Face-Off: Dead Space 2

By Richard Leadbetter Published 29 January, 2011

Margin of terror.

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Xbox 360 PlayStation 3
Disc Size 6.3GB (disc one), 6.4GB (disc two) 13.8GB (inc Extraction at 3.46GB)
Install 6.3GB (disc one), 6.4GB (disc two) -
Surround Support Dolby Digital Dolby Digital, 5.1LPCM, 7.1LPCM

We've been producing Face-Off features for almost four years now. In that time we've seen many releases with massive technical differences that impact the gameplay experience, and we've waded through hundreds of titles where one platform may have marginal technical advantages over the other. However, it's rare that a game comes along where Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions are so close that it is almost impossible to tell the two apart visually.

Burnout Paradise was such a game, as was its unofficial successor, Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit. So was Visceral Games' enjoyable, if limited, Dante's Inferno. Dead Space 2, though, is the latest and perhaps greatest example of cross-platform conformity we've seen with Xbox 360, PS3 and indeed PC all providing the same, utterly brilliant experience.

Comparison assets demonstrate just how close these games look. There are actually two galleries to peruse this time around - a dual-format PS3 and 360 selection along with a triple-format offering that also includes the PC game. To begin with though, let's take a look at the two console versions.

Dead Space 2 compared on PS3 and 360. Use the full-screen button for 720p resolution or use the link below for a larger window.

There's a similar setup to the original Dead Space here: both Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions of the game feature a native 720p framebuffer but no anti-aliasing. While there are some noticeable "jaggies", the muted colour scheme of the game, combined with the nature of its incredible lighting, mean that the overall quality of the presentation is excellent.

Anti-aliasing doesn't play nicely with a fully deferred rendering setup and that's exactly what Dead Space and its sequel use. Traditional "forward" renderers have some serious issues when they reach a certain amount of dynamic lights in any given scene: the deferred approach means that hundreds of light sources can come into play.

While many games use this technique (or a light pre-pass variant as seen in Blur or GTA IV to name but two), Dead Space is a series where dynamic light and shadow are utterly crucial to the design of the game and how it plays. Without deferred rendering, Dead Space simply wouldn't be the same game. The sequel ups the ante significantly, with a significantly more varied range of environments, not to mention much more colour.

The first Dead Space was an accomplished cross-platform project, but there were some areas where we could see inexplicable drops in frame-rate on PlayStation 3. Clearly Visceral is pushing its tech still further with the new game, so how do the two console releases stack up from a performance standpoint? Pre-Christmas, our PS3/360 demo showdown suggested that aside from some minor frame-rate fluctuations which were almost unnoticeable the human eye, the two games were indeed virtually interchangeable.

Now, with the full game in our possession, we can run more analyses, starting with a comparison of exact like-for-like scenes. This test allows us to see how the rendering engine copes from a performance standpoint when the exact same load is being placed on both systems.

Like for like performance tests allow us to compare the engine under pretty much identical stress levels. Visceral's engine manages to perform admirably on both platforms.

There's nothing here aside from the odd, unnoticeable dip in performance that suggests that one version of Dead Space 2 has any kind of tangible advantage over the other. Engine tests like these can be revealing, but it is also fair to say that in these situations the game designers have complete control over what is happening on-screen and can optimise accordingly. It is also the case sometimes that assets used in cut-scenes are pared down in-game (see Resident Evil 5, where we counted at least three Chris Redfield models) or where effects such as shadow quality are beefed up.

Our second test is to select clips from the same area of the game on both platforms. While we don't get the respective engines processing the exact same scenes as in the previous video, over the course of the analysis we get a decent view of the overall run of play - this is probably more important to the average gamer.

In this performance test, clips from the same area of the game are analysed on both consoles. Once again, the differences in performance overall are minimal.

Another test successfully aced. Again we see minor frame-rate differences, but nothing that can actually separate the two versions of the game: Dead Space 2 looks the same, it plays the same. You can buy either release safe in the knowledge that you're getting a magnificent game.

There are other differences, however. From a packaging perspective, the PS3 release ships on just one Blu-ray disc, while the Xbox 360 game comes on two discs. In the past we've seen that this is often to accommodate video sequences, but throughout our run on Dead Space 2 it became clear that FMV was very thin on the ground: Visceral needed that space for pure game assets. As it happens, the actual impact of the disc-swapping is minimal should you choose to buy the game on Xbox 360. Dead Space 2 is a linear experience, so you just need to swap discs during chapter seven.

Similar to Medal of Honor, the PS3 package does include a bonus freebie though - one that is of much more worth than the somewhat disappointing remastering of Medal of Honor: Frontline HD. The on-rails shooter, Dead Space Extraction, rated at 8/10 in its Wii incarnation is included for free. It's an excellent bonus - and a treat for PlayStation Move owners. While its visuals don't quite compare to the opulence seen in Dead Space and its sequel, it still scales up fairly nicely to HD resolution.

Returning to Dead Space 2, PlayStation 3 also benefits from enhanced surround sound options, with uncompressed 5.1 and 7.1 options available. This is a game whose atmosphere is enormously improved with a good surround sound setup, and while the 360's mix is still sensational, there is an added sense of depth to the aural experience by using PS3's HDMI 1.3 audio options.

Clearly then, with all these incidental factors added into the equation, the PlayStation 3 version of the game is looking like a tempting proposition. However, there is still the PC release to factor in as well.

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Comments (153) Latest comment 5 months ago

Comments threads automatically close after 30 days, but please feel free to continue chatting on the forum!

  • DDevil #1 1 year ago

    Buy the version for the console you own, or for your PC if you have one that will run it.

    Right I think that covers it, no need for any more comments :-D

  • NotSoSlim #2 1 year ago

    So exactly the same then? Could of save a a 2 page write up lol but seriously good news but as the PS3 version has a couple of extras for the same price then thats the version for me.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 10:27

  • Dave52 #3 1 year ago

    As I have a full surround-sound set up, the PS3 was always gonna be a winner for me - plus you get an entire Move-enabled game for free...

    No contest.

    Well done to the Developers for such a great cross-platform game. It can be done!

  • Beano #4 1 year ago

    Reads like a clear PS3 win to me (even when Richard downplays it) ... additional Extraction game, better sound and no swapping. But 360 owners will not be cheated by the core game which is identical on both consoles.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 09:13

  • banjo21 #5 1 year ago

    Is the Extraction episode palyable without Move?
    Sounds silly but its not clearly mentioned anywhere.
    If so its a deal clincher.

  • the_sas_man #6 1 year ago

    *Off Topic Rant*

    If I go on the official website I need to be 18 to view it.

    If I buy the game I need to be 18.

    If I go on Eurogamer, I can be 6 years of age and watch two gory videos!

    Shouldn't there be some kind of warning/age limit on videos like this?

    Its this lack of restriction in the industry that gives the Daily Mail brigade all the ammunition they need to describe the horrors of video games. Sure kids can get the same video on YouTube if someone uploads it, but EG surely have a responsibility as a company?

    i.e. Here is an example of how a company is being responsible...

    http://ww w.game.co.uk/lowdown.aspx?lid=1...
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 09:16

  • MaoZedong #7 1 year ago

    Post deleted at 09:40:08 17-12-2011

  • richyroo #8 1 year ago

    This is the first multiplat game I have bought for the PS3. It was clear from the demos (of which I downloaded on each platform) that they were both practically identical. I got the PS3 version for the addition of Extraction.

    p.s. about 5 hours in and the game is great. The locations are much more varied than before and it screams more "EPIC" at you

  • richyroo #9 1 year ago

    @ banjo21, yes Extraction is playable with a std controller

  • richarddavies #10 1 year ago

    They really should calm down on these multipage articles advising a game plays practically the same on all 3 platforms when 1 line of text on the review itself would pretty much cover it.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 09:38

  • effinwooly #11 1 year ago

    a win for the PS3, finally (okay its a small win but a win is a win yeah ?)

  • Sunyavadin #12 1 year ago

    You forgot to mention the PC version's other major advantage - costing half as much as console versions.

  • Progguitarist #13 1 year ago

    Damn you Eurogamer....the more I read about this game the more I want it ;_;

  • Vanmunt #14 1 year ago

    Just cannot bring hilmself to say it can he.

  • Widge #15 1 year ago

    Is Extraction as standard in all PS3 copies or do you have to buy it extra in a LE package?

  • King_Edward #16 1 year ago

    Well done Visceral. Complete parity at high quality. Other developers should take note.

