Here's something that may cheer up PlayStation 3 gamers who were expecting the end of backwards compatible models as we know it. Sony Computer Entertainment America president Jack Tretton announced that they will be reviving the 80 GB PS3 model for North America as part of the Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots bundle which will be released later this year.

To help solidify this claim, SCEA Public Relations manager Al De Leon (aldeleon) confirmed on the PlayStation Blog that the upcoming 80 GB model will include PS2 backwards compatibility in a recent MGS4 article posted yesterday.

If you don't believe us, here's a direct quote taken from aldeleon's comment on the PlayStation Blog: "Yes, similar to the Motorstorm bundle, the new MGS4 bundle features an 80GB PS3 with some PS2 backwards compatibility".

So for those of you who want to score a backwards compatible PS3 console, you might as well keep you eyes out for this upcoming game bundle containing the highly anticipated sequel. Despite this move from Sony, it's still unsure whether or not the company will change their strategy regarding the availability of backwards compatible PS3 models in the future.