Tag: PlayStation 5

  • Ghost of Yotei vs Ghost of Tsushima: Combat, Exploration, Progression

    Ghost of Yotei vs Ghost of Tsushima: Combat, Exploration, Progression

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Gameplay Mechanics: Players can disarm foes, lose weapons in battle, and switch among five types of weapons, enhancing combat variety.

    2. Exploration System: The game uses a clue-based exploration system instead of region unlocking, allowing players to discover story hints through interactions with enemies and NPCs.

    3. Skill Trees and Supernatural Abilities: Atsu has a five-part skill tree that focuses on different playstyles, with supernatural powers tied to her identity as an Enreo, emphasizing psychological tactics.

    4. Companions and Campsites: Atsu’s wolf companion plays a significant role in combat and progression, while customizable campsites serve as hubs for resting, upgrading, and discovering hidden activities.

    5. Cinematic Modes: The game introduces three new cinematic modes, including Kurosawa Mode, 13 Assassins Mode, and Samurai Champloo Mode, each offering unique visual and audio experiences.

    Ghost of Yotei, the upcoming open-world samurai game from Sucker Punch, expands on the success of Ghost of Tsushima while clearly changing the gameplay style. Set in a place called Ezo, it tells the story of Atsu, a solitary mercenary seeking revenge. The game introduces fresh mechanics that alter how players explore, fight, and progress.

    New Gameplay Features

    Unlike Jin Sakai, Atsu’s journey takes a different route. In Ghost of Yotei, players can disarm their foes, lose their weapons during battles, and grab gear from the ground. The combat system includes counters based on enemy types and allows players to switch among five weapons: katana, odachi, dual swords, spear, and saragama, at any moment. Many players are familiar with Japanese weapons, so it’s worth noting that an odachi is a long, heavy sword for sweeping attacks, while a saragama is a chained sickle used for mid-range combat.

    Exploration and Progression

    The exploration in Ghost of Yotei moves away from the region-unlocking model seen in Tsushima and instead uses a clue-based system. Players can discover story hints by questioning enemies or chatting with NPCs, which lead to areas inspired by Japanese folklore, such as the Kitsune and Oni. Each of these regions features unique enemies, visuals, and skills. Progress is monitored through a card system, with new abilities unlocked by finding altars, often indicated by golden birds or through travel maps sold by cartographers.

    Skill Trees and Abilities

    The game’s five-part skill tree emphasizes different playstyles. The Core branch focuses on fundamentals, Melee enhances close combat, Enreo taps into supernatural abilities, Revenge rewards aggressive play, and Wolf improves companion skills. While the game doesn’t fully embrace magic, Atsu’s supernatural capabilities arise from her identity as an Enreo, a vengeful spirit from local legends. Her ghostly powers are more about fear and psychological tactics than actual fantasy elements. It’s like Batman: Year One, but with a katana instead.

    Companions and Campsites

    In addition, Atsu’s wolf companion has a more significant role in both combat and progression. Upgrades are accessed through the Wolf Pack menu, which also replaces the traditional quest log. Players can slide, apply oil for elemental damage, and use charms that enhance with use. Players can quickly switch between different builds with loadouts, armor variations, and power-graded charms.

    Now, players can pitch their camp anywhere, creating a hub for resting, cooking, and bonding with companions. Campsites function as upgrade stations where vendors, trainers, and allies can appear without needing to travel away from the area. Playing shamisen songs at camp uncovers hidden activities like shrines and bamboo-cutting challenges.

    Ranged Combat Enhancements

    Ranged combat has also been improved with new options beyond the short bow, longbow, and rifle. Atsu can now utilize kunai, bombs, blinding powder, and a matchlock pistol. Bombs and elemental oil effects work similarly to Ghost’s Way of the Flame. Stealth features like chain assassinations and supportive tools return, enhanced for a better experience.

