The PS3 FAQ

Graphics and Performance

Are the PS3's graphics the same as the Xbox 360's?

Mostly. Some games look better than others but many look pretty damned close to their Xbox 360 incarnations. Some games are showing an impressive amount of physics detail, such as Resistance: Fall of Man. But for the moment, the PS3 seems to hang pretty closely with the Xbox 360 in the graphics department.

Later in 2006, a second wave of launch window games will launch. One of those, MotorStorm, has some of the best visuals we've ever seen. Will the PS3 live up to its graphical hype? We'll have to wait and see. But for now, it's nothing particularly new.

How are the load times?

Not bad at all, though your mileage will vary. Resistance: Fall of Man has fairly lengthy between-level load times, but once you're in a game, load time is virtually non-existent. Overall, the PS3's loading is pretty consistent with the Xbox 360 or Wii. Not super-speedy or super-slow.

Interestingly, some games will let you install 5GB of their data on to the hard drive for enhanced load performance. Ridge Racer 7 is one example. It's a nice option to have, and you should look forward to more future games taking advantage of this option.

How does PS3 "look a little more next gen"?

The launch games we currently have, save Genji (which looks dazzling), don't do much to show off the PS3. We made that particular comment in reference to Motorstorm and Lair, two games that will hopefully arrive for the PS3 in the next few months. Most of the games we currently have look much like their 360 counterparts.

How does the PS3 look on a standard-def (480i) TV?

Fine. Still looks good. The PS3, also, does not come with component (blue-green-red) cables.

Do the current PS2 component video cables work with the PS3?

YES, so hang onto 'em (or buy a new set off eBay for dirt cheap). And they're nice and small as you remember. It's just a standard PS3 Multi-AV plug.

Are the graphics better then Xbox 360?

From what I'm seeing of the launch lineup, not really. I do notice that many of the games are using more advanced physics and particles than what I normally see on the Xbox 360. Resistance, for instance, has some of the best snow and fire effects I've ever seen.

Of course, developers will get better as time goes on. Hard to say who will come out on top in the long run, but both consoles have their strengths.

Can you elaborate on what PS3 looks like on a standard (non-HD) TV?

Sure. It looks pretty clean, but obviously HD TV support is going to give you the best image. Does it look better than PS2? Absolutely: it looks cleaner, smoother, and crisper than the last-gen consoles. But to get the real bang for your buck, you'll want to play in at least 480 progressive scan.

Obviously Gears of War is the 360's showcase of graphical power. Have you played any games on PS3 that look more graphically advanced?

No. I would say that none of the launch PS3 games match Gears's visual splendor, though late 2006/early 2007 games like MotorStorm and Lair look damned close in quality...in their own unique ways, of course.

Have you tried out the PS3 with HDMI cables yet? Is there a big difference between that and using component cables?

Yes, we've played it on the HDMI. The best thing about HDMI is that it also includes 7.1 sound (one cable for video AND audio!). Component still sparkles, but HDMI is the future-proof choice... if your TV supports it. I wouldn't say there are any huge advantages in quality between HDMI and the older component cables, but if you're watching a huge screen (50 inches or more) an all-digital signal is something worth having.

Have you tried out any 1080p games yet? Do they play better at 1080p, or lower resolutions?

Yup, 1080p was on in Ridge Racer 7, and the game looked good (and fast!). In general, it doesn't seem like 1080p's benefits are that noticeably. 720p still remains the "sweet spot" for most developers because it's the most common resolution supported by HD sets.

Does Guitar Hero work on the PS3?

Oddly, we haven't tried yet. I've heard reports that you can't enter the menu, though that's something Sony could presumably fix pretty quickly via a download. For now, I have no idea...I'll make sure to check on Monday.

Are there any good PS3 games?

I'd say Resistance, Fight Night Round 3, and Madden look (and play) the best. Sad thing is, we're a little short on games just now...I should have more time with new games this week, so I'll keep you posted.

Any news of the PlayStation Network Platform?

No, it's not active yet. One thing that drives me nuts about the PS3: If you have "enabled" its online functionality (a simple option in the main menu) and don't have an ethernet cord plugged in, this annoying message will pop up every two or three minutes telling you that "You're not connected to the Internet." This message pops up over gameplay, too, making it super-annoying. To stop it, you have to "disable" Internet support in the main menu.

If you have dial-up Internet, is it impossible to access PS3 online to play with other users?

No. The instruction manual clearly states that you must have high-speed internet to play on the online modes. Sorry!

If you could only get one console this holiday season, and shortages weren't a problem, would you get the PS3 or the Wii?

Ooooh, that hurts. I hate these questions, because there's no right answer. I would say, judging by my own emotions, that I would probably lean more towards the PS3. I really, really enjoy its multimedia interface. The Wii is great, too, but it isn't speaking to me the same way it's speaking to some people in the office.

What titles do you currently have for the PS3 and what is your opinion on them?

For PS3, I've only done Resistance (which is a ton of fun). Madden and Tiger Woods look great, too.

Comments [0]

post a comment

Post a Comment