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Sony's PS4 To Have Less Stringent DRM Than Microsoft's Xbox One

Tackhead writes "E3 is turning into Bizarro World this year. Sony has not only promised that the PS4 will support used games without an online connection, they trolled the Xbox folks hard with this Official PlayStation Used Game Instructional Video. Compounding the silliness, and hot on the heels of the political firestorm surrounding Donglegate, Microsoft went for rape jokes during their Xbox presentation." Similarly, onyxruby writes "The Verge covers how Sony has crafted policies explicitly to make the PS4 consumer friendly to the public. They make the case that the PS4 will be superior in nearly every way [to the Xbox Next] by not requiring an Internet connection, not restricting used games, supporting indie developers and selling for $100 cheaper than the Xbox One." And if you're interested in the guts rather than the policies or the politics, Hot Hardware has a comparison of the internals of both of these new offerings.

509 comments

  1. It is all software, really by morcego · · Score: 5, Insightful

    The real problem is, it can change any time. PS4 can become more stringent, and XBox One could become less (well, in theory).

    I'm not sure I trust Sony not to be an asshole regarding DRM. It doesn't have that good a track record. It is a good bet the moment the marketing hype dies down, and the stock holders start pressing, they will tighten their DRM.

    --
    morcego
    1. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 5, Insightful

      The real problem is, it can change any time. PS4 can become more stringent

      If it starts out not requiring any internet connection, and you never update it, it won't get any more restrictive.

      It simply won't be given an option by some of us -- my next console will never see a network, because it's not like I trust Sony either. But the next XBox is definitely not something I'll even consider.

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    2. Re:It is all software, really by MozeeToby · · Score: 5, Interesting

      They can, and have in the past, packaged OS updates on game disks. Just saying, it's not as easy to avoid updates as you might imagine.

    3. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 3, Insightful

      They can, and have in the past, packaged OS updates on game disks. Just saying, it's not as easy to avoid updates as you might imagine.

      Possibly true, but as long as it doesn't need a network connection *ever*, I'll try to live with that.

      Otherwise it, and a steaming pile of shit will be shipped to Sony.

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    4. Re:It is all software, really by UltraZelda64 · · Score: 1

      What if you absolutely *need* to install the latest system updates for whatever reason just to be able to play some of the latest games? Good luck with that expensive brick; I guess what was out at release time will continue to work at least...

    5. Re:It is all software, really by internerdj · · Score: 4, Insightful

      The internet connection thing is big here. I can buy a PS4 and never connect or never patch. I might be locked to launch games but I got something. For Xbox One, I have to connect to the internet at least once (assuming they come to their senses and patch) or it is a brick. There are a significant number of gamers that are SOL with that model and even more that are pissed off by the concept.

    6. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      As you buy new games, they can require upgraded firmware (which would be included on the game disc) be installed before they run.

    7. Re:It is all software, really by bishopBelloc · · Score: 2

      If it starts out not requiring any internet connection, and you never update it, it won't get any more restrictive.

      If I recall, there have been PS3 games that required an update to function, and contained that update on disc. So you could reach a point where you can't play any new games without updating.

      No one would force you to install those updates, so technically you're right. But I would consider it just as system killing as forcing an update over the Net.

    8. Re:It is all software, really by Apharmd · · Score: 0

      If it's all disc-based, with no Internet connection required, it would be very difficult to become more stringent. Publishers can lock content behind online passes (which EA already does this gen, among others) but DRM like Microsoft's essentially requires you to use license-based games from the start.

    9. Re:It is all software, really by ADRA · · Score: 1

      Why is there money to be made by making potential customers more angry at you? Sony got smacked throughout the PS3 because they were king of the hill. Maybe they as a group have actually learned that being smug ass-holes to their customers does not convert to higher sales. They LEARN, well one would hope.

      Personally, I won't even consider a console this gen unless it works as an amazing media screener ala xbmc without the crap storm which is DLNA, supports simple 'open' marketplaces that actually support indy dev's to succeed. I'm not holding my breath though.

      --
      Bye!
    10. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Not true. New titles can ship with the requirement of needing the latest firmware to run. This has happened in the past with Sony systems.

    11. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 4, Informative

      I have to connect to the internet at least once

      Sadly, that's at least once per day. The Xbox 1 is going to require to phone home once every 24 hours according to what they've been saying.

      So I'm hoping the option to buy the PS4 and never connect it to a network will be viable.

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      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    12. Re:It is all software, really by Vanderhoth · · Score: 5, Informative

      My PS3 was updated by a rented bluRay movie.

      I specifically declined all attempts to update the system over the network until I had some people over for movies. I was making snacks and my cousin or wife (neither will fess up to it) put the movie we rented in. It said the console required and update and they said ok. By the time I showed up it was too late to do anything about it.

      Their whole poking fun at MS and the XO is kind of funny at the moment, but it's really just an attempted to gain back some of the early adopters they alienated with the Other OS removal. If they hadn't removed the Other OS feature I bought and paid for with my PS3, I'd probably be all in on buy a PS4. I hate to sound conceded, but my recommendations when the PS3 first came out was responsible for at least a dozen console sales, I'm sure other early adopter tech geeks can say the same thing. As it stands now I'll make sure everyone I know, knows Sony is an under handed entity that can't be trusted from one day to the next to follow up on something they said the would or wouldn't do. After all it was only weeks before the April 1st update that removed of the Other OS they said they wouldn't consider removing it.

      Point being once they have your money, they don't really care how they screw you over, but they'll find a way.

    13. Re:It is all software, really by eth1 · · Score: 1

      If it starts out not requiring any internet connection, and you never update it, it won't get any more restrictive.

      It simply won't be given an option by some of us -- my next console will never see a network, because it's not like I trust Sony either. But the next XBox is definitely not something I'll even consider.

      That will work until you can't run any new games because they start requiring at least a certain version of the system software.

    14. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Insightful

      They can, and have in the past, packaged OS updates on game disks. Just saying, it's not as easy to avoid updates as you might imagine.

      Possibly true, but as long as it doesn't need a network connection *ever*, I'll try to live with that.

      Otherwise it, and a steaming pile of shit will be shipped to Sony.

      Good, good, so some low-level shipping drone trying to get by on minimum wage will get your steaming pile of shit, question why they still keep this job, and be swiftly replaced by another drone from the cloning vats (they won't run out in your lifetime, nor your kids'!). The shit will be dropped into a bin at the shipping depot, collected, repackaged, and sold to the public at a markup. You WILL wind up buying it (I don't think you fully understand how much Sony owns). Yeah! That'll somehow stick it to those evil, evil executives, I'm sure!

    15. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 2

      And, sadly, that will mark the end of my willingness to purchase video consoles from any of these guys.

      At this point, it's which company is going to start out acting less like pricks, and which won't require an internet connection at all.

      If that's the PS4, and they subsequently try to change the rules, that box will get disconnected, lit on fire, and will be the last console I ever buy. I will not have a gaming box in my house which demands to access the internet at will, because there's nothing in it for me.

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      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    16. Re:It is all software, really by stanIyb · · Score: 1

      I wouldn't consider buying any of the new consoles. Giving money to these companies would be supporting DRM and closed platforms, and I just couldn't feel good about that.

    17. Re:It is all software, really by Impy+the+Impiuos+Imp · · Score: 1

      That would make a good game! Where can I buy?

      --
      (-1: Post disagrees with my already-settled worldview) is not a valid mod option.
    18. Re:It is all software, really by Opportunist · · Score: 2, Funny

      ...without asking you whether you want them installed, or telling you beforehand that they'll do so.

      What? You don't want the latest firmware? Why, trying to hide something? Are you one of those pesky pirates? Because there is no other reason not to obey your Sony Overlord.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    19. Re:It is all software, really by internerdj · · Score: 1

      Yeah. What I was saying if they patch before due to consumer outcry then it would still be at least once. That is still once too many for some people. I'm moving near release date and an affordable stable connection may not be immediately available. If I buy the console and a handful of games then I'm not going to be very likely to spend the cash to transition.

    20. Re:It is all software, really by newcastlejon · · Score: 1

      s/conceded/conceited

      --
      If God forks the Universe every time you roll a die, he'd better have a damned good memory.
    21. Re:It is all software, really by h4rr4r · · Score: 1

      So might get worse is some how worse than already terrible?

    22. Re:It is all software, really by craigminah · · Score: 5, Funny

      I see you must be another satisfied customer: http://www.poopsenders.com/

    23. Re:It is all software, really by sconeu · · Score: 1

      I'm not sure I trust Sony not to be an asshole regarding DRM. It doesn't have that good a track record,

      I *AM* trusting sony *TO BE* an asshole. See PS3 Other OS.

      --
      General Relativity: Space-time tells matter where to go; Matter tells space-time what shape to be.
    24. Re:It is all software, really by Endo13 · · Score: 1

      While true, it's also probably moot. The PS4 reveal is definitely Sony trying to put all the nails in the XBone coffin, and for the non-techie console gamers this should pretty much do it. Even if Sony changes things later, it'll probably be too late for the XBone.

      --
      There is no -1 Disagree mod. Slashdot.org/faq defines mod options. USE IT.
    25. Re:It is all software, really by petermgreen · · Score: 1

      I don't use the online services for games consoles much (I don't have a live account at all and I haven't logged into PSN since the hack) and iirc pretty much every new game i've put into a current gen console* has demanded a firmware update.

      One game even updated the firmware from disc then updated itself (yeah I have a network cable connected, maybe I shouldn't), then went on to demand another firmware update (or maybe it was the other way round, demanding another firmware update and then updating itself).

      *PS3, XBOX 360 and Wii.

      --
      note: i'm known as plugwash most places but i screwd up registering that here somehow in the past and now can't register
    26. Re:It is all software, really by larry+bagina · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Exactly. Sony shut off network access if you didn't run the "upgrade" to remove OtherOS.

      --
      Do you even lift?

      These aren't the 'roids you're looking for.

    27. Re:It is all software, really by headcase88-2 · · Score: 3, Insightful

      A recent relevant example; PS3 entirely removed Linux support a couple years in, even though they were bragging about it quite a lot at launch. Technically, you could keep it, you just can't visit the PS Shop or use any online features (which you paid for, as part of the price of the console) ever again, that's all. Not sure if disc-enforced updates apply to this one or not.

      Since early adopters are more savvy, Sony has every reason to tout their lack of DRM compared to the Bone, for now. Will their DRM be better throughout the generation? Unless Sony makes a pledge (and really, even if they do), it's their choice, not ours.

    28. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      That would make a good game! Where can I buy?

      By the title, "steaming pile of shit", I'd assume here, of course

    29. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I'm not sure I trust Sony not to be an asshole regarding DRM. It doesn't have that good a track record. It is a good bet the moment the marketing hype dies down, and the stock holders start pressing, they will tighten their DRM.

      When you have stock holders putting pressure to "create" revenue streams out of bullshit DRM practices, you KNOW you're doing something wrong.

      Let's hope good old fashioned sales avoid that. That's the irony here, to avoid DRM, all the consumer has to do is vote with their wallet.

      Of course, that goes both ways. The stock holder has to not be so demanding as well. Greed has to be kept in check to avoid abuse.

    30. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 1

      Well, either I decide I won't buy any of them now, or after they've done something like that, I'll make the same decision.

      If they can update it without a network connection, fine. But if they leave me with something unusable, then I will be forced to conclude they're all assholes and withdraw my money. (Well, I know they're assholes now, but now I can play games with no internet connection)

      But I don't play on-line games, don't want to participate in the in-game economy, and refuse to be monitored by a video game so advertisers can he information about me.

      So either it's going to work off-line out of the box and stay that way, or it won't get bought, or eventually it will get relegated to the shit pile -- in any of those cases, my next video game console will be never be connected to a network.

      I'm just some random schmuck, so I expect neither Microsoft nor Sony to care about me -- and I will give them about the same amount of consideration.

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    31. Re:It is all software, really by spire3661 · · Score: 1

      NO it cant. Sony would face ENORMOUS legal problems changing the discs from physical licenses to not in mid-cycle.

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      Good-bye
    32. Re:It is all software, really by spire3661 · · Score: 1

      Indies can self-publish on PS4.

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      Good-bye
    33. Re:It is all software, really by Golddess · · Score: 2

      That isn't what UltraZelda64 meant.

      If you bought a physical disc of a completely offline game, and that disc contained an update that removed OtherOS, you could not play that game unless you installed the update.

      --
      "I'm not sure I like the fugnutish tone you used in your post!" -RogL (608926)-
    34. Re: It is all software, really by thetoadwarrior · · Score: 1

      Yeah good luck holding out for the role reversal

    35. Re:It is all software, really by Cinder6 · · Score: 1

      EA, of course, is canceling the online pass thing.

      --
      If you can't convince them, convict them.
    36. Re: It is all software, really by thetoadwarrior · · Score: 1

      What about your PC? The bad guys can get you on that.

    37. Re:It is all software, really by geminidomino · · Score: 1

      It is true for all three of the "last" gen consoles. PS3 and Wii did it unabashedly, but even Xbox360 got in on the act when Catherine came out with a required update on-disc.

    38. Re:It is all software, really by Qzukk · · Score: 1

      it'll probably be too late for the XBone.

      Eh, so far its basically exactly the reverse as the last gen was. Watching the xbox presentation was like going back in time and watching the PS3 reveal (only with more RRRRIDGE RRRACER! and less attacking the weak point for massive damage) The PS3 managed to stage a comeback from that, I'm sure Microsoft can too.

      --
      If I have been able to see further than others, it is because I bought a pair of binoculars.
    39. Re:It is all software, really by JDG1980 · · Score: 2

      I'm not sure I trust Sony not to be an asshole regarding DRM. It doesn't have that good a track record. It is a good bet the moment the marketing hype dies down, and the stock holders start pressing, they will tighten their DRM.

      Sony is currently seriously considering a stockholder-driven proposal to spin off its music and film divisions. If this was done, it would mean that Sony the consumer electronics company would no longer have the conflict of interest that currently causes it to push DRM on equipment and media.

    40. Re:It is all software, really by RightSaidFred99 · · Score: 1

      Lol. Good luck with that console that never touches the network. Why even bother?

    41. Re:It is all software, really by Vanderhoth · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Not sure if disc-enforced updates apply to this one or not.

      They did, that's how my PS3 was updated.

      Newer bluRay movies require system updates. I wasn't in the room when my wife or cousin put the rented bluRay movie in so I don't know if it had to go out to download the update or if it just ran off the disk. I had turned off the wireless on my PS3 so I don't know if someone reconnected it for the update or if it just came on the disk. So it's Keep the Other OS feature and forget about everything else you bought the console to do or ditch the Other OS feature.

      More reasons, as if we needed them, to pirate movies. Even paying to rent them can have negative effects on your hardware, the pirated version of the movie we watched wouldn't have forced an update to my console.

    42. Re:It is all software, really by Nemyst · · Score: 5, Interesting

      Time for a reality check: the incredibly vast majority of people don't give a shit about Other OS. It was a sucky move by Sony to remove it, no denying that, but it affected 0.001% of their user base and perhaps put off half of those if not less. They don't give a damn about a few angered /. posters who swore off Sony because they couldn't run Linux on their game consoles.

      Their move right now is to capitalize on the bad press Microsoft has received. They're not trying to offset anything, they're trying (and largely succeeding) to win out big time on how terrible the Xbone sounds by giving people exactly what they've always had and wanted to keep. The slides about used games and phoning home were likely added at the last minute as a gigantic jab at Microsoft and wouldn't have made an appearance otherwise.

    43. Re:It is all software, really by RightSaidFred99 · · Score: 0

      You are being ridiculous. This is like complaining that Netflix requires a network connection. Neither vendor cares about your money, don't buy either console as it won't meet your needs.

    44. Re:It is all software, really by andrepd · · Score: 0

      Well, let's face it. There's almost certainly no other reason not to want to receive more features than avoiding breaking pirate game loaders... That talk of Sony Overlord is worth nothing in practice.

    45. Re:It is all software, really by JDG1980 · · Score: 1

      When you have stock holders putting pressure to "create" revenue streams out of bullshit DRM practices, you KNOW you're doing something wrong.

      The problem is that Sony, as currently constituted, is a giant conglomerate that contains both an "entertainment" division (movie studio and music publisher) and a consumer electronics division. This means that the executives, full of buzzwords from their MBA classes, will push for "synergy" between the branches – and that means DRM shoved down our throats to increase profits. (And the kind of people who run media companies are incredibly paranoid – every time sales go down, they think it's because of "pirates".)

      Fortunately, a major stockholder (Daniel Loeb, whose hedge fund currently owns 6% of Sony shares) has been pushing for the entertainment division to be spun off into a separate company. If this happens (and the company is taking the suggestion seriously), then the media division can go off and be evil on their own, and will no longer be able to contaminate Sony's consumer electronics division with their wickedness. The consumer electronics division will then have incentives to serve the customers, not the media industry (which they will no longer be part of).

    46. Re:It is all software, really by andrepd · · Score: 0

      Wouldn't that be a bit extreme? All the game asks you is to perform an update, or a simple check to make sure you don't have a rom loader installed. That isn't a problem to non pirates. I really don't see the problem with this, but even if there is a problem, if that's the only DRM PS4 has, I don't mind the nuisance.

    47. Re:It is all software, really by mcgrew · · Score: 1

      I'm not sure I trust Sony not to be an asshole regarding DRM.

      That's wise. Look at XCP and OtherOS. In the case of OtherOS, many chose the Sony over MS because you could run Linux or FreeBSD on it, then they removed that feature (kind of like a car company taking out your radio after the car's paid for). As to DRM, what other company has ever had DRM so terrible it removed a PC's ability to share files and burn CDs, that actually rooted the computer?

      Only fools trust someone who is repeatedly caught lying and cheating and stealing.

      Buying a Sony anything is incredibly foolish. Buying computer equipment from them is as dumb as buying a computer from a Russian hacker. In fact, I'd mistrust Sony more, the Russian black hats are more honest.

    48. Re:It is all software, really by morcego · · Score: 1

      Why is there money to be made by making potential customers more angry at you? Sony got smacked throughout the PS3 because they were king of the hill. Maybe they as a group have actually learned that being smug ass-holes to their customers does not convert to higher sales. They LEARN, well one would hope.

      Personally, I won't even consider a console this gen unless it works as an amazing media screener ala xbmc without the crap storm which is DLNA, supports simple 'open' marketplaces that actually support indy dev's to succeed. I'm not holding my breath though.

      There is money to be make despite the customers getting angry. Restricting used games and resale is an example. Remember a company doesn't make decisions. People make decisions. And those people make money based on perceptions. How happy the board is with you, how happy the stock holders are with you. If you tell the stock holders "this will stop people from buying used games, if they want to play they will have to buy from us, and us only", you are likely to get a raise (WARNING FOR PEDANTIC READERS: this is an exaggeration! Things are more subtle than this. This is an illustration to show a point).

      You (and me) are a very small part of the market. The bulk of their customers won't create enough of a ripple to matter. See the whole PS3/Linux debacle, as an example.

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      morcego
    49. Re:It is all software, really by DrXym · · Score: 1

      I'm not sure I trust Sony not to be an asshole regarding DRM. It doesn't have that good a track record. It is a good bet the moment the marketing hype dies down, and the stock holders start pressing, they will tighten their DRM.

      I expect Sony's gameplan is to push really hard on PSN+ and digital downloads (which are non transferrable) with the expectation in the fullness of time that physical discs will simply die out. So no point kicking up shit about it especially when it's a chance to deliver a well aimed kick in the balls to Microsoft.

      Of course on the flip side, Microsoft could potentially install the full disc onto the HDD and let you play it without the disc at all since it's unique (embedded serial somewhere) and bound to your account now. I could see that being a significant advantage.

    50. Re:It is all software, really by Kohath · · Score: 1

      Why do the stock holders want more DRM? Please explain.

    51. Re:It is all software, really by morcego · · Score: 1

      it'll probably be too late for the XBone.

      With the amount of money MS can throw behind it, it is never too late. See what they are doing (attempting? I don't have current numbers) on the smartphone market...

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      morcego
    52. Re:It is all software, really by olsmeister · · Score: 1

      If it comes to that, you should sell it. At least that way you get a few bucks out of it, and you would cost them the sale of a brand new unit to someone.

    53. Re:It is all software, really by morcego · · Score: 1

      NO it cant. Sony would face ENORMOUS legal problems changing the discs from physical licenses to not in mid-cycle.

      Make sure you read the license on all those discs, then, and also on the console. While you do that, be certain to have a paper bag handy for when you start throwing up.

      --
      morcego
    54. Re:It is all software, really by Moryath · · Score: 1

      Correct, so it became a choice:

      (A) Install update, play game (that you can't return to the store since you opened the box), BUT lose your OtherOS functionality...

      - or -

      (B) Keep OtherOS function, not play game, can't return game, Sony just ripped you off for the price of console + game since the key function (playing new release games) is now broken on-disc.

    55. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You ignoring his main point, which is that you can't trust Sony to keep their promises, and not alter things later.

    56. Re:It is all software, really by Ogive17 · · Score: 1

      Very true. I was unable to play Super Mario Wii on my console until I went through the upgrade process. So even if the disc itself does not contain the update, it will contain a check that forces the consumer to update or return the game.

      --
      "Action without philosophy is a lethal weapon; philosophy without action is worthless."
    57. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 4, Insightful

      You are being ridiculous. This is like complaining that Netflix requires a network connection.

      No, because I don't plan on using the network features, the same as I don't now.

      My current Xbox 360, my old Wii, and all PS3s (as far as I'm aware) have optional networking, but will still run just fine without it. So comparing it to Netflix is incorrect.

      So either they can sell me a gaming console which I can still continue to use totally offline, or I won't be buying them.

      I'm perfectly aware that none of these companies gives a damn about me -- but if the message is "shut up and buy it and deal with it" or "fuck off an don't buy it", then it's more than just me who is going to be saying that we're not interested in this, and if they find themselves with unsold units, too damned bad.

      They can listen to or ignore their customers as they see fit, but they might find themselves unhappy with the results.

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    58. Re:It is all software, really by Xest · · Score: 4, Insightful

      But do you need a console at all?

      I've got a 360 and a PS3 but whilst the PS4 definitely looks the better option now in terms of picking the option that's most consumer friendly I'm finding it hard to justify buying anything at all this time.

      Whilst I caved and bought a PS3 in the end last time despite being pissed off at Sony, I've been thinking a little harder if I really should be giving money to one of the biggest funders and controllers behind the MPAA and RIAA and that has a track record of screwing customers this time. I think I'll probably just play more PC games.

      I want all the new shiny games but it basically seems now the choice is between getting fucked upfront by Microsoft, or likely getting fucked post purchase by Sony whilst also funding the MPAA/RIAA indirectly as a result.

      As someone else said below, I just feel this time round unless something changes that the only option this time around is simply not to play and avoid the console offerings altogether. Perhaps Sony is changing as a company but I think it's way too early to give them the benefit of the doubt, I'd rather let some other chumps be the guinea pigs after having seen what they did to their customers with the PS3. Maybe in two years time if they've dropped support for the MPAA/RIAA and haven't fucked their customers at all, or if Microsoft has backtracked on all it's stupid decisions this time round I will get one of them, but right now I'm having a hard time justifying it.

      I'll be honest, I want an XBox One because I like the games line up on it a lot, and I always found the 360 and it's controller a much greater pleasure to use than the PS3s and not much seems to have changed in that respect, but there's only so much I can justify taking as a consumer and they've crossed that line right now.

      When the choice is shit, shit, or neither, I'm not sure why people are choosing one of the shits rather than simply neither.

    59. Re:It is all software, really by Moryath · · Score: 5, Insightful

      They don't give a damn about a few angered /. posters who swore off Sony because they couldn't run Linux on their game consoles.

      They are, however, KEENLY aware of the legions of users who stopped buying shit from their online store and basically deserted the console following their leaving the customers' credit card data right in the fucking open.

      My PS3 is a standing blu-ray player that isn't allowed to have a network connection these days for good reason, and I suspect Sony realized that there's no chance in hell of my buying their box if it required a net connection knowing their track record on the subject.

    60. Re:It is all software, really by darkHanzz · · Score: 1

      Possibly true, but as long as it doesn't need a network connection *ever*, I'll try to live with that.

      Otherwise it, and a steaming pile of shit will be shipped to Sony.

      The PS3 had full ps2 emulation and linux, they stripped that out on subsequent versions. Even now, the latest games don't play without the latest OS updates. So expect a very small set of working games if you aren't prepared to update.

    61. Re:It is all software, really by TemporalBeing · · Score: 1

      Wouldn't that be a bit extreme? All the game asks you is to perform an update, or a simple check to make sure you don't have a rom loader installed. That isn't a problem to non pirates. I really don't see the problem with this, but even if there is a problem, if that's the only DRM PS4 has, I don't mind the nuisance.

      The problem namely being discussed here was Sony's update to the PS3 that removed a feature of the PS3 that people wanted - OtherOS, which allowed running Linux directly in a supported manner. The update completely removed that functionality for everyone regardless of whether it was rooted or not, and that was all done after the PS3 was sold. Of course, IIRC Sony lost in court a class action against them over it, or at least settled in a favorable manner to PS3 owners (e.g. partial refunds or something). The concern is that they'll do something similar with PS4, even if they don't do so right out of the gate.

