Watch out Wii, Sony outlines "astounding" PS3 rescue plan

Sony has outlined a plan to rescue the PlayStation 3 (PS3) from oblivion. Disappointingly, the plan has already received a thumbs down from a leading Japanese games expert.

Contrary to wide speculation, the plan does not include a price cut. Instead, Sony wants to work on relationships with third-party game publishers to improve the range of games available for the PS3.

[Lightning Mr Bubbles]

The plan gets a thumbs down from me also. Sure of course they need all the third party support, but the PS3 needs to be saved this year, not in 3 years.

[nasim]

can u stop trolling ps3 boards.

ps3 is already murdering x360 in EU and JAPAN

It is just a matter of time before it deals a knowckout blow at competition

[CaptainMeatwad]

lol @ people calling lightning a troll

[gunnerforlife]

his the last person u should be calling a troll.

[Proxy]

Contract a game now, publish it in 3 year when it's done. As Lightning said, they need something now.

The two go hand in hand, if PS3 had sold 300 million consols Sony would say "Hey, do you think you might maybe wanna make a game for our consols, if you have the time and it's not to much troble?" and developers would be all over it. As it is they have to use much more persuasive means to secure the developers, because the devs want assurance that their work will go to a sizable audience. Now the PS3's audience isn't small, but (I'm a PS3 fan, so it hurt to say, but it's true) the 360 has a much larger audience. LOL, then their's the Wii....

Also, Lightning is pro-ps3 in every post of his. He just uses a little to much common sense and logic for some though.

[SonySoldiers]

Yeah.. WATCHOUT!!! It's retaliation time for the amazing SONY!

only Sony makes it possible!!...

[The Snake]

The irony of nasim calling out anyone as a troll is nothing short of mindblowing.

[duarteq]

The PS3 for what it have is a cheap console. I bought in the first day in europe and paid 600 Euros. It was a fair price.
I remember when i paid 468 Euros for PS2 in the first day in europe and the same comments were around. I don't Care. The PS3 is doing fine and the good games are start to walking around so Sony don't need a price cut, what it need is good games. did u see what happened in japan with FFVII for PSP ? some games will do even better for PS3, just give it a few months, and believe me, i don't care to wait. I know in the end PS3 will win what we call the Console Wars. Even the Wii fever is starting to get down in Japan ( I own one )

[caffman]

Nasim calling someone a troll is bad. Calling Lightning one is just genius!
READ HIS/HER NORMAL POSTS MORON!!!

[ATLRoAcH]

I still expect a price cut this holiday and next to price third-party game relations is important.Whens the last time you saw a multi-platform title have a commercial that didn't end with the 360 logo.Sony wants to keep things like Madden 08 from happening.

[QuackPot]

And once Sony gets more 3rd party developers on board, then great games will follow.

Prediction: major price drop this Christmas.

[Naruto]

Quit trolling evry PS3 article

DO you really Think they don't know that already

How do you they won't announce one THIS HOLIDAY?

[fenderputty]

He's a PS3 fan. He's just level headed enough to realize that a price drop is needed. I don't think it's as severe as he seems to think but, a price drop is the most important aspect of PS3 sales. With a price drop comes sales and, with sales comes 3rd party support.

[dale1]

don,t worry sony has 3 platforms not one they said this year was the psp and ps3 would be next year, of course the ps2 is still selling boat loads worldwide its not all about the U.S
theres other countrys buying into the playstation brand in a big way
i reckon price drop before christmas now the 65n chips are being produced depending on sales

[ReBurn]

I don't know that I can get on board with this being the year of the PSP. They redesigned the hardware, but the handheld that could is still missing great games. There are a lot of good games for the PSP, but not many great ones. I wish Sony would take PSP software more seriously.

And I think that 3 platforms is one of the things that holds the PS3 back. Why would someone buy one when it appears that so far this year most of the great releases have been on the PS2? I know that it is just the result of PS2 games that were already in development reaching completion, but I think that the PS3 is going to continue to struggle as long as Sony is competing with itself.

[MikeGdaGod]

"In an astounding move, Hirai also said that Sony will start marketing the PS3 as a games console, rather than as a super computer/home entertainment device. Apparently he's realized that gamers above everything want a games console first and foremost.

This is obviously something that Sony has painfully learnt from Nintendo, which from day one has marketed its popular Wii games console, as a games console."

what else can the Wii do? not tryin to flame but really, what else can you do? it can't even play dvds and has no HDD.

