Home Open Beta Delayed Until Fall 2008 [Archive]

Siraris

04-21-2008, 11:03 PM

In another huge letdown for Playstation owners, SCEI officially announced that the Open Beta of HOME would not even begin until Fall 2008.

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. announced today that it will expand the Closed Beta testing for PLAYSTATION Home in Summer 2008, inviting a further number of registrants from the PLAYSTATION 3 (PS3) users. Following completion of the Expanded Closed Beta test, the PLAYSTATION Home Open Beta service will commence in Fall 2008.

"We understand that we are asking PS3 and prospective PS3 users to wait a bit longer, but we have come to the conclusion that we need more time to refine the service to ensure a more focused gaming entertainment experience than what it is today," said Kazuo Hirai, President and Group CEO, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. "Our overarching objective is to provide users with new gaming experiences that are available only on PLAYSTATION Home. Spending more time on the development and on the Closed Beta testing reaffirms our commitment to bringing a quality service, maintaining the PlayStation tradition."

The PLAYSTATION Home Open Beta service that will become available in Fall 2008 will be built around providing new and fun community gaming experiences.

Details of the Closed Beta testing features, registration for the test and the opening of the service will be announced as they become available.

Source: IGN (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/868/868456p1.html)

Feh

AgtFox

04-21-2008, 11:18 PM

So, this means the full product probably won't be out until Q1 2009 or later since they are talking about the Open Beta starting Fall of 2008 after the Closed Beta is expanded this Summer? I hate to say it, but they must have run into some stumbling blocks or something to increase the closed beta into another quarter.

That sucks.

Kamalot

04-21-2008, 11:23 PM

According to PS3 Fanboy (http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2008/04/22/home-gets-delayed-again-open-beta-scheduled-for-fall/)...

However, this recent delay of Home is continuing a disturbing trend of promises that are delivered late or not at all, such as in-game XMB and game invites -- these features are far more valuable than an online world to walk through. We're sure everyone will echo the same sentiment: it's been taking Sony much too long to deliver on these promises. Stay tuned for any new developments regarding the Home beta.

What's more important to you:

Home
In-Game XMB Access
Cross-Game Invites

mister_slim

04-21-2008, 11:26 PM

Well, an open beta is basically the launch. Some components might be missing, but it's never going to be a retail product (or a finished product, for that matter).

Norse

04-21-2008, 11:26 PM

JediSanf

04-21-2008, 11:26 PM

Argh, damnit and shit.
Oh, items 2 & 3. If those take over over a month (each) to seriously sit down and write, their devkits must be nigh indecipherable.

(not a PS3 dev, probably talking out my ass)

mister_slim

04-21-2008, 11:28 PM

Kamalot

04-21-2008, 11:31 PM

Having never hooked up a headset to my PS3, how does the cross-game voice chat work? Is it as seamless as it is on the 360?

UnderHero5

04-21-2008, 11:35 PM

Some games already have cross-game invites. They would be more useful if the in-game XMB was available though.

They do?
What games offer cross game invites? I wasn't aware of any.

UnderHero5

04-21-2008, 11:36 PM

Having never hooked up a headset to my PS3, how does the cross-game voice chat work? Is it as seamless as it is on the 360?

Oh, you know damn well it doesn't have that :p

Kamalot

04-21-2008, 11:38 PM

Oh, you know damn well it doesn't have that :p

Actually, I didn't. I've never used a cross-game invite either, which I didn't know was available until i read this thread. Seriously, other than a few exclusive rentals, my PS3 is a glorified DVD player. But I'll be damned if Firefly doesn't look fabulous on it...

Edmontongamer

04-22-2008, 12:02 AM

Time and time again I have been called a member of SDF. You know I usually stick up for Sony because of all the years of gaming they have provided for me plus the studio's they supported.

NO MORE!!! This home thing should not take longer than GTA4. XMB should do cross game invites and chat. They have been out way too long to be pulling shit like this. It's always next year blah blah blah. I already own a ps3 and a 360 but next time the consoles come out I am done with sony.

Fucking retards at Sony. Get some more people on it. Spend some fucking money if you want to win or even stay in the race. You telling me if they temporarily doubled the team for this and the xmb features they wouldn't have it done? IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE LAST YEAR SONY.

Sony just lost a good customer and early adapter today.

Furious Wang

04-22-2008, 12:02 AM

Utter failure. For a service that was supposed to define the PS3 online experience, coming out two plus years after the release of the system is nothing less than an utter failure, especially considering the competition is already sporting a superior service.

If they were serious about competing, Sony, having just won the HD format wars, should be doing nothing less than focusing an enormous portion of their resources to make their online experience equal to or superior to the 360's. Absent that occuring, one can only assume that Sony is not interested in making a serious attempt at competing in this generation.

I'm guessing this really has more to do with Nintendo than Microsoft. At this point, Nintendo has gained such an overwhelming lead that neither Sony nor Microsoft can reasonably hope to surpass them. It is amusing that a large part of the gaming media still continues to focus on the Sony vs Microsoft war, largely ignoring Nintendo as some oddity despite the fact that they are the overwhelming winner this generation. I'm assuming that Sony, knowing that they have no hope of overtaking the Wii, would rather concede all out defeat this generation than take part in a costly battle with Microsoft for second place.

This announcement is no less than certain proof that the console wars for this generation are over. 1. Nintendo 2. Microsoft 3. Sony

I'm actually disappointed because I was hoping for a reason to buy a PS3 eventually. I hope they have a stronger offering in the next generation. Hopefully, they'll include backwards compatibility in the PS4 so I can play all interesting PS3 exclusives I'll miss out on this generation.

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 12:04 AM

Well, an open beta is basically the launch. Some components might be missing, but it's never going to be a retail product (or a finished product, for that matter).
The words "open beta" doesn't necessarily mean it will be available to everyone. All of Blizzard's games for instance have had closed and open betas, both of which were never open to everyone, you had to sign up and maybe you'd be added to the beta.

Live also had a closed and open beta and was finally released to retail. To me there still has to be a "final" to Home where everyone can use it. The term "beta" to me means it is still a work in progress even if it is open. Am I wrong in assuming that?

Kamalot

04-22-2008, 12:05 AM

The words "open beta" doesn't necessarily mean it will be available to everyone. All of Blizzard's games for instance have had closed and open betas, both of which is not really open to everyone.

Live also had a closed and open beta and was finally released to retail. To me there still has to be a "final" to Home where everyone can use it. The term "beta" to me means it is still a work in progress even if it is open. Am I wrong in assuming that?Isn't Gmail still in Beta? I know, early on, you had to have an invite to get in. Is it still that way?

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 12:12 AM

Isn't Gmail still in Beta? I know, early on, you had to have an invite to get in. Is it still that way?
You no longer need an invite for Gmail, but you are correct that they still term it as "Beta" for some reason. Do you really think Sony is going to term Home as always being in "Beta" though?

I think if Sony came out and said the Open Beta means everyone (and maybe they have and I missed it) then the confusion would not arise in this case.

Kamalot

04-22-2008, 12:29 AM

I think if Sony came out and said the Open Beta means everyone (and maybe they have and I missed it) then the confusion would not arise in this case.

Good point. here's the only thing I can find about it right now...

Harrison: We're already in a private, closed beta for our own organization. We'll be opening up a beta program to users around the world, in the US and Europe, in April, and then we'll have a number of staged progressions through the summer, and if all goes well, we'll be launching in the fall. (http://www.videogamer.com/news/12-03-2007-4977.html)Not very specific... but when he says, " if all goes well, we'll be launching in the fall" he was talking about Fall 2007, not Fall 2008.

