Toronto, Ontario, April 25, 2012 – Stereoscopic 3D (S-3D) games and displays have been pioneered by the innovations of manufacturers, technology enablers, and game publishers. Despite their success, the concepts of quality assurance, customer satisfaction, and enticing 3D experience are largely divided and inconsistent. For media, the lack of standardized 3D quality and performance benchmarking tools are equally challenging.
“As a tech journalist who has written articles about stereoscopic 3D hardware and software, I can say from firsthand experience that it’s a complex subject. I’ve seen credible websites post misinformation caused by a lack of understanding, and I think all journalists would benefit from a standardized and objective method of comparing these solutions,” said Don Woligroski, Senior Editor & Technology Reviewer.
The S-3D Gaming Alliance (S3DGA) is forming a Press Steering Team comprised of leading media and industry representatives to jointly define the methods for testing and reviewing 3D games, 3D displays, and related 3D products in a measurable and objective way. Subjective opinions and artistic choices will remain unaffected.
“The video game industry is rapidly changing with new forms of entertainment and new technology like stereoscopic 3D displays. Digital Extremes is at the cutting edge of this transformation, and groups such as S3DGA help us understand and assess the opportunities and challenges as we take our games to the next level. Digital Extremes is proud to be a member of The S-3D Gaming Alliance,” said Michael Schmalz, CEO of Digital Extremes and S3DGA’s newest member.
“Testing standards are a critical step in the evolution of stereoscopic 3D for gaming. With a clearly defined way of measuring 3D hardware and software, developers will be able to improve the quality of their games and players will be able to make informed decisions about what to buy,” according to Philip Harris, Group Technical Director at EA Sports (Electronic Arts Canada).
S3DGA’s consumer arm Meant to be Seen released GameGrade3D in October as a proof of concept. This community driven database measures PC game compatibility with stereoscopic 3D technologies by Nvidia, DDD, AMD’s HD3D, and more.
“Jointly establishing what it really means to be 3D Ready will be the most important development in the industry since 120Hz monitors. GameGrade3D is a giant step in the right direction, and jointly building on this and similar tools for media to use will benefit all customers,” said Jon Peddie, CEO of Jon Peddie Research.
“We are avid believers that glasses-free 3D gaming on smartphones and tablets will be a major catalyst to bring 3D into the home.” said Matt Liszt, VP of Marketing for MasterImage 3D. “Unified software and hardware testing standards from the industry’s most respected media authorities will help foster top quality products in 3D gaming and entertainment.”
“The goal of game developers is to put the best products they can into the hands of consumers. The press plays a pivotal role in the growth and understanding of new technologies. Having a consistently applied yet evolving set of standards will help consumers and developers avoid confusion, and ensures that expectations can be quantified and met. It will create a win-win situation,” said Alan Price, President of S3DGA and former CTO of Electronic Arts Canada.
The S-3D Gaming Alliance is non-profit and non-proprietary. The 3D industry is welcome to join and participate with this steering team and more. Media participation is free, and membership is subject to approval of S3DGA’s Board of Directors. Preference will be given to publishers with a demonstrated history of covering stereoscopic 3D technology.
For more information visit:
The S-3D Gaming Alliance: http://www.s3dga.com
Meant to be Seen: http://www.mtbs3d.com
Carol Warren
Crew Communications
Tel. 714-890-4500
Email: carol@antarra.com
(C)2012 S3DGA. All rights reserved. Specifications are subject to change without notice. All other trademarks are the property of their respective companies.