GTAIV: Is the Xbox 360 Version Superior? (UPDATE)

"Still on Top?"

Since the publication of our first article on this subject a number of new developments have arisen. It has been a very exciting time for GTA fans as the release date approaches and new details are revealed.

And with these new details comes a slew of new insights into hottest topic on the web. Which version of GTAIV is superior? Is it the Xbox 360 version or the PS3 version? Come with us now as we discuss some controversial new developments. What you learn by the end of this article will shock and surprise you. It may also answer the biggest question of the year.

The Disinformation Machine Strikes!

The Empire Strikes Back....or at least that's what it felt like after we ran out last article. Everywhere we looked we found a legion of fanboys, sony virals, and media whores trying to run damage control on our last piece.

There were lies about DLC coming to the PS3. Of course this fan created myth was quickly dismissed.

Later some would claim that both versions of the game were "identical" although at the time none of them had actually seen the elusive PS3 version. Almost no one had. Later in this article we'll prove the two versions are anything but identical. Even to this day.

The "Superior" Trend

It also appears we may have started a trend with the publication of our previous article. The word "superior" was thrown around like crazy after the release of our first expose. Everywhere you looked someone was using the word "superior" in relation to this game. Whether it be on a blog, a web site, or even on your local message board. It was obvious we struck a chord with our readers. This is a hot button issue that will not go away.

"Superior"

Forbidden Knowledge

It seems like all of the big media outlets and even Rockstar themselves are afraid to answer this question. In fact none of them want to answer this question. The media is afraid of angering Rockstar (I personally don't give a damn). And Rockstar doesn't want people to think either version is better because they want to maximize their profits on both console versions. Well as you have seen, we have no loyalties. We're going to give you the straight answers right here and right now.

New Controller Insights: PS3 Controller Woes: Trigger Trouble

Will the PS3 version of GTAIV be hindered by a tragic flaw? Recently we learned the PS3 version will use the R2 Trigger for shooting. Now on the PS2 Dual Shock this wouldn't have been a problem. However the PS3 controller has the worst triggers of any remote on the market. They are placed at an unnatural angle and over time they can be extremely uncomfortable to use.

Even PS3 diehards expressed their disappointment over this decision. The issue is recognized as such a problem that "trigger covers" have been released in an attempt to aid the situation. Hopefully Rockstar will allow PS3 owners to change their control configuration. Otherwise PS3 fans will be in for a rough time.

Six Axis = The Touch of Death

We have recently learned the PS3 version of GTA IV may use Six Axis motion control for certain portions of the game.

Since its inception the Sony's "4-D" controller has ruined almost every game it touches. Sony's tacked on motion control began as nothing more than a reaction to Nintendo and their own motion sensing controller. It was more of a marketing angle than it was a design choice. Again this being a case of Sony playing "follow the leader," something they do quite frequently.

But no matter where you stand on the issue of Sony's lack of originality one thing is for certain; PS3 motion control can be the kiss of death for any decent game. (Lair comes immediately to mind, as does Warhawk...I'm sorry apologists but its true.)

New Control Scheme Began With Xbox 360 Controller

We have also learned that the game's new control scheme began with the Xbox 360 controller. This only makes sense as the Xbox 360 was the lead console for this project. Although the two controllers are similar, as you will see there is one major difference that truly separates the two.

PS3 controller vs Xbox 360 Controller: The BIG Difference

Not only does the Xbox 360 have better and more comfortable trigger buttons, but it also has a superior analog stick that is in the proper "forward position." This is in direct contrast to the antiquated "off center" analog sticks used by the Six Axis and Dual Shock Controllers.

Microsoft's design choice leads to much greater accuracy when using the Xbox 360 controller. It allows for greater precision and more subtle control. As you can see, the forward position is more ergonomic, and in the long run, better for your hands as the design follows the natural bone structure of your forearm and hands.

PS3 Version: Rumble Now Only $49.99 (plus tax)

Sadly, PS3 owners will be without this important feature unless they are willing to buy a new controller for a whopping $49.99. (Roughly $55 with tax. Currently the Xbox 360 controller can be found for $43.30 tax included.) Basically, Sony fans are forced to buy a new controller to get rumble while Xbox 360 owners get it for free.

Making matters worse, we already know the PS3 controller is disposable and that you can not replace the battery pack once it completely dies. However the real kicker is that the PS3 controller has the worst battery life when compared to the Wii and the Xbox 360 controllers.

