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Sony Raises PS5 Prices in Japan and Australia, Citing Economic Pressures

Sony Raises PS5 Prices in Japan and Australia, Citing Economic Pressures

Sony Interactive Entertainment announced price hikes for the PlayStation 5 on April 8, 2025, targeting Japan and Australia due to “rising production costs and currency fluctuations,” per a company statement. In Japan, the PS5 Disc Edition jumps 20% from ¥72,980 to ¥87,980 ($590), while the Digital Edition rises to ¥82,980, effective April 15.

Australia sees a 15% increase, with the Disc Edition now A$799.99 (up from A$699.99) and the Digital Edition A$649.99, starting April 20. Sony, which sold 65 million PS5 units globally by March 2025, cited a 10% yen depreciation and a 5% AUD drop against the USD since 2024, alongside $200 million in chip cost spikes.

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The move, Sony’s third PS5 price adjustment since 2020, sparked debate among 45 million monthly active users, with Japan’s 15% gaming market share hit hardest, PS5 holds 60% console sales there, per Famitsu. Australia’s 2 million PS5 owners face a tougher hit amid 4% inflation, though Sony assured no changes in the U.S., EU, or Nigeria, where 500,000 units shipped in 2024.

Retailers like JB Hi-Fi reported stable stock, but pre-order demand for the PS5 Pro, launching November 2025 at $699, dipped 8%. Sony’s shares rose 3% on Nikkei, signaling investor confidence, yet analysts warn of a 5% sales dip if prices spread globally. Gamers await Sony’s promised “value bundles” to offset costs, as titles like God of War VI drive 2025’s $20 billion revenue goal.

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