E3 Alive and Kicking - But for how Long?

The basic structure is all there, and we've seen glimpses of the future, especially during E3. It's only hoped that Microsoft can capitalise on its main advantage over its competitors while it still can, as the wolves are getting closer to the door and the company needs to fortify the padlock. Even with the 'Wii60' brigade on full march at the moment, it's still worth noting that PS3 is a platform that shouldn't be underestimated. Despite its high retail price, Sony's juggernaut is certainly not going to disappear overnight (especially in Japan or Europe) and its online plans are one to watch, even with a historically weak showing in that area. If the Japanese company is willing to learn from its mistakes, Xbox Live could have a very strong competitor stealing food from its mouth in the hardcore market. And as wide and rewarding the casual gamer coin is right now, to neglect the more dedicated fanbase in the process is something that should be cautioned against. All cylinders must be firing when the new so-called console war kicks in, and no side will want to be left ruing a mistake so obvious and needless. Live has a large headstart and several months to benefit from it - the question of whether Microsoft can really bring out the full potential it needs is still very much under scrutiny, a healthy and diverse Live by the end of 2006 is absolutely crucial.

But in the meantime there are still some nice morsels to enjoy before any doom-gloom clouds appear to wash them away. And, well, this writer has got some sweet loving to carry out with a certain Lost Planet demo.

Excuse me...