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Should Sony Stick With Blu-ray Next Gen? What About Microsoft?

Premier Gaming Network - If history is to repeat itself, then Sony may go with a different format next generation. However, given the advancement and investment in Blu-ray technology, should Sony just stick with the format? And what will Microsoft opt for next generation?

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GalacticEmpire4128d ago

Yes of course, but they should improve the transfer bandwidth and increase the max capacity.

MS need to swallow their peride and just adopt bluray.

LOGICWINS4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

And pay Sony royalties? Thats lunacy. Thats like saying the PS4 should adopt a Windows 8 OS. Yeah, it would be lightyears better than the current PS3 OS, but it wouldn't be worth the expense of helping out your competitor.

Microsoft will likely stick to DVD, but their main selling point this time around will be a combination of Kinect and that projection tech they recently unveiled...which will be a disaster because they would COMPLETELY lose touch with their hardcore audience by focusing on expensive gimmicks as opposed to quality titles.

GamersRulz4128d ago

I disagree, Blu-ray is a universal medium, MS have to adopt blu-ray technology otherwise Xbox will look like a dinosaur tech.

in addition haven't you ever seen a VAIO laptop running Windows? So yeah it's Ok to pay royalties to your rival in order to provide your customers with best tech available, Blu-ray in this case.

LOGICWINS4128d ago

Thats a different scenario. Sony pays Microsoft royalties out of necessity. Windows operating systems are too popular to not have on your laptop.

Blu-Ray on the other hand is NOT a necessity for a next-gen console to succeed. The 360/Wii proved that this gen.

iamnsuperman4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

"Blu-Ray on the other hand is NOT a necessity for a next-gen console to succeed. The 360/Wii proved that this gen."

Last generation sure (takes a while for a physical media to really catch on) but this next generation the xbox needs to be Blu Ray if Microsoft really wants to be this "box in every living room" idea. For just gaming terms they could go down the road of what Nintendo did but a disadvantage is they cannot play Blu Ray DVDs which are becoming more important and more sought after.

It isn't ideal for Microsoft but I feel it is a necessity. It is a small royalty bump which doesn't fully go to Sony but goes to the Blu Ray group

It will be a big mistake if they stick to DVD and I think they no that. For Microsoft the options are stick to DVD (extremely bad idea), go the Nintendo route (slightly bad idea if they want the next xbox to be the main device in households) or go Blu Ray (which has more positives that to the negative of paying royalties)

bobshi4128d ago

LOGICWINS, you are wrong.

You are comparing this gen to next gen.

It needs a high capacity disc to succeed next gen.

We already get games spanning multiple discs causing gamers to have to get out of their chair to go change a disc.

That would increase dramatically if they stuck with DVD.

This isn't 2001. The technology exists, use it.

nukeitall4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

Furthermore, other than for movies, BR is NOT a necessity for high capacity storage either. Wii U has a high capacity storage and it does not use BR.

Even if MS decides to use blue laser which is the same as blu-ray technology, as long as they don't claim compatibility and play blu-ray movies they don't have to pay the license fee. In effect, they would have the exact same storage capacity or more without the fee.

Nobody has a patent on use of blu-laser.

BR unfortunately is a format that to most consumers are quickly diminishing in value. Too many people are moving over to streaming now like Netflix. On top of that, brand name standalone players cost $60.

If consumers wanted BR, they likely already own a player. Besides, why would you wear out your optical drive in your $400 console when there is a far cheaper and likely quieter option?

LOGICWINS4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

The next Xbox MAY be able to play Blu-Ray movies, but thats where it ends. Microsoft will stick to DVD or will heavily focus on digital downloads for gaming.

"BR unfortunately is a format that to most consumers are quickly diminishing in value. Too many people are moving over to streaming now like Netflix."

EXACTLY! Most people would rather pay $80-$90 a year to stream an unlimited amount of movies and tv shows as opposed to spending $10-$25 on individual Blu-Rays.

Subscription services offer WAAAY more value than buying individual Blu-Ray discs.

zebramocha4128d ago

@iam your analogy doesn't make sense because the wii had its motion controller and the 360, at a point had better offerings in comparison to the ps3,I'm they mean to adopt blu-ray for games not just entertainment.

LOL_WUT4128d ago

I hope you're wrong because I hate swapping out discs on the 360 it's an annoyance. Anything other than DVD would be nice. ;)

RuleofOne343 4128d ago

If you really think about it they are paying the BDA , Then the BDA breaks it down to those involved.

pixelsword4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

I may not be the most even-handed commentator on consoles or the PC at times, but I do try to give them a fair shake; but if Microsoft uses the DVD for next gen, I'm not buying it.

On top of that, there won't be a way to play my Blu-Ray movies, so that's another strike against the Next Box.

Microsoft is in a corner and the only way out is to go the Blu route.

hazardman4128d ago

Dude do some research, I did and that why I'm commenting on you idiotic comment. Blu rays actually use a codec on the blu ray that guess what is part owned by MS.(look it up) Viao come with windows these companies work hand in hand. Obviously when it comes to gaming everyones lookng for an advantage. From all rumours 98% say MS is gonna have blu ray. They both pay each other royalties in one way or the other. I'm not trying to start a war in here just your name has Logic but there's not logic in what you say.

Panthers4128d ago

DVD will not work anymore after this gen. Games are going to be too large. That would be like last gen using CDs as the medium.

I wish I could find it, but there was a thread on an old forum where someone was arguing that DVDs would never be necessary for gaming because CDs would provide enough space. He argued that developers would find better means of compression. Could you imagine using CDs still?

While DVDs worked, I dont see them lasting much longer. So I do see MS using Blu Rays for games, until streaming becomes the norm.

Godmars2904128d ago

If MS want's the Xbox brand to be seen as an all-purpose media center then they have to include BR as a movie player. They can likely get away without it, especially in the US, but not elsewhere.