[Chris_GTR1]

LOL. comparing it to wii. LOL wii completely lost the gaming audience. (as if it didnt loose them with the gamecube already) now its more of a kids toy rather than a video game console. not to mention its recent change to a exerzise device with its wii floor pad thing.

[Snipes20]

As far as playing discs is concerned, the Wii can only play game discs at the moment. What I am trying to figure out is how hackers have modded the Wii so it could read regular dvd's. They didn't add any hardware, they only rewrote some of the Wii's code onto a cd, loaded it into the Wii and overwrote the Wii's original code so it could play dvd's. If modders could do it, why couldn't Nintendo just send an update for it?

I thought the sarcasm in this article was pretty good, but I don't think the PS3 is down and out even if they don't cut the price.

[RickXTN]

The article makes a great point when it said that. I know as a gamer since the days of the Atari 2600 that it's about gaming first and foremost. Don't get me wrong, having extras in a console is nice but not at the expense of gaming. The PS3 just HAD to have that Bluray which drove the price to a ridiculous level and pretty much took themselves out of the game. The Wii is focused on the games and making gaming FUN above just looking good and look what happened. The 360 manages to have the best balance of added features without losing much on games. Sony shot themselves in BOTH feet on the PS3.

[ReBurn]

I think that in general console manufacturers have taken the emphasis off of gaming in this generation. I can see marketing a console as a media center, because the PS3 and 360 are capable of it. It widens the appeal a bit. It's just that the core audience of a console is more interested in games first, media second.

[WilliamRLBaker]

because the ps3 needs saving? regardless of its sales, regardless of its ammount of geting ass kicked by both competitors means nothing.
the ps3 will sell it will start selling and it will start geting amazing games over the drivel released so far.

I mean even i can see that...trying to make out the ps3 will never sale is something i've never done, I deal in the moment, the future? ps3 will sell a lot, I still think its gonna be an 33% cut for each system this gen.

[Bloodmask]

Sony finally figured out people want a games console first and foremost for games. Good move for them I guess. I really don't understand their strategy as I just read an article that said "Sony shines Bluray on PS3 marketing"

I think Bluray and all this multimidea marketing,etc...not to mention the PS3 high price bc of these features has really alienated the PS "core" user base. As most people bought a PS2 when it was cheap.

I think price is far more important than Sony would like to think. I think that is just a spin bc they really can't afford to lower the price of PS3 bc they are already losing too much $$$ on the hardware.

[DrPirate]

It's simple, without a price drop, the PS3 isn't doomed, but don't expect it to suddenly jump to second or third place...

Games are there, but the barrier is the high initial price of entry.

I paid my PS3 for 400USD$, I wouldn't have paid a penny more.

[QuackPot]

But once you have a ps3, you just have to have the games. They have and are coming but are trickling in. You know as an owner how frustrating this is.

Plus, it doesn't help when developers - 3rd party - aren't fully committed to the Ps3 and produce crappy ports that make the competition a more attractive purchase.

Games, games, games. That's the right focus Sony then reduce the price.

[iceice123]

Drop the PS3 and never make another video game console.

I should be banned for having an opinion, really?

[Meus Renaissance]

People like you need to be banned.

[paul_war]

Ever wonder why no-one takes you seriously?

[Arkham]

Your avatar reflects your maturity so very, very well. That, in itself, is the end of your story.

[mirroredderorrim]

I don't know about banned, but you certainly come to most discussion pertaining to PS3/Xbox/Microsoft/Sony-with negativity and bash Sony or PS3 even if it's not brought up. :P

[jackdoe]

Price does matter, but without a hook, even a cheap as hell console won't sell. That is why software is important as well.

[spammy_nooo]

they aren't just 'improving relationships', they are BUYING game publishers.

[EZCheez]

I'm strangely comfortable with that. I don't care what they do to release good games. They might have some presence in the mafia for all I care. If that's what it takes, then that's what it takes.

[Shaka2K6]

Dissapointing system with pathetic graphics its jsut a cheap POS.

[Rooftrellen]

That's the PS2 last gen, right? Weakest graphics?

Contrary to 360 fanboy beliefs, graphics don't mean everything. The games mean the most (at least Sony is working on this, more than MS can say). Then it has to be cheap enough for everyone who wants it to get it (Sony needs to work on this). Then things like graphics come in a distant 3rd in importance.

That's why the PS2 left the Xbox and GC at mid-20% market share, each, last gen, though the Xbox and GC were far superior consoles when looking at power alone.

