Confirmed: Ps3 £299

[Rapier Racer]

Read on for details of the new PLAYSTATION 3 40GB, bringing you next generation entertainment at a lower price.

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) today announced details of its new PLAYSTATION 3 40GB model that will be launched throughout Europe on October 10th 2007 at a price of €399 (£299).

The new PS3 is being introduced to provide an affordable entry point into the world of High Definition gaming and entertainment, and includes all the features central to the PLAYSTATION 3 experience; true next generation gameplay, High Definition Blu-ray Disc movies, SIXAXIS Wireless Control, and Wireless Internet and HDMI connectivity, all powered by the Cell Broadband Engine, the digital heart of PS3.

The specification of the new 40GB model has been determined following feedback from thousands of PS3 owners, and features two USB 2.0 ports rather than four and no longer includes the multi memory card port.

The new 40GB model is also no longer backwards compatible with PlayStation 2 titles. This is due to a reduced emphasis placed on this feature by later purchasers of PS3, as well as the availability of a more extensive line-up of PS3 specific games, which will number a total of 65 titles across all genres by Christmas 2007.

As with the PLAYSTATION 3 60GB, the 40GB model features system software updates allowing new features and functionality to be added to the system as time progresses.

In the UK and Ireland, a Value Pack consisting of a 60GB PS3 with extensive backwards compatibility and two first party titles will be on sale at a price of €499 (£349). Remaining on sale while stocks last, the 60GB model represents outstanding value for the keen gamer wishing to upgrade to the High Definition capabilities of PS3. Once stocks are exhausted the new 40GB model will be the only one available in the SCEE territories.

"The introduction of the 40GB model has been the result of extensive research into the entertainment needs and preferences of the next generation of PS3 owners," said David Reeves, President of SCEE. "It has allowed us to deliver an extremely advanced, yet highly affordable High Definition gaming and entertainment system, configured to the needs of the next generation of European PS3 owners. PS3 has always been the device of choice for the discerning gamer and entertainment seeker, and the new 40GB model is more than ever the perfect High Definition entertainment system."

http://uk.playstation.com/ps3/news/articles/detail/item80772/Entertainment-like-you%E2%80%99ve-never-seen-before/



Wallets out all you non PS3 owners lol :)

[lunar]

Lack of PS2 back compatibility doesn`t seem such a bad thing to me, but does the 40GB still have PS1 back compatibility? I don`t care about PS2 games. Also, are two usb ports enough? Do you need both ports to charge a couple of controllers? What about the memory card reader going? Wouldn`t that hamper your ability to transfer data from a PSP to PS3, or can you transfer stuff wirelessly with network type features?

[Rapier Racer]

I'll do my best in order

1) As it currently stands you need 1 port per controller you are charging
Possible solution might be this? http://www.pcworld.co.uk/martprd/store/pcw_page.jsp?BV_SessionID=@@@@1438927851.119160481 6@@@@&BV_EngineID=ccdhaddmehlehelcflgceggdhhmdgml.0&page=Product&fm=null&sm=null&tm=null&sku=752931&category_oid=

2) Transferring data between a PSP and a PS3 normally Involves the PS3 requesting that you connect a USB cable and put the PSP into USB mode, I have not tried to transfer much to the PSP just the downloaded game, I'll test this shortly. As far as transferring things wirelessly as far as I'm currently aware you can access the PS3s content with your PSP but not the other way round.

No idea about PS1 compatibility.

[lunar]

Cheers RR! Just working out whether I need to hurry and get a 60GB before they sell out, unless a fully-featured replacement for that is also around the corner. :dizzy

[supersocks]

Isn't that dropping of backwards compatibility a great idea to back up PSN...

[stin]

Good price but I`m still getting 60Gb cos it`s ideal for me in a long run....;)

stevie:)

[Rapier Racer]

Based on what Supersocks just said, I'm thinking there might still be some degree of PS1 backwards compatibility as they sell the PS1 games as downloads on the PSN, unless of course it means that the tweaked download versions will work but your old disks won't.

[Lion]

not that this impacts my region (at least not yet) but assuming it's headed my way I'm glad I got mine before that took over.
as has been said, the card reader is kinda superfluous really, I have used my PSP to do all the transfers I've done between PC and PS3, including a PS3 software update.
this is all done via a USB cable.
I'd rather have a PS/PS2 memory cart reader and a PS controller port (guitars and negcons) than the multicard reader

so far as the PS2 backwards compatibility, they'd better make that DAMNED clear to consumers. I wouldn't be surprised to see a class action case based on that at some point in future.

