Sony Launches PlayStation 3 in Japan

By Niladri Sekhar Nath

TMCnet Contributing Editor

 

Excitement was high for PlayStation fans this week as Sony introduced its long-awaited PlayStation 3 (PS3) in Japan.

 

PS3 currently is available in two configurations: a 60GB hard drive model that sells for 60,000 yen ($); and a 20GB hard drive model for 49,980 yen ($424).

 

Both models include a wireless controller, Blu-Ray high-definition DVD drive, and connectivity port. Sony’s newest gaming device also comes with free access to the online PlayStation Network. Also included are five games: Ridge Racer 7, Mobile Suit Gundam: Target in Sight, Genji, and Resistance: Fall of Man.

 

PS3 uses an IBM (News - Alert)-developed cell chip that utilizes seven separate processing cores. The chip plays a crucial role in making the physics in game worlds more realistic and helping computer-controlled enemies act with sophistication.

 

Sony had planned to launch the PlayStation 3 in early 2006, but had to delay due to production problems and shortages of key components. The European launch of PS3 had to bear the brunt as well with a postponement to March 2007.

 

According to media reports, Sony has introduced 100,000 consoles for gamers in Japan. The company said it plans to ship 400,000 consoles to the U.S.

 

Sony is not the only player in the home console gaming industry; although the company unveiled its first PlayStation in 1994, more recently it has faced stiff competition from Microsoft’s (News - Alert) Xbox 360.