E3 Speculation. Media, Gamers and Companies

[Perfect Stu]

Everyone talks about who 'wins' E3 each year. I've always believed the gamers are the winners (and who can disagree :D) but you also have to point out who YOU think (out of the three next gen systems) had the best showing. Media plays a role in everyone's decision...some games get much more hype and attention then they deserve (no matter how you look at it, Zelda, Halo and GTA are each just ONE GAME) and some receive much less hype and attention then they deserve (ICO, SMB anyone?). The media is arguably one of the most influencial aspects of our lives.

Here, we can speculate...

-Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?
-Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?
-Which development team will wow us the most?
-Will you fall under the spell of the media? (___ says ____ is teh roxxorz, so it must be!!!)

Stu's list will be exactly that: Stu's list. I'll try to keep all the hype out of my decision process, and I'll try to take what I've read over the past months to speculate and estimate realisitically.

--Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

Yes. Despite which system you favor, this year's Expo looks like it can't disappoint. There will be a strong lineup for each system, no matter what genre you love.

--Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

Toughie. I see all 3 next gen consoles to have big showings...but I'm going to have to give the edge to Xbox as it stands. (I'll go into the Xbox lineup later). I don't think either of the other two systems will look pale in comparison...I think the PS2's showing is definately going to be great, and I think the Gamecube's showing has the potential to be great. So we'll see.

--Which development team will wow us the most?

Personally, I'll go with Konami. If MGS3 makes it there, along with Castlevania and an at least 'good' Turtles game, I don't see how anyone else could compete.

---Will you fall under the spell of the media?

Somewhat, yes...how can you avoid it when you see 50 articles about Halo 2 and only a couple small ones about lesser known titles? I will be reading up on every title that I think looks promising, though.

Line-ups

I'll keep this as short as possible...what I think will be the biggest games on each system.

-Xbox

Rare looks to show at least 3 titles at the show...a Perfect Dark sequel makes the cut, along with a video trailer of a new Conker game. Bungie will be there with Halo 2. Will it be playable? Nobody really knows yet. I'm sure Fable will be there and impress...the concept alone would make anyone psyched. It looks like XBL's biggest holiday smash could be Counter-Strike. Sign me up. This is still foggy, but Star Wars Galaxies could make its official debut for the system. Expect much more, too.

-Gamecube

Could be a make-or-break event for the system, but if Mario 128 reaches its potential, I see nothing but a brighter future. Too Human has been in development off and on for YEARS. Maybe this year we'll get some official announcements? Vrrrrrooom, here comes Mario Kart. Easily a future million seller, this title will be a big hit. Square throws Nintendo a bone with Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles, which can do nothing but wow Gamecube owners. What else can we expect? I'm hoping Donkey Kong shows up...And I'm sure many will be impressed by Resident Evil 4. You can be assured that there will be more.

-PS2

MGS3 would blow me away. Konami couldn't stop there, though. Castlevania's next gen title is supposed to be a show stopper itself. Sony will prove that they can hang with the big boys. Gran Turismo 4 will be there, and I can't wait. Another SCE game that will knock my socks off will be Jak II: Renegade, where Naughty Dog looks to evolve the character action genre. Don't forget about where the PS2 really shines: RPGs. Final Fantasy could be a HUGE presence with X-2, XI, and XII. What else will make the grade? Another SCE published title...ICO2 to be exact. Expect a lot more, too. (like a new GTA title).

[DarkMaster]

Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

Oh hell yes, without a doubt. As far as I can remember, E3 has never truly disappointed, and there's so many things that could be shown this year....can't wait.

Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

IMO, I'm thinking PS2 will be the best, for one reason mostly: great RPGs. You may not have noticed this, but I am somewhat fond of RPGs :D I just know Square is going to amaze me. Games like Final Fantasy X-2, XI, XII, Kingdom Hearts 2 (hopefully), Unlimited Saga (you never know...), Chrono 3 (!!!!!!!). Not to mention RPGs from some other great developers, Star Ocean 3 (Enix), .Hack (Bandai), and Arc the Lad (Arc Entertainment). But RPGs aren't the only thing I look forward to seeing. Jak and Daxter 2, ICO2, Castlevania, and possibly MGS3.

For Xbox, I have to admit I haven't been keeping track of it a whole lot. But, from what I know, it should have an excellent lineup. Fable is what I'm looking forward too most of all, that game could be what gets me to finally buy an Xbox. I'm also looking forward to seeing B.C., Halo 2, something from Rare, and True Fantasy Online.