[WilliamRLBaker]

agreed roof.
Graphics mean very lil with no games...ect

[SJL480]

I popped in dark cloud 2 today one of my favorites. It looks awesome with the upscaling. Then I realized all the drawn type anime games don't show as much graphical age as realistic style and there are still allot of those out there that are phenomenal. Graphics can be ok as long as the game is fun.

[Retro-Virus]

MGS-4, FF-XIII, FF-VXIII,KILLZONE-2, LBP, GT-5 - Nuff said !

Doomed it seems ? LOL !

And lastly, a FF-VII remake (if it happens )..>Whoot !!!

Now, go figure ~

[PStriple703]

that will do it, wtf is sony waiting for!

[RussianSniper]

Pretty reasonable plan.

Those stupid xbots fail to notice that Sony's consoles are made for long runs, not 4 years like the Xbox.

Please, in 2 years, PS3 will be $200 and it's going to be selling like the PS2 is now.

Whoever actually thinks the PS3 is doomed are a bunch of stupid pricks...

[iceice123]

Because you know so much about the market, you're an expert I assume. Things are exactly the same as those other years, nothing has changed? Right MR. expert? Oh wait, you don't know, just another fanboy giving a biased opinion.

And you are??? Oh just a random noob, move along please.

[paul_war]

Talk about hypocrisy!!

[BIG49]

in two years it will be old news you prick!!!!!!!!!!

[crippler666]

IMO a lot of people want to see Sony fall flat on its face. Every step in the right direction seems too little too late. Every statement is taken way out of context, everything that Sony say is a lie and if Sony are right, it is done out of desperation.

I am a PS3 owner and have been very happy since day 1. I expected the drout of games due to Sony not just abandoning the PS2. I expected to pay more, because it is new technology and expect it to last 7-10 years.

Sony know that they are in 3rd place, they also know that announcing a new cheaper SKU on Halo 3 week is a lost cause. They are likely to leave the announcement until October / November, just nicely in time for UT3. It would make more sense.

[d3l33t]

well said

[Snukadaman]

Honestly...at this point a year ago..would you think there would be this much problems with games on the ps3...with lair...HS being so short..and even just multiplayer warhawk...when i first heard the ps3 at 600 dollars i knew it would do terrible...but i expected every game too be greater then anything on the xbox 360..many people have..and now its going on a year and there is nothing that is far superior on the ps3 that i cant play on the xbox...I mean the ps3 was touted as the next great gaming console....now its also a super computer/blu-ray movie player...now im not saying those are bad things..its just that the ps3 was and always should of been a gaming console....sony isnt as focused as they should be IMO...and it shows. Wait until it shows its true potential or just buy the cheaper console allready showing that sort of potential.

crippler indeed...RROD is another example of microsoft shooting themselves..i would never defend microsoft for such nonsense considering i have suffered 3 RROD allready with 2 systems....but my hopes for the xbox 360 were nowhere near how much i had for the ps3 is my point....you cant tell me everyone who bought a ps3 envisioned better gaming...better graphics...hell even a better online experience then the xbox 360.so far at this point none of them have come....resistance is the only game i see as something i would truly want right now myself...when GOW3 comes that will be another...i dont have high hopes for MGS4 but things can change in 2008.

[crippler666]

Okay I will start this off by saying, I have nothing against the XBox 360 and have played on the console a few times (I just don't want to line Bill Gates's pocket with anymore money and have never forgave him for my computer crashing everyday for the last 2 years with XP and software / hardware conflictions).

Microsoft have shot themselves in the foot aswell. Halo 3 was meant to be out last November? And PS3 is the waitstation? Telling customers that they have broken their XBox 360, due to environment, heavy useage, etc (yes RROD and I know they have sorted this out since), but that is not good customer relations.

I have around 4 friends with Xbox 360's (7 consoles between them) and 7 friends with PS3's. We spend time on both consoles and enjoy the games that they offer.

The 360 is good at what it does and with it being easy to develop for is going to get the games looking good. The PS3 is starting to show what it can do, and it is going to get better.

[b777conehead]

sony will proply put a add in all the news papers thanks giveing day for the 40 gig 399 model for sell on the day after thanksgiveing in the us catch every body by surprise

[kreetah]

@ Snukadaman
While I hear what you are saying I really don’t see a big difference in Sony and Microsoft as far a trying to establish their respective game consoles as the ultimate multi media devices. I would offer up the HDMI interface on the new 360’s, downloadable movies from XLB and the HD-DVD drive add on as evidence on the 360 console side. Not to mention Windows and their Media Center additions as evidence on the PC side. I really think the only reason Microsoft has remained in the console market despite their heavy financial losses is not the games, but for positioning to be a dominate player in a future digital home convergence market.

