After reading through all of the opinion charged responses to our latest feature in support of the Xbox 360's position in 2011 (click here to read it), we thought it best to take a look at the topic from the other perspective. As I’m sure most of you are well aware, the PlayStation 3 launched a full year after Microsoft’s console, putting Sony at a clear disadvantage. The fact that the PS3 has been able to catch up to its competitor this quickly speaks volumes about the viability of the console. So, in an effort to prove to you that I am not a raving Xbot, I present to you five reasons why the PS3 may surpass the 360 by year’s end.
5. The Controller: While the PlayStation controller hasn’t changed that much since its launch in ’94, it still remains the controller of choice for many gamers. No other D-pad feels quite as comfortable and responsive, and its sleek, simplistic design makes it the most attractive controller on the market. While the two symmetrically placed thumb sticks may not be as ideal for first person shooters as Microsoft’s 360 controller, the DualShock 3 is hands down the controller of choice for action and fighting games. This also brings to light the versatility of Sony’s controller, as it is clearly designed to accommodate various genres, while the 360 is undoubtedly designed for the first person shooter fan.
4. Library Diversity: As has always been true with the PlayStation brand, diversity in its game lineup has been a top priority. From blockbuster action titles like Uncharted to artistically inspired titles like The Last Guardian, Sony has it all. There are a number of creative, intelligent developers working with Sony to deliver unique and creative experiences year in and year out. If you want to play the latest and greatest shooter, stick with the 360; however, if you’re looking for an experience that redefines the way you play games – like Heavy Rain – the PlayStation 3 is the way to go. When looking at the lineup that Sony has planned for PlayStation 3 owners this year, there is not doubt that fans of every genre will be satisfied.
3. Free Online Service: Let’s face it, times are tough and for many people shelling out $60 a year is simply too steep a price for online gaming, especially when the competition is offering it for free. In addition to being able to play with your buddies online, the PlayStation Network doesn’t charge a fee to use Netflix streaming. On top of that, they offer a premium service dubbed PlayStation Plus, which offers subscribers free games and additional content, should they have the extra money. While the PS3 does lack cross game chat, ESPN and Twitter integration, $60 a year for these features sounds a little pricey, no?
2. Blu-ray Player: Ever since Sony’s Blu-ray format trumped HD-DVDs, they’ve had another major edge over Microsoft. Being able to read discs with massive storage has allowed the system to cram a lot of content onto a single disc, removing the need for players to swap discs. In addition, the popularity of Blu-ray movies is continuing to grow making the PS3 not only the most powerful gaming system, but also the best place to watch your favorite movies in glorious hi-def. When Sony brought the PlayStation 2 to market over a decade ago, it brought DVD players into gamers’ living rooms, doing away with the antiquated VHS format. There is little reason to doubt that history will repeat itself once more.
1. First Party Lineup: Sure, Microsoft has the Halo brand and Gears of War, but with only a handful of truly popular first party exclusives, it’s hard to compete with what Sony’s got. Let’s also not forget that Bungie is no longer working on the Halo franchise, so Microsoft’s number one series may be in a bit of trouble. On the other hand, Sony has countless franchises that will bring them success this year. From the highly anticipated Uncharted 3, to Resistance 3 and Twisted Metal, there are all sorts of great titles that only PlayStation owners will get their hands on. Unfortunately for Microsoft, the fact that the Mass Effect franchise is no longer exclusive to the 360 is also a huge win for Sony. All of the major releases this holiday season will be appearing on the PlayStation 3, aside from Gears of War 3, which serves a rather niche shooter audience and launches in September. All in all, Sony’s got one impressive game lineup this year, and as I’m sure most gamers would agree, software is by far most important.
Conclusion: From game diversity to the sheer volume of first party exclusives, it is hard to deny the fact that Sony will be a real threat to Microsoft this year. As the PlayStation Network continues to evolve and offer gamers more bang for their buck, Microsoft’s Xbox Live service will begin to feel the effects of its competition. As time goes on and more and more people are looking into HD content, the PS3 serves as a compelling all-in-one home entertainment console. Like the commercials say, “It only does everything.”
