No Low-End PS3 for European Launch

Sony solidified March 23 for the launch of its PlayStation 3 console in Europe and Australia/New Zealand, but will only sell the high-end model and at a price that puts it at a significant premium to its competitors.

The console would simultaneously launch in both regions. Approximately one million units of the 60GB version would be made available for the launch, which could alleviate some of the supply concerns that plagued the PS3's North American launch.

Sony said the 20GB model would be made available later in the year, dependent on demand.

However, those wanting to get their hands on the PS3 should be prepared to pay a hefty price. In European countries, the console will retail for 599 euros ($776 USD), and in Britain, 425 pounds ($836 USD). The console would be equally pricey in Australia and New Zealand, retailing for $999.95 ($781 USD) and $1,199.95 ($834 USD) respectively.

Compare this with the premium Xbox 360, which retails for the equivalent of $500 to $550 USD across those same territories.

Launch titles for the console would include Sony-produced games Resistance: Fall of Man, MotorStorm, and Ridge Racer 7. Additional titles would be supplied by the company's partners.

The company also plans to release a system update with the launch of the console across Europe, although it did not specify what changes the update would contain.

"To be able to launch with over 30 titles across every genre shows that this is our strongest launch line-up in the history of PlayStation, and is what PlayStation fans in Europe have been crying out for," Sony Computer Entertainment Europe president David Reeves said.

Several accessories would also be made available in Europe at that time, including a SixAxis Wireless Controller for 49.99 euros, and a Blu-ray Disc remote control for 24.99 euros, along with four types of video cables.