Gears of Wars Coming November 12th - Emergence Day

[bapenguin]

It's official. The BIG (http://www.evilavatar.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15486&highlight=rein) announcement is revealed. Gears of War for the XBox 360 will be released on Emergence Day - November 12th, 2006.

One of the most anticipated next-generation console titles of 2006 and the critic’s choice winner for the E3 2006 Best Console Game, “Gears of War” will explode onto store shelves with a standard edition available for $59.99* and a limited collector’s edition available for $69.99. The limited edition will offer an even deeper look into the graphically stunning and frightening world of “Gears of War,” providing an official “Destroyed Beauty” art book and a bonus DVD featuring an inside look at the making of the game — all enclosed in a highly collectible metal box.
Full Press Release Inside (http://www.evilavatar.com/forums/showthread.php?p=363419#post363419).

Update: The UK Release date is set for November 17th.

Also Joystiq (http://www.joystiq.com/2006/08/03/joystiq-interview-cliffy-b/) has a small interview with CliffyB regarding Gears of War.

[bapenguin]

Emergence Day Revealed: Critically Acclaimed Xbox 360 Title “Gears of War” to Surface Nov. 12, 2006

Countdown begins for the most anticipated game of 2006 as gamers eagerly await the flagship title from Microsoft Game Studios and Epic Games.

REDMOND, Wash. — Aug. 3, 2006 — Since the first frightening images appeared a little over a year ago, gamers worldwide have felt the ominous rumblings of something approaching that defies all convention. Sightings as recent as at the Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3) 2006 have confirmed its existence, leaving gamers breathless. Microsoft Corp. today announced what anxious players have been eagerly awaiting: Emergence Day 2006. Available exclusively for the Xbox 360™ video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the highly anticipated title “Gears of War” will be available in North America on Nov. 12, 2006.

Developed by Epic Games Inc. and published by Microsoft Game Studios, “Gears of War” tells the harrowing story of mankind’s struggle against the monstrous Locust Horde through stunning high-definition graphics and an intense storyline on the scale of a blockbuster movie.

One of the most anticipated next-generation console titles of 2006 and the critic’s choice winner for the E3 2006 Best Console Game, “Gears of War” will explode onto store shelves with a standard edition available for $59.99* and a limited collector’s edition available for $69.99. The limited edition will offer an even deeper look into the graphically stunning and frightening world of “Gears of War,” providing an official “Destroyed Beauty” art book and a bonus DVD featuring an inside look at the making of the game — all enclosed in a highly collectible metal box.

“‘Gears of War’ represents the emergence of a thrilling new franchise for Xbox 360 and is the must-have game of 2006,” said Shane Kim, general manager of Microsoft Game Studios. “Combining the best in innovative gameplay, next-generation graphics and interactive storytelling, Epic has harnessed the extraordinary power of Xbox 360 to create an extremely powerful and immersive entertainment experience.”

“Our vision is to deliver a one-two punch of cinematic action paired with a thrilling and compelling interactive experience,” said Cliff Bleszinski, lead designer at Epic. “With ‘Gears of War’ we’ve created a title that will place gamers directly in the shadows of a ravaged world, surrounded by the beautiful remnants of a destroyed city and the horrific dangers that hide in the rubble.”

“Gears of War” thrusts gamers into humankind’s epic battle for survival against the Locust Horde, a nightmarish race of creatures that surface from the bowels of the planet. Blending the best of tactical action games with the best of survival horror titles, “Gears of War” features cinematic, beautifully rendered interactive environments with high-definition visuals.

Demand for the game is high as retailers anticipate the one-two punch of “Gears of War” and Xbox 360 appearing in quantity on store shelves this holiday season. “The interest and buzz on this game has been intense,” said Bob McKenzie, senior vice president of merchandising at GameStop Corp. “Certainly gamers are counting the days until Emergence Day arrives, as pre-orders have been very strong.”

About Epic Games

Epic Games Inc., based in Raleigh, N.C., and established in 1991, is a developer of cutting-edge computer and video games. The company is best known as the creator of hit PC 3-D action games “Unreal” and “Unreal Tournament,” both award-winning blockbuster hits having sold more than 1 million units each. Epic is also well-known as creator of the Unreal Engine, which it has licensed to several major game developers. To date over 10,000,000 games have been sold that utilized Epic’s Unreal Engine technology, and the number is growing steadily each year. Before its 3-D success, Epic Games was well-known for the hit shareware games “Jill of the Jungle,” “Jazz Jackrabbit” and “Epic Pinball.” Additional information can be obtained through Epic’s Web site at http://www.epicgames.com.

About Microsoft Game Studios

Microsoft Game Studios is a leading worldwide publisher and developer of games for the Xbox® and Xbox 360 video game systems, the Microsoft® Windows® operating system and online platforms. Comprising a network of top developers, Microsoft Game Studios is committed to creating innovative and diverse games for Windows (http://www.microsoft.com/games), including such franchises as “Age of Empires®,” “Flight Simulator” and “Zoo Tycoon®;” Xbox and Xbox 360 (http://www.xbox.com), including such games as the upcoming “Gears of War” and franchises such as “Halo®,” “Fable®,” “Project Gotham Racing®” and “Forza Motorsport™”; and MSN® Games (http://www.games.msn.com), the official games channel for the MSN network and home to such hits as “Bejeweled” and “Hexic®.”

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

[Atorak]

One word: Weeeehoooowaaaa!

[Paranoia]

What a dumb release date. That's like 5 days before PS3 launches!

[Varsity]

Oh, is that it?

[BrainDrain]

Great, now release a demo, pleeeeeaase ;)

[Captain Awesome]

What a dumb release date. That's like 5 days before PS3 launches!

You do know...forget it.

[Serapth]

This is obviously Microsofts leading hope going into the holiday series. This is obviously the title thats going toe to toe with the PS3 launch titles. Judging from E3, it will probrably look a fair bit better then most of the Sony lineup too.

Heres hoping it lives up to the hype.

[Kelegacy]

This better not suck.

[Dr.Finger]

So this is Mark Rein's "Big Announcement"? Feh. Announce a demo, then I'll be happy.

[michaelwhite]

I would have preferred to have seen this on the PC but I never liked Epic anyways.

[The Letter 3]

What a dumb release date. That's like 5 days before PS3 launches!
Hmmm.
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
Not sure if you are using sarcasm here. I'm going to say you are, since I dislike calling people stupid.

[Kamalot]

I'm so there. It is only a few days before my birthday.

[Tricky Thumb]

Woo!

I'm gonna get me some locust scum.

[Sl1pstream]

What a dumb release date. That's like 5 days before PS3 launches!

Yeah, it's like they want people to buy a 360 instead of a PS3. I hope the idiots at Epic don't start advertising the game before the PS3 launches.

No news about a European release? Bah...

[Mortis]

Already pre-ordered, I have high expectations for this game.

[Yeti2005]

The game looked damn good at E3. If Epic has till Nov that should plenty of time to make sure everything runs like butter. I'm looking forward to playing some co-op.

[Kamalot]

What a dumb release date. That's like 5 days before PS3 launches!
Lemmie see...
You can get a PS3 and take home crap like Fatal Inertia or Untold Legends

or

You can get an Xbox 360 AND Gears of War for less.

Gears of War is better looking than any of the PS3 launch titles and will have a much larger audience of people to play online with due to the 360's much larger install base.

You'll be lucky to find a PS3.

This sounds like a good move for Microsoft and Epic.

[Captain Awesome]

I would have preferred to have seen this on the PC but I never liked Epic anyways.

Why would you prefer it on PC? It's a third-person perspective. It's a good concept for a console. I'm not a fan of Epic either, but this is their first game that has interested me since the first Unreal game.

(Probably because it's not a UT based license.)

[michaelwhite]

Why would you prefer it on PC? It's a third-person perspective. It's a good concept for a console. I'm not a fan of Epic either, but this is their first game that has interested me since the first Unreal game.

(Probably because it's not a UT based license.)

I've played many 3rd person games on the PC, I don't see why holding a gun while doing so would make it that much more difficult.

[Kamalot]

Now all Microsoft needs to do is release the HD-DVD player for $99 on the same day.

[CaptStu]

I'm so there. It is only a few days before my birthday.
Mine too. Maybe I can get someone to get it for me six days in advance of my birthday.

[Beelzebud]

I hope the "highy collectable metal case" is not a huge piece of crap like the one for UT2004SE was. That was a piece of tin folded over a cardboard box, and when I got mine in the mail it was all bent up. :D

**Edit, it's so lame this isn't coming out for PC.. What a shame. The first real game released using the newest Unreal engine, and PC gets the shaft...

At least there is still Valve and its games.

[mikeohara]

Great, now release a demo, pleeeeeaase ;)

agreed. please release a demo for the love of god.

[Reanimated]

I hope the "highy collectable metal case" is not a huge piece of crap like the one for UT2004SE was. That was a piece of tin folded over a cardboard box, and when I got mine in the mail it was all bent up. :D




The metal case for Prey was WAY worse than that.

[Cool AN]

This and Dead Rising is making me want to buy a Xbox 360.

