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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 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Yes! We get to write about Ken Kutaragi again!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/yes-we-get-to-write-about-ken-kutaragi-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/yes-we-get-to-write-about-ken-kutaragi-again/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/11/yes-we-get-to-write-about-ken-kutaragi-again/#comments

1999 "You can communicate to a new cybercity. Did you see the movie The Matrix? Same interface. Same concept. Starting from next year, you can jack into The Matrix!"

2000 PlayStation 2 launches.

2005 "The PS3 is not a game machine."

2005 "[We want] consumers to think to themselves 'I will work more hours to buy one'. We want people to feel that they want it, irrespective of anything else."

2006 "It's probably too cheap ... This is the PS3 price. Expensive, cheap -- we don't want you to think of it in terms of game machines. Because the PS3 is like nothing else."

2006 PlayStation 3 launches.

2007 "As a matter of course, I have the vision of PlayStation 4, 5 and 6, which will merge into the network."

2007 Ken Kutaragi forced into "retirement" by Sony Computer Entertainment

2009 Ken Kutaragi forms his own company: Cybereye-Entertainment, for "next generation Internet service".

True, this isn't entirely gaming-related, but who knows when we'll be able to write about Ken's exploits again! And, to be honest, we've ... we've missed him. He's been out of the spotlight for over two years and no public video game figure since has mastered the unique art of the Kutaragism.

Yes! We get to write about Ken Kutaragi again! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cybereyeken-kutaragikutaragiWed, 11 Nov 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi joins the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/ken-kutaragi-joins-the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/ken-kutaragi-joins-the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/ken-kutaragi-joins-the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame/#commentsFiled under: News

Ken Kutargi has long been named the "father of PlayStation," and that name has earned him a growing number of accolades. Most recently, he's been added to the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame. He'll join other notable inductees, such as the team that developed the first mobile phone and the "father of DVD." Not a bad list of people to join.

With over 200 million PlayStation-branded systems sold worldwide so far, it's clear that the lives of many people have been enhanced by Kutaragi's vision. Congrats to a well-deserved nod to his contribution to the world of consumer electronics.

Ken Kutaragi joins the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken-kutaragikutaragiplaystationThu, 03 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi joins the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/ken-kutaragi-joins-the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/ken-kutaragi-joins-the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/03/ken-kutaragi-joins-the-consumer-electronics-hall-of-fame/#commentsFiled under: News

Ken Kutargi has long been named the "father of PlayStation," and that name has earned him a growing number of accolades. Most recently, he's been added to the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame. He'll join other notable inductees, such as the team that developed the first mobile phone and the "father of DVD." Not a bad list of people to join.

With over 200 million PlayStation-branded systems sold worldwide so far, it's clear that the lives of many people have been enhanced by Kutaragi's vision. Congrats to a well-deserved nod to his contribution to the world of consumer electronics.

Ken Kutaragi joins the Consumer Electronics Hall of Fame originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken-kutaragikutaragiplaystationThu, 03 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kutaragi to receive lifetime achievement award]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/27/kutaragi-to-receive-lifetime-achievement-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/27/kutaragi-to-receive-lifetime-achievement-award/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/27/kutaragi-to-receive-lifetime-achievement-award/#commentsFiled under: News

Despite retiring as CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment earlier this year, Ken Kutaragi is still being praised throughout the industry. A couple months ago, Kutaragi was honored at the Entertainment Software Association's "Night to Unite" event, and now the Father of the PlayStation has been given the Academy of Interactive Arts & Science 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award.

The honorary SCE chairman will receive the award at the Interactive Achievement Awards ceremony Feb. 7 for his "contribution to the global in-home entertainment market with the success of the PlayStation, according to Gamasutra.

"Ken Kutaragi's passion, innovative thinking and business savvy sparked a monumental movement that was unstoppable," said AIAS president Joseph Olin. "If it wasn't for Ken and his concept of the original PlayStation, there wouldn't be the billion dollar industry there is today. His contributions have clearly set new standards for developers, publishers and consumers worldwide." Although many gamers like to joke around at all the crazy things Ken has said and done throughout the years, no one can deny his important role in pushing the industry to new heights.