GameCube could or could not be great. Nintendo is always so damn secretive when it comes to things like this, so I really don't no what to expect. I hope to see some kind of new Mario game. Mario Kart would be great, as well as a GOOD 3D Donkey Kong game. Resident Evil 4 should be there, along with Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles, both look awesome. I'd have to say my least hype is with GCN this year, but only because I really don't know what to expect. I hope Nintendo can wow us.

Which development team will wow us the most?

Hard question. The development team that will be showing the most games that I am interested in, is Square. But that could change if Square decides not to show much or if some other company out does them in terms of games that I would like. It will be interesting to say the least.

Will you fall under the spell of the media?

I should hope not. We'll just have to see what happens.

[Crono]

Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?
Yeah, definitely. Nearly every E3 is huge, and as far as I can remember, none have really been disappointing. There is always surprises and cool game footage.

Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?
I would say PS2 on personal reasons (RPGs), but on a larger view... I would say it's a tie between PS2 and Xbox. PS2 has big hitters like Jak 2, Silent Hill 3, Castlevania, MGS3 probably, GT4, most likely the next GTA game, I would expect Onimusha 3 to be there, Final Fantasy X-2, Final Fantasy XI, Final Fantasy XII, Star Ocean 3, and tons more. Then there's Xbox... very impressive. Halo 2, Fable, B.C., True Fantasy Live, whatever Rare has planned (I heard they had three games in development), and more.

GCN has a strong lineup, with games such as Mario 128, Mario Kart, Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles, Harvest Moon AWL, Resident Evil 4, and a few others... but IMO it doesn't relly stand up to PS2 and Xbox.

Which development team will wow us the most?
Hmm. You know, if Konami would announce something to do with Suikoden (re-stock Suikoden 1, fix the small problems Suikoden 2 has and re-stock that too, or something like that), then that would easily make my day. Alos because of MGS3, Castlevania, Silent Hill 3, and I'd like to see how that Ninja Turtles game turns out, so Konami could easily put out the biggest show.

Although, second would be Square/Enix. FF11, FFX-2, FF12, Star Ocean 3, Drag-On Dragoon, Unlimited Saga, plus let's hope for Kingdom Hearts 2 and Chrono 3. I would say Square/Enix, but there doesn't seem to be much variety there, even though I love RPGs.

Will you fall under the spell of the media?
Hmm... seeing as I do nothing but play games and go on my PC... I would say yes.

[TheGame]

Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

Bigger than last year? Maybe, bigger than Next Year? Doubtful. The best of the best E3's introduce new consoles. So unless one shows up I don't expect it to be mind blowing.

Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

They all have somthing big coming... fans of each console shall be happy. But personally I say Xbox or Ps2. GCN got no Sega sports, and the big three games I look for aren't going to be there (Mario, Zelda, and *cough* the next Rare FPS :p)

Which development team will wow us the most?

Nintendo or EA will most likely have the most blockbuster announcements. As far as finished games I dunno.

Will you fall under the spell of the media?

Most likely

[DarkMaster]

Originally posted by TheGame
The best of the best E3's introduce new consoles. So unless one shows up I don't expect it to be mind blowing.
whoopdie crap about consoles, the best E3's are the ones that show the best games. Wouldn't you agree?

[Joeiss]

No way man... When they preview a new console, there is so much hype and excitement.... Good good stuff.

[DarkMaster]

yeah, I agree its exciting when a new console debuts. But I much prefer to see some new awesome games than a new console premier.

but meh, either way

[CrOnO_LiNk]

Stu, sorry to say this but, there won't be another ICO game, not at E3 and not anytime soon. I know, it sucks.

Here (http://www.gamesarefun.com/cgi-bin/newspro/fullnews.cgi?newsid1050166935,31892,) you go... Yeah, it sucks.

And E3 will hit big this year, I might even try to sneak in, I am 17 and live 10 very close to the Staple's Center... But it's too expensive. But I'll tell you what, if I do go (small chance), I'll take some pics and upload them here for you guys... Might not make a difference but whatever, I'll try to give you brief impressions. I am sure I can use my brother's ID...

[bobcat]

-Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

Hell yeh


-Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

]Ps2
Biggest showing? Well I'm looking forward to MGS3, but atm it's not one of my "must have" game due to playing MGS2 and not enjoying it all so much. FFX-2 I wanna c, and anything else Squarelike. JAK II sounds good.


A great breakfast to start the day off

Xbox

Xbox is gonna have Fable? And some Rare showstoppers I hope. So I'm interested to see what they have. Then Halo 2 I can't wait for.

Halo 2 + Fable + Rare Side dishes = sweet dessert

GCN

Now for the main course.

