EA and developer Criterion announced that it will release the previously physical retail-only title
Burnout Paradise as a downloadable PS3 title through the PlayStation Network this fall.
Originally released for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in January 2008, then announced for the PC earlier this month,
Burnout Paradise is the sixth entry to the
Burnout racing game series.
The PlayStation Network release will sell for $29.99 and will incorporate all of the recent updates that Criterion has so far released for the game.
The release is notable because it is one of the first times that a physical retail-based game has debuted in downloadable form relatively soon after its physical release, and at a reduced price.
However, Sony has experimented with similar tactics, albeit simultaneously released, with games such as
Warhawk.
The
Burnout Paradise PSN release is tied in to "Year of Paradise," an initiative designed around the regular release of new downloadable content meant to evolve the game beyond its initial retail release.
The first update was made available earlier this month free of charge through the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Marketplace, offering three new game modes, new cars, and 70 new multi-part challenges.
The download pack also introduced a live news page with which players can track their game progress and find out news on upcoming multiplayer events. Criterion intends to release additional downloadable content for Burnout Paradise this fall, including trophy support and motorcycles free fo charge.
Said Criterion Games studio manager Fiona Sperry: "Our mission at Criterion is to provide the most entertaining gaming service possible. In order to do that, it's key that we have the ability to deliver content to players in ways that work for them - through quick and easy download or via traditional bricks and mortar."
