The ‘console wars’ are nothing new, and gamers have been fighting over which platform is best for years. More mature punters adopt a neutral stance. Instead of vigorously supporting one console, they are able to appreciate the pros and cons of different devices without becoming emotionally invested.

Having said that, it is important to recognize and acknowledge value improvements and the company to be praised for this most in 2009 is without a doubt Sony.

Not only did they release the refurbished PS3 Slim 120GB, but they lowered its price significantly and backed it up with a number of excellent exclusive releases.

PS3 Slim and price cut

The most significant move from Sony this year was reducing the cost of the PS3 from $400 to $300, or from R4,900 to R3,800 locally. Previously regarded by many as overpriced, the PS3 120GB Slim now offers increased storage capacity and a more efficient design than its predecessor at a significantly lower price point.

This has resulted in the PS3 Slim offering more for less, and has dramatically increased the value proposition of the console.

In comparison, Microsoft reduced the price of the Xbox Elite and removed the Pro edition. While this was a welcome move, it did not match up to Sony’s, a fact that is reflected in recent sales figures. 

PS3 exclusives in 2009

Title	Metacritic Score
Uncharted 2	96
Killzone 2	91
Ratchet and Clank Future: A Crack in Time	86
inFamous	85
Ninja Gaiden Sigma 2	83
God of War Collection	93
Demon’s Souls	89
Wipeout HD Fury (expansion)	89
Trine	83
Flower	87
Noby Noby Boy	75
Fat Princess	79
Shatter	86

While price cuts and hardware revisions are great, they mean little if not backed up by worthwhile software support, and there has been no shortage in this department for PS3 owners in 2009. Apart from the vast majority of games which are multiplatform, Sony has enjoyed a number of console exclusive titles over the past year which makes it a highly desirable gaming platform.

Microsoft also had its fair share of exclusives in 2009, including Forza 3, Halo 3: ODST and Trials HD among others. However, Sony’s notably strong software line-up coupled with the PS3 Slim and price cut are likely to result in many remembering 2009 as the year the PS3 found its feet.

Do you disagree? Was the Xbox 360 the better console in 2009? Share your thoughts in the forums