Best Buy Discontinues the 80GB PS3

[TrueVCU]

PS News Blog to comment soon (http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/50938)

Update: In a response to Shacknews, an SCEA representative did not comment on the subject of Best Buy's alleged discontinuation of the 80GB PS3, but indicated that a post addressing the matter will soon be on the official PlayStation blog.

Original Story: Best Buy will apparently discontinue sales of the $499 80GB version of the PlayStation 3, according to an alleged internal store memo sent to PS3 Fanboy.

"The 80GB version of the PS3 is going closeout and won't be replaced at this time," the memo reads. "The 60GB version should already be gone from stores. Only the 40GB version of PS3 will be sold in Best Buy stores at this time."

The remaining 40GB model, currently priced at $399 lacks a handful of features available in the 80GB PlayStation 3, including a complete absence of PS2 backwards compatibility—which the memo itself notes.

Earlier this week, FCC listings for a white PS3 prompted speculation that the new color would be heading to North American shores. SCEA has been reached for comment, but has not responded as of this writing.

[lips]

eh?

[Jay Gee]

Wal-Mart still sells the 80GB version, and their number of stores drastically outnumber Best Buy's. But this just HAS to be blown out of proportion because we haven't had a run of bad news for SCE in awhile.

[TrueVCU]

My best guess is either Best Buy is pulling something stupid, or Sony's introducing a new SKU. I can't see why they would, though.

I want to say they're making room for the white PS3s, but that doesn't mean they'd have to pull the current 80GB models.

[VG Aficionado]

In any case, anyone who wants a PS2 backwards compatible system should keep an eye on the news and on the nearby stores stock as the 80 GB model might be selling out soon.

[TrueVCU]

We have no reason to beleive BC is going to be removed if (and when) they announce a new SKU.

That said, I am willing to feast on my own words should I be proven wrong, but it makes negative sense for Sony to undercut support for the PS2 install base like this.

[VG Aficionado]

I'm afraid the 40 GB SKU is the way to go worldwide because it's going to allow them to earn some money by selling hardware. As a matter of fact, it's certain that the new SKU will be the white 40 GB PS3.

The PS2 will still sell a nice amount of systems for a year or two. Not a perfect solution, but Sony doesn't need to include PS2 BC in PS3 in the near future and they'd better save some money on manufacturing.

[OG_Monkey]

noooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[Zer0-Sum]

BS. The 80 GB PS3 is the better selling model of the two. I say it this leak is BULL SHIT.

[JasonXe]

maybe there not selling in best buy. They probably already have a stock yard of them that no one bought during the christmas break.

[OG_Monkey]

Damn wiis...

[Derrick Barra]

maybe there not selling in best buy. They probably already have a stock yard of them that no one bought during the christmas break.

They certainly do over at the Daytona Beach Best Buy, massive piles of them, along with piles of the Halo Xbox SKU.

[Kiwi]

I'm afraid the 40 GB SKU is the way to go worldwide because it's going to allow them to earn some money by selling hardware. As a matter of fact, it's certain that the new SKU will be the white 40 GB PS3.

The PS2 will still sell a nice amount of systems for a year or two. Not a perfect solution, but Sony doesn't need to include PS2 BC in PS3 in the near future and they'd better save some money on manufacturing.

It seems a bit odd that they would discontinue it after such a short amount of time. As for BC, wasn't there a mention somewhere that they were gonna start updating the software on the 40GB so that you could play old games?

[VG Aficionado]

I never read such thing, and a PS2 software emulator (of acceptable quality and reasonable performance) isn't possible according to developers. At least not now.

[Kiwi]

I wouldn't be too surprised if I read it on here from someone's post :doh:

I hope they do it at some point, I personally know a lot of people who want to get a PS3, but still want to play old games.

[VG Aficionado]

A solution would be to re-develop a PS2 game to make it work like a PS3 game, taking advantage of the RSX, the extra RAM and whatnot. But that has to be very costly, so I don't think it'll happen.

[Kiwi]

I just can't believe that they would completely abandon BC. What was the problem with using the same solution used in the 60GB for the 40GB?

[VG Aficionado]

The cost of the PS2's graphics chip (+ 4 MB of expensive eDRAM), the cost of a more complex motherboard and cooling system (and manufacturing chain), other circumstantial costs (a heavier, bigger system is harder to reduce in the future) and probably more factors we ignore. I'm sure they saving a lot of money and the sales have been more than good enough for them to keep this SKU going. Not to mention ongoing strong PS2 sales.

