May NPD Sales Numbers [Archive]

pirateTITAN

06-12-2008, 10:16 PM

The May NPD sales numbers are out (http://blog.wired.com/games/2008/06/may-npd-gta-iv.html), and as expected, GTA IV dominated the chart with momentum still carrying over from it's launch. In fact, GTA was the only title that graced the top 10 for both the 360 and PS3. Nintendo dominated again in the hardware sector, with the PS3 leading a bit ahead of the 360 by a margin of 22k or so units.

Hardware:
Wii 675.1K
Nintendo DS 452.6K
PlayStation 3 208.7K
Xbox 360 186.6K
PlayStation Portable 182.3K

Software:
GTA IV - Xbox 360 – 871.3K
Mario Kart Wii (w/ wheel) – Wii – 787.4K
Wii Fit (w/ Balance Board) – Wii – 687.7K
GTA IV - PS3 – 442.9K
Wii Play (w/ remote) – Wii – 294.6K
Super Smash Bros. Brawl - Wii - 171.1K
Iron Man - PS2 – 130.6K
Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock - Wii - 116.8K
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Darkness - DS – 107K
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Explorers of Time - DS – 102K

Unsurprisingly, the late April release of GTA IV easily carried its momentum into May, as the title racked up another 871.3K in unit sales on Xbox 360 and 442.9K unit sales on PS3. Nintendo's Mario Kart Wii once again took second place with 787.4K unit sales, followed by the fitness sensation Wii Fit, which sold 687.7K units. It's worth noting that GTA IV has now generated combined sales of 4.2 million units in the U.S., which has already made it the top selling game of 2008 so far.

Also of interest on the music game scene was this tidbit from Frazier: "A lot of folks are interested in the battle of the bands. Year-to-date, Guitar Hero III has sold 2.5 million units compared to Rock Band's 1.3 million which lands them both in the top 10 titles for the year so far."

Interestingly, although a number of analysts thought we might finally see the "GTA IV hardware bump" in May, that wasn't really the case. PS3 sold 208.7K units while Xbox 360 sold just 186.6K units. The Wii easily took top honors again with 675.1K units. The DS put up another 452.6K unit sales, while the PSP sold 182.3K units (down about 10K). This is now the 4th consecutive month that the Wii and NDS have captured the top two spots. PS2 sales were not provided, but last month the aging console saw just 124.4K unit sales, and we have little reason to believe that number increased much (if at all) in May. [Update: SCEA has now passed along PS2 hardware sales figure and it did actually increase slightly over the April period, up about 8K to 132.7K units.]

Not exactly the massive bump in hardware that everyone was expecting from GTA IV. Any of you think that the slight lead the PS3 has is from units being moved for Metal Gear Solid 4?

Philonious

06-12-2008, 10:41 PM

Nope. The bump from MGS4 will be felt this month. In the 15 minutes or so I was in line today I saw at least 6 MGS bundles move.

violentp

06-12-2008, 10:44 PM

Yeah, this month should show quite a jump. Curious to see the software sales myself.

mister_slim

06-13-2008, 12:39 AM

So when's MS going to admit reality and drop the 360 price?

Vandenh

06-13-2008, 12:56 AM

Pretty weak number for 360 and PS3. With GTA I was expecting a big jump for both.

Metal Khaos

06-13-2008, 02:15 AM

Jump in PS3's is def. for MGS4. I picked up my copy yesterday, and as I pulled up to the store, I saw THREE people already walking out with MGS4/PS bundle in hand.

Evil Avnovice

06-13-2008, 03:13 AM

http://i16.tinypic.com/2d767fk.gif

Bonus: Mmmm....Wii Fit.

Chameleo

06-13-2008, 03:17 AM

wow. 7 out of top 10 software titles are Wii titles, and of the others, two are GTA IV.... and the other's a PS2 game.

Gorvi

06-13-2008, 03:54 AM

wow. 7 out of top 10 software titles are Wii titles, and of the others, two are GTA IV.... and the other's a PS2 game.
Actually, it's 4 out of 10 (2 of those are DS titles, the other is WiiPlay ;)).

The bump for MGS4 will be this month. I know at the EB I was at for the midnight release they sold out of all PS3 systems.

Sazime

06-13-2008, 03:56 AM

I wonder if they huge sales in GTAIV will get MS or Sony to try and get an exclusive with the next title, or at least a timed exclusive.

Kem0sabe

06-13-2008, 04:27 AM

I wonder if they huge sales in GTAIV will get MS or Sony to try and get an exclusive with the next title, or at least a timed exclusive.

I dont think theres enough money that Sony or MS can throw at take 2 for an exclusive GTA game.

Anyways, im amazed at Nintendo's continued performance, i think that casual and family oriented play as well as ease of use are going to be the big features of MS's and Sony's future consoles, Nintendo has made sure of that.

bapenguin

06-13-2008, 04:37 AM

So when's MS going to admit reality and drop the 360 price?

E3 is my guess. They need a price drop so bad it's not even funny. And it better be at least a $50 one across the board.

