Australian PSP Launch Details

Just a quick post to mention that Sony Computer Entertainment Australia have finally announced an official launch date and price for the PSP. From the 1st of September 2005 (which is also the Euro launch date), the so-called "PSP value pack" (which includes the PSP and soft-case, 32MB memory stick duo, headphones with remote, AC adaptor, wrist strap, cleaning cloth and non-interactive demo UMD) will be available in Australia for AU$429.95. The standalone (non value-pack) PSP will not be available down under.

This announcement places the PSP at more than twice the price of Nintendo's DS. More significantly, it means that Australians can import PSP's more cheaply right now than they will eventually be able to buy them locally. Given that a PSP bought anywhere in the world can play games from anywhere else in the world, the region coding concerns that usually prevent casual gamers from importing consoles are not an issue for the PSP.

You can read SCE Australia's official press release here.