Sony’s 2012 E3 Press Conference Thoughts
Game On!
Now this was more like it! Sony’s 2012 E3 Press Conference was focused on one thing, and one thing only: the games. A delightful montage set the tone from the outset, as Sony dedicated their entire conference to the people who represent the lifeblood of the industry; every gamer around the world.
It was a refreshing change from the usual showboating and chest beating antics that often over shadow proceedings. Statistics and figures were strictly kept for the shareholder meetings, and instead we were treated to some jaw-dropping footage of the latest upcoming games – the majority of which were exclusive to Sony’s home console.
Mobile, Indie, Kids
Sony presented a convincing strategy for the future of PlayStation, targeting the mobile markets with PlayStation Mobile (formerly known as PlayStation Suite); announcing a vast library of digital downloads for PSN (including an array of tasty looking indie titles such as The Unfinished Swan); and even the kids were taken care of with Sony’s latest innovation known as, Wonderbook.
Wonderbook brings stories to life with the use of the PlayStation Move, PlayStation Eye and augmented reality. With distinguished authors such as J.K.Rowling already on board, Wonderbook certainly has the potential to capture the educational market; however, Wonderbook wasn’t particularly aimed at the average gamer, or anyone aged over 11 years of age. Not to mention, there were a few technical hiccups. But these things happen with live demonstrations.
Though rumours were circulating of an impending dramatic PlayStation Plus reveal prior to the conference, nothing out of the ordinary was announced. A selection of free downloadable games were offered such as Infamous 2 to entice newcomers, but really, the already attractive package of PlayStation Plus essentially remains the same. Tons of exclusive free content for a fraction of the price.
Exclusivity Club
Quantic Dreams’ new title, Beyond: Two Souls, shocked the audience with its atmospheric presentation and near-photorealistic visuals. Actress Ellen Page is on board for David Cage’s latest creation which looks set to redefine the term, “cinematic entertainment”.
Joining Beyond: Two Souls as potential games of the show were God of War: Ascension and Naughty Dog’s new IP, The Last of Us. Both games were met with raptures of applause and excitable yelps, with gameplay footage from The Last of Us leaving everyone stunned and amazed. Each of these titles on their own has the potential to sell consoles.
Vita Void
If there was an area of concern to be had during Sony’s conference, it was the lack of any sort of fanfare regarding new Vita titles. PlayStation All-Stars Battle Royale was announced, Call of Duty was teased and we got a look at an Assassin’s Creed 3 called Liberation. But apart from that, Vita owners were left wanting. Good news came in the form of cross-platform play with certain PS3 titles, such as PlayStation All-Star Battle Royale, and the fact that PSone classics would finally be available on the Vita this summer means the expected gaming drought could be potentially plugged.
For some, the colour of a device is all the incentive they need to make a purchase. A Crystal White PSVita will be available to buy, bundled with Assassin’s Creed 3: Liberation, for those who are desperate for a fresher, lighter colour option.
Maturing With Age
Even though the PlayStation 3 is now six years old, Sony have added yet another brilliant line-up of exclusives to celebrate the PS3’s twilight years. If anything, it seemed as though Sony console is just beginning to reach its stride and demonstrate the potential that fans have heard about for so long.
Sony’s 2012 E3 Press Conference was a tribute and humbling acknowledgment to gamers. The conference showed that they understand that its people like me and you that push developers and publishers to go past their own expectations and deliver unrivaled experiences; not media partnerships, cheap casual games, or silly gimmicks. There message was summed up by a typically ingenious slogan, “don’t stop playing”. Because at the end of the day, all we ask for when the talk is over and the dust has settled, is great games. And thanks to Sony, we’ve got plenty to look forward to.
About the Author
Adam Vjestica is the Editor-in-Chief at Awesome Games. Adam decided to use his love of writing to talk about all things gaming, with the greater vision of creating a community and fan base with which he could share his passion.
Related Posts
New Trailer Shows Splinter Cell: Blacklist Co-Op Mode →
Xbox One: Could This Be Microsoft’s Biggest Blunder Yet? →
Persona 4 Arena Review →