  • Beano #17 1 year ago

    "Anyone else notice the...preference?"

    Yes. I don't think Richard is a fanboy but based on his face-off articles, he seem to be biased against PS3 which is a shame. A technical analysis should be objective.

  • dr_zoidthrob #18 1 year ago

    Waitasec... Extraction is playable without Move? So why not bundle it with the 360 version as well?

    It'd need a third disc, but that's all.

    If it turns up on XBL or as DLC, people are going to be (rightly) pissed off
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 09:58

  • Markitron #19 1 year ago

    Extraction comes will every ps3 copy of the game, for a limited time.

  • Hei #20 1 year ago

    I thought PS3's Dead Space had better framerate than it's 360 version

  • GamesConnoisseur #21 1 year ago

    Wasn't tempted by freebie in Medal of Honor n gone with X360 as got more online mates on XBL, but this time I felt Move enabled Extraction was a more tangible filler and gone for PS3.

    Even though mp side of it would prefer XBL but see DS2 as critically a SP experience and damn me but having a great time at moment in creepy sprawl. The devs needs to be applauded for both improving themselves and also providing everyone with a parity in the game and visual experience, aside from freebie; which made sense for the PS3 due to Move.

  • SeesThroughAll #22 1 year ago

    Is DS2 running on UE3? If not, then it is quite a feat to achieve this stability on the PS3.

    "Anyone else notice the...preference?"

    Yes. I don't think Richard is a fanboy but based on his face-off articles, he seem to be biased against PS3 which is a shame. A technical analysis should be objective.

    Glad to see that I wasn't the only one who noticed.

  • Darren #23 1 year ago

    You can enable AA properly with the GTX 580 by using a third-party tool called NVIDIA Inspector to create a profile for Dead Space 2 with the AA compatibility flag of 0x004030C0 (which also works for the first Dead Space by the way). You can then use Override to force AA from the NVIDIA control panel.

    I've been playing the game with 8xCSAA on my GTX 580 and it looks great, far preferable to the disappointing edge-blur the game uses. The only snag is that forcing AA disables the dynamic shadows if you set Shadows to High or Very High. However, if you can put up with PS3/360 type Normal Shadows then you can have shadows and AA. Works well enough for me.

    Finally, if you disable in-game v-sync and enable v-sync via a game profile or third-party tool such as D3DOverrider (which comes with RivaTuner) then you can play the game at 60 fps without tearing. Helps to enable triple buffering as well (D3DOverrider also allows this).

    Terrific game.

  • Darren #24 1 year ago

    P.S. Should have added that you need the NVIDIA v266.35 or later drivers to be able to force AA in Dead Space and Dead Space 2 (plus Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit too).

  • Darren #25 1 year ago

    @SeeThroughAll - I believe that Dead Space 2 (and Dead Space) use the proprietory Godfather engine.

  • carlosdfn #26 1 year ago

    Getting extraction for free is a fantastic bonus, the game is great and considering that PC owners wont have access to all DLC the PS3 version is the one to get for me. There's also the sound issue, this is one of those games where it really enhances the experience.

  • M1chl #27 1 year ago

    SeesThroughAll: Its improved "GodFather engine" : )

  • Goodfella #28 1 year ago

    He really didn't want to say the PS3 version is better did he.

  • womble #29 1 year ago

    Those of you claiming "bias" really need to take a good long look at yourselves.

    You're embarrassing yourselves.

    I'd love to see impartial cross-platform reviews from some of you guys, but somehow, I don't think you could do it.

    Give me one of Richard's articles any day, over the claims and frothing of rabid fanboys.

  • orangpelupa #30 1 year ago

    @those saying leadbetter hard saying ps3 better.

    can you please point me to the sentence?
    sorry im not native english.

    btw technical-wise, from what i see and read, isnt its pc the winner?

  • Dave52 #31 1 year ago

    "Give me one of Richard's articles any day, over the claims and frothing of rabid fanboys."

    Said a frothing, rabid fanboy...

    The PC version is only ever a consideration when the PS3 version is better than the Xbox version... We're used to it now, it's all gravy. The reason for the Extraction bundle is to make use of the Move, it is a Wii port after all...
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 11:20

  • technicianTed #32 1 year ago

    "He really didn't want to say the PS3 version is better did he"

    That's because it's not, it's exactly the same game on both machines. A very good port to the 360 it seems(it was led on ps3 i believe).

    It is the better package though on ps3 for sure, a free game makes all the difference.

  • womble #33 1 year ago

    @Dave52 Yeah, whatever. Have a cry princess.

    God, you fanboys are so predictable. How sad for you that you've personally invested yourself in a particular platform.

    The way you girls go on, you'd think you pay for Richard's articles or something... Yet you keep reading his articles, seemingly just so that you can disparage him and accuse him of bias, week after week.

    i.e. the problem is YOU, not Richard. Deal with it.

  • Goodfella #34 1 year ago

    I'd love to see impartial cross-platform reviews from some of you guys, but somehow, I don't think you could do it.

    It's not our job to, is it.

    It's clear Leadbetter has a habit of underplaying positive PS3 aspects and negative 360 aspects. Saying how "simply wonderful" the 360 dolby sound is then goes on to say the PS3 uncompressed 5.1/7.1 shouldn't be overlooked, as if it's barely worth mentioning.

    @ technicianted

    I meant to say the PS3 'package' is better, sorry.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 11:26

  • VandelayIndustries #35 1 year ago

    Richard, any chance of getting a tech interview with Visceral?

  • womble #36 1 year ago

    "It's clear Leadbetter has a habit of underplaying positive PS3 aspects and negative 360 aspects."

    Clear to people with strong biases of their own, perhaps.

    Trying reading Richard's articles from the point of view of a GAMER, and not from the perspective of a PS3 fanboy.

  • MDL199 #37 1 year ago

    At last the face off's are taking sound as well as visuals into account. PS3 games often have audio several times better than the 360 versions where it's often compressed to save disc space being that the 360 is stuck with the outdated dvd format and it's limited storage space.

  • rotmm #38 1 year ago

    @Dave52, "The PC version is only ever a consideration when the PS3 version is better than the Xbox version... We're used to it now, it's all gravy

    EXACTLY! For example, in a couple of recent face-offs:

    Medal of Honor - Xbox version is better than PS3 version and no mention of... ah wait, PC version is deemed to be the one to get. [link url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digita lfoundry-medal-of-honor-face-off
    ]http://ww w.eurogamer.net/articles/digita...[/link]
    Mafis 2 - Xbox version clearly outperforms PS3 version and that tricksty Leadbetter completely ignores the PC ver.... oops, my mistake. PC version is stated to be the one of the discerning gamer [link url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfound ry-mafia-ii-face-off
    ]http://ww w.eurogamer.net/articles/digita...[/link]

    Oh dear. I'm not quite sure what that says about Leadbetters bias, but it very clearly highlights yours.

  • Goodfella #39 1 year ago

    Trying reading Richard's articles from the point of view of a GAMER, and not from the perspective of a PS3 fanboy.

    I do, but I can't help but interpret his comments as biased, that's how they come across to me, despite me having a 360, PS3 and gaming PC. I would have gone for the PC version but the mouse controls were awful in the first game and I doubt they have changed for Dead Space 2.

    Not that I care enough to argue about it endlessly with someone who attempts to belittle others by calling them princess.

  • Savatage #40 1 year ago

    @ N@

    DF: "The on-rails shooter, Dead Space Extraction, rated at 8/10 in its Wii incarnation is included for free. It's an excellent bonus - and a treat for PlayStation Move owners."

    "There is an added sense of depth to the aural experience by using PS3's HDMI 1.3 audio options."

    "The option to play with 5.1 and 7.1 uncompressed audio with PlayStation 3 is a factor that shouldn't be overlooked. And a freebie Move-enabled Dead Space: Extraction on top of that? Yes please..."

    Exactly which part of that was said through "gritted teeth"?

    Back on topic: excellent stuff from EA, great to hear ALL versions of the game have fared so well. The original DS was one of my favourite games of 2008 and so far (I'm on chapter 7) the sequel seems every bit as superb.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 11:45

  • StooMonster #41 1 year ago

    Was planning on buying this on PC, but two things stopping me now.

    Firstly, I quite like DLC (if it's good extra content, and not just avatar clothing) and it's a shame that PC version will miss out.

    Secondly, to get platform parity for the graphics they must've built to lower-common-denominator approach which makes better hardware pointless. e.g. one of the platforms has half the texture memory of the other, so let's limit that one too.

