No backwards compatiblity? Wtf? :|

HaydenTenno

@Laughin_Caulk:
Vista has trouble with almost any game for previous operating systems. As for XP, I haven't ever had any trouble. Even with Windows 95 stuff. I can't say about earlier than 95 though.

gamadaya

@Zunnoab: It's because I own 8 PS3 games, purchased new, at $59.99 each. 2 games puts me within 10 bucks of a PS2 slim, so maybe I should have said "roughly". Having to explain that took all the fun out of my cleverness dammit:(

So you think that Sony is making you spend more money because they don't offer BC in the PS3? That argument holds no water and has no merit. Do your research and make a purchase, or don't. Nobody's twisting your arm.

crashlanding

Doesn't this sort of thing just slow sales? I was waiting until this week to replace my PS3, guess I'll wait a couple months more.

crim

@sirsri: PS3s can't handle Partitions larger than 300GB though (last time I checked) But a media server will fit that bill nicely.

@sir_carrot: Which is the case with computers anyway. Very few PC games from the 90s work on PCs of now. I think anything made for Win98 works fine on XPs (don't know about Vista) and PowerPC Mac games don't all work on the newer Intel Macs.

Laughin_Caulk

@Spoony Bard: That was the justification that pushed me to grab the 80 GB model. I wasn't dying for a PS3 (wanted MGS4, but I could have survived without it) was the fact that not much has really been added to the PS3 since launch, but things have been taken away.

There's a lot more sense of looming buyer's remorse when I buy a system now, where I feel that picking one up at launch might be something I regret down the line, or maybe not. I'm glad I have my 360 Elite, but I would've liked to had the 60 GB PS3.

nick.soapdish

@EnigmaNemesis:

Ya I know, I meant to buy this model, plus get mgs4 >.<

Firemane

ps3 RULES I think.......

n64dude64

@sirsri: I think a lot of people would disagree with the 360 being 'a piece of junk.'

The red ring of death does suck, yes, but I believe it has the best games and performance thus far.

sir_carrot

Lame. Glad I grabbed my 60gb, even if it did cost me $475 a the time.

And for everyone who's telling me "lolz buy a PS2 slim", it doesn't (can't!) have a hard drive, and it sure as hell doesn't upscale my PS2 games to 1080p over HDMI. The latter, in particular, is an extremely helpful thing for those of us with HDTVs.

Erwos

@crashlanding: It's all about convenience. I already have enough cords crowding my entertainment center - if I'm buying a PS3, it's partially for the BC. It's an upgrade. It would be like buying a new computer that is unable to access my old data, so I have to operate my old computer to use everything I had before - why would you want to bother with that?

Maybe you do, but I don't.

sir_carrot

This is good for europe (unless they decide europe needs another kicking) but I was really hoping they'd eventually bring BC back. Good news still though.

Llost

Had there been a price reduction for the PS2 to $99, it might have softened the blow for those who want their BC...

Spoony Bard

@GTA4er:

Even if you stamped the phrase 'I am a deluded fanboy' on ur head, i dont think it can get much more obvious. thanks for trying though.

oh well, if i wanted a ps3, i woulda bought a modded one anyway, so bc wouldnt matter to me.

maraxusofk

Boy am I glad I got my 100 GB PS3 when I did (that's a 20GB PS3 with a 100GB hard drive in it).

They really ought to have put in 3.5 inch drives not 2.5's and then once could easily have a terabyte PS3 media centre monster.

Though I would class their removal of anything less than the best possible BC they can provide, and now losing the FFXIII exclusive as unforgivable.

This hasn't exactly been a great generation for consoles, the 360 is a piece of junk the Wii has few decent games and the PS3 seems a comedy of bad business decisions.

sirsri

@NobleArc, The Lazy Canadian:

My theory is actually the opposite. I think they had full s/w BC from day one, but they needed a better reason than a 40GB hard drive difference to get people to pay $100 more for the high end console. I just don't see the PS3 'not' having enough power to emulate a PS2 game. I just don't buy it.

durrem

@EnigmaNemesis: I sure hope so. I don't really see taking things out of your console as a step in the right direction. Whatever happened to leaving your console as is and just cutting the price gradually?

I mean, doesn't bother me much - I have my 60 GB and hug it every night. :)

Spoony Bard

@cowondinosaur: Amen brother.

XeroKool

You've bought a new PS2 slim FOUR times and that's a good thing? The more I hear the more I think I may just sit out on Sony this time. They need to take their quality seriously with their hardware and get a reality check as far as what consumers are willing to spend.

Zunnoab

I swear, you need an encyclopedia to keep up with the PS3 console versions that they've come up with.

Furysetzer

@chorx: Thank you.

For the price of 2 new PS3 games, you can buy a new PS2 console and there's your back compat. I've bought a new PS2 slim 4 times already lol. This is coming from someone who thought they would use it often, yet I've only used the BC feature a handful of times in more than a year. BC is not a dealbreaker for the vast majority of PS3 customers and sony knows it.

I'm still holding out for a software solution this year though.

crashlanding

@cowondinosaur: Some of us don't have money to throw around at these expensive consoles and are weighing the options.

If I can get an Xbox 360 and have it sit pretty next to a PS2 and Wii to play almost all of my games from the last 10+ years, why would I get a PS3 and waste more space, especially since most of the PS3 games I'd want are ported to the Xbox 360 anyway?

I'm still weighing the issues, but no BC for PS3 is a big minus for me... and I'm not going to rush out and get one any time soon, not for at least 6-18 months.

If Microsoft releases a Blu-ray Xbox 360... and/or more games go cross platform... and there's no BC... I may just skip out on Sony this time.

Zunnoab

@cowondinosaur:

A bit harsh, but you make tons of sense!

