OMEN
06-20-2010, 08:32 AM
THE GAMES industry has split over the potential of 3D entertainment with software giant Microsoft labelling the technology "sensory overload" while Sony invests heavily in 3D titles.
Despite predictions that video games and sport will drive consumers to invest in 3D TVs this year, Microsoft ignored the technology in its announcements at the E3 Expo in Los Angeles this week.
In contrast, rival console-maker Sony released a 3D upgrade for its PlayStation 3 console, launched four 3D games, and revealed plans to support full-length games created specifically for 3D screens.
Microsoft interactive entertainment marketing corporate vice-president Mike Delman said the decision to ignore 3D in its plans was not due to a technical limitation of its Xbox 360 console, but the company’s belief it would not take off for years.
"All Xbox 360s are able to play 3D games already," Mr Delman said."The big problem with 3D is the adoption curve involved — people have to upgrade their TVs to see it. We still think 3D games are a way’s away."
Mr Delman said some 3D titles provided a "sensory overload" as they forced players to spent more energy focusing on the screen rather than controlling the game.
But both Sony and Nintendo are taking an opposing stance on the technology.
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe president Andrew House admitted it was "early days" for 3D technology but said it was already receiving unprecedented support from film studios, broadcasters and TV makers.
"For games, we feel 3D has huge potential," Mr House said.
"It’s obviously the start of a long-term play... but there’s huge investment in 3D content for both films and in sports coverage already."
Mr House said more than 20 games created specifically for 3D screens would be available for the PlayStation 3 by April next year, including Gran Turismo 5 and Killzone 3.
Developers could also add bonus 3D levels for existing games, Mr House said, making them available on game discs or online.
Nintendo also announced support for 3D gaming this week in its upcoming portable console, the 3DS. The console will feature an autostereoscopic screen that players can use without heaving to wear special glasses.
Interactive Games and Entertainment Association chief executive Ron Curry backed the two games firms, predicting 3D games and 3D sports would encourage consumers to test the technology.
"3D is the right style of product to attract gamers first," he said.
"It’s adds that hook about why you would want a screen that offers you 3D, and it’s not a big deal for gamers to wear the glasses."
But Mr Curry said 3D would have to add something to gameplay to be successful and might only be useful in certain gaming genres, such as shooting and adventure games.
NewsLimited
Despite predictions that video games and sport will drive consumers to invest in 3D TVs this year, Microsoft ignored the technology in its announcements at the E3 Expo in Los Angeles this week.
In contrast, rival console-maker Sony released a 3D upgrade for its PlayStation 3 console, launched four 3D games, and revealed plans to support full-length games created specifically for 3D screens.
Microsoft interactive entertainment marketing corporate vice-president Mike Delman said the decision to ignore 3D in its plans was not due to a technical limitation of its Xbox 360 console, but the company’s belief it would not take off for years.
"All Xbox 360s are able to play 3D games already," Mr Delman said."The big problem with 3D is the adoption curve involved — people have to upgrade their TVs to see it. We still think 3D games are a way’s away."
Mr Delman said some 3D titles provided a "sensory overload" as they forced players to spent more energy focusing on the screen rather than controlling the game.
But both Sony and Nintendo are taking an opposing stance on the technology.
Sony Computer Entertainment Europe president Andrew House admitted it was "early days" for 3D technology but said it was already receiving unprecedented support from film studios, broadcasters and TV makers.
"For games, we feel 3D has huge potential," Mr House said.
"It’s obviously the start of a long-term play... but there’s huge investment in 3D content for both films and in sports coverage already."
Mr House said more than 20 games created specifically for 3D screens would be available for the PlayStation 3 by April next year, including Gran Turismo 5 and Killzone 3.
Developers could also add bonus 3D levels for existing games, Mr House said, making them available on game discs or online.
Nintendo also announced support for 3D gaming this week in its upcoming portable console, the 3DS. The console will feature an autostereoscopic screen that players can use without heaving to wear special glasses.
Interactive Games and Entertainment Association chief executive Ron Curry backed the two games firms, predicting 3D games and 3D sports would encourage consumers to test the technology.
"3D is the right style of product to attract gamers first," he said.
"It’s adds that hook about why you would want a screen that offers you 3D, and it’s not a big deal for gamers to wear the glasses."
But Mr Curry said 3D would have to add something to gameplay to be successful and might only be useful in certain gaming genres, such as shooting and adventure games.
NewsLimited