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 12:31 AM

I'm guessing this really has more to do with Nintendo than Microsoft. At this point, Nintendo has gained such an overwhelming lead that neither Sony nor Microsoft can reasonably hope to surpass them. It is amusing that a large part of the gaming media still continues to focus on the Sony vs Microsoft war, largely ignoring Nintendo as some oddity despite the fact that they are the overwhelming winner this generation.

Define winner.

Nintendo has sold more hardware this generation, but has the lowest software attach rate and developing a 3rd party title for the Wii is almost a guarantee of failure. Add in the Wii's general target demographic of "children and non-gamers" and that leaves one hell of a lot of people out in the cold.

Those people are going to be buying hardware and software from Microsoft, Sony and all the 3rd party developers that Nintendo owners ignore.

Nintendo makes toys. Microsoft and Sony make hardware and games for gamers. Almost totally different ways of thinking -- which answers your question about why the gaming media continues to ignore Nintendo.

It isn't out of some kind of spite -- it is because they aren't making the games that "gamers" want to play.

oldjadedgamer

04-22-2008, 12:33 AM

What... home is delayed? No way. No one saw this coming!!!

Xijar

04-22-2008, 12:34 AM

Guess my PS3 is still just a hi-def movie player until 2009.

menage

04-22-2008, 12:34 AM

Will not be surprised if this get's canned. This is getting more and more redundant every minute it's delayed.

Kamalot

04-22-2008, 12:34 AM

Nintendo makes toys. Microsoft and Sony make hardware and games for gamers.

Sorry Evil, but Super Smash Brothers Brawl is a game for gamers, and Sony's Home is a toy.

KidCactus

04-22-2008, 12:43 AM

Guess my PS3 is still just a hi-def movie player until 2009.
Are you seriously not using it for gaming, but still waiting for Home? :confused:

I'm baffled that Sony still haven't figured out what they want to do with Home. Do they not plan at all and just work on things on a day to day basis?

Disgustipated

04-22-2008, 12:46 AM

I'm baffled that Sony still haven't figured out what they want to do with Home. Do they not plan at all and just work on things on a day to day basis?

Have you actually tried to like, plan things out in advance? It's really hard. :confused:

KidCactus

04-22-2008, 12:47 AM

Have you actually tried to like, plan things out in advance? It's really hard. :confused:
True, I never plan anything. I should apply for a job at Sony.

Kamalot

04-22-2008, 12:51 AM

Add in the Wii's general target demographic of "children and non-gamers" and that leaves one hell of a lot of people out in the cold.

I also like how you start sounding like a Sony mouthpiece when you state that the Wii is for kiddies. In fact, you sound just like the old arrogant Phil Harrison (http://www.joystiq.com/2005/08/26/sonys-phil-harrison-goes-crazy-on-nintendo-ds/) when he was discussing the awesome power of the PSP compared to the lowly DS.

"With the DS, it's fair to say that Nintendo stepped out of the technical race and went for a feature differentiation with the touch screen, but I fear that it won't have a lasting impact beyond that of a gimmick - so the long-lasting appeal of the platform is at peril as a direct result of that."

"Nintendo knows its target audience, because it has really narrowed that down; and it's pretty much defined by a boy or girl's ability to admire Pokemon."

Then again, your history of predicting the success of Nintendo consoles isn't that good, is it now?

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 12:53 AM

Nintendo makes toys. Microsoft and Sony make hardware and games for gamers. Almost totally different ways of thinking -- which answers your question about why the gaming media continues to ignore Nintendo.
Actually I think there is more than that to why the gaming media continues to ignore Nintendo. On the sites I've worked on (including this one) there has been absolutely no product sent by Nintendo to those sites. Now, this isn't for lack of trying because I know each of the sites has attempted to contact Nintendo and work with them about getting the information out about their games multiple times. At certain junctures it would seem as if the connection is finally made and then they'd switch up the marketing teams and you'd be back at square one.

Nintendo does have certain sites they send stuff to (Gamespot, IGN Network). The only reason Penny Arcade gets Nintendo stuff is because they live close to them (same reason they get Microsoft stuff all the time) for instance. Sites are invited to the Nintendo PR stuff, but not all of them. It takes a long time to get attached to Nintendo (if ever) for some reason and have a two-way relationship going.

I think this adds to the problems Nintendo and the gaming media have with each other. Yes, the major sites will help them continue to be successful, but the community driven ones are the ones to be shooting for. Microsoft and Sony have both learned that over time and been successful at getting the word out as best they can.

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 01:00 AM

Sorry Evil, but Super Smash Brothers Brawl is a game for gamers, and Sony's Home is a toy.

You won't see me saying anything good about Sony's Home. Why we don't already have a "friends" icon on our PS3 desktop that works similar to our friends list on Xbox Live is a total mystery to me.

I think in their quest to be different they went too far in the other direction.

I don't have anything bad to say bout Super Smash Brothers Brawl either. In fact, I think that SSBB highlights everything that is wrong with Nintendo's way of thinking. It is almost like Nintendo titles are to Nintendo hardware what Halo 1 was to the Xbox -- they create titles that appeal to their rabid fan base and those titles so far overshadow anything else anyone else tries to make for the system that in the end Nintendo is their own worst enemy.

And I'm not sure how they can "fix" that kind of a problem. How do you "fix" a problem like "our games are better than the games you can get from anyone else who works with our hardware"???

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 01:04 AM

Actually I think there is more than that to why the gaming media continues to ignore Nintendo. On the sites I've worked on (including this one) there has been absolutely no product sent by Nintendo to those sites.

I worked for a long time to get Nintendo to send us software and eventually I got to the point where they were willing to "loan" us copies of their games.

That seemed so pointless -- to get a game late and then have to return it when I was done that I didn't take them up on the offer.

In the end, we got dropped from Nintendo's Press List when I asked one of their PR girls if she could supply us with a Wii since after reading about their shipping numbers I knew that there was going to be huge Wii shortages over the Holiday Season.

She got all pissy about that and we never got another Press Release or announcement again.

There is some severe irony there -- since I once said that I didn't think the DS would sell and no one had a problem with that at Nintendo but when I said that the Wii would sell like hotcakes they got pissed at me and dropped us from their Press List.

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 01:11 AM

I worked for a long time to get Nintendo to send us software and eventually I got to the point where they were willing to "loan" us copies of their games.
Yeah, I heard the story from bap. I believe we also got the "loan" line at the previous place I worked at. Although we did continue to get Press Releases, but as I said the marketing teams usually changed right about the time some inroads were made.

Kamalot

04-22-2008, 01:24 AM

Gorvi

04-22-2008, 01:31 AM

Meh. Just give me the in game XMB. Home looks like it could be interesting, but it's hardly something I'm looking forward to in any way.

silv

04-22-2008, 01:56 AM

I'm not a PS3 owner (yet), but it would seem to be that Home is largely irrelevant if they actually blow out the XMB features like they should be.. Those should be priority #1, not Home.

Maybe it is a good thing it is delayed?

Purple Santa

04-22-2008, 02:08 AM

Sony just lost a good customer and early adapter today.

Over react much? Really...is Home that devastating to you, that "final straw" that for the next generation machine Sony will produce, you will sit and wait, all because Home was delayed...some SDF person you are :) And here I thought the criteria would be...can i afford it at launch and is there any games I really want to play...but hey, maybe i'm crazy...

