Sony will launch its next-gen console PlayStation3 in fall, Kyodo News reports (through Yahoo Asia). The reason for the delay is the Blu-Ray format and the participating companies´ failure to agree on its industry standards.
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. may delay the launch of PlayStation 3 game consoles to this fall or later from this spring, as originally scheduled, because Blu-ray DVD makers have been late in finalizing specifications for the device, a key part of the new game consoles, industry analysts said Saturday.
A group of about 80 Blu-ray DVD manufacturers, including Sony Corp. and Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., failed to set specifications for the advanced DVD format by the end of last year. Mass manufacturing is finally set to begin at the end of the month, they said.
The Blu-ray DVD technology is "indispensable" for PlayStation 3 consoles featuring high-definition graphics that match the image quality of large-screen movies, a spokesperson at Sony Computer Entertainment said, admitting the launch could be delayed.
Sony Computer Entertainment has been seen to be behind schedule in taking orders for the new PlayStations from retailers.
"Sony has not begun taking orders early this month, that means that it would be difficult for the company to begin sales in May," said Hirokazu Hamamura, president of computer game-related publisher Enterbrain Inc.
Sony is now likely to shift its focus on product sales from the spring to the year-end sales period, promotion for which begins in October, industry analysts said.
The global market for home-use game consoles is estimated at more than 100 million units and Sony Computer Entertainment is the market leader.
The Sony group, recovering from a setback in fiscal 2003, has raised earnings projections for the 2005 business year through March 31. But this delay could keep it from attaining the group's consolidated sales goal of 8 trillion yen for the 2007 business year, the analysts added.
It´s been somewhat of a rollercoaster ride for Sony, as far as the PS3´s launch date is concerned. At the last E3, they announced a spring 2006 launch date. They reaffirmed that date in December. Only days ago, though, reports of a PS3 delay made Sony Corp. shares lose around 3% of its value.
It has always been my opinion that a spring launch was not a realistic option and this has basically been confirmed now. They might as well come out with the truth. Since their shares already took a tumble, Sony has no more to lose with such an announcement.
EDIT There is an excellent commentary over at GamesIndustry.biz, pointing out that the first day of spring is next Wednesday. From that day, Sony has three months to launch their console if they want to make good on their promise. The author isn´t as sure of a delay as I am. But he seems to believe that all the secrecy on Sony´s part is incompatible with a spring launch.
Source: Kyodo News (through Yahoo Asia)
Thanks to: Engadget
40 comments:
hi falafelkid!
that the launchdate would be delayd was sure, no way they could have launched in spring. they didn´t even presented the final hardware yet and no on ever actually played something on the real hardware. now there is no need to rush for nintendo to launch the revolution since even if it comes out in japan in autumn, it would surely take some time they would release the ps3 in america or even europe!
Falafelkid -- I'm a long time reader, but this is my first time posting. Your work on this site is top-notch and your journalistic skills are to be respected.
Anyway. What do you think this means for Nintendo? Will a launch in autumn hurt worse than a launch in spring? I'm inclined to think so, but I'd like to know what you think.
Secondly, I'd also like to say that I think Sony is in deeper trouble than they're letting on. I have a sneaking suspicion that if things don't start panning out soon, this apparent lack of focus will delay them possibly into next year. Obviously, that would be the most ideal situation for Nintendo.
Most mainstream news media outlets are still saying that Nintendo will be the last company to release a new console. Why? I mean, I really think Nintendo has a real good shot at entering before Sony. I guess we'll see.
Hi, falafelkid, I know you are keen on nintendo projection screen and 3d virtual world, so I have posted a known nintendo patent from oct 2005 which covers these 2 aspects, it's real.
go to
http://www.nintendoinfo.com
anon:
That's about 3D projection in the GPU framebuffer, not lasers shooting out of the Rev's arse. That's also one of the many, many Gamecube-related patent applications.
It deals with improving the efficiency of depth tests used for lighting and the such.
Hi Anonym. Thanks for the link. It´s an interesting patent. I have analyzed it myself here.
Hi Andy Witmyer. Thanks for the compliments. Again, if it wasn´t for you reading it and participating, this blog wouldn´t exist.
Will a [PS3] launch in autumn hurt worse than a launch in spring? I'm inclined to think so, but I'd like to know what you think.
