Apparently, Atlus never takes a break, not even during the long holiday weekend. The publisher sent out a press release last night announcing that Demon's Souls would see a release date of October 6, 2009 in North America. That means it will be coming out right at the start of another overcrowded holiday season, so hopefully gamers will have room in their hearts and wallets for some hardcore RPG action on the PS3.

As per usual, those who pre-order Demon's Souls will be rewarded with some extra goodies. In fact, unlike most Atlus games, Demon's Souls will ship with both a regular and special edition of the game, both "less than it costs to import the game". The deluxe version will come with a 150+ strategy guide and slipcover. However, reserving either SKU nets you an art book and concept sketches, so either way you're getting something extra.

The standard edition of Demon's Souls will be $59.99, with the deluxe edition retailing for $69.99. Pre-orders are scheduled to begin this Wednesday, July 8. For more information, check out the press release below.

IRVINE, CALIFORNIA -- JULY 4, 2009 -- Atlus U.S.A., Inc. today revealed that Demon's Souls™, a groundbreaking action RPG experience for PLAYSTATION®3 system, is to become the newest entry in the Atlus Spoils fan appreciation program.  In addition to the standard version of the game, which now features new North-American exclusive box art, there will also be a deluxe edition.  For less than it costs to import the game, fans will receive a 150+ page strategy guide (only available as part of this deluxe version, not for sale anywhere else) and a collectible outer slipcase, in addition to the game itself.
 
Moreover, fans who pre-order either version will receive a free bonus art book with designs and concept sketches from the world of Demon's Souls (only at participating retailers, while supplies last).
 
"Atlus Spoils is all about giving back to our fans and thanking them for their support, and we're excited to be able to do something very special for Demon's Souls," stated Tim Pivnicny, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Atlus.  "On October 6th, PLAYSTATION 3 system owners will be treated to the definitive release of what many consider to be the most innovative action RPG in recent memory.  With both the standard and deluxe versions of the game accompanied by irresistible North American exclusives, like a special pre-order bonus art book, we hope this is an offer patient Demon's Souls fans will be hard-pressed to resist."
 
Demon's Souls for PLAYSTATION 3 system is scheduled for North American release on October 6, 2009.  The standard version will retail with an MSRP of $59.99, and the deluxe edition with an MSRP of $69.99.  Pre-orders for the deluxe edition are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, July 8th.