While Microsoft has finally seen the error of their ways (by releasing a redesigned console with a lower price point) some degree of damage has already been done. In fact, Sony can still remember the day they received the good news!
In a recent interview, PlayStation boss Scott Rohde looked back to E3 of last year, and the sheer joy experienced upon learning their competitor’s console would be released with such a bloated price tag. “I’m not gonna lie. I remember exactly where I was. We were in press conference rehearsals last year…we were dancing in the aisles and high-fiving. It was great. Anyone that came in on an interview, it didn’t matter what the question was, I could always just answer it with $399. It was the answer to every question.” He laughs.
While it would seem a blind man could see the folly in Microsoft’s plan from the start, history shows us their decision to stay the course seriously hurt their first year launch. But don’t forget, the PlayStation has not always enjoyed this level of success either. In reference to the shortcomings of the PS3 vs its 360 counterpart, Rohde said, “We thought we could overcome Microsoft in the previous generation…and completely misjudged how much the market could bear in terms of price point. Also, coming out a year late, it took us some catch up…”
Microsoft’s latest bundle (sans the motion-sensing Kinect technology) has finally put them on an even keel with their Sony rival, with both consoles retailing for $399.99 as of June.