[ChickeyCantor]

: Apparently he's realized that gamers above everything want a games console first and foremost.:

Being first place for 2 generations long......and you realize this NOW......what the hell are you doing in the game bizz?
Its so stupid to think we, gamers want a media center first and a gaming machine on second priority.

Really...because of things like these you would think even dogs or cats could run a company like this one!

[s8anicslayer]

why donn't sony just make a 399sku and call it a day!if kaz wants more games the only way he's going to get it if the ps3's user base grows!by a 399sku that would dramaticaly broaden the ps3 user base

[Covenant]

Well, more games--more diverse games, at that--will help.

But that price is still a sticking point with a lot of people.

Average Jane and Joe doesn't see Blu-Ray, or Cell processor, or built-in wifi...they see $500-$600. They see the equivalent of a car payment or mortgage going into a game system.

That's one of the many reasons that the Wii has been so successful, and the PS3 has struggled.

[xg-ei8ht]

abit too early to call a console dead.

The most expensive console comes out. Every one bashes the price. Then blame no games.

Most ppl with ps2's are waiting for a price drop, its as simple as that.

IF the ps3 hasn't passed the 360 this time next year, then i'll be surprised.

I actually don't expect the 360 to sell more then the original xbox.

Its a sweet console with some sweet games. But rings of death, and not enough variety in games will seal its fate.

OK 360's sold is 11.10million.

PS3'S sold is 5.4million.

With all things, whether it be sony,microsoft.

Games and building a base for a new system takes time.

I wouldn't say ps3 is in bad shape at all.

[ChickeyCantor]

": The most expensive console comes out. Every one bashes the price. Then blame no games. :"

you do realize that this ( not these argument but similar )happens to all consoles?

[JokesOnYou]

where in the article did he call the ps3 dead?, see thats sonykids problem they dont want to hear about the problems facing their beloved ps3, the guy is simply saying he disagree's with sony's plan (or at least what they have said public about their plans)= he and most people think a price cut will be alot more helpful, since working closer with devs and publishers should be something any company should do to improve their available games and game quality, no shiii sony, but I bet many consumers would definitely think a price cut would be nice too =well thats obvious, everybody wants to pay less, and at some point a company has to stick to its price point for awhile because they can't just keep cutting the price when sales are low, but it is a balancing act especially in this business=

JOY

[Tsukasah]

But not as much as a price cut. Nowhere near.

Now, both........

[xg-ei8ht]

Of course, but at $599. its alot to ask the average consumer.

In the uk its 425pounds in most places.

Was 375 pounds in a couple of places, but they were sold quickly.

But i also look at it this way, I bought the original psx for 299pounds.

And the tech in ps3 compared to anymachine past or present is staggering.

So for the price its a good deal.

But its still alot of money for some people.

Like the usa moan, but isn't 599$ - 300pounds.

Then i'm sorry but theres nothing to moan about.

You guys got it easy.

[TheExodus]

Interesting, but shouldn't they have built relationships with 3rd party developers prior to launch? I can only imagine that it's next to impossible to do now with sales figures that scream, "Don't waste your time!" PS3 needs a MASSIVE price cut, because if the PS3 doesn't get to $299 before the 360 then it's O V E R.

[ASSASSYN 36o]

------^v-----^v-----PS3 is on life support.

[Arkham]

As a serious horror fan, I say: Beware the living dead.

They're slow--combersome at first perhaps--but watch out for their teeth.

They bite.

[duarteq]

Funny Thing, no news about sony's repair centers working hard. Can't tell the same thing about the Box without the X. Who needs life support now ? X33%

[kevin1122]

fanboys like him make me laugh since ps3 is mirroring the 360's sales for the first year. People who say ps3 has crappy sales really make me laugh. I guess the ps3 and 360 have both failed then right.

[Shaka2K6]

If the wii and PS3 were the same price and the kiddie wii was selling more systems then PS3, then Sony could get a little worried.

for now its no wonder then a last gen. trash with 1/3 the price tag of the PS3 is selling more systems.
all people with a game cube were forced to buy that rip-off remenber nintendo canned zelda for the game cube and force wiitards to buy the wii just to play this overated POS game.

