Could be possibly due to rumors that MS is planning a reveal in May. I could definitely see this stealing some of the buzz around that. Smart move.

and also visa versa

Now everyone will get what they wanted from the start!

YAY plastic housing!!!

Yep. Also great timing since the bad rumours about the Nextbox are just going to keep circulating, unless MS is willing to comment on it (which probably won't happen until the unveil, at the end of May).

Please explain. I don't see how you could feel pressure from MS when they have yet to unveil anything and the bits and pieces that are coming out (Although they are rumors at this point) are bringing MS nothing but negativity in the media and gaming community.

Sony is doing a much better job than what either MS is doing (nothing) or what Nintendo did with the WiiU (long, drawn out 2-year reveal with few impressive games) in launching the PS4. But myself I would reveal the system box at e3. It will only take a second to do, and as such would make for a pretty boring solo conference. But revealing the actual box at e3 could help hype the games they would then show.

Early may right after their fiscal results sounds good. 1-2 weeks before 21 may would be the best time.

I say go for it....gives more "room" at E3 for other aspects and can make the conference more about just games and what the system will give us the consumers.

Well its what MS hasn't shown and that feeling of mystery.

But we know MS plays dirty and moneyhats, not to mention acquired a shitload of devs in the past 2 years. Lets not get into MS's marketing budget compared to Sonys.

So Sony is possibly having a 2nd event before E3 because they are nervous from MS being quiet?

Sorry but I don't buy that one bit.

If they are doing this it is simply because it draws out the unveiling process, thus keeping the new console in the limelight and then while hype is still going strong they can dedicate their entire E3 conference to showing off games without the hardware taking up any of their time.