      --
      Truth is like the sun. You can shut it out for a time, but it ain't goin' away. - Elvis Presley (source: imdb.com)
    62. Re:It is all software, really by Xest · · Score: 1

      "The internet connection thing is big here. I can buy a PS4 and never connect or never patch. I might be locked to launch games but I got something. "

      Would you really choose a console on that premise though? If that was an overriding point for me in choosing a console I'd simply not buy one at all because it's too much money to blow on something where I might end up with only a handful of games.

      It seems like a really unlikely edge case for deciding purchase of a console on and if it's reached the point where that's the deciding factor doesn't it simply make sense to opt for none of them?

    63. Re:It is all software, really by TemporalBeing · · Score: 1, Insightful

      Time for a reality check: the incredibly vast majority of people don't give a shit about Other OS. It was a sucky move by Sony to remove it, no denying that, but it affected 0.001% of their user base and perhaps put off half of those if not less. They don't give a damn about a few angered /. posters who swore off Sony because they couldn't run Linux on their game consoles.

      They might not at the moment, but that will have a big effect on PS4 sales, at which point they will. The question is, how big the effect will be.

      --
      Truth is like the sun. You can shut it out for a time, but it ain't goin' away. - Elvis Presley (source: imdb.com)
    64. Re:It is all software, really by Opportunist · · Score: 1

      Tell that to those that bought a PS3 after the promise to run Linux on it, only to have that feature (which is, at least IMO, the absolute ONLY reason to ever buy a PS3 in the first place) removed.

      There are reasons to avoid updates. One of them being that I want to use the hardware for something that I want to do with it. Surprise, surprise, it may be something that has nothing to do with running pirated games.

      Yes, I'm aware that the console maker has no interest in this. But if that's your argument, you mistake me for someone who gives a shit about that.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    65. Re:It is all software, really by hardburlyboogerman · · Score: 1

      I agree,but it has DRM still,which means they won't be selling me one

      "Windows 8 has proven to be a TURD.No matter how Micro$oft tries to polish it,Win 8 remains a TURD."

      --
      Geek Hillbilly
    66. Re:It is all software, really by amicusNYCL · · Score: 1

      Possibly true, but as long as it doesn't need a network connection *ever*, I'll try to live with that.

      The console won't, especially if you don't update it. That new game you really want might in fact require a connection though. And it might also require the OS update that it shipped with. Your tradeoff might be not being able to play some of the games you want to play in order to maintain your autonomy. But at least it's an option with Sony. Sort of like OtherOS was an option. At one point.

      --
      "Our two-party system is like a bowl of shit looking at itself in a mirror." - Lewis Black
    67. Re:It is all software, really by Ben4jammin · · Score: 4, Interesting

      Time for a reality check: the incredibly vast majority of people don't give a shit about Other OS

      That is true, but that is not the only functionality they removed. Also removed was backwards compatibility for PS2 games which was a HUGE selling point for the PS3 Considering the install base and game sales of the PS2.

      Sony can say whatever they want now, it simply doesn't matter. They have lost a trust that you simply can't earn back overnight. Then put the data breach on top of that and of course they have to do or say whatever they can to generate interest.

      I am confident in saying that more than 0.001% of their user base remembers these things.

    68. Re:It is all software, really by noh8rz10 · · Score: 1

      maybe a new game needs new OS functionality, and wouldn't work under the old OS. To be double sure you have the new OS they package it on the game disc. This seems logical to me. kinda like the starfox game for NES, remember that? except the starfox game came with additional hardware not additional software.

    69. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Time for a reality check: the incredibly vast majority of people don't give a shit about Other OS. It was a sucky move by Sony to remove it, no denying that, but it affected 0.001% of their user base and perhaps put off half of those if not less. They don't give a damn about a few angered /. posters who swore off Sony because they couldn't run Linux on their game consoles.

      "Sucky move" isn't exactly the right phrase here. Running Other OS was a selling point for the console and some people bought it instead of the competing console because of that.
      Removing support for Other OS after purchase is pretty damn illegal, at least where I live. If should be considered fraud or damage of others property probably depends on if people at Sony knew that they were going to remove the Other OS support beforehand.

    70. Re:It is all software, really by mattack2 · · Score: 1

      Though yeah, not all are on the disc... I know I've started games WITHOUT the network cable connected, and been able to play fine.. but if I then connect network cable (I used to have too few plugs on the bridge I was using available), then it updates.

    71. Re:It is all software, really by bmk67 · · Score: 1

      IIRC Sony lost in court a class action against them over it, or at least settled in a favorable manner to PS3 owners (e.g. partial refunds or something).

      No, the case was dismissed.

      http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2011/12/judge-dismisses-other-os-class-action-suit-against-sony/

    72. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The point is, it's a feature nobody ever used.

    73. Re:It is all software, really by amicusNYCL · · Score: 1

      I specifically declined all attempts to update the system over the network until I had some people over for movies. I was making snacks and my cousin or wife (neither will fess up to it) put the movie we rented in. It said the console required and update and they said ok. By the time I showed up it was too late to do anything about it.

      That sounds like an excellent vector for malware.

      --
      "Our two-party system is like a bowl of shit looking at itself in a mirror." - Lewis Black
    74. Re:It is all software, really by drinkypoo · · Score: 2, Insightful

      Time for a reality check: the incredibly vast majority of people don't give a shit about Other OS.

      Time for a reality check: the people who think that this doesn't matter to them are sadly deluded because if it happened to the Linux users it could happen to any other group as well; Sony can and will yank the feature that you care about, and they will not get in trouble for it.

      --
      "You're right," Fisheye says. "I should have set it on 'whip' or 'chop.'"
    75. Re:It is all software, really by Opportunist · · Score: 1

      No doubt about that. But please explain to me how a game that needs additional features needs to remove others.

      Of course, this could still be some kind of "side effect" (because it was removed in version n-1 of the firmware and version n, which you need, is based on n-1), but then at the very least I expect the ability to rollback the update.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    76. Re: It is all software, really by SilenceBE · · Score: 1

      Not everyone lives in a country where shrinkwrap licenses are a legal contract. I think this is the case in most European countries. That being said the backslash would be bigger then the removal of a feature that the majority of the users wouldnt care about. As a linux box it also sucked a lot...

    77. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Nope updates will still come on game disks, etc. You will not be able to avoid updating unless you avoid playing newer titles ala PS3.

    78. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Shhh, you're revealing the secret manufacturing process for the PS4!

    79. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      That's not true regarding "never patching". You could buy a game that comes with a PS4 update, and the game could force you to update if you want to play that game. It happened with the PSP. I don't own a PS3, but I wouldn't be surprised if that was the case there as well.

    80. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 1

      Lol. Good luck with that console that never touches the network. Why even bother?

      I have a console now which doesn't touch the network, and it works just fine.

      If you don't play on-line, don't want to sign up for an account, don't want to download extras ... why would you connect it to a network? So they can collect usage stats and push down ads? Fuck that, you don't need my name and credit card information so I can play Gran Turismo alone.

      Video game consoles have been something which didn't need a network for well over 20 years now. Apparently in the next generation, Microsoft has visions of being the hub for my entertainment -- and, on that point, they're entirely wrong. I'm not interested in that.

      The only people I know who connect their XBox to the network are essentially teenagers and 20-somethings. For many of us who remember the 80s, on-line features aren't something we want. In fact, it's something we actively don't want.

      For the way I've always played video games (solo, offline, intermittently) online features offer nothing of interest. My wife's dancing games, a driving game, a golf game and Skyrim are all I need.

      So buying a console which wants to phone home constantly, track and report my usage, generally dictate to me how I can use it -- this has no value for me and I won't have it. Microsoft simultaneously wants to 'sell' me something, and have it be something which I don't own because the license says they can do anything they want and I'm just the sucker who 'bought' it.

      So, either Sony keeps true to their promises, or I need to ponder buying a replacement XBox 360. The XBox 1, however, is fully out of any consideration. My previous experience with the Wii left me with a "meh" attitude towards it, so unless the new one has come a long way, it too is out of the running.

      Sony has a limited window to make money from me, and from what they're saying, it's currently the only plausible option if I want a video game console.

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    81. Re:It is all software, really by luther349 · · Score: 1

      blame the hackers for other os.

    82. Re:It is all software, really by noh8rz10 · · Score: 1

      the game maker has no control over the OS update content. they're concern is that it enables functionality for people to play their game, which is why they include it on disc. i don't know why sony removed the linux thing, but people blew that way out of proportion.

    83. Re:It is all software, really by internerdj · · Score: 1

      That sounds like great class action lawsuit fodder for people who bought the system on the advertisement that it would not require an internet connection then a physically purchased game patched the console to require always on.

    84. Re:It is all software, really by Zeromous · · Score: 1

      Just wanted to inform you that not just Sony has been breeched. http://games.slashdot.org/story/13/06/10/163230/hacker-releases-17tb-treasure-trove-of-gaming-info

      Maybe you are just giving them a bit too much trust period. Personally, I don't think that Sony really lost my trust at all. OtherOS was an innovative but utterly useless feature. If you bought a PS3 to have a cheap CELL based LINUX server, you pretty much would have been disappointed whether the feature was offered or not (no RSX access, limited resource access). I'm not entirely sure what you expected to get out of this feature.

      They were very upfront about backwards compatibility on PS3. From day zero they said this was a temporary feature to transition from Ps2 to PS3. It was also a huge reason for the cost overrun of the PS3 (EEs were still not cheap chips in 2007).

      I still have a 60GB FAT and I still use it, but let's face it. There is nothing stopping me from importing/buying used ps2 should my PS3 die (and I do still have a PS2 slim). Sony did not take away a feature here.... they stopped offering it as planned, as ps2 games became obsolete in Region 1 and 2. (Ps2 is selling strong in South America still).

      You know who lost my trust? Microsoft, when they charged me a 2nd subscription fee to access Netflix. When they made joypads propietary for no reason at all, and when they farked everyone over to buy a non-standard HDD, offered no HDMI and then tried to sell everyone HD-DVDs.

      --
      ---Up Up Down Down Left Right Left Right B A START
    85. Re: It is all software, really by Dragonslicer · · Score: 1

      That being said the backslash would be bigger then the removal of a feature that the majority of the users wouldnt care about.

      I guess that would be a pretty big backslash. And I didn't even know Sony was switching to Windows.

    86. Re:It is all software, really by asmkm22 · · Score: 1

      I can see Sony changing it in a year or so, but I can't see Microsoft relaxing.

      More important news, however, is that Sony will now require a PS Plus subscription to use multiplayer features.

    87. Re:It is all software, really by Andy+Dodd · · Score: 1

      Sony does indeed not have a good track record... However, they do have a consistent track record of poor financial performance that correlates with their anti-consumer policies.

      Sony has been under new management for a year or two, and it seems like Kaz actually has a clue, understanding basic concepts like "treating your customers like shit is bad for business".

      Look, for example, at Sony Mobile, which started out as a joint venture between Sony and Ericsson. For a long time, it was thought that Sony Mobile's dedication to open source and developer-friendliness was an anomaly that would go away when Sony bought out Ericsson's share - but just the opposite has happened. The opensource guys at Sony Mobile are being given even MORE freedom as time goes by, Sony is becoming MORE developer-friendly - and there's now evidence that this attitude is starting to migrate to other business units.

      --
      retrorocket.o not found, launch anyway?
    88. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      How about I blame Sony? Since it was Sony who did it.

    89. Re:It is all software, really by drinkypoo · · Score: 1

      blame the hackers for other os.

      No, put the blame where it lies, with Sony. You have conveniently forgotten that the hackers laid low on the PS3 until they removed Other OS, at which point there was a flurry of activity. But that is really only very slightly relevant. The truth is that if Sony didn't want to offer the feature, they could simply have not offered the feature, and not given it at the beginning, and then taken it away later. To me, what they did was theft. People were deprived of a feature which was part of the product when they paid for it. It saddens me that people are stupid enough to continue to support them.

      --
      "You're right," Fisheye says. "I should have set it on 'whip' or 'chop.'"
    90. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      You are being ridiculous. This is like complaining that Netflix requires a network connection.

      No, what would be rediculous is NetFlix demanding a network connection to play DVDs you rented from them. The comparison to Netflix is what's rediculous, how can you stream without a network connection? Sheesh, which company do you work for, Sony or Microsoft?

    91. Re:It is all software, really by AJH16 · · Score: 1

      And your new games won't work. Kind of like how they didn't force people to give up OtherOS, you just couldn't watch new movies or play new games.

      --
      AJ Henderson
    92. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Sony makes a lose on every PlayStation sold, so even if they "have your money" you've actually ripped them off if you don't actually plan to buy any games.

    93. Re:It is all software, really by Chaos+Incarnate · · Score: 4, Informative

      They didn't remove the PS2 backwards compatibility from PS3s that had it (unlike OtherOS); they simply removed it from future versions of the PS3. Big difference there.

      --
      Benford's Corollary to Clarke's Law: "Any technology distinguishable from magic is insufficiently advanced."
    94. Re:It is all software, really by radarskiy · · Score: 1

      The specific thing they removed is small.

      The general problem is that the precedent has been set that they can remove an advertised feature at any time after purchase with no negative consequences. They will be able to profit by selling features back to you that you already paid for once. And then take them away again. And then sell them back to you again.

    95. Re:It is all software, really by Endo13 · · Score: 0

      It's an easy choice for me. I don't like console gaming much anyway so I'll keep upgrading my PC like I always have.

      --
      There is no -1 Disagree mod. Slashdot.org/faq defines mod options. USE IT.
    96. Re:It is all software, really by wift · · Score: 1

      The only way to be sure is to buy one, never open it and brick it up in a closet or basement.

      --
      ....... Thus ends my attempt at wit or whatever
    97. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Tell that to those that bought a PS3 after the promise to run Linux on it, only to have that feature (which is, at least IMO, the absolute ONLY reason to ever buy a PS3 in the first place) removed.

      At the time I bought my PS3, it was the best Blu-ray player for the money, game playing was just a bonus.

    98. Re:It is all software, really by Gr8Apes · · Score: 1

      The only thing I can think of regarding Sony in this context is CD rootkits. They own the player, the OS, and the media.... Hmmmmmm.....

      --
      The cesspool just got a check and balance.
    99. Re: It is all software, really by morcego · · Score: 1

      No one question there would be a backslash, but the parent posted said it would face ENORMOUS legal problems. Which certainly would not be the case. There are ways to protect against it, even in Europe.

      --
      morcego
    100. Re:It is all software, really by Gravatron · · Score: 1

      I really doubt that. A setup like what the xbone is using can't be cheap to implement, and I doubt sony would spend their limited funds on such a thing. the money is better spent moneyhatting a few ore exclusives, which generates far more profit.

    101. Re:It is all software, really by Nerdfest · · Score: 1

      Of a non-network-connected BluRay player? One can probably live with the danger.

    102. Re:It is all software, really by asmkm22 · · Score: 1

      I'm pretty sure there is no hardware-level mechanism in place for restricting used/traded games on the xbox one. It's just firmware. Sony could very easily update the firmware in a year or so, adding in the checks and restrictions, and provide publishers with the right API for implementing it into their games. Or it could just be a blanket PS Network check, where your console firmware is updated and only lets you play games if it's checked in recently, etc.

      Regardless, they wouldn't have to physically change the hardware, or release new versions or anything. Just send out an update, most of which are required for various new games and movies anyway, and suddenly the console is restricted.

    103. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      They don't give a damn about a few angered /. posters who swore off Sony because they couldn't run Linux on their game consoles.

      Nobody's pissed because they can't run Linux on a game console, they're pissed that a feature that they PAID FOR was removed after the sale, just like if Ford removed all the radios from last year's F-150s. Removing a radio you already paid for is no big deal, right? Especially if only .0001 of F-150 owners ever listen to the radio in their trucks?

    104. Re:It is all software, really by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

      That's not quite true. Geohot did his hacking BEFORE the removal and did some bragging about what he'd done and could do. That made SCEfoo's game making division scared shit. so they told SCEfoo's hardware/firmware guys to pull OtherOS to prevent GeoHot's supposed exploit that used OtherOS from being used.

      And as I have said many many times, the update is voluntary. You can keep OtherOS, but you lose access to PSN. that is the price you pay for having a console that Sony doesn't "Trust" If one really loved OtherOS and only used their PS3 for that as some Slashdotters have claimed, they could keep it.

      Besides, The partitioning schemes involved with using OtherOS either crippled OtherOS or crippled GAmeOS. Either you had 10GB to GAmeOS (which isn't enough), or 10GB to GameOS and the rest to OtherOS, which makes GameOS useless because of the HUGE game caches, and downloadables.. These days if OtherOS still existed, having a 10GB GameOS partition wouldn't be enough for DCUO, and imagined some big Bethesda or Bioware game with caches and DLC.

    105. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Not to mention games that ship with minimum OS version requirements. I don't think I can play anything less than 4 years old on my lab PS3. The need for linux trumps the need to play modern games.

    106. Re:It is all software, really by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

      It went to the net it did, to get the new AACS keys it needed to play the Blu-Ray, which requires a firmware update. Blu-Ray movies themselves don't contain PS3 updates.

      Did you know that some older Blu-Ray profile 1.0 and 1.1 players without built in ethernet (or the ability to accept a dongle) actually can't play some newer discs. You'd have to request an "update disc", or if they have card slot or USB port download an update on your PC and then put it on a flash device that the player supports

      2006 vintage PS3's were perhaps the most future proof blu-ray players in 2006.

    107. Re:It is all software, really by Ben4jammin · · Score: 3, Informative

      They didn't remove the PS2 backwards compatibility from PS3s that had it (unlike OtherOS); they simply removed it from future versions of the PS3. Big difference there.

      That is true. YMMV but in my case, over time (for reasons I don't fully understand) is that I found I could successfully play fewer and fewer PS2 titles (my stepsons had a STACK of PS2 games, thus the decision to go PS3 rather than Xbox360) over time. While I can't prove it was firmware updates, the only thing that changed was the firmware.

      Also note that in some cases, if you had a unit with the hardware emulation but the unit broke (even under warranty) you could end up with a replacement unit that didn't have it. So even that was taken away from some people.

      The primary point being that for me personally after my experience with the PS3 There will never be a PS4 in my home. And yes I realize that Sony doesn't give a crap what I think...I can assure you that over the years they have driven that point home.

    108. Re:It is all software, really by Master+Moose · · Score: 1

      and you never update it,

      I have a PS3, It was never online, and then I bought some new games for it that required me to update the system to play. . The problem is that if you want to keep using the console Sony has made it that you have to update it, or else you will stuck with launch titles for the consoles life.

      --
      . . .gone when the morning comes
    109. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      What's funny is that every single PS3 owner I personally knew used Other OS. Often I helped them install Linux onto their PS3. Granted, very few of them really used it much after that, but it was a neat feature.

    110. Re:It is all software, really by bdwebb · · Score: 1

      Just wanted to inform you that not just Sony has been breeched.

      Sony has not put pants on? Breeched...breached... :) On less of a grammar nazi point, though, I think you're confused about the breach in question: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/04/26/us-sony-stoldendata-idUSTRE73P6WB20110426

      Sony specifically was definitely breached and customer data was stolen to the tune of 77 million users. Not only is that a breach, that is a holy-fuck-that's-almost-all-of-our-userbase style breach. You are correct in that some hacker says he has released all this information in an encrypted format and that if he gets punished, he will release it...no one knows that he actually has anything but millions of garbled text files with random character strings in them, though, and likely never will so that doesn't exactly compare with Sony's crazy breach. With regard to the following statement:

      They were very upfront about backwards compatibility on PS3. From day zero they said this was a temporary feature to transition from Ps2 to PS3. It was also a huge reason for the cost overrun of the PS3 (EEs were still not cheap chips in 2007).

      They actually were not up-front about removal of backwards compatibility at any time in the future after release and only when the chips became more expensive did they start removing it from most subsequent versions of the PS3. Given that fact, however, I will still say that some games are still backward compatible with the initial versions of the PS3. If, as you said, you still have the 60GB fat, you can still play those. However, I challenge you to find me the press release from Sony prior to the release of the PS3 that identified ANY future timeline in which backwards compatibility would be removed for any reason because I am pretty sure I would have seen that information in the research I did prior to release.

      With regard to your points about Microsoft...I'm not defending them but I think you just don't like them. I'm not quite sure what you are referring to as a joypad but if you're talking about the controller, the PS3 controller is also proprietary...sooo....yeah. With regard to the non-standard HDD, I actually agree here with you so 1 point for us both. Also, HD-DVD players were an accessory...completely useless, you're right. The thing is, though, just because they tried to sell them doesn't make them dicks. Granted they should have incorporated Blu-ray from jump street but Sony was charging exorbitant licensing fees at that time purposely to keep them out of the 360 so who is the real dick here? Finally, these consoles were both released when HDMI was just becoming the standard for home theater connectivity. Sony had the foresight to include it, MS did not include it until subsequent versions. Even still, though, MS listed their features and specs on the box as did PS3 and the PS3 features were the only ones that were forcibly changed by the company after early adopters purchased the console.

      Oh and btw...Netflix was the culprit behind having to have a streaming subscription and a DVD subscription and MS had nothing to do with it in the least. Not sure where you're getting your information but I think you might need to look some stuff up.

    111. Re:It is all software, really by Vanderhoth · · Score: 1

      I think we'd have to take a closer look at their marketing tactics to really see if that's true. I agree they were taking a loss on the console, but I'm pretty sure what they make up on for PSN advertising and data mining would make up for that. Not to mention the console was really what sold BluRay over Microsoft's HD DVD format. So selling the PS3 at a loss helped them win the format war and now they get a decent cut of bluRay Disk or player sales.

    112. Re:It is all software, really by Hsien-Ko · · Score: 1

      I don't see what's wrong with option A. It's not like there ever has been any practical gaming use for OtherOS anyway.

    113. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      If there weren't any PS3 games that had this issue, there were definitely PSP games that did. I remember needing to update my PSP with the update on the X-Men Legends 2 disc in order to play the game and thinking "Okay, if I do this, what are they locking me out of the ability to do?"

    114. Re:It is all software, really by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

      If you don't play on-line, don't want to sign up for an account, don't want to download extras ... why would you connect it to a network?

      Because then you can download patches that fix game issues or add new functionality to games or the PS3 itself?

      Or you might want to have a network connection so that when you rip a CD, it fetches info from Gracenote.

      Or to use the web browser.

      Or to use the DLNA features.

      Or Netflix, Vudu, Amazon Instant Video, Cinemanow, Hulu.

      YOu can actually do simple video and photo editing on a PS3, can't do the upload features without a connection though.

      There are lots of reasons to have a PS3 or PS2 netowrk connected. I've had my Playstation-foo's net connected since May 30'th of 2002. Yes, that's before the Network adapter (Ethernet/Phone) came out in August of that year... I had the Linux kit.

      One of the first things I did when I got my PS3 was hook the thing up to the network, updated the firmware and then I installed YDL on it.

      The only people I know who connect their XBox to the network are essentially teenagers and 20-somethings. For many of us who remember the 80s, on-line features aren't something we want. In fact, it's something we actively don't want.

      I remember the 80's, I'm 46, and I want online functionality. Then I can play multiplayer on "MY" schedule. And I can actually play MMO's or use a virtual world...on my PS3.

      I for one don't want to go back to the days when PC gtamers bashed consoles and console games becaus you couldn't play console doom deatmatch over the internet, or a Diablo online or an actual MMO.

    115. Re:It is all software, really by MacGyver2210 · · Score: 1

      If by 'king of the hill' you mean 'king of public embarrassment and outrage' then you are quite correct.

      --
      If the only way you can accept an assertion is by faith, then you are conceding that it can't be taken on its own merits
    116. Re:It is all software, really by KClaisse · · Score: 3, Insightful

      Because that was a feature you PAYED for when you got the system. Maybe you glazed over that feature on the box art but some of us actually bought the damn thing because of it. To have that feature removed after the fact is complete bullshit when I payed money for that specific feature. If they didn't want people to have that option they never should have included it in the first place.

    117. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      And that's almost exactly what he said, except with a lot less love for Sony. Everyone knows that Sony is capitalizing on Microsoft's consistently bad PR.

      Additionally, he is pointing out that Sony cannot be taken at their word more widely. The early adopter base is all that matters to both Microsoft and Sony right now. The long haul is a very different game by comparison to generating launch excitement. Sony has proven that time-and-time-again that they will lie outright to attract attention and they will simply weasel-word the rest.

      As he pointed out, the Other OS is just a prime example of it, but even their launch titles for the PS3 were poked full of lies with "in-game" footage turning out to be quite untrue after launch. It's interesting that backward compatibility was never discussed, but it's more interesting that everyone forgot their promises of it with the PS2 taking a backseat beside the Other OS. During Sony's E3 announcement yesterday, they showed off plenty of "in-engine" videos, which is a nice way to say that the engine is technically capable of it, but the game won't be playable (most likely meaning loads of extra effects, higher quality textures, more AI, or significantly wider viewing angles).