[The Letter 3]

The metal case for Prey was WAY worse than that.
And, sadly, the metal case was still the best feature of the game. :D

[Kelegacy]

I hope the "highy collectable metal case" is not a huge piece of crap like the one for UT2004SE was. That was a piece of tin folded over a cardboard box, and when I got mine in the mail it was all bent up. :D

**Edit, it's so lame this isn't coming out for PC.. What a shame. The first real game released using the newest Unreal engine, and PC gets the shaft...

At least there is still Valve and its games.
That's why I don't buy collector's editions. If games came in a plastic baggy and cost 10 dollars less, I'd buy those. I don't need fancy cases and a "Making Of" DVD. I think Collector's Editions are one of the biggest cons in the gaming biz right now.

[Mortis]

Just checked the calendar, the 12th is a Sunday. Someone on the GoW forum claimed Mark Rein said in IRC (heh) some stores would have it on the 7th and could sell it when they get their shipment. The 7th is a Tuesday which fits with the usual new game release day. Also ebgames/gamestop have updated their sites with a ship date of 11/01/08 for some reason. EDIT: eb just changed the date to 11/12/06

The press release says the 12th so I guess until some other date is officially announced that's it.

[Bishop]

Sweet Holy Crap!

[Mr Flannery]

Just checked the calendar, the 12th is a Sunday. Someone on the GoW forum claimed Mark Rein said in IRC (heh) some stores would have it on the 7th and could sell it when they get their shipment. The 7th is a Tuesday which fits with the usual new game release day. Also ebgames/gamestop have updated their sites with a ship date of 11/01/08 for some reason.

The press release says the 12th so I guess until some other date is officially announced that's it.

I'd be willing to be you're right, but reverse your thinking. The games will get into stores on the 13th, monday, and go on sale the next day, tuesday the 14th. Think about it.... this has happened before. Epic has announced a "release date" meaning, released from their warehouse, aka, 'ship date'... this probably is not a 'sell' date

We shall see.

[Demo_Boy]

Gears. It's the new Halo.

[Oddmaker]

Demo demo demo demo demo demo demo demo. It will prolly be released sometime in october :(

[Mortis]

I'd be willing to be you're right, but reverse your thinking. The games will get into stores on the 13th, monday, and go on sale the next day, tuesday the 14th. Think about it.... this has happened before. Epic has announced a "release date" meaning, released from their warehouse, aka, 'ship date'... this probably is not a 'sell' date

We shall see.

I thought about that but the press release says available in North America on the 12th. I would think available means available for purchase in stores, we shall see.

Also I hope this was not the big announcement from Epic and that it will be news of the demo, perhaps during the start or early dates of the Gigantour.

[soco]

i'm betting there won't be a demo until after the game releases.

i think they're going to string everyone along and not take a risk with people losing interest because of a bad demo. they'll prolly say they're too busy making the game perfect to release one :D sure they could get more people excited, but this is obvious they're using it to steal the spotlight from the PS3 launch since this is in the middle of it.

just think, you could have PGR3, GoW, 2-3 free arcade games, and free online play (for 3 months) for cheaper than a PS3 :D

[Captain Awesome]

i'm betting there won't be a demo until after the game releases.


Im thinking this aswell.

[absolut taco]

That's why I don't buy collector's editions. If games came in a plastic baggy and cost 10 dollars less, I'd buy those. I don't need fancy cases and a "Making Of" DVD. I think Collector's Editions are one of the biggest cons in the gaming biz right now.
Con? For hardcore fans who appreciate a making-of DVD and/or a fancy case, what's a measly $10 extra?

[Mortis]

Ah ebgames just changed their ship date to 11/12/06.

[Kelegacy]

Con? For hardcore fans who appreciate a making-of DVD and/or a fancy case, what's a measly $10 extra?
You are why games are priced at 60 bucks now. People don't know the value of a dollar anymore.

What are you going to do with the case? Sleep with it? But it a ticket to the movies so you can see Pirates together? No, you're going to put it on your shelf or hide it away. It's a BOX!

The only box I'd pay extra for has fur on it.

[Borys]

I'm there, day one.

I mean when Vista version launches on 12th of November, 2007.

Now imagine the riots if Microsoft bundles a Halo 3 demo with GoW...

[eth3rton]

This BETTER not get pushed back for Microsofts sake....

[eth3rton]

I'm there, day one.

I mean when Vista version launches on 12th of November, 2007.

Now imagine the riots if Microsoft bundles a Halo 3 demo with GoW...


Halo 3 this Xmas would sooo take some of the PS3s attractiveness away....Its not gonna happen though.... :(

[Manzy]

Didn't he imply that it wasn't about the release date? What an asshole.

[Serapth]

Halo 3 this Xmas would sooo take some of the PS3s attractiveness away....Its not gonna happen though.... :(

Releasing Halo and GoW at the same time would cause huge sales damage to both titles. Releasing too many titles at once hurts all sales.

[Hellstorm]

I can't wait to play peek-a-boo with a gun.

[Varsity]

I mean when Vista version launches on 12th of November, 2007.
When? at least 10 characters.

[saran_js]

DOH !!! This is only going to affect those people who are really in to xbox360. It won't change a thing for the PS3 launch. What's a few days when people have been waiting for ages for the PS3 to come in to the market.
What's more, the PS3 launch is WORLDWIDE, whereas the launch of Gears of War is only in USA for that date.

[Cubfan]

I've played many 3rd person games on the PC, I don't see why holding a gun while doing so would make it that much more difficult.

You hold a gun while playing 3rd person games on the PC? Weird.

On topic, I'm not entirely convinced yet on Gears. It looks good, but the gameplay doesn't seem particularly compelling, or different. I can see it being a solid action game, maybe a 7-8/10 scorewise, but don't see it being AAA caliber. Admittedly, I don't know everything there is to know about the game, nor have I played it. But I'm definitely gonna buy it.

[absolut taco]

You are why games are priced at 60 bucks now. People don't know the value of a dollar anymore.

What are you going to do with the case? Sleep with it? But it a ticket to the movies so you can see Pirates together? No, you're going to put it on your shelf or hide it away. It's a BOX!

The only box I'd pay extra for has fur on it.
Chill, dude! I've never bought a collector's edition game. I'm just saying, there is an audience for them. Just like there is one for Ninety-Nine Nights. ;)

[FallenStar]

Now imagine the riots if Microsoft bundles a Halo 3 demo with GoW...

Borys may be on to something here. Somehow I don't think this is the "big" announcement. Maybe just the tip of the iceberg. At least I hope it is.

[Kelegacy]

Chill, dude! I've never bought a collector's edition game. I'm just saying, there is an audience for them. Just like there is one for Ninety-Nine Nights. ;)
I am chill! Kelegacy is always as cool as a cucumber. Everyone knows that.

[absolut taco]

The only box I'd pay extra for has fur on it.
Is my mind in the gutter today or is there actually something sexual about that? :D

[roboninja]

You are why games are priced at 60 bucks now. People don't know the value of a dollar anymore.

What are you going to do with the case? Sleep with it? But it a ticket to the movies so you can see Pirates together? No, you're going to put it on your shelf or hide it away. It's a BOX!

The only box I'd pay extra for has fur on it.
LOL, could not agree more, sir. Jewel cases are all that is needed for game discs; I would even go with paper sleeves for a $5 savings.

The talks about a Halo 3 demo coming with the game? That sounds exactly like the type of announcement that they would make a big deal over. Rein specifically said it was not the release date he was talking about, so this cannot be the "big announcement".

[bean19]

I predict that in the future all big events will occur right before Thanksgiving.

[JazGalaxy]

What is it that's supposed to be so special about this game? From what I can tell everyone just seems up in arms about the visuals. Nobody ever talks about how it will play.

Personally I would love to see more games with expanded content that expands the world of the game, as opposed to lots of silly "making of" content.

[SuperMonkeyFighter2]

The big announcement is that Mark Rein lied about his first announcement, and there is no announcement

[BleedTheFreak]

What is it that's supposed to be so special about this game? From what I can tell everyone just seems up in arms about the visuals. Nobody ever talks about how it will play.

Personally I would love to see more games with expanded content that expands the world of the game, as opposed to lots of silly "making of" content.

I think it looks fun to play, like a futuristic GRAW against aliens and using high powered weaponry. The visuals add to the excitement, to be sure, but diving for cover and firing from around corners that are being disitegrated by returning fire just sounds (and looks) very exciting.

[Mortis]

Mark Rein just posted this (http://gearsforums.epicgames.com/showthread.php?t=530731) over at the GoW forums:

Hi Folks,

As many of you are already aware today Microsoft announced launch details for Gears of War. Here's what we know so far...

In North America Emergence Day is November 12th. What that means is November 12th is the date by which all of the stores in North America will have the game on their shelves and for which Microsoft tells us they're going to organize some cool Emergence Day event.

