The PlayStation 3 Reference Tool kit will now be available for 950,000 yen in Japan, $10,250 in North America and €7,500 in Europe, making PS3 game creation a more viable option for small and independent game developers.
New software development features, debugging tools and added support for applications such as ProDG and its SN tool suite are also being rolled out.
The move is aimed at getting more studios to adopt the technology, and making it easier to use for those that do. Sony has been criticized for the PS3’s underwhelming software library since launching just over a year ago, while some developers have admitted that it is more challenging to develop software for the PS3 than other platforms.
Sony also said that the price of the Reference Tool will be reduced further later in the console's life-cycle
"As more and more new titles are developed for the PS3 format, SCEI will significantly reduce the price of the Reference Tool in order to contribute to the cost saving measures of the development community.
"Along with this boost to the PS3 game development environment, SCEI will further reinforce its support system to the development community, and continue to further expand the PS3 platform," the company added.