eye of the game's Japanese publisher, Capcom. (Rockstar, which publishes the game in other regions, has seen similar threats.) With other games noted for violence and gore, such as the Resident Evil series or the upcoming Xbox 360 game Dead Rising, Capcom fears that such restrictions could affect future releases. In a public statement saying that the age ban was inappropriately implemented, the company has announced that it is considering taking legal action.
"Japan's Videogame industry is a world-class business, which foundations are supported by the freedom of expression and intellectual property protection laws. Like our country itself has been practicing, it is essential that we continue to make efforts to sustain these two factors that are essential for growth of the game industry," said Capcom in a public statement.
"It is especially important to handle freedom of expression with care. It is a powerful factor in society, but also something extremely delicate. Our company does not believe that videogames should be completely free of any regulations under the freedom of expressions, and we have censored our games when seen to be required within our judgment.""
TOKYO--Last week, the local government of Kanagawa prefecture, a region located immediately south of Tokyo, announced that it will ban the sales of Grand Theft Auto III to minors as of June 7. Saitama, another region neighboring Tokyo, also announced that it is considering the age restriction on the gratuitously violent game as well.
The possibility that the ban may spread into neighboring regions has caught the eye of the game's Japanese publisher, Capcom. (Rockstar, which publishes the game in other regions, has seen similar threats.) With other games noted for violence and gore, such as the Resident Evil series or the upcoming Xbox 360 game Dead Rising, Capcom fears that such restrictions could affect future releases. In a public statement saying that the age ban was inappropriately implemented, the company has announced that it is considering taking legal action.
"Japan's Videogame industry is a world-class business, which foundations are supported by the freedom of expression and intellectual property protection laws. Like our country itself has been practicing, it is essential that we continue to make efforts to sustain these two factors that are essential for growth of the game industry," said Capcom in a public statement.
"It is especially important to handle freedom of expression with care. It is a powerful factor in society, but also something extremely delicate. Our company does not believe that videogames should be completely free of any regulations under the freedom of expressions, and we have censored our games when seen to be required within our judgment.""
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 02:55:00 PM //
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Trinigy Pledges Xbox 360 Support
"Trinigy GmbH, a market-leading independent developer of 3D Games Middleware, today announced that future versions of the Vision Game Engine will fully support Microsoft’s Xbox 360.
The Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft version of the Vision engine is the first of the new platform versions that Trinigy will release in the scope of its next generation strategy. Since the company has been able to obtain an Xbox 360 development kit at an early stage, the engine version for the new game console is already fairly advanced. “The universal design and the comprehensive set of platform-specific features and optimisations makes the Next-Gen version of Vision an ideal platform for Xbox 360 developers”, explains Trinigy’s managing director Dag Frommhold. “Vision allows developers to easily utilise the impressive performance and feature set of Microsoft’s nextgeneration game platform while at the same time saving development time and money.”
Tracey Frankcom, Program Manager at Microsoft’s Xbox Advanced Technology Group, is similarly enthusiastic about the new Vision engine. “We were truly impressed with Trinigy’s powerful technology and their coherent and ambitious plans for Xbox 360. We are convinced that already the first Xbox 360 titles based on the Vision Game Engine will set new standards in terms of visual quality and realism.”
With the help of a consistent multi-platform strategy, Trinigy plans to further increase its international market share. At the moment, more than twenty-five game projects are already based on the Vision technology, with the portfolio ranging from first-person shooters over strategy games to massively multiplayer online games. Screenshots of current Vision-based projects can be found on the Trinigy homepage. "
The Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft version of the Vision engine is the first of the new platform versions that Trinigy will release in the scope of its next generation strategy. Since the company has been able to obtain an Xbox 360 development kit at an early stage, the engine version for the new game console is already fairly advanced. “The universal design and the comprehensive set of platform-specific features and optimisations makes the Next-Gen version of Vision an ideal platform for Xbox 360 developers”, explains Trinigy’s managing director Dag Frommhold. “Vision allows developers to easily utilise the impressive performance and feature set of Microsoft’s nextgeneration game platform while at the same time saving development time and money.”
Tracey Frankcom, Program Manager at Microsoft’s Xbox Advanced Technology Group, is similarly enthusiastic about the new Vision engine. “We were truly impressed with Trinigy’s powerful technology and their coherent and ambitious plans for Xbox 360. We are convinced that already the first Xbox 360 titles based on the Vision Game Engine will set new standards in terms of visual quality and realism.”
With the help of a consistent multi-platform strategy, Trinigy plans to further increase its international market share. At the moment, more than twenty-five game projects are already based on the Vision technology, with the portfolio ranging from first-person shooters over strategy games to massively multiplayer online games. Screenshots of current Vision-based projects can be found on the Trinigy homepage. "
Related Links:
www.trinigy.de
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 11:57:00 AM //
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Revolution 512MB Internal Flash Storage
"Internet reports suggest that Nintendo has recently revealed a few details on its Revolution...
Although an official statement has yet to be made, reports from across the net suggest that details on the Nintendo Revolution have been unveiled. Speaking during a reported conference held in Tokyo recently, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata, has allegedly gone on record to claim that the Revolution will feature an internal 512MB Flash Memory storage devices for game demos and presumably classic Nintendo downloads.
Concerns as to whether this will be enough in today’s market have already begun to mount, however it’s worth remembering that the average N64 cartridge weighed in at 32MB, while SNES titles rarely pushed past 6MB. More importantly Nintendo has yet to officially address its online Revolution strategy, so it seem a little early for fanyboy criticism.
Shigeru Miyamoto reportedly also took stage to confirm that development on the Revolution controller is still progressing, suggesting that a finished model has yet to be chosen as the team are still looking at new functions and features to bring to it."
Although an official statement has yet to be made, reports from across the net suggest that details on the Nintendo Revolution have been unveiled. Speaking during a reported conference held in Tokyo recently, Nintendo President Satoru Iwata, has allegedly gone on record to claim that the Revolution will feature an internal 512MB Flash Memory storage devices for game demos and presumably classic Nintendo downloads.
Concerns as to whether this will be enough in today’s market have already begun to mount, however it’s worth remembering that the average N64 cartridge weighed in at 32MB, while SNES titles rarely pushed past 6MB. More importantly Nintendo has yet to officially address its online Revolution strategy, so it seem a little early for fanyboy criticism.