Yeti2005

06-13-2008, 04:39 AM

Wasn't there an analyst recently who still claimed the Wii was a fad? Riiiiight.

grognard66

06-13-2008, 04:41 AM

The trend for this generation is becoming increasingly clear with each passing month. 360/PS3 hover around 160-200K during the non-Holiday Season and then get a huge boost in Nov.-Dec. while Wii does Holiday type numbers year round. I think it's safe to say at this point that Wii will clearly win the hardware sales race, with 360 in second and PS3 in third.

By contrast, 360 will clearly win the software sales race this gen followed by Nintendo first party and PS3 trailing far behind. Quite a change from last generation. The best news is that all three companies should be both profitable and viable ensuring the games industry will remain vibrant into the future generation.

I don't expect much of a bump for PS3 in hardware sales due to MGS4 (it will certainly get a lift, but not what it needs to close the gap this gen) and it is too late in this generation for PS3 to come in second place, let alone first.

Gorvi

06-13-2008, 04:46 AM

I don't expect much of a bump for PS3 in hardware sales due to MGS4 (it will certainly get a lift, but not what it needs to close the gap this gen) and it is too late in this generation for PS3 to come in second place, let alone first.
Do you mean overall or just in the US? I doubt the PS3 will ever be able to overtake the 360 in the US in overall sales, but worldwide, that looks like it'll happen by this time next year if not by the end of next year.

Kelegacy

06-13-2008, 04:50 AM

The fucking Wii. I'm beginning to think I'll never understand. It's like trying to fathom the infinite reaches of the universe, the beginning (or lack thereof) of time and space. Man was not meant to comprehend. If we push too hard with our simple brains, only madness awaits us.

tiremfej

06-13-2008, 05:16 AM

Yes there's certainly something about the Wii I don't understand either.

Yes, the 360 needs a price drop, MS has been far to smug to think about needing a price cut.

Mdot23

06-13-2008, 05:24 AM

I don't get it either. Plus, I never see the things anywhere so I don't even know where they are being sold. It's mind boggling.

TrackZero

06-13-2008, 05:30 AM

Yes, I'm sure it's due to MGS4. I know both Spigot and myself were looking to buy PS3s last month (and Spigot did) due to that games upcoming release. Because god knows, it wasn't for Home. ;)

rjcc

06-13-2008, 05:35 AM

E3 is my guess. They need a price drop so bad it's not even funny. And it better be at least a $50 one across the board.

They should, but I don't think they will. It's probably not coming until fall. reading between the lines of all of the executive's comments, they're more concerned about being profitable this year than propping the sales up.

rjcc

06-13-2008, 05:36 AM

also - Haze? less than 100k? damn.

Deadend

06-13-2008, 06:28 AM

I think I know why MS did an exec shuffle...

Philonious

06-13-2008, 06:38 AM

I think that casual and family oriented play as well as ease of use are going to be the big features of MS's and Sony's future consoles, Nintendo has made sure of that.

I think they'll just delay the 'next' generation and launch cheaper, by making the jump to HD this gen the price of consoles became too high. And I STILL think the Wii is a fad, and would love to see the data on how often the things are played. Its life has been extended thanks to supply issues, but I'd wager that most people who own it have it in their closets next to Furby, Tickle Me Elmo and a Cabage Patch Kid. On the bright side PC gaming might make a bit of a comeback.

51|RandoM

06-13-2008, 06:50 AM

Any of you think that the slight lead the PS3 has is from units being moved for Metal Gear Solid 4?

No, I think it was from units being moved for GTAIV.

360 saw less of an increase from GTA IV because it has a much larger install base and as such, people who wanted the 360 version of GTA IV were more likely to already have a 360.

I expect it to continue like this until Microsoft gets around to a price cut.

Rommel

06-13-2008, 06:51 AM

I think what the numbers are depicting is that there is no game, even what may end up being one of the biggest of all time, that is going to significantly influence hardware at the moment. The state of the economy seems to be a larger factor, with the Wii benefiting from a lower price point now more than ever. If video games follow other buying trends my company is observing, the 360 sales and PS3 sales are bumps from games prior to current new releases, with end users having made the purchase decision some time ago and only now spending the cash. Analysts are predicting a much better Christmas than last years, so that will be an interesting time.

I would covet age demographics for machine sales and am surprised this information is not more lauded or publicized in the industry.

vherub

06-13-2008, 06:56 AM

I don't now if the 360 needs a pricedrop as much as it needs an image update. Would you take $50 or the knowledge your system will last 5+ years without breaking?
Maybe I am wrong, but system stability would be my choice. So if they Jasper units coming out soon do result in a system with normal failure rates, that could have a greater longterm impact than a small price drop.

Kelegacy

06-13-2008, 07:00 AM

I think they'll just delay the 'next' generation and launch cheaper, by making the jump to HD this gen the price of consoles became too high. And I STILL think the Wii is a fad, and would love to see the data on how often the things are played. Its life has been extended thanks to supply issues, but I'd wager that most people who own it have it in their closets next to Furby, Tickle Me Elmo and a Cabage Patch Kid. On the bright side PC gaming might make a bit of a comeback.

I'm still very glad the consoles of this generation had HD included. I didn't own an HDTV when I bought my 360, and didn't for the next year and a half, but when I finally did purchase one I found my interest in the games heightened. I'm far from what people would call a graphics whore, but going from standard def console gaming to HD really did make me glued to my 360 much more. A bump in resolution doesn't affect the core gameplay, but it sure is nice to have the best of both worlds. Like having dipping sauce for your wings.

