B3yond the Report 06.03.08
Posted by Mark Salmela on 06.03.2008
This week I talk about console exclusives and what Sony needs to do to win the console wars. Also, I cover news on Resident Evil 5, Metal Gear Solid 4, Street Fighter 4, in game cross media bar for the PlayStation 3, PlayStation Home, Far Cry 2, Fallout 3, Bionic Commando: Rearmed, and more when you go B3yond the Report!
Greetings, and welcome to your favorite Sony news report. At least, this is my favorite Sony news report. I've had a really busy week, so sorry if the report seems a little rushed *I wrote the One Man Water Cooler a few days earlier when I had more time*. There are a few interesting news stories to talk about, so hopefully they'll keep you entertained while you wait for MGS4 on June 12. I've been doing my B3yond the Special look back at MGS4, you can read my thoughts on Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty here . I'll be back tomorrow with my look back at MGS3, and will conclude my special with a look at MGS4 on June 11. Any who, you're here for B3yond the Report, not B3yond the Special, so let's get to what I do best.
Soon to include a mandatory install, it's B3yond the News of the Week~!
More Metal Gear Solid 4 news
Well we're only a week and a half away from MGS4 folks, and I couldn't be more excited. With reviews like IGN UK's 9.9/10 and all of the other 10/10's I've read so far I can't wait to get my hands on Solid Snake's final adventure. Along with the reviews we've seen so far for MGS4, we've also seen some of the restrictions placed on reviews by Konami. First off, reviews of MGS4 aren't allowed to talk about the length of the game's cut scenes, which I'm pretty sure stems from all of the rumors of extremely long cut scenes. Also, reviewers aren't allowed to talk about the install times on MGS4, as I've heard a lot of rumors about the install time on MGS4. Some people say that it's a flat 4.36 GB install at the beginning, while others have said that there are smaller installs that happen as players start each chapter. Basically what I assume that means is that there will be a 4.36 GB install at the beginning, but that 4.36 GB will be replaced with other information from the 50 GB Blu-Ray disc as the game goes on. Then again no reviewer can currently talk about it so we'll have to wait and see until MGS4 released on June 12.
For those who still aren't sure, Metal Gear Online will be included as a part of MGS4, and will not be released as a separate title down the road. Konami plans on releasing several expansions to Metal Gear Online through the PlayStation Store, hence why it's called Metal Gear Online Starter Pack. Any who I've included a bunch of new pictures of MGS4, and I'll be releasing my special look at Metal Gear Solid 4 a week from tomorrow *Wednesday the 11th*. So be sure to check back with 411mania as the week progresses, we'll have a lot of news on MGS4. And as for the people who've asked, I have no idea as to whether or not I'll be the person reviewing MGS4 for 411mania.com. If I don't get to do the review I'll be sure to include my hands-on impressions in this column in the upcoming weeks.
PlayStation 3 firmware 2.40 to include in-game cross media bar?
One of the big rumors this past week has been about Sony's in-game cross media bar. While PSP users enjoy the ability to access the cross media bar *XMB* while playing games, once PS3 users start up a game they can no longer access the PS3 hub *XMB*. While Sony has said that they will add in in-game XMB access *at the cost of using up one of the seven cores of the cell processor, although no one uses all 7 at once* they have not given a date as to when in-game XMB will launch. Some users thought that it would be added in this spring, while others have guessed that it won't be added in until the holiday season. Well if the current rumors are correct, it may actually be closer than you think. Rumors are currently swirling that in-game XMB will be added in the 2.40 firmware update, which is scheduled to launch sometime this month. In-game XMB will allow users to play their own custom music during games, send messages to users online in game, and will allow users to access their friends list in game much like 360 owners have been able to do since the 360 launched. While in-game XMB is long overdue I will be more than happy to see it come. Some rumors have also stated that trophy support for PS3 games will be added in the 2.40 firmware update, although I cannot confirm anything as of right now. I'll be sure to keep you updated as to whether or not in-game XMB is really coming soon or not as more news comes in.
