AFTER months of anticipation, the new PlayStation 4 (PS4) games console has finally been launched.
Some eager gamers queued for more than 24 hours to be among the first to get their hands on Sony’s next-generation entertainment system.
The focal point was the PS4 Lounge in Covent Garden, where a limited number of the £349 consoles were sold on a first-come, first-served basis after midnight.
Hundreds of stores around the country also opened during the night.
With pre-orders sold out since August, being at the launch may have been one of the last chances to get a PS4 before Christmas, with demand likely to outstrip supply for the weeks ahead.
Plumstead rapper Tinie Tempah treated queuing fans in central London to a performance and said ahead of it: “I have always been a big gaming fan and it's such an honour to be involved. The crowds are very excited and I intend to whip them into even more of a frenzy just before the clock strikes 12."
Imran Choudhary, from London, was the first person in line outside the main PlayStation venue. He said excitement in the queue was “electric”.
He added; "It was always my goal to try and be one of the first people in the country to get hold of a PS4.
"It certainly takes a lot of commitment and it's been a bit cold out here but it will all be worth it when I get my console."
Fergal Gara, managing director of PlayStation, said: "The response to the PS4 has been phenomenal and we are so grateful for the support and enthusiasm we have seen from gamers who have pre-ordered, as well as those who have shown such dedication in the queue.
"This is a launch PlayStation fans have been really looking forward to; the excitement is plain to see."
Ian Chambers, chief digital officer for retailer Game, estimated stores would be shifting “shifting hundreds of consoles a minute” after opening at midnight.
He said: "Demand has been phenomenal with pre-order levels four times higher than we saw for PS3.”
Have you got a PS4 yet? What’s it like? What made you choose the PlayStation over the recently released Xbox One? Add your comments below.
Sony announces PlayStation 4 (PS4) apps and services available after launch
Christmas gift guide 2013: Top 10 video games and other ideas for gadget fans
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel