Ponder

Some thoughts to ponder, if you're considering Sony PS3. This is not a gaming console, it is intro to Blu-Ray 101. With Blu-Ray, Sony is hoping HD gaming will start taking place. My question is are they using Blu-Ray for storage capacity or to force HD down the throats of consumers? So, let's talk cost of ownership now, given todays prices for Sony products.

• 32" HDTV (KDL-32S2000) - $1,699
• Wall mount brackets - $349.99
• HDMI Cables - $49.99
• PS3 - $600 (guestimate)
• STR-DG800 AV Receiver - $399
• Speakers (SA-FT7ED) - $1,999.95
• Grand Total - $5,000!!! YIKES!!!! And that's not even top of the line equipment.

Now, I can't really complain because I have an HDTV and an AV receiver. So, the investment for me would be the PS3. But, already having an XBox, and with the XBox having a HD-DVD add on drive, why would I want the PS3?
Second point to ponder is Sony is calling this a computer not a console. Upgradable parts. Wonder what that really means. If it is of hard drive, no issues. But, can I now swap out a video card? That doesn't make sense. And swap out processors? HmmmmAnd if it's a computer, there's something I really don't like: VIRUS!!!
I think I'll stick to the 360 for a while and see what Sony does, unless I win the Powerball this week ($135M).

Hmmm

I'm excited and sad at the same time. All the new game releases. I read throughout all the forums: I would get this game based on ratings, but I'm waiting for game x.
There are 2 things wrong with this statement
1) Form your own opinion, stop letting these paid, biased reviewers sway you to buy or not buy a game. If you are unsure, rent it. Yes, we do game reviews here. And we feel very emphatically whether or not to get games. But, that should not fully influence you to decide whether or not YOU like the game. Killer and I both liked Blazing Angels, even though the forums and critics both hated it.
2) It's sad that we now have to choose which games we buy based on cost. When I started playing video games on the PC with Commander Keen, they were $10. My first console games were $20-$25. Now they are $60. No, this is not a kids gaming system. But, still, $60 buys me...wait, a tank of gas now...D'oh!!!!

Prey & Rant

This demo rocks!!! The Xbox forums have been bashing this demo, but here is why I think they are complaining:
1) They are running on standard def TV. You paid $500+ for a state of the art gaming system, get a state of the art HD-TV.
2) They are complaining about lag. Get off DSL and get cable modem. While the installer is there, ask him to make sure that you have the fastest connection possible. For those who have cable modem and it's slow, have a technician come out to check your connection speed. I hosted a small room (6 player) the other night and had no issues.

I'm looking forward to the single player of this game. It looks mighty cool, the Doom engine rocks. Just the opening sequence is unreal. Someone complained that the water going down the drain wasn't realistic. I have an idea: go into your bathroom and turn on the water. There, you have realism.