Respect is difficult to gauge because it's based entirely on a consumer's feeling, and not on statistics. However, if one takes a step back and tries to put their finger on the pulse of the gaming populace, we can try to get a sense of how these two competitors are viewed.
And before anyone wants to make idiotic assumptions, we're not saying that Sony is more respected than Microsoft; we're not about to make such a definitive, factual statement because we could never prove it. All we can do is point to the evidence we see and come to a reasonable conclusion, but everyone's opinions and personal experience are apt to change. We're well aware of this. However, what we've seen and heard should be worthy of mention, and it's an interesting topic of discussion. A company gains a consumer's respect by producing a quality product that said consumer gets a lot of enjoyment out of…and with limited frustration. If we use this definition, which we would assume that most would agree with, we can view the situation in this way:
In terms of customer service, from our viewpoint, it's a no-brainer. Every time I or anyone else I know has contacted Sony, we will actually speak to someone who A. lists English as their first language, and B. is actually helpful. One representative actually spent a good 20 minutes with me fixing a problem with my PS3 last year, and it was an obscure setting that needed to be changed; not something you can just look up in a manual. In our experience with Microsoft customer service, we tend to get people we can barely understand who only suggest that we "restart the machine." Now, obviously, this doesn't mean everyone has the same experiences, but with the atrocious reliability of the Xbox 360, that alone has generated plenty of Microsoft enemies out there. Even the most ardent 360 fans have been heard to say, "oh yeah, it's a piece of sh** but I love the games on it." …that's not really a good sign.
Then there's how the two companies handle their business. We recently did an article regarding Microsoft taking jabs at Sony, and we pointed out that this happens a lot . In fact, it almost seems as if MS can only sling mud, while Sony typically just sticks to themselves. Both companies will promote their products, of course, but it just appears to us as if Sony isn't about attacking the competition, while Microsoft is all about that. We read press releases and news articles in the industry every damn day, and we really can't see how this particular point would be subject to debate. Lastly, one could look at the smaller aspects, like the Network vs. Live, or something. We could argue about that for days, but let's just say that most 360 players aren't too upset about a $50 fee, which means they probably don't blame MS for anything. And that's perfectly fair. One could also say that MS is more willing to drop the price of their hardware, especially in light of Sony's recent refusal to cut the price of the PS3.
There are many factors to consider but from our chair here, it does appear as if Sony is a more respected company. Even in looking back at history, it seems abundantly clear that the PlayStation and PlayStation 2 have far better reputations than the original Xbox, and we've certainly seen a definite momentum shift in this generation. Going forward, the gaming crowd seems to have more faith in Sony even if they still have reservations, and many still roll their eyes and shake their heads when Microsoft is mentioned. Oh, and just as an added point…Vista was a colossal failure in the eyes of the consumer while Sony Bravias cost about half what they used to this time last year, and remain some of the best TVs available. That's just an example, and I'm sure many more can be made for or against each company. But you get the idea.
Here's all I have to say:
Sony sees the PS3 as their most important product. Microsoft sees the Xbox 360 as just another product. That's says it all to me when it comes to who I respect.
Last edited by n/a on 3/29/2009 11:12:03 PM
Exactly! Sony is emotionally invested in their product and wants help (from consumers) to improve it. Microsoft is in it to make money, first and foremost, other than trying to wipe out he competition. Unfortunate for them, Sony won't go without a fight. Good for consumers, though. Imagine if there was only one next-gen console. *shrugs*
Last edited by infekt on 3/30/2009 12:22:49 AM
This is where you are wrong. For Microsoft the Xbox 360 and it's future successors are trojan horses (it's the same for Sony). These boxes are Microsoft's and Sony's way into controlling your media input and thus making money off of you through that box. Both boxes are extremely important to both companies for many reasons that are nearly identical. The way they go about it is what's different. As for respect… fanboy's opinions don't matter… for gamers Microsoft has respect because they hustle for games that would never have been developed on their system. They work for their fans to get they things they want. For Sony it's their reliable first and second party studios that keep the system from floundering under increased pressure from Nintendo and Microsoft. For every blunder Microsoft made Sony has made just as bad or worse.
