"Japan has got 17 more 1st party titles, which makes me ask why, if it's their weakest region."
It's not. Remember the yen exchange rate in foreign countries hurt their profits. So Japan is actually a lot stronger right now. In fact, that's probably been strong even with better exchange rates before.
A flashy-first game is awesome when it comes out. A great-first game is awesome forever.
Plus, just for the hell of it: Kelly Brook at the 2008 BAFTAs