E3: Sony Spotlight

The Sony Spotlight is done. Contrary to Adam Sessler's rant of the spotlight not being as much of a splash as that of Microsoft, I believe it to be alot more informative and satifying. Then again G4TV is heavily biased towards Microsoft. Sony's spotlight focused on not just one console but all 3 consoles currently being supported (PS3, PS2, and PSP) and the Playstation Network. So what do I think of all the hoopla we've been given to digest? Read on.

Its just like Sony to have an outstanding opening presentation. I guess they have the big movie studios to help them out, so why not? The big theme of this year's spotlight was that Sony is focusing more on software compared to hardware.

It wasn't surprising that the first presentation of a game was of Insomniac's Resistance 2. The phrase 'epic monster battles' was given new meaning as Nathal Hale battles the Leviathan boss through 1950s US.

Next to follow, a great presentation of Sony's analysis of various sale and other data using Little Big Planet that surely put smiles on everyone's faces.

Jack Tretton went on to disclose that Ratchet and Clank series will be further appearing on the PSN with Quest for booty (MSRP $14.99). I have to admit, never have I seen a platform look so superb as Ratchet and Clank on the PS3. The game still look like a Pixar movie.

The SCEA CEO was adamant to emphasize that what matter most to the Sony is 'quality not quantity'. I must say, Sony's PS3 library of game might not be as elaborate as those on other consoles but its the most appealing. Jack assured that a lot of PSN content/games are on their way. One such title I am looking forward to is Ragdoll Kungfu.

The next couple news items made me jump up, shout in amazement, and finally break into tears. It assures me that I ended up with the best consoles in the market and a company that is doing everything to satisfy a broad audience. The PSP will see the release of Resistance Retribution, Super Stardust HDportable, and Valkyria Chronicles. I know some have already heard of this, but this is fantastic news for me. I'm a big fan of the former to games and my wife of RPGs.

To top off the PSN news, the video store (which we all heard was coming in the summer of 2008) is out tonight. Yes friends. Everyone with a PSN account will be able to download/rent TV shows and Movies as of midnight (15 July 2008). Further, these downloadable videos can be transferred to your trust PSP and viewed on the go. Way to go, Sony! As if that wasn't enough, Jack announced that 'Life with Playstation' will be released by end of this month!

After the crowd murmur had died down Sony Online Entertainment (SOC) announced that a new MMO was in the works called DC Universe Online. Great news for comic book and gaming fans as renowned artist Jim Lee tries to fuse both universes into one.

In the midst of all this excitement, the 40GB playstation will be repleaced with the 80GB lineup and will be remaining at the $399.99 price come fall 2008.

Trailers for the epic squeal to God of War 2, namely God of War 3, and Infamous were shown. Lastly, a new 256 player MMO is in the works utilizing squad based (8 persons) fighting and character growth in the upcoming MAG (Massive Action Game).

With all this news, its been uplifting to see that Sony is bring a mammoth to the dinner table while the other consoles have been hunting for exclusivity and picking berries. I am now going to ease in and play some Super Stardust until nightfall. Its been a good day.