[Kiwi]

I guess the way they're looking at it is that if somebody is going to buy a PS3, then they've either already had a PS2, or they haven't (duh, lol). So if they have any PS2 games, they'll just be able to keep their PS2 so that they can play their old games. As for the people who didn't have one, I suppose they won't have any PS2 games to start with.

What if people who didn't have a PS2 want to go back and get some PS2 games after they've bought their PS3? Of course, at this point they've already got a PS3, and they'll probably know at this point (hopefully) that they can't play the old games.

I just feel that at some point, this is gonna come back and bite Sony on the arse.

[VG Aficionado]

I guess a couple years from now, not so many people will keep playing PS2 games (and PS3 games will have a lot more relevance), and many of them who still do will still have a PS2 because there are way too many out there. It's not like everyone who buys a PS3 does it so that they can get rid of their PS2, as some people make it seem like.

Also, I wouldn't be surprised if most of the people who want PS2 games on PS3 only planned to play their "backups".

[Kiwi]

It's not like everyone who buys a PS3 does it so that they can get rid of their PS2, as some people make it seem like.

Yea, the people who already have PS2s will keep theirs if they want to play the older games. Perhaps we'll get to the stage in a few years where PS2 games will be downloadable? :shrug:

[Jay Gee]

This is true. I just finished playing the Federation Campaign of Star Trek: Conquest...on my PS2. Not the PS3, but my PS2. Not everybody is getting rid of their PS2s, so BC, to me, isn't even a factor. It was that $100 price drop on the sweet spot 60GB SKU. It's the most balanced of all the SKUs that hit the market, and I bought it because of that.

Is the new power-brickless PS2Slim out yet?

[cliffbo]

it could be part of the larger strategy... drop the 80GB version to encourage PS2 sales and prepare the way for the 40GB white PS3 for $300. that's a could be though. if it releases with MGS, that would be the perfect strategy as far as i'm concerned

[Red_Eyes]

Or, drop the 80GB to prepare way for the 120GB.

[dnpmakkah]

I know some people like BC but then you have the other group who just want to use this as another means of not buying the PS3. They wanted a PS3 because of BC so they could play their old PS2 games but now that Sony might discontinue it they're going to go buy a 360 instead...as if you can play PS2 games on the 360. What a bunch of lame losers.

[cliffbo]

Or, drop the 80GB to prepare way for the 120GB.

that would be great, but the internet would be full of 'more confusion' FUD. i don't think Sony would see that as a risk worth taking 'YET'... but give it time

[dnpmakkah]

^ Introducing a 120GB SKU is a terrible idea because people would say Sony gave toooooo much harddisk space, therefore their not going to purchase one. ;)

[<3frosty]

Wasnt most of the issue with BC stemming from the switch from nVidia to ATI? Or vise-versa?

I dont know why so many companies cant keep control of the games that come out on the system. Look at the GCN compatibility on the Wii. Flawless. You can even use the same darn controllers without any errors or adapters.


Honestly though, i am broken over whether BC on PS3 means much to me. I keep thinking it does whenever i see it excluded from packages, but then i remember how i dont really look forward to playing any PS2 games besides God of War 2... meh.

[cliffbo]

Wasnt most of the issue with BC stemming from the switch from nVidia to ATI? Or vise-versa?

I dont know why so many companies cant keep control of the games that come out on the system. Look at the GCN compatibility on the Wii. Flawless. You can even use the same darn controllers without any errors or adapters.


Honestly though, i am broken over whether BC on PS3 means much to me. I keep thinking it does whenever i see it excluded from packages, but then i remember how i dont really look forward to playing any PS2 games besides God of War 2... meh.

it has to be said as well that PS2 games played on a huge 1080p TV just don't look right. the colours seem washed out and not as crisp

[cliffbo]

there is another reason why Sony would want to give the impression that the 80GB version is about to be phased out... it makes those that are in two minds rush out and buy one and so generate some momentum in the larger SKU. once the old stock has gone, a new stock could be brought in with the new smaller Blu-ray diodes

[<3frosty]

it has to be said as well that PS2 games played on a huge 1080p TV just don't look right. the colours seem washed out and not as crisp

Yea, i have noticed when playing PS2 games on a PS2, the muddiness of the graphics was pretty horrendous. The PS2 and its games were obviously not intended for the HD age.

