With the Tokyo Games Show, still regarded as the gaming world's second most important showcase, set to kick-off on September 22nd, it comes as little surprise that will be using the show to commence the build-up towards the PS3. As part of this Sony Computer Entertainment chief Ken Kutaragi will offer a keynote speech before the expo officially commences.

Tantalisingly, 'The next-generation as created by the PlayStation 3' is the name of the executive's speech, and conjecture is already fervent that Kutaragi will make a few important new announcements concerning the PS3. The is expected to launch globally in November, making the timing of the Tokyo show important for Sony's marketing pitch. Last year's keynote, lest we forget, saw the unveiling of the Wiimote by Nintendo's boss - though Sony will of course struggle to match this bombshell.

The Tokyo Games Show 2006 is being held as last year at Makuhari Messe in Chiba (a suburb of Tokyo), between September 22nd and the 24th. We'll keep you posted as this crucial event draws near.

By Luke Guttridge