If, despite the lack of semiconductors, gamers manage to get a Playstation 5, they will have to pay more. In France, from August 25, the price of all consoles will increase by 50 euros. So the basic Playstation 5, the digital edition, goes from €399.99 to €449.99, an increase of 12.5%. The price of the Ultra HD version with Blu-ray disc increases from €499.99 to €549.99, or 10% more.
“The economic situation is a test that many of you around the world have to go through.,” explained Jim Ryan, CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment on Thursday, August 25. “Inflation rates are high and currency fluctuations are affecting consumers negatively and putting pressure on many industries.“.
Many areas affected
The markets of Europe, Canada, Australia, Mexico and China are directly affected. In Japan, the increase will be effective until September 15. At the moment, the United States is spared. In the UK, where the Japanese video game giant has been accused of abusing its dominant position by fixing prices since 2016, you need to plan for £30 more.
This price increase remains a rarity in the console industry, which has tended to lower its product prices over the years. Competitors could take advantage of this decision. Thus, Microsoft is currently not raising the prices of its Xbox Series S (€299.99) and Xbox Series X (€499.99). Also, the PS5 still suffers from very low inventory. They’ve improved a bit since June, but consoles are still hard to find on the market. It’s not uncommon to find a PS5 on the internet at exorbitant prices, up to €800. “Our priority remains improving our shortage situation so that as many players as possible can enjoy all that PS5 has and will offer.“, the president of Sony concluded.
Two days ago, Sony announced the release of the Playstation VR2, its new virtual reality headset, for the first quarter of 2023. Today, the secret remains its price.
Services.The PS5 is available for €499.99 on Amazon via invitation
Source: Le Figaro
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.