The best PlayStation 3 deals for Christmas

The PlayStation 3 is in a unique position amongst the three games consoles. While the Wii has the widest appeal and the Xbox 360 is the cheapest option, the PS3 offers the best technology bundle. Not only is it a next-gen games console, it's one of the best Blu-ray players that money can buy.

Of course, this ambitious design meant that the PlayStation 3 was the most expensive console when it launched in 2006 (March 2007 in the UK). The cost of the key components (Cell processor, Blu-ray, hard disk drive) landed it with a hefty £425 price tag – £136 pricier than the Xbox 360; over twice as expensive as the Nintendo Wii.

Which PlayStation 3?

Three years on, and with Christmas on a collision course with wallets everywhere, the PlayStation 3 is certainly more affordable. The 80GB version of the PS3 has an RRP of £299.99, while the limited edition 160GB model will set you back £329.99. And just to confuse matters there are still a few 40GB versions kicking about, most of them selling for around £269.99. You might also run across the odd 60GB model, now discontinued.

Like the Xbox 360, the main sales tactic for retailers is to throw in a free game (or two) to make the £299.99 price tag seem more appealing. With plentiful stock around it's a buyer's market, so it's worth shopping around to find a deal that gives you the games you want with as many freebies thrown in as possible.

Claiming your rightful freebies

For example, over on Play.com, you can choose a PS3 bundle that includes a gratis copy of Bioshock, Little Big Planet or Motorstorm: Pacific Rift. The best deal here is a £299.99 bundle that includes an 80GB PS3, Blu-ray remote control, Need For Speed: Undercover, Little Big Planet and I Am Legend on Blu-ray.

Amazon UK, meanwhile, is selling the 80-gig PlayStation 3 for £289.97 in one of three 'Movie Packs'. The deal includes a PS3 with either Batman Begins, I Am Legend or 300 on Blu-ray, a free game (either Motorstorm: Pacific Rift, Little Big Planet or Resistance 2), a free HDMI cable and a free Blu-ray remote.

The Blu-ray angle

Game has an 80GB PS3 bundled with Motorstorm: Pacific Rift and PES 2009 for £299.99. And, in an attempt to shift old stock, you can get a 40GB model for £299.99 plus three free games.

It's an online deal that's replicated over at GameStation, which is also pushing the popular 'PS3 + two free games + free Blu-ray movie + free Blu-ray remote' deal.

HMV, Dixons and Comet can't match these giveaways. Dixons will throw in one free game as part of a £299.99 PS3 bundle, but to get two games the price inflates to £339.99. Asda Direct is selling a 40GB PS3 at the 80GB £299.99 RRP. Should you buy it online (rather than in-store) you'll also incur a standard delivery charge of £4.50.

Who's got the best deals?

Ultimately, like the Xbox 360, specialist videogame retailers are currently offering the best deals on PlayStation 3 bundles. For £299.99, you should be able to get hold of an 80GB PS3 with two games, a Blu-ray movie and a free remote control. Price cuts won't be an issue in the short term. While news has leaked about cheaper PS3s in March 2009, Sony has been quick to deny it.

As for the new 160GB PlayStation 3... it remains elusive. PC World, Dixons are Currys all list this top-end model for £349, while Sony's own online store is advertising it for £329 ('Available Soon'). You'll be hard pressed to find one anywhere else.