A Launch To Remember: PlayStation 3

by Louis Bedigian

The air was crisp. It would've been bitter, but the temperature didn't drop much for the time of year, just as the weatherman predicted. As the sun came over the horizon, thousands of mankind's most advanced sub-species – gamers – wriggled and shivered as they struggled to keep warm. Blankets and tents, unexplained smiles, and the inevitable confused guy who's waiting just because "it looks cool."

The clock strikes eight. The doors open and the advanced sub-species, with red ticket in hand, rush to the game aisle. Some hear triumphant music playing in the background, while others are so giddy they can barely make out a sound. For them it's as if the world is moving in slow motion. Or maybe it's they who are moving in slow motion – because their feet are too tired from standing for eight hours to go any faster.

The visuals are breathtaking: it's as if these gamers are moving in real-time! The sounds are memorable to those behind the checkout, and to those who check out with nothing left in their wallet: cha-ching! Cha-ching! Cha-ching!

Many will remember the stories shared that day.

"Pre-orders? Bundle deals? Bah! I'd rather wait in line!"

Some will boast.

"My friend's going to be so jealous."

Some might shed a tear.

"I was the 21st person in line. They only got 22 systems. I can't believe I'm here, this is so surreal."

All who embark on this journey will take home a little more EXP than they came with. Their HP will undoubtedly be depleted, though it's nothing a little Gatorade can't replenish. Side quests are an option, but only if you have a party member to spare. Don't go rushing off to Tim Horton's if you don't have a friend as trustworthy as Barret to hold your place in line. The Materia – I mean donut holes – can wait till later.

There will come a time when your Crazy Taxi and Gran Turismo skills will be put to the test. It is at this moment when you must decide: side streets or highways? Contrary to popular belief, the size of your vehicle does matter. Don't go weaving in and out of giant SUVs with the family van. You're better off taking the Taurus.

This will not be an easy battle. Some of you won't be coming home....with a large box that says "PlayStation 3" on the front, back, and sides. You can't prepare enough for this mission.

Back in 2000, I wasn't ready for PS2. There could've been a boss battle waiting inside for all I knew. When the Target employee opened the doors and handed me a red ticket, something magical happened. I learned a new spell – Miracle. The guy behind me was glowing so bright I thought he was going to use his Limit Breaker. I'll never forget it.

I must admit it was cruel what they did to those who didn't get a red ticket. Store employees lined up, each holding a letter to spell out the words "Game Over." As I drove away with my PS2 (buckled in the seat next to me), I could see the orchestra setting up in my rear view mirror. They were getting ready to perform the theme from Final Fantasy. If only someone could have projected game credits on the side of the Target building – that would have really complemented the moment.

Nearly six years have passed since that unforgettable day. I've grown a lot since then, learning new techniques like "Early Pre-Order" and "Soul." (The latter is the price dealers will charge on eBay after PS3 is released.) I've continued casting "Bundle Boycott," but have stayed away from risky spells like "Console Exchange" – I'll keep my PS2 after launch, even if PlayStation 3 makes it obsolete. I figure the day will come when I can hang all my consoles on my wall with a plaque honoring their time served.

PlayStation 2

2000-20XX

Beloved game console and friend

And of course, I can always save 3DO for my graveyard.