European gamers still have a little more waiting to do before they get their hands on the PlayStation 3, and compared to the November 2006 release of both the Japanese and US versions, its seems like ages. Sony remains confident that they will be able to meet the March launch date, despite speculation that further delays would be likely. A Sony spokesperson today told journalists, “[President of SCEE] David Reeves has confirmed again today that we are still on course for a March release.”
A spokesperson for SCEA confirmed:
“In a recent interview, Sir Howard Stringer stated that the launch for the PS3 in Europe and other PAL countries is slated for April. Sir Howard meant to say the launch was set for ‘this Spring.’ The release for the PS3 in Europe and other PAL countries remains March.”
In a previous interview, Sony CEO Howard Stringer said that “the European launch in April…is very important to us." European gamers will be glad to see the launch back on track.
Also Today, Sony’s Irish PS3 Web site quoted a price for the console of EUR 629.99 (approx USD 815/GBP 415) for the 60GB model, a higher amount than the previously confirmed price of EuR 599 (USD 775/GBP 395) for Europe. Sony stated that this was due to Ireland’s VAT rate, which is currently 21 percent, and not any pricing changes by Sony. The price for other regions will be announced next week.
I can buy a new PC for that price! It will be £115 more than I paid for the PS2 on release. Lets hope the UK price will be around the same. No way I will get it at launch if it costs more that £450.