Sony gave a firm release date today for its Playstation Portable console, setting the 1st of September as the magical date. From that day customers will be able to purchase a "Value Pack" priced at £179 (€249).

The Value Pack consists of the PlayStation Portable system, a pouch, a 32MB Memory Stick Duo for storing data and software, a Battery Pack, Headphones with Remote Control, AC Adaptor, Wrist Strap, cloth and a video/music/game sampler Universal Media Disc (UMD) including several non-interactive game demos.

A copy of Spider-Man 2, on UMD Video will also be available free of charge to early purchasers, which will have to be ordered through http://www.yourpsp.com .