In a recent article in the Official PlayStation Magazine, PlayStation poster boy Kaz Hirai touched on several different issues, not the least of which was the prospective pricing levels for PS3 software.

It's an issue that's been drawing speculation all across the board for a while, even before finding out that the console itself will run for the massive $700 price level. Kaz said that you should not expect extraordinary prices on PS3 games, but is far from making that a gurantee.
Here's the quote: "Generally Speaking, over the past twelve years or so, there has been a consumer expectation that disc-based games are maybe $59 on the high end to $39 on the low end. So, what I can say now is, I think it would be a bit of a stretch to think that we could suddenly turn around and say 'PS3 Games now $99.99.' I don't think consumers expect software pricing to suddenly double. So, the quick answer is that we want to make it as affordable as possible, knowing that there is a set consumer expectation for what software has cost for the past twelve years. That's kind of the best answer I can give you. So, if it becomes a bit higher than $59, don't ding me, but, again, I don't expect it to be $100."

From this I think it's fairly obvious to conclude that PS3 games less than $60 are going to be rare, and that the regular price point may reach $70 or $80. Obviously, software pricing is crucial for such an expensive system. If they reach the unthinkable near-$100 level, it's going to even deter people who would be willing to foot the $700 console price.

Via Kotaku

Report Published by: Mark Raby