Kutaragi to receive lifetime achievement award originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Nov 2007 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>awardsfather-of-the-playstationken-kutaragikutaraginight-to-uniteTue, 27 Nov 2007 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kutaragi officially retires from Sony]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/kutaragi-officially-retires-from-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/kutaragi-officially-retires-from-sony/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/19/kutaragi-officially-retires-from-sony/#commentsFiled under: Sony PlayStation 3, Sony PSP, Business

We've known about it for months but today it becomes official -- Ken Kutaragi, the father of the PlayStation, is stepping down as chairman and chief executive of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. He will still have an advisory post at the gaming unit but his days of crazy press statements as one of the public faces of Sony are over.

The storied engineer's long career at Sony hit some stumbling blocks with the PS3 launch, leading Kutaragi to be relieved of his day to day duties as president of the company late last year. Some say he was squeezed out to make room for new blood, but officially Kutaragi "has been considering this decision for some time" and considered today's shareholder meeting "the ideal timing to pass on the torch to the new generation of management."

Next for Kutaragi is a post at Sony/Namco/Bandai partnership Cellius, which will focus on content designed for the PS3's Cell chip. We wish him all the best, and personally hope that the train of public gaffes doesn't stop running.

Kutaragi officially retires from Sony originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bizbusinessCEOKen KutaragiKenKutaragiKutaragiPS3PSPretireSonyTue, 19 Jun 2007 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts believe Sony's Kutaragi was squeezed out]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/analysts-believe-sonys-kutaragi-was-squeezed-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/analysts-believe-sonys-kutaragi-was-squeezed-out/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/27/analysts-believe-sonys-kutaragi-was-squeezed-out/#commentsFiled under: Sony PlayStation 3, Business

It's hard not to imagine industry analysts getting along famously with PlayStation father, Ken Kutaragi. Holding hands, dancing in a circle and spouting outrageous claims at each other, they'd have a jolly good session of prediction, scrutiny and hopscotch. In response to Mr. Kutaragi's recently announced plans to leave the circle, several analysts have expressed belief that his departure is partly motivated by the parent company yelling from the outskirts of the park, insisting that, "You've had your fun, it's time to go." According to a GameDaily BIZ report, the PlayStation 3 may make for a particularly heavy golden hand to shake.

Evan Wilson of Pacific Crest Securities tells Bloomberg.com that Kutaragi's retirement "is likely an indication Sony corporate isn't satisfied with the initial success of the PS3." The Washington Post calls it a "face-saving firing," quoting IDC's famous time traveling analyst, Billy Pidgeon, as saying, "Sony had too much hype and not enough delivery." Furthermore, an AG Edwards analyst, Bill Kreher, tells GameDaily BIZ, "The PS3 obviously has had a rough start and I would question whether Kutaragi would still be leaving if the console had been better received by the marketplace."

Still, some analysts agree with Sony's official line that Kutaragi had left of his own accord in pursuit of "new challenges beyond the world of PlayStation." Michael Pachter of Wedbush Morgan Securities states that the decision likely had more to do with software and the PSP. "It can't be [Kutaragi's] fault that the cost of the box was so high, and I have a tough time believing he insisted on Blu-ray. They probably just all agreed it was time to move on." He and a few other analysts go on to note that Kaz Hirai will prove to be an effective leader and a better instigator of success in the years to come.

