Sony kills 20GB Playstation 3

WHILE it was always a bit of a dud choice, Sony has officially guillotined the 20GB model of the PlayStation 3.

Available for $100 less with a smaller hard drive and no WiFi, it was always the ugly stepchild of the 60GB PS3 which people have been plumping for. Insofar as they've been plumping for it, that is - sales figures have put the PS3 consistently behind the Wii in North America, despite Nintendo's availability and manufacturing problems.

Sony put out an interesting statement regarding the cut which we have translated for you, for your own convenience.

"At launch, we offered two separate models of PLAYSTATION 3 to meet the diverse needs and interests of our PlayStation fan base."

The PS3 was so expensive, even we weren't sure people would stump up the cash for the top-end model.

"Initial retail demand in North America was upwards of ninety percent in favor of the 60GB SKU, so we manufactured and shipped-in accordingly."

Nobody who has $499 for a console doesn't have $599. It's getting to $499 in the first place that's the issue.

"Due to the overwhelming demand for the 60GB model from both retailers and consumers, we have ceased offering the 20GB model here in North America."

There are so many 60GB units left sitting on shelves in shops, manufacturing even more of these things seems pointless.

"Based on retailer and consumer feedback, we have decided to focus our current efforts on the more popular 60GB model."

We're trying to work out how to convince people beyond PS3 zealots to buy this thing. Consider it a public service. µ