PlayStation 5 Price Hike Hits Europe, Australia, and New Zealand

Sony has announced that the price of PlayStation 5 consoles will go up in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. This decision comes as no surprise, given the current economic climate. The company points to high inflation and unstable exchange rates as the main reasons behind this move. The new prices will take effect from April 14. In Europe, the digital edition of the PS5 will cost 500 Euros. In the UK, it will be 430 Pounds. The standard PS5 with a disc drive will keep its original price. In Australia, the standard PS5 will now cost 830 Australian Dollars, while the digital edition will be 750 Australian Dollars. New Zealand will see the standard PS5 priced at 950 New Zealand Dollars, with the digital edition at 860 New Zealand Dollars. This isn't the first time Sony has raised prices. Last year, similar increases were implemented. As a result, the PS5 is now significantly more expensive in many regions compared to its launch price. For instance, in Europe and the UK, the digital edition is now 100 Euros and 70 Pounds more expensive, respectively. In Australia, the standard PS5 has increased by 80 Australian Dollars, and the digital edition by 150 Australian Dollars. New Zealand has seen the standard PS5 rise by 130 New Zealand Dollars, with the digital version up by 210 New Zealand Dollars. Interestingly, the price of the PS5 disc drive has actually decreased. It will now cost 80 Euros, 70 Pounds, 125 Australian Dollars, or 140 New Zealand Dollars. This change might encourage more people to opt for the disc drive version, despite the initial higher cost. This price hike raises questions about the future of gaming affordability. As costs continue to rise, will gaming become a luxury only a few can afford? It's a critical issue to consider, especially for young gamers who rely on the PS5 for entertainment and social interaction. The gaming industry needs to find a balance between profitability and accessibility. After all, the joy of gaming should not be reserved for the privileged few.