No, I believe: the later the PS3 launch, the easier Nintendo can hit the streets before Sony and convince people saving up for a PlayStation to buy a Revolution. For Nintendo, launching first will be crucial. They offer change and innovation for a lower price and might scoop up the market. But if people have bought their PS3 already, they might not be willing to spend another cent on videogames (given the expected high price of the console).
Most mainstream news media outlets are still saying that Nintendo will be the last company to release a new console. Why?
An easy one to answer. Nintendo has almost discouraged news media from reporting about the Revolution so far. They have not released any games footage, so mainstream tv channels aren´t interested from the start. And even those channels (like mine) that do report about games in-depth have been given a hard time. Nintendo is not making the controller video (shown at TGS) available on Betacam (the standard format for tv stations), nor on DVD or any other broadcastable medium.
Hi Coldblooder. I have also maintained that Sony couldn´t meet a spring launch. And I also agree with you on Sony not being able to launch simultaneously. This is good news for Nintendo as far as the US and Europe are concerned (since Nintendo is sure to release there first) and those two are the crucial markets for that console. Given the Japanese people´s gaming habits, Japan will be a push-over for the Revolution.
Like andy said I think sony is haveing some more major issues then they are letting on. There system seems to be very hard to program on, there technology in there system very expensive and not all that neacery yet, and if I am not mistaken aren't they haveing money issues right now with there company in genral. I just can't see them pulling there act together even by the end of this year if ever.
Just checking back in -- Anyone have any luck finding the "fixation point" patent mentioned by IGN? (I asked for help with this in the comments to the last post.)
I seriously doubt that IGN would have made this information up, but I still can't find the patent... =(
FlyingSquirrl
Nothing is to stop Nintendo from delaying their system either though Arsenis.
As soon as PS3 has properly launch their final details Nintendo I believe wont hesitate to give their details out.
Either way it will be at E3 for both I believe.
I really dont believe Sony are doing this to copy Nintendo, they are just having problems with the whole thing. IMO they are not organising it very well, however thats hard to say without being in the midst of corporate BS that seems to come from Sony.
So ... sony tactic is...
Win x360 by say that thay will lunch soon then delay again and again. Wait till x360 not a hot items by using some word like faster bigger media -ba ba ba- to there fanboy. Alos some way make there fanboy say it's not that expensive ... even 7-800$.
Again sony wait till thay know what nintendo do. Then copy it -point of those 7 usb port and 7 wireless input- And say word like faster bigger media -ba ba ba- and have same thing of revolution to there fanboy.
Strong tactic
if sony delayed the console to copy the rev then it shouldnt matter.
nintendo felt confident enough to show its controller but not is other revolutionary aspect so if there is one thing that will sell the console its that last secret of theres.
Hi everyone. I agree with NZ Guy. Even if Sony copied the controller, they would not be able to copy the last secret as well. Whatever that is, it is obviously linked to the controller and how you use it. So Nintendo would still end up with the more original system (and one that would cost a third of the PS3).
Also, I just don´t think Sony will copy the controller for the PS3. I am sure they are quite sceptical of Nintendo´s approach, even though so many developers paid lip service.
And FlyingSquirrl: I linked to both patents you are looking for in the comments to the last post.
Yeh good point I forgot to mention earlier.
Nintendo wouldnt of shown it if they were worried about it.
I really do wish E3 would come about but saying that also makes me closer to a year older. You cant win........
Sorry to go off topic, but does anyone know anything about the alleged revolution online screens that have been shown in next months game informer magazine?
"Hi everyone. I agree with NZ Guy. Even if Sony copied the controller, they would not be able to copy the last secret as well. Whatever that is, it is obviously linked to the controller and how you use it. So Nintendo would still end up with the more original system (and one that would cost a third of the PS3)."
you dont think sony has a huge r&d dept to come up with their own innovative way to play games (or do some kind of crazy secret like nintendo has in store for us)? thats crazy. i'm absolutely sure all 3 companies have many of the same ideas laid out, only different strategies to implement them (or not implement them). you're off your rocker if you think that. they may not take those extreme (rev controller) ideas to heart as nintendo did, but im sure they have similar ideas in mind. you all lack common sense if you think they aren't thinking about this.
