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SCEE has given the reasons behind its decision to phase out the 60GB PS3 in Europe.
This morning, the format holder told MCV that once remaining stocks of the SKU had sold out in the territory, the 40GB PS3 would be the only model available to consumers.
The firm comments that the ‘missing’ features lacking in the 40GB SKU are ‘easily upgraded’, and that it believes backward compatibility with PS2 – a function the 40GB model lacks – is ‘less important now than when we launched’.
The firm explains in a statement:
‘Our offering in the UK market place for Christmas are the two ‘sku’s announced on Friday, but as the 60GB stock is depleted the 299 40GB SKU will be the only version available going forward.
‘The 40GB machine represents all the power and potential of PlayStation 3 at a very compelling price.
‘Whilst the feature set of the 40GB is a result of extensive feedback and research, all the ‘missing’ features should some consumers require them are easily upgraded with USB memory card readers, USB hubs, or bigger external USB or internal HDs.
‘The only functionality that is being removed is backwards compatibility – and this is because we believe this less important now than when we launched – as there will be 65 PS3 games available by Christmas.
‘Furthermore we believe we should now be devoting our resources to the future of PlayStation gaming and delivering next generation experiences.’
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