The latest edition of Famitsu revealed a couple new characters for Street Fighter IV. In addition to El Fuerte *who we've known about for a while now*, and Rufus *seen scans of him*, we also saw the unveiling of Seth. As you can see from the picture above, Seth looks like Gill and Urien from Street Fighter III. Not much is known about Seth at this moment, but most people are assuming that he will be a sub-boss character. As for Rufus, he is a self-proclaimed martial artist from America. For whatever reason he has a problem with Ken who's also an American who specializes in martial arts. Rufus often picks fights with strangers and has strange moves like the Space Opera Symphony, Galaxy Tornado, and Spectacle Romance. Finally El Fuerte is a wrestler, who unlike Zangief is very quick on his feet and often strings large combos together. I've posted pictures of El Fuerte in previous columns, he's the Mexican wrestler with the lucha mask. El Fuerte's moves are named after popular Mexican dishes like the Habanero Back Dash *1 Up spelled Habanero wrong*, Propeller Tortilla, Guacamole Leg Throw, and Quesadilla Bomb.
Capcom also confirmed that Street Fighter IV will be released on the 360, PS3, PC, and in arcades *at least in Japan*. Street Fighter IV will also be released this year, and not 2009. Street Fighter IV will also make use of the traditional 2-D 6 button gameplay, with the characters and backgrounds produced in 3-D. My opinion on Street Fighter IV has always been swaying between bad and good, but I think I'm finally starting to get pumped for SF4 and see a lot of potential for it to be good.
Once again, Sony delivers a piss poor update to the PlayStation Store. This week we were treated to no new PSN games, no PS1 classics, and no demos what-so-ever. What we did receive was the Cars track pack for Rock Band, and a bunch of game trailers. We received trailers for Enemy Territory: Quake Wars, Top Spin 3, Battlefield: Bad Company, and Project Origin. While the Project Origin trailer was pretty sweet everything else this week was terrible. This is the second week in a row that Sony has basically done nothing for their PlayStation Store update, which goes back on their promise to provide tons of new content each week since the PlayStation Store redesign. What's even worse is that I don't expect to see much go up on the Store for the next couple of weeks, since now MGS4 is launching and I don't foresee Sony wanting to put anything up against MGS4. Microsoft did the same thing when Halo 3 launched. It's just pissing me off looking at the European and Japanese PlayStation Store updates and seeing some pretty cool content going up *mostly tons of PS1 classics* that we never get. Any who I guess the one positive for me personally is that I get to save money, since I'm pretty much broke right now and all my money is going towards getting MGS4 on June 12. I guess it's back to Mortal Kombat Trilogy and Dr. Mario Online Rx in the meantime.
Credit: Sony
B3yond the tabloids!
Aaron Greenberg of Microsoft made some interesting comments towards Sony last week. Greenberg claimed that "Sony has had a history of over-promising and under-delivering." While this is definitely true, I find it hilarious that this is coming from a Microsoft executive. What color is that teapot Mr. Kettle?
BioShock for the PlayStation 3 has officially been dated and will be released this October. Take Two is promising "new content" for the PlayStation 3 version of BioShock, but there has been no mention of what this content could be. Look for more info on BioShock for PS3 at E3 this July.
For those who still aren't up to date, the 80 GB PS3 with Motorstorm has officially been discontinued. Sony claims that they will not have any 80 GB PS3's available anywhere until MGS4 launches on June 12.
In positive news, Bethesda has said that the PlayStation 3 version of Fallout 3 will not have a mandatory install. I know a lot of people who've been upset by games that have mandatory installs, as 20 GB PS3 owners especially have a very limited amount of room. I've personally installed a 250 GB hard drive onto my PS3 *my guide to installing a larger PS3 hard drive can be found here * and I've already used up 150 GB so I can see why people would prefer not to be forced to install a game if they don't have the room.
Sony finally launched a Beta version of their Media and Events Space on their PlayStation Home Beta. The Media and Events Space is basically a hub where Sony can show off their own gamers day events to the public without ever having to turn off their PS3's. I've included a video below of it. Right now UbiDays is running on the Home Media and Events Space, and I assume E3 will be running in July.
Sid Meier's Civilization Revolution will be released on the PS3, 360, and DS in North America on June 8 *next week*. The European release date will be June 6. I haven't heard or seen much about this game, so I'll be interested to read the review scores.
Bionic Commando: Rearmed for the PSN, XBLA, and PC has been delayed. Rearmed was supposed to launch sometime during the month of June, but due to unforeseen problems the title has been delayed. Grin claims however that Rearmed is basically complete and it won't be a long delay. I'm guessing the end of June maybe?
And for those who've denied its existence, the PlayStation 3 title Afrika has not been cancelled and will be an actual game. What type of game, I don't know, but here's a teaser site. I'm expecting a full unveiling of what Afrika is and a release date at E3.
B3yond the Cinema!
Here's the really sweet new trailer for Resident Evil 5. The game looks awesome and I can't wait for its release in 2009.
