Final Fantasy XIII on Cross-Platform Engine

[Kamalot]

Chris Kohler over at Wired's Game|Life blog picked up on an interesting bit of information (http://blog.wired.com/games/2007/09/final-fantasy-x.html) revealed at the Game Developer Conference. Apparently, the White Engine used to power Final Fantasy XIII has gone cross-platform. The proprietary engine was previously PS3-specific and, according to the Wiki article (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Final_Fantasy_XIII), "reportedly uses four of the six developer-available synergistic processing elements (SPEs) of the Cell microprocessor to achieve near-pre-rendered CGI quality in realtime."

Development is proceeding smoothly now, with the framework now beginning to take shape. Last year we went through a development reorganization, with the development of our own cross-platform middleware – the white engine.

If the Final Fantasy is only coming to the Playstation 3, why bother making the engine behind it multiplatform?

[wezlypipz]

This is old news. Saw a similar post few months back.

[Gorvi]

If the Final Fantasy is only coming to the Playstation 3, why bother making the engine behind it multiplatform?
Maybe because they were developing their own inhouse engine not limited to only one game?

[violentp]

Speculation, HOOOOOOOO!

[Gorvi]

Speculation, HOOOOOOOO!
Bah, there's no speculation. This is confirmation that FFXIII is coming to the 360. This also means MGS4 is as well. :rolleyes:

[Skyelan]

I bet this thread will be full of intelligent, curteous, thought provoking talk. And then I bet Zeal will denounce Halo 3 and start having a love affair with Nintendo. And then easi will become the smartest man on earth.

Yep, I bet that's how this will go.

[violentp]

Bah, there's no speculation. This is confirmation that FFXIII is coming to the 360. This also means MGS4 is as well. :rolleyes:

Oh it's coming. The shitstorm of conspiracy is on the horizon. And I, I will light a cigar and watch the world burn.

EDIT: Damn. That was a little too dramatic even for me.

[Codicier]

It would be nice to see a game made on something other than the Unreal 3 engine.

[Gorvi]

Oh it's coming. The shitstorm of conspiracy is on the horizon. And I, I will light a cigar and watch the world burn.

EDIT: Damn. That was a little too dramatic even for me.
Dramatic? I thought it was tongue in cheek. :p

[Siraris]

This has been known for over a YEAR now. Wow, this guy is on top of it!

[Grimmjow]

I don't need a ps3 if FFXIII and MGS4 is coming to 360!

wait a minute.....

[Kamalot]

This has been known for over a YEAR now. Wow, this guy is on top of it!

Please provide links indicating that, prior to this news, the White Engine was cross-platform.

If you are so right, and Chris is so wrong, then step up to the plate and prove it.

[Skytram]

If the Final Fantasy is only coming to the Playstation 3, why bother making the engine behind it multiplatform?

Because it's a better, cleaner approach to building an engine from the ground up.

[Skyelan]

Please provide links indicating that, prior to this news, the White Engine was cross-platform.

If you are so right, and Chris is so wrong, then step up to the plate and prove it.

That's a nice story, Siraris... But without any proof that's all it is.

The only thing that matters in this court is evidence! Do you have any evidence that proves it happened like you claim!?

[Wraith]

The entire text of Game|Life's post:It's currently only announced for PlayStation 3, but Square Enix's Hiromichi Tanaka said in his keynote address at Austin GDC that Final Fantasy XIII is being developed with a "cross-platform" engine:Development is proceeding smoothly now, with the framework now beginning to take shape. Last year we went through a development reorganization, with the development of our own cross-platform middleware – the white engine. This is the foundation for FFXIII and the new MMO.The "new MMO" he refers to is an as-yet-untitled project that is indeed multiplatform. But the White Engine, up until this point, had always been referenced as PlayStation 3-specific. While this doesn't mean we should expect the game on more platforms, it certainly opens the door quite a bit more.Of course they're going to want an MMO to be multiplatform. FFXI was released for PC, PS2 and Xbox 360, and they still have a decent subscriber base paying those monthly fees. Most likely this new MMO will see a PS3, PC, 360 release.

Doesn't mean XIII will, but it should make it a lot easier, if they decide to do so.

[Grifter]

I know for a fact it was posted here as news quite a few months back. The problem is a lot of the old EvAv database as been purged so it may not be possible to find it here.

[Wraith]

I know for a fact it was posted here as news quite a few months back. The problem is a lot of the old EvAv database as been purged so it may not be possible to find it here.You're not thinking of the announcement a while back about the XIII franchise going beyond just the PS3 (i.e. cell phone games, and possibly other installments on 360, if not the main XIII game)?

[Kamalot]

I know for a fact it was posted here as news quite a few months back. The problem is a lot of the old EvAv database as been purged so it may not be possible to find it here.

