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[Pachter: Wii price drop coming before the holiday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/14/pachter-wii-price-drop-coming-before-the-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/14/pachter-wii-price-drop-coming-before-the-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/14/pachter-wii-price-drop-coming-before-the-holiday/#comments Michael Pachter loves low prices. First he does flip floppings around the PSP Go's price and now he's predicting a Wii price drop later this year. He notes that "Wii supply has finally exceeded demand," and that he "expect[s] Nintendo to cut the price of the Wii before [the] holiday." If true, this would be the first price drop since the Wii's release in late 2006.

Alternatively, Nintendo could simply bundle the system with software in order to persuade people to buy the system. Wii Sports was a good enough selling point back in ought-six, so why not a Wii, Wii Sports Resort and Wii MotionPlus bundle? Still, Pachter's pretty well known around these parts, so he's bound to be right. Who knows, maybe the price drop will arrive just in time for the Wii HD announcement, right Michael?

JoystiqPachter: Wii price drop coming before the holiday originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 14 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>michael-pachterNintendopachterpricedropWiiSun, 14 Jun 2009 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nintendo not dropping Wii or DS Lite price anytime soon [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/nintendo-not-dropping-wii-or-ds-lite-price-anytime-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/nintendo-not-dropping-wii-or-ds-lite-price-anytime-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/27/nintendo-not-dropping-wii-or-ds-lite-price-anytime-soon/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Update: Oops! We've realized we covered this before, but think of it this way -- now you're two times more aware of these firm, firm prices as the other denizens of the internet.

Whether you've yet to join the hunt for the Golden Ticket-esque Nintendo Wii, or you're one of the eight people yet to buy a Nintendo DS of some shape or color, we certainly hope that the reasoning behind your reluctance to join Camp N isn't the anticipation of a price drop for the two (relatively) affordable consoles. According to a recent statement from Ninty's Satoru Iwata, there are currently no plans to lower the retail price on either of their money-printing apparatuses.

While this fact isn't exactly surprising considering the systems' sales success at their current costs, Iwata's reason for the set-in-stone price is rather intriguing -- should either system undergo a cheapening, he explained, it would upset those who bought the console at its former price. Yes, we're sure it has nothing to do with the near completion of Miyamoto's personal, Scrooge McDuck-style gold coin swimming pool.

JoystiqNintendo not dropping Wii or DS Lite price anytime soon [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 27 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSiwatanintendonintendodsnintendowiipriceprice-droppricedropsatoru-iwataWiiSun, 27 Apr 2008 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Unreal Tournament III gets price drop: to be $40 everywhere]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/unreal-tournament-iii-gets-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/unreal-tournament-iii-gets-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/04/17/unreal-tournament-iii-gets-price-drop/#commentsFiled under:


For one reason or another, Epic's PS3-early Unreal Tournament III never found the success of its previous titles, like Gears of War. Midway is giving the multiplayer FPS another chance at retail, with a rather significant price drop. Originally $60, the game is now a mere $40 new at game retailers, such as amazon.com and GameStop.

With a recently released free map pack and a growing collection of user-generated mods, there's never been a better time to jump into the UT community. Hopefully, this price drop will give the game the attention it never received at launch.

[Via GT Forums]

JoystiqUnreal Tournament III gets price drop: to be $40 everywhere originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pricedropunrealunreal-tournament-3Thu, 17 Apr 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Dutch retailer advertises Euro Xbox 360 price drop [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/dutch-retailer-confirms-euro-xbox-360-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/dutch-retailer-confirms-euro-xbox-360-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/09/dutch-retailer-confirms-euro-xbox-360-price-drop/#commentsFiled under:


Update: While this flyer is out in the wild, it does not confirm that it is actually happening. Microsoft has yet to make any announcements regarding the supposed cut. This article has been edited to reflect that.

According to Dutch retailer Bart Smit, the rumored price cut of the Euro Xbox 360 is happening. As previously speculated the Xbox 360 Elite has dropped from 549.95€ to 399.95€ , the Pro console (which includes Viva Pinata and Forza Motorsport 2) was lowered from 399.95€ to 299.95€ while the Arcade bundle is down from 279.95€ to 199.95€.

At 199.95€ the Xbox 360 Arcade would become the cheapest console of this generation in Europe, edging out the Nintendo Wii which retails for 249.95€. The Microsoft camp has stated that the key to better sales in 2008 is the European market, where Microsoft is forced to fend off the strong PlayStation brand awareness and the popularity of the Nintendo Wii. However, considering Xbox 360's popularity in the Western market we don't recommend North American buyers begin holding their breath for a price-drop just yet.

[Thanks, Sander D. Via WackaB]

JoystiqDutch retailer advertises Euro Xbox 360 price drop [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 09 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>price-droppricedropSun, 09 Mar 2008 13:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us drops Canadian Xbox 360 price]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/toys-r-us-drops-canadian-xbox-360-price-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/toys-r-us-drops-canadian-xbox-360-price-early/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/toys-r-us-drops-canadian-xbox-360-price-early/#commentsFiled under: ,

What was just a rumor as recently as this morning has apparently already become reality -- the Canadian Toys R Us web site is showing $50 reductions in price for the Xbox 360 Pro (now $349.99) and Halo Edition - (now $399.99). An informant at a Canadian Toys R Us has also told us that the Xbox 360 Arcade has been reduced $20 (to $279.99) and the Elite has come down $50 (to $449.99 -- all prices are in Canadian dollars, eh?)

Ironically enough, FutureShop, where this morning's rumor first originated, has not lowered their web site prices as of press time. Perhaps they're waiting until Friday to unleash that Turok Elite bundle on an unsuspecting public?

Does this surprise move mean an American price drop is in the cards? Probably not -- much like the previous Microsoft Canada price drop, the adjustment seems designed to bring prices up North in line with the weakening American dollar.

Update: Apologies for the inadvertent act of bad foreign relations. No offense was meant, Canada. Are we still cool?

[Thanks Stephen]

JoystiqToys R Us drops Canadian Xbox 360 price originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArcadeBreakingNewscanadaEliteHaloprice dropPriceDroppricingProretailToys R UsToysRUsXbox-360Wed, 20 Feb 2008 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Canadian Xbox 360 price drops $50 Friday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/rumor-canadian-xbox-360-price-drops-50-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/rumor-canadian-xbox-360-price-drops-50-friday/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/20/rumor-canadian-xbox-360-price-drops-50-friday/#commentsFiled under: ,

Update 8:15 PM EST: Toys R Us Canada has apparently lowered their prices already.