Hi Falafelkid,
There have been a couple of interviews with Crosbeamstudios these last few days. It's a studio that's working on three or fore diverent games that they want on the Revolution. They don't have a Dev kit or Publisher but there getting a lot of attention nowadays. They want to show a demo (running on a PC) at E3 this year to different Nintendo etc. What do you think of this game and the studio? Have you read anything about the story? http://www.crossbeamstudios.com/projects.shtml
I hope sony trips over there own feet on this, i wouldnt be surprised if the Ps3 gets delayed even moreso and into the begining of 2007, sony needs a swift kick in the balls to keep there ego in check
FALAFELKID, there is something you should really clear up.
http://www.armleg.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2625&mforum=mozlapunkmessag
The question is: where exactly will Nintendo be holding their press conference? In the big room or in one of the smaller rooms? I think you might be one of the few who can clear this up.
Also, someone just found out that the Kodak theatre is reflected in the ON helmets. Just look at these pictures:
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y69/Sage1337/kodakon.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b51/Kschreck19/ONKodakTheatre.jpg
These are not photoshopped, you can check that in the video and some of the pictures.
The ON video was made before the E3 2005 press conference and before Nintendo announced they'll be showing up in the Kodak theatre next year. If it's a guess, it must have been a pretty damn good one. If someone would have told any of about the Kodak Theatre before Nintendo, I'm sure no one would believe it. So why would Pablo?
Also, the Kodak Theatre is one of the few with 3D projection. It would be perfect for showcasing some sort of projector or headset.
qqFALAFELKID, there is something you should really clear up.
http://www.armleg.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2625&mforum=mozlapunkmessag
The question is: where exactly will Nintendo be holding their press conference? In the big room or in one of the smaller rooms? I think you might be one of the few who can clear this up.
Also, someone just found out that the Kodak theatre is reflected in the ON helmets. Just look at these pictures:
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y69/Sage1337/kodakon.jpg
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b51/Kschreck19/ONKodakTheatre.jpg
These are not photoshopped, you can check that in the video and some of the pictures.
The ON video was made before the E3 2005 press conference and before Nintendo announced they'll be showing up in the Kodak theatre next year. If it's a guess, it must have been a pretty damn good one. If someone would have told any of about the Kodak Theatre before Nintendo, I'm sure no one would believe it. So why would Pablo?
Also, the Kodak Theatre is one of the few with 3D projection. It would be perfect for showcasing some sort of projector or headset.
(
Sule said:
Hi Falafelkid,
There have been a couple of interviews with Crosbeamstudios these last few days. It's a studio that's working on three or fore diverent games that they want on the Revolution. They don't have a Dev kit or Publisher but there getting a lot of attention nowadays. They want to show a demo (running on a PC) at E3 this year to different Nintendo etc. What do you think of this game and the studio? Have you read anything about the story? http://www.crossbeamstudios.com/projects.shtml
)
I've seen on Crossbeam Studio a guy from the staff name Roland Strålberg. He have a picture of him in is signature. I've made a little research on google and find a guy who work for Microbit( www.microbit.se) name Roland Strålberg and seeing a picture on this site prove me that it was the same guy.
Then i think Crossbeam Studio is more serious that i think first.
I hope these game will end on the Revolution.
Zaro
oups!
But in Crossbeam Studio there's a guy name Kenton Bailey and this name lead me to http://www.playbomb.com/, he was a supposly former of LifeSpark Studios the one who work on Sunder: Land of Divide.
Zaro
then i assume its fake Zaro
That's what Crossbeam reminded me of the first time I saw it. The guy who spoke for Sunder was talking about how they didn't have a publisher but had ideas, etc.
yeah, probably fake.
But this guy name Roland Strålberg bugs me. Microbit's seems to be a real sweden company. Maybe if someone e-mail him about is role un Crossbeam Studio.
Anyway future will reveal the truth.
Zaro
I've ask on Crossbeam Studio forum if
Kenton Bailey is the same guy who start Lifespark Studio. Just to see the reation :)
Zaro
They respond "It is... all he does here is concept art, nothing more."
I don't know what to think.
I don't want to spam this blog with this but i just seen that the image in the background of Crossbeam Studio is the same planet of Sunder: Land of the
Divide.
Zaro
Falafel, what is the difference between NTDOF and NTDOY?
I am looking at the Nintnedo stocks prices and I am in the USA. Which would I invest in? I can't find this information in the company profile(s). Please help.
And I love your blog, it is fun!!
