UPCOMING CONSOLE RELEASES
(GloveBox’s take)
The looming release of the next generation of gaming is basically upon us. You wouldn’t really recognize it though, but if you think about it, we will have the “next new next generation console” (sounded like a tongue twister) by the end of this year. The Wii U will hit the shelves this holiday season (which is 4 months away btw). I know we have spoken about this many times on the podcast but I wanted to take this time and outline what I am looking for in the Next Next Generation of Videogames.
Wii U: 
Since this system will be the first out the gate, I am really expecting a technical blowout from Nintendo. I am looking to block off a space of time to really get down to the bare bones of this system. Not much has been said about the Wii U and we are basically left in the dark about what the system can do. We all know that it will play Mario, Zelda and all the rest of the Nintendo mainstays but what is going to make this system stay up with the big boys. I don’t want to be negative but I think that’s the reason Nintendo is getting out of the gate first. The will not be able to hang with the “big dogs” at the end of the day or will they. At this point we have no clue and I welcome the “Secrecy”, This gives me a sense of discovery and that O WOW effect that came with most gaming systems I have purchased in the past. So what am I looking most forward to? Just a new gaming experience that makes me interact with the gaming system more. As I look at that fantastic joystick, my minds wanders into games like Madden for obvious reasons and say a game like Splinter Cell where stealth can be maintained via the joystick. I am very excited about the Wii U but time will tell and not to much time at that!!!
Xbox 720 (or whatever they will call it): 
Microsoft is probably my number one choice for next gen gaming systems. The only reason I say this is due to my experiences with the 360. Only lately have I felt the 360 not really taking the industry by storm. The PS3 has definitely peaked my interest with the Playstation + incentives lately. (YES 40 Cast I said IT PS3 is repping right now) But PS3 is in the next section back to Microsoft….In terms of what to expect from the new Xbox, I think Microsoft will basically do a graphics upgrade to the system and rehash 360 games on the 720. I think they look at Nintendo’s model and try to implement a part of their strategy into Microsoft’s bottom line. I also think Microsoft is trying to replace your cable box and pc in your home so expect more tv apps and social media upgrades and internet browsers. Microsoft wants you to use their box and replace all other feel good electronics out the box. They will ram this machine with every spec of tech and future tech that can be put in a plastic box. I honestly have high hopes but again…it’s a wait and see.
PS4: 
AND Finally, the PS4. Now Sony has always struck me as high quality which equals high price. Believe it or not I AM looking forward to Sony’s submission to the next generation. I know Sony like all the rest of the companies will rehash and do over what has already been done but Sony tends to go out on a limb more than any other gaming company. The will take a risk on an independent property that might have legs. More often than not most of these risk tank but every so often we get a gem like Killzone, Uncharted, and upcoming title like The Last of Us. I think Sony’s biggest issue is marketing. If they can promote and put the new system on every commercial and internet web ad they might be able to come out on top. They really have a tried and true system, hell the joystick hasn’t changed in like 15 years or something. Marketing is the Key to Sony’s success. I would like to see gameplay, not gimmicks. While 3D is fine and good realize that 3D is a perk not a standard. Sony should innovate not copy, this is their best chance at success. Learn from your triumphs and your mistakes. In all honesty I see Sony at the top of the list when the smoke clears and I know most everyone finds it hard to believe I am “ball washing” Sony but hey I love videogames and if a company is good then I will say its good. If it’s crap well….I will say it’s crap. (probably won’t use the word crap though…LOL)
In closing I would like to say I am super excited about the upcoming NEXT GENERATION and I can’t wait to sit and talk about all the newest latest tech on the horizon. Now I know people are out there and they say they will wait on the next generation (VIC) but when it all goes down we will all be in line waiting to blow our money on day one. I will save you a space in line.
GloveBox