      It did not take much else to lose excitement in the words coming out of their mouths based on the differences between statements and reality. What actually is coming on the PS4, and when? We don't even have a real release date for it, but Amazon is showing it as being released on December 31, 2013. The Sony cloud support is not due out until 2014, which means that the core platform's API is unstable, and therefore undependable by developers as well as not a single launch title can take advantage of it. The only in-game footage that people can trust was from Bungie. Even the PS4 Eye's demo with the wizard was oddly questionable, considering that the device only tracks the face (not to mention that, as an accessory, not many developers will use it except for the gimmicks that tended to plague the original Kinect due to logical decision making, which, honestly, may be just as much of a good thing as it is a bad thing).

      Sony will not require DRM, but they will not prevent it either; this simply means that publishers will create bubbles of poorly implemented DRM just as Ubisoft has proven that it is willing to do (and EA, although they claim to be backing away after Sim City's issues, but I doubt EA's word almost as much as Sony). It also means that there will be no consistency on the platform. Their digital downloads--games purchased on PS+--will certainly not be sellable in the used game market, which is the different from the exaggerated claims. The company--Sony--that literally installed a rootkit onto its customer's computers to try to prevent a music CD from being pirated, followed by lying about its removal after discovery, cannot be trusted with obvious weasel wording that has already been slightly clarified as such ( http://www.engadget.com/2013/06/11/playstation-4-drm-policies-third-party/ ).

      Finally, and actually the biggest annoyance for me as someone that inevitably gets both major consoles, the controller once again communicates via Bluetooth (2.1, so higher power), which means that the console cannot be controlled via a universal remote without an expensive adapter, which is the most annoying part about my PS3, and it prevents it from being a useful media hub in my house compared to my Xbox 360.

    118. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      They removed it because they were scared the system was going to be compromised through the other os feature.

    119. Re:It is all software, really by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

      what? Did hell just freeze over? Everything else regarding the PS4 info makes sense and fits with what SCEfoo has done before (for example PS3 games aren't region locked) but THAT?

    120. Re:It is all software, really by evilRhino · · Score: 1

      They also made you agree not to sue them in case they leaked your private data in order to install the update.

    121. Re:It is all software, really by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

      Sony has been under new management for a year or two, and it seems like Kaz actually has a clue, understanding basic concepts like "treating your customers like shit is bad for business".

      If you mean Kaz Hirai, formerly in charge of SCE, then yes he does have a clue. Didn't know he was in charge of Sony itself now. Yep he is, that's a good sign.

    122. Re:It is all software, really by Darinbob · · Score: 1

      I never understood the point of consoles for serious gamers. They were initially the cheap and inexpensive alternative that you gave to the kids, it attached to the TV only, you had an incredibly clumsy controller to use, and the games were simplistic (ie, fps) or stripped down (limited save games). Now they're essentially full blown PCs, so why not just use a PC?

    123. Re:It is all software, really by Darinbob · · Score: 1

      Thats why I'm never getting bluray, everyone thinks it's just a harmless upgrade to DVDs.

    124. Re:It is all software, really by Zeromous · · Score: 1

      On phone so will be brief.

      Kaz hirai said backwards compat would not be all on all skus prior to launch

      Ps3 controller is mini usb as in non proprietary.

      Netflix requires xbox gold.

      I know he data breach is not the same one

      --
      ---Up Up Down Down Left Right Left Right B A START
    125. Re:It is all software, really by Vanderhoth · · Score: 1

      Agreed, I only own one movie. I was waiting for prices to drop before investing in a collection. On further consideration, espically since new movies may not work on older players, it'll never be worth it. Forced obsolescences seems to be built in.

    126. Re: It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

      I think I will just keep my 2nd gen 360 for a while, andd pick up all the games I wanted as second hand as other chumps upgrade and have to pawn the shiny platters to pay for their new addiction.
      Meanwhile iOS games keep getting better, and only cost a few dollars, and I end up playng them more often than console or PC games anyway. When you are all growed up with kids, theres much less time for a 4 hour Halo session than there used to be.

    127. Re:It is all software, really by fredgiblet · · Score: 2

      Because the consoles are still cheaper and simpler than PCs. To get a decent gaming computer you either need to pay a premium to a gaming manufacturer or build your own, which requires a modicum of knowledge and effort and results in you not having a warranty if you break it. To get a decent gaming console you buy the prepackaged box laying on the shelf at your local best Buy/Amazon warehouse.

    128. Re:It is all software, really by fredgiblet · · Score: 1

      No it won't. OtherOS was a super-niche feature that has likely been forgotten by almost everyone and was likely totally ignored by nearly the entire userbase when it was available.

    129. Re:It is all software, really by fredgiblet · · Score: 1

      Nice but most games work fine at launch anyway, if you don't play online you have no real reason to buy on launch day so you can avoid the ones that don't.

      You store music on your console?

      That's what my computer is for.

      Would be nice

      Computer again

      Hey look at that, something my computer does better!

    130. Re:It is all software, really by Darinbob · · Score: 1

      Just like games, the newer ones aren't as good as the older ones anyway, so I can stop watching new movies or playing new games and not really be disadvantaged too much.

    131. Re:It is all software, really by freman · · Score: 1

      Trust me, as someone who has a PS3 and "chose" to keep the other os feature instead of partaking in the "optional" required update to remove it.

      I can't play recent games, I can't play recent movies... so they have ways of forcing you to update...

    132. Re:It is all software, really by SeattleGameboy · · Score: 1

      What is really scary is that with Kinect, always-on architecture, and required net connection, NSA has a perfect inside view of EVERY home with XboxOne around the world. Think about THAT!

    133. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I hate to sound conceded...

      You sound like you're at a loss over it.

    134. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Or by buying an Xbox One you are supporting a company which has willingly subjected itself to NSA's PRISM.

      Also read, the Kinect does NOT support being disconnected, at all. So the NSA can spy till the cows come home, literally.

      I support the lesser evil which happens to be Sony right now.

    135. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      It shouldn't really be about trust. Sony has an interest in keeping the hate on Microsoft. They are likely to continue to do so.

      DRM has and always will be a part of every recent console. For Sony disc based games, it will just be some advanced version of the standard techniques to prevent usage of burned copies.

    136. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      >Exactly. Sony shut off network access if you didn't run the "upgrade" to remove OtherOS.

      Sounds bad, but what was the other choice? There was a fundamental, unfixable security hole in how they built Other OS that absolutely prevented them from guaranteeing legitimate play. They only fix they could offer was to remove OtherOS support, and require this update to play online.

    137. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      It's 'ridiculous' - the clue was in the post you replied to...

    138. Re:It is all software, really by denobug · · Score: 1

      You know. Given the availability of hardware to run Linux I don't think holding on a PS3 to your dear life to run Linux is as good of an option as before. It is relly cheap to run Linux on Resberry Pi. If you want more processing power other hardware options are available. Unlocked phone is just another device to run Linux/Andriod. If you need to run Linux, there are plenty of hardware to run on.

      Unfortunately as it is, game console is increasing becoming a splurge. I agree I won't necessarily going out there to buy a console now. The priority to buy a game console is dropping steadily as the years goes on. I still play games here and there but Apple really knows where gaming is going: to the phones and tablets.

    139. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Good, take your shitty features and go play in the sand box. They shouldn't waste any resources on it, plain and simple. Stop trying to act like the Other OS features were so important, people get very butt hurt to hear the truth around here.

    140. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      "phone home once every 24 hours according to what they've been saying."
      Oh bullshit, quit talking out your ass and making up stuff. Unbelievable.

      So you're saying every 24hrs im gonna have to punch in a bunch of numbers to get the system to work? That just doesn't sound very convenient, I could see them requiring a phone call for every new game you get as that seems less tedious and hassle.
      Sorry but don't spread misinformation and fear monger people. Truth

    141. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      They are, however, KEENLY aware of the legions of users who stopped buying shit from their online store and basically deserted the console following their leaving the customers' credit card data right in the fucking open.

      I know you're not going to do the research on this but if you bothered to do some reading you could find out that not a single case of identity theft has ever been linked back to the PSN Outage/Hack.

      But please keep thinking that "legions of users" have had their identity stolen, it's cute.

    142. Re:It is all software, really by craigminah · · Score: 1

      Some of the testimonials are really funny...I laughed hard reading some of them.

    143. Re:It is all software, really by pegasustonans · · Score: 1

      They don't give a damn about a few angered /. posters who swore off Sony because they couldn't run Linux on their game consoles.

      They are, however, KEENLY aware of the legions of users who stopped buying shit from their online store and basically deserted the console following their leaving the customers' credit card data right in the fucking open.

      My PS3 is a standing blu-ray player that isn't allowed to have a network connection these days for good reason, and I suspect Sony realized that there's no chance in hell of my buying their box if it required a net connection knowing their track record on the subject.

      I buy pre-paid PSN cards, no credit card info required.

      I don't trust Sony on any issue except occasionally coming out with pretty good games. That level of trust tends to work out well.

      That being said, remember when Microsft came out with a console prone to widespread hardware failure? Remember incessantly sending those consoles in for repairs and/or purchasing new ones as they failed? Yeah, I remember it too.

      I'm either on my 4th or 5th 360, I lost track after the third repair or so. My PS3 running launch hardware is still going strong....

      In short, while I'm not a fan of either Microsoft or Sony, there are a lot of reasons why I'll be choosing Sony and giving the big middle-finger to MS this time around.

      --
      And all our yesterdays have lighted fools The way to dusty death. --Will
    144. Re:It is all software, really by Bing+Tsher+E · · Score: 1

      Can't we run Tux Racer on OtherOS???

      Maybe even PySol?

    145. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      They might not at the moment, but that will have a big effect on PS4 sales

      Go buy an Ouya you delusional fucking retard.

    146. Re:It is all software, really by mjwx · · Score: 1

      I have to connect to the internet at least once

      Sadly, that's at least once per day. The Xbox 1 is going to require to phone home once every 24 hours according to what they've been saying.

      So I'm hoping the option to buy the PS4 and never connect it to a network will be viable.

      Going to Sony because Microsoft is too abusive is like asking to move cells because Bubba doesn't use Lube and you've heard Joey Ray does. In the end, you're still in prison and you're still taking it up the arse.

      --
      Calling someone a "hater" only means you can not rationally rebut their argument.
    147. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No it won't. OtherOS was a super-niche feature that has likely been forgotten by almost everyone and was likely totally ignored by nearly the entire userbase when it was available.

      It is funny watching how some /.ers keep droning on and on about how pissed off they were for Sony removing the OtherOS feature, like a wife kept nagging how her wedding cake didn't have the exact flavor she asked for, years and years afterwards.

      While everywhere else, in every other gaming forum, nobody gave a shit about OtherOS, and more gamers have no idea about what the OtherOS is than gamers who knew, and those who knew don't care at all.

    148. Re:It is all software, really by Pseudonym · · Score: 1

      Contrary to popular belief, the NSA is not asking for fecal samples.

      --
      sub f{($f)=@_;print"$f(q{$f});";}f(q{sub f{($f)=@_;print"$f(q{$f});";}f});
    149. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      In short, while I'm not a fan of either Microsoft or Sony, there are a lot of reasons why I'll be choosing Sony and giving the big middle-finger to MS this time around.

      You cannot even trust Sony with your information, but you are giving MS the big middle finger because of an unfortunate design flaw that surfaced months after release, which they more than appropriately signed up to fix?

      I am annoyed that I have had one Xbox 360 fail on me (and my brother has had three fail), but Microsoft turned around and gave everyone a 3 year warranty plus a refurbished unit that is still running strong; they even fixed my Xbox 360 a year outside of its warranty when it RRODed. I'll take that over weeks of PSN being down with my credit card and partial identity stolen.

    150. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The reality is I will never give their store my credit card number again.

      Multiple breaches and indemnification?

      However, I'm not going to purchase an xbox because I might actually want to purchase a used game from someone other then gamestop or perhaps even rent one from gamefly. I know! Crazy talk!

      Sony... probably won't get more then a console purchase from me.
      Microsoft... won't see another dime from me.

      It's funny because they both have proven how inept they are.

    151. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Newer bluRay movies require system updates. I wasn't in the room when my wife or cousin put the rented bluRay movie in so I don't know if it had to go out to download the update or if it just ran off the disk. I had turned off the wireless on my PS3 so I don't know if someone reconnected it for the update or if it just came on the disk

      That's a lot of not knowing...

    152. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      LOL as opposed to being forced to fork out 300-500 (PS3 was 800 when it first came out) dollars every time you want to buy a new generation console or additional money, because you will be forced to buy a new version to access the latest upgrades or features not included with previous version, because that is where the console industry is going.

      To build a gaming computer which can still be used in far more ways then a console, cost about 500-1000 dollars, all depends how anal you are over needing to have the latest or overrated hardware.

      And now you are seeing linux gaming consoles, and computer gaming, which thus far has shown to be faster then Windows OS's when playing games.

    153. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      And lets not forget that the game makers will force DRM, or "always connected" in there games anyway, so it really doesn't matter when it comes to the console makers forcing it on there systems. Because you will have to fork out money to advance in levels /situation (or whatever) in newer games. Even if you have a computer you will be forced by the DRM game makers the same way.

      M$ is so self-centered they are going to bury themselves, Sony is going to act like it is not needed but the fact is they probably have a chip that reads the (bar like) codes from a game, certain codes will prevent you from playing a game unless you are connected.

      The replies to this are somewhat ridiculous, when the game makers are getting ignored, and they are to blame more so then console makers. Both are media monopolies and both are trying to keep it that way. I am not buying any of the things they are claiming, or the lame propaganda they are using for why they have this, or that.

      I agree with you, when you could choose neither... But lets say you do that, you still have gaming makers to deal with no matter what you use.

    154. Re:It is all software, really by Xest · · Score: 1

      "Also read, the Kinect does NOT support being disconnected, at all. So the NSA can spy till the cows come home, literally."

      FWIW this has already been debunked. You can unplug and/or turn off Kinect.

    155. Re:It is all software, really by Xest · · Score: 1

      To be fair consoles do have good games that PCs just don't and for me that was the draw with the 360 (and to a lesser extent, the PS3) that pulled me further away from PC gaming from around 2006 - 2011, whilst PCs got very little that interested me.

      This has changed in the last year or so with Diablo 3, Minecraft, Starcraft, Wargame etc. but I wont deny there are some games on the XBox One that I'd love to play like Dead Rising 3 (the second one I had awesome fun with coop with a friend) but I'd find it hard to justify given the anti-consumer crap, hence why I suspect I'll continue playing the above mentioned PC games a while longer yet.

      There are some games that just play better on consoles too to be fair, games like Assassins Creed always felt nicer to play with a console controller on a console than the PC versions for example.

      There's definitely room for both in the market, if it weren't for the fact that the console manufacturers seem determined to fuck over their customers.

    156. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      That's a fake argument. I might be stuck with launch games, "but I got something" is ridiculous. Hopefully, no one is going to be dumb enough to plop down $400 for launch titles alone.

      After all, any disc that you plug into the theoretically useful, unpatched PS4 could force it to be upgraded just as is currently done with the PS3 to many people.

      Frankly, I do not understand this notion that everyone on Slashdot suddenly does not have a working internet connection. How are you on here? I get the lack of persistent connections, but a daily, one-time phone home is not a nightmare scenario that everyone seems to proclaim it to be considering Skype, Steam and Origin are all humming along just fine on my computer right now.

      Finally, it's even more ridiculous to conclude anything that Sony says is true, or that it will stay true. Sony, as a whole, has made it quite clear that they will lie to sell the Playstation. And when they are not lying, then they are telling half truths. Sony not forcing used game DRM is a far different thing from the PS4 not having used game DRM. In fact, I would say it will make things much worse because those games that do have it will break just like Ubisoft games currently do.

      Sony wins on price, and they almost certainly win on cloudless hardware (assuming it's not bottlenecked). It would be nice if we people could focus on this rather than a bunch of crap that is meaningless where the vast majority of people are either wrong, or wildly misinformed. The PS4 will have DRMed games on it, and now there will be no standard process to handle it; it's a guarantee. Denial of that is only stupid or ignorant. Clearly, there is a separate debate on the use of DRM in games, but it will affect both consoles.

    157. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      > legions of users

      citation pls

    158. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      What problem with DRM did Sony have? Oh wait, are you getting confused with SonyBMG?

    159. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Except that, it hasn't. I read that the Kinect HAS TO STAY PLUGGED IN, yeah they say you can shut it down, but who wants to trust them to keep it in that state if the NSA/CIA suddenly want to spy on you? Don't play the tinfoil card either, this happens with cellphones and them turning the mic on remotely.

    160. Re:It is all software, really by Xest · · Score: 2

      But this is retarded, if your argument is now simply that they're lying then what makes any other system different? Smartphones, Sony Eye Toy, Samsung Smart TVs, PCs/Laptops with webcams - how do you know there's not a backdoor for all of these things?

      You either trust off buttons to do what they say or you don't. If you don't that's not a Kinect specific issue though but an issue with every device with a camera/mic of which there are many millions out there. You really are in tinfoil territory at that point I'm afraid.

    161. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Nice but most games work fine at launch anyway, if you don't play online you have no real reason to buy on launch day so you can avoid the ones that don't.

      You must be one of those guys who haven't played console games in years.

      While "most games work fine at launch" used to be one of the great strengths of buying console, it is sadly no longer the case since XBox360 and PS3 genre. With internet connection so common, now even console games get the first patch as soon as the game hit the store. It is not uncommon for you to buy a newly released game, and on the launch day, you put in the disc and it immediately found an update to download.

    162. Re:It is all software, really by Xest · · Score: 1

      Yep, agreed, that's why I think the used games argument is the least of the problems with the XBox One - if people hadn't noticed most publishers have been doing this anyway with one time use codes tied to some kind of account - whether it's tied to your XBox Live gamer tag on the 360, your Playstation Plus account on the PS3 or your Steam account on the PC - it's a widespread issue regardless and Microsoft are far from the first to implement this blocking of used games idea, it's been going on for years already, the best part of a decade now with Steam I believe?

      It's more the always online have to be connected every 24 hrs thing that offends me. What if I move house and haven't got a connection for a week? I'm not allowed to entertain myself playing offline? That's stupid and unacceptable.

    163. Re:It is all software, really by gstoddart · · Score: 1

      Or you might want to have a network connection so that when you rip a CD, it fetches info from Gracenote.

      Or to use the web browser.

      Or to use the DLNA features.

      Or Netflix, Vudu, Amazon Instant Video, Cinemanow, Hulu.

      See, I have no idea why I'd want to do any of those things on a video game console. I have computers and tablets for that.

      I for one don't want to go back to the days when PC gtamers bashed consoles and console games becaus you couldn't play console doom deatmatch over the internet, or a Diablo online or an actual MMO.

      I think you should have the right to do that, and I should have the right to not do that.

      Microsoft's stance is that I don't get a choice in the matter, so I will use the remaining choice -- and that's not to buy this thing in the first place.

      It's the forcing me to keep it online when I don't have any use cases for online in a video game console. And I'm not willing to do that. It's optional in the current XBox, but won't be in the next. So, I won't be buying the next XBox.

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    164. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      So it's tinfoil believing that PRISM exists eh?

      Tinfoil be damned if its true.

      But this is retarded, if your argument is now simply that they're lying then what makes any other system different? Smartphones, Sony Eye Toy, Samsung Smart TVs, PCs/Laptops with webcams - how do you know there's not a backdoor for all of these things?

      Because, well those things have been disected and rooted, the Xbox 360 even has this


      You should not expect any level of privacy concerning your use of the live communication features (for example, voice chat, video and communications in live-hosted gameplay sessions) offered through the Xbox LIVE/Games for Windows-LIVE Service. We may monitor these communications to the extent permitted by law.

      Again


      We may collect certain information about the Services’ performance, your Authorized Device, and your use of the Services and Authorized Device to provide you the Services and improve the Services and Authorized Devices. We may automatically upload this information from your Authorized Device. Such data may include Xbox console hardware and operating performance data, unique identifiers on game discs, network performance data, and Services quality data. If you use the Xbox console with Kinect, we may also collect data about the way in which you interact with the console and the Services to improve Microsoft products and services. Any software or hardware errors which occur while you are connected to the Services or are offline may be uploaded and reported. All such data may be stored with the Xbox console's unique identifier, and may be associated with other personally identifiable information.

      Speaks for itself.

      No tinfoil needed.

    165. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Please don't spread FUD, the Xbox even has confirmed it

      http://www.vyralize.com/2163/xbox-ones-drm-policy-clarified-and-its-just-as-bad-as-we-expected/

      http://www.penny-arcade.com/report/article/your-xbox-one-needs-to-phone-home-every-24-hours-or-no-gaming-for-you

      Smoked yet another fanboy.

    166. Re:It is all software, really by Xest · · Score: 1

      "So it's tinfoil believing that PRISM exists eh?"

      No, it's tinfoil believing that Kinect or any other webcam is a conduit for it.

      Writing the other things off as "dissected and rooted" which is patently false is just evidence that you're more interested in having a pop at Microsoft than rationally discussing the threat of cameras and microphones to our privacy.

      I'm not really interested in having this discussion with someone whose more interested in partisan fanboyism than talking about anything worthwhile, especially as the ToS stuff you quote is commonplace in other services and devices also, so have fun with that tinfoil hat with "I hate Microsoft" written on it - you could at least be honest and just get to the point and admit that all you're interested in is having a pop at Microsoft.

      It's not as if Apple and Google weren't implicated in Prism and don't have devices with cameras and microphones being carried around by millions of people with similar suggestions in their user agreements, but I guess they get a free ride because again, you're just busy being an AC fanboy.

    167. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No, it's tinfoil believing that Kinect or any other webcam is a conduit for it.

      Can you prove different? No? well that's a stupid arguement right there, the Kinect is owned, built and operated by a CLOSED SOURCE box which you have no idea what's going on.

      Writing the other things off as "dissected and rooted" which is patently false is just evidence that you're more interested in having a pop at Microsoft than rationally discussing the threat of cameras and microphones to our privacy.

      Not really, the only time those things spy on people unwittingly is when your PC has a rootkit or trojan

      I'm not really interested in having this discussion with someone whose more interested in partisan fanboyism than talking about anything worthwhile

      So, you couldn't care less about your privacy, I see. You must be a young un here.


      It's not as if Apple and Google weren't implicated in Prism and don't have devices with cameras and microphones being carried around by millions of people with similar suggestions in their user agreements

      I don't care for these other USA companies, I don't use Google or Apple, so naturally I don't care, but if I discovered that Google was using my Mic without permission I would treat them the same.

      but I guess they get a free ride because again, you're just busy being an AC fanboy.

      Whatever. you couldn't be further from the truth with that sentence, as for the AC remark, you expect me to actually register now? why is that I wonder. I don't wish to be trolled and stalked thank you.

      Good day.

    168. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      It's competition. I's good.

    169. Re: It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Except the games, to my knowledge, that required console updates came with them on the BluRay.

    170. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      they didn't have ps2 emulation, at all. The original ps3's actually had the physical hardware required to run ps2 games inside them.

    171. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No, you've just fallen for an obvious troll.

    172. Re:It is all software, really by aNonnyMouseCowered · · Score: 1

      But can your decent console do word processing, image editing, programming and all the other stuff that geeks like to do? Sure, if playing shooters and other graphically intensive games is your ENTIRE life, go ahead and buy that console. Any halfway decent PC, even Win8-hobbled ones is far, far more versatile and useful than any console.

    173. Re: It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Proof that Kinect data is in prism, there are kinects out there right now.

      You can't ask us to prove the negative, if you can't prove the positive. And positives are easier (in general) to prove than negatives, so I've given you the easy job.

    174. Re:It is all software, really by Jiro · · Score: 1

      It's about whatever system they release games for. You're not going to get the new Metroid game on your PC, let alone most JRPGs. Sure, there's no reason your PC can't run, say, Disgaea--but you will not in fact be able to run it because it's only going to ever get released on a console.

    175. Re:It is all software, really by hobarrera · · Score: 1

      Until you purchase a game that requires an updated OS. As if that didn't ever happen on a Sony console.
      Or, until you want to play online.

    176. Re:It is all software, really by hobarrera · · Score: 1

      So?
      There's no practical gaming use for a kinect on a PC, yet hundreds of developers still use it for research, etc. Why can't I used my PS3 to research and try new stuff on my shiny cell processor?

    177. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I never understood the point of consoles for serious gamers. They were initially the cheap and inexpensive alternative that you gave to the kids, it attached to the TV only, you had an incredibly clumsy controller to use, and the games were simplistic (ie, fps) or stripped down (limited save games). Now they're essentially full blown PCs, so why not just use a PC?

      The original XBOX had a 4.3 gig HD Celeron Processor and I forget what amount of RAM such that it was a capable desktop equivalent for playing games so that you knew if you bought a game it would work rather than remembering your PCs configuration to know if you could run a game.

      Also some of the games run best on the consoles that they are designed for so that they are serious gaming machines for serious gamers.

