Collectible Games - The Beginnings of Harvest Moon

In this blog I will be talking about the first four Harvest Moon games: Havest Moon (duh), Harvest Moon GB, Harvest Moon 64, and Harvest Moon GBC. While most information can be found on each Wikipedia page, as usual I like to go a step beyond. I will explain basic gameplay, release dates, how rare the games are, and other random trivia. I ran into some additional development information that is also not on the English wikipedia pages for those who like a bit of trivia.

For more information on the series as a whole please check out my first blog.

Harvest Moon (North American SNES cover)

Harvest Moon/Bokujou Monogatari
The original Harvest Moon is known in Japan as Bokujou Monogatari (牧場物語), which means Farm Story/Tale. It was released there in August 1996, North America in 1997, and Europe the following January of 1998.
Although I explained at length in my previous blog that Harvest Moon was developed by Pack-in-Video/Victor Interactive (later Marvelous Entertainment), the first game was actually developed by Amccus. The only thing I could find out about them was that they produced one other game called Monstania. I am assuming that this company had something to do with Pack-in-Video, which was bought by Victor Interactive in 1996...although I know nothing for sure. Since no credit has ever been given to anyone else but Pack-in-Video/Victor Interactive for the creation of the series, this is the only guess I have.

Those of you who have played Harvest Moon games before already know the formula for the gameplay. However, for those who have not played the games I will quickly summarize. In this game you are a boy given a farm...because all small children should be given large plots of land and living animals to take care of. It is an adorable game. Do not question it. Anyways, the farm is failing and it is your job to fix it up! Your character has between 6am and 6pm to allocate time to different tasks on the farm. These tasks include planting and watering crops, buying seeds, talking to other villagers/NPCs, and feeding animals. There are even weather patterns and seasons to worry about. You sell what your animals and crops produce in town for an income. This money is used to upgrade different things around your farm, including your tools. You can also get married...I will resist rural jokes about underage marriage because it is an adorable game. 

I have seen many complaints about the gameplay not evolving as the series goes on, but I would like to inject my opinion here. It is a farm simulator. An adorable farm simulator. Simulators do not make major changes to their gameplay and that is pretty typical of the genre. Changes, however, ARE made from game to game, and they often mean a good deal to fans of the series. The makers know keeping a fanbase is like walking a very fine line. That is all I will say on the matter. 

Harvest Moon GB(GBC)/Bokujou Monogatari GB(GBC)
This is the second Harvest Moon game and the first for a handheld. It was produced by developed by Pack-in-Video/Victor Interactive and released in 1997/1998 (Japan/the rest of the world). A GameBoy Color version was released in 1998 as well. It was called Harvest Moon GBC. 

Because of the limitations of the GameBoy, crops are the main source of income. There are, however, two types of livestock: cows and chickens. In addition, you can choose a cat or dog for a pet and you get a horse for shipping items and farm work. Just like in the original, you can also upgrade your tools.
Unlike the original Harvest Moon for the SNES and the upcoming Harvest Moon 64, you can actually choose your gender. 

Harvest Moon 64/Bokujou Monogatari 2
While this game was known as Harvest Moon 64 in North America because almost every N64 game had to have that "64" attached to it, it was known as Bokujou Monogatari 2 in Japan and therefore the sequel to the original. The game was released in 1999. According to Wikipedia, it was developed by Toy Box Studios and Victor Interactive. When I clicked on the link to Toy Box Studios it sent me to Marvelous' page...
So I got a bit confused. The researcher in me got angry at the English Wikipedia page and suddenly I didn't want to waste the five years I spent learning Japanese in college. To Japanese websites I went! 
That cleared pretty much everything up. I have links up at the bottom of the page for any Japanese readers. I couldn't find any direct relation or mention of Toy Box Studios on the Japanese websites but I found a ton of copyright material for Marvelous. So I believe that clears that up pretty well. The two companies clearly worked closely on the game with both having hands in the development process. Pack-in-Video (owned by Victor Interactive) was the publisher in Japan while Natsume published and localized the game for the North American audience, as per the usual. 

