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Sony Claims PS5 Pro’s Price Tag Didn’t Scare Off Buyers
November 12, 2024Sony’s recent release of the PS5 Pro has sparked tons of conversations, mostly around its hefty $700 price tag and its lack of a built-in disc drive. But despite the initial outcry, Sony’s president, Hiroki Totoki, claims sales are holding strong. In a recent statement, Totoki assured Japanese investors that the high price hasn’t negatively impacted demand for the PS5 Pro, noting that hardcore gamers are the real target market for this premium console upgrade.
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Price Shock? Not for Hardcore Gamers
One of the biggest talking points around the PS5 Pro launch has been its price tag—$700 is no small sum, and the absence of a disc drive only added to the scepticism from players. In 2020, PS5 shortages had scalpers charging over $1,000 for the standard model. But Sony’s approach this time around shows they’ve tailored the Pro version specifically for those who are passionate about maxing out their console experience.
Totoki addressed the price concerns head-on, acknowledging the variety of opinions about the cost. However, he reassured investors by saying that “pricing on the PS5 Pro has not had a negative impact,” stressing that it’s aimed at “hardcore users” who prioritize top-tier specs. This means that even if it isn’t selling like wildfire, Sony is seeing enough sales from dedicated gamers to feel positive about the Pro’s future.
Early Sales Insights: A Mixed Bag
Although Totoki’s statements were meant to reassure, they didn’t exactly provide a clear answer on overall PS5 Pro sales. With it only being available for about a week, it’s too early to draw definite conclusions. However, some signs indicate the PS5 Pro may not be hitting the same initial surge as the PS5 in 2020. Unlike the PS5, which sold out rapidly, many stores still have PS5 Pro units available.
A noticeable trend has been scalpers taking a hit with PS5 Pro resales. The resale market for the PS5 Pro isn’t mirroring the frenzy seen with the original PS5, where scalpers were able to charge huge markups. Instead, some scalpers are reportedly selling PS5 Pro units at a loss, revealing a potential mismatch between supply and demand. However, the Pro’s optional disc drive has been a surprising hit, selling out in many stores and sparking demand on resale platforms.
Disc Drives in Demand: What’s the Appeal?
One surprising aspect of the PS5 Pro launch has been the demand for the optional disc drive. Retailers are struggling to keep up with the demand for this add-on, which has presented scalpers with an unexpected profit opportunity. This rush suggests that while gamers were initially open to the idea of a digital-only console, many still crave the option to play physical games or watch Blu-rays, even on the PS5 Pro.
The popularity of the disc drive raises an interesting question: Will Sony respond by offering a PS5 Pro model with an integrated disc drive? Currently, there’s no official word, but given the sales patterns, it’s a possibility Sony might explore down the line.
What’s Next for Sony and PlayStation Fans?
The PS5 Pro launch has certainly kept Sony’s strategy in the spotlight. As Totoki hinted, Sony’s real focus may already be shifting to the next generation. Reports suggest Sony is actively planning the PlayStation 6, meaning the Pro model could end up being a niche product for enthusiasts while the mainstream audience waits for the PS6. For hardcore gamers, the PS5 Pro is an attractive bridge to the future—if they’re willing to pay for it.
In the meantime, Sony will likely keep a close eye on PS5 Pro sales data to determine if this pricing strategy was successful. If hardcore gamers continue to support the Pro at its current price, Sony may see it as validation for charging premium prices for mid-cycle upgrades, paving the way for even more powerful and pricy PlayStations in the future.
If you’re someone who’s committed to experiencing games at the highest possible quality on a console, the PS5 Pro might be worth the investment. But if you’re in the market for an upgrade with a lower price or a built-in disc drive, it might be worth waiting to see if Sony responds to the market feedback.
For now, the PS5 Pro remains a product for the hardcore, and while it hasn’t disrupted Sony’s sales momentum, the true measure of success will come as the dust settles in the months ahead.
While games are fun, it’s highly important to note that there’s more to life than sitting countless hours playing games – there’s a purpose and more to life; seek out that purpose more often!
While games are fun, it’s highly important to note that there’s more to life than sitting countless hours playing video games – there’s a purpose and more to life; seek out that purpose more often!
