What to expect from PS3

Ventilation issues notwithstanding, the PS3 packs some impressive features. Especially the $600 model, which comes standard with Wi-Fi (making connecting to a wireless network a breeze) and a built-in reader for three types of memory cards: CompactFlash, SD and Memory Stick Pro Duo.

That last one is great news for PSP owners, as they'll be easily able to back up saves or transfer saved games between their handheld and console with the same card they've been using. (Of course, they can also just connect the PSP to the PS3 with a USB cable, and transfer data between the two that way.) Speaking of the PSP, the PS3 also comes equipped to play games remotely using the handheld, although that feature still hasn't been implemented on the PSP as of this writing.

PS2 owners will also find their old equipment useful, as the PS3 uses the same A/V cables as its predecessor. That's especially good if you bought a high-def component cable for your PS2, because the PS3 doesn't come with one - just a standard-definition composite cable. Weird, considering the system wears its HD capabilities on its sleeve. That also means those of you who had your hearts set on using HDMI will have to buy a cable separately, in case you missed the news earlier this year.

Mikel Reparaz
After graduating from college in 2000 with a BA in journalism, I worked for five years as a copy editor, page designer and videogame-review columnist at a couple of mid-sized newspapers you've never heard of. My column eventually got me a freelancing gig with GMR magazine, which folded a few months later. I was hired on full-time by GamesRadar in late 2005, and have since been paid actual money to write silly articles about lovable blobs.