The the persistent Harvest Moon development confusion out of the way, now to the gameplay.  Once again, the player is given a farm, this time by your in-game grandfather. Although feeling very much like the first game in that you need to raise crops and animals to turn a profit, there are some more RPG elements this time around. Not only is there a limited amount of time in the day to work, but your character has limited stamina. It reminds me a bit of HP in RPGs and forces the player to make more critical choices. There are also side quests this time around as well as the chance to raise a family for the first time. Once again, you have your pick of the ladies in town. However, they all have their own personalities so there needs to be a bit of strategy in the wooing process. Besides all of this there are more crops, tools, and animals.

Harvest Moon 2 GBC/Bokujou Monogatri GB2
This cute little handheld Harvest Moon was released in 1999 for Japan, 2000 for North America, and 2001 for PAL regions. Its development process was easier to track down. It was developed and produced by Pack-in-Video (Victor Interactive) in Japan with Natsume localizing it in the states.

I have not actually played this one, but if you watch let's plays it seems to be less sim like and focuses more on RPG elements such as story and getting to know towns people. The gameplay seems a bit more linear as well. Just like the previous handheld Harvest Moon, you do get the choice of gender, which is nice. The storyline is a nice change of pace too. You are given a farm to fix up and if you fail to do so the place will get turned into an amusement park by the mayor. As with all the games, you are given a limited amount of time to repair the farm. 

Rarity:
Harvest Moon - The American version goes for hundreds. If you have a PAL SNES you can find it for $50. I sadly could not find the Japanese version of the game, which is a real shame because I have a Super Famicom.
Harvest Moon GB(GBC) - This one was far more reasonable! I found the American/Japanese/PAL versions all ranging from $6-30 depending on condition. If you want new...it will cost a bit more ($1000-2000) but that is typical. Keep in mind that nearly no kid kept the boxes for GB/GBC games, so that really jacks up the prices of a new game. 
Harvest Moon 64 - This goes for about $50 used. If you get the Japanese version it is about $20-30 and that included the box. As a side note, it is almost always cheaper to get the Japanese version of an older game (with exceptions). New, the game runs about $150-300 for the North American release.
Harvest Moon GBC - This game was about $20 used and $150-300 new. However, once again if you are willing to buy the Japanese version and have a Japanese GB you can buy it nearly new with a box for about $20.

That about wraps that up! This blog ended up being far longer than I thought it would but I had a ton of fun researching for it. :) Check the bottom of the page tomorrow for my full list of sources. I wanted to get this up at the promised time, but my sources are out of order and the HTML doesn't want to accept the Japanese...so I need to fiddle with the page a bit.
Thanks for reading!

General Updates for July-August

For those actually reading my blog, I thank you! I am in my learning mode right now so please stick with me. I going to make some very small changes to the schedule to make it easier to cope with. Here they are:

- I make a Collecting Tips blog every other Tuesday from now on.
- The blogs are going to be (generally) smaller.

In addition, I was supposed to have the Harvest Moon blog up today, but life happened. Thus, the change in schedule to allow for life to happen without it affecting posts. The blog will be up by tomorrow.

It has been a bit since having writing deadlines and this is material I am not used to researching. I am learning slowly though. Thanks for reading it  :)

Collecting Tips - How to Collect on a Budget

In this economy, most people are on a budget, especially those in my age range. I just graduated with my undergrad, but as everyone knows, jobs don't come crawling to you. In fact I have been living at or below the poverty line for some time. There have been times where $25 was the budget me and my husband had for "entertainment" (movies, games, museums, etc.) for the month.
This does NOT mean you cannot collect games though. Here are some ways to collect on a budget. Sure, the games might be a little worn, but playing them is what counts when you need some fun in your life!

1) Go old school: Dust off those older consoles and buy games for them. Remember that the PS2 has the biggest gaming library of any console for example. Search around online for games that were under rated and did not sell well. I cannot tell you how many times I have bought a game for under $5.

2) Price check/compare all the time: While you may think that Ebay and Amazon are going to have the best deals, this is not always the case. Retail chains like GameStop and 2nd and Charles that sell used games are now trying to stay competitive with online retailers. If you see a game you like, pull out your phone and check all the major websites for their prices. In addition to this, retail chains will mark down games even more if they think they are too damaged. Ask to take a look at these super marked down games. There have been countless times where the game was actually fine besides one or two minor scratches that, for some reason, someone thought were major issues.