[cliffbo]

Sony won't confirm rumors that 80GB PS3 will be killed

By Ben Kuchera | Published: January 25, 2008 - 01:32PM CT

On Tuesday, Best Buy allegedly released a memo to its stores claiming that the 80GB PlayStation 3 model was moving to closeout status and wouldn't be restocked after it was removed from the shelving plan on January 28. The memo noted that with the discontinued 60GB model gone from store shelves, only the 40GB model would be sold at Best Buy. "This means that there currently isn't a version that is PS2-compatible," the memo points out, before ending with the news that Sony has not yet made any announcements about new products.
Related Stories

* Sony is out of 60GB PlayStation 3s, putting the $500 price in jeopardy
* Sony responds to dollar parity with Canadian price adjustments
* A peek inside the Playstation Eye
* PlayStation Home patch brings XMB access and crazy hair colors

This memo was of course leaked, along with the rumor that the 80GB will be permanently discontinued for production altogether, leaving a single 40GB model in stores. Ars Technica contacted a Sony representative, who wouldn't confirm that the 80GB model was being phased out. "We're currently working with two SKUs in the market, and we don't see that changing," she told Ars Technica. "Other than that, we can't comment on rumors and speculation." She also refused to comment on the rumor that there will soon be an announcement on the Official PlayStation Blog.

Of course, that doesn't mean that the 80GB SKU is safe; the lack of communication on the memo from Sony along with this "two SKU" talking point could mean that there will be a new, possibly lower-priced PlayStation 3 heading to market. Or the second SKU could simply be the ceramic white PS3 that was detailed in a recent FCC filing. What's clear is that the 80GB model is far from safe, although Sony isn't willing to publicly put the stake in its heart yet.

This wouldn't be the first time Sony has shuffled the available models of the PlayStation 3 hardware, and with the added boost the PlayStation 3 has been enjoying later due to its abilities as a Blu-ray player and the Blu-ray laser getting smaller and cheaper, the possibility of a further price drop is certainly there, even as Sony denies the existence of upcoming pricing announcements.

In other words, Sony is comfortable saying that there will be two PS3 models available at retail for the foreseeable future, but the company is not willing to say for sure whether or not one of those models will be the 80GB PlayStation 3.


http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20080125-sony-wont-confirm-rumors-that-80gb-ps3-will-be-killed.html

[Zer0-Sum]

Kill the 80 GB PS3 and all the extra features that it has? That would be madness! WTF is Sony thinking? If this is true that is. NO BC AT ALL? People would be pissed. No Wi-Fi? No card readers? Only two USB ports? THAT IS LAME. Man, this is not good, not good at all.....

[cliffbo]

Kill the 80 GB PS3 and all the extra features that it has? That would be madness! WTF is Sony thinking? If this is true that is. NO BC AT ALL? People would be pissed. No Wi-Fi? No card readers? Only two USB ports? THAT IS LAME. Man, this is not good, not good at all.....

better rush out and buy the 80GB then... see what i'm saying ;)

[LiquidEagle]

Kill the 80 GB PS3 and all the extra features that it has? That would be madness! WTF is Sony thinking? If this is true that is. NO BC AT ALL? People would be pissed. No Wi-Fi? No card readers? Only two USB ports? THAT IS LAME. Man, this is not good, not good at all.....

Ummm... the 40 GB has Wi-Fi too :)

USB card readers cost $10 or less, and so can USB hubs... the big loss is the PS2 BC

[TrueVCU]

yeah, 20GB was the only PS3 model without wireless

[frosty]

OK, let me clarify a few things.

First off, PS3 never had an ATI GPU (<3frosty). PS2 has a very specialized custom GPU that has it's own strengths and weaknesses, some of which cannot easily be replicated on PS3's setup. From what I understand, PS2's GPU has more fillrate than both PS3 and 360's GPU (but that doesn't mean better graphics, obviously). PS2 games were designed to take advantage of PS2's specific hardware. Take that away and try to emulate on different hardware, and you have problems.

That doesn't mean it isn't possible though, recent job openings for ps2 emulator coders for ps3 on sony's site confirm that they are at least toying with the idea of a software only emu (doubt they would hire on new people to work on software emulation for the 80gb model with no ps2 CPU, as it is being discontinued).

