Sony has confirmed that the next PlayStation 3 firmware update (3.30) will begin rolling out on June 10th in Japan, with an included update for 3D gaming. This 3D gaming update was already expected for a June release timeframe, but the date was unconfirmed until now.
Sony also announced plans to release another PS3 firmware update by the end of the year, which will include support for 3D Blu-ray Disc playback. Until then, only 3D gaming will be supported on the console.
The first 3 games to offer 3D on the PlayStation 3 will be Mr. Pain, Star Strike HD and Wipeout HD. "Mr. Pain" will require a 3D upgrade purchase of ¥300, while 3D updates for Star Strike HD and Wipeout HD will be offered for free to existing owners.
Other titles that will likely be released with 3D support in the future include: Motorstorm: Pacific Rift, Killzone 2, LittleBigPlanet, and Gran Turismo 5.
Sony has also announced a new promotion to coincide with the launch of 3D gaming on the PS3. The limited time promotion will start on June 10th and be open to people who purchase a new Sony Bravia 3D TV. Buyers will receive a code that may be redeemed for a free download of all the initial 3D game titles: Star Strike HD, Wipeout HD, Mr. Pain, plus an exclusive bonus of the Motorstorm 2 demo in 3D. Further details will be posted on the Sony Japan Bravia campaign website on June 1st.
As we mentioned in a previous article, 3D gaming on the PS3 will require some compromise, as it will be limited to 720p resolution and 30 Hz, compared to 60 Hz frames per second and 1080 in two dimensions. To the eye, games running in 30 Hz will appear as 30 frames per second. Even so, it's very exciting to see a free 3D upgrade coming for all PlayStation 3 console owners. We're looking forward to trying it out!
Image: vg247