The only problem comes when some games aren't optimized for SD sets. Like Dead Rising's text. But otherwise, SD or HD tv owner, the PS3 and 360 are both enjoyable, higher resolution or not. Unfortunately, the Wii doesn't have that HD option. It's either 480i or 480p, both of which look like poo on my television. I would have paid an extra 50 bucks for a HD version of the Wii (hell, I bought $30 component cables for what looks like no difference whatsoever!)

Baron Samedi

06-13-2008, 07:08 AM

I wouldn't be surprised if this marks the turning point for PS3...

Gott

06-13-2008, 07:15 AM

I'm not sure the ps3 is going to see crazy numbers next month. Sony still isn't that great about generating buzz among the less than hardcore gamers. I saw a MGS commercial last night on tv and it was about 30 seconds long and very bland. They really need help advertising.

Where do you you guys think they will see the biggest jump in sales in the US, Europe, or Asia?

Demo_Boy

06-13-2008, 07:15 AM

The PS3 over 360 sales are point of sale analysis, skipping the Arcade model for a moment:

PS3: Blue ray, bigger HD, adequate number of awesome games (eg. Uncharted), built in wifi, free online service, system reliability.
vs.
X360: Higher number of awesome games (GOW, Mass Effect), best multiplayer experience, best controller(?), better game pack-in?

I think the Arcade model is meant to be the answer to the Wii , in that respect it is hurt especially by being higher priced and lack of cachet, so probably gets token sales in the face of the Wii monster.

Strategically MS must be feeling the pressure on system pricing. With marketplace doing so well, I wonder if they could drop the subscription fees on live and increase their pricing on games a few points to pay for it. "Lose money on the razors make money on the blades."

Flatpicker

06-13-2008, 07:29 AM

I wouldn't be surprised if this marks the turning point for PS3...

I'm going to agree with this.
I'm surprised to see these PS3 numbers and wonder if the Blu-Ray victory is starting to show dividends.

agentgray

06-13-2008, 07:33 AM

Any of you think that the slight lead the PS3 has is from units being moved for Metal Gear Solid 4?
Knowing all the people who blindingly purchased a PS3 and used the title as justification to do so? I'd say yes.

I think it drove more sales than GTAIV did. Good for Sony.

BabyJesus

06-13-2008, 07:40 AM

I really can't fathom the Wii sales. I haven't even powered the friggin thing on in several months...

I agree the 360 needs a price cut.. MS is really dropping the ball with that.

BabyJesus

06-13-2008, 07:41 AM

Oh and I think Lutheran is the sole reason for the PS3 jump in sales.

Baron Samedi

06-13-2008, 07:43 AM

Iron Man is out of place. Looks like the PSP had a short, if glorious run.

Venkman

06-13-2008, 07:56 AM

Wow, Mario Kart is selling like hotcakes. I'm really surprised, I played it and thought it was a little boring.

Venkman

06-13-2008, 07:57 AM

Strategically MS must be feeling the pressure on system pricing. With marketplace doing so well, I wonder if they could drop the subscription fees on live and increase their pricing on games a few points to pay for it. "Lose money on the razors make money on the blades."

I think the razors in this case are supposed to be the systems, and the blades are supposed to be the games!

Gorvi

06-13-2008, 07:58 AM

Looks like the PSP had a short, if glorious run.
Huh? Too short.

Roc Ingersol

06-13-2008, 08:04 AM

There will be no major sales bump from MGS4.
Though that "$100-off blu-ray player" coupon that people were stacking on the PS3 will definitely have moved more than a few. So, yeah, June NPD numbers will be good to PS3. And July will be a pretty sharp drop back under 200k.

Microsoft has officially murdered the 360 with their unwillingness to drop the damn price.

Baron Samedi

06-13-2008, 08:28 AM

Huh?

You're right. I'm getting my Japanese and American numbers confused.

PsychoticVile

06-13-2008, 08:41 AM

So when's MS going to admit reality and drop the 360 price?

Why should they drop the price? It would be nice but people seem to think that the 360 is losing market share and forget that it came out an entire year before the PS3. To make a true comparison you would need to look at the number of 360s sold a year ago.

You also seem to miss that GTAIV sold nearly 2 to 1 on the 360 compared to the PS3.

Roc Ingersol

06-13-2008, 09:22 AM

Why should they drop the price?Because they're having a second year of essentially zero year-over-year growth? Because their primary competitor is now passing them in sales in their strongest territory?

Because there are about 80 million more people out there who bought XBoxes and PS2s and enjoyed those kinds of video games, but haven't bought a PS3 or 360 yet because they're still four-hundred goddamm dollars?

The only way for Microsoft to regain any marketshare is to tap that market.

Zanzibar

06-13-2008, 09:25 AM

Any of you think that the slight lead the PS3 has is from units being moved for Metal Gear Solid 4?
Yeah, that's exactly what happened. PS3 has two rock-solid titles in a 2-month period (GTA4 and MGS4), which is really enough to push anyone over the edge.

protocol_image

06-13-2008, 10:06 AM

TheFlyingOrc

06-13-2008, 10:14 AM

Do you mean overall or just in the US? I doubt the PS3 will ever be able to overtake the 360 in the US in overall sales, but worldwide, that looks like it'll happen by this time next year if not by the end of next year.
They're 6 million behind worldwide, and only catching up by like 100-150k a month. Sales are going to have to change for them to catch up.