    178. Re:It is all software, really by ravenshrike · · Score: 1

      No, they used that as the excuse. the reality is they weren't getting the Euro tax breaks they had expected and felt it was a waste of money for the upkeep as they made upgrades to the rest of the OS to make sure said upgrades did not impact OtherOS functionality. So hey cut it entirely, citing piracy fears as the reason.

    179. Re: It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Proof that Kinect data is in prism, there are kinects out there right now.

      You can't ask us to prove the negative, if you can't prove the positive. And positives are easier (in general) to prove than negatives, so I've given you the easy job.

      True, but the new Xbox actually has said that you cannot unplug it? I don't know if they've changed that policy, but I would like them to since I don't bother with it.

      Waste not want not and all that..

    180. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Remember ps3 running as a linux box?

    181. Re:It is all software, really by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The person in shipping can get another job if they don't like working for a shitty company.

      I've successfully avoid all Sony purchases since my second ps2 died a few days after its warranty ran out. That has to be like 10 years. It's not really hard.

    182. Re:It is all software, really by sonamchauhan · · Score: 1

      XBox None!

  2. This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this time by TWiTfan · · Score: 4, Interesting

    So far, it looks like the PS4 hardware is better, it's got Elder Scrolls Online as an exclusive (a big deal for me), there is less of that authentication/DRM drama (amazing coming from Sony, who have always been the worst control freaks in the past), and it's $100 cheaper too!

    I've been a fan of Xbox since the Xbox 1. But MS is making all the wrong moves on the Xbox One. And looks like Sony is making all the right ones on the PS4. I may have to cross the line on this next generation.

    --
    The cow says "Moo." The dog says "Woof." The Timothy says "Thanks, valued customer. We appreciate your input."
  3. Sure, they promise all this now. by SuricouRaven · · Score: 3, Insightful

    But they'll just take it all away in a year or two with a mandatory software update, citing fears of piracy.

    Again.

    1. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

      Wouldn't a mandatory software update require an internet connection? Can't really mandate an update if I don't connect it to the network.

    2. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

      No, they just include the update on new games. Unless you want to be stuck playing only old games, you will be forced to update.

    3. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Applekid · · Score: 4, Insightful

      Wouldn't a mandatory software update require an internet connection? Can't really mandate an update if I don't connect it to the network.

      New games could have a firmware update embedded and force you to update the system in order to play it (the Wii did something similar, although it just installed middleware -- think drivers and extra APIs -- that the game can use to interact with the hardware). The online store can refuse connections if you don't have the update, matchmaking servers can refuse service. It might encourage you to pair up your phone or tablet to it for some neat feature, and enable tethering. New Blu-Ray movies can be required, as part of the terms to license the logo and compatibility marks, to have a few tracks set aside for just-in-case-he-runs-it-on-a-PS4. The damn thing isn't even out yet, there could yet be some kind self-expiring key with a requirement to phone home once a year that we don't know about yet.

      Hell, with how advanced consoles are these days, they could even embed firmware updates in hardware accessories. Buy a new controller? Plug it in, it mounts the internal flash, updates the system.

      Sure this is conjecture and it might be possible for a dedicated person to avoid updating, but they're going to be working off a reduced feature set until they do.

      As much as Sony wants to play up the idea that the PS4 is an island onto itself so you can enjoy entertainment on your terms, those days are long gone. Ultimately, as with any closed source anything, you have no way to know what it wants to do and, ultimately, you don't own the hardware.

      --
      More Twoson than Cupertino
    4. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Opportunist · · Score: 2

      I'd love to say "in theory, yes", but not even in theory. In theory, an update could come bundled with a game. Or, as has been pointed out elsewhere, in add-on hardware.

      The problem runs much deeper, though. Should Sony decide to pull their usual bait-and-switch scheme, you can't even sensibly slip in anything you didn't "screen" first, since you can't even be sure that a crappy movie doesn't fuck up your hardware with an update. And it's by far not a given that it would ask you before updating (of course, just for convenience's sake, because, hey, why wouldn't you want the latest firmware?).

      As soon as Sony pulls the fishing rod in, you'll be spending quite a bit of time perusing the internet to check not only whether some game you want to play runs with your "old" firmware, but also to make sure that it doesn't "improve" your console without even asking first.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    5. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Gadget_Guy · · Score: 2

      The difference between Sony removing the "Other OS" option on the PS3 and patching the PS4 to add mandatory internet connection or remove the ability to share/sell games is that the former only affected a tiny minority of owners of the PS3 (far less than the number who complain about it).

      But if Sony made a patch to make the console match the XBox One, it would affect 100% of their customers. Every. Single. Gamer! That would be a huge PR nightmare.

      A more likely scenario would be that Sony will take the long term approach and just wait for the PS5 to implement the same restrictive system. That way Microsoft can take the flak now, and then when Sony does it they can point to the precedent of the XBox to justify their anti-consumer policies as "moving to industry standard practices". This is much in the same way that defenders of Microsoft point to Steam to justify their DRM now.

    6. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Voyager529 · · Score: 1

      But they'll just take it all away in a year or two with a mandatory software update, citing fears of piracy.

      Again.

      My guess is that it will largely hinge on how well Microsoft does with it. If Sony and MS are somewhere in the 40/60 split area, I could see Sony keeping things as-is. Too far in either direction could be reasons to start adding these restrictions in later on, perhaps less stringently so (e.g. "internet connectivity required, but only once a week!"). Similarly, I think it also depends on how many PS4 disc images find their way onto the Pirate Bay.

    7. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Informative

      Except that Sony has, in the very recent past, done exactly what he described. When I rented Dead Island, my (internet-less) PS3 refused to play it unless I installed the firmware update that came on the disc.

    8. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Golddess · · Score: 1

      So I was just imagining things every time my PSP refused to play a UMD because the UMD contained a software update? And every time my Wii wouldn't load a game because of a software update on the game disc?

      Sorry, but I think you're the one out of touch with reality.

      --
      "I'm not sure I like the fugnutish tone you used in your post!" -RogL (608926)-
    9. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by vux984 · · Score: 1

      But if Sony made a patch to make the console match the XBox One, it would affect 100% of their customers. Every. Single. Gamer! That would be a huge PR nightmare.

      Only if they applied it retroactively.

      A more likely scenario would be that Sony will take the long term approach and just wait for the PS5 to implement the same restrictive system.

      Why wait that long? It would be no big deal to retire the existing sku and launch a new one with the patch baked in. And then every PS4 from that point on has it.

      That's precisely how they "removed" backwards compatibility from the PS3 after all.

      And while they might not actually force the issue retroactively they might throw all kinds of carrots at people to lure them into accepting an 'optional' update that adds the restrictions.

      Or they might just restructure it slightly to make it slightly less mandatory for early adopters. E.g. the "first generation" units will have the patch retroactively forced on them, they'll check in daily if they can, automatically apply updates, delete anything on the system that is unauthorized, etc, etc. But first gen units won't outright stop working if they go 24hrs without a connection.

    10. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by drinkypoo · · Score: 0

      Why haven't you been updating your Wii? You only have to wait a little while for a new HBC before you do the system update, you only need to lag a few days behind at worst.

      --
      "You're right," Fisheye says. "I should have set it on 'whip' or 'chop.'"
    11. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by ZombieBraintrust · · Score: 1

      If Dead Island is using API calls that are not in your old firmware then it can't run unless you update. So requiring the update is reasonable.

    12. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Golddess · · Score: 1

      I didn't mean to imply that I wasn't updating, only that I could not play the new game I just bought until I did.

      Or rather, in theory I could not play it. In practice, I just used one of the many disc managers to install the game to an external HDD, and played the game from that. Completely skips the version check on the disc.

      Of course, just in case the game actually did need something in the update, I did still update.

      --
      "I'm not sure I like the fugnutish tone you used in your post!" -RogL (608926)-
    13. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by tlhIngan · · Score: 1

      The difference between Sony removing the "Other OS" option on the PS3 and patching the PS4 to add mandatory internet connection or remove the ability to share/sell games is that the former only affected a tiny minority of owners of the PS3 (far less than the number who complain about it).

      But if Sony made a patch to make the console match the XBox One, it would affect 100% of their customers. Every. Single. Gamer! That would be a huge PR nightmare.

      Sony ONLY removed the OtherOS option because they were afraid. Afraid that some hacker will use the Geohot OtherOS timing bug to go and investigate how the security system of the PS3 worked and pirate games.

      Just like how threats of homebrew on Vita caused Sony to remove downloadable games from the store.

      With the fact that the discs now have to have DRM on them (Blu-Ray writers and discs are falling in price), you can bet that there's going to be heavy DRM on them, and a flurry of system updates as people keep breaking the DRM.

      Hell, given it's x86, the chances it'll be broken like the original Xbox are huge and there's a good chance Sony might have to do recant, or force stuff like daily updates to the firmware to counter each new attack. Assuming they can - they gave up updating the PS3 when someone finally broke through all the keys, and I think even lvl0 keys have been revealed. (Which didn't require the geohot hack to OtherOS, mind you - so OtherOS was removed because it could've been used, but wasn't - everyone else found another way).

      Microsoft is keeping still purely because the 360 system worked - there was a low level of piracy (always inevitable, and really couldn't be fixed because it was due to vulnerable drive firmware).

      And Sony doesn't have to do anything - if they want to implement the new DRM, they just have to do one thing - make the disc available later and distribute the game online first - no used game sales, no piracy via discs for online distributed games. And you can couch it in terms of "due to declining physical media sales..." and "Preorder online and preload it to play the first minute!".

    14. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by cbhacking · · Score: 1

      Sony's OtherOS fiasco led fairly directly to their whole online network being down for ages, their info customer's info getting extracted, and various other Bad Things (cheating in a bunch of their online games where it had previously been absent, for example). It affected everybody who used PSN, or who had bought a game using the console, or who played any of the impacted games. It was a very big deal.

      --
      There's no place I could be, since I've found Serenity...
    15. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by quacking+duck · · Score: 1

      As much as Sony wants to play up the idea that the PS4 is an island onto itself so you can enjoy entertainment on your terms, those days are long gone. Ultimately, as with any closed source anything, you have no way to know what it wants to do and, ultimately, you don't own the hardware.

      There's a lot of people who swear they'll never buy an Apple device because of how locked down it is, can't sideload unapproved apps/games, etc.

      It'll be interesting to hear the justifications of many of those same people who won't hesitate to line up and buy an Xbox One or PS4.

    16. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      But they'll just take it all away in a year or two with a mandatory software update, citing fears of piracy.

      Again.

      Yeah, just like how they changed PS3 from region-free to region-locked like the Wii? Oh, nope, that didn't happen.

      Or like how they changed the HDD in PS3 from standard SATA to proprietary so you can no longer replace it? Oh, nope, that didn't happen either.

      Or like how they changed the standard BT interface to headsets so you must buy Sony's headset? Oh, that didn't happen either.

      Or how they changed PSN from free to paid-subscription like XBL? That didn't happen either.

      Oh, you mean that obscure feature that nobody used and nobody talked about except here in /.? Yeah, right. I am sooooo concerned.

      I even bet they will jump the gun this time, and remove the OtherOS feature before they ship any PS4! Now you can get outraged that they removed your darling feature 2 years sooner that PS3!

    17. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Macgrrl · · Score: 1

      There's a lot of people who swear they'll never buy an Apple device because of how locked down it is, can't sideload unapproved apps/games, etc.

      It'll be interesting to hear the justifications of many of those same people who won't hesitate to line up and buy an Xbox One or PS4

      Simple, it's not made by Apple, AKA The Evil Empire MkII.

      --
      Sara
      Designer, Gamer, Macgrrl in an XP World
    18. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The PSP also had firmware updates on game discs. Many games won't run until you run the update.

    19. Re:Sure, they promise all this now. by webheaded · · Score: 1

      Not to be a Sony cheerleader or anything but you realize that game is NOT made by Sony? So maybe the firmware update was leveraging a feature that wasn't available on older versions? I mean I could be wrong but why else would a 3rd party put PS3 firmware updates on disc?

      And for the guy that had his PS3 updated by a Bluray...all bluray players require updates to continue functioning with newer movies don't they (I have no idea why)? Sony should have been nicer about it and made the bluray updates separate though.

      --
      "Those who would sacrifice essential liberties for a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - BenF
  4. Yay, less awful? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 2, Insightful

    When faced with two evils, the best choice is not to play the game.

    1. Re:Yay, less awful? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      yup thats why i abstained from voting

    2. Re:Yay, less awful? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      It's called the personal computer, and it's not a new idea.

  5. Joke by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Microsoft went for rape jokes during their Xbox presentation.

    That's what passes for a rape joke nowadays?

    [to the Xbox Next]

    Next? What?

    1. Re:Joke by Applekid · · Score: 2, Insightful

      Microsoft went for rape jokes during their Xbox presentation.

      That's what passes for a rape joke nowadays?

      "How many feminists does it take to change a light bulb?"
      "THAT'S NOT FUNNY"

      --
      More Twoson than Cupertino
    2. Re:Joke by Opportunist · · Score: 1

      That's "how many feminists does it take to screw in a light bulb"

      Gee, way to butcher a joke.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    3. Re:Joke by Cinder6 · · Score: 3, Insightful

      Chalk it up to people being outraged because they want to be outraged. Personally, it reminded me of a trip to the dentist. "It'll all be over soon," they say, while gouging my teeth and gums.

      Of course, now I can't stop thinking of how that can be a metaphor.

      --
      If you can't convince them, convict them.
    4. Re:Joke by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Not necessarily. There are people who take offence for non-reasons...

    5. Re:Joke by Opportunist · · Score: 1

      I don't talk with lunatics, so I rarely notice.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    6. Re:Joke by Seumas · · Score: 1

      I remember when gaming used to be a lot of fun. 2013 marks at least the third year straight where you can't fucking blink without someone screeching in your face about "gender issues". Note, it's only EVER about gender issues. I think gaming should work to be more inclusive, but it's just working to be more PC, instead. Worse, it's really NOT working to be more inclusive. Again, the only topic EVER discussed is "sexism". There is nearly never much discussion about homophobia, xenophobia, or race. Maybe for every fifty stories about how "mysoginyst" (used incorrectly, almost always) gamers and developers and publishers are, there *might* be one story that just briefly mentions race, xenophobia, or homophobia -- which I would suggest are actually far more frequently encountered in gaming than anything else. I can go for days playing online without hearing something about a woman in the kitchen, but I can't be in a game online for two minutes without hearing the N-word thrown around or gay slurs hurled around.

    7. Re:Joke by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

      Then you have things weirdly muddled like when you have a transgendered person standing up at a developer's conference reading a poem someone wrote, basically "smashing the patriarchy", about how women (including the reader on stage) are so poorly treated in the gaming world. Which, yes, I agree that it would be a good thing to be more considerate of gender issues and all sorts of other issues that help make gaming more welcoming and rewarding to *everyone* . . . but when you have a man living as a woman reading a poem to rally against sexism towards women that this man is experiencing . . then . . . it just becomes all too fucking surreal. That was actually sort of where I lost the plot, this year, and decided that I actually didn't care anymore.

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4t_0sTq1hIo

      In that video, Anna Anthropy (a transgendered man -- man==>woman) reads a poem written by Cara Ellison (a game reviewer), that is just a re-write of Ginsberg's Hadda Be Playin' on the Jukebox, but just line after line about things about how men in the gaming industry and circles oppress women. Because, you know, who better to rally for that cause than . . . . a man.

      No, I don't have a problem with LGBTQ in any way at all. I just find it ridiculous as shit when a transgender man is standing up to complain about how horrible sexism is.

    8. Re:Joke by Darinbob · · Score: 0

      No, as a male it definitely sounded like a rape joke to me. No way was that an innocent comment. Doesn't matter if that's standard trash talk amongst gamerz.

      One comment added was along the lines of how in online games they say they'll rape the other side and that "rape" has a completely different meaning there. I can not disagree more. I has the identical meaning, only these gamerz have watered it down to make it seem common place. The first time someone in an online game ever said"we raped those guys" he absolutely with no doubt intended it to mean "we forced ourselves upon them and they had to take our full manhood like a bitch". That's the meaning of the term even today. It doesn't become ok just because it's a game.

      Grow up you kids, get out of your insular gamer-only crowd and see what the real world is like.

    9. Re:Joke by fredgiblet · · Score: 1

      It was definitely a rape joke. It also isn't a big deal except to the "ALL THE SENSITIVE" crowd who are looking for any reason to be angry.

      Seriously the constant push to have the thinnest skin possible is getting extremely annoying.

    10. Re:Joke by Macgrrl · · Score: 1

      I play WoW. I play WoW on Proudmoore which has a long tradition of being LGBT friendly. I can't spent 10 minutes in Tradechat without there being a homophobic OR sexist OR racist remark being made. Often by the same trolls day in, day out. I wish the temp ban from reporting them lasted longer than the next time you log out.

      --
      Sara
      Designer, Gamer, Macgrrl in an XP World
    11. Re:Joke by Macgrrl · · Score: 1

      A couple of friends of ours are currently transitioning from male to female, from speaking to them they experience sexism against both their genders (birth and identify) on a regular basis.

      I rather imagine a transgender woman would be in the unique position of experiencing both the unrecognised privilege of being male in the gaming community and to be able to directly compare that to the discrimination against female gamers.

      --
      Sara
      Designer, Gamer, Macgrrl in an XP World
    12. Re:Joke by Macgrrl · · Score: 1

      One of the things that "ALL THE SENSITIVE" crowd are trying to tell you is that rape jokes are almost never OK because they trivialise the reality of rape.

      Think about 5 women you know, the odds are at least one of them has been sexually assaulted at some point in their lives. The odds are also that the person that assaulted them was known to them and someone they felt safe with prior to the assault.

      Now imagine standing in front of those same 5 women, knowing one of them has most likely been raped and picture yourself telling a rape joke. Do you still think they are being over sensitive?

      --
      Sara
      Designer, Gamer, Macgrrl in an XP World
    13. Re:Joke by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      How is it a rape joke when the other person is voluntarily participating, regardless of their enjoyment? If she was having a truly bad time she could have set down the controller and walked away. This is hardly analogous to rape.

      Worse is when a company has to "admit" that they've crossed the line when they know they havent. Its disingenuous pandering to the handful of people who are clinging to this like it somehow matters.

    14. Re:Joke by fredgiblet · · Score: 1

      Yes.

  6. What a world. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    A world where Sony is the consumer friendly choice. THE MADNESS!

    1. Re:What a world. by Opportunist · · Score: 1

      Give 'em a year or two, they' eventually come to their senses.

      They always did.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    2. Re:What a world. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      wonder how much of this is a reaction to OUYA and similar competition.
      just wish we could have a legitimate competition in elections as well.

    3. Re:What a world. by fredgiblet · · Score: 1

      None. The OUYA is not competition for the Big 3 (PS4, XBone and PC), it competition for the stragglers maybe, the Wii U, Gamestick and current-gen consoles, but it isn't even a blip on the core gaming market.

  7. For now... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

    Until they have milked all the anti-Microsoft publicity they can get out of this and add in some similar DRM in an update 6 months down the line. No doubt blaming "hackers" for it.

  8. Microsoft's wierd motives by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 4, Informative

    For decades now Microsoft has been bizarrely obsessed with being a media distribution company. I can't even count the number of failed "set top" box initiatives and purchased properties (Like webtv) they've made along the way. Also there was that media center thing that sucked.

    And now they've got the XBone, where they turn the 'ha ha fuck you consumer' up to 11 in an attempt do do what? Prove that they're the biggest whore so they can strike the best deals with content producers? "Hey look! We've done away with that pesky right of first sale for retail games! What else do you want us to do?"

    Sigh. And just today I see that there's a new Panzer Dragon game, and a rogue-like from superbrothers that are XBone console exclusives.

    Shit.

    1. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by Charliemopps · · Score: 1, Troll

      Microsoft IS a media distribution company. One of the largest in the world in fact. The primary Television app in the world right now is Media room: http://www.microsoft.com/mediaroom/you/
      AT&T Uverse uses it, more and more cable providers are using it. Set-top boxes all over use it and they are starting to build the software into TVs. It may very well be that Microsoft doesn't need to worry about the PS4 at all, because if the XB1 hooks directly up to your cable provider and can stream all the movies/shows/games without ever having to go to the store they could easily win the console war based on ease of use.

    2. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by RightSaidFred99 · · Score: 1

      Media center doesn't suck, you just don't know what you're talking about. Shrug. I use it for my DVR with a quad cablecard tuner and it works very well.

      You're whining about Microsoft, despite Sony's _proven_ track record as regards consumer rights and DRM? Uhh, really?

      This is all just the usual crap that people spew when something like this is announced. They did the same thing about TPM, HDMI, BluRay, etc... It's all hogwash. Balance will be achieved, when it comes down to it few of the supposedly onerous DRM requirements will bother people. In fact they will be a benefit to some. With some of the Xbox rules you can share games with friends without the disc - try that with games that only come on a disc.

    3. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by vawwyakr · · Score: 1

      As a windows media center user I have to say that this is the one place I think they got it right. If they had made a more TV friendly layer for the desktop it would be perfect for me. Its way better than any other set top box system I've seen, I can watch blu-ray movies, watch any video on the internet, record TV, etc. Otherwise yes I have no idea why they are insisting on alienating their users. Seems like they're banking on the average consumer being too little informed or too stupid to care.....not really a bad bet to make, but sad.

    4. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No they're not. They make crap software for crap TV service. Nobody likes u-verse or set top boxes. U-verse is universally panned, and set top boxes are similarly universally reviled by consumers.
      That page you linked is stuff MS wishes people used, but nobody does.

      Apple is a media distribution company. They sell LOTS of content through the itunes store. Microsoft's comparable offerings amount to a rounding error.

    5. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by luther349 · · Score: 1

      i don't think Panzer Dragon is a exclusive this time.and look killer instinct yay rare is doing something oh wait. anyways anyone going to xbox one is stupid plane and simple that brand has killed its self before launch.

    6. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I seem to remember that the stated goal with xbox (real) 1 was to "get into" the living room.
      The idea was to loose money on hardware to enter the console market, in a effort to have a content delivery box running in the center of as many homes as possible.
      Now that this goal is achieved they're just trying to cash in...
      (it's already pretty obvious if you've followed the <promotional stuff>/<actually useful> screen estate ratio on your 360 dash for the last years)

    7. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by gtirloni · · Score: 1

      If consumer happiness was required to make any company/product big, Windows would be dead and we would all be using OS/2.

      --
      none
    8. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      If nobody buys the Xbone, you can bet your ass that Panzer Dragoon and the superbros game will appear on PS4. Resident Evil 4 was supposed to be a GameCube exclusive, but it was ported over to other systems because Capcom doesn't want to turn down money. Rayman Origins is a recent one. There are many others, these days true console exclusives barely exist.

    9. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by lord_mike · · Score: 1

      Not at $500 it won't. The Xbox One has a lot of potential as a "super cable box" that does all sorts of stuff, but not at $500 it won't. They are going to need to drop the price at the very least.

    10. Re:Microsoft's wierd motives by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      In the UK BT Vision ditched media room and now runs a linux based platform.

  9. Rape and Killer Instinct by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    For what it's worth, unless you memorize everyone's moves, Killer Instinct is basically a one-sided rape because you can't break your opponent's combo. You not only have to just "know" your combo breaker, but you have to pull it off with the correct "breaker" for the button press the other person just did.

    This is the fun game thing people have been waiting for?

    1. Re:Rape and Killer Instinct by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      They more or less fixed that in the second one: your combo breaker with kick breaks a combo being done with a punch, and vice versa. In my experience, punches and kicks are pretty easy to tell apart.

  10. It's funny because... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 3, Insightful

    It's funny because at launch you could install Linux on the PS3.

    1. Re:It's funny because... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      True, but the only reason they removed it is because people used it to pirate games.

    2. Re:It's funny because... by VortexCortex · · Score: 4, Insightful

      True, but the only reason they removed it is because people used it to pirate games.

      So, your reasoning is that if Sony modifies their supposedly more open system to make it more closed after launch to fight piracy,
      then we should not worry about Sony modifying their supposedly more open system to make it more closed after launch to fight piracy?

      Well, A.C. at least you have maintained the reputation of your noble collective name.

    3. Re:It's funny because... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      So, your reasoning is that if Sony modifies their supposedly more open system to make it more closed after launch to fight piracy,

      then we should not worry about Sony modifying their supposedly more open system to make it more closed after launch to fight piracy?

      Well, A.C. at least you have maintained the reputation of your noble collective name.

      Sounds like somebody is mad that he can't pirate PS3 games on the PS3 anymore... ;)

    4. Re:It's funny because... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Huh, this is news to me. PS3 games run on linux? Why aren't they ported more often to PCs then?

    5. Re:It's funny because... by feepness · · Score: 1

      Piracy is not used game sales. People understand the difference, which is why so many more are outraged at losing the latter.

  11. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by Major+Ralph · · Score: 2

    ESO as an exclusive? That's not right at all: http://massively.joystiq.com/2013/06/10/the-elder-scrolls-online-is-headed-to-the-playstation-4/ Not to mention the PC...