    The exception being the sound which supports 7.1 on PS3, does that also work on PC or is that 5.1 like the Xbox?

    So, it might be console for me instead ... that way I can play it on the projector too, rather than sitting at desk in front of a 30-inch monitor, which might be more appropriate anyway.

    But then again, the PC version would be 2560x1600 and look razor sharp ... decisions, decisions.

  • Ryze #42 1 year ago

    It's easy to be just like Rich Leadbetter when discussing the PS3 in technical terms.

    Remember that this was the supercomputer that was meant to make the 360 look like a PS2.

    In reality - it's been a harsh lesson to Sony, along with Apple and Nintendo's offerings that have shown the MASSIVE importance of software and services in creating a compelling platform.

    Hardware has BARELY saved Sony this generation, and it looks like they're slowly trying to learn that they need a compelling package.

  • HornsDino #43 1 year ago

    Bit of a fudge about the two disc issue, I felt. It's minor, but it's an annoyance. It's hard enough for me to keep track of where all my game discs are without having multiples for each!

  • StooMonster #44 1 year ago

    Goodfella: I would have gone for the PC version but the mouse controls were awful in the first game and I doubt they have changed for Dead Space 2

    For some reason they had mouse sampling tied into the screen vertical refresh rate, so it was at 30Hz for the 30fps, but if you turned off v-sync in the game's option screen it worked perfectly well; if you wanted v-sync you can turn it on in ATI/nVidia control panel.

  • Goodfella #45 1 year ago

    @ Stoomonster

    I remember reading about and trying that method but for some reason my ATi control panel wouldn't allow it!

  • womble #46 1 year ago

    @ HornsDino " It's minor, but it's an annoyance."

    Yeah, I'm not a fan of disc-swapping, simply because it breaks up the game. I'm really surprised this game takes up 2 discs. When you look at what they managed to pack in to a game like Reach on a single disc, Dead Space 2 must have a hell of a lot of content.

    I don't plan to play this game online, so I'm grabbing this for the PS3. Extraction as a freebie is just too much of a win.

  • Widge #47 1 year ago

    What is it for Extraction? A code or anything? Will it a be a Project $10 addition that you'll have to pay for? Ideally I'd like to get this later in the year 2nd hand or something.

  • StooMonster #48 1 year ago

    Goodfella: uncompressed 5.1/7.1 shouldn't be overlooked, as if it's barely worth mentioning

    My current AV set-up cost more than my first house -- don't tell the Mrs -- I think my 7.1 speakers alone cost more than her new (very nice) car. So I have pretty good test equipment which would be very likely to highlight any differences.

    I can tell you that for human beings it is practically impossible to tell the difference between Dolby Digital 5.1, DTS, and uncompressed formats.

    In a blind test, I bet not one person here could tell the difference between the sound of compressed 5.1 and uncompressed 5.1

  • Tallon4 #49 1 year ago

    I buy a lot of crossplatform titles for my 360.

    But for this game, I like the dualshock better.
    You'll use them alot, and I don't really like the s60 bumpers.
    So the controller made my choice this time.

  • Lunastra78 #50 1 year ago

    I guess PS3 Extraction must have outsold the Wii version by now. :)

  • kirankara #51 1 year ago

    Own both consoles, and couldnt give a crap which wins anymore, so not a fan boy, and never was, as i knew the technical limitations of both consoles and of process of porting from 360-ps3. I only ever wanted to see the ps3 get the ports it deserved and is capable of producing.

    I wouldnt go as far as saying RL is biased, but there is no doubting that at various points we see aspects of ps3 games highlighted as faults, and aspects of 360 games that are completely skipped whereas on other sites these issues are highlighted

    . Sometimes it seems that aspects of ps3 versions are omitted if they are a strength too. There have been a few times when i have read an article, looked at another face off article on another site, and thought "huh??? " One site gets a frame rate comparison that is equal or maybe even favours ps3, yet the df one will say how they were both good, but the 360 had edge, or in case of 360 being inferior in this respect, the frame rate isnt an issue, but this doesnt seem to be case when the ps3 is the one with a slightly inferior frame rate.

    Overall i think these articles are well written and informative, but no one is free of bias, and i mean no one, we all have agendas, and views that skew our perception of reality. I therefore dont take these articles to be gospel, and compare them to others, and try get an overall picture, and make my own decision.

  • VandelayIndustries #52 1 year ago

    "What is it for Extraction? A code or anything? Will it a be a Project $10 addition that you'll have to pay for? Ideally I'd like to get this later in the year 2nd hand or something."

    No code. It's data on the disc that needs to be installed and you'll need the disc in the drive to play it.

  • beatwolf #53 1 year ago

    Now i am finally satisfied that i got the PS3 version.. Usually i get the Xbox 360 version for multiple platform releases, but Castlevania: LoS and this seem to be a better deal on ps3. wohoo for owning multiple platforms :)

  • MrMaaaaattt #54 1 year ago

    I got Extraction free with my 360 copy too. :)

  • Goodfella #55 1 year ago

    I got Extraction free with my 360 copy too. :)

    I don't think so.

  • BartonFink #56 1 year ago

    Certainly sounded like the PS3 version had the edge with Surround sound and the inclusion of Extraction. Richard just couldn't bring himself to say it though could he ;)

    Will still get it for the 360 though as the PS3 isn't hooked up to surround and we don't have Move and I prefer the 360 controller.

  • customfirmware #57 1 year ago

    and guess what he still didnt say it.

  • cw- #58 1 year ago

    @banjo21
    Is the Extraction episode palyable without Move?
    Sounds silly but its not clearly mentioned anywhere.
    If so its a deal clincher.

    Yes, I saw it on the PSN Store last night (£11.99 iirc) and it says it has been made to be played with the Move and/ or sixaxis

  • TheJediWookie #59 1 year ago

    I own a 360 and a PS3 and I usually despair with multi platform games on the PS3 as I hate low/inconsistent fps and screen tearing (Dragon Age PS3 for example), it makes me feel sick for some reason. Anyway I picked this up for the PS3 yesterday based on the free copy of Extraction, which by the way is very good. I'm very impressed thus far, a very consistent frame rate and a definite visual improvement over the first Dead Space which I played on the 360.

    The Missus bought me a Move starter kit a few weeks ago, which due to working I hadn't got around opening yet. Tried it with Extraction last night and it's very good, very responsive, much more so than using the pretty laggy Wii controllers.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 13:25

  • subedii #60 1 year ago

    Really not getting these accusations of bias.

    He said that on a technical level, both versions are effectively the same with regards to visuals and framerate, which would appear to be true. And on a package level, the PS3 version offers better value with Extraction and better sound.

    Grief, what more do people want? A sonnet mayhap?

  • cw- #61 1 year ago

    I want extraction, but can't decide on which route to go..

    - PS3
    - PC + Wii
    - PC + PS3 (get extraction on it's own from the store)

    Does the PC version have achievements?

  • DiamondIce #62 1 year ago

    The controller and achievements is why I chose the 360 version.

    I am having some odd problems with doors not opening though. It seems like I have to wait ages for the game to finally let me go through certain doors.

  • darkphoenix #63 1 year ago

    Even with the PS3's bonus, I'll still go for the 360 version.

    Better pad, option to play from the HDD.
    Shame about the lack of uncompressed DD5.1 ( no, my living room does not - and will not - acomodate 8 speakers.... lol )

  • dsmx #64 1 year ago

    Why do people care so much about achievements? I really don't understand it.

  • rotmm #65 1 year ago

    @darkphoenix, "...no, my living room does not - and will not - acomodate 8 speakers...."

    I too am stuck with a (albeit excellent) 5.1 setup, and sadly my living room would accomodate a couple of extra speakers for the sides.

    My wife, however, will not ;)

  • Lucodeath #66 1 year ago

    Ps3 version for me, got the first one on xbox but you can tell the difference between uncompressed and compressed sound. Its like moving from an mp3 to a sacd.
    Only got 9gb of space left though on hd
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 14:19

  • DiamondIce #67 1 year ago

    @dsmx

    There are lots of things I do not understand about what people like but I accept that they do.

    Plus the controller is 95% why I go for 360 games each time.

  • Zerobob #68 1 year ago

    Why do people keep commenting that he couldn't quite bring himself to recommend the PS3 version? I thought he said the better version was the PS3 version because of the uncompressed 7.1 audio, or did people not read the article properly?

