IGNPS2 learned today that Sony Computer Entertainment America is considering partnering with at least two major third-party publishers for a kind of "relaunch" in March 2001.
For years now, Sony has looked at the upcoming roster of titles that will appear on its system and, depending on the game, it may choose to co-sponsor, or partner, with a third-party publisher to promote and market it. These efforts include extra money from Sony for television ads and cross-promotions, such as with soda and pizza companies, for example. Come March, Sony looks to be partnering with at least two major companies, Konami and Square.
The support makes good sense. And it explains why The Bouncer, which is essentially all but complete for a US release, is being delayed until March. This March Sony plans to deliver on its promise of having shipped 3 million PlayStation 2 units to retail, and wants to support this effort with stellar games for consumers to purchase. One look at the month of March will tell you that it truly is the time to get a PlayStation 2. Why? Sony will most likely deliver the absolutely gorgeous Gran Turismo 3 A-Spec, while Konami will bring the stunning Z.O.E. (Zone of the Enders), and Square will likewise offer its beautiful fighter, The Bouncer, all tentatively scheduled for March 2001. Additionally, Konami will also bring out Shadow of Destiny and Ring of Red in March.
For all intents and purposes, March is a truly significant month for Sony. The company needs to regenerate a strong positive vibe for PS2, which has certainly dwindled since the October launch. With the exception of Sky Odyssey and a few EA games, the months of November and December haven\'t seen strong next-generation software to back up Sony\'s uber-hype concerning the system\'s capabilities. But to back the PS2 up in March with solid hardware availability (3 million units) and strong software (The Bouncer, ZOE, and GT3) will speak volumes for Sony.
"We have a co-marketing program that\'s been going on for years," said a Sony representative. "I can\'t comment on any titles that we have support for in the future, but I\'m sure we will support some. We\'re certainly going to support third party titles, especially the good ones. It totally depends on the company. I don\'t know if any commitments have been made, but I\'m sure we are in discussions. I can certainly tell you that GT3 will have substantial support."
We\'ll have more on all of these games in the near future.
After reading this, I\'ve already told my mom, that she better be ready for a very high credit card. My question is, will everyone be ready, and will you get all the good games on the same day.
Be sure to tell those who are looking for a PS2 to be ready in Mid-January for there\'s. While the rest of us who have one but are ready for some neat games be ready.
This is a very neat treat by Sony to give us a "SECOND LAUNCH"
And yes I have already posted this up before, this time with a new theme to it, So that this post will sound a little interesting.