Zaro

06-13-2008, 10:19 AM

I really can't fathom the Wii sales. I haven't even powered the friggin thing on in several months...

For me it's the opposite, cause of the Wii and the DS i have problem finding time to play my COD and GTA4.

TheFlyingOrc

06-13-2008, 10:23 AM

For me it's the opposite, cause of the Wii and the DS i have problem finding time to play my COD and GTA4.

A lot of people only play the games that get ultra-high levels of hype. There are virtually none of those coming out on the Wii, but we're starting to get about 1.5 good 3rd party games a month. This should only improve with time.

RorschachCCCLX

06-13-2008, 10:37 AM

360 ish dooomed.

despite is early line up of good games, it only took one or two major titles for PS3 's brand loyality to reawaken with the consumer at large. most of my customers have more or less forgotten the 360, its getting abit lopsided, granted you can't make broad generalizations based on one store, but company wide data suggests a sugnifgant shift towards sony.

mister_slim

06-13-2008, 10:47 AM

Why should they drop the price? It would be nice but people seem to think that the 360 is losing market share and forget that it came out an entire year before the PS3. To make a true comparison you would need to look at the number of 360s sold a year ago.

You also seem to miss that GTAIV sold nearly 2 to 1 on the 360 compared to the PS3.

Hardware from launch (http://vgchartz.com/hwlaunch.php?cons1=PS2&reg1=All&cons2=PS3&reg2=All&cons3=X360&reg3=All&weeks=150). Growth is important.

Drinking_Buddy

06-13-2008, 10:56 AM

I wouldn't be surprised if this marks the turning point for PS3...

I dont think that will happen on MGS4 alone. There needs to be a good quality PS3 game around the bend to keep those sales numbers up.

violentp

06-13-2008, 10:58 AM

I dont think that will happen on MGS4 alone. There needs to be a good quality PS3 game around the bend to keep those sales numbers up.

But if you look at worldwide numbers, one could argue that the PS3 is outselling the 360.

Gorvi

06-13-2008, 11:34 AM

I bought a MGS4 PS3 bundle. The funny thing is, I am playing MGS3 on it....never got very far a couple years ago when I first started it. Now I'm running into issues with it saving to the virtual PS2 memory card! Karma? Oh yeah, the game also slows down in some segments.....and I never saw that happen my first time through.

I just moved and didn't feel like hooking up my PS2.....but I'm starting to wish that I had just done that.
Are you playing the regular version or Subsistence? I just played through all but the very end of the Subsistence version and didn't have a single issue.
They're 6 million behind worldwide, and only catching up by like 100-150k a month. Sales are going to have to change for them to catch up.
End of next year should be enough then. A few more major releases (FFXIII especially whenever that damn thing comes out) should do it.

31 Flavas

06-13-2008, 11:37 AM

Isamura

06-13-2008, 11:40 AM

The 360 needs a built-in bluray player to compete with Sony. There are many more people in the world (with money) who only care about movies, not games. I found this out recently when my parents bought a PS3.

DaXIthR

06-13-2008, 12:14 PM

A lot of people only play the games that get ultra-high levels of hype. There are virtually none of those coming out on the Wii, but we're starting to get about 1.5 good 3rd party games a month. This should only improve with time.

In some ways, Nintendo gives third parties a freebie by not marketing its games much. Brawl and Mario Kart got little attention - no special preorder bonus, and no limited edition SKU. Fire emblem got nothing. Battalion Wars got nothing.

Nintendo is getting big games, and they are selling without the hype.

But if you look at worldwide numbers, one could argue that the PS3 is outselling the 360.

Off the top of my head, I think that's been the case since December and the 360 had those "shortages". Seven straight months, and MS only has that admirable but convoluted dead horse about the third party revenue to sing about.

End of next year should be enough then. A few more major releases (FFXIII especially whenever that damn thing comes out) should do it.

I'd say before then, if even just because of factors like Blu-ray and MS' unwillingness to drop prices. One thing's for sure, Sony has to meet MS' price drops from here on out.

GTA4 hardly moved systems. Halo 3 did a better job, and MGS4 will probably do a better job, (but less so, with no offline multiplayer). I don't think LBP or Home or Resistance are going to big draws, but Sony has momentum and the 360 going through another Feb to July dormant period.

grognard66

06-13-2008, 12:15 PM

Do you mean overall or just in the US? I doubt the PS3 will ever be able to overtake the 360 in the US in overall sales, but worldwide, that looks like it'll happen by this time next year if not by the end of next year.

Yeah, I meant in the US. It's definitely less clear world-wide as MS has to make up for the non-existent Japanese market for their console. MS has made significant inroads in the UK but the rest of Europe still seems to prefer the Playstation brand.

DaXIthR

06-13-2008, 12:22 PM

Yeah, I meant in the US. It's definitely less clear world-wide as MS has to make up for the non-existent Japanese market for their console. MS has made significant inroads in the UK but the rest of Europe still seems to prefer the Playstation brand.