    He probably didn't outright recommend the PS3 version as the audio isn't exactly a huge factor for the relatively small amount of people who can take advantage of it with a 5.1 or 7.1 surround setup.

    The inclusion of Extraction isn't anything to do with Dead Space 2 from a technical perspective though...You may as well say the 360 is the cheaper console so you could get Fable III "for free" with the money you save there. Not quite sure why extras ad DLC is ever mentioned in DF articles.

  • NotSoSlim #69 1 year ago

    Wish people would stop the which controller is better nonsense. It's all down to user tastes

  • Goodfella #70 1 year ago

    He didn't say the PS3 had better sound though.

    He said the 360 sounded "simply wonderful" and "sensational" but the PS3 version "added depth" and shouldn't be overlooked", in a blasé manner, as if to say yeah it's ok I suppose.

    Or am I reading waaaay too much into it. :p

  • bladdard #71 1 year ago

    I was waiting for the face-off before buying this, extraction isn't important because I've already played it on the Wii and it didn't do it for me but the uncompressed 5.1 should show off my lovely new surround sound headphones.

    Off to sainsburys soon, can I resist not buying this? Probably not.

  • Darksjeik #72 1 year ago

    Why is only Visceral Games capable of true 1:1 multiplatform versions? Someone get these guys to do every game ;)

  • Lince #73 1 year ago

    funny, when the PS3 version is clearly the one to get this time around Digital Foundry quickly reminds us of the PC version, they imply the PS3 version is the most complete package, with same visuals, equal performance and better sound plus a free game (Move enabled), but they never say it clearly. When the 360 version wins these face-offs they always say "obviously for the reasons this and that is the one to get".

  • inutaihanyou #74 1 year ago

    I don't like how people nitpick at the people who take such time out of their day to write these articles. Cause that's all it really is, nitpicking really.


    Get it for your console of choice, extras are just extras as some people don't actually care about those, and the sounds arent THAT dissimilar anyway for someone who cant shell out the money for a high surround system who can fully take advantage of the specs. People always have to cry about which is "better" instead of thinking how good it is for everyone that nobody got shafted.

    "See he mentioned the PC version when PS3 is so obviously better, how bias". maybe because he's illustrating the point of platform parity in all versions?

    Eh, this'll just get negged down anyway, forget i said anything,

  • davisorle #75 1 year ago

    @Beano

    "Yes. I don't think Richard is a fanboy but based on his face-off articles, he seem to be biased against PS3 which is a shame. A technical analysis should be objective. "

    Do you know what a "technical" analysis is? Where on the technical part is he downplaying the PS3? It really is in the fanboys', like yours, head. If there is one person in EG thats not biased and why I only apreciate him from the EG staff, that would be Richard. He's the only prof that knows wtf he is talking about. He didnt review the game. He is just telling you that on the technical bit both games are the same. If the PS3 version had DTS sound id be all over it.

    Only part Im sad about is that I forgot that the PS3 version has the extraction game included or I would have got that version. I guess i got carried away knowing id get the 360 a few days before release. I'm going to also get it for my new rgi but Im considering dropping that to get also the PS3 version now ^.^

    I got a surgery and ill be in bed for about a month or 2 so.. Ill have time to play some unfinished games I guess -.- ffs

  • davidov92 #76 1 year ago

    Just stating the obvious : of course the PC version doesn't look significantly better than the Xbox 360 one because it's a shameless friggin' port, like 95% of today's PC games.

  • StooMonster #77 1 year ago

    RE: 7.1 audio versus 5.1

    Obviously (from my post above) I've got the right kit for 7.1 and have properly positioned speakers and all that.

    But this thread and people saying that 7.1 is advantageous makes me wonder how many people have 7.1 audio setups and can take advantage of it. I'm guess not that many, as even most Blu-rays only support 5.1 channel sound and 7.1 are ultra-rare.

    Added this in edit:
    Vote: +1 for 5.1
    Vote: -1 for 7.1
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 15:47

  • Badassbab #78 1 year ago

    Amazing how close the two versions are. LOT pointed out slight lighting differences between the two and that's about it. What's with all the whiney PS3 fanboys, you got the win due to sound and Extraction which got the mention. No pleasing fanboys..

  • Goodfella #79 1 year ago

    I don't like how people nitpick at the people who take such time out of their day to write these articles.

    Oh I'm sorry, I didn't realise he did it as a favour.

  • scoobydooX64 #80 1 year ago

    It doesn't make any sense to run the PC version at 720P,when 9/10 people who play games on their PC choose 1080P by default.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 15:53

  • Arwin #81 1 year ago

    I hate the whole Horizon type horror theme. In fact, I find it hard to like anything with horror, zombies and so on. Even when I really want to like it, like Dead Nation which is so awesome looking, I have a hard time, and I'm now telling myself I'll wait playing Dead Nation until I can do online co-op with voice chat ... Same for Extraction - I downloaded the demo (which is basically the full game minus unlock key, a 3.4 GB download!) and was very impressed with it's production quality and varied gameplay. It's a way better gun-game than I have ever played before, and I love gun-games. Again the theme repulses me though, and although I managed to convince my wife to play along (and as a testament to the Move, she almost never wants to play anything, but Move stuff she gets instantly - though she'd forgot to reload sometimes), and I talked up Stephen King type monsters which she loves. But she too found it too boring.

    Basically, for this to work on a level on par with movies, you need to have a lot of exploration and 'menial stuff' and very little actual encounters with enemies. When you do have encounters with enemies, they then have to be dramatic. People that come at you that you need to dismember is never allowed to become a chore. In that respect, a rewrite of the game in the vein of Shadow of the Colossus, in that there are only a handful of big enemy encounters and lots of exploration and such inbetween, is probably the right way to go here.

    To get back on topic, I was very impressed though with the quality of Extraction. The gameplay is very good, the use of Move is superb, precise and responsive, and the graphics clearly use assets from the HD versions of the game rather than being a direct port of the whole Wii version of the game. Only stuff like when your girlfriend talks to you looks like it came from Wii, but the actual game environments look excellent. And the build-up and gameplay is very nicely done. Good stuff, and a very valuable addition indeed!

  • inutaihanyou #82 1 year ago

    "Oh I'm sorry, I didn't realise he did it as a favour."

    I also don't like the snarkiness in these posts either.

    Nobody has to get defensive about what version is better, as the the entire review basically boiled down to "PC version looks best at higher resolutions but doesn't have the extras, PS3 has good extras, and 360 is good for people who don't care about extras, all in all they all look the same."

    One doesn't have to enjoy the review, go ahead and don't. But the fact of the matter is that the only one's with bias's here, are the ones insinuating some kind of bias of the author, when he clearly laid out all of the differences between all the versions while showing that they all played like-for-like.

    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 16:40

  • customfirmware #83 1 year ago

    im confused why wasnt the ps3 version also compared to the pc version aswell seeing that this is a face off, and some people would have pc/ps3 or 360/pc. im not one to say these things but you can read a little bit of bias in this guy articles sometime.
    i dont really take his words for it but it does make for an interesting read.
    Edited by 2 at 29/01/11 @ 23:13

  • Beano #84 1 year ago

    "I got a surgery and ill be in bed for about a month or 2 so.."

    Good luck with that - you do sound ill.

  • technicianTed #85 1 year ago

    Get over it ps3 fanboys, it's the same game on both ps3 and 360.

    It looks the same, it plays the same.

    If you get the limited edition version then you get a free game which makes it a better package and there's uncompressed sound which may make a tiny bit of difference if you can hear the differences in it(i couldn't on the ps3 demo and my 360 version).
    But it was a ps3 demo i was comparing it to.

    It seems to me that a lot of ps3 fanboys are never happy unless they get a big win in a faceoff. But even when games like Vanquish, Castlevania and dead space 2 are led on ps3, the ports to the 360 have been superb.
    This is another example of it.

    Enjoy the game, it's good, stop the moaning.

  • Bogotaku #86 1 year ago

    Well, it looks this will my first multi-platform game on PS3!!! Sweet!!

  • Freakachuu #87 1 year ago

    The 360 version doesn't look as good as the PC version, is on 2 discs instead of 1 and doesn't have any extras. But someohow "all version are equal". How in God's great name can people not see the BIAS in this?

    Surely the point is that it is a technical analysis. He's not comparing the package as a whole against each other, but the performance of the games on the machines. I don't really see any bias in saying that some people don't care about extras, I for one really couldn't give a shit with a lot of the limited edition guff you get with games and console specific exclusivity on extras doesn't particularly bother me despite only owning a 360.