Guess my PS3 is still just a hi-def movie player until 2009

Why did you even bother buying one so early? I mean by now if nothing is out there that excites you, or in the coming months doesn't, i'm curious to know when you bought it, what did you think you were going to play on it? And if it was Home that you were buying it for...you certainly bought the wrong console if your view of gaming is based around Home...

Seriously, it's disappointing Home is delayed, but I rather see Sony admit, hey it's not ready. I don't care when it was promised for...unlike the disaster for the Beta that was for MGS (I know, for other reasons but still...). It's not like Sony has nothing coming out this year...and if Home was their "savior" project...then i'll jump off that cliff with the other few doom and gloomers...cause, gee...I was actually looking forward to some games on my PS3 that were coming out...despite the fucking thing broke on me...but I digress....

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 02:11 AM

So wait. Nintendo is selling out of their system, and has been for a year and a half. Things don't look like they are about to change either. And someone is getting upset that they didn't get a free one? What is in this for Nintendo? Free press? Seriously, what do they have to gain from sending you anything other than your undying gratitude?

Who said anything about getting upset? I wasn't the one who went and pouted in a corner like a little girl when someone said that there was going to be major supply problems over the Holiday.

And there was major supply problems.

It says something about their attitude when you correctly point out that they aren't going to have systems on the store shelves and a PR Girl -- someone whose JOB it is to give you information -- takes you off their Press List.

As for what is "in it" for Nintendo -- nothing more than is "in it" for Microsoft or for Sony, both of who have had no problems supplying us with products and/or Press Releases and information.

I see what you did there, how you tried to turn it around and make it look like I'm crying about not getting free hardware and if that is your attitude then perhaps you can just start getting your news somewhere else because I don't need to get crap from you.

You want to make this personal, you are fucking with the wrong guy.

menage

04-22-2008, 02:16 AM

Over react much? Really...is Home that devastating to you, that "final straw" that for the next generation machine Sony will produce, you will sit and wait, all because Home was delayed...some SDF person you are :) And here I thought the criteria would be...can i afford it at launch and is there any games I really want to play...but hey, maybe i'm crazy...

Why did you even bother buying one so early? I mean by now if nothing is out there that excites you, or in the coming months doesn't, i'm curious to know when you bought it, what did you think you were going to play on it? And if it was Home that you were buying it for...you certainly bought the wrong console if your view of gaming is based around Home...

Seriously, it's disappointing Home is delayed, but I rather see Sony admit, hey it's not ready. I don't care when it was promised for...unlike the disaster for the Beta that was for MGS (I know, for other reasons but still...). It's not like Sony has nothing coming out this year...and if Home was their "savior" project...then i'll jump off that cliff with the other few doom and gloomers...cause, gee...I was actually looking forward to some games on my PS3 that were coming out...despite the fucking thing broke on me...but I digress....

Couldn't agree more.

I bought mine a week ago, haven't played it much but Ratchet is cool and Uncharted enjoyable. But there's enough coming out this year.

I must admit I bought mine to have 2 machines, so if one breaks I always have another. But the added benefit of playing Disgaea 3, White Knight or MGS/FF isn't one I'm complaining about.

mister_slim

04-22-2008, 02:16 AM

They do?
What games offer cross game invites? I wasn't aware of any.

So far I've noticed Army of Two and Rock Band do it. It's not that helpful if the recipient can't check their messages at any time.

DangerousDaze

04-22-2008, 02:26 AM

This announcement is no less than certain proof that the console wars for this generation are over. 1. Nintendo 2. Microsoft 3. Sony.

Home will have zero impact on Sony sales because it's got no relevance to what the console can offer today. It might turn out to be one of those features you can't live without 12 months after release but right now it's irrelevant.

Oh, and I wouldn't bet on the order of 2 and 3 in your list. You remember how the 360 sales numbers doubled in the UK after the price cuts? It still came in last place.

menage

04-22-2008, 02:32 AM

Home will have zero impact on Sony sales because it's got no relevance to what the console can offer today. It might turn out to be one of those features you can't live without 12 months after release but right now it's irrelevant.

Oh, and I wouldn't bet on the order of 2 and 3 in your list. You remember how the 360 sales numbers doubled in the UK after the price cuts? It still came in last place.

Home is as relevant to sales as XBLA is. It's invisible to the general public and therefore not relevant.

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 02:42 AM

Home is as relevant to sales as XBLA is. It's invisible to the general public and therefore not relevant.

I wouldn't say that Xbox Live is invisible to the general public. Microsoft puts a free Xbox Live coupon in almost every multiplayer game -- they work their ass off to get the word out there that it is available. And they have some huge number of subscribers, isn't it like 50% of all 360 owners?

Purple Santa

04-22-2008, 02:43 AM

I must admit I bought mine to have 2 machines, so if one breaks I always have another. But the added benefit of playing Disgaea 3, White Knight or MGS/FF isn't one I'm complaining about.

I like your thinking...in this generation of consoles, you need two machines...cause it's likely one is going to break...I just had it happen, except it's the one that I didn't expect to break...damn you PS3...but I still love you...come back soon dammit...

I bought mine last year, for the simple I had extra cash and bought it like an investment...I knew eventually I would be playing it to make it worth my while...which is now...and now if I wanted to buy one, I couldn't...

KidCactus

04-22-2008, 02:47 AM

I wouldn't say that Xbox Live is invisible to the general public. Microsoft puts a free Xbox Live coupon in almost every multiplayer game -- they work their ass off to get the word out there that it is available. And they have some huge number of subscribers, isn't it like 50% of all 360 owners?
Wasn't he talking about Xbox Live Arcade though?

Edmontongamer

04-22-2008, 02:56 AM

Over react much? Really...is Home that devastating to you, that "final straw" that for the next generation machine Sony will produce, you will sit and wait, all because Home was delayed...some SDF person you are :) And here I thought the criteria would be...can i afford it at launch and is there any games I really want to play...but hey, maybe i'm crazy...
.

It is the final straw I am sorry. Home was promised so long ago and yes it matters. When you see something like home get delayed that far into the future you realize sony doesn't give a shit about consumers or putting up a fight against MS. It's not just home and you know it. It's a combination of things. They said all 2007 that the fall would be where it's at for the console.

Now it's 2008 and not one big name exclusive worth owning a $600 console has dropped. The online is pathetic (this is the best a company can do in over a year?) the psn store is a complete joke (not even decent ps1 games get released and shit those are done already and pirates have a way to get ALL ps1 games running via the emulation software sony designed) and completely minor things like XMB in game and custom music play lists that make a huge difference to the end user just aren't there.

Like I said I was a huge fan of sony but next time they come out with a console I will not buy it. I don't feel like waiting 2-3 years to finally enjoy the console.

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 03:05 AM

Wasn't he talking about Xbox Live Arcade though?

If he was, I'm not sure I see the comparison between XBLA and Home. Home is more like Microsoft's Achievement system than Arcade.

DCJoeDog

04-22-2008, 03:10 AM

I give up on waiting for this, one day in the future I will wake up and then see the icon on my PS3, till then I give up.

Lutheran

04-22-2008, 03:11 AM

So wait. Nintendo is selling out of their system, and has been for a year and a half. Things don't look like they are about to change either. And someone is getting upset that they didn't get a free one? What is in this for Nintendo? Free press? Seriously, what do they have to gain from sending you anything other than your undying gratitude?

I could understand if the Wii was in trouble, or if they were losing market share, or if they needed to help convince the world that the system is fun and has fun games, or if they were languishing on store shelves waiting for a customer. But honestly, they don't have anything to gain by giving you a Wii.

The more I listen the more scared and angry some gamers sound. Nintendo is ruining the industry! Nintendo makes toys for kids, not for REAL gamers!

