Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[GC 2008: PS3 getting free 'VidZone' music service in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/gc-2008-ps3-getting-free-vidzone-music-service-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/gc-2008-ps3-getting-free-vidzone-music-service-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/gc-2008-ps3-getting-free-vidzone-music-service-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: ,

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has announced that VidZone, "the online destination for music videos" that we've never heard of, will be offering a free, streaming music video service for the PlayStation 3. The "trial service" is expected to launch in early 2009 in Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Featuring a "full playlist of videos from hip-hop to punk and heavy metal to classics," VidZone will allow PS3 owners to build playlists and download songs, music videos (!!!) and ringtones "for a small charge."

The best part is that the service will support remote play via the PSP, ideal for those awkward situations when you're out in public and simply must subject yourself and those around you to Kylie Minogue.

JoystiqGC 2008: PS3 getting free 'VidZone' music service in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EuroPS3Leipzig-08PS-StorePS3PSNVidZoneWed, 20 Aug 2008 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[GC 2008: 160GB PlayStation 3 hitting Europe Oct. 31]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/gc-2008-160gb-playstation-3-hitting-europe-oct-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/gc-2008-160gb-playstation-3-hitting-europe-oct-31/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/20/gc-2008-160gb-playstation-3-hitting-europe-oct-31/#commentsFiled under:


With game installations, downloadable content and digitally distributed titles cluttering up our PlayStation 3's brain, it comes as little surprise to see Sony announcing yet another SKU with increased storage capacity. The word from its 2008 Games Convention press conference is that a 160 gigglebyte model -- which is otherwise identical to others units -- will be hitting Europe on October 31st, complete with €70 worth of downloadable game content. But is the €449 price tag a trick or a treat?

We're checking with Sony regarding any plans to release this model elsewhere.

JoystiqGC 2008: 160GB PlayStation 3 hitting Europe Oct. 31 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>160GBEuroPS3HardwareLeipzig-08PS3PS3-SKUSKUWed, 20 Aug 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ratchet & Clank: Quest for Booty Blu-bound in Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/ratchet-and-clank-quest-for-booty-blu-bound-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/ratchet-and-clank-quest-for-booty-blu-bound-in-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/17/ratchet-and-clank-quest-for-booty-blu-bound-in-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,


As revealed earlier in Sony's E3 press conference, popular platforming pair Ratchet & Clank are to embark on a $15 PSN adventure sometime this Summer. The cheaper, bite-sized game will serve as a "great introduction to what R&C is all about," depicting the adventures of the Lombax and robot following Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction's climax.

For those excited by the news but alarmed by the lack of a physical disc to cherish and smell when nobody's looking, SCEE president David Reeves has promised a Blu-ray disc version of Ratchet & Clank Future: Quest for Booty, just for PAL territories. There will also be PSN version, but we all know that'll look completely rubbish in your sprawling disc collection.

JoystiqRatchet & Clank: Quest for Booty Blu-bound in Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Jul 2008 15:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>E3E3-2008Europs3PS3Quest-for-bootyRatchet-and-ClankSCEESony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeThu, 17 Jul 2008 15:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Metal Gear Solid 4 Database to educate Europe this Thursday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/metal-gear-solid-4-database-to-educate-europe-this-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/metal-gear-solid-4-database-to-educate-europe-this-thursday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/23/metal-gear-solid-4-database-to-educate-europe-this-thursday/#commentsFiled under: ,


We've gotten into the bad habit of using the word "convoluted" every single time we write something about Metal Gear Solid 4, so we've gone ahead and opened up the thesaurus for this one. According to MCV, the Metal Gear Solid 4 Database, an interactive encyclopedia meant to guide players through Hideo Kojima's byzantine saga, will become available on the European PSN this Thursday, June 26th. It's filled with facts, it's free and it'll check your MGS4 progress before spoiling the part where Meryl is eaten alive by robot marmosets (from the future).

So, what did you think of "byzantine?" Personally, we think that sounds too much like one of those effervescent energy pills. How about "labyrinthine?" "Daedalian?" There's also "knotty." These thesaurus things are quite convoluted, you know.

JoystiqMetal Gear Solid 4 Database to educate Europe this Thursday originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jun 2008 09:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ConvolutedEuroPS3Guns-of-the-PatriotsKonamiMetal-Gear-Solid-4Metal-Gear-Solid-4-Guns-of-the-PatriotsMGS4MGS4-DatabasePS3PSNMon, 23 Jun 2008 09:23:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 sales reach 1 million in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/ps3-sales-reach-1-million-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/ps3-sales-reach-1-million-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/ps3-sales-reach-1-million-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,


GamesIndustry.Biz reports that the PlayStation 3 has now sold over one million units in the UK, a milestone reportedly reached several weeks before the PlayStation 2 did back in its embarrassingly low-polygon day. Sony's black behemoth was launched in the region on March 23 2007 -- roughly 47 weeks ago -- and thus reached the million mark in (slightly) less time than the 50 weeks taken by its predecessor.