What you may be remembering is that Square Enix licensed the Unreal 3 Engine a number of months ago (April I believe). Yet Final Fantasy XIII is not running on the Unreal Engine. That engine is to be used on other projects.

[Gorvi]

Sakaguchi, in an interview with Gamespot (http://uk.gamespot.com/news/6167571.html?tag=topslot;title;1&om_act=convert&om_clk=topslot) back in March:
HS: I feel that the Final Fantasy series should come to Xbox 360 as well. This is wise. It makes so much sense to me...it has so much potential in North America and in Europe. So there's a great chance for the series to succeed on 360 as well.

[in English] And I heard they made the White Engine open platform as well. [Final Fantasy XIII is being developed on the White Engine; if the engine is indeed cross-platform, an Xbox 360 port would be a simple matter. -ed.]
This is the interview that started the whole FFXIII on the 360 BS rumors.

This was the best I could find in a quick Google search.

EDIT: Either way, they're using it for their next MMO, so it makes sense that it's a multiplatform engine. I doubt this is going to be the first multiplatform non-MMO FF game.

[wezlypipz]

Bah, there's no speculation. This is confirmation that FFXIII is coming to the 360. This also means MGS4 is as well. :rolleyes:


This confirms nothing. It is a game engine, not a finished product. They can use this engine for any amount of sequel or IPOs, c'mon people do you really think Sony will let the 360 get their hands on this after losing their other money-makers?

[Kamalot]

Sakaguchi, in an interview with Gamespot (http://uk.gamespot.com/news/6167571.html?tag=topslot;title;1&om_act=convert&om_clk=topslot) back in March:

This is the interview that started the whole FFXIII on the 360 BS rumors.

This was the best I could find in a quick Google search.

EDIT: Either way, they're using it for their next MMO, so it makes sense that it's a multiplatform engine.

I remember this. It was brought up here on Evil Avatar and was shot down as rumor since Sakaguchi is not an employee of Square and was merely speculating on what Square Enix may/should do. In fact, his employer, Mistwalker, makes high-profile RPGs for the Xbox 360. Anything he said about a competitor should be taken with a grain of salt.

Edit: Here's the thread (http://www.evilavatar.com/forums/showthread.php?t=27071).
And here is a post from you Gorvi saying that Sakaguchi has nothing to do with Final Fantasy (http://www.evilavatar.com/forums/showpost.php?p=705006&postcount=37).

Sorry, but you can't use that as 'proof' that this was common knowledge before now, especially when you yourself have already discounted the original story.

[digitalErich]

Simpsons did it

[Gorvi]

This confirms nothing. It is a game engine, not a finished product. They can use this engine for any amount of sequel or IPOs, c'mon people do you really think Sony will let the 360 get their hands on this after losing their other money-makers?
I think you missed my sarcasm there. :p

[Siraris]

Please provide links indicating that, prior to this news, the White Engine was cross-platform.

If you are so right, and Chris is so wrong, then step up to the plate and prove it.

http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=12531

The company has previously stressed its proprietary White Engine, which it had implied would be used for the company’s key next generation titles. Real-time demonstrations of the White Engine’s use in the forthcoming Final Fantasy XIII for the PlayStation 3 have already been received favorably, with most commentators agreeing that it features some of the best graphics yet seen on the format.

http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=54069


by Johnny K | 05/08/2006 | 9:15:46 PM PST

When described by top Square Enix developers, it became clear that the company set its targets on creating the most visually arresting game on any console, as well as deliver exciting, new gaming content. To go about the first target, they created a new engine dubbed WHITE-ENGINE, which was actually a produce of last year's E3 Final Fantasy VII PS3 tech demo.

[Skyelan]

This confirms nothing. It is a game engine, not a finished product. They can use this engine for any amount of sequel or IPOs, c'mon people do you really think Sony will let the 360 get their hands on this after losing their other money-makers?

Holy shit, did you actually think Gorvi was being serious?

Now we've come full circle. Kam's been accused of being Sony fanboys, and now Gorvi is being portrayed as a 360 fanboy. Me? I've been accused of being all three at different times. Will wonders never cease?

[CaptStu]

Can I just say how good it is to have Kamalot back and mixing things up again? We missed you.

[Kamalot]

Can I just say how good it is to have Kamalot back and mixing things up again? We missed you.

I aim to please! :D

[Kamalot]

http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=12531



http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=54069

Perhaps I am mistaken, but I thought you were going to try and prove that the White Engine was known as a cross-platform engine for over a year now. All I see in these articles is that the White Engine is used for key Square Enix titles, that it produces fantastic results, and absolutely no information about it being cross platform. In fact, one article is about the use of Unreal Engine as a cross-platform solution, saying that White Engine was for PS3.

Care to try again?

