Sony promises PSP piracy solution

A solution is on the way for the ongoing piracy challenge that Sony believes is the platform’s biggest problem” – that’s the claim of SCEA’s senior VP of publisher relations Rob Dyer.

The biggest problem that plagued PSP was piracy – we have not been able to slow that down,” Dyer told IndustryGamers.

We think we have some answers going forward, but we’re not ready to talk about that publicly at this point. So we’re working on fixing that, because that’s been a big problem. Publishers, when they put out good games, are not getting the same sales results that they got a few years back. So piracy’s been a big issue and we’re working on that very diligently to bring about some solutions.”

Whether these comments refer to Sony’s recently announced plans to require those who buy upcoming SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3 to activate the online component of the game online is unclear.

Dyer went on to add that the device will see several high-profile releases later this year that have not been announced.

We still have a very robust lineup this year from third parties on the PSP, starting with Metal Gear Peace Walker,” the exec added.

I won’t go through the whole lineup because I want our third-party partners to make those announcements, but there are some big, big titles coming out this year and you’ll see those announcements at GDC, DPS (Destination PlayStation) or E3.

We’re into the sixth year now on the platform, and that’s a long time for a handheld. I think given where we’re at right now, we’re doing very, very well. But yes, the business has had problems and I think it all stems, candidly, from the piracy.”