Considering the PS3's steeper price and the considerable competition it faces compared to the PS2, the news bodes well for Sony's future in the territory, especially when coupled with EA's pro-Station prediction for 2008. Things would be looking quite rosy if it wasn't for that darn Wii contraption.

JoystiqPS3 sales reach 1 million in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2008 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EuroPS3PS3SalesUKWed, 13 Feb 2008 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA[No plans for 120GB PS3 in UK, says Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/no-plans-for-120gb-ps3-in-uk-says-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/no-plans-for-120gb-ps3-in-uk-says-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/01/29/no-plans-for-120gb-ps3-in-uk-says-sony/#commentsFiled under:


With rumors predicting the imminent disappearance of the PlayStation 3's 80GB model and its subsequent substitution by a new SKU in America, Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has chimed in and told GamesIndustry.biz that it currently has no plans to introduce a 120GB PS3 to the UK. Whereas the rumored 120GB - 160GB PS3 (with Dual Shock 3 controller) would take the retired 80GB model's place in the US, there would be no ex-SKUs to do the same in the UK. The 40GB system is the only in-production model currently being sold in the European region.

As for the arrival of a new PlayStation 3 in America, Sony is sticking to its silenced "no comment" guns.

JoystiqNo plans for 120GB PS3 in UK, says Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 29 Jan 2008 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>120GB80GBEuroPS3PS3PS3-120GBSCEESKUSony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeUKTue, 29 Jan 2008 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA['Violent' PlayStation 3 internet ad banned in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/violent-playstation-3-internet-ad-banned-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/violent-playstation-3-internet-ad-banned-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/08/violent-playstation-3-internet-ad-banned-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Advertising Standards Authority has deemed fit to assassinate a UK PlayStation 3 advert believed to "glamorise violence or anti-social behaviour." Life Style Extra reports that the internet ad, depicting a gun-toting man called Kovac (seen in a different video to the right), drew 23 complaints after featuring on Yahoo and BT websites. The combination of the disgruntled fellow and the on-screen text, "You on my side? listen up I've killed for less. The music plays Puccini in my head," prompted the commercial watchdog to ban the ad for its "underlying tone of violence."

While both the ad makers and Yahoo insisted that Mr. Kovac was placed behind a registration process and was only meant to mingle with adults, the ASA was firm in its concern that "the images of Kovac holding the knife and the gun, in conjunction with the text" would give impressionable youths all sorts of dubious ideas (none related to purchasing a PS3). Heaven forbid they end up in a dimly lit apartment and lying in a bathtub, muttering about the tiresome banalities of life.

[Via MCV]

Continue reading 'Violent' PlayStation 3 internet ad banned in UK

Joystiq'Violent' PlayStation 3 internet ad banned in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 08 Aug 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AdEuroPS3PS3ThisisLivingUKWed, 08 Aug 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Euro Blu-ray sales up 1000% since PS3 launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/euro-blu-ray-sales-up-1000-since-ps3-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/euro-blu-ray-sales-up-1000-since-ps3-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/euro-blu-ray-sales-up-1000-since-ps3-launch/#commentsFiled under:

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has announced (via Pro-G) that more than 180,000 Blu-ray titles have been sold across Europe following a sales increase of over 1000% since the PlayStation 3's launch in March of this year. Sony is convinced that the surge in success for the high-definition format can be closely linked to the arrival of its all-singing, all-HD Console Royale.

"The launch of the PS3 had a tremendous impact on Blu-ray software sales across the board," notes Matt Brown, VP International of Sony Pictures, who goes on to confirm that the PS3 is indeed an entertainment device. "Recent sales figures are a clear indication that the PS3 is seen as an entertainment device." Expect these figures to be cited in the shouting match between Blu-ray and algebraically-proven HD-DVD, shortly before old-fashioned DVD threatens to turn the car around.

JoystiqEuro Blu-ray sales up 1000% since PS3 launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-rayCasino RoyaleCasinoRoyaleEurops3HD-DVDPS3SonyThu, 05 Jul 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's PlayStation 3 production problems are over]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sonys-playstation-3-production-problems-are-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sonys-playstation-3-production-problems-are-over/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sonys-playstation-3-production-problems-are-over/#commentsFiled under:


Though you might feel somewhat confused by the mention of PlayStation 3 production issues in the face of plentiful in-store stock, it was a shortage of blue laser diodes used in the construction of the console that delayed its European release and constricted its initial launch supply. Compoundsemiconductor.net (yes, they have a website for that sort of thing) reports that there is officially a shortage of shortages, with Sony's production line now churning out enough blue lasers for all its consoles, Blu-ray players and needlessly elaborate office parties. More specifically, 1.7 million per month.

A Sony spokesperson confirmed: "Production problems have now ceased, we're in full production as far as Playstation 3 is concerned and there's a steady chain of supply in North America, Japan and Europe." Though the production troubles may not have noticeably affected consumers in recent times, increased diode supply may yet lead to a reduction in manufacturing cost, from which savings could eventually be passed on to PS3 buyers. As if you didn't instinctually know already, the more blue lasers the better.

