New PS3 bundles revealed for Europe

Buying a next-generation console has never been more complicated. Alongside the Arcade, Pro, and Elite versions of the Xbox 360 (which feature no hard drive, 20GB, and 120GB respectively), there are also multiple SKUs of the PlayStation 3, which have varied between 20GB, 40GB, 60GB, and 80GB depending on geographical region. Even the handhelds aren't safe: The Nintendo DS became the DS Lite, and the PlayStation Portable is now the PSP Slim & Lite (or PSP-2000). Only the Wii has so far seemed to remain immune to the multiple-SKU trend.

Bundling consoles with various controllers, games, and movies has also been a growing trend--and European consumers are about to get another set of choices. GameSpot's sister site, French language GameKult.com, is reporting that Sony Computer Entertainment Europe is set to release two new PlayStation 3 bundles in Europe. Sony also recently announced a Metal Gear Solid 4 bundle in the US.

The first new European PS3 bundle, due to arrive on March 19, is movie-focused--it will include a 40GB PS3 and the films 300, Casino Royale, and Spider-Man 3 on Blu-ray as well as a Sixaxis controller. GameKult reports that this bundle will retail for €399 (approximately £300, or $600). At the same price but arriving on March 28, the second bundle will include a 40GB PS3, a Sixaxis controller, and a copy of Gran Turismo 5 Prologue.

[UPDATE]A Sony UK representative confirmed that the Gran Turismo 5 bundle will be heading to the UK as well, with a target date set for the end of March, although it currently has no plans to release the movie bundle in the UK.