I do not respect Sony because they are greedy and un-customer friendly. I hate Sony’s penchant for pricy proprietary products, and they frequently come across as indifferent to their customers’ desires. Even though many customers want backwards compatibility and a $100.00 price drop for the PS3, Sony stubbornly doesn’t give a hoot during these tough economic times. Need more proof that Sony is stubborn? When my backwards compatible PS3 stopped working, a Sony tech support rep gave me the choice of either shipping the unit in for repair or exchanging it at the store where it was purchased. After I exchanged the unit at the store, I found the new unit was not backwards compatible as the tech support representative suggested. However, that was not the only mistake that led me into forfeiting my limited edition PS3. On the Sony Customer Loyalty site for training retail sales associates – Sony’s own training module erroneously stated all PS3 was backwards compatible. If you think these mistakes would persuade Sony’s tech support Manager Noland Haas into replacing my inadvertently surrendered backwards compatible unit, you would be wrong. After confirming they had backward-compatible units on hand, Mr. Hass instead offered me four games and a “Thank you†for giving them opportunity to correct their mistakes. And apparently Sony’s legal department feels the same way. They lacked the professional courtesy to respond to my certified letter that conveyed my threat to sue. So don’t be fool into drinking the Kool-Aid; Sony does not care about honoring you as a customer. I am tired of Sony’s attitude of “We’ll give you what WE want and you’ll like it, saps!â€I don’t think Microsoft has such a dismissive attitude towards their customers, so I respect them more and I’m glad they’re kicking Sony’s stubborn, arrogant a**. And by the way, does Sony own this site? The editor seems like a giddy Sony shill. Ugh. I’d appreciate a little more journalistic objectivity and less high-pitched groupie squealing, please.
Yes!!
SONY hands down!!!!
I know many gamer's respect the ps brand but the ps3 still has to prove itself which it will do this year even though sony had a awesome year in 2008.
Sony needs to lower ps3 price, bc, more games (i know), more firmware updates and finally ADERVERTISE your fu*king products SONY. Den dey b cruisin blood.
Last edited by Ben Dutka PSXE on 3/30/2009 1:14:28 AM
"…but the ps3 still has to prove itself "
Does it really?
i dont think it does really its got loads of great things…..the reason i see people not buying it is due to the price
Not sure why so many disagree with you, but i think you are right, they still have to prove themselves in the eyes of a lot of consumers who have been bombarded with non stop MS advertisement. Its bigger than the internet, they have to reach out to the everyday consumer who might not use the internet often
Last edited by aaronisbla on 3/30/2009 10:33:06 AM
I find this an interesting fact in the forums, why do people who personally hold the ability to be responsible consumers give Microsoft a pass for creating such a piece?
WorldEndsWithMe; it seems the the WorldEndsWithThem… human nature I guess… convenience, laziness, spitefulness, fanboyism… you name it… a concoction of hell…
Q!
"i am home"
honestly, if it was sony who made such a defective product, they would never live it down.
Yeah I have respect for Sony, never really had any for M$, even before the xbox came out.
Same same same
Even before the first xbox
@flying _ape
wow…just wow..
My xbox360 is still alive and kicking (so far)and when my PS3 wouldn't start properly after having it for almost a year. I spoke to someone who was American and not out sourced to India or something. The problem with the PS3 was nothing major, just a problem with the internal fan that was fixed in less than 2 weeks (including shipping time)which I found impressive.
I've always liked Sony just like I always liked Nike. Not sure why, but I've never had a problem with them. My original Playstation and PS2 are still working and they were both purchased on day one.
I guess buying a reliable product is always a plus for a company with me, but M$ tends to go against the grain and still show a profit with unreliable products.
As long as people keep buying xbox360's multiple times, they are not going to change their practice. I know if my 360 gives out, I am not going to buy a new one. I am not that gullible (or stupid).
NeutralGamer_86… how much money have people got to waste these days?… it boggles the mind!
Q!
"i am home"
I went thru 3 PS2's until sony got it right with the PS3 and i going to go thru 3 or 4 Xbox 360 until microsoft gets it right. I respect both microsoft and sony. Game consoles fail and break all the time, just make sure your warranty is up to date.
Just because people break down and buy a new console doesn't make them stupid. It just happens that way.
Like Qubex said "how much money have people got to waste these days?… it boggles the mind!".
I'm not going to continue to buy a product that keeps dying on me. They should know that a video game system is going to played more than once. People like video games, and people play them a lot. Why buy something that doesn't serve it's purpose.
Like the old saying goes "fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me"
"Game consoles fail and break all the time"
No they dont, Game consoles fail and break, but not all the time, well, except for some
Last edited by karneli lll on 3/30/2009 1:37:50 AM
It's pretty sad that MS has made a whole generation of gamers think that it's okay for their system to break down once in awhile.
Yeah gamers had respect for Sony during the times of PS2. The price of the PS3 is making Sony lose its respect.
And hey the title must be Do gamers hate Microsoft more than sony.
Microsoft is one of the most hated companies that one can come across. People just love to hate them. Microsoft ( and Windows) is so ubiquitous that people claim they "hate" microsoft just to show that they are different.
PS: can one expect a different story at a PS based site? Nah
Last edited by manojlds on 3/30/2009 1:11:34 AM
Its not because to quote you
"people claim they "hate" microsoft just to show that they are different."
Its because, Microsofts business practices are absolutely Terrible. Its a convicted monopoly.