Here's a trailer for Home. I've expressed my frustrations for Home before, so I'll save my criticisms for Home for another time. At least this looks cool.
Finally, here's a new trailer for Far Cry 2. The game looks ridiculously cool. I have no idea when it'll come out though.
The One Man Water Cooler~!
Last week Sony Computer Entertainment's President Kaz Hirai made some interesting comments. As most people know, Microsoft's big way of securing exclusives is by handing out huge paychecks, with examples like GTA4's exclusive DLC on the 360 costing Microsoft $50 million. While Sony has also been known to pony up money to get exclusives *MGS4 and Final Fantasy 13*, lately most of Sony's work on getting exclusives has been through offering developers support with using the PS3 hardware. As most people know developing for the PS3 can be quite difficult for some developers so Sony has offered to work hands-on with developers on using the hardware if they can provide them with exclusives. While this policy isn't bad by any means I do think it is a broken system. Why would developers want to make a PS3 exclusive title if it's hard to develop for when Microsoft would be willing to offer the same company a large paycheck to get them to develop their game exclusively on the 360, which doesn't have the problem of being hard to develop for. I guess what I'm saying is that if all Sony can offer is help with their developmental tools to make programming for the PS3 easy like it is on the 360, then why wouldn't developers just make games for the 360 and take a bonus paycheck instead?
When asked about Sony's stance on offering big paydays to developers who would make their title a PS3 exclusive, Kaz said: "That's something that we can re-evaluate, but it's also something that the publishers need to make a business decision on." Once again this isn't adding up for me. If we're talking from a business standpoint, developers SHOULD be focusing towards making 360 exclusives. After all the 360 at the moment is STILL ahead of the PS3 in terms of sales, which means that a video game is more likely to sell on the 360 than the PS3 because there are more 360's out there. And looking at a business standpoint, the 360 versions of multiplatform titles have been outselling the PS3, so once again I don't get what Kaz is trying to say here.
For the most part Sony has been doing a good job getting exclusives, as in 2008 they will release more "big name" exclusives than the 360 will. The PS3 will have titles like MGS4, Tekken 6, Little Big Planet, SOCOM Confrontation, Resistance 2, Motorstorm 2, and maybe even titles like Final Fantasy 13 and inFamous while the 360 has Gears of War 2, Banjo Kazooie, and Fable 2. But the major problem with this comparison is that pretty much all of Sony's exclusives are because they are either first party titles *developed by Sony, for Sony*, or they are titles that have naturally always been Sony exclusive *Tekken, Final Fantasy*. One could argue that besides Gears of War most of the 360 exclusives are exclusive because they're first party, but the fact is that Sony is going to need the exclusives more than Microsoft if they plan on winning the console wars. Microsoft already has a big lead over Sony, they don't need exclusives as badly as Sony does.
The fact is that money talks, and if Sony plans on catching the 360 they're going to need to start handing out the big paydays to developers like Microsoft does. Sony's theory of speaking to developers and working with them hands-on to get exclusives is a good idea, but it's something that can't compete with the temptation of a big payday. If I was a developer, I'd much rather make my title an exclusive because I received a huge payday that would basically cover the costs of making most of the game rather than making it an exclusive because I got help making the game. Whether or not people want to accept it developers make video games to make money, not because it's their passion. Sony needs to realize this quickly and start offering the types of paydays that Microsoft currently offers, because if they don't I feel that games will only continue to go either Microsoft exclusive or multiplatform, because Sony isn't being aggressive enough. Remember being ruthless and aggressive is how the PlayStation brand established itself and led it to a huge victory over the N64 8 years ago.
I've always said that 2008 will be the deciding year for the PS3. If Sony doesn't start making a comeback towards overtaking the 360 this year than they will never catch them. Sure, Sony managed to outsell the 360 by incredibly small margins for a couple of months this year, but they're going to need to make some huge gains if they plan on catching the 360. At the rate Sony's going they'll never catch the 360. In November of this year the PS3 will be two years old, and if they haven't made their stride towards catching the 360 by the end of 2008, they probably will never catch them. There is hope for Sony, as most of their big guns like MGS4 are nearing release, while Microsoft has already released most of their big titles like Halo 3. But if Sony plans on catching the 360, they're going to need to do some major advertising, because if the PS3 doesn't sell extremely well this year and win the holiday war against the 360, than I fear that Sony will be doomed to get last place in this console wars.
B3yond the Mail!