Well, to be fair, Sony hasn't been able to rely on much in Japan, either. There are, after all, more Wii Balance Boards in Japanese homes than there are PS3s.

All I'm saying is that if the PS3 does pass the 360 worldwide, it probably won't have much to do with Japan.

oldjadedgamer

06-13-2008, 01:02 PM

But if you look at worldwide numbers, one could argue that the PS3 is outselling the 360.

There are no accurate reliable numbers for Europe, the 360 is selling worse then the Neo Geo pocket in Japan so if Sony isn't beating them in their own home country, then Sony should just pack up and leave the game business (btw, the PS3 is selling at below GameCube numbers in JPN right now), and this is an NPD thread which means the topic is over US sales numbers, not WorldWide.

My personal opinion is that MS has the fate of the 360 in their hands. They have waited the longest and dropped the price the least out of any system in history. If the 360 loses market share, it will be only because MS allowed it. The PS3 will get a bump in sales for June on the back of MGS4 but no one will know if people are buying the system for MGS4 or because a system with BC is finally back in stock and comes with the real controller. Actual game sales will be skewed because of this.

I think E3 will be pretty big this year with major announcements.

violentp

06-13-2008, 01:45 PM

There are no accurate reliable numbers for Europe, the 360 is selling worse then the Neo Geo pocket in Japan so if Sony isn't beating them in their own home country, then Sony should just pack up and leave the game business (btw, the PS3 is selling at below GameCube numbers in JPN right now), and this is an NPD thread which means the topic is over US sales numbers, not WorldWide.

My personal opinion is that MS has the fate of the 360 in their hands. They have waited the longest and dropped the price the least out of any system in history. If the 360 loses market share, it will be only because MS allowed it. The PS3 will get a bump in sales for June on the back of MGS4 but no one will know if people are buying the system for MGS4 or because a system with BC is finally back in stock and comes with the real controller. Actual game sales will be skewed because of this.

I think E3 will be pretty big this year with major announcements.

Apparently the 360 would also be selling below the GC in Japan. Also, what happens if Sony continues to outsell the 360 here in MS's home turf? Should the same rule apply to them? My point is that specific markets produce completely different results in regards to sales and trends. This is a worldwide market and any kind of conclusions we reach should be based on worldwide trends.

All in all, thing's have balanced pretty well worldwide between these two companies and I prefer it that way. Now things like E3 can truly begin introducing items of potential excitement rather that the standard exclusives business plan. The playing field is leveled, bring on the innovation.

oldjadedgamer

06-13-2008, 02:06 PM

Also, what happens if Sony continues to outsell the 360 here in MS's home turf? Should the same rule apply to them? My point is that specific markets produce completely different results in regards to sales and trends. This is a worldwide market and any kind of conclusions we reach should be based on worldwide trends.

Someone on GAF did the math and they found out that if Sony outsells the 360 by the same margin every month that they did this month, they will finally match the total 360 sales in 6 years time. Not outsell LTD but just merely match them in the US. Many people soon forget that the 360 outsold the PS3 by 500k units in the month of December alone just 6 months ago. And what I meant by home country is that Sony is a very Japanese company and the Japanese have very unique tastes in games and great games from the west don't traditional sell over there. Look at God of War, it totally tanked in Japan but it wasn't because it was a bad game was it? So for a traditional Japanese company like Sony not able to outsell an American system in it's own homeland, would be a crying shame. The WonderSwan could have sold better then the 360. I don't think the same applies here because the US is more open minded when it comes to games from different parts of the world. Same with Europe... my point was mostly in regards to Japanese gaming only.

All in all, thing's have balanced pretty well worldwide between these two companies and I prefer it that way. Now things like E3 can truly begin introducing items of potential excitement rather that the standard exclusives business plan. The playing field is leveled, bring on the innovation.

I agree, the game industry is the best when there is an equal share of the market for multiple companies. It makes them work harder for the gamers dollar and we win in the end. Plus, it helps dealing with all the drooling fanboys on message boards. I don't think I can take another post E305 year on forums.

violentp

06-13-2008, 02:07 PM

I agree, the game industry is the best when there is an equal share of the market for multiple companies. It makes them work harder for the gamers dollar and we win in the end. Plus, it helps dealing with all the drooling fanboys on message boards. I don't think I can take another post E305 year on forums.

I'm still nursing that headache.

PsychoticVile

06-13-2008, 03:15 PM

Hardware from launch (http://vgchartz.com/hwlaunch.php?cons1=PS2&reg1=All&cons2=PS3&reg2=All&cons3=X360&reg3=All&weeks=150). Growth is important.

I have a hard time believing that chart and even if it is true it still proves my point that the PS3 is not selling faster than the 360 did in the same time period.

Magnanimous Gnome

06-13-2008, 03:16 PM

The only problem comes when some games aren't optimized for SD sets. Like Dead Rising's text. But otherwise, SD or HD tv owner, the PS3 and 360 are both enjoyable, higher resolution or not. Unfortunately, the Wii doesn't have that HD option. It's either 480i or 480p, both of which look like poo on my television. I would have paid an extra 50 bucks for a HD version of the Wii (hell, I bought $30 component cables for what looks like no difference whatsoever!)

