With the official launch of the PlayStation 3 just days away in Japan, there are reports out saying the already scaled back allocation numbers are being scaled back even further. According to reports in the Nikkei Keizai Shimbun newspaper, the 100,000-unit figure has now been cut to 80,000. This is a huge cut considering the paltry numbers the PS3 will release with overall.
At the heart of the issue are production problems with certain components of the super gaming machine, namely the Blu-ray diode.
Japanese gamers enjoyed 900,000 PlayStation 2s at that console’s launch back in 2000. A mere 500k worldwide is a huge let down for gamers around the gamers – especially those who have now been told they’ll have to wait for months to get their hands on a PS3.
On the upside for the Japanese launch, the consoles will cost gamers less. Sony’s paying the price for that move, however.
There’s no official word from Sony on the Japanese cuts, but if they turn out to be true, one can only wonder if the electronics giant will be able to produce the 400,000 units its promised in America (at the full Americans-get-screwed price, of course). But then again, since Americans won't have enhanced subsidies on their PS3s, my guess is Sony will do everything possible to fill the orders here first.
My eyes will be open for any word.
Related:
Sony Gives U.S. PS3 Fans The Shaft
PS3 European Launch Delayed
The Blu-ray Debacle
PS3 Equals $1.7 Billion Loss For Sony
Find more...
Comments >>
