The third time´s the charm?Microsoft to win next generation?

[Lord N]

S.T.A.G.E. said:

Squilliam said:

 

Microsoft might not get enough of the casuals, however, they can bag the hardcore base which are still hungry for an HD system today (Which are probably the majority of the PS2 fanbase). They've already got America and Xbox Live has over 17 Million users. All Microsoft has to do now is make affordable hardware that is undisputed quality, which no one can argue with. After this gen is over Microsoft will be solidified as a true competitor because it will have multitple quality first party titles, much like Sony and Nintendo. They will have a very good run next gen.

 

I have an eerie feeling Sony is going to be the weak link next gen, despite the fact that Blu Ray prices will fall. Everyone who cares enough about gaming knows Sony has lost its only connection with gamers, which was primarly gathering all of the third party games with a shovel. Now that Microsoft is playing the same game, they want to act like they are high and moral. Their world will never be the same. Once Digital downloads become big with consoles instead of hard formats, Sony will be forced to leave. Sony will do well next gen, but I believe they will still be in third.

 

 

 

1) The majority of PS2 owners were not hardcore gamers, they were indeed the casuals, as is always the case with the winning console of each gen. Hardcore and core gamers make up the smallest part of the market. Most of the casual gamers this gen went to the Wii, DS, or PSP. As far as America, it's still going to be in a distant second place when all is said and done. First party titles are not Microsoft's strongpoint. Aside from Halo and maybe PGR and Fable, its internally developed games aren't anything to write home about. If third party devs were wiped off the planet tomorrow, Microsoft would be in the most trouble.

2) Digital downloads aren't going to be big anytime soon, if ever. People prefer to have a hard copy, and current internet connections aren't sufficient enough to facilitate digital downloads, especially in the US. They'll be around as they are now with XBLA, the PS store, and Wiiware, but again, they won't play any kind of decisive role.