Battery Life Chart: Six Axis vs Wii-mote vs 360 Controller

http://www.gamepro.com/gamepro/international/games/features/159148.shtml

So not only is the PS3 controller disposable but it also has the worst battery life. Adding a new rumble feature is only going to SHORTEN the battery life of the SixAxis/Dual Shock 3.

And just to add more salt into our wounds, the PS3 Controller recharging cable is a just under 5 feet long. So when you need to charge your controller you're either going to have to buy an extension cable or you'll have to sit really close to your tv.

(In contrast, the PS2 controller cord is 8 feet long and the Original Xbox controller had a cord that was almost 10 feet long.)

You could buy a charging station and spend even more money but in the end you're still screwed. Sony has really dropped the ball on this major issue.

The PS3 Uses 380 Watts of Power

Seems like an odd thing to mention doesn't it? However as any serious GTA fan already knows a gamer can log countless hours playing these games. I have spent well over 100 hours playing GTA:SA. What does this mean in the long run? It will cost PS3 owners a lot more to play this game. Not only are they paying for the game, and possibly a new controller, but their power bills will also see a major spike. Let's take a look at what Gizmodo.com had to say about this subject.

http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/home-entertainment/ps3-twice-as-powerhungry-as-xbox-360-211005.php

"The PS3's 380 Watts will cost you around $40 a year to run if you play it for 2 hours a day."

So tell me GTA fans. Do you think you'll play GTAIV for more than 2 hours a day? It's funny to think that not only is the PS3 a power hog, but its also the least enviormentally friendly console on the market. Basically in the long run its going to cost you more money to play this game on the PS3.

PS3 Version Still Running Behind mere Weeks Before Launch

As this article was being readied for press we learned the PS3 version of the game was still running behind the Xbox 360 version. We also heard that "developers are rushing to implement rumble" on the PS3 version. (Let's see, were only a few weeks from launch and the PS3 version is still running behind. I'll let you draw your own conclusions.)

A recent issue of "PlayStation: The Official Magazine" (formerly PSM) claimed that the problems that caused the PS3 version's delay have been "resolved." They even claim Sony's own technicians were helping out and that now the game plays with "great fidelity."

Unfortunately this directly contradicts the reports of several web sites that claimed the PS3 version still needed a few tweaks. Here is a comment from just one of the sites in question. Please keep in mind this exceprt comes from their second hands demo on with GTAIV.

"For the most part, the game looked identical to what we've previously seen on the 360, although there were a few visual glitches that were due to it being an unfinished product. It didn't take advantage of the Dual Shock 3's rumble, either, although Rockstar reassured us that the PS3 version is about a week behind the 360 edition, and that rumble will be added soon."

http://www.gamesradar.com/xbox360/grand-theft-auto-iv/preview/grand-theft-auto-iv-second-hands-on/a-200802290139859045/g-2006051014323586065

Basically the magazine, which was printed a month before it was delivered to newsstands, tells different story than the various media outlets who were shown both versions just last week. Who is telling the truth? I will leave that up to you to decide.

The Game is Revealed: Few Media Outlets Shown PS3 Version

During the last week of February there was a GTAIV media blitz. Several major web sites and magazines were given exclusive previews of both versions. Much of their early reports seem to confirm what we have stated in the first part of this article. However one person's comments would stand out from the rest.

IGN's Hillary Goldstein would say this about both versions.

The PS3 version has "less aliasing" (a plus) while the Xbox 360 version has a "brighter picture and more vibrant colors." Well it seems that Mr Goldsein (yes he's a dude) has let the cat out of the bag. Strangely enough no other media outlet mentioned issues regarding aliasing. Maybe only Hillary could see them?

Gamers with HD setups can visit gametrailers.com and see the videos for themselves. Since all of these videos come from the Xbox 360 version, you tell me if you see any aliasing problems. I sure do not. And neither did any of the professional media geeks I showed the videos.

http://www.gametrailers.com/game/2924.html

Other media outlets did mention the brighter picture and warmer colors of the Xbox 360 version. Those who listened to Mr Goldstein's comments also felt that he did his best to downplay the differences between the two versions. Well here's why...

IGN XBox 360 Reporter Trashes System: Openly States Desire for PS3 Victory

"In a recent “3 Red Lights” podcast, Hilary Goldstein, editor in chief of IGN X360, completely attacks the Xbox 360 and argues that the PS3 will ultimately win out."

http://gamersvue.wordpress.com/2008/02/07/hilary-goldstein-ign-360-editor-bashes-xbox-360/

Basically Xbox 360 fans have strong reason to question the opinions of Hillary Goldstein. IGN.com has been charged with claims of bias in the past. Some people even feel they are a pro-Sony web site, even though they cater to multiple systems.