That's complete bullshit.

(I love how "Sony delays home" turns into "Nintendo didn't give me free crap!")

I assume this was from when the console first came out , and I have to agree with Evil and the crew here..its a no brainer that a Wii should have been provided to sites like this that are full with gamers that Nintendo should have been trying to reach. Like I said , this was when it first came out..who knows how popular it was going to be or not be. It was stupid of them to exclude sites like this because it turns them against Nintendo a bit.

Lutheran

04-22-2008, 03:12 AM

And as far as Home goes , this plain sucks...terrible job by Sony. Live blows away Sony's online service by a mile.

menage

04-22-2008, 03:13 AM

If he was, I'm not sure I see the comparison between XBLA and Home. Home is more like Microsoft's Achievement system than Arcade.

I was. And I only mean to say that the average Joe doesn't buy a 360 for XBLA (while the casual gamer might be interested), and s PS3 for Home. They're online services you get to know after your purchase. Not one he will make the purchase for, cause he can't see it. It has zero impact on sales.

It's invisble. And one of the biggest mistakes MS was to not communicate to people well. There's loads of casual junk on our machine, only you have to buy buy it first.

Chainblast

04-22-2008, 03:43 AM

I don't really care about home. Yeah if I get a chance I'll rock-it, but what I really want are some features that both Steam and LIVE have made standard. If a buddy is playing GTA4 online, I won't to be able to slick his name and join the game he is in. Similarly I want to be able to join the same game with a couple friends (a group join option). I'd also like an achievement-like system with a gamer score (like LIVE) and standardized PSN voice communication.

Whether or not any of those features are planned as part of Home, I'd like to see a separate update for them before the end of the year. Kind of like Valve released the Steam community expansion last fall, that was a small (yet very important) edition to the service.

asimonk

04-22-2008, 06:04 AM

I don't get Home. If I understand it correctly its the equivalent of standing around in Ironforge without the fantasy setting or anything else to do?

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 06:34 AM

Just as planned.

DangerousDaze

04-22-2008, 06:38 AM

I don't get Home. If I understand it correctly its the equivalent of standing around in Ironforge without the fantasy setting or anything else to do?

What do you mean, there's loads to do! You can place furniture, er, and stuff.

Morratut

04-22-2008, 06:44 AM

According to PS3 Fanboy (http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2008/04/22/home-gets-delayed-again-open-beta-scheduled-for-fall/)...

What's more important to you:

Home
In-Game XMB Access
Cross-Game Invites

I will take Cross-Game invites.

Sony if you can't quickly get friends into a game I've setup then you have failed. I'll never forget phoning a friend who was online playing Warhawk to come and join me in a different Warhawk. Oh the shame.

I still don't see the point in Home to be honest.

My 360 will always win with multiplatform titles as long as the 360 has the better online component.

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 06:45 AM

What do you mean, there's loads to do! You can place furniture, er, and stuff.

You can also play pool, throw your Sony HDTV down the stairs, and watch pornographic movies in your apartment. Home is a life simulator!

I'd also like an achievement-like system with a gamer score (like LIVE) and standardized PSN voice communication.

Home also includes a room called the "Hall of Fame (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PlayStation_Home#Hall_of_fame)," which offers the ability to view trophies earned in various PS3 games. Apparently, games released pre-Home could be patched to allow access to the Hall of Fame, but I don't know how common that will be.

51|RandoM

04-22-2008, 06:50 AM

Wolfgang

04-22-2008, 06:57 AM

menage

04-22-2008, 07:02 AM

Long as they don't hold back the XMB enhancements I don't care when Home comes out. Looks to me like they're just building up for their own perfect storm this holiday season as Microsoft did last year.

Hope for them something doesn't shift to march 2009 then. Like Killzone 2 (don't see that happening this year with the amount of inexperience over there, that's bound to get delayed again).

51|RandoM

04-22-2008, 07:13 AM

A perfect storm in the form of beta software? Seriously?

So the open beta is in the fall and the release of Home is sometime shortly thereafter?

Not sure where you are having trouble figuring that one out.

Oh wait, I get it, you guys think the open beta is going to be anything other than a brief stress test in preparation for full roll out.

The open beta will either be very, very short, or it will be eternal(like gmail).

...and Home is just one element that they will/could have lined up for the holidays, right?

Inspector Fowler

04-22-2008, 07:14 AM

Speaking (as many here probably can) as an owner of both systems, I can firmly say I'd rather pay for Microsoft's service then get Sony's free handouts.

Sony has been firmly behind the curve in the online area since day one. When you launch a year later than the other guy, I expect shit to work from day one. Instead I get a fucking terrible store that doesn't work properly (in terms of content and organization) until 18 months after the console's launch. I get tortoise slow downloads from PSN. Home has been so overhyped- and by the time it sees the light of day, Microsoft will already be talking about the next Xbox. And Home doesn't actually do anything for me! I like Live because I can communicate and chat with all of my friends, no matter what I am doing, and no matter what game/movie I'm playing.

Microsoft has hugely dropped the ball this generation on some things. The hardware has been disgusting in terms of failure rates- that's probably #1 for me. But I feel like they have (mostly) taken steps to address stuff, and apologized when things haven't worked out. At least, as much as a multi-billion dollar corporation ever apologizes.

I feel like, from day one, Sony has overpromised and not even delivered on pretty much everything it says it can do. I feel like they sit in their ivory tower, content that they will never "lose" the console war. They patronize the Wii and the 360, but have almost nothing to back it up. They have almost NO system-seller games yet and no online game plan that doesn't suck donkey balls.

I really, really want to love my PS3 and use it for something besides a Blu-ray player. But I just don't see that day coming pretty much ever. The next generation of consoles? I'll probably just go Microsoft. Sony can go fuck themselves until they actually come up with real, desirable software and an online game plan that doesn't suck. I can't think of one must have title that will only be on PS3. Why should it change next generation?

asimonk

04-22-2008, 07:17 AM

So the open beta is in the fall and the release of Home is sometime shortly thereafter?

Not sure where you are having trouble figuring that one out.

Oh wait, I get it, you guys think the open beta is going to be anything other than a brief stress test in preparation for full roll out.

The open beta will either be very, very short, or it will be eternal(like gmail).

...and Home is just one element that they will/could have lined up for the holidays, right?

How's that stress test of Metal Gear Online working for you?

Flatpicker

04-22-2008, 07:49 AM

The delay of Home wouldn't stop me from getting a PS3.
It took MS 2 years from the xbox launch to roll out live. These things take time to work out.
The lack of titles "right now" makes me think twice about a PS3.
I'm not talking about MGS or FFwhatever, I just mean today.

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 07:50 AM

I just wanted to let everyone know that I have a very interesting idea that I'd like to see added on to Home, but I'm not sure how to get Sony's attention. Back to the design doc...

Ix Quantum xI

04-22-2008, 07:58 AM

EternalGamer

04-22-2008, 08:02 AM

I worked for a long time to get Nintendo to send us software and eventually I got to the point where they were willing to "loan" us copies of their games.

That seemed so pointless -- to get a game late and then have to return it when I was done that I didn't take them up on the offer.

In the end, we got dropped from Nintendo's Press List when I asked one of their PR girls if she could supply us with a Wii since after reading about their shipping numbers I knew that there was going to be huge Wii shortages over the Holiday Season.

She got all pissy about that and we never got another Press Release or announcement again.

There is some severe irony there -- since I once said that I didn't think the DS would sell and no one had a problem with that at Nintendo but when I said that the Wii would sell like hotcakes they got pissed at me and dropped us from their Press List.