Thanks to an anonymous tipster, we have early word on what might be an upcoming price drop for the Canadian Xbox 360. The above phonecam photo comes from a FutureShop Canada employee, who says he was "quite surprised" to find a $50 price drop for the Xbox 360 Pro Console advertised right on the front page of next week's advertising fliers. Our source also tells us that the inside of the flier trumpets a $50 price drop for the XBox 360 Elite (to $449), an offer which allegedly includes a free copy of Turok.

Both price drops should be effective Friday, if this rumor proves true, and while we have no way of confirming this information as of yet, we have no explicit reason to doubt it either. Regardless, if you're a Canadian looking to buy an Xbox 360, it couldn't hurt to wait a couple of days to see if you can save a bit of green, er, funny multicolored money.

JoystiqRumor: Canadian Xbox 360 price drops $50 Friday originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>$50canadaEliteFutureShopprice dropprice-cutprice-dropPriceDropProXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Wed, 20 Feb 2008 10:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony: PS3 sales increased dramatically, won't reflect in NPD]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/sony-says-ps3-sales-increased-dramatically-wont-reflect-in-npd/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/sony-says-ps3-sales-increased-dramatically-wont-reflect-in-npd/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/11/15/sony-says-ps3-sales-increased-dramatically-wont-reflect-in-npd/#commentsFiled under:


Sony's CEO Howard Stringer is giving a little tease about Sony's current PS3 sales numbers before NPD lays down the law later today with the October data. Stringer says that in the two weeks prior to Nov. 11, they sold 100,000 units per week. However, the NPD group will only reflect data for the month of October, which saw the PS3 selling between 30K and 40K per week, according to Stringer. Sales only expectedly jumped after the introduction of the 40GB model on Nov. 2.

Stringer admits to all the difficulties the PS3 has found in the last year, telling the Associate Press, "Obviously, we've taken so much heat over the year on PS3 ... Finally, the turning point has been passed." Although it's probably still too early to say that, at least Sony seems to be on the right path -- good thing everyone's sales go up during the holidays.

[Via GameDaily]

JoystiqSony: PS3 sales increased dramatically, won't reflect in NPD originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40gbbusinesspricedropps3salesThu, 15 Nov 2007 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Iwata says no Wii price cut coming]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/iwata-says-no-wii-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/iwata-says-no-wii-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/26/iwata-says-no-wii-price-cut/#commentsFiled under: ,


It's such a "duh" statement, but when the president of Nintendo says the Wii isn't getting a price cut it does qualify as something to report. Speaking with the Associated Press, Nintendo pres. Satoru Iwata says, "Y'all beeatchs crazy? We ain't droppin' da price! Come up in my house askin' dumb question like dat? I oughta cap you." Fine, fine, he didn't actually say that. He really said, "We're absolutely not considering a price cut."

This echoes statements made yesterday by Nintendo senior managing director Yoshihiro Mori, who said that (surprise!) there is no price cut planned. This was following Nintendo's adjustment of their fiscal forecast where they said profits would be higher than expected. From the consumer perspective, the Xbox 360 Arcade at $280 hopes to put a dent into Nintendo's business, possibly prompting an eventual drop in the Wii's $250 price in '08 -- but first, the Wii needs to stop selling out the moment it comes back in stock.

JoystiqIwata says no Wii price cut coming originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businessiwatanintendopricedropwiiFri, 26 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[No Wii price drop for the holidays (except maybe for Canada)]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/no-wii-price-drop-for-the-holidays-except-maybe-for-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/no-wii-price-drop-for-the-holidays-except-maybe-for-canada/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/no-wii-price-drop-for-the-holidays-except-maybe-for-canada/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you were Nintendo, and you were just now starting to match the supply of your hit console to the ravenous demand (meaning that you were still selling as many as you could produce), what would you do to ensure bigger console sales this holiday season? Would you drop the price of the console that is selling out worldwide?

Neither would Nintendo. The rumors of a price drop turned out to be bunk, or even bunkum if you prefer. George Harrison told Reuters that "We'll stay at $249 for the foreseeable future. We are still selling everything we can make."

The situation may be slightly different up in Canada, where the Wii seems to be dropping in price to $269 because of the rising Canadian dollar. We have yet to see confirmation on that, so into the rumor bin it goes.

JoystiqNo Wii price drop for the holidays (except maybe for Canada) originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadapricedropFri, 12 Oct 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii not getting a price drop -- is that news?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/wii-not-getting-a-price-drop-is-that-news/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/wii-not-getting-a-price-drop-is-that-news/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/12/wii-not-getting-a-price-drop-is-that-news/#commentsFiled under: ,


Mama always told us that if everyone else is jumping off a bridge we should do it too. And so we give you the "news" that retirement-bound Nintendo marketing VP George Harrision told Reuters that the Wii is staying at $249. Harrison says that the Wii is still selling out everywhere and there's no need to drop the price at this point. The man is absolutely right.

Oh heck, while we're reporting the obvious: The PS3 is still too expensive (hopefully not for long), Microsoft won't port Halo 3 to PS3 -- ever, the PS3 will not be getting rid of Blu-ray and the Wiimote eats batteries like a fat kid at a buffet. We're sure there's more obvious news we can stumble upon today, but we're pretty sure saying the Wii won't get a price drop is definitely in the top three.

JoystiqWii not getting a price drop -- is that news? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 12 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesspricedropwiiFri, 12 Oct 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Could the Wii get a price drop this holiday?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/could-the-wii-get-a-price-drop-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/could-the-wii-get-a-price-drop-this-holiday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/could-the-wii-get-a-price-drop-this-holiday/#commentsFiled under:

Probably not. Even though the PS3 is cheaper and the Xbox 360 dropped its price a little while ago, the odds of the Wii dropping its price are pretty slim. Still, that hasn't stopped the rumor mill from churning out its usual volume of "you know what."

So, let's hear your opinions on this whole price cut thing. Are you of the mind that Nintendo needs to do this so that it can better compete this holiday season? Do you think the Wii's $249.99 price tag doesn't need to be lowered? Price cuts are eventual, but do you think this holiday is the right time for it or perhaps a later date is more appropriate?

