| PlayStation-3 and XBOX-360 Receive 3D Firmware Summer 2010 |
| Written by Futuresource Consulting | ||
| Monday, 24 May 2010 | ||
PlayStation-3 and XBOX-360 Receive 3D Firmware Update Summer 2010Focus on 3D Gaming: titles prevalent by 20113D is becoming increasingly important in the gaming world, with 3D compatibility a function of all leading titles, and as we move forward content will align with a developing base of 3D-enabled consumer electronics devices. Based on the many 3D demos that we have experienced and played here at Futuresource Consulting, I'm sure that the additional immersive experience it provides will power 3D gaming right through the consumer adoption curve and into the mainstream. However, the uptake of 3D video games may take longer to arrive than film, as movies can be experienced in the cinema long before consumers start to install 3DTVs in living rooms. That said, once 3DTVs reach a satisfactory installed base, we will see a far bigger push on 3D games advertising and promotion. Focusing on the consoles, the Xbox 360 and PS3 are essentially 3D-ready; Sony will release a dedicated 3D firmware update for the PS3 this summer. The first rush of 3D gaming is expected to be distributed via download initially, with Sony releasing four games, including Wipeout, together with the firmware update. Here at Futuresource, we expect to see a significant proportion of disc-based games titles featuring a 3D option very soon, perhaps becoming prevalent by 2011. In addition, Nintendo is expected to announce details of its new 3DS device at next month's E3 show. The portable gaming machine could be many consumers' first experience of 3D gaming and will feature an autostereoscopic 3D-enabled screen, negating the need for glasses. There are no major obstacles to 3D games development and production, the process is relatively straightforward and is all done in post production. Including the 3D functionality, development costs of a 3D game are only 10% to 15% higher than a 2D game. Most developers and publishers are already fully geared up for 3D - it's all about the consumer catch up. As 3D functionality becomes more popular we expect prices to drop and 3D to roll out as standard on a wide variety of games. Futuresource will be hosting the Futuresource Entertainment Summit on 10-11 June 2010, where senior level executives, who are at the forefront of making it happen, will review the factors involved in driving 3D hardware and disc sales forward and will explore the potential impact of 3D broadcasting. How quickly will 3DTV become a mass market opportunity? What revenue streams can be anticipated? How do retailers view the potential and what are they looking for to make it happen? All of these issues will be explored by our profile presenters supported by leading Futuresource analysts. The event will also feature original 3D content and an opportunity to view theatrical and home 3D demonstrations. Find out more at https://www.fes2010.com/.
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