    --
    I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer.
  12. Very nice by HalAtWork · · Score: 2

    I was going to build a steam box if this didn't happen. I collect consoles and games*, and I'm not sure if I want the Xbox One because it's not guaranteed I'll be able to play my games 10 years down the road.

    * Not for the value, but my old games are still fun and if I keep them I don't have to re-buy them or wait for the stars to align for games like Earthbound to come out intact

    1. Re:Very nice by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I was going to build a steam box

      It's ok, you can call it a gaming pc. You won't lose geek cred.

    2. Re:Very nice by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Same here. The Xbox One will be the first console I skip. Not buying a device to 'license' games...

    3. Re:Very nice by VortexCortex · · Score: 2

      I was going to build a steam box if this didn't happen. I collect consoles and games*, and I'm not sure if I want the Xbox One because it's not guaranteed I'll be able to play my games 10 years down the road.

      Question: Do PC makers have a pro-DRM policy or prevent used game sales? If not, then why do many PC games have DRM? Further, what prevents the DRM from being added to any game on the PS4 by the very same publishers who insist on it for the PC market?

      It is the difference between: We don't provide a standardized DRM framework, and All the games have DRM but we didn't put it there.
      It's nice to the the indie support though. I might consider purchasing the thing were I not boycotting this corrupt company for Rootkitting my system via music CD, and hypocritically going after Geo Hotz for unlocking the PS3, considering that they fought and won against Universal on the grounds that although Betamax would primarily be used to record live TV and perpetrate piracy, the mere possibility that it could be used in non infringing ways meant it should not be made illegal.

      Nope. Not buying the bullshit. Never. Stockholm Syndrome is for mentally damaged people, not me.

    4. Re:Very nice by Opportunist · · Score: 1

      There's also no guarantee with the Sony box. Well, unless you make painstakingly sure that you never insert a medium that MIGHT update the firmware.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    5. Re:Very nice by quadrox · · Score: 1

      I am truly baffled! Because you don't like their used games sale policy and/or the requirement for an internet connection, your alternative is what - Steam? Are you for real?

    6. Re:Very nice by ZombieBraintrust · · Score: 1

      But if uses a gaming pc he has the same problem. Steam doesn't guarantee you will be able to play games you purchased 10 years down the road.

    7. Re:Very nice by ravenshrike · · Score: 1

      The difference being that all Steam games using Steam DRM are easily cracked. Which is a feature, not a bug.

    8. Re:Very nice by bmk67 · · Score: 1

      There's a huge difference between shelling out $400-500 for a console and having those restrictions, vs a no-cost download that has them. If Valve fucks Steam up, I can make future purchases elsewhere. With the next gen consoles, you're locked in.

    9. Re:Very nice by mjwx · · Score: 1

      I was going to build a steam box if this didn't happen. I collect consoles and games*, and I'm not sure if I want the Xbox One because it's not guaranteed I'll be able to play my games 10 years down the road.

      Question: Do PC makers have a pro-DRM policy or prevent used game sales?

      Some do, some dont. Most dont require activation and therefore, disks can be transfered between owners.

      Question: Further, what prevents the DRM from being added to any game on the PS4 by the very same publishers who insist on it for the PC market?

      The fact that Sony builds DRM it into the PS4 at the hardware level. Game manufacturers already pay for this in per-disc licensing fees so if Sony offered an additional level of DRM game manufacturers would scream until it was included in the already high license fee.

      --
      Calling someone a "hater" only means you can not rationally rebut their argument.
    10. Re:Very nice by quadrox · · Score: 1

      If Valve fucks up, you can say goddbye to all your previous purchases. Admittedly unlikely, but the possibility exists at least on a theoretical level. If MS fucks up with the Xbox one, you can still buy games for PC/PS4/whatever, so I do not see the big difference except for the cost of the Xbox itself. If your only concern is the 500 bucks for the console, which I have just demonstrated to be the only real difference, then you don't seem to be verious serious/consistent about your DRM concerns. But that is for you to decide in the end.

    11. Re:Very nice by HalAtWork · · Score: 1

      Valve has guaranteed that if Steam shuts down they will flip the switch and turn off your DRM. You can also back up copies of your game and go completely offline with the system. The prices are also cheap so it offsets the inconveniences a bit. In that way, it would make me happier than the Xbox One.

  13. Re:sad day for anti-sony faggots by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    No, I fucking won't! I will join the PC master race. At the prices they want for these shitty consoles I can build a decent gaming PC. While the Sony option is better it's made by Sony and Sony can not be trusted.

    I also don't understand what you mean by faggotry is that some sort of bundle of sticks? I don't see what bundles of sticks have to do with gaming consoles.

  14. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by PixelScuba · · Score: 4, Informative
  15. It's funny by HaZardman27 · · Score: 5, Interesting

    It's funny watching my Xbox fanboy friends making ridiculous apologetic statements for Microsoft.
    "You have to pay for online access for the PS4 now as well!" As though that's actually a supportive argument for the Xbox One.
    "I'm glad there is always-on DRM so that I can download and play my games on other people's consoles while signed in!" As though MS is incapable of making the 24 connection requirement only necessary for digitally purchased games, and allow you to only play disc-purchased games when you have the disc.
    "I always have internet, so this isn't a problem for me!" As though Xbox Live has never been down for several days at a time before (or been weird about not letting large numbers of people sign in while others have no problem)

    I've never been a Sony fan, and I still don't know if I can trust the company that pulled the rootkit scandal. What I do know is that I am absolutely not going to a be a Microsoft customer this next generation. I will probably get a Wii U to play 1st party Nintendo games, and do the rest of my gaming on PC. Sony still has a shot at convincing me to get a PS4, but Microsoft has already lost me.

    --
    Apparently wizard is not a legitimate career path, so I chose programmer instead.
    1. Re:It's funny by h4rr4r · · Score: 1

      PS4 requires pay for online access?

      That means I will be sitting out this generation.

    2. Re:It's funny by spire3661 · · Score: 3, Informative

      PS+ will now be required for online play. Services, AKA Netflix will work without it. I would like to add that PS+ has become a really good value in the last few years. I still hate having to pay for multiplayer and always will, but they make up for it with free full AAA games.

      --
      Good-bye
    3. Re:It's funny by Tukz · · Score: 1

      Online multiplayer, yes.
      You can still use applications such as Netflix etc without paying.

      --
      - Don't do what I do, it's probably not healthy nor safe. -
    4. Re:It's funny by h4rr4r · · Score: 1

      Oh, I am fine with that, I have no interest at all in multiplayer.
      I have no need to have my heritage insulted or hear about the sexual relations 10 year olds are claiming to have had with my mother.

    5. Re:It's funny by perryizgr8 · · Score: 1

      I will probably get a Wii U to play 1st party Nintendo games...

      ms and sony are probably targeting a different demographic than the one you belong to, if a wii is going to satisfy your console gaming needs.

      --
      Wealth is the gift that keeps on giving.
    6. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      No. The change is that Playstation Plus is required for online multiplayer gaming.

      You can take advantage of all kinds of online features (including Netflix) without paying for Playstation Plus.

    7. Re:It's funny by Kohath · · Score: 1

      I've never been a Sony fan, and I still don't know if I can trust the company that pulled the rootkit scandal.

      You mean Sony BMG, the record company? It got bought by Sony Corporation of America in 2008.

    8. Re:It's funny by cayenne8 · · Score: 1
      I didn't think you had to pay for PS+ for current PS3 to play online games...?

      That was one of the selling points of PS3...they're changing that for PS4?

      --
      Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.........
    9. Re:It's funny by Tukz · · Score: 1

      You don't, and yes.

      I don't know what to think about it myself really.
      I rarely play online on my console, so a non-issue for me.

      However, look at what you get for the subscription fee.
      You get free games and discounts on other games.

      And as far as I'm aware, no advertising (except for their own stuff ofc)

      --
      - Don't do what I do, it's probably not healthy nor safe. -
    10. Re:It's funny by Opportunist · · Score: 0

      Neither corporation is trustworthy. Intelligence without conscience (the very definition of corporation) can intrinsically not be trustworthy.

      There is exactly no promise that Sony won't pull the same bait-and-switch they did with the PS3 and its Linux capabilities. Yes, they cannot "forcibly" update your box, but that means that when (not if, when) they decide to push an update that you do not agree with, this is pretty much the end-of-support for your PS4. No new games, no online gaming, no updates and pray that you never have to send it for repairs because you may rest assured that you'll get a complementary update on the house.

      That's by no means any kind of apology for the XB1, which is out of the box already as bad as the PS4 will most likely become.

      In a nutshell, BOTH consoles ain't worth a dime. Unless they return to where I own hardware I buy, I refuse to buy.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    11. Re:It's funny by closetpsycho · · Score: 1

      It does, but it's not just online matchmaking stuff, it's all of playstation plus. Which so far has included a pretty nice selection of free games, as well as discounts on other games. They're even going to have one of their launch titles, Driveclub, be one of the free games. Plus, there's mirroring of your saves online, and a boatload of other pretty nifty features. It costs about the same as a new game for a full year, and they give out multiple full size games a year, plus a couple dozen smaller ones. I know my membership has paid for itself several times over.

    12. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      And as far as anyone here is concerned, they're the same f***ing company. No amount of restructuring will get rid of the asshats calling the shots.

    13. Re:It's funny by h4rr4r · · Score: 1

      If they let you pick the games I would go for it, but so far I have not seen anything I would have wanted. I have no interest what so ever in online multiplayer.

    14. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      yes, but it will still be cheaper than the xbox.

    15. Re:It's funny by HaZardman27 · · Score: 1

      I have a 360, and played it plenty more than I ever did my Wii. Nowadays most of the non-exclusive AAA games are being released on 360, PS3, as well as PC (although sometimes the PC port comes a bit later). Granted, some of the "special" features of the new consoles (forced Kinect, the touchpad on the PS4 controller) will probably limit how games get ported. I always buy the Nintendo console each generation not as a primary gaming device, but because I still love Nintendo's first party games (particularly the Zelda games).

      --
      Apparently wizard is not a legitimate career path, so I chose programmer instead.
    16. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Erm... if you have no interest what so ever in online multiplayer, why is it a deal breaker for you?

      Paying for PS+ is optional, like XBox Live Gold

      Well, for now anyway.

    17. Re:It's funny by h4rr4r · · Score: 1

      If they let me get free games that I could pick it might be worth signing up for the other stuff like the longer demos.

      Xbox live gold is not optional if you want to use netflix.

    18. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Sorry, should have clarified.

      I was asking about your earlier statement about "sitting out this generation", seemingly that you won't even buy the console, let alone about signing up to PS+

      Now, if the deal breaker is netflix then I can understand, but a quick google gave me this: http://n4g.com/news/1278114/sony-confirms-ps4-apps-such-as-netflix-hulu-etc-are-not-behind-ps-paywall

    19. Re:It's funny by h4rr4r · · Score: 1

      That was the issue.
      I want to be able to use netflix and amazon prime without tithing to gatekeeper.

    20. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I suspect that this (as well as not including the camera) was a strategic decision that allowed them to reduce the retail price to $400.

    21. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      servers tend to be slow as fuck and ends up relying on peer 2 peer techniques due to the slow servers. At least this way, the server won't suck ( I am guessing as part of their license aggreement with sony, sony provides them with a VM in their datacenter for the dedicated server software. This way matchmaking requirements for heavy times (COD double XP weekends, new launches) can actually work well, and more niche stuff like dark souls can still keep going great.

    22. Re:It's funny by aliquis · · Score: 1

      I thought the Xbox (benefits) was supposed to be more about what's not console gaming? =P, whereas WiiU may be something for gamers.

      Anyway, of course one want Mario and Zelda titles. Though I guess the others got their own brand titles.

    23. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      servers tend to be slow as fuck and ends up relying on peer 2 peer techniques due to the slow servers. At least this way, the server won't suck ( I am guessing as part of their license aggreement with sony, sony provides them with a VM in their datacenter for the dedicated server software. This way matchmaking requirements for heavy times (COD double XP weekends, new launches) can actually work well, and more niche stuff like dark souls can still keep going great.

      Yeah, but why use the money to built out a good server infrastructure when you can just pad the profit margin AND keep things shitty?

      This is the same Sony that drove Everquest into the fucking dirt, and enabled Blizzard to eat their lunch.

    24. Re:It's funny by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      A PC / Wii U will get you more content.

      All you get with Sony or MS will be the same stuff you will get on a PC at a much cheaper price. (Whether you have to wait a bit is immaterial when you end up paying 1/8th of the cost or whatever due to a steam sale).

    25. Re:It's funny by fredgiblet · · Score: 1

      The only thing you get on Wii U is Nintendo titles, if you don't care about them then it's worthless. Even as a streaming box you can Get Roku or *gag* Apple TV for cheaper.

    26. Re:It's funny by Totenglocke · · Score: 1

      Well, looks like no multiplayer for me from now on. I didn't use it much anyways.

      --
      "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." ~Thomas Jefferson
    27. Re:It's funny by Ash-Fox · · Score: 1

      I think it's fun too. Let me pretend to be a xbox fanboy (note: I don't even own an xbox) too!

      xbox was the first to allow indie developers to self publish through XNA. Now they're giving developers even greater control over their games, by allowing them to prevent resales of their games if they wish to, and make it configurable to the point that developers oculd prevent it for a time period with the game's initial release and allow resale later. In doing so, Microsoft is looking to entice more developers in using their system in the future, which is better than Sony, where they still won't allow developers to self publish on the PS3. I'm sure the developers can see which platform is friendlier to developers!

      I will probably get a Wii U

      But that can't even handle [hardware requirement of xbox] and can't handle [popular game]!

      --
      Change is certain; progress is not obligatory.
  16. That decides it by areusche · · Score: 5, Insightful

    My next console will be a PS4. Vote with your money, if the Xbox One sells poorly and the PS4 sells record breaking amounts than the point will get across to the middle managers who come up with this junk.

    1. Re:That decides it by stanIyb · · Score: 1

      But the PS4 is still closed and will more than likely have the usual draconian restrictions that pretty much all the consoles have. Better to not buy any of them at all.

    2. Re:That decides it by BeardedChimp · · Score: 5, Insightful

      Wasn't it decided that after the Sony other OS fiasco et al. that we should vote with our wallets and stop buying from them? I'm voting with my wallet and buying neither.

    3. Re:That decides it by Tukz · · Score: 1

      It's a PC (x86 CPU), I doubt it gonna be long before it's hacked to oblivion and you can unlock it all you want.

      --
      - Don't do what I do, it's probably not healthy nor safe. -
    4. Re:That decides it by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      My next console will be a PS4.

      Vote with your money, if the Xbox One sells poorly and the PS4 sells record breaking amounts than the point will get across to the middle managers who come up with this junk.

      Buy whatever you want, but spare me with this bullshit that anyone is ever actually punished in business for coming up with "this junk" that was likely sold under the guise of anti-piracy, and will likely mirror Sony's stance a year from now after they capitalize on lies for now. I don't call asking someone to step down with a multi-million dollar parachute strapped to their backs "punishment", nor will it get any point across.

      Ironic and yet pathetic how people try and differentiate marketing a politician vying for office vs. marketing damn near anything else these days. There's always some level of pure bullshit we dumbsumers should expect.

    5. Re:That decides it by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      So we can send the message that all is forgiven regarding things like rootkit, removal of other OS and backwards compatibility just because they maintain the status quo of trading and reselling games?

    6. Re:That decides it by danomac · · Score: 0

      Sure, and two years for now Sony will force an update that uses the same DRM as the XBOne. Sony's already proven they'll restrict the console after launch. I don't trust them, period.

      I'll be sitting out of the new console generation. I'll either go back to PC games or just find something else to do with my time.

    7. Re:That decides it by Opportunist · · Score: 0

      It will probably tell MS that you should only push updates that rip your customer off AFTER they have already bought and you got them on the hook.

      For reference, check what happened with the PS3 and its ability to run Linux. Unless Sony gives me a full-refund (including games and accessories) promise that if they push an update I don't agree with, I see no reason why I should trust them that they won't do something similar with the PS4 where they sell me a feature that I want only to remove it later on.

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    8. Re:That decides it by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Same here, though this is tempting me to finally consider a Playstation. Maybe if the price were cut in half...
      No! Bad consumer!

    9. Re:That decides it by tirefire · · Score: 1

      My next console will be my current one - a Wintendo.

    10. Re:That decides it by JustNiz · · Score: 1

      Microsoft wont blame themselves for any difference between actual and total expected sales. They'll just prefer to blame the console market for being dead.

      The only figure that will force MS to face reality is the actual difference between Xbox One and PS4 sales.

    11. Re:That decides it by JustNiz · · Score: 1

      So just buy one without DRM then never connect it to the internet so it cant ever update.

    12. Re:That decides it by Opportunist · · Score: 1

      This is a nice idea in theory.

      In practice, an update can come in various ways. It could be pushed by means of some games (which actually happened IIRC with the Wii), bundled on the medium holding the game. It could even come packed onto some hardware (like, say, some "special" controller or add-on device you need for a certain game).

      In the end it means that every single time you want to get a new game, a new controller, a new add-on device, hell, even a movie could be it, every single time you want to slip something "new" into the console, you should definitely first do a through internet search to make sure that it doesn't infect your hardware with some "improved" version of their firmware.

      And no, why should it ask you whether you want to update? Why wouldn't you want to have improved firmware?

      --
      We used to have a Bill of Rights. Now, with the rights gone, all we have left is the bill.
    13. Re:That decides it by Tharkkun · · Score: 1

      Microsoft wont blame themselves for any difference between actual and total expected sales. They'll just prefer to blame the console market for being dead.

      The only figure that will force MS to face reality is the actual difference between Xbox One and PS4 sales.

      This same crap was being said about the PS3 versus Xbox. In the end MS won so we'll see how it actually plays out in the real world. Slashdot is not an indication of reality.

    14. Re:That decides it by swb · · Score: 1

      It'd be nice to pin this on some shitheel executive with the morals of Don Draper, the personality of Steve Ballmer and the naked greed of Gordon Gecko, but my guess this is something broader than that involving the economics of the entire product and less about one guy saying "Let's fuck everyone and get rich!!!11"

      I'm sure there was a whole lot of people from finance, to marketing, to sales, etc. who threw in their two cents and probably a gigantic finance model they tweaked endlessly trying to maximize the economics of the entire project, from hardware, to marketing, packaging, etc.

    15. Re:That decides it by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

      This.
      People are acting as if they have to buy at least one of these.
      You don't have to get any of them.
      Sony has screwed people time and again.
      Microsoft has fucked this whole thing up.
      Why even bother pretending that either of these companies is doing good this time.

    16. Re:That decides it by cbhacking · · Score: 2

      Agreed. Sony has a long way to go to climb out of the hole they dug for themselves over the last decade+ of customer abuse and outright criminal activity (the kind that directly impacts people, too: rootkits on PCs). This announcement has moved them a tiny bit upward in my books, but only time will tell. I'm happy to reward a company that changes its tune for the better, but Sony has to demonstrate a lot of good will before I'll give them another chance.

      --
      There's no place I could be, since I've found Serenity...
    17. Re:That decides it by Chuck+Chunder · · Score: 1

      Vote with your money

      This is the crux of it, however it raises an issue that I haven't seen mentioned yet, the price of games.

      It has long been argued (largely unconvincingly admittedly) that piracy "costs" developer money. If the MS DRM is shown to "work" then there is an argument to be made that the games released on both platforms should be cheaper on the Xbox (especially if the opportunity for earning more money on resale is there)? If the publishers buy into that theory and the Xbox One is cheaper to run then I think, for a lot of people, the question will become muddier. Similarly if publishers begin to see better rates of legitimate purchases on Xbox they may favour it with more exclusives (or at least release the Xbox version first).

      All theory of course, but as someone who only uses a console to play games and has little time to do anything that would require more freedom than the Xbox allows the practical differences between the Xbox One and PS4 are negligible and other factors are likely to take greater sway.

      I think this will be an interesting test. With the consoles releasing more or less side by side and with similar capabilities it will perhaps help show once and for all whether DRM can be done in a way that makes customers prefer it.

      --
      Boffoonery - downloadable Comedy Benefit for Bletchley Park
    18. Re:That decides it by steelfood · · Score: 1

      You should hold off for a little while longer yet and wait for Steam's console to come out. Valve doesn't have Sony's track record, nor Microsoft's love of self-implosion.

      --
      "If a nation expects to be ignorant and free in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be."
    19. Re:That decides it by CodeHxr · · Score: 1

      I'm really hoping that this is the case. This is about the only thing that might get me to buy either console.

    20. Re:That decides it by CodeHxr · · Score: 1

      Microsoft wont blame themselves for any difference between actual and total expected sales. They'll just prefer to blame the console market for being dead.

      The only figure that will force MS to face reality is the actual difference between Xbox One and PS4 sales.

      Oh, no. They'll find a way to blame piracy as well. Especially if the console gets rooted as per some comment above.

    21. Re:That decides it by L4t3r4lu5 · · Score: 1

      "Shut up! Leave me to paw at the jangling keys like an enthralled toddler! It's so shiny... All past transgressions are forgiven!"

      Said everyowner of a PS3, purchaser of a Sony Rootkit CD, and anyone who is dissatisfied with current copyright terms.

      --
      Finally had enough. Come see us over at https://soylentnews.org/
    22. Re:That decides it by Ash-Fox · · Score: 1

      My next console will be a PC instead. Vote with your money!

      --
      Change is certain; progress is not obligatory.
  17. Then do what I did. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Insightful

    I got an XBox 360 a few months ago. My first one. I also got 7 games from the used/discount bin and paid less than $50 for them, combined. The system has provided me with hundreds of hours of fun so far, and I know there are lots of other great games awaiting me.

    You can wait one, two, even three years and see which way the wind blows for the next generation of consoles. Is the PS4 getting better titles? Is the XBox One as prone to hardware failures as the 360? Did Sony remove features or add DRM to used games? Is either console molesting children?

    Wait and see, and your decision will be much easier. Your wallet will also thank you.

    In the meantime, play on the current systems.

    1. Re: Then do what I did. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Exactly, Microsoft has already said they would be keeping Xbox Live going for the 360 for 5 more years anyway.

    2. Re:Then do what I did. by AmiMoJo · · Score: 4, Insightful

      One thing is for sure. All the hardcore gamers will buy the PS4 because it will almost certainly allow you to use any USB controller you like. The 360 had DRM in the controllers to block unlicensed 3rd party hardware, meaning the only choice for someone wanting a proper arcade joystick or different gamepad was a MadCatz piece of shit.

      Eventually people found a particular MadCatz joystick that had a common ground PCB they could hack into their custom sticks, but it's a really crappy way of doing things. MS killed support for some older MadCatz hardware in an update and their response to complaints was "if it's in warranty return it to the retailer", even though the hardware hadn't been produced for over two years. People in the UK could still get a partial refund but people in the US were SOL.

      --
      const int one = 65536; (Silvermoon, Texture.cs)
      SJW, n: "Someone I don't like, and by the way I'm a fuckwit" - AC
    3. Re:Then do what I did. by PRMan · · Score: 1

      Not a bad strategy. I bought a Wii U and there are about 2 games my daughters play. Mario was fun, but there's really not much else that's an A+ title. Finally they announced some games at E3, but even half of those won't see light of day until 2014. Really disappointed in Nintendo.

      --
      Peter predicted that you would "deliberately forget" creation 2000 years ago...
    4. Re:Then do what I did. by im_thatoneguy · · Score: 1, Flamebait

      You don't have to wait and see. Sony's presentation was largely a really brilliant piece of deception. Watch the Playstation 4 "lifestyle" video that Sony showed. They have people: downloading games from their phone, streaming games to start playing immediately and playing online co-op. No-where in their 'lifestyle' video do any of the gamers go to a store, buy a disc, put it in and play by themselves.

      If you buy a digital game from Sony you already have less flexibility than the Xbox One's digital downloads. Sony is going to do everything in their power to push digital downloads, and for good reason, they're better. No scratched discs, no swapping a hardware dongle (inserting a disc) in order to play, you can get every game on day one without pre-order, you can play your entire library of games at work, or a friends house, or home etc. Digital downloads already make up a majority of PC game sales. They accomplished that feat in 2010. Consoles will get there in no-time. When was the last time you bought a PC game at a store? Exactly.

      Though digital downloads accounted for most of the number of games sold from January to June, they accounted for just 43 percent of overall game revenue. But that difference stems mainly from the higher prices that retail stores charge over their online counterparts, says NPD.

      http://news.cnet.com/8301-10797_3-20016943-235.html

      Also digital downloads are cheaper. No middleman, no distribution, no printing just straight download. Again, that was in 2010. By the end of 2014 everybody will be downloading on both consoles and while "theoretically" the PS4 will have used games and sharing--that's only for disc based games.

      Similarly look at every single launch title that's being promoted, they're MMOs, they're quasi-mmos with drop-in PVP or co-op or they're multiplayer games like Modern Warfare (which kind of has a single player). So yeah you don't *need* an internet connection but it's like buying Team Fortress 2 and not having an internet connection, it's going to be a fraction of the designed game. Multiplayer is no longer an afterthought it's integral to most games. So sure on the PS4 you don't need an online check-in but it will be the shell of the game you purchased.

