14 DAY TRIAL // Confirming the new 40GB PS3 for PAL territories, the electronics giant has also announced a few details on what UK's PlayStation fans are getting this time of the year. According to SCEUK, two new PS3 packs are due out 10th October: the existing PS3 Starter Pack will be replaced by a 60GB Value Pack at a price of ?349 and the new 40GB PS3, launching for just ?299.
As previously announced, Sony is promising its fans some 65 games by Christmas, spanning all genres, encouraging everyone to get either of the two packs soon to become available in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Australasia, as each of them provides different features for two types of gamers.
For example, if you're the hardcore gamer waiting for the latest demo, downloading everything that runs on the system, you might want to get the 60GB value pack, as this PS3 model provides the necessary storage space, four USB ports, a multi memory card port and of course two SIXAXIS wireless controllers. Oh, did we mention that this is the only SKU that features backwards compatibility with PSone and PS2 games? Well... it is.
As for those who aren't so into getting the latest stuff and playing non stop with their friends, the 40GB PS3 seems like the better choice for them. This SKU features just two USB ports, one controller, no multi memory card port and no backwards compatibility. The HDMI on the other hand, is still there, with the Blu-ray player intact and ready for HD playback, since those getting this model of the console sure know they're getting a good bargain with that Blu-ray player being included.
The 40GB PS3 will also be upgradeable, in terms of firmware of course, allowing you to install new features and functionality, just like with other PS3 models, so there's not much to lose, as you can see.
"As we approach our very first PlayStation Christmas, it is satisfying to be able to offer UK consumers the choice of two PlayStation 3 packages both now representing remarkable value," commented Ray Maguire, managing director of SCEUK, "We have a brand new 40GB machine that represents an excellent entry point into the world of High Definition games and movies, and we have the fully featured 60GB machine being offered with two next generation gaming experiences at a highly competitive price."
Now you just have to decide which system is more appropriate for you, when the two packs go on sale October 10th. I have a feeling though, that even hardcore gamers are going for the 40GB PS3. Not that we're passing any hints, but everyone was anxiously waiting for the price drop and the lacking features aren't really that bad (except for the back-compatibility thing, and even this is a "maybe").