Analyst: 3D Needs 1-2 Years To Become 'Meaningful' To Gaming

Although many in the industry are quick to get behind the 3D stereoscopic gaming trend, one analyst feels meaningful adoption is still a few years away. 3D gaming is sure to be a major component at E3 2010 next week, with the expected reveal of the Nintendo 3DS and major pushes from software developers -- and in particular, Sony, which is making a 3D gaming push right away alongside the launch of its new stereoscopic 3D-ready Bravia TVs. But not everyone's level of 3D enthusiasm is the same; while Nintendo preps a glasses-free portable 3D system and Sony makes 3D a major strategic component in its product line, Microsoft has not yet made major declarative endorsements of 3D, and some analysts wonder just how great consumer demand is. Signal Hill analyst Todd Greenwald says that while there's plenty of potential for growth in the 3D space, it might be a little early to get excited -- especially given the amount of 3D-compatible televisions in homes. "Console makers look to emerging 3D technology to reinvigorate the current console cycle. Following the success of 3D movies in theaters, console makers are looking to emulate this success in gamers' living rooms," the analyst summarizes in a note sent to outlets including Gamasutra before next week's E3. However, he concludes: "While games will likely look great in 3D, there will be many challenges for publishers, first and foremost being the very small initial installed base. We don't expect 3D to be meaningful to the gaming sector over the next 1-2 years."