EnigmaNemesis

@notoriousEIC: Best Buy has white slim singstar bungled ps2 selling at $77 bucks in so cali. I dont know why people are complaining about BC. If you want to spend an extra $100 bucks to get it in your PS3, go right ahead. Otherwise go buy a ps2 for cheaper if you really want one, these things are on clearance all over???!@?@!?!@

maxx1223

@wanion: The problem with BC is everyone says they want it but it seems to only make a difference in the first year. After that it's a nifty feature which they don't use. I have a launch 60 gb system with a laptop hdd in it and it was worth the $600 to me. When they had BC in it wasn't worth $600 to most of the rest of the market. The #1 complaint was price so they trimmed the price via trimming features and die shrink. I really wish they would keep a BC model around but they need to trim the price to leverage back some marketshare. It may be the same story as the PSP, lukewarm until it hits the magic price point and suddenly everyone has one.

kingmanic

@mouroutaru:

Well, Sony has been giving what gamers want so far ... so if enough make it known, I am sure they will allow it to be DLed ... the BC software.

EnigmaNemesis

All of you whiners complaining about the no backwards compatibility might want to, I dunno... GET A GODDAMN PS3 NOW, CHRIST.

You've had almost two years to get a BC PS3. If you haven't gotten one by now, then it's not going to affect your video game playing in a few months if you buy a non-BC PS3. What have you been doing for the last two years? Saving up PS2 games without a console to play them on? Wanting a one console solution is bullshit because you're not going to throw away your old hardware; you know that, I know that, everyone knows that. I bet you still have an SNES stored away.

All of you whiners are just trying to troll because you never planned on getting a PS3 regardless of what future justifications you spout (news flash: they're all bullshit).

Case in point: If you haven't gotten a PS3 by now, that means you're waiting for more new exclusives. If you're waiting for more new exclusives, you're not looking to play PS2 games, which are old.

cowondinosaur

@Datheron: If you have the PC/graphics card to run it well, NullDC is pretty amazing...

Justin42

@NobleArc, The Lazy Canadian: Point being that this full software emulation hasn't been figured out yet - at least not that we know of - but could be coming and that's why there are rumours of it.

Candlejack

Wow. No more backwards compatibility.

That's pretty lame, IMO. If the dual SKU approach is too difficult for consumers to swallow, they should differentiate the skus in an obvious manner..

Perhaps the $499.00 SKU could just be this same 80 gig with a PS2 attached on top of it.

StevenRafael

this feeds further into the rumor that they'll be selling downloadable software to play ps2 games for the non BC consoles

MistaJeff

@Candlejack: There simply can't be full software PS2 emulation for anything based on the 40GB model any time soon, as it doesn't feature the PS2's graphics chip, the Graphics Synthesizer, on the mainboard. While the Cell Broadband Engine is capable of emulating the PS2's Emotion Engine easily enough, as shown with the software compatibility on 80GB PS3s and European 60GB PS3s, Sony has not yet devised a way of emulating the Graphics Synthesizer as well. They've probably tried, but failed.

That isn't to say that they couldn't figure out how to utilize the RSX to emulate the GS, as lately a lot of GPUs in PCs are being used for more than just graphics, but thusfar they've not done so for a reason.

I'd be willing to bet money that there won't be a backwards compatibility update for 40GB PS2s this year at all, if ever.

NobleArc, The Lazy Canadian

@Datheron: There's PCSX2 which runs a lot of games fairly accurately, but ridiculously slow

Jeff Paine

@DelSource: @EnigmaNemesis: @karasu is my homeboy: Thanks for the responses. Like everything this gen I'll just have to sit and wait and see what happens.

Hopes and dreams dashed for now, but love never truly dies.

I see BC as an item on a checklist, not a deal breaker, but the current price makes that checklist more important than maybe it truly is.

mouroutaru

With Leipzig being held at the end of August and this being launched in September, could that mean software emulation announced there, before the launch of this. Sounds like a good way to get a much wanted price cut in and a good way for them to toot their horn.

DocBacca

@Konchu: @Phester:
I did not know this...thanks! Although I probably should've just googled it myself...=P oh well.

nautnaut

@chorx: How did Sony get backwards compatibility wrong? Except having to create a fake memory card, all you had to do was pop the disc in. Any PS2 disc. MS are the ones who botched it by making only some games BC, and even then, the Box would choke on those.

Also, it's "a feature 99% of people don't absolutely need?"
Technically, 100% of PS3 features 100% of people don't absolutely need, which goes for Xbox, DS, PSP, etc. But really, the ps2 still has a solid library of terrific games, and since truly quality games for PS3 are slow in coming, having access to those is a pretty good idea, especially now that so many of the best can be found used.

So for people who didn't own a ps2 (mutants though they may be) buying a ps3 seems like a much better investment since they can catch up on all those lastgen games they missed out on while they're waiting through the slump between good ps3 titles, and people who did have a ps2 don't have to have two consoles, which is good considering how much crap we all have plugged into our tv's these days.

wanion

@karasu is my homeboy: I could be totally wrong but won't they need some sort of memory anyway for the OS the console uses?

It would probably be easier to include a HD anyway with the console seeing how not many people will actually use the option of upgrading the HD of their PS3, and not including one most likely will result in the same sort of bitching like with the Core 360 with no memory.

Emiat

@nautnaut: I don't know if I am overlooking someone else's reply but you can copy your PS1/PS2 Saves to PS3, Sony made a memory card adapter that sells for about 15 bucks that just plugs in USB and copy away.

Konchu

So... Another PS3 gets into the already confusing lot of them.

Confusing posible costumers, way to go, Sony.

Fulgurator

This is a good move for Sony, imo. I already own a PS2, so I could care less about BC. In fact, I own a slim PS2 which means I could hide it under the PS3 and you'd never know it was there. :)

Fatmumuhomer

@thenk83: Hm, is there a good PS2 emulator on the PC right now? I think some of the biggest problems they're facing are the quirks of the PS2 architecture and some of the very hardware-specific optimizations developers made for it, whether it was writing to memory not owned by the process or processing commands in a specific order that is dependent on the CPU speed. I remember waiting forever for a semi-decent Dreamcast emu; I don't think they have a great one there either.

Datheron

@nautnaut: Any game store should carry the PS3/PS2 Memory Card Adapter, and it's only $14.99 USD.

Phester

@thenk83:
That's why who makes PC emulators? Sony? Microsoft? Nintendo?

SpishackCola

What! BC is going away completely?

Aw, dammit. Can't say I didn't see this coming, but it still sucks for me. :(

Toasticus

What about Europe? For god's sake give us some more info..

alextz

My PS2 console dies every 2 years without fail (DRE). Then I get to break out the jewelers screwdrivers and "tune" the laser to get it to work for a couple more months before having to buy a new PS2 again.

