Game Reviews Index
The PlayStation 3 version of GTA IV, due out on April 29, has been priced 5 pounds higher than the 360, as confirmed by UK store, WHSmiths. Other retailers have indicated a price difference as well, but have not revealed the pricing structure, which apparently will be decided exclusively by Rockstar.
Many are upset over having to make a choice, protesting that it is history repeating itself, as with Devil May Cry 4, confused as to why it is justified to charge more for the PS3 version.
While it may seem like a few extra bucks doesn’t really matter in the larger scheme of things, there is speculation that price differentials between the two actually points to technical issues, which could prove to matter, to some gamers. For example, the experience of the game could be affected by the reportedly ’’warmer’’ colors (i.e., less textures and washed colors) for the PS3 version. It has also been reported that the quality of the PS3 version is better, due to the fact that all the information in the 360 version is compressed. Of course, there may even be more technical differences between the two, as well.
Perhaps the price difference is because of the Blu-Ray Discs (BD), as some speculate. However, BD printing costs shouldn’t really have a lot to do with it. Even though it is more costly to manufacture than a DVD, a game like GTA: IV would conceivably be able to absorb that differential. Another reason could be the 360 install base allowing for more software to be sold, or costs associated with the $50m that Microsoft paid Rockstar. As Rockstar has been known to indicate, those who really want the full experience of GTA IV should get the 360 version. Real GTA fans actually PLAY the missions, and will want the exclusive content. Those who buy the PS3 version are most likely devout Sony fans. Anyone who is not particularly brand-loyal will probably buy the version with the most content.
However, some insist that based upon competition, particularly online, the whole point will be moot anyway, because it is possible to find each of the versions at the same price such as Amazon.co.uk offering both versions for 34.99 pounds.
While many were certain that they would choose the Xbox version, now that a price disparity has been reported, many will wait and see what the reviews say, before making a final decision.
Most seem to agree, however, that the 360 version will be a better bet overall, with better frame rates. There is a danger, however, with waiting, since there is a great chance that the Xbox version will sell out. Whether or not the PS3 version proves to be a disappointment for GTA fans remains to be seen.
Many are upset over having to make a choice, protesting that it is history repeating itself, as with Devil May Cry 4, confused as to why it is justified to charge more for the PS3 version.
While it may seem like a few extra bucks doesn’t really matter in the larger scheme of things, there is speculation that price differentials between the two actually points to technical issues, which could prove to matter, to some gamers. For example, the experience of the game could be affected by the reportedly ’’warmer’’ colors (i.e., less textures and washed colors) for the PS3 version. It has also been reported that the quality of the PS3 version is better, due to the fact that all the information in the 360 version is compressed. Of course, there may even be more technical differences between the two, as well.
Perhaps the price difference is because of the Blu-Ray Discs (BD), as some speculate. However, BD printing costs shouldn’t really have a lot to do with it. Even though it is more costly to manufacture than a DVD, a game like GTA: IV would conceivably be able to absorb that differential. Another reason could be the 360 install base allowing for more software to be sold, or costs associated with the $50m that Microsoft paid Rockstar. As Rockstar has been known to indicate, those who really want the full experience of GTA IV should get the 360 version. Real GTA fans actually PLAY the missions, and will want the exclusive content. Those who buy the PS3 version are most likely devout Sony fans. Anyone who is not particularly brand-loyal will probably buy the version with the most content.
However, some insist that based upon competition, particularly online, the whole point will be moot anyway, because it is possible to find each of the versions at the same price such as Amazon.co.uk offering both versions for 34.99 pounds.
While many were certain that they would choose the Xbox version, now that a price disparity has been reported, many will wait and see what the reviews say, before making a final decision.
Most seem to agree, however, that the 360 version will be a better bet overall, with better frame rates. There is a danger, however, with waiting, since there is a great chance that the Xbox version will sell out. Whether or not the PS3 version proves to be a disappointment for GTA fans remains to be seen.
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