To natedoggcata (Guest) : Well, the new Resident Evil 5 trailer just made it official. Resident Evil 5 will be taking place in Africa after all. Don't worry though Nate, until now they had been switching back and forth between Haiti and Africa so I could understand the confusion. But we can put this baby to rest it is officially Africa.
To ricardo g (Guest): You're right Ricardo, "ushi" is the name of a Chinese letter. I didn't know that the level in Echochrome was based off of a Chinese letter.
To Chris (Guest): Chris I do see your point, as I admit I am very harsh against Guitar Hero and Rock Band. I think my problem is that the market has been so oversaturated with these two games that I am just sick of it. Add in the fact that I hate playing the guitar *in video games* and I just plain don't like Guitar Hero. What I do like doing however is singing. When I owned Rock Band I either played the drums or sang. And since my friends always wanted to play the drums I just played vocals until eventually I got bored of the track list and sold Rock Band. Just so you know I did proudly buy the Queens of the Stone Age track pack as they are a band that I actually like. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I like to sing, so Singstar is my cup of tea.
To squagels (Guest): No offense, but I think you missed the point of my argument. My argument was that video game programmers are more important than any voice actor. I don't care how well Niko Bellic spoke; if he didn't control well and GTA4 wasn't fun to play it wouldn't have mattered. I have nothing against the guys who perform CG in movies.
To EricG (Guest): As far as I am aware Guitar Hero: World Tour will have 6 pads in total compared to Rock Band's 5. World Tour will have the 3 normal drums, 2 cymbals, and a kick pedal *the kick pedal just wasn't in the video*. Basically this is Activision's way of "one-upping" Rock Band and making sure the Rock Band drums can't be used with World Tour. On top of all this Konami is making a Rock Band type game that has a drum set with a total of 7 buttons "4 drums, 2 cymbals, and a kick pedal" so hopefully the market just kills itself so I can stop reporting about music instrument games.
As I said before I always read what you guys send me and I appreciate the comments, even if they're sometimes filled with hate. If you wanted a response to your comment and I didn't respond I apologize.
The 411mania Empire~!
The Full Circle by Joe Roche. Joe is absolutely devastated by the possibility that his beloved mentor Jack Thompson may be losing his license. Nintendophiles by Theo Fraser. Damn Dr. Mario Online Rx to hell. It's too freakin' awesome. The PC Centric Extravaganza by Chris Evans. The Select and Start News by Vincent Chiucchi, who's a smart ass. The 10th Hour by Derek Robbins, who has a very controversial list about the current generation of video games. I can't say I agree with it all, but he does make a few good points.
Signing Off!
I hope you've enjoyed the column this week. I've been super busy the past few days with other work, and I've been dying to get outside to enjoy the good weather. So writing the column was a little tedious this week, but that's the sacrifices I make for you guys. Any who, I'm going to go outside and enjoy the summer weather before I park my fanny on the couch for the rest of the summer as I play and beat MGS4 5 million times. So far my summer has been Dr. Mario Online Rx and Mortal Kombat Trilogy. MK Trilogy is the definitive MK game *MK2 is a close second*. I really hate how Midway ports Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 to all these consoles when Mortal Kombat Trilogy is so superior in every way. Any who, I'll be back tomorrow with a look at MGS3, and will be getting SingStar on the PS3 in the next week or two for review. Of course I'll be back every Tuesday with this column, as it's what I was hired to do. Any who, see you next week! Edit: I finally wrote a column in under 10 pages in Microsoft Word, woooohoooo.
Is this the type of quality you want in your news report?
it is all well and great, but it is still kinda dissapointing to hear that konami was telling people not to tlak about certain things in MGS4
Posted By: coopdiddy (Registered) on June 02, 2008 at 11:07 PM
Not to rip you a new one or anything, but how can you write a Metal Gear Solid series...without Portable Ops? Seriously, get a PSP and pick up that game...you need to play it.
Posted By: David R (Guest) on June 02, 2008 at 11:28 PM
You spell Beyond with a number and you make a fun of Joe Roche's spelling?
Posted By: Vincent Chiucchi (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 12:16 AM
That's not even Roche's banner :P
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 12:18 AM
I'm less excited for a Metal Gear than I have ever been in my life.
I loved one, two was horrible, and three was just on the edge of what I was willing to accept for cutscene length (and boss length...The End took forever).
Posted By: Drew Robbins (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 09:09 AM
Much improved. THIS is a well-written column that gives console-exclusive news and keeps the obvious (and necessary) bias at the right tone. Keep up this style!
