E3 2009: 'Mature games cratering on DS' says Sony's John Koller

Sony's John Koller took the opportunity to strike at the Nintendo DS during E3, telling us that "mature games are cratering" on the dual screen machine. Clearly referencing the abysmal performance of mature-rated DS exclusive Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars, he delineated the strength of PSP in catering to a wider audience.

"The difference is striking," he observed. Thedirector of hardware marketing highlighted distinctions between hardware, games, and consumer reception as a source of strength for PSP. While DS has outsold PSP significantly in terms of install base, PSP has been the only driver of mature handheld games.

Koller admitted Nintendo DS has seen strong acceptance among younger audiences, though pointed out that significant inroads have been made with that group in recent months. "Ever since the launch of PSP in 2005, we started with young men and started trending downward to teens and now pre-teens." The announced Hannah Montana bundle is a move to capitalise on this trend.

"The way we see it," Koller confided, "you start with DS and grow up to PSP." A generation of increasingly savvy digital consumers means a higher demand for digital content and a wider array of entertainment experiences. Koller argues PSP is the only genuine option for this young generation.