I find myself not using my 360 all that often because of the SDTV issues. Having to squint and struggle to read onscreen information sucks.

I'm hoping to get an HDTV by year's end. I'm sure I'll enjoy the 360 much more after an upgrade. :)

PsychoticVile

06-13-2008, 03:16 PM

I also forgot to add while hardware sales are nice it doesn't mean crap if the games people make for the system don't sell and the 360 has an almost 4 to 1 lead on the PS3 in attach rate.

violentp

06-13-2008, 03:25 PM

I also forgot to add while hardware sales are nice it doesn't mean crap if the games people make for the system don't sell and the 360 has an almost 4 to 1 lead on the PS3 in attach rate.

Not to mention the rumors that GTA4 sold more worldwide on the PS3. Don't quote me on that, simply heard it on a particular podcast.

Hellstorm

06-13-2008, 03:28 PM

All in all, thing's have balanced pretty well worldwide between these two companies and I prefer it that way. Now things like E3 can truly begin introducing items of potential excitement rather that the standard exclusives business plan. The playing field is leveled, bring on the innovation.

Balanced? Nintendo is killing both of them so bad, MS and Sony should evoke the slaughter rule.

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn19/mappster14/gafunerals.gif

violentp

06-13-2008, 03:30 PM

Balanced? Nintendo is killing both of them so bad, MS and Sony should evoke the slaughter rule.

The Wii has virtually nothing I want where as Microsoft and Sony are fighting for my cash. Good for Nintendo but that doesn't concern me.

Gorvi

06-13-2008, 03:55 PM

Balanced? Nintendo is killing both of them so bad, MS and Sony should evoke the slaughter rule.

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn19/mappster14/gafunerals.gif
That is quite possibly the geekiest image ever conceived.

WaltJay

06-13-2008, 03:56 PM

So much for GTA IV moving hardware.

SpectralWolf

06-13-2008, 04:04 PM

I think it's safe to say at this point that Wii will clearly win the hardware sales race, with 360 in second and PS3 in third.

By contrast, 360 will clearly win the software sales race this gen followed by Nintendo first party and PS3 trailing far behind. Quite a change from last generation.

I don't expect much of a bump for PS3 in hardware sales due to MGS4 (it will certainly get a lift, but not what it needs to close the gap this gen) and it is too late in this generation for PS3 to come in second place, let alone first.

Your analysis, while plausible, is a little premature. Let's just wait and see.

I don't now if the 360 needs a pricedrop as much as it needs an image update. Would you take $50 or the knowledge your system will last 5+ years without breaking?
Maybe I am wrong, but system stability would be my choice. So if they Jasper units coming out soon do result in a system with normal failure rates, that could have a greater longterm impact than a small price drop.

Right on. I, for one, am cautiously waiting for the newer units before I can buy a replacement.

Where do you you guys think they will see the biggest jump in sales in the US, Europe, or Asia?

I think the biggest jump may come from Asia. Europe's a good bet, but they seem to be marketing MGS4 heavily in Japan.

Why should they drop the price? It would be nice but people seem to think that the 360 is losing market share and forget that it came out an entire year before the PS3. To make a true comparison you would need to look at the number of 360s sold a year ago.
QUOTE]

What?!? :mad: I'd like to time-travel too when things get a little sticky. I mean, older employees who suck now but had a great run last year can surely have a leg up on those newbies, right?

[QUOTE=oldjadedgamer;1502035]
I agree, the game industry is the best when there is an equal share of the market for multiple companies. It makes them work harder for the gamers dollar and we win in the end. Plus, it helps dealing with all the drooling fanboys on message boards. I don't think I can take another post E305 year on forums.

Problem is, my gaming dollars are limited :(

I have a hard time believing that chart and even if it is true it still proves my point that the PS3 is not selling faster than the 360 did in the same time period.

I also forgot to add while hardware sales are nice it doesn't mean crap if the games people make for the system don't sell and the 360 has an almost 4 to 1 lead on the PS3 in attach rate.

Alright, alright, I get it. Quit yelling so much :mad: If you're not going to buy a PS3, then why do u give a fuck? I agree, the 360 will win, okay? Happy now?

mister_slim

06-13-2008, 04:18 PM

I have a hard time believing that chart and even if it is true it still proves my point that the PS3 is not selling faster than the 360 did in the same time period.

Then chart it out yourself. The aggregate numbers aren't hard to find. And the point of the chart is that the 360, for whatever reason, failed to maintain the momentum they gained from the Halo 3 launch and are now trailing behind the PS2 and PS3 numbers from the same time in their lifespan. This is bad. I mean, if you can't keep up with the PS3's clusterfuck launch you need to do better.

TeeCakes

06-13-2008, 06:50 PM

the soUL TRAder

06-14-2008, 09:45 AM

Delicious. I'll enjoy seeing more comments like these when next month's NPD results are released.

That was a pretty funny typo, too!

What's really delicious is the SDF so happy that the PS3 might not end up in last place ;).

Boy how times have changed.

And, it's a good thing, because there are plenty of great platforms to game on.

violentp

06-14-2008, 10:24 AM

What's really delicious is the SDF so happy that the PS3 might not end up in last place ;).

Boy how times have changed.

And, it's a good thing, because there are plenty of great platforms to game on.