Posted By: Satan (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 11:22 AM
you said last week the lad who did the voice for niko in GTA got payed $100k any idea how much ricky gervais got for his role in the game?
Posted By: big dan (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 12:24 PM
It's funny because more and more that I read this article it seems that your bashing of the PS3 increases. I figured that this would be a pro-Playstation article, not lets write about Sony and contradict the point of this article. It would be easier to just put a 360 fanboy in charge and let him write. Because thats where it seems this is headed.
Posted By: Sheldon (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Hey mark, you missed a couple of 360 exclusives, thought I would add them for ya: Too Human, Alan Wake, and Ninja Gaiden 2, although with NG2 this probably won't stay that way too long.
Also, I have a couple of questions about the HDD space of the ps3.
You say that MGS4 could possible have 4+gig download just to play it. There was a certain PS3 fan (I won't mention names, but I bet we can all guess who it is) who in another column expressed his frustration with Microsoft and their lack of memory. I guess I am curious as to how much these additional drives you put in your PS3 cost...Also, if you install them yourself, won't it void your warranty?
Great column as always, keep up the good work.
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Looks like people are jumping on the band wagon again.
when gta4 came out reports came out EVERYWHERE that there were "MAJOR" problems with the ps3 version. Well everyone jumped on the bandwagon and everyone looked like an idiot.
So the same thing with mgs4. Everyone jumped on the bandwagon cause they read a few reports that reviews had limitations. Well..... you all look like idiots again. turns out limitations were only placed on some reviewers.
No one complained when gta gave exclusive rights to ign and ign only. turns out konami did the same thing. only instead of completely putting the bar down on reviews they merely imposed a few limits on some of the reviewers.
so good job everyone one who jumped on the "bad konami" bandwagon.... good job. clap......... clap.......... clap...................................................clap.
Posted By: calem (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 02:04 PM
"when gta4 came out reports came out EVERYWHERE that there were "MAJOR" problems with the ps3 version. Well everyone jumped on the bandwagon and everyone looked like an idiot."
The online didn't work at all for the first few days. The game wouldn't work at all on some 60 GB units. Those aren't issues?
"So the same thing with mgs4. Everyone jumped on the bandwagon cause they read a few reports that reviews had limitations. Well..... you all look like idiots again. turns out limitations were only placed on some reviewers.
No one complained when gta gave exclusive rights to ign and ign only. turns out konami did the same thing. only instead of completely putting the bar down on reviews they merely imposed a few limits on some of the reviewers."
There's a huge difference between a general embargo, where you're not allowed to talk about a game at all until [x] date, and selective NDA on your review. You really think it's OK that a publisher can tell reviewers "talk about the game, but don't talk about installs or cutscene length"?
I can see giving them a "don't spoil the plot" ultimatum - but that's not what they did. They didn't want what they believed people would perceive to be a negative to be talked about.
This is not the same thing as granting a day or two exclusivity on reviews at all.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 02:19 PM
Oh yeah, and Mark, you know from emails that my question is more about me eventually getting a PS3 than any sort of fanboy crap. just thought I would clear that up before I got attacked. lol
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 05:04 PM
Installing a new HDD won't void your warranty, but if you screw something up (unlikely, but possible) while doing it I would imagine that's not going to be covered.
As for HDD - you can get a 250 GB one on Newegg for $110-150 or so.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 05:16 PM
The installs aren't a problem because you can take them off whenever you want. You just have to re-install them when you want to play the game. Fortunately for all of us, you will not lose your save data.
Funny thing, the PS3 is becoming more and more like a PC. All these mandatory installs. They do have a benefit for the general flow of the game. They shorten the load time when compared to other versions of that game. *shrugs*
I'm doing fine with my 40 GB....I may upgrade in the near future. Too bad you can't upgrade on the Wii. Man...that sucks. I have to really choose what I want to DL. :-/
I can re-download it later...but it really becomes a drag. I can do the same thing with my PS3 and 360 titles (I've done it twice with my PS3 because I reformated the HDD).
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 06:39 PM
fuck mgs4 res evil 5 will blow it away
Posted By: ageoforton (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 06:50 PM
When did the Bush administration take over the video game industry? Reviewers are limited in what they can talk about? Imagine if Roger Ebert could only see a screening if he promised to give a review with no criticism. It would have no merit. This is why I only trust reviews written by gamers themselves after something comes out, and even then I have to see some consensus before I shell out my money.