[Via GamesIndustry.Biz]

JoystiqSony's PlayStation 3 production problems are over originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Europs3PS3PS3 productionPs3ProductionSonyMon, 02 Jul 2007 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sega: Better pricing will be key for PlayStation 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sega-better-pricing-will-be-key-for-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sega-better-pricing-will-be-key-for-playstation-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/02/sega-better-pricing-will-be-key-for-playstation-3/#commentsFiled under: ,


What a rough existence the PlayStation 3's price tag must lead. Blamed for being Sony's biggest stumbling block and derided by many since its birth, it can't even leave its quaint Cornwall home for fear of being cut, dropped, squashed, slashed or violently diminished. In an interview with Reuters, Sega Corp. corporate director Masanao Maeda openly admits that he, like many others, would probably assault the PS3's price if he ever ran into it in public, noting that a substantial cut before year's end is needed to increase demand.

"Name brand, price and software are what count," says Maeda. "Since it's getting difficult to make software availability a differentiating factor, superior marketing and pricing strategy will be the key for Sony." Maeda makes an excellent point in highlighting the importance of software, an issue that upcoming PS3-exclusive games like Heavenly Sword and the unfortunately named Uncharted: Drake's Fortune certainly appear to be addressing -- at least as far as Western audiences are concerned. Putting the PS3's price under the knife would likely rejuvenate the system worldwide, though whether or not Sony will go through with it this year remains to be seen. In the meantime, we'll continue leaving menacing messages on the price tag's answering machine.

JoystiqSega: Better pricing will be key for PlayStation 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jul 2007 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Europs3PS3PS3 price cutPs3PriceCutSegaSonyMon, 02 Jul 2007 14:45:00 EST<![CDATA[SingStar PS3 track list confirmed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/singstar-ps3-track-list-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/singstar-ps3-track-list-confirmed/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/singstar-ps3-track-list-confirmed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


The PlayStation 3's upcoming karaoke sim and potential torture device not only boasts the distinction of being the first announced "next-gen" sing-along-a-thon, but highlights Sony's intention of letting you piece together your own version of SingStar by purchasing songs from a robust online store. You're still stuck with the songs packaged on the game's starter disc though, and while several lists have been floating around the internet for some time, the final track list had not been confirmed until now.

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe has attested that the 30 tracks listed after the break (and originating from a promotional e-mail sent by a game distributor to retailers) will form SingStar's PS3 debut in Europe later this year. The songs destined to be mangled by your vocal chords include "Feel Good Inc." by The Gorillaz, "Losing my Religion" by REM and the somewhat insufferable "Beep" by the Pussycat Dolls. Mind you, "insufferable" is merely a matter of opinion -- far be it from us to question your enjoyment of modern music or the sound of a cat encountering a steam roller.

UK retailers currently expect the SingStar starter disc to retail for £19.99, with a microphone bundle costing £39.99.

Gallery: SingStar (PS3)

Continue reading SingStar PS3 track list confirmed

JoystiqSingStar PS3 track list confirmed originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 19:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3PS3SCEESingstarSingstar PS3SingstarPs3SonySony-Computer-Entertainment-EuropeTue, 19 Jun 2007 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP price drop extends to Europe on May 4th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/psp-price-drop-extends-to-europe-on-may-4th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/psp-price-drop-extends-to-europe-on-may-4th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/psp-price-drop-extends-to-europe-on-may-4th/#commentsFiled under: ,

The price of a PSP in Europe is set to be violently assaulted with a sharp object next month, when Sony plans to slash at it wildly in the hopes of trimming a few pounds. And Euros, obviously, but as with the US price drop earlier this month, that particular currency simply doesn't suit the rapid weight loss imagery we're going for.

A report on GamesIndustry.Biz indicates that the retail price of the PlayStation puny will drop by £20 in the UK to £129.99 on 4 May. The rest of the continent will pay €169.99 following a drop of €30. The change in price will be accompanied by a cheaper £14.99 tag for Platinum titles, with Ridge Racer 2, Tekken: Dark Resurrection, Killzone: Liberation, LocoRoco and Moto GP all being included in the range and fighting against the argument that the system doesn't have any games.

JoystiqPSP price drop extends to Europe on May 4th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 09:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3Euro PSPEuropeEuroPs3EuroPspKillzoneLoco RocoLocoRocoMoto GPMotoGpPSPPSP EuropePSP price dropPspEuropePspPriceDropRidge RacerRidgeRacerSonyTekkenMon, 23 Apr 2007 09:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Stringer: Euro PlayStation 3 approaching 800,000 sold]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/stringer-euro-playstation-3-approaching-800-000-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/stringer-euro-playstation-3-approaching-800-000-sold/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/17/stringer-euro-playstation-3-approaching-800-000-sold/#commentsFiled under: ,

Speaking to the Financial Times, Sony's chief executive, Sir Howard Stringer, says that PlayStation 3 sales are close to reaching 800,000 units in Europe after the system's March 23rd launch. Narrowing it down, Stringer says, "I think [in] the first two days in the UK, £100m ($199m) revenue changed hands and that's probably the largest consumer electronics sale in history." While he doesn't comment on the 82% sales drop that followed the next week (perhaps because it "doesn't mean anything"), he notes that the system's reception in Europe has given it better standing in "the perception wars."

