In addition to executives and game designers talking about the prospect of 3D video games at the 3D Gaming Summit in Los Angeles this week, there were also -- guess what -- 3D games.
Here's some quick, one-liner impressions of the games whose 3D-ness passed my eyes:
Age of Empires: Is it weird this one probably made the most significant impression on me? 2D games in 3D seem to do really well within the current applications of 3D technology. The depth-of-field effect worked exceptionally well for Age of Empires. I could see enjoying it at length.
Need For Speed Shift: Even though racing games tend to benefit greatly from the addition of 3D, the version shown at the 3D Gaming Summit was toned down to the point that it was usually difficult to tell if the game was in 3D at all. 3D shouldn't hit you over the head, but...
World of Warcraft: It's ironic that I'm finding myself continually fascinated by how well some 2D elements tend to look when 3D is applied properly. That's precisely the case with World of Warcraft, too, as the interface elements really seem to "pop" compared to the 3D world itself.
EverQuest II: Maybe it's because the visuals themselves are ancient, but it did nothing for me. I can see how hardcore fans might enjoy going through their favorite dungeons with added depth, but the aging game engine simply doesn't look that great, especially with EverQuest II's art.
Star Trek DAC: Since most 3D games are simply slapping on 3D technology to broadly add 3D depth to the visuals, the "wow" factor can evaporate in a few minutes. It tends to stick around a little big longer in 3D games on a 2D plane and Star Trek: DAC reinforces that. Sure, the gameplay is taking place on a 2D plane, but being able to see real depth into space...beautiful.
The 3D Gaming Summit didn't do much to change my thouughts on 3D gaming: sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. What 3D gaming really needs is a game developed from the ground up.
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Huge Ackman
I agree with everything BladeofOnyx said. I would much rather see the relevant industries focus instead on refining content and delivery for the current HDTV technology.
BladeofOnyx
3D television and gaming is too much of a gimmick. I realize it's a necessary step towards Holodeck technology, but it will detract from good game design and storytelling. Plus I'm getting tired of the industry telling me I need a new television every two years to "keep up".
JMason1984
3d is the future of gaming minus the glasses, it'll happen we just have to wait
OneManCold
They need to hold off on the 3d TVs and such until OLED gets released. OLED TVs are going to be 60% of the cost of current TVs. They also have the ability to use the 3d technology. It will guarantee the customer base as well as a better profit margin.
KingShroom
Nvidia has been marketing 3d gaming for years. So why are people just now really caring. The glasses have always been a real pain here is a link to 3d vision garbage http://www.nvidia.com/object/3 D_Vision_Main.html
CLUNGEHUNTERPJ
i disagree with sessler. just cause his old rheumy eyes give him a headache i don't think he should keep trying to spoil a new feature for everyone else. his argumant that 3d won't "change games" is like saying that HD screens are a waste of time imo
Aldowyn
We've seen that 3D works better when movies are designed for them as well. Case and point: Avatar over Clash of the Titans. It's fairly analogous to motion controls. ANY feature works infinitely better when planned and designed for in the original product, in any industry.
Corbin_Wells
Now video games want to go 3D? Ugh, how can people stand it when thin objects such as grass, paper, pins or other points move and feel like they are slicing into their pupils? Or is it just me who has a hard time tolerating anything in 3D? It's horrific, makes my eyes feel like they are being molded and warped with every frame.
FallenSegal
NO GLASSES.
iamosm
The powers that be believe this is the next big thing because we saw one movie that made 3 billion dollars in 3D. I hope not many ppl buy them or then we are all screwed. I don't need to play games in 3D. If I wanted to feel like I was in a actual war zone I would join the army. It's just not necessary.
benignotx
Until 3d becomes affordable and ubiquitous, I'm not buying the hype.
Adam Sessler this is just industry hype, and I believe him.
HollowSora
I would love to see Left 4 Dead, Gears of War, or Halo in 3D. I think I might have a gamorgasm if the day comes when they make those games in 3D.
**GOOD 3D that is.
Symicide
I just want my video games to be even MORE amazing. Hmmm Uncharted 2 3D...
Bomblord
Here's hoping the 3ds can do it good
Displaying 1–14 of 14