2006 predictions for thought

Press the Buttons makes 12 predictions for the 2006 gaming year. All in all, the author believes payoffs for all major console and handheld manufacturers are in store. Larger industry growth in 2006 could make that a very realistic outcome. Here's a summary of the 12 points:

1. The Microsoft Xbox 360 will have a good (not great) first year.
2. The PS3 will launch in time for the big Holiday 2006 shopping season.
3. The PSP will finally get its must-own game.
4. The Nintendo Revolution will steal the show at E3 2006.
   
5. There will be no successor to the Game Boy Advance on store shelves this year.
6. Revolution virtual console will launch with the same kinds of titles that Nintendo has been pumping out every few years in different formats.
7. Sega will finally create an exceptional 3D Sonic title.
8. Capcom will bring us the latest installments and iterations of Resident Evil, Street Fighter, and Mega Man to next generation consoles.
9. Konami will wow attendees at E3 2006 with the first footage of a very dark, very cinematic Castlevania title for the Xbox 360 and PS3.
10. Electronic Arts will continue to be both profitable and reviled.
11. Former golden boy Rare will finally start to be worth the very high price Microsoft paid for the company.
12. More gaming “also-rans” will drop out of the market (n-Gage, Gizmondo, Phantom).