Though the PS3 may have come down from its exceptional UK launch, the perception that the system is tanking simply because it's still in stock across the country remains. It's not aided by the system's performance in Japan either, and Stringer admits that "perhaps we lived up to the expectations in Europe in a way that perhaps we didn't in Japan." Still, analysts are more upbeat about the PS3's longterm fortunes, with one Yuji Fujimori of Goldman Sachs predicting the system to have a 50% market share within 3 years.

Further assurances can be found in Sir Howard's following declaration, "I see no reason why we can't use content to drive the sales of hardware as the network connectivity becomes more sophisticated." Woah, using content to drive hardware sales? Is that some of the crazy "Game 3.0" stuff we've been hearing so much about?

JoystiqStringer: Euro PlayStation 3 approaching 800,000 sold originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Apr 2007 18:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3Howard StringerHowardStringerPS3PS3 EuropePs3EuropeSonySony EuropeSonyEuropeTue, 17 Apr 2007 18:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Chart-Track: 82% drop in UK PS3 sales 'doesn't mean anything']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/chart-track-82-drop-in-uk-ps3-sales-doesnt-mean-anything/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/chart-track-82-drop-in-uk-ps3-sales-doesnt-mean-anything/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/04/chart-track-82-drop-in-uk-ps3-sales-doesnt-mean-anything/#commentsFiled under: ,


Move along, folks. There's nothing to see here.

Reacting to yesterday's "leak" of PlayStation 3 sales data, which indicated an 82% drop during the week following the UK launch, Chart-Track's Dorian Bloch expresses that we really shouldn't put much that weight in the information his company works so hard to track and calculate. "A figure of an 82% drop has leaked out but that alone means nothing," he tells Next-Generation. "Given how much pent up demand there was for PS3 and given the sophistication of pre-order systems now, it really doesn't mean anything."

Really? Perhaps we read it all wrong then, because the information allowed us to derive some context and conclude that the PS3 had sold an estimated 54% of its available stock (excluding supplemental post-launch shipments) in its second week, down from the 75% in week one. Coupling that with the significant drop in sales indicates, at the very least, that PS3 supply is by far exceeding demand. Furthermore, we estimated that the PS3 had accordingly sold 29,700 systems for the week, a figure which may be compared to the average number of PS3s sold in the last 4 weeks in doubly populated Japan -- approximately 29,552. All that from a single statistic that doesn't mean anything!

Bloch makes a better point when he notes that comparing the PS3 launch to that of the Xbox 360 or the Wii is difficult, considering the shortages that entangled both competing systems during their arrivals. He goes on to say that, "Judging a console based on nine days on sale is just crazy. It doesn't make any sense." Though we suspect the "sellout = success" crowd may be acting unfairly towards the PS3, it certainly isn't enough to warrant downplaying a very significant sales statistic.

What doesn't make any sense? Try the fact that someone like Bloch feels compelled to do damage control while Sony remains tight-lipped.

JoystiqChart-Track: 82% drop in UK PS3 sales 'doesn't mean anything' originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Apr 2007 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3PS3PS3 salesPs3SalesSonyUKWed, 04 Apr 2007 19:56:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3 sales plunge 82% in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/03/playstation-3-sales-plunge-82-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/03/playstation-3-sales-plunge-82-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/03/playstation-3-sales-plunge-82-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,

After obliterating records upon its launch in the UK last week, PlayStation 3 sales have come down to Earth with all the grace of a skydiving walrus using an anvil for a parachute. Citing the latest Chart Track data, a GamesIndustry.biz report discloses that sales for Sony's system have dropped by 82% in the last week. Having sold an estimated 165,000 units before, the percentage represents a drop of 135,300 units, resulting in total sales of 29,700 systems for the week.

Previously, it was stated that the initial PS3 shipment for the UK numbered 220,000. With 55,000 units remaining after the first week and without considering any subsequent stock, it means that the PS3 sold an estimated 54% of its remaining stock. Compared to the 75% of stock sold in its initial week, it still makes for a notable 21% drop. Though the days are early yet and the PS3's overall performance in the country (and the rest of Europe) has yet to be assessed, things look to have slowed down quickly and considerably.