That is ridiculous. Nintendo shouldn't get a way with holding access product over your head simply because you say something they don't like. Even worse, it was something that was true. If that is really what happened, I am appauled. I'd try to get that PR agent fired over that kind of nonsense.

vherub

04-22-2008, 08:10 AM

I was hoping all three console makers would figure out how to make a tight, enjoyable and easily accessible online container to interact and play in. With both Nintendo and Sony taking crippled approaches, it looks like it will not be until next generation (and even then, no givens), that gamers will be able to enjoy the full benefits of high speed internet access.

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 08:10 AM

That is ridiculous. Nintendo shouldn't get a way with holding access product over your head simply because you say something they don't like. Even worse, it was something that was true. If that is really what happened, I am appauled. I'd try to get that PR agent fired over that kind of nonsense.
Well, with Nintendo and the recent move of their PR people down to San Francisco chances are she is no longer part of the company anyway.

TrackZero

04-22-2008, 08:17 AM

I see what you did there

Oh man, I'm sorry, I'm laughing too hard at what happened there. +1 kudos to you Evil. ;)

TheFlyingOrc

04-22-2008, 08:30 AM

How long does it take to make Animal Crossing without the gameplay?

TheFlyingOrc

04-22-2008, 08:42 AM

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b350/theflyingorc/DrDoomChap.gif

Gorvi

04-22-2008, 08:47 AM

How long does it take to make Animal Crossing without the gameplay?
Animal Crossing has gameplay? ;)

TheFlyingOrc

04-22-2008, 08:48 AM

Animal Crossing has gameplay? ;)

Y'know, that really only strengthens my point. :)

I'm just glad I found an excuse to use ol' doom again.

Deadend

04-22-2008, 08:51 AM

Home was always a stupid distraction thing made to get attention away from the lack in in game XMB, Cross Game Invites, Cross Game Chats, Universal Friend Lists and everything else that makes XBL good, by saying "yeah... well our version has polygons!"

Random seems to be the only to have fallen for the hype, as the rest of the PS3 owners seem kinda pissed that fucking Virtual Chatroom XTREME gets worked on instead of something useful.

KidCactus

04-22-2008, 08:55 AM

Random seems to be the only to have fallen for the hype, as the rest of the PS3 owners seem kinda pissed that fucking Virtual Chatroom XTREME gets worked on instead of something useful.
And as always, it's either one or the other, they can't be working on both. ;)

TheFlyingOrc

04-22-2008, 08:57 AM

And as always, it's either one or the other, they can't be working on both. ;)

They DO have a limited amount of staff, and only so many on the web team. I'm sure it slows the other stuff down a bit.

Talon-

04-22-2008, 09:03 AM

Home is as relevant to sales as XBLA is. It's invisible to the general public and therefore not relevant.

Home is made for the general public, though. The idea behind it is to make an easier and more interactive second life.

Expect to see a media blitz with it once it finally comes out.

KidCactus

04-22-2008, 09:03 AM

They DO have a limited amount of staff, and only so many on the web team. I'm sure it slows the other stuff down a bit.
But I really don't think that the people working on Home now are the same people that usually are working on getting new features into the OS/XMB. And I also do not think getting in-game XMB and cross game invites into the XMB is about not enough people working in that team.

What about the web team...?

TheFlyingOrc

04-22-2008, 09:04 AM

But I really don't think that the people working on Home now are the same people that usually are working on getting new features into the OS/XMB. And I also do not think getting in-game XMB and cross game invites into the XMB is about not enough people working in that team.

What about the web team...?

I can see them being both interrelated and not related.

CooterTKE

04-22-2008, 09:39 AM

i am looking forward to see what Home can do but it no way influences what I think of the PS3. I can play games and watch movies and I dont have to pay for online service, these things make me happy.

DylonCorp

04-22-2008, 09:44 AM

That is ridiculous. Nintendo shouldn't get a way with holding access product over your head simply because you say something they don't like. Even worse, it was something that was true. If that is really what happened, I am appauled. I'd try to get that PR agent fired over that kind of nonsense.

Why would a PR agent send any kind of press kit to a site whose founder has repeatedly stated he considers Nintendo to be a joke? This site is plastered with Evil quotes dismissing any Nintendo hardware as doomed before it starts. Oh, here's a free Wii, hope you change your mind and don't sell it on Ebay!

Deadend

04-22-2008, 10:06 AM

Why would a PR agent send any kind of press kit to a site whose founder has repeatedly stated he considers Nintendo to be a joke? This site is plastered with Evil quotes dismissing any Nintendo hardware as doomed before it starts. Oh, here's a free Wii, hope you change your mind and don't sell it on Ebay!

Microsoft and Sony give press sites units and preview games no matter how much shit they talk, so long as there is a reason behind it.

Your saying that.... For a site to do reviews on Nintendo items, the site should suck up and be extra nice about Nintendo and their products? Jesus fuck, I am never going to any site you make.

DangerousDaze

04-22-2008, 10:09 AM

I thought that Sony were also stonewalling EvAv once upon a time. Glad to see that stopped.

Talon-

04-22-2008, 10:10 AM

Microsoft and Sony give press sites units and preview games no matter how much shit they talk, so long as there is a reason behind it.

Your saying that.... For a site to do reviews on Nintendo items, the site should suck up and be extra nice about Nintendo and their products? Jesus fuck, I am never going to any site you make.

Apparently we had completely different readings. What he said is what exactly does Nintendo have to gain from a site run by a man that has dismissed Nintendo's viability.

Now turn that right around, and Nintendo had an opportunity to change EvAv's opinion about their product.

Ultimately, it doesn't really matter. Wii's and DS's are selling like hotcakes, no matter what anybody thinks each product's merit.

KidNicarus

04-22-2008, 10:15 AM

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 10:18 AM

I thought that Sony were also stonewalling EvAv once upon a time. Glad to see that stopped.
Sony is a totally different marketing entity from both Nintendo and Microsoft. I know we've made strides with them, but I don't believe we receive everything from them.

As far as I know none of us have dev units of any of the current generation of systems.

ElektroDragon

04-22-2008, 10:35 AM

HUGE disappointment here. That means no final Home this year. The next Xbox will be out before Home launches!

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 10:39 AM

I really don't care about HOME. I do care about base functionality like in-game voice chat and cross game invites. Just can the stupid thing because by the time its finished this console generation will be almost over.

Oh well, one less reason to fire up my Blu Ray Player.

If Sony would listen to my request (http://www.evilavatar.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1404058#post1404058) then this man would change his mind.
Obviously, Sony will never listen/pay attention to my idea because IT ABSOLUTELY SUCKS.
I can guarantee that.

TeeCakes

04-22-2008, 10:53 AM

I'd like to hear more from the people actually in the closed-beta of HOME-- wtf is going on and is it worth the frakkin wait?

Doctor Doom images aside, I encourage the people who think waiting an extra 2-3 months (May-August is only 90 days) for a free online Home on the PS3 to put things in perspective. Will the wait really kill Sony's momentum, like the lack of an online presence has *obviously* hurt the current market leader's (Wii)?

Undoubtedly with all the fuss over the Home delay, Wii has the superior online product, and it's clearly better than the 360's pay-service-- since Nintendo's console outsells it like 9:1 and it's all about the online experience for success in this gen, amirite?

h20fowler

04-22-2008, 10:58 AM

My 360 will always win with multiplatform titles as long as the 360 has the better online component.

