Features

PS3 - High definition gaming!

Who's it best for?

Like the Xbox, the PS3 has a reputation for being a serious gamer's console. However, this is an image that Sony has been working hard to dismiss, with the arrival of a slew of games that can be enjoyed by both children and adults alike. These include: LittleBigPlanet, Ratchet and Clank, LEGO Star Wars, LEGO Indiana Jones, LEGO Batman and more.

Something for the kids
The arrival of PlayStation's innovative and exclusive accessory - the PlayStation Eye - will open the door to a whole raft of exciting, quirky and interactive new games that will appeal to younger audiences.

For now, the core of PS3's audience is still the hardcore gamer. And with its brilliant High Definition functionality, it's a gadget lovers dream too.

Best Bits

High definition graphics and integrated Blu-ray Player
With its state of the art Cell Broadband Engine and built in Blu-ray Player, you can look forward to crystal clear Blu-ray movies and cutting-edge High Definition games. Simply connect your PlayStation 3 to a High Definition TV and enjoy your games, movies and photos in the best resolution today's technology can offer - 1080p.

Note: to experience the PS3's full graphics potential you will need a HD ready TV.

Built in hard drive
The PS3 comes with a built in hard drive, so you don't have to worry about purchasing additional memory cards for downloading Blu-ray movies or games.

PSP connectivity
PlayStation is unique in that it has a home console and a pocket-sized portable console called the PSP (PlayStation Portable). What makes this exciting is that the PS3 can connect with the PSP in many ways - including Remote Play which means you can access the games stored on your PS3 from anywhere in the world. Even on top of a mountain, if you so desire, (as long as there's a wireless reception).

Longevity
The PS3 is considered by many to be a more robust and reliable machine.

Worst Bits

Some would say the PS3 has a smaller games library than the Xbox. Others would say it's simply a case of quality over quantity. You decide.

Bonus Extras

The sound of silence
The PS3 is the quietest console on the market - a small but important detail that serious gamers will appreciate. Less distraction and more atmosphere during those late night zombie romps.

PSP / Remote Connectivity
As well as Remote Play, which allows you to access the games, videos, photos and music stored on your PS3 from anywhere in the world, PlayStation brings you Play TV.

With Play TV you can watch, pause and record live TV from a huge range of free channels using your PlayStation 3. You can even set recordings, and watch live and recorded TV programmes remotely on your PSP.

PS3 Home is another fun feature which allows you to a create 3D avatar of yourself and use that to walk through a virtual world with cinemas and bowling alleys etc. Users can decorate their avatar's personal apartment ("HomeSpace") with default, bought, or won items. Users can travel throughout the Home world (except cross region) which is constantly updated by Sony and partners. Interact with friends on a different level - a 3D level - reach out and touch each other level.

Plus, plus, plus...
The PlayStation 3 provides an endless array of multimedia activities, all without even inserting a game. It gives you unprecedented control, access and enjoyment of a full range of digital media including music, photos, video and internet content.

Online Features

PlayStation Network (PSN)
PlayStation Network (PSN) is PlayStation's FREE online service (broadband required). PSN is an interactive environment where you can play online games, chat to friends and family around the world and surf the web - all for free. Play online and you'll always find someone in the world to compete against! How will you compare with the world's best?

Free games
Looking for a new game? Browse the PlayStationStore. As well as games (many of which are FREE) you'll find demos, trailers and more.

Keep in touch via PSN
Keep in touch with friends and family all over the world via text, voice or video chat using a PlayStation Eye camera. It's free, easy and fun.

Or sit back and surf the Internet from your sofa via the built-in browser.

What do you need to get online?
You will need a broadband connection, an ethernet cord or wireless router and, of course, a PS3.

Buying games online:
Purchase games online using PSN cards which can be purchased through your console or in your local GAME store.

Essential Accessories

PlayStation Eye Camera
The most exciting new accessory available on PlayStation 3 is the PlayStation Eye.

The PlayStation Eye camera (also known as Eye Toy) allows you to truly become part of the game by projecting your image onto the TV screen. Using your own body movements, you can interact with objects in the game. In fact, you don't need a controller at all.

The EyeToy device itself is a small web cam that you set up and place near your television or monitor. Players then see themselves projected onto the screen. Instead of the standard controller interface, you can interact with games using your own body movements such as moving your arms and legs. Very Matrix.

Games that use the PlayStation Eye camera include:

• Operation Creature Feature, in which you have to guide hapless creatures called Blurbs around a series of tricky mazes;
• The Trials of Topoq, a fun and innovative series of interactive puzzles;
• Aqua Vita, a soothing interactive art experience that turns your TV into a virtual aquarium
• and EyePet, a virtual pet that reacts to your every move, providing entertainment and fun for the whole family.

DUALSHOCK3 Wireless Controller
The Wireless Controller uses Bluetooth technology and allows up to seven controllers to connect to the system wirelessly. No more tangled wires during multiplayer matches!

The controller is also motion-sensitive, detecting movement through six axes. Imagine a flying game where you simply tilt your controller left to turn left or a puzzle game where you can control the tilt and angle of a maze.

Games

You may be forgiven for thinking that the PS3 caters for serious gamers... because it does. But that's not the whole story! A quick look and you'll soon find an exciting range of games that the whole family can get stuck into.

Summary

With more graphical grunt than its competitors and a built-in Blu-Ray drive, PS3 is the ultimate set-top box and a fave of high-end gadget lovers everywhere. The system's online service is free, and the console plays host to a range of games to suit everyone.