Sony announce European PSP release date and details

Sony has finally revealed the European release date of the PSP. The system will be available on September 1st 2005 and will retail for £179 (ââ€Â¬249). As was the case in the US, the PSP will only be available as part of a Value Pack which contains a pouch, 32MB Memory Stick Duo, Battery Pack, Headphones with Remote Control, AC Adaptor, Wrist Strap, cloth and a video/music/game sampler Universal Media Disc which includes several non-interactive game demos.

Notably missing from that pack is the movie Spider-Man 2. The first million Value Packs that shipped in the US included a free copy of the movie on UMD. European PSP buyers will have to register their PSPs at yourpsp.com in order to receive a copy of the movie, although it is unclear how many people will receive it.

“PlayStation Portable will revolutionise portable entertainment, giving users the freedom to play full 3D games, watch movies, listen to music and connect wirelessly on their terms, wherever and whenever they wish to do so,” said David Reeves, President of SCEE. “More than ever, today’s consumer demands access to their personal entertainment outside the home, without compromising quality. With more than 100 PlayStation Portable game titles currently in development worldwide, and the ability to download and listen to music, and view feature films with breathtaking screen quality, PlayStation Portable lets users control their entertainment options, all in a single package.”

That just about sums up the announcement. No launch games have been announced, but we can assume the main US launch titles will be present along with games such as Medievil and F1 from Sony. We’ll keep you updated on news about stock levels for the European launch and the launch games as we hear more.

For more info on the PSP check out our exclusive video feature on the unit. We also have a few gameplay clips of some of the US launch titles.