If Sony say Canned God of War 2 for PS2 and put it into the PS3, the wii would be saying good gye.
but no Sony doesnt force you to do this, Sony gives you choices something microsoft and nintendo still cant understand.

[ReBurn]

As a PS3 owner I would like to see Sony start shifting attention away from the PS2 and onto the PS3. I know that the PS2 is still a big seller, but the message I'm getting is that the PS2 is still more important. I'm ready for Sony to start weaning itself from the PS2 so that it can put the PS3 into the limelight.

[xplosneer]

Sorry, Nintendo scrapped Zelda TP for Gamecube? Then what am I playing. I agree with reburn, Sony is the only one still moderately supporting PS2, Gamecube and Xbox are all but dead now, they need to shift their focus. The PS2 is still their $ source, but once it runs dry they would be so far behind in the next gen(current gen) console race they would end up shooting themselves in the foot.

[unsunghero28]

If it was $400.

But even Warhawk, Haze, PS3 Eye, etc. seem like they don't cover a $600 price; ESPECIALLY as a games console.

PS3 owners should be psyched about this news. But if you don't have a PS3, all you really want is a price cut.

[hfaze]

I'll PM you with a link for the 20GB PS3 for $399.99 (from a reputable reseller)

The only things you would be lacking would be WiFi and the card readers...

[cooke15]

lol ps3 doesnt start till 2010

[Nameless]

Whooops double post

[Nameless]

Hey Sony Droid Shaka you should know that there is a Gamecube Twilight Princess you Sony Droid Moron. Nintendo is not forcing anyone to buy anything unlike Sony & the PS3 with Blu-Ray you idiot.

[P1MPDADDY]

The PS3 is too expensive. Anything over $400.00 is too expensive for a videogame console period. I bought a 60GB PS3 for $500.00 It was too expensive. But then again I know that all future SKU's will be removing features such as backwards compatability, card media ports, smaller HDD's, wifi, etc... I dont know why people think Sony is going to drop the PS3 price anytimne soon. They already lose so much money on it as is. Look at all the 60GB PS3's that Sony had to knock $100.00 off of the MSRP just to try to sell through its stock. Now they are back to square one which is a $600.00 console. Only hardcore Sony fanboys or people like myself who wanted to have a PS3 for Blu-Ray movies are willing to pay that much money. This Christmas everyone else will see the much cheaper Wii and 360 and vote with thier wallets.

Be real guys. Only us hardcore gamers visit these websites and debate videogames. Only us hardcore gamers will buy more than a few games over the consoles lifespan. SOny fanboys keep talking about MGS4 or Killzone 2, yhet how many copies did the last Metal Gear Solid Sell worldwide??? 4 million. So the PS3's killer apps last game only sold 4 million copies to an install base of over 120 million. MGS4 will not sell a $600.00 console. Killzone 1 didnt even sniff 1 million units old. What makes anyone think Killzone 2 will do any better??? Motorstrom is just over a million units worldwide. Thats only becuase this game and RFOM were the only First Party titles were a SH!T on the PS3 so PS3 owners purchased them by default, and Motorstrom is bundled with PS3's in the US and EU. RFOM would have got lost in the shuffle on the 360.

My point is it doesnt matter how many games are on the PS3, as long as the price is that high, sales will continue to trickle in while the 360 and to an even greater extent the Wii constinue to establish a greater install base. Sony screwed up with Blu-Ray and Cell. Those are the 2 things in the PS3 that drove the price so high comapred to the 360. And neither component so far has justified $600.00 for a videogame console. The only reason I bought a PS3 is the same reason only 4.64 million people bought a PS3 so far. We are early adopters. I wanted Blu-Ray and HD-DVD. I bought a 360 4 months after launch and a Ps3 9 months after launch. The smart consumer waits. The consumer who beleives the marketing and has to be the first person with the new toy jumps off the fence in the beginning.

Price. How else can you explain a videogame console with last generation hardware and a fancy new controller dominating sales. If the PS3 was $250.00 both the 360 and Wii would be looking up at the Ps3 on the sales charts, instead because they are more affordable they are able to look down at the PS3 on the sales charts. Sony can cram Blu-Ray, Cell, wifi, card media ports, standard HDD, web browser, remote play with the PSP, ability to run Linux, etc... into the console, but at the end of the day consumers are only willing to spend a few hundred bucks on a videogame console. The average consumer doesnt own an HDTV, have broadband internet, or have a clue what Blu-Ray, HD-DVD, HDMI 1.3, or 1080P is.

