According to Sony PSP hardware sales have rocketed by 100% ever since the new PSPgo variant launched earlier this month. No doubt the arrival of the sweet Gran Turismo conversion has helped matters too. But if the ‘go is doing so well how come so many UK retailers are already knocking chunks off the pricetag?

We’re talking major on/offline retailers too – Amazon, Play.com, Game, GameStation, and HMV to name but five. Each has lopped £25 off the regular RRP of £224.99. That’s £199.99 to you, guv’nor.

Well that’s a pleasant surprise. The £25 will go some way towards replacing your existing library of UMD games with their digitally downloadable equivalents too. But why the discount so soon after launch, we wonder? Could it be that ‘go sales are not quite what they seem and need a bit of a leg-up? Maybe this is a sop for retailers who have grumbled about not being able to sell games for the PSPgo? Or perhaps Sony is just on the offensive, and determined to put its new handheld in as many homes as possible this Xmas?

Ach, who knows and, frankly, who cares? If you’re in the market for a PSPgo this season, don’t mug yourself, and certainly don’t pay any more than £200 unless you absolutely have to.