Here are some quick tips about scratches: If you can run your fingernail across it and it doesn't catch, it usually will not be a problem. Use common sense for these on the underside. Also, remember that scratches on TOP of the disc are the ones that are going to make it unplayable. Often, the underside will be fine, but the staff will miss these marks on the top. It is a good reason to check any disc.

3) Check out local stores, thrift shops, Goodwills, and flea markets/swap meets/bazaars (whatever they are called where you live): You will be surprised at the little treasures you can find on occasion. Sometimes people simply do not know what they have or what they donated to the Goodwill and you can find some rare stuff super super cheap.

4) Don't let a dirty/beat up box deter you: If the box is dirty, they can be cleaned with the right solutions. I will have a blog dedicated to that soon. For now, non-acidic cleaners (water and a little Dove soap) and Goo Gone for the stickers. If the box is beyond repair, but the disc is okay, you can find replacement boxes online (usually) for a couple of dollars, unless it is a super rare game. In that case, go ahead and buy that thing if you find it cheap and screw that ugly box!

5) Keep all receipts: I know this one is common sense, but they are easy to lose. To not do so, keep them inside the box with the game until you play test it. If you don't want to do this, create a folder for them.

Once again, thanks for reading! Next week I will be talking a bit about my experience selling video games and how we were not all just high pressure sales demons. We can actually be quite helpful!

General Update

Next week, as promised, I will be bringing you blogs on the many PS3 bundles and what they included. Much like I had to do this week, I am probably going to have to break this up into several blogs. However, they will all come out next week.

As to what will be covered: I will mainly be going over what was included in the bundle with a focus on the collectibles. I will point out the storage size and the model number of the PS3 as well. I will try not to re-cover anything I have already gone over, as I don't want to bore people to tears.

New schedule:
I have decided to add to my schedule and will attempt to stick to it as best I can. If I cannot, I will post an update stating when to expect new blog posts to be up. I shouldn't be off by more than a day or two because I generally work pretty far in advance. As a note: Some weeks I may have insomnia, as is pretty common for me or I might just be really inspired, and I might release more blogs than usual.

Tuesdays: Collector Tips 
This new series will focus on various tips for saving money while collecting, clearing out your backlog, maintaining a collection, how to preserve certain items, where to shop for good deals, etc.

Wednesday: Collectible Consoles
My next console I will be researching will be the Nintendo GameCube. However, first I have to finish the PS3 and its bundles. You may see an intro to the GameCube next week to get prepared though.

Thursday: Collectible Games 
This will focus on either a rare game or just a game series in particular. The first series I will be looking at, by request, is Harvest Moon. It is a favorite of mine, so I am looking forward to this!

Thanks to those that are reading! You guys are making this so much more worth it and I feel even more inspired to do one of my favorite things: research!

Collectible Consoles - The PS3 (Part IV - The Super Slim)

Previous entries:
Part I (PS3 Background Info/Model Numbers)
Part II (Generations 1-3)
Part III (The Slim/Gen. 4)

This blog is going to be a bit more short than the previous two because there are fewer colors and models for the 5th generation. Sony has moved its focus away from the PS3 and onto the PS4, so it is to be expected. It is important to note, however, that the 5th generation is still in production. It is not out of the realm of possibility that Sony would release another special edition before ceasing production, like they did with the PS1 and PS2. If they do, I will post a separate blog as well as coming back to edit this one.

Charcoal Black and Classic White 

The Charcoal Black model, just like the previous generation, spans the entire 5th generation and does not deviate in color or other details. Finding one is very simple as they are still being produced and sold at retail price. While the Charcoal Black has been around since the beginning, the Classic White was not made until the 250GB came out and was also later released as a 500GB system. What is a mystery about the white model is that it was supposed to be Japan only...except model numbers are not matching up. In fact, I am finding model numbers that do not match up to any model numbers I, Wikipedia, or Sony America have listed. I am quite confused honestly. However, I promise to solve this! I will update this with an edit and new blog when I do.
As for the Classic White's rarity...it is a bit more difficult to get a hold of than the Charcoal black, but far from impossible. You may pay a tad bit more.