[CooterTKE]

isn't it smart for devs to make cross platform engines so that they can easily make games for other consoles? Say FFXIII doesn't come to the 360 but they have another game that will be for the 360 & PS3 I would think it would be smart to have an engine they can use for both systems instead of just one for each.

[Codicier]

http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=12531



http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=54069

I can't go to the links from work, but neither of the quotes give any indication that the engine was going to be cross-platform middleware.

Edit: I guess I'll just stay out of Kam's way.

[presage]

I believe I saw something in the talk at GDC by the head guys of FFXI that they will be using the White Engine for their new cross-platform MMO. I think they said they were waiting for the White Engine to be finished before more announcements on the MMO. Dragon Quest Online maybe?

11:54 AM CST: What about next gen? FFXI looks outdated compared to newer products, which is why Square Enix has been working on a completely new MMORPG for the Xbox 360.

11:55 AM CST: The "White Engine," a common engine, common middleware for all platforms. Almost ready for the next generation of software.

11:57 AM CST: Shouldn't be much longer before they can unviel more details, but for now, thank you.

[Skyelan]

http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=12531



http://www.gamepro.com/news.cfm?article_id=54069

"THIS EVIDENCE DIRECTLY CONTRADICTS THE PROSECUTION'S ALLEGATIONS!!"

"Really? Where? I don't see anything about the white engine being cross platform, only that FFXIII is being made on it."

"...I-It really isn't related, your honor. I w-was just giving you something to do. Because you looked, uh, bored."

"Oh? My, how kind. Now I can occupy myself with giving you a penalty."

[Grifter]

What you may be remembering is that Square Enix licensed the Unreal 3 Engine a number of months ago (April I believe). Yet Final Fantasy XIII is not running on the Unreal Engine. That engine is to be used on other projects.

No, I am positive I was reading about the White Engine being multi-platform. I only get my news from two sites, here and [H]ard|OCP and the [H] doesn't really do news like this.

I ran a search and didn't find anything but I am positive I read this here months ago. I'll keep digging.

[Gorvi]

"THIS EVIDENCE DIRECTLY CONTRADICTS THE TESTIMONY!"

"Really? Where? I don't see anything about the white engine being cross platform, only that FFXIII is being made on it."

"...I-It really isn't related, your honor. I w-was just giving you something to do. Because you looked bored."

"Oh? My, how kind. Now I can occupy myself with giving you a penalty."
http://videolamer.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2006/08/pw1.jpg

Yeah, I've got nothin', I just wanted to post that. :)

[donkeydrop]

If the Final Fantasy is only coming to the Playstation 3, why bother making the engine behind it multiplatform?

Because they are developing an MMO using the same engine. Just like FFXI this MMO will be multiplatform. Keep in mind that FFXI is still bringing in $5 million per month for SE, easily their most profitable game, so they will be putting a lot of resources into the new MMO.

[Skyelan]

Yeah, I've got nothin', I just wanted to post that. :)

I don't even have an opinion on the matter, I'm just bored. And playing some Gyakuten Meets Orchestra. ;)

[Grifter]

Holy shit, did you actually think Gorvi was being serious?

Now we've come full circle. Kam's been accused of being Sony fanboys, and now Gorvi is being portrayed as a 360 fanboy. Me? I've been accused of being all three at different times. Will wonders never cease?

Yeah and I am defending Siraris, it's a sad day here on EvAv...I feel kind of dirty.

[UnderHero5]

The Unreal Engine is cross platform. Is PS3 getting Gears of War?

I hope FF13 comes to all platforms, the more the merrier, but the engine being cross platform really doesn't prove anything. Especially since it's being used for other games.

[Gorvi]

Because they are developing an MMO using the same engine. Just like FFXI this MMO will be multiplatform. Keep in mind that FFXI is still bringing in $5 million per month for SE, easily their most profitable game, so they will be putting a lot of resources into the new MMO.
Yep, you've got it. And it's closer to $6.5 million per month, but who's counting? :p

[donkeydrop]

Another interesting quote from Hiromichi Tanaka implies that they could get the White Engine running on Wii, but that they are blocked because of Nintendo's policies (for online games):

"As for Nintendo Wii, it would be pretty difficult. Nintendo is not currently allowing cross-platform [online] titles," he said. "Currently we are not looking at Wii as a platform for the new MMORPG. It is possible technically, however."

[donkeydrop]

The Unreal Engine is cross platform. Is PS3 getting Gears of War?



Yes, didn't you read the new article at SDF :p ...or was that Bioshock lol

[Podfork]

The Unreal Engine is cross platform. Is PS3 getting Gears of War?

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/4424/ohoq9.jpg

[Devilturnip]

If the Final Fantasy is only coming to the Playstation 3, why bother making the engine behind it multiplatform?

If Gears of War was only coming to the 360, why bother making the engine behind it multiplatform?

See how dumb that sounds?

EDIT: Looks like someone beat me to the analogy.

