Sony focused on Move and 3D, not PS3 price drop

by Alexander Sliwinski on Jun 29th 2010 3:58PM

Sony Worldwide Studio President Shuhei Yoshida isn't looking to cut the price of the $299 PS3 this fiscal year. Speaking with IGN, the executive reiterated that the console became profitable this year. "We aren't making huge money from hardware, but we aren't bleeding like we used to," he added.

The company is currently focused on getting PS3s on retail shelves, having run into supply issues throughout most of this year. Yoshida noted that Sony is currently "trying to catch up [its] production."

With its attention on marketing 3D gaming (and TVs) and the impending Move launch, Yoshida said that Sony is considering additional hardware bundles to appeal to consumers instead of slashing the price of the base PS3 model.

Source: IGN

Tags: 3d, move, playstation, playstation-move, price-cut, ps3, shuhei-yoshida

Reader Comments (69)

Well with the new Xbox 360 sitting at $299, I don't think there's much pressure at this point...

@SpartacusMagnus

... Which would make for even LESS pressure using your logic, now wouldn't it?

I won't even get into the age old argument as to which system offers better features and services... The point is BOTH systems are priced at $299 with no "core" systems currently being offered, so there isn't a price war raging and neither manufacturer will be too eager to lower the cost of entry.

@SpartacusMagnus well you think about the 360 is a 250 @299 while sony 250 is @349

@imeNrique

Again, both systems offer "value" for your money- they just offer different features and advantages. Sony may not have any pressure to lower their price, but neither does MS- they're competing quite nicely with the PS3. A quick look at last weeks purported numbers says the 360 sold more units than the PS3 worldwide, so while blu-ray and free online make Sony's device the "better value" for you, that doesn't make it so for everyone.

Disclaimer: I own both, but for me the 360 is the preferred machine. Your mileage will vary.

@imeNrique

Nrique, you'd say the same thing if the PS3 was $600. Oh wait you did... when it WAS $600.

good luck on selling that ps move, homie. theres a tough challenge ahead.

@(Unverified)

as in? Kinect? oh yeaaa man Kinectamals sure is a Move killer

@(Unverified)

everything about move is fine, people just find a way to complain about everyhting

@PR0F3TA
I'm not seeing the part where he was referring to Kinect. Maybe it's just me. Either that or it's just you being angry.

@PR0F3TA
Kinect isn't a Move killer, Move is a Move killer. Nobody was asking for it and nobody's buying it but the hardcore Sony fanbase and whatever fu*ktard rapper Sony's marketing department can get to wear a Move controller around his neck. It may be better than the Wii, and at 5 years later and over $120 more expensive (for a full set of PS3 + 4 Move controllers - Wii + 4 wiimotes/nunchuks and not counting Navigation controllers) it damn well better be, but no one gives a shit. No one wants to play Uncanny Valley Sports. This is going to flop so hard that Sony won't recover for another two console cycles because of it. Mark it.

There's some significantly flawed logic in your argument. Firstly, you're forgetting the fact that to even approximate Move's fidelity, you have to buy the additional (and at $20, quite costly) MotionPlus attachment for your Wii remotes. Secondly, there's a poor man's workaround for the navigation controller: your already-owned Dual Shock 3.

Setting the financial issues aside, Nintendo stubbornly cast aside an audience (and I count myself among them) of people who wanted a new system to be more than just a Game Cube with motion control support. Move is essentially the Wii HD, and what I've personally been craving for 4 years at this point.

Will it be a runaway success? Time will tell, but I look forward to purchasing a Move and getting into the whole motion control phenomenon.

@(Unverified)

God damn you're bitter and negative. Move isn't going to kill Sony. It's a fun expansion to the system. If it ain't your thing, ignore it. There are a lot of people that are stoked for it though. Cry and deny all you want, but "hardcore" gamers are a very small part of the market. Games are a huge casual platform now. Madden players can hook their girlfriends up with some casual games. Or *GASP*, maybe even some fun solo games that have enhanced controls.

I play games to have fun, not claim how hardcore I am. If fun happens to be had with dildo sticks, then so be it.

