Speaking in light of NPD hardware sales for February, simExchange analyst Jesse Divnich observes that the PlayStation 3 is gaining “considerable ground” on the Xbox 360, suggesting Microsoft needs to cut the price of its console in order counter the Sony surge.
Divnich commented, “Whether there is an Xbox 360 shortage or not, it is clear that the PS3 has gained considerable ground on its rival."
"Given these past two months and the momentum that the PS3 has gained, Microsoft must react quickly as the PS3’s momentum will only get stronger until Microsoft reacts."
Indeed, in order to counter the spike in PS3 sales, Divnich notes that Microsoft must follow similar measures recently undertaken in Europe; namely, a price cut for the Xbox 360 in North America.
"In the short-term, Microsoft’s only feasible and economical option is to look at reducing its hardware price in North America to at least slow down the PS3’s momentum until it can implement more long-term solutions to winning the next-generation console war."
Evidently, Sony’s fortunes so far this year look to be on the rise, and with the release of several high profile titles on the horizon, including Metal Gear Solid 4, this auspicious trend looks set to continue throughout 2008.