Analysts believe Sony's Kutaragi was squeezed out originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Apr 2007 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnalystsKen KutaragiKenKutaragiKutaragiPS3SonyFri, 27 Apr 2007 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi steps down as CEO]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-steps-down-as-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-steps-down-as-ceo/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-steps-down-as-ceo/#commentsFiled under: News

The quote unquote Father of the PlayStation is stepping down from his position of CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment. "Kutaragi has said that he has been considering this decision for some time. He stated that, in the six months since the appointment of Kazuo Hirai as President in December, the new generation of management, led by Mr. Hirai, has continued to develop. With the March introduction of PS3 in Europe completing the successful launch of PS3 worldwide, Mr. Kutaragi has identified SCE's Annual Shareholders' meeting in June as the ideal timing to pass on the torch to the new generation of management. Mr. Kutaragi will now apply his extensive technological knowledge and leadership skills to take on new challenges beyond the world of PlayStation. Sony and SCE will continue to seek Mr. Kutaragi's input and ideas from a broad perspective, while continuing to support him as much as possible in the realization of his dreams."

Kutaragi will continue to be a senior technology advisor to Sony. Although the man was infamous for his somewhat delusional comments, we know that his replacement, Kaz Hirai, will do just a good of job at keeping the internet entertained.

Ken Kutaragi steps down as CEO originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ken kutaragiKenKutaragikutaragisceiThu, 26 Apr 2007 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi to retire, go back to space ship]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-to-retire-go-back-to-space-ship/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-to-retire-go-back-to-space-ship/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/ken-kutaragi-to-retire-go-back-to-space-ship/#comments

As of June 19th, the man behind the Spider-Man font, behind the PlayStation 3's slick design, behind the massive damage control Sony is still trying to get a hang of will be retiring. Yes, Krazy Ken Kutaragi will be stepping down from his position as CEO at Sony Computer Entertainment. He will be replaced by the less krazy Kaz Hirai -- he doesn't get the capital letter yet.

The following are excerpts from a press release from Sony detailing the resignation: "Kutaragi has said that he has been considering this decision for some time. He stated that, in the six months since the appointment of Kazuo Hirai as President in December, the new generation of management, led by Mr. Hirai, has continued to develop...Sony and SCE will continue to seek Mr. Kutaragi's input and ideas from a broad perspective, while continuing to support him as much as possible in the realization of his dreams." He's passing on the torch to Kaz Hirai and the new, fresh, young management team! Good. It's a good thing to know what's best for the company, even at your own expense. We salute him for that. But... what are his dreams? The PS3 Grill?

While this is heartbreaking news for those who think Kutaragi was doing a stellar job with the PS3, recall that he was given a promotion recently that consequently took him out of most day-to-day operations of Sony and the PlayStation 3. As a parting farewell to all the shoddy promises given by Kutaragi, as well as a few things to make us giggle, we're sticking some famous quotes from the man, the legend, the mystery: Ken Kutaragi. Goodbye, Krazy Ken. You had a good run, but it's time to step aside. Have a great retirement!

"[We want] consumers to think to themselves 'I will work more hours to buy one'. We want people to feel that they want it, irrespective of anything else."
"The PS3 will instill discipline in our children and adults alike. Everyone will know discipline."
"The PS3 is not a game machine "

[Via Joystiq]

Ken Kutaragi to retire, go back to space ship originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ken KutaragiKenKutaragikutaragiPlayStation 3Playstation3PS3scesceiSonyThu, 26 Apr 2007 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's Ken Kutaragi announces plans to retire]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/26/sonys-ken-kutaragi-announces-plans-to-retire/#commentsFiled under: Sony PlayStation 2, Sony PlayStation 3, Sony PSP, Business

In March, The Wall Street Journal said Ken Kutaragi was a "stumbling block" for Sony; now they're reporting that the controversial chairman and group CEO for Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. -- and father of the PlayStation brand -- will be retiring his post effective June 19. Of course, the 57-year-old exec was recently kicked upstairs, removing him from day-to-day operations following what many considered to be a botched strategy for the PlayStation 3. Kaz Hirai, who replaced Ken in December, will be promoted to CEO of SCE.

And Kaz, you better start practicing. You've got some large shoes to fill ... four-dimensional shoes that require dual HDMI soles to output 120 footprints a second. But seriously, we'll miss your krazy quotes, Ken!