However to get to stores in time for that the actual game will ship on November 7th. Some stores, like EB & Gamestop, will, at their own additional expense, park their trucks at Microsoft's warehouse and start taking deliveries at midnight on the 7th in an effort to get it to their stores right away - in some cases possibly even that day or a day or two later. The big boys, like Wal*Mart and Best Buy, have too many stores and are too complex to do that so they'll ship it through their distribution centers and spinkle it into theirs stores as best they can. What Microsoft tells us is if we ship on the 7th then 12th is the safe date for when all the stores will have and that's why it will be Emergence Day. We only have solid details like this for North America at this point in time.

It’s a little different in every region around the world.

In Europe, which is a huge market for us, they ship the game to retail on Nov 17. From country to country supply chains and delivery dates of product can vary, but in general Nov 17 is Emergence Day for Europe and you’ll see the game in stores from that day forward.

For Australia/New Zealand their ship date is November 24th. Japan gets the game in December. We're waiting for details on other territories but that's what we know so far.

You can read the full announcement at:
http://www.xbox.com/en-us/community/...ergenceday.htm

So it is shipping to stores on the 7th.

[ArchVile]

To be honest, i'd bet that Gears of War will find its way to the PC sooner or later, Halo, Microsoft's flagship franchise shipped with the "Only On Xbox" sticker thing, but they are still releasing the Halo games on PC, i'd bet that a similar thing will happen with Gears of War...

GoW looks good, but 1 game doesn't make me want to buy a 360 (unless that game was MGS4).

[EternalGamer]

I think it looks fun to play, like a futuristic GRAW against aliens and using high powered weaponry. The visuals add to the excitement, to be sure, but diving for cover and firing from around corners that are being disitegrated by returning fire just sounds (and looks) very exciting.

I'm going to pick it up because there is basically nothing else that interest me for the 360 this Fall except for Viva Pinata. But it's not really my type of game. Actually the games Kamalot labeled as "crap" in his post about the PS3 launch lineup has more appeal to me in terms of genre. I'd take a game like Untold Legends over a Scifi type shooter anyday. Granted, the videos of Gears look pretty good and I'm not trying to insult it. But if we are talking about burned out cliches, I prefer the medieval fantasy one to the "dark future" Sci-fi one. I'm still not buying a PS3, though. Most of my gaming money this Fall will probably be going to the Wii there are at least six games on that system that I want day one.

[Steele Johnson]

I can't wait for this shit! The videos are convincing enough for me to fork over the cash. Not to mention the fact that nothing (good) has come out for the 360 for soooooo long.

[Yeti2005]

What is it that's supposed to be so special about this game? From what I can tell everyone just seems up in arms about the visuals. Nobody ever talks about how it will play.

Hmm I guess you haven't read a single article about the game then. Instead of "run and gun" it's all about creating and using cover. The entire game is available for co-op with friends able to join at any time online or off. There's more than a few articles from E3 about how fun the multiplayer is.

[Kelegacy]

I'm going to pick it up because there is basically nothing else that interest me for the 360 this Fall except for Viva Pinata. But it's not really my type of game. Actually the games Kamalot labeled as "crap" in his post about the PS3 launch lineup has more appeal to me in terms of genre. I'd take a game like Untold Legends over a Scifi type shooter anyday. If we are talking about burned out cliches, I prefer the medieval fantasy one to the "dark future" Sci-fi one. I'm still not buying a PS3, though. Most of my gaming money this Fall will probably be going to the Wii there are at least six games on that system that I want day one.
Mass Effect is supposed to come out this fall, so I'll end up getting that probably. But to be honest Bioware has lost about 90% of their luster for me, with their increased focus on the consoles. I'll wait for reviews, listen for game length (RPGs should be meaty) and then make a decision. I think I'll wind up with a few 360 games this fall, along with GoW. I don't fear 360 starving like I did this spring and summer, but I'm only cautiously optimistic.

As always, reviews/demos will be my friends.

[alejandro79]

I like better viva piñata....on xbox live

[falcon]

I would expect a PC version in Q1 of 2007.

[EternalGamer]

I definitely admit I could be totally wrong about this and other titles. Just because they don't have immediate aesethetic appeal doesn't mean I am not willing to give them a shot. If I went on my initial interest level, half of my favorite films would probably have remained unseen.

I have definitely been wrong about 360 titles in the past. I was somewhat wrong about Oblivion, but then again after about 30 hours I really am starting to get rather bored with it. Metriod Prime 2 has drawn me away from it because it has an actuall sense of progression both in terms of gameplay and in terms of narration. And every room you walk into is lovingly crafted and carefully thought out with clever puzzles and design. That type of tightly controlled world has a lot more appeal to me than the "another cave that looks like all the others" in the world of Oblivion.

[Borys]

Mass Effect is supposed to come out this fall, so I'll end up getting that probably. But to be honest Bioware has lost about 90% of their luster for me, with their increased focus on the consoles. I'll wait for reviews, listen for game length (RPGs should be meaty) and then make a decision. I think I'll wind up with a few 360 games this fall, along with GoW. I don't fear 360 starving like I did this spring and summer, but I'm only cautiously optimistic.

I simply *adoooooooooooore* the Mass Effect trailers, the cantina scenes, the dialogues, the visors, the shadowing etc. It looks like KOTOR3, it screams "I am KOTOR III!".

However then I see the ridiculous shooting levels and I keep on wondering whether it will be even less RPG and more ACTHOON! than say Jade Empire.

[Guy Mariano]

Take cover peek and shoot. Repeat over and over. Meh. Yeah it looks great, but it looks boring and repetetive. Can you say Kill.switch?

Bring on Mass Effect so I HAVE to own a 360

[soco]

Mass Effect is supposed to come out this fall, so I'll end up getting that probably.

i think they're just saying winter 2006 now, but some site i was searching on today had it listed for Q2 2007 now. i did listen to an interview of one of the bioware guys and got the impression the main quest would be around 30, if you didn't do any side quests and upwards of 60 if you did....

i wouldn't be expecting GoW on the PC within 6 months of the release, since it seems MS has exclusive publishing rights for the time being.

[Lexicon]

i think they're just saying winter 2006 now, but some site i was searching on today had it listed for Q2 2007 now. i did listen to an interview of one of the bioware guys and got the impression the main quest would be around 30, if you didn't do any side quests and upwards of 60 if you did....

i wouldn't be expecting GoW on the PC within 6 months of the release, since it seems MS has exclusive publishing rights for the time being.

Based on the Mass Effect FAQ I think Q2 2007 is looking pretty likely.

5. When is the release date of Mass Effect?

Bob McCabe: We at BioWare do not know the exact date of release yet ... I prefer to be conservative in my guessing. If I were a fan, and not an employee of BioWare who gets to look at the schedule, I'd probably like the sound of March & April.

Chris Priestly: Once again, until you hear it from us NO DATE anyplace or any details are correct. Everything is estimates or guesses until WE know what it will be.

[Kamalot]

DOH !!! This is only going to affect those people who are really in to xbox360. It won't change a thing for the PS3 launch.It will.

A few weeks and months after the PS3 launch, you still won't be able to find a system. People will be all positive buzz for Gears of War, and negative buzz for Untold Legends and Fatal Inertia.

It will make its way into mainstream media that the 360 rocks and the overpriced PS3 does not. 360 will be available in stores. When someone goes into the store, can't find a PS3 and their head is filled with positive 360 news, guess which system they'll pick up.

[SexualChoc]

12th and the 17th? It's Halo 2 all over again. A marginal gap for no reason. And I bet we'll get charged something stupid for the Limited Edition.

[soco]

It will.

A few weeks and months after the PS3 launch <snip>

i agree, but i think it could begin on launch. if a store has several kiosks of GoW running, and people walk in looking, and just decide to try it out, and compare that to some of the PS3 launch graphics, and enjoy it, they may start walking out with them on launch day. (assuming anyone who didn't pre-order bothers to show up for any reason other than laughing at the people in line :D )

i can especially see this happening in the case of teens going with their parents, while the parents ask about the next shipments, and wander off to play something because they're disappointed.

[Goronmon]

Just to throw this out there. I have never bought a system or a game because the system/game I was looking for wasn't available when I went to the store. Never, in all the 10+ years I've been buying my games has this occured. I'm not sure where people get this "360 will sell when people can't find a PS3" idea from.

[HALO 32]

god i hope it wont end up as another Brute Force...even though Brute Force was highly hyped and eneded up being not so great it wasnt that bad...but still i dont think it will...but it could

horray! Collector's Edition!

ha! i told you all, NO PS3 version, a Release Date and a Collector's Edition

[Ajguy]

Well this is the BIG announcemnet? I mean, I'm glad to know the release date and all, but the way Mark Rein was talking (particularly here with his "Who said it had to do with Gears ;)" hijinks) I was thinking something bigger. Eh, whatever. I'll still be getting this game.

[Kelegacy]

Just to throw this out there. I have never bought a system or a game because the system/game I was looking for wasn't available when I went to the store. Never, in all the 10+ years I've been buying my games has this occured. I'm not sure where people get this "360 will sell when people can't find a PS3" idea from.
I'm sure the millions looking for DS's in Japan didn't run out and buy PSPs instead. Sure, some might, but I'd rather wait for what I want instead of dropping cash on something I don't.

We're agreeing too much lately, Goronmon.