    Cinematic Modes

    Ghost of Yotei introduces three new cinematic modes that aim to alter the overall feel of the game, not just its visuals. Kurosawa Mode returns with its hallmark black-and-white aesthetic, created in collaboration with the estate of the late director. 13 Assassins Mode, made with filmmaker Takashi Miike, offers a closer camera view during combat and emphasizes blood and mud effects.

    However, the highlight is Samurai Champloo Mode, featuring original lo-fi music curated by Shinichirō Watanabe, the creator of Samurai Champloo, which combines stylized combat with a unique soundtrack. Ghost of Yotei is set to launch on October 2, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5. It will be available via Amazon (affiliate link). Pricing and availability for PC have yet to be announced.

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    Ghost of Yotei vs Ghost of Tsushima: Combat, Exploration, ProgressionGhost of Yotei vs Ghost of Tsushima: Combat, Exploration, Progression

     

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  • Delta Force Breaks Steam Record Before Xbox Series S|X, PS5 Launch

    Delta Force Breaks Steam Record Before Xbox Series S|X, PS5 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Delta Force reached a record high of 177,862 players on Steam on July 6, 2025, with 88,100 active users at that time.
    2. The game will launch on Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5 on August 19, 2025, expanding its player base.
    3. Delta Force’s peak player count surpassed Call of Duty’s highest player count of 92,182 on Steam over a 30-day period.
    4. The game maintains an average of over 80,000 players and offers free content updates, contributing to its growing popularity.
    5. Upcoming features include crossplay, cross-progression, and new content in Season 5, starting July 8, 2025.

    Team Jade alongside TiMi Studio Group’s Delta Force has just achieved an amazing milestone. The game set a new record for its highest player count on Steam, reaching 177,862 players on July 6, 2025, with 88,100 users actively playing at the moment. Just seven months post its PC launch, the game is set to make its debut on Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5 on August 19, which is a perfect time for the game to expand its player base.

    Exciting Announcement

    In an official statement, TiMi Studio Group expressed pride in their hard work paying off:

    “All our hard work has paid off: the console version you’ve been waiting for is officially launching on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S on August 19.”

    Delta Force’s new record is almost double the peak player count of Call of Duty, which sits at 92,182 on Steam over a 30-day period. These figures are particularly striking when we consider that Call of Duty includes several titles such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Modern Warfare II, Modern Warfare III, and Warzone.

    Consistent Player Base

    It makes sense why players are flocking to Delta Force. The game is a free-to-play multiplayer first-person shooter that continually provides fresh content without extra charges. Players can dive into a campaign, enjoy extractions, and engage in various PvP modes.

    But this rise isn’t just a temporary spike. Delta Force has consistently held an average of over 80,000 players in the past month. The game has been steadily gaining traction as it approaches its console launch.

    Anticipated Growth

    With the anticipated release on Xbox Series S|X and PlayStation 5, it is expected that player numbers will soar, especially since crossplay and cross-progression are available. This means players can connect with friends or switch to different devices without losing their achievements.

    Moreover, console gamers will have access to all existing content, including all game modes, DLC, and operators. Additionally, Delta Force Season 5 “Break” will kick off on July 8 at 10 PM ET. This new season will feature a solo queue for the Black Hawk Down campaign, a collection room, a new operator named “Tempest,” and two new maps: Cyclone and Prison.

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  • Hellblade 2 Announced for PS5; Enhanced Edition Coming Soon

    Hellblade 2 Announced for PS5; Enhanced Edition Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II will be released on PlayStation 5 on August 12, 2025, marking its transition from Xbox exclusivity.
    2. The Enhanced Edition will feature a new 60 FPS Performance Mode for most platforms and a “Very High” graphical setting for PC users.
    3. New gameplay features include the return of the Dark Rot Mode and an upgraded Photo Mode with a “Motion Tab.”
    4. The Standard Edition will be priced at $49.99, while a Deluxe Edition will cost $69.99 and includes Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice and its soundtrack.
    5. Players who own Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice on PS4 will receive a free upgrade to the PS5 version.

