PlayStation 4

[Jason]

I have to admit that I liked what I saw from the PS4 event last week. I think Sony was smart for using standard PC hardware, which will make game development much easier and help keep prices down. Nothing blew me away, but it was nice upgrade from what we have now. The "Share" feature built right into the controller is a nice addition and should eliminate the need to purchase an expensive game recorder, and the spectator feature is something I've been wanting for a while.

The good news is that the PS4 probably won't block used games. There's still talk of game publishers possibly using "game passes", but at least the PS4 hardware by default won't block them. While I'm not a fan of buying used games (or Gamestop for that matter), I won't buy any console that prevents the use of used, borrowed or rented games. There's a lot talk about Microsoft preventing used games from working on the next Xbox, but it would a huge mistake, especially with Sony not having those same restrictions.

Personally, I'd wouldn't mind going back to Sony next generation. One of the biggest reasons I'm looking to switch is for free online gaming. While Xbox Live may be better than the PlayStation Network, I'm tired of paying for something that I don't use nearly as much as I used to, and services like Netflix, Amazon-on-Demand and HBO Go are available directly through my TV now. My big concern about leaving Microsoft is losing two gaming franchises that I love, Forza and Gears of War, so hopefully Microsoft is very competitive when they announce the next Xbox in April.

[K_Mosley]

I agree with just about everything you said. 

I think what would clinch the next gen for MS, though, is if they offered Live for free.  Rumor has it the next Xbox will require Kinect.  The hardware is going to be costly enough - give your customers some incentive to stay with Xbox.

And, I don't think any future generation of consoles will be as successful as the one we just went through.  Mobile games seem to be taking over the industry.

Kevin

[Jason]

You're right...I forgot about Kinect being a standard part of the new console. I'm also less than thrilled with the always-on internet requirement too. More restrictions = less sales in my book.

I also forgot to mention that I was very impressed with the "Watch Dogs" gameplay video. The graphics in that game make GTA IV look like an PS1 game.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGdVdi49V9Y

[Brad Company]

If online multiplayer is not your biggest consideration, than PSN would suit your needs just fine.
Maybe Gran Turismo and Killzone could replace Forza and Gears, who knows.
You may like Uncharted and God of War games as well.

Both hardwares will be quite similar, so I think it comes down to exclusives or online multiplayer and ones' friends list.
There will be fewer AAA releases, they will all have online passes, and will absolutely nickel and dime you with microtransactions.
With huge HDDs standard, there will be a big emphasis on purchasing digital versions of games. Combined with online passes or locking out of content without a code from new purchase,the used game business will begin to dry up. I don't see hardware blocking of used games,though.

[Ted]

Does anyone know what the game with the knight and fire breathing dragon was from the PS4 intro video?

Really sick of Live.  My internet connection is slow enough as it is, but netflix just crawls and constantly buffers through live.  Runs well and looks great on my PS3 and my PC.  I only renewed Live this year because of NHL GM connected and now that the game killing advance bug reared its ugly head I may really be done with the 360 come next year.

[Jason]

Does anyone know what the game with the knight and fire breathing dragon was from the PS4 intro video?

Deep Down, a new IP from Capcom for the PS4:

Capcom got in on the fun, unveiling a brand new next-gen engine for the PS4, dubbed "Panta Rhei." It was on display in this impressive trailer for a new IP called Deep Down, which is reminiscent of Dark Souls or Dragon's Dogma. The detailing and animation is just so crisp and flawless. It'll also be interesting to see how they approach the multiplayer aspect, as hinted at in the last few seconds of the trailer.

Deep Down PS4 Announcement Trailer {HD}

*** I'm still trying to figure out why embedded YouTube videos are not displaying anymore ***

[Ted]

Thanks.  If it is like Dragon's Dogma I'm very excited.  I really really enjoy that game.