| hsrob said: The main point, that comparisons with Nintendo's past systems and Sega don't really apply here, has already been made. I certainly believe there will be a PS4 but not because "Nintendo still made Wii after GC" etc, that's a totally different situation for a whole host of reasons. Also I think some people need to be more careful to distinguish between profiting at a given point in time versus profiting over a longer period of time. The PS3 is, and by all accounts has been, profiting per systems sold for several months now, that's not a debate. PS3 is CURRENTLY profiting but whether it will be profitable across it's lifespan is a totally different kettle of fish. The PS3 has dug itself a 5+ billion dollar hole (not sure of the exact figure) which makes the chances of it ever breaking, even if the 10 year plan comes to fruition, pretty unlikely given that the PS2 in it's best year barely made a billion. |
THIS is the smartest response I've seen on this thread and I agree completely with your sound rationale.
The division that houses the Xbox was in a similar quandry. Its not just about becoming profitable, its about recouping the initial investment. Has MS done that even with the 360 yet? I don't think they have. They have a ways to go.
But, remember this story folks: http://www.joystiq.com/2008/08/19/the-sony-reciprocal-ps3-losses-surpass-ps2-profits/ This was nearly 2 years ago and the PS3 has steadily been a loss for Sony since, so things are actually worse in the profit/loss column than they were back then.
Then again, as with MS as well, the gaming profits/losses are all hidden in larger divisions so all we can do is listen to official spin and outside speculation as to if either ever turn a TRUE profit.
Again, good post hsrob.
