Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE) has today launched its first batch of 3D games in an attempt to cash in on the growing 3D craze. Owners of the rival Xbox 360 console can already purchase and play a small number of games via the Xbox Live store, so long as they have a 3D TV and glasses.

A SCE media release said Kiwi PS3 gamers with 3D TV’s could now get hold of WipEout, SuperStardust, PAIN, and a single level demo of MotorStorm: Pacific Rift in 3D. The games were priced at $59.90 and could be downloaded from the PlayStation Store, SCE said.

SCE New Zealand senior product manager Krister Robinson told PC World the titles launched today were the only 3D capable games on PS3 at this point but more were in the works.He was not available for a phone interview but said in an email that further announcements would be made at the E3 gaming expo in Los Angeles next week.

“3D will definitely provide a new immersive experience in gaming now and in the future. Gamers will have the choice of both 3D or 2D for the gaming experience” A Microsoft Xbox 360 statement said existing Xbox 360 consoles were 3D capable and more 3D games were planned for the future.

“Today, you can buy a 3DTV and wear glasses to play games like Avatar, and more titles like Batman: Arkham Asylum are on the way [to New Zealand]. The list of available games is still small, but will continue to grow with new releases and Xbox Live product updates.” Xbox 360 would announce specific 3D movie plans in future, the statement said.