Slimmer, lighter PSP launches today -- but only in silver
Sony unveiled at this year’s E3 the second iteration of its PlayStation Portable handheld gaming system. Today, Sony announced the North American availability of the new PSP hardware that is slimmer and lighter than the previous system.
While there have been three different packages the new PSP, all of which wear the model number of PSP-2000, only one of them is launching today. Now available at retailers is the limited-edition Daxter PSP Entertainment Pack priced at $199.99.
Inside the $199 package are the "Ice Silver" colored PSP slim and light system, PSP "Greatest Hits" game Daxter, animated TV comedy, Family Guy – The Freakin' Sweet Collection on UMD and a 1GB Memory Stick PRO Duo.
"PSP sales have soared since we introduced the $169.99 price point in April, and that momentum will only continue with the launch of the newly designed PSP, which has generated strong interest among consumers since we announced it at E3," said Jack Tretton, president and CEO, SCEA. "With our growing software library, which includes more than 140 new releases in the pipeline this fiscal year, the PSP platform is poised for significant growth. The Daxter Entertainment Pack offers a great opportunity for consumers to jump in to PlayStation Portable experience with content that demonstrates the multi-functionality of the system, all for a great value."
Also launching alongside the new hardware are several peripherals that take advantage of the updated design, such as the ability to output video from the PSP to a television. 8-feet long component or composite video cables for video out retail for $19.99, while the headphones with remote control run for $29.99.
In addition to the Daxter PSP Entertainment Pack¸ SCEA will offer two additional PSP SKUs at retail at a later date. A PSP Core Pack, with PSP in "Piano Black," an AC adaptor, and battery pack, will be available later in September for $169.99. The limited-edition Star Wars PSP Entertainment Pack, including a special "Ceramic White" PSP with a silk-screened image of Darth Vader on the back of the unit along with the Star Wars Battlefront: Renegade Squadron game will be available on October 9 for $199.99.
