Hardware vs. Software

While a lot of gaming companies are just starting to focus on stereoscopic 3D, nVidia has been exploring the technology for some time. It recently released its GTX 400 series graphics cards for 3D gaming on the PC. Variety spoke with Phil Eisler, general manager of nVidia's 3D Vision unit, about 3D on the PC -- and the hurdles it faces.

"3D gaming has been around for a long time. There were shutter glasses back 10 years or more. CRT monitors could be used, but as displays moved to LCD, it made 3D difficult. We kind of took a step backwards when we went to LCD screens."

"There's a little bit of a chicken-and-egg problem in that there's not a lot of hardware out there that supports 3D, so people aren't creating games. And because they're not creating games, there's not a lot of hardware supporting the technology."

"I think there will be more spillover from Hollywood. Gamers watch a lot of movies, and something like Avatar gets people to try the 3D experience. Once they experience it, they want to see that in their games."

"The gamer will be more willing to wear the glasses than the average television watcher. The problem with TV is it's usually a multiperson, social experience. You watch with friends or family members. PC gaming is a little less so. And many players are already wearing headsets, so there will be less resistance."

"3D has changed dramatically in the past year from a niche to where you can hardly turn anything on without being bombarded by talk of it. The game industry, on the marketing side, is a little bit behind in the marketing of 3D, but we're seeing more and more eagerness to partner with nVidia."

By Chris Morris, Variety