JoystiqCould the Wii get a price drop this holiday? originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 17:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pricepricecutspricedropsalesFri, 05 Oct 2007 17:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox Elite and HD DVD (plus movies) for $599 at Amazon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/12/xbox-elite-and-hd-dvd-plus-movies-for-599-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/12/xbox-elite-and-hd-dvd-plus-movies-for-599-at-amazon/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/12/xbox-elite-and-hd-dvd-plus-movies-for-599-at-amazon/#commentsFiled under: ,


Amazon has a nice little deal going where you can get all you see above for $599. Found over at the CAG, the bundle includes the Xbox Elite, HD DVD drive (which comes with King Kong), the movie 300, and a mail-in form for five HD DVDs for free. The main thing to focus on here (because the free movies were announced a while back) is that you save about $60 on the hardware.

The $599 price is certainly interesting given that it's identical to the 80GB PS3 model which includes the Blu-ray player and this package seems geared for the movie inclined. Then again, you can always get a clearance 60GB PS3 with Blu-ray for $100 less than this bundle. Of course, we don't buy our systems for movies, we buy them for games, and in that department y'all can choose who's ahead at this stage.

[Via CAG]

JoystiqXbox Elite and HD DVD (plus movies) for $599 at Amazon originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 12 Aug 2007 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonCAGhddvdmoviespricedropXbox-360xbox360Sun, 12 Aug 2007 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Canada shares in 360 price drop love]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/canada-shares-in-360-price-drop-love/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/canada-shares-in-360-price-drop-love/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/canada-shares-in-360-price-drop-love/#commentsFiled under:

Microsoft has officially announced that Canada will also be receiving 360 price cut in line with the cut announced for the United States. The Core and Premium consoles are both receiving a hefty cut of $100 while the Elite will drop by $50. That means our neighbors up north can pick up a Core for $299, a Premium for $399, or an Elite for $499. Meanwhile, the Halo 3 special edition 360 is set to debut in September at $449. Frankly, if someone was going to spring for the Halo 3 system, we don't see why they wouldn't just take the plunge and get an Elite. At any rate, the price cut will become official starting tomorrow. Any of our Canadian readers planning on picking one up?

[Via Major Nelson]

JoystiqCanada shares in 360 price drop love originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>canadahalo3360pricedropTue, 07 Aug 2007 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Europe gets no Xbox 360 price cut at this time]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/europe-gets-no-xbox-360-price-cut-at-this-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/europe-gets-no-xbox-360-price-cut-at-this-time/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/europe-gets-no-xbox-360-price-cut-at-this-time/#commentsFiled under: ,


Following the super-secret price drop on the Xbox 360 in the States, all eyes turned to Europe as they asked, "Me too?" Nooooooooo, not you too! Well, at least not right now. GI.biz reports that a spokesperson for Microsoft UK said that the announcement was for the US and they "have not announced any pricing changes in Europe."

Oh, buck up Europe. Sony did the same thing last month when they gave the US a price drop too. There is the possibility that Microsoft is saving their announcement for Leipzig, which is only in a couple weeks. Who knows what will be trotted out for Europe, perhaps they'll get a "starter pack" at the console's current price with some added value.

JoystiqEurope gets no Xbox 360 price cut at this time originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>europepricecutpricedropXbox-360xbox360Tue, 07 Aug 2007 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[It's official: Xbox 360 price drop coming this Wednesday]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/its-official-xbox-360-price-drop-coming-this-wednesday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/its-official-xbox-360-price-drop-coming-this-wednesday/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/07/its-official-xbox-360-price-drop-coming-this-wednesday/#commentsFiled under: ,

In the wake of leaked flyers from what seems like every major retailer in the country, Microsoft is finally ready to come clean on the Xbox 360 price drop announcing today a $50 cut on the main console (known informally as the Pro or Premium model) from $399 to $349. The price drop - scheduled for August 8th - is timed to coincide with the August 14th release of Madden NFL 08, one of the three titles that would have made up Microsoft's holiday hat trick (before GTA IV pulled out of the race early). Noting the staggering 624 day stretch since the console's November 2005 launch, Microsoft's Mitch Koch said, "The fact that we have been able to keep our launch price longer than any other console while retaining our leadership position demonstrates that consumers believe in the value of Xbox 360."

It's not just the Premium system getting its price axed. Just like the flyers promised, the Xbox 360 Core will drop $20 to $279 while the Xbox 360 Elite (which should now actually be available in stores) will see a $30 drop to $449. In a brief chat with Microsoft's Aaron Greenberg, we had a chance to ask about some of the lingering questions surrounding this price drop. Greenberg was quick to point out this decision was timed to coincide with the launch of Madden and not any cost-cutting measures on their part (read: 65nm processors); however, they wouldn't cite specific details on the components. The Premium console is seeing the largest price reduction since it enjoys the largest percentage of sales, at 80% of all Xbox 360 consoles sold. Specific bundles, like this Table Tennis bundle, are retailer specific and not "channel-wide" according to Greenberg, so don't expect to walk into any old box store and pick one up (that one is Circuit City specific).

JoystiqIt's official: Xbox 360 price drop coming this Wednesday originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsMicrosoftpricedropXbox-360Tue, 07 Aug 2007 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 bundled with Table Tennis]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/04/xbox-360-bundled-with-table-tennis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/04/xbox-360-bundled-with-table-tennis/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/04/xbox-360-bundled-with-table-tennis/#commentsFiled under: ,


The new Xbox 360 shipments are coming in for next week's super-ultra-secret price drop weekend. And what we originally thought was just a deal of purchasing an Xbox 360 and getting Table Tennis for free at Circuit City appears to be a little bit deeper. Turns out the game is actually bundled in the packaging and not just an add on.

We've contacted our Best Buy and GameStop sources to see if their new shipments come with the game inside as well. We also don't know if this has anything to do with Best Buy's Top Spin bundle. Hopefully we'll get some answers starting Wednesday (or maybe a little earlier) when the GameStop materials regarding the big Microsoft announcement start showing up in stores. We can't help but wonder if this is the Microsoft answer to Wii Sports being packaged in the Wii. Oh well, consumers get a free game with the system and that's not a bad thing at all.

[Thanks ToeFurB]

Continue reading Xbox 360 bundled with Table Tennis

JoystiqXbox 360 bundled with Table Tennis originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Aug 2007 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bestbuycircuitcitymicrosoftpricedropXbox-360xbox360Sat, 04 Aug 2007 18:38:00 EST<![CDATA[GameStop prepares MS announcement for Aug. 8]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/gamestop-prepares-ms-announcement-for-aug-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/gamestop-prepares-ms-announcement-for-aug-8/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/02/gamestop-prepares-ms-announcement-for-aug-8/#commentsFiled under: ,


And the hits just keep on coming. Joystiq received the above email -- sent to GameStop employees on Tuesday -- from several anonymous tipsters. The email details the arrival of signage regarding an "upcoming announcement" from Microsoft set to take place on August 8. As we try to rack our brains as to what such an announcement could possibly be, we are reminded of the ever mounting evidence that an Xbox 360 price drop is imminent. We're just going to go out on a limb and say that this is related. We're also guessing that nobody (including Microsoft) will officially confirm it until August 8.