    Ninja Theory has shared the exciting news that Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II will be available on the PlayStation 5 starting August 12, 2025. This announcement makes it official that the much-praised action-adventure game, originally for Xbox, is making its way to Sony’s console. Additionally, the release of Hellblade II on PS5 will come along with a significant ‘Enhanced’ upgrade for both Xbox Series S|X and PC users.

    Enhanced Features for Players

    The Enhanced Edition of Hellblade II will bring several upgrades, such as a new 60 FPS Performance Mode for most platforms, except for the Xbox Series S. This is a notable improvement over the previous 30 FPS limit with dynamic resolution, in which the game occasionally dipped below the desired frame rate during visually demanding moments.

    PC gamers will also benefit from a new “Very High” graphical setting, further enhancing the already stunning visuals of Hellblade II. Those using the Steam Deck can rejoice as the game will be Steam Deck Verified on the same day the Enhanced Edition launches.

    New Gameplay Experiences

    In addition to visual and performance enhancements, Hellblade II will introduce fresh gameplay features, including the return of the Dark Rot Mode from Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. This mode causes the Dark Rot to spread to Senua’s head, resulting in the loss of all progress in the game.

    An upgraded Photo Mode will also be part of the package, complete with a “Motion Tab” for capturing cinematic moments in the game. Furthermore, the Enhanced Edition will include four hours of developer commentary, offering players a deeper understanding of the psychosis-driven atmosphere in Hellblade II.

    Pricing and Editions

    The Enhanced Edition of Hellblade II is set to be released on August 12, 2025, for the PlayStation 5, with a Standard Edition priced at $49.99 for the base game. There will also be a Deluxe Edition available for $69.99, which includes a PS5-optimized version of Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice along with its soundtrack.

    Additionally, players who own Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice on PS4 will receive a free upgrade to the PS5 version.

    The arrival of Hellblade II on the PlayStation marks another significant step in the trend of Xbox first-party titles leaving their console exclusives behind. Recently, three major Microsoft-owned games have topped the PS5’s most-downloaded charts: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Forza Horizon 5, and Minecraft, all of which were among the best-selling games in the U.S. and Canada for April.

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  • Liquid Metal in PS5 Pro May Increase Defects

    Liquid Metal in PS5 Pro May Increase Defects

    Key Takeaways

    1. Initial complaints about faulty PlayStation 5 consoles are linked to liquid metal thermal paste issues.
    2. The vertical positioning of the console can compromise the seal, causing liquid metal to leak onto the motherboard.
    3. Overheating and potential short circuits result from liquid metal flow, affecting console performance.
    4. The issue is mainly reported in the launch model but also affects PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro versions.
    5. A recent survey shows an increase in overheating complaints among players, with 3% currently affected.

    A few years back, initial users started to voice their frustrations regarding faulty PlayStation 5 consoles, which were linked to issues with the liquid metal thermal paste used in the processor. iFixit’s teardown reveals that Sony employs liquid metal for better heat transfer from the APU to the heatsink. This thermal paste is secured by a unique type of seal.

    Issues with Vertical Positioning

    Nonetheless, when the console is set up vertically, this seal might not be secure enough, potentially allowing the liquid metal to flow from the processor onto the motherboard. This results in two main issues. Firstly, the APU cannot effectively dissipate heat due to the diminished thermal conductor, which can lead to overheating of the chipset and cause the console to crash. Secondly, the liquid metal, which conducts electricity, can cause short circuits on the motherboard.

    Increasing Complaints

    In a recent video by Moore’s Law is Dead, the founder of Alderon Games discusses how more gamers have been reporting this issue over time. This problem mainly impacts the launch model but has also been seen in the PS5 Slim and PlayStation 5 Pro (starting at $699 on Amazon). While Sony has made improvements in these newer versions, the risk remains since liquid metal is still used in all these consoles.

