Sony's showing at E3 2008 didn't exactly set the world alight, but it certainly wasn't lacking impact. They announced a few new games and a few new bundles for their existing systems, while trying to stress what they'd achieved since the PlayStation 3 had launched. However, since then, their sales momentum has actually shifted the other way and this year's E3 is extremely important for them to regain that momentum moving forwards.
The biggest stickling point right now revolves around the price of their main system, the PlayStation 3. Many consumers still think it's far too expensive and while they probably don't want to, Sony surely has to address this. There have been rumours of a price cut announcement, as well as a PS3 Slim, but if only one was to happen, the price cut is probably more likely. It's not hard to envision the PlayStation 3's sales increasing considerably, even if the price cut is only $100 (£50).
Their PlayStation 3 software line-up for 2009 is looking pretty solid. Not only do they have the majority of the big third-party releases coming to their system, but the number of titles being churned out by their first-party studios is second to none. With Uncharted 2, MAG, Ratchet, God of War, Heavy Rain, White Knight Chronicles and potentially Gran Turismo 5 and Project Trico, Sony couldn't really ask for more. Also, it's highly likely that they'll also announce a few new titles as there have been some floating around that have yet to come to fruition.
The PlayStation Portable is a slightly more mixed bag. Sony have claimed they want to support it more, with some big name releases announced earlier this year and apparently a load more being announced at E3. However, with rumours about the PSP! Go, it's unclear just how dedicated they are to supporting it. The PSP is definitely a tough one to call, and I think until we know exactly what the PSP! Go is, it's difficult to say what can be won or lost.
Overall, Sony should have a good E3. They've got the largest booths at this year's show and have promised that it'll be their biggest E3 ever. Considering some of the big events they've had in the past, surely that has to get any gamer excited?