Would be best for them, Sony as well, to allow for HD titles less than 8GB to be on DVD as well.

Tapioca Cold4128d ago

They pay Toshiba(I believe) for DVD you tool.

These big companies are always paying royalties.

Blu ray is awesome and if you don't think so then your TV sucks.

bunfighterii4128d ago

You realise Sony also sell Vaio computers that all use Windows, right?

soniqstylz4128d ago

Sony gets royalties from DVD as well

kwyjibo4128d ago

Have you seen the mobile ecosystem wars? Everyone pays everyone else royalties. That's how it works. Take a look at the H264 battles.

That being said, Microsoft may believe that everyone who wants Blu-Ray already has it - and go for a cheaper bespoke option like Nintendo did.

If Microsoft can negotiate a low enough Blu-Ray royalty rate, they might just go with Blu-Ray. This could make the next Xbox become the centre of the living room experience, which is something they've tried to do this generation.

ChickenOfTheCaveMan4128d ago

HD-DVD is dead, DVD Is hanging but can't hold enough data. M$ would be beyond stupid not to go with blu ray.

ProjectVulcan4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

Next gen consoles need some form of high capacity format that isn't too expensive. This means discs. Consoles aren't quite ready for download only because not every market has that luxury. They may be in another 5 years, but not quite yet.

In the case of Sony, it is very easy for them to drop in another bluray drive. It is well established, 50GB is still a lot of space and 99 percent of devs would be perfectly happy with that. A reasonable speed BD drive is now cheap as well. 8x would be plenty. Incredibly you can actually buy external usb 6x BD ROM drives on ebay for less than 22 pounds. I think it is obvious Sony will go this route again.

The question is what will Microsoft do? I think they will probably end up shoving in a bluray drive too. The fight over the format is long past and mostly forgotten history now. If they want to be an ultimate home media hub they would be wise to include bluray, although they might decide that they want to exclude it IF it means people move to their streaming service instead. It is very possible that they would view bluray as not a significant marketing feature in 2013, and not having it wouldn't hinder sales of the hardware or games but further drive streaming which they can make money from and have total control over on the platform.

Even in this scenario the drive will surely be a high capacity disc drive derived from bluray like tech much as Wii U is. It's just too cheap and fast to not have a high capacity disc drive in 2013. It's a total no Brainer. Even Wii U has one and that isn't exactly aiming to be cutting edge.

rainslacker4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

"BR unfortunately is a format that to most consumers are quickly diminishing in value. Too many people are moving over to streaming now like Netflix. On top of that, brand name standalone players cost $60."

Blu-Ray adoption rate is rising year over year since it's introduction to the market. Last year it saw a 16% increase in number of players sold, and increase from 9% the year before. It's adoption rate is actually much quicker than DVD ever was.

You made this same streaming argument the other day, so I will say to you again, is it hard to see the added value of having it all in one machine? Why do you keep insisting that streaming is going to take over? Physical media is still wanted and will always be. Digital is of course quickly gaining acceptance, and depending on how you look at it, has surpassed physical media sold. Just because people are streaming doesn't mean that they don't also want physical media. They both present advantages, and quite frankly, most of the world, or even the US, isn't equipped for an entirely digital future. Did you know that only 68% of US homes have broadband internet as of 2012(this isn't even broken down into high speed broadband, but over 112Kb speeds)...it seems there's more than one market to look at given those numbers. Stop pulling assumptions out of your ass and do some real research to see that what you like isn't necessarily everyone else likes.

kneon4128d ago

@LOGICWINS

Perhaps your logic requires some facts. I guess you aren't aware that the main backers for CD and DVD were Sony and Philips, so Microsoft has been paying them all along via their royalties for those formats. A couple of dollars in royalties isn't going to stop them using bluray.

dudeOplenty4128d ago

@LOGICWINS

You should know that every time I read one of your posts, I become so stupefied and pessimistic towards the human race that I usually find a baby to punch in the face afterwards.

vitullo314128d ago

Light years better? Your smoking some terrible shit

BattleAxe4128d ago

Sony uses Windows on their Vaio Laptops, and uses Skype on the Vita, so I don't see what the big deal about Microsoft using Blu-Ray would be.

Riderz13374128d ago

Microsoft will stick to DVD? Sure if they want to live in the stone age. Lol games are getting much bigger nowadays and if they stick with DVD instead of blu ray get ready to have multiple discs for games more often.

Sy_Wolf4128d ago

Microsoft wouldn't need to pay royalties if they didn't alow BluRay playback out of the box. Just like they didn't need to pay DVD royalties with the original Xbox. Also, Nintendo isn't paying royalties to the BluRay Disc association because they don't alow BluRay playback.

Rageanitus4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

This is when your facts and business logic fails.

Blu-ray is supported by MANY companies meaning royalties will go everywhere.

DVD has royalties also... why you think the wii and game cube used dvd medium but did no allow to play movies.

Sometimes you have to work together to make your product better.

Plus to ppl who think Streaming vide like netflix will remove Blu-ray.... they are completly closed minded.

Sorry netflix is mainly strong in only USA.. Most ppl have limited bandwidth around the world and it aint fast enough to pump out the SAME quality picture and sound and blu-ray.

Ive messed around with Netflix and it is no way inhell close to the quality of a Real blu-ray disc with uncompressed sound.

cedaridge4128d ago

In Microsoft case I do prefer to Stream my movies in that regard BUT xbox need Bluray for disc scratching purpose. And I game more than I watch movies. That is one thing I like about the ps3, not having those ugly scratches on my disc.

Trenta274128d ago

Sony didn't make bluray! They pay a fee just like everyone else.

Hanif-8764128d ago

@LOGICWINS Try changing your username to LogicFAILS because i've never seen so many comments which lacks "logic" the way yours do. However, i don't think someone could actually be that stupid. I have to admit though, its either your dumb as F--k or your just blinded by fanboyism.

