Rockband network ps3

[thefncrow]

To finish - Question: Why did Harmonix create the RBN using XNA instead of as a standalone application?

If you really don't understand why Harmonix used XNA to facilitate entry into the MS's Live Marketplace instead of developing some sort of framework that has back-end access to Live Marketplace, Wii Shop, and Playstation Network, you're clearly overestimating the sort of access Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo grant developers into their proprietary networks.

The Live Marketplace has two methods by which content can flow into the Marketplace, as opposed to one for both Playstation Network and Wii Shop. The first method for Live Marketplace is the only method for PSN and Wii Shop, which is the standard method by which all Harmonix-developed DLC is adopted for those platforms, which requires the console maker to put the content through a certification process and has a large barrier to entry for content.

The second method, exclusive to the Live Marketplace, is the XNA system, which has intentionally lowered the barriers to entry in order to allow a wider audience of developers to use the service.

If all the content had to go in the front door and pass through all the hoops of the standard DLC process, RBN wouldn't exist because it simply wouldn't be cost effective. XNA, and the way content can pass through the system without the effort of Harmonix, is what enables RBN to exist at all, and Harmonix has decided that rather than leaving the other platforms completely out in the cold, they'll expend the effort to port those songs, so long as the songs appear likely to sell enough to at least pay for the fixed costs of porting them.

[Dennen]

I never overestimated anything. I simply said that I did not understand it, and don't know why they would make this decision. Hence is why I asked. If I was so egotistic as to actually assume I had all the answers, I would not have asked =/. I didn't make the post to bring about any outrage or to take any particular stance - only to ask a question on something that I did not understand.

The rest of your post did well to explain why this process was chosen, if that indeed is why RBN isn't ported over to the other consoles. It also makes perfect sense.

Unfortunately, I can't honestly say that I see this sort of system being put into the PSN at least for some time. If I am to understand, developers occasionally have issues making games effectively on the PS3 as it is. I can't imagine how difficult that process might be for those who are not familiar with programming (if they have to program at all - I am oblivious to how XNA works in depth) for the console.

It would sound as though Sony would have to create an XNA-like system simply for Rock Band and Harmonix which is pretty unlikely. I've been reading a fair amount of people making that claim in this thread, asking people to complain to Sony to create an XNA equivalent. It would be great if it's possible, I do not doubt this. But as it stands, I am unsure if such a thing is cost effective. *shrug* maybe i'll buy some of the popular songs regardless =)

[T-Hybrid]

Isn't a "standalone utility" pretty much what HMX released? The tools used to actually make the songs are all part of the actual set that the "official" charters use.

XNA's role is facilitate the testing of those songs on the console and submitting them to MS's certification system...which is something that I don't think HMX could ever create on their own for another console.

[sa_nick]

Do you guys have any idea how childish this discussion looks to people who've just stepped in?

Everyone knows the facts, things are how they are and HMX can't do anything to change it.

I've said this a few times now but the point remains valid... Just be thankful for what you have. Select songs will come to the PS3 soon and all will be good. Enjoy that, because down here in Australia Rock Band 2 hasnt even been released yet.