Technology is evolving at a rapid pace, as game developers continue to discover innovative new means of enhancing the experience for the end-user. High-definition was once touted as the next big thing at the beginning of the seventh console generation. A higher level of on-screen detail paved the way for immersive experiences, not only for gaming but the entertainment industry in general. Now that it as become a standard affair, the newly commercialized stereoscopic 3D is seen as the technology that can potentially take gaming to the next level. While it has already made its mark in Hollywood, it remains to be seen if it can gain similar prominence in the gaming industry.
Stereoscopic 3D is still in its infancy; one that is plagued with various issues. Crosstalk, for instance, is an undesirable effect that produces ghosting or allows you to see a double image on certain objects. However, on the other end of the spectrum, there are notable examples of games that do a remarkable job of showcasing the technology with negligible unwanted effects.
Below is a list of games that are currently the benchmark of stereoscopic 3D. If you’ve just bought a 3DTV, or are looking for a reason to get one, you’re in the right place.
5. Sonic Generations (PS3/X360/PC)
Sonic Generations’ brisk pace and sense of speed makes it a rollercoaster ride in 3D. Powered by the Havok physics engine, the set-pieces make way for some crazy environmental destruction. Hence, when it comes to stereoscopic 3D, the game is a natural with plenty of startling ‘pop-out’ moments during each level. There is a bit of ghosting here and there at higher levels of depth, but you’d be hard-pressed to notice as you blaze past your surroundings at top speed.
4. Shadow of the Colossus (PS3)
Just one glance at one of those enormously towering Colossi coming towards you in 3D will be enough to make a believer out of you. Shadow of the Colossus makes some clever, yet subtle use of stereoscopy. The 3D effect isn’t too intruding, but at the same time it servers as a fabulous complement to an already immersive experience. Subtle hints of ‘pop-out’ can be seen from emerging rubble that Agro leaves behind, as he trots around the vast open landscape. However, as already mentioned, the real stars of the show are the Colossi, who are perfect stereoscopic renditions of their 2D selves.
3. Trine 2 (PC)
A two dimensional platformer with three dimensional assets is the perfect specimen for a stereoscopic 3D makeover. Trine 2 is a natural when it comes to 3D, and hence makes some fine use of its stationary viewpoint. Depth is made distinguishable across individual 2D planes, and you can evidently see the difference between objects that are nearer and those that are farther away. Ultimately, it goes a step beyond the ‘staring through a glass window’ effect, almost creating the impression of a real life aquarium at first sight. Truly a remarkable sight to behold!
2. Child of Eden (PS3)
What better game to make use of stereoscopic 3D than one that is all about conveying a highly immersive and surreal experience? Child of Eden is a trance music fan’s dream come true, and the addition of 3D puts it on steroids, literally. It takes augmented reality to the next level, with some of the most immersive and visually enticing convergence effects ever. The on-rail nature of gameplay is highly beneficial for stereoscopy, allowing the game to ramp up depth and convergence during specific moments of rapture.
1. Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception (PS3)
The definitive stereoscopic 3D experience! Uncharted 3 accomplishes and retains a very natural and believable sense of depth at all times. More importantly, however, when things get exciting and those Naughty Dog trademark set-pieces begin to kick in, they bring with them some crazy ‘pop-out’ and parallax effects. Particularly outstanding is the way in stereoscopic 3D is used to enhance elemental effects, such as fire, smoke, and water. The Chateau level, in particular, makes for a remarkable showcase of the game’s stereoscopic 3D effects. Unfortunately, the game drops to a lower resolution when running in 3D mode, but it still looks great and the 3D effects are well worth the sacrifice in image quality.
Honorable Mention: God of War: Ghost of Sparta (PS3)
Ghost of Sparta’s PSP roots allow it to retain pristine image quality in stereoscopic 3D on the PS3, given that it isn’t very taxing on the hardware. The vast landscapes are brought to life in 3D, and the now well-known ‘staring through a glass window’ effect that stereoscopy brings is implemented quite well. In terms of ‘pop-out’, Ghost of Sparta uses a more subtle approach. Smoke and other particles appear to fade out nearer to the screen, adding to the overall immersion.