Ok, it wasn't a massive surprise given all the leaks but Sony has officially unveiled the PS3 Slim. The new iteration of the PS3 launches in the "1st week of September" for 299 Euros/Dollars. Or around 250 pounds in the UK. The console comes with a 120gb hard drive and - Sony stat alert! - is apparently 32% smaller, 36% lighter, and has 34% less power consumption. Will it boost sales by similar figures? But it wasn't just the PS3 Slim. The new download only version of the PSP - PSPGo - was also shown off.
The biggest Go announcement concerned Gran Turismo PSP. The long awaited racer will be available for a free download to anyone who registers their new PSP Go before Oct 10th. Yes, this is clearly designed to fend off criticism of the handheld's price point but it is good news nonetheless. The PSP will also see the launch of "mini" download games limited to 100mb in size - think Tetris etc - that are clearly designed to attract more casual gamers and, presumably, those used to buying similar sized games for their iPhone.
What else? Retailers and gamers unwilling or too young to have a credit card will be pleased to hear news that PSN cards (20 and 50 euros) will be available. Sony also announced that the BBC iPlayer will appear on the XMB of UK PS3's very soon.
What do you think then? Will the Slim tempt you to get a PS3? Will the Go reinvigorate the PSP?
