Finally, the PS4’s menacing-looking box has been revealed. More importantly, however, Sony clearly aimed for the Xbox One‘s throat during its E3 press conference — especially with software, services and a cheaper retail price. Alongside a friendly policy toward used games and epic title reveals for the PS4, Sony introduced a new PS3 bundle for the fall and more. Get you fix of all the stories from the event by clicking past the break for our full roundup.
Follow all of our E3 2013 coverage at our event hub.
Alienware has already designed its competitor in the gaming tablet market, but don’t expect to see the slate near shelves any time soon: unlike rivals, the company just isn’t convinced the hardware is ready for primetime. While the aesthetic of the tablet – to match the new Alienware 14, 17, and 18 – has been settled
Blackberry has announced an update to the Facebook app for Blackberry 10, bringing it up to version 10.2.0 and, according to the announcement, offering a combination of new features and a changed up design. Blackberry promises this new update makes the app the best it has been yet, which you can find out for yourself
At tonight’s pre-E3 press conference, Sony finally showed off the physical hardware for the PS4. Sure, we already know a whole lot about the next-gen PlayStation’s specs and capabilities, but it’s always nice to have a piece of actual hardware to ogle.
Compared to the black box that is Microsoft’s Xbox One, Sony’s black box has a little more character, with sloping lines when viewed from the side. It can also be set on a flat surface or stood up vertically.
It’s got two front-mounted USB ports, and the back of the console has only an HDMI out, digital optical out, Ethernet, and an Aux connector, which is presumably used for the PlayStation Eye/Move camera accessory (which is unclear if it is or isn’t included in the base price.)
In addition to showing off its hardware, Sony spent a little time addressing the media aspects of the PS4. Obviously, the system will have access to Sony’s extensive collection of music, movies and television programming for download or rental. In addition, they will be offering subscription-based streamed music and video services.
Of course as Sony reiterated tonight, it’s all about the games and they stated that they have over 30 PS4 titles currently in development within their own studios, with 20 launching within the first year. 12 of these titles are brand new IP. Including 3rd party developers, Sony says that over 150 games are already in development for PS4, with 100 titles due within one year of launch.
One of the most controversial aspects of the Xbox One is its complicated policies on rentals and lending games. Well, you’ll be thrilled to know that Sony has no such plans for the PS4. They confirmed tonight that the console will fully support selling and loaning out disc-based games, and there is no online requirement for disc-based games either (except for online play, of course.) This announcement resulted in the very first standing ovation of E3 2013. Take that, Microsoft!
Also of note is that existing PlayStation Plus memberships will carry over to PS4, meaning that a single membership will cover PS4, PS3 and PS Vita. In addition, PS4 members will get access to their own Instant Game Collection, which includes Driveclub PS Plus edition at launch, plus one free title each month.
Sony didn’t talk too much about its cloud-based gaming features it acquired from Gaikai, but did say it won’t be ready until 2014, and will offer PS4 and PS3 users access to a library of “critically-acclaimed” PS3 games – so you’ll get at least minimal backwards compatibility this way. PS Vita users will be able to take advantage of the service down the road as well.
Of course, the big shocker of the night was that Sony announced that the PS4 will sell for a full $100 less than the Xbox One. At launch this holiday season, the PS4 will sell for $399(USD), €399(EUR), and £349(UK). Despite having announced some pretty great looking games earlier, it looks like Microsoft is going to have a tall hill to climb against the PS4.
After several years of flying around Asia for tourism and business we decided to give our summary of the best airports in the region.
1. Changi International Airport- Singapore
Asia’s most convenient airport; connect to downtown Singapore by MRT or taxi in less than 30 minutes.
An awesome place to stay in transit with plenty of places to eat, chill out and shop with the option of easily exploring the city-state if you have more time. Clean, calm and comfortable with three well designed terminals that let you experience the charms of the Garden City.
Whether or not Singapore was the destination or just a stop over we are always happy to fly in and out of Changi.
2. Incheon International Airport- South Korea
Less than an hour to central Seoul by train, getting to and from Incheon Airport is cheap and easy. Shuttle buses and taxis also provide affordable alternatives.
For those visiting Seoul for business or contacting friends, consider renting a phone from the Airport to use during your trip, prices are very reasonable and it takes no time to apply (took me less than 5 minutes!).
If you have some time, energy and Won to spare, take out your pre-flight stress at the driving range or 72-hole golf course, spin around at the ice rink or catch the latest Korean blockbuster at the CGV movie theatre.
If you’re stuck in transit then also check out the airport sauna and spa; open 24 hours a day where you can forget about your long stop-over and flight delay.
Incheon Airport ensures that any trip to Seoul begins and ends in style.
3. Hong Kong International Airport- China
Asia’s second most convenient airport; get to central Hong Kong by express train in 25 minutes, alternatively take a shuttle bus or taxi which will deliver you to any destination in the SAR in less than an hour.
The most scenic airport in Asia! Located on Hong Kong’s largest island, Lantau the airport’s location makes take off and landing feel like taking an aerial cruise (just be lucky with the weather).
Lantau Island is also home to the Asia Expo Exhibition Centre, Hong Kong Disney Land, Tai O fishing village and the Ngong Ping 360 Cable car experience which takes you to the famous Big Buddha statue. These attractions can be easily accessed from the airport and are a great way to spend several hours in transit.
Gateway to China; various buses and ferry routes also connect you easily from the airport to Macau and Mainland China, meaning that you can make Hong Kong part of your greater China experience.
We hope you enjoy flying in and out of these awesome Asian airports as much as we did!
This is site is run by Sascha Endlicher, M.A., during ungodly late night hours. Wanna know more about him? Connect via Social Media by jumping to about.me/sascha.endlicher.