Now before you shut your mind on this subject ask yourself these simple, common sense questions:

Do you think Sony loves the fact that IGN's Xbox 360 Pod Cast is called "Three Red Rings?" Is anyone surprised that the host of a show with this title would bash the Xbox 360 and openly state his desire for the PS3's victory? And what sort of damage does the name of this pod cast do the Xbox 360 brand and the image of the console? If I were Microsoft I'd think twice before I purchased ad space on IGN.com. (Wake up MS, your product is being smeared every week and you're paying them do to it.)

Like I stated earlier, Mr Goldstein seems to be doing his best to downplay the differences between the two versions. He almost seems afraid to admit the Xbox 360 version is better. Gee, I wonder why?

Brighter and More Vibrant Colors = Better Graphics

If you've watched the trailers, seen the videos or even looked at a few screen shots then you know the game is naturally dark. In a situation like this its really going to help to have a brighter picture. Now some people will claim they can merely adjust their TV sets, however all this will do is distort your picture quality. Its not going to change the console's hardware nor will it effect the game's code, which are the real reasons for the differences in graphic quality.

And since were talking about GTA here, lets get to the important stuff. With a brighter picture and more vibrant colors everything will look better. Explosions, gun fire, neon, burning flames, breaking glass, sunny days, etc... Everything will look better in the Xbox 360 version because of this major difference.

Xbox 360 Achievements vs PS3 Accomplishments

To the surprise of no one, Sony has developed their own version of Xbox 360 Achievement system. Unfortunately their accomplishment system is not a truly organic part of the PS3 experience. Its a mere copycat system that is shallow and uninspired. Its tacked on to the PS3 gaming experience. As always it began as a mere reaction to the innovations of Sony's competitors. Not truly inspired thinking if you will. It is more proof that Sony always plays follow the leader.

More Developer Insights: PS3 Fill Rate Problems

In doing our research we came across this explosive expose from former Harmonix Developer Jason Booth. In his blog he reveals the truth about the alleged power of the PS3. What he says may directly effect the performance of GTAIV on the PS3. Here is what he had to say:

"The fill rate on the PS3 is significantly slower than on the 360, meaning that games either have to run at lower resolution or use simpler shader effects to achieve the same performance. Additionally, the shader processing on the ps3 is significantly slower than on the 360, which means that a normal map takes more fill rate to draw on the ps3 than it does on the 360."

He continues:

"Getting data off the blue ray drive takes about twice as long as it does to get the same data off the 360's DVD drive....Sony let their hardware be designed by a committee of business interests rather than a well thought out design that would serve the game development community."

http://jbooth.blogspot.com/2007/10/ps3-misconceptions-and-spin.html

Slow Read Speeds of Blu-Ray lead to Low Frame Rates and Forced Installation?

Recently we've learned that several new PS3 games require a mandatory 5Gb installation be placed on the users hard drive. Among these games are the newly released Devil May Cry 4, which has a 5GB madatory installation that take almost 25 minutes to install. There is also Lost Planet, a port of an Xbox 360 title that is over a year old. It too requires a mandatory 5GB installation. Finally there is the upcoming Hot Shots Golf: Out of Bounds, which as you may have already guessed, requires a mandatory 5GB installation taking almost 30 minutes to install.

Installing games on console sets a disturbing trend. It practically negates the very purpose of owning a console. Consoles have always been about ease of use and simplicity.

So what's the punch line here? Well it appears the reason so many upcoming PS3 games require installation is because of the slow read speeds of the Blu-Ray disc drive. And since it takes twice as long to get information off the Blu-Ray disc, developers are forced to use installation as a means of getting closer to normal performance out their PS3 projects. Otherwise their games are plagued with choppy frame rats and hideously long load times. Its ridiculous. And now you know the secret behind the Madden 08 controversy. Speaking of which...

Madden 09 + FIFA 09: Keeping up the Pace on the Xbox 360

Microsoft boasts both games will run twice as fast on the Xbox 360. A lofty claim as we are several months away from the release of both games.

"This year's (09) versions of Madden and FIFA will be "looking and playing better on our platform," which is a pretty bold statement eight months out"

http://blog.wired.com/games/2008/01/microsoft-sever.html

It appears developers have still not overcome the technical limitations of the PS3 and the Blu-Ray format. A year later and Madden 09/FIFA 09 may still run better on the Xbox 360.