Update -- SCEI statement: "Kutaragi has said that he has been considering this decision for some time. He stated that, in the six months since the appointment of Kazuo Hirai as President in December, the new generation of management, led by Mr. Hirai, has continued to develop. With the March introduction of PS3 in Europe completing the successful launch of PS3 worldwide, Mr. Kutaragi has identified SCE's Annual Shareholders' meeting in June as the ideal timing to pass on the torch to the new generation of management. Mr. Kutaragi will now apply his extensive technological knowledge and leadership skills to take on new challenges beyond the world of PlayStation. Sony and SCE will continue to seek Mr. Kutaragi's input and ideas from a broad perspective, while continuing to support him as much as possible in the realization of his dreams."

Read - PlayStation Creator Plans to Retire (WSJ subscription reqd.)
Read - Kutaragi to step down as Sony game unit CEO (IDG)

Sony's Ken Kutaragi announces plans to retire originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Apr 2007 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceoken kutaragiKenKutaragikutaragiplaystationPS2PS3PSPscesceisonyThu, 26 Apr 2007 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Miyamoto nominated for Time 100]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/miyamoto-industry-snubbed-by-time-100/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/miyamoto-industry-snubbed-by-time-100/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/04/23/miyamoto-industry-snubbed-by-time-100/#commentsFiled under: Culture, Nintendo Wii, Fashion, Politics

In 2004 it was Ken Kutaragi. In 2005 it was the Halo designers. In 2006 it was ... no one.

Yes, Time's last list of the 100 most influential people in the world broke from tradition and didn't feel the need to include anyone from the game industry. While nobodies like Nicolas Ghesquiere and Rain got coveted spots on the list, the leaders of a $12.5 billion industry got bupkis.

Luckily, you can help rectify this situation. Yes, you, as Time's person of the year, can go independently rate the nearly 200 candidates who are being considered for the 2007 list, including Nintendo's Shigeru Miyamoto. As of this posting, Miyamoto is ranked 60th, between Indra Nooyi and Albert Osterhaus (a.k.a. two people you've never heard of) with 113 votes and an average rating of 75 out of 100.

The ranking system is based on total points accrued, not the average, so more votes equals a better rank. Vote early and vote often -- it's not like you have anything better to do at work.

[Thanks hvnlysoldr]

Miyamoto nominated for Time 100 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100HaloindustryinfluenceKutaragimediamiyamototimevideo gamesVideoGamesWiiMon, 23 Apr 2007 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Ken Kutaragi insisted on Spider-Man font for PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/ken-kutaragi-insisted-on-spider-man-font-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/ken-kutaragi-insisted-on-spider-man-font-for-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/03/29/ken-kutaragi-insisted-on-spider-man-font-for-ps3/#commentsFiled under: Culture, Sony PlayStation 2, Sony PlayStation 3, Business, Fashion

File this under "Trivia": did you know that since Sony owns the rights to the Spider-Man font, it might have shaped the look and feel of the PlayStation 3? According to CVG, Kutaragi insisted on the use of the font, and it was one of the first design elements chosen for the console.

According to Sony's Teiyu Goto, "If you really look at the PS3 contour carefully, it is rounded when viewing the console in profile. Rather than creating a typography with all the risks that entails, it was wiser to use the one from Spider-Man, for which Sony has the rights."

Er, call us confused, but what are all the risks that creating a new font entails? Death and destruction raining down? Sharp edges? Cats and dogs living together? Thankfully, Kutaragi wasn't a hardcore Comic Sans fan, or who knows what the PS3 would have ended up looking like.

Ken Kutaragi insisted on Spider-Man font for PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Mar 2007 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fontkenkutaragiKutaragiPS2PS3SonySpider-ManThu, 29 Mar 2007 15:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Kutaragi gets shoved in Sony reshuffling]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/kutaragi-gets-shoved-in-sony-reshuffling/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/kutaragi-gets-shoved-in-sony-reshuffling/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/12/01/kutaragi-gets-shoved-in-sony-reshuffling/#commentsFiled under: News

You can expect to see more from SCEA's chief Kaz Hirai (of Riiidge Racer fame), as he's moved on up on the corporate ladder. He'll be replacing "you-can-experience-4D" Ken Kutargai, who's been criticized by his rivals as being too "arrogant." There's been speculation that the slow sales of PSP, the disastrously delayed PS3 launch, and the loss of potential PS3 exclusives, like Grand Theft Auto IV and Assassin's Creed, are behind this shuffling.