Now, I don't see why any of you are acting surprised to this news. Sony has been talking about phasing out all but the 40GB SKU for some time now. Any of you who pay any attention at all to Sony news should know that by now. That is their new strategy. Give up on expensive b/c in favor of releasing PS3 at a price point that can compete with Wii and 360. Those fence sitters out there will bite for a $300 PS3 with no BC way faster than they will a $450-500 PS3 with it. Most, including myself, don't give a rat's ass about b/c. If you want that, use your ps2, or rush out and get a ps3 that can do that. They have given those of you who do care plenty of warning and plenty of time to go out and get a capable unit.

Their main focus is being competitive. Backwards compatibility was never a selling point for PS3, only a perk. Nobody bought their ps3 to play ps2 games. Plain and simple. They bought it for next generation entertainment. The perk of b/c was too expensive to deliver alongside that next gen experience to compete, so it had to go. 360 is doing just fine even with gimped b/c that is only available in some models. PS3 is trying to rid itself of the multi SKU confusion, and instead going for one low cost solution. I think this is a wise move. SKU's should only be for game inclusion, or extra controllers, not differing hardware features that confuse the consumer. Sell one SKU, sell some hard drives to upgrade that unit if you like, and leave it at that.

I can see possibly one more SKU hitting in the future with a DTV tuner installed and a large HDD for DVR functionality, but that's it.

We all know that if PS3 hits $299 before Christmas, the other 2 are going to have one hell of a fight on their hands. Sony is ready to make this move, some say as early as this month. At that rate, they could even go lower than that by Christmas. This could turn out to be the fastest price drop any console has ever seen. We could even see a $250 40GB unit out by Christmas if they see fit (although I doubt it will be necessary, I think for the features included $299 is the sweet spot for PS3 for at least the next 2 years).

[Zer0-Sum]

better rush out and buy the 80GB then... see what i'm saying ;)

I already own one. :hugegrin: I am just feeling sorry for the rest of the peeps out in the world.

Ummm... the 40 GB has Wi-Fi too :)

USB card readers cost $10 or less, and so can USB hubs... the big loss is the PS2 BC

Well at least it has that.

yeah, 20GB was the only PS3 model without wireless

Yup. Not good at all....

[cliffbo]

I already own one. :hugegrin: I am just feeling sorry for the rest of the peeps out in the world.


i don't think you got what i meant: when the 60GB was rumoured to be stopping production, the 60GB saw a surge in sales... so by suggesting that the 80GB is going out of production would probably have the same effect.

[D3adcell]

BC would be really nice to have though, that way you don't have to have your PS3, 360, Wii, and PS2 all hooked up. Though for $300 you can't really complain.

[Zer0-Sum]

i don't think you got what i meant: when the 60GB was rumoured to be stopping production, the 60GB saw a surge in sales... so by suggesting that the 80GB is going out of production would probably have the same effect.

So you theorize that Sony is doing it on purpose then to get sales moving. Makes sense I suppose. gets sales going that is for sure. I would rather they depend on great games to do so, but then what ever works when at war right?

[cliffbo]

So you theorize that Sony is doing it on purpose then to get sales moving. Makes sense I suppose. gets sales going that is for sure. I would rather they depend on great games to do so, but then what ever works when at war right?

i think short term: get just one SKU ready for MGS release. but at some point people will want bigger HDs again because PSN is rapidly filling up with must have games and that 40GB is going to seem sooooo small in a years time. DMC for instance takes a whopping 5GB install to cut out the loading times, then you'll have HOME... I believe this is a short term plan. create panic buying to get rid of all the 80GB models... make more 40GB models ready for the big push (starting with MGS) and then reintroduce the 80GB (with smaller and cheaper diodes) at some point in the future, when the price drop happens (perhaps even the rumoured white SKUs)

[LaLiLuLeLo]

*Polishes 60gb PS3*

And to not be a beligerently useless post;

Jacked from another, less awesome, considerderably weaker forum:
As a Best Buy associate, the situation with the 80GB is weird. First off, there's this leaked note which I haven't seen posted where I look up the current store news, which is odd since I would think I should be in the know considering I work the video game section. But backing up that note is the fact that the 80GB PS3 isn't list on Best Buy's website which would indicate it has been discontinued.