    User Experience

    For many users, the issue appears as the console crashing during extended gaming sessions, leading to overheating. The more resource-intensive the game is, the quicker the chipset overheats and shuts down due to the faulty cooling system. A survey conducted by the developer indicates that this problem currently affects around 3% of Path of Titans players, an increase from 2% just a few months ago. It is currently not feasible to predict how many consoles might experience this defect in the future.

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  • Capcom Announces Resident Evil 9 Reaches 1 Million Wishlists

    Capcom Announces Resident Evil 9 Reaches 1 Million Wishlists

    Key Takeaways

    1. Resident Evil 9, also known as Resident Evil Requiem, has over one million wishlists within a month of its announcement.
    2. The game features Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst investigating her mother Alyssa’s murder in Raccoon City.
    3. The game was announced at the Summer Game Fest 2025 with a cinematic trailer showcasing Raccoon City and its iconic locations.
    4. Resident Evil Requiem is set to release on February 27, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC.
    5. Fans can expect new gameplay footage at Capcom’s Spotlight event on June 26 and a playable demo at Gamescom in August.

    The next big entry in Capcom’s famous survival horror series, Resident Evil 9, also known as Resident Evil Requiem, has reached a significant achievement nearly 8 months ahead of its official launch.

    A Remarkable Achievement

    The company previously shared that Resident Evil 9 has received over one million wishlists across various digital platforms in less than a month, which is quite an impressive feat. Capcom took to its social media on X to express gratitude to fans with this message:

    “Requiem for the dead. Nightmare for the over one million of you who wishlisted #ResidentEvilRequiem! Thank You!”

    Anticipation Builds

    Since its announcement earlier this month, Resident Evil 9 has been available for wishlisting on digital platforms like the PlayStation Store and Steam. The huge number of users showing interest already suggests a strong excitement for what lies ahead in this next chapter of the franchise.

    Resident Evil Requiem was first unveiled as a surprise closing announcement at the Summer Game Fest 2025. Capcom presented a cinematic trailer that introduced Grace Ashcroft, an FBI analyst and the daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft from Resident Evil Outbreak, which was launched in 2003 for the PlayStation 2.

    Returning to Raccoon City

    Gamers will once again venture back to Raccoon City, as Grace investigates the Wrenwood Hotel, the site of her mother Alyssa’s murder. The teaser for Resident Evil 9 featured scenes of the wrecked remnants of Raccoon City, alongside the ruins of the R.P.D. that appeared in Resident Evil 2.

    Resident Evil Requiem is expected to continue the popularity of Resident Evil Village, which achieved sales of three million copies within just four days and 11.3 million by March 2025. Moreover, the Resident Evil 4 Remake (2023) sold an impressive 9.9 million copies. These figures set a high expectation for Resident Evil Requiem’s sales in its first week post-launch.

    Release and Future Events

    Resident Evil Requiem is scheduled to come out on February 27, 2026, for the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC. Fans can anticipate new gameplay footage at Capcom’s Spotlight event on June 26, with a playable demo planned for Gamescom this upcoming August.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Surpasses Xbox Series S|X and PS5 Sales in Japan

    Nintendo Switch 2 Surpasses Xbox Series S|X and PS5 Sales in Japan

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 achieved over 1 million sales in Japan within the first 2 weeks, surpassing certain Sony PlayStation 5 variants.
    2. It has outperformed the combined lifetime sales of Microsoft’s Series S and X consoles in Japan, which remain in third place in the market.
    3. The gaming community is divided on the Switch 2’s improvements over its predecessor, but it is establishing a unique market position.
    4. The Switch 2 is priced at ¥49,980 (around $343) in Japan, nearly 16% cheaper than its $450 price in the U.S., aiding its success.
    5. Nintendo’s stronghold in Japan is reinforced by better wholesale margins for retailers and the console’s backward compatibility with older media and controllers.