Just to pass the time, how about you help us come up with some other kuh-razy thing it might be. Wait a minute, it's probably Voodoo Vince 2. You heard it here first.

JoystiqGameStop prepares MS announcement for Aug. 8 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 02 Aug 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pricecutpricedropThu, 02 Aug 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy Xbox bundle for $399 and HD DVD for $150]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/best-buy-xbox-bundle-for-399-and-hd-dvd-for-150/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/best-buy-xbox-bundle-for-399-and-hd-dvd-for-150/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/01/best-buy-xbox-bundle-for-399-and-hd-dvd-for-150/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Although really not evidence of the Aug. 12 price drop, there are some interesting things going on with the Xbox 360's pricing and attachments at Best Buy. We've received two separate Best Buy scans of a "360 Top Spin Bun" that will go on sale on Aug. 12 for $399 (the same day as the expected price drop). Though we're not positive, a Top Spin 2 pack-in seems to be the obvious component here (take that Wii Tennis!).

Also curious is that Best Buy has brought down the price of the HD DVD attachment for the Xbox 360 to $150. It's currently sold out online, but most major retailers are still pricing the device in the $180 to $200 range. It's not marked as a sale so, unless there is a computer error, the price looks to stay. Retailers plan to get more details on Xbox 360 pricing next Wednesday.

[Thanks Anonymous and El Conejo]

Continue reading Best Buy Xbox bundle for $399 and HD DVD for $150

JoystiqBest Buy Xbox bundle for $399 and HD DVD for $150 originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Aug 2007 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bestbuypricedroptopspinXbox-360xbox360Wed, 01 Aug 2007 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Circuit City ad confirms 360 price drop on all models]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/31/circuit-city-ad-confirms-360-price-drop-on-all-models/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/31/circuit-city-ad-confirms-360-price-drop-on-all-models/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/31/circuit-city-ad-confirms-360-price-drop-on-all-models/#commentsFiled under:


Alright kids, it's probably safe to put the term "rumor" to bed now. Tipster ToeFurB sends us (and Joystiq) images of an upcoming Circuit City ad which reconfirms the 360 price drops we've seen in the Wal-Mart and Toys R' Us ads. The 360 Premium will see a $50 price break, the Elite will be reduced by $30, and the Core slims down by $20. For the Premium, Elite, and Core, this results in prices of $349, $449, and $279 respectively. Not only that, but those who purchase the newly discounted Premium console from Circuit City will also receive a free copy of Rockstar's Table Tennis. The ad is dated for August 12, so mark your calendars.

JoystiqCircuit City ad confirms 360 price drop on all models originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pricecutpricedropTue, 31 Jul 2007 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Circuit City flyer shows Xbox 360 price drop on all systems]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/31/circuit-city-flyer-shows-xbox-360-price-drop-on-all-systems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/31/circuit-city-flyer-shows-xbox-360-price-drop-on-all-systems/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/31/circuit-city-flyer-shows-xbox-360-price-drop-on-all-systems/#commentsFiled under: ,


In the wake of the Wal-Mart flyer and the Toys R Us flyer, now comes the Circuit City flyer sent to Joystiq showing that beginning Aug. 12 the Xbox 360 premium will be $350, the Elite will be $450 and the Core will have a $20 break and be $280.

This still doesn't explain the fate of the Core once these units sell out, but the Xbox 360 price drop is looking more and more legit. Plus, if you purchase at Circuit City, it looks like you'll get Rockstar's Table Tennis for free. Don't forget to pick up your 3200 worth of MS points for $20 at Circuit City this week too.

[Thanks ToeFurB]

Continue reading Circuit City flyer shows Xbox 360 price drop on all systems

JoystiqCircuit City flyer shows Xbox 360 price drop on all systems originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 31 Jul 2007 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewsCircuitCitypricedropxboxXbox-360xbox360Tue, 31 Jul 2007 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumor: Best Buy done with Xbox 360 core model]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/best-buy-done-with-xbox-360-core-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/best-buy-done-with-xbox-360-core-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/best-buy-done-with-xbox-360-core-model/#commentsFiled under: ,


For those hoping that the expected $50 Xbox 360 price cut would bring the Core model down to the Wii-diculously great price of $250, we got some bad news. According to a source at Best Buy who sent Joystiq these images, the Xbox 360 Core model is dead and remaining stocks are all that's left of the system.

The sheet, according to our source, shows the description of the Xbox 360 Core hardware and underneath it is the word "deleted, meaning it is being taken out of the system." The out of stock date reads 7-29-07 and the larger image (found after the break) shows the pref code "y." According to the source, "This means replenishment of this item is not expected."

In a statement from July 16, when we originally heard rumblings that the Xbox 360 Core was over, a Microsoft spokesperson told us in regards to it being discontinued, "No. Xbox 360 Core remains an important member of the Xbox 360 family." Well, if the Best Buy papers end up being true, an important part of the family is about to swim with the fishes. Like Fredo from The Godfather, it breaks our hearts. We've contacted Microsoft to see if they'd like to revise their "important member" statement.

[Thanks Anonymous]

Update: We heard back from a Microsoft representative who said, "Nothing's changed since last week."

Continue reading Rumor: Best Buy done with Xbox 360 core model

JoystiqRumor: Best Buy done with Xbox 360 core model originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 30 Jul 2007 14:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best buycircuitcitypricedroptargettoysruswalmartXbox-360xbox360Mon, 30 Jul 2007 14:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Toys R Us ad shows Xbox $349 price drop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/29/toys-r-us-ad-shows-xbox-349-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/29/toys-r-us-ad-shows-xbox-349-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/29/toys-r-us-ad-shows-xbox-349-price-drop/#commentsFiled under: ,


Well, CheapyD, who runs CheapAssGamer, is convinced about the $50 price drop coming to the Xbox 360 in August. Following yesterday's leaked "Wal-Mart" ad, today the crew at CAG dug up this Toys R Us ad for the week beginning Sunday, Aug. 12. The image taken by UgamerX is still really hard to make out and was probably taken on the sly, but the picture, in the largest size available, does seem to show toward the right side a "Valid Monday 8/13/07 ..." regarding some other deal, meaning the ad is at least in the same week. Also, Madden 08, which releases Aug. 14, can be clearly seen above the price drop image.