[bapenguin]

I'm sure the millions looking for DS's in Japan didn't run out and buy PSPs instead. Sure, some might, but I'd rather wait for what I want instead of dropping cash on something I don't.

We're agreeing too much lately, Goronmon.

The difference though is not the gamers...it's the parents. When they can't find a PS3 for their kid for X-mas...some will jump ship and pick up a Wii or 360 instead.

[theguido]

Hooray for third-person shooter #783, starring generic badass #482, fighting alien monsters #146-182.

I can't wait. No, seriously, I can't.

[Zurik]

I wonder how long this will keep me from thinking about Mass Effect. If it has co-op though, that's a big plus.

[Goronmon]

The difference though is not the gamers...it's the parents. When they can't find a PS3 for their kid for X-mas...some will jump ship and pick up a Wii or 360 instead.Are you sure about that? This might occur for stuff like games, but for systems? That cost $400+? For some reason I doubt a parent is going to spend that much money on something thats not what their kid actually wanted. Not being a parent, however, I could be completely wrong on that assumption.

[Goronmon]

We're agreeing too much lately, Goronmon.I think its this state. *shudder*

;)

[BleedTheFreak]

The difference though is not the gamers...it's the parents. When they can't find a PS3 for their kid for X-mas...some will jump ship and pick up a Wii or 360 instead.

...Even if the kids don't want that. I agree, this probably happens quite a bit.

Though in this case, you have to figure the Wii is looking pretty attractive. And how many parents willing to buy a $600 game system will still spend that much on games and accessories? I'd imagine quite a few, because if they were willing to buy there kid a PS3 for x-mas, we already know they aren't looking to save money.

[RorschachCCCLX]

Most Parents see the 641.99 price tag for a PS3 and say "that ain't happenin, I need to buy gas more then you need to play Genji 2." We get thousands of questions on PS3 a day, and I'm sure the sony sheep will buy up every unit around (ebay sellers will make a killing, thats why gamestop might not be doing a pre-order.)
I hope Gears of War doesn't suck, but the best games come out of nowhere, not from months of mega hype.. the mega hyped games always fail to live up to the buzz.. but here is hoping.

[soco]

it definetly happens. i've seen quite a lot of parents panic and find alternatives, like my mom. it's not alltogether different from the parents who'd pay over 2x the price on ebay for one of the systems, because for that price you could get them a 360 and give them something to do, until you found the other system after christmas.

i'm not a parent and i ended up with a gamecube, a DS, and a PSP because i couldn't find what i was looking for in the store to play :D

[Dag-Sabot]

A smart retailer, when faced with a shortage of product "A" will have a similar product "B" available in quantity. Especially when product "A" will be more expensive and in very limited quantity. *** knows this, and had decided to kick a "killer app" out on the market to support the retailer. Whether the game is good or not is irrelevant, if people see it as a must have title for the 360, it will make a convincing argument to buy the 360 over the ps3 esp. in view of their rather anemic launch lineup.

[RorschachCCCLX]

I for one, tell people, as do most of the folks I work with, that the PS3 is a glorified blu-ray player that just happens to play games too. I think the diffrence in graphics between the two systems will be less noticeable then then the graphic gap between xbox and Ps2.

[Kelegacy]

The difference though is not the gamers...it's the parents. When they can't find a PS3 for their kid for X-mas...some will jump ship and pick up a Wii or 360 instead.
True, very true.

For us older junkies, our parents no longer buy our games. But you are correct, the tykes are the free radicals in my argument.

[ArchVile]

i wouldn't be expecting GoW on the PC within 6 months of the release, since it seems MS has exclusive publishing rights for the time being.

MS make Windows remember, and a little thing called Windows Vista is on the horizon needing all the exclusive games it can get to get people to upgrade. Seriously, i can see MS saying that its coming to Vista within the next year or so. I would expect the time between porting it would be similar to the PS2 exclusivity deal for the last few GTA games (i.e. about 6 months).

The difference though is not the gamers...it's the parents. When they can't find a PS3 for their kid for X-mas...some will jump ship and pick up a Wii or 360 instead.

I dont agree with that at all, the parents aren't going to risk wasting money on another system that their child doesn't want. If a child wants a PS3 for xmas, its a PS3 or nothing, the same will go for kids wanting a 360 or a Wii i would imagine.

PS: Everytime i see the abreviation "GoW" i immediately think "God of War"...

[KidCactus]

The only box I'd pay extra for has fur on it.
Then you might like this DVD box I got for the TV show A Bear's Tail?

http://www.funky.co.uk/showbiz/img/bears_tail_main.gif

[bapenguin]

Are you sure about that? This might occur for stuff like games, but for systems? That cost $400+? For some reason I doubt a parent is going to spend that much money on something thats not what their kid actually wanted. Not being a parent, however, I could be completely wrong on that assumption.

It happens more often than you think. I think the parents just want to shut their kids up in the meantime. To them, they don't really see a difference between an XBox 360 and a PS3. The only difference they get is what the salesman tells them. Most don't know anything about system exclusives, HDTV, online, etc etc. It's just this gaming system or that.

[ArchVile]

It happens more often than you think. I think the parents just want to shut their kids up in the meantime. To them, they don't really see a difference between an XBox 360 and a PS3. The only difference they get is what the salesman tells them. Most don't know anything about system exclusives, HDTV, online, etc etc. It's just this gaming system or that.

I suppose, it always makes me laugh when my grandparents say something like:

"Are you going to play on your Gamestation Box"

Also, Kid Cactus, that show was one of the worst shows i've ever seen...ever.

[JawaSnack]

ripped from VE3D.com

Mark Rein has stated on the Gears of War forums that Epic is unlikely to create a demo before the release of the game due to time constraints:

"I don't see any way we could do a demo before the game comes out. We've said that before. Demos take a long time to create and polish and we can't afford to get derailled like that if we want to have the game in stores by Thanksgiving. Given a choice of the game this year or a demo this year and the game next year I'm sure every one of you would rather have the game this year because you're already planning to buy it. No idea if we'll do a demo or not after the game ships. I know we have some very cool plans (not 100% solid so too early to give any specifics) for additional downloadable so that might take a higher priority than creating a demo."

[Kelegacy]

ripped from VE3D.com

Mark Rein has stated on the Gears of War forums that Epic is unlikely to create a demo before the release of the game due to time constraints:

"I don't see any way we could do a demo before the game comes out. We've said that before. Demos take a long time to create and polish and we can't afford to get derailled like that if we want to have the game in stores by Thanksgiving. Given a choice of the game this year or a demo this year and the game next year I'm sure every one of you would rather have the game this year because you're already planning to buy it. No idea if we'll do a demo or not after the game ships. I know we have some very cool plans (not 100% solid so too early to give any specifics) for additional downloadable so that might take a higher priority than creating a demo."
Jerk. MS has pretty much made it standard that demos show up on XBL at some point. Being demo-less is the equivalent of not letting Ebert and Roeper screen your movie.

Hopefully I can try out the game before it ships. I don't want to buy somethign I hate, and I'd rather not have to spend 8 bucks on a rental when I can get a demo for free.

[Kamalot]

For games with tons of positive buzz, the demo comes after the launch.

For games that are less well-known or have smaller marketing budgets, the demo comes prior to launch.

This is mostly true.

[Kelegacy]

For games with tons of positive buzz, the demo comes after the launch.

For games that are less well-known or have smaller marketing budgets, the demo comes prior to launch.

This is mostly true.
Yes, but he said they didn't know if they'd even DO a demo. Oh well, I'll rely on Gamespot and Gamerankings this time.

[Metal Jesus]

This game does look awesome!

This holiday season should be good for Xbox 360 owners. :P

[Serapth]

I cant believe how much Live makes demos new and fresh again. I used to get magazines with disks all the time and damned if I would ever put them in my console.

Now with live though, im downloading pretty much everything that gets posted and they have been a huge factor in my purhcasing decisions.

Odd how that changed... the simple act of not having to put the damned disk in my drive, seemed to have made a difference.

[Zurik]

I cant believe how much Live makes demos new and fresh again. I used to get magazines with disks all the time and damned if I would ever put them in my console.

Now with live though, im downloading pretty much everything that gets posted and they have been a huge factor in my purhcasing decisions.

Odd how that changed... the simple act of not having to put the damned disk in my drive, seemed to have made a difference.

I know what you're talking about. I've been doing this with PC games lately too. I just wish there was a demo of Dead Rising, but I suppose waiting just one more week won't kill me...

[bean19]

Hooray for third-person shooter #783, starring generic badass #482, fighting alien monsters #146-182.

I can't wait. No, seriously, I can't.

Well, you're both right and wrong. It's an FPS built for consoles that is made by Cliffy-B - who was a big part of Unreal Tournament being awesome, so it is a big-deal as far as FPS games.

But you're right that the 360 has a million FPS games already, so who-the-fuck cares. . .

[Roc Ingersol]

Just for Mark Rein: I'm gonna to rent this thing. And if it's any good, Ill pick up a pre-owned copy.

