NPD reaction: Sony focuses on future, PS3 functionality

Sony Computer Entertainment of America senior director of corporate communications Patrick Seybold has responded to the NPD's hardware and software sales data for April of 2009, focusing on titles slated for release on the PlayStation 3 later this year, as well as the console's non-gaming functions.

"We're revving up the new fiscal year with a broad tent of content and services across our platforms with envelope-pushing PS3 games like inFAMOUS, MAG, and Uncharted 2: Among Thieves," said Seybold.

While full sales data for PlayStation 3 and PlayStation Portable titles was not disclosed by the NPD group, it should be noted that only one title for a Sony platform - EA's The Godfather II for PS3 - made an appearance on April's top ten sales list, at 91,000 units. Hardware sales for the PS3 were also down, at 127,000 units compared to 187,000 units in April 2008.

Rather than comment on these figures, Seybold discussed SCEA's marketing strategy for the remainder of the year, revealing that it will focus on the PS3's non-gaming functionality and features.

"We often hear from our customers that they're surprised by everything the PS3 does in addition to what they purchased the device for - including features like DLNA, free access to Wi-Fi and internet browser," said Seybold. "In some ways, this serves as a reminder that there's more we can do to relay the full breadth and power of the PS3.

"We know our consumers have varying entertainment lifestyles from the Blu-ray movie fanatic to photo enthusiast, so we've outlined our most aggressive marketing plans to help showcase this tremendous value proposition to all our consumers.

"We've got a proven history in delivering the best entertainment experience and there is no doubt the PlayStation brand is staged for another big year."