    All I really read from this article was that the game is pretty much consistent across all platforms technically and that preference in purchase comes down to the individual and what they want for themselves. Seems reasonable to me and not what I'd call biased towards any platform.

  • Badassbab #88 1 year ago

    How about a Bulletstorm H2H?

  • dfua #89 1 year ago

    "there's uncompressed sound which may make a tiny bit of difference if you can hear the differences in it(i couldn't on the ps3 demo and my 360 version). '

    The difference will be minimal at best. The 7.1 could be a nice addition if you have the right setup but the uncompressed audio just refers to the output format rather than the sound files themselves. There might be more noticeable difference if it was DD against DTS as in the original Dead Space.

    It's clear in terms of the game itself there is no noticeable difference between platforms, but the extras could affect your decision. All those complaining are the ones that will happily call these face offs pointless or say they can never see any difference anyway next time the verdict goes against their console of choice.

  • dfua #90 1 year ago

    @Axeman, If you got that from my comment I was quoting TechnicianTed not RL, sorry for the confusion!

  • Goodfella #91 1 year ago

    @ djronz

    Exactly, that's the point I've tried (and possibly failed) to get across.

    It's the gushing words used in the articles that gets me, it's like Leadbetter can't grab his thesaurus quick enough to find lots of different words meaning 'awesome' for the 360 and lots of different words meaning 'adequate' for the PS3, even when the PS3 version/package is equal or superior.

    Had the 360 version been the one on a single disc, with better sound and Extraction, the PS3 version would have been deemed a last resort.
    Edited by 1 at 29/01/11 @ 19:16

  • miiiguel #92 1 year ago

    its only funny the first 10 times you see someone do it though then it becomes seriously irritanting

    No it's not, it's funny every time. No one do it better than sdf.
    on-topic: don't want this game, playingback catalog (Homecoming; Conan; Costume Quest; ME3 Insane and Mafia II), my only pre-order is Bulletstorm.

  • Ferral #93 1 year ago

    I actually wonder if the Digital Foundry guy reads these comments at all?

    Like I said on the Mass Effect 2 comments, for me now due to arthritis forming in my right hand due to a few boxers fractures across my knuckles the PS3 controller is much better for me as it is lighter and the buttons and sticks are a little closer than the 360 controller. So for me now I have been buying more stuff on the PS3 or getting stuff on PC if my system specs are good enough for high settings.

    Visually on all these face offs both systems have their pros and cons, but like I said last time, PS3 short comings seem to be played up with fancy words and the 360 are down played. A few frames per second when a game is running is not visible to the naked eye, only seen when things are slowed right down and analysed. Same goes for visual effects like shadowing, you may see a shadow in a certain way for a few seconds tops. By the time you notice it, it has moved on, however you dont sit there staring at the shadows on a cut scene now do you?

    Sorry, but thats really how it looks.

    I am not bias towards different consoles, I love Gears and Fable on my 360, personally cant wait for Gears 3, I do still play stuff on my 360 but not as much now as I used to. I also use it for the Windows Media Center extension, works a treat. My PS3 also gets used for media and of course gaming more so now.

    I think the writer of these articles needs to have a long think on how he words stuff if it keeps getting people here at each others throats, be a bit more objective in what he is writing.

    Its no good, we all have our preferences on systems, a few year back I swore I would never own a console until of course my credit card balances started getting high and my wages were getting spent on upgrades! Not forgetting I have a family to support, so now consoles are the thing for me and every 2 year I get a new gaming lappy.

  • redcrayon #94 1 year ago

    Er, Calgon, your contribution to the comments here seems to be that other people disagree with you and this bores you. You're not really cut out for the internet, are you?

    Personally I struggle to have technical discussions with aggressive 'irritanting' posters.

  • NotoriousRidah #95 1 year ago

    @ Lunastra78 Quote: I guess PS3 Extraction must have outsold the Wii version by now. :)

    Which is a shame really,because it's such a fantastic game it deserved to sell well on the Wii.

  • miiiguel #96 1 year ago

    I don't realy like Fable and I absolutly hate Gears. Don't mean to mess with your head "dude", it is what it is. And what's xbox live "crew"... fuck, I'm getting old, don't know nothing about this "crew"; "lol" and "whooooa" things.

  • miiiguel #97 1 year ago

    This is the longets sentence in the world.

    Said the one who never read Saramago.

  • Ferral #98 1 year ago

    You know, looking at these face offs from a purely technical standpoint.

    The FPS, the way they are measured. Neither of the systems actually show the framerate onscreen and there isnt an option to turn a framerate monitor on. To do it properly, you would have to record the footage then break it down into 1 second sections, slow each 1 second section right down and count the amount of times the image changes in that second which would give you the true FPS (I cant remember the proper maths equation for it, been a while since I done stuff like that on my engineering degree)

  • smelck #99 1 year ago

    "It's not meaningless when you stick yourself over the wall as the preacher man who puts the 'SDF' dogs in their place. Your come across as a smug, uppity and an angry young man and no so-so-clever retorts or walls-of-text will change that. You're white noise drifting into a thread buzzing around and then drifting out again.

    I know in your mind you're walking down the gameshow steps to Happy Days cheers and hi-fiving the audience as you go, but in reality there's just you stepping out of the Love Lift and all the lights have already gone red :("

    Great post, and pretty much sums up the name calling, intellectual dick measuring nonsense that most of these face-off comment sections become :)

    "That's what happens Ferral, it's why most people can't even tell the difference between formats. I'm constantly playing the shittest versions of these games and having a great time with them.

    Half Life 2 got a bit touch and go at the end :) but apart from that everything is fine."


    lmao...so true, and 2 for 2 in great posts....

  • smelck #100 1 year ago

    "smelck tell me can you taste what he had for breakfast with all that arse licking son... bollocks it was nothing more than a kneejerk reaction from someone who felt I was being a bit harsh on him or his comrades. Certainly innacurate on my part anyway, but sure you go ahead and invent your own motives. Mearure your little cocks away from me though."

    lmao...you really are precious...

    mmm...he had a bowl of I pity that Calgon fool....

    you just keep going though "young man" (my variation of the "son" put down) you are managing well enough by yourself to look like a knob ...

  • Goodfella #101 1 year ago

    This comment section went downhill fast, the last 20+ posts seem completely irrelevant to the topic at hand.

    Let me get it back on track, PS3 'package' is the best option. ;)

  • Nephirion #102 1 year ago

    To me it reads like this:

    1) PC
    2) PS3
    3) Xbox 360

  • SaberEdge #103 1 year ago

    Thanks for another great face off. It looks like I will definitely be getting the PS3 version this time. These comparisons really help me to decide which version of a multiplatform game to get. Besides, they are also really interesting to read.

  • womble #104 1 year ago

    @AxeMan

    Yeah, we get it already. You think Richard is biased.

    Many other PS3 fanboys think the same thing. Goes with the territory. (For some reason, the PS3 attracts zealots like honey attracts flies.)

    If you want console discussion that won't harm your delicate sensibilities, perhaps you could try:

    [link url=http://community.us.playstation.com/community/consoles /ps3
    ]http://co mmunity.us.playstation.com/comm...[/link]

    I can't guarantee there will be anything worth reading there, but at least you won't have to put up with the insufferable bias..

  • M1chl #105 1 year ago

    Ridiculous comments are ridiculous. Seriously, who have PS3 (alone or with X360) buy a PS3 version, who have X360 buy it on X360 and stop posting dumbass comments. Its awesome game and whos not gonna play it, is a casual gamer : D

  • Negotiator #106 1 year ago

    Just bought this today and it is brilliant, I own both consoles but decided to get it on 360, simply because I like the controller better. A little bit gutted to hear that the sound is slightly better on the PS3 as I own a sound system, but the sound on the xbox version is amazing so nevermind.

  • SaberEdge #107 1 year ago

    People saying he was biased against the PS3 are being ridiculous. You are reading into things with your own bias I think. He seemed happy to report that the two console versions were essentially identical and he even pointed out the advantages of getting the PS3 version (one disc, superior audio options, and the inclusion of Extraction).

    In all honesty most of those things are not really relevant to a technical face off. The audio options are in some sense technical, but in reality it will only affect a very small minority of people that have HD audio receivers and surround sound speakers. Face offs have always been essentially about the performance and visuals of a game. Still, he reported that difference.