Azure (Azurite) Blue - 250 GB CECH-42xxB (possibly 40xxB)

Once again, model numbers are slightly off regarding what is listed on various sites and on Sony's site. That seems to be a common thing with this generation. This is beyond confusing and I cannot wait to figure it out! Anyways. To start with, this 250GB was a Japan exclusive until July 2013 when it was released for the US as a GameStop exclusive. This console is pretty easy to find and can be found for its retail price new on various sites.

God of War Ascension Legacy Garnet Red - 500GB CECH-40xxC...?

The model numbers! This was released as a 500GB which means it should be region locked for region 02 (Europe) but this was made for North America...okay. I give up for the time being. I will figure this out at a later time.
This was a released in March 2013 and bundled with all six God of War games. Personally, I would love to own one of these because my undergrad university's colors were Garnet and Black...maybe when I have money one day. If you are not dirt poor like me, this can be really cheap. Used it can run for about $200 and new about $400.

Yakuza 5 (Ryu ga Gotoku 5) Black and Gold - 250GB 

As I do further research, I am feeling unsure about the model numbers for the Japanese only PS3s...Sony has ones I have never seen before listed. This model is HSN-0023 according to the Japanese website. So, there may be another model number list coming soon. Either way, it makes no difference as this is not region locked. This was released as part of a pretty awesome and hilarious bundle during December of 2012 and I will be discussing it next week as part of my bundle blog(s).
If you are looking to purchase this console, a quick note. Type in the Japanese name of the game or you will not find results. There are usually a couple for sale on Ebay and they go for about $400-500. However, these are usually new and have been unopened so it isn't too bad of a deal.

Shin Hokuto Musou (Fist of the North Star) Legend Edition - 250GB 

Also released during December 2012 was this Shin Hokuto Musou PS3, or Fist of the North Star: Ken's Rage 2 for us Americans (because THAT is how that translated...). It was released as a bundle pack with the game and is a 250GB PS3. If you are looking to purchase this, do just as recommended for the previous PS3: type in the Japanese name. This model goes for about $450-600, depending on the condition.

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance was released in February 2013 in Japan. For the release of this game a special 250GB PS3 and bundle was created. This bundle was released for Japan and Latin America (with the exception of Argentina). If you want to buy it outside of those countries it will cost you a bit more of course, but it is nothing extreme. Like the others on this list it goes for about $450-600 depending on the condition.

Keep in mind when collecting the 5th generation that many of these are still being produced. If you want to start collecting PS3s, this is where I would begin because not only are they more easy to find but they are going to be much cheaper than the previous generations.

Next week, I'm am on to bundles. I will post an update blog on that soon. In addition, I will most likely release not PS3 related blogs within the next two weeks, so keep an eye out.
Thanks for reading!

Sources: 
All images belong to Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
1)http://www.playstationlifestyle.net/2013/08/26/azurite-blue-ps3-coming-exclusively-to-gamestop-priced-at-249-99-and-dated-for-october-8th/
2)http://www.jp.playstation.com/ps3/hardware/hsn0023.html
3)http://www.jp.playstation.com/ps3/hardware/cejh10024.html
4)http://blog.latam.playstation.com/2013/02/11/presentamos-el-paquete-de-ps3-con-metal-gear-rising-revengeance/
5)http://www.gamespot.com/articles/god-of-war-ascension-ps3-bundle-includes-all-six-games/1100-6403196/

Collectible Consoles: The PS3 (Part III - PS3 Slim)

For the fourth generation Sony went all out with the colors and special editions, so this will be a fun blog. Just like my last post I will be discussing the different types of PS3 Slims released, their aesthetic differences, general specs, and rarity.

Charcoal Black - All 4th gen. model numbers

This is your standard PS3 "Slim". The color is called Charcoal Black and is a matte finish, as are all the finishes for the PS3 "Slim". It seems that Sony listened to customer feedback regarding fingerprints with the original PS3 and returned to what they do best: matte and rough finishes. These Charcoal Blacks are extremely easy to find. Used ones only cost a couple hundred while a new one may cost $400+. It all depends on which model you are getting, as this color runs throughout generation 4 and is available for every model.