Thats why Sony is in last place. They concentrated on marketing themselves as this all-in-one futureproof wonderbox, instead of doing what they did so well with the PS1 and PS2. Being an affordable videogames console!!!!!

[atlys]

imo, the sales numbers for both the xbox 360 and the ps3 really only reflect early adopters. like you said, most people don't own hdtv's nor do they know what hdmi, hi-def resolutions, or blu-ray/hd-dvd are. i own a 360, but only cause my girlfriend bought me one last christmas. if it weren't for her generous gift, i'd still be waiting to make that purchase. i also own a wii, and one day hope to have a ps3 when the price is right. in terms of price moving hardware, you are so right. people don't pay for what they might get down the road, they expect results now. if potential is what people paid for then budget pc's, cheap electronics, and other low cost but effective items would be s.o.l. i can't look at the ps3 game library and see anything that justifies the purchase yet, especially considering the price. now to be fair, there's really nothing in the wii's game library that really justifies it's purchase either, but i've always had a soft spot for nintendo cause they took my "gaming virginity" and i love the virtual console. i have a family now, bills to pay, and a million other things more important than video games. i game to get through it all, to escape from "life" for a while, and i just can't justify gaming at that price tag. hell, i even think $350 is pushing it! by the time both the 360 and ps3 hit mass market price, decently sized hdtv's will be $200-400, nintendo will be about to drop a hd wii, M$ will be showing off it's next console, and $ony will just be starting to pump out a high volume of AAA titles.

on a completely different note, my username and gamertag are one and the same. i'll be upgrading to a gold account soon so this is an open invite to all. i'm not really that good at the multiplayer in halo so i expect to get fragged a lot, but i like to game so i don't care. see you online.

[kornbeaner]

I have a ton of respect for you, but this plan is no bueno. Games are on there way, so whats left???

Raise the install base so to keep the exclusives and make other exclusives possible multi or even sway them to the PS3 side.

How do you do this???? simple lower the damn price.

This coming from a customer who paid $600 at launch. I don't care what you do, but the install base needs to grow in order for me to enjoy games that will come to the platform.

Lower the price, thats it, no need to talk to third parties or make side deals. Lower the price before you become the next N64 and gamecube, great systems with a small install base there for no games other then first party exclusives.

[MANTIIS]

The reason why is because it speaks of things that happened during day:1 of the TGS '07. Knowledgeable gamers would know that on day two, it was mentioned from Kaz Harai exactly why Sony is going to be looking to acquire more PS3 developers. That reason is so that Sony can reach its eventual goal of 11 million PS3's shipped worldwide by the end of '08.To do that, Sony knows they need games. Not just any developers, but developers who are able to embrace and work with the hardware. Not developers who are confused how, like EA. Also, by doing this, Sony knows they need to develop more franchises to make PS3 more successful, like Motorstorm. That is why they just acquired Evolution (also, I'm sure, to prevent greedy MS from getting a dumbed down version of Motorstorm II on 360). They are not going to just go around and buy a company because "they can (a pun I'm sure Kaz aimed at MS), but specifically, developers who are able to work closely with Sony, embrace the hardware, and most importantly make quality game with code that utilizes and workhorses the hardware, unlike EA. This is all a part of Sony building a strategy to raise the PS3 platform. Now, why this news has the feel of being posted by an Xbot, I'm sure-but keep in mind, it is evident that Sony is not hurting so bad financially with PS3, as would be the case if they gave us a price drop right away ala Ngage. It is evident that they are still very, very financially viable thanks to sales of the PS3 combined, more importantly with sales of the PS2(and the rising success of the PSP). It is not until the sales of PS2 come down that we can all expect to see a PS3 price drop. By then, Sony will be cutting manufacturing costs of the PS3 by including smaller semiconductors and less components within. This is a hint by Kaz that would indeed almost confirm their intention to release a new, cheaper model which will probably turn out to be the rumored 399.99 40GB PS3. By then, there will be a slew of titles, 300 being developed as we speak for '08, to tempt gamers to by the cheaper model at the new price point. And when gamers are faced with being able to play FFXIII, MGS4, WZ2, MS2 and tons of other AAA titles for the new low price, Sony knows they will buy. Sony doing this without compromising PS2 sales is important for them to maximize total sales. And when they implement what I spoke of above, at least 45% migration will occur of the 200 million install base for PS2. PS2 owners will finally afford to upgrade, boosting PS3's install base exponentially, and eclipsing the 360 in the process. Sony is not stupid, they know how to win a console war and most every market analyst forsees the PS3 winning the console war. If MS has an overwhelming install base with the original Xbox, things would be unpredicable concerning outcomes. But,the truth is...they don't. That is why they are trying to convert all the PS2 fans into 360 fans...BECAUSE THEY FEAR WHAT's GOING TO HAPPEN. Of course, they would never tell you that, but its been hinted at in some intelligent articles I've read. Do not click the link to read the half truth that the contributer submitted (adding that the "PS3 is in oblivion" couldn't be further from the truth), this is the whole story. By the way, I mentioned PSP at the top of my post- I would like to add that I feel that Sony will take a simialr approach to PS3 as they did with PSP. Look, at the PSP last year, and look at it now. Big difference. I think its safe to assume that PSP can be considered successful sans the UMD. How did they do it? Simply by lowering the price, and lowering manufactring costs by building a dumbed down, but fully functional "slim" model, and adding a killer library(that Castlevaina game is off the hook, and must be one of the greatest values in gaming).They will follow a similar model for PS3, and I'll stake my reputation on it, they WILL acheive thier sales goals in '08. Watch and see.

