Demand Disclosure and Equality on Sony PSP Launch in Europe

Dear Sir/Madam,

Since the announcement of the Sony PSP at the E3 of 2004, we've been waiting impatiently for it to hit the shelves in Europe on what was estimated to be mid December. Such a beautiful handheld would surely fulfill many of our gaming needs and/or desires, and even in time for the holidays, or so we were lead to believe

As days became months and time slowly passed by, it was becoming painfully evident that a European / American launch during the Christmas holidays would be out of the question due to a shortage of assembly parts; apparently there wasnt enough stock to keep up with the gigantic demand. The ironic part is, everyone had foreseen this problem, except Sony who focused their production on the new PS2. A choice I find regrettable towards the early adopters, hardcore fans of the PS franchise and last but not least gamers in general.

For days the undersigned wept uncontrollably like a little child whose candy had been taken from him by some evil torturing Nintendo fanboy, while America and Japan got their hands on the NDS during that period. It felt like great injustice had been done upon the European people, who didnt even have the latter; good news on the other hand is that Nintendo's european release date for the NDS had already been published ages ago, and is due to launch in a day or 5 by time of writing; take example of this Sony!

Somewhat left behind with a disappointing feeling towards Sony Japan, we were informed that the U.S. release would occur on the 24th of March. Also, the value pack was estimated to be 250 USD and the first one million units would ship with a spider-man 2 UMD. This information still holds up to this very day. Great news one would say, were it not that undersigned -along with millions of others- live in Europe which almost seems to be like a handicap when it comes down to these things, especially when it comes down to the unit price where it will be significantly higher due to taxes.

Up to this very day, we Europeans are still being left out in the cold with no clue whatsoever as of when the European launch will occur; we dont even know as little as the definite units price. One would think some conspiracy theory is the reason behind all this.

The existence of a corporate pardon my proverbial French- shhhlist, where Europe somehow managed to reach top position, has been suggested several times within the gaming community and the contrary has yet to be proven; then again, the author of this letter probably played Splinter-cell one too many times on an aged console instead of a certain new powerful handheld.

However it may be, apparently the earlier discussed handicap isnt just limited to the consumer; even store holders dont have the faintest clue on this matter or have agreed upon a disclosure which prohibits them from sharing any info on the matter.

One should reflect upon themselves on the question as where that leaves the consumer, if even store holders cant provide them with accurate information; enquiring at Sony Europe results in mere vague estimate with an error range of several months. This information is probably as useful as having next to nothing.

What the undersigned is trying to say is that your company doesnt just have a fanbase in Japan and America. This neglecting behavior towards Europe simply wont do; its been happening unnoticed for quite some time now, up to the moment where the undersigned finds that enough is enough. Some emphasis must be put where due!
But who am I alone; just a mere mortal, another face in the crowd, another second rate consumer probably from your point of view instead of a valued customer. At least thats the idea Ive been getting during this postponement period and many would probably agree; by all means, prove me wrong.

My voice alone isnt powerful enough to be heard and to establish a significant change. It is for this reason that Ive called upon an online petition for people who share the same point of view and wish to see this being changed within the near future. Hopefully hundreds, thousands or perhaps boldly put millions will be collectively heard and strike some cord within your organization.

Please dont ever forget that European gamers also contribute to the success of your consoles and have done so in the past and will continue to do so in the future, depending on your policy on launch dates and information spreading.

Yours truly,
Ninh Bui by day, self-proclaimed l33t gamer by night, saying hi from the Netherlands.

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