Final Fantasy Lightning Edition White - CECH20xxB

For the release of Final Fantasy XIII, of course Japan rolled out a fancy PS3. Because all of generation 4 is region free though, feel free to pick one of these up. They honestly do not cost too much (around $500-600), although beware of scams (a general good rule of thumb). When it comes to anything Final Fantasy related make sure to check the fine details. Look at model numbers. Make sure that the PS3 itself is not just a regular white PS3 Slim with a cover. I have seen this more than once on Ebay. Keep an eye out folks!

Classic White - CECH25xxA-30xxB

Speaking of white consoles...
With the release of the 160GB and 320GB PS3 "Slims" in July 2010, Sony began to get more brave with their colors...well, at least in Japan. Like I stated earlier though, generation 4 is not region locked. They may have been sold exclusively in certain regions during the time, but it is fairly easy to import these guys now. Since a ton of these were made, they are fairly easy to find and will only run you a couple hundred.

Satin Silver - CECH25xxA-30xxB

The Satin Silver has the EXACT same story as the Classic White, so I will not repeat myself. The only reason I did not group them together is because I wanted to point out that the Satin Silver is a bit more difficult to find, even though plenty were made. My theory is because the Satin Silver of any Sony Entertainment product has always sold better than the Classic White models. I believe that they are more popular and therefor more difficult to find. If they do pop up on the marketplace, they run slightly more than the Classic White, although not by much.

Titanium Blue (GT5 Special Edition) - CECH25xxA 160GB

Finally getting to some color! This is the Titanium Blue that was released as part of a bundle with Gran Turismo 5 in Japan. It is a 160GB CECH25xxA model. This thing is rare and difficult to catch. IF you do find it you most likely will not find a price lower than $1100, which is the lowest I have seen. If you must have it, save up some money and be patient.

Magical Gold (Ni No Kuni Edition) - CECH25xxA 160GB

I LOVE this PS3 Slim. Yes. Personal opinion, right there. My opinion of the game, Level 5, and Studio Ghibli could be shaping that a bit. However, if you are like me, this is not actually all that expensive of a purchase. The entire bundle can be found new for $300-500. It is a CECH25xxA model with 160GB of memory. Now if only I had some money...

Scarlet Red and Splash Blue - CECH30xxB 320GB

As a side note, the Splash Blue looks similar in color to the earlier Titanium blue in these photos, but if you watch an unboxing of it on YouTube it is more of a sky blue. Very pretty!!These lovely PS3s were exclusive Japanese only release at the time of their production. Their model numbers were CECH30xxB and came with 320GB of storage. They were marketed as limited editions and after a quick internet search, I can safely say that Sony missed a huge market in North America and Europe for these colors. These were highly coveted at the time of their release, and are more so now. Still, prices can be reasonable if you are patient enough and both are easy to find. I have found the Splash Blue used for around $400, although buying new it will run you about $800. It is about the same story for the Scarlet Red as well.

Tales of Xillia Edition - CECH30xxA 160GB

The Tales of Xillia PS3 is another one of my personal favorites. This CECH30xxA 160GB model was sold as part of a bundle in Japan along with the release of the game. While it generally costs between $600-700, I have seen used ones go for as little as $400.

Final Fantasy XIII-2: Lightning Edition Version 2 - CECH-30xxB 320GB

As with every main Final Fantasy release, the big guns must be pulled out...at least for Japan. Come on Sony Entertainment America. Do you still not trust our crazy love for all things Final Fantasy yet? My only theory behind this is the pink on both FF consoles. God forbid they sold to the 48% female portion of the gaming population PLUS any guy who doesn't mind pink. *clears throat* Sorry about that. I got a bit off topic...
Anyways, This is a CECH-30xxB model with 320GB of memory and was, of course, part of a bundle. It is commonly referred to as "Lighting Edition 2 PS3",  "Lightning Ver 2", or some variation thereof. Keep this in mind while searching for it. Although you shouldn't have to search far as this is pretty easy to find. Used, it runs about $300 and up depending on the condition. New, it will cost between $500-800.

One Piece: Kaizoku Musou (Pirate Warriors) Edition - CECH-30xxB 320GB

It is anime related, therefor it is rare. Just wanted to get that out of the way. It is also gold and shiny. Who wouldn't want this? So yes...it costs an absurd amount to buy. Used it runs about $600-800 and new it is $700-1200. This is a CECH30xxB model with 320GB of memory. It was part of an exclusive bundle pack in Japan that included the first Kaizoku Musou (aka Pirate Warriors) game.