SilentNegotiator4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

DVD6C licensing group.
Sony makes money on every DVD drive and disc, too. I'm sure you thought Sony only had part in creating the betamax.

"Blu-Ray on the other hand is NOT a necessity for a next-gen console to succeed. The 360/Wii proved that this gen"
-
LOL!! You're using the 7th gen to prove that Blu-ray isn't needed in the 8th? If the neXtbox wants to keep being called a multimedia system, it needs blu-ray. Plain and simple.

ElectricKaibutsu4127d ago

Sorry LOGICWINS but continuing to use DVDs next gen wouldn't make sense. It didn't matter so much this gen because the 360 and PS3 don't have enough memory to use high res textures. The next Xbox and PlayStation however will absolutely have enough. Those textures take up a lot of space and DVDs just don't have the capacity. And could you imagine Microsoft falling behind frickin' Nintendo in tech?

I'm betting Microsoft will bite the bullet and put Blu-ray in the next Xbox. Actual Blu-ray, not the gimped Wii U version.

ALLWRONG4127d ago

Sony fans have some silly reasons why MS should use BR. Almost none of them have to do with the tech. I say don't be surprised if MS decides to go all Nintendo and Apple and choose another option. After all it seems to work out well for Apple and Nintendo.

DOMination-4127d ago

I always thought they could use a proprietary flash drive system for games. Would ve small, can hold lots of data, fast transfer rates and would make piracy very difficult. They're also really cheap now. It seems to tick all the boxes but obviously doesn't. Does anybody know why?

shutUpAndTakeMyMoney4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

@ LOGICWINS
"And pay Sony royalties? Thats lunacy. Thats like saying the PS4 should adopt a Windows 8 OS. Y"

have you seen sony laptops? They don't use sony OS's. But in this case this makes MS look bad. I like it! Wow sony is really ahead of the curve by 7 years.

If xbox 720 is to stand a chance they need ps3 tech inside it.

".which will be a disaster because they would COMPLETELY lose touch with their hardcore audience by focusing on expensive gimmicks as opposed to quality titles."

lol sounds like 2010 - 2013.

"Blu-Ray on the other hand is NOT a necessity for a next-gen console to succeed. The 360/Wii proved that this gen."

So seeing how LA NOIRE, FF13, Rage And other games has 3 disks on 360 bigger next gen games
will just use 5 - 7 disks? Awsome!

Even Nintendo couldn't figure this out they are going for the hardcore.

Good job sony. Wonder what they will bring in ps4.

Blackdeath_6634127d ago

that is how technology evolves. survival of the fittest every company makes their own format and the one that is more successful is adopted as the new standard and it just so happens that Blu-ray is better than HD-DVD. if every company stuck to their own format we will have a million different options which will make things extremely difficult for the consumer and it is a lose lose situation for everyone. if microsoft can take blu-ray and do something creative with it then there is no reason why they shouldn't adopt blu-ray it also serves them and all their fanboys right for bashing blu-ray when it was released and saying "no body uses blu-ray anyways" and "it's useless"

fermcr4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

Sony and Microsoft have many business together, so i wouldn't be surprised if next Xbox come with blu-ray or something similar.

Only fanboys fight. As for Microsoft and Sony, they probably get along quite well.

Viper74127d ago

Let's face it. Microsoft only has 2 choices with X720 disc medium.

a) Use Blu-ray like most of the industry.
b) Drop the disc drive all-together and focus on digital downloads.

All other options are just silly.

dcbronco4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

Logic, I do agree that MS doesn't have to go with Blu-ray. They do have to have a larger disc though. DVD won't cut it this generation. But there is no reason it has to be Blu-ray. It could be something new. It could be HD DVD. It was always far cheaper to make than Blu-ray. And they could acquire it cheaply. Considering some games sell millions of copies and they could do contracts with a few companies for pressing games, it could be more cost effective than the royalties on Blu-ray for it's partners.

But the reality is that digital is the future. And even if MS included Blu-ray, it will only be so beneficial for royalties for Sony and it's partners. If this generation is going to last as long as the current one, digital will outstrip disc long before it's over. The 360 already downloads content after you've turned it off and Steam already allows you to download a game before the release date. Put the two together and you eliminate the need for a physical format. So while physical will be there, it won't last.

Daoshai4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

Umm Sony already pays Microsoft royalties for bluray playback because it uses their VC-1 codec. This whole argument is stupid.

Rockstar4127d ago

@Viper7

"Drop the disc drive all-together and focus on digital downloads."

This option would also be silly.

cooksauce4127d ago

If Microsoft stayed with DVD, it would ruin the xbox

ProjectVulcan4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

"always thought they could use a proprietary flash drive system for games. Would ve small, can hold lots of data, fast transfer rates and would make piracy very difficult. They're also really cheap now. It seems to tick all the boxes but obviously doesn't. Does anybody know why?"

Because they aren't really cheap even now, not compared to disc based technology.

25GB blank bluray disc costs how much? $2 each at most if bought on a cake at retail? 50GB discs cost maybe $5 each at retail at most?

16Gb flash memory costs at least $10 at retail. 32GB is at least again $15. Actually I have been extremely conservative and priced the BD discs high, and the flash memory low!

But the point is obvious. When you want to make millions of copies of the game for retail, flash memory is STILL vastly more expensive than using a disc based format. Potentially $30+ million dollars more expensive in fact, for big selling games that might require over 25GB.

It is cheaper for everyone concerned to stick with discs right now, despite the fact flash memory is seemingly cheap. Everything is relative.

SolidStoner4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

next Xbox should not use DVD, it has to Blu-ray, or something similar, it may be USB stick.. it will be fun when people will be forced to change 10 DVD cds for one game.. you will need to buy a suit case with DVD's not one CD case to play games... thats just stupid... In real world I dont even care.. I will chose that console which will have Gran Turismo on it!

Lvl_up_gamer4127d ago

I agree that MS doesn't have to go with Blu-Ray. There are other options available.