    Despite significant supply issues for the Nintendo Switch 2, the handheld device has quickly taken the lead in its home country of Japan, achieving over 1 million sales in just the first 2 weeks. This impressive figure places it ahead of certain variants of the Sony PlayStation 5 regarding total sales, like the base model’s Digital edition.

    Comparison with Microsoft Consoles

    In addition, it shows that the Switch 2 has already outperformed the combined lifetime sales of Microsoft’s Series S and X consoles, which continue to lag behind in Japan’s competitive gaming market, consistently occupying a distant third place.

    Community Opinions

    The gaming community is split on the Switch 2’s supposed improvements compared to its predecessor before its release. While the Nintendo Switch 2 faces high expectations to replicate the success of the original, it appears to be carving out its own niche in the market.

    Pricing Strategies

    This could be due to Nintendo’s aim for a clear victory in its home market: the new console retails for $450 in the United States, but in Japan, it’s priced at ¥49,980 (around $343), which is nearly a 16% discount compared to the U.S. pricing.

    Confirmation of Sales Figures

    Initial reports from last week suggested that the Switch 2 had exceeded the 1 million sales mark in Japan. We now have confirmation from Famitsu, a Japanese gaming magazine that also tracks similar statistics for other consoles in the region.

    Nintendo’s Market Position

    Nintendo’s stronghold in Japan is well-known, as the company has consistently performed well in the territory with all its major console releases, even with the less successful Wii U. In contrast, Microsoft’s Xbox struggles to compete against both Sony’s and Nintendo’s products in Japan, mainly due to a lack of regional support that rival consoles benefit from. Recently, Sony has raised the price of the PS5 by 20% since September 2024, reducing its competitive edge.

    Some of Nintendo’s success can be linked to its better wholesale margins (5% compared to the usual 2%) offered to retailers. Additionally, the Switch 2 supports backward compatibility for previously purchased digital and physical media as well as older Joy-Cons and Pro controllers.

    Global Sales

    Globally, the Nintendo Switch 2 has sold around 3.5 million units as of June 9, as confirmed by Nintendo in a recent corporate announcement, showcasing strong international demand and a solid pipeline for pre-orders.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Surpasses Xbox Series S|X and PS5 Sales in Japan

     

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  • Last Game of Legendary Franchise May Return on PS5 and PS4

    Last Game of Legendary Franchise May Return on PS5 and PS4

    Key Takeaways

    1. Return of Legacy of Kain: Defiance – The game is likely making a comeback on PlayStation 4 and 5, as indicated by a classification from Taiwan.

    2. PlayStation Plus Premium Inclusion – The fifth installment of the vampire-themed series is expected to join the PlayStation Plus Premium lineup soon.

    3. Development by Crystal Dynamics – The game is being developed by Crystal Dynamics under the guidance of Amy Hennig, focusing on the conclusion of the Nosgoth narrative.

    4. Franchise Challenges – The series has faced difficulties, including poor sales and the departure of key personnel like Amy Hennig.

    5. Opportunity for New Gamers – Its addition to PlayStation Plus Premium could introduce a new generation to the iconic Legacy of Kain series.

    Fans of the beloved video game series might be thrilled to hear that this distinctive game is set to make a comeback on next-gen consoles. A classification from Taiwan indicates that Legacy of Kain: Defiance could be on its way to PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 soon.

    Exciting News for Gamers

    As reported by Gematsu, the fifth and final installment of this vampire-themed story, which was originally released on PlayStation 2 back in 2003, is expected to join the PlayStation Plus Premium lineup shortly. Seeing it in this classification typically signals a likely release from Sony.

    Development Insights

    Crystal Dynamics is working on Legacy of Kain: Defiance, guided by the talented Amy Hennig. In terms of its position within the franchise’s timeline, it represents the conclusion of the narrative that began with Soul Reaver. Players will have the chance to control both Kain and Raziel, with the storyline unraveling essential details about the entire Nosgoth universe.

