E3 WRAP-UP
As the post-E3 chaos subsides, we can reflect back on what was another notable E3.
Microsoft unanimously impressed with a solid line-up of first and third party titles and the shocking revelation that they would release Grand Theft Auto 4 at the same time as the Playstation 3 version, quashing Sony's earlier claims that the series would remain exclusive to the Playstation.
Despite a healthy line-up of PS2 and PSP content, Sony's PS3 offerings weren't so well received, as games fell short of expectations set by the controversial ‘footage' aired last year. However, Sony's decision to remain reticent about their online offerings, could hint at an ace yet to be played.
Nintendo's strategy involved playing up game controller innovation and delivering a solid line-up of classic Nintendo franchises. While many fans argued that the Wii controller implementation still needed work in marquis titles like Zelda and Mario, games like Metroid, Tennis and Wario Ware impressed and were applauded overall. Also noteworthy was the strong line-up of Nintendo DS titles, which had many journalists informally branding it as “console of the show.”
For those working the show, the consensus was that E3 just gets busier and busier every year. Actually getting to play even one next gen title was a challenge, so it was nice to see Microsoft offer a number of AAA E3 demos for download on Xbox 360 Live. We definitely recommend checking out Lost Planet if you have a chance.
Until next year, enjoy the related features on deal preparations for E3 2007 and our talk with Scott Miller of 3D Realms on the business of original IP's versus licensed content, in the giving you the business section of our newsletter.
A post-mortem on E3's downsizing and how it may or may not affect GDC 2007.
>> Giving the Power Back to the Artists
Chris Bateman, founder of Fantasy Labs, discusses his experiment with alternate game development business models.
>> Casual Games Biz Poised for Growth Despite Non-Paying Customers
Paul Hyman talks with PopCap Games founder Jason Kapalka about the future of casual games.
>> A Healthy Approach to Game Development
A perspective on virtual education and training through games.
>> Next-Gen Clarity: Courtesy of the Tokyo Games Show
The lastest from Tokyo on the upcoming Wii and PS3 launches.
>> Massive Activity in Massive Multiplayer Games
Industry insiders comment on the proliferation of MMOG's.
>> New Tech Stretches Game Writing Tasks
A commentary on the growth of professional writing and dialogue in games.
>> 'License-itis' Picking Up Steam
Industry perspectives on licensing and future game development.
>> EA's New MMOG-Meister
Paul Hyman talks with Mark Jacobs, founder and CEO of Mythic Entertainment, on their acquisition by EA and the broader MMOG market.
>> Cadillac Guns Xbox 360's Ad Engine
A preview of the current and likely future of advertising in games.
>> With Episodic Gaming, Everything Old is New Again
Industry insiders comment on the resurgence of episodic gaming via digital distribution
>> E3 Wrap-up
Highlights and impressions from E3 2006
>> 3D Realms' Scott Miller on the Value of Original IP
A commentary on the pros and cons of developing original versus licensed IP
>> E3 2007: Deals ... Or No Deals?
Tips on landing a development deal and planning for E3 2007
>> Looking to E3...and the
Big three!
A preview of what to expect from Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo at this year's E3
>> IGF Keeps Indie Spirit Alive In Game Industry
A prospectus on the independent games market
>> Developer Spotlight: Incognito Studios
Paul Hyman talks with Incognito’s technical director, Randy Zorko about the PS3 and their upcoming launch title, Warhawk
>> Game Start-Ups confident
despite turbulent times
How new start ups foresee dealing with the increasing costs and challenges of next gen game development
>> Used Games a Boon and Bane for Industry
A perspective on the thriving used game market and its impact on publishers
>> Mobile Gaming Gets Big!
A commentary on EA's impact in the mobile gaming market via its acquisition of Jamdat.
>> Electronic Boogaloo
A perspective on the growth and influence of hip-hop in games.
>> Industry Recognizing "Write Stuff"
A commentary on the evolution and importance of writing in games
>> Q&A: Shiny Entertainment's David Perry
Paul Hyman speaks candidly with David Perry about games and Hollywood.
>> A Chat with Naughty Dog...
Naughty Dog's advice on
next gen game console development
>> MMOG Publishers...
A commentary on the evolution of MMPOG revenue models
>> Dealing with Crunch Time! Industry veterans Graeme Bayless and Daron Stinnett comment on how to handle crunch times
>> Sponsors Go Ape for Advergames
A perspective on the rapid evolution of advertising in games
>> Help us Help You!
How to maximize success in working with recruiters
>> Videogame Sequels Heat Up Winter Selling Season
A rundown on the major publishers' hottest titles for the upcoming Christmas season
>> The Convergence of Films & Games: A Staffing Dilemma
DAM speaks out on staffing solutions for next generation game development
>> AI: The Smart Way To Go
Paul Hyman discusses the future of AI in games with John Funge, Co-Founder of IKuni
>> Blackley: Game Makers Should Call The Shots
CAA's perspective on the convergence of games and film
>> Behind the Games
DAM Speaks out on the importance of human capital in the games industry
>> Plan to buy an Xbox?...
Paul Hyman discusses the dilemma of which new console hardware to purchase
>> Content is Still King
A synopsis on the importance of killer content for the next generation consoles
