The expectation with most gaming consoles is a gradual price decrease as newer models emerge, but the PlayStation 5 is bucking that trend. Sony has announced another price increase for its popular console, a move that’s sure to frustrate gamers already navigating a challenging economic landscape. The price hike, impacting all models, underscores the ongoing pressures on the tech industry from supply chain issues and global inflation.
Effective April 2, the new retail prices, as detailed on the official PlayStation blog, will be:
- PS5 with optical drive: €650 (approximately 3,300 lei)
- PS5 Digital Edition: €600 (approximately 3,000 lei)
- PS5 Pro: €900 (approximately 4,600 lei)
For Romanian consumers, these increases represent a significant jump in cost. Currently, eMAG lists the standard PS5 at 2,845 lei and the Digital Edition at 2,359 lei, with potential discounts available during their upcoming “Revoluția Prețurilor” sale. eMAG’s current PS5 standard listing and the Digital Edition offer a window of opportunity for those looking to purchase before the price adjustments take effect. The retailer also features a range of vibrantly colored Hyperpop controllers.
The PlayStation 5’s pricing journey has been anything but typical. Launched in late 2020 amidst the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the console initially retailed for €500 and €400 for the Digital Edition. Demand far outstripped supply in those early months, with scalpers often selling the console for double the price. The initial scarcity was a global phenomenon, driven by pandemic-related manufacturing disruptions and logistical bottlenecks.
In 2022, Sony cited inflation and currency fluctuations as the reason for a €50 price increase across the board. Then, in April 2025, the Digital Edition saw another €50 increase, while the standard model remained at the previous price point. This latest round of increases, averaging €100 per model, is substantial and points to continued cost pressures within the hardware supply chain. Experts suggest rising costs of key components – memory, solid-state drives (SSDs), and processors – are primary drivers of the price hikes.
The situation brings back memories for many long-time gamers. “I remember buying a PS4 for 999 lei,” recalls one observer, highlighting the expectation that the PS5 would eventually reach a similar price point after several years on the market. “But things have moved in the opposite direction.”
The PlayStation 5 price increases aren’t happening in a vacuum. The broader gaming industry is grappling with similar challenges. The cost of developing AAA games is soaring, and companies are exploring new revenue streams, such as subscription services and in-game purchases, to offset these expenses. The launch of the PS5 Pro, priced at a premium €900, signals Sony’s commitment to offering a high-end gaming experience, but also further segments the market based on affordability.
The impact of these price increases will likely be felt most acutely by budget-conscious gamers. While the PlayStation 5 remains a highly sought-after console, the higher price tag may push some consumers towards alternative gaming platforms, such as Xbox or PC gaming. The competitive landscape is fierce, and Sony will need to carefully balance pricing with maintaining its market share.
Looking ahead, Sony has not indicated any plans for further price adjustments beyond those announced for April 2. However, the company will be closely monitoring market conditions and component costs. The next major event for PlayStation fans will be the release of further details regarding the PS5 Pro’s specifications and capabilities, expected in the coming months.
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