As for your whole "$120 more than a full Wii" set thing. That obviously neglects the family/friends appeal of being able to watch Blu-Rays together, let alone DVDs. It's more of an entertainment package than the Wii. Then there's the cost of buying 2 AA batteries per Wiimote every 8 hours, or 16 AA every 8 hours if you're using the full set of 4. Batteries get super pricey fast ya know. That'll make up the $120 in no time flat.

@(Unverified)

http://images.encyclopediadramatica.com/images/d/d5/Troll-Obvious.JPG

@(Unverified)
HOLY SHIT. seriously? SERIOUSLY?
have you read about this? NO? http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/10/playstation-move-bundles-announced-starter-kit-under-100/
it's a damn bundle WITH PlayStation Move, a PlayStation Eye and an unnamed game all for under $100.

your logic is flawed completely. have you even tried OR tested Kinect or Move? NO? well then get out.

"This is going to flop so hard that Sony won't recover for another two console cycles because of it. Mark it."
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHHAHAHAAHH

u mad?

@(Unverified)
Insults are not a way to make a point. Just Sayin

@(Unverified) I certainly don't think that Kinect is going to kill Move. I think it will be the same marketing failure that's been plaguing Sony for years - combined with the fact that it's a silly looking and not, by the sound of it, THAT great product.

I don't think Kinect is a great product either FWIW, though I do expect it to fare better.

@(Unverified)
of course you did. whatever helps you sleep at night, pal.

Whatever RadioactiveQube, a guy can't go to E3?

I was there. I tried them both. Oh, and we're always worried about whether someone on the internet believes us or not.

How did PS3 fanboys get worse than Nintendo ones. This thread is rediculous when you look at who gets to say something and who doesn't around these parts I guess.

@Nofriendo
okay i admit, i didn't believe him going to e3 but let me tell you this, sir, to call me a fanboy when there was not a moment when i said that this is superior than the other is just offending. i have never stated that move is better than kinect vise versa. all i was trying to say is that (Unverified) is a troll and a stupid one at that.

They should be focused on improving the console with cross game voice chat, a better web browser, and context sensitive PS button to jump to messages/invites/trophies before a price drop.

@phinn Context sensite PS button would be sweet, oh yeah... This and Cross Voice Chat. Then I would never want another firmware update, it'd be perfect.

@phinn

OR, get this, OR Sony can continue doing what they're doing and keep the games coming. That would be swell right?

Naaah, X game chat should be top priority.

Unbelieveable.

@Ashkental

Before I sold my Xbox, I thought the context sensitive buttons were annoying as hell. The best thing that Microsoft did was to remove it.

A better browser is definitely needed, but then again I hardly use it. And cross-game chat is 2 years overdue, it should have been released when they added in-game XMB.

@BigEgo007

I hope you know Sony is made up of more than 4 people that can focus on different things at once.

@BigEgo007 Wow are you clueless. it's Sony's job to create the best console PLATFORM for companies to want to make games for and for PEOPLE to want to buy products for. If they improve the features and quality of the experience on the console, more and better things get developed for it.

@Steven4

I wrote this long reply but it disappeared when I hit submit so I won't bother.

I don't think I will get into the Move just because I grew up with a controller in my hand since I was in diapers. I also think 3D is so overrated.

@RustyJack And Move is not a controller in your hand?

@RustyJack
i think a lot of people were use to square controllers and dint like the newer ones with shoulder buttons and analog sticks, but look where that got us

@RustyJack Just give Socom 4 or Killzone 3 with Move a try, then you'll want one... Trust me.

You guys are very convincing. I will move to the Move.

@Ashkental

Well, I guess adding 3D and motion controls to Killzone is probably easier than adding personality or interesting characters/settings, huh?

SOLD!

@baby sea tuna Stop being snarky Killzone is awesome! :)

@RustyJack

I grew up with turning the TV to channel 3 to play video games on a shitty tiny TV with a mono speaker ...and that's after I passed out blowing out the NES cartridge just to get it to work. Just because that's how I gamed in diapers doesn't mean I'm not ready to embrace new technology for games. Don't be a "BACK IN MY DAY-er" :\

I was very amused by the financially bleeding Sony.

