Thoughts on Next-Gen gaming

Since I haven't had any recent exposure to anime in the past few weeks, I figured it would be a good time to switch gears over to the gaming side of the blog. There's about a month left until the Wii and Playstation 3 are exposed to the masses here in the U.S., and after running around to EB and Gamestops yesterday trying to preorder a console, now seems to be the perfect time for this topical subject.

I honestly have to say I'm not all that excited about "next-gen" at the moment. The 360 has a few good moments, but in my opinion is pretty much a disappointment. I know of several people who bought one, got bored with it qucikly, and traded it back in for greener pastures. Granted games are still first gen, and everyone knows first gen games usually suck, but Microsoft just hasn't done anything to WOW me with the system just yet.

And it may be too early to say this, but I have the same outlook for the PS3. I'm a huge shmup fan (that's shoot em up, for those wondering), and knowing Sony's policy about not supporting 2-D games anymore, thing don't look promising on that front. However, that doesn't mean I can't enjoy other genres, right? Well, nothing in the batch of launch titles holds my attention just yet. I'm curious to see what kind of graphics and overall experience the system can kick out, but am I psyched up for any actual games? No.

So I guess that leaves good old Nintnedo. They are really taking a chance with the Wii's new control system, and I certainly respect them for it. There's a 50/50 chance that it will fly with me though......getting used to the new control scheme might take some time. And, will each game have tight enough controls where using the Wiimote won't get frustrating? I have to wait and see....however ignoring all that, I can count on Nintendo for the sold variety and quality of games that I'm really looking forward to playing. Pushing the envelope in the hardware department isn't as important to me as actually having FUN titles to play, so I guess what I'm saying is that I'm looking forward to the Wii most of all. Then again, whichever console delivers some new shmup titles, I'm all over it. Guess I can only wait and see what the two remaining next generation consoles have to offer.........