[TheExodus]

I don't believe the IPO or sale of the Cell facility would have ever been considered IF the PS3 wasn't proving to be an unbearable financial burden.

[MadMax]

Man, somebodys been feeding you an incredible load of bullsh@t. Face the fact that the PS3 is doing horrible, fanboy or not its a fact. How long have you been hiding under a rock? Its in LAST PLACE and will remain that way. I dont think ive ever heard anyone more full of sh@t! Absolute denial, its sad!

[MANTIIS]

Exodus, your logic is good, but it is not on par with Sony's plans. Sony is selling the Cell facility to Toshiba to make up some money lost on the growth process of the PS3, namely, the current lack of sales, but they are selling the plant more largely because they do not need to own it, consider it if you will, a jettison. Sony will still have stake in the production of the Cell, though, as there are clauses in the contract that indicate Sony's involvement with their production. However, this move does not make Sony a company that is not fianancially viable, quite the opposite.

@Madmax- You are an idiot. I wish you could call me full of $s@t to my face so I could teach you the error of your ways, and show you what I do with big mouthed, cowardly punks like you.

[LoydX-mas]

Kaz Hirai must be bi-polar or something.

This site Kaz says: "we will start marketing the PS3 as a games console"

but at TVpredictions.com he says the complete opposite: "we will emphasize the Blu-ray player in the US, Europe and Japan"

The funny thing is, he gave both of these quotes ON THE SAME DAY!

[MANTIIS]

Go to gamespot, click the TGS link, and read Kaz's speech for yourself. Do not rely on bogus, third party websites for news...take it to the source. He did not say that about the Blu Ray player. This is the ONLY mention of the words BLU RAY in Kaz's key note address.

He thinks that networked PS3s will propel Sony's effort to move into real-time entertainment.

[7:17] Oh, and "Blu-Ray discs provide the best video quality," he adds.

[7:17] Hirai then says he is happy that TGS is starting today and hopes to see the members of the audience at Sony's booth. Is that it?

[7:17] Apparently not. "Sony wants to be a much more active member of the gaming industry," says Hirai.

[7:18] "The game industry is quite unique compared to other industries," he says. "What Sony needs to do is get back to basics."

[7:18] "Gamers should be able to enjoy games with the rest of the world, and Sony would like to help them to do that."

[ALMIGHTYPS3]

Failed cooking grill>>RROD

YOU DUMB MUPER PUPER>>HAHAHA

[jax07]

How you can carry so much anger towards a game console is funny. The 360 is running on a head start that has got them some separation on the PS3. They can't hold that lead for long not to say they cant hold it at all just wont beas big a gap. After Halo 3 does what damage it does that is it. No more titles that will push 360's you can argue for Mass Effect but it won't because it is a game for hardcore gamers and wont have that mass appeal of a Halo. In 2008 the PS3's system selling franchises will be released and then sales wil shoot up and the gap will get very small and they will be on more level ground. Besides you all know that XBox owners will be too caught up in Halo3 to worry about anything else. This will cause other games not to sell well.

[Devr]

"Work on relationships"

= Buying exclusives? :P Just kidding. We'll see how this turns out.

[TheExecutive]

too little too late? are they forgeting about the 100 million or so people who havent bought a console yet?