Falafelkid,
Your name is ridiculous,hilarious to say the least.lol
Köllealaaf
910do:
The blue light for the drive would be sufficient for a power light, but I think the other light near the power button will flash when the revolution is transmitting wirelessly.
910do is the coolest person on da net
Good evening everybody,
My name is Viktor,
(This is not my real name by the way)
From now on I will provide you with a news-flash on things that are about to happen in this industry on a regular basis through various people that I happen to know.Of course credebility will be on line until announcements are made.
Let's get it on..
-Nintendo,Valve negotiation rumours emerge.
Valve apparently beyond planning phase for upcoming exclusive 3rd person title for Nintendo
Next Generation system.
-Epic deal successful.
Epic Dev-kit deal went off without hitch.Nintendo surrendered SDKs to Epic despite harsh tones.Deal expected to yield fruits next year.
-Ataris Marc Eckos Getting Up Contents Under Pressure to blossom on Nintendo Next generation system.
Remake planned,taking advantage of unique interface.Engineers about to assemble unique interface functions.Team seemingly pleased as Punch.
Thats it for now.
keeping you guys in the loop..
-Viktor
Hi everyone. I only have little time, so I´ll just answer Anonymous´ request regarding the two types of Nintendo shares available. There´s ADR and ORD. ORD describes ordinary shares. ADR stands for American Depositary Receipt and describes:
A negotiable US certificate representing ownership of shares in a non-US corporation. ADRs are quoted and traded in US dollars in the US securities market; the associated dividends are paid to investors in US dollars as well. ADRs were specifically designed to facilitate the purchase, holding and sale of non-US securities by US investors as well as providing a corporate finance vehicle for non-US issuers.
Source
You might want to check Market Watch (Google cache) for details on ADRs. I own ordinary shares, which have now risen to €128 from €89 just before TGS when I bought the first batch.
Hey Fal, its Cyrclekid (Chris), this is what they were refering too im betting.
http://www.3dh.net/overview.htm
Seems like it may work. Lemme know.
A multiple input giantsized touchscreen is unlikely to be the last secret I guess. But it looks real cool. And is certainly worthy for a next gen gameconsole/pc. Check the demo in this link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zp-y3ZNaCqs
It would be cool if the Revolution had a 3d projection screen you could manipulate by touch. Very unlikely but nonetheless a cool idea.
Too bad crossbeamstudios is probably fake. But now when you look at it, it makes sense. Same strategy as the others. They did however have interviews with al sorts of websites. Seams somebody got PUNK'D. WOW Falafelkid realy made some money on those shares, DAMN.
Hi Falafelkid - thank you for answering some of my squestions, I enjoy and respect your speculation.
I also have a question about Crossbeam Studios. I sent them a handful of songs I recorded on my own for the sole purpose of sending out to potential developers. I'm a professional musician who's looking into finding real employment in the games industry.
Anyway, Greg Szemiot responded and he seemed to be impressed with the songs I sent him. He seemed to indicate that he would like me to join his staff. Perhaps I can see for myself just how legitimate they are. Honestly, I hope that they're serious and that I got the job. if you know anything about them that i should know, Falafelkid, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you.
@Adware: Spam will be deleted.
@Cyrclekid: I spoke to 3dh on the phone and they are very tight-lipped about their work. They refuse to comment on a Nintendo connection but have said that their technology was not yet ready for mass-market implementation. That´s all they told me.
@Realmy: Thanks for the update. but I don´t think I need to cover RtR. He´s obviously fake. He has never said anything tangible anyway.
@Andy Witmyer: Hi. Concerning Crossbeam Studios: It is important to bear in mind that they have never published a game, their members are based in different countries on different continents, Kenton Bailey is one of them (who is probably busy with his other amateur studio and his news site) and they have never produced anything but concept art on their website.
No disrespect to them, but this would suggest that their projects are unlikely to ever be published on any console, since that kind of development really requires the team to be in one place. Though they have actually recruited staff, I would also be very surprised to find that their members are getting paid for their involvement. Hence, I regard them as non-professonals. Their concept art is nice and they show talent, but I don´t see any concrete evidence of serious game development there. In my opinion, they are throwing aroud too many concepts, rather than concentrating on getting one out the door (they have already cancelled projects and are still working on four, at least). I do wish them all the best for the future, though.
osaka has shot himself he has put out the "name" of the revo... calls it nex
sorry osoko
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