However, MS is looking to make the 720 be the primary media hub in the living room. I think MS will go with Blu-Ray because they want to tap into those households that have a PS3 as their blu-ray movie playback machine. MS won't be able to achieve their goal if they don't cater the the #1 HD physical media format. Sony will just come back and take market share away once again this next gen like they did this gen simply because Sony offered HD blu-ray.

MS will need to release blu-ray for their system in order to keep Sony from taking market share.

I very well expect MS to use blu-ray and MS don't give a rats butt if they have to pay royalties....they have billions and the payoff to have blu-ray on the 720 would be a much greater asset to them then to not too.

jeseth4127d ago

MS needs to go to Blu Ray. DVD reared its ugly head toward the last couple years of this gen.

Sony obviously knows it will result in a better experience overall, Microsoft needs to swallow their pride and go Blu too.

It would be embarrassing for Assassin's Creed 5 or GTA 6 to be 3 or 4 discs.

xtremeimport4127d ago

aren't you sick of multiple discs that come with the xbox? yeah thats because its on dvd and not bluray.

Next gen bluray will be faster and could be larger. For MS to even consider shipping a console without a bluray drive is maddness.

kneon4127d ago

@Trenta27

Actually it was Sony and Philips who once again collaborated to pioneer what would become bluray. Sure they have to pay their royalties like everyone else but they also get a good chunk back from what others pay.

BrianC62344127d ago

Sony must pay Microsoft for some things they use that Microsoft owns. All of these big companies work on things together, It's no big deal. I don't think Sony gets all of the royalties though anyway. A group of companies including Sony created Blu-ray.

+ Show (46) more repliesLast reply 4127d ago
Jamzluminati4128d ago

I hope MS goes all digital or sticks with DVD-8 lmfao.

showtimefolks4127d ago

sony should/will stick with bluray and improve on capacity among other things

MS either needs to add bluray or come up with a solution for disks that can hold more than 6-8GB of date.

whether people like it or not but DVD held a lot of stuff back this gen 3rd party wise. and i hope MS doesn't make the same arrogant choice again.

FlameBaitGod4127d ago

I think this is a no brainier and for those who think MS would stick with DVD's then MS would just fail, if its now and devs hold back because of the fee they get charged by MS when the exceed the DVD limit and that's on this gens graphics, just imagine how much they will be held back with the new MS console ?

b_one4127d ago

Pride and corporation? damn, it exists?

BlmThug4127d ago

I agree with MS needing to adopt Blu-ray.

r1sh124127d ago

MS could do what nintendo did with the wii-u, have their 'own' version of blu ray - i think they have 25gb wii-u discs.
MS could do the same.
THe most likely scenario is they will have blu ray

Anon19744127d ago

I certainly hope the PS4 has Blu-Ray. I don't watch Blu-Ray's all that often but when I do, my PS3 is my Blu-Ray player. It'd be nice if the PS4 stuck with the same format as well just to eliminate the need to purchase a stand alone Blu-Ray player. When the PS4/Next-box show up, I have neither the room nor the desire to have the new consoles and the old consoles hooked up to my system at the same time.

I see know reason why the PS4 wouldn't still use Blu-Ray though. It's in Sony's interests to support the format, and given the lengths they went to include it in the PS3, there's simply no way they wouldn't include it in the PS4.

Chris5584127d ago

It's ironic how a user with account name Logicwins always fails with his "logic thinking"

4127d ago
UnholyLight4127d ago

Microsoft will adopt Blu Ray. Blu Ray destroyed HD DVD and I donèt think there was much sense in Microsoft adopting Blu Ray in 2009 or something because that might have reflected badly on investors that Microsoft had given up..sort of thing.

This time around Microsoft will definitely be adding in Blu Ray without a doubt. How else can you make games for the next 6 years that will continually grow in the tech and graphics department like this gen did with the limited space of standard DVD...

+ Show (8) more repliesLast reply 4127d ago
aviator1894128d ago

It's a no-brainer for sony, no doubt.

It's just ms that needs to adopt it. Either that or a really good alternative but I figure that a good amount of customers are looking for blu-ray players nowadays so it's be smart of ms to include it in the next xbox.

That's just my take on the situation.

Nitrowolf24128d ago

Exactly. They don't really need to adopt it for games, i mean they could always go with something else, but I think like the HD-DVD add-on, one for the next Box supporting Blu-ray would be great (better if built in). Blu-ray is starting to progress more and more for films, every company supports it now and the machines are only getting cheaper.

TENTONGUN4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

why not just install compressed data like you would on a pc. problem solved, no blu ray for microsoft

Rageanitus4128d ago

the xbox fanboys made it such a big deal that quite a few PS3 games had to install minor files on the hard drive.

so now its ok to install.? Maybe

TENTONGUN4128d ago

who said i was a fanboy? i used to pc game a lil and always installed. whats the big deal? i do it on my 360 and ive had to on my ps3. alot of lil bitch babies if you ask me. people need to grow up and accept shit.

rainslacker4128d ago

Quite honestly, given that stand alone players are so cheap, it probably won't be a major issue for people picking up a console to play games. If they are looking for a central media hub for under the TV then it would be a good option, so obviously you wouldn't want to close out those people. OTOH, most stand alone players have a ton of streaming options, so the only advantage to buying a console is that it will also play games. I doubt the licensing costs are that high though, as your dealing with tens of millions of units. MS also owns the codec that BR uses, so I'm sure they have quite a bit of bargaining power.

This is the first gen Sony is coming out with a system that isn't matched to a emerging technology (CD/DVD/BR), so they won't have that advantage like they did on their previous systems. I believe their Gakai acquisition will have some part to play in that, as it's the only real emerging technology when it comes to entertainment right now.

Blu-ray is a given for Sony though, doubt it even needs to be discussed. As for MS, since they want to be the center of people's living room, it's hard to imagine they would shut out those buyers, despite stand alone players being cheaper.