    The one disc thing really is a non-issue. Switching a disc one time at chapter 7 is nothing. It has no bearing in my decision to get the PS3 version.

    He did a good job of letting us know how the two versions performed and he also let us know of other non technical differences. However, since there are no real differences between the two games in terms of anything that would impact the game experience it is really going to come down to whether you care about the included Wii port and whether you have a sound system that can take advantage of the more advanced sound options.

  • smelck #108 1 year ago

    "(For some reason, the PS3 attracts zealots like honey attracts flies.) "

    true ...as does the 360.

    I think it works both ways and is pretty much symptomatic of the way things are ....

    I don't comment on Richards alleged bias....really don't give two hoots and tbh enjoy his articles and the impending ranting one-upmanship that regularly follows in the comments section.

    I commented today for S+G's and because I agreed with the poster's comments ...the response was priceless...

    oh well....oh and womble, you'd be surprised at some of the non-biased discussions that occur from multi-console owning gamers at the au/nz PS forums...you're welcome to join us :)

  • smelck #109 1 year ago

    I should add (and back on topic) that DS2 is a fantastic game that should not be missed, regardless of which platform you choose to play it on...

  • Savatage #110 1 year ago

    "DF is biased" is a well-trodden topic in the EG pages, but the complaints seem to be especially bizzare on this occasion. What, exactly, are you lot moaning about? As others have pointed out, this is a technical face off, and the PS3 and 360 versions are pretty much the same. Yet RL still mentions the PS3 advantages (sound, extra content) several times.

    But then... I forgot. It's not that he's failed to mention the facts, it's how he writes them, that he doesn't "biggin up" the PS3 version enough for your liking, THAT seems to be what's irking you - particularly with the sound. With that in mind, let's revisit one of DF's offending comments:

    "Returning to Dead Space 2, PlayStation 3 also benefits from enhanced surround sound options, with uncompressed 5.1 and 7.1 options available. This is a game whose atmosphere is enormously improved with a good surround sound setup, and while the 360's mix is still sensational, there is an added sense of depth to the aural experience by using PS3's HDMI 1.3 audio options."

    So, quite obviously stating that the PS3's sound is better then. But that's clearly not enough. So what's the problem? There's really only one thing it could be:

    "...the 360's mix is still sensational..."

    In other words, it's not what he said about the Sony version that's so upsetting, it's the fact that HE DARED TO SAY SOMETHING NICE ABOUT THE 360 VERSION AS WELL. Which is of course absolutely unforgivable, and further "proof" of his bias.

    Jesus...
    Edited by 1 at 30/01/11 @ 00:16

  • Ferral #111 1 year ago

    Well, while the "discussion" goes on here, since my last post I havnt wasted the past 2 hours watching everything going on. I decided what the hell and have been playing the awesome ME2 (On the PS3 I might add!!)

    Much more enjoyable than sitting in front of a PC reading various comments to different degrees.

    PS3 and 360 are now virtually on par. PC is in most cases going to come out on top if you have quad core, dual graphics cards and 4GB Ram. As long it hasnt just been ported over from either of the consoles it is going to beat the consoles hands down. But not everyone has that kind of money lying about!

    So, buy it on the machine of your choice, changing a disk over halfway through the game is no bad thing. If anyone wants to think it is a bad thing then take a look at some of the old Amiga games like Rise of the Dragon which was on 7 discs, now that was disc swapping at its best!

    So PS3 has better sound if you have a full surround setup, not forgetting that you get a free copy of Extraction, pretty sweet deal really, more so if you have move. However, 360 owners have nothing to complain about. The game is exactly the same on both machines, whats the point in arguing. The developer has put a lot of work into this project and its shows.

  • womble #112 1 year ago

    "That's bad news for 360 though really isn't it"

    Jesus.

    First we had all the claims of PS3 superiority. (OMG don't let the Iraqis get their hands on the PS3 supercomputer!)

    But now PARITY is presented as proof of superiority. (OMG a cross-platform plays just as well on my PS3 as it does on my 360! Victory for the PS3!!!!!!!)

    Ridiculous fanboy junk.

  • SaberEdge #113 1 year ago

    "Why does it COME DOWN to that lol? It's not like there's any negative aspects to choosing the version on 1 disc, with the extra game and the better sound is there?"

    Well look, let me put it to you this way. I don't have a receiver or surround sound system anymore so the audio options make no difference to me. I also don't care about switching a disc one time during a 12 or 14 hour game. It has never bothered me in the slightest in the past.

    On the other hand I really love the Dead Space franchise and I would like to play Extraction. This is why I am getting the PS3 version. But I can imagine people that don't have Move and therefor aren't really interesting in playing that kind of a game with a standard controller.
    Edited by 1 at 30/01/11 @ 00:47

  • FuzzyDuck #114 1 year ago

    If DS floats your boat, go buy this on whatever console you own, it's an amazingly good game and damn near identical on both formats. But even if the PS3 version was slightly inferior to the 360 version i still would have went out and bought it on Friday because i just want to play an awesome game.

  • man.the.king #115 1 year ago

    @dr_zoidthrob

    "Waitasec... Extraction is playable without Move? So why not bundle it with the 360 version as well?
    It'd need a third disc, but that's all. "

    While Extraction is playable without Move, from my experience (I have DS2 CE with Extraction on PS3) it loses most of it's enjoyability in the transition from Move to standard controller. This is an on-rails action game which is meant to be played with Move. The standard controller setup is just an acknowledgement that not everybody may have a Move.

  • man.the.king #116 1 year ago

    @rotmm and Dave52

    "The PC version is only ever a consideration when the PS3 version is better than the Xbox version... We're used to it now, it's all gravy"

    Even though Leadbetter usually pens some spin against PS3 versions (in my opinion) in the majority of his face-offs, this is one instance in which I have to agree with 360 die-hards - as rotmm correctly detailed, Leadbetter does NOT resort to including PC versions when the PS3 version is better.

    I used to think RL used to do that (resort to PC-over-PS3, I mean), but I stand corrected.

    Thanks rotmm.
    Edited by 2 at 30/01/11 @ 02:35

  • riseer #117 1 year ago

    Get the Pc version...Umm well i think the ps3 version is the best bang for your buck.The sound is much better then most pc's.On top of that you get a free move enable game.The fact it plays the same as the 360 version makes it the best version.Ya the Pc can kill em but if you have a 6 y/o Pc with 2 gigs of ram and a crappy cpu it won't run it as good as the consoles.Myself i can get the pc version since my pc could play it np.Just i like to game on my ps3.

  • frazzl #118 1 year ago

    I don't have the Move, and I like my achievos so I got the 360 version. To each his own.

  • Goodfella #119 1 year ago

    womble - Yeah, we get it already. You think Richard is biased.

    Many other PS3 fanboys think the same thing. Goes with the territory. (For some reason, the PS3 attracts zealots like honey attracts flies.)

    Spoken like a true 360 fanboy.

    Are you really that blinkered (or naive) that you think only the PS3 attracts zealots?

    LOL.

  • ChadSexington #120 1 year ago

    I love Rich's articles and I have great respect for him as someone in the industry for his stellar magazine work over the years, especially Sega Saturn Magazine and Maximum.

    However, I must agree with some of the comments here that whenever the PS3 version of a game has the slight edge, as it does with DS2 , he always seems to downplay it. Conversely, whenever the 360 version of a game has a slight advantage, he's a lot more quick to recommend that as the version to go for.

    There's a proviso though: although Rich may not be quick to ever recommend a PS3 version, he does always give us the full results of his tests and what the relevant advantages/disadvantages are, allowing the informed reader to make his own choice.

  • technicianTed #121 1 year ago

    I don't think he's downplaying the ps3 version, i just think the minor sound improvement(for some)isn't making much of a difference.

    A lot of ps3 games have less compressed audio than the 360 but if the framerate or graphics are scaled back a bit as we've seen on a lot of 360>PS3 ports, then i think he makes more of a point about that as it's more important to the actual game itself.

    If we take dead space 2, the game, graphics, framerate are identicle on both consoles. The clanging and scream noises in the background are hardly going to make much difference compressed or not compressed.
    It's the same sound effects throughout, it's not like there's additional music and 100's more sound effects on the ps3 version.
    Now that would be worthy of mentioning if it were true.

    Edited by 1 at 30/01/11 @ 11:16

  • drumbaby #122 1 year ago

    "Yes please... "

    A simple

    "A win for the PS3"

    wouldn't have hurt, would it?

  • IneptPercy #123 1 year ago

    No ATI MLAA testing?

