The head of Sony Computer Entertainment, Kazuo Hirari has revealed pricing details and availability of the PlayStation Vita, its upcoming successor to the PSP. However, while Japan will get it before the end of the year, the rest of us will have to wait till next year before we get it.
“Our plan right now is to launch in Japan by the end of the year, and then in North America and European markets early in the new year,” Hirari told reporters.
Specific dates were not released, but he notes that the Vita will be priced at US$249 for the Wi-Fi only version and US$299 for the 3G/Wi-Fi version. However, the Nintendo 3DS still undercuts it with its new pricepoint of US$169.99.
However, Hirari remains fazed by the price cut from its competitor, telling the AP, “We packed so much into the device and made it very affordable. There is no need to lower the price just because somebody else that happens to be in the video game business decided that they were going to lower their price.”
On the bright side, you can buy the Nintendo 3DS and then get the PS Vita once you save up enough money.