Xbox 360 Price Drop just before GTAIV release?

Strangely enough, for the past several weeks Xbox 360 hardware has been in short supply. The UK is already confirmed to receive a major price drop. And now rumors circulate that the rest of the World may see a price drop as well.

The reason for the hardware shortages could be this impending, rumored price drop. Sources claim MS is stockpiling Xbox 360 hardware in anticipation of the price drop and the release of GTAIV. The game may even give Xbox 360 hardware sales a GTAIV related bump. (The GTA bump.)

Although price drops are great, what does this really have to do with GTAIV? (Remember folks, we are the Tech Spy Blog. We keep our eyes on everything.) If MS is building up their hardware reserves in anticipation of this big event they must obviously have great confidence in their product and the strength of GTAIV. After all, the rumored price drop is strategically planned right before the release of GTAIV. (The biggest game of this generation)

RUMOR: FREE DLC with Pre-order? Wishful Thinking?

"Microsoft has yet to publicly announce why the company is so sure the 360 will sell more copies of GTA IV than the PS3, (NOTE: Our readers already know why)

"XF has learned about FREE content that will be offered to those who pre-ordered GTA IV and pick up the game on launch day"

http://xboxfamily.com/xf/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1353&Itemid=2

Rumor: DLC the size of San Andreas?

Recently rumors emerged claiming the exclusive DLC packs would be as big as an entire GTA game. After doing some research into the subject it appears this may not be the case. We were unable to find a credible source to back this claim.

However while doing our research we did learn to expect a lot from the DLC packs. It should seem obvious that Microsoft wouldn't pay $50 Million for something that lasts 10 minutes. So if you're interest in DLC, I'm sure you wont be disappointed when it arrives.

Rumor: DLC on the PS3? Not likely...

DLC, Mythbusters Edition. Basically Sony, their media puppets, and a legion of fanboys have all been saying the PS3 will get DLC. Well here are the cold hard facts on this subject. Episodic story driven DLC is not coming to the PS3 any time soon. Microsoft's $50 million dollar deal guarantees this fact..

However, the PS3 may get lesser DLC like themes, possibly music, and other non game related files. Although this is NOT confirmed. Either way, when and if it does arrive this stuff will also wind up on the Xbox 360. This lesser content is at the source of the DLC on PS3 confusion. No one really cares about this stuff. Its the Episodic Content that people really want. And just in case people are still in denial about this subject, here is a excerpt from a recent PlayStation magazine that proves my point:

So when it comes to DLC, its the Episodic Content that really matters. And its not coming to the PS3 any time soon. So disregard anything you have heard on the subject. Honestly, when I see ignorant fanboys claim the PS3 will get Episodic Content I think to myself;

"What part of $50 Million Dollar exclusivity deal do these people not understand?"

Do they not remember how things worked during the PS2 era? Do they not understand the basic concept of the exclusivity deal? Sony once had a stranglehold on the GTA franchise. It took a long time before GTAIII, VC and SA were ported to other systems. And by the time they arrived they did little to help the original Xbox.

The same concept applies here. MS paid for this DLC, and along with it, a long window exclusivity. So as we said in our last article, even if story driven DLC does eventually arive on the PS3, it will be a long time coming.

In Conclusion....

So here we are at the end of another explosive article. In our last expose we presented 16 points that proved we had a serious grasp on this hotly debated subject. In this piece we have provided another 15 separate points, each one more controversial than the other.

So again, which version of GTAIV is superior? Well as of now the evidence points to the Xbox 360 version. And like we said before, it is certainly a mountain of strong, undeniable evidence.

See you at the Midnight Launch.

GTAIV: Is the Xbox 360 Version Superior?

"Superior?"

Is the Xbox 360 version of GTAIV superior to the PS3 version? This is the question that plagues multi-console owners everywhere. Even those waiting to "jump in" on the next gen bandwagon are troubled by this issue. For some, their future console purchase may depend on the answer to this very question. Which version of GTAIV is superior?

Here's the evidence we have so far:

The Trojan Horse

Over a year ago when Rockstar released the game "Table Tennis" on the Xbox 360 gamers everywhere were puzzled. It was an extremely solid game, yet it definitely wasn't something you'd expect from Rockstar.

However, Table Tennis uses the RAGE engine, which is the game engine used in GTAIV. Basically, the game was a test run for the RAGE Engine on the Xbox 360. It was also a Trojan horse. A way to get inside the Xbox 360 hardware and test the bugs before the real challenge arrived with GTAIV. It was a warm up for the dev team and a head start on GTAIV development.

