It's time for another random guessing game by the people who get paid to randomly guess the current status of the video game console market! This time, the collective minds of six companies place their bets on the new 40GB PS3 and if the lowered price will make a dent in sales.

All six analysts agreed the new model would create an up-tick in console sales this holiday, but the degree of its effect varied. Michael Pachter said the drop may increase monthly sales by 50%, should a $399 price tag get tacked on. "We should expect sustainable sales of 225,000 units [for non-holiday months]. November is typically double the other months, so expect around 450,000 units, and December is typically double November, so expect around 900,000 units." The other analysts weren't as positive, but admitted there will be a small increase in sales.

An interesting discussion was held about whether the new price would deter people from buying a 360 or a Wii. Interestingly enough, most analysts conceded that the 360 would win this holiday battle with their strong lineup along with Halo 3 ... plus if people want a 360, they aren't just gonna change their mind and grab a PS3. As for the Wii, most analysts feel it's a supplementary console for hardcore gamers, but aimed at a broad audience. A lower PS3 should aim for becoming the other part of the equation instead of the 360 (PSWii opposed to Wii60). We don't have much to add, honestly. The analysts, as far as guessing games go, seem to be on the right track in our minds. What are your thoughts?