For an added bonus...

Child's Play Signed CECH-3004A

While this was not something promoted by Sony, I am including it because it is one of a kind! For those unfamiliar with Child's Play, it is a charity set up by the guys over at Penny Arcade. It is for children living hospitals and shelters. You can go onto their website (found here) and make donations, but they have other events as well. Every holiday season they compose a list of various games and consoles requested by various shelters and hospitals. You can buy them and they will be sent to that establishment for the benefit of the kids. In addition they have auctions on occasion to raise money.

On this occasion they teamed up with the industry's biggest names to create an awesome signed console. The full list of those that signed it and who they work(ed) for/on is listed here. According to the Ebay listing, this CECH-30xxA 160GB console was sold for $3100 after 39 bids.

That wraps up the PS3 "Slims" (4th Generation)!
My next blog will be out shortly. Stick around and thanks for reading!

Sources:
ALL IMAGES BELONG TO SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT INC.: Exception of last image. That belongs to IGN (I believe. It was on multiple sites with no sources). 
1)http://vr-zone.com/articles/sony-ps3-in-splash-blue-and-scarlet-red-to-launch-on-17-2)november/13562.html
3)http://www.mcvuk.com/news/read/two-new-ps3-colours-red-and-blue/084692
4)http://www.amazon.com/Playstation-320gb-Splash-Cech-3000bsb-Import-3/dp/B005N60F56
5)http://www.g4tv.com/thefeed/blog/post/719055/childs-play-charity-auction-get-a-playstation-3-or-6)xbox-360-console-signed-by-g4-and-the-biggest-names-in-videogames/
7)http://www.childsplaycharity.org (X-Play) 
8)http://www.ebay.com/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?9)ViewItem&item=250953264900&ssPageName=ADME:L:LCA:US:1123
10)Amazon, Ebay, and Craigslist

Collectible Consoles: The PS3 (Part II - The First Three Generations)

Quick Note: I am sorry about how the layout looks. Blogger.com decided to erase ALL my images for ALL my posts as well as my entire template. I am working on the problem. 

I am releasing this blog a tad bit early since I will also be releasing the blogs for Part III ("Slim" PS3) and Part IV ("Super Slim") this week. As mentioned in my update blog, I have broken this up because this project ended up being larger than I anticipated.

For this blog I will present each PS3 released and its cosmetic differences as well as some of its specs, the generation it belongs to (those model numbers will begin to become handy), and their rarity. As previously stated, I will only be covering the first 3 generations of the PS3 for now. The other 2 will be covered in the other blogs. If I missed a PS3 by chance, please let me know in the comments and I will add it!

CECHBxx - 20GB

I thought it would be appropriate to start with the first PS3 released. This is the CECHBxx, otherwise known as the 20GB launch PS3. As discussed in my previous blog, it was discontinued shortly after production. This was most likely due to the lack of Wi-Fi support or a flash memory card reader. It has four USB ports and like all "fat" PS3s, a main On/Off switch in the back. One major cosmetic difference between it and the other standard black PS3s to follow is its all black trim. This would soon be replaced with a chrome trim for the 60GB model made during the same generation. Perhaps this look didn't test well?
Keep this trim in mind though. I have seen many sellers try to scam people on Ebay with 60GB PS3s. A CECHBxx will always look like this. No exception. Speaking of trying to find one...most I found were being sold for parts. Basically, if you are looking to find one used, be prepared for either a scam or a broken console. On the other hand, there are plenty of new ones still out there. The problem is that they will run you about $1000-2000.

CECHAxx - 60GB

Even though this is a picture of a launch 60GB (CECHAxx) PS3, this is what any Piano Black "fat" PlayStation 3 is going to look like, regardless if it is generation one, two, or three. There are a couple of details that will change over generations. The most noticeable is that by the third generation there are only two USB ports instead of four. These are fairly easy to find and generally won't cost much, although it depends on what generation you are buying and if you are buying new.

