Speaking to CVG in Cologne last week, the former EA Games boss predicted that Sony's combination of innovation, technology and a strong software line-up will give the platform holder a smoother experience than Nintendo, which was forced to introduce a 3DS price cut less than five months after launch.

"I think that part of the videogame business is tough right now because they have had some significant competition come in that was totally disruptive, and that was the smartphone," Gibeau said.

"I think [Sony has] got a shot because they have some really unique innovation in the control scheme, the technology and the screen. It's got a lot of social features now so that you can actually communicate with your friends and be social.

"You can't ring them up by putting the device up to your ear but in general I think they've got most of the capabilities that you'd find in a smart phone, with some unique capabilities that make them stand out."

The EA Labels president said Vita's software line-up will have the edge on Nintendo's handheld.

"I don't think they're quite in the same boat as the 3DS... the 3DS was a really interesting piece of technology but I think there was some confusion over it and the title slate was a little different," he said.

"I think Vita has a better chance because it has a stronger title slate at launch. PSP's had a great run in Europe as a device, it seems to have reached a much larger audience here than it did in North America. So I think they've got a good shot. We're going to publish a few games on it and see how it develops."

In the same interview, the EA Labels president told CVG the publisher is looking to re-imagine and bring back "a couple" of classic franchises."

the 3ds has the holiday season without competition in two regions adding to an already extensive headstart, so regardless this is going to be a difficult fight for the vita