  • Ilusiil18 #124 1 year ago

    @technicianTed:

    What an asinine argument,that's like claiming that playing this title in HD isn't more immersive than playing it in SD since the level design will be unchanged.

    Better sound leads to a more immersing experience just like better visuals.Presenting ridiculous arguments as proof positive that better sound isn't "BETTER" just makes you look foolish.

  • technicianTed #125 1 year ago

    Stop moaning Ilusiil18, I didn't say better sound doesn't make a difference, i said i very much doubt you'll notice much difference in this game.

    Which judging by what i've read across a variety of forums seems to prove that point.
    Most people with both machines and the game on both systems can't hear much difference.

    And your point is silly comparing SD to HD visuals, you'd see a huge difference there i would have thought.
    I very much doubt there's a huge difference in the audio on dead space 2(i'll rent the ps3 version and let you know).

  • bladdard #126 1 year ago

    What would proper piss me off if I was a 360 only owner is the fact extraction was given away on the PS3 only, ok it's not a great game but why PS3 only? It doesn't even require move so no excuses.

  • Goodfella #127 1 year ago

    Actually, bladdard Extraction is a pretty good game, I enjoyed it and the Wii version got a lot of good reviews, the PS3 version is even better with improved visuals, control etc.

  • bladdard #128 1 year ago

    @Goodfella

    I've got extraction on the Wii and it didn't really float my boat mate, I was hoping for more of a light gun house of the dead style game. I am getting DS2 most likely for my PS3 but I'm not certain I'll revisit extraction.
    Edited by 1 at 30/01/11 @ 19:16

  • Goodfella #129 1 year ago

    Fair enough, I really liked House of the Dead Overkill and Umbrella Chronicles, Extraction is a bit different I suppose, probably a bit too drawn out for an on rails shooter.

  • womble #130 1 year ago

    @drumbaby "wouldn't have hurt, would it?"

    Do you need the validation that much?

    Does everything need to be dumbed down that much, given it's a TECHNICAL review? Surely Richard is allowed to credit his readers with some level of intelligence and technical appreciation?

  • Ilusiil18 #131 1 year ago

    @technicianTed:

    There's a huge difference between compressed Dolby Digital and uncompressed 7.1 LPCM (or even 5.1 LPCM) unless your speakers are way below average,your PS3 audio options aren't set up properly,you're lacking an audio setup altogether,or you're just looking for excuses to minimize weaknesses of your console of choice.

    Audio is arguably just as relevant and graphics when it comes game immersing,and it also falls under the "technical" umbrella despite the fact that many comparison sites rarely bring it into the equation.I've played both versions of quite a few multiplats (Red Dead Redemption,ACB,Fallout New Vegas,ME2,Dragon Age Awakenings,and many more) and the audio differences were always significant.Dead Space 2 uses sound to set it's atmosphere and mood so sharper,clearer,more distinctive and realistic sound will certainly enhance the mood.

  • ninjanutta #132 1 year ago

    i love digital foundry but i goto dissagree,ive got all three versions and on my pc thats got quad core i7 and gtx 580,its destroys the console versions in the graphics and lighting department,it even looks better in 720p in 3d on my sammy 8000 led tv,i havent tried it on the 3d monitor yet at 1080 in 3d because i didnt buy the glasses and emmitor but im guessing its going to rock.

  • RKOwned #133 1 year ago

    Yeah, I really think we are hitting a point where the differences dont matter anymore.

  • Savatage #134 1 year ago

    @Ilusiil18

    Even if the PS3's audio advantages over the 360 were the same as the difference between HD and SD resolutions as you seem to be implying, you're not taking into account how many people own a HDTV, compared with how few have a surround sound audio setup. That's why it's not a major factor in most comparisons.

  • Ilusiil18 #135 1 year ago

    @Savatage:

    I've already stated that the LPCM advantage obviously isn't applicable to those without an audio setup.My post was directed towards the nonsensical claim that those with an audio setup won't be able to discern a distinct difference between compressed Dolby Digital and lossless 7.1 LPCM (or even 5.1 LPCM).

    I suspect that sound isn't included in the majority of these comparative tech analysis due to the fact that it would always be completely one-side...If 360 titles featured LPCM 5.1/7.1 it would surely be a common talking point in these "face-offs" and the other sites' "head to heads".

    I'll use Red Dead Redemption as a clear example of superior audio: I pre-ordered RDR for PS3 since one of my pals only owns a PS3 and we planned on building a posse with another pal of ours.Well he ended up hating the game so after hearing about the clear technical advantages on the 360 I and our mutual friend decided to trade our PS3 versions out for the superior 360 version.Graphically it was night and day in favor of the 360 but the sound was vastly superior on PS3 despite the poorer visuals...I mean you'd need a hearing impediment to keep you from noticing a discernible difference,so all this BS about there not being a clear difference comes across like damage control or ill informed banter from those whom don't possess these audio options.

    It's like claiming that there's no discernible difference between the mediocre audio in The Dark Knight on cable tv and the stellar lossless Dolby True HD codec found on the Blu-ray disc of the same title and expecting to be taken seriously.

  • Goodfella #136 1 year ago

    I really hope your one of them weirdo PC fanboys trying to prove to everyone how great the PC version of everything is. Because if you really bought all three versions of the same game then you're absolutely fucking mental.

    He probably pirated all three.

  • Goodfella #137 1 year ago

    @ Ilusiil18

    It's obvious the people arguing sound is of little significance haven't experienced the difference between the 360 and PS3, as you say it's pretty obvious and doesn't require closing your eyes to 'listen hard' and top of the line gear to notice that difference.

  • Savatage #138 1 year ago

    @Ilusiil18

    "I suspect that sound isn't included in the majority of these comparative tech analysis due to the fact that it would always be completely one-side...If 360 titles featured LPCM 5.1/7.1 it would surely be a common talking point in these "face-offs" and the other sites' "head to heads"."

    Interesting point... but not one that I can totally agree with. You're right in saying that because the PS3 is always going to "win" in this category, unlike the visual aspects which vary from game to game, it does have less relevance in a comparison article where it's all about "finding out" which version is best. However, if the 360 audio was effectively identical to the PS3's every time, it would take away any need to discuss it whatsoever. And it still wouldn't change the fact that there's only a small percentage of people who have the kit to take advantage of it anyway.

  • mukki #139 1 year ago

    ok aside from all the bickering
    I think it is great that Visceral has managed to bring out a game that looks great on all platforms!
    KODOS!

  • Johnsters #140 1 year ago

    @Ilusiil18
    re Dark Knight & "stella lossless Dolby True HD codec "

    I was truly underwhelmed with this sound track and largely all True HD sound tracks. (incl Star Trek, Transformers - Noticed that directors of all 3 films have now moved to DTS-MA tracks thankfully)

    I have a very good 6.1 set up (Denon/Kef) - couldn't justify the 8th speaker and I find only DTS MA soundtracks are adequate
    :-)

    5.1 vs. 7.1 - I have noticed a few movies recently that come with the 7.1 track, most pixars do, and oddly I got Se7en and Expendables in my stocking for christmas and both of them did. (but you are right, 5.1 is the norm)

  • thesonglessbird #141 1 year ago

    So regarding the audio, anyone know if the PC version features compressed or uncompressed audio?

  • Sonic_D #142 1 year ago

    Dolby TruHD mix on the Dark Knight proves it can sound awesome, as good as DTS-MA if done right. However it seems that there have been screw ups on some soundtracks, particularly how they automatically set up the dynamic range, which is something you can override. From what I’ve read DTS-MA has a spec that allows for a higher data transfer rate, but neither format gets up to those sort of rates (at present anyway). So really there should be no difference between Dolby TruHD, DTS-MA or just plain old uncompressed LPCM, but the engineers have to treat each soundtrack right.

    Uncompressed versus Dolby Digital: It’s the reason I rent Blurays, for some movies the sound is so much better. Greater depth was probably the right way to describe it, but also a much improved dynamic range and soundstage IF done right. But I recognise for many people and for many games it won’t be worth. My wife can recognise the difference between SD and HD pictures, but she can’t tell Dolby Digital from an uncompressed format.

    My hi fi was built for music first and games/movies second, so I’ve always been aware of Dolby Digital/DTS’s deficiencies compared to two channel audio from a CD or record even from my budget CD or record player. Has it ruined my enjoyment of 5.1 sound from DVD’s? Of course not, but I am happy to now hear all channels at CD quality or better.

