Analysts expect PS3 to benefit most from GTA IV
Oh, great, another Grand Theft Auto IV story. This one's about some analysts who believe the PlayStation 3 stands to gain the most following the release of Rockstar's go-anywhere, shoot-anybody romp. Though both the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 are certain to experience a surge in sales upon the game's April 29 release, Michael Pachter tells Reuters that Sony's system will be the winner in this battle.
He's joined by Edward Williams, from BMO Capital Markets, who suspects fans will want to keep their crime shenanigans in the family. "So many people who owned the PS2 went into PlayStation family because of 'GTA', he explains. "The release of 'GTA4' could expedite their decision to upgrade." That isn't to say that brand loyalty will overpower Microsoft's hand, as the manufacturer can still count on the Xbox 360's exclusive downloadable content and bigger install base.
IDC analyst Billy Pidgeon (who's no longer unstuck in time, it seems) notes, "Online is such a strong part of the game and Microsoft has done such a great job of developing the online community, so for people who own multiple consoles, they will buy it for the 360." So, Microsoft wins the software struggle, Sony overcomes its hardware hardships and Rockstar has a rollicking good laugh to the bank. Oh, and we get to play Grand Theft Auto IV. We're all winners here!
[Pictured: Europe's Grand Theft Auto IV PS3 bundle.]