    5. Re:Then do what I did. by Pubstar · · Score: 1

      MadCatz sticks have come a long way. Both the SE and TE editions use common arcade parts that can easily upgraded with Sanwa parts. The SE buttons are total shit though. I had quite a few break after some heated GGXX matches, but my TE stick is still going strong. And don't forget that Hori is licensed to make 360 controllers too.

    6. Re:Then do what I did. by feepness · · Score: 1

      You can, but by definition if everyone does as you then you will not have any games in the used/bargain bin five years from now for any system or even the PC.

      Keep your mouth shut. I wait because the first round of buyers are beta testers nowadays, but I don't blab about it. Oh crap!

    7. Re:Then do what I did. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      you can play your entire library of games at work, or a friends house, or home etc.

      Sounds like you mean discs. Sure, you can play something from your library at work or a friend's house, after forty minutes of downloading. How many games can you even keep on an HDD right now?

      When was the last time you bought a PC game at a store?

      Well, they don't really sell PC games there anymore, so

      Watch the Playstation 4 "lifestyle" video that Sony showed.

      What about this lifestyle?

    8. Re:Then do what I did. by DarthVain · · Score: 1

      Unless you play multiplayer games, and all the users have left for the newer version. Or even better now companies will turn off game servers making it unplayable (which I expect will only increase in frequency) so users are forced to buy the new shiny.

    9. Re:Then do what I did. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I got an XBox 360 a few months ago. My first one. I also got 7 games from the used/discount bin and paid less than $50 for them, combined..

      I bet you bought them used, and I bet this situation will not be possible with the next generation Xbox.
      Time will tell if it will be true for the others.

  18. Sony, Hero of Consumer Media Rights? by Apharmd · · Score: 0

    Who'd have guessed it?

  19. Xbox fan for many years by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I have been using xbox "1" and "360" for quite some years. My kids play this on a daily basis. Having to be constantly connected, a camera that sees you in HD at 30 fps... not thanks.

    Im not too disappointed about copy protection. I think its their right after all that hard work. I don't buy xbox games in store by trough the marketplace. This avoids the media/cd being screwed after 3 days with kids handling it they way kids do...

      I don't need that in my house untill someone finds out which ips/urls take the daily ping and which servers get the video uploaded so I can apply decent firewall rules.

    Besides looking at the video its completely innocent and normal. People talk that way when they game.
    If there was NO woman on stage there would be someone complaining on balance of the sexes... Is it another slow news day?

  20. I am done with consoles by anthony_greer · · Score: 3, Insightful

    As a casual gamer, the 360 will be my last console...I will not ask the mothership for permission to use a friends game, sell or buy a used game or whatever...

    both platforms go way too far, I kinda enjoy games but I can live without them...

    1. Re:I am done with consoles by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Casual gaming isn't going to be on consoles anymore anyways. It's on handheld devices and things like facebook. So you're going to see consoles return to the market who they were intended for: 8-18 year old kids who want to play the newest halo, modern warfare, or football game. It'll be between the "casual" gamer and the "hardcore" (hardcore enough that they own a PC).

      The fanbois flaming one console or another for one slight variation or another on the same overall practices by whatever company are idiots. Both consoles are going to suck, with rehashes of the same MW, EA Sports, Halo, etc game that they've been sold every year for a decade and told they needed because they were "new."

      Hopefully neither catches on to the point that almost the entire game industry has to spend the next 10 years catering to their hardware as happened with the last generation.

    2. Re:I am done with consoles by Nemyst · · Score: 1

      Hint: the PS4 works exactly the same as a PS3 or a 360.

    3. Re:I am done with consoles by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      If it works like a PS3 or 360 then forget it. I didn't like that my dashboard was forcibly changed on my 360 every year. I didn't like that I had to pay to play with friends on the Internet. I didn't like that I had to pay for their service just to use Netflix when every other device in the world accesses Netflix without extra fees. I didn't like that the PS3 basically advertised the system could do one thing, then flashed it out in a required update to the system to continue playing newer games.

      I'm done. I'm putting my video game money into Indy games without DRM and buying up old consoles to play the golden age of gaming.

    4. Re:I am done with consoles by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      If you can live without them, you should just go away. Leave us addicts in peace.

  21. Winner! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

    But they'll just take it all away in a year or two with a mandatory software update, citing fears of piracy.

    Again.

    This is exactly what is going to happen.

    For those unfamiliar with the "again" comment; Sony use to have a feature called open platform for PS3. It was a major selling feature when the PS3 came out. But Sony removed the feature and blocked the ability to install alternative OSes on the PS3.

    Remember, we are talking about Sony, FAMOUS for DRM, removing paid for features, blocking access, DMCA lawsuits...

    1. Re:Winner! by kimvette · · Score: 2

      maybe they've finally learned after all of the rootkit, DRM, copyright violation, and OtherOS scandals, not to mention backlash against them for their trying to foist inferior proprietary memory formats upon everyone.

      --
      The Christian Right is Neither (Christian nor right). See: Matthew 23, Matthew 25, Ezekiel 16:48-50
    2. Re:Winner! by SuricouRaven · · Score: 1

      And then they will invest heavily in porcine aviation.

  22. That's great and all... by Sydin · · Score: 4, Insightful

    But as far as I'm aware there's still another platform that offers far higher technical capability, zero DRM, much more flexibility as a media center if that's your thing, and can even be upgraded when parts break or become obsolete. Call me back when the PS4 gets all that, too.

    1. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      PC games have been riddled with DRM for years now. Nice troll attempt, but complete fail you are.

    2. Re:That's great and all... by perryizgr8 · · Score: 1

      zero drm? all others i understand a pc can provide.

      --
      Wealth is the gift that keeps on giving.
    3. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Depending on what games you play and how you acquire them. It's not true in many circumstances, but at least it's an option. How many consoles can say that?

    4. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      I don't know, because I buy games instead of pirating them. DRM doesn't even come up.

    5. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

      zero drm? all others i understand a pc can provide.

      http://www.gog.com/
      https://www.humblebundle.com/

    6. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      He must be referring to the availability of PC game cracks, allowing legitimate consumers to enjoy a world of gaming where no artificial restrictions are tolerated (or he's just a pirate).
      Or maybe he's thinking about all the nice NO DRM games he's played through on his computer, you known like games with NO DRM AT ALL in them, as in the developer/distributor didn't see fit to shoot himself in the foot.
      OK if you're not a fan of humble-indie-bundle type games maybe you're SOL, but there's some (maybe not triple nor double but at least single) A games out there available as they all should. (or you can just pirate the games)

    7. Re:That's great and all... by organgtool · · Score: 1

      But as far as I'm aware there's still another platform that offers far higher technical capability

      You can buy a PC with a CPU and GPU tightly integrated with 8GB DDR5 RAM and a Windows license for $400 today? Where can I get one?

      zero DRM

      PC games have some of the nastiest DRM of any software. I'd rather buy a locked-down console to play games rather than install games that try to take control of my PC.

      Call me back when the PS4 gets all that, too.

      Call me back when I can get a PC in which I can play used games. Or you can call me when I can hook up a PC to my living room television and upgrade the OS, firmware, drivers, and games with a proper ten-foot interface and not require fiddling around with a mouse and keyboard trying to get everything up to date.

      I'm not trying to say that consoles are better than PCs, but don't you try to tell me that there's no reason to own a console.

    8. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Gog.com - zero drm games.

    9. Re:That's great and all... by cbhacking · · Score: 1

      Games may come with DRM on the PC, but the platform itself doesn't have any built in. I play old games I already owned, and buy others from Good Old Games (some of which, like The Witcher 2, are actually new games) and Humble Bundles, specifically because they are DRM free. I also play a few games that, by their very nature, are online; I'm OK with that, so long as I know what I'm getting into and the company doesn't try to pull a bait-and-switch.

      --
      There's no place I could be, since I've found Serenity...
    10. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Look, it's like cell phones. You'll never get a company like M$ or $ony to sell you a non DRM'ed, non locked down POS because if they did, the console would be over a thousand bucks. No one can or will pay that, so they sell them at a loss, and make it up with the games. If you can play whatever games you want, rather than THEIR games, or if you can buy used games for cheaper, meaning a single game sale gives more pleasure to more people than is good for their bottom line, (which means more than one,) they lose money, and go under. I'm not saying this is a good thing or that I'm sympathetic, it's that market forces make it impossible for anyone to make amazing hardware, AND great games, AND sell both for cheap, AND still make a handsome profit and keep the company's owners happy.

      So any company either doesn't make consoles and games, (like Dell, for example, or Chiquita, or Stanley, or Milwaukee or GM, or Dow Chemical, Hearst Publishing, or a million+ other companies that DON'T make games and consoles). Those that DO compete for the available money that "gamers" pay. If another company or two or three entered the market with a console that could compete technologically with the XBOXwhatever and PSwhatever, and games that ran on them that were at least as entertaining as offerings for M$ and $ony's consoles, and which had prices for games and consoles below theirs, and got to be as well known to the target market, without bringing in a lot of new people to console gaming, it would wreck the economics underpinning M$ and $ony's business models. One or more companies currently making consoles and/or games would ultimately exit the business, like Sega has and Nintendo will probably soon.

    11. Re:That's great and all... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      zero DRM on a PC: GOG.com

      No, I'm not associated with them, but all of the PC games I have bought in the last 3 years have been through them. I got tired of crappy DRM disabling my burners, and having to hunt for specific installation disks for games that are fully installed on the hard drive.

      Negatives: they appear to be UK based, so you may get fifty cent "international charge" surcharges on your credit card, if your card issuer is crappy.

    12. Re:That's great and all... by drsquare · · Score: 1

      Which platform is that? I'd be very interested to get away from the DRM-infested world of PC gaming, where Steam can block you from playing your entire game collection that you paid for, and stops you trading or selling games.

    13. Re:That's great and all... by webheaded · · Score: 1

      Just as a side note (I'm a PC gamer mainly), there is no game you can buy on PS4 that doesn't also have DRM all over it on PC except maybe some of those indie titles. They're either Steamworks, Origin, or U-Play. The big guys rarely put out a game that is DRM free. Now if you're talking about only buying DRM free games, rock on, PC is the place for that for sure.

      --
      "Those who would sacrifice essential liberties for a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - BenF
  23. Rape joke by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    You have to dig pretty deep to think that's a rape joke, but whatever.

    Both of these consoles are consumer-hating dogshit.

    WiiU will probably be the last console I buy, I expect gaming on cheaper android based devices to catch up and even take over within this generation.
       

    1. Re:Rape joke by Endo13 · · Score: 1

      I expect gaming on cheaper android based devices to catch up and even take over within this generation.

      I've been making that prediction as well.

      --
      There is no -1 Disagree mod. Slashdot.org/faq defines mod options. USE IT.
    2. Re:Rape joke by thereitis · · Score: 1, Insightful

      Someone's got their Microsoft hate-on with this "rape joke" insinuation. They should be sued for slander and/or defamation of character.

    3. Re:Rape joke by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      This generation being PS3? I think we are about a year away.
      PS4? Probably 4-6 years away.

      I figure I'll buy an Android console in 3 years or so.

      I agree that Android will become the new Wii (console everyone has) but it has to start being the leading edge to actually replace the PS4/XB1. Then again, we may not get a new console generation for 8-10 years.

    4. Re:Rape joke by gtirloni · · Score: 1

      Still a long way before that much computing power is packed into a tiny cell phone (or the battery lasts more than 15 seconds).

      --
      none
  24. How about with the Publishers? by Narot23 · · Score: 2, Informative

    Microsoft has stated that it will be "up to the publisher" whether the titles will support used sales. Sony obviously hasn't built it in to their end, but what about publishers? Ultimately I wouldn't be surprised to see EA, Activision, etc. including serial numbers and on-line activation schemes with their PS4 titles. I like the pro-consumer stance Sony is taking, and it's good to see them turn it around at some level, but that is a hanging question - have they come out and stated that they won't support publisher-based used sale restrictions? I don't fully trust them - their history with proprietary formats and DRM says more about their stance than a single press event.

  25. PSN required for multiplayer by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Sony requires membership to their network to use Multiplayer games...

    The PC still looks like the king of the mountain.!

    "PS4 gamers who aren't Plus members can still enjoy single-player games for freeâ¦and access to media services won't require Plus"
            â" PlayStation (@PlayStation) June 11, 2013

  26. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "I've been a fan of Xbox since the Xbox 1. But MS is making all the wrong moves on the Xbox One. "

    Even that bothers me about the new XBOX. As much as I don't like Sony, I have to admit they pretty much smote the Xbox's ruin upon the mountainside with this one.

  27. Re:Where is the INFO! by Reapman · · Score: 5, Informative

    Uh the info was in the presentation. On giant slides. And in the words that were spoken. Not sure how much more clear you want it. Sony specifically said "does not need to check in every 24 hours" "you can play offline" "eye camera is $59" The details are there clear as day check any gaming news site. Want examples of those? Joystiq and Kotaku are two big ones.

  28. Re:Where is the INFO! by Xenx · · Score: 1

    Did you even try? It was in the E3 presentation. There is a link in the summary that talks about some of it. Don't act like you can't find the info, when the info is there to find.... easily.

  29. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by Sponge+Bath · · Score: 4, Informative

    ...there is less of that authentication/DRM drama

    Out of the frying pan and into the fire. After Sony updated the PS3 so that is won't play video files it suspects are pirated, it would be foolish to buy more from them thinking they have better DRM policy. Remember, they can update the PS4 ANYTIME to withdraw anything they say now, and you know they will.

  30. Sony are saying all the right things. by Severus+Snape · · Score: 2

    The problem is I still can't trust them (nor Microsoft for that matter). Removal of OtherOS, the response to their servers being infiltrated was shocking, it also wasn't so long ago they were selling CD's with rootkits too. What fiasco is next around the corner? The ecosystem seems to be just as locked down as it was on the PS3, which is also very disappointing (albeit indie publishers are being welcomed back through the store which is great), still expect a crippled web browser though.

    It would be foolish not to consider the possibility of this only just lip service.

    1. Re:Sony are saying all the right things. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The problem is I still can't trust them (nor Microsoft for that matter). Removal of OtherOS, the response to their servers being infiltrated was shocking, it also wasn't so long ago they were selling CD's with rootkits too. What fiasco is next around the corner? The ecosystem seems to be just as locked down as it was on the PS3, which is also very disappointing (albeit indie publishers are being welcomed back through the store which is great), still expect a crippled web browser though.

        It would be foolish not to consider the possibility of this only just lip service.

      They reported the server intrusion faster than anyone else did when anonymous attacked them. They also came right out and gave all the details the instant they had them. They also offered every single PSN user 1 million dollars in fraud insurance. And gave PSN users bonus stuff for the hassle.

      The rootkit was a sony music decision. It is not the same thing as sony entertainment. And that was a long time ago and which they have apologized for and haven't done again since. They made a bad choice and made up for it. Let it go.

      Removal of other os was a long time ago also and they removed it because it was severely hurting them from piracy and hacking. The removal did not damage or change a single thing that the ps3 was made or designed to do. The removal was also optional by the user as the update that removed it was clearly stated as doing so. But again, that was a long time ago and it did not effect a single thing the ps3 does.

      If youre using a ps3 to browse the web you are doing it wrong. But it still works fine. I was on southparkstudios.com last night streaming southpark episodes that weren't on Netflix as I was cleaning my game room and it worked just fine.

      You sound like an old school sony hater that only does so just because you still think its the cool thing to do and you have no current valid arguments at all, youre just reaching into the toolbox to find some old argument that hasn't been relevant for years.

    2. Re:Sony are saying all the right things. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      it also wasn't so long ago they were selling CD's with rootkits too.

      You know, the statute of limitations is almost up on that one. Not saying it's getting old, just saying IT'S GETTING FUCKING OLD.

    3. Re:Sony are saying all the right things. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      The PSN being hacked was bad, but nothing compared with the removal of the OtherOS. This move was completely intentional and removed a function that was in the PS3 at the time of purchase.

      Its like my TV only showing pictures in black and white after a firmware update, wtf.

  31. What about the Wii U? by nhat11 · · Score: 1

    The Wii U is pretty good =) Besides the region lock Nintendo doesn't have any of the restrictions the 360 have and free online multiplayer.

    1. Re:What about the Wii U? by beerdragoon · · Score: 1

      Apparently the PS4 isn't going to be region locked either.

      source: http://www.joystiq.com/2013/06/11/yoshida-ps4-is-region-free/

  32. Re:Where is the INFO! by perryizgr8 · · Score: 2

    All I seem to find on this PS4 DRM, is vague hints that it is better... Where are the specifics? Xbox said it will need to phone home every 24 hours, Sony? Who knows. How hard is it to give us details that we can come after them when the whole hype of DRM is over?

    they gave all the details: there is no drm. there is no region locking. there is no internet connection requirement.

     

    And $100 cheaper? How much will the Eye cost if one wants it?

    $60, they detailed everything.
    you'd do much better by trying to actually read the stuff sony has given out and then complain.

    --
    Wealth is the gift that keeps on giving.
  33. Re:Where is the INFO! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The eye costs $59, and squat all uses it. The Kinect is required. TFS even says Sony has no phone home requirements, i don't understand your faux outrage. Don't make your bias too obvious, you guys are rediculous.

  34. Re:sad day for anti-sony faggots by perryizgr8 · · Score: 0

    people keep bashing sony all the time but it seems to me that they are the only ones with the best technology and they actually listen to the consumers.

    --
    Wealth is the gift that keeps on giving.
  35. DRM aside... by mcalchera · · Score: 5, Funny

    I had to look at it this way: With the PS4, you get one more. With the Xbox One, you get 359 less. It's a no-brainer!

    1. Re:DRM aside... by L4t3r4lu5 · · Score: 1

      In the Gigahertz Wars of the 2000's, this is the equivalent of PTSD.

      I'm so sorry, brother.

      --
      Finally had enough. Come see us over at https://soylentnews.org/
  36. Well played Sony by darkshot117 · · Score: 1

    As a user of Xbox for the last 12 years, I can't back up Microsoft on this one. They really blew it. I might have to pick up a Sony product for the first time ever.

    Though it doesn't really mean much cause in the end I prefer PC gaming over either...

  37. Who cares? by Krneki · · Score: 0

    Whatever those consoles offers, we had it 10 years ago on a high-end PC.

    --
    Love many, trust a few, do harm to none.
    1. Re:Who cares? by RightSaidFred99 · · Score: 1

      No. You really didn't. Let's not exaggerate.

    2. Re:Who cares? by Krneki · · Score: 1

      Nvidia 6800 GT could run game at 1600x1200@60FPS (fov 75) in 2004.

      The current consoles can't do that (PS3), will the next generation finally be able to do that?

      --
      Love many, trust a few, do harm to none.
    3. Re:Who cares? by RightSaidFred99 · · Score: 1

      Lol, yes. The next generation will be able to do that and with much more detail and higher quality textures. Let's also not neglect price. It's not really cool to compare a $1000 gaming PC with a $500 graphics card to a $399 or $499 console.

      In addition, console game developers can usually get more out of the hardware. So yes PC hardware is ahead of console hardware in terms of performance, but way behind in price performance and it will be for a while.

      In addition, the couch gaming appeal of a PC sucks balls.

    4. Re:Who cares? by Krneki · · Score: 1

      Oh yes, Pc costs much more, no denying here, and after 10 min of google, the PS4/XBOX is more like 5 years behind and not 10 like I said. But that was not my point, I was just commenting on the technology.

      And you can use the PC from the couch, there are no technical limitation.

      --
      Love many, trust a few, do harm to none.
    5. Re:Who cares? by gl4ss · · Score: 1

      Lol, yes. The next generation will be able to do that and with much more detail and higher quality textures. Let's also not neglect price. It's not really cool to compare a $1000 gaming PC with a $500 graphics card to a $399 or $499 console.

      In addition, console game developers can usually get more out of the hardware. So yes PC hardware is ahead of console hardware in terms of performance, but way behind in price performance and it will be for a while.

      In addition, the couch gaming appeal of a PC sucks balls.

      why don't we just compare 500 bucks pc with 500 bucks console.
      I mean, wft, it's pc hardware in both of them. come next spring you can pick up hw that destroys both of them for the 500 bucks. neither of the consoles announced offer really anything must have except for exclusive titling. technologically they're both boring(comparatevely to both xbox360 and ps3 which at least did have some unique angles in consumer space to their hw).

      the only good thing is that because of the upgraded memory, game developers could finally start creating games that don't have to be conceptually limited by the fucking 512megabyte limits of current generation consoles. couch gaming with pc is the way to go, I got a couch and a 55". I use it exclusively with my pc hooked up to it. skyrim etc at 1920x1080 the way it's meant to be. just get a kb that stays put on the lap and touchtype away. if you got a beer belly this is going to be hard to do though.. you also need a mouse that's fine to use on the sofa - because even if one could get a dualstick type controller we all know that they suck for fps's.

      however, once the next generation oculus hits the store.. that's the way to go for gaming. and movies. and everything. the current sdk kit is a bit too low resolution but damn, that is the way to go(so much superior to any vr systems before). doesn't matter much then what box it is you're playing with.

      --
      world was created 5 seconds before this post as it is.
  38. M$ Failure...... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Well, just like the Windows 8 architect, M$ will soon be getting rid of their Xbox One architect... Another failure under M$'s belt..

    1. Re:M$ Failure...... by gl4ss · · Score: 1

      Well, just like the Windows 8 architect, M$ will soon be getting rid of their Xbox One architect... Another failure under M$'s belt..

      they're a different person??

      --
      world was created 5 seconds before this post as it is.
  39. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by interkin3tic · · Score: 1

    I hate to be that guy, but join the PC master race. Steam has a better track record than either sony or MS, you'll save money on hardware, you'll have more control over your property, and you'll get better graphics.

    There are some AAA titles that won't come to PC for a while, but you can console yourself with slightly older good games that are a fraction of the price that you'd pay for consoles.

  40. Sony making user friendly decisions? by wheeda · · Score: 1

    Sony appears to be making user friendly decisions. This just doesn't feel right. Is there some non-standard expensive proprietary hardware we have to use?

    My reality check alarm is going off.

    1. Re:Sony making user friendly decisions? by White+Flame · · Score: 1

      They're not making user friendly decisions. Their rate of user unfriendliness just happens to be less than Microsoft's right now.

  41. Rape joke? by RightSaidFred99 · · Score: 1

    Come on. Only card carrying Womyn think that was a real rape joke, or care.

    1. Re:Rape joke? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Wrong, straight white heterosexual adult male here, and I thought it was disgusting.

    2. Re:Rape joke? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Odd. How so, specifically?

    3. Re:Rape joke? by Duinlas · · Score: 2

      If you watched the entire exchange, the male posted a movie of his round of kicking the female's ass at the game, and then they went round 2 and the female said right before it began, "Do you know what a shark is?" and then set up a live cast to twitch.tv and proceeded to utterly destroy the male on her live feed. The entire thing was completely scripted to show off the two ways to share play videos/casts on xbox live/twitch.tv. It was a little stupid, but to ignore the turnabout isn't exactly fair, either.

    4. Re:Rape joke? by gbjbaanb · · Score: 1

      its making waves because the PS4 totally raped the XBone yesterday at E4 :-)

  42. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by flimflammer · · Score: 1

    Console exclusive.

  43. The real targeted attack ads should..... by Rick+in+China · · Score: 2

    I don't understand why the PS4 ads don't mention anything about the fact MS has a lot of media/analysis around whether or not MS should simply drop or sell their gaming division, specifically the XBOX division. I would imagine this would be a HUGE if not the biggest point to make. Nobody wants to buy into a product that they know has a high potential to disappear or take the risk of being put under an unknown owner, with unknown risks. Why is this completely left out? That'd be my #1 point. If they're thinking about getting rid of the product line do you seriously want to buy one?

    1. Re:The real targeted attack ads should..... by kannibal_klown · · Score: 1

      From Microsoft's standpoint... if nothing else the XBox is kind of like a drug pusher that's trying to hook kids while they're young. Kind of like a PR / advertising thing targeted at kids. Spending money to keep from losing (as many) future customers.

      MS gets a lot of hate, especially from the young crowd. A lot of Apple and Linux love from the teens if for no other reason than trying to "rebel against 'the man' " And without the XBox, the company is quite boring to a kid. Throw in some group of friends in school bad-mouthing Micro$oft and they may lose him.

      So, XBox gets the kids to at least like the idea of Microsoft. After all, they're responsible for bringing them fun games and good memories... and they're not just about Windows and Excel. They're Master Chief! Or at least that's what they're trying to make themselves out to be.

  44. Less stringent? Try not stringent at all. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    PS4 has NO drm. No online connection needed to play games. It doesn't phone home or anything. Jack tretton stood before millions of people and explicitly said so. He even made a point of saying you own your games and trade, sell, rent or do whatever you want with them with no restrictions.

    Hell the PS4 isn't even region locked. You can play games from any country.

    1. Re:Less stringent? Try not stringent at all. by ZombieBraintrust · · Score: 1

      PS4 has DRM. Just try to use the PS4 game on a PC. Or try to make a backup. It just doesn't have new DRM.