Shigeru Miyamoto reportedly also took stage to confirm that development on the Revolution controller is still progressing, suggesting that a finished model has yet to be chosen as the team are still looking at new functions and features to bring to it."
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 11:56:00 AM //
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MS Ships Xbox 360 Beta Development Kits
XBOX 360 BETA KITS SHIP
"Should you care? Yes you should... here's why. CPU and GPU also in production
10:10 Word seeps out today from that leaky old barge known as the games development community that dev are finally getting their grubby paws on Xbox 360 beta development kits right about now.
"So what?" you might reasonably opine, "how does that affect the price of fish?", ah but care you should, as it's going to allow those devs to finally start upping the ante as Microsoft gears up for the crucial next six months before 360 launch.
Actually these kits may be about a week behind schedule as major 360 developers we talked to at E3 expected to have the kits within a week or so of show close.
At E3, Xbox 360 devs were having to show off their games running on Macs at what they were saying was only 30 percent of the 360's total power. In many cases it led to accusations and perceptions that 360 was not the generational leap forward it might have been. "Xbox 1.5" was a phrase which was cruelly bandied about amongst cheeky UK hacks way before the Sony execs got in on the act and adopted it as a line of attack. Maybe we should ask them for a royalty?
However with these kits now purportedly in place, developers should have all the ammo they need and it's also strategically important for that crucial 360 launch line-up. If there's no buzz about the actual games this Christmas and people aren't tearing down the walls to get their hands on Gotham 3, Gears of War and Perfect Dark Zero, then 360 will face a real uphill struggle at launch.
Word also comes our way that some key components like the 360's GPU and CPU have gone into production too, an equally crucial milestone for Microsoft, although apparently they will be holding off production of the unit itself until pricing has been finalised."
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 09:09:00 AM //
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Press Briefing Detailing Xbox 360 Backward Compatability
The most important announcement at this event was the demonstration of the Xbox 360, planned for release this holiday season. Company management stated that the Xbox 360 would be backward compatible for “most top selling Xbox games”, and pledged “support “ for the current generation Xbox “well into 2006”. Two weeks ago, we noted our
concern that the Xbox 360 may not be backward compatible with Xbox software due to a change in graphics processor chipset manufacturers from Nvidia to ATI. In a separate meeting with Microsoft management, we confirmed that the company has agreed to pay a small royalty to Nvidia to allow the Xbox 360’s ATI chipset to emulate the performance of the Nvidia chipset in reading certain Xbox games. For games written in a single layer
(management assumes that this is a large percentage of Xbox games), the hardware emulation should perform well.
For games written in multiple layers, a further emulation must be provided. The company intends to create software “patches” (i.e., separate emulation programs) for top-selling Xbox games written in multiple layers, and intends to sell the Xbox 360 with a hard drive that is pre-loaded with these patches. We presume that the majority of Xbox games will be backward compatible, and the company assured us that it intends to add patches should consumer demand warrant such action.
We are less confident about Microsoft’s intentions regarding the current generation Xbox. The company’s pledge of “support” is broad, but we believe that it does not equate to “manufacture” of Xboxes. Rather, we believe that the company has stockpiled a number of Nvidia chipsets, and is prepared to manufacture current generation Xboxes through the end of 2005, and perhaps for a few months beyond. The implications of this are difficult to assess: on the one hand, it is likely that the company will focus all of its marketing efforts on the rollout of the Xbox 360, and phase out the Xbox rapidly, resulting in a rapid ramp in sales of the new hardware; on the other hand, it is possible that Microsoft will be unable to satisfy demand for the 360, and may experience a decline in demand for current generation Xbox software, resulting in lower overall industry sales growth this year. We believe that the latter scenario is likely to occur, and note that it could impact overall industry sales growth by approximately 100 bps in 2005.
One final takeaway: Microsoft did not discuss pricing for the Xbox 360, but assured us in our meeting with management that “neither you nor consumers will be shocked” at the price. This implies to us that the device will be priced below $400, and may possibly be priced at $350. As discussed below, we expect Sony’s entry to be priced higher, potentially providing Microsoft with an additional competitive advantage."
concern that the Xbox 360 may not be backward compatible with Xbox software due to a change in graphics processor chipset manufacturers from Nvidia to ATI. In a separate meeting with Microsoft management, we confirmed that the company has agreed to pay a small royalty to Nvidia to allow the Xbox 360’s ATI chipset to emulate the performance of the Nvidia chipset in reading certain Xbox games. For games written in a single layer
(management assumes that this is a large percentage of Xbox games), the hardware emulation should perform well.
For games written in multiple layers, a further emulation must be provided. The company intends to create software “patches” (i.e., separate emulation programs) for top-selling Xbox games written in multiple layers, and intends to sell the Xbox 360 with a hard drive that is pre-loaded with these patches. We presume that the majority of Xbox games will be backward compatible, and the company assured us that it intends to add patches should consumer demand warrant such action.
We are less confident about Microsoft’s intentions regarding the current generation Xbox. The company’s pledge of “support” is broad, but we believe that it does not equate to “manufacture” of Xboxes. Rather, we believe that the company has stockpiled a number of Nvidia chipsets, and is prepared to manufacture current generation Xboxes through the end of 2005, and perhaps for a few months beyond. The implications of this are difficult to assess: on the one hand, it is likely that the company will focus all of its marketing efforts on the rollout of the Xbox 360, and phase out the Xbox rapidly, resulting in a rapid ramp in sales of the new hardware; on the other hand, it is possible that Microsoft will be unable to satisfy demand for the 360, and may experience a decline in demand for current generation Xbox software, resulting in lower overall industry sales growth this year. We believe that the latter scenario is likely to occur, and note that it could impact overall industry sales growth by approximately 100 bps in 2005.
One final takeaway: Microsoft did not discuss pricing for the Xbox 360, but assured us in our meeting with management that “neither you nor consumers will be shocked” at the price. This implies to us that the device will be priced below $400, and may possibly be priced at $350. As discussed below, we expect Sony’s entry to be priced higher, potentially providing Microsoft with an additional competitive advantage."
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 09:05:00 AM //
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Final Fantasy XI For PS3 & PC as well?