I can't see in 3D, no idea why. I currently have an xbox 360 and am upgrading to the slim. Was going to buy a PS3 when they dropped but since they aren't I will spend my money on games.

@Thorz

Are you a pirate by chance? Those eye patches are 3D's kryptonite...

But seriously, 3D is definitely overrated and is almost completely worthless outside of the theater.

@Thorz

I can't see 3D television nor gaming myself. My left cornea was damaged a number of years back and while I look out of both my eyes I only really focus out of my right eye.

3D gaming is just something that I won't be able to get into.

@Thorz I don't know why I cannot see 3D, I should really go get it checked out. Unfortunately I am not a pirate but I can dream. I have tried watching the proper 3D movies at the cinema and the crappy ones for home but I just see a blurry kinda green picture makes me dizzy. Glad to hear how overrated it is.

PS3 shortages are expected to continue until it outsells the 360.

@Jack Tretton

yeah thanks to Kevin Butler. Thank you for hiring him.

That's fine, and I'll stay focused on playing my PS3 in 2D with a controller that I get to use my thumbs on, the way God intended.

Stop trying to sell me TVs Sony.

@Bubbameister33

You can buy other manufacturers 3D TVs. I for one like the choice to upgrade to a better experience if I CHOOSE to. I think this is the model that made Xbox sell so well. Giving gamers choices.

I figure by 2011 they will either drop the current system to $250 or release a new hardware bundle that gives a lot more bang for buck at $300. And either of those moves will probably push the PS3's install base equal to or surpass the 360's.

Here's the thing (and I like and support the PS3 platform,) their entire answer to the Live Gold membership with the subscription for functions like back ground downloading is just a straw that breaks the camel's back.

MS and the 360 is not the perfect platform and there are elements of Kinect that I don't like. But, it has a simple membership program with an easy to use interface and a suite of functions that improves as time goes on.

With the PS3 that is not the case, in Canada they are just reintroducing the rental service for films. The install/update process is at best clunky and usually down right infuriating (to the point I'd start a download go and play a game on my 360 and come back and THEN have to start the install manually.) So I'm PAYING for background downloads and installs, something that's FREE on other platforms. And if they force cross game voice chat in to that pay bracket it's bad news.

Now that both PS3 and 360 are in price parity for core systems we have to look at the secondary factors. The PS3 has a Blueray, several first party and exclusive titles that are quite good. But, it has a clunky interface and the cost of Move is actually, when you take all factors in to account, in many cases going to be MORE then Kinect (which it's self is over priced.) Add to this 3D is a techonlogy that is years off because the secondary hardware (TVs) are out of the price range of most consumers now because over the last few years many have been moving to HD and unless you are lucky enough to have bought specific Bravias that means you have to start from scratch and get a NEW TV just to play games.

Looking at the 360 it's pros are a new hardware base that reduces the performance/stability issues that had plagued it's earlier incarnations, a vast catalogue of titles, an elegant interface and a great download process. When it comes to motion control, the Kinect is over priced, no argument but it's ONE device instead of upwards of 8 potential devices.

It's a tough call, but I think the underlying issue is not one of hardware but lack of vision. MS for all it's faults has a vision when it comes to the 360. The same can't be said for Sony, their is a lack of unity in it's corporate voice, their's a lack of forward thought when it comes to long term goals, and most painful is there's a lack of vision when it comes to development. Whilst they continue to claim they were working on tech for "years" before the competition the fact is they are generally not first to market and often present something that just doesn't hold up to comparison. Frankly, I think the organization needs a complete shake down.

I disagree completely with their lack of vision. Over the past couple years, Sony has reeled in its pretension and set itself at winning over the core gaming audience. They've hit the sweet spot in terms of price, and their system offers more functionality out of the box than even the redesigned Xbox.

On the other hand, Microsoft has decidedly dropped the hardcore audience from its radar and is now aggressively zoning in on Nintendo's marketshare. Their press event was absolutely confounding, spending the majority of the time selling a product to an unreceptive audience.

