Those of you who remember the early days of the PS2 will remember the ongoing joke amongst those who didn't like the console. It went something like, "oh yeah, where's all that 'hidden power'?" They said this because Sony promised the system was capable of a lot more than the launch titles presented, and obviously, the likes of God of War II, Final Fantasy XII and Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater can't really be compared to the likes of Summoner, Tekken Tag Tournament and TimeSplitters. It's like comparing two different platforms, really, which essentially verified Sony's claims. However, most just remember that old joke, and were quick to apply it to the PlayStation 3. Of course, PlayStation consoles are notoriously difficult to develop for initially, so the jokes endure but typically, Sony has the last laugh.
And now that we're entering the third year of the generation, is it now time for the PS3 to separate itself from the Xbox 360 in terms of visuals? Speaking strictly in regards to raw power and potential, the PS3 has the definite edge, but the question has always been: "can the developers even tap into it? Can they take advantage?" Well, let's just say this. We've already sampled the Killzone 2 beta and early single-player build. We've seen what Heavy Rain gameplay looks like. We've heard David Jaffe rave his head off after seeing some of God of War III. Uncharted 2 will look amazing (as did the original), and is anyone really expecting anything less than a graphically astounding presentation in Gran Turismo 5?
First of all, I really don't see anything in Microsoft or Nintendo's 2009 lineup that can compete with these exclusives next year, but for the sake of this piece, I'm specifically centering on the graphics. Thus far, the argument can rage- Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots and LittleBigPlanet vs. Gears of War II, Halo 3, Left 4 Dead and other graphically intense 360 titles. Which batch is better? The anal visual freaks could go on for days.
But perhaps the argument dies next year. As was the case with the Xbox and PS2 - everyone had to admit the Xbox was more capable, and typically produced better-looking titles - perhaps it will be time for everyone to concede that the 360 can't compete with the PS3. Many theorize that while the PS3 has a loooong ways to go in terms of potential,the 360 is just about maxed out, and unless I see concrete evidence of 360 titles vastly outstripping the current productions in 2009 and beyond, I think the conclusion is clear. Most developers and analysts said the exact same thing, even at the start of the PS3's lifespan, when it was all doom and gloom.
They said the PS3 will eventually pass the 360 in terms of graphics, and that day may be fast approaching. Let me repeat the list: Killzone 2, God of War III, Heavy Rain, Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, and Gran Turismo 5. All I'm asking - and it's a legitimate question - is what in Microsoft's or Nintendo's exclusive repertoire can compete with that as far as overall quality is concerned? And what on the 360 can compete where the graphics are concerned?
Honestly, even the most ardent Xbox lover has to admit that things could change drastically in 2009. And remember, I was one of the first to acknowledge the Xbox over the PS2; I bought most all multiplatform titles on Microsoft's console last generation. This time around? I'm thinking not. And especially when talking about the exclusives, it appears to be game, set and match in favor of Sony...
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I can't wait until 2009 finally kicks off!
jakarai
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