Make no mistake about it, I love optimism, and while there have been several detractors regarding the Nintendo 3DS, I have always wondered why many aren’t realizing what we are actually witnessing:  the first generation 3D gaming device that will undoubtedly lead to massive changes in the industry.  Sony sees what we’re talking about, and Mick Hocking of Sony London Studios obviously has 3D on his mind.  In mentioning the current 3D landscape, he mentions that the future of 3D as a “creative medium” will continue to push what we believe, as gamers, is possible.

I couldn’t agree more, as I’ve told everyone that the 3DS has offered so much beyond the gaming experience of the console itself.  That being said, I love my 3DS and haven’t had any issue with the release.  Sony apparently plans on integrated 3D technology with the Playstation Move, so things like Resistance 3should begin to show us what is in store for 3D gaming.

Properly understanding where we are in 3D technology can help consumers accurately project where things will be in a few years.  Sure, we’re starting to see plenty of glasses-free 3D units, but it will take time to perfect.  After all, flat screens underwent a similar trial by fire.

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Amimon isn’t a name that’s used around homes a lot, but it is one of the big names in the Wireless Home Digital Interface consortium, or the WHDI. Asus, on the other hand, is a well known computer manufacturer, especially popular among gamers for their high performance mother boards and monitors. Today, Asus has teamed up with Amimon to bring us WAVI 3D. It’s basically a wireless PC to TV kit that takes your games from your computer monitor and blows it up to put it on your big screen TV. Best of all, it supports 3D content.

So what does this mean for the consumer? Well, you can now wirelessly play 3D games on your TV, or stream 3D movies on the big screen so that you can watch it in full effect. The WAVI PC-to-TV kit basically makes your 3DTV in the living room a wireless monitor for your PC. It also comes with a virtual link USB that let’s you control the PC wirelessly.

Asus has always been behind the WHDI, and is one of the first to team up with Amimon to bring WHDI to the consumer. The WAVI apparently streams uncompressed video from the PC, at 1080p and a 60Hz refresh rate to a distance of up to 100 ft. It also supports multiple links, which means that streaming from your PC isn’t limited to just one TV. The demo that was shown had virtually zero lag, which is essential for gamers. The WAVI does, however require HDMI 1.4a, and supports HDCP 2.0 for digitally copy protected content. No price was announced, but it is said to be available during the first quarter of 2011.

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When you consider the speed at which 3D technology is expanding, it’s actually quite surprising that more gamers haven’t adopted the platform.  You know how this stuff goes, though…we usually need a bit of nudging because who likes change that costs some extra cash when it’s tight for many?  But, when you start seeing things that make you salivate, it’s usually time to dive in.  Meet the Viewsonic V3D245 LED monitor.  Featuring NVIDIA’s prowess, this guy should make everything pop.

It’s got an HDMI 1.4 input, so watching Blu-rays or running content from your hard drive won’t be a problem at all.  A 20,000,000:1 contrast ratio is impressive enough, but when you factor in the SRS Premium Sound speakers that are attached to the monitor, you’re off to the races. 

Basically, you’re getting an incredible 2D monitor that has some impressive 3D capabilities.  The overall price will run you just over $700, and Nvidia 3D Vision 3D glasses are included in the price, so at least you know you’re getting the monitor, some specs, and speakers in a single box.  This is a great release from ViewSonic and you can find it hitting stores in September.

Image credit: engadget.com

We’ve seen 3D phones hit the market to mixed reviews, and while we’re still all for the expansion of such technology, a new concept is coming to light that we all knew was coming:  3D gaming phones.  However, when you talk about creating such a device, you have to wonder whether or not the screen size will actually be conducive for gaming; and, if it is, would you be better off with a tablet?  This is an interesting situation that should be fun to watch as it develops.

Sony Ericsson is working on a 3D gaming phone that uses a 4.7-inch screen.  Of course, we’re going to start seeing these devices from several companies as we’ve already seen how the EVO 3D and Thrill 4G have done despite shaky reviews.  Ultimately, everyone wants new technology, so expect this trend to continue.  However, with the screen being just under 5 inches, what’s to entice anyone to abandon their tablet and utilize one of these devices?  The resolution is great, coming in at 1280 x 720, but there’s got to be some concern about finding that hallowed middle ground.

