According to insider information obtained by IGN, a conference call held by Gamestop reportedly confirmed that the PlayStation 3 80GB model has been discontinued and will no longer be in production.
If true, this follows the rumors that have been reported about Sony’s plan to introduce a larger hard drive model as a replacement for the 80GB version. Speculation revolves around a new 120 or 160-gigabyte model that would include the Dual Shock 3 rumble controller.
When Sony was contacted for information about the rumors, a Sony representative replied tersely by saying, "We don’t comment on rumors and speculation. Any rumors on separate PS3 configurations or package arrangements are just that — rumors and speculation."
The constant changing of onboard hard drive configurations for the PS3 is confusing to the consumer, but it also indicates that Sony may have a lack of direction and marketing strategy as far as their PS3 models.
It’s evident that the public wants an affordable PS3, but the disorder related to the numerous hard drive models coming out every few months is only hurting the PS3 brand. So far there have been 20, 40, 60 and 80 GB versions of the PS3. Just when will it all end?
[via IGN]