Japanese Gamers Celebrate Affordable PS5 ‘Japan Only’ Release Amid Economic Struggles
Japanese gamers are cheering as Sony launches a Japan-exclusive version of the PlayStation 5 at a lower price, offering a more accessible entry point for players amidst the country’s ongoing economic challenges. The new edition is designed for local audiences and has been introduced quickly alongside pre-orders and sales promotions, including the marketing campaign “55” and TV advertisements.
Social media reactions from Japanese players reveal genuine excitement over the launch, especially for those purchasing a PS5 for the first time. The Japan-only edition provides a simpler path to enjoy Sony’s premium game lineup, particularly during times when the yen remains weak. The “55” campaign, which plays on pricing strategies, alongside discounts for existing users, has also contributed to the positive reception of this release.
Looking beyond pricing, Sony may continue leveraging this localized model in Japan for future generations. Many players in the region have limited need for English-language support in games and have shifted towards digital consumption, reducing the need for physical discs. This trend suggests the next-generation PlayStation could adopt similar strategies to cater specifically to the Japanese market.
For Singapore, the standard PS5 All-Digital Edition starts at approximately 618 SGD, while the standard model is around 736 SGD. The console features an AMD Zen 2 8-core, 16-thread CPU, a solid-state drive for faster load times, and a controller with realistic Haptic feedback for a seamless gaming experience. A smaller, upgraded version is also currently available.
The Japan-only PS5 Digital Edition will be sold exclusively in Japan for 55,000 JPY (around 573 SGD), making it nearly 45 SGD cheaper than the standard all-digital edition. However, it is tailored for Japanese users only, with localized display and payment support restricted to Japanese accounts and credit cards.
