New Cheaper PS5 Version Announced

At November 2025’s State of Play Japan event, Sony revealed a new, cheaper PlayStation 5 model. Sony’s PS5 has been incredibly successful, selling over 84 million units by November 11, 2025 – more than all Xbox consoles combined. This is particularly noteworthy considering Sony has raised the price of some PS5 versions. The new model offers a more affordable option for gamers, though it’s the first PlayStation console since the PS2 to be locked to specific regions.

During the State of Play Japan presentation, Sony surprised viewers not with a new game announcement, but with a special edition PlayStation 5 Digital console exclusive to Japan. Priced at ¥55,000 (around $355), this console will launch on November 21, 2025, giving potential buyers just ten days to get ready. It’s important to note that this version of the PS5 Digital Edition is only for Japanese customers and will be sold exclusively through PlayStation stores within Japan.

Japanese Gamers Can Soon Buy a Cheaper PlayStation 5 Digital Edition

It’s not surprising that Sony is releasing a Japanese Digital Edition of the PlayStation 5, following Nintendo’s similar move. Nintendo plans to launch a Japanese-language version of its Switch 2 in 2025, also limited to the Japanese market. Sony clearly took note. Japan is a major video game market and the home of both companies. Unfortunately for gamers outside of Japan, this new PS5 is only available to those who can understand Japanese and have access to funds within the country.

PS5 Digital Edition – Japanese Language only console announced – 55,000 yen

— Wario64 (@wario64.bsky.social) 2025-11-11T22:40:28.429Z

Sony announced the PlayStation will cost ¥55,000 (including tax) in Japan. Pre-orders open for Japanese customers on November 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at PlayStation retailers and online. The console has a built-in 825 GB SSD and supports an external disc drive (sold separately). The same console will be more expensive for US customers, priced at $499.

The new system is likely cheaper because it’s initially only being sold in Japan – where the company is based and where the consoles are made. Selling it in other countries would add shipping and import costs. This limited release is probably why it costs $145 less than the US version. This will make the PlayStation 5 Digital Edition more accessible to Japanese gamers, which should boost sales on the PlayStation Store, as this system is designed to encourage digital purchases over physical games.

What are your thoughts on the PlayStation 5 version that’s only available in Japan? Share your opinion in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2025-11-12 17:43