[Rapier Racer]

I don't get what the big deal about backwards compatibility is, if you have PS2 games surely you gave a PS2? Who goes and buys a PS3 with intention of playing PS2 games on it once you play some PS3 games you just don't want to go back.

[Lance]

I've played PS2 games that I found weren't as good as the PS1 versions. I'm thinking that sort of thing can happen just as readily on the PS3 relative to the PS2.

[Rapier Racer]

Quite possibly Lance, I made that comment based on one experience. Playing Resistance solidly for a long period of time I then went back to my PS2 and put Killzone in, oh my goodness what terrible frame rate issues that game has. The game felt slow and unresponsive and you can't help but notice the huge graphical inferiority. I guess so much Resistance showed those issues up where I didn't notice so much before.

[Lion]

it's been officially announced for australasia now

[infoxicated]

@RR + Lance - I'll be getting the one with backwards compatibility due to the upscaling of the PS2 games that are supported. Some of the shots of games that have been upscaled look brilliant. :)

I'd gone cold on the idea of getting one before xmas due to the DualShock 3 not arriving until next year in Europe, but this price drop has maybe swung me back the other way. :)

[Rapier Racer]

Speaking of price drops one of the guys over at Gamesay found that shopto are selling the 40 gig ones at £279.99

http://www.shopto.net/page.php?page=dettagli&codart=PS3CO04

I think I'd be having the 60 gig model myself considering the new price for that is £350 you can bet some retailer will knock 20 quid of that price as well. If I didn't have one already those prices would most definitely sway me :) knowing that HD is coming...

[RJ O'Connell]

Now let's get a North America price drop to at least $349 in the near future...

..come on SCEA, you know you wanna...

[Lance]

Considering that one U.K. Pound equals two U.S. dollars, I wouldn't count on seeing that low a price for awhile.

[G'Kyl]

I don't get what the big deal about backwards compatibility is, if you have PS2 games surely you gave a PS2? Who goes and buys a PS3 with intention of playing PS2 games on it once you play some PS3 games you just don't want to go back.

Consider playing with a wireless controller (without buying another one for PS2), a whole bunch of PS2 games I still have to finish as well as Fusion and you know what the big deal is about. ;-) Plus, there is a huge difference between having six or having three consoles parked under a small table below the TV set...

Ben

[Hellfire_WZ]

Amazing, I buy one and they drop the arsing price...

Apple did that a couple of years back with the iPod Mini, I bought one and they suddenly cut the price!

Anyone want anything on the cheap? Seems manufacturers are just waiting for me to buy something ;)

Still glad I got the 60GB one, I've got more space on my desk without the PS2 on there as well, plus I'm sure I'll fill it up with something.

[Chill]

Another reason why I don't buy systems for a while after their release date... ;)

Not trying to be a smart-ass, just the truth... :)

[rdmx]

Yep, i just got a Ps3 as well and then the price drops :o

[Lion]

me three

still, in NZ they have not announced a pricedrop for the 60Gb. so I don't think I timed it too bad

[Rapier Racer]

Crazy! shopto now selling the 60GB model for £299!!!

http://www.shopto.net/page.php?page=dettagli&codart=PS300

[infoxicated]

That is a crazy price - no games with it, though.

I read elsewhere that Blockbusters are doing a mental in-store deal where you get a 60Gb model, plus three games & a blu-ray for £349.99. Now that's a steal.

[jmoid]

Just got mine today from HMV. £359.99 with Motorstorm, Resistance and FIFA 08 (which is going straight on Ebay...) The Blockbuster deal sounds better but I had a £22 gift card for HMV and thought I'd get £25 ish back by selling FIFA.

[Rapier Racer]

Yes I just came back to the thread add that Foxy lol No games, so is it really such a great deal? Elsewhere you pay £50 more for 2 games and a controller, controllers sell for £30-£35 alone...

That Blockbuster deal though, that really is CRAZY. I think this is a good thing for PS3 though coming up to the festive season and we've not even seen what sort of Christmas deals retailers will be offering yet, PS3s install base is going to see huge growth in my opinion.

Jmoid you should enjoy Resistance its a top quality title no one should own a PS3 without this game, I wasn't really into FPS games till this came along great story and the detail, the surroundings 1940s Britain, really feels like it take the time to stop on some of the earlier levels, you hear distant gunfire and winds blowing through the deserted towns, just great :)

[infoxicated]

I've been looking forward to playing Resistance since I first read about it online, so I'd definitely pick that one up. The others offered in bundles I'm not so fussed about - I'd probably be happy with RFOM, Super Stardust HD, Calling All Cars, and watching upscaled DVD's until Haze and Ratchet & Clank come out closer to xmas.

