Shadow, I'm not sure if they are still doing it, but GameStop were giving out beta keys with preorders of StarCraft 2. Normally i'd hate that, but since I'll be getting it anyway, I preordered and that's how I got my key.
As for your PS3, I'd imagine It's probably dead. I assume it's out of warranty? either way, call up Sony and see if they know about this problem. I'm not sure if its the same in the USA, but in Australia, Sony charges a crapload to repair PS3's, so if its dead, it will be better to buy a new one. I suggest doing what Mik3 said and asking if Best Buy can back up your data or something.
Anyway, who here is getting Red Dead Redemption? That is a game I really can't wait for, looks like epic fun, and since it's made by Rockstar, it will clearly be awesome