HD-DVD's death prompts more console hot air

NOW THAT HD-DVD has officially died, Microsoft, Sony and analysts have all chipped in on what it means for the Playstation 3 and Xbox 360.

PS3/PSP
Thanks to a reader who has pointed out, after Monday's round-up, that Sony's PS3 PlayTV is already listed, with price, hereon HMV.com.

Sony has responded to news of its victory over Toshiba in the next-generation DVD battle by pointing to Blu-ray as "one more reason" for people to buy a Playstation 3.

According to Wedbush Morgan analyst Michael Pachter Sony could see a sales boost of around ten per cent, when he spoke to Gamesindustry.biz.

Xbox 360
Despite Sony's statements (above) stating that the PS3 will sell more now that HD-DVD has kicked the bucket, Microsoft denies that HD media sells consoles - the company believes it is purely games that sell systems.

Ralph Shackart, an analyst with William Blair, said that "Blu-ray's victory could drive market share gains for the PS3, as we believe consumers will now be more willing to pay up (versus 360) for the standard Blu-ray player."

Further RROD embarrassment came for Microsoft recently, when a display machine at the Game Developers Conference appeared to have suffered the notorious problem that has cost the company at least $1 billion. The BBC has the video.

It appears that those lucky Canadians should be receiving a $50 price drop soon. Let's hope the rest of us get similar treatment.

Wii/DS
Nintendo of Europe has announced that Wii Fit will hit Europe on April 25, a full month before the US get the game and balance board on May 12.

Meanwhile, Mario Kart Wii will hit Europe on April 11.

Dutch site GamerCC reports from France's Micromania Game Show that Nintendo let slip a planned June 6 European release date for Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

Nintendo of America has revealed that it's much-anticipated software download service,WiiWare, will be launched in North America on May 12.

If you're still thinking about buying a DS, maybe this Apple Air inspired advert will help... µ