The PS3 actually isn't that expensive...

[Paco]

For Microsoft to have a broader reach, a global reach, they did right when they made the core. Online gaming is increasing here and in Europe, but in some countries MS is trying to break into it is nearly non-existant or completely ignored. You don't make those people pay for things they won't use or need..that's not how you reach out to new consumers. Sony will learn that. I honestly don't think the PS3 will achieve its predecessors' success, and it's because of the price.

About Xbox Live and the fee...it's a fantastic service that keeps getting better. You will NOT see the Wii or PS3 online component come close to matching it.

The Xbox Live attach rate is so high because every 360 comes with a silver subscription. All you need is broadband and you're good to go. Last I heard, Microsoft would not devulge what the numbers were between silver and gold subscriptions.