PS5 Price Hike Hits Europe, Australia, and New Zealand Again: What You Need to Know!

Sony has announced price hikes for PlayStation 5 consoles in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The company blames this increase on tough economic times, marked by high inflation and changing currency values.

According to a recent post on the PlayStation Blog, here are the new recommended retail prices:

• Europe: PS5 Digital Edition – €500 (Standard PS5 price unchanged)
• UK: PS5 Digital Edition – £430 (Standard PS5 price unchanged)
• Australia: Standard PS5 with disc drive – AUD $830; PS5 Digital Edition – AUD $750
• New Zealand: Standard PS5 with disc drive – NZD $950; PS5 Digital Edition – NZD $860

Interestingly, the price of the PS5 Pro remains the same.

Since similar price increases occurred last year, the cost of the PS5 is now significantly higher than when it first launched. For example, in Europe and the UK, the PS5 Digital Edition has jumped by €100 and £70, respectively, from its original launch price. In Australia, the standard PS5 is now AUD $80 more expensive, and the digital version is up AUD $150. New Zealand fares comparably, with a price increase of NZD $130 for the standard version and NZD $210 for the digital edition.

In a broader context, such price adjustments are not new in the gaming industry. Experts note that inflation and supply chain issues continue to pressure manufacturers to increase prices. For instance, a recent survey revealed that 72% of gamers expressed concerns about rising console prices and their impact on future purchases.

User reactions on social media reflect disappointment. Many fans are sharing their frustration, highlighting how these costs affect their ability to enjoy new gaming experiences.

As the gaming market evolves, keeping an eye on prices and trends is essential. Price shifts can influence gaming habits, making it important for consumers to stay informed.

For more insights on gaming trends and statistics, check out this research study by Statista.

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