Task 4

I'd like to start this task on the current history of video games by focusing on the currently dying console war between the GameCube, PlayStation 2, and the Xbox. In my opinion, this has been an interesting console generation mainly due to the introduction of a new combatant; Microsoft's Xbox. Although large and kinda ugly, it was certainly a powerhouse when it was released back in 2001, able to run graphically stunning games such as Doom 3 (albeit with it still being visually inferior to the PC version). The Xbox did well to break into the market alongside the established names of Nintendo and Sony, launching with what many consider to be an excellent and influential first person shooter title, Halo.

The PlayStation 2 is the fastest selling console of all time, with over 105 million units shipped worldwide. Its success can be attributed to various aspects, such as its established fan base of PlayStation owners, its backward compatibility, its DVD player drive. In my opinion, it mostly comes down to it having a large selection of games spanning almost every genre and solid third party support from many developers. With popular franchises such as Final Fantasy and Metal Gear Solid, the PS2 is doing well.

Nintendo's GameCube was similar to the PlayStation 2 in terms of power, but was much more purple and lunch boxey. It was home to many fantastic first party games which fans have come to expect from Nintendo. These titles include games such as Retro Studio's Metroid Prime, a stunning 3D adaptation of the previously 2D franchise, the Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, which boasted an elegant and controversial cel-shaded engine, and the multiplayer hit, Super Smash Bros. Melee. However, a lack of strong third party support seemed to hinder the 'Cube's success in comparison to the other consoles. Popular 'cult' titles such as Ikaruga (a souped up port of the Dreamcast game) found their home on the GameCube.

Ikaruga... known to make grown men cry.

The age of PC gaming was becoming increasingly popular at this stage, and was the definitive source for online gaming until the launch of Xbox Live. The PC has always been a popular choice for FPS games due to its unparalleled input system of the keyboard and mouse. Perhaps things could begin to change with the Wii? Gonna be fun to find out!

With the Xbox 360 kicking off next gen (I guess it's current gen now since it's begun), it looks like things are shaping up to be interesting. With the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 boasting incredible graphics and the Wii an innovative and unique control system, I'm wondering how everything is going to turn out. It'll be easy to sit by and watch too, since there's a fair few good lookin' games on the horizon.

I think this post needs more Twilight Princess...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqUqxVKd5q0

New trailer! HYPE HYPE HYPE HYPE HYPE! =D