PlayStation 3
The PlayStation 3 (PS3) is a home video game console developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment. Released in several regions between November 2006 and March 2007, it is the successor to the PlayStation 2 and part of the PlayStation brand. Here's an in-depth look at this iconic console:
History and Development
- Announcement: The PS3 was first announced at the E3 2005 conference.
- Development: The development of the PS3 was led by Ken Kutaragi, known as the "Father of the PlayStation."
- Release: The console was released in Japan on November 11, 2006, followed by North America on November 17, 2006, Europe and Australia in March 2007, and other regions soon after.
Hardware
- Processor: The PS3 uses the Cell Broadband Engine (Cell BE), a complex and powerful multi-core processor designed in collaboration with IBM and Toshiba.
- Graphics: The graphics processing unit (GPU) is the RSX Reality Synthesizer, co-developed with NVIDIA.
- Storage: Initially, PS3 models came with hard disk drives ranging from 20GB to 60GB, later models offered up to 500GB.
- Other Features: It included a Blu-ray drive, HDMI output, Wi-Fi, and later models included a card reader and an additional USB port.
Software and Features
- Operating System: The PS3 runs on a custom OS based on FreeBSD, named XrossMediaBar (XMB).
- Backward Compatibility: Early models of the PS3 were backward compatible with PS2 and PS1 games, though this was later removed to cut costs.
- Online Service: The PS3 introduced PlayStation Network (PSN), which allowed for online gaming, digital distribution of games, and other media content.
- Media Capabilities: The console was designed with media in mind, supporting Blu-ray playback, streaming services, and photo viewing.
Sales and Legacy
- The PS3 had a rocky start due to its high initial price and complex architecture, but over time it gained a strong library of exclusive titles and improved its market position.
- By the end of its lifecycle, the PS3 sold over 87.4 million units worldwide, making it one of the best-selling consoles ever, though it did not outsell its predecessor, the PS2.
- Its influence on gaming includes the introduction of motion controllers with the PlayStation Move, and its online ecosystem set the stage for future PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 services.
References
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