Cheapy D says, "When they become available, I fully expect the other retailer's ads to reflect the $50 price drop." Another member at CAG named Speedy, who was the one to expose the price drop for the PS3, typically gets Circuit City, Target and Best Buy flyers early; so we'll see what's really going on that week when he posts that week's flyer information. No word yet on how this will affect the Core or the Elite models of the Xbox 360.

[Thanks CheapyD, James, Zewone]

Continue reading Toys R Us ad shows Xbox $349 price drop

JoystiqToys R Us ad shows Xbox $349 price drop originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 29 Jul 2007 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>circuitcitypricedroptargettoysruswalmartXbox-360xbox360Sun, 29 Jul 2007 09:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Xbox 360 HD-DVD player drops to $179, adds five free movies to the mix]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/xbox-360-hd-dvd-player-drops-to-179-adds-five-free-movies-to-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/xbox-360-hd-dvd-player-drops-to-179-adds-five-free-movies-to-t/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/26/xbox-360-hd-dvd-player-drops-to-179-adds-five-free-movies-to-t/#commentsFiled under: ,

Microsoft has announced a price drop for the Xbox 360 HD-DVD player from $199 to $179, effective as of August 1st in North America. Appearing at Comic-Con in San Diego, the announcement was made amidst promotion for the HD-DVD releases of the film 300 and the cheerleader epic, Heroes.

Not content with just a twenty dollar dip, Microsoft has extended Toshiba's "Perfect Offer" promotion to Xbox 360 owners, awarding five free movies with purchase. The hard part now is choosing between Casablanca and The Dukes of Hazzard.

Naturally, the Xbox Live Marketplace wasn't left out in all this news as 300 will be making its way to the service in HD on August 14th, while free content for Heroes will arrive sometime before its HD-DVD release.

[Thanks, Devwi!]

JoystiqXbox 360 HD-DVD player drops to $179, adds five free movies to the mix originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 26 Jul 2007 05:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakingNewshd-dvdhddvdpricedropXBLMXbox-360Thu, 26 Jul 2007 05:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Price drop produces 135% jump in sales]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/23/price-drop-produces-135-jump-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/23/price-drop-produces-135-jump-in-sales/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/23/price-drop-produces-135-jump-in-sales/#comments"Preliminary internal data" from Sony shows that PS3 sales have increased by more than 135% at the company's top five retailers since the $100 price cut was announced two weeks ago. $100 is a significant savings -- but we wonder how many of these purchasers rushed to pick up a 60GB system because they're no longer in production. During the same time period, software sales increased 15% and peripherals by 60%.

Recently released NPD figures show that PS3 was gaining momentum even before E3's price drop. In June, sales of the console increased 21% over May's figures, with 98,469 units sold at retail. (However, that still doesn't compete with the massive sales of the hugely successful PS2, with 270,763 consoles sold for the month.)

In a press release, Jack Tretton, president and CEO of SCEA commented: "The new price on the 60 GB PS3, coupled with our very strong software showing from E3, is certainly paying dividends in terms of impressive sales across the board at retail."

[Update: Complete press release is now attached.]

Continue reading Price drop produces 135% jump in sales

JoystiqPrice drop produces 135% jump in sales originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>npdpricedropps3salessonyMon, 23 Jul 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[40GB PS3 for $399 on the horizon? Everybody say "wheee!"]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/40gb-ps3-for-399-on-the-horizon-everybody-say-wheee/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/40gb-ps3-for-399-on-the-horizon-everybody-say-wheee/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/40gb-ps3-for-399-on-the-horizon-everybody-say-wheee/#commentsFiled under:


The PlayStation 3 price rollercoaster reaches another peak today as Game Informer puts the rumour out there that a new 40GB SKU is on the cards. The price? $399. We've also heard ourselves that this has been in the planning stages for a number of months. When asked for confirmation, Dave Karraker stonewalled us with the following statement: "We won't be making any further announcements regarding our PS3 model hardware strategy in North America until the 60GB model is exhausted and market conditions are evaluated."

It's clear, then, that we won't be seeing any new price drops or SKUs hit the market until the 60GB PS3s are sold out. Once that happens, as Pachter said, we'll see the 80GB system drop down to the price of $499. If not, we'll see a new 40GB SKU come in at a price of $399. There's no reason why both of these things couldn't happen, but we're not convinced that's the case.

Since the rollercoaster started, we've been saying that the problem Sony is facing is that people can't afford the PS3, not that they won't buy it. A $399 ticket to the PS3 party would be excellent, especially if it were to start before the Christmas buzz hits. However, all this price craziness is making things confusing for potential buyers who keep up to date with PS3 news. Once the mainstream have bought out all of the 60GB models (All 2 to 3 million of them; It could take a while) we'll see something happen.

Joystiq40GB PS3 for $399 on the horizon? Everybody say "wheee!" originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40gb80gbprice cutprice dropPriceCutPriceDropMon, 16 Jul 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Pachter expects $499 price to remain, even when 60GB PS3s do not]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/pachter-expects-499-price-to-remain-even-when-60gb-ps3s-do-not/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/pachter-expects-499-price-to-remain-even-when-60gb-ps3s-do-not/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/16/pachter-expects-499-price-to-remain-even-when-60gb-ps3s-do-not/#commentsWill they? Won't they? This is worse than Ross and Rachel. Ah, the 90s. Simpler times. Since Thursday, we've been questioning whether the 80GB PS3 will drop to $499 once the 60GB version sells out. We're fairly comfortable with our prediction that it will and Michael Pachter, of Wedbush Morgan, agrees.

Pachter states that "the Sony entry level price of $499 is here to stay" and that "there are presently 2 - 3 million 60Gb PS3s produced and not yet sold." This number constitutes up 75% of PS3s in the hands of consumers right now, so the idea of that many selling out before the end of the month, as Reeves suggested, is ridiculous. Pachter's reasoning for why he expects the 80GB model to drop in price is similar to most people's. The 80GB PS3 should cost Sony as much, if not less, to produce than the 60GB model thanks to removal of the Emotion Engine (which, at this point, is the PS3's equivalent of the appendix). Not to mention that Motorstorm is included in the 80GB box, so removing the game will allow the bundle to drop in price by at least $50.

Pachter ends his report by saying that he expects "the $499 price point to be maintained until early next year, when the 80Gb model will likely be cut again to $399." We're not so sure about this ourselves, but we'd definitely like to see it happen.