    Challenges Ahead

    Even though this news might excite dedicated fans, it’s vital to recognize that the franchise has faced challenges. The last several years have been tough for Crystal Dynamics, especially after Amy Hennig’s departure from the studio not long after the game’s launch, as she moved to Naughty Dog to contribute to the Uncharted series.

    Sales Struggles

    Moreover, the sales of Legacy of Kain: Defiance did not reach the heights achieved by Eidos, which led the studio to take a step back. The gameplay was often viewed as repetitive, despite the overall positive reviews it received, holding a score of 75/100 on Metacritic.

    A New Era

    The likely addition of this game to PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 comes at a time of revival for the series, following Crystal Dynamics’ acquisition by Embracer Group in 2022. The new owners have expressed their enthusiasm for sequels, remasters, and remakes of the series.

    A Chance for New Players

    Should this title find its way into the PlayStation Plus Premium catalog, it might allow a new generation of gamers to discover this iconic series. Additionally, this installment is poised to achieve the success it truly deserves.

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  • Lost in Random: Eternal Die Advanced Access Now Available

    Lost in Random: Eternal Die Advanced Access Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Early Access Availability: Players who pre-ordered the Fortune Edition can access Lost in Random: The Eternal Die on Steam with four days of early gameplay and exclusive bonuses.

    2. Game Praise: Reviewers highlight the engaging combat mechanics, impressive graphics, and unique roguelite style of the game.

    3. New Trailer Launch: A new trailer has been released, featuring Senior Narrative Designer Oskar Hanska discussing the lore of the Lost in Random universe.

    4. Gameplay Features: The game features real-time action, tactical gameplay, four distinct weapons, card-based skills, and a die-companion to influence battles.

    5. Official Release Date: Lost in Random: The Eternal Die is set to launch on June 17 for multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

    Lost in Random: The Eternal Die is the next installment in the fast-paced action-roguelite series, following the popular game Lost in Random. Players who pre-ordered the Fortune Edition can now dive into Advanced Access. Reviewers have praised the game for its engaging combat mechanics, impressive graphics, and the unique roguelite style.

    Early Access and Special Features

    A significant number of players are already experiencing Lost in Random: The Eternal Die on Steam through its Advanced Access. The Fortune Edition offers four days of early gameplay, along with exclusive bonuses like a digital artbook and soundtrack. There’s also a cosmetic DLC included for Steam users, while console players can only access the cosmetic DLC.

    New Trailer Release

    To mark the launch of Advanced Access, Thunderful has unveiled a new trailer for Lost in Random: The Eternal Die. In this trailer, Oskar Hanska, the Senior Narrative Designer, explores the rich lore of the Lost in Random universe, providing a glimpse into the story before the game officially launches.

    Game Details and Features

    In summary, Lost in Random: The Eternal Die is a thrilling real-time action game that combines tactical gameplay with risk-reward elements and fierce battles. Players can utilize four distinct weapons, employ card-based skills, and rely on their trusty die-companion to sway the battle in their favor. Experience the standalone story of Queen Aleksandra, who once ruled Random, as she seeks revenge.

    Lost in Random: The Eternal Die is set to be released on June 17 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Game Pass, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

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  • PS5 Surpasses PS4 in Monthly Players for the First Time

    PS5 Surpasses PS4 in Monthly Players for the First Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation 5 has surpassed the PlayStation 4 in monthly active players for the first time since its launch in 2020.
    2. Combined monthly active users on PS5 and PS4 reached 124 million, up from 97 million the previous year.
    3. The PS5 showed a 21% increase in content spending, 63% rise in services, and 27% jump in peripheral sales compared to the PS4.
    4. PlayStation Plus subscribers for the Premium and Extra tiers increased to 38% despite previous price hikes.
    5. Total gameplay hours in FY24 reached 51 billion, marking a 14% increase from FY22, indicating higher user engagement.