[EternalGamer]

It happens more often than you think. I think the parents just want to shut their kids up in the meantime. To them, they don't really see a difference between an XBox 360 and a PS3. The only difference they get is what the salesman tells them. Most don't know anything about system exclusives, HDTV, online, etc etc. It's just this gaming system or that.


I don't think it really happens that often, to be honest. I mean, maybe 1 or 2 out of every 10 parents that can't get ahold of what their kids want will just go and buy something related. Most parents would just make sure they have a second and or third thing the kid wants or give them some type of IOU or gift certificate. Maybe with litlte kids when you are talking about something like Furbies or whatever, you might find parents willing to throw $20 at a different thing to gamble that it might satisfy their kid. But any parent who is willing to buy something that cost FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS only hoping their kid might be interested in it is pretty crazy. If anything this is the more likely scenario:

1) Kid tells mom he wants a PS3
2) Mom tries to find it but cant.
3) Sales guy mentions 360.
4) Mom goes home and ask kid what he thinks of 360.
5) Kid says 360 sucks and he wants PS3.
6) Mom asks what ele he might want then.
7) Kid says he also would like a new Ipod Gigosphere.
8) Mom buys Ipod Gigosphere.

It's very unlikely parents are just going to throw away that much money without making sure it is something their kid would actually want. And it is equally unlikely that, just because something is unavailable, the kid is going to do a 180 and suddenly decide he wants the other system instead.

[Kamalot]

1) Kid tells mom he wants a PS3
2) Mom tries to find it but cant.
3) Sales guy mentions 360.
4) Mom goes home and ask kid what he thinks of 360.
5) Kid says 360 sucks and he wants PS3.
If anything this is the more likely scenario:

1) Kid tells mom he wants a PS3
2) Mom goes to the store and asks for a PSXbox but cant find it.
3) Sales guy mentions 360 has lots of games, is cheaper than competition, is available (and wants to make a sale).
4) Mom buys 360 thinking it is PSXbox.
5) Kid is blown away by Gears of War on Christmas.

Edit: 6) Mom is horified she purchased a murder simulator for junior, returns 360 for Wii. ;-)

[Kelegacy]

If anything this is the more likely scenario:

1) Kid tells mom he wants a PS3
2) Mom goes to the store and asks for a PSXbox but cant find it.
3) Sales guy mentions 360 has lots of games, is cheaper than competition, is available (and wants to make a sale).
4) Mom buys 360 thinking it is PSXbox.
5) Kid is blown away by Gears of War on Christmas.
If a kid is blown away by Gears of War, his parents are probably stupid as shit. If anything, the colorful Wii and cast of games will be better suited for little Timmy. Not shooting monsters and watching their faces explode.

And if any kid gets a PS3 for Xmas, he's one spoiled bastard.

[Manzy]

If a kid is blown away by Gears of War, his parents are probably stupid as shit.

I don't see the correlation?

[EternalGamer]

If anything this is the more likely scenario:

1) Kid tells mom he wants a PS3
2) Mom goes to the store and asks for a PSXbox but cant find it.
3) Sales guy mentions 360 has lots of games, is cheaper than competition, is available (and wants to make a sale).
4) Mom buys 360 thinking it is PSXbox.
5) Kid is blown away by Gears of War on Christmas.

Edit: 6) Mom is horified she purchased a murder simulator for junior, returns 360 for Wii. ;-)


I'll give you that parents tend to not be very knowledgeable about game systems. But most of them make damn sure they know what they are buying if it is that expensive. I don't doubt the type of scenario you mention might occasionally happen, but it seems like it would be an incredible fluke, not the normal patter. Maybe one out of every 100 (being generous) scenarios would result in that type of conclusion.

[Kamalot]

If a kid is blown away by Gears of War, his parents are probably stupid as shit. If anything, the colorful Wii and cast of games will be better suited for little Timmy. Not shooting monsters and watching their faces explode.

And if any kid gets a PS3 for Xmas, he's one spoiled bastard.
LOL! You posted as I was editing another step into my list. :D Check again above ---^ :D

[Kelegacy]

I don't see the correlation?
He probably shouldn't be playing the game in the first place? I know it's pretty acceptable these days, and I'm NOT a prude, but the reason games get blamed on so many murders and crimes is because of parents buying games that really are not suitable for their children. But I was an R watching youngster, so it depends on the child's grasp of reality and right and wrong. And age.

But the Wii...now THERE'S a system everyone can enjoy! And it's cheap! Remember how well the Gamecube sold last Christmas? (At least I think I remembering it doing well the past few years, with the awesome bundles)

[Kelegacy]

LOL! You posted as I was editing another step into my list. :D Check again above ---^ :D
Great minds think alike, that's why you think like me 1/3 of the time. :)

[EternalGamer]

If a kid is blown away by Gears of War, his parents are probably stupid as shit. If anything, the colorful Wii and cast of games will be better suited for little Timmy. Not shooting monsters and watching their faces explode.

And if any kid gets a PS3 for Xmas, he's one spoiled bastard.


If we are talking about kids this young, I don't think the PS3 or 360 is very likely a desired product anyway. I'm pretty confident the Wii will do well over all, but the 8-14 demographic?. They are going to eat that shit up. There is no question in my mind that it WILL be the hottest item for that group. I mean, just think about when you were 10. Here is a system that lets you swing a bat like you are playing baseball and run around the room swinging yoru controller like a sword like you are some time of uber ninja or some shit. This thing is like a 10 year olds fantasy land come true. Fuck, I'm excited as hell by it and I'm 28. There is no normal kid that is going to NOT be drawn to the idea of a motion controller over hitting a bunch of buttons, no matter how impressive Gears of War looks.

[Manzy]

He probably shouldn't be playing the game in the first place? I know it's pretty acceptable these days, and I'm NOT a prude, but the reason games get blamed on so many murders and crimes is because of parents buying games that really are not suitable for their children. But I was an R watching youngster, so it depends on the child's grasp of reality and right and wrong. And age.

But the Wii...now THERE'S a system everyone can enjoy! And it's cheap! Remember how well the Gamecube sold last Christmas? (At least I think I remembering it doing well the past few years, with the awesome bundles)

I wasn't allowed to see Denace the Menace when I was 9. I wasn't allowed to see any Pg-13 movies until I was 13. I didn't have cable television till i was 15. I was a sheltered little kid. Everybody, including my mother, calls me the most desensitized motherfucker on the planet. Alas, I digress. I wasn't aware this kids age was specified. If it's over 6-7, it's fine in my book.

[Dag-Sabot]

Just for Mark Rein: I'm gonna to rent this thing. And if it's any good, Ill pick up a pre-owned copy.
Can i just borrow yours when youre done with it? Id hate to shell out for another hype-coaster for my coffee table.

[EternalGamer]

Can i just borrow yours when youre done with it? Id hate to shell out for another hype-coaster for my coffee table.


Maybe we could all get together and each donate $2.50 for an official EA copy of the game that each of us could use for a night to get it out of our system before moving on to more interesting things.

[Kelegacy]

Maybe we could all get together and each donate $2.50 for an official EA copy of the game that each of us could use for a night to get it out of our system before moving on to more interesting things.
I'm game! Let's stick it to Rein!

[Kamalot]

Great minds think alike, that's why you think like me 1/3 of the time. :)
That's so harsh! I'd say at least 1/2 of your mind is great.

[Kamalot]

If we are talking about kids this young, I don't think the PS3 or 360 is very likely a desired product anyway. I'm pretty confident the Wii will do well over all, but the 8-14 demographic?. They are going to eat that shit up. There is no question in my mind that it WILL be the hottest item for that group. I mean, just think about when you were 10. Here is a system that lets you swing a bat like you are playing baseball and run around the room swinging yoru controller like a sword like you are some time of uber ninja or some shit. This thing is like a 10 year olds fantasy land come true. Fuck, I'm excited as hell by it and I'm 28. There is no normal kid that is going to NOT be drawn to the idea of a motion controller over hitting a bunch of buttons, no matter how impressive Gears of War looks.
I was reading about the Dragon Ball Z fighting game for Wii. Apparently, you can do the moves like the characters from the show; charging up your kame-hame-ha (spelling?) and thrusting both hands at the screen to release it.

I just imagine 10-15 year old kids bouncing off'a the goddamn walls with excitement about being able to relive their favorite shows.

Hell. I'd even go for a retro-looking Transformers game where you can drive the cars, fly the planes and fight with robots all using the Wiimote as shown in ExciteTruck, PilotWings and Red Steel.

[RorschachCCCLX]

Then you might like this DVD box I got for the TV show A Bear's Tail?

http://www.funky.co.uk/showbiz/img/bears_tail_main.gif

I was right, there is no god!

[JazGalaxy]

Are you sure about that? This might occur for stuff like games, but for systems? That cost $400+? For some reason I doubt a parent is going to spend that much money on something thats not what their kid actually wanted. Not being a parent, however, I could be completely wrong on that assumption.

I agree that this probably happens all the time. Especially when the PS3 and Xbox's visuals are going to be mostly the same, and they will even share the same games most likely.

[thecrazyd]

I agree that this probably happens all the time. Especially when the PS3 and Xbox's visuals are going to be mostly the same, and they will even share the same games most likely.
But the parents will not know this. They will know that little Timmy is clamoring for a PS3. They will not do an in depth comparison of the graphics between the consoles.