JoystiqPachter expects $499 price to remain, even when 60GB PS3s do not originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 16 Jul 2007 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>60gb80gbmichael pachterMichaelPachterpachterprice dropPriceDropMon, 16 Jul 2007 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[SCEE says no more 60GB PlayStation 3 in US after July [Update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/sony-switcheroo-no-more-60gb-playstation-3-in-us-after-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/sony-switcheroo-no-more-60gb-playstation-3-in-us-after-july/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/13/sony-switcheroo-no-more-60gb-playstation-3-in-us-after-july/#commentsFiled under: ,

It's one step forward and a giant lurch back as Sony is poised to pull the plug on their 60GB PlayStation 3. You know, the same PlayStation 3 that they generously shaved $100 dollars from earlier this week.

In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, SCEE president David Reeves casually mentioned the end of the 60GB model when asked if they would offer the European market a lower priced model, as SCEA did here in the States.

"Well, they're not really are they, because what the US are offering from the 1st of August is a USD $599 version with one game."

Reeves goes on to say that SCEA marked it down to move and that once it's gone, it's gone. When asked for the dreaded confirmation as to if this was the end of the 60GB model, Reeves replied "In America, yes."

Now don't you feel silly for quitting that second job.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in!]

Update: Sony America says this is not what's going on. Right hand meet left hand. Nice to meet you?

[Clarification: We're waiting for an official response from SCEA, Sony's US division. Reeves is not an official decision maker for SCEA, and is speculating on behalf of SCEE, Sony's European division.]

JoystiqSCEE says no more 60GB PlayStation 3 in US after July [Update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 13 Jul 2007 05:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewsbreakingnewse307e307pricedropPS3Fri, 13 Jul 2007 05:42:00 EST<![CDATA[European price cut leaked by SCEAu Managing Director?]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/european-price-cut-leaked-by-sceau-managing-director/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/european-price-cut-leaked-by-sceau-managing-director/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/10/european-price-cut-leaked-by-sceau-managing-director/#commentsWe know an announcement is coming from SCEE this Thursday that is "related to the US price cut", but SmartHouse News claim that they already have the scoop. Michael Ephraim, Managing Director of Sony Computer Entertainment Australia has reportedly confirmed that PAL regions will be seeing a price cut of "as much as 17%".

While this is potentially great news, and 17% would bring the PS3 down to a much friendlier price of £350 in the UK (making it the cheapest Blu Ray player available), we're not going to hold our collective breath. One way or the other, we'll know on Thursday.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqEuropean price cut leaked by SCEAu Managing Director? originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eueuroeuropepriceprice cutprice dropPriceCutPriceDropTue, 10 Jul 2007 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Jack Tretton: "The PS3 is still dominant."]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/jack-tretton-the-ps3-is-still-dominant/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/jack-tretton-the-ps3-is-still-dominant/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/jack-tretton-the-ps3-is-still-dominant/#commentsFiled under: ,

Appearing on CNBC this morning to discuss the PlayStation 3 price drop, SCEA CEO Jack Tretton went toe-to-toe with reporter Bill Griffeth. An interview that, while pithy, failed to answer the one question that everyone seems to be asking concerning the price drop and subsequent $600 model.

"Why?"

The honest truth is that folks like ourselves and Bill Griffeth know the reasons why, after only 230 days on the US market, Sony has cut the cost of the PlayStation 3. But like a bunch of oiled up wrestlers entering a cage match, we just want to hear them say it. While he doesn't ride Tretton for the introduction of another $600 model, that doesn't mean he bucks him gently either. The "10 year strategy" spin sounds nice when considering the history of the PlayStation brand, but the odds have never been this stacked against their favor.

CNBC does manage to misquote some vital numbers as their "worldwide sales" are actually the US sales. Tretton closes with "the PS3 is still dominant," though the numbers are telling quite the story.

[via Game|Life]

JoystiqJack Tretton: "The PS3 is still dominant." originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2007 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pricedropPS3trettonMon, 09 Jul 2007 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft cuts costs, analyst predicts price drops]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/microsoft-cuts-costs-analysist-predicts-price-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/microsoft-cuts-costs-analysist-predicts-price-drops/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/microsoft-cuts-costs-analysist-predicts-price-drops/#commentsFiled under: ,

As soon as the first peep of a price drop had left Sony's camp, all eyes have been on Microsoft as to their next move. Dean Takahashi of the San Jose Mercury News may just have the first response: lower production costs via smaller chips. According to Takahashi, Microsoft is currently cooking up microprocessors of the 65-nanometer variety, as opposed to their current 90-nanometer process.

A process that would not only cut the cost of producing the Xbox 360, but also result in less heat being generated by the console itself. Something that, in light of their recent warranty debacle, Microsoft should be very interested in looking at. Auxiliary benefits aside, we're much more interested in hearing about how this could affect the retail price of the Xbox 360. In a brief comment to Next-Generation, Peter Moore gave a decided non-answer on the subject, stating "We have a bunch of different projects that cost reduce and improve quality as you find issues, as does our competition."

Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter is much more optimistic about a price drop, expecting $50-70 cuts for all Xbox 360 models as soon as this week. How are the odds looking in his favor? Should he be a betting man, Mr. Pachter can probably be found at his desk, scoping out prices for trips to Tahiti.

[Read] Microsoft's next move? Code-name Falcon (Mercury News)
[Read] Microsoft Readies Lower-Cost 360 (Next-Gen)
[Read] Pachter: 360 Price Cut Expected, DS/Wii Unaffected (Gamasutra)

JoystiqMicrosoft cuts costs, analyst predicts price drops originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>pricedropXbox-360Mon, 09 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analysts expecting a Xbox 360 price cut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/analysts-expecting-a-xbox-360-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/analysts-expecting-a-xbox-360-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/analysts-expecting-a-xbox-360-price-cut/#commentsFiled under: ,

If you didn't already know, today Sony announced that they've trimmed the fat on their Playsation 3 by dropping the price by $100. Surprising isn't it? Now the obvious question is whether Microsoft will retaliate with a price cut of their own or keep things the way they are. Industry analyst Michael Pachter thinks a price cut will happen and has gone on record to say that Microsoft will announce a Xbox 360 price drop sometime during E3. How Mr. Pachter sees it is that they'll knock of $50 from the Core and Premium and take $80 off the Elite making the price points $249, $349 and $399. This is of course entirely possible seeing that Sony is stepping on Microsoft's price point territory. Also, we're thinking a price cut is overdue seeing that the console has been out for nearly two years at the same price. We'll just have to wait until tomorrow night to see what surprises Microsoft has up their sleeves and if our 360 will get a fat trimming too.