"New PC and Xbox 360 details emerge, plus a possible PS3 version mooted too
12:10 In the latest issue of Famitsu - the magazine it's almost worth learning Japanese to read - Hiromichi Tanaka, senior VP at Square and all around Final Fantasy guru - has been talking about the next-gen console version - or versions - of Final Fantasy XI.
According to Tanaka-san, there will be new spells, new jobs, and a whole bunch of other additional content in the game, as well as double the draw distance of the current PC version. A beta test is said to be starting soon too, though how exactly this is going to work without lots of Xbox 360s is as yet undisclosed.
In the "shocking revelations" department, Tanaka also revealed that - depending on whether or not it'll have a hard drive (we're betting a big yes for that one), the Sony Playstation 3 might also be in line for a version too, leading to some direct competition over one of the only truly successful console MMOs."
Now if they set this up so Xbox 360, PS3 and PC players all play on the same servers that would be quite cool.
According to Tanaka-san, there will be new spells, new jobs, and a whole bunch of other additional content in the game, as well as double the draw distance of the current PC version. A beta test is said to be starting soon too, though how exactly this is going to work without lots of Xbox 360s is as yet undisclosed.
In the "shocking revelations" department, Tanaka also revealed that - depending on whether or not it'll have a hard drive (we're betting a big yes for that one), the Sony Playstation 3 might also be in line for a version too, leading to some direct competition over one of the only truly successful console MMOs."
Now if they set this up so Xbox 360, PS3 and PC players all play on the same servers that would be quite cool.
Related Links:
Final Fantasy XI
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D.Vader // 6/08/2005 08:56:00 AM //
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Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Sony yet to decide on PS3 Hard Disk, Controller is Prototype
Pro-G - Prodigious Gaming: Sony yet to decide on PlayStation 3 hard disk
"Will a hard disk be included as standard with the PlayStation 3?
The PlayStation 3 specifications reveal a slot ready to take a hard disk but currently no one, not even Sony, knows if a hard disk will be included as standard.
An interview in the latest issue of Famitsu magazine, with Sony Computer Entertainment chief technical officer Masayuki Chatani, revealed that we are going to have to wait to find out what the future holds for the PlayStation 3 hard disk. When asked about the inclusion of a hard disk with the PlayStation 3 Chatani replied, 'It has yet to be decided.'
In the same interview it was revealed that Sony went for the detachable hard disk option because they feel that people will want to upgrade to larger drives in the future and also take their drives to other PlayStation 3 consoles, much like Microsoft have said with their Xbox 360 hard disk.
Chatani went on to answer questions about the PlayStation 3's controversial new controller which shocked many people when it was revealed at Sony's pre E3 press conference. He said, 'I don't think there will be any fundamental changes,' and goes on to say, 'but it's a prototype, so there could be some small adjustments.'"
An interview in the latest issue of Famitsu magazine, with Sony Computer Entertainment chief technical officer Masayuki Chatani, revealed that we are going to have to wait to find out what the future holds for the PlayStation 3 hard disk. When asked about the inclusion of a hard disk with the PlayStation 3 Chatani replied, 'It has yet to be decided.'
In the same interview it was revealed that Sony went for the detachable hard disk option because they feel that people will want to upgrade to larger drives in the future and also take their drives to other PlayStation 3 consoles, much like Microsoft have said with their Xbox 360 hard disk.
Chatani went on to answer questions about the PlayStation 3's controversial new controller which shocked many people when it was revealed at Sony's pre E3 press conference. He said, 'I don't think there will be any fundamental changes,' and goes on to say, 'but it's a prototype, so there could be some small adjustments.'"
Related Links:
Playstation 3 ( PS3 ) with upgradeable storage
PlayStation 3 Hard Drive Launch Issues
PlayStation 3 to Launch Without Bundled Hard Disk?
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 03:33:00 PM //
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VMC Labs Chosen as Testing Service Provider for Xbox 360
"VMC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Volt Information Sciences, Inc. and a global leader in games testing, announced today an agreement with Microsoft Corp. to provide game and a variety of console and peripheral testing services for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
VMC was a premier global launch partner for the original Xbox platform. Since 2001, the company has provided test services for Xbox games, console, and a variety of peripherals released for Xbox worldwide.
VMC provides the Xbox team with a variety of game testing services in over 20 languages to ensure high-quality game play experiences for global users."
VMC was a premier global launch partner for the original Xbox platform. Since 2001, the company has provided test services for Xbox games, console, and a variety of peripherals released for Xbox worldwide.
VMC provides the Xbox team with a variety of game testing services in over 20 languages to ensure high-quality game play experiences for global users."
Related Links:
www.vmcgamelabs.com
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 03:14:00 PM //
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Next Generation Outsourcing for Xbox 360
"RABCAT is currently working on a considerable amount of photorealistic and true to original cars for the upcoming next generation racing game "Test Drive Unlimited". Developed by Eden Games, the title will be published by Atari for the anticipated Xbox 360.
"This is a huge step forward in mastering graphic requirements for the next generation of video games" says Thomas Schleischitz, who is one of RABCAT's co-founders and the responsible producer for this project. "This production points out our ambitions to become one of the cutting edge games-outsourcing companies in Europe".
Due to the growing complexity of games and the increased expectations of the target audience outsourcing has become a key word for the industry. RABCAT's outsourcing model is aligned to these new demands and the company demonstrates its qualitative services by working on AAA games with several high profile clients.
"RABCAT's mastering of both technical and artistic fields combined with on-time deliveries make it an awesome partner for our current and future productions" says Ahmed Boukhelifa, Producer at Eden Games.
Arnold Blueml, one of the company's co-founders, ads: "Working together with Eden Games is an exciting experience and a good example of where the graphic production of video games will move in the next years. We are glad to collaborate with Eden Games in such a great way and are looking forward to the release of "Test Drive® Unlimited" and other promising Eden Games titles in the future"."
"This is a huge step forward in mastering graphic requirements for the next generation of video games" says Thomas Schleischitz, who is one of RABCAT's co-founders and the responsible producer for this project. "This production points out our ambitions to become one of the cutting edge games-outsourcing companies in Europe".
Due to the growing complexity of games and the increased expectations of the target audience outsourcing has become a key word for the industry. RABCAT's outsourcing model is aligned to these new demands and the company demonstrates its qualitative services by working on AAA games with several high profile clients.