Regardless, Kutaragi will remain in Sony's corporate arms as chairman and group CEO. While this theoretically is a promotion, it will certainly free up Kaz and new SCEA chief Jack Tretton from correcting the mistakes of a potentially senile leader. Hey, it worked for Nintendo when they got rid of even-more-insane Yamauchi.

[Via Joystiq]

Kutaragi gets shoved in Sony reshuffling originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 01 Dec 2006 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jack trettonJackTrettonkaz hiraiKazHiraiken kutaragiKenKutaragikutaragiplaystation 3Playstation3ps3sceasonyFri, 01 Dec 2006 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Kutaragi admits "decline"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/10/kutaragi-admits-decline-in-sony-hardware-capability/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/10/kutaragi-admits-decline-in-sony-hardware-capability/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/10/kutaragi-admits-decline-in-sony-hardware-capability/#commentsFiled under: News, Console wars

Reuters catches Krazy Ken in a tortured moment of honesty about Sony's recent troubles:

"If you asked me if Sony's strength in hardware was in decline, right now I guess I would have to say that might be true," game unit head Ken Kutaragi said after Sony pushed back the PS3's European launch by four months to March.

He's referring to Sony's manufacturing capability, not the PS3's over-hyped specs, but why not make it a two-fer?

Kutaragi admits "decline" originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 10 Sep 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console warsConsoleWarshardwarekutaragisonySun, 10 Sep 2006 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Kutaragi admits "decline" in Sony's hardware capabilities]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/09/kutaragi-admits-decline-in-sonys-hardware-capabilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/09/kutaragi-admits-decline-in-sonys-hardware-capabilities/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/09/kutaragi-admits-decline-in-sonys-hardware-capabilities/#commentsFiled under: Sony PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii, Microsoft Xbox 360, Business

On the heels of Sony's decision to delay the European launch of the PlayStation 3, Reuters caught Sony's Ken Kutaragi in a rare moment of straight talk:

"If you asked me if Sony's strength in hardware was in decline, right now I guess I would have to say that might be true."

He left himself some waffle room there with that "I guess" and that "might be" language, so we'll put it to you, dear reader. What's the over/under on the chance that Sony's hardware capabilities have been gaining strength?

[Thanks, Babylonian]

Kutaragi admits "decline" in Sony's hardware capabilities originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 09 Sep 2006 16:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>kutaragiplaystationplaystation 3ps3sonyWiiXbox-360Sat, 09 Sep 2006 16:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Kutaragi hints at external power supply]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/kutaragi-hints-at-external-power-supply/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/kutaragi-hints-at-external-power-supply/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/kutaragi-hints-at-external-power-supply/#commentsFiled under: News

Ken Kutaragi talked with a Japanese website recently about most of the things you've probably been wondering. He spoke about keeping costs down, heating issues, the Cell and even hinted at including an external power supply for the PlayStation 3.

For starters, he said that reducing the size of the Cell in the future will allow for lower costs (as we've heard already). But he also said that power consumption will be key: "If we can't reduce [power consumption] we will never be able to make the PS3 cheap and small." Well then, for the love of all that's economical, please manage that consumption!

When talking about heating more extensively, he said that "the power supply could almost be sold separately." So if they decide to go with that, expect a power brick, except of even bigger proportions than what you're used to (like the 360's). With a console the size of the PlayStation 3, it's going to need all the juice it can get.