  45. Internet Connection Required makes NO sense by Guru80 · · Score: 1

    Until we reach a saturation level and high speed internet for everyone, requiring a machine to be connected to the internet makes no sense even if it is just to check in with it's mommy.

    1. Re:Internet Connection Required makes NO sense by JustNiz · · Score: 1

      Ugh. Please.
      The issue here is not even slightly the general availability of broadband, it is the big-brother DRM approach that Microsoft assumes they can force on us like we are all brainless sheep. Their arrogance is astounding.

      We need to teach Microsoft a lesson to get them to realise they need to respect our rights or become irrelevant. Voting with our wallets is the only thing Microsoft will notice, so we should all totally avoid Xbox One and only buy PS4. Its only a massive difference in sales numbers between the 2 consoles that will make MS finally get the message.

      They wont even notice lost Xbox one sales if you dont then buy a PS4 instead. MS will just prefer to think the whole console market is sluggish. Basically anything other than having to admit their own mistakes.

    2. Re:Internet Connection Required makes NO sense by Darinbob · · Score: 1

      Many times the whole point of using a console over a real PC is because the console is in the living room attached to the TV for the kids to play on. Ie, no internet access anyway. If we're at the point where consoles are essentially just PCs but with massive restrictions then why not just go ahead and use a PC instead? I have honestly never understood the reason to get a console anyway, with all the good games on PC (and I can still run games from 15-20 years ago).

    3. Re:Internet Connection Required makes NO sense by Guru80 · · Score: 1

      I won't buy either console, pc gamer at heart and have been since around 90 when there wasn't much to write home about in terms of games. Everything about the route consoles have started taking the last 2 generations is just silly. I have home entertainment equipment that does a better job than a jack of all trades "gaming" console could do, definitely don't need to duplicate what I already have to fire up some poorly configured gamepad controlled version of a pc game and as for exclusives..they can keep em.

  46. Forget the rape jokes.. the article's first tweet: by Rick+in+China · · Score: 1

    Came from a dude named "Jonathan Blow", that HAS to be an intentional selection on the editorial's part!

  47. Re:Where is the INFO! by closetpsycho · · Score: 1

    All I seem to find on this PS4 DRM, is vague hints that it is better... Where are the specifics? Xbox said it will need to phone home every 24 hours, Sony? Who knows. How hard is it to give us details that we can come after them when the whole hype of DRM is over?

    And $100 cheaper? How much will the Eye cost if one wants it?

    To me it seems they have the same exact price point and NO details on how their DRM will work, none.

    In this age of information, it ticks me off when they purposefully withhold this kind of stuff.

    Explicitly stated no connection is required, $60 for the Eye, and as far as used games goes... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWSIFh8ICaA

  48. Does it run Linux? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    $399 is pretty good price for a the computational power PS4 delivers.
    But. Does it run Linux? Will I be able to do number crunching on it?

  49. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by ZombieBraintrust · · Score: 1

    Sony exclusives were not really exclusives. Except for first party games they were mostly items or character skins. Things you might get with a pre-order.

  50. I skipped PS3 and XBOX360 by BLToday · · Score: 1

    and I'll probably skip this generation too. I don't have a couple of hours to sit down and play anymore. I haven't even finish MW2 (on Steam) or even Bioshock (the original).

    1. Re:I skipped PS3 and XBOX360 by NoImNotNineVolt · · Score: 1

      MechWarrior 2 was awesome, indeed. Great soundtrack too. Probably my favorite MW of the entire series.

      --
      Chuuch. Preach. Tabernacle.
    2. Re:I skipped PS3 and XBOX360 by BLToday · · Score: 1

      Yes, I MechWarrior 2 was awesome. But I meant Modern Warfare 2. :) I would totally buy MechWarrior 2 (accelerated version) again if it was on GOG.

    3. Re:I skipped PS3 and XBOX360 by NoImNotNineVolt · · Score: 1

      Oh I know, I was being intentionally obtuse :P
      I'm irrationally bothered by the co-opting of well-established initialisms (SC2 for StarCraft 2 and not Star Control 2, etc.)
      COD:MW2 was awesome as well. It's the only reason I bought the 360 (well, aside from Katamari).
      I still have 3 separate MW2 CDs: Original, optimized for Matrox Mystique, and optimized for 3dfx Voodoo. I doubt they're readable, though :(
      Also, I've recently been led to the music of Jeehun Hwang by way of some brief research. Brings back memories :)

      --
      Chuuch. Preach. Tabernacle.
  51. As shamelessly stolen from Twitter... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The E3 results are very clear for me:

    Xbox 1 - Playstation 4

  52. Linux Cell Clusters by ZombieBraintrust · · Score: 1

    True, but the only reason they removed it is because people used it to pirate games.

    Not really. They stopped supporting it because they couldn't get the tax breaks they wanted. They initially hoped that if the console had Linux on it it would qualify as a personal computer for tax purposes. This would get them a lower VAT in some parts of Europe. Without the tax breaks they couldn't justify the losses they were receiving when PS3s were used as components in super computers. They only made money on PS3s when users purchased games. No games were purchased by the super computer people so they were losing lots of money. The Slim PS3 that never had Linux was hacked so these super computers could continue to expand. Piracy was just PR.

    1. Re:Linux Cell Clusters by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

      Not really. They stopped supporting it because they couldn't get the tax breaks they wanted. They initially hoped that if the console had Linux on it it would qualify as a personal computer for tax purposes. This would get them a lower VAT in some parts of Europe.

      When with this fucking myth and misinformation just fucking die.

      You are absolutely wrong.

      It was YaBasic on the PS2, not the PS3 that was the attempt to evade the extra tax on enterinment devices that werent' computers. The attempt failed, back in 200 no less. But very soon after the additional tarrif was removed, BEFORE Linux for the PS2 came out in 2002, and long before the PS3 came out.

    2. Re:Linux Cell Clusters by ZombieBraintrust · · Score: 1

      I am wrong. Thanks. Too much time between 2002 and 2006 for them to still hold that thoery.

  53. Thoughts on the E3 presentations by RogueyWon · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Microsoft: Surprisingly good on the games front, with Forza looking fairly neat and a good number of titles to announce. Elsewhere it felt like damage limitation. They'd realised by now that people hate the call-home and used-game restrictions and were desperately trying to show that it wasn't as bad as people had assumed. Might have been more convincing if it felt like they even understood it themselves.

    Sony: Actually, a surprisingly glitchy presentation in many ways. Some of the game demonstrations were pretty poor and unpolished. However, none of that matters. They picked the wrong music for the section of their presentation that talked about the PS4 itself; they should have gone with The Rains of Castamere. Sony's presentation was the Red Wedding with Microsoft as the Starks. And oh my word it worked. They've been trolling Microsoft into going down the anti-consumer route for more than a year, hinting that they were going to do the same. Yesterday, they sprang the trap. They clearly enjoyed their own presentation and, to be fair, they deserved to.

    Nintendo: The weakest of the three. Their big announcement was... delays! Lots of delays. A very thin holiday season, supported by a 3d Mario Game that looks like a rushed, resolution upscaled DS game, a remake of a decade-old Zelda game and a Donkey Kong that nobody seemed to be particularly excited about. Things are a little better over on the 3DS front, but Nintendo were sending off a definite message that they're struggling to keep up.

    And predictions based on that?

    Sony probably have the Christmas season sewn up. Barring an RROD-level fiasco, they'll go into the first few weeks of sales with a massive stock of consumer enthusiasm. This is a very different Sony to the one that did the cack-handed launch of the PS3.

    Microsoft need an urgent rethink. Their current strategy looks set to see them take a significant but nevertheless declining share of the US market (consumer loyalty being a significant factor), but completely abandon Asia and - more shockingly - probably get annihilated in Europe and the emerging markets as well. They've invested a shitload of money to get the marketshare they currently have in the home console market, so don't rule them out yet, but unless they revisit some of their fundamentals over the next 6 months, they could face disaster.

    And I suspect Nintendo may already be starting to plan for a post-Wii-U world, where they focus on the handheld business going forward while they decide whether to have another throw of the dice in the home console market or go another direction. The speculation had been that Nintendo's big throw of the dice would be this Christmas, when they'd throw game releases and massive price cuts at the Wii-U to snatch the rug out from under the XB-One and the PS4. In theory they could still do the price cuts, but it's clear now that they don't have the games lineup in position to make that strategy work.

  54. Less stringent DRM? by Khashishi · · Score: 1

    I beat my wife with less force than my neighbor, so I'm all good.

  55. Use the ps4 disk for what? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    "When a gamer buys a PS4 disc, they have the rights to use that disc. They can sell it to another person, lend it to a friend, or keep it forever," Sony said.

    They don't say what you are allowed to do with the disk you own. For all we know, it will just be a coaster. Possibly to use the license of the game you had to buy separately.

  56. Buy our hardware today. Be DRM locked tomorrow by v1nceFR · · Score: 0

    Who trust Sony anymore ? Remember support of Linux on PS3 ?

  57. Watching that conference by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Watching that conference was honestly the highlight of the year. Hands down.

    Those cheers, those laughs and applause for not being shafted and mocking those that were doing said shafting.
    I haven't heard an E3 like that in over a decade.

    If you haven't watched the entire thing, catch it when you are off.
    All of the E3 conferences weren't half bad, that includes EA.
    But Sony seriously was a level ahead all the others. (even in ratio compared to the 2 games-only companies)
    They really went all for it this time, they played their cards exactly right, nothing could have went any more perfect for them if they tried.
    Okay I lie, Last Guardian and a PSVIta global price drop would have made it a 100% conference, but 95% is still very high

  58. Rape song by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Microsoft new ad for Windows8 phone uses a rape song, so I guess they like the theme:

    http://www.songmeanings.net/songs/view/3530822107859433246/

  59. Consoles don't, PC does. by AresRC · · Score: 2

    Why buy consoles, when PC does it better?

    1. Re:Consoles don't, PC does. by sl3xd · · Score: 1

      "Better" is a relative term

      The following are things console users don't have to deal with:
      * Variable hardware platform - different CPU's, GPU's, memory, disks, etc, etc.
          * This gives developers the ability to tune very tightly to the hardware, instead of having to support everything.
          * Users don't have to mess with "detail" settings to tune for performance & appearance.
      * No constant upgrade march (that ends up being more expensive than buying several consoles)
      * Not having to deal with endless driver updates
      * Consoles "just work". No maintenance, no constant fiddling with the system.
      * I have yet to hear of malware on a console

      If you're willing to pay the maintenance and administrative overhead that you have to deal with a PC, then sure, it's fine.

      Consoles, however, just work and don't require constant fiddling. It's a gaming appliance. You plug it in, it works. No advanced knowledge required.

      --
      -- Sometimes you have to turn the lights off in order to see.
    2. Re:Consoles don't, PC does. by Terrasque · · Score: 1

      * Not having to deal with endless driver updates
      * Consoles "just work". No maintenance, no constant fiddling with the system.

      Oh, come on now. "The console has new upgrade. Upgrade now or be forever offline".

      "This game has update too. Apply now or be forever alone."

      --
      It's The Golden Rule: "He who has the gold makes the rules."
    3. Re:Consoles don't, PC does. by sl3xd · · Score: 1

      * Not having to deal with endless driver updates
      * Consoles "just work". No maintenance, no constant fiddling with the system.

      Oh, come on now. "The console has new upgrade. Upgrade now or be forever offline".

      "This game has update too. Apply now or be forever alone."

      That's hyperbole.

      How many people complain about Steam forcing them to upgrade?

      It's not a case of "upgrade now or be forever offline". You can always choose to upgrade at a later date.

      There are very valid reasons for either a console manufacturer or game publisher from refusing to accept non-updated clients. The first one that comes to mind is cheating in online games; you patch the problem and refuse to allow unpatched clients. The game publishers and console makers both have a vested interest in removing cheaters from their ecosystem. It spoils the game for everyone else, which generally means the gamer will spend their money elsewhere.

      Most MMO games on PC's have similar policies: You must keep your game upgraded, or you can't play. "Oh, you wanted to play today? Sorry, you have to download this 2.9 GiB patch first. See you tomorrow."

      Gaming ecosystem issues aside, think of the upgrade process on the various platforms:

      From a user's perspective:

      * with a console, you get a popup window telling you it will install updates -- for both hardware and software. Users don't have to keep track of anything. The user just presses one button on the paddle to manage the entire update process. One click, 15-20 seconds, no problems at all.

      * Touchscreen phones & tablets are another very popular gaming platform, and they are also painless to use or upgrade. Whether it's an OS upgrade, a driver upgrade, or an application upgrade, users automatically receive a notification that there are updates, and can tap to upgrade automatically and painlessly.

      Now, let's look at the way a user would have to update a driver on the PC:
      * Know exactly what hardware is in your machine
      * Determining if you need to update the driver (news of some sort)
      * Launching the web browser
      * Visiting the driver site
      * Find & Download the correct driver
      * Opening the download folder
      * Unzipping the driver
      * Executing the driver installer

      All of that takes dozens of mouse clicks, launching several different programs, and several minutes of time.

      I'm not saying that there's anything wrong with PC gaming. I'm only saying you can't gloss over the additional complexity and overhead gamers have to deal with on a PC.

      After 20 years of being a hardcore PC gamer, my tune towards consoles has changed dramatically. Consoles have become a perfectly adequate platform for gaming, and have always been a lot less trouble to use.

      --
      -- Sometimes you have to turn the lights off in order to see.
    4. Re:Consoles don't, PC does. by Terrasque · · Score: 1

      Ummm... You're not in touch with reality, I see.. Going to bed now, so I'll make this short.

      First, it's not hyperbole. This relates to Xbox 360, as that's the console I have. You'll be disconnected from xbox live if you start an unpatched game, and can't go online in any way (this also, iirc, includes gamer score earnings, online scoreboards and so on). Same for system updates.

      Steam : It update silently in the background, you never notice.

      Drivers:
      1. many driver software (especially gfx card) will tell you it's a new version, and offer a one-click button to handle the rest themselves automatically. These are the only drivers that really matter, too.
      2. Windows Update will also give you new drivers, automagically if you're insane enough
      3. Most websites have a online "we-check-what-hardware-you-have" test or offer a download that will check that and then get the correct one.

      You sound like you're about... 7 years out of date with your doom and gloom fire&brimstone speech. Good night

      --
      It's The Golden Rule: "He who has the gold makes the rules."
  60. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by rcrodgers · · Score: 1

    Actually, from what they said, it's going to have exclusive access for the beta, not necessarily the final release. It probably will be on Xbox One as well, but who knows at this point?

    --
    The sharpest blade is no match for the sharpest mind.
  61. GI's out of luck by AF_Cheddar_Head · · Score: 1

    Lots of GIs like to take their gaming box with them to the desert. Not always an Internet connection for them to use there. That XBox Next is gonna be pretty useless if it has to connect once a day.

  62. So this is what it's come to by FuzzNugget · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Choosing what products to buy based on which one has the fewest deplorable anti-features rather than best actual features. Great.

    1. Re:So this is what it's come to by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      So... just like voting for US politicians?

    2. Re:So this is what it's come to by quacking+duck · · Score: 1

      Choosing what products to buy based on which one has the fewest deplorable anti-features rather than best actual features. Great.

      Choosing the least worst option... Sounds a lot like elections these days.

      OTOH, the third option in this case is actually viable: not voting (with your wallet).

    3. Re:So this is what it's come to by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      It's like a presidential election.

    4. Re:So this is what it's come to by Dusty101 · · Score: 1

      Wow. That's a pretty damning indictment of the Wii U...

    5. Re:So this is what it's come to by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      In America, that's how we elect Presidents, guess it works for game consoles as well.

  63. Re:Where is the INFO! by drinkypoo · · Score: 0

    they gave all the details: there is no drm. there is no region locking. there is no internet connection requirement.

    Uh what? No DRM? I guarantee you that there is DRM.

    --
    "You're right," Fisheye says. "I should have set it on 'whip' or 'chop.'"
  64. Pre Kotaku, 3rd Party PS4 games will have DRM by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    http://kotaku.com/third-party-publishers-will-have-final-say-on-used-game-512643240

    And the other shoe drops. Well played, Sony.

  65. Games.. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    This isnt a tought concept people. It comes down to the games. If the system has games that you want to play that are only on that system, you will prolly buy it.
    Did it matter that the original XBOX was 3x faster than the PS2? No. PS2 had more games, more exclusives. Did it matter that PS3 had its cell processor and bluray? Not without exclusives.

    So far, i prolly will buy XBOX One. Reason being i still hold their online superior to Sony's until they prove me wrong aswell as wanting to play Titanfall, Halo, Dead Rising, and that game from Alan Wake creator. And we still have 5 months for that to change.

  66. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by TWiTfan · · Score: 2

    I got that from the PC Magazine article which said:

    Other games of note include Bungie and Activision's Destiny, Ubisoft's Watch Dogs and Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, 2K Games's NBA 2K14 (complete with video appearance by Lebron James and Lebron James's PS4-rendered digital simulacra), and Bethesda Softworks and Zenimax Online Studios' The Elder Scrolls Online, which will get a PS4-exclusive console port.

    But it looks like they may have meant an exclusive ESO beta, from subsequent reports.

    --
    The cow says "Moo." The dog says "Woof." The Timothy says "Thanks, valued customer. We appreciate your input."
  67. Re:sad day for anti-sony faggots by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Yea they "listened" to the consumers when they removed linux and backwards compatiability?!

  68. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by TWiTfan · · Score: 1

    I have a gaming rig I use to play MMO's. But I prefer a console for the lack of hassle, and the fact that I can sit down with a controller and play it anywhere. With a new generation of consoles coming out, and with Elder Scrolls Online coming to them, I imagine my PC will end up neglected for a while.

    --
    The cow says "Moo." The dog says "Woof." The Timothy says "Thanks, valued customer. We appreciate your input."
  69. Microsoft FTW! by PopeRatzo · · Score: 1

    Microsoft has accomplished something that I never thought possible: They have gotten me to hate a company more than I hate Sony.

    That is rather remarkable.

    --
    You are welcome on my lawn.
  70. Re:Where is the INFO! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    SONY isn't doing it. They left some options up to devs, so expect some form of DRM from multi-platform games. And knowing Sony, this WILL change.

  71. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by unapersson · · Score: 1

    I've got Steam installed on Ubuntu but it's a long way from being a console replacement just yet, and I'm not switching my perfectly functional PC to Windows.

  72. Everyone please speak with your wallets by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

    We don't want any of these abominations. Buy PCs and buy the Ouya, support the Ouya for the love of god.

    These are our game consoles. We bought our NES's and SNES's for ability to sit down and quickly, easily play our games. We didn't complicate life with connectivity requirements, we just bought our games, stuck them in and played. The only hope moving forward is to support the truly open platforms such as PC and OUYA.

  73. This. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=kWSIFh8ICaA

  74. Bill Gates and George Lucas should get married. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The company that brought us the great Windows 8 is making mistakes with its next product?

    Still not listening to what the user wants?

    Shocking. I guess history does repeat itself.

  75. Uh Oh! by The_PS4_Will_Fail · · Score: 1

    Guys, I think I need to re-think my user name...Microsoft is just doing such a terrible job.

    --
    lik-sang.com
  76. It'll be on the game EULA by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Which means that all the merkins will accept it.

    Europe is only just now starting to realise that they shouldn't allow this shit, but this means you still need a 6-month court case to get your money back on a system that was changed, and the judge may decide that the company deserves to keep your money because you didn't HAVE to buy that game, right?

  77. hothardwarewtf by drinkypoo · · Score: 0

    "Sony ditched the curvaceous aesthetics that previous PlayStation consoles relied on and went with an angular motif"

    Uh what, and also what? Someone's never seen the original Playstation, or any Playstation 2. Or any PS2 accessories.

    "the latter of which makes it a little like a modern day VCR player"

    A modern day videocassette recorder player?

    "(if the format were still around)."

    psssst it is. For the few old people who refuse to switch to discs. I keep a VCR around (a six-head sony I got from fry's as an open box for $35) because I often find surprisingly current movies on VHS at yard sales for a buck or less.

    Anyway, complaints about the article aside, the PS3 clearly has more hack value for anyone but a roboticist, who might want to use the new Kinect. So I sure hope someone blows the locks off this thing, because it would be a sweet machine to buy used someday.

    --
    "You're right," Fisheye says. "I should have set it on 'whip' or 'chop.'"
  78. It's Bill Hicks with the puppets all over again! by Leo+Sasquatch · · Score: 2

    "I think the locked-down PC-in-a-box on the left is my favourite"

    "No, the locked-down PC-in-a-box on the right is obviously superior!"

    And to many of the rest of us, these nearly identical (both inside and out) boxes look to have the same sort of power as the gaming rigs we built two years ago. A lot of people still haven't gone HD, and only a small fraction of gamers have gone much beyond 1080p. 1080p looks pretty good on most screen sizes, but for 99% of the consumer market, there's no point going past that because the display hardware in people's houses can't display it. So once you've got hardware that'll do 1080p, you'd better have something much cleverer as a selling-point in your game, because the last gasp of "Ooh, teh shiniez!" as a major selling point was probably about three years ago.

    And so far, all they seem to have are pre-rendered demos that show off the shiniez, and Sony claiming to suck slightly less terribly than Microsoft.

    Really? Is that it? You want $500 out of me in the middle of a recession, when I already have a 360, PS3 and a gaming PC? You're really going to have to try a lot harder than that.

  79. I'll tell you a story about a company by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    They're called Egosoft and they produce a somewhat niche game called X: Beyond the Frontier. They make several revisions and start selling on Steam. Their next release will be STEAM ONLY.

    A poll carried out on their forums had 1/3 of the respondents saying they would not get the game if it required activation.

    Losing 1/3 of their customers you would think they'd rethink, yes?

    Well, the response is "Sod you, we're doing it this way and it's better for us, you don't understand just get it you troglodytes".

    They're HAPPY to piss off 1/3 of their customers to the extent of LOSING THEM ENTIRELY.

    Not merely less likely (most said they'd wait until the next steam sale to buy it cheaper), but flat out refusing.

    1. Re:I'll tell you a story about a company by fredgiblet · · Score: 1

      Egosoft, how appropriate.

  80. If you're going to break the law by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    You might as well break the law the whole way and just get a pirate version anyway.

    Then if the crack doesn't work properly, at least you haven't lost any cash.

  81. Re:Where is the INFO! by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    yeah, good point. Let's go XBox. that way I KNOW I'm being screwed. Much better.

  82. No by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    My PS3 can still play PS2 games. I'm thinking you meant they removed the software emulation from newer PS3s that don't have the PS2 hardware built-in.

  83. It is impossible by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    If you do not require a network access to begin with, you cannot add it later. If they did, bricking a lot of PS4 for people without entwork access, then they would be getting a class action lawsuit in the ass, and LOSE quicker than you can say "DRM".

  84. Help sony build the biggest community it can. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Everyone needs to post on other forums about PS4 and tell non gamers why its the best.

    The problem is millions of xbox ones will be sold to moms, dads, grandmas, people just getting into gaming and so on who aren't that informed or knowledgeable about them. "Oh timmy loved his xbox 360, I should get him this new xbox for Christmas"

    Sony still has an uphill battle because Microsoft has a bottomless pit for advertising dollars and they will reach millions of have no idea what they are getting.

    I want as many gamers on PS4 as possible because that means it will have a larger community. More players means more support from game developers and publishers which means more games, more people to play with online on PS4, and so on.

    So if you see someone asking questions or talking about new systems on other forums respond. Hit up yahoo answers if you see someone asking about new systems. Friend that isn't a gamer? Tell them about it. Hell, send an email to your favorite publisher and developer telling them you are buying and supporting Sony so they see where we stand.

    We need to give Sony a hand and do some grass roots marketing for them and help them with a little push in the coming months till the system comes out because you know MS will be marketing the hell out of Xbone and will reach a lot of people sony doesn't. So don't let up and let the PS4 excitement fizzle just because e3 is over.

    1. Re:Help sony build the biggest community it can. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      Sony isn't the Good Guy here. They're the Marginally Less Bad Guy.

  85. All nice and good but by aepervius · · Score: 1

    Please explain us how they can do that, without bricking the PS4 for people without entwork for it, in country where consumer protection exists, without getting an huge backlash from the law and consumer protection agencies. Please do it. This is not like PS2 emulation loss or other OS , it is downright bricking the machine for its MAIN usage. Note that I am not speaking of multiplayer game or buying digital which would mean anyway you have a connection, I am speaking of single palyer game, people like me, which do not have their PS3 (and almost certainly PS4) connected at all. PS: I am not an exception, in fact from all people I know with various dining room TV console, only 2 have it connected.

    --
    C. Sagan : A demon haunted world:
    http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0345409469/
    visit randi.org
  86. Why exactly... by ChainedFei · · Score: 1

    Is Donglegate wedged into this description? It's completely irrelevant to the rest of the Article, not to mention it wasn't some Political storm, it was an in-group whine-fest of bitchy, epic proportions. Even if Microsoft was making Rape Jokes, it's completely irrelevant to the rest of the article description.