"RABCAT's mastering of both technical and artistic fields combined with on-time deliveries make it an awesome partner for our current and future productions" says Ahmed Boukhelifa, Producer at Eden Games.
Arnold Blueml, one of the company's co-founders, ads: "Working together with Eden Games is an exciting experience and a good example of where the graphic production of video games will move in the next years. We are glad to collaborate with Eden Games in such a great way and are looking forward to the release of "Test Drive® Unlimited" and other promising Eden Games titles in the future"."
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 03:07:00 PM //
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Revolution's downloadable games will not be free (Update)
"According to Famitsu.com the rumour going around the net that back catalogue games will be free to download is not true. Speaking to Famitsu, Nintendo President Saturo Iwata said (rough translation):
'Though the baseless rumour flows in the internet that the virtual console download service is free, it is not scheduled to deliver it in free. Maybe download it (old games) as a privilege when consumers buy a new game, maybe downloading it by consistent of the campaign at limited time, variety methods will be used. Using the properties in the past, I want to take shape that the profit is paid to Nintendo to the end.'
Iwata does suggest that a reward scheme may be used where people buying new games get to download back catalogue games for free or discount prices. This could be the next-gen incarnation of the Nintendo Stars catalogue.
Pro-G did not jump on the rumour bandwagon promising free game downloads, but more accurately reported that Nintendo had said their online service would be free, not the back catalogue games."
'Though the baseless rumour flows in the internet that the virtual console download service is free, it is not scheduled to deliver it in free. Maybe download it (old games) as a privilege when consumers buy a new game, maybe downloading it by consistent of the campaign at limited time, variety methods will be used. Using the properties in the past, I want to take shape that the profit is paid to Nintendo to the end.'
Iwata does suggest that a reward scheme may be used where people buying new games get to download back catalogue games for free or discount prices. This could be the next-gen incarnation of the Nintendo Stars catalogue.
Pro-G did not jump on the rumour bandwagon promising free game downloads, but more accurately reported that Nintendo had said their online service would be free, not the back catalogue games."
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 03:05:00 PM //
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Donkey Kong joins Revolution, Pokemon MIA
"Nintendo's great ape will be back on the next-gen console for more hairy action, but Pikachu and company have yet to be called.
The latest issue of Famitsu reports that Donkey Kong will be among the titles scheduled for release on the upcoming Nintendo Revolution. This is the first news of the cybersimian, spawned in 1981 by Nintendo creative whiz Shigeru Miyamoto, heading for next-gen consoles.
Other games announced at E3 and confirmed by the magazine include new games in the Super Mario, Legend of Zelda, Smash Brothers, and Metroid franchises. Square Enix is also developing a version of Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles for the console.
That means three of Nintendo's most popular franchises have been confirmed for release on the Revolution. Super Mario is currently the company's top-selling franchise, with 181.17 million units shipped worldwide to date. Donkey Kong is the company's third best-selling series with 46.51 million units shipped worldwide, and the Legend of Zelda series is its fourth best-selling franchise, with 46.33 million units shipped worldwide thus far.
However, one of Nintendo's second best-selling series, Pokemon, is curiously missing. With a total of 100 million games shipped worldwide as of last year, it's difficult to imagine the Revolution will proceed without a game based on the pocket monsters. "
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 03:04:00 PM //
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Xbox 360 Neil Thompson Interview
"The man in charge of the Xbox in the UK talks to CVG.com about pricing, launches, and being rubbish at Splinter Cell
You might think that the man in charge of Xbox in the UK, Ireland, the Nordics and Eastern Europe might have some l33t skills in some of Microsoft's most popular online games.
But not Neil Thompson. According to his biography on the Microsoft corporate website, he's "rubbish" at Splinter Cell and gets whipped "by ten-year-olds" at Gotham 2.
Instead, he hones his talents ensuring that Microsoft's console remains at the forefront of gaming in the UK - and that the Xbox 360 will launch on this little island later this year with a bang.
So it was a pleasure for us to sit down with Neil at E3 and discuss his outlook on the next generation of consoles, how Xbox 360 will redefine how we play games, and how Microsoft will satisfy a world full of gamers desperate to get their mitts on one in November (Catch up with Neil's comments about possible Xbox 360 stock shortages here).
Oh, and he is apparently a player of "championship qualities" at Top Spin Tennis, so it's not all bad..."
You might think that the man in charge of Xbox in the UK, Ireland, the Nordics and Eastern Europe might have some l33t skills in some of Microsoft's most popular online games.
But not Neil Thompson. According to his biography on the Microsoft corporate website, he's "rubbish" at Splinter Cell and gets whipped "by ten-year-olds" at Gotham 2.
Instead, he hones his talents ensuring that Microsoft's console remains at the forefront of gaming in the UK - and that the Xbox 360 will launch on this little island later this year with a bang.
So it was a pleasure for us to sit down with Neil at E3 and discuss his outlook on the next generation of consoles, how Xbox 360 will redefine how we play games, and how Microsoft will satisfy a world full of gamers desperate to get their mitts on one in November (Catch up with Neil's comments about possible Xbox 360 stock shortages here).
Oh, and he is apparently a player of "championship qualities" at Top Spin Tennis, so it's not all bad..."
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 03:03:00 PM //
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Revolution Demo Service Confirmed, Controller Tid Bit
"Free downloadable demos and news on that revolutionary controller
Nintendo president Saturo Iwata has confirmed today that the online service for the Nintendo Revolution will offer a full downloadable and playable demo service.
Speaking to a press conference in Toyko, Iwata-san confirmed that the demos would be stored on an internal 512Mb flash memory, though he declined to mention whether this would be a free service, though we would have to presume it will be so.
Despite months of rumour and speculation about the proposed design of the Revolution's er, revolutionary controller, Nintendo general manager and gaming genius Shigeru Miyamoto stated that the controller should still be considered a work in progress and is not finished yet. Nintendo is still in the experimentation and refinement phase on interface and design."
Speaking to a press conference in Toyko, Iwata-san confirmed that the demos would be stored on an internal 512Mb flash memory, though he declined to mention whether this would be a free service, though we would have to presume it will be so.