I'll pop by Blockbusters to see if this deal is for real tomorrow - it ain't on their website.

[Rapier Racer]

If its the starter pack Blockbuster are doing with the 2 games inside it already and they let you pick the third thats a great deal, if it's like the website above and they are original launch consoles then getting to pick all 3 games would be excellent, depending on what they let you choose from obviously, Resistance always seems to be in there, Motorstorm is alright for a while I guess, not my preferred type of racer :D

[infoxicated]

Not happening at Blockbusters. One had no software, another had no 60Gb consoles, so I came back from a lunch hour of swift driving and marginal parking with a spicy italian Subway. And it'll be a hard job getting any backwards compatibility from that, even with the chilli sauce.

HMV are doing 60Gb+RFOM+Heavenly Sword+Casino Royale for the same... might just take that before I miss out on a 60Gb PS3 altogether. :|

[Sausehuhn]

If duty doesn't catch me, I would import from www.play-asia.com
The new 40GB model for just 280€ (and in white of course - fits perfectly to my MacBook ;) ). And in Japan they're releasing the Dualshock3 in November (I guess at the same date the new PS3 comes out), so maybe you get your first Dualshock3 directly within the package.
Hm... have to search for other people's experiences regarding German duty.
If I don't have to pay the 19% duty tax and shipping isn't too expensive, a 40GB PS3 for Christmas is something to look forward to.

[jmoid]

Jmoid you should enjoy Resistance its a top quality title no one should own a PS3 without this game, I wasn't really into FPS games till this came along great story and the detail, the surroundings 1940s Britain, really feels like it take the time to stop on some of the earlier levels, you hear distant gunfire and winds blowing through the deserted towns, just great :)

Thanks for that, I was actually in two minds about whether I should sell it initially! Now I'm looking forward to spending a few hours with it as soon as I have the chance.

[Rapier Racer]

Not happening at Blockbusters. One had no software, another had no 60Gb consoles

Sounds like the height of incompetence, is Blockbuster owned by Royal Mail?

Good choice jmoid :+

[Lion]

Jmoid you should enjoy Resistance its a top quality title no one should own a PS3 without this gameI'd disagree with this. If you are a bit iffy about console shooters already, this is unlikely to change your mind.
I am a fan of scifi style shooters with a keyboard and mouse, but I cannot adjust to thumbsticks for this kind of game. I think I'll be selling resistance soon.


...so maybe you get your first Dualshock3 directly within the package.they had a writeup on Kotaku (http://www.kotaku.com) about the makeup of these bundles. no you don't get DS3 controllers in the package, you get white sixasis(es?) but when the DS3 hits you'll be able to buy them in both black and white

[infoxicated]

Sounds like the height of incompetence, is Blockbuster owned by Royal Mail?
Funny you should say that. They were short on stock because of the mail backlog, allegedly.

HMV got my money in the end. :)

[Asayyeah]

Enjoy your new ps3 Rob :)

[Rapier Racer]

Yes welcome to the PS3 club! It is a fantastic machine :banzai

[infoxicated]

I'm quite enjoying it thus far. It's a heavy beast, though - I went into HMV carrying my wee girl but I had to make her walk back to the car by her own power because the weight of the box felt a bit unweildy. I got skinned alive in Comet for an extra controller because I forgot to get one in HMV and was over the other side of the retail park by the time I remembered.

When I first set it up last night I upgraded the firmware right away. Feels a bit cheaty to instantly have the firmware well fleshed out, but I did suffer through the early days of PSP firmware when it could do f-all. :)

One disappointment is that it says there's no dvd upscaling through component. I could switch it to HDMI, I guess, but I only have one HDMI port on the TV so that would mean moving the Sky box back to SCART, which is so last year. ;)

It also seems really loud - especially when I had folding@home running overnight, although I haven't watched a movie on it yet to see if it quietens down for those.

I cant make sense of how it organises music. I imported about 6Gb of tunes from my PSP and I thought it would keep my sensible Artist - Album/## Trackname - Artist format, but when it lists by artist it doesn't show the artist name - just the album. If you switch it to listing by artist then it blends them all together - five Foo Fighters albums became one hella big Foo Fighters folder!

Only a madman could come up with that system - I don't like it much at all.

Other than those quirks I'm very happy with it - too bad the hardware downgrade forced my hand and I had to act before I missed out on the premium model, but then I was always going to get one - just a matter of when.

