Techpedition may not be attending E3 this year, but we will definitely be there in spirit. There are a lot of knowns and unknowns coming out of the press conferences and one of the big three is sure to trot out the show stopper. With software publishers also having a lot of games to show, this year’s E3 could be one for the ages. Let’s look at Sony’s offerings.
NGP details will come rolling in at E3. Expect for it to get a proper name and release window. Sony will also spotlight their forthcoming stable of exclusive titles like Resistance 3, The Last Gaurdian, Ratchet and Clank All 4 One, Twisted Metal, and Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception. I’m sure there will be a lengthy apology/reassurance speech highlighting the security measures built into the new PSN. Like most press conferences, Sony’s going to have something to announce that we haven’t seen yet, that’s where the theories come in.
Here are projections and conjectures on what might go down:
If Sony expects to actually ship the NGP this year, they need to show a nice portfolio of games at E3 to convince consumers that it isn’t just a PSP in disguise. All Sony properties are fair game. Jak, Ratchet, God of War, Motorstorm, Littlebigplanet, or even Sly could all see NGP releases at launch. They may also give more details on PS3/NGP connectability *crosses fingers for cross platform play*. Playstaion Plus will have a section in the conference and new features for it will probably be rolled out.
Sony will reiterate that the PS3 is a 10 year console and probably announce a few new games for it. Overall, the Sony Press Conference will be a bit uncomfortable. Typically they show up with a strong bravado of superiority, often showing flimsy numbers to back it up. This year, I don’t see them pulling that off, they can’t, not after the massive security breach.
A humble show is what they should shoot for and stick to what they are good at, showing high quality software. Also, they damn well better have some good Move software to show. For the second year straight, Sony will probably focus on their 3D offerings. Unlike the other big hardware competitors Sony has a whole business unit that sells 3D displays and cross promotion is in their best interest. It would be nice to see Kevin Butler again, but his shelf life is quickly expiring so don’t be surprised if he’s a no show. As always, you cannot count Sony out. They typically bring their A game to press conferences. What do you want to see out of Sony?