Sony to raise PlayStation 5 prices in Japan from September
Sony has announced a price increase for PlayStation 5 consoles sold in Japan, with changes set to take effect on September 2. The move comes as part of a broader shift in pricing that reflects the current economic environment in the region and worldwide. The updated pricing places the standard PS5 at 79,900 yen and the version without a disc drive at 72,900 yen, marking a notable rise from previous levels.
The price adjustment also extends to core accessories. The DualSense wireless controller will see a higher price by 2,000 yen, and the PlayStation Portal will rise by 5,000 yen. Sony representatives cited prevailing economic conditions as the rationale behind these increases, noting factors that influence production costs, logistics, and currency fluctuations across markets.
Industry observers point out that this is the latest wave of price changes for Sony in Japan, where the PS5 has already undergone several adjustments since its initial launch. Early models debuted at higher price points, and the current increase marks a continuation of a gradual trend rather than an abrupt sudden shift. The market response will likely be watched closely by gamers and retailers alike as they assess demand, availability, and how competitors respond to the move.
While Sony has adjusted prices in Japan, there is no indication yet of similar changes in other major regions. In contrast, Russia continues to see the PS5 priced at roughly 40,000 rubles on average, illustrating regional differences in pricing strategy that reflect local market dynamics, currency values, and distribution costs.
Historically, the PS5 has experienced several price milestones in Japan. Initially offered at 39,900 yen for the digital‑only version and 49,900 yen for the standard model, those price points established a baseline that later evolved as production costs shifted and market conditions changed. Analysts will be watching how this latest adjustment interacts with demand patterns as Sony explores the balance between maintaining console accessibility and safeguarding margins.
With the anticipated arrival of more capable hardware such as the PS5 Pro, discussions about a broader refresh and a potential product lineup expansion have gained momentum. Sony’s upcoming presentations and strategic moves in this area are expected to influence consumer sentiment and the competitive landscape in the console segment for years to come. As the market adapts to price shifts, retailers and fans will weigh the value of bundled deals, accessibility of software libraries, and the long‑term trajectory of Sony’s hardware ecosystem. The latest price changes underscore the evolving nature of console pricing in a global market where currency movement, supply chain considerations, and regional demand all play a crucial role.