Ezz20134128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

sony will go on with Blue-ray but will make it size 100gb or they can let the 50gb as it is
only ps3 exclusives can go to 40+gb

as for MS if they didn't have something close to the size of blue-ray ,they will be in deep trouble when next gen come out

PirateThom4128d ago

I don't think they should limit anyone using the medium, if the next Xbox sticks with DVD (highly unlikely) then the multiplatform difference of multiple discs will become even more apparent than it is now.

Sony should definitely have 100GB support but, like with the PS2 allowing games on CD or DVD or the PS3 allowing 25 ir 50GB discs, allow developers to choose the best option for them and make sure they aren't penalised for using larger capacity discs. Basically, make the publishing aspect as developer friendly as possible.

_-EDMIX-_4128d ago

Agreed. And that is just NOT going to happen. Games THIS gen need that space period! GTAIV is a perfect example. This is a GTA game with just about 3 gigs more space then the last GTA game and where expecting HD graphics, physhics ALL while still having the same features....NOT possible. GTAIV proved that. GTAV will use more then 3 disk, PROOF that GTAIV was gimped for nothing more then being on 2 systems (one of which still used DVD).

Theres a reason why GT5 has over 1,000 cars and Killzone 2 has huge detailed 2gig levels.

Games get bigger not smaller. One would be just stupid to think using DVD again would be wise. (I don't think it was wise THIS gen)

Games will only continue to get bigger. Max Payne is 35 gigs, LA Noire is almost 40 I mean, you either want Next Gen or not. Having DVD is not going to give you proper sequels to Max Payne and LA Noire (just examples) ....they didn't for GTAIV.

GTAV (quote me and MARK MY WORDS) IS ONLY AS BIG, AND HAS SOOOOO MANY OLD FEATURES RETURNED BECAUSE ITS NOT USING JUST ONE DVD ie THE REASON GTAIV WAS GIMPED. i'M SORRY BUY I DON'T WANT GTAVI ON 720 IF MS WANTS TO USE DVD NO REAL GTA FAN WOULD.

Rageanitus4128d ago

I do not believe you need more than 50 gb's unless they make all games with uncompressed sound.

but dual layer Blu-ray discs will go a long way... I have not seen many PC games go beyond 50 gbs;) after install

pgnuk4128d ago

It is what made the PS3 more appetizing for consumers to buy into the high price tag, it needs to stay for the next console.

Godchild10204128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

Why can't Mircosoft go with some different Disc type tech? Nintendo did it and their disc can hold 25GBs at minimum. So I believe Microsoft can come up with a type of disc that can hold a minimum of 25GBs as well.

They don't need to go with Blu-ray, just something that can hold a lot of information on one disc.

Sony will stick with the Blu-ray tech, I don't see a reason for them to go away with it, unless they have something better. But for now, to keep the console cost low, there shouldn't be a reason to go with a higher price tech.

Hicken4128d ago

Nintendo's isn't really that different. It's based on Blu Ray, but modified enough that it can't PLAY Blu Rays, and thus they get away with not having to pay royalties.

I imagine I'll get some disagrees for saying so, but Microsoft stands to make more money from using DVDs, on both ends.

On the developer end, they can charge more- as they do now- if the number of discs goes over a certain limit, and that's definitely gonna be happening next gen.

On the consumer end- for some games, anyway- multiple discs in a console that had a reputation for scratching discs means that even if just one disc is scratched, the consumer has to buy another copy of the game to continue. I wonder how much that has contributed to the supposed higher attach rate on 360?

TheRealHeisenberg4128d ago

"I wonder how much that has contributed to the supposed higher attach rate on 360?"

LMAO, stretch much?

kneon4128d ago

I don't think it's modified at all, they just didn't pay the royalties for the codec for video playback, just like the Wii had a DVD drive but couldn't play movies until the homebrewers got their hands on it.

It would be silly to go with an entirely new format, they would end up paying at least $30-50 more per console if they used a proprietary disk format, plus the disk manufacturing costs would be much higher.

So you take off the shelf bluray hardware with maybe some custom firmware and that's all you need.

mochachino4128d ago

Movies, Bluray looks and sounds significantly better than any stream I've seen.

LOGICWINS4128d ago

Yet streaming is more popular. What does that tell you? Being "better" means nothing if people aren't willing to pay for that better experience. For the price of a handful of Blu-Ray, I can get a Netflix or Amazon Prime sub and gain access to THOUSANDS of movies and tv shows.

Also, I can stream the majority of the movies/tv shows on the PS Store for FREE via the Internet Browser. Do I care that they aren't in HD? Nope.

Rhythmattic4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

"Do I care that they aren't in HD? Nope"

As for Tv shows I agree, but having a 50" Panasonic Plasma (a high end mode) and a 5.1 surround system to watch any quality Blu-Ray release, makes streaming look no better than 720p.. In most cases , worse.

So Im responding to your comment.. I care, as do many others.

ceballos77mx4127d ago (Edited 4127d ago )

I stream movies and TV shows, but those really good movies and shows I get on bluray.

But for games I live in Mexico, to download a game that's above 10 takes a couple of days, now imagine a 30+ Gb game and God knows how big next Gen games are gonna be, your crazy Logic if you think MS is going digital only.

The 360 is very popular in Mexico but not everyone had high-speed internet or even internet at all.

HammockGames4128d ago (Edited 4128d ago )

@Godchild

Valid point re: alternative disc tech (feasible)

But MS has made it clear they want to own the living room, providing entertainment any way they can. Since Blu ray is so widespread now, it seems like BR inclusion in the next MS console would be consistent with that.

That said, MS will still push video streaming, of course.

Show all comments (137)
150°

Xbox, do you even have a plan anymore?

TSA asks what is the future for Xbox.

Read Full Story >>
thesixthaxis.com
Chocoburger4h ago

They clearly never did, hence why they spent so many BILLIONS on other publishers as a last resort.

anast3h ago

They have a plan. It's to move everything toward streaming and mobile. This is just the next step.

