New controllers in high demand as retailers are sold-out within first month

Dubai, UAE, November 4, 2010 - Its hype is only exceeded by its success, as distributors and retailers receive additional shipments to appease high demand for PlayStation's new Move motion controller. Sales figures have exceeded overall expectations--1.5 million units have been sold across Europe, Middle East & Africa since its launch in September.

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) CEO, Andrew House, commented, "The initial sales response has been so far in excess of our initial plan that we'll probably be looking at accelerating production." PlayStation Move titles released to date include: Sports Champions, EyePet Move Edition, Kung Fu Rider and Start the Party! A second wave of Move titles are expected to amplify already-strong demand for the fun, fresh controller, which include:

  • The Shoot - 27th October

  • TV Superstars - 27th October

  • Time Crisis: Razing Storm - 3rd November

  • The Fight - 3rd November

  • SingStar Dance 3rd November

Retailers also noted the sales surge, "We were entirely out of stock! Sales were much higher than expected. It's probably one of the best products launched in this quarter for us. PlayStation Move provides the best quality alongside the best performance; when you combine PlayStation's graphics with Move's accuracy, it's a tough setup to beat!" remarked Kishan Palija, Managing Director, Geekay Group.

Tim Stokes, Director of Sales and Marketing for Sony Gulf FZE PlayStation Division commented, "The initial success of the PlayStation Move demonstrates the continued popularity of gaming in the region and opens up PlayStation to a whole new generation of gamers. 

After the remarkable inventory sell-out, retailers have received more controllers. The PlayStation Move motion controller is available in-stores for AED169 RRP, with the PlayStation Move navigation controller at AED129 RRP. The PlayStation Move Starter Pack, which comprises a PlayStation Move motion controller, PlayStation Eye camera and a Starter disc including nine playable demos is available for AED269 RRP. PlayStation Move software titles are available from AED129 RRP.

-Ends- 

About PlayStation Division, Sony Gulf FZE
PlayStation Division, Sony Gulf FZE based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and sales of PlayStation®3, PlayStation®2, PSP™ (PlayStation®Portable) and PlayStation®Network software and hardware across the Middle East & Africa

About Sony Gulf FZE
Sony Gulf FZE is a 100% subsidiary of Sony Corporation and is the regional headquarters for the Middle East and Africa regions. The company is engaged in the business of Sony Consumer Electronics, VAIO laptop computers, Computer Peripherals, Data media, Recording Media and Energy (Batteries), Mobile Electronics (Car Audio) and Computer Entertainment products in more than 40 countries in the region.

Apart from stock operations in the Jebel Ali Free Zone Establishment in Dubai, Sony Gulf FZE leads execution of various logistics, sales, marketing, advertising and customer services activities through its business partners and representative offices. A network of representative offices in Kenya, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Pakistan, in addition to well over 250 accredited third party service centres reinforces Sony's presence in key markets in the region.

Lina Abou Chaaban
PlayStation Division, Sony Gulf FZE
Tel: +971 4 886 5662
E-mail: lina.chaaban@ap.sony.com 

John Dyer
Ketchum Raad
Tel: +971 4 425 8982
E-mail: john.dyer@ketchum-raad.com 

© Press Release 2010