Sony plans to launch Patapon 2, a four player co-op game for the PSP, on May 5th in the United States.  The game, released earlier this year in Japan on UMD, is going to be available via digital distribution channels only confirmed Kotaku. 

A Sony representative said this method would be a test case, as North American retailers will still carry boxes that only contain download codes for the $19.99 title.  The PlayStation Store will have the full game available as well on the launch date for a discounted $14.99.
 

"We're considering a digital only format for the Patapon 2 release as a one time test case as we continue to explore consumer preferences for digital content," reads the statement. "The downloadable game will be available on May 5th at both retail and via the PlayStation Store. We remain focused on providing superior games and entertainment experiences in both the UMD and digital formats and are working closely with our partners to deliver the best PSP line up in our history."

It'll be interesting to see just how well consumers do, picking up a box with a piece of paper in it telling you to download something elsewhere probably isn't going to sit well with people.  The better option here is giving people the option to choose which method they'd like to receive their game.  For co-op players, the ease of access of digital distribution should make spontaneous co-op sessions a little more likely.

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