Cacabunga2h ago(Edited 2h ago)

With half of the money they spent, they could have been on the very top and the gaming industry would be way bigger than it is.. encourage developers, indies, make them grow trust them and they will deliver.

Tody_za2h ago(Edited 2h ago)

What are you talking about Cacabunga? The Xbox faithful insisted that Microsoft has infinite money, and after Activision they should buy Square Enix and Capcom before Sony does. There was no chance ever that Microsoft would do this. They would use their infinite millions and Bitcoins to invest in 50 new IP and beat everyone.

andy853h ago

To ruin great studios it's looking like

Skuletor2h ago

Sure, a plan to be a more hated game company than EA. Ubisoft were recently giving them a run for their money but I think Xbox have really knocked it out the park with their latest stunt.

neutralgamer19922h ago

Absolutely not, their whole plan is at odd with what MS wants

Phil wants GP to become big
MS wants to sell games and make billions

GP can’t be sustained with AAA games which take 3-5 years and 7 figure budgets. Only go put those games on GP day one. Why do you think games are coming out on other platforms?

People want a change and want Phil gone without realizing if someone new comes along they may want to change everything again so we just keep going in circles. Phil has to realize that and give clear message on the direction of Xbox

Show all comments (17)
320°

Brad Hilderbrand explains the reason behind the recent Xbox studio closures

There are two reasons why all those Bethesda studios closed, and neither of them have anything to do with Bethesda (directly)...

Game Pass and Activision.

Read Full Story >>
linkedin.com
Christopher7h ago(Edited 7h ago)

The guy confirming what we've all (well, most of us) been saying since the latest purchase.

crazyCoconuts4h ago

Remember the relatively common counter that went something like "I'm sure you arm-chair CEOs know better how to run a company than the biggest company in the world"?

I mean - there's a lot to running a company for sure, but on this topic it's hard to understand how Phil and team didn't see this coming.

Tody_za4h ago(Edited 4h ago)

Phil and team knew it was coming and planned for it. It's not even a conspiracy, it's simply the business of cutting costs and superfluous studios after a major acquisition. They don't give a damn about Tango Gameworks or other small creative studios that won't recoup their losses. They don't care about investing in this industry. They have no interest in risky and expensive new IP. They are only interested in profiting off ownership of Bethesda IP, Call of Duty and Candy Crush.

I guarantee you that not one single game under their banner will improve or become bigger and better.

Welcome to the Xbox family, what a pathetic joke.

Anyone who continues to support this, enjoy your future, because this is it. Ninja Theory is next, and Perfect Dark after that.

Christopher3h ago

Especially not with the evidence of tons of existing movie streaming subs out there and how they fail to make a profit with over 100m users each quarter.

Lightning772h ago

Apparently they're debating if they wanna put the new Cod on Gamepass or not.

Either grow GP with Cod or don't put it on GP and grow the revenue the traditional way while GP will suffer.

The mess that MS puts themselves in.

XiNatsuDragnel7h ago

I'm not surprised Microsoft guys are crock nuff said

isarai7h ago(Edited 7h ago)

Honestly i think Bethesda needs to buy themselves out of zenimax/MSs hands and do their own thing, i honestly think that would fix a lot of issues and save them from a potential closure.

Zeref7h ago

There's a reason they sold in the first place. And Bethesda is not closing anytime soon lol. As much as I hate the studio closures. They were all small studios 2 of them were mobile studios.

I think these are growing pains and Xbox will get back on track. But they're not getting any more passes.

jwillj2k45h ago(Edited 5h ago)

I’d like to see your reaction to being growing pained out of your job after the launch of a successful product.

Mr_cheese3h ago

Excuses, Excuses, excuses.

If growing pains have been happening for the best part of a decade, they're not growth.

XiNatsuDragnel3h ago

Zeref nii San
I'm sorry but xbox has been rightfully bashed due to constant incompetence

romulus233h ago

Yet you literally just gave them a pass, being "small studios" or "mobile studios" is irrelevant. There's no excsue for closing Tango, none. They praise the game, they PR talk about it's the kind of game the company needs and yet they shutter the developer, that's foul on every level.

+ Show (1) more replyLast reply 3h ago
Tacoboto3h ago

Bethesda greenlit Redfall, launched Fallout 76 in the condition it was in (and the fiasco with the bonus bag), and spent all that time on Starfield finishing it as it was with that same engine. Wolfenstein Youngblood exists because of them too, not Microsoft.

Are you *sure* leaving them alone would actually result in a better outcome, not just a different one?

isarai1h ago(Edited 1h ago)

A lot of this excessive monetization, and GAAS crap started when Zenimax decided to start looking for a buyer. Not a coincidence that there was a sudden shift in prioritizing profits above quality or even coherence at the same time. They wanted big numbers to attract buyers, now that they've been bought, MS wants exactly what they were baited with.

However even under Zenimax they made enough to self publish sometimes, so i would imagine it's not too far fetched that they could pay their way into independence if they REALLY wanted to.

Also even people at Bethesda and Arkane were hoping MS would cancel the game as again, they were forced to make something they didn't want to make.

Einhander19727h ago

Ah, we can see how the Microsoft media machine works.

Every article I read now is some kind of attempt to shift the blame off Microsoft and paint them as the victims or convince people that Microsoft mistakes were just some kind unforeseeable unfortunate twist of fate.

The shills are out in full force today.

Christopher6h ago

This is not at all what this article is saying. It's saying that honest and useful studios are getting closed because of big money deals elsewhere and the faults with game pass as a model.

Einhander19726h ago

I understand what the article is about.

It's a deflection, it's a putting the cart before the horse article.

Let me tell you how this problem wouldn't have existed in the first place.

Microsoft not creating a service funded by subsidization and having the foresight to see that it would disrupt consumer spending habit to begin with. Then not buying Bethesda and undertaking costs for a service that was already failing to pay for itself because their own expectations of Game Pass having "billions" of subscribers was unobtainable from the very start.