On the other hand, our store inventory system still lists the PS3 as being active which means its something we should still get more of when we get trucks.

And now today I talked to my Sony rep, and he said that according to his boss, Sony is discontinuing the 80GB that comes bundled with Motostorm but will still make 80GB models that don't come with anything.

So the way things stand now, it could go either way. I'll see what else I can find out.

[Sephiroth_VII]

That doesn't mean it isn't possible though, recent job openings for ps2 emulator coders for ps3 on sony's site confirm that they are at least toying with the idea of a software only emu (doubt they would hire on new people to work on software emulation for the 80gb model with no ps2 CPU, as it is being discontinued).

That was forn PS4, and involved work on PSX, PS2, PS3, and PSP backwards compatability.

[jaxmkii]

*Polishes 60gb PS3*

And to not be a beligerently useless post;

Jacked from another, less awesome, considerderably weaker forum:

*polishes custom 250gig* Yea even 60gig fills up quickly

[LaLiLuLeLo]

Yep, it does. I had a 160 gig in the stolen one ;_;

But I'll get a new replacement drive one of these days.

[OG_Monkey]

No more 80GB PS3s on Best Buy website

We recently wrote about a rumor circulating the internet regarding the future of the 80GB PS3. According to that rumor, an internal memo read that the 80GB model was being phased out by Best Buy.

Well, we're not sure if this is simply a coincidence or a portent of things to come, but it seems the 80GB PS3 unit is now unlisted on Best Buy's website. We checked Best Buy's PS3 hardware category and found that they were only selling 40 GB PS3 units.

Other stores, in the meantime, seem to have it in stock, so if you're itching to get the 80GB version of the PS3, you may want to check your local stores to see if they have it in stock. Otherwise, if you want to your videogame setup at home to play PS2 games, then you might have to go out and grab a PS2 in addition to your PS3. It should set you back around US$ 30 more compared to buying an 80GB PS3.

Bestbuy (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=abcat0703001&type=category)

But still, didnt Sony say this was a limited edition bundle anyway when it was annoucned? Wasnt gonna last forever


But still, what do they DO with the 80GBs then? You cant just STOP selling something unless they waited to there was none in stock

[LaLiLuLeLo]

Is anyone paying attention to the post I put above?

[cliffbo]

i believe that the rumour of the white PS3, the article here and this:

Smaller Blu-ray laser could reduce PS3 production costs

32 Comments by Griffin McElroy Jan 26th 2008 11:00AM
Filed under: Sony PlayStation 3

It really does seem like we can't throw a stick without hitting a new PS3 SKU or news of a price drop -- a recent advancement in Blu-ray technology could signal the creation of yet another PS3 model or lowered price for the system some time in the near future, should Sony decide to incorporate it into their home console.

Sony and LED manufacturer Nichia recently jointly created a smaller, more efficient Blu-ray laser that would significantly lower PS3 production costs should it replace the PS3's current "chubby laser". This, in addition to the many other cost-cutting innovations Sony implemented in the past year, might lead to yet another price cut for the system -- but the unmentioned, non-discounted inclusion of the lil' laser into existing SKUs is just as likely. We're certain we'll hear more about this in the coming months, once the PS3 hardware market has cooled its proverbial jets.

indicate a price drop soon (and maybe a slimmer PS3)

[OG_Monkey]

Is anyone paying attention to the post I put above?

lol...whoops

i believe that the rumour of the white PS3, the article here and this:



indicate a price drop soon (and maybe a slimmer PS3)

slimmer?...thatd be awesome but i doubt it

[cliffbo]

slimmer?...thatd be awesome but i doubt it

ye, that's an outside chance, but it would be great to release MGS with a slimmer, cheaper, white PS3

[LaLiLuLeLo]

Smaller sized PS3 isn't gonna happen, if ever, until the near end of the PS3 life cycle, or the beginning of it's twighlight years, ala PSone and PSTwo.

[cliffbo]

Smaller sized PS3 isn't gonna happen, if ever, until the near end of the PS3 life cycle, or the beginning of it's twighlight years, ala PSone and PSTwo.

well i agree it's an outside chance, as i took pains to point out above... but this generation has seen unprecedented progress in SKU changes and price drops, so using last gen as a template is pointless

[<3frosty]

well i agree it's an outside chance, as i took pains to point out above... but this generation has seen unprecedented progress in SKU changes and price drops, so using last gen as a template is pointless

You are dead on with this. How many SKU's have the PS3 and 360 gone through so far? At least 4 on 360....

wowza. And, if i remember, the box itself said 'Limited Edition' of the 80 gig with Motorstorm.

