Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has announced a landmark increase in starting salaries for its Japanese PlayStation division, with the new pay scales set to take effect on April 1, 2026.
For new recruits holding a Bachelor’s degree, monthly compensation will jump from 358,000 to 425,000 yen (approx. $3,100). Graduates with a Master’s degree can expect 460,000 yen ($3,350), while those with a Doctorate will receive 480,000 yen ($3,500). These figures are inclusive of the Japanese standard fixed overtime allowance for up to 45 hours.
Asako Kurita, Corporate Vice President of HR at SIE, highlighted that the primary objective of this hike is to attract high-caliber talent and empower them to thrive within the company’s extensive global infrastructure.
This strategic move by Sony reflects broader shifts in the Japanese labor market. As the cost of living in Tokyo continues to climb, major competitors including Sega, Capcom, FromSoftware, and Konami have already implemented similar wage increases. The industry consensus is becoming clear: creative excellence is best achieved when developers are provided with financial stability.
Source: iXBT.games