Sony will now discontinue production of both 20GB and 60GB models in Japan,

20GB, 60GB PS3s axed in Japan

If you want a PS3 that plays PS2 games, the race is truly on because, flowing the killing of 60GB PS3's here in the West, Sony will now discontinue production of both 20GB and 60GB models in Japan, too.

An official statement reads: "Along with both the increased efforts to improve software development environment and the availability of a more extensive line-up of software titles for PS3, SCEI will vigorously promote the expansion of the PS3 platform by further concentrating on the 40GB HDD (CECHH00 Series) model introduced in November 2007, equipped with the core technology components that make PS3 the most advanced high-definition entertainment system while realizing lower power consumption."

That leaves just the 40GB version, which lacks PS2 BC support (although PS1 support remains) and chops two of the older model's four USB ports as well.

We plan to keep our 60GB full-fat PS3s in mint condition for 200 years, then sell the 'OMG RARE!!11' console for about 80 million quid.

Sony discontinuing 20GB and 60GB PS3 in Japan
The PlayStation maker has axed the two more expensive models of the console in the region.
The newest PlayStation 3 SKU, the 40GB machine, has proved a controversial choice for those who hoped that their next-generation console would play PlayStation 2 games. According to Sony, the 40GB PS3 is not backwards compatible in any way, shape, or form.

It is, however, cheaper. And it looks like the price is right for Japanese gamers, as the new model--released in the region in both piano black and ice white colours in October--has helped Sony gain market share, according to Bloomberg.

At the moment there are three different PS3 models on sale in the region, the 20GB, the 40GB, and the 60GB. Price-wise, the 40GB is the cheapest of the three, weighing in at 39,800 yen ($362), followed by the 20GB at 44,980 yen ($410), and the 60GB, which retails for 54,980 yen ($501).

Sony intends to whittle this down to leave just the 40GB model on sale in the country. In the UK, a similar plan is underway, as the 60GB model has been given a price cut (£350, $687) as it is phased out, with the plan to leave only the 40GB (£300, $589) on sale.

In the US, the 40GB PS3 ($399) is also on sale, along with an extra large 80GB model ($499).
Tokyo (eCanadaNow) - On Thursday, Sony announced plans to drop the 20-gigabyte and 60-gigabyte PlayStation 3 (PS3) in Japan.

The company said the move is designed to better focus on the 40-gigabyte model.

Unlike the other models, the 40GB unit does not support PlayStation 2 (PS2) games. The unit also uses less energy, allowing Sony to use smaller components, AHN reported.

In addition to focusing their attention on the 40GB model, Sony will "vigorously promote the expansion of the PS3 platform" throughout 2008, with "increased efforts to improve software development environment and the availability of a more extensive line-up of software titles for PS3."

Late last year, Sony cut the PS3 line in the European market as well.

Across the U.S and Canada, gaming fans still have a choice between all models of the PS3.