Virtua Tennis 3 To Be First 1080p Xbox 360 Game

Sega has revealed new details concerning Virtua Tennis 3, currently in development by Sumo Digital (OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast), specifically noting that the Xbox 360 version will support 1080p resolution, a first for the console, as well as a Xbox Live spectator mode. While games released for the Xbox 360 have up until now supported 1080i resolution, today's information from Sega marks the first time a title has been confirmed for the console to include native 1080p support. Microsoft previously announced support for native 1080p games and movies in its October 2006 Xbox Live update. In addition, Sega officials further noted that the upcoming sports title will feature support for ranked matches over Xbox Live, as well as the ability to participate in exhibition games online for both singles and doubles. Virtua Tennis 3 will also feature an online spectator mode, similar to what was implemented within Bizarre Creations' Project Gotham 3, allowing players to watch ranked matches over Xbox Live. In speaking with a Sega representative, the company confirmed that online support will be specific to the Xbox 360, while the PlayStation 3 version will include added support for the PS3 controller's tilt functionality in lieu of being able to play online. Both versions, however, will include support for 1080p resolution. “What we really wanted to do was focus on making each version unique,” commented a Sega representative to Gamasutra, “and so with the Xbox Live features and the SIXAXIS tilt functionality, we think that each version will offer players an unique experience.” [UPDATE - 02/07/06, 3.00pm PST: Electronic Arts has now revealed to Gamasutra that its upcoming title NBA Street Homecourt, shipping a month earlier than Sega's on February 20, will also support 1080p on Xbox 360, making it the second 1080p X360 game to be announced, but the first to hit stores.]