The day Playstation fans have anxiously been awaiting is finally here, as Sony Computer Entertainment takes the stage in New York this afternoon to discuss “the future of Playstation.” Presumably, this means there will be an announcement of the next Sony gaming console, what may be called Playstation 4.
Rumors have swirled regarding the inclusion of streaming services, motion control, a new controller, and major Sony-exclusive launch titles, but until this afternoon (the event begins at 6 PM Eastern) it is really all just speculation.
In the gaming console wars, being first out of the gate can be a huge benefit; just look at the previous generation. Microsoft released the Xbox 360 in November of 2005, a full year before the PS3 was released, and Sony’s console struggled to keep up from the get-go. While both consoles were similar in the technology department, many consumers purchased the Xbox because it was available, and simply couldn’t afford to have both.
In this next generation, brand loyalty will be tested. Xbox and PS fanatics tend to be pretty loyal to their preferred brand, but what will happen if Sony puts on a great show today, wows consumers, and actually gets their console out this year – ahead of Microsoft and at a reasonable price? Will Xbox diehards jump on the PS4 just because it’s available? Will they also purchase the next Xbox? In this economy, it will be more difficult than ever for families to justify owning both consoles, so the first one out of the gate may hold an even bigger advantage than ever before.
A number of reports have also hinted at the possibility of some PS Vita news today as well, considering the console received a price drop in Japan this week. Will we see a new price, or perhaps a new version of this console altogether, or maybe even a new batch of exclusive titles? Don’t be surprised to hear more about upcoming PS3 releases as well, as Sony will likely not be putting to rest its current console anytime soon. With any luck we’ll get an update on The Last of Us, which was recently delayed.
Whatever Sony has up its sleeve today, it has the gaming world fired up. If you are excited, or even curious about what will be unveiled this afternoon, keep tabs on The Quest Gaming Network all day, and we’ll keep you informed. You can also follow me on Twitter, as I’ll be keeping tabs on the event and tweeting out any great tidbits I happen to hear.
[author] [author_image timthumb='on']http://mymiddleearth.com/wp-content/uploads/avatars/2330/209800074bd5c82316e83f77e0d73de4-bpfull.jpg[/author_image] [author_info]Brian keeps tabs on The Elder Scrolls and all things Playstation. You can see all his work for QGN @SilentFury007 and follow him on Twitter at silentfury007.[/author_info] [/author]
I’m excited and hopeful that great news comes from Sony today.