Microsoft maintains "wait and see" 3D strategy

Microsoft is understandably maintaining a “wait and see” attitude towards 3D gaming.

Yes, gamers can play certain 360 titles such as Black Ops and Avatar in 3D, but unlike Sony’s PS3, the Xbox does not currently support full (3D) stereoscopic mode at 720p.

According to Xbox senior product manager David Dennis, Redmond remains unsure if there is a real demand for 3D gaming. 

“[Sure], there was a big rush by some other folks in the industry to convince people they want to play in 3D. You can question the motivations of why they want to make everyone go buy a new TV perhaps, but I think 3D has to fit in a natural way where it fits with the gameplay,” Dennis told EuroGamer

“Something we’re watching and wanting to understand from consumers is whether this is something they actually want. Does it add to the gaming experience? Does it distract from the gaming experience? Is it something they want to play long-term? Or is it something they try a few times and then go back to regular 2D modes?”

Nevertheless, Dennis noted Microsoft could develop and promote advanced 3D tech if a lucrative market actually existed.

“You watch the market penetration of 3D TVs, you look if it’s something people are buying and you adapt and innovate, just like we’ve done by deploying different system updates and features.

“If there are other things we want to do with 3D that consumers are asking for, we would explore it,” he added.