[Thanks, Efren]

JoystiqPlayStation 3 sales plunge 82% in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Apr 2007 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3PS3PS3 SalesPs3SalesSonyUKTue, 03 Apr 2007 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[BBC: Sony sold 600K PlayStation 3s during Euro launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/bbc-sony-sold-600k-playstation-3s-during-euro-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/bbc-sony-sold-600k-playstation-3s-during-euro-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/bbc-sony-sold-600k-playstation-3s-during-euro-launch/#commentsFiled under:


Before going off on a wild tangent about PS3 chips being used in arcade machines, a short BBC news blurb claims, "More than a million [PlayStation 3] consoles were shipped across Europe on launch day last week with 600,000 sold." Of course, this figure includes the UK's record-breaking 165K unit debut. So, unlike what some folks think, there seems to be a benefit to keeping stock on store shelves. Wikipedia reports 930K units sold in North America to date, and 720K units sold in Japan; if you add in the BBC's unconfirmed 600K figure, Europe has purchased nearly one quarter of all PS3s sold to date. Not bad for a weekend.

JoystiqBBC: Sony sold 600K PlayStation 3s during Euro launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 16:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCeuroPS3PS3Tue, 27 Mar 2007 16:11:00 EST<![CDATA[UK PS3 launch saw £10m in cancellations, still #1]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/uk-ps3-launch-saw-10m-in-cancellations-still-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/uk-ps3-launch-saw-10m-in-cancellations-still-1/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/uk-ps3-launch-saw-10m-in-cancellations-still-1/#commentsFiled under: ,

Maybe it has something to do with Phil's adorable accent, or their slightly upsetting European This is Living ads, but Sony did a number on the UK. Not only did the PS3 manage to break the record for best-selling home console launch in its weekend debut (take that, PS2!), but PS3 titles like Resistance and Motorstorm are sitting pretty at the top of UK entertainment software sales charts. Toss some free TVs into the PR mix, and things may just be looking up, but what's this?

According to BrandRepublic, "as many as 20,000 pre-orders of the £425 console [were] canceled in the run-up to its delayed launch last Friday," totaling over £10m in lost sales! The same article quotes Nick Parker, an analyst at Screen Digest, who said, "This time next week we could be saying that the PlayStation 3 has been the most successful console launch ever." Uh, already true in the UK, Nick. So, widespread cancellations and the console still broke sales records? Then why are there still units on the shelves?

Let's not mistake a healthy supply of consoles to mean there's no consumer interest; the two may be related but, like everything, we imagine there's a great deal more going on than simple numbers on store shelves. Sure, there's no Wiis sharing the shelves, but that's because Nintendo (for some reason known only to them) can't seem to make enough of them (insert duct-tape wise crack here).

[Thanks, Dolla Dolla]

Read - Sony PS3 hit by £10m in cancellations [sub. reqd -- try BugMeNot]

JoystiqUK PS3 launch saw £10m in cancellations, still #1 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 14:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europs3PS3UKTue, 27 Mar 2007 14:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Resistance and Motorstorm topping charts in UK (not Europe)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/resistance-and-motorstorm-topping-charts-in-uk-not-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/resistance-and-motorstorm-topping-charts-in-uk-not-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/27/resistance-and-motorstorm-topping-charts-in-uk-not-europe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

After briefly, mistakenly and idiotically reducing the entirety of Europe, with all its many cultures, languages and shoes to just the UK in an article yesterday, we've taken steps to reinforce the pathways that connect our brains to our rapidly typing fingers. Said fingers insist that we now draw your attention to the PS3's continued success in Madagascar the United Kingdom, with launch titles Resistance: Fall of Man and Motorstorm perching comfortably atop the Chart Track software list for the week ending 24 March.

Insomniac's first-person shooter debuted in the number one spot, with the muddy Motorstorm slotting into second position. Virtua Fighter 5 is all the way down in 14th position, bested by Namco's symphony of slide, Ridge Racer 7 (11th) and the comparitively out of tune F1: Championship Edition (7th). Finally, historically accurate crab battle simulations find themselves relegated to 16th position.

With these PS3 exclusive (for now, in the case of Virtua Fighter 5) titles making a splash in the charts alongside the PS3's strong launch performance in Guam the UK, it seems the doom and gloom impression that resulted from so many dead launch events was unwarranted. The coming weeks will show us whether or not the PS3 can maintain its momentum in both hardware and software sales.

JoystiqResistance and Motorstorm topping charts in UK (not Europe) originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Mar 2007 12:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3F1 Championship EditionF1ChampionshipEditionGenjiInsomniac GamesInsomniacGamesMotorstormPS3ResistanceRidge RacerRidgeRacerVirtua Fighter 5VirtuaFighter5Tue, 27 Mar 2007 12:06:00 EST<![CDATA[PS3 kicks off most successful home console launch in UK... ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/ps3-kicks-off-most-successful-home-console-launch-in-UK-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/ps3-kicks-off-most-successful-home-console-launch-in-UK-e/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/ps3-kicks-off-most-successful-home-console-launch-in-UK-e/#commentsFiled under: ,


MCV confirms the news that will send many a fanboy into a sequence of uncontrollable convulsions: The Playstation 3 has officially become the fastest-selling home console in the UK over its launch weekend. A reported 165,000 PS3 units were snatched from shelves, besting the Wii's 105,000 launch units and the Xbox 360's 70,000. The PSP still holds the top speed record (185,000 units) as a handheld, but we doubt that's the sort of caveat that will bother the folks at Sony.