[arcadegoal]

Sony you couldnt save the ps3 without a big price drop,oh and did you forget the perpose of a games console is er er games you forgot about that didnt you.just stick to makin tvs

[TheExecutive]

I am so very glad Sony doesnt take your advise or the last two generations of video games would have missed out on SO much. I dont really agree with Sony's strategy so far, which is plagued with delays, focusing on some wrong things, and their price point is too high.

However, there is plenty of time to 'turn' things around. Its not even a year old yet, 100 million last gen users havent converted to the new generation, and the very very successful PS franchises (MGS, GT, FF)have not come out yet. If the PS3 is still in trouble by this time next year you may have a point, but as of right now, your point is null.

[Vip3r]

A price cut along with more games (+ exclusives), more online content and cheap blu-rays could really help the PS3 sell more.

[mirroredderorrim]

I agree with the move to support the PS2 for awhile longer. PS2 sales act as a slight cushion to break the fall for Sony (their losses) It also helps fund the PS3's marketing and whatever else they could use the money for.
It's easily understandable why they chose to keep supporting PS2.
Little by little people who own PS2's can switch to PS3 as the price comes down and more games become available.

It has to be logic, it just has to be.

[Baba1906]

i think sony just needs to wait a little longer for the price drop. i think they know exactly what they are doing. if they where really thinking ps3 is dying the price would be lower by now. this big enterprises are not stupid. i think nintendo sony and microsoft will all do great this generation. toknow who will win this race we will have to wait at least 2-3 years more. but well dont know. i am having fun with my ps3 anyways. i dont need rescue. as for sony, well they have enough electronics to sell. =D

[ReBurn]

People want great content at an affordable price. Finding the correct mix of those things will be what makes the difference.

[PS360PCROCKS]

"Apparently he's realized that gamers above everything want a games console first and foremost." this should have been what they did in the first place

[kewlkat007]

we see this in the titles of most PS3 articles as a while back it was all over the place. They have created "defense/damage control websites" and now this again "PS3 rescue plan".

Sony is battling 3 Wars,

1.Playstation 2
2.MS/Nintendo
3.Toshiba

Somewhere along the line Games for he PS3 have been MIA, now a Rescue Plan is needed. This is gonna be a long one. If games was Sony's main focus there would be no such needs for Rescue plans. The fact that there is tells you something. Still I myself...wait

Relientk77 --were you listening during TGS?

[Relientk77]

Sony u have a good lineup of games this season... very good multi-plat games and also some very good looking exclusives... and u will sell PS3s this season no doubt.... but if u counter ur impressive games coming up with a price cut it will do wonders on ur sales

R U LISTENING SONY .... PRICE CUT

[solidt12]

in other word third party developers are going to get a check from Sony. Good!!!!!!!!! Microsoft has been doing that whole time and it has payed off, look at Gears of War.

[Tyrael]

A little competition between PS3 and Xbox360 is absolutely necessary, for good games and price points and whatnot. Problem is, no console in the history of home gaming has been successful that was originally marked over the $500 price point. Sony is going to have to work real hard to catch up and break this trend, because while some may argue that the PS3 will kick ass in two years, I would remind you that the next generation of gaming is only that much closer...

[LJWooly]

OR SILVER 'BOOMERANG' CONTROLLER!! Seriously though, why do sites ALWAYS seem to use a SILVER PS3 and that stupid controller in their pictures!! Get updated ffs!

[MadMax]

Even with a price cut, there is no reason to purchase a PS3. Stick with the PS2, that system is great. PS3 is junk, no games and overpriced. No need for Nintendo to worry, they are doing just fine and will always do fine. My advice for Sony is to start cranking out some awesome games already, perhaps exclusives. Make a reason to buy a PS3, as for now I will stick with my 360, Wii, Dreamcast and PS2. Do not buy into hype people, the average consumer will be buying 360s and Wiis this Christmas not a PS3. I mean come the f@ck on man, how long has the PS3 been out now and still NO GAMES? Throw in the towel already!

[joydestroy]

Sony is in a really bad position.

[lawler]

Nothing will catch the Wii now, especially not the PS3.

[Rooftrellen]

Sony just needs to move 250k more consoles per month for 2 years. If Sony can only keep the Wii doubling its console sales, and Nintendo sticks to their normal 5 year life cycle and the PS3 goes 10 years, at the end of 10 years, it will match the sales of the Wii, as well (a little lower, due to some months of outselling it much more than 2:1).

So, while the first isn't going to happen, most likely, the second is an option, though Nintendo will likely dominate the PS3 again with another new system in 2011.