"Assuming" that the PS3 isn't the POS that the PS2 is in terms of reliability (I've owned 2 "slim" PS2's now) then this is a HUGE blow. I do NOT want to purchase another PS2 at this point (but there are many PS2 games I would like to still play in the future) so buying a console that could reliably play these games when my current PS2 craps out was something I was looking forward to.

I mean my Dreamcast still works reliably, wtf.

MrFatalistic

@GTA4er:

With what news?

mirage

@mouroutaru: There were rumours of the PS2 titles appearing on the PSN.

However, at this time, it's still in the rumour bin.

I think Sony has a lot more hidden under their sleeves that they're holding on to for their own press events and Tokyo Game Show later in the Fall.

I need to see the new Team ICO game! :)

sascha23

@Firemane:

The MGS4 version of the 80 gig has BC.

EnigmaNemesis

@mouroutaru: They're not. It was rumored about a month ago and they quickly said it's something they're not interested in doing.

karasu is my homeboy

Can someone explain this to me

They "encourage" and allow you to use any HD, yet go packing bigger and bigger HDs, driving up the PS3's price.

Why not a no-gb model? You can buy a cheap HD offline or just use one you already have lying around the house. For like, $300-350. To combat the other consoles.

I don't understand anything Sony does.

karasu is my homeboy

So...I should keep my 60GB locked down with three separate padlocks?

The backwards-compatibility that I have just got a lot more precious.

The Queen of Everything

No PS2 games = no buying

Well.. they could at least lower the price of the one with PS2 compatibility :/

CockroachMan

@mouroutaru:

They have Playstation and PSP games you can buy on there for DL ... and rumors about PS2 ones.

They also still have the TGS to announce more things.

EnigmaNemesis

I'll pick it up since it has a dual shock + MGS4. Still have my fat ps2 that i can use.

Firemane

Honestly, I wouldn't want software emulated backwards compatibility anyways. That's what they make PC Emulators for (with better Save States).

thenk83

If this is true, this being the one and only SKU for the PS3 from here on out, I am glad I decided to pick up the current 80 GB. I had a feeling that backwards compatibility was on its way out, and considering I never had a PS2, I thought I'd enjoy the luxury of playing some of the good games that I missed during that generation.

Smarter move, I think, for Sony to unify all this. And at that price point it's at a good spot to really be of good value to most consumers, if not just for the Blu-Ray player still.

nick.soapdish

...great..good thing i've held out for a ps3. now i can buy one with extra gigawatts for Soul Cal bewbies, Cod of War ;3

maverickudo

I hope they let the MGS4 80GB PS3 run longer than September before phasing it out.It seems to be quite a challenge to find one right now.

Xideo

I want a PS3 for God of War III and Killzone 2, but without BC it's going to be a hard sell. I need something to replace the two broken PS2s I've got laying around ... and I certainly don't want to pay $150 for one of the slim PS2s.

notoriousEIC

I have a feeling a 40gb value priced unit at $349 or $299 would do Sony a ton of good.

I have no issue with two models of the PS3 being out there if it gives consumers an option.

Of course, as a consumer (a snobby one at that), I would hate it if I knew there was a better PS3 out there, so I'd want that one. ;)

sascha23

@Katorok:

It is still logically flawed, to not buy a NEW CONSOLE ... when mostly they are bought for the NEW GAMES.

EnigmaNemesis

After Sony goes through a whole part of their press conference talking about how great their PS2 software is, they go and get rid of BC. Smart Sony, real smart.

GyrFal

Does anyone know if the PS3 is going to do something along the lines of the xbox originals?

I wouldn't be as concerned about backwards compatibility if that were the case.

I know some feel like it is just re-selling us games we already own (and that isn't entirely unfair), but I only care about BC for the games I didn't get to play (ICO, God of War...) so that would work out for people like me.

mouroutaru

@mugenektr: That's a shame, you are really missing out :(

chorx

Just stick 120GB HdD in there Sony and get it over and done with..I have a 20GB(Added 100GB hdd) as thats all i could Import at the time.

Woylez

@jsf49: Holy sh*t yes I forgot about that. A $349 or even a $299 PS3 for the US........?

@mouroutaru: It was all over teh internets (including Kotaku I think) a week or two ago.

DelSource

This is the PS3 thats getting the new smaller RSX and Cell Processor, I hope B/C is included in that case.

DevonTheDude

it makes sense why they are not focusing
"BC" because if you want to play ps2 games you can buy a ps2 which they are still selling(money for sony!). so i think until the ps2 is completely dead they will not add BC in ps3's. i still got my ps2 so it doesn't matter to me. plus when you play games that have better graphics, well for me at least, you never go back.

mugenektr

This makes perfect sense... Sony is bleeding money and need to get back in the black.

What I'm curious about if the RSX chip uses the smaller dye for this latest PS3. Hmmm... I think once the 40s drop in price I'll go pick one up. If I end up needing a bigger HD down the line, I'll just go buy one and install it myself.

Nullzero

@DelSource:

Just spend less than $100 on a 250GB drive and you are all set.

Not like you need to rush out and buy a whole new PS3 cause you ran out of drive space ... much cheaper to either get an external with over $500 gigs for cheap, or an internal with 250+ gigs in the $100 price range.

EnigmaNemesis

And if you'd like to play your old PS2 games, hey, we have this great new Lego Batman PS2 bundle :)

insane_cobra

@Zunnoab:
Go buy a PS2..cheap ass!

Dragnipur

@EnigmaNemesis: Some people probably never had a PS2 -.-.. Now that they want to buy a PS3, they want to catch up on some old classics too...

Katorok

It's better to have a PS2 than BC anyways, imho. The PS2 games looks better on it's own console.

Chaospluto

@GTA4er: No, nyko did.

chorx

All they did was update the 40GB hardware with an 80GB HDD and thus it's the new 80GB, while the old one became obsolete.

Sony has stated all along that the 40GB is the model spec that is here to stay (except the disk space and chip size like 90nm->65nm->45nm etc). Anybody yearning for PS2 BC might want to wait until end of this year because there's a rumour going around we might see full software emulation released as update for all the units that currently don't play PS2 games. Of course, none of this is confirmed.