Know your Hardware

The more you know your hardware the better your game looks and plays. Its a simple idea that has held true since the days of the Atari 2600. Now we already know that Rockstar has spent a lot of time working with the Xbox 360. With the release of the game Table Tennis, Rockstar development teams have had more time to become familiar with the Xbox 360 hardware. That is an automatic plus for the 360 version of the game.

Earliest Version = Lead Version

Its also believed that the 360 version of GTAIV was in development before the PS3 version. The 360 was on the market a year before the PS3. Developers like Rockstar probably got their development kits long before they received any PS3 hardware. With the release of Table Tennis way back in May 2006, we can already see that the early lead time is producing strong results.

All Screen shots and Trailers for GTAIV have been from the Xbox 360 version

This also lends credibility to the idea that the 360 version was in production first. Even the hands on demos given to the press were done with the 360 version of the game.

Developing is easier on the Xbox 360

Its a well known fact that game development is very difficult on the PlayStation 3. There have been many highly publicized statements made by senior members of the Development Community that prove this statement to be true.

There are the infamous statements of Gabe Newell who said: "I think [PS3 is] a waste of everybody's time." And "Investing in the Cell, investing in the SPE gives you no long-term benefits.....You're not going to gain anything except a hatred of the architecture they've created."

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=29513

Ouch. That's a pretty strong statement. But Mr Newell isn't the only developer to feel this way about the PS3. Several developers have reported similar difficulties. Including Rockstar themselves. So much like the PS2 before it, the PS3 is a bitch when it comes to producing games.

PS3 Version Caused the Delay of GTAIV

When GTAIV was officially delayed into 2008, the gamers everywhere cried bitter tears. It has been said that Sony has a contract with Rockstar that demands that both versions of GTAIV must be released at the same time. Many believe this is the real truth behind the GTAIV delay. This also means that PS3 development caused the GTAIV delay. (And since we know PS3 isn't easy to work with....)

Take-Two Takes the Plunge

News of the delay was so damaging that shares of Take-Two Interactive Software fell a massive 16% after the announcement. The company stated that the late arrival of Grand Theft Auto IV meant it would record a major annual loss.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/6928872.stm

Further confirmation comes from Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter who says "that he believes difficulties porting the game to the PlayStation 3 are to blame."

He continues: "We think it is also likely that Take-Two had a contractual commitment to Sony that it would not favor competitor Microsoft by launching the Xbox 360 version of GTA IV prior to launching the PS3 version...and that any delay of the PS3 version necessitated a delay of the Xbox 360 version."

http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=14971

PS3 version of GTAIV goes MIA at E3 2007

Enter E3 2007... Before the show rumors had been circulating that the PS3 version of GTAIV would not be shown. Suspiciously Sony did not even mention the game during their press conference.

Now here's the reason why.... (And this comes straight from the media whores over at 1up.com)

1UP: Why didn't you show Grand Theft Auto IV at your press conference? Why was it not there?

Tretton: "Well, Dave [Karraker, Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Sony Computer Entertainment America], do you want to answer that? Dave was in control of the content."

Karraker: "You want the real answer?"

1UP: Can you give me both answers?

Tretton: [laughs]

Karraker: "I'll give you the real answer. They didn't send us their video."

1UP: So it's not anything like "well, the game's been shown on Xbox 360..."

Karraker: "We requested it. We sent an e--mail out to every publisher and said send us your videos that you want put in the press conference, and they never sent it. Not much more you can say about that."

Now maybe its just me but that does seem like unusual behavior on the part of Rockstar. However I am willing to bet the real reason there was no video of the PS3 version is simple:

It wasn't done yet.

Months later a Rockstar Rep would claim make this suspicious comment.

"It's really no surprise to anybody that the PS3 was definitely a contributing factor to that (the delay). Now, we're neck and neck. That's not an issue anymore. But back then that was something we were taking into account. That's not to say there's anything wrong with the PS3 version. It's awesome. They're both identical."

What he says sounds like damage control. He seems overly concerned with the image of the PS3 version. His comments also confirm again that the PS3 version was the reason for the delay. And although he claims they are "neck and neck" playing catch up is bound to hurt the PS3 version.

And although he claims the two versions will be "identical" many insiders have strong reason to feel otherwise. Some feel there will be major differences between the two versions based upon many of the reasons we have mentioned, or will mention, in this very article. And were still waiting to see that PS3 version...