[Xerxes]

If this and can help stage off PS3 purchase good for them. I mean I'm sure PS3 has people like me on the XBox 360. I'm letting as much as that first batch pass as possible. Enjoying the hell out of about 3 shelves of Xbox games I ain't played yet. Indigo Prophecy is up next. Games getting cheaper by the day Xbox 360 can catch me early next year. For Xbox 360 this is ok. But PS3 is playing catch up. They don't need people to sleep on them. This isn't the Dreamcast.

[Zanzibar]

I asked for a Vectrex, I got a Colecovision. Boy, was I happy.
I asked for a Sega Master System, I got a Nintendo NES. Boy, was I happy.
I asked for a TurboGrafx 16, I got a Sega Genesis. Boy, was I happy.

All 3 times, my parents couldn't find what I wanted, so I got the other system.

[Xerxes]

But the parents will not know this. They will know that little Timmy is clamoring for a PS3. They will not do an in depth comparison of the graphics between the consoles.

Some parent suck up to kids like this. My parents would get me the xbox 360, knowing i would still be just as happy, and tell me if i want the other one get to work. Meh, this is fine. Hell they wouldn't even get me that second controller either. Hell for a while I thought sharing was the only way to play. :(

[Dag-Sabot]

I wasn't allowed to see Denace the Menace when I was 9. I wasn't allowed to see any Pg-13 movies until I was 13. I didn't have cable television till i was 15. I was a sheltered little kid. Everybody, including my mother, calls me the most desensitized motherfucker on the planet. Alas, I digress. I wasn't aware this kids age was specified. If it's over 6-7, it's fine in my book.

And to think, all this time you could have been pimp-slapping Ho's and rolling grenades into orphanages... Yet another otherwise happy childhood destroyed by sloppy parenting. The only one way out now is to "Join the Army!".

[civil_dead]

I don't think it really happens that often, to be honest. I mean, maybe 1 or 2 out of every 10 parents that can't get ahold of what their kids want will just go and buy something related. Most parents would just make sure they have a second and or third thing the kid wants or give them some type of IOU or gift certificate. Maybe with litlte kids when you are talking about something like Furbies or whatever, you might find parents willing to throw $20 at a different thing to gamble that it might satisfy their kid. But any parent who is willing to buy something that cost FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS only hoping their kid might be interested in it is pretty crazy. If anything this is the more likely scenario:

1) Kid tells mom he wants a PS3
2) Mom tries to find it but cant.
3) Sales guy mentions 360.
4) Mom goes home and ask kid what he thinks of 360.
5) Kid says 360 sucks and he wants PS3.
6) Mom asks what ele he might want then.
7) Kid says he also would like a new Ipod Gigosphere.
8) Mom buys Ipod Gigosphere.

It's very unlikely parents are just going to throw away that much money without making sure it is something their kid would actually want. And it is equally unlikely that, just because something is unavailable, the kid is going to do a 180 and suddenly decide he wants the other system instead.

Whoa. Are you even a parent? I'll assume you're not so let me shed some light on this scenario.* I agree with #1-3, but after that it falls apart. It should read (following #3):

4. Mom, tired of driving around all freakin' day and doing a buttload of shopping decides there is no way in hell she's going to go somewhere else and face all the millions of other shoppers hoping to find a system that Mr. Best Buy tells her is impossible to get so she goes ahead and buys the cheaper system because screw it she doesn't know anything about exclusives or the latest gizaradoos all she sees is a quicker way to scratch Junior's present off her list and continue on with her shopping.

Seriously, that's it. No way, no way on Earth is any parent going to go home and ask their kid what it is they want. If anything, they'll give them a call on their cell phone. Even then, mom and dad ain't willing to spend an extra $200 bucks (because Mr. Best Buy is going to be pushing that on them) for something that looks like it should grill their burgers. If a parent is willing to spend that kind of money on their kids (either $400 or $600), they're not the type to do research.

With the last generation, it was affordable enough that kids/teens were the deciding factors when purchasing. This time around, they are so expensive it's time for mom and dad to step in. And they likes the cheaps.

Civil

*Full disclosure: I am not a parent, but am rather that crazy old uncle who has spent many a birthday/Christmas/graduation shopping for his nieces and nephews, as well as spent many a birthday/Christmas/graduation shopping with said neices and nephews parents. It's an ugly world out there.

[Dag-Sabot]

wait a minute..you harsh the guy for not being a parent, and then admit near the end that youre not one either? Wtf??

[Xerxes]

That's funny. But he's closer to what parents do that I know. Hell, "kids don't get wants" in my world.

[Reanimated]

I can't wait to see Gears of War running next to some shitty looking PS3 game like Resistance in store kiosks. It's going to be great to walk into EB, look at the kiosks, and pull out my best Nelson laugh.

[EternalGamer]

I admit I'm not a parent. But my experience with my own parents and with friends is that they will ask you want you are interested in. Maybe they can't find all those things, but they make sure they have enough stuff that they can find some of them. Zanzibar's brings up a good anedotal counter example, but I"m still pretty damn sure most parents don't just buy something that cost $400 without even knowing if their kid is interested in it. THey would just not buy a videogame console at all and get them something else instead.

[Kelegacy]

I can't wait to see Gears of War running next to some shitty looking PS3 game like Resistance in store kiosks. It's going to be great to walk into EB, look at the kiosks, and pull out my best Nelson laugh.
Ah, the brightest candle on the EvAv cake flames again. You know, comparing Gears of War to Resistance could very well be like comparing Perfect Dark Zero with...well, anything. Resistance is a launch game, and Gears of War has been in development for a while and will be releasing a year after the 360 has been out. It only makes sense that GoW will outshine Resistance, even if the immensely talented Insomniac is behind the wheel.

At the very least, Resistance will be this year's PDZ. Yet I still hope not, because I wouldn't wish that on any game.

[EternalGamer]

Resistance is made by Insomniac. Despite it being a first person shooter, it is being made by a company who has yet to make a game I have truly not loved (even way back to Disruptor). There last four games (the Rachet and CLank games) have especially shown their talent to put together a fantastic game in less than a year.

Epic, on the other hand, has made exactly one game I really enjoyed--Unreal Tournament. And even that game it seems is somewhat interchangable as the main draw of it for me was that it was the first game that really got me into onlinle FPS multiplay. It could have just as easily been Q3 (which I thought was equally good).

I would not at all be surprised to see Resistance be the far, far better game. From my compairson of the two companies back work, I would say Insomniac has the better group of talent in terms of game designers and creativity, even if Epic has the technology side. I'm not about to run out and purchase a PS3 just to play Resistance (it is still a FPS afterall). But I imagine it will hold its own just fine in a comparison.

[bean19]

EternalGamer - Quite possible. I saw Resistance briefly at E3, and I found it to be really fun with some interesting weapon choices. However, it wasn't fun enough for me to pay over $700 to actually get to play it in my own home. Still, I'm totally looking forward to playing it in 2 years when I get the PS3 for Final Fantasy. It will be a bargain-bin game for me then.

The difference between the game's fun factor will be in their online modes and their stories. They look comparable in graphics. . . which is to say awesome. :)

[Kelegacy]

EternalGamer - Quite possible. I saw Resistance briefly at E3, and I found it to be really fun with some interesting weapon choices. However, it wasn't fun enough for me to pay over $700 to actually get to play it in my own home. Still, I'm totally looking forward to playing it in 2 years when I get the PS3 for Final Fantasy. It will be a bargain-bin game for me then.

The difference between the game's fun factor will be in their online modes and their stories. They look comparable in graphics. . . which is to say awesome. :)
You mean over 500 dollars to get it to play in your home. Not over 700.

And EternalGamer, you are right. Insomniac is one of the premier second parties in the biz today. Also, they got their start with Disruptor, a FPS, one I enjoyed. If Resistance ends up being a bad game, I'll be VERY surprised. They aren't a company that is prone to produce poor gameplay.

[Chameleo]

speaking of parents:

if they're not into games themselves they will buy whatever the hell is cheapest/most convinient to them.

it'll be a choice between the wii and the x360 this christmas for most parents. the ones with less money to spend on their kid (who wants a game console) will get the Wii and the ones with more money to spend will get the x360.

the *really* smart ones will tell their kids the PS3 was unavailable and give their kids nothing - promising a PS3 when they can pick one up off the shelves. (hahahahaha)

[bean19]

You mean over 500 dollars to get it to play in your home. Not over 700.

No fanboy, I don't mean that. $600 for the system and $60 for the game, then tax = over $700.

Anyone who gets the $500 PS3 is a retard so cut this fucking argument out. IT IS REALISTICALLY OVER $700 FOR A GAMER TO GET A PS3 JUST LIKE IT IS REALISTICALLY OVER $500 TO GET A 360.

Every time you make that argument that is so based in semantics and bullshit, I just want to you to die. You're like the nerd in the back of the class that laughs at the same stupid joke that he retells over and over.

