And a bit about that other system.  That’s near the bottom.

So it’s finally here.  Did you see it? Or did you spend days outside only to be turned away?  Here are all of the reports and commentary I could find on the PS3.

One analyst is speculating that there may only be 150,000 to 200,000 systems available for the launch, which is about half of the number that Sony recently promised, after they cut their target from 1.2-2 million to 400k (http://biz.gamedaily.com/industry/feature/?id=14447).

The PS3 is currently having trouble playing over 200 PS1 and PS2 titles.  It’s better than what Microsoft has offered in terms of backwards compatibility to date and they’re working to fix it.  Just don’t expect to play that copy of Tekken 5 just yet.  Sony has already released a software update fixing a few of the problems, though (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/745/745439p1.html).  Also, sorry Guitar Hero II fans.  The game, which is incredibly awesome (seriously.  Even if you’re not in to games of this sort it’s a heck of a good time.  Borrow it or head to your local Best Buy to check out a demo.  To locate a Best Buy nearest you, look out your #$%*@&! window.), will not run on the PS3 at this time (http://ps2.ign.com/articles/745/745330p1.html). =(

Most of the launch titles are ports of stuff already out, with a couple of exceptions (below).  This is to be expected for most system launches and was certainly the case with the 360.  The Wii is skating by on a gimmick (albeit a really cool gimmick, one that might become something more than a gimmick) and Zelda.

Now for the good:

There will hopefully be 750,000 PS3’s available by year’s end in the U.S (check the first linked article).  If you keep checking the major retailers you might get lucky.

If you can’t find a PS3 there’s hope for you yet!  The Wii is looking to be far more available and cheaper, and has a pretty solid launch list.  They’re not all ports like the PS3, but in general are good, not great.  The exception for the Wii is Zelda which is getting stellar reviews.  I wouldn’t know as I’ve never been a fan of Zelda (sue me) but if that’s your thing you’re apparently in for a treat (http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/928519.asp).  There’s also the 360, which is making a strong showing this Christmas and is well stocked.  As usual the system’s fortes are sports, racing and shooters but if like that stuff you can’t really go wrong.  There are plenty of games being released for the PS2 as well.  So, as long as you’re not desperate for the newest of the new, you should be in good shape this Christmas.