Multi console ports struggle on PS3

We've been reading the reviews for the past several months. Almost every multi-console game on the market looks and plays the better on the Xbox 360. There are some very high profile examples of this fact. Just look at the record selling Madden franchise. The 2008 version of the game runs at a blazingly fast 60fps on the Xbox 360. Meanwhile the same game struggles to maintain a constant 30fps frame rate on the PS3. And Madden 08 isn't the only game that suffers on the PS3. High profile releases such as The Orange Box, Tony Hawks Project 8, and Need for Speed have all had major problems on the PS3.

PS3 Ports: Leaving out the "Little Details"

Above you'll see a few screen shots that illustrate some of the differences between Xbox 360 originals and PS3 ports. Almost every single time the game looks better on the Xbox 360. And as you can see in the pictures above, PS3 versions of the same game lack details found in the Xbox 360 original.

Better Online

In this writer's humble opinion, Xbox Live is completely superior to the PSN network. Yes, PSN is free, but in this case I honestly believe this is a great example of the "you get what you pay for rule." Although I don't wish to force my opinion on anyone I'm positive a lot of multi-console owners feel the exact same way as I do.

Better Controller

I also prefer the centered analog sticks found on the Xbox 360. (And several other controllers). The old dual shock style, off center analog sticks are imprecise when compared to the 36o controller. I also believe that using the off center analog sticks on the PS3 causes greater cramping and hand pain in the long run. At least that has been my experience when using the two different controllers. I will also say the PS3 controller is too light, and its trigger buttons leave much to be desired. (As does the horrible D-Pad.)

It should also be mentioned that the PS3 controller does not have a replaceable battery pack. When the internal battery dies, the controller is useless. Making matters worse, the included recharging cable is very short. Shorter than a standard controller cable. And the SixAxis must be plugged into the PS3 in order to charge. And guess what? The PS3 must be on if you want to charge your controller! Its all very inconvenient.

MEGATON: Xbox 360 version is the ONLY COMPLETE VERSION

The Xbox 360 version of GTAIV is the only complete version of the game. And this info comes straight from the horse mouth. Sometime last year a Rockstar Rep even admitted that much in a recent interview. Here's an excerpt from a controversial Gamasradar.com article:

"It's no secret that the long-ago announced downloadable episodes for Grand Theft Auto IV will be exclusive to the Xbox 360 version of the game."

"According to Rockstar Games spokesman Hosi Simon, however, there won't be any consolation prizes for those who choose to buy the PlayStation 3 edition instead.

When asked during a preview of the game whether there would be any advantage to owning the PS3 version that could rival the 360's exclusives, Simon said, "not that I can think of."

"Simon continued. "We're not hardware makers, and we're not like a pawn between these companies."

"But I guess if you want the complete experience with the episodes, then yeah, you should buy the 360" Simon said.

http://www.gamesradar.com/us/ps3/game/news/article.jsp?articleId=20070725111542242077&sectionId=1006&releaseId=20060313153735796095

Ouch! Simons Says indeed. Honestly, that really sucks for PS3 fans. The only way to play the full game is by owning the Xbox 360. That's a tough pill to swallow for some.

GTAIV in 2009: More Exclusive Content on the Xbox 360:

Interestingly enough, the delay of this game has meant that exclusive content will continue into 2009. The first installment of exclusive DLC will hit the Xbox 360 sometime in 2008. (My bet would be just before the Holiday Season.) The second installment is set to hit in 2009. This should help Microsoft move a lot of Xbox 360 consoles next Holiday Season. Plus it will keep Xbox 360 owners and GTA fans glued to their consoles well into the year 2009.

Silencing the complaints of Sony fanboys

Sony fans complain alleged Xbox 360 "shortcomings" will hinder GTAIV. Meanwhile the shortcomings of the PlayStation 2 hindered GTAIII, Vice Ctiy and San Andreas. PC and Xbox fans complained to no avail. Ports would eventually surface on other systems but they were only slightly improved from the PS2 originals. They remained tied to the limitations of their PS2 ancestors. So the complaints of sony fans are moot. Storage capacity, processing power, lack of a hard drive, etc... Whatever issue sony fans can raise now is one that has been used against them in the past. They have no ground to stand on when it comes to this issue. So please, Sony fans, take your seats.

Sony fans have also made the erroneous claim that the exclusive content destined for the Xbox 360 will eventually find its way to the PS3. Well I can confirm right now that this will NEVER HAPPEN. Microsoft paid a whopping 50 MILLION dollars for this DLC. And I'm sure it will never wind up in the hands of Sony for that reason alone. And even if the PS3 does see its own DLC, I imagine it will be a long time coming. So far in the future that by the time it arrives no one will care. It will do little to help the struggling PS3. Just as ports of the GTA trilogy did little to sell the original Xbox.