Kutaragi hints at external power supply originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jun 2006 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellcontrolleribmkutaragiplaystationpowerps3sonysupplyThu, 15 Jun 2006 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's manufacturing method to change next year]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/sonys-manufacturing-method-to-change-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/sonys-manufacturing-method-to-change-next-year/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/15/sonys-manufacturing-method-to-change-next-year/#commentsFiled under: Interviews, News

Ken Kutaragi recently revealed that the process for making the Cell chip will go from a 90nm process down to 65nm. This will help cut the costs of manufacturing. The chip is currently being manufactured at IBM's Fishkill and Sony's Nagasaki factories. With the decrease in cost, it's possible that devices utilizing the chip could also see a lower price point when arriving to retail, to which Kutaragi hinted at devices other than the company's next-gen console as possible recipients. However in the case of the PS3, this drop in cost is unlikely to be seen.

[Via IGN]

Sony's manufacturing method to change next year originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Jun 2006 11:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellignkenkutaragiplaystationps3sonyThu, 15 Jun 2006 11:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: We want PS3 to be like the ipod]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/12/sony-we-want-ps3-to-be-like-the-ipod/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/12/sony-we-want-ps3-to-be-like-the-ipod/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/06/12/sony-we-want-ps3-to-be-like-the-ipod/#commentsFiled under: Interviews

Ken Kutaragi recently held a very long interview with Japanese web site PC Impress Watch where he spoke about the PS3's current presence and that for Sony, their goal is to have their next-generation console have the kind of market pull that the Apple brand does.

"Steve Jobs could slap an Apple logo on the PS3 and sell them for $2,000 each. We couldn't do that. That's the difference between the PlayStation brand and a computer brand, like Apple."

Kutaragi emphasized that he wished to make the term "PS3" synonymous with "entertainment computer." The company's goals seem to be in establishing an electronics "ecosystem" in the consumer's household, where the name Sony means enjoyment. However, where Apple has achieved this through stylish, trendy gadgets at affordable pricing, will this goal be achievable for Sony given the hefty price tag of the unit?

[Via Gamespot]

Sony: We want PS3 to be like the ipod originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 12 Jun 2006 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applehiraiipodkazkazuokenkutaragiplaystationps3sonyMon, 12 Jun 2006 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Kutaragi: PlayStation 3 is "too cheap"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/kutaragi-playstation-3-is-too-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/kutaragi-playstation-3-is-too-cheap/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/17/kutaragi-playstation-3-is-too-cheap/#commentsFiled under: Culture, Sony PlayStation 3, Business

Ken Kutaragi

In a disturbing twist, Ken Kutaragi has gone on record stating that the PlayStation 3's $600 price tag is "too cheap." The SCE president has again compared the forthcoming console to a fine dining experience. His argument is that no one calls into question the price differential between some slop at the cafeteria and a meal at an upscale restaurant. From his (deep pockets) point of view, "If you can have an amazing experience, we believe price is not a problem."

Does Sony's braggadocio excite anyone? Because it's turning us off.

After a paltry E3 showing - from a games perspective - it's hard to see the PS3 as anything more than a Trojan horse for sneaking (relatively) cheap Blu-ray devices into consumers' homes. The PlayStation brand is being pimped, and gamers are paying for it, literally. It's ridiculous for Kutaragi to suggest that his company is doing us a favor by launching the PS3 for $600. It's also disrespectful. Who else gets the feeling that Sony is looking down on us?

Kutaragi: PlayStation 3 is "too cheap" originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 May 2006 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ken KutaragiKenKutaragiKutaragiPS3Wed, 17 May 2006 14:25:00 EST<![CDATA["Probably too cheap" says Kutaragi on PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/15/probably-too-cheap-says-kutaragi-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/15/probably-too-cheap-says-kutaragi-on-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/05/15/probably-too-cheap-says-kutaragi-on-ps3/#commentsFiled under: News

If you're like many gamers, you're probably trying to hold back from doing something rash in response to Sony's price announcement. The general reaction was of astonishment during E3. But if you think that's surprising, what do you say to Ken Kutaragi's statement of the PS3 being "probably too cheap?"

