So, the new PS3 firmware (v3.30) brings with it... the ability to sort trophies!? Oh, and stereoscopic 3D capability for the console. Yes, as the first big 3D-push gets under-way, it's really time to stand back and take a look at what all this means for the years to come. To coincide with the launch of their 3D 'Bravia' model of TV's this June, Sony are providing, for free, Super Stardust HD, Wipeout HD, PAIN, and Motorstorm: Pacific Rift in their full 3D form for those lucky enough to get their hands on one. The TV's will also offer '3D up conversion' which will simulate a 3D effect on 2D visuals. Sony are currently looking into whether this will work for games.
Now, I'm one who votes in favour of 3D and I don't think there are many who feel the same. I rarely hear a positive note mentioned in regards to the third-dimension- high profile names such as James Cameron are obviously on board but the cynical mass make for a much louder argument. It's not that I don't have reservations, of course I do; for one, it is way too over-priced (the cheapest available 3D-TV set-up is around £1,500!)
But can't you remember a few years back when high definition first launched? With a pretty much identical pricing system and a fair few cynics of its own. The arguments that high definition was over-priced and pointless soon fell by the wayside as more and more of us witnessed the gorgeous visuals that greeted our HD-starved eyes. Of course, 3D isn't needed, but then neither was HD, and look at the uptake that we've seen there!
The leap to the current generation of consoles was met by the HD push in full force. PS3 and Xbox 360 were heavily championed that their systems were HD-ready and, like many other people, I originally bought my first HDTV for the sole purpose of gaming. Is 3D going to be the same kind of leap? Personally, I believe that it'd be a great thing for video games to embrace. It allows for a new level of immersion and thanks to the depth of field aspect of 3D, would make the visuals all the more sumptuous- with game world's becoming ever more realistic.
So, whether you're one of the cynics or one of the lovers of 3D, it's going to be time that tells the truth to whether we are really ready to embrace the dimension. Having companies as big as Sony in the gaming market and Sky on the broadcasting side pushing the 3D bandwagon, however, is surely going to help.
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