[Kelegacy]

No fanboy, I don't mean that. $600 for the system and $60 for the game, then tax = over $700.

Anyone who gets the $500 PS3 is a retard so cut this fucking argument out. IT IS REALISTICALLY OVER $700 FOR A GAMER TO GET A PS3 JUST LIKE IT IS REALISTICALLY OVER $500 TO GET A 360.

Every time you make that argument that is so based in semantics and bullshit, I just want to you to die. You're like the nerd in the back of the class that laughs at the same stupid joke that he retells over and over.
I'm a fanboy AND a retard? You know, I used to respect a lot of the stuff you had to say. But you just killed any that I had for you, bean. Really.

The 600 dollar PS3 is the same thing as the 500, but with extra gadgets you do NOT need to play a PS3 game. HDMI? Memory Card slots? Whoopty friggin doo. The best feature in the PS3 600 is the bigger hard drive. ANd you can buy any other non-PS3 HDD and install it into your core system, so that's a moot point.

The core 360 was a joke. Here, the core PS3 has all that the 360 premium offers and then some. Me making this argument over and over does NOT make me a fanboy, nor a retard. I'm not going to buy one, but it pisses me off that people think they need to spend 600 dollars on the Premium PS3 to enjoy it. It's a perfectly functional piece of equipment, and you don't even need to buy other gadgets to enjoy it properly, like you would a Core 360.

I was wooed towards the 499 PS3 after constantly saying the 599 was the "real" one, that the core was a joke. EternalGamer and Kefkataran made the great points that the 599 is full of features that I will never use, nor will I need. Why would I need a memory card reader? I don't need HDMI and whatever else is there. The 360 has none of these features, so does that mean the 360 is crippled when compared to the PS3? C'mon, THINK a little.

[bean19]

The point is that you keep making a retarded comparison. The HDMI which is not upgradable is the big difference that matters. You're right about everything else being unnecessary fluff, but who in their right mind is going to buy a system that is suppossed to be good for 10 years (or the actual 5 it is good for) and not buy the equipment necessary to play at the fabled 1080p.

For gamers on a gamer board, it is over $700 for a PS3 and one game. You can go on and on about the retard pack for the 360. I agree that it sucks, but the reality is that the intelligent cost evaluation on a gamer board is over $700. Not simply over $600.

We get the stupid nerdy comparison that you insist on making every fucking time people talk about the PS3's cost. We fucking KNOW that you definitely should buy ONLY the $400 360, and that people who are not gamers or who don't care about 1080p could get away with the $500 PS3, but it is so freaking irrelevant on these boards and so fucking redundant.

We get your little snarky comment. We understand. The core 360 sucks ass and the core PS3 is playable for non-gamers. Go impress a non-gamer board with your redundant comments.

Btw, I actually still respect what you have to say when you're not being redundant and irrelevant. I can completely disagree with something someone says and find them to be acting like the nerdy guy who keeps repeating the same lame joke, but then agree with them in the next breath (on a different subject). . . but you probably already know that. There are tons of people on here who I'll praise and agree with in one post and then completely disagree with in another post. You only got to this stage of ridicule because we've had this discussion rationally like 3 or 4 times, but you still grasp on to any chance to repeat it.

[Kelegacy]

The point is that you keep making a retarded comparison. The HDMI which is not upgradable is the big difference that matters. You're right about everything else being unnecessary fluff, but who in their right mind is going to buy a system that is suppossed to be good for 10 years (or the actual 5 it is good for) and not buy the equipment necessary to play at the fabled 1080p.

For gamers on a gamer board, it is over $700 for a PS3 and one game. You can go on and on about the retard pack for the 360. I agree that it sucks, but the reality is that the intelligent cost evaluation on a gamer board is over $700. Not simply over $600.

We get the stupid nerdy comparison that you insist on making every fucking time people talk about the PS3's cost. We fucking KNOW that you definitely should buy ONLY the $400 360, and that people who are not gamers or who don't care about 1080p could get away with the $500 PS3, but it is so freaking irrelevant on these boards and so fucking redundant.

We get your little snarky comment. We understand. The core 360 sucks ass and the core PS3 is playable for non-gamers. Go impress a non-gamer board with your redundant comments.

Btw, I actually still respect what you have to say when you're not being redundant and irrelevant. I can completely disagree with something someone says and find them to be acting like the nerdy guy who keeps repeating the same lame joke, but then agree with them in the next breath (on a different subject). . . but you probably already know that. There are tons of people on here who I'll praise and agree with in one post and then completely disagree with in another post. You only got to this stage of ridicule because we've had this discussion rationally like 3 or 4 times, but you still grasp on to any chance to repeat it.

I'm not a non-gamer, but I'm buying the 499 version (when it gets games I want, anyway). So I don't know what the fuck you are talking about.

[bean19]

I'm not a non-gamer, but I'm buying the 499 version (when it gets games I want, anyway). So I don't know what the fuck you are talking about.

Oh, well I guess I'm wrong then. My apologies.

Please keep repeating this argument whenever anyone mentions the actual cost the system will be for them. It makes you really cool.

[Kelegacy]

I am going to keep making the same argument. Because it isn't flawed. The PS3 is $499. It's still too expensive, but at least it's not $599.

[MoJoBehaumat]

But really what PS3 launch game is going to make your purchase seem reasonable?!? Where the hell is my killer ap?

[bean19]

I am going to keep making the same argument. Because it isn't flawed. The PS3 is $499. It's still too expensive, but at least it's not $599.

You know, I wouldn't hate this if you would sayit in a way that didn't demand a reply to clarify the inherent problems in your statement. Make your reply include the information that you use to get to that calculation and no one has to reply to correct you and start the same redundant discussion.

Example: "If you don't care about HDMI, memory ports, and wi-fi, or the larger HD, then you could play Relentless for only $600."

If you had written that, it would have been a valid response and not an annoying, redundant, over-used quip.

[Kelegacy]

But really what PS3 launch game is going to make your purchase seem reasonable?!? Where the hell is my killer ap?
None. I'm not buying a PS3 because there are no games I want. But that won't deter the millions of mo-mos that will buy it just because it's "new".

[Xerxes]

This isn't a bad move by MS. I mean you go there with $600 yay. If you don't have a X360, wouldn't you rather jump on the more polished game and wait on ps3 purchase? Unless you fanboying.

[Kelegacy]

You know, I wouldn't hate this if you would sayit in a way that didn't demand a reply to clarify the inherent problems in your statement. Make your reply include the information that you use to get to that calculation and no one has to reply to correct you and start the same redundant discussion.

Example: "If you don't care about HDMI, memory ports, and wi-fi, or the larger HD, then you could play Relentless for only $600."

If you had written that, it would have been a valid response and not an annoying, redundant, over-used quip.
But both versions support 1080p, and they've gone on record to say as much. It doesn't really matter. If you absolutely NEED wi-fi, memory ports and HDMI, then sure, you can spend the extra, but your enjoyment of the PS3 will not be any less if you buy the cheaper model.

The majority of gamers do not need these things. With the 360, the majority of gamers need the HDD, and some games even require it. The core PS3 is perfectly functional out of the box. That's what I'm trying to say. And since I don't need the extra things, as is the case with 90% of the gaming population, the 499 PS3 makes the most sense. It does suck that you can't upgrade some of those features, but none of them are remotely detrimental to your PS3 enjoyment.

[bean19]

None. I'm not buying a PS3 because there are no games I want. But that won't deter the millions of mo-mos that will buy it just because it's "new".

I couldn't agree more.

Honestly, Resistance looks pretty cool. I want to play it really bad, but for that kind of money. . . well it will have to be a game that is earth-shatteringly awesome. . . or a library of truly excellent titles. If the PS3 was advertising a list of games that I really wanted like the 360 was before it's launch, I promise you I'd be singing a different tune. I can be wooed by an abundance of high quality titles. . . Oblivion was a "killer-app" for me too - except that I could play it on my PC. The thing is, with games that have melee and blocking. . . well, I actually preferred palying it on my 360.

Anyway, the point is that while I bitch and moan about the PS3's super high price, I'd totally be working a 2nd job to afford one when it comes out if the game library was excellent. Unfortunately, there is Resistance. . . then a year's wait until something else compelling comes out. . . and less than 5 titles that I'm excited about period: (FF XIII, MGS 4, Assassin's Creed (rumored to be cross platform), Heavy Rain (also rumored to be cross platform)). UT2K7 would be on there but it is defnitely also a PC game (and probably also a 360 game). I'll be getting the PC version because though my PC will have trouble playing it on high settings, I feel that I MUST have keyboard/mouse for that game, and I want to play all the mods that will come with it eventually.

When the PS3 has 20-30 cool games that are either already out and awesome or upcoming, then I'll probably start saving up, but the ridiculous price and the poor library of announced game titles (I'll be happy to be surprised by them if they'll show us more games), make me extremely dissatsified with them.

[bean19]

But both versions support 1080p, and they've gone on record to say as much. It doesn't really matter. If you absolutely NEED wi-fi, memory ports and HDMI, then sure, you can spend the extra, but your enjoyment of the PS3 will not be any less if you buy the cheaper model.