Well then, prepare to always buy 360 games for the foreseeable future. Japanese companies do not understand online gaming. If you don't believe me, listen to the latest Insomniac podcast (the one with the developers of Bionic Commando Rearmed--folks living in Japan right now). They specifically state that Japan is way behind the US in the use of online/broadband penetration. Everyone there has a cell phone with internet, but few have internet at home. They just don't understand the US/western mindset about online gaming. Sony and Nintendo don't get it and probably won't get it this generation.

EternalGamer

04-22-2008, 10:58 AM

I'd like to hear more from the people actually in the closed-beta of HOME-- wtf is going on and is it worth the frakkin wait?

Doctor Doom images aside, I encourage the people who think waiting an extra 2-3 months (May-August is only 90 days) for a free online XBL on the PS3 will kill Sony's momentum to enjoy the current market leader's (Wii) undoubtedly superior online product, that is clearly better than the 360's pay-service-- since Nintendo's console outsells it like 9:1 and it's all about the online experience this gen, amirite?

From all accounts it is devoid of substance and sucks. Which is probably the entire reason why it is being delayed. They only get one chance to launch it, so they better take their time and make sure the end result is somewhat compelling.

DylonCorp

04-22-2008, 10:59 AM

Your saying that.... For a site to do reviews on Nintendo items, the site should suck up and be extra nice about Nintendo and their products? Jesus fuck, I am never going to any site you make.

You're going to build something and then send it to someone who has said he won't use it? Hey, I don't like your car, you should send it to me to change my mind.

"Suck up and be extra nice", have you seen what Evil has said about Nintendo products? He's certainly entitled to his opinion, but I'd never send anything over here either.

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 11:03 AM

I'd like to hear more from the people actually in the closed-beta of HOME-- wtf is going on and is it worth the frakkin wait?
I'm not in it, but I would guess there is an NDA attached to it, so little can be said about what is going on.

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 11:06 AM

I'm not in it, but I would guess there is an NDA attached to it, so little can be said about what is going on.

I just want to know if there is any "game" in there at all. Would it break any agreement for someone to talk about that?

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 11:08 AM

"Suck up and be extra nice", have you seen what Evil has said about Nintendo products? He's certainly entitled to his opinion, but I'd never send anything over here either.
Thing is this product blackout extends to sites beyond this one whether the site is generally pro-Nintendo or not. Just because Evil thinks one thing doesn't mean the rest of the staff here doesn't think differently.

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 11:09 AM

I just want to know if there is any "game" in there at all. Would it break any agreement for someone to talk about that?
Quite possibly, depends on the NDA and what can be said and not said.

SpectralWolf

04-22-2008, 11:14 AM

I'm in the Home Beta and I'm surprised they are doing this. They have made lots of changes over the past 3 months and it has gotten better with each update. All it really needs right now in my opinion is more people.

erm...I don't suppose you could share any *cough* details *cough* about...you know, the *cough* features *cough* and...stuff
:cool:

Tabasco

04-22-2008, 11:24 AM

Define winner.

Nintendo has sold more hardware this generation, but has the lowest software attach rate and developing a 3rd party title for the Wii is almost a guarantee of failure. Add in the Wii's general target demographic of "children and non-gamers" and that leaves one hell of a lot of people out in the cold.

Those people are going to be buying hardware and software from Microsoft, Sony and all the 3rd party developers that Nintendo owners ignore.

Nintendo makes toys. Microsoft and Sony make hardware and games for gamers. Almost totally different ways of thinking -- which answers your question about why the gaming media continues to ignore Nintendo.

It isn't out of some kind of spite -- it is because they aren't making the games that "gamers" want to play.

You are completely wrong. I know tons of gamers who own a Wii. It is just as much of a toy as any other console. You seem to be confusing gamers with hardcore uber-nerd gamers. Yeah, the really "extreme" gamers tend to like 360 and PS3. They seem to be attracted to the shiny graphics and surround sound, and don't seem to care about fun-factor. They would rather communicate to squadmates in a hardcore FPS via a headset, than play a party game with other human beings who are in the room.

Gaming is changing. It is going to become a social phenomenon that brings people together. The age of the anti-social, spend all their time practicing games, uber-nerd gamer will come to an end. When games stop being about who practices the most and who spends the most time on forums researching games, and become about having fun and uniting fellow gamers together in an environment of love and friendship; that is when gaming will enter it's golden age. It's not about graphics and sound, it's not about who wins or looses; it's about fun, love, and peace.

All I can say, is thank god that videogames are being revolutionized. I had gotten so sick of seeing my friends become anti-social slobs because of video game addiction. What Nintendo is doing is rescuing gaming from becoming a terrible, addictive, escapist passtime; and making it into a friendship building, people uniting, party activity.

I support them 100%, and you are going to start running into a lot of people like me. People who are taking gaming away from the gross, anti-social nerd types, and using it to unite people and get them to come outside and socialize.

The thing I always hated about being a gamer was other gamers. Ever since the Wii came out I have been able to game with quality people and a hell of a lot more girls. This is truly the beggining of the greatest revolution to ever happen in games. Just wait and see.

Deadend

04-22-2008, 11:31 AM

I get what your saying Tobasco... but Mario Party SUCKS.

DangerousDaze

04-22-2008, 11:37 AM

You are completely wrong. I know tons of gamers who own a Wii. It is just as much of a toy as any other console. You seem to be confusing gamers with hardcore uber-nerd gamers.That's hardcore uber-nerd gamers with attitude to you.

Gaming is changing. It is going to become a social phenomenon that brings people together. The age of the anti-social, spend all their time practicing games, uber-nerd gamer will come to an end.Sorry, but HOME has been delayed again.

The thing I always hated about being a gamer was other gamers.You could use some therapy for that because it's got emo written all over it.
This is truly the beggining of the greatest revolution to ever happen in games. Just wait and see.
Nintendo have been turning out the same games since the NES days so how is that the beginning of anything?

Tabasco

04-22-2008, 11:42 AM

DangerousDaze

04-22-2008, 12:07 PM

I don't expect my opinion to be popular at all.

Sorry, dude, I'm just joking with you. I wouldn't expect to see hardcore gaming die a death just yet though.

Talon-

04-22-2008, 12:23 PM

Thing is this product blackout extends to sites beyond this one whether the site is generally pro-Nintendo or not. Just because Evil thinks one thing doesn't mean the rest of the staff here doesn't think differently.

Well, that's different then. That just means that Nintendo doesn't take community sites seriously as press outlets, which is fair.
___

Evil, attach rate doesn't mean jack shit to Nintendo. Console sales are what determine the "victor" of a generation. Nintendo's kicking Microsoft and Sony's ass up and down the street. Not to mention their 1st party games are selling insanely.

Low attach rate means mass market penetration, and Nintendo's clearly gotten that cookie.

Nintendo's goal with the Wii wasn't to reach us hardcore gamers. They stated that when they announced the device, saying there was an entirely untapped market of gamers out there: parents, grandparents, average people, etc. I don't see why it's a big deal for casual gamers or hardcore gamers to get in minor tiffs about the merits of the Wii.

the soUL TRAder

04-22-2008, 12:38 PM

I'd like to hear more from the people actually in the closed-beta of HOME-- wtf is going on and is it worth the frakkin wait?

Doctor Doom images aside, I encourage the people who think waiting an extra 2-3 months (May-August is only 90 days) for a free online XBL on the PS3 will kill Sony's momentum to enjoy the current market leader's (Wii) undoubtedly superior online product, that is clearly better than the 360's pay-service-- since Nintendo's console outsells it like 9:1 and it's all about the online experience this gen, amirite?