    As for 5.1 versus 7.1, yes 7.1 can be better, but it’s all about how you set up the 5.1. I have enough speakers for 7.1, but at present my set up works better with 5.1 due to the shape and size of my room. It certainly does not make as big a difference as compressed vs uncompressed formats.

  • mgillespie #143 1 year ago

    Should have done the 1080p upscale comparison with the PS3, as it's hardware scaler is vastly superior to the Xbox Ana..

    As for disc swapping, welcome to the year 2000 Microsoft...

  • RKOwned #144 1 year ago

    i wonder if we are starting to see that it dosent really matter anymore with multiplat differences.

  • BuckEntropy #145 1 year ago

    'Kay yeah, this forum is well dead to me now.

    The mandate of the site is technical comparisons. This comparison determines the 360 and PS3 versions are technically identical for every factor that is not a static variance (such as audio standards). But it gives the nod to PS3 anyway for factors outside those normal technical factors. And as an aside, maybe someone would get it for 360 because of XBL features that are also a static variable between the platforms? (but nah, I'm being far too rational there I know)

    Grats on the bragging rights... it's just too bad that whether you get what you want, or you don't get what you want, the noise you make is always exactly the same. I've had some brilliant diversion here, but it's not like one could ever win against rats in their own sewer; they may disappear for a while but they always return in force as soon as the coast is clear.

    And for the record, I think this rating system is particularly evil... but damn does it make for some fascinating sociological data!

    Cheers all, till tomorrow or never, I really couldn't say. ^_^
    Edited by 1 at 01/02/11 @ 05:40

  • DoctorFraud #146 1 year ago

    "The only reason to buy the 360 version is if you don't have a powerful pc or a PS3. End of debate."

    I have both consoles and will ALWAYS buy the 360 version. Always, regardless of bonuses or tech differences.

    The infintely better 360 controller is more than enough reason alone but the superior online service is the clincher.

    Gaming in general is a massive pain in the ass on PS3. Constant long winded updates and a rubbish online service ruin it.

    Still, at least I dont have to pay for games anymore on my PS3. All that wasted money is redirected to buying 360 games. Win/win!

  • RKOwned #147 1 year ago

    @DocotorFraud: you dont have to like PSN, but to say its "rubbish" is just incorrect. Its the second best online their is for consoles. Wii is way worse.

  • funkateer #148 1 year ago

    "The mandate of the site is technical comparisons."

    As I see it, DF is a blog and not a hard science publication. That gives the writer a lot of added freedom.
    For example these face-offs seem to try to provide some kind of consumer advice in addition to the hard scientific data (accompanied by often not-so-scientific interpretations of the writer).
    This comparison makes it quite clear that both versions are largely the same, but that there are some things in the complete package that favour the PS3 (more content, slightly better audio, no disc swapping).
    Just take it for what it is.

  • womble #149 1 year ago

    "The 360 controller "infinitely" better?? really?? "

    Let's be fair and just say "a LOT better". ;)

    Even the most ardent Sony fan can't HONESTLY defend the DualShocks. L1 and R1 feel terrible. And the "triggers" are tragic. (The same triggers that gamers have to buy add-on trigger slips for.)

    Considering that (Move and Kinect notwithstanding) the controller is the only way to interact with the game world, this is pretty freaking important.

    And don't get me started on the price of each Dual Shock 3...

    It's really strange. In most other respects, Sony's gaming hardware is very good, well designed, maybe even over-engineered. But their controllers plain SUCK.

  • Lucodeath #150 1 year ago

    Both xbox an ps3 controllers are as good as each other to me. They both do the same thing.

  • vizzini #151 1 year ago

    Womble: Even the most ardent Sony fan can't HONESTLY defend the DualShocks. L1 and R1 feel terrible. And the "triggers" are tragic. (The same triggers that gamers have to buy add-on trigger slips for.)

    Well you are entitled to your opinion, personally the 360 pad feels ok imo, but it is still like an inferior version of the cube's pad with (ab,xy)buttons looking like fake women's gemstones. And why they don't include lithium ion recharging as standard and cost a similar price is hardly award winning.

    The asymmetric design of the cube pad(sticks/d-pad and every button) can be advantageous (for all right-handed gamers) in certain genres, but the symmetry of the Playstation pad makes it a more versatile(for everyone and every genre) pad, and still has advantages in certain genres such as footy(PES/FIFA), fighting(Tekken/Soul Calibur/SF), 3rd Person & FPS, where muscle memory typically needs to be faster than the information feedback from asymmetric sticks/buttons (that can benefit a Zelda, Mario).

    Adding triggers or altering any console pad is sacrilege in my book(unless stealing the innerds for a custom arcade stick build). You might as well hand someone a Viper 3rd party GC pad from blockbuster if you are defacing a pad with trigger slips.

    But I am aware quite a few people like to add trigger slips.

  • kirankara #152 1 year ago

    @womble "The 360 controller "infinitely" better?? really?? "

    Let's be fair and just say "a LOT better". ;)

    Even the most ardent Sony fan can't HONESTLY defend the DualShocks. L1 and R1 feel terrible. And the "triggers" are tragic. (The same triggers that gamers have to buy add-on trigger slips for.)

    Considering that (Move and Kinect notwithstanding) the controller is the only way to interact with the game world, this is pretty freaking important.

    And don't get me started on the price of each Dual Shock 3...

    It's really strange. In most other respects, Sony's gaming hardware is very good, well designed, maybe even over-engineered. But their controllers plain SUCK."

    Here we disagree again my friend lol. I overall prefer ps3 dual shock controlllers, as does my brother, and this isnt due to even having been a ps2 user or anything as i never owned one for any substantial time. Im in agreement with vizzini, the cuube pads were awesome, and neither dual shock or 360 pad come close.

    I prefer the layout on dual shock over 360, and whilst I innitially struggled with the ps3 triggers, i actually prefer them without trigger pads (plus they break within no time).

    The dpad on 360 is horrendous for games that use it, i couldnt play sf4 on it as it would continuously let u down at vital moments, the triggers for me are good, but i wouldnt say they really offer me any advantage over ds3.No need to worry about recharging batteries on ds3 either.

    The most important part to me is that I prefer ds3's shape and weight, the 360 pad is just too chunky and heavy for my hands. I can use it, dont get me wrong, i just prefer ds3.

    Also near me the ds3 is cheaper than 360 pad by about £5 usually

  • NeverwinterMoon #153 5 months ago

    Just because of this article I almost didn't buy Dead Space 2 for PC. I wanted a visual experience beyond that of the consoles (totally hated DS 1 on Xbox 360 - it was one blurry experience, then played it on PC with 60 FPS and 1080p and thought it was so much more intense). After reading about FPS drops with 9800 GTX and the mention of GTX 580, I was almost confident my PC just wouldn't be able to pull 60 FPS...

    In the end, I took a chance anyway. To my biggest surprise, I was able to run the game with every possible setting on maximum at constant 60 FPS using 8800 GTX, Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 and 2 Gigs of RAM. I know that 8800 GTX is better than 9800 GTX. Nonetheless, all my hardware is at least three (!!!) years old.

    As of now, I've played all three versions of the game.

    PS3 has the best value, I guess, but only if you have Move to get the most out of Extraction (I've played without it and had a mediocre experience), BUT I didn't like the controls for the game itself, I had a lot of trouble with strategic dismemberment, the DS 3 sticks are way too floaty for any shooters, really, in my opinion.

    Xbox 360 is the better of the console versions (lack of additional contents aside), not only because of the better controller for that type of game but also because of a faster starting time (PS3 always had that loading trophies crap) and faster access to the save games (PS3 overlay is used and it takes a while to access it every time you save).

    PC is the definitive version, hands down. If you played the game on console only and loved it, play it again on PC. The difference is immerse. And, as I said earlier, it doesn't take a modern PC to run the game with all the bells and whistles at 1080p. You'll miss on DLC though. I'm personally going to play the DLC anyway, on Xbox 360, even though I've finished the game on PC. If you can afford only one version, PC still greatly overshadows the consoles with all the additional contents. As you can see from my crappy hardware, I'm not some PC elitist, I do play majority of the games on the consoles, but this game is so much worse on the consoles I just can't believe the reviews didn't reflect that in their grades. This is the case where visuals greatly affect your perception of the whole game. I personally never got genuinely scared while playing any of the DS games on the consoles but, while playing on PC, I was getting shivers on regular basis.
    Edited by 2 at 10/10/11 @ 13:54