[Siraris]

If Gears of War was only coming to the 360, why bother making the engine behind it multiplayer?

See how dumb that sounds?

EDIT: Looks like someone beat me to the analogy.

It sounds even dumber because it's multiplatFORM and not multiplayer.

[Goronmon]

If Gears of War was only coming to the 360, why bother making the engine behind it multiplayer?

See how dumb that sounds?Except Epic builds middleware engines specifically to license them out to other developers. How many engine licenses has Squeenix sold?

[Kamalot]

It sounds even dumber because it's multiplatFORM and not multiplayer.

So, I see you've resorted to making fun of people's typos instead of defending your own post.

[Goronmon]

So, I see you've resorted to making fun of people's typos instead of defending your own post.Well, he was making fun of the guy calling your post dumb, so I wouldn't jump all over him too quickly. :p

[DeskJob]

So, next Square Enix MMO will also be on PC.

[NeoSuplex]

This is the same engine that's being used for The new Next-Gen MMO, which is already confirmed as Multi-Platform. As much as I do believe FFXIII is going to end up multi-platform, this is far from a confirmation or even a hint. No point in making stuff up when the real news will be coming soon enough.
Spring, baby.

[Devilturnip]

It sounds even dumber because it's multiplatFORM and not multiplayer.

Gah! I just woke up, and I fixed it as soon as I saw it. That'll learn me.

[Devilturnip]

Except Epic builds middleware engines specifically to license them out to other developers. How many engine licenses has Squeenix sold?

Way to miss the point. I'm fairly sure that Square Enix makes more games than just Final Fantasy. Hell, I'm pretty sure that they are making more Final Fantasies than just XIII. Is it possible the engine will be used for other platforms, or should we immediately jump to the conclusion that XIII will be coming to all platforms despite them expressly claiming otherwise?

[Kamalot]

Well, he was making fun of the guy calling your post dumb, so I wouldn't jump all over him too quickly. :p

No worries. I've gotten a lot of good feedback from the original article. Basically, the White Engine is being used on a multi-platform project in addition to Final Fantasy XIII. I understand that. In fact, I never stated that Final Fantasy XIII was coming to the 360. I don't believe that for a second.

I'm still waiting on the proof that that the White Engine being multiplatform is old news. presage is close with his post about GDC, but I don't see any sources yet, so someone can still grab the prize.

We work very hard on this site to provide quality news stories worthy of discussion. It is a shame to see someone who's been around so long as Siraris to come along with destructive tendencies instead of promoting a healthy discussion. Entering a forum and saying, 'old news. We all knew this for a year' does not help.

If it was a double-post, it would be taken off the home page. But clearly that isn't the case. Even if there were some rumblings about the possibility of the White Engine going multiplatform, it was not public knowledge as none of the big gaming sites have noted it, nor has Wikipedia.

This is news.

[Gorvi]

Kam, with that being the case, wouldn't it have been better to title the news post "Square Enix's White Engine Is Multiplatform"? The way you worded it, it's very easy to interpret that as referring to the game itself being (possibly) multiplatform.

[wezlypipz]

I think you missed my sarcasm there. :p

def. did, sorry :D

[wezlypipz]

Holy shit, did you actually think Gorvi was being serious?

Now we've come full circle. Kam's been accused of being Sony fanboys, and now Gorvi is being portrayed as a 360 fanboy. Me? I've been accused of being all three at different times. Will wonders never cease?

yeah I know, completely missed the train on that one :eek:

[Johan]

I don't know if MGS4 or FF XIII will be on any other platforms than Sony's PS3, and I don't even give a shit myself. I can barely tolerate FF on a handheld, where I think it fits nicely.

All I can say is that IF it happens, I'm gonna laugh my damn ass off and enjoy a nice beer while I watch the fanboys asplode. Oh man, would that day be an absolute blast. What entertainment...

[Goronmon]

Way to miss the point.I know exactly what your point was. "My" point was that Epic isn't that great of an example because they are in the business of making multi-platform game engines. Square is not. So, it makes more sense that Epic would develop a platform exclusive title with an in-house multi-platform engine than it does for Square.

[Khash]

I can't wait to play this game on my iPhone.

[Johan]

I forgot to add that there will be enough Final Fantasy titles in the next eighteen months or so (around a dozen, I believe) to keep everyone happily sucking on the teat of that fat-assed cow, too.

[Narcissus]

We work very hard on this site to provide quality news stories worthy of discussion. It is a shame to see someone who's been around so long as Siraris to come along with destructive tendencies instead of promoting a healthy discussion. Entering a forum and saying, 'old news. We all knew this for a year' does not help.Seeing a lot of this lately. Seems like grasping when, rather than argue with the substance of the post, they'll instead pick on some peripheral issue or attack the integrity of the poster.

As for FFXIII going multi-platform, I can't see it happening. Sony has too much riding on it.

[wezlypipz]

I know exactly what your point was. "My" point was that Epic isn't that great of an example because they are in the business of making multi-platform game engines. Square is not. So, it makes more sense that Epic would develop a platform exclusive title with an in-house multi-platform engine than it does for Square.

and it really isn't a valid pint because SE pumps out many more games then Epic does soooooo... even if they just use it then it's still worth it. :eek:

[Kamalot]

and it really isn't a valid pint because SE pumps out many more games then Epic does soooooo... even if they just use it then it's still worth it. :eek:

Square Enix does pump out more games than Epic does. Yet Square Enix does not pump out more games than are developed on the Unreal Engine. In fact, some of Square's own titles will be running on the Unreal Engine.

[Devilturnip]

I know exactly what your point was. "My" point was that Epic isn't that great of an example because they are in the business of making multi-platform game engines. Square is not. So, it makes more sense that Epic would develop a platform exclusive title with an in-house multi-platform engine than it does for Square.

Your point is invalid. It seems now that both the U3 engine and the White engine will be used to build multiple games on multiple platforms. That, as far as I'm concerned, is where the comparison stops. Otherwise this will turn into one of those fruitless arguments about which company intends what for what reason, and I don't want to get into that.

[Goronmon]

and it really isn't a valid pint because SE pumps out many more games then Epic does soooooo... even if they just use it then it's still worth it. :eek:And how many of these upcoming titles do we know is using the White engine?

Your point is invalid.Then I guess your point is invalid as well...

[Gorvi]

and it really isn't a valid pint because SE pumps out many more games then Epic does soooooo... even if they just use it then it's still worth it. :eek:
It's a valid point, but you're missing the reason why. SE makes their engine only for themselves, while Epic makes theirs not only for their own games, but to sell as well to other developers. That reason alone is why his point is valid.

[DangerousDaze]

I guess this is similar to the potential of PGR4 being available on PC and PS3.

[Goronmon]

Otherwise this will turn into one of those fruitless arguments about which company intends what for what reason, and I don't want to get into that.Hate to break it to you, but it was one of those arguments starting with the original post.

[Devilturnip]

Then I guess your point is invalid as well...

::shrug:: Just because every detail of analogy does not match up, it does not make that analogy worthless. I know that this won't convince you, and frankly I'm done with this conversation.

Back to the OP and Kamalot, I think the wording could have been better. I'm not saying this to criticize, but rather because I want to see the quality on this site continually improve. By phrasing your last observation as a question, you left it open to interpretation and it resulted in a ridiculous discussion.

Just my two cents.

[Goronmon]

::shrug:: Just because every detail of analogy does not match up, it does not make that analogy worthless. I know that this won't convince you, and frankly I'm done with this conversation.Then I'm not sure why you think my point is invalid, when you admit that the analogy isn't perfect.

Back to the OP and Kamalot, I think the wording could have been better. I'm not saying this to criticize, but rather because I want to see the quality on this site continually improve. By phrasing your last observation as a question, you left it open to interpretation and it resulted in a ridiculous discussion.Meh, the italicized comments have always been there to allow for the OP to make a comment on the news. It's one of the perks you get for posting the news first. And I'm not sure what is so ridiculous about this discussion.

[Ozymandias]

Please provide links indicating that, prior to this news, the White Engine was cross-platform.

If you are so right, and Chris is so wrong, then step up to the plate and prove it.

He's right - it was highlighted as being cross-platform earlier. I can't dig up links right now, but I remember it well.

[UnderHero5]

Then I'm not sure why you think my point is invalid, when you admit that the analogy isn't perfect.


I think you guys are over analyzing my analogy.
The part of my analogy that actually matters is this...

Gears of War is on a multiplatform engine.
That doesn't mean it's coming to every platform that engine supports.

FF13 is on a multiplatform engine.
That doesn't mean it's coming to every platform that engine supports.

Going past that is simply missing my point, and over thinking my analogy.
The point of the analogy was to say "just because an engine supports more than one platform, doesn't mean any game using it will".

If you don't like the analogy because Epic makes a middleware engine, then how about Rockstar?

Rockstars Rage engine (used in Table Tennis and GTA4) is a multiplatform engine. That doesn't mean GTA4 is coming to the Wii, does it?

There. Is that a better analogy for you?

If you think every detail of an analogy has to be exact, then you're missing the point of an analogy.

[Goronmon]

Rockstars Rage engine (used in Table Tennis and GTA4) is a multiplatform engine. That doesn't mean GTA4 is coming to the Wii, does it?Well, that one is worse because it is coming out for both the PS3 and the 360.

If you think every detail of an analogy has to be exact, then you're missing the point of an analogy.Hence the problem with analogies, they usually suck and don't show/explain much. Which is why I tend to point out the flaws in the ones that people use.