In the end nothing has really changed. The truth of the matter is that the ones who were destined to fall to the back of the line from the very beginning were those who inaccurately categorized the goings on of this industry based on criteria such as "fanboys" and "xDF".

the soUL TRAder

06-14-2008, 10:31 AM

In the end nothing has really changed.

Variety, accessibilty, functionality and quaility of GAMES has all improved because of multiple viable platforms, and, in the end, that is what is all about. for me.

But you are right that the idea of fanboyism dosen't relate much to console sales, it just seems to be important on gaming sites.

violentp

06-14-2008, 10:34 AM

Variety, accessibilty, functionality and quaility of GAMES has all improved because of multiple viable platforms, and, in the end, that is what is all about. for me.

But you are right that the idea of fanboyism dosen't relate much to console sales, it just seems to be important on gaming sites.

I'm glad you get my point. In the end it should be about games, not philosophies.

SpectralWolf

06-14-2008, 12:12 PM

In the end nothing has really changed. The truth of the matter is that the ones who were destined to fall to the back of the line from the very beginning were those who inaccurately categorized the goings on of this industry based on criteria such as "fanboys" and "xDF".

Variety, accessibilty, functionality and quaility of GAMES has all improved because of multiple viable platforms, and, in the end, that is what is all about. for me.

But you are right that the idea of fanboyism dosen't relate much to console sales, it just seems to be important on gaming sites.

I'm glad you get my point. In the end it should be about games, not philosophies.

I agree with what you guys are saying. However, there comes a point when my financial resources get constrained and I would have to make a choice and hope that I made the right one. Having multiple platforms is all well and good, but it can be an expensive proposition in the long run if you factor in peripherals and stuff. Add to that, the cost of an Xbox Live membership for 3 gamers in my family can get cost-prohibitive quickly.

In addition to the quality of the games, I'm also looking at the overall value of owning a console over the long term. I'm sure there's a lot of people out there who think along similar lines.

violentp

06-14-2008, 12:15 PM

As well you should. I think the inevitable point is one of making an educated decision based on oneself rather than out of loyalties.

Gorvi

06-14-2008, 12:36 PM

Variety, accessibilty, functionality and quaility of GAMES has all improved because of multiple viable platforms, and, in the end, that is what is all about. for me.
This generation? I'm not seeing it. The quality of some of the very best games may be better but on average this generation seems to be worse than last gen, at least for me.

pirateTITAN

06-14-2008, 02:23 PM

Well, to me it seems like the quality of the games have improved just for how deep we are into this generation. (Glad everyone is finally off the "next-gen!!!" spiel). We're just a few years in and we've already got amazing games, in gameplay, in graphics, and just more. I might have this view because I really jumped into gaming with the PS2 era, but right now, this is nothing.

Right now a lot of people trumpet that this is the game of the generation, that this is the best graphics, that this is the most enjoyable...when we're barely into this generation. Can you imagine what games will be like in a few years? PS2 games were jaw-dropping at the end of the era compared to the first few years, and right now it's the same thing.

Don't know what point I'm trying to make:p, but I'm done.

And I'm proud of you guys:D. I couldn't believe it when I went through all the replies and saw calm rational arguments in a NPD thread. It usually turns into a console brawl after the first page.

the soUL TRAder

06-14-2008, 03:47 PM

This generation? I'm not seeing it. The quality of some of the very best games may be better but on average this generation seems to be worse than last gen, at least for me.

Well, I was speaking generally, rather than personal taste, but, even if you are arguing against just quaility, the fact that 2007 is concidered one of the top three gaming years ever, plus the high number of 90+ meticritic scores in the last few years indicates that the quaility is there, in general.

To me, better variety, accessibility and functionality are undebatable.

Personally, I'm not really that happy with this gen because so many of my favorities (SplinterCell, Rainbow6) have been simplified to gain more of the console market, and others (Chromehounds, Frontlines, Assasin'sCreed) are under appreciated.

Hellstorm

06-14-2008, 08:30 PM

The Wii has virtually nothing I want where as Microsoft and Sony are fighting for my cash. Good for Nintendo but that doesn't concern me.
That will change as the Wii moves upmarket/upstream. Be ready for it.

violentp

06-14-2008, 10:28 PM

That will change as the Wii moves upmarket/upstream. Be ready for it.

I won't sit here and deny it but before I believe it, let's hear what you have in mind. I don't consider myself uninformed on the subject of gaming but if Smash Bros. failed to imbue blind faith in me, I'm unaware of any announced title that will.

TheFlyingOrc

06-14-2008, 11:08 PM

This generation? I'm not seeing it. The quality of some of the very best games may be better but on average this generation seems to be worse than last gen, at least for me.

You have horrible taste in games, man-child. I'm really sorry if you can't stand decent gameplay and need a story written by someone who can't convey emotions without taking 30 hours to do it. Just having fun with you, Gorvi

August 2007 until March 2008 was my best period for gaming ever. 360/Wii combo devastated.

And I don't think there's much slowdown for Microsoft, it just looks like Sony really reaped the benefits of the BluRay player. If they ever release an upgradable standalone, I think there sales would drop pretty heavily. I think Microsoft's incredible attach rate and the PS3's lousy one is fairly clear evidence that this is happening.

