5 Reasons To Not Hate 3D With Sony's 3D Display

Image via Complex Original

by Chad Hunter

Stereoscopy was big back in the 1980’s and it seems to have come back. Three-dimensional (3D)  viewing has found its way once again into big theatre releases and now video gaming. 

With big games carrying the enhanced viewing emblem, players have found themselves at a loss – most home televisions were bought before the 3D revolution as of late. 

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCE) has come up with a proposed solution – the official Sony 3D display 24” LED screen with full HD 1080p. 

With a price tag of $499, there are about five hundred reasons to not make the purchase.  However, are there any reasons to buy Sony’s solution?  Yes, there are a solid five.

5. 3D Display and Multiplayer support

Finally, the fifth reason to not hate 3D with Sony’s 3D Display is that it actually works and it works with your friends.  The games pop when set up properly with the device. Be aware that the 3D setting may need to be activated despite instructions stating automatic detection.

The 3D Display works with special stereoscopic glasses that are far better than the plastic red and green glasses passed out at movies.

The glasses are powered and have a shutter feature to prevent ghosting effects while playing. Add another set of glasses to the mix and you now have the ability to bring a buddy in to play. With the design of the display, the 24-inches do not become a battle for small viewing space. There is a special 3D setting for side-by-side two player enjoyment and it performed very well during the review.

Each player is given their own full HD screen while playing co-op or head-to-head. While Uncharted faired okay in 3D, Resistance 3 and Killzone 3 put some serious depth into playing. The Chimera and Helghast easily will make their way into your living room.

4. HD media by connecting to a PC or cable TV box

The display can also be used on other devices like personal computers, laptops or televisions. If a device can use HDMI, the 1080p display can serve as an external monitor.

That feature alone helps swallow the price tag.  Most LCDs of this resolution will run in anywhere from $200 to nearly $400. While not tested at the time of this review, Apple devices could possibly utilize this display.

With an HDMI adapter, it may be a great experience connecting one’s iPad to 24-inches of gaming, email and apps.

3. Games available for 3D are games you want

Typically when releases hit the shelves in accordance with hardware advancements, they are not games players are lining up for. New controllers come out, the line-up released for them are lackluster, ill-conceived and rushed. 

But with the Sony 3D movement and its display, big names are supporting the software and hardware.  Resistance 3, Killzone 3 and Uncharted 3 (perhaps there is something to be said for trilogies and 3D) are great by themselves but with the new display, they literally jump out.

The depth of battlefields to your rifle in Killzone 3 is realistic.  You feel the background as if it was in front of you rather than matted with your character.  When Hybrids in Resistance 3 leap at you, you will flinch. 

2. Built-in speakers and subwoofer for enhanced audio

While most LCDs have built-in speakers, many gamers will seek out surround and enhanced sound.  An additional purchase of more audio will easily run into hundreds of dollars just to get that convincing sound of an alien attack or whizzing bullets. 

At 24-inches, most would expect weak and tinny sounds coming from the front-set speakers.  However, the LCD’s built-in speakers are hearty and fulfilling. Add into this mix the Sony Wireless Stereo Headset and you’ll have a great gaming experience.

1. It’s a 24”inch screen with full HD 1080p

The ultraslim display is beautiful plain and simple. The colors are lush and brilliant. On a game such as Motorstorm: Apocalypse, the colors for the bikes and the shades of dirt come alive. Ruins of Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception are lined with lush moss and vegetation. 

Why is this reason #1?  Because the display is not only a 3D gaming tool but also another TV that will allow for watching CDs, DVDs, etc. With a resolution of 1080p, expect to see graphics and images sharp, crisp and as lifelike as possible.  Add in the included HDMI cable and enjoy 24-inches of high definition clarity. 

There they are - five reasons to go out and drop almost $500 on the growing wave of 3D gaming technology.  Is it necessary? Far from it. Games stamped with the 3D emblem play fine in normal viewing. 

However, this is a piece of hardware that can serve more functions than just third dimensional representation. Consider this an additional LCD in the house, connect multiple devices to it, sit back and enjoy. Only the future will tell if the enhanced gaming experience will catch on but it may prove that 3D is meant 2B after all.