Sony: Raised R&D Costs Related to PS4 Launch

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Originally Posted by Maximus

That Sony are spending ¥50bn on PS4 R&D indicates the console will be out sometime in 2012/13. Probably in 2012 for Japan...

You can't read a release date from a sum of money! That makes no sense at all.

I think 2014 is a sensible suggestion.

This years E3 is about the NGP which we know launches at the end of this year.

So at E3 2012 Sony formally confirm PS4 is on the way. But I can't see it getting a 2012 release as I can't believe they are that far into its development. The way the industry is these days, someone would be leaking info if there was anything really concrete going on. I believe Sony when they say work is under way, but at a very early stage.

So E3 2013 could be the actual reveal of the console itself with playable units at the show.

That leaves late 2013 or early 2014 as the most likely release point. Most likely staggered as is usual with consoles to ensure stocks for each region.

I just don't believe the world needs or wants another PlayStation or Xbox right now. Ninty have no choice, they know Wii sales have peaked hence the price drop to clear stocks. Sony and MS on the other hand have just released new peripherals for their machines to extend their lifespan. Of course they will look at options, at what a new console might offer, but the actual devices won't be in homes for another few years. In my opinion anyway