Video Game Retailers Gear Up for PlayStation 2 Launch

Babbage's announced today that its stores will begin selling the PlayStation 2 console at midnight on October 25. Only those who have preordered the console and have been contacted by Babbage's will be able to purchase it from Babbage's at this time.

"Demand for the system is unprecedented, and we expect the launch will result in spectacular sales and inventory turnover for Babbage's," said Dan Dematteo, president of Babbage's "As the world's largest specialty retailer of video game and PC entertainment software, we have been working around the clock to prepare for the launch and ensure our customers the broadest selection of games and accessories."

PlayStation 2 demo kiosks have been featured in several Babbage's stores this past week.

It was also announced today that PRN Partners will broadcast demonstrations of 22 PlayStation titles on the Wal-Mart in-store retail network beginning on October 26. Several of the 22 games will not be available in stores until a later date. PRN stated that consumers will have the ability to compare PlayStation 2 software to PlayStation and Nintendo 64 software to help decide which console better suits their needs. It was not specified which titles are slated for demonstration.