Anyways, I wasn't responding to your post in the first place. :p

[Goronmon]

He's right - it was highlighted as being cross-platform earlier. I can't dig up links right now, but I remember it well.I boned your mom last night. I can't provide any proof right now, but I remember it well.Alright, now I'm just trolling haha.

[UnderHero5]

Well, that one is worse because it is coming out for both the PS3 and the 360.

Hence the problem with analogies, they usually suck and don't show/explain much. Which is why I tend to point out the flaws in the ones that people use.

Anyways, I wasn't responding to your post in the first place. :p

I was the one who started the Unreal Engine analogy though, and many people are picking it apart.

How is the Rockstart one WORSE??

I don't think you understand what an analogy is. I think that's the problem, lol. No offense intended. An analogy is NOT supposed to reflect perfectly, by definition. You do know that, right?

Yes, I'm breaking out a definition...
a·nal·o·gy (ə-năl'ə-jē) pronunciation
n., pl. -gies.
1. Similarity in some respects between things that are otherwise dissimilar.
2. A comparison based on such similarity. See synonyms at likeness.

[CaptStu]

I boned your mom last night. I can't provide any proof right now, but I remember it well.Alright, now I'm just trolling haha.

Dude. What's with all of the hostility towards our MS friend? Not cool.

[Kamalot]

If you don't like the analogy because Epic makes a middleware engine, then how about Rockstar?

Rockstars Rage engine (used in Table Tennis and GTA4) is a multiplatform engine. That doesn't mean GTA4 is coming to the Wii, does it?

Isn't Rockstar's Table Tennis coming to Wii?

[Gorvi]

Isn't Rockstar's Table Tennis coming to Wii?
A better comparison would be to speculate that the game is coming to the PS3.

[Kamalot]

A better comparison would be to speculate that the game is coming to the PS3.

How would a speculation be a comparison? We know for a fact that Rockstar's games built on multi-platform engines are indeed going to other platforms. There's no speculation necessary, nor is it helpful.

[UnderHero5]

Isn't Rockstar's Table Tennis coming to Wii?

*sigh*...
YES!!

The point is GTA 4 is not.
The engine is multiplatform.
Some games using the engine are multiplatform.
That doesn't mean GTA4 is going to be on every console the engine supports. That's the point of the analogy!!

Now you guys are fucking with me, aren't you!

The analogy is between GTA4 and FF13. Leave Table Tennis out of it!

Does no one on this site understand what an analogy is? lol
:p

[UnderHero5]

How would a speculation be a comparison? We know for a fact that Rockstar's games built on multi-platform engines are indeed going to other platforms. There's no speculation necessary, nor is it helpful.

Yes, CERTAIN games are going to CERTAIN other platforms.
Just because the engine supports Wii, 360, and PS3 doesn't mean Table Tennis is coming to PS3, and it doesn't mean GTA4 is going to Wii.

You have to be playing stupid. I know you're doing it on purpose :confused:

[Gorvi]

How would a speculation be a comparison? We know for a fact that Rockstar's games built on multi-platform engines are indeed going to other platforms. There's no speculation necessary, nor is it helpful.
I don't think you're getting what I'm saying here. There's speculation that FFXIII could go multiplatform because it's on a multiplatform engine. The same could be said about a game on the RAGE engine, since it's also multiplatform. Hence assuming that Table Tennis could be ported to the PS3 would be a parallel. The fact that it's coming to the Wii already doesn't really matter.

[Kamalot]

Yes, CERTAIN games are going to CERTAIN other platforms.
Just because the engine supports Wii, 360, and PS3 doesn't mean Table Tennis is coming to PS3, and it doesn't mean GTA4 is going to Wii.

You have to be playing stupid. I know you're doing it on purpose :confused:

I'm not playing stupid. (Maybe I really am stupid)
I simply don't know what the argument really is. I never stated that Table Tennis was coming to the PS3, or that GTA was coming to Wii, or that Final Fantasy was coming to the N-Gage.

Where did you ever get the impression that a game built on a multiplatform engine MUST show up on multiple platforms? Seriously? Who here is arguing that?

[UnderHero5]

I don't think you're getting what I'm saying here. There's speculation that FFXIII could go multiplatform because it's on a multiplatform engine. The same could be said about a game on the RAGE engine, since it's also multiplatform. Hence assuming that Table Tennis could be ported to the PS3 would be a parallel. The fact that it's coming to the Wii already doesn't really matter.

*makes sweet love to your rectum*
Thank you.

[Gorvi]

Does no one on this site understand what an analogy is? lol
:p
That's when two words have the same definition, right? :p
Now I am fucking with you. =)

[UnderHero5]

I'm not playing stupid. (Maybe I really am stupid)
I simply don't know what the argument really is. I never stated that Table Tennis was coming to the PS3, or that GTA was coming to Wii, or that Final Fantasy was coming to the N-Gage.