[jaxmkii]

You are dead on with this. How many SKU's have the PS3 and 360 gone through so far? At least 4 on 360....

wowza. And, if i remember, the box itself said 'Limited Edition' of the 80 gig with Motorstorm.

so how does this make him dead wrong? im confused

[Red_Eyes]

i believe that the rumour of the white PS3, the article here and this:



indicate a price drop soon (and maybe a slimmer PS3)

Looks like Sony is really serious about getting the price of the PS3 down. What will Microsoft do to counter this? A price cut too? This price cut competition will greatly benifit the consumers.

[cliffbo]

Looks like Sony is really serious about getting the price of the PS3 down. What will Microsoft do to counter this? A price cut too? This price cut competition will greatly benifit the consumers.

there's already rumours of a price cut on the Elite... both these behemoths are giving each other the eye, waiting for the other to move first

[TheGreenElf]

there's already rumours of a price cut on the Elite... both these behemoths are giving each other the eye, waiting for the other to move first

Now if only we got those Tax Rebates congress had been talking about...I could pick up a new system... :)

[game designer]

Can anyone say pricecut and a new SKU? ;)

GD

[cliffbo]

Can anyone say pricecut and a new SKU? ;)

GD

we can't say it for sure, but there is a sniff of something, that's for sure

[Sephiroth_VII]

Liquid, can you confirm this?
When word got out that 80GB Sony PlayStation 3 units would no longer be available in retailer Best Buy, the gaming scene went ablaze. Now we've got information from a reliable source that giant retailer EBGames/Gamestop will follow Best Buy's move.

Kaizer_911, an EBGames/Gamestop manager, tipped us off that stock of 80GB PS3 units will be unavailable from their shelves in the near future. "I can't say for sure whats going on with the 80GB PS3 but I can relate to Best Buy," he comments.

Our source says that the stores in their district have not received a replenishment of 80GB PS3s since late November. However, it was revealed that 40GB PS3 supplies kept flowing in without a hitch. Kaizer_911 narrates:

I went ahead and looked in our Back Office Inventory screen and found that the only SKU listed as Active for the PS3 consoles (new ones that is) was the 40GB. The 20, 60, AND 80 GB SKUs were listed as Deleted.

Kaizer_911 maintains that the inventory status in question is company-wide in scope. "Unless Sony is just changing the bundles, it looks like a discontinue to me," finishes the EBGames/ Gamestop manager.

If you remember it, Kaizer_911 is the same source who gave us a heads-up on the discontinuation of the 20GB PS3. Which eventually proved true. We'll keep you posted for more.
Source (http://ps3.qj.net/EBGames-Gamestop-to-stop-selling-80GB-PS3s-too-/pg/49/aid/112450)

[LiquidEagle]

I just called my old store (I don't work there any more), and it looks like 80 GBs that were normally going to be shipped to them were pulled, and they haven't gotten shipments in awhile, so yeah, what this guy's saying is right (except you can't look up a SKU as deleted, otherwise it wouldn't truly be deleted :-p)

[Kiwi]

I wonder if they'll bother releasing the 80GB elsewhere just to get rid of the excess stock? Anyway, I guess just focusing on the 40GB will save on the confusion, as well as the cost. Would've been nice to have the BC there, but I suppose it's a minor loss in the grand scheme of things.

[NeoPlayStation]

Arstechnica: 80GB PS3 dead, 120-160GB with Dual Shock 3 incoming

Our inside source of all things video gaming has been right almost every time it comes out of the shadows to give us information, so I'm going to dispense with the back story. Wherever his or her information is coming from, it's usually solid. After I spoke to Sony about the possible discontinuation of the 80GB PS3 model, I lit the mole-signal.

Working late into the night on Saturday, I heard a noise behind me. For both of our safety, I didn't turn around. "You've talked to Sony," the mole said in a gravelly whisper. "Tell me what they told you."

I repeated the information we reported on Friday: Sony is sticking to a two-model approach at retail, but the company won't comment on whether or not the other model would be the 80GB system. The 40GB system seems safe. I asked the mole what information he had.

