Sony’s upcoming next-generation portable games console is to launch in Japan ahead of the Christmas shopping rush with a Sony PS Vita release date reportedly set for November 12th.

The unconfirmed reports, which come courtesy of GamAlive, suggest that the touchscreen touting Sony PS Vita is to hit Japanese markets on November 12th. A UK release date and pricing information is currently unknown.

Following our hands-on Sony PS Vita pictures from IFA 2011 last week the GamAlive report has suggested that the PSP replacement with be released to western markets around March of 2012, prior to the end of Sony’s financial year.

New claims have also suggested that Sony will unveil 18 new and previously unannounced PS Vita games prior to the console’s launch.

Are you excited about the Sony PlayStation Vita release or, like the Nintendo 3DS, with the Vita be somewhat of a flop destined for mediocre sales? Let us know what you think via the T3 Twitter and Facebook feeds.

Sony PS Vita video: All the details

Via: CVG