The PlayStation 5 has been reaching its sixth year since it was released back in 2020. We all know what happened then, and it’s only gotten better. However, it’s going back to another problem, which is almost the same problem that it had back when it first came out in 2020, and it all involves the price.
What’s happening with the Playstation 5 prices?
Sony announced that by April 2, 2026, depending on where you are, PlayStation 5 prices will go up by $150 to $200. That is for all versions, such as basic, digital, and Pro. That’s a big ouch right there because one of their reasoning is due to the rising crisis on a political scale. Whatever the case is, if you don’t have a PS5 yet, then you’d better get it before April 2. This does sound like an early April Fool’s because of the date.
What about older produced PS5s?
We’re not sure if the retailers selling the PS5 on store shelves will increase. After all, these units were made before the so-called crisis. Don’t be surprised, though, if they do, even if they won’t lose money, retailers and sellers of brand-new PS5s may sell them at this price range. You may be lucky to find older models online. Perhaps someone would be willing to use models for the same price. If nothing else, there are people who will sell second-hand PS5s, and they won’t be that expensive.
A reminder of the PS5 launch
When the PS5 launched back in November of 2020, it had a lot of controversies going for it, and it wasn’t just the price, as multiple factors tainted its launch.
Lack of units
Sony underestimated just how high interest would be, and combined with global manufacturing slowdowns, the console became extremely difficult to find. Many retailers sold out within minutes, frustrating players who were eager to upgrade from previous systems.
The global chip shortage played a huge role in the PS5’s availability issues. The production of semiconductors—essential components for modern electronics—was heavily impacted by pandemic-related factory shutdowns and increased demand across industries. This meant Sony struggled to manufacture enough units, prolonging the shortage well into 2021 and beyond.
Scalpers were hoarding and reselling them
A major issue during the PS5’s early life was the rise of scalpers. Using automated bots, resellers bought large quantities of consoles online before regular customers had a chance. These units were then resold at significantly higher prices on secondary markets, sometimes double or triple the original retail cost. This created a sense of unfairness and made it even harder for genuine buyers to get a console.
Limited games didn’t stop people from purchasing them
At launch, the PS5 had a relatively small number of exclusive games. While titles like Demon’s Souls and Spider-Man: Miles Morales showed the console’s potential, many players felt there weren’t enough must-have experiences right away. As a result, some consumers chose to wait before purchasing the console. However, there were those who just went for it to make sure they had a unit when more games were coming.
