How the PS3 Could Carve Itself a Niche

While I have no doubt that the recent release of the PS3 Slim and the price cut that has gone along with it will increase sales of the PS3 I'm not sure that will be enough. I know that Sony likes to brand them selves as the "premium" console, but I think there is a different direction they could go that could help them tremendously.

As video games are continued to be recognized as a legitimate art form the comparisons to movies and the cinema have grown. Besides the obvious correlations I think that Sony should take a new stance with the PS3. Instead of being branded the "premium" console, why not brand them selves the "art house" brand? Think of the console exclusives that have really stood out on the PS3 since its release. Metal Gear Solid 4, Little Big Planet, Infamous, and the upcoming FFXIII and Heavy Rain. The PS3 has been a haven for the kind of games that appeal to select gamers who may be looking for something a little different from the typical War/Sports/Family fare.

Think of it this way. The Xbox 360 has scored major hits with the carnage, dull color palate, and churn out another sequel every year crowd. You could easily equate this to movies like Transformers, or the latest super hero movie. There is nothing wrong with the latest Transformers film; it is fun, and entertaining. The same can be said for games like Gears of War. Its fun, it's entertaining, but would not be considered great art.

On the other side we have games like Metal Gear Solid, that attempt, and I think succeed, to create a game that goes a little higher in terms of the story and game play. It is unique in the world of gaming, breaking boundaries and crossing genres, and the films shown in art houses and produced by the independent film studios do the same thing. And it's a place I think the PS3 could thrive.

They aren't going to catch up to the 360, it's just not going to happen this generation. Instead why not position themselves as the brand of choice for those who want more than just the typical FPS, or multi-platform title. Play up the underdog status, and switch from the pimple faced teenager focus, to the discerning adult with taste.

Of course I bought mine because I got it cheap...so maybe I'm just wrong. Thoughts?

P.S. I know I left the Wii out. One of the few things I agree with Sony and Microsoft about is that they aren't really competing with the Wii. I haven't turned mine on in over a year...