"Sony is, in fact, phasing out the 80GB PS3. Sony is going to stay with the two-SKU approach though, and the prices look to stay the same," the mole told me. I heard sirens in the background, and the mole seemed nervous. "The Spiderman 3 pack-in will disappear as well once the 80GB unit is gone. In order to maintain a similar value proposition to the 80GB/Spiderman 3 bundle, I expect to see a storage increase to 120 or 160GB at the same price point, plus the new Dual-Shock 3 controller... what are you trying to accomplish with this story?"

http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2008/01/27/mole-80gb-ps3-dead-120-160gb-with-dual-shock-3-incoming

IIRC, Arstechnica was the first to talk about U$ 100,00 price cut.

[VG Aficionado]

Since they surely have plans for downloadable content and obviously DVR features, a bigger hard drive seems like a given sometime in the future.

[Kiwi]

There's us thinking they would stop with the SKU confusion.

[PSXBatou]

So when is MS going to release the Xbox 360 Master Chief Halo Elite 1TB version in order to play "me too" as they usually do when other companies release a new product that makes their product look even more like the inferior piece of melting plastic it is?

[cliffbo]

80GB PS3 Not Dying, But Being Reborn Bigger?

PSwide.jpgArs Technica's Opposable Thumbs has a Sony mole who has filled them in on some potentially juicy gossip. According to the insider, Sony will not be dropping their 80GB PS3 to abandon a two-model retail approach, but instead upgrading said higher tier model to better differentiate the products. In this scenario, the 80GB PS3 will see a bump to either 120GB or 160GB and include a Dual-Shock 3 controller—but still run $499.

Feel free to comb over the source text with a fine-toothed comb:

Sony is, in fact, phasing out the 80GB PS3. Sony is going to stay with the two-SKU approach though, and the prices look to stay the same....The Spiderman 3 pack-in will disappear as well once the 80GB unit is gone. In order to maintain a similar value proposition to the 80GB/Spiderman 3 bundle, I expect to see a storage increase to 120 or 160GB at the same price point, plus the new Dual-Shock 3 controller...

Hopefully this doesn't imply that Sony is evolving to a strategy without movie/game bundles with their consoles (which we'd doubt) . Because when Sony was generous enough to allow customers to install their own hard drives, it would seem like a waste to only use hard drives to differentiate their PS3 products (I mean, what's one rumble controller, really?).

And for those who don't know, Ars publications are highly respected in the technology industry. So that's why you'll see the internet taking this one pretty seriously.

http://www.gametab.com/news/1172493/

[LaLiLuLeLo]

Cliffbo, Look up like...4 posts.

[Jay Gee]

Damn. I think on this third check, I need to decide on whether I buy a PSP or a bigger HDD for the PS3. I'm getting jealous on these new SKUs with all this hard drive space.

[cliffbo]

Cliffbo, Look up like...4 posts.

yep! :-p... i'm just so god-damn keen to please

[LaLiLuLeLo]

Impetuous is the word I think works best in your case.

[cliffbo]

Impetuous is the word I think works best in your case.

impetuous is not a word i would ordinarily associate with a 49 year old! i passed impetuous... well, i can't remember ever being that actually lol... just a simple matter of seeing something interesting and posting it, nothing more, nothing less. i hope you also note that i do actually post fresh stuff up quite regularly... and you never rep me for it!!!!! not that i care :look:

[LaLiLuLeLo]

Well look before you leap (post)! Impetous old man!

[dnpmakkah]

At least Cliffbo didn't start a new thread :)

[LaLiLuLeLo]

Indeed.

[cliffbo]

At least Cliffbo didn't start a new thread :)

i'll get right on it!

[Zer0-Sum]

I knew that Sony would not just ditch the 80GB. That wounded like such BS. It was just a misconstrued leaked doc from Best Buy is all. A larger HD with a DS3 still all for $499 would be very kool on Sony's part. I love my PS3, but now I am kinda jealous...:(

[Epix]

Drop the 40GB to $299 and introduce 120GB w/ DS3 for $399. Watch them line up in droves.

[OG_Monkey]

120GB w/DS3 would be KILLER for $400

Damn Microsoft...still charging almost $200 for a 120GB HDD >_>

[Zer0-Sum]

Drop the 40GB to $299 and introduce 120GB w/ DS3 for $399. Watch them line up in droves.

