Can it really be true? Sony is launching its next-generation console, the PlayStation 3, in New Zealand on the same day as it's released in Europe - 17 November. So it's official, we are no more or less third world than Latvia. No, good on you Sony for recognising that Kiwis play console games too.

The PS3, which will use high definition Blu-ray discs, will be released in two forms: one has a 20GB hard drive and the other a 60GB hard drive. Pricing was only offered in Euros, but with the current exchange rate translated to about NZ$1,000 and NZ$1,200. Not cheap then, but it was never likely to be.

Roll on November, we say.