    Sony Interactive Entertainment recently held its annual earnings meeting, where they announced a major growth achievement for the PlayStation 5. For the first time since its launch in 2020, the PS5 has surpassed the PS4 in terms of monthly players. Sony is confident that these users are very engaged and spending more on games and services. The total count of monthly active players has also seen a notable rise compared to the previous year.

    Key Growth Metrics

    During the meeting, key figures like Hideaki Nishino (President and CEO), Hermen Hulst (CEO of Studio Business Group), and Lynn Azar (SVP of Finance and Corporate Development) presented slides illustrating robust growth and console achievements. As of March 31, 2025, the combined monthly active users on both PS5 and PS4 reached 124 million, which marks a significant increase from last year’s 97 million. Notably, the PS5 has taken the lead in monthly active users for the first time since it was launched, outpacing the PS4.

    User Engagement Insights

    Although Sony didn’t disclose the specific monthly active user numbers for the PS5, the presented graphics indicated that the new console captured a large portion of the user base. Additionally, the spending per console showed positive trends for the PS5, with a 21% increase in content spending, a 63% rise in services, and a 27% jump in peripheral sales compared to the PS4.

    The CEO also addressed the pricing of PlayStation Plus, noting that despite previous price hikes, the number of Premium and Extra tier subscribers has risen to 38%. In light of this growth, the company plans to continue enhancing value and adjusting prices to optimize profitability.

    Increased Engagement in FY24

    Moreover, it appears that users were more engaged with PlayStation in FY24 compared to both 2023 (FY22) and 2024 (FY23), as the total gameplay hours reached 51 billion, reflecting a 14% increase from FY22.

    This reflects a positive trend for Sony’s Game & Network Service (G&NS) segment and points towards a bright future for the PlayStation ecosystem.

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    PS5 Surpasses PS4 in Monthly Players for the First Time

     

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  • PlayStation 5 Price Increase Expected Soon in India

    PlayStation 5 Price Increase Expected Soon in India

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation 5 prices in India are set to increase, with the standard PS5 rising to ₹58,990 ($689) and the Digital Edition to ₹49,990 ($584).
    2. The price hike amounts to ₹4,000 ($47) for the PS5 and ₹5,000 ($58) for the Digital Edition, making the PS5 ₹9,000 ($105) more expensive than its original price.
    3. The PS5 Digital Edition has seen a total increase of ₹10,000 ($116) since its initial launch price of ₹39,990 ($467).
    4. Sony’s price increase aligns with a global trend affecting PlayStation 5 prices and occurs amidst speculation about the absence of a PS5 Pro model.
    5. Currently, the PS5 is the only next-gen console widely available in India, as other options like the Xbox Series X are scarce.

    Those interested in purchasing a PlayStation 5 in India might face higher costs soon. This would mark the second increase in price for the console since its introduction in 2021. Industry expert Rishi Alwani has reported from sources that Sony intends to raise the price of the standard PS5 to ₹58,990 ($689). Likewise, the PS5 Digital Edition could soon be available for ₹49,990 ($584).

    Price Changes Explained

    This change indicates a ₹4,000 ($47) increase for the PS5 and a ₹5,000 rise for the Digital Edition. In total, the original will now be ₹9,000 ($105) more expensive than its initial price of ₹49,990 ($584). The version without a disc, which was first introduced at ₹39,990 ($467) is now costlier by an astonishing ₹10,000 ($116). This follows Sony’s recent decision to raise PlayStation 5 prices worldwide. The sudden price increase, coupled with the absence of news regarding a PS5 Pro, is likely to create some tension in a market that is sensitive to price changes.

    Market Availability

    Sadly, this is the only next-gen console that can be reliably purchased in India at this time. The Xbox Series X is hard to come by, and its recently announced digital-only edition and 2 TB version have yet to be launched in the Indian market. This effectively leaves gamers with just the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S, and a Nintendo Switch 2, which is priced similarly to a PS5.

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