Where did you ever get the impression that a game built on a multiplatform engine MUST show up on multiple platforms? Seriously? Who here is arguing that?

..... have you even been reading the thread? Or even the comment you made in the news post?

If the Final Fantasy is only coming to the Playstation 3, why bother making the engine behind it multiplatform?
If that doesn't imply something, then you aren't reading it like the rest of us are.

I know you're not this dumb, so I'm going to stop taking the bait now. :p

[Kamalot]

If that doesn't imply something, then you aren't reading it like the rest of us are.

I know you're not this dumb, so I'm going to stop taking the bait now. :p

It was a question in the original post. One that was quickly answered with a bevy of responses. I've even made a summary of them. when I said, "Basically, the White Engine is being used on a multi-platform project in addition to Final Fantasy XIII. I understand that. In fact, I never stated that Final Fantasy XIII was coming to the 360. I don't believe that for a second."

Try reading the thread yourself. I don't see many people arguing that Final Fantasy XIII is coming to anything other than the PS3, nor do I see people stating that a game on a multiplatform engine MUST come to other platforms.

All I see are people arguing over the speculation that something may happen, which seems fruitless.

[DangerousDaze]

Rockstars Rage engine (used in Table Tennis and GTA4) is a multiplatform engine. That doesn't mean GTA4 is coming to the Wii, does it?

And as I intimated earlier (but was probably mistaken for a troll), Bizarre's "internal shared tech systems are running across several platforms", according to PGR4 community lead, Ben Ward (http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=169580).

[Disgustipated]

Final Fantasy is fucking boring.

[Goronmon]

I don't think you understand what an analogy is. I think that's the problem, lol. No offense intended. An analogy is NOT supposed to reflect perfectly, by definition. You do know that, right?So, analogies are exempt from criticism now? I don't seem to see that in the definition you included in your oh-so-witty reply.

The analogy was brought up. I pointed out the flaw in the analogy (since, like you so deftly pointed out, all analogies have flaws) and then I get a bunch of geniuses claiming I'm not allowed to criticize the analogy.

Well, I apologize if I hurt your feelings. Perhaps I gave you too much credit by assuming you'd try to strengthen your position rather than quote the dictionary.

Dude. What's with all of the hostility towards our MS friend? Not cool.Hey, it's all in fun, hence the spoiler text.

[Gorvi]

Final Fantasy is fucking boring.
You're boring!

http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/images/8/83/ScrollofBurn.PNG

[Disgustipated]

You're boring!

http://wiki.ffxiclopedia.org/images/8/83/ScrollofBurn.PNG

*Falls out of the sky* I got bombed on, man.

No, but seriously... I haven't been excited about an FF game since FF12. And I played that for 35 hours and gave up. The series just feels stale to me at this point.

And I used to be such a fanboy, too!

[Gorvi]

*Falls out of the sky* I got bombed on, man.

No, but seriously... I haven't been excited about an FF game since FF12. And I played that for 35 hours and gave up. The series just feels stale to me at this point.

And I used to be such a fanboy, too!
You mean you haven't been excited about the series since the last game that came out in it? :p

I dunno, I'm not sure how anyone could say it's gotten stale after playing XII. The only game in the series that it's even really close to is XI, and a lot of people never even played that.

[Kamalot]

You mean you haven't been excited about the series since the last game that came out in it? :p

For serious. I haven't been excited about the Halo games since Halo 2.

(And that's an example. I've never been excited about the halo games.)

[Podfork]

You know,

A lot of people were saying a certain phrase after Ken Levine made some announcement about some game made using a multiplatform engine to power it. The phrase went something like this:

"Until the game comes out on the XXXXXX it doesn't exist"

And that was that. The conversational door was closed, an absolute truth had been uttered and lots of EvAv regulars started to repeat the mantra.

That phrase is equally applicable here. Equally accurate. Equally relevent.


That's the annoying thing with absolute truths. They're absolutely true even when it doesn't support your point of view.

[Disgustipated]

You mean you haven't been excited about the series since the last game that came out in it? :p

I dunno, I'm not sure how anyone could say it's gotten stale after playing XII. The only game in the series that it's even really close to is XI, and a lot of people never even played that.

Nah dude, I was excited before the game came out... but after I played it, I was like "Wow... I just can't stand JRPGs anymore, and especially not Final Fantasy."

The only JRPG I can stomach right now is Chrono Trigger. And maybe Chrono Cross, if I slam that onto my PSP.

[Gorvi]

Nah dude, I was excited before the game came out... but after I played it, I was like "Wow... I just can't stand JRPGs anymore, and especially not Final Fantasy."

