Sony hasn't officially announced the new model of the PlayStation 3, but IGN is reporting that the new edition of the system is "imminent."

IGN, which has posted photographs on its website from rivals to bolster its own claims, noted that Sony has a third incarnation of the PS3 that is even slimmer than the second version. IGN pointed out that Tecnoblog reported in July that news of the new model had leaked, but was not confirmed by the company or with any images. Sony has not confirmed the rumor to IGN, which said it will update its article if it gets a response to its query.

The Six Axis, citing the Polish website Polygamia.pl, alleged the new system is already being advertised in Poland, and includes a picture of the mysterious advertisement. "There will be a 12GB SSD PS3 which will retail for 199 euros and it will be joined by a beefy 500GB PS3 which will cost 299 euros," according to the gaming blog.

If those figures are accurate and the models are both available in America, the U.S. price for the systems will be about $260 for the 12GB SSD PS3 and $390 for the 500GB PS3, according to MoneyConverter.com.

The Polish website supposedly stated that the systems will become available on Sept. 27, though the ads state Sept. 29 as the release date, reported IGN. Both IGN and Six Axis indicated that they expect Sony may confirm the reports at the Tokyo Game Show.

Sony's news conference at the Tokyo Games Show is scheduled for tonight at 9 p.m. PT.  IGN claimed that it's nearly definite that the console will be announced, considering the Polish advertisement, as well as the pictures of the finished product, including the front, back and serial numbers of the system.

This is the smallest version of the PlayStation 3 so far. The original "fat" console was released in 2006 -- that was followed by the 2009 slimmer edition that is the current standard.

Right now is an odd time for Sony to be release the latest model of a six-year-old console. Rumors are also circulating about Microsoft's next video game venture, the unnamed Xbox 720 console, and Nintendo has already announced that the Wii U will be available in stores on Nov. 18.

There will be two version of the Wii U available on the launch date: The basic version is $299.99 and includes a white Wii U console with 8GB of memory and wireless motion-sensitive GamePad controller, along with an AC adapter, an HDMI cable and a sensor bar. The premium package is $349.99 and comes with a 32GB black Wii U, plus a GamePad controller, charging cradle, stand and the game "Nintendo Land."

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