Here is yet another "app" that Microsoft has added to it's list of "premium content" only available with an XBL Gold membership. And the app happens to be an app that is free to use on any other app-capable device that it's been put on.
XBL's matchmaking, friends lists, and ways of communicating with friends is certainly the gold standard for online communities. However, there is no additional value by adding apps to the membership that are easily accessible and free on many other devices that connect to a television. I don't understand any justification for putting these apps behind the paid, walled-garden that is XBL Gold.
Next generation consoles will make the difference in visuals. I can only imagine minor enhancements at this stage in the current generation of consoles life-cycles. This is because of the limitations of the hardware in the consoles. If there wasn't a Call of Duty every year; people would notice the changes a lot more because there would be more time for a larger number of enhancements that currently get unnoticed from one iteration to the next.
[quote="GameSpot"]Additionally, the PlayStation 2 moved 4.1 million units, a dip from the 6.4 million sold a year ago prior.[/quote] It amazes me that the PS2 continues to sell millions of units every year.
It's very possible that it was moved due to an overcrowded holiday season. With other shooters like Halo 4 and Call of Duty: Black Ops II, it's already going to be hard to go up against that. Moving to February gives Bioshock a better chance of selling more copies in it's launch window.
Why argue with this? Every gamer wants price drops, even if it's not necessary.
The Wii is already getting replaced. They may as well drop the price even more to clear the store shelves in preparation for the new system.
The Xbox 360 and PS3 are both standing on their last 2 legs. It's time to drop the price of the systems in order to make the motion bundles more attractive. All 360 and PS3's should come with Kinect/Move from now on also.
Most Wii games should never have been more than $40. Making them all $40 or less would be a good move by Nintendo.
Xbox 360 and PS3 games could benefit from a drop, but I doubt it would make a big enough difference that either manufacturer would give up their fees for. However, on the eve of new consoles there has to be discussions regarding changes to the prices of new games for these systems.
Origin shouldn't go away. It helps push Steam to continue to strive to compete and stay fresh. Along with other competing services. I only use Steam, but I wouldn't suggest that people ignore Origin. People should give Origin a try and provide feedback to EA about their experiences. It's extremely important for gamer's to participate and encourage the services as they will help define how games are delivered in the future. Let's not have a "console war" with delivery systems on the PC.
The Activision hate train is parked and holding while the EA hate train passes through. Please be patient as the Activision hate train will resume in 1-2 years. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation with the public's (current) opinion.
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