JoystiqAnalysts expecting a Xbox 360 price cut originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3e307elitepremiumprice dropPriceDroprumorxbox 360xbox 360 eliteXbox360Xbox360EliteMon, 09 Jul 2007 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony confirms: 80GB PlayStation 3 and price drop for 60GB model]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/sony-confirms-80gb-playstation-3-and-price-drop-for-60gb-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/sony-confirms-80gb-playstation-3-and-price-drop-for-60gb-model/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/09/sony-confirms-80gb-playstation-3-and-price-drop-for-60gb-model/#commentsFiled under: ,

In a press release issued tonight, Sony has confirmed that the 60GB PlayStation 3 has received a $100 dollar price drop, making for a retail price of $499 and is effective as of now. Taking its place at the $599 dollar price point is a new (to America anyway) 80GB model. The new model, however, will not be available in stores until this August, though no specific date was mentioned. The 80GB model will also come packed with the off-road racer, Motorstorm.

This news comes after a weekend of drama, all stemming from a leaked Circuit City ad. While we originally suspected that the 80GB model, due to the ease of modification, would remain a Korean exclusive, Sony has given everyone the swerve. This early of a price drop comes as a shock, however, as it wasn't terribly long ago that Sony was telling folks to get a second job in order to afford one. We expect to hear more about how this price drop and new model plays into Sony's master plan this week at E3.

In the US, the PlayStation 3 spent 230 days at its initial price.

[Update - The meaty part of the press release has been pasted after the break. Enjoy!]

Continue reading Sony confirms: 80GB PlayStation 3 and price drop for 60GB model

JoystiqSony confirms: 80GB PlayStation 3 and price drop for 60GB model originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 09 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingnewspricedropPS3Mon, 09 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[60GB PS3 sold at Target for $499.99 [UPDATE]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ps3-sold-at-target-for-499-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ps3-sold-at-target-for-499-99/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/06/ps3-sold-at-target-for-499-99/#comments Has the price cut already been put into effect? Potentially, yes. One of our readers has let us know that he was able to get his hands on a 60GB PS3 for no more than $499.99 at a Target today. In our attempts to verify this we called the store he bought it from. They confirmed that the 60GB PS3 was, indeed, in the shop's system at the price of $499.99. Whether this is an error on the individual shop's part, with the price drop being put into effect early, we weren't sure.

We are currently in the process of calling more stores nationwide, to see how isolated this event really is. We will update this post as and when we get more information. If true, then this is an excellent start for what promises to be an excellent E3. Already Microsoft's keynote is overshadowed by Killzone 2. A pricedrop by Sony before the event even starts only adds to the pressure.

[UPDATE 1] A Kansas Target has the 60GB PS3 in its computer at $599

[UPDATE 2] Another tipster has told us that today they sold two at Circuit City at $499. Confused, the manager called it in and got a confirmation that it was correct. We are in the process of verifying this.

[UPDATE 3] A Target store in Rancho Cucamonga in California has confirmed that the 60GB PS3 is in their system for $499. It looks like there's no pattern to which stores are and aren't offering the price cut.

[Thanks Nathan and Alexander!]

Joystiq60GB PS3 sold at Target for $499.99 [UPDATE] originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 06 Jul 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>price cutprice dropPriceCutPriceDropFri, 06 Jul 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Behind the price cut: The long, strange saga of the $599 PS3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/behind-the-price-cut-the-long-strange-saga-of-the-599-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/behind-the-price-cut-the-long-strange-saga-of-the-599-ps3/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/05/behind-the-price-cut-the-long-strange-saga-of-the-599-ps3/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

If the recently rumored $100 price cut for the PS3 turns out to be true, it will end the era of one of the most controversial pricing moves in the history of consumer electronics.

The writing was on the wall early on, with former SCE President Ken Kutaragi hinting way back in July 2005 that he hoped gamers would "work more hours to buy [a PS3]." When the price was officially announced at Sony's E3 2006 press conference the first wave of ridicule was practically immediate. Kutaragi's comment that the price was "too cheap" for what consumers were getting just stoked the fires, leading at least one Joystiq blogger to call the company "out of touch." Hey, $599 is pretty cheap if the thing is made of uranium.

Yet by launch time there were some signs that the high price wasn't really a deterrent. Despite some launch window reviews saying the system "just isn't worth it yet," the initial stock of PS3s sold out to mobs of fans who waited in the November cold to drop up to six Benjamins on a game console. Many of those who managed to get one of the limited initial allotment put them up on eBay, where some fetched ridiculously inflated prices. Maybe $600 was a bargain after all.

Continue reading Behind the price cut: The long, strange saga of the $599 PS3

JoystiqBehind the price cut: The long, strange saga of the $599 PS3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 05 Jul 2007 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreamcastgamecubepriceprice cutprice dropPriceCutPriceDropPS2PS3retailWiiXboxXbox 360Xbox-360Xbox360Thu, 05 Jul 2007 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft contemplates a 360 price cut]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/microsoft-contimplates-a-360-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/microsoft-contimplates-a-360-price-cut/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/06/08/microsoft-contimplates-a-360-price-cut/#commentsFiled under: ,

In an interview with Bloomberg, Peter Moore and others discuss the Xbox 360 demographic, how they want to target moms and their kids, and hint at a possible 360 price cut. "If we don't make that move, make it early and expand our demographic, we will wind up in the same place as with Xbox 1" Moore says, and what better way to move more consoles than with a price cut. Director of Xbox product management David Hufford reinforces this thinking by stating that "we (Microsoft) are well aware that the sweet spot of the market is really 199 bucks" and that "when mom walks into the store and sees she can get a console with a game for $250, she sees it as a $300 value". It really sounds like Microsoft gets it.

But will we be seeing a Xbox 360 price drop this year or just a game bundle? We can't be sure, but we know Microsoft is cut throat about gaining ground in the console wars this generation and a price drop would help significantly. They just have to make sure their pocketbooks can handle more losses, but we're sure Bill would be willing to co-sign.