For those upset about the negativity in this column, criticism is part of an honest take on things, especially when Sony has made delays and fuckups an art form. And I only own a PS3 so save your "fanboy" tag. I am VERY wary of MGS4, as the last 10% of MGS2 was awful and I'm only now about to give MGS3 a second try after I found it unplayable the first time around (I'm hoping I was just too impatient on the learning curve with the camouflage and grapple moves). The first MGS was a classic and arguably the best PS1 game period, so I really hope my worries are unfounded.
Posted By: Shockmaster (Guest) on June 03, 2008 at 07:03 PM
I disagree with you on MGS2. I think some people hated MGS2 because Raiden wasn't Solid Snake. Because Raiden was not Solid Snake, people started to have a negative view on the game. I thought the end was cool. It reminded me of fighting Doc Ock with a sword. :-D
You may hate it for other reasons, but I think most people hate it for the switch in characters (or the Rose thing). In regards to Rose, I think it made sense. It was the Patriots (or the AI construct) trying to control Raiden.
That would explain the amount of dialog between Rose and Raiden while he was on his mission.
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 07:09 PM
"They shorten the load time when compared to other versions of that game."
People keep saying that, but I haven't seen it yet. Even Devil May Cry 4, the one that was supposed to have zero load times after the install, had load times that were largely the same. A second or two difference on load times, after a 10 minute install, doesn't really seem to be saving a thing.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 08:33 PM
You haven't really noticed the difference? Do you use a stop watch to compare...or is that your perception? Your negative view regarding the whole affair may make it seem longer than it really turns out to be. Likewise, my positive view towards the installs may cause me to notice a significant change (for the better).
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 10:50 PM
Yeah.... that Full Circle typo is totally my fault.
Posted By: Mike Minotti (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 11:02 PM
Just for that typo, we should...ummm...cut off...your...ummm...toenails! We'll ****ing do it!
(just thought of "**** in the mouth" boy from a Stephen Lynch-Live at the El Rey)
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 11:14 PM
There's no load when you go through a door, on either system. When there's a zone load it's 3-4 seconds on the PS3 and 4-5 on the 360. It's not worth the 10 minute install.
The install wasn't to make it better than the 360 version, it was to make it IN LINE with the 360 version's load times. If it wasn't for the install, the Blu Ray load times would have been far longer than the 360.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 11:23 PM
Well, either consoles have their set of problems. I would gladly take an install...instead of 3RROD, wouldn't you? As a tenet for the Knights Templar, "patience is virtious."
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 03, 2008 at 11:48 PM
If you buy a 360 now, you MIGHT get a RROD. If you buy a PS3 now, you WILL get installs - and lots of them.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 04, 2008 at 01:36 AM
Uh-huh?
So, it is worth taking the risk? I mean a 16.4% failure rate (according to SquareTrade).
Doesn't >164,000 unsatisfied customer seem a little high to you? I mean..the PS3 is
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 04, 2008 at 04:18 AM
Let me rephrase the percentage, 16.4% of 360 will break down (for whatever reason). You can count RROD (which accounts for the highest pertentage and reason it is covered by the three year warranty).
Let me get this straight, you are comparing mandatory installs to a system breaking down? Isn't that a bit asinine? Last time I checked, I could remove the mandatory installs for ANY of my games (that require them), and I can still play my system.
If your system breaks, disk-drive dies (which happened to me) or RROD, can you still play your system? Nope. Furthermore, if you get a replacement (and have DL content or XBLA games), and you lack a internet connection (for whatever reason)...you are FUBAR.
Now, are you going to compare mandatory installs (on some games) to your system break? Really? Rod, I know you can are smarter than this. Think of this logically...it will all make sense.
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 04, 2008 at 10:46 AM
"Let me rephrase the percentage, 16.4% of 360 will break down (for whatever
reason)."
What part of your ass did you pull that figure from?
"Let me get this straight, you are comparing mandatory installs to a system
breaking down? Isn't that a bit asinine?"
Sure it is. Totally asinine. I'm glad you agree, since I'm not the one that compared them - you are.
Last time I checked, I could remove
the mandatory installs for ANY of my games (that require them), and I can still
play my system.
"Furthermore, if you get a replacement (and have DL content or XBLA games), and you lack a internet connection (for whatever reason)...you are FUBAR."
They fixed that. Not that I really expected you to get anything right at this point.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 04, 2008 at 12:35 PM
I am on to your game assclown. You think just cause you start posting as David Redkey, instead of David R nobody will know it is you? And here you are once again attacking someones views, because they do not match your own. Well Mr Redkey... if that is your real name. Will you do me a solid? Pull your bottom lip over your head and swallow.
