The launch and price details of the PS3 revealed at E3 sparked a worldwide debate of whether the cost was just too much for a gaming console. Over and over again, Sony and PlayStation fanboys have argued that the cost is acceptable mostly because of the included Blu-ray disc drive. The argument is understandable; a stand-alone Blu-ray player would set you back $1,000+ in the United States.
However, being that the PS3 is a gaming console, it is obvious it is being eagerly awaited simply for its gaming capabilities and not because it includes a Blu-ray player. Many gamers are unhappy with how the console war and the next generation DVD format war have been forced together. The debate over the PS3 price will continue right up to launch, but considering the source of fans the "PlayStation" brand has - it shouldn't have a negative effect on initial sales.
Many have claimed that Nintendo stole the show at E3 this year however, proving that advancements in graphics can take a back seat to innovation. The Wii controller generated so much interest at E3 the waiting time to try it out ran into several hours quickly. Of course, the Wii console will also cost much less than the PS3.
Source:
GamesIndustry.biz