Encourage us to do what?

the soUL TRAder

04-22-2008, 12:52 PM

You're going to build something and then send it to someone who has said he won't use it? Hey, I don't like your car, you should send it to me to change my mind.

"Suck up and be extra nice", have you seen what Evil has said about Nintendo products? He's certainly entitled to his opinion, but I'd never send anything over here either.

No one would argue that Nintendo has every right not to send products to encourage Evil and his 1000s of active subscribers to like their product; of course, the point of contention was that Nintendo isn't really catering to the core gaming community, and not trying to be nice to a large member of that community kinda proves that they aren't really catering to it.

Back on topic: damn, I'm pissed they aren't trying to rush Home out there since they have already promised so much, it definately would have brought PSN to it's knees.
Over-promise than under-deliver, that's the Sony way.

KidCactus

04-22-2008, 12:52 PM

Encourage us to do what?
Yeah, someone please translate that.

Talon-

04-22-2008, 12:55 PM

Yeah, someone please translate that.

Oh my God. Somebody call Mr. Period.

It's a grammar emergency!

TheFlyingOrc

04-22-2008, 12:59 PM

Sorry, dude, I'm just joking with you. I wouldn't expect to see hardcore gaming die a death just yet though.

I don't ever expect it to die - I just expect that it will get less and less press.

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 01:01 PM

I don't ever expect it to die - I just expect that it will get less and less press.

Which is honestly what that community deserves. Braces for impact...

Micasa

04-22-2008, 01:01 PM

Thing is this product blackout extends to sites beyond this one whether the site is generally pro-Nintendo or not. Just because Evil thinks one thing doesn't mean the rest of the staff here doesn't think differently.

A friend of mine writes a gaming column for Sun Media - Canada's largest newspaper chain - and he still gets loaner copies of titles :D

Nintendo is as cheap as they get.

the soUL TRAder

04-22-2008, 01:06 PM

I don't expect my opinion to be popular at all. This is a website full of the kind of gamers that give us "casuals" a bad stereotype. I'm just happy that there is finally a console and way of gaming targeted at us, and so many of you feel the need to shit on it. But when casual gaming becomes the norm and the industry changes, we'll see what happens to "hardcore" gaming.

Um, can I just say that you don't seem "casual" at all about your gaming beliefs.

I personally think that social gaming is great! It's really cut into my Monopoly and Pictionary nights and the Axis&Allies marathons, not to mention the DVD watching, but I still don't like most people so I need some good old timy anti social escapism to keep me sane.

I appreciate Nintendo is making a console that is expanding into the social settings and bringing more gamers into the fold, but I'm just glad their still developers out ther making the games I want to play.

grognard66

04-22-2008, 01:20 PM

Well then, prepare to always buy 360 games for the foreseeable future. Japanese companies do not understand online gaming. If you don't believe me, listen to the latest Insomniac podcast (the one with the developers of Bionic Commando Rearmed--folks living in Japan right now). They specifically state that Japan is way behind the US in the use of online/broadband penetration. Everyone there has a cell phone with internet, but few have internet at home. They just don't understand the US/western mindset about online gaming. Sony and Nintendo don't get it and probably won't get it this generation.

Yep, h20fowler nailed it on the head. The only Japanese companies that have had any luck with online are those piggy-backing on the tools/support from MS' Live service since most aspects are handled for them by MS. Just look at the bizarre Konami/MGS beta signup situation for further evidence of Japan's disconnect from Western online gaming preferences.

It really doesn't matter if the HOME Beta comes out this Fall or not. By that time it is too far along in the consoles lifecycle to even be relevant anymore as the software library will be too segmented to ensure full compliance. It should be obvious to any objective gamers that you don't want to look to PSN this generation for the best online gaming experience.

Tabasco

04-22-2008, 01:27 PM

Um, can I just say that you don't seem "casual" at all about your gaming beliefs.

I personally think that social gaming is great! It's really cut into my Monopoly and Pictionary nights and the Axis&Allies marathons, not to mention the DVD watching, but I still don't like most people so I need some good old timy anti social escapism to keep me sane.

I appreciate Nintendo is making a console that is expanding into the social settings and bringing more gamers into the fold, but I'm just glad their still developers out ther making the games I want to play.

That's fair enough. You seem like you have a good balance going, and that is pretty much what life is about anyway. So yeah, good times! :D

the soUL TRAder

04-22-2008, 01:29 PM

That's fair enough. You seem like you have a good balance going, and that is pretty much what life is about anyway. So yeah, good times! :D

:D Good Times

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 01:43 PM

TheFlyingOrc

04-22-2008, 01:55 PM

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 02:09 PM

NEW FEATURE ANNOUNCED: Black people!
Yes, I'm very proud of my contribution. If anyone else wants to see the PM, lemme know. Shill the fourth

TeeCakes

04-22-2008, 02:12 PM

Commas are for the weak!

But to translate/paraphrase: "TeeCakes slams 360's 'online superiority' as it doesn't stop Wii from outselling it, regardless."

AgtFox

04-22-2008, 02:36 PM

I pitched my idea (http://www.evilavatar.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1404058#post1404058) to AgtFox, and it appears to have incapacitated him.
I'm trying to link to myself as much as possible.
I hope it was because of the awesomeness, really hope so.
I have not read it as of yet because it is so long. I'll read it tonight, I promise. It kind of caught me off-guard with its awesomeness in length and the fact I really hadn't been paying much attention to you talking about your idea through most of the thread :D

Ozymandias

04-22-2008, 03:18 PM

According to PS3 Fanboy (http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2008/04/22/home-gets-delayed-again-open-beta-scheduled-for-fall/)...

What's more important to you:

Home
In-Game XMB Access
Cross-Game Invites

That's a serious question? In-Game XMB, with Friends, Presence, and cross-game invites. Whether you like Xbox Live or not, that's the bar that's been set that needs to be matched IMHO.

Ozymandias

04-22-2008, 03:26 PM

If he was, I'm not sure I see the comparison between XBLA and Home. Home is more like Microsoft's Achievement system than Arcade.

One thing I've noticed over the period of time since Home was announced is that there continues to be a lot of confusion as to what it actually is. Ie, I've seen all of the following listed at different times:

A home for 3D "achievements"
A way to enable user-generated content sharing
An answer to Xbox 360's Guide
A way to matchmake/play games
A Second Life clone
A virtual chat room
Some mix of the above

I totally understand why this is - Sony was deliberately quite vague about Home when they announced, and continue to be vague (likely as they continue to try and refine the story into something comprehensible). I guess I'm curious what you all think Home is? What exactly do you think it will, and will not deliver? Is it more game-centric, or more of a game-themed Second Life? Etc.

Thoughts?

Ozymandias

04-22-2008, 03:33 PM

You are completely wrong. I know tons of gamers who own a Wii. It is just as much of a toy as any other console. You seem to be confusing gamers with hardcore uber-nerd gamers. Yeah, the really "extreme" gamers tend to like 360 and PS3. They seem to be attracted to the shiny graphics and surround sound, and don't seem to care about fun-factor. They would rather communicate to squadmates in a hardcore FPS via a headset, than play a party game with other human beings who are in the room.

Gaming is changing. It is going to become a social phenomenon that brings people together. The age of the anti-social, spend all their time practicing games, uber-nerd gamer will come to an end. When games stop being about who practices the most and who spends the most time on forums researching games, and become about having fun and uniting fellow gamers together in an environment of love and friendship; that is when gaming will enter it's golden age. It's not about graphics and sound, it's not about who wins or looses; it's about fun, love, and peace.