I myself have a 250GB PS3 because I use it a lot as media center and I quickly realized that 40GB and even 80GB do not suffice for a console's entire lifespan. I'm upgrading to a Solid State Disk once they drop in price and I can acquire a stable, reliable one with 320GB. That would be another 3 years out if you ask me.

Candlejack

So people wont ever buy a new console, to enjoy new games, because they cant play their old console games, they already played, in their new console?

Oh well ... just figured you would buy new consoles to play the new games, and if you have the old games, why not play on the old console.

EnigmaNemesis

I'm a big fan of SCE but if this is true then I'm going to find it real hard to continue defending their strategy. Where is the 40GB price cut while stocks last? Where is the hardware BC or an announcement about forthcoming software emulation? Where is a 120GB+ version?

My 60GB is nearly full with demos, music and mandatory installs - and I don't have PlayTV yet. 80GB isn't enough for many - especially with today's movie download announcement.

DelSource

@Torokun: I'm right there as well.

ooh, bundled dual shock is nice. If this is coming in Sept then that pretty much dashes my hope for a redesigned slim one.

@jsf49: Where have you heard about a new 40GB. perhaps that would finally land in the purchasing sweet spot.

mouroutaru

also where are the Fat Princess news Luke??? >:(

most ecxiting thing I heard from all this E3

Captain Fury

Sony still won E3

GTA4er

I'm happy I decided to get the original 80gb PS3. I just wish there was some way to move all of the save files from my ps2 memory card to the PS3...
Anyway, this decision to not include BC is sad for the consumers. I guess they still want people who can't afford a PS3 and have only a PS2 to still have to buy PS2 games. Also forces people who still want to play PS2 games and have a PS3 as well to hang on to their PS2s...

nautnaut

It's about time BC gets completely nixed. In all honesty, sony didn't do it right and it's about time they focus on something else besides linger on a feature 99% of people don't absolutely need.

chorx

No BC... stupid sony just stupid.

Ryuujin1024

I guess I'll just have to pay the bucks for the truly backwards compatible PS3. I need that shit, yo. I needs it!

Seriously Sony, how much are you saving gimping your original design? I just want the numbers. I just want to understand. Or is this a way to re-sell all our beloved PS2 games back to us as digital content, akin to the 360 model of bullshit.

vanderblade

@Lackshmana:

Good luck... Only a fool would part with their 60GB PS3. Hell... I've been trying to find a 20GB for a while now just for giggles.

<3 my 60GB

.Trenchant.

THANK GOD I GOT A 60gb version.

unangbangkay

never...they love SKU´s! :o

announcing 120 GB $500 version in 3 2...

I was really hoping for a LBP bundle tho :(

Captain Fury

Ugh. Removing solid backwards compatibility for good? It's like two steps forward and one step back with these guys, every single time they make an announcement.

The party line, of course, is that everyone who really cares about backwards compatibility already has their PS3. But financially, some of us have had no choice but to wait and save. I was thinking PS3 come Christmas this year. Now I have to either pick it up immediately (likely not possible) or get a gimped model. Maybe I'll just wait for a blu-ray playing 360?

alaren

and now the bitching will start about there only being one.

demonknightinuyasha

Considering the 40gb is the predecessor to the new 80gb, I wouldn't be surprised if that rumored 120gb PS3 with all the functionality of the 80gb is announced sometime soon.

Jeff Paine

For those who own Xbox360. When you get a message from your friend saying this website "http://freexbox360points.t35.com/" gives you free MS points don't do it! It'a a fraud! If you already have fallen for it (like me l0l) change your password immediately!

Yuji Noeji

I wonder if the rumors about software backwards compatibility for the 40gb coming this fall are true. If it is the case then this new model would make a lot of sense.

As long as Sony is still able to repair 60gb consoles I have no problem. :P

Kanik

Well, assuming I ever get a PS3 it will have to be some treasure quest for the original model with the genuine BC.

I know not everyone cares about that so much, but for me BC is a make or break feature.

Lackshmana

Hmm. You can't really "choose from" one model, can you?

SuppleMonkey

Ooh, it comes with a Dual Shock 3. I wonder if its going worldwide as well.

mysteryboy2k

you's are all a bit late to bitch about backwards compatibility >.> a year too late

ittekimasu

only if it's priced at $300

Torokun

whatttt, I don't own a ps2 and don't want to! Whats going on with BC?

Bernoulli

No BC? Really I can't decide between the Xbox 360 and the PS3, but if the PS3 doesn't have backwards compatibility... I really don't want it.

Zunnoab

so what, they are scrapping backwards compatibility all together?

JellyDoodle

So they're stamping out BC for good?

Fuck em.

stuminus3

That's just speculation on your part, Plunkett. There's supposedly an FTC filing or something for a 40GB SKU that has not yet been accounted for.

jsf49

Awesome, they're just abandoning the MASSSSSIVE ps2 install base by totally abandoning all backwards compatibility. Also, didn't they say no plans for downloads of PS2 games? Who's driving that crazy train at sony...

Talleh

ps2=dirt cheap

seriously though buy a ps3 for ps3 games and a ps2 for ps2 games....

i have 60gig and i play ps2 games on it very few times....but its not a make it or break feature.
i play final fantasy 11 on it on occasion but it goes off the harddrive so no biggie there.

stop whining and focus on playing current gen games. sony cant please everyone.

lonesn1per

@Funnydale: because of all that blurryness i bought a component cable for my ps2...
and its funny because the cable came in ps3 packaging...

Firesoul1

As I said in a previous post...

Remember how when the PS3 first came out and Sony was making fun of Microsoft in that the 360 couldn't play all the games in the back catalog? (nevermind that with software emu they've gotten pretty close)

Now, Sony is moving to a system with NO backwards compatibility, and charging more for it?

Just sayin'.

fuzzycuffs

@cowondinosaur: I'm not going to pay $400 for a PS3 right now that doesn't have a single game I want to play. Plus, when the competition has backwards compatability and Sony doesn't, it makes them look pretty bad.