Actually, I really can't imagine that anything else caused these numbers but either the BluRay win or Microsoft's shortage (if it exists). The 360 absolutely decimated the PS3 in November/December, and then the PS3 surged ahead with no new major releases, price restructuring, or anything, really. It just has to be either Bluray or shortage.

And to further make my post ridiculously long, Microsoft still has the dominant position from a developer's perspective. With the 360's very high attach rate, the PS3 will need double as many systems in the wild for a developer to feel guaranteed to sell the same number of copies.

Variable Gear

06-14-2008, 11:29 PM

I won't sit here and deny it but before I believe it, let's hear what you have in mind. I don't consider myself uninformed on the subject of gaming but if Smash Bros. failed to imbue blind faith in me, I'm unaware of any announced title that will.
I pray for great titles every day. Which is weird, because I have too many to play as it is. However, I am really curious what Nintendo's first-party studios are planning. I hope that they aren't simply going to present us another chapter in the Zelda, Mario, and Metroid sagas. They really need to think about introducing some new IPs...and Animal Crossing for Wii.

TheFlyingOrc

06-14-2008, 11:34 PM

I pray for great titles every day. Which is weird, because I have too many to play as it is. However, I am really curious what Nintendo's first-party studios are planning. I hope that they aren't simply going to present us another chapter in the Zelda, Mario, and Metroid sagas. They really need to think about introducing some new IPs...and Animal Crossing for Wii.

Or just release freaking Pikman 3 already. :) Sadly, Nintendo's new IP appears to be slanting toward Wii Sports/Wii Fit type titles. I don't mind them, but I want more things like we got last generation (Pikman and Animal Crossing)

edit: And I kinda do hope they do another Mario game this generation. I would happily play another Mario Galaxy. Oh, and the new Zelda is SUPPOSED to be radically different - which is good, as Zelda is the franchise with the least gameplay variance of their major franchises.

Variable Gear

06-14-2008, 11:53 PM

Or just release freaking Pikman 3 already. :)
Yeah, Pikmin 3 for Wii seems like it would be a no-brainer. It's strange that we are still asking for it, but I guess all that we have is hope. Animal Crossing seems like something that would be a great fit for what Nintendo is doing with WiiWare, but we haven't heard anything about a new AC in a long time. Hopefully we hear good news at E3.
Oh, and the new Zelda is SUPPOSED to be radically different - which is good, as Zelda is the franchise with the least gameplay variance of their major franchises.
Does Pokemon not count? That series is more stagnant than Zelda, although I agree that there has been little variance in the Zelda series over the years.

TheFlyingOrc

06-15-2008, 12:13 AM

Does Pokemon not count? That series is more stagnant than Zelda, although I agree that there has been little variance in the Zelda series over the years.
You're correct, I forgot Pokemon. Now, Zelda probably has the formula that "just works" the best, so innovation isn't as necessary, but it could use some new refreshing twists.

Pokemon's graphics and music have improved over time, but the gameplay itself has only gotten more annoying and gimmicky, not better. Stupid berries.

Oh, and since I don't think the source is reliable enough to be news, VGChartz says MGS4 sold 1.3 million copies on day one, and caused a 180% hardware sales increase for the week, which overperformed my expectations on both numbers. I'm a little suspicious, though, as their "other" category(meaning Europe and the etc. category) shows 25% higher numbers than North America, when, for most game launches, the Other category is less than NA. Either this game has unusually strong appeal in Europe, or there's flaky numbers (and Europe is the flakiest numbers to get).

As I'm required to be a little bit of a fanboy, I would like to point out that it underperformed the launch of Smash Brothers Brawl in both Japan and the US. I can't believe Europe still doesn't have Brawl.

Variable Gear

06-15-2008, 12:25 AM

Pokemon's graphics and music have improved over time, but the gameplay itself has only gotten more annoying and gimmicky, not better. Stupid berries.
They've done some cool things with the series, such as Pokemon Snap, but they haven't done enough to improve the main series after all these years. There are things that were added in Gold and Silver that did not return until Diamond and Pearl and other features that have yet to return. Hopefully Platinum or the next generation games bring everything back instead of bringing back pieces of the past. Oh, and some new stuff would be cool too. :)

mister_slim

06-15-2008, 12:31 AM

Typically MGS has sold better in Europe than in the US.

TheFlyingOrc

06-15-2008, 12:34 AM

Typically MGS has sold better in Europe than in the US.
It appears you are correct, at least for the last two games. The first one sold better in the US. However, I think that makes for a very appropriate time to use a picture I recently acquired.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b350/theflyingorc/europe.jpg

Meatgortex

06-15-2008, 01:02 PM

They're 6 million behind worldwide, and only catching up by like 100-150k a month. Sales are going to have to change for them to catch up.

End of next year should be enough then. A few more major releases (FFXIII especially whenever that damn thing comes out) should do it.

6m behind catching at a rate of 100-150k/month = 60-40 months

Yet you think it will happen in 12-18.

Is this some new form of math I wasn't previously aware of? To catch the 360 by the end of next year the PS3 has to outsell it on an average of 333k/monthWW. I don't find that very likely.

That's not to say the 360 isn't long overdue for a price cut.

violentp

06-15-2008, 01:24 PM