As far as Microsoft upgrading Live while Sony lets PSN stagnate, where are you coming from? In the last 24 hours, several features were added to PSN, including the ability to edit and distribute videos.

PS+ is approaching the idea of a premium online service from an entirely different angle than Live, and in my opinion, it's all the better for it. Sony's banking heavily that the value proposition of free and discounted games will be what drives sales of PS+, while offering most of the services relegated to Gold subscribers for free (Netflix, online play, etc).

I won't argue that 3D has priced itself out of the mainstream market, but that's an added functionality that a small percentage of users will gladly take advantage of, I'm sure. Were I to buy a TV today rather than several years ago, I would certainly look into the option of buying a 3D-ready device. Whether I would end up with one is besides the point. In 10 years when 3D TVs are priced to move, I'll be able to hook up my PS3 and play games and watch movies in 3D.

@commonperson All of this comes down to one thing, Sony has the best hardware at a very very nice price considering that you are getting a blu ray player and a games console, what they lack is an easy to use interface. They provide that extra hardware but for what? Most of the games on the PS3 are also released on the xbox 360 with exactly the same graphics ect. The extra hardware on the ps3 is barely used.

Thats why I brought an xbox 360 and as much as I want to play ratchet and clank it isn't worth $299 for me. The icing on the cake is I cannot play the old PS2 Ratchet and clank's if I buy a ps3. WHY?!?

I'm just amazed at the ignorance of hard headed ppl lmao.. If you dont like PS move dont buy cus most likely Sony wasn't targetting you to buy it.. Their targetting ppl who how don't play games like that or you.. As far as 3D goes believe it or not its the next thing.. You can talk all the crap ya want but when those TV's finally reach you're broke ass price range, you'll be their at your local electronics store buying one like the only hipocrit.. smh And I'm sorry but just b/c you live in Canada doesnt give you the right to generalize the PSN when I've have never had a problem with my down loads.. I have fairly good DL speeds and I can DL large files (almost 2GB) in under 1/2 an hr while playing my PS3 (in a single player campaing) The way I look at it PS move is not expensive at all and its going to replace alot of expensive peripherals for many games, so in the long run the thing will pay for itself.. So far anything that has been dished out as new.. THE PS3 DOES IT.. @ common person you talking about MS has vision and its a system based on DVD and FINALLY, FINALLY got wifi.. You have to be kidding me lmao

Nintendo tried 3D and failed with the Virtual Boy years ago. There is no future in 3D gaming.

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Sony focused on Move and 3D, not PS3 price drop

Reader Comments (69)

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:00PM SpartacusMagnus said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:00PM SpartacusMagnus said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 7:06PM Marcus Carter said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 7:16PM SpartacusMagnus said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 9:51PM Chibi Chaingun said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:02PM rahnyc4 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:10PM PR0F3TA said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:19PM chromekreeper said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:20PM Morph156 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:23PM Dr Perry Ulysses Cox said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:38PM Architecture said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:41PM Punkrawk Bbob said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:01PM TraceurRyuk Prepping for LBP2 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:05PM RadioactiveQube said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:34PM Lennoko said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:34PM KeenCommander said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:48PM RadioactiveQube said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 7:16PM Nofriendo said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 8:00PM RadioactiveQube said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:03PM phinn said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:21PM Ashkental said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:45PM BigEgo007 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:53PM Steven4 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:59PM Steven4 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:33PM phinn said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:49PM BigEgo007 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:04PM RustyJack said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:08PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:11PM chromekreeper said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:22PM Ashkental said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:24PM RustyJack said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:35PM baby sea tuna said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:42PM reson8er said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 10:04PM Chibi Chaingun said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:07PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:10PM Thorz said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:15PM SpartacusMagnus said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:48PM Stevetrop Man of Mystery said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:06PM Thorz said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:11PM Jack Tretton said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:15PM shadowhowl1900 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:12PM baby sea tuna said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:15PM Bubbameister33 said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 10:12PM Chibi Chaingun said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:23PM Mystic said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:29PM commonperson said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 4:51PM Architecture said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:12PM Thorz said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:02PM Jezer said

Posted: Jun 29th 2010 5:04PM mikemaj82 said

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