Reducing the gap between the North American and European PS3 launch will also be a priority

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) president David Reeves believes Sony's 2006 plans for the PlayStation 3 aren't as out of alignment as rumors would suggest, though he did admit that how well things remain on track will depend on the success of integrating technologies like Sony's beloved Blu-Ray. Reeves does confirm that SCEE is working hard to prevent a European PS3 launch from falling too far behind the North American debut.

"I do know what’s going to be happening and I am – honestly – very, very confident about it." When asked by one studio worker about suggestions of a delayed Euro launch, Reeves answered: "It is my job to match day and date with the US launch. I am doing my best to make that happen."

The fears still linger, however. According to comments made by Taiwanese contract manufacturer Compeq earlier this week, PS3 manufacturing will commence starting this June or July. Should this be true, a Spring 2006 launch for the PS3 is out of the question for Japan, potentially pushing back the console's release in other key territories.

While details of the PS3 launch remain sketchy, Koei president Kiyoshi Komatsu has a hunch SCE will at least divulge a little more information regarding the console itself at a conference next week.