This 300 word hands-on piece was supposed to go in the paper last Saturday but got pulled due to space issues. Thanks to the wonder that is Gamesblog it won't have to remain unread. Actually, it doesn't really say anything that regular readers here won't already know, but It essentially sums up my PS3 impressions so far, ie good build quality, average games, decent media playback. Anyway, here it is.
Blu-Ray, Cell Processor, High Definition 1080p - the days when games consoles were for children have long gone. The PS3 which has just launched in Japan - March in Europe - is as much about high-end technology as it is Grand Theft Auto. But is it any good?
I've had one for a couple of weeks now and there is no doubt the PS3 is an impressive bit of kit - weighty, substantial and very masculine. The shiny case and chrome trim - in sharp contrast to the Wii and Xbox 360's Apple influenced minimalism -is perfect for the bachelor pad. But best of all is how quiet the thing runs, making it perfect for watching those Blu-Ray films. And you'll want to watch them too - the detail and warm vivid colour is enough to make film buffs weep. Sadly so will the price of the HD telly to watch it on, with sets capable of displaying the highest quality setting - 1080p - costing over £2000. Owners of normal HD TVs will be more than satisfied with how the PS3 looks though.
The games? A mixed bag, with the redneck racing game Motorstorm and inventive shooter Resistance: Fall of Man the main highlights. Overall the PS3 launch games compare favourably to the Xbox 360's. But while the graphics are impressive they are currently no better than those seen on the 360. The tilt mechanism on the new joypad feels gimmicky too.
The online elements are equally mixed, with the gaming side lacking many of the features - cross game messaging, achievement points - of the Xbox Live Service. However the inclusion of a browser and, in particular, the download store go some way to making up for the gaming deficiencies. The store is a massive leap over the Xbox Live equivalent, allowing easy access to the trailers, casual games and PS1 titles. A nifty remote play option allows you to access these retro games, and other content stored on your PS3, on your handheld PSP.
Photo, music and video playback all work intuitively and there is a lot to like on the PS3. The games may be currently lacking but as an entertainment hub the PS3 is looking promising, assuming Blu-Ray wins the format wars of course.
