PlayStation 4: Probably A Lot Like PS3 But With Newer Components.

The website cites an anonymous source from a top developer, though naturally no names were mentioned. Rumours have already pledged an XBOX 360 unveiling for 2012, though they were resolutely denied.

Analysts were less confident about IndustryGamers' rumour:

"I think it's unlikely [that PS4 will be announced in 2012]. Wii U isn't going to pressure anyone, it's Nintendo's catch up to this cycle, and the other guys are going to see if the tablet integration is worth copying first. That means nobody is going to finalize specs till they see if Wii U succeeds. I am sticking to 2014, so an 'unveil' in 2013," said Wedbush Securitites analyst Michael Pachter.

EEDAR's Jesse Divinch added: "The interactive entertainment industry is rapidly evolving and broadening. No longer is the idea of 'video games' limited to a traditional console and a PlayStation-style controller and the inability to play these touch and social games on traditional consoles are hindering factors for all three major players.

"Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo all have a similar goal; they want their consoles to be constantly powered on in the household - from watching movies, television, and of course playing games. But as the mobile, tablet, and social sector grow, it is forcing gamers to go outside of the traditional console experience to interact with these emerging style of games. Of course, I do admit that Microsoft is certainly the forerunner and their recent E3 2011 presentation certainly paints a clear picture that the future of consoles are not 'video game consoles,' but a complete entertainment medium.

"I don't feel the Wii U is a threat to either Microsoft or Sony's current platforms. I believe the biggest threat remain themselves and their attempt to elongate this current cycle. The data is pretty clear; it is incredibly tough to launch successful new IPs late in a cycle, as there is simply too much consumer muscle memory that hinders our desire to play new IPs. Consumers are more open to trying new IPs and new style of games when the technology itself is relatively new. It is very tough for consumers to break habit.

"Just ask yourself, would Avatar have been as successful if it wasn't in 3D (which at the time was a new way of experiencing movies)? Would Avatar have been successful if it launched 2 years from now? Probably not, on both counts."

We suppose a late 2012 unveiling with a 2013 release would be feasible for Sony's new platform. That said, we're not sure we're ready to start talking about new PlayStation hardware just yet. The Vita's going to be enough to scratch our hardware itch for some time yet, and it still feels like the PS3's got juice left in it. After all, the system still retails for $300. Sony's yet to even hit a mass-market price-point with the thing.

[source industrygamers.com]