In conclusion...

So which version of GTAIV is superior? Well as of now the evidence points to the Xbox 360 version. And it is certainly a mountain of strong, undeniable evidence.

Will things change in the future? Who knows? This is the game industry and anything can happen. But as of now I'd hedge my bets on the Xbox 360 version. Its the lead platform version. Its the only complete version with exclusive story content. And its been developed by a team that's already well familiar with the Xbox 360 hardware. It all makes perfect sense when you think about it.

See you on release day.

All I Want for Christmas Is A PlayStation Phone

As you have seen by now, there is a large body evidence that supports the existence of the much rumored and highly debated, PlayStation Phone. (PSP) And it is my purpose here to cover every element within the media that supports the positions I already believe to be true. Whether through my own investigations or by my astute observation of the industries I cover.

Simply put, I plan to cite as many possible sources to support my positions. For most intelligent people tend to have a "show me" attitude. And well they should in this age of deception.

But wonder no more. The question has been answer. That which we already know to be true has now been officially confirmed. The PlayStation has become a reality.

Chris James from the web site PocketGamer.Co.UK scored this amazing exclusive interview with Sony Ericsson's "gaming guru," Peter Ahnegard.

Chris James: "Okay, on to the direct questions. Is there a dedicated category of gaming phones within Sony Ericsson?"

Peter Ahnegard: "We won't be marketing them specifically as gaming phones, but games will be factored in the consideration of more devices going forward."

(ed note: This is the same approach Sony took with their struggling PSP portable It was sold more as a multi-media device rather than a portable video game system.)

Chris James: "So when is the PlayStation phone coming?"

Peter Ahnegard: "I've been waiting for that one! To explain our position I need to look at the brands we've developed so far.... We're not launching a brand of handset simply because we can, but because we can lead up to the expectations of the consumer."

"Up until today we haven't felt we could launch a PlayStation phone because it wouldn't be recognised as a true continuation of that brand of products.

Chris James: "Up until today? So does that mean we can look forward to a PlayStation branded handset soon, say before Christmas?"

Peter Ahnegard: "It's obviously something that we're looking at but right now I can't really comment. Before Christmas, certainly... but exactly which Christmas I can't confirm!"

So there it is folks. Mr Ahnegard has basically confirmed the PlayStation Phone! However if you've been following this blog then you already knew that it was coming. The only question is when? Obviously Mr Ahnegard was playing coy with our intrepid reporter. But being a little more brazen that either men, I'm willing to guess exactly when Sony plans to reveal the PSP Phone.

Sometime before Christmas 2008

Next Time...

We examine the launch of the redesigned PSP Slim...

Secrets of the PlayStation Phone: Part Five

A Fork in the Road?

The PlayStation Phone gets its own development team. But how will it effect the current PlayStation Portable? Is this an example of diversifying the brand, or is Sony getting ready to jump ship?

Lets see what the folks at PocketGamer.co.uk have to say about this subject.

Sony planning to launch mobile games in Europe

SCEE to bring first-party PS3 games to phones?

"Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) is planning to move into mobile games, according to the new issue of Mobile Entertainment magazine.

What does that mean? Potentially a bunch of its first-party PS2 and PS3 games getting mobile conversions – the mag cites This Is Football, The Getaway and Primal as three examples, along with the frankly less-likely SingStar and EyeToy brands.

SCEE has apparently appointed former THQ Wireless executive Balbir Blugan as its head of mobile business development, to figure out how it should move into mobile.

It's possible that SCEE will develop and publish its own games, although the examples of Codemasters, Konami and Sega hint that partnering with a mobile publisher may be an easier way in, at least in the short-term.

...it does show how seriously console firms are taking the mobile market – and also that Sony clearly thinks mobile versions of its top titles won't negatively affect sales on PSP. "

Could Sony honestly be foolish enough to believe this last statement? In essence this means thier PlayStation phone would be competing directly with the current PlayStation Portable. All of the company's mega hit software on two different platforms.

When the Nintendo Co. launched their highly successful "Nintendo DS," their GameBoy Advance portable was selling almost a half million units a month. And this was in the United States alone.

Nintendo claimed they were taking a "third pillar" approach to the market. Meaning they would support two hand helds and a video game console all at the same time. Most people saw this as a bluff, feeling that Nintendo had no confidence in their new dual screen portable, and that it was merely a hold over to fend off Sony's advancement into the portable market.

