The world of 3D tech has come a long way in its life time. Since those red and blue glasses first found their way to our theater seating in the mid-20th Century, experiencing media in three dimensions has become something that we almost take for granted. With 3D televisions quickly becoming a regular addition to many households, there is one arena that is still in its infancy: gaming.
But it’s actually been possible to enjoy video games in three dimensions for quite some time, and it’s in no way a new concept; however thanks to companies like Sony supporting their 3D televisions with 3D-enabled games on their PlayStation 3, it’s now becoming a possibility in every living room. And let’s not forget about 3D offerings from Microsoft (on PC and Xbox 360), and even family favourites Nintendo. So let’s take a look at exactly what you need to know in order to enjoy full 3D gaming from the comfort of your own home. [click to continue…]
Sony’s recent announcement of the PS3 3.30 system software update is important for 3D viewers because it preps the console for 3D gaming, which Sony says is “coming soon to the PS3.” I had the opportunity to play some PS3 games in 3D at CES 2010 and it was a blast. Super Stardust 3D looked amazing. It makes the games so much more immersive and fun. I’m sure some game makers will do a bad job, but there will certainly be some outstanding examples of 3D gaming as well. [click to continue…]
It looks like Sony is well into the process of making the PS3 gaming/entertainment system the next big 3D device for your living room. The crew over at Engadet got to spend some hands-on time with Wipeout HD in 3D mode and were rather stoked at the effect of the game.
The 3D upgrade for the PS3 system is purportedly coming via a software upgrade. One day, you’ll turn on your PS3 and get prompted to download a software update, the BAM 3D PS3.
There’s a catch though. The editor isn’t quite clear, but it seems like the 3D effect may be limited to some of these 3D-Ready TVs that we’ve been seeing. As indicated by the article, this may be tied to the refresh rate.
Expect to see lots more of this tech at CES 2010 in January.
A video game blog called PS3 Fanboy reported from CES on Sony’s experiments with 3D technology and video games.
At CES in Las Vegas, Sony had been showing off some 3D tech tie-ins for the PS3, displaying WipEout HD and Gran Turismo 5 Prologue running in true 3D.
Talk about an immersible experience. As soon as manufacturers get 3D TV technology working in an seamless manner, you can be that we will see new ways to get into the action, and I would expect video game companies to be early adopters for creating in-depth content. It looks like Sony is already well on its way too.
Sony also mentioned its part in 3D tech on a dedicated CES blog set up by Sony:
One of the more popular kiosks this year has been the 3-D demonstration. This morning, Sony put on a far more in-depth presentation, taking the audience from the filming of a 3-D movie through to the final product. As one speaker put it, we could be witnessing as big a change in filmed entertainment as the move from black & white to Color.
The first speaker was Steve Schklair, the Founder and CEO of 3ality. He’s worked in 3-D for a decade, and was incredibly happy with the progress that is being made in the field. He credited Sony for creating products that have helped bring his vision to life. He rounded out his presentation by showing the crowd a series of 3-D clips, ranging from action sports shots to compelling footage of a U2 concert.
. . . .
Randy Waynick, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Sony Electronics Home Product Division was the final guest. He reflected on the work being done to get 3-D technology to the consumer. He noted the needs for standards to be set, more research and design, and ensuring that products sold to consumers were long-lasting. As he succinctly put it, “it’s not right around the corner, but it’s not far off.”
Sounds about like what I’ve been saying . . . I don’t necessarily think 2009 is the year of 3D, but its going to be a big year for advancements and interest. Think 2010 and 2011 for consumer products that we can take home and enjoy immensly.