Hell yah, that is one killer idea. Stringer, you reading this???

[Jay Gee]

Damn Microsoft...still charging almost $200 for a 120GB HDD >_>
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v140/HitParade/ist2_2959149_nickel_and_dime_bottom.jpg

[Segitz]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v140/HitParade/ist2_2959149_nickel_and_dime_bottom.jpg

Yeah, I just looked today... A 120GB 5400 u/min Seagate 2.5'' SATA HDD now costs 59€ in Germany... Not omitting that MS basically pays ~half that (high volumes and wholesale etc...), they gouge their users pretty badly (like about 100 USD per unit)

In the same terms, a 40GB HDD with the same specs costs you mere 12€ less... There's no logic explanation for Sony to continue to support the 40GB model much longer, imho (as Seagate surely won't continue to build 40GB HDDs just for them)

[TrueVCU]

As much as it may be necessary I think consumers are getting extremely tired of playing SKU musical chairs with both sides. People are going to be afraid to get PS3 or a 360 if they're afraid it's going to be replaced by a superior model for the same price a few months down the road. Which I think is another reason the Wii is the current Genghis Khan of console gaming.

[dnpmakkah]

People are going to be afraid to get PS3 or a 360 if they're afraid it's going to be replaced by a superior model for the same price a few months down the road.I know what you're getting at so I'm not in total disagreement because most people do think that way but me personally I still feel like my 60GB launch PS3 is the superior one. :rockon:

[cliffbo]

ok, i'm not sure if this has been posted yet... i can't see it, but even if it has i'd like to point something out. the rumour was that there would be a 120GB or 160GB SKU released it America. what is interesting here is that rather than deny the initial rumour outright, a SCEE representative in the UK has said that 'there are no plans currently' to market a 120GB in Europe. don't you find that odd? have Sony cleverly sidestepped the question of the 120GB version hitting America by denying plans to release it in Europe. even in Europe it's: 'Currently' which suggest 'Possibly' in the future. to me this is a way of spreading the denial over the net without actually saying 'in America' i think it is coming and sooner than we think


No 120GB PS3 planned for UK, says SCEE
Posted on January 29th, 2008 at 08:53 EDT

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) has issued a statement confirming that the company has no plans to release a 120GB PlayStation 3 console in the United Kingdom.

The announcement comes following a slew of Internet rumours claiming that the North American branch of the electronics giant plans to discontinue the 80GB PS3 in favour of a higher end model.

However, speaking to Gamesindustry.biz this week, a spokesperson for SCEE stated, "We do not currently have any plans to release a 120GB PlayStation 3 in the UK.”

Despite this, speculation is rife that preparation on the introduction of a 120GB model is imminent, as reported yesterday via Internet blog website, Ars Technica.

Stay tuned for more information as it breaks.

[Kiwi]

Will we even get the 80GB over here?

[D3adcell]

I though according to the rumors, they were suppoed to announce this on the 28th. It's now the 29th...

[frosty]

That's why they are rumors. GDC is right around the corner though, however I'm not sure that would be the best place to announce such things. who knows though.

[OG_Monkey]

How and when was the 80GB model announced?...and the 40GB model...

[Sephiroth_VII]

I say that a picedrop + the 120 GB model(white?) will be announced at GDC or E3, though it will most likely E3.

[Segitz]

I still don't think a pricecut will make it though...

Maybe they stuff the 80GB HDDs into the 40GB one, upping that HDD space, drop the old (PS2 compatible) 80GB one and reintroduce a 120GB or 160GB at the old pricepoint available in white or black.

Sony should also offer "official" HDD upgrades imho. I mean, just for the sake of showing, that it is possible, because I think, 90% of all "non hardcore users" surely don't know that it is possible... I mean, who reads manuals nowadays? I surely don't. That way, Sony could also counter MSs practices of pricegouging the HDDs^^ Like I said in my post above, a bulk 120GB HDD can be had for less than 60€, yet MS tries to squeeze out 180€ (afaik) for them... Which is tripple of what they normally cost (and don't get me started on warranty... Seagate usually offers 5yrs, whereas MS surely doesn't).

[VG Aficionado]

Price cuts are unlikely, the 40 GB PS3 is selling well enough.

[OG_Monkey]

well, what if the 360 price cut for GTA4 becomes true?