A RUNCORN software firm is the mastermind behind one of the first wave of games for the PlayStation3 console.

The console, which was launched on Friday, is already sold out.

Just six games are available for it so far - and one of them was developed in Runcorn by Evolution Studios.

Evolution's MotorStor m has already hit number one in the game charts in Japan and America.

Crowds gathered outside stores to be the first to buy the £425 console and have the chance to sample MotorStor m.

Pete Smith, 34, a senior producer for Sony working in external development in Runcorn, said he was in no doubt that MotorStorm was the best and most technologically advanced launch game ever.

He said: 'MotorStorm is the best launch title ever produced and Sony is using this game to really show off the new console's capabilities - which for the first time include a six-axis directional controller.

'This game is packed with action, excitement and great graphics.

'People think of Sony as a multi-national company with rows of boffins in suits. That couldn't be further from the truth.

'The UK is known for its creativity and we get the most weird, mad and wonderful ideas from local game developers.

'It is a credit to the talent we have locally that while two of the launch games were developed in America and two in Japan, the best has come from Runcorn.'

simon.drury@cheshirenews.co.uk