Despite months of rumour and speculation about the proposed design of the Revolution's er, revolutionary controller, Nintendo general manager and gaming genius Shigeru Miyamoto stated that the controller should still be considered a work in progress and is not finished yet. Nintendo is still in the experimentation and refinement phase on interface and design."
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 02:59:00 PM //
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What Gamers Want From The 7th Gen of Consoles
Image Source: pointlesswasteoftime.com
A Gamers' Manifesto
"The Sony Playstation 3 is going to cost $465.00.
In the desolate economic climate of post-apocalyptic 2006, I'm thinking that's going to be a lot of money. Now, it's true that at E3 Sony was boasting the Playstation 3 could crank out 1.8 TFLOPS, or 1.8 trillion FLOPS. If that many FLOPS were piled together they would fill the Grand Canyon, assuming each FLOP were the size of a muskrat. So what do gamers want from all that money and FLOP? Just ask them."
A very humorous article about what some gamers are looking for in the new consoles.
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 10:49:00 AM //
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AudioDev to Deliver Signal Test Equipment for Xbox 360
"As earlier announced, AudioDev AB and Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) have renewed the agreement for AudioDev to provide test equipment for the Xbox 360(R) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. The agreement expands an ongoing development and purchase relationship between the two companies. As part of this agreement, AudioDev has now started deliveries of test equipment for Xbox 360.
'It is exciting and rewarding for AudioDev to be able to play a vital part in quality control of Xbox 360,' says Christer Sjostrom, CEO of AudioDev. 'To be chosen as exclusive supplier is a great proof our technical skills and market leading position within the testing industry.'
The test systems will be integrated and delivered to replicators authorized by Microsoft to produce Xbox 360 game discs. The main part of the deliveries will be shipped during the second half of 2005. The agreement is of substantial value to AudioDev's business, but due to confidentiality we cannot specify the exact order value.
AudioDev in brief
AudioDev is a world-leading manufacturer of test equipment for quality control of optical media such as CDs and DVDs. Net sales in 2004 were SEK 275.0 million with the largest markets being in the US, Asia and Europe. The head office is based in Malmo, Sweden. AudioDev has been listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange since September 2000.
AudioDev's products are sold under the brands CATS and Go!. The products in the CATS series are high precision analyzers for quality testing of all formats on the market. Go! is a new brand with products optimised for production control. AudioDev also offers an extensive service network, as well as customised training and independent test analyses via AudioDev's TestCenter. AudioDev's customers include Technicolor, Ritek Corp., Microsoft, EMI, Pioneer, Cinram, Panasonic, Moser Baer India and CMC.
Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox Live are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries."
'It is exciting and rewarding for AudioDev to be able to play a vital part in quality control of Xbox 360,' says Christer Sjostrom, CEO of AudioDev. 'To be chosen as exclusive supplier is a great proof our technical skills and market leading position within the testing industry.'
The test systems will be integrated and delivered to replicators authorized by Microsoft to produce Xbox 360 game discs. The main part of the deliveries will be shipped during the second half of 2005. The agreement is of substantial value to AudioDev's business, but due to confidentiality we cannot specify the exact order value.
AudioDev in brief
AudioDev is a world-leading manufacturer of test equipment for quality control of optical media such as CDs and DVDs. Net sales in 2004 were SEK 275.0 million with the largest markets being in the US, Asia and Europe. The head office is based in Malmo, Sweden. AudioDev has been listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange since September 2000.
AudioDev's products are sold under the brands CATS and Go!. The products in the CATS series are high precision analyzers for quality testing of all formats on the market. Go! is a new brand with products optimised for production control. AudioDev also offers an extensive service network, as well as customised training and independent test analyses via AudioDev's TestCenter. AudioDev's customers include Technicolor, Ritek Corp., Microsoft, EMI, Pioneer, Cinram, Panasonic, Moser Baer India and CMC.
Xbox, Xbox 360, and Xbox Live are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries."
Related Links:
Press Release (PDF)
www.audiodev.com
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 09:09:00 AM //
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Xbox 360 Box Art Emerges - News at SPOnG.com
Digging around in the digital dirt today, we found these gems shining through the topsoil, seemingly pack shots in the works at Microsoft Game Studios.
Coming from an official Microsoft source, we have the almost complete box art for Kameo: Elements of Power, Project Gotham Racing 3 (with the game’s name now final, it seems) and the box art - albeit sans wording - for Perfect Dark Zero.
As you can see, the artwork is still awaiting the Xbox 360 borders and so on, but we’re sure you’ll agree it makes for interesting viewing on a Tuesday nonetheless."
Coming from an official Microsoft source, we have the almost complete box art for Kameo: Elements of Power, Project Gotham Racing 3 (with the game’s name now final, it seems) and the box art - albeit sans wording - for Perfect Dark Zero.
As you can see, the artwork is still awaiting the Xbox 360 borders and so on, but we’re sure you’ll agree it makes for interesting viewing on a Tuesday nonetheless."
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D.Vader // 6/07/2005 09:06:00 AM //
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Monday, June 06, 2005
More on Xbox 360 Backwards Compatibility
"Thanks to a number of analyst reports, it looks as if we finally have some more information on the 360's backwards compatibility and launch price point. Just like the original Xbox, it appears the 360 will come with a $299 price tag. The 360 should also be able to play the majority of the Xbox library, but Microsoft will have to pay Nvidia as a result.
Prior to the Xbox 360's unveiling, the issue of backwards compatibility wasn't even something Microsoft would discuss. However, when Microsoft finally announced that its next-gen console would feature backwards compatibility with 'top selling' games, it seemed to confuse people, not excite them.
What exactly does 'top selling' mean? Which games will work? How will the Xbox 360 play Xbox titles? None of these questions has been addressed specifically by Microsoft yet. When we sat down with Peter Moore, as hard as we tried we couldn't pry any substantial info on the topic out of him. 'You don't need to know the technical details. What you need to know is that the top-selling games will work, and as we plow through them all over the next few months, we will start telling you which games,' he told us at E3.
Nvidia raking in the $$ from Sony and MS
Some details have trickled out, though, courtesy of Wedbush Morgan Securities analyst Michael Pachter. In a recent research note, Pachter confirms that Microsoft "has agreed to pay a small royalty to Nvidia to allow the Xbox 360's ATI chipset to emulate the performance of the Nvidia chipset in reading certain Xbox games." Nvidia, therefore, will not only be receiving royalties from its partnership with Sony for the PS3, but it will also still get small payments from Microsoft for every 360 despite the fact that Nvidia is no longer the GPU provider.