  87. Re:Where is the INFO! by MacGyver2210 · · Score: 1

    If you look at some of the video from Sony, there are multiple times it pops up that there is a required PSN account with PlayStation PLUS required to play online games. They say "Hey look, no DRM..." then mumble under their breath "as long as you pay us a bunch of money per month for nothing whatsoever".

    If you ask me, the right choice for a console is none of the above. PC + TV = much better experience.

    --
    If the only way you can accept an assertion is by faith, then you are conceding that it can't be taken on its own merits
  88. The question is what publishers will do. by Jartan · · Score: 1

    Ultimately they are the ones who want used game protection. They may try and bury the PS4 with Xbone exclusives.

  89. Re:Where is the INFO! by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

    what they mean is no Ubisoft/EA style DRM, just the normal PS3/PS2 style where it won't play a burned pirated ISO because it doesn't have the right whatever on it.

  90. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by CronoCloud · · Score: 1

    Don't be "that guy" and might want to stop using the term "Master Race", buddy.

    Consoles are computers too, sure they're a specialized computer, but a computer nonetheless.. There was a time I could give you the "uname -a" info of my PS2 or PS3.

    There are some AAA titles that won't come to PC for a while, but you can console yourself with slightly older good games that are a fraction of the price that you'd pay for consoles.

    There is this thing called PSN, perhaps you've heard of it, it has older games, and games from small studios that are cheap.

  91. We Can Only Dream by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    maybe they've finally learned after all of the rootkit, DRM, copyright violation, and OtherOS scandals, not to mention backlash against them for their trying to foist inferior proprietary memory formats upon everyone.

    We can only dream.

    Ooh look, unicorns!

  92. It works for politics. . . . . by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    why not the gaming market ?

    Simply choosing the lesser of two evils I suppose.

  93. XB1 is only 50% of the PS4 power but the shills... by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The Microsoft shills on this and all other technical sites are now selling the laughable lie that the Sony PS4 will get worse with time, until it is no better than the dreadful XBox One. I suppose that means the PS4 chip will gradually shed transistors, until it loses more than 50% of its processing power, and reaches parity with Microsoft's feeble effort. Looking at the XB1 'features':

    -XB1 has less than one half of the graphics processing ability of the PS4. This is a consequence of the GDDR5 used by the PS4, its 256-bit memory bus, fully unified memory system, and massively greater number of GPU shaders, together with twice the ROP count of the XB1 (the hardware back-end that actually writes the finished pixels).

    -XB1 only functions when it is spying on the user with the Kinect 2 sensor block. While the XB1 is powered, the Kinect never stops monitoring the people in the room. The Kinect CANNOT be disabled. Taping over the connect sensors causes the console to pester the user to 'recalibrate' Kinect.

    -XB1 prevents users from lending, selling copies of their games. The so-called 10 family member use limit requires each console used to have its OWN, separately purchased copy of the game. Microsoft is allowing up to ten ACCOUNTS per game, not ten installations of the same copy of the game at one time.

    -XB1 costs significantly more than the PS4

    -the new 'Halo' is on the PS4 (Halo was invented and programmed by Bungie, and Bungie's spiritual successor to Halo - unlike Microsoft's crap Halo-in-name-only games by a hack developer- is being released on Sony's console).

    All in all, Microsoft is looking like completing its trilogy of tremendous new products with its tablet, Windows 8, and now the XBox One. Couldn't happen to a nicer company. Sony's PS4 is showing a leopard can change its spots, but scum like Microsoft can only become further encroached in their policy of hating their users. The top management of Microsoft is proud that the XB1 was designed first and foremost as an extension of the NSA spy program.

  94. Re:It's Bill Hicks with the puppets all over again by feepness · · Score: 1

    1) The recession ended in 2009.
    2) Consoles are far simpler to setup and use, and will look nicer than nearly any build.
    3) There are unique functions to each of the input devices on these consoles.
    4) There are unique sharing/community functions that will operate across every game on the platform.

    PCs do have their advantages (upgradeable power/mods), but consoles also have theirs. Pretending they don't is fanboi-ism.

  95. Re:It's Bill Hicks with the puppets all over again by Kartu · · Score: 1

    Well, first 399$ (not 500) is MSRP for PS4.
    Second, my personal attempts to combine PC, 46" TV and sofa into comfortable gaming failed miserably because of the following reasons:
    a) most PC games assume you sit next to the monitor, so fonts they used are very hard to read on TV
    b) PC/Mouse are hard to use in a sofa

    Last, but not least, it's not about graphics and also remember that in case of consoles games are using hardware capabilities much more effectively (it's easier than with PCs where you have to support gazillion of hardware configs)

  96. Not really sharing... by Raistlin77 · · Score: 1

    In the video, note that the "sharer" never let go of the game.

  97. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Steam is the ultimate example of what might be wrong with the Xbox One's approach. People trying to sell their game collections have been banned from Steam for trying to sell their games, thereby losing their entire collection.

    Not to mention you have to install other DRM software--in addition to running Steam itself--in cases like the the Far Cry. That's not "more control" over your property.

  98. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    The XBox One is still a bargain when it comes to cubic inches per dollar. Given the dimensions I've seen floating around, the XBox One would weigh in at ~520 cubic inches versus the PS4 at ~260 cubic inches. The extra $100 for the XBox One gives you twice the volume AND an all seeing eye, err I mean Kinect.

  99. Depends on the genre by tepples · · Score: 1

    They were initially the cheap and inexpensive alternative that you gave to the kids, it attached to the TV only

    The low-def consoles (NES through PS1/N64) and the standard-def consoles (Dreamcast, PS2, original Xbox, and GameCube/Wii) attach to any monitor with a composite video input. A Commodore 1902A or AppleColor composite monitor makes even NES and Super NES games look razor sharp. And the high-def consoles attach to any monitor with an HDMI input. It's PCs that have been historically video output limited; VGA was pushing out EDTV, and XGA was pushing out HDTV, when very few living-room-sized monitors accepted anything higher than SDTV until around 2007 when LCD HDTV monitors finally pushed CRT SDTV monitors out of Best Buy and Walmart.

    you had an incredibly clumsy controller to use,

    Whether a gamepad is clumsier than a mouse depends on the genre. RTS and single-player or online FPS I'll give you; mouse + keyboard beats a gamepad for those. But how would you have played Super Mario Bros. or Castlevania or Mega Man with a mouse? Even for games that work well with a keyboard, it's hard for two players who live in the same one-PC household to share a keyboard. One console and one copy of the game is cheaper than four PCs.

    Now they're essentially full blown PCs, so why not just use a PC?

    Because of ease of use. For one thing, consoles usually don't have to deal with antivirus. Nor do console gamers have to futz around with installing a video card and updating drivers. Also because consoles get exclusive games, and often entire exclusive genres, such as platformers and fighters. And this is in turn because not all games benefit from a separate computer and monitor per player, and apart from hairyfeet and his disciples, nobody wants to connect a PC to a TV.

  100. Re:This MS fanboy is looking hard at Sony this tim by artor3 · · Score: 1

    No, we don't "know they will". We know that MS is using restrictive DRM in the XB1. We know that Sony is not using restrictive DRM in the PS4. The insinuations that they might add it later are nothing but FUD.

    "Sure, your OS isn't going to steal your credit card information right now, but they might patch that in later!! Be afraid! Be angry!!!!"

    And don't go accusing me of fanboyism. I'm not buying any next gen console -- I'm quite happy with PC gaming, thank you very much.

  101. Control in iOS games by tepples · · Score: 1

    Meanwhile iOS games keep getting better

    I don't own an iOS device quite yet. Have controls in platformers for iOS become as responsive as controls in platformers for even the almost 30-year-old NES? Is it even possible to make a responsive virtual gamepad on a flat sheet of glass? Or are platformers themselves passé?

  102. Indie != indie by tepples · · Score: 1

    I bet what spire3661 meant was "indie" as in companies formed by industry alumni, not real indie as in companies formed by people who happen not to have had a chance to move the whole family to an industry hotbed. There's a difference, as you pointed out a year ago.

    But I'm still glad that Sony Computer Entertainment has taken a step away from the console makers' fallacy and toward the model of allowing review sites and free demos to speak for a game's quality, even if it may have taken competition from Apple's App Store, Google Play, and the forthcoming Ouya console to get SCE to do it. Microsoft, which appeared the most progressive of the seventh generation with XNA, appears to have fallen behind in the eighth by continuing to require indie developers to partner with an established disc game publisher to get a "slot".

  103. Carrying the PC back and forth by tepples · · Score: 1

    Many times the whole point of using a console over a real PC is because the console is in the living room attached to the TV for the kids to play on. Ie, no internet access anyway. If we're at the point where consoles are essentially just PCs but with massive restrictions then why not just go ahead and use a PC instead?

    You answered your own question: the PC isn't already in the living room. If you keep a console next to the TV, there's no need to shut down the PC, unplug cables, carry it from the computer desk to the TV, and plug in cables, and then do the reverse once gaming is done. Or were you referring to buying one PC for the living room and one PC for the computer desk?

    1. Re:Carrying the PC back and forth by Darinbob · · Score: 1

      Why game in the living room, if you've already got a pc? Well, I guess if you have kids. However I see a lot of people gungho about consoles who don't have kids either.

  104. Re:It's Bill Hicks with the puppets all over again by tepples · · Score: 1

    my personal attempts to combine PC, 46" TV and sofa into comfortable gaming failed miserably because of the following reasons:
    a) most PC games assume you sit next to the monitor, so fonts they used are very hard to read on TV
    b) PC/Mouse are hard to use in a sofa

    Let me guess: That was prior to the proliferation of controller-friendly PC titles that followed the release of Steam Big Picture. These games use bigger fonts because they know the player will be sitting farther away, and they include presets for the Xbox 360 controller and maybe even some popular HID joysticks.

  105. Doesn't matter. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    PS4 will have Cinavia. Which means it's useless to me

  106. Re:XB1 is only 50% of the PS4 power but the shills by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    You sound more like a shill than the people you're calling shills.

  107. Not all grown-ups live alone either by tepples · · Score: 1

    Why game in the living room, if you've already got a pc? Well, I guess if you have kids.

    Either kids, or a grown-up and his girlfriend, or a grown-up who has grown-up friends over for some other reason and they get an itch to play a video game together. PC multiplayer has historically required a separate PC and a separate copy of the game for each player because PC monitors have historically been physically much smaller than TV monitors. This size disparity began to change in 2007 once TVs gained PC video inputs and PC monitors shot up toward 23" to use cheap mass-produced TV panels, but there's still been enough inertia and enough ease-of-use advantage for consoles to keep their hold on the living room.

  108. Short Memory? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    Why does it seem like everyone forgets psn going down for months and getting hacked as all hell?

    Why is no one happy that we won't need discs in the xbox one to play games? Or that we can re-download the games to any xbox? Or that we can share them with our family members for them to install on other xboxes? These features just aren't realistically reasonable without an internet connection.

  109. *sitting around* by Thetundraterror · · Score: 1

    *checking out the Steam sales*

  110. Why though? by Zynder · · Score: 1

    I hear what you are saying. I truly do. "Cause I don't want to" is perfectly valid answer and your right. I get that. But why is it such a big deal for you and others like you that your gaming system has to be connected to the internet? Do you not have internet? Are you going to take it to a buddies house who doesn't have internet? This is 2013 and you actually are gonna have some sudden need to do some gaming but there will no internet for miles around? THIS is the stuff I don't get. If you have enough money for an XBOX/PS/etc then you can get some internet. Hell your phone probably has it too so the mobile aspect is taken care of. I know you have internet, you're posting here on /. so please enlighten me why you hate being hooked up to the internet?

    This kind of argument strikes me of being a Luddite. You (in general, not you personally) want things just like they were in 1999 when we had 40 person live LAN parties and exclusive clubs where every little Jimmy down the street couldn't play with you guys. Well guess what? Technology and society changes. You have to keep up or you end up a crotchety old bastard that is bitter that the world left him behind when he hit 30. I've heard people like you (and I think I actually heard you yourself) tell people bitching in the threads about IT discriminating against old folks and people who are mediocre at best that you guys never have a problem finding or keeping a job because you keep your skillset fresh. Now the electronics industry and IT in general has changed and you need to get with the times. Update your skillset. I know you have good memories of playing 16 hours straight of the ORIGINAL Call of Duty at your buddies' house. You guys had your 100BaseT switch all tweaked out with the blinken lights and the times were never better, especially now that you learned to sniper people at 200 yards with the bazooka. But that was then and this is now. Make new nostalgia if you must.

    There is but ONE truly compelling reason why someone wouldn't want their console to ever touch the internet and that would be piracy. I'm not saying you pirate your games, I don't know you, but I do know some pirates who's Xbox might get bricked if it touched the web. If that is your reason, that's fine. I get that as well (I only pirate PC titles!). I also get that you can't really just come out and say that since people would immediately stop listening to you.

    Again, I just want to know what is your line of thinking in being so unacceptable of the evolving system.

    1. Re:Why though? by Things_falling_apart · · Score: 1

      I work in a remote mining camp in northern Saskatchewan (that's in Canada for the geographically unaware). I bring my X-Box 360 to game for a few hours after my 12 hour shift. There is no internet there. With the X-Box One, how am I supposed to use it? Well I guess I can't. I am not alone, there is quite a few people who also bring their gaming devices to work. Other than working out or satellite TV there is nothing to do here when you are not working. There is multitudes of reasons why having a always on connection is unacceptable for many people.

    2. Re:Why though? by gstoddart · · Score: 4, Interesting

      But why is it such a big deal for you and others like you that your gaming system has to be connected to the internet?

      Because the connection doesn't benefit me, and is mostly used for Microsoft to act like douchebags and collect marketing information, as well as starting out with the premise that I must be pirating therefore I need to be closely monitored.

      Last year, when Microsoft rolled out an Xbox update, they started putting ads into the games and the home screen. That was the point at which my XBox was permanently disconnected from the network. I'm not paying to buy the game, and then paying for a fucking advertising channel for them. And I'm sure as hell not giving the right to make arbitrary updates to a device I purchased any time they like just because they've updated the TOS and want to.

      There is but ONE truly compelling reason why someone wouldn't want their console to ever touch the internet and that would be piracy.

      Then you are completely missing the point -- the ONE compelling reason isn't piracy, it's privacy, and the right to control how I play games.

      Right now I can play, and Microsoft will never know about it. I can go over to a friends with my disk, and Microsoft will never know about it. I can sell the game, and Microsoft will never know it. Now they expect to be able to have a device in my house which can report on what I do (and do you trust Microsoft after they rolled over for the NSA?), and I will need to ask permission to run a game over at a friends. And if I sign in as my account, they now have even more information about me, and can associate it with my friends.

      Again, I just want to know what is your line of thinking in being so unacceptable of the evolving system.

      My line of thinking is that right now I can game how and when I choose, without asking Microsoft for fucking permission. Right now I don't need to see their ads. Right now, I know damned well my game console isn't reporting back to the mothership. Right now, Microsoft doesn't need to know who the hell I am and I can live without an XBox Live account.

      I don't want this because it's ramming crap down my throat that I don't want. I don't play games on-line, I don't want to buy the extra shit in their store, I don't want to rent movies from Microsoft -- I want to play a fucking video game, randomly and intermittently, and entirely offline. And there is nothing in that scenario which requires an internet connection, so this mostly just forces me to use it 'their' way.

      So I don't care if you think I sound like a luddite, because you sound like someone who is too unaware of the issue to understand. So you buy it, you hand over all of your data to Microsoft, you ask for permission to take a game to a friends place. You ask for permission to sell your used games. There's simply no benefit to me to be forced to change how I play video games in order to satisfy Microsoft's business strategy or DRM wishes.

      As described, that platform is pretty anti-consumer, and pretty much says "it's our way or the highway". I'm just taking them up on it.

      Why are you so willing to have these things dictated to you by Microsoft? Why are you so willing to cede your right of first sale? Why are you willing to give up your privacy? Because you're 19 with ADHD and can't live without something shiny and have no clue? Or because you think these are awesome things that somehow benefit you??

      Because other than being a snide little prick who is insinuating I'm both a luddite, incompetent, and living in the past, you've failed to say anything other than "we should totally just do this because I'm incapable of understanding why it's a bad idea". You're about 2 steps behind "if you have nothing to hide you have nothing to fear".

      --
      Lost at C:>. Found at C.
    3. Re:Why though? by trdrstv · · Score: 1

      There is but ONE truly compelling reason why someone wouldn't want their console to ever touch the internet and that would be piracy.

      Nope, there's LOTS of reasons not to like that aspect of it, and for the record I don't pirate my games.

      Let's Start with PRIVACY. There's a Camera + Microphone in your home that can not be physically disconnected and have the system still work, then you have an "always online requirement" and the fact that your system will always be on (even when it's "off") so it can "autopatch all your games". Now let's just say you trust MS / the NSA etc... to NOT spy on you... that's one hell of a target for hackers to shoot for. Lots of people hjave issues with that.

      Another one that's my "poison pill" is RETRO GAMING. I routinely play 15-20-30 year old games (Combat on the 2600 never get old) and at some point anyone with a brain knows those authentication servers will be shut down or re-purposed. It could be 5,10,15 years down the road but it'll happen and an entire generation of games are now unplayable. If I can't take a game and put it into an offline system, then I simply am not interested and won't spend any money on it.

      I may very well be in the minority here, but this is why the XBone will be the first X-Box I don't buy.

    4. Re:Why though? by Zynder · · Score: 1

      That is a pretty good reason. Not to argue with you but mainly FYI, I spent 2 years wandering the desert (Iraqistan). You can get Internet anywhere on the planet if you need it. I carried a system called BGAN that is your own portable min satellite system. If you want some web and got some money (cause remote mining camps I am sure pay quite well) you can get you some Internet. You can google it if you are interested. Inmarsat is one of the big providers.

  111. I see what you did there by Zynder · · Score: 1

    Did you seriously just rephrase some Martin Niemoller and apply it to Sony? That is some stealthy Godwinning ya got going there dude.

  112. Yoda? by Zynder · · Score: 1

    Re-read this post in Yoda voice you should. Much wisdom Cronocloud has. Mod points, I do not.

  113. ^^That. Oh, and the NSA. by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 1

    The head of Civil Liberties Australia, Tim Vines, has said that users should be wary of what the XBox One is capable of:

    Microsoft’s new Xbox meets the definition of a surveillance device under some Australian laws, so they need to be upfront and tell customers whether anyone else can intercept their information or remotely access their device. The Xbox One continuously records all sorts of personal information about me. My reaction rates, my learning or emotional states. These are then processed on an external server, and possibly even passed on to third parties. The fact that Microsoft could potentially spy on my living room is merely a twisted nightmare.

    Given Microsoft's complicity and agreement with the NSA, I have no doubt that Tim is correct. The XBox One should be banned in Australia as a surveillance device.

  114. PS4 looks really nice but one thing bugs me by ikaruga · · Score: 1

    Just like the PS3 it has a removable and upgradable standard 2.5" HDD(confirmed you can easily google for the source). No complaints at all but that just makes me wish for an SD card compatible PS Vita.
    That and the fact you have to subscribe to PSN+ for online multiplayer. I'm a PSN+ subscriber, it's an excellent service that pays for itself with the great discounts and free games(plus I like the cloud saves) but forcing it on everyone is a dick move. They don't need to do that given the current success of the product and the apparent bright future, I'm sure PSN+ will be even more profitable and successful in the future without having to handicap standard PSN members

  115. they should re-release xbox1 as portable by cheekyboy · · Score: 1

    do this,

    combine an intel atom mobile cpu with nvidia tegra with compatibility added to the level of xbox1 chipset, or emulate it + wmobile8.

    At the hand held size, xbox 1 (intel games) if MS tried could be made to boot and look great.

    Update the API from its 2010 expired roots, and call it xbox-portable (compatible with xb1 games) and runs Wmob8.

    --
    Liberty freedom are no1, not dicks in suits.
  116. In other words by hachnslay · · Score: 1

    "Our console sucks less" - Sony

  117. North korea ordering 16m units? by cheekyboy · · Score: 1

    I mean, how could Kim not afford to do this, you can spy and play against your army.

    --
    Liberty freedom are no1, not dicks in suits.
  118. or get a free EC2 VM that has more ram than ps3 by cheekyboy · · Score: 1

    got an amazon account, well, make a VM on ec2, its free for 12 months, and runs 24/7 using zero watts, always up!

    --
    Liberty freedom are no1, not dicks in suits.
  119. Re:It's Bill Hicks with the puppets all over again by Kartu · · Score: 1

    You know what, I've used my PC to buy a game from Activision Blizzard, it was Starcraft.
    To install it, you need to register on battle.net and add the game to your account.
    You can't officially re-sell it and unofficially you could ship it with your own account.
    You need to get online every couple of weeks or it will stop working (SINGLE PLAYER MISSIONS!!!)

    Tell me how I have more freedom with PC, than with PS3/PS4.

  120. Linux by DarthVain · · Score: 1

    Remember the PS3 being advertised and sold as being open and able to run Linux?

    Then later throw a switch to OFF.

    No apologies.

    Sorry, I don't believe a word they say. This is all hype, they might stick to it for a year or two, then when the have a market base etc... OFF.

  121. My neXt console by DarthVain · · Score: 1

    Will be a computer. I would never buy anything from Sony given their history. Microsoft seems to want to alienate the gaming market for some reason.

    Sure I will spend a bit more, mostly because I can. However given that console games are at best 1080P, building a basic system than can handle most games at that resolution (which is peanuts for any modern computer) wouldn't be all that expensive.

    Besides I have a Xbox360 already that seems to work well, and my Core2Duo is getting a bit long in the tooth now. That said, when Fallout 4 comes out, I would be tempted. However I have no doubt it will be for the PC as well. I mean some people talk about the console "exclusives", but realistically if you look at it there are way more "exclusives" for the PC than both those consoles combined.

     

  122. Nah by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

    I'll stick with my Nintendo Entertainment System I think, 20 odd years and still no patches applied! :D

  123. Until they disable that by hobarrera · · Score: 1

    What keeps Sony from changing that in a few years? I mean, does anyone remember the "Other OS" feature?

  124. What's that smell? by Zynder · · Score: 1

    Well lemme set ya straight there buddy. I am not a 19yo ADHD or Asperger's sufferer but I think you might be. You are getting way too damned worked up over this shit. CALM THE FUCK DOWN. I told you in the first sentence that "none of your fucking business" was within your rights but "cause I said so, I don't want to, I don't feel like it" aren't GOOD reasons. They are general statements that are deflecting the question asked because you might be embarrassed or have to change your position should people really know what you're going on about. I asked for you to clarify that statement and you did. You also don't actually know what my position on this matter is.

    Firstly I have not liked how the corporations have been raping us over and over again nor pretty much the entire country has been moving along since Bush Jr took over. I don't like MS & haven't since WFW 3.11. I chalk up liking them back then cause I was a teen and didn't know better. You know what though, I have to use MS products every single day whether I want to or not. Ya know why? Cause my work says so and I gotta feed the family and make the money so I can buy all my toys and pay my bills. I could take a position similar to yours though if I did, I'd be out of this sweet ass job I have that I worked my ass off in the 90s to get. This is what I told you to start with, you have to adapt and overcome the changing world because if you don't you get left behind and get to do without. It also makes you a bitter old man when you sit there in your retirement years lamenting all that you have lost over the years. However awesome things used to be back in the day, they are gone and you aren't getting them back. So you adapt and make new memories that will ultimately change and you get to start right the fuck back over. Refusing the accept and adapt to the world around you is what makes you a Luddite, not just this XBoner controversy. So let's visit those points you made about that, shall we?

    I am drowning in the hypocrisy and it smells like bullshit! From your self righteous tone, you imply that you are an old fuck (and I am not). I mention this because if that is correct, then you've been around computers since they became common place items found in the general population. Please tell me a time when you actually owned the software you "bought?" Maybe before about 1985 but you should know, I know, and every person on slashdot knows, that software is a license. It has an absurd EULA that hasn't really ever been challenged that does indeed say they can change the software and the terms of use whenever they fucking feel like it. You so proudly claimed that you aren't a software pirate so then that means you have legally purchased and installed your software, correct? If so then you most assuredly clicked yes to that EULA saying you agree to those terms. Your other choice was to disagree and return that product. But then you'll retort that there's no way to not agree to it because then you can't return it cause you opened it so you might as well just click past it and use it anyway. You only get to use that excuse ONCE. Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. You know they fucked you the first time but did that stop you from buying more? Probably not. You probably have a dozen XBox games alone since you seem so torn up by this decision. So instead of fighting the system to change it, you just accepted it and so now that is one of the reasons why software is as fucked up as it is. We, as a geek community, did not fight hard enough to overturn what was happening and so now we must deal with a system that is different than it used to be. Again, I don't like it, you don't like it, and many slashdotters don't like it but this is what we have so either we twist it to our advantage or we can let it go and do without. So you, I, and everyone else clicked that I agree/OK button and started using that software but the difference between you and I is that I accepted that I am just renting it but you still kee

    1. Re:What's that smell? by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0

      TL;DR. But yes, you are stupid.