There are probably a few gamers out there who would beg to differ. But that's not all he had to say. He compared the PS3 to a fine restaurant as opposed to a company cafeteria. It's still hazy about whether or not gamers are looking for a pricey meal or a cheap deal though. Whatever the case may be, he believes that the PlayStation 3 and its components (we're looking at you Blu-ray) are worth its price.

"Probably too cheap" says Kutaragi on PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 15 May 2006 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3kutaragilaunchplaystationpriceps3sonyMon, 15 May 2006 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[4D Kutaragi "live" and unhinged]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/15/kutaragi-live-and-unhinged/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/15/kutaragi-live-and-unhinged/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/03/15/kutaragi-live-and-unhinged/#commentsFiled under: News, Fan stuff, Console wars

Sony's Ken Kutaragi, whose last name means "PS2 graphics like Toy Story" in Japanese, was up to his old tricks at the Playstation Business Briefing in Tokyo. Not to be outdone when it comes to confusing, poorly chosen buzzwords, the hype-happy Sony Computer Entertainment President claimed that PS3 games are "live" and that the Playstation Network Platform concept is "4D":

[Kutaragi] claims that games have gone from 8-bit to 16-bit planes, to the "space" that you saw on the PS1/PS2, and now PS3 will be "live"

Hmmm...Live. Where have we heard that lovely market-tested word before? The Xbox developement teams delivers the smack down with the smarmy incisiveness of a pre-Tommy Boy David Spade:

Kutaragi-san, games have been "Live" since 2002. Please find your own buzzword, kthx.

As for "4D," I can't process that term without thinking of "Smell-O-Vision" and those 3D movies at the amusement park where they spray water in your face. Maybe I'll understand what the hell Ken is talking about once I purchase these REAL PS3 4D GLASSES off Ebay.

[Thanks Anon.]

4D Kutaragi "live" and unhinged originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Mar 2006 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hypekutaragiPS3Wed, 15 Mar 2006 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PlayStation 3 spreading itself thin?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/10/playstation-3-spreading-itself-thin/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/10/playstation-3-spreading-itself-thin/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/02/10/playstation-3-spreading-itself-thin/#commentsFiled under: Sony PlayStation 3

The PlayStation 3 is being packed full of bleeding-edge, next-gen technology. It promises 1080p gaming, HD movies, TiVo functionality, iTunes-like content distribution, and an Xbox Live-killing online service. BusinessWeek is running an article titled, "This PlayStation May Play Too Much," covering the fear that, with a glut of admittedly expensive features, consumers may be intimidated by the PS3. He compares it to a similarly ambitious Sony project that met just such a fate upon its release:

"Exhibit A: the PSX. Released in Japan in 2003, it was designed to appeal to a broader audience than the hard-core gamers attracted to the PS2. It comes with a 250-gigabyte hard drive and a simple Web browser and plays games, movies, and music. But the PSX bombed as consumers were confused by the hybrid and put off by its $800-plus price tag."

There is a fear that the system may prove more popular as a multimedia device, like the PSP, resulting in a lower attach rate for games, then lower licensing income. With the expected cost of the console, that could prove disastrous. "But since the PSP also plays music and movies, fewer people are buying games designed for it. In the PS2's initial year on the market, players bought more than three games for each machine that was shipped. For the PSP, that ratio slipped to 2 to 1."

More reading:
Engadget points out that BusinessWeek's writer reveals that the PS3 "boasts a huge hard disk to store photos, music, and TV shows." Although the bundling of a hard drive has not been announced, it was widely considered to be an optional feature.

BusinessWeek has a companion story about Sony Computer Entertainment chief Ken Kutaragi, titled "Can Sony's Kutaragi Score Big?" It covers his rise to the top of Sony, his subsequent return back to the games division, and what's at stake with the PS3.

[Thanks for all the tips]

PlayStation 3 spreading itself thin? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 10 Feb 2006 17:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>KutaragiPS3SonyFri, 10 Feb 2006 17:45:00 EST