The first one is called Ceramic White while the second is called Satin Silver. Both were Japan exclusive releases and were third generation models. Originally released as 40GB consoles, they were later released with 80GB. Their model numbers could be CECHHxx (most likely this one) and/or CECHJxx and CECHLxx. As far as prices: Used, they can go for as little as $300-500. New, in a bundle, they can go as high as $2500.

MGS4 Gun Metal Black -  40GB CECHHxx

The Metal Gear Solid 4 Gun Metal Black 40GB bundle was sold in the US and in Japan exclusively, although it was not region locked. The system had a matte finish. In tiny writing at the bottom of the console reads "Metal Gear Solid 4 - Limited Edition". Finding one of these can be simple...but finding one working, undamaged, or in a box is a bit more tough. For ones that simply "work" I have found consoles for as little as $300. If you manage to find one that has not been taken out of its box, it will set you back about $800. There seems to be no in between with this one. (Where are the "lightly used" ones you guys?)

Piano Black Resident Evil 5/Biohazard 5 - CECHLxx 80GB

This was released only as a bundle and was not region locked, although it seems to have been sold exclusively in Japan for a very limited time. It is a third generation 80 GB in standard piano black with matte stencil of the Tricell logo on the bottom of the console. While rare, they CAN be found on Ebay, Amazon, and Craigslist. However, be willing to shell out some money as I have not seen them run under $2,000 in the time I have been looking. I will however, update this if I see anything lower.

Cloud Black 160GB - CECHQxx

The Cloud Black was released alongside Advent Children in Japan. It is 160GB and its model number is CECHQxx. This means that it was produced at the tail end of the third generation. It was only released as a bundle, but they seem to have made plenty of them. Finding one on Ebay is fairly simple and they go for about $400-500. If you want a sealed version, it will run you about $800. For the limited releases, this one is probably one of the cheaper ones as far as the first three generations go.

Yakuza 3/Ryu uga Gotoku 3 Satin Silver - CECHLxx

While not region locked, this 80GB PS3 was bundled with Yakuza 3 (Ryuu ga Gotoku 3) and sold exclusively in Japan. I'm going to insert my personal opinion in here...out of the first three generations, this is the most awesome in my opinion. Sadly, only a limited number of these were made and I haven't seen ANY listed. If this changes, I will edit this and post the price they were listed for. I will go ahead and say that anyone looking to buy one should probably be ready with a couple thousand to spare.

The Ultra Rare Red!
Now we are getting into PlayStation 3s you most likely cannot buy yourself. These were either personally made for people or in this one case, the result of a contest.

Contest from June 2007 - Generation 2-3

I have only found WHEN the contest took place, which is not a huge help in determining whether or not these are generation 2 or 3. I will be doing some further research to find one of the winners or even just the specs. If I do, I will edit this post.

Hideo Kojima/Yumi Kikuchi Signed PS3

CECHAxx 60GB Modded and Signed MGS themed PS3

This is not an official Sony PS3, but it is rare and AWESOME. It is actually a modded version of the 60GB CECHAxx (generation 1/launch PS3). It has been fitted with LEDs and backlights and best of all is signed by Hideo Kojima, the brain behind the Metal Gear series and Yumi Kikuchi, a voice actress in MGS4. This was signing was apperently luck as the seller got them to sign it during their MGS World Tour in New York. This is not the end of the awesomeness though. The controller is also backlit and custom made. Eight more rare items were included, a list of which can be found here.

The Ebay seller pledge to donate 15% of profits to Child's Play. a charity I will discuss in more detail in the next blog. Wondering how much all of this sold for? $17,100.

NBA All-Stars Sony Event Suite 2007 (Las Vegas) 
I am just going to throw this out there right now. I am not a sports person...well, I can enjoy sports, but I do not follow teams except my university's football team. So please forgive me if I do not fully know the importance of the people I mention. All I know is that occasionally Sony likes to throw an after party where NBA stars, and some other sports legends, test their skills in games, drink, party, and get gifted personalized consoles. It is difficult to know exactly who all attends these things because the general public is, of course, not invited. These pictures were part of Sony's blog and are very selective.

                                                         

Thanks to the Youtube video found here (thanks ncroal!)  I was able to find out that the event was held at the PlayStation Parlor Sky Villa at the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas during the NBA All-Stars Weekend of 2007. All in all, I could only find 7 of these made for this event. Given the time period during which they were made (February 2007) it stands to reason that these are all second generation and their model numbers CECHExx.