Hopefully we'll c:-

*Mario Kart
* Mario 128
* Mario Golf/tennis
* FF:CC
* Too Human/Silicon Knights games
* Retro game?? I loved Metroid, maybe even as much as Zelda (well maybe a tad bit less).

-Which development team will wow us the most? Hmm maybe Silicon Knights/Retro/Nintendo/Bungee/Rare/Developer of Fable.

-Will you fall under the spell of the media? NEVER!!!!! Well I'll try my best

--Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

I think so.

--Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

I don't think any system will stand out as a poor show or as a lame comparison to others. Should be a good show.

[GamingWorldJoe]

Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

You bet. With Nintendo and Microsoft practically neck in neck, I suspect both companies will pull out all the big guns at this year's show. Besides- E3 is always big for gamers.

Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

Hard to say. I think Microsoft will probably come out looking the best. I'm sure they'll be showcasing Rare, but maybe Nintendo will whip out some brand new killer franchises.

Which development team will wow us the most?

ID Software! Doom 3 is my most anticipated game of all time... I can't wait.

Will you fall under the spell of the media?
Fall under my own spell? ;)




As for the 17 year old who wants to sneak in... that'd be really tough. Not only do you have to be 18, but also part of the Interactive Entertainment Industry. Literally sneaking in would be impossible; there are badge checkpoints at every entrance. The badges would be tough to fake; they have blacklight sections that light up.

[CrOnO_LiNk]

Originally posted by GamingWorldJoe
Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

You bet. With Nintendo and Microsoft practically neck in neck, I suspect both companies will pull out all the big guns at this year's show. Besides- E3 is always big for gamers.

Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

Hard to say. I think Microsoft will probably come out looking the best. I'm sure they'll be showcasing Rare, but maybe Nintendo will whip out some brand new killer franchises.

Which development team will wow us the most?

ID Software! Doom 3 is my most anticipated game of all time... I can't wait.

Will you fall under the spell of the media?
Fall under my own spell? ;)




As for the 17 year old who wants to sneak in... that'd be really tough. Not only do you have to be 18, but also part of the Interactive Entertainment Industry. Literally sneaking in would be impossible; there are badge checkpoints at every entrance. The badges would be tough to fake; they have blacklight sections that light up.

Yeah, that's true, I know. I saw all the heavy security last year at E3. But me and my brother look alike. He is 2 years older than me and our faces are a bit alike... But I don't want to risk it, besides, it's just way too damn expensive.

I'll just watch it online I guess. But next year... I'll be 18 and have the money for it. Going to see E3 and experiencing something new in your life is worth... Hmmm...

[PuPPeT]

Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?
Hell yea after 3 years of new consoles dominating E3 it’s about time the show got back to basics! THE GAMES.


Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?
I Think like a lot of you have said it comes down to what type of games you like playing, Me myself I like arcade and first person shooter games with a few high quality RPG’s thought I now like to play MMPORPG more. So with Xbox live and so many PC FPS coming to Xbox it has to be the one for me.

Which development team will wow us the most?
I don’t really think any one can tell this one. There are going to be so many new games we have not seen yet I just would not like to see. On a side note I think for a lot of people the WoW factor almost always comes from graphics at E3 which is not the signes of a good game.

Will you fall under the spell of the media?
Yep I think most people will, If your not that you can’t really see things for your self I have in the past gone to E3 and no reporter could ever really say what’s it like.

So yea as I’m not going this year I really must go by what they say.

[Dyne]

Have people forgotten about the video game concert at the Hollywood Bowl this year already? I think that will be a major highlight. :D

[TheGame]

Originally posted by DarkMaster
yeah, I agree its exciting when a new console debuts. But I much prefer to see some new awesome games than a new console premier.

but meh, either way

Well, games are very important, but not really blockbuster... the SW200 Zelda demo was blockbuster, of course it never ended up coming out that way, but whatcha gonna do :p

I say great "previews" of games do make for great E3s, but somtimes games get mega hype, but end up being average games (mostly at Nintendo's camp)...

I would call E3 blockbuster if two new consoles are uncoverd, over about any combination games that could be announced or comfirmed.

[Canyarion]

GC:
3DO

Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Jacked, SRS.

Blizzard

Starcraft: Ghost.

Capcom

Dead Phoenix, Killer 7, Product Number 0.3, Resident Evil 4, Viewtiful Joe, Surprise Title.

Electronic Arts

Madden NFL 2004, NASCAR Thunder 2004, NCAA College Football 2004.

Midway

ESPionage, SpyHunter 2, NFL Blitz: Pro, NHL Hitz: Pro.

