Core Viewpoint - Sony Group has launched a new PlayStation 5 model exclusively for Japanese players, with a price reduction of approximately 25% to better compete with Nintendo's Switch 2 [1][2] Group 1: Product Launch and Pricing - The new PS5 digital version is priced at 55,000 yen (approximately 357 USD), significantly lower than the previous price of 72,980 yen and the US price of 499 USD [1] - Pre-orders for the new PS5 model will begin on Thursday, with an official release date set for November 21 [1] Group 2: Market Strategy and Competition - Sony aims to enhance the experience for Japanese players and expand the PS5's game lineup [1] - The pricing strategy mirrors Nintendo's approach with the new Switch 2, which also launched a lower-priced version exclusively for Japan, contributing to record sales [1] - The move is seen as a response to the competitive landscape in Japan, where Nintendo has maintained a dominant position [2] Group 3: Financial Context - The price reduction comes after Sony had previously raised PS5 prices globally due to tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump [2] - Sony is attempting to balance profitability with hardware strategy amid challenges in the Japanese market [2] - The launch of the PS5 exclusive game "Ghost of Yotei" achieved global sales of 3.3 million copies in its first month, indicating strong demand for PS5 titles [1]

Group 1 - Sony announced a price increase for its PlayStation 5 (PS5) in the U.S., with prices rising by $50 across multiple models [1][3] - The new prices for PS5 are $500 for the digital version, $550 for the disc version, and $750 for the PS5 Pro [1] - This price adjustment is part of a broader trend, as other gaming companies like Microsoft and Nintendo have also raised prices or delayed product launches due to rising costs and market conditions [3][4] Group 2 - Sony's global marketing vice president stated that the decision to raise prices was difficult and was made in response to a challenging economic environment [1] - Microsoft had previously announced price increases for its gaming consoles and accessories, citing similar market conditions and rising development costs [3] - The article highlights concerns from economists that more companies may pass on increased costs to consumers due to government-imposed tariffs, which have already generated over $130 billion in revenue [3]