Yes, I myself didn't know there was a problem with producing the PS3. What, has it begun to sell or something...? Anyway, a recent interview with a SCE spokesperson reveals that not only have production issues ceased, but that there's now a "steady chain of supply in North America, Japan and Europe." So far, so good. However, Sony, just like Microsoft, is apparently planning to appeal a "much broader lifestyle," which probably means... casual.

Not as in Luxor-casual, but a more casual (probably even more peripheral-based) gameplay experience. First thing first though. Here are those SCE spokesperson's comments in regards to the production issues (I swear I had no idea): "Production problems have now ceased, we're in full production as far as PlayStation 3 is concerned and there's a steady chain of supply in North America, Japan and Europe," said an SCE spokesperson, as NextGeneration reports.

Now, here's what Microsoft's Regional VP, Chris Lewis hinting at an assault on casual and "peripheral based" gaming, in an effort to get some of Nintendo's users aboard, reported by MCV. According to them, Microsoft is keen on "invading" Nintendo's territory, by taking the Xbox 360 to the next level: "Our drive is to appeal to a wider genre with more casual types of gaming," he said. "Clearly we need to continue toward more casual-based gaming experiences, and more peripheral-based gaming experiences in front of the screen."

So MS wants to "appeal to a wider genre." OK, back to our SCE spokesperson's comments. Aside from stating that production issues are now over (which is a good thing , I guess), the same spokesperson stated the following: "We're aiming towards a much broader lifestyle for home entertainment enthusiasts, that's one of the reasons the Playstation 2 went on to sell over 115 million units worldwide."

Would that "much broader lifestyle" happen to include the non gamer population of this planet? Not that I'm trying to pass rumors (not that I'd have the authority), but what else could it mean? I hope to God Sony sticks with the more complex and quality gaming and doesn't prove Nintendo they were right all along.