All I can say, is thank god that videogames are being revolutionized. I had gotten so sick of seeing my friends become anti-social slobs because of video game addiction. What Nintendo is doing is rescuing gaming from becoming a terrible, addictive, escapist passtime; and making it into a friendship building, people uniting, party activity.

I support them 100%, and you are going to start running into a lot of people like me. People who are taking gaming away from the gross, anti-social nerd types, and using it to unite people and get them to come outside and socialize.

The thing I always hated about being a gamer was other gamers. Ever since the Wii came out I have been able to game with quality people and a hell of a lot more girls. This is truly the beggining of the greatest revolution to ever happen in games. Just wait and see.

+1. Completely agree. Lots of people don't see this coming, but things are going to change more quickly in the next five years than have happened in the last 30 WRT social acceptance of gaming. And it's all good.

Actually talking to Khoo about doing a panel discussion at PAX on the subject... you guys think this would be an interesting subject (keeping in mind the core gaming audience at PAX?)

Variable Gear

04-22-2008, 03:34 PM

Is it more game-centric, or more of a game-themed Second Life? Etc.

Thoughts?

I think it's going to be the latter, honestly. That really disappoints me, and it sounds really unnecessary because I don't understand what having a human avatar adds to the simulation. Everything that they've teased so far could work equally well in a menu-based system.

Micasa

04-22-2008, 04:06 PM

Encourage us to do what?

Remember that it was originally supposed to launch in fall of LAST YEAR?

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 04:07 PM

I assume this was from when the console first came out , and I have to agree with Evil and the crew here..its a no brainer that a Wii should have been provided to sites like this that are full with gamers that Nintendo should have been trying to reach. Like I said , this was when it first came out..who knows how popular it was going to be or not be. It was stupid of them to exclude sites like this because it turns them against Nintendo a bit.

It didn't really turn us against Nintendo, I was still able to get a Wii at launch -- clever readers may remember what we did with it once I got it. :D

It is foolish to remove us from their Press List for *gasp* daring to suggest that the system might be hard to get at launch.

The Ligand

04-22-2008, 04:17 PM

If Sony would listen to my request (http://www.evilavatar.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1404058#post1404058) then this man would change his mind.
Obviously, Sony will never listen/pay attention to my idea because IT ABSOLUTELY SUCKS.
I can guarantee that.

"You know, I had an idea once..."

"Oh really, Tom...what was it."

"Well, okay..."

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 04:23 PM

I don't expect my opinion to be popular at all. This is a website full of the kind of gamers that give us "casuals" a bad stereotype. I'm just happy that there is finally a console and way of gaming targeted at us, and so many of you feel the need to shit on it. But when casual gaming becomes the norm and the industry changes, we'll see what happens to "hardcore" gaming.

Not to dismiss your opinion, but as someone else pointed out -- for all their hardware sales the DS almost never has software in the Top 10. That is part of the reason I stick by the idea that Nintendo is a toy manufacturer. They make most of their money off selling you the hardware and selling you software based on franchise cartoon characters that they invented.

Evil Avatar

04-22-2008, 04:41 PM

+1. Completely agree. Lots of people don't see this coming, but things are going to change more quickly in the next five years than have happened in the last 30 WRT social acceptance of gaming. And it's all good.

Which wouldn't be true if, as the guys from Epic suggested (and has been my personal experience) that people are buying the Wii and then just dropping it after a few weeks without purchasing any software.

The "casual" revolution isn't going to happen because casual gamers aren't gamers -- you might sucker them into buying the system in the first place but you aren't going to get much else out of them.

Ozymandias

04-22-2008, 04:46 PM

Which wouldn't be true if, as the guys from Epic suggested (and has been my personal experience) that people are buying the Wii and then just dropping it after a few weeks without purchasing any software.

The "casual" revolution isn't going to happen because casual gamers aren't gamers -- you might sucker them into buying the system in the first place but you aren't going to get much else out of them.

I think the interest in Wii is just one indicator of the shift. There are other areas highlighting the shift - social games like Rock Band and Guitar Hero are growing in popularity (and in fact are reasons for get-togethers all by themselves). Co-op has shifted from a feature to almost required for many games. You're seeing platforms considering the social aspect more and more - Wii Votes on Wii, Home on Sony, Guide on 360... and those will evolve even more. I guess I just believe that the stereotype of a gamer sitting alone in a dark basement may finally be on its way out... but again, over the next five years. Not saying we're there yet. :)

brokenFUN

04-22-2008, 06:17 PM

fuck HOME. lets start petitions for firmware updates with new features.

Kamalot

04-23-2008, 05:14 PM

Who said anything about getting upset? I wasn't the one who went and pouted in a corner like a little girl when someone said that there was going to be major supply problems over the Holiday.

And there was major supply problems.

It says something about their attitude when you correctly point out that they aren't going to have systems on the store shelves and a PR Girl -- someone whose JOB it is to give you information -- takes you off their Press List.

As for what is "in it" for Nintendo -- nothing more than is "in it" for Microsoft or for Sony, both of who have had no problems supplying us with products and/or Press Releases and information.

I see what you did there, how you tried to turn it around and make it look like I'm crying about not getting free hardware and if that is your attitude then perhaps you can just start getting your news somewhere else because I don't need to get crap from you.

You want to make this personal, you are fucking with the wrong guy.
Banning me for saying something you don't like is the exact same thing as Nintendo removing you from their list for saying something they didn't like.

Kamalot

04-23-2008, 05:20 PM

Not to dismiss your opinion, but as someone else pointed out -- for all their hardware sales the DS almost never has software in the Top 10. That is part of the reason I stick by the idea that Nintendo is a toy manufacturer. They make most of their money off selling you the hardware and selling you software based on franchise cartoon characters that they invented.

Yet, even though DS sales don't reach into the top 10, there are always a shit-ton of games for it... and people keep making more. There are FUCKING AWESOME games for the DS.

The top 10 list is the tip of a giant iceberg, they don't give you the entire picture at all.

Call the DS a toy if it makes you feel more manly. I'll be playing all the great games on it.

Kamalot

04-23-2008, 05:29 PM

Sony was deliberately quite vague about Home when they announced, and continue to be vague (likely as they continue to try and refine the story into something comprehensible).

Of course they are vague. Sony knows the imagination is more powerful than any screen shot, trailer or demo. As long as people keep using their imagination on a piece of vapor, then Home can be EVERYTHING~!

Evil Avatar

04-23-2008, 05:51 PM

Banning me for saying something you don't like is the exact same thing as Nintendo removing you from their list for saying something they didn't like.

Just keep pushing me and see where it gets you.

Disgustipated

04-23-2008, 06:06 PM

Kamalot, stop. This just isn't worth pursuing further.

Jackel

04-23-2008, 06:46 PM

http://www.terminally-incoherent.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/redbutton.jpg

Kamalot

04-23-2008, 09:48 PM

Kamalot, stop. This just isn't worth pursuing further.

Tell me about it. :rolleyes:

Norse

04-23-2008, 10:37 PM

Banning me for saying something you don't like is the exact same thing as Nintendo removing you from their list for saying something they didn't like.

While your statement might be valid, I don't understand why you want to push it. It's like entering the lion's cage.

Kamalot

04-23-2008, 10:50 PM

When I was a moderator here, I dealt with a lot of people who were rude as fuck, to me and others on the site. Yet I had to rationally deal with them, and grin and bear it with little assistance from anyone who had the power to ban. I didn't have the ability to 'click' the people way if they said something I didn't like. It was, in many ways, a very character building experience for me.

TheFlyingOrc

04-23-2008, 11:10 PM