Sony stated yesterday that most major PlayStation-selling areas, including the UK, Europe, Australia, and Japan, will be charging significantly more for the PlayStation 5. The price changes differ by area, however, in the UK, the Disc version has gone up to £479.99 (from £449.99), while the Digital edition has gone up to £389.99 (from £359.99).
It’s Still Not Expensive?
The president and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, Jim Ryan, stated on the PlayStation Blog that “while this price increase is a necessity given the current global economic environment and its impact on SIE’s business, our top priority continues to be improving the PS5 supply situation so that as many players as possible can experience everything that PS5 offers and what’s still to come.” “We appreciate your ongoing assistance.”
Microsoft has now publicly reacted to the matter, as reported by Windows Central. While the company’s new-gen consoles are currently exempt from price increases, there hasn’t been any promise offered that this will be the case in the future.
“We are constantly evaluating our business to offer our fans great gaming options,” a Microsoft spokesperson said to Windows Central. “Our Xbox Series S suggested retail price remains at $299 (£250, €300) the Xbox Series X is $499 (£450, €500).”
However, it appears that players may rest easy for the time being because Microsoft does not currently appear to have any intentions to replicate Sony’s success.