In an interview with the BBC, Sony Computer Entertainment President Kaz Hirai expressed confidence in the PS3's long-term chances. He called the console race a "marathon" and said he foresees a considerable install base for Sony's console in every territory. The PS3 recently overtook the Xbox 360, in Europe.

"I am very confident that after the 10-year lifecycle we will have the install base that we are looking for and that is obviously to be in the leadership position," said Hirai to the BBC.

Hirai was equally bullish about the PS3's short-term chances with the line-up of titles set for 2008. "If you look at line-up coming out this year - Metal Gear Solid 4, Resistance 2, Motorstorm: Pacific Rift , Little Big Planet, there is a whole raft of titles between now and the end of the year which will really help fuel growth of the install base," said Hirai.

Relating to the launch of the PS3, Hirai acknowledged some "teething problems," such as lack of supply and titles at launch, but added, "That situation has been remedied to the satisfaction of consumers. The software line-up is looking good for this year and certainly for the holiday period."

While admitting the PS3 has hardware that's taken a while for developers to adjust to, Hirai said that, "I think they are beginning to embrace the technology and are able to express their creativity on the platform certainly more than they were able to at launch."

Thanks to Joystiq for the tip.