It's just one bit of bad news after another, isn't it?



No 20GB PS3 in UK?

May 14th, 2006, 03:18 Posted By: tsurumaru

Source: Gamesradar

Retailer says we'll only be getting the more powerful bundle

Sony won't be releasing the 20GB version of its PS3 when the console launches in the UK on 17 November, according to one high street retailer.

Sony announced at its E3 conference on Monday that it would be launching its PS2 successor in two different versions - a premium, 60GB hard drive package and a less expensive 20GB version that, in addition to the smaller storage device, would also lack some key features.

However, while UK games store gamestation is already offering pre-orders for Sony's new machine, its customers are only able to put a holding deposit down on the more expensive 60GB model, which it has marked up at a price of £425.

When we contacted gamestation to ask why it wasn't taking pre-orders for the 20GB deal, we were told in no uncertain terms that it was because Sony wouldn't be releasing the slightly more wallet-friendly bundle in the UK.

We weren't offered any explanation as to why the 20GB would be unavailable, so we'll just have to wait for Monday morning when Sony will hopefully throw some light on the matter.


20Gb version will only support Wired Dual Shock Pads

May 14th, 2006, 03:12 Posted By: tsurumaru

Source: Gamesradar
20GB PS3 to require wired controllers

[PS3] Lower-end model also lacks HDMI, memory card slot and, erm, chrome lettering

Sony has today cleared up the confusion over the differences in specification between the two models of PlayStation 3 - and the cheaper version won't support wireless controllers.

As announced by the company on Monday, two versions of PS3 will be available at launch - one with a 60GB hard drive, and a less pricy model that features a 20GB hard drive. However, what the company didn't mention at the time is that the 20GB machine also lacks a number of key features that are included as standard in the more expensive model.

The 20GB console won't include an HDMI output, which means that it won't be able to deliver high definition pictures. But perhaps more disappointing is that wireless bluetooth controllers won't be supported; instead, gamers will have to make do with retro-style wired-up versions of the increasingly controversial PS3 pad.

The 60GB version of PlayStation 3 is identifiable by its chrome lettering

In addition, the lower-end model also lacks WiFi and the slot for Memory Stick Duo cards included in the full-spec PS3.

A Sony representative on the show floor at E3 also emphasized that gamers won't be able to upgrade the memory of the 20GB version; if that's the PS3 incarnation you opt for, you're permanently stuck with a 20GB memory limit.

Amazingly, Sony big boss man Phil Harrison, in a BBC interview earlier this week, insisted, "What we should be clear about is that the functionality is identical in both machines. There is no difference in what the machine does."

Unfortunately, the actual facts seem to suggest otherwise.





E3 Vox Populi: Will lack of rumble hurt the PS3?

May 13th, 2006, 09:33 Posted By: wraggster

Via Joystiq

Yesterday, we asked a few people on the show to give their reaction to the following question: "Will the lack of rumble in the Dual Shake hurt the PlayStarion 3?" Here are some reactions we got:

David Edery: Game Tycoon
it's certainly a shame to lose something where rumble matters in the design context. Rumble has always felt like icing to me; it's not crucial. Not having the motion sensing at all, that's a huge problem. I'd be much more worrying about microsoft, frankly. rumble has never mattered to me that much. i think it'll hurt them, but I don't know how much. I don't think it's a huge deal. people want to move, though. not having that when others do have it, will be a huge disadvantage.

Jessie: GamerSurvival
"It'll hurt; I've heard a lot of people upset [over the decision]."

David Reid: VP Marketing for GameTap
i've never thought of it as a big deal. that's me personally. there was a time when i was deep in the weeds at xbox when we were like ... do we pay for one motor or two motors. i think the bigger story is a 499 box that doesn't have hdmi, doesn't have wifi, doesn't have a memory unit. i think lack of rumble is the least of their problems. those are really smart gusy they've got a really great business i'm sure thtey know what they're doing but it really sturck me as odd.

Delila: OnTheXbox.com
"[The rumble] adds to the experience, feeling the explosions for example. It's gonna hurt them."

Roman: Industry Analyst
[Lack of rumble] is not the main thing that's going to hurt them. To me they're the loser of the show. I'm very concerned actually. Rumble is marginal compared to other issues.

Cesar: Gamerscore
"Not as much as the price."


Via http://ps3-evolution.dcemu.co.uk/

I can't imagine any of my friends paying £425 for anything - They'll just go for the Xbox or Wii.

EDIT: More.

PS3 Set to Debut in Australia for a Bargain...$999 AUD!

Via Cnet

Sony has locked in 17 November as the Australian launch date for the PlayStation 3, just in time for Christmas. The system will come in two bundles -- a PS3 with a 20GB hard drive (confirmed RRP of AU$829) and one with a 60GB HDD (confirmed RRP of AU$999).

As a comparison, the Xbox 360's core bundle retails for AU$499, while its upgrade bundle which includes a 20GB hard drive retails for AU$649.

The Australian launch date will come one week after the US and Japan release for Sony's next generation games console. European territories will also receive the PS3 on 17 November. The almost simultaneous worldwide launch date is a stark contrast to Microsoft's Xbox 360, which was released in Australia a number of months after its US release. However, we wouldn't bet money on Sony hitting that date, as global launches are a logistical nightmare, and as with Xbox 360, supply issues could cause delays.

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