[Rapier Racer]

I don't think we have a say in the matter, when new firmware comes out you must upgrade or you can't access the PSN, unless you install Linux no idea what happens then. I noticed the same thing with the music I only copied one album to the PS3 as my PC serves as my music center and thats not about to change anytime soon. The album I copied, the tracks were listed not in numerical order but rather in some random PS3 way of arrangement. Folding at home must hammer the cell because I ran it once for about 5-6 hours and my PS3 fan reached a level I'd never heard before! I can play a game for the same amount of time and the fan goes to level 3 and stays there until I put the PS3 off. The fan runs at the same speed/noise level for games and movies I'm afraid but hey if you think the PS3 is noisy have a shot on a 360. I generally find my PS3 is just as noisy as fat PS2, maybe slightly quieter.

[infoxicated]

It's probably just the enclosure it's in is amplifying the fan noise, because the Sky box sounds pretty loud as well.

What I thought was cool was using remote play to listen to the music I'd copied onto my PS3 on my PSP. We're going to stick a bunch of stuff on it - loads of images and video, that kind of thing, because when we're away we can stream it to my PSP and use the AV-Out to put it on another telly. :D

[Lion]

that's a pretty cool use of the technology, and one that hadn't occurred to me :)
I haven't noticed this volume level you talk about.maybe it's because my ps3 is sitting on it's side (with the vented side pointing up) on carpet and that muffles the vibrations?

I guess you're recoding all the video to h264 mp4 with mp3 audio?

[Rapier Racer]

I'd disagree with this. If you are a bit iffy about console shooters already, this is unlikely to change your mind.
I am a fan of scifi style shooters with a keyboard and mouse

My opinion is from someone who does not play games on PC. I dislike using a keyboard and mouse when it comes to gaming.

[Mano]

In my experience FPS+mouse keyboard is like Wipeout+NeGcon the precision of the mouse for aiming is still unbeatable, in higher difficulties and online or lan, making REALLY FAST headshots while moving is practically a must do, aiming with a pad is extremely slow.

Of course this could be subjective, but i really think the mouse is more precise and faster for FPS, for other games yes, its a bit awkward and prefer the gamepad.

[infoxicated]

I spent two hours on Resistance: Fall of Man today and I'm really enjoying it. But then, I'm a TimeSplitters fan and I rarely play FPS games on the PC nowadays.

[Lion]

on the other end of the spectrum, in the last 2 weeks I have spent about 30 hours in teamfortress 2 and about 16 hours in portal, all on PC :P
I'll let you know what I think of Dirt, it's payday tonight so I'll be able to pay the difference off the tradein tomorrow

[jmoid]

I was suprised by the weight of it when I bought mine as well - I won't be throwing it in a bag to take round my friends houses like I did with the PS2 and GameCube... plus I'm kinda treating it with kid gloves for the time being, after all even at a reduced price it still cost a fair bit of money, and I don't want it getting bashed about as (I think) it's a pretty cool looking thing, if a bit awkwardly shaped.

Must admit I still haven't given Resistance any serious time yet, as MotorStorm has got me hooked!

[Lion]

so I got rid of resistance today.
it's worth NOTHING as a trade, thanks to being bundled with most of the PS3s sold here.
I got $11NZ (that's about £4) for it, used it to make a deposit on guitar hero 3 (I wanna use the guitar from that to play GH1 & 2 on ps3)
also picked up Dirt while I was there... so far the racing is great, but it has a few issues:
- travis pastrana (sp) needs to die in a fire.
- no game should have unskippable orientation stuff in the menus, esp when the above is talking the whole way through it.
- it has a framerate issue on one corner on one of the CORR (buggy, stadium truck) tracks.
- the menus are cool, but need to stay put when rotated with the right analogue stick.

overall it's worth picking up if you like dirt-track racing. but it would be thoroughly recommended if there was the option to turn off the voices (other than the neccesary navigator)

[infoxicated]

I read about the Travis Pastrana issues in the Eurogamer review. Put me right off it - there's nothing ****ing worse than blatant americanisation to get down with the kids. :-

Skate, on the other hand, is my next PS3 purchase - it's brilliant to have a skating game that isn't loaded with purile, "isn't Bam Margera great", Jackass-esque gameplay.

[Lion]

well we know foxy contributed to this (http://kotaku.com/gaming/britain/britons-race-to-snap-up-60gb-ps3s-311703.php):

Last week, the 40GB PS3 was introduced into the British market. Last week, PS3 sales went up 178% in Britain. So, what, a stunning debut for the new 40GB model? No idea!

[Chill]

I don't think the 60 GB should go!!! It just needs to stay at a higher price!!

Rob: I looked at that skate game for the PS3 myself, and was truly happy that they finally could make a realistic skating game. That one will be on my list as well... ;)

[Rapier Racer]

I was truly astounded that this game came from EA.