Posted By: David R Hater (Guest) on June 04, 2008 at 01:07 PM
Full Circle Report of the 2nd week of february touches on the failure rate. You can look on this gaming site. It is on other gaming sites as well.
Posted By: RyanG (Guest) on June 04, 2008 at 02:08 PM
I got my last new 360 back at the beginning of the year. The guys at Gamestop said that the RROD problem should be fixed on any Xbox 360's manufactured during and after April( I believe he meant April of 2007). So essentially David, you are comparing a problem that Microsoft owned up to and did a lot to fix, with a problem on the PS3 that does not look to be going away anytime soon... Kind of makes the RROD argument irrelevent.
Besides isn't comparing a hardware problem to a memory/DLC problem kind of like comparing apples to oranges?
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 04, 2008 at 05:41 PM
Well...they are both problems for the system. However, a hardware failing (due to rushed design choices) and problems caued by the Blu-ray play speed are both problems for the system. Neither problem has gone away. We can only go by Microsoft's word, who has been lence than forthcoming with the failure percentage anyway.
They are annoyance...one is an slightly annoying...one is down right infuriating.
However, I would rather have a problem like installs (any PC gamer would be familiar with this) to a problem that will keep me from playing my 360 games. Since I'm outside warranty (bought my 360 November 2006, and it broke down July 2007), I'm a little concerned about the EXTREMELY high, outside of warranty, repair costs. Now, Rod...you made a remark about me not getting anything right...where did you go? That percentage is correct. Did I catch you in a moment of delusion, or did I catch not knowing something? Which one?
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 04, 2008 at 07:01 PM
Toddo-Not to nitpick or anything....but you are basing your argument on what a GAMESTOP employee stated? Last time I checked, Gamestop is a retail chain. They want you to buy a product. They will say whatever to get you to buy that product. Anywho, what proof do you have (besides your own experiences) to back up your claim? Is your counter (employees counter) based on what Microsoft said? If they are so truthful, why haven't they released the actual numbers of defective 360's?
Posted By: Guest#8250 (Guest) on June 04, 2008 at 08:04 PM
"Since I'm outside warranty (bought my 360 November 2006, and it broke down July 2007), I'm a little concerned about the EXTREMELY high, outside of warranty, repair costs."
You're covered for the RRoD until 2009 in that case. Again, not that I expect you to get anything right.
Extremely high cost for repair? 360 repairs are $100, and that's only if it's out of warranty and not a RRoD.
My PS3 drive stopped working after 12 months, two weeks and handful of days - an increasingly common problem - and that cost me $150 to get fixed.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 04, 2008 at 10:04 PM
Did I say RROD was the only concern of mine, or are you just assuming that I'm concerned about RROD (you know what they say about assume)? Now, if you read my previous posts, my original 360 had the DVD drive die on it (i.e. it would not recognize a disk being inside or outside the system). That is my concern.
About $100, do you think that is a bit much to ask for? I understand you being a Xbox fanboy (and getting all worked up), but $100 dollars for repairs on a system is a lot of money for a single male...living on his own. Don't you think?
So, I have a 40 GB PS3 (I did not need to play PS2 games on my system since I have a slim PS2). The 40 GB PS3 has the new chips that allow it run at a cooler tempature (in comparison to the 20 GB/60 GB PS3).
The problems you speak of for the PS3 (20 GB/60 GB)...where is your source? You say it is an increasing problem. I've never heard of it...and this is not Gamefaqs. Pretend I'm from Missouri and show me your proof.
Thank you.
Posted By: David Redkey (Registered) on June 04, 2008 at 11:06 PM
I'm getting worked up? You're the one jumping from topic to topic every time your retarded rhetoric gets shot down.
There's just no point talking about anything when you're involved. If something doesn't agree with what you think, you just ignore it...like the $150 cost for PS3 repairs when you're whining about $100 360 repairs.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 05, 2008 at 01:54 AM
Which SKU of the PS3 broke down on you? The 20 GB/40 GB/ 60 GB/80 GB. You say that is an increasing problem. WHERE does it say that, Rod?
About the $150/$100 debate, I have the 40 GB and I don't have to worry about any problems (at the moment). The only lock-up problems occur with the early SKU's of the PS3.
However, there is no reliable information about Microsoft rectifying the 360's problems. Still, I would have to buy a completely new 360 (when/if they resolve the hardware issues).