Sure, maybe 4.7-inches is the middle ground, and Sony Ericsson is right on the money here, but when you start contemplating the use of tablets, things start to enter that gray area.  If you carry an iPad, is there really going to be much incentive to also carry an iPhone if the screen starts pushing 6 or 7 inches.  We’re probably a long way away from that, but still, consider how this could play out.  I’m expecting tablets to hover around 7 inches, and to become the all-in-one device that we’ve been touting for years.  Stay tuned!

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Mitsubishi isn’t wasting any time getting in on the market for 3D monitors.  Their latest rendition takes things to another level by combining an IPS display with the 3D technology.  If you like wide viewing angles and love the prospect of 3D gaming, you’ve found your technological match.  The 23” viewing screen offers a LED backlit picture with Full HD, 178-degree viewing angle, and an impressive response time of 3.8 milliseconds. 

The RDT233WX-3D receives the content via a DVI-D connector and two HDMI 1.4 ports.  In addition to the connectivity here, it’ll utilize D5 connections, bringing content in any form you can think of.  Fans of the passive 3D movement will be happy to learn that this monitor subscribes to the same 3D club you do.  Passive 3D glasses will allow you to check out all the 3D content you like.

Prices are not yet available, and though it’s slated for release in Japan on May 30th, there’s no telling if (or when) we’ll be able to get our hands on it.  Importing the monitor could prove costly, though it’s likely it’s going to cost an arm and a leg anyway.  With the connectivity and great screen size, there’s a decent chance it’ll find its way into every market interested in shelling out for it.

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So, we’ve moved on from 3D televisions to 3D computer monitors, and while there are a few companies that are offering up some decent options, we decided it’d be prudent to take a gander at the Hanns G HS233.  After all, doesn’t 2D suddenly seem lifeless and boring?  Whether you have 3D movies (or games) or not, there’s no doubt that the content will continue to come, and those without a 3D monitor will be left wondering what happened to their seemingly incredible computer visuals…

The HS233 is a great unit for the money.  The monitor can handle just about any 3D you toss at it, but there’s a downside to the low price you’ll likely see attached:  it doesn’t include the 3D package that Asus’ comparable model does.  That explains the lowered cost, so if you decide on picking this monitor up, you’ll need to supplement it with a 3D package.  That’s a bummer, isn’t it?

When you aren’t viewing 3D content, the picture is incredible.  Those that are looking for a quality monitor that they can later upgrade to 3D may find this unit to be their monitor soul-mate.  But, bear in mind that it’s a little wobbly at times, and adjusting it may be cumbersome (on the stand).  In the end, if you want to get a monitor for 3D, this can do the trick, but don’t be fooled into thinking that the lowered price will give you everything the Asus model will.  Instead, you’ll need to shell out a bit more, but in terms of performance, the HS233 is a great monitor that should give you plenty of room to grow into 3D.

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Acer has released two new 3D monitors that give gamers seeking some new technology something to pine over.  The HS244HQ and HN274H are LED units that offer great versatility in terms of eye candy and desktop space.  Those with a lot of room to work with will likely take a hard look at the 27” HN274H.  With HDMI 3D and NVIDIA 3D Vision, users will enjoy incredible resolution and a set of NVIDIA active 3D glasses.  Priced at $689, the monitor may not be easy on the wallet, but for what you’re getting, the price is actually quite reasonable.

Should you have a smaller desktop, the HS244 HQ has a smaller screen (23.6”), but still maintains the 3D LCD design.  Also facilitating HDMI 3D, purchasers will also get a pair of Acer active 3D specs.  Full HD 3D films will be smooth and bright, and priced at $449, we expect this to become the more popular of the two.

Both designs feature a built-in IR emitter.  Ready for some 3D gaming?  Maybe the ability to watch the latest 3D flicks on your desktop?  Be sure that you have the spreadsheet you’re working on minimized and poised for a quick switch when your boss walks by…however, good luck explaining the 3D glasses…

Image credit: 3dvision-blog.com