E3 2009: Sony’s Press Conference – Highlights

Summary

Sony announced several exciting developments during the E3 2009 press conference. These included the new PSP Go, which would no longer run UMD disks but would offer games via download as well as new PSP titles. In addition, Sony revealed that it was working on a motion controller that would offer true one to one tracking, with a device in the user’s hand that could take on various forms. They also announced that Final Fantasy XIV would be exclusive to the PlayStation, and that Final Fantasy XII would be released in 2010.

PSP Go and New PSP Titles
Motion Controller
Final Fantasy XIV Exclusivity
Conclusion

PSP Go and New PSP Titles

The PSP Go was one of the biggest announcements at Sony’s E3 2009 press conference. The new iteration of the PSP, which would not have a UMD drive, was available for download-only games and would come out on October 1st for $25. While some people might have reservations about the decision, Sony clarified that the new launch was just an iteration of the old PSP, and that most of the same games were still compatible. Moreover, Sony also announced that from now on, every PSP game would be available on disk and via download, which would prevent piracy. This is an interesting gamble that might pay off considering that a lot of people downloaded games for the PSP, but didn’t pay for them.

Motion Controller

Another big reveal was the motion controller that Sony was developing, which appeared to offer more possibilities compared to Microsoft’s motion controller. Sony’s product would use a camera in conjunction with a Wiimote-style wand controller which would offer true one-to-one tracking. The controller could take on various forms, including a tennis racket, a sword or a baseball bat. The demo was impressive, especially with its sword fighting and first-person shooter games. The control offered complete modularity, with developers having a free hand to create new possibilities. The controller was slated to hit the market in the spring of 2010.

Final Fantasy XIV Exclusivity

Sony announced that Final Fantasy XIV would be exclusive to PlayStation. While previously fan-favorite Final Fantasy XIII was slated to come to both PlayStation and Xbox, Final Fantasy XIV was announced as an MMORPG that would follow in the footsteps of Final Fantasy X. A massively popular MMORPG before the dawn of World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy XIV should appeal to fans of its predecessors. The demo featured nice graphics and should offer real competition to other MMORPGs on the market.

Conclusion

Sony’s E3 2009 press conference was chock full of exciting announcements, including the PSP Go and the motion controller. They made a significant gamble in terms of download-only games but also made important strides in combating piracy. All the games on the PSP were to be available on disk and via download. Sony’s motion controller impressed with its emphasis on modularity, something that had immediate gameplay potential. Finally, exclusive release Final Fantasy XIV should provide MMO fans with an exciting title that harks back to the original Final Fantasy X.