PAX Prime is perhaps the largest video game expo in North America. This year, following the exciting news from E3, the next generation of consoles were present at the convention and anyone could get hands-on time with the new consoles and new games. Additionally, some pretty cool hardware, like the Oculus virtual reality machines, were available for demoing.
New Consoles
Both the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 were at PAX Prime this year, along with many different games. While the PlayStation 4 controller, the DUALSHOCK 4, feels the same as previous PlayStation controllers when held in hand, it does have a clickable touch pad on the front of the controller that hasn't really been used in any games so far. The Xbox One controller feels a bit smaller and lighter than the old Xbox controllers but plays well. As far as graphics and motion sensors go, it is still too early to say anything for certain.
Nintendo also managed to bring a new console to PAX Prime in the form of the Nintendo 2DS. The new handheld feels suprisingly good and sturdy in hand. It is definitely worthwhile considering if you do not already have a 3DS and want to play a 3DS game. The 2Ds will be coming out in October, at the same time as the new Pokemon X and Y.
The Next Next Gen?
It is very possible that the future of gaming lies in virtual reality. The Oculus Rift and the Virtuix Omni were both at PAX this year, presenting different ways that virtual reality might come to your living room. The Omni is a platform that lets you walk in real life and translates the movement into games. The Oculus Rift is a headset that goes over your eyes and tracks your head movements, allowing you to look around game worlds just by moving your head. Both technologies were very impressive. It makes us look forward to the future of gaming!
The Omni and Oculus Virtual Reality MachinesCourtesy of Virtuix
Have Your Say!
Are you excited for the next generation of gaming? Which console will you be focusing on? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
