E3: PS3 80GB $399 Coming, PS2/PSP Bundles Announced

At their E3 press conference Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) announced that the PS3 80GB model will become the company’s "mainstay" hardware. As such, the 80GB model, with the same functionality of the 40GB model, will retail for $399 starting September 2008. It is unknown what will happen to the PS3 40GB SKU, but it will presumably be phased out over time.

Additionally, a Ratchet and Clank Size Matters PSP Entertainment Pack will release in October 2008. This bundle will feature a Silver PSP, a copy of Ratchet and Clank Size Matters, National Treasure 2 on UMD, a PSN voucher to download echochrome and a 1GB Memory Stick Pro Duo. The Ratchet and Clank Size Matters PSP Entertainment Pack will retail for $199.

SCEA is also launching a new family entertainment bundle for the PS2 this Fall. In addition to the PS2 system and DualShock 2 controller, the bundle will include Lego Batman: The Videogame and Justice League: The New Frontier on DVD. This new bundle will retail for $149.99.

"It’s undeniable we have three successful platforms, the broadest and best line-up of some of the biggest exclusives in the business, and are continuing to deliver compelling and original content to our consumers," said Jack Tretton, president and CEO of SCEA. "Expect to see continued momentum this year as we remain focused on delivering products and services that extend the strength of our brand and reaffirms PlayStation’s place at the center of consumers’ homes."