@maxx1223: I already have two broken down PS2s; I don't want another one.

notoriousEIC

@Deluxe:
Well, obviously whis will be the one Ps3... For now. And the old models won't dissapear magically from homes and some retailers.
If someone was interested (like I am) in buying a ps3 that best fit my needs in the future, I'll need to need the help of wikipedia or something to remember wich ps3 had what. Not an impossible task, but midly annoying at least.

Fulgurator

way to go glad i bought a 60gb on launch date.

Raziel Dune

easy solution to the BC problem...
keep your old PS2...
i am because i have the space for it...

Firesoul1

Interesting. So there are exactly no PS3 games from Sony that anyone wants to play but infinitely many PS2 games they do want to play on a PS3.

If someone was to make a PS2 emulator for the 360, they could easily win #2!

nou_phabmixay

Regular PS2 games running in 480i on my HDTV = ass

PS2 games running on a PS3 up-scaled to 720P/1080P on my HDTV = nice.

To everyone who is saying "just buy another PlayStation 2 system;" I tried hooking-up my old PS2 to my HDTV and I couldn't watch it (everything was grainy and blurry to the point of unwatchable).

Ironically, I spend a lot more time with my PS3 playing PS2 games in HD than I do playing actual PS3 games.

Funnydale

Why the hell are so many people reading this like its fact? This is from Luke Plunkett's brain, not Sony's.

LittleBigPlaneteer

@Furysetzer:

You're still not making any sense.

There are actually a plethora of good games on PS3, just as there are on 360. People seem to be waiting for this "golden goose" on PS3 when, to be frank, there hasn't been one on either console.

My tv from 7 years ago has 5 plugins for standard-def gaming.

Also, why not play those games you missed-out on the PS2 that you own? Instead of waiting and hemming and hawing about the lack of PS3 games (which is a fallacy).

Also, PS3 for $400, not a sane price. 360 for $400, sane price, gotcha.

I sense a 360 fanboy here. The fact that the only "good game" on PS3 is MGS4, your lack of common sense, and the ease with which you ignore valid arguments pretty much cements it.

Good day to you sir.

SnakeCL

@Fulgurator: Yes... one model is SO confusing! Omg liek where's my pink cellphone?!1

Deluxe

haw. i got the MGS4 80gb one, so, looks like someone's not getting the shaftola

TinyLightning

[quote=Cowondinosaur]All of you whiners complaining about the no backwards compatibility might want to, I dunno... GET A GODDAMN PS3 NOW, CHRIST.

You've had almost two years to get a BC PS3. If you haven't gotten one by now, then it's not going to affect your video game playing in a few months if you buy a non-BC PS3. What have you been doing for the last two years? Saving up PS2 games without a console to play them on? Wanting a one console solution is bullshit because you're not going to throw away your old hardware; you know that, I know that, everyone knows that. I bet you still have an SNES stored away.

All of you whiners are just trying to troll because you never planned on getting a PS3 regardless of what future justifications you spout (news flash: they're all bullshit).

Case in point: If you haven't gotten a PS3 by now, that means you're waiting for more new exclusives. If you're waiting for more new exclusives, you're not looking to play PS2 games, which are old.[/quote]

Nice rant. Now let me tell you why your argument is flawed.

We're not waiting for more exclusives, rather a console at a fair price. We could give a shit less about most of the new PS3 games, because many of them suck. The reason BC is a smart move is because while we're waiting for "good" games to come out on the PS3, we'd rather play those old games we missed out on with the PS3. Having one unit fits the bill. Many people only have so many plugins for their television to work with, and paying $80 on a multiswitch makes our stretched dollar hurt. As far as the last 2 years go, we've been playing our PS2's, waiting for the PS3 to come down to a sane price, which has not happened, and will probably not happen within this decade. Go ahead and spew that stuff about "if you really want one, you would have saved up for it", because guess what, there are plenty of other fine gaming experiences on the other consoles that has gotten our dollar at a better price.

Sony has truly screwed up this generation, and now it seems like third party exclusives are out the door. We may have missed out on MGS4, but it doesn't really matter, because the future of the PS3 is bleak, and has been for a long while now. Value? Sony doesn't know what that is.

Furysetzer

@MrFatalistic: And I got a PS2 at launch and it still works fine. Bad luck for you.

@Fulgurator: Unless your completely retarded and don't look anything up online, or ask the store clerk for help, yes, it is SUPER CONFUSING!!!

The point here is that if someone really wanted a BC PS3, you would have already bought it. Hell, they're still avaliable (MGS4 Bundle, people). If not, then go buy a $30 used PS2 at Gamestop. You're just making excuses to not buy one.

I have an 80 GB (MotorStorm bundle), and I bought that one because it had the BC. Guess what; I have used it TWICE to play PS2 games. I mainly play PS3 games on my PS3. Usually I'm too busy playing MGS4 or R&C: ToD to play my old R&C. Seriously people, are you going to be playing SOCOM 1,2, and 3, or are you going to be playing Confrontation or MAG?

@cowondinosaur: Whoops, I typed all of that before I read your post. I concur.

FoxyGaz

I'm surprised they didn't make the MGS4 bundle the standard. That seems to be pretty popular. Well, that's Sony for you.

Illusion

@Laughin_Caulk: Every time I've checked, the PS3 has no trouble handling larger hard drives/partitions.

BoringJob

Thats too bad. I want to get one eventually but I really would like BC because I play PS2 games regularly and while I still have my PS2, I don't really want them both hooked up to my tv seeing as how my entertainment center is already crowded. Oh well, I will just wait a year and see if next year's model(s) have BC. Probably be cheaper too since nobody dropped price this year. :(

curtisawa

@cowondinosaur: I think your a little angry, guy. yes, some of us have been holding out for more sony exclusives, and price cuts. Its just sad that a few hold-outs like myself are going to be missing a feature that the company announced at launch of their system. I'm not planning on throwing away my ps2, but i'm not sure it is gonna last a whole lot longer either. anyways i was planning to give it to my sis so she would be able to play GH whenever she wanted. Without BC i'll be SOL if i want to play my old ps2 games if i got a ps3. Whatever, after this e3 im not entirely sure i could justify buying a ps3 yet, this is not a knock on sony (i luv sony please dont hurt me) its just that there are not quite enough games that appeal to me yet.

