PS5: Surprise price increase, five years after its release
In an industry where prices often fall over time, Sony takes another direction. Complicated economic context or assumed strategy: The new labels arrive this April 14.
Hard blow for latecomers: the PS5 without disc reader goes to € 499.99
Without conference or teasing, Sony changed the rules of the game via a simple publication on the PlayStation Blog. There PS5 Digital Edition becomes more expensive in four territories: Europe, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. The official justification? A “difficult” economic situation, with unfavorable exchange rates and persistent inflation.
In terms of figures, the digital version climbs to € 499.99 in Europe-against € 449.99-and £ 429.99 in the United Kingdom. In Oceania, the addition is even more salty: 829.95 Australian dollars for the standard PS5, 949.95 in New Zealand dollars. In other words, one of the most popular consoles also becomes one of the most expensive in these areas. No increase announced for the standard PS5, which remains at the same price.
The version PS5 PROon the other hand, retains its original price for the moment. And to balance (slightly) the balance, Sony revives the price of Removable disk player : € 79.99 in Europe against € 119.99 (and 124.95 AUD in Australia, 139.95 NZD in New Zealand). A tactical drop, probably to maintain a minimum of flexibility in the offer.
These new prices come into force immediately, from April 14. No mention of an adjustment in North America, but the absence of information is rarely guaranteed. For Sony, the PS5 continues its route … but it does it with a slightly heavier label.
