GDC 2007: Inside Sony's Keynote Surprise

Sony began its GDC 2007 keynote by tossing some giant soccer balls into the audience. And yes, the soccer balls had a purpose that came into "play" later in the keynote.

Apparently nobody told Sony that the U.S. isn't a big soccer country.

Apparently nobody told Sony that the U.S. isn’t a big soccer country.

Sony's Phil Harrison (left) demonstrates the forthcoming PlayStation Home service while standing next to a giant soccer ball. What's with the damn soccer balls?!?!

Sony’s Phil Harrison (left) demonstrates the forthcoming PlayStation Home service while standing next to a giant soccer ball. What’s with the damn soccer balls ?!?!

Sony's message during the keynote was the "gaming 3.0" revolution, which will enhance communication and collaboration through games.

Sony’s message during the keynote was the "gaming 3.0" revolution, which will enhance communication and collaboration through games.

Users can create life-life digital avatars on the PlayStation Home service and interact with other players.

Users can create life-life digital avatars on the PlayStation Home service and interact with other players.

Users can communicate through text chats or audio/video chats.

Users can communicate through text chats or audio/video chats.

I'm sure he meant to say "hi" instead of "ho."

I’m sure he meant to say "hi" instead of "ho."

The PlayStation Home service will begin a public beta testing next month and is schedule to launch in the fall as a free download to PS3 owners.

The PlayStation Home service will begin a public beta testing next month and is schedule to launch in the fall as a free download to PS3 owners.

Meet "Sack Boy," the main character in Media Molecule's forthcoming game LittleBigPlanet.

Meet "Sack Boy," the main character in Media Molecule’s forthcoming game LittleBigPlanet.

Media Molecule demonstrates LittleBigPlanet on stage during Sony's keynote.

Media Molecule demonstrates LittleBigPlanet on stage during Sony’s keynote.

LittleBigPlanet is a multiplayer game where players can interact, collaborate or compete in an imaginative sandbox environment.

LittleBigPlanet is a multiplayer game where players can interact, collaborate or compete in an imaginative sandbox environment.

TOPICS

Tom's Hardware is the leading destination for hardcore computer enthusiasts. We cover everything from processors to 3D printers, single-board computers, SSDs and high-end gaming rigs, empowering readers to make the most of the tech they love, keep up on the latest developments and buy the right gear. Our staff has more than 100 years of combined experience covering news, solving tech problems and reviewing components and systems.