With plenty of consoles left in the 220,000 strong initial shipment, it would appear that a strong supply is the key to launch victory. Will sales remain brisk in the foreseeable future? We'll find out soon enough, but until then, expect some elaborately spun responses from Sony's competitors. Perhaps UK journalists ought to return those stacks of beer to Microsoft -- then again, alcohol already seems a likely explanation for steering the Xboat to the wrong continent.

JoystiqPS3 kicks off most successful home console launch in UK... ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3MicrosoftPS3PS3 euro launchPS3 launchPs3EuroLaunchPs3LaunchSonyMon, 26 Mar 2007 16:08:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3s fetching less than retail on UK eBay]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/playstation-3s-fetching-less-than-retail-on-ebay-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/playstation-3s-fetching-less-than-retail-on-ebay-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/26/playstation-3s-fetching-less-than-retail-on-ebay-in-uk/#commentsFiled under: ,


As if on cue, the vicious news cycle repeats itself. Just days after the PlayStation 3 made its simultaneously generous, in the UK, and beleaguered, in France, European debut, would-be savvy eBayers are finding it just as difficult to unload their wares as their North American counterparts did several months ago. According to TimesOnline, "eBay's pricelist suggests that this time round the touts have misjudged demand." After looking up the definition for "touts" we realized this all seemed familiar ... almost like déjà vu.

The week after the PS3's North America debut we even geeked out with some eBay stats and arrived at the scandalous conclusion that "next-gen auction prices fall as supplies increase." The problem, so much as it is one: UK shops remain well stocked with PS3 consoles! The good news: if that £425 pricetag was scaring you away, then try shopping here.

JoystiqPlayStation 3s fetching less than retail on UK eBay originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Mar 2007 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eBayeuroPS3PS3Mon, 26 Mar 2007 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft uses beer to illustrate Xbox 360 cost advantage]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/microsoft-uses-beer-to-illustrate-xbox-360-cost-advantage/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/microsoft-uses-beer-to-illustrate-xbox-360-cost-advantage/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/microsoft-uses-beer-to-illustrate-xbox-360-cost-advantage/#commentsFiled under: ,


Drink that picture in ...

After yesterday's shenanigans, we imagine the guys at Microsoft strutting around their various international offices as if they were in a locker room after a big game; lots of high-fiving, butt-slapping, and other telltale indicators of competitive confidence. For example, for the European (and New Zealand ... ean) PS3 launch, they did what any self-respecting mega-corporation would do: Used beer to visually communicate the price difference between their console -- the Xbox 360 -- and their competitor's -- the PlayStation 3. UK-pub CVG received the above stockpile while Auckland, NZ's GamePlanet store got a similar treat (pic after the break). We normally would consider additional games a more appropriate metric when discussing price deltas, but we suppose they wanted to stick with the locker room theme.

Read - MS sends CVG the difference between 360 and PS3... in beer! (CVG)
Read - Microsoft NZ Tease Sony (NZGamer.com)

Continue reading Microsoft uses beer to illustrate Xbox 360 cost advantage

JoystiqMicrosoft uses beer to illustrate Xbox 360 cost advantage originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2007 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Beerconsolewarseurops3MicrosoftPS3TeaseXbox-360Fri, 23 Mar 2007 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft secret agents resort to subterfuge at PS3 Euro-launches]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/microsoft-secret-agents-resort-to-subterfuge-at-ps3-euro-launche/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/microsoft-secret-agents-resort-to-subterfuge-at-ps3-euro-launche/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/microsoft-secret-agents-resort-to-subterfuge-at-ps3-euro-launche/#commentsFiled under: ,


Microsoft pulled no punches yesterday during the European launch of the PlayStation 3. Deciding that deviousness was the order of the day, they had agents in both London and Paris throwing monkey wrenches into the works at Sony-sponsored events that included:
  • Handing out chairs to the weary fans waiting in the PS3 lines that were printed with a link to this site on the back of them.
  • Sending SMS messages to game journalists saying "The Xbox 360 team wishes you a good night."
  • Driving boats past the Sony event adorned with "XBOX 360 HEARTS YOU" signs.
  • Arming themselves with whistles and blowing them from rooftops to drown out the noise of Sony PR.
Apparently the gloves are off in Europe, and it seems to be working. At French events, one store sold 50 consoles out of 1000, and another store sold 300 out of 1000. At the massive under-attended event at the Eiffel Tower, where they were told to expect 3000 people, roughly 40 people turned out ... security was still turning people away without invitations. One unlucky gate crasher said, "I came from the suburbs, perhaps they don't like my face." At least the French are brutally honest.

Check out the roundup of coverage:
Watch - Playthrough, source of the video above
Watch - Jeux-France.com's writeup, video, and boatload (get it?) of photos
Read - Eurogamer's summary of the event
Read - LCI.fr's story about the French events, translated after the jump (thanks, dekox!).