           
           

As far as those that received these consoles, we know for sure that those pictured above did. Clockwise from the top left we have: Brooke and Linda Hogan, Chris Bosh, Michelle Wie, and the Maloofs (not sure which ones :S). In addition, we know that Jason Kidd and Kobe Bryant at least attended. The Egyptian-esque looking PS3 also fits very well with Lebron James' "King Tut" persona. In fact, that model has been called "King Tut", although no one is sure who came up with the name and it does not appear in the picture.

Two more things to note about these consoles: The Yellow PS3, said to have been formally owned by one of the Maloofs, that has the event name inscribed on it is currently owned by someone who goes by the user name lim-handek on Gamescollection.net.
The second is that the Nike Air Force One PS3 was being housed in the lounge of the hotel during the event. This leads me to assume that an athlete may not have acquired that one but someone from Nike, if anyone at all. It may have been commissioned simply for advertising.

NBA All-Stars Sony Event Suite 2009 (Las Vegas)

Just like 2007, Sony threw one great big party for NBAs biggest athletes during All Stars Weekend in February 2009. Sadly there are fewer pictures this time around, although thanks to the official PlayStation blog, there is a full list of this time names regarding who stopped by. As this took place in February of 2009, these technically could have been from generation 1, 2, or 3. However, considering these are special made for the rich and famous, it is safe to assume that these were probably the CECHPxx models (160GB).

  

  

 

 

  

     











     
The full list of names that attended is as follows: Nate Robinson, Shaquille O’Neal, Paul Pierce, Kevin Durant, Yao Ming, Dirk Nowitzki, David West, Michael Beasley, Derrick Rose, Devin Harris, JR Smith, Dikembe Mutombo, Luis Scola, Russell Westbrook, Jeff Green, Brook Lopez, Thaddeus Young, Daequan Cook, Gary Payton, and Brian Shaw.
Note that Brandon Roy is not on that list. However, the Sony blog points out that the "B.Roy" PS3 IS supposed to have been made for him. It is also clear that Lebron James once again received a PS3, because lets be honest...who else is "King James"? As for those posed with the PS3s, clockwise starting from the right: Thaddeus Young, Paul Pierce, Luis Scola, and Al Harrington. Wait...Al Harrington wasn't on that list either. How big was this party REALLY Sony??

The 2007 Super Bowl Party/Sole Magazine PS3s

I have been able to find out next to NOTHING about these PS3s. It seems that most of the credibility that they have as to being official has to do with people on forums saying that they were there at "an awesome party". I would love if someone could provide more sources on these 4 consoles. Even original sources for the pictures would be great!

Whether or not these consoles are official or not, because they are from early 2007 they are most certainly CECHAxx (60GB) first generation PS3s. Like the NBA All Stars PS3s, it is rumored that these were given away as swag for those who attended.

That was a LONG blog. The next two will be shorter, but still interesting. As stated previously, they will be put up this week. Part III will discuss the different types of PS3 "Slim" and Part IV will discuss the "Super Slim". Next week I will be discussing the many types of PS3 bundles.
Thanks again for reading and check back soon!

Sources:
1)http://community.us.playstation.com/t5/PlayStation-Lounge/Playstation-Canada/td-p/9749698
2)http://www.ign.com/articles/2007/02/27/all-star-treatment
3)http://gamescollection.forumcommunity.net/?t=29230772
4)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCs3J7dw8N8
5)http://www.cnet.com/news/playstation-3-at-nba-all-star-weekend/
6)http://blog.us.playstation.com/2009/02/17/sony-playstation-at-nba-all-star-weekend/
7)http://www.psu.com/forums/showthread.php/52933-Super-Bowl-Playstation-AF1s-PS3-Party
8)http://www.exophase.com/307/sony-shows-off-ps3-case-mods/
9)Amazon, Ebay, Craigslist postings/personal experience at shops
10)http://www.geek.com/games/kojima-signed-mgs-4-ps3-console-sells-for-17100-610111/
11)All pictures besides the very last four, belong to Sony Entertainment America. The last two seem to belong to Sole Magazine.