Some "patches" may be necessary
Apparently, for Xbox games that are written in a single layer (which MS management believes to be most of the Xbox library) the emulation should be pretty smooth. The smaller percentage of Xbox titles that are written in multiple layers will require "patches" (separate emulation programs) in order to work. Pachter says that Microsoft currently plans to sell the 360 with these patches already pre-loaded on the included 20GB hard drive. It is also conceivable that any additional patches for other Xbox games could be easily downloaded over Xbox Live.
Therefore, taking this information at face value, consumers can expect the vast majority of Xbox games to be playable on the 360. "We presume that the majority of Xbox games will be backward compatible, and the company assured us that it intends to add patches should consumer demand warrant such action," notes Pachter."
Prior to the Xbox 360's unveiling, the issue of backwards compatibility wasn't even something Microsoft would discuss. However, when Microsoft finally announced that its next-gen console would feature backwards compatibility with 'top selling' games, it seemed to confuse people, not excite them.
What exactly does 'top selling' mean? Which games will work? How will the Xbox 360 play Xbox titles? None of these questions has been addressed specifically by Microsoft yet. When we sat down with Peter Moore, as hard as we tried we couldn't pry any substantial info on the topic out of him. 'You don't need to know the technical details. What you need to know is that the top-selling games will work, and as we plow through them all over the next few months, we will start telling you which games,' he told us at E3.
Nvidia raking in the $$ from Sony and MS
Some details have trickled out, though, courtesy of Wedbush Morgan Securities analyst Michael Pachter. In a recent research note, Pachter confirms that Microsoft "has agreed to pay a small royalty to Nvidia to allow the Xbox 360's ATI chipset to emulate the performance of the Nvidia chipset in reading certain Xbox games." Nvidia, therefore, will not only be receiving royalties from its partnership with Sony for the PS3, but it will also still get small payments from Microsoft for every 360 despite the fact that Nvidia is no longer the GPU provider.
Some "patches" may be necessary
Apparently, for Xbox games that are written in a single layer (which MS management believes to be most of the Xbox library) the emulation should be pretty smooth. The smaller percentage of Xbox titles that are written in multiple layers will require "patches" (separate emulation programs) in order to work. Pachter says that Microsoft currently plans to sell the 360 with these patches already pre-loaded on the included 20GB hard drive. It is also conceivable that any additional patches for other Xbox games could be easily downloaded over Xbox Live.
Therefore, taking this information at face value, consumers can expect the vast majority of Xbox games to be playable on the 360. "We presume that the majority of Xbox games will be backward compatible, and the company assured us that it intends to add patches should consumer demand warrant such action," notes Pachter."
Related Links:
Peter Moore Speaks, Part 2
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 04:48:00 PM //
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Sony Readies Real-Time Playstation 3 Demos
"Perhaps the most impressive showing at this year’s Electronics Entertainment Expo, held last month in Los Angeles, were the PlayStation 3 technical demonstrations offered by Sony, though perhaps not for the right reasons.
Microsoft and Nintendo were both livid at what they hinted was a disingenuous showing by the consumer electronics giant, with even Mr Nice Guy himself, Shigeru Miyamoto, saying, “Most of what you're seeing are not even the first projections of games. They're just shiny computer graphics. They're things anyone using a computer can do.”
However, it looks as though a more tangible glimpse of what the future might hold is just around the corner, with industry nose-tappers forecasting a PlayStation 3 showing on June 21 at nVidia’s event to unveil its new GPU.
You see, the G70 is, according to nVidia, the basis of the GPU it will deploy in Sony’s PlayStation 3 console presumably at some point next year. So even if we don’t get to see actual PS3 branded real-time graphics, we should get the clearest indicator of projected final quality to date."
Related Links:
GamesIndustry.biz - NVIDIA to reveal next-gen GPU later this month
Microsoft and Nintendo were both livid at what they hinted was a disingenuous showing by the consumer electronics giant, with even Mr Nice Guy himself, Shigeru Miyamoto, saying, “Most of what you're seeing are not even the first projections of games. They're just shiny computer graphics. They're things anyone using a computer can do.”
However, it looks as though a more tangible glimpse of what the future might hold is just around the corner, with industry nose-tappers forecasting a PlayStation 3 showing on June 21 at nVidia’s event to unveil its new GPU.
You see, the G70 is, according to nVidia, the basis of the GPU it will deploy in Sony’s PlayStation 3 console presumably at some point next year. So even if we don’t get to see actual PS3 branded real-time graphics, we should get the clearest indicator of projected final quality to date."
Related Links:
GamesIndustry.biz - NVIDIA to reveal next-gen GPU later this month
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 01:23:00 PM //
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Dead or Alive 4 Xbox 360 screens
"'Assessing the level of detail in Tecmo's Dead or Alive 4 from the now over-looped E3 trailer is tricky due to the sheer speed of everything going on. Sure, some early blemishes such as flowing hair clipping a shoulder stood out, but it's hard to get a real grasp of what advancements have been made moving to the new Xbox 360 platform.
These still screens taken from the video reveal a staggering amount of detail in both the character models and the environments. Each one has its own hidden little secrets impossible to pick out when in motion. For instance, the futuristic Las Vegas setting has a three-part street sign hanging on a pole with each piece slightly off center from the one next to it.
The final screen is taken from one of the many expanded cut cinematics that disappointed in DOA3 but have been expanded upon in DOA4. Whether they are pretty distractions or worthwhile additions remains to be seen."
Will DOA4 deliever computer rendered camel-toe?
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 01:09:00 PM //
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221 Free Games for Nintendo Revolution
"The latest issue of Japanese gaming mag Famitsu reveals that Nintendo has 221 NES/SNES/N64 and Gamecube games for the Revolution, which will be available through the console's download service.
Nintendo's VP of marketing George Harrison also recently said in an interview that the older Nintendo titles would be downloadable for free.
Scans of the Famitsu article have popped up on the Web, but I've only been able to find a partial translation from Japanese so far:
But what's interesting is that Famitsu stated that Nintendo had 221 published titles for NES/SNES/N64/[Gamecube]. They also used a Final Fantasy V pic to tell us it is possible to play other companies' old games through Revolution. So there are 221 games that can be downloaded from the download service (in Japan) not counting the possible third-party downloads."