And if you don't think that was the case go back to the article on the day Game Pass launched and read the comments from people from day one who foresaw that this would be an unsustainable model and would cause people to stop spending in the same way.

Christopher6h ago

***Microsoft not creating a service funded by subsidization and having the foresight to see that it would disrupt consumer spending habit to begin with.***

This article literally supports this opinion. He's not praising Game Pass or the ABK purchase.

Einhander19725h ago(Edited 5h ago)

This is an explanation of why it failed, there is zero blame put onto Microsoft itself.

Yes, it talks about what went wrong, but it doesn't say Microsoft shouldn't have done it. It doesn't say Phil should have foreseen this outcome and stopped before it got to this point.

"convince people that Microsoft mistakes were just some kind unforeseeable unfortunate twist of fate"

Christopher5h ago(Edited 5h ago)

***but you're seeing the impact; all those smaller studios making really interesting games are going to fall away, simply because as good as games like Hi-Fi Rush are, they're never going to make enough money to make up that $70B hole that Xbox now has to dig itself out of.***

If you see that as support or you explicitly just want people to end their argument with "and, in conclusion, Microsoft bad" then that's on you. This article does not support Microsoft's choices and highlights the faults. Nothing it says is good about these choices, even saying that putting CoD on Game Pass would be money losing for them because they've set themselves up for failure (and not putting it on there will drop subscriber numbers like crazy, meaning their Game Pass plans were shit to begin with).

No matter how you look at it, they're saying Microsoft made decisions that hurt the bottom line, force closures, and leave Game Pass in a situation where they lose no matter what they do. It's all negative.

Einhander19725h ago

Christopher, if Microsoft hadn't made Game Pass and bought a bunch of publishers would this article even need to exist?

Christopher5h ago

***Christopher, if Microsoft hadn't made Game Pass and bought a bunch of publishers would this article even need to exist? ***

How is this an argument to anything being discussed? This is just as valuable of an argument as "if fish had stayed in deeper waters, they wouldn't have evolved to tetrapods, adapted to shallow water and then to land, and we wouldn't even exist and have to worry about game pass at all."

You're bringing nothing to this argument and then complaining that other people are highlighting the issues with Game Pass and spending tens of billions on studios because what we should be discussing is what it would be like if Microsoft hadn't done any of that.

Well, they did do it. Now pull up your big boy pants and join in on the discussion of what that has meant for the industry since then and, especially right now, how that is affecting the industry and game studios under Microsoft. None of us are able to go back in time and change what was done.

Einhander19724h ago(Edited 4h ago)

Christopher, this isn't me not understanding what the article is about, it's you not understanding what I am saying.

If you want me to make excuses for Microsoft's bad decisions you're not going to get that or just agree with people who are doing that, it's not going to happen, nor are you going to convert me into thinking xbox "needs to exist".

Ya know what, maybe "Microsoft bad".... maybe their decisions ARE having a negative effect on the industry, and instead of deflecting from their actual actions and making excuses for them we stand up and say "no" "Microsoft is hurting the industry"

And maybe, just maybe, it was so obvious that this was going to be the outcome that even nobodies in comment sections on websites were able to easily predict this outcome, yet Microsoft did it anyway then kept doing and even when it became undeniable that it was having a negative impact on their business and and the industry itself, then they knowingly made even bigger purchases and caused more problems.

And the one thing you're right about is that I can't go back in time, but I CAN speak up and try to keep it from happening again...

Maybe if the people who were speaking up 7 years ago were listened too we wouldn't be having this discussion and Tango and Arkane would still be in business along with all the other people who have lost their jobs due to Microsoft's actions.

Do you like analogies?

What you're saying is like an alcoholic crashing their car then trying to explain it by saying it was caused by everything except the fact that they were dunk because they are an alcoholic and don't want to stop drinking.

TiredGamer4h ago

The article is essentially focusing the blame on MS. GamePass was a hail mary play to change the gaming paradigm and carve out a special niche for themselves, emulating the Netflix model, that might have led to MS becoming the leader in the long-term. Unfortunately, the subscriber growth isn't really there, and the model isn't really built to weather that lack of revenue. MS is now in a restructure mindset to figure out how they balance out their model in a way that can still make them money.

've always believed that GamePass was a high risk shot that had a very low chance of long-term success. But the problem with it, whether it succeeded or not, is that it accelerated the proverbial "race to zero" consumer expectation that ran its course in the mobile gaming industry in the late 2000s. When consumers start thinking that games should be "cheap" (as in through a $10/month all-you-can-eat subscription model), it turns the narrative against games being priced at realistic levels. So with the GamePass failure, they've not only sabotaged their market share, but they've impacted the entire industry and devalued the cost of game development to the average consumer. So now it's harder to develop mega-big budget games and to earn the revenue needed to pay for them.

XiNatsuDragnel3h ago

Again terrible excuses in the 1st place

Christopher3h ago

***If you want me to make excuses for Microsoft's bad decisions you're not going to get that or just agree with people who are doing that, it's not going to happen, nor are you going to convert me into thinking xbox "needs to exist". ***

No one is asking you to make excuses for Microsoft's bad decisions nor is anyone asking you to convert to anything.

***Ya know what, maybe "Microsoft bad".... maybe their decisions ARE having a negative effect on the industry, and instead of deflecting from their actual actions and making excuses for them we stand up and say "no" "Microsoft is hurting the industry" ***

Literally no one here is doing this. They're literally discussing how Microsoft's decisions have hurt the industry. Except you. You're rambling about why people aren't complaining about Microsoft when people are in fact complaining about Microsoft.

*** And the one thing you're right about is that I can't go back in time, but I CAN speak up and try to keep it from happening again... ***

Then perhaps actually add something to the conversation other than calling people shills when people are complaining about the decisions and repercussions of Microsoft's actions.