Namco

Baten Kaitos, I-Ninja, R: Racing Evolution, Soul Calibur II, Tales of Symphonia.

Nintendo

F-Zero GC, "Game Zero", Kirby's Air Ride, Mario Golf, Mario Kart, Mario Tennis, Pikmin 2, Pokèmon, Unannounced Silicon Knights Title, Star Fox Armada.

SEGA

Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg, Sonic Adventure DX.

THQ

Disney's Pixar Finding Nemo, Tak and the Power of Juju, Sphinx and the Shadow of Set, WWE Wrestlemania XIX.


source (http://www.cube-europe.com/news.php?nid=4066) not sure where C-E got it from... :confused:

[GameKinG]

-Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

I sure hope so. From my own speculations, and if most of the games that I think will be there are, then yeah.

-Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

I hate to choose, I being a Nintendo owner and for now a Gamecube only owner dont really care much about what the other are showing. So from my stance it will be Nintendo, unless they really dissapoint. XBox looks like it could have a good year too.

-Which development team will wow us the most?

Nintendo of course! They better.

-Will you fall under the spell of the media? (___ says ____ is teh roxxorz, so it must be!!!)

Likely, Ill take every word in.

[Shadow Fox]

Will this year's E3 be a big one for gamers?

Yes, but not nearly as big as E3 2001, or E3 2000 (the first playable unvielings of Xbox/GCN, and PS2 respectively). E3's are always bigger with new hardware around, and no, that dammned Phantom doesn't count.

Which system will have the biggest showing? Which one(s) will look pale in comparison?

Contrary to popular belief here, I DON'T think RPG's will make any one system have a more bigger showing than another (as has proved with recent E3's). I personally think PS2's E3 will be the best because of all the RPG's announced and/or playable, but we all know it takes that Halo/Rogue Leader/Metroid Prime/Grand Theft Auto stunner to make a mudhole impression at E3, and that's what it will take this year.

Honestly, I believe Xbox will have a more impressive showing this year based on Rare alone. If Kameo is anything like the GCN version, it will wow onlookers, and even video trailers of possible-but-not-official Rare games will cause more to drool. Combine this with playable Doom 3, Halo 2 anything (they could just be bobbleheads and they'd still bring hype), the first potentially successful exclusive Xbox RPG's (True Fantasy Live, Fable, KOTOR), and you've got enough hype there to wow even the most jaded Xbox owner (yes, even me).

PS2 will, as always, promote stuff not made by SCEJ/SCEA, and Naughty Dog/Insomniac's sequels will more or less dominate crowds in the Sony booth, except for the occaisional FFXII fan that hasn't the slightest that the game may be multiplatform (as FFXI already is). True, FFX-2 or X-3 may wow attendees, but Sony won't boast them nearly as much as they have in the past, and this could finally result to a less-than-stellar outing for Square. I also expect alot less online announcements (since only Capcom and EA seem to support it rather religiously as far as announcements are concerned), while they quietly phase it out until they come up with a good way to make FFXI sell in the states considering EverQuest Online Adventures all but succeeded. Then of course, there's this lass named Lara Croft...

Nintendo will have a few surprises, namely whether or not Mario Kart will indeed be a LAN based game (I see dozens of Gamespy Arcade hacks already materializing at the thought of an ethernet-based Nintendo game not online). Then there's the sequel list- Animal Crossing 2, Pikmin 2, Metroid Prime 2, Mario 128, The Next-Next Zelda, Donkey Kong, Wario, 1080 and Pokemon. GBA stuff, Too Human and other M-rated games, Killer 7, PN03, RE4, and whether or not Madden 2004 will be online as a plus to GBA linkup will be the talk of Nintendo town this year, as well as the rumored 64-bit successor to the GBA running on miniature optical discs...:rolleyes:

Which development team will wow us the most?

Depends on which games will be there...in a perfect world without delays/no-shows:

-Nintendo for Mario Kart Online
-Silicon Knights for Too Human
-LionHead Studios for Fable/BC
-Square/Enix for DragonQuest 9/Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles Episodes/Final Fantasy XII
-EA for Madden 2004 GCN Online
-id Software for Doom 3-period
-Retro Studios for Metroid Prime 2 and a ressurrected Raven Blade

Will you fall under the spell of the media?

Yes, provided that the above perfect world exists in any respects during E3 and they cover it.;)

-Official Ninja of [coming soon]...

[GameKinG]

I hope Retro has something to show, cause I dont think MP2 will be there, or if it is, be all that impressive in early stages.