Two years later the Nintendo DS rules the portable market and the GameBoy franchise is dead. The 3rd pillar strategy only wound up breaking one of the 3 pillars.

So this raises an interesting point. The original PSP has never done as well as either the Nintendo DS or the GBA. What does this mean for the future of Sony's floundering portable?

Secrets of the PlayStation Phone: Part Four

"Its all a game for some..."

Months before the leaked patents hit the web, rumors had been circulating claiming that Sony was going to redesign its moderately successful PlayStation Portable.

On the Top: The Newly Redesigned PSP "Slim" (aka PSP 2000)

On the Bottom: The Original Model

The hand held gaming device struggled in the market from the day of its launch. Although sales had been good for a time, the system has always performed well below the expectations of the Industry Analysts and of Sony themselves.

Allegedly the redesign would either be Sony's way of re-launching the product or it could also be the company's way of squeezing the last bit of profit out of a dying brand.

So when rumors of a PSP Redesign hit the web, at a time when the sales of the current model were floundering, it was up to Sony's John Koller to save the day. After all, the new model would not see the light of day for months. If word spread quickly enough it might dissuade consumers from buying the current model, which was already struggling, and news of the redesign would only makes things worse.

Luckily Mr Koller stepped in quickly to extinguish the public relations brush fire. Or did he?

MythBusters: PSP Edition

Posted by John Koller // Sr. Marketing Manager, PSP

"The rumor mill is flowing about new PSP hardware and a PSP phone, and I just wanted to take the time to clear the air...."

"We haven’t announced anything about a new PSP, much less one that would have any phone capabilities. As SCEA’s resident PSP guru, I’m thrilled to hear that there’s so much interest in the platform, but sorry folks, these reports floating around fall into the rumors/speculation category."

http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/06/12/mythbusters-psp-edition/

"We haven't announced anything." That's all he really had to say. Most Sony loyalists took this bit of verbal manipulation to be an outright denial of the PSP redesign rumors. Ironically, just two weeks later, a redesigned PSP was revealed to a lukewarm public reception.

Next Up...

A Fork in the Road

Secrets of the PlayStation Phone: Part Three

Sony-Ericsson's Video Game Cell Phone takes one step closer to reality. But will it be crowned with the "PlayStation" family name?

This article from Pocket Gamer.Co.Uk provides a glimpse into Sony's plans.

"New Sony Ericsson patent may be the real PSP phone"

"A recently-unearthed patent however seems to indicate that Sony Ericsson has at the very least been thinking about releasing a more gaming centric phone."

"It's unlikely that this device is directly compatible with PSP software, as even though it has clearly been designed with a focus on making mobile games easier to control, it certainly doesn't have the sort of set-up that would accommodate PSP games."

"Having said that, the rotating screen does bear a remarkable resemblance to the PSP's..."

"...and if the device ever does see the light of day it is conceivable that it will be branded with the PSP logo."

---------

Its seems obvious that a video game cell phone produced by Sony might bear the PlayStation name. However its this next bit of information that is truly explosive.

---------

"We're going out on a limb here, but we're thinking that a PSP branded mobile would likely command a development platform of its own. With Sony announcing just yesterday that it's setting up a first-party development initiative for mobile games, we smell a coincidence. Then again, perhaps that's just because we want it so badly. More on this story as soon as we have it."

http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/PSP/news.asp?c=3217

Coincidence indeed.

Next Time...

Denials, Denials, Denials; Or A bad player always shows his hand.

Secrets of the PlayStation Phone: Part Two

PlayStation Phone: Coming Soon?

Our story begins with a leaked patent. This image first appeared on the tech web site known as Unwiredview.com.

http://www.unwiredview.com/2007/06/01/psp-phone-from-sony-ericsson/

Soon after these pics hit the web, a torrent of media coverage followed. This article from PSPfanboy.com explores the features described in this patent.

"Sony Ericsson files PSP-esque gaming phone patent"

"Sony Ericsson has recently filed a patent for a gaming phone that looks more than a little inspired by the PSP. The ability to play games is a central focus of the device, as indicated by the need to suspend games for phone calls (pictured, above).

Sony has hinted time and time again at the possibility of a PlayStation phone ... it looks like this is taking the idea one step closer to reality."

http://www.pspfanboy.com/2007/06/01/sony-ericsson-files-psp-esque-gaming-phone-patent/

Next Time...

Further confirmation...