Continue reading Microsoft secret agents resort to subterfuge at PS3 Euro-launches

JoystiqMicrosoft secret agents resort to subterfuge at PS3 Euro-launches originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2007 13:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolewarseurops3PS3Xbox-360Fri, 23 Mar 2007 13:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony gives £2500 TV to first 100 PS3 campers in UK]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/sony-gives-2500-tv-to-first-100-ps3-campers-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/sony-gives-2500-tv-to-first-100-ps3-campers-in-uk/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/23/sony-gives-2500-tv-to-first-100-ps3-campers-in-uk/#commentsFiled under:

Sony, no stranger to launch events gone awry, made right by some UK PlayStation 3 campers during last night's launch event at a Virgin Megastore in London. Not only did they ensure that none of them left with any additional perforations in their fleshy bits, but they actually saddled the first 100 up with a 46" high-definition telly and a free cab ride home (presumably from Big Al's Comically Large Taxi Service). The television giveaway, each reported to be worth £2500 (about $5000 US), was a great way to spice up the launch of a console that's battled, err, some publicity problems these past couple months.

With a high-price tag, plenty of stock, and no crazy Christmas shopping crunch, the European launch could never live up to other recent events, but we're sure the 100 lucky winners of the televisions -- "a reward for gamers' patience" -- don't mind. And, instead of bragging (erroneously) about shortages, they're advertising their strengths: supply. Ray Maguire, PlayStation's UK chieftan, said, "We have got plenty of stock in shops, so people know they don't have to rush out to secure a console." But if you did rush out, well ... isn't that a nice screen?

Check out Pro-G's video of the UK launch here and skip ahead to 2:30 to spot the giveaway.

[Thanks everyone! Now, who got a free TV?]

JoystiqSony gives £2500 TV to first 100 PS3 campers in UK originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 23 Mar 2007 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Europeeurops3PS3UKFri, 23 Mar 2007 10:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Poll: PlayStation 3 vs. Europe]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/22/poll-playstation-3-vs-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/22/poll-playstation-3-vs-europe/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/22/poll-playstation-3-vs-europe/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's a few minutes past midnight in London and the PlayStation 3 has finally launched in the UK and the rest of Europe. Were you among the throbbing midnight masses? Were there even masses, throbbing or otherwise? Did you get a PS3? Did you stay at home in order to vote in online polls? How many more questions could we possibly ask? Two more? How about one more? Is this the last one?

Hey Europe, tell us about your PS3 launch!
My hands are stained with blood, but I got a PS3!
My store was dead. I just waltzed in and bought one.
What do you mean you're out of stock!?
Online ordering FTW, colon close bracket!
Actually, I bought a PS2 or somesuch thing.
I live in Italy and got one several days ago, losers.
PS3 launch? More like BS... 3... haunch! Yeah!
Why isn't there a poll option for Australians?
Free polls from Pollhost.com
Technical mumbo jumbo: this is not a scientific or rigorous poll and is only intended to capture the general consensus of Joystiq readers. Results will be posted approximately one week after the poll is opened for votes. Sure, you probably could hack this poll if you worked at it, but it's more fun for everyone if poll results accurately reflect the opinions of all readers, so please refrain from tampering with poll results.

JoystiqPoll: PlayStation 3 vs. Europe originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 22 Mar 2007 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3PS3PS3 launchPs3LaunchSonyThu, 22 Mar 2007 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Italy breaks Euro PS3 street date]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/italy-breaks-euro-ps3-street-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/italy-breaks-euro-ps3-street-date/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/21/italy-breaks-euro-ps3-street-date/#commentsFiled under: ,

You'd think that after waiting for roughly five months longer than the rest of the world, European retailers would be able to wait a couple more days to start selling their one million stockpiled PS3s. Apparently not, though, as an Italian retailer has broken Sony's carefully planned street date, causing a domino effect in other other stores across the country.

GamesIndustry.biz reports that small specialist chain Darty took out ads for a 7 p.m. Wednesday PS3 sale in advance of the official Friday launch. Competitor Media World responded by canceling midnight sales plans and letting its stock loose at 9 a.m. Wednesday morning (or roughly seven and a half hours ago, Italy time, as of this posting). Italy's GameStop stores are currently planning to stick to the street date, but said they might be forced to break it to stay competitive.

Sony, for its part, is "deeply disappointed by the unilateral decision" to launch early and is "carefully consider[ing] all available options in relation to retailers who have commenced sale of PlayStation 3 prior to 23rd March 2007." Unilateral decisions? Retaliation? Is this the console war or the Iraq war?

JoystiqItaly breaks Euro PS3 street date originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dartyearlyEuroPS3ItalianItalylaunchmedia worldMediaWorldPS2PS3street dateStreetDateWed, 21 Mar 2007 11:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony prices first-party PS3 games for Euro launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/26/sony-prices-first-party-ps3-games-for-euro-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/26/sony-prices-first-party-ps3-games-for-euro-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/26/sony-prices-first-party-ps3-games-for-euro-launch/#commentsFiled under: ,

Those walking out of a UK store next month with a PS3 under the arm will no doubt be concerned about the retail price of launch games -- doubly so if they actually paid for the console on their way out. Sony has announced a £39.99 (€59.99) price point for first-party launch games, placing the likes of Motorstorm and Resistance: Fall of Man in the same bracket as Wii and first-party Xbox 360 titles. Presumably, the games will contain all of the content from their American and Japanese releases.