The majority of gamers do not need these things. With the 360, the majority of gamers need the HDD, and some games even require it. The core PS3 is perfectly functional out of the box. That's what I'm trying to say. And since I don't need the extra things, as is the case with 90% of the gaming population, the 499 PS3 makes the most sense. It does suck that you can't upgrade some of those features, but none of them are remotely detrimental to your PS3 enjoyment.

That's a well-reasoned post, and you already know that I agree with you on everything except the usefulness of the HDMI port.

Now post something that includes all the necessary information in your first reply to other people discussing the actual cost of getting a PS3 instead of quipping and I think you'll be less annoying and this same redundant conversation won't be necessary.

[Kelegacy]

That's a well-reasoned post, and you already know that I agree with you on everything except the usefulness of the HDMI port.

Now post something that includes all the necessary information in your first reply to other people discussing the actual cost of getting a PS3 instead of quipping and I think you'll be less annoying and this same redundant conversation won't be necessary.
Quips are more fun. Anyway, it's because I get aggravated lately. I don't even know why. As I said, I was one of those "I can't have fun unless it's the 599 model" guys just a month or so ago. Then people got me thinking: Do I REALLY need that? For myself, I would be buying the higher model for no reason other than it has been forced into my skull as "the better choice". I personally will never use any of those things (at least in all probability). Many people do not even have HDTVs yet, though the HDTV-less people are not necessarily non-gamers. It would be unfair to label them as such. Thus, HDMI is a small niche at best. I agree that planning for the future might be realistic, but if I do end up with a tv that can use 1080p and my PS3 doesn't support HDMI, I think I can live with that. I will still get 1080p, but I won't get that extra HDMI benefit.

Don't get angry when I continue to use the "No, it's 500," phrase around here. I'm gonna keep doing it until I get hated by everyone. I think it's unfair to keep saying it's 600 dollars and only 600. We are having fun with our 360s right now, right? And it doesn't support all that extra stuff.

See, 499 is just fine. (besides being 100 bucks too expensive!)

[bean19]

Here's the thing though. If you don't post that with it, then someone else will, and instead of talking about the original post or the topic that someone else was discussing, we'll be back to comparing the two versions of the PS3 to each other. . . and it's boring.

If you post incomplete thoughts - especially just $500 instead of the just $600 it would actually cost to get the lesser PS3 and one game, then someone will jump in. . . thus another thread hijack.

[Kelegacy]

Here's the thing though. If you don't post that with it, then someone else will, and instead of talking about the original post or the topic that someone else was discussing, we'll be back to comparing the two versions of the PS3 to each other. . . and it's boring.

If you post incomplete thoughts - especially just $500 instead of the just $600 it would actually cost to get the lesser PS3 and one game, then someone will jump in. . . thus another thread hijack.
Maybe I should just put it in my signature so I don't have to keep repeating myself? :)

[Jack B]

Maybe I should just put it in my signature so I don't have to keep repeating myself? :)

I'd agree that your $499 PS3 love makes a lot of sense for some people. I'd prefer that version as well, mainly because of the 20gb hard drive. As for the lack of HDMI. By the time HDMI is actually needed in a few years, I'd probably have bought a real Blu-Ray or HD-DVD drive. If not I'd likely just get an external one for the PS3 or 360. :)

[Goronmon]

It happens more often than you think. I think the parents just want to shut their kids up in the meantime. To them, they don't really see a difference between an XBox 360 and a PS3. The only difference they get is what the salesman tells them. Most don't know anything about system exclusives, HDTV, online, etc etc. It's just this gaming system or that.
Again, I have to ask...are you sure?

I have never seen anything other than anecdotal evidence that a parent will replace one system for another because of availability. I doubt any parents who post on EA will have done it because you have to be a pretty knowledgable gamer already to even find this site, let alone post on it.

Still, I'd like to see/hear of some concrete examples where parents are replacing the equivalent of a PS3 with the equivalent of a XBox 360. IMO, I doubt it happens that much at all, and the number of times it does happen will not effect the number of systems sold enough to consider it worth worrying about.

[51|RandoM]

I'd agree that your $499 PS3 love makes a lot of sense for some people. I'd prefer that version, mainly because of the 20gb hard drive. As for the lack of HDMI. By the time HDMI is actually needed in a few years, I'd probably have bought a real Blu-Ray or HD-DVD drive. If not I'd likely just get an external one for the PS3 or 360. :)

Same here. Nothing extra on the premium ps3 has anything to do with its ability as a game console.

I don't think HDMI is ever going to be needed. The only possible reason to need it would be universal adoption of HDCP, with no other alternatives for the content in question---which is never going to happen. The cat is already out of the the bag, regardless of how many attempts the MPIAA and RIAA try to shove it back into the bag with various attempts at draconian DRM.

[51|RandoM]

Is my mind in the gutter today or is there actually something sexual about that? :D

http://www.ministryofsound.com/Life/SexandRomance/Features/slangdictionary.htm

[51|RandoM]

I was right, there is no god!

...or he/she/it has a really bad sense of humor.

[51|RandoM]

But really what PS3 launch game is going to make your purchase seem reasonable?!? Where the hell is my killer ap?

Does 360 have one yet? Kind of a silly question coming from me, I suppose, since I got one solely for chromehounds, but I am a mechwarrior freak.

3 out of the 4 top 360 games currently available---my viewpoint---I have on PC.

[absolut taco]

http://www.ministryofsound.com/Life/SexandRomance/Features/slangdictionary.htm
Thank you!

[Magnanimous Gnome]

The only box I'd pay extra for has fur on it.


I have no idea what you are talking about here, and I have a hunch that I don't want to know. :confused:




I'm curious about this game - I hope that it turns out well. Still, I don't think everyone should be so quick to claim that it'll be AAA. The graphics look nice, but how does it play? I haven't seen many previews on the game, but maybe I just missed them.

I still recall all the controversy over the shots that Epic released months and months ago - some of you guys were ready to kill each other. :p

[Jack B]

I'm curious about this game - I hope that it turns out well. Still, I don't think everyone should be so quick to claim that it'll be AAA. The graphics look nice, but how does it play? I haven't seen many previews on the game, but maybe I just missed them.

Just go to IGN.com or 1up.com or Gamespot.com and go to the Gears of War page. I was just at IGN and they had about 40 news pieces. Of number of them were hands on impressions of multiplayer gameplay.

At E3 it was game of the show on many sites or 360 game of the show or FPS game of the show and it was playable, that wasn't based off FMV.

Nothing a given, but Microsoft and Epic seem as confident as you can be about putting all their eggs in this basket. If it wasn't playable multiplayer at E3 and if it wasn't Epic, I might be a bit more skeptical.

This could end up being a mid 80's game, but I'd say 90%+ is a very definite possibility based upon hands on impressions from many many reviewers at E3. :)

[absolut taco]

I still recall all the controversy over the shots that Epic released months and months ago - some of you guys were ready to kill each other. :p
That's a daily occurrence here...

[Magnanimous Gnome]

The difference though is not the gamers...it's the parents. When they can't find a PS3 for their kid for X-mas...some will jump ship and pick up a Wii or 360 instead.


This didn't happen with the PS2 launch though. Remember? Sony had big production problems and ended up shipping far fewer units than they had planned on. There was a huge shortage, but you didn't see people picking up the Dreamcast instead - you saw them kiling each other trying to get a PS2. Obviously the situation isn't exactly the same now, but I think it's silly to assume that the PS3's shortages will lead to lots of extra sales for the 360.

[Magnanimous Gnome]

I for one, tell people, as do most of the folks I work with, that the PS3 is a glorified blu-ray player that just happens to play games too. I think the diffrence in graphics between the two systems will be less noticeable then then the graphic gap between xbox and Ps2.


Personally I get annoyed when salespeople show an obvious bias towards one system or another. Then again I hate being pressured to buy something period. I still remember all the salespeople who would tell people not to buy a Dreamcast because the PS2 was going to "be sooo much better." Bastards. :p

I also remember the saleslady who told me that the Xbox could play PC games. In hindsight she was kind of right. ;)

[Jack B]

Does 360 have one yet? Kind of a silly question coming from me, I suppose, since I got one solely for chromehounds, but I am a mechwarrior freak.

3 out of the 4 top 360 games currently available---my viewpoint---I have on PC.

That makes sense for a PC Gamer, but I got off the PC upgrade treadmill and slide into my leather chair and ottoman combo in front of my large HDTV with the great sound about 4 years ago.

For those of us who's PC needs a serious overhaul to play today's PC games, it's actually a bonus to have PC and 360 titles on both platforms not a negative. In my world, that is an 'exclusive' since I don't have a powerful PC.

The other big bonus for me is that with Live Anywhere, I'm looking forward to expanding my friends list and potential community to the PC gamers. FPS's could be tricky balancing the mouse/KB vs console auto aiming debate, but role playing games, board games, racing games, strategy, , platformers, puzzle, arcade and a bunch I'm not even thinking of will work well with both PC and 360 owners playing together online.

I like that idea. Bring on the PC/360 titles and let's expand our friends lists... Uniting those two worlds (PC & 360) should help both communities.