Nearly everyone in IT hates Microsofts Business practices, If Microsoft was a person it would be locked up in jail for the deception, fraud and corporate murder of other companies..
Just because you don't know the real truths behind a lot of the Microsoft business practices, doesn't mean the rest of us are as dumb as you..
As for the price. Is it better to buy a console for £130 have to buy a hdd for another £100 and wifi connector (£55) and pay a yearly membership (£50) to be able to play online and also to have to pay for a play and charge kit for each controller etc etc (works out way more expensive than a ps3 ) and hope that it doesn't die ? (probably +50% failure rate – the worst of any electronics good on the market)
Or is it better to pay £289.99 on something that just works ?
You are deceived into believing the 360 is cheaper, its a marketing trick.. Do the math, by the time you get ever peripheral you need for a 360 you would have spent way more than the price of a ps3.. Are you really that gullible ? Do you really do no research before buying a console and buy into the marketing hype ?
SONY!!!!!!
I know that Sony respects it's gamers, so I respect them back. Microsoft really couldn't care less; I mean, after Halo and Gears of War, there really is no reason to get a 360!
PS3 has Home, a whole bunch of awesome upcoming exclusives (Uncharted 2, God of War, Etc.) That PlayStation Life thingy that was once Folding@Home, trophies, mods for Unreal Tournament (even if that's old, the mods make that game so much better) and not to mention the PS3 is the most stable next gen console.
All political-related posts and content has been removed and will continue to be removed.
NO POLITICAL CRAP IN HERE.
thank you.
You should have deleted his entire post . Now everyone who gave him a thumbs down looks like a fanboy .
Yeah i know it's a game site but i feel i need to reach as much americans as i can. Americans are going to be facing tough times ahead. So i'm just looking out for fellow man. I just came from usa and many americans ive met agree with me. But i apoligize.
Ben, I was just hoping people would realize Obama's a puppet before it's too late, when I and everyone around me is made to suffer under the new world order.
Some people really have issues
Some people are ignorant. I'll feel bad if you don't see it coming.
somethingrandom, Obama is one of many puppets (ahem George W Bush ahem) in the White House. I will say that politicians are the puppets of large companies and their lobbyists.
Yes I do respect Sony more than Microsoft.
(Short answer)
😉
Awesome article ! I agree with all of that so I don't have much to add. My PS3 has served me well and I don't see it breaking down in any way in the near future. Just take care of it and it'll last 9 times out of 10 🙂
I certainly do, especially how in this gen Microsoft have just been buying all the PS3 exclusives instead of creating their own. Cheap, Dirt Cheap!
Good point. Not to mention launching a year sooner, denials of hardware faults, nickel and diming for every little thing on LIVE, multiple ads on every blade, the list goes on.
Shouldn't the fee you pay opt you out of ads thrown in your face? Not to M$, they want my money, your money and any advertiser out there who is willing to pay.
I can't think of any good reason to own a 360, let alone respect M$. Gamers are stats to them, wallets waiting to be emptied. Once the wallet is empty, they move on to a new demographic. As an example look at how they sell their points. Everything costs a minimum of 800 points, yet points are sold in 700 lots. Hmmm. They don't even care how obvious a scam that is.
Respect to Sony.
I can't explain why, but I always got this feeling since the PS2 era and up till now that Sony's gaming division really carried out their job and responsibility with a PASSION, they always thrive to improve themselves. They dove in this business not for a quick buck ( Unlike a particular company ), but to really enhance the gaming experience for eveybody, think about it, PS games have always been very diversed, everybody wants to play PS, and that's why SONY deserves my utmost respect for giving me a very enjoyable gaming experience for 15 years and still counting. SONY FTW !
As of now probably yes, but don't think you could have said the same in 2005, atleast when it comes to the vg industry.
There is 2 type of fanboys, those who are fanboys because they had respect for what ever it was and those that have respect because they are fanboys.
Last edited by ps92117 on 3/30/2009 3:25:14 AM
I feel Sony (in my region – Australia) price gouges and therefore find it hard to respect them. It's a pity because I really really love my ps2. At one point in time the difference in cost between buying a PS3 from the states and importing versus buying in Australia was almost $150 (american). Thats shocking. I haven't kept up to date with how prices and the exchange rate compare now. I have no reason to disrespect microsoft, that said I tend to prefer sony consoles.
Edit: quickly googled it because I coudln't remember how much the exact difference was, found one website that said it was a $250 difference when it was first released here. The difference sounds a little bigger than I remember, but it was still definately massive. I would include a link but I'm not sure on this websites policy on them. In any case info on it should be easy to find on the net. There was large pressure locally for them to drop prices to match the international value and they resisted it for a long time.
Last edited by Gear on 3/30/2009 3:52:01 AM
Sony I respect all the way.
