3DTVs are currently too expensive for the average gamer's budget, and it's led to slow adoption rates on 3DTVs. But Sony, having a growing library of 3D-capable PS3 titles, hopes to bring 3D to gamers everywhere by introducing an affordable, PlayStation-branded 3D Display to the market this November.
Originally announced back at Sony's 2011 E3 press conference, the PlayStation 3 3D Display will retail for $499.99 and come with a pair of 3D glasses, built-in 3D emitter (this is normally a separate cost), an HDMI cable and a copy of the 3D-capable Motorstorm: Apocalypse. Anyone pre-ordering the game also gets a copy of Resistance 3, which is also a 3D game.
The 3D Display isn't just a good value because of the 3D, it's also an edge-lit LED display with a 240Hz refresh rate. But best of all is its patented SimulView feature. SimulView allows the 3D Display to send a different 3D image to two different player's 3D glasses, but through one screen. It works best with 2-player local multiplayer. The best way to explain it is that it's like split-screen, but without the split in the screen. See the diagram below for a better representation of the technology.
Honestly, I know this whole article sounds a little "salesy", but I promise you I'm not getting paid for talking highly about this 3D Display. Rather, I'm an early adopter of everything, and someone who bought a super pricey 3DTV. This 3D Display, while somewhat on the small side (24 inches), has more features—namely the SimulView—than my $4,000 Sony Bravia and a $3500 cheaper price tag. The SimulView is impressive, it comes with free glasses, and 3D games are finally getting good (like Uncharted 3).
For gamers at all interested in 3D games on the PS3, this display is worth putting on your holiday wish-list.