Posted By: David Redkey (Guest) on June 05, 2008 at 02:25 AM
Again, there have been countless articles about the new motherboard and heatsink configurations in new 360's. You ignore that though, because it doesn't suit your warped little agenda.
Whatever, Dave. Keep ranting like an idiot if that's what fills your sad little life.
And, as always, keep reading.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 05, 2008 at 02:45 AM
I never stated that the information didn't state they were changing the CPU to 65 nm. However, there is zero information that states that there has been a positive change. That would require Microsoft to release the failure percentage of the previous 360..and the new model. However, they will not do this. They want to protect their stock/market share.
So, you are assuming that there will be an improvement to the failure percentage.
But you can ASSUME whatever you want, Rod. We know that is your #1 talent. You #2 talent is ignoring anything that disqualifies your view.
You are just going to be ignored, Rod. Oracheskis are to be seen, not heard.
Posted By: David Redkey (Guest) on June 05, 2008 at 03:02 AM
It's kind of funny that you say I'm the one who ignores things, then say you're going to ignore me...because you can't refute a single point I make.
You might want to get back on your meds.
But keep reading, Dave. Keep reading.
Posted By: Rod Oracheski (Registered) on June 05, 2008 at 03:10 AM
Thank you for serving your purpose, Rod. I came to realize your purpose and I want to honestly thank you for serving that purpose. Your job was a difficult one and you perfomred it with unequaled results. Thank you again.
I hope your life is one of fulfillment, and it is joyful. You've allowed me to learn a much needed lesson, and I want to thank you, Rod.
Posted By: Dave (Guest) on June 05, 2008 at 01:18 PM
Actually, I never ignore your points. If I don't comment on them, it probably means that you temporarily lowered my IQ. I probably wasn't able to use the do anything unassisted. THANKS...thanks Rod. You remind me of a girl that I knew in AP US HISTORY.
We were covering the American Revolution (maybe two, three, or possibly four). On the last day of that phase of US History, Mr. Mckenzie stated: "...and that was the American Revolution."
...
...
...
Melinda raises her hand.
"What was the American Revolution?"
You could actually see my teacher's soul leave his body.
Well, you represent that type of person sometimes. When you don't even know the 16.4% (at least) failure rate of the 360, it shows how little you actually know about gaming. That is pretty sad.
I have to ask you this, do you really like gaming? Really? Or do you just pretend to like gaming? This allows you to put on a resume that you wrote for a website and was published. I'm fairly certain that it would feed your ego. Sad...
Posted By: David R (Guest) on June 06, 2008 at 10:02 AM
I'm assuming guest 8250 is Dave. Normally I would agree with you about Gamestop trying to sell me something. But the person that told me the information told me this, along with all of Microsofts new warranty info, to actually save me money. I was intending to buy the in store warranty, and he told me this info to save me money. What is this question of proof? What proof do I need to let the readers know what I was informed of from a GameStop employee. If you are asking what proof I have of Microsoft owning up to their problems, I think that proof would lie in the extended warranty and that stuff they did to make up for the problems with earlier PS3's.
It's funny how Dave says there is no proof that the RROD problem has been fixed, then says the lockup problem in PS3's was because of early SKU's. Where is your proof that it doesn't happen in the later manufactured models? You say something about a comment with no proof, then use basically the same argument about your system of choice.
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 06, 2008 at 12:28 PM
Showing that you can look on the internet and find the failure rate of 360's does not make you a gamer either Dave. Playing damn games makes you a gamer. last time I checked, you do not need to know how many computer chips are in a machine in order to play the games they put out. And is this 16.4% number your only argument against the 360?
On a different note, if someone elses comment on here can actually lower your IQ, you should probably not be using your time on the internet. You should probably look into researching some more important stuff than a 16.4% failure rate. I mean, there are much better topics. For example I happen to know for a fact that most public libraries have the following books that may be better suited for ya: Dick and Jane, See Spot Run, Where's Waldo?...
Those might be a little more your speed if what someone says actually lowers your iq.
Posted By: David R(edkey) hater (Guest) on June 06, 2008 at 12:37 PM
I said Microsoft had problems with earlier PS3's. my bad. Lol, I think you all know what I meant.
Posted By: Toddo (Guest) on June 06, 2008 at 12:40 PM
What proof of the problems linked to certain SKUs? GTA4/60 gb comes to mind. There has been zero substantiated reports of problems with the 80/40 gb PS3s.
Posted By: D is for Domination (Guest) on June 06, 2008 at 10:54 PM
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