Microsoft I respect them more than Sony, but the Microsoft game studio can kiss my a**.
Using money to steal Sony's exclusive is unforgivable.
I once used to be Xbox only. Now Im Playstation only…. There's a reason for that.
All I got say is 200 million plus sells and counting. 8 more tenths to a billion sells of Playstaion, PS2, and PS3 etc…. Microsoft no were near 100 million yet !
I've had loads of Sony products and have been happy with pretty much all of them (PS3 is their best to date in my eyes).
I've had only one MS product (360) and now I truly despise them. I can't imagine how much I'd hate them if I was a PC guy who'd been getting $hafted for years.
Of course i respect Sony more.
Here's hoping ps3's versions of future multi-plats are less blurry.Now you wouldn't notice if you have ONLY ps3.
But having both and playing some games side by side,i can't help but notice a slight blur in ps3 versions.Examples:Bioshock and Fifa 09.
Updates are too damn slow on ps3 too.
Those are my 2 problems.
My 360 cons:
-Effing EXPENSIVE batteries make the controller heavier.
-Payment for online
-of course,unreliability.
For me it's not a lack of respect. Microsoft brought PCs to our homes back in the day. For me, it's the 'pay for everything' attitude MS has towards gamers. What fun will I have with an Xbox that costs me 50 bux to play online for a year? Then I have to pay again? During said year my system runs the risk of bricking? I can't spend money on a product like that.
Microsoft from inception has been nothing but dodgy..
You only need to look at its business practices:
Quick and Dirty OS bought over by Bill Gates renamed to MS Dos and sold to IBM.
windows 3.x you had MS-Dos and DR-DOS, DR-DOS would randomly crash with windows 3x and had weird errors, turns out these were all fake and manufactured by MS.. They were later Sued and lost the case, proving they were guilty of this.
Windows a direct rip off of Mac OS (which in turn was based on a Xerox personal computer)
MS and IBM were working in collaboration on OS/2 which
MS ended up screwing IBM over with..
Windows9x renowned for its BSOD errors and flaky operation. Windows XP renowned for its initial flaky behaviour and tonne of security issues. Windows Vista rejected by nearly every commercial entity due to its lack luster performance and lack luster anything – just a crap operating system with a huge resource foot print.
Windows generally plagued with issues.
Look into its history and all you see is very very shady business practices. They are a convicted monopoly in Europe and the US, says it all really.
Other examples:
The browser wars netscape/IE Microsoft bundled in IE and destroyed Netscapes browser dominance completely.
Active directory is basically a rip off of Novell Netware..
The list is endless, just type in Microsoft Dirty Tactics into google and you will see endless complaints.. I haven't even gone into the dirty tactics employed on Linux
Sony has once or twice employed bad tactics, such as installing a root kit onto Windows Machines via Music CD's, thats about it that I know of..
Sony is generally regarded as top manufacturers. Their TV's have always been held in high regard. Their hifi systems have always been loved.. They have at one time or another dominated most of the electronics market by being the best and producing the best.
One has to buy support and pay for support and the other is supported and respected for free and for love of quality..
Your choice what you choose. I like to "Get The Facts" to quote Microsoft about the company before supporting its products, thats just me though..
I was going to post the same kind of thing. Microsoft has always needed to fight for respect since they were accused of stealing the idea for Operating systems.
But then they created a monopoly, and everyone was after them. I even heard that there is some country that has boycotted MS on all their government computers. ( I think it's Venezuela, but I'm not sure) They've installed Linux on all their computers just to give a big Screw you to Bill Gates. ( I've even heard that Sony may try their hand at their own OS…That could be interesting.)
Then the whole Vista fiasco was a bit of an eye opener for a lot of people. They released it prematurely, It was riddled with errors, so then they release a patch that downgrades Vista to XP…WTF? Vista is fixed now, but it did leave a sour taste in a lot of peoples mouths.
But Sony isn't free from guilt either…I seem to remember a few lawsuits against Sony for using materials that they weren't supposed to be using.
In the end it's just business, and the business sector can be pretty cut throat sometimes…All in the name of the almighty dollar.
As for the respect side of things…Well that will be a never ending argument. There will be people that will argue both sides.
When it comes to the console wars, Xbox and PS need each other..and we need them too, without competition, the gaming industry would stagnate and die… Healthy Competition is what pushes things to the next level..which in the end is better for us. And Win or lose…you've got to respect them for trying.
Last edited by CH1N00K on 3/30/2009 8:05:36 AM
I totally agree. Microsoft will do anything to gain a momopol on the console market as well, just to spam it with minor quality products as they did in all other business areas where they have a 'monopol'. But NO not this time Microsoft. Here´s the final line and I stand guard on it. (And millions of other not braindead people)
Linux is so underrated. Then again, intelligence isn't rampant within the population either! Hence, it all balances out… I think.