Sony also notes that an "introductory period" will see PlayStation Network games priced between €2.99 and €9.99, with game-specific downloadable content starting at €0.99 and increasing depending on the product's scope.

Previously:

JoystiqSony prices first-party PS3 games for Euro launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 26 Feb 2007 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ActionEuro PS3EuroPs3FPSInsomniacMotorstormPS3PS3 launchPs3LaunchResistanceResistance Fall of ManResistance-Fall-of-ManResistanceFallOfManSCEShooterSonyMon, 26 Feb 2007 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Online retailer says PS3 is 'most pre-ordered console yet']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/16/online-retailer-says-ps3-is-most-pre-ordered-console-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/16/online-retailer-says-ps3-is-most-pre-ordered-console-yet/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/16/online-retailer-says-ps3-is-most-pre-ordered-console-yet/#commentsFiled under: ,

According to a Gamesindustry.biz article, the UK's online retailer, Play.com, is currently taking six times more PlayStation 3 pre-orders than it did for the Xbox 360 and 15 times more than it did for the Nintendo Wii. The retailer offers a £524.99 console bundle that includes Motorstorm, Genji 2 and Resistance: Fall of Man. Sony adds that, "Woolworths, Amazon and Play, to name a few, are reporting record breaking pre-orders and an overwhelming demand for PS3."

Though this record pre-order pace is somewhat misleading when taking into account the stock shortages experienced by both the Wii and Xbox 360 -- being allocated more units obviously means you can accept more pre-orders -- the truly good news here is intended for consumers. With Sony promising one million PS3 units for the European launch and retailers accepting a greater number of pre-orders, gamers that want a system on day one (and can tolerate bundle deals) stand a good chance of avoiding the usual frustration that accompanies supply issues. Not to mention the fact that the added wait until March 23 has, at the very least, provided some consolation in the form a much better selection of launch titles.

See also:
[Thanks, Keith.]

JoystiqOnline retailer says PS3 is 'most pre-ordered console yet' originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 16 Feb 2007 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3PS3PS3 launchPs3LaunchFri, 16 Feb 2007 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony UK sales boss quits before impending PS3 launch]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/sony-uk-sales-boss-quits-before-impending-ps3-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/sony-uk-sales-boss-quits-before-impending-ps3-launch/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/13/sony-uk-sales-boss-quits-before-impending-ps3-launch/#commentsFiled under: ,

Man overboard! MCV reports that Kevin Jowett, head of sales for Sony UK, has resigned in order to pursue a career outside of the games industry. With the March 23 Euro PS3 launch just over five weeks away, his timing has likely caused quite a stir, with MCV commenting that the move may briefly disrupt negotiations between Sony and UK retailers.

A UK high street executive is noted as saying, "Kevin is going just as Sony is talking to everyone about terms and arranging pre-orders and in-store marketing campaigns. Obviously, Sony is a big organisation and there will be people there who can fill Kevin's position. But this can't be helpful to them."

Though the launch is unlikely to be overtly affected, you can be sure that an already challenging task just became tougher for those behind the curtain.

JoystiqSony UK sales boss quits before impending PS3 launch originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 13 Feb 2007 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Euro PS3EuroPs3Kevin JowettKevinJowettPS3PS3 launchPs3LaunchSony UKSonyUkTue, 13 Feb 2007 12:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony incentivizes Euro PS3 with Casino Royale Blu-ray]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/12/sony-incentivizes-euro-ps3-with-casino-royale-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/12/sony-incentivizes-euro-ps3-with-casino-royale-blu-ray/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/12/sony-incentivizes-euro-ps3-with-casino-royale-blu-ray/#commentsFiled under:

He's dashing, he's debonair and most importantly, he's packing a very large gun. Clearly, this is exactly the kind of man you need to persuade gamers to pick up a PlayStation 3 when it launches in Europe next month. His name is James Bond, and according to GamesIndustry.Biz, his latest outing on Blu-ray will make its way to the first 500,000 gamers who register their consoles on the PlayStation Network.

Sony's VP of brand and consumer marketing, Darren Carter, calls Casino Royale a "phenomenal incentive" for gamers to join the PS3's online service, no doubt drawing attention to the fact that it's a hell of a lot better than Talladega Nights. Catch all the reckless driving, lustful double-crossing and unashamed Daniel Craig-ery on your European PS3 when it launches on March 23.

JoystiqSony incentivizes Euro PS3 with Casino Royale Blu-ray originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Feb 2007 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blu-rayCasino RoyaleCasinoRoyaleEuro PS3EuroPs3James BondJamesBondPS3PS3 launchPs3LaunchMon, 12 Feb 2007 09:45:00 EST