The only JRPG I can stomach right now is Chrono Trigger. And maybe Chrono Cross, if I slam that onto my PSP.
Oh, I know what ya meant, I was just being a pain in the ass. :)

[KidNicarus]

Why wouldn't Square bring Final Fantasy to different platforms? They've already taken the Dragon Quest franchise to another platform (Wii, DS) whats to stop them from putting the next Final Fantasy game on the Wii or 360?

I know all you Sony nerds cringe at the thought, but as I've stated many times before: Hardware loyalty is a thing of the past.

[Vandenh]

"achieve near-pre-rendered CGI quality in realtime"

ROFL. Do these people even know what CGI pre-rendered quality is? It is a moving target anyway.

[Grifter]

"achieve near-pre-rendered CGI quality in realtime"

ROFL. Do these people even know what CGI pre-rendered quality is? It is a moving target anyway.


Yeah but in their heads it's still 1998 so what they are saying is true.

[Kamalot]

Yeah but in their heads it's still 1998 so what they are saying is true.

Not even.

Both Antz and Pixar's A Bugs Life were released in 1998, and games still don't look that good.

[TeeCakes]

Why wouldn't Square bring Final Fantasy to different platforms? They've already taken the Dragon Quest franchise to another platform (Wii, DS) whats to stop them from putting the next Final Fantasy game on the Wii or 360?

I know all you Sony nerds cringe at the thought, but as I've stated many times before: Hardware loyalty is a thing of the past.

I'm with Gorvi on this, I mostly bought my PS3 early in anticipation for FF13 in all it's various forms, so even though the game doesn't technically exist until it's officially released, my PS3 is already officially a FF13-playing machine.

I don't care if it comes out on X360, I hope it does so that the FF series can get lots of US sales. But Square-Enix's arguably conducting their business with a different model, than when Squaresoft switched from supporting only Nintendo to only Sony what seems like decades ago.

The Square-Enix of today is like the anti-Electronic Arts it seems. Everyone knows that S-E's 'favorite' next-gen console of choice (note: I didn't say favorite 'handheld' or favorite 'Wii') is the PS3. They've always openly supported the PS3, and announced their next installment of perhaps the most successful third-party franchise of all time as an exclusive title. But ever the opportunist, S-E responsibly develops a proprietary engine so that they won't be limited to developing on just the PS3 in case their early-adoption of the console turns out to be a bad move, financially.

Whereas EA hides their preference behind the shadows like furtive ass-rapers. They develop the 'real version' of a game for the X360, then rush some half-assed conversion for the PS3-- all the while saying that they're the "best" multi-platform software developers of all time outta both sides of their mouth to both console owners. It's such a scam, and so obvious that EA is trying it's damndest to undermine Sony's US sales (as many pointed out, in a virtual-repeat of the no-EA-for-Dreamcast fiasco) while sucking the dick that Gates built like it contained the fucking ambrosia of life, simply because sports games are more popular in the US, and the Xbox has more units in the US, ATM.

I mean, did they even bother to create a multi-platform engine? Looking at the trash that is the <30-fps-PS3-Madden '08, I sincerely hope not. But in a year when the install base rises (ironically due to FF13), watch how fast EA will recover from their selective memory-loss to magically remember how good Sony's been to them in the past (i.e. single-handedly keeping EA in business after the 16-bit era.)

Goddamn, considering that I generally avoid all sports games like the plague it's surprising how much I totally hate EA lately (ummm, I don't mean this site, I'd best clarify.) And yes, I realize how ridiculous this entire post is, considering at one point Squaresoft and Electronic Arts were merged into one hellish mega-developer/publisher, but that never stopped me from hitting the 'reply' button yet!

[boneyardweller89]

For Sony's sake, I hope this game stays exclusive. I don't own a PS3, but I really want it to do well this generation.

(Awaits criticism)

[MORGiON]

This is old news, I agree with the others. It was posted about the White Engine being multiplatform months ago.

[Johan]

That's when two words have the same definition, right?

No, that's hyperbole.

He's talking about an oxymoron. Or alliteration. Or simile. Or something.

yeah, I'm screwing around too.

[Goronmon]

This is old news, I agree with the others. It was posted about the White Engine being multiplatform months ago.You guys can keep saying it. Doesn't make it anymore true. ;)

Seriously, though. Links please?

Edit: This is the closest thing I could find to White Engine being multiplatform.

http://www.gamespot.com/news/6167571.html

HS: I feel that the Final Fantasy series should come to Xbox 360 as well. This is wise. It makes so much sense to me...it has so much potential in North America and in Europe. So there's a great chance for the series to succeed on 360 as well.

[in English] And I heard they made the White Engine open platform as well. Not exactly what I would call confirmation.

[Kem0sabe]

The analogy on the OP made no sense from the start, just because a game is developed using a multiplatform engine, doesn't mean it will be launched for all the platforms supported by that same engine, as Bioshock and Lost planet prove.

I just don't understand the logic of the news item *shrug*