In a significant move, Sony has officially confirmed that it is raising the price of its PS5 systems once again. This latest price increase affects gaming enthusiasts in the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The changes are effective immediately, impacting both the digital edition and the standard versions of the console.
The new pricing structure for the PS5 console is as follows:
PS5 Digital Edition: UK: £429.99 (an increase of £40) Europe: €499.99 (an increase of €50) PS5 Digital Edition in Australia: AUD $749.95 PS5 Digital Edition in New Zealand: NZD $859.95 PS5 Standard Edition (with Disc Drive): Australia: AUD $829.95 New Zealand: NZD $949.95Importantly, the PS5 Pro model is not affected by this latest round of price hikes. In an effort to balance the impact of these increases, Sony is also reducing the price of its PS5 disc drives to £69.99 / €79.99 / AUD $124.95 / NZD $139.95.
In a statement shared on the PlayStation Blog, Sony highlighted the challenging economic environment as a key factor behind its decision. The company cited high inflation rates and fluctuating exchange rates as significant contributors to the need for a price adjustment. As a result, Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has made the tough decision to raise the recommended retail price (RRP) of the PlayStation 5 console in select markets across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), as well as in Australia and New Zealand.
This price increase may come as a disappointment to many gamers eagerly awaiting the latest titles and upgrades for their PS5 consoles. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it remains crucial for consumers to stay informed about pricing changes and product availability in their regions.
For those looking to purchase a PS5, it may be wise to consider the new pricing and weigh options, especially with the upcoming holiday season. As always, staying updated with official announcements from Sony can provide clarity on future pricing strategies and potential promotions.
