PlayStation 3 (PS3) Review

PlayStation 3 (PS3), the third gaming console in the Sony PlayStation series comes with a host of new options and features for hardcore gamers.

What’s new?

The primary storage has been revamped to a High Definition Blu-Ray Disc format, which also plays Blu-ray movies.

Sony has also introduced a multiplayer online gaming network, the PlayStation Network (PSN) for the first time as a competitor to the Xbox 360’s “Xbox Live.”

It also boasts of new and improved multimedia functionalities.

THE GOOD:

High Definition games with incredible graphics and brighter images than the Xbox 360. To get the most out of the system you would require an HD TV though, which doesn’t come cheap.

The PS3 has an in-built Wi-Fi feature for access to wireless internet and Bluetooth to access wireless accessories like headsets to ensure maximum ease while gaming.

The hardware is pretty reliable and Sony’s service record is credible.

Unlike the Xbox 360, the online feature of PlayStation 3, the PSN is free with an online store.

Customizing free themes and backgrounds is simple and the ability to operate a Linux system is unique. Different hard drives can also be used in place of the stock ones.

The working mechanism is as silent as the “Silent Assassin” and the Dual Shock 3 comes with motion sensitivity in six directions.

It is probably the most reliable console out of its immediate competition i.e Microsoft’s Xbox 360 and Nintendo’s Wii.

THE BAD:

The PS3 has a lesser line up of exclusive game titles compared to the Xbox. The backward compatibility feature in the earlier models gave loyal gamers an option to play older Play Station titles. However, this feature was removed in Spring, 2009.

The PlayStation Network while’ free’ isn’t congestion free and its store isn’t as elaborate as the Xbox 360.

The glossy exterior of the console is prone to remembering finger prints and can be difficult to maintain.

The PS3 is pretty pricey at around $450 but comes with a reliable set of charger, battery, adapter, etc.

DIMENSIONS:

10.8*12.8*3.8 Inches (l*b*h)

Weight: 11 pounds.

There’s no external power supply unlike the Xbox 360 which makes the Xbox bulky.

The Play Station 3 has a curved top which discourages users from loading components on top of it. Currently available PlayStation 3 models are available only in black colors.

Is it worth a buy?

If you want to experience amazing graphics, watch High Definition movies, witness a full blown gaming experience with minimal hardware noise while relishing the great multimedia functionalities, reliable hardware and the extensive game library it has to offer, the PlayStation 3 is definitely worth a buy.