Nintendo's VP of marketing George Harrison also recently said in an interview that the older Nintendo titles would be downloadable for free.
Scans of the Famitsu article have popped up on the Web, but I've only been able to find a partial translation from Japanese so far:
But what's interesting is that Famitsu stated that Nintendo had 221 published titles for NES/SNES/N64/[Gamecube]. They also used a Final Fantasy V pic to tell us it is possible to play other companies' old games through Revolution. So there are 221 games that can be downloaded from the download service (in Japan) not counting the possible third-party downloads."
Related Links:
Nintendo Revolution Online Info
Cubed3 Scans: Scan 1|Scan 2|Scan 3
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 10:44:00 AM //
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$75 Launch Subsidy on Xbox 360 Hardware
Analysts predict $75 launch subsidy on Xbox 360 hardware
"Speculation points to $375 manufacturing price, $299 retail price
"Speculation points to $375 manufacturing price, $299 retail price
Microsoft's Xbox 360 will be priced at $299 when it hits shelves later this year, according to analysts at major investment bank UBS, with Microsoft subsidising each console to the tune of $75 in order to meet that price point.
Predictions by the analysts, reported last week in the Toronto Globe and Mail, suggest that Microsoft will pay $375 per unit to its manufacturing partners, with the final retail price of the console pegged at $299.
That's in line with comments from Microsoft boss J Allard, who told the media at E3 that the Xbox 360 would launch 'in the neighbourhood' of the $300 price point at which the original Xbox launched in late 2001 in North America.
The $75 subsidy reportedly required to hit the launch price is quite high, but not unusual for a new console. Platform holders routinely subsidise their consoles at launch in order to build an installed base, and then make back the money from software sales and the rapidly falling price of hardware manufacture late in the lifespan of the console.
However, Microsoft found it more difficult to do this with the original Xbox, since it had to continue buying components from partners such as NVIDIA and Intel at high prices - unlike Sony, which has been able to hugely reduce the manufacturing cost of the PS2 as it builds most of the core components itself.
For Xbox 360, Microsoft has moved to a more Sony-like model, and expects to be able to realise similar economies as the scale of manufacturing ramps up and the component costs fall."
This is better then the $100-$150 they lost per box on the original Xbox.
Related Links:
Pro-G - Prodigious Gaming: Xbox 360 $299 retail price with MS subsidy
Microsoft ready to eat it on the Xbox 360 too? - Joystiq - www.joystiq.com
Predictions by the analysts, reported last week in the Toronto Globe and Mail, suggest that Microsoft will pay $375 per unit to its manufacturing partners, with the final retail price of the console pegged at $299.
That's in line with comments from Microsoft boss J Allard, who told the media at E3 that the Xbox 360 would launch 'in the neighbourhood' of the $300 price point at which the original Xbox launched in late 2001 in North America.
The $75 subsidy reportedly required to hit the launch price is quite high, but not unusual for a new console. Platform holders routinely subsidise their consoles at launch in order to build an installed base, and then make back the money from software sales and the rapidly falling price of hardware manufacture late in the lifespan of the console.
However, Microsoft found it more difficult to do this with the original Xbox, since it had to continue buying components from partners such as NVIDIA and Intel at high prices - unlike Sony, which has been able to hugely reduce the manufacturing cost of the PS2 as it builds most of the core components itself.
For Xbox 360, Microsoft has moved to a more Sony-like model, and expects to be able to realise similar economies as the scale of manufacturing ramps up and the component costs fall."
This is better then the $100-$150 they lost per box on the original Xbox.
Related Links:
Pro-G - Prodigious Gaming: Xbox 360 $299 retail price with MS subsidy
Microsoft ready to eat it on the Xbox 360 too? - Joystiq - www.joystiq.com
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 10:29:00 AM //
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Why IBM Should Buy Electronic Arts
"Two tech titans are at each other's throats. Last month Microsoft unveiled the Xbox 360. It looks as jazzy as an Apple iPod music player--a notable feat since nerdy Microsoft has never before shown a touch for esthetics. Shocking is the toy's performance: It will run 10 to 20 times faster than the old Xbox, thanks to a three-core 3.2 gigahertz chip from IBM. Such horsepower means the Xbox 360, available this fall, will pump out animation so rich you'll scarcely discern the pixelated version of Tiger Woods from the golfer's flesh-and-blood form.
The hype was too much for rival gamer Sony. Trying to nip Xbox buzz while proving its feistiness under the leadership of outsider Howard Stringer, Sony leaked news about its PlayStation 3. Sony's toy won't be in stores until early 2006. But it, too, will offer whiplash performance--most say better than the Xbox 360's. The PlayStation 3 will run on a seven-core 3.2 gigahertz Cell processor from IBM and Toshiba and will sport a floating point performance of 2 teraflops. That's supercomputer territory.
Pocket Supercomputer
I don't normally write about computer games. And I don't intend to start now. My point in bringing up the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 is that they hint at what serious computing--corporate, government and academic computing--could look like a decade from now."
The hype was too much for rival gamer Sony. Trying to nip Xbox buzz while proving its feistiness under the leadership of outsider Howard Stringer, Sony leaked news about its PlayStation 3. Sony's toy won't be in stores until early 2006. But it, too, will offer whiplash performance--most say better than the Xbox 360's. The PlayStation 3 will run on a seven-core 3.2 gigahertz Cell processor from IBM and Toshiba and will sport a floating point performance of 2 teraflops. That's supercomputer territory.
Pocket Supercomputer
I don't normally write about computer games. And I don't intend to start now. My point in bringing up the Xbox 360 and the PlayStation 3 is that they hint at what serious computing--corporate, government and academic computing--could look like a decade from now."
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 10:14:00 AM //
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LucasArts' President Jim Ward Interview
Image Source: boomtown.net
LucasArts Interview
"In this exclusive interview, we discuss the future of gaming with LucasArts President Jim Ward.