One more thing just because a game is old doesn't mean its not fun. I had a n64 in the ps1 days, and when i got a ps2 i checked out a lot of games like ff7,8,9 and mgs that i missed out on. What about those folks? I mean how could you really want gow3 without playing gow1, and 2. (you could, but seriously those games deserve some playing if you are even moderately interested in action games).

Jeez this was a long comment, just found it irksome that just because i want BC i am now labeled teh trollz. :(

smuckers is good

Why would Sony take out BC on this one too. Because they keep making PS2 games which I think they should stop doing. But seeing as there is still why take it out.

BlackIceJoe

@nautnaut: You can buy a memory card transfer kit.

Anyway, I'm glad I got the MGS4 80gb.

mind in rewind

Bastards. If I can't get a 80GB with B/C, I ain't buying one at all.

Demaar

@sir_carrot: 'piece of junk' in terms of the RROD issue. Sure it's fixable but since the problem is hardware there are litteraly millions of consoles which are essentially defective and waiting to die.

My point was just that each system has some fairly serious problems, and if one wants to throw the PC in the mix the move to a new business model, vista being lackluster, and then the usual issues of PC gaming and things are not as good as they could be. Good games for the PS3 and Wii could easily help them but the PS3 is still neutered, and the Wii shows how underpowered it is. The 360 can have the best games in the world but if you have to repair your console to play them that's insulting to gamers, and none of these issues are particularly easy to fix. Selling all new hardware that isn't in some major, obvious way, lacking basically leaves us waiting for 'next gen', which I guess will be ~32 CPU cores and NVIDIA gtx 300 series GPUS/AMD 5800's, and 2GB of ram, and they could still screw that up.

sirsri

@GTA4er:
no they didnt

mastergodai

Sony's reasoning isn't just "everyone who wants BC has already bought a PS3" - it's more like, everyone who wants BC already has a PS2.

Yeah, you don't want more than one machine, etc... but you're more than willing to buy a wireless adapter, a HD-DVD add-on, a power brick etc... for your XBox 360.

I'm sure for people who really want BC, they can buy it off of ebay or craigslist.

chef4hire

Well, considering most people are picking up the PS3 for a Blu-ray player then discovering some of the good first party games, it's not surprising. I wonder what they are going to do though since they have been hiring engineers who specialize in virtualization and the fact the rumor has been around for some time about them having ps2 games for purchase and download.

I wonder if they are going to just make it where when you put the games in it downloads drivers etc for that specific game instead of a complete virtualization package.

Remember, it's software, so at any time they can make it a download, for free or not is the question.

gpturismo

just wondering which ps3 has the best BC? Can anybody help me out here?

smuckers is good

I dunno. I've been holding off getting a PS3 because there's only 3 games that interest me on it, MGS4, Uncharted, and Warhawk.
Nothing I want to play is coming anytime soon (LBP, for example).

So, the no BC is kinda of a big deal. It's the only thing that's been holding me back. I haven't had any money to spare for a PS3 until early-ish this year. Since I don't have a PS2 (I haven't had one in ages), it would have been nice to be able to play PS2 games I missed out on while waiting for the PS3 games I want.
But the only thing keeping me from buying a PS3 now is the fact that I can only play 3 of the games I want, since none of the PS2 titles are playable on it.

Call me whatever you want, I just can't go around buying PS2s and PS3s. As a college student with no scholarships (lost them on my first semester D:), I can't just throw around money on game consoles. I have to make my purchases count, and buying a PS2 seems silly when I know I'll be buying a PS3 down the line when there are more games I want (and thus removing the need to play old PS2 games).
So, by waiting, I don't get to play the games I want, but it saves me money.

So, there it is. An explanation of why BC would be a big deal for someone. Am I telling you that this is the only mentality people should have? No. Just telling you that people do have reasons for caring about BC, and we're not being trolls or idiots, like so many people seem to think.

It's the beauty of the human brain. Different people have different priorities. It's amazing how many people don't seem to understand that.

Coquiton

My God ,Sony doesnt have a clue of what the people want ?

They think the 80Gb is sold out just becasue the extra 40B??

Sony WAKE UP damm you ,the 80GB is so attractive for the BC compatibility !!

If you remove it it wont be so attractive.

Dumb Sony ,very dumb.

Iberianpower

Damn, I expect a run on the old SKU. Hopefully I can scrape the funds together in time so I can at least get the gimped compatibility instead of none at all.

Rebochan

I'm the jerk that read the story, but not really any of the comments, so forgive me if I'm repeating someone else's concern.

I want to believe, in my heart of hearts, that Sony is investing in full software emulation of the PS2, they simply aren't saying shit about it in case it doesn't work.

The reason I have faith is by how well the PS1 emulation has worked on the PSP. Games that haven't been intended (commercialy) on the system can be played, and for the most part, they do so beautifully. It didn't happen until two years into the systems lifetime, and it was announced without much prior speculation.

Sony knows their legacy systems well, and now that developers are learning how to use the PS3, they can piece the two together.

So, fear not! Us early adopters with REAL EMOTION ENGINES will have something to bitch about when everyone has backwards compatibility.

Hell, it will probably screw ours up in the process.

LettuceD

@LittleBigPlaneteer: Less conjecture would have been a nice touch

smuckers is good

@Funnydale:
how big is your tv and what brand...?
the video output may differ from
make to make...

Firesoul1

For anyone who is actually readind Mr. Plunkett's "analysis" like Fact:

Conjecture: The formation or expression of an opinion or theory without sufficient evidencefor proof.

We could have done without conjecture.......

LittleBigPlaneteer

@Firesoul1: I tried using component cables to hook-up my PS2 to my LCD TV; it still looks like total shit.

Anyway you cut it: 480i -- even if you're using component -- still looks like total garbage on an HDTV LCD screen.

PS2 games that are running on my PS3 in 720P look a lot better on an LCD screen.

Funnydale

@what0080: Now that I've had some time to think about it, it still seems stupid on Sony's part...but not as much as earlier. Anyone who wanted the BC-capable PS3s likely already have one or know where they can get one.

