According to Senior Director of Corporate Communications at Sony Computer Entertainment Patrick Seybold, everything you've heard is true.
"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," Seybold told IGN. "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."
While you've been able to buy vouchers for games from stores before, this is a first for the PSP and will only fuel rumors that the PSP2 will only play downloadable games. We'll have more information -- such as the possibility of different price points -- as it becomes available.