[Via CVG]

JoystiqMicrosoft contemplates a 360 price cut originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>console warsConsoleWarsprice dropPriceDropxboxxbox 360Xbox360Fri, 08 Jun 2007 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst: Price cut could do more harm than good]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/analyst-price-cut-could-do-more-harm-than-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/analyst-price-cut-could-do-more-harm-than-good/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/analyst-price-cut-could-do-more-harm-than-good/#commentsMichael L. Savner, an analyst for the Bank of America, has made it clear that he sees Sony's current position as a lose-lose scenario. While the rumoured $100 price drop would be welcome, Savner argues that it could be too little too late. The Xbox 360 would still be cheaper and the drop in price would not be enough to get the fence-sitters to topple over into Sony's camp. To top it off, Savner argues, the PS3 exclusives library is looking thin in comparison to the 360's. With GTA IV and Devil May Cry 4 becoming next-gen neutral, there's nothing drawing people to the PS3 that they can't get elsewhere. We at PS3 Fanboy believe that the recent Sony Gamer's Day says otherwise.

Savner goes on to say that a $150 to $200 dollar price drop would make the system much more attractive, having it fly off the shelves. The downside would be that Sony's earnings would drop dramatically as they're already losing money on the system with every sale at the current price. We're glad we have these analysts to tell us these things. There's no way we would have come up with that on our own. Drop the price, sell some consoles, lose some money - it's genius, really.

The crux is, Sony is going to lose out either way. What it needs are strong, system selling titles. Some sort of marketing for Blu-Ray might help, as well. As the BD drive is what makes the console so expensive in the first place, it makes sense that Sony should take the time to explain to their consumers how great a piece of technology it is. Sell Blu-Ray, sell the PS3. Kind of like 'save the cheerleader, save the world', but less apocalyptic.

Read the full analysis over at GameDaily.com and let us know what you think.

JoystiqAnalyst: Price cut could do more harm than good originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2007 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>analystprice dropPriceDropThu, 24 May 2007 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Analyst says PS3 needs $200 price cut to recover]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/analyst-says-ps3-needs-200-price-cut-to-recover/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/analyst-says-ps3-needs-200-price-cut-to-recover/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/24/analyst-says-ps3-needs-200-price-cut-to-recover/#commentsFiled under: ,

An analyst at Bank of America believes for Sony to make up the ground they've lost this console generation they don't just need the expected $100 price cut, but a $200 price cut. The analyst who made these remarks to GameDaily.biz, Michael Savner, believes this is unlikely, but believes it is the way to recovery.

Savner says, "While Sony could cut the price by $150 - $200, we view that as less likely given that it is already losing approximately $200 per console at $599, based on our estimates ... Offsetting a potential price cut are decreasing production costs, which should improve significantly this year. We estimate that the loss per console could decline to about $50, assuming Sony does not cut its wholesale prices. Bottom line, we don't expect Sony to make up meaningful ground against the Wii this year."

So, according to Bank of America, Sony's gotta drop the price, take the loss, lose the year, and maybe they'll recover in the long run. But wait, there's more. Savner says that the success of the Wii is hurting the industry. That publishers have invested research and development in next-gen graphics and tech, so if the Wii is successful that money spent is useless. He also notes that Nintendo doesn't play very well with third party publishers so that'll hurt the entire industry. There's a lot of jargon in there, Savner simply could have laid it out in geek-speak we could understand: Save the PS3, save the industry.

JoystiqAnalyst says PS3 needs $200 price cut to recover originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 24 May 2007 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crazyplaystationpricedropps3sonyThu, 24 May 2007 16:25:00 EST<![CDATA[UK PSP sales rise 60% after price drop]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/uk-psp-sales-rise-60-after-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/uk-psp-sales-rise-60-after-price-drop/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/uk-psp-sales-rise-60-after-price-drop/#commentsFiled under:



Remember the UK PSP price drop? Or Amazon and Play.com's insistance on cutting another ten pounds off the cost? Well apparently it worked. Pocket Gamer has revealed that Sony are reporting a 60% increase in sales during the first weekend of the PSP wearing its new, slimmer price tag.

As Pocket Gamer have said, this is good timing. We have some great games coming up (Crisis Core and Dissidia, to name just two), not to mention a back-catalogue of excellent titles. Such as the newly released (in Europe, at least) Ratchet and Clank: Size Matters. Are you a new PSP owner who took advantage of the recent price cuts? Let us know.

[Via PS3 Forums]

JoystiqUK PSP sales rise 60% after price drop originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>price cutprice dropPriceCutPriceDropsales increaseSalesIncreaseUKMon, 14 May 2007 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon.co.uk selling PS3s for (just) under £390 - this week only!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/amazon-co-uk-selling-ps3s-for-just-under-390-this-week-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/amazon-co-uk-selling-ps3s-for-just-under-390-this-week-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/14/amazon-co-uk-selling-ps3s-for-just-under-390-this-week-only/#commentsFiled under:

Amazon.co.uk seem to enjoy dropping Sony's prices, even after an official price cut. Well they've done it again. For this week only you can order a 60GB PS3 from Amazon.co.uk for only £389.99. That's a saving of 35 quid. Very nice, indeed!

Does this price cut fall below your PFPT (Personal Financial Pain Threshold)? £390 does feel a lot less than £425. You've got to love Amazon for giving us a clear time limit before the deal ends. If that doesn't push the impulse buyers into parting with their cash, I don't know what will. Will you be taking advantage of the offer? Let us know.


[Via PS3 Forums]

JoystiqAmazon.co.uk selling PS3s for (just) under £390 - this week only! originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 14 May 2007 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Amazondealprice cutprice dropPriceCutPriceDropUKMon, 14 May 2007 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Amazon UK and Play cut PSP price by a further £10]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/07/amazon-uk-and-play-cut-psp-price-by-a-further-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/07/amazon-uk-and-play-cut-psp-price-by-a-further-10/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/05/07/amazon-uk-and-play-cut-psp-price-by-a-further-10/#commentsBoth Amazon.co.uk and Play.com have dropped the price of the PSP by an extra £10, even after the recent official price cut a couple of weeks ago. As it now stands the PSP is £119.99 from these two retailers. That's only £20 more than the Nintendo DS.

Amazon UK are also promising (if their e-mail today can be believed) to let you have a PSP, bundled with a game, for only £139.99. Checking the website, however, shows that this is either a typo on the mail-out, or they just haven't got around to updating the site itself yet. Either way, the site still shows bundles selling for £159.99. Which is not such a good deal, considering games are thirty quid each anyway. Where's the saving there?

If you see the site change to reflect the new deal, then let us know. Saving a potential £40 on last month's price is something I'm sure a lot of people won't want to miss.

JoystiqAmazon UK and Play cut PSP price by a further £10 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 May 2007 07:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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