Format holders have level playing field in next-gen battle - EA

All three next-generation format holders are expected to have an equal footing in the next-generation console battle, according to publisher Electronic Arts.

In the eyes of the worldâs largest games publisher, Sonyâs traditional dominance of the home console market will not continue in the face of the launch of Nintendoâs Wii and the steady growth of Microsoftâs Xbox 360.

âOver the course of the new cycle, EA expects a more even playing field among the three video game consoles in contrast to Sonyâs dominance during the previous two cycles,â said Colin Sebastian, senior research analyst at Lazard Capital Markets.

The publisher has also expressed minimal concern over the delayed launch of the PlayStation 3 in Europe, according to Sebastian.

âEA management does not appear surprised by Sonyâs announced delay of the PS3 launch in Europe, though we believe there could be a few tweaks to EAâs launch line-up.â

âHowever, we do not expect a meaningful impact on the fiscal year outlook,â he added.

With the playing field levelled, publishers and retail look set to benefit from three strong performing consoles.

âBased on our conversations with EA, we maintain our overall positive view of the company, specifically the prospects for healthy long-term growth,â said the analyst.

âAccording to EA, the retail channel remains relatively clean ahead of the important holiday selling season,â said the analyst.