It seems like this 80GB "Core" model is aimed @ the new users who don't have a PS3 yet...or a PS2. Sony believes that the factor preventing people from getting from getting a PS3 is the small hard drive space. Most people (read: non-PS3 owners/non-gamers) don't already know about the 80GB MGS4 bundle and only know of the 40GB model. Sony is thinking of new consumers.

...It just so happens that Sony is DEAD WRONG in thinking ONLY of them...

what0080

You know, for the guys complaining about backwards compatibility, it's still pretty easy to get a 60gb PS3 with full hardware backwards compatibility. Sure, they'll be used, but still.

I'd rather sony do what's necessary to not go broke so PS4 will exist.

Dalren

Luke, your analysis really is terrible and for you to publish it is the ultimate flamebait. For you to predict that the 80GB will be the only SKU is what's ludiscrous. Did it ever occur to you that Sony has a new model to replace the current PS2 BC model? Sony specifically said this 80GB is replacing the CORE model, which is the 40GB. They didn't say it's replacing both the core and premium. Secondly Sony has said they will be using a 2 SKU strategy for this cycle. How does one SKU fit into that?

LittleBigPlaneteer

Alrite MGS came out. I was all ready to buy a PS3 but didn't like the lack of backwards compatability in the 40gb. And as they only have the 60 in the UK and with all the installation as well i figure wait.
Now they dont have any?! Fuck em id rather just watch MGS like a film on videos online (if there are any) and not get one.

Cei-Iacobus

No offense Sony, but more and more I get the feeling that me winning a 20GB PS3 @ launch makes me look smarter every day...at least smarter than you guys.

what0080

and people stop whining about the one sku its not like you will be buying multiple ps3's anyways, you do understand you can upgrade the hdd with a laptop hdd right?

2.5 sata am i correct?

lonesn1per

@Furysetzer: If you want to talk value, I believe the console w/ the 20 additional GB's of space, rechargeable controller, wifi adapter, free online play, and bundled Bluray disk and player beats the one with a component cable and free XBLA game.

Datheron

So, my fully BC 80GB MGS bundled PS3 just went up in value?!

Keeko_ca

I still don't have a PS3, but I REALLY don't care about BC. My PS2 still works just fine.

If you did want BC, you needed to get one at Launch or within the 6-12 months that followed when BC-equipped PS3s were widely available. I have very little sympathy for you at this point if you ignored all those opportunities and are whining about this change now.

Me, I want the PS3 to keep getting cheaper, if they could get it significantly under $400 or sweeten the bundle (I'm just not an MGS guy) at that price with a game I want to play (Resistance 2 Maybe?) then I'll be ready to jump.

That or Iron Man on Blu Ray, whichever comes first :)

DaiMacculate

@LittleBigPlaneteer: The last I checked, this was a blog, not "let's make LittleBigPlanet happy". He's free to conjecture ALL HE WANTS. I mean, when did Sony ever say they are doing 2 SKUs? Or do you enjoy pulling things out of your ass?

I know you're a diehard Sony fanboy who refuses to see the forest through the trees, but now you're just being ridiculous.

Spoony Bard

@Mr.SithNinja: Ah thanks for the info.

smuckers is good

Sony-Where early adopters get screwed over via cost and late adopters get screwed over via feature removal.

Keep spinning that "You don't need BC, you won't use it." people, I'm laughing my ass off at you, more so the folks who declared 100% BC to be a major selling point on launch.

@LittleBigPlaneteer:I think Luke knows more of what he makes posts about then a supposed 'Sony Insider'. You know slightly less then a regional manager at Gamestop, if that.

Foxstar Sixtail

@Mr.SithNinja:

Pretty sure the 20GB has both too..

LittleBigPlaneteer

@nautnaut: There IS an adapter that lets you transfer PS2 memory card data to the PS3. Saw it at Fry's for like 15 bucks. Anyone know if it has any problems? ( I still do not have a PS3 and this announcement is putting me in a bad mood )

Lysergio

@Mr.SithNinja

Go home and hug your 60gb.

@smuckers is good: The launch 60GB is the only model that has both hardware (a PS2 laser) and software emulation for PS2 playback.

Mr.SithNinja

Thank God for my 60 gig, and God forbid it ever die on me...

At least I can enjoy the gamecube of this generation with the ability to play games from the PS2 of last generation and the PS1 of the previous... Well, ok, I guess making metaphors with the thing itself isn't a metaphor (Longcat is long)

bobtheduck

@EnigmaNemesis: There is piss all new (good) games on the PS3. And Sony promised at the start of this generation to have BC.

I don't take being shafted lightly.

dnzperson

@Furysetzer: "$400 for PS3 (cheapest retail, not including sales) versus $379 for XBox 360 (cheapest retail, not including sales). Guess which one is the better value? If you say Playstation 3 you are an idiot."

How is the 360 a better value? I can stand being an idiot, but at least explain why.

ƒox

Well there is no FFXIII now, as I already have a 360 - and there's no fucking way I'm buying it without backward compatibility.

Sony have really fucked themselves this time.

dnzperson

@EnigmaNemesis:

Some of us actually like going back and playing old games without having to drag out the old console. I, for one, am happy to play some GameCube games on my Wii.

Ignatius

@cowondinosaur:
So you're saying that we should of all dropped 600 to 700 dollars when the PS3 first came on the scene with the 60gb version?
Well sorry to say but most people really don't have the money just to "GO OUT AND GET" a system when it first drops. But when they do it would be nice to get the same kind of system Joe Smith down the street was lucky to get from the beginning.
I have a 60gig version myself and I officially retired my PS2 and guess what I get more use playing the PS2 games (Persona 3 FES, Disgaea 2) then I do playing PS3 games.

MY POINT IS, people have every right to complain about a feature that could've only made the system, as goos as it is, even better.

maniacmayhem

[quote=SnakeCL]
@Furysetzer

You're still not making any sense.

There are actually a plethora of good games on PS3, just as there are on 360. People seem to be waiting for this "golden goose" on PS3 when, to be frank, there hasn't been one on either console.

My tv from 7 years ago has 5 plugins for standard-def gaming.

Also, why not play those games you missed-out on the PS2 that you own? Instead of waiting and hemming and hawing about the lack of PS3 games (which is a fallacy).