Jim Ward is President of LucasArts and Vice President of Marketing and Distribution at Lucasfilm. He began his career in advertising and was responsible for the promotion of Apple's Powerbook. Now heading LucasArts, he's responsible for bringing such franchises as Star Wars and Indiana Jones to the gaming public. In this exclusive interview, we ask Ward how LucasArts aims to succeed in the current market, where the future of gaming lies and how the company views the next generation of consoles.
Coming from the movie industry, you must be pretty happy about what the new gaming consoles can do graphics-wise?
I'm more excited about what the next generation consoles allow us to do in what we are focused on which is revolutionizing the ideas of storytelling and character development. With the raw power and capacity that those consoles have, that will allow us to do our job better."
Coming from the movie industry, you must be pretty happy about what the new gaming consoles can do graphics-wise?
I'm more excited about what the next generation consoles allow us to do in what we are focused on which is revolutionizing the ideas of storytelling and character development. With the raw power and capacity that those consoles have, that will allow us to do our job better."
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 09:30:00 AM //
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Xbox 360 Shortages Likely According to MS Exec
XBOX 360 SHORTAGES POSSIBLE, SAYS MICROSOFT EXEC
"UK Xbox chief admits that you might have trouble finding a 360 this Christmas, but blames demand rather than supply
"UK Xbox chief admits that you might have trouble finding a 360 this Christmas, but blames demand rather than supply
If you're planning on filling your stocking with a spanking new Xbox 360 this Christmas you might want to get your name on a pre-order list - according to UK Xbox boss Neil Thompson there's a good chance that the next-gen console could suffer shortages shortly after it launches.
The current Xbox has been hobbled by stock shortages since before Christmas last year, leading to accusations that Microsoft is phasing out the console in the run up to 360's launch.
But Thompson has admitted that huge demand for the next-gen Xbox could result in more unhappy faces on Christmas morning. "I think demand is going to be phenomenal so we see that as a really difficult thing," he told UK industry journal MCV.
"Will we execute well so retail will have good volume?" asked Thompson. "Yes. But I don't think we're going to meet demand as people are going to come into this platform in a big way."
Microsoft faces numerous problems in their quest to beat Sony's PS3 and Nintendo's Revolution to market, not least the challenges of producing enough consoles to satisfy a simultaneous worldwide release, though to be this November."
Related Links:Microsoft warns of possible Xbox 360 shortages
Xbox 360 Demand To Outstrip Supply At Xmas
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D.Vader // 6/06/2005 09:19:00 AM //
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Sunday, June 05, 2005
Xbox 360 Screens for Project Gotham Racing 3
"Although Project Gotham Racing 3 made only a video appearance at E3, Microsoft insists the game is still on track to ship this holiday season alongside the Xbox 360. To prove their plan, the developer/publisher/would-be world ruler has released two screenshots from the in-progress game.
The high-resolution nature of these screens (click each thumbnail below to see its high-res counterpart) implies that these images may be renders, but then again, Bungie was known for its high-resolution Halo 2 screenshots, all of which ended up being legit. Either way, these screens are hot, and they're yours for the downloading."
The high-resolution nature of these screens (click each thumbnail below to see its high-res counterpart) implies that these images may be renders, but then again, Bungie was known for its high-resolution Halo 2 screenshots, all of which ended up being legit. Either way, these screens are hot, and they're yours for the downloading."
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D.Vader // 6/05/2005 04:36:00 PM //
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Xbox 360 will have Downloadable Games
"The official word from Microsoft on downloadable content for Xbox 360 is that it will have downloadable game content, trailers, and demos, some free and some for a price. What has not been mentioned before is that the Xbox 360 will have downloadable games.
This bit of information was revealed in a press release sent out today from GarageGames about its new President, Mark Frohnmayer. Frohnmayer had this to say: 'GarageGames now has three powerful engines, and we're constantly improving our development toolset. We've got several exciting projects on the horizon including a killer casual game being developed in partnership with another company and a downloadable title for the upcoming Xbox 360.'
It seems the Xbox 360 Live service will allow purchases of games online. Microsoft has yet to release official information on this, but we'd speculate this would be an opt-in style delivery service. GarageGames has always used online purchasing for their games and it's likely that companies such as Sega, Microsoft Games Studios, and others will continue to make sales through retail. Still, cheap games that can be tried in demo form and purchased without ever leaving your living is not a bad thing."
This bit of information was revealed in a press release sent out today from GarageGames about its new President, Mark Frohnmayer. Frohnmayer had this to say: 'GarageGames now has three powerful engines, and we're constantly improving our development toolset. We've got several exciting projects on the horizon including a killer casual game being developed in partnership with another company and a downloadable title for the upcoming Xbox 360.'
It seems the Xbox 360 Live service will allow purchases of games online. Microsoft has yet to release official information on this, but we'd speculate this would be an opt-in style delivery service. GarageGames has always used online purchasing for their games and it's likely that companies such as Sega, Microsoft Games Studios, and others will continue to make sales through retail. Still, cheap games that can be tried in demo form and purchased without ever leaving your living is not a bad thing."
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D.Vader // 6/05/2005 01:14:00 PM //
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Unreal Engine 3 - Interview with Mark Rein (VP Epic Games)
""Sheer dumb luck" - Epic's ever exuberant Mark Rein on how
Unreal Engine 3 became the darling of the next gen.
Unreal Engine 3 became the darling of the next gen.
You've got to take your hat off to Epic. Not only do they make great games like Unreal Tournament and Gears of War, but it looks like Unreal Engine 3 has become the engine of choice for not only Microsoft's Xbox 360, but also Sony's PS3. As the next generation of games are built, 'Powered by Unreal Engine 3' is probably going to be one of the commonest loading screens you'll see.
So it was good to catch up with Mark Rein, Epic's genial Vice President at this year's E3 to hear his take on how the show went, where he stood on the great Microsoft versus Sony showdown and why strangely, Unreal Engine 3 for Xbox 360 and PS3 is a good thing for PC gaming."
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D.Vader // 6/05/2005 01:33:00 AM //
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Xbox 360 Console Faceplates
"Unlike any console before, Xbox 360 puts gamers at the center and gives you the freedom to personalize your gaming experience however you see fit. Xbox 360 Faces make it easy and fun to change the face of your console. Change your Faces whenever you like to match your personality, your mood, or your wild side. So flip it, switch it, or leave it be, and express your unique sense of style. "
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D.Vader // 6/05/2005 12:05:00 AM //
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