Sony Announces Cheaper PS5 — Not Everyone Will Be Able to Buy One

At the State of Play event, Sony confirmed rumors about a new, more affordable PS5 model — but it will be sold exclusively in Japan.

Although the showcase didn’t deliver any headline-grabbing reveals, Sony’s Japanese division prepared a surprise for local fans.

Sony officially unveiled the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition Japanese Only — a lower-priced disc-free edition set to launch on November 21 for ¥55,000 (about $355). Pre-orders open on November 13.

The unit includes an 825 GB SSD, retains 3D audio, DualSense features, and all the core functionality of the standard PS5, but it will only operate with accounts set to Japanese language and region.

This approach mirrors Nintendo’s strategy of releasing Japan-only hardware variants, such as the localized Switch 2. It’s a way to strengthen the brand domestically and reward local players.

The announcement coincided with the PS5’s fifth anniversary. To mark the occasion, Sony launched the “GO! GO! PS5!” campaign, offering discounts, bonuses, and limited-time deals on the Japanese PlayStation Store.

Source: iXBT.games