Also, PS3 for $400, not a sane price. 360 for $400, sane price, gotcha.

I sense a 360 fanboy here. The fact that the only "good game" on PS3 is MGS4, your lack of common sense, and the ease with which you ignore valid arguments pretty much cements it.

Good day to you sir.[/quote]

You seem to have this assumption that you know shit, which you do not. $400 for PS3 (cheapest retail, not including sales) versus $379 for XBox 360 (cheapest retail, not including sales). Guess which one is the better value? If you say Playstation 3 you are an idiot.

Not a 360 fanboy here, as I play it less than the Wii. MS edged out Sony in my eyes this console generation. That's not saying much either. MGS4 is the only triple A game in my eyes that is not on the 360, is what I'm saying.

Granted, the games for PS2 are being played on PS2, mostly because of no BC for most of the PS3's. But congrats on getting a high end television seven years ago. The average Joe does not have that.

I read all the comments before I posted, and replied to the ignorant one which needed to be corrected. That puts you in the same boat. Have a terrible day. You are a jackass.

Furysetzer

Good for Sony. One SKU is what it should have been all along.

Now MS needs to follow suit...3-4 SKUs is just too much.

fenderfuel08

Sony's dumb way in response to 360 pricecut!!!!1

Foreign-Contaminant

@Funnydale: i have a sony
Bravia s-class also 32 inch...
but ive noticed that the closer i get to the
picture the crummier it gets... i just happen
to be like 15 feet away from the screen and
really can't tell its there... maybe your
eyes are better than mine... lol...

Firesoul1

...So I guess they aren't lowering the price for the holiday season, then? (No, a larger hard drive & smaller chips at the same price aren't a price cut.)

Too bad. I was hoping the press statement on a price cut was a case of 'bending the truth', and that Sony was gonna follow Microsoft's lead.

Maybe next year.

yeahblah

Okay guys, whatever you think "value" is, you're entitled to it. For me, I don't care about hard drive space, online access or Blu Ray. I just want to play games. I'm sure that many other gamers feel the same way.

Furysetzer

@Firesoul1: Samsung 32inch.

The problem isn't the TV, it's that 480i images looks like crap on a LCD HDTV.

Funnydale

Now...before I make this comment. Don't take it the wrong way..

But I hope the next generation of consoles only have one size of a HDD....maybe A TB. That'd work. Right?!

Vecha

...

Nail. Hammer...

bobtheduck

@DelSource: Exactly...how the hell you do you announce a 80gb upgrade at same price for Sept and NOT tell us the price of the 40gb going forward. Are they seriously going to hold the price at $399 on the 40gb...that makes NO sense.

I'm thinking this was a last minute reaction to MS and SONY hasn't had time to confer with its distributors and get the advertising in place.

40gb for $299 (No DS3 remember) or $349 with some pack in games or movies.

Also...disappointed we didn't see a drop in psp price.

kspray-dad

If this new SKU isn't coming for over two months, and the remaining 40GB stock isn't dropped to 349 or 299, then PS3 sales in Sony's weakest seventh-gen market are going to fall of a cliff for the next ten weeks.

DelSource

@Spoony Bard: I like that "forest through the trees"...nice, nice

smuckers is good

@EnigmaNemesis: HOLY CHRIST IN HEAVEN!!!! That made sense!!! A rarity in articles like this.... I never understood the whole "No BC, No sale" garbage. Refusing to buy new technology because it isn't compatible with old tech is stupid. Especially when you can still buy the old tech for under a $100. "having no room for to consoles is another retarded argument considering the size of the newer PS2 is less than the size of 2 DVD cases stacked up....

Mr.SithNinja

@maniacmayhem:
By the way, does the 80g version only have a some BC support?

maniacmayhem

@Furysetzer: "$400 for PS3 (cheapest retail, not including sales) versus $379 for XBox 360 (cheapest retail, not including sales). Guess which one is the better value? If you say Playstation 3 you are an idiot."

If you think "value" means "cheapest" then you are the idiot. If your figures are correct then for a measly extra 21 bucks you get free PSN access, internet, Blu-ray, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth......I'd say that is tremendous value.

Ultimate fail.

DelSource

Minus backwards compatibility is minus a purchase for me. I need something I can play ICO on.

Strangelove

@crashlanding: Uhh....when I read your paragraph, this is what it sounded like in my head: 'Hey, stop crying about BC! I don't care about it at all! That's why I've had to buy four Slim PS2s already! Because I don't care about playing my PS2 games! Yea!'

I don't WANT to have to buy four crappy slim PS2 when the ability should be there to play them all on ONE console. If they hadn't been touting it all this time as a feature (along with rabid Sony fans) then it wouldn't bee seen as a big deal. But they did, and whatever you staunch Sony supporters say, it IS big deal.

h445

@Cyco: The 60GB is the best but there are very few issues on the 80GB version anymore. You can actually chaeck all the games copmatlibilty with each version of the system at: [www.us.playstation.com]

Sony should get working on a way to implement backwards compatiblity in the 40GB and new 80GB PS3s. If they do they could offer the ability to buy PS2 games over the PSN system.

JustinS

@Cyco: [www.us.playstation.com] Have fun :)

Candlejack

@Cyco:No, the BC on the 80 gig is not at all comparable to the BC on the 60 and 20 gig models.

Foxstar Sixtail

Can someone tell me if the BC on the 80 GB model is equal to the 60 GB model? I heard that the 60 GB is the only model that is fully BC while the rest have issue. I want to buy a PS3, but I want BC. I have a PS2, but it is going out on me and I would perfer to have BC on the PS3 rather than buying a new/used PS2 and a PS3.

Cyco

I have a 60GB PS3 currently so I am safe. If my PS3 ever breaks I will not ever buy one to replace it without at least the backwards compatability that is in the 80GB MGS4 bundles. It doesnt matter that I still have a PS2, the fact that I can have all the saves for every game I own on the PS2 loaded on the PS3 hard Drive and accessable to me at any time is a big feature for me.

JustinS

@Zunnoab: erm go back in time, buy a launch PS3, sell your PS2 since they were still in demand back then for $100 or something, you aren't too money strap'd to buy a Wii and thinking about getting a 360

Bleentastic sees bandwagon and jumps