Phantasy Star Online and the occasional odd Final Fantasy out aside, MMOs on a console have been a tricky proposition up until now. Well, no, they still are, but a Sony exec says they’ll probably try to shoehorn them on Sony’s upcoming NGP handheld anyway. Attention-grabbing claims whose likely goal is to get MMOs and the NGP linked in the minds of the public? Definitely. Intriguing glimpse of the future? That as well.
“With the console, we’re selling to an audience that already has the PS3 obviously – and by the way not the just the PS3, but in the future I can see other devices. Sony’s announced the NGP, and if that isn’t a perfect machine for doing MMOs on, then I don’t know what is,” according to Sony Online Entertainment head honcho John Smedley. Um, something with a screen that can accommodate about a billion potion and skill shortcuts maybe? Unless of course, you mean perfect for Free Realms.
The Challenges of MMOs on Consoles
The history of MMOs on consoles has been fraught with challenges. Unlike PCs, consoles traditionally lack the extensive input options and flexibility required for the complex interfaces of MMOs. For instance, managing multiple skill bars, inventory slots, and chat windows can be cumbersome on a standard game controller. This has led to a limited number of successful MMO implementations on consoles. Games like “Phantasy Star Online” and “Final Fantasy XI” have made notable attempts, but they often required significant compromises in gameplay mechanics or user interface design.
Moreover, the social aspect of MMOs, which often involves extensive typing and communication, is another hurdle. While voice chat can mitigate some of these issues, it doesn’t fully replace the need for quick and efficient text communication. These challenges have made developers cautious about bringing MMOs to consoles, despite the growing popularity of these games.
Why the NGP Could Be a Game-Changer
Sony’s Next Generation Portable (NGP), later known as the PlayStation Vita, promises to address some of these challenges. The NGP boasts a range of features that could make it more suitable for MMOs than previous consoles. For starters, it includes a touchscreen, which can provide a more intuitive interface for managing complex game mechanics. Players could easily tap on icons to use skills or manage their inventory, similar to how they would on a PC.
Additionally, the NGP’s connectivity options are a significant advantage. With built-in Wi-Fi and 3G capabilities, players can stay connected to their MMOs wherever they go. This level of connectivity is crucial for MMOs, which rely on a persistent online world. The NGP also supports cross-platform play, allowing players to interact with others on different devices, including PCs and other consoles. This could help bridge the gap between console and PC MMO communities.
Another promising feature is the NGP’s dual analog sticks, which offer more precise control compared to the single analog stick found on previous handheld consoles. This can enhance the gameplay experience, making it easier to navigate the game world and engage in combat. The NGP’s powerful hardware also means it can handle more graphically intensive games, bringing console-quality MMOs to a handheld device.
Potential MMOs for the NGP
Given these features, several MMOs could potentially thrive on the NGP. “Free Realms,” mentioned by John Smedley, is a prime candidate. Its casual, family-friendly gameplay and simplified mechanics make it well-suited for a handheld device. Another possibility is “DC Universe Online,” which already has a presence on the PS3. The game’s action-oriented combat and streamlined interface could translate well to the NGP’s controls and touchscreen.
Furthermore, the NGP could open the door for new, innovative MMOs designed specifically for handheld play. Developers could experiment with gameplay mechanics that take advantage of the NGP’s unique features, such as augmented reality or location-based gameplay. This could lead to a new wave of MMOs that offer fresh experiences and attract a broader audience.
In conclusion, while MMOs on consoles have historically been a tricky proposition, the NGP holds promise for changing that narrative. With its advanced features and connectivity options, it could provide a more suitable platform for these complex and socially-driven games. Whether through existing titles like “Free Realms” or new, innovative MMOs, the NGP could play a significant role in the future of handheld gaming.
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