Sony had claimed it was going to make a major announcement this week but wouldn't specify precisely what, which in turn triggered widespread speculation that the platform holder was going to drop the RRP of the PS3.
Sony has also confirmed that the PS2 software library is still going strong, with the library expected to hit 1,900 titles this year.
The Playstation 2, a console which first launched in Japan nearly nine years ago, has now sold over 136 million units worldwide, making it the most popular home console in history.
Currently the Wii is selling at a faster rate, year-for-year, than the PS2. Sony, however, claims that the Playstation 2 “set the industry standard for worldwide mass market adoption”.
Sony added that the PS2 demonstrates Sony's commitment to support systems for as long as ten years.
SCEA president and CEO Jack Tretton said that the PS2’s longstanding success is a “tribute to outstanding technology, great consumer value and unprecedented development support”.
“Demand for PlayStation 2 remains strong throughout the world,” he adds, “and the new $99 price point will bring in new consumers who will discover how PlayStation platforms are an outstanding choice for their gaming and home entertainment needs.”
There is no current announcement regarding a European price drop. Edge is contacting SCEE.
Update: Corrected number of titles in PS2 library this year.