Tacoboto3h ago

Christopher, you're fighting a block wall here - Ein will continue twisting and contorting any remark to fit his self-created narrative.

Einhander19722h ago(Edited 2h ago)

"Then perhaps actually add something to the conversation other than calling people shills when people are complaining about the decisions and repercussions of Microsoft's actions."

Cristopher, in no way is the author of this article complaining, they are explaining what happened it's literally the title. They never once say that Microsoft shouldn't have bought Zenimax or Activision or that Game Pass was a bad idea to begin with. They think the problem with Game Pass is that it didn't grow fast enough, not that it was a bad idea from the get go.

BTW this is his job title.

"Public Relations and Communications Leader"

What do you think a Public Relations and Communications Leader does to make money?

Edit: I have read a dozen of these articles that just started coming out in the last 24 hours that are trying to shift the conversation away from blaming Microsoft, the shift here and in several other articles is trying to say it just didn't gain subscribers fast enough, not that it was a bad idea to begin with that was doomed to fail or placing the blame on anyone.

It was all just an unforeseeable outcome, no one should be held responsible it was just a billion dollar oopsie that's costing thousands of people their jobs and has caused a downturn in the entire industries sustainability.

Oopsie!

+ Show (3) more repliesLast reply 2h ago
MrDead5h ago

It's greed. MS has the IP's it wants now it's dumping the studios that it's raided, MS will still make money from Tango's games unlike the people that made them. If anyone follows MS outside of gaming you'll see this is what they do, buy companies take what they want consolidate some of the workforce and shut them down. I don't know why people are acting so surprised when this is Microsoft being Microsoft.

MS is a three trillion dollar company, if it enters a market it has no need to compete, they take what they want and with the financial influence it can bypass laws that are meant to protect the consumer and the workforce. Just look at how they are cornering the AI market right now with buyups and investments.

Show all comments (35)
320°

Microsoft Is Finally Ending Its Focus On Big Budget Gaming Nonsense

Back when the Xbox 360 launched, Microsoft pushed the big budget game as a differentiator. Following all the recent layoffs, it’s clear this strategy has run its course.

Einhander19728h ago(Edited 8h ago)

The Microsoft shill take on the Microsoft causing the death of big budget gaming...

The whole driving force for growth in gaming both technologically, creatively and financially was all nonsense, and it was definitely not because Microsoft ran the industry into the ground with obviously bad decisions and creating an unprofitable business model that massively disrupted consumer spending habits. /s

RpgSama7h ago

First, F**** Forbes and their shill take, I hope the money cleared by now.

Second, Which big budget games I might ask? Microsoft has been in a rut for like a decade now, with no big publisher and developers puechases they would have not released anything in the last 5 years but the new Halo and Forza.

Eonjay4h ago

Fortunately for us, since we know this message is basically coming from Microsoft, we can read into their motives. Why are they trying to turn people against big budget games and who would it help.... hmmm.

neutralgamer19923h ago

GP is like any content service it needs new content. AAA games take 100 plus million (low end estimates since most AAA games take double that) and it 4-5 years to develop. That’s why there were 2 god of war games instead of 3 because Cory felt like it would take too long

I am not defending MS. That’s just the reality when you put all your eggs in one basket (gamepass) and now they need content. Sadly that’s what we all said would happen and is happening. GP will be a service for AA games with 1-2 AAA games on yearly basis. And I am all for AA games because to me that’s where developers can take chances on smaller budgets but MS has mismanaged this whole situation from the beginning. Their messaging needs to be clear and it’s not

They own so many studios and IP’s they just need to get everyone on schedule so that there are games releasing every few months on GP. But I don’t even think Phil knows what he wants. It seems his goals change constantly

Game pass is not a sustainable and take two ceo was right when he said that it doesn’t make any business sense to release huge AAA games day one on GP. Just like call of duty shouldn’t be on GP because why give up on 15-20 million sales

Einhander19721h ago

"And I am all for AA games because to me that’s where developers can take chances on smaller budgets"

How'd that work out for Tango?

Do you think less AAA games will increase game pass revenue or decrease it when it has less value? What if they also have to increase the costs?

S2Killinit2h ago(Edited 2h ago)

Right on.

Hahaha MS has ended “focus” on games? Lol when? 3 generations ago maybe?

Hofstaderman8h ago

Ah Forbes. One of the prominent MS mouthpieces....

Luc207h ago

Microsoft is finally... ahhh I've never heard this one before!

Petebloodyonion7h ago

LOL, this article is a big pile of dog crap...
Spencer has been constantly telling ppl that NO they would not go the route of having games like TLOU, Uncharted, etc because Playstation exists and prefers to focus on a diverse portfolio.

How many years have we seen Xbox as no game and we don't want small games like ORI, Pentiment, Grounded, etc.?

That's the real tragedy and why lots of gamers are mad at MS right now
because they have been championing smaller titles and yet fired the ppl delivering exactly what they were proning about.

So no the only nonsense is that MS seems now to be going BACK to AAA popular titles..sorry, I meant refocusing effort on core established IP where broken GAAS might be rewarded versus praised and rewarded work.

Einhander19727h ago(Edited 7h ago)

https://media1.tenor.com/m/...

You read an article cheerleading the end of big budget games and all the other articles about problems and this is what you have to say? That's what you think "the real tragedy" is?

I thought that xbox fans might finally "get it", but no, it seems they don't even understand what is happening and what is at stake.

Petebloodyonion4h ago

Please tell me what's happening and what is at stake

Since it's not big companies closing small studios, killing innovation while refocusing assets on big ongoing projects and core IP?

Let's See MS Close Tango Studio mentions that they are too thin on key project
Sony Close London Studio and make massive cuts in Firespite will reallocate resources to core project
EA will focus on Core project
Square will focus on big established IP
.....
.....

crazyCoconuts7h ago

Hurray! No more big gam.... wait... what??

Show all comments (38)