Many haven’t considered the true meaning behind PlayStation‘s iconic round, cross, square, and triangle buttons.These symbols, ingrained in the PlayStation identity, hold a deeper significance than meets the eye.
As PlayStation celebrates its 30th anniversary, Sony’s commitment to honoring its legacy is evident. Alongside throwback themes and limited editions, the company is offering massive discounts on hundreds of popular PlayStation 4 and 5 games. Titles like Gran Turismo, God of War, Spider-Man, and Uncharted are just a few of the gems on sale.But beyond the nostalgia and deals, let’s delve into the fascinating story behind the controller’s design. Teiyu Goto, the original designer of the PlayStation’s controller, revealed in an old interview that each button carried a symbolic meaning. The triangle represented a viewpoint or direction – like the outlook of a person’s head.The square symbolized a piece of paper, alluding to menus or documents. The circle was for “yes,” and the cross, “no.”
Interestingly, Sony initially planned to change the button colors, but Goto successfully advocated for his design choices, resulting in the timeless color scheme we certainly know today. Even though the world primarily uses the cross for ”confirm” and the circle for ”cancel,” Sony adapted to this global convention.
Goto emphasized the rarity of having such simple symbols embedded in a design, acknowledging it as a lucky opportunity.
These iconic round, cross, square, and triangle buttons have transcended the controller, becoming synonymous with the PlayStation brand. They appear on packaging, consoles, and even in marketing materials.
How have the PlayStation buttons influenced gaming culture over the years?
Interview with Design Expert on the Importance of PlayStation’s Iconic Buttons
Time.news Editor (TNE): As PlayStation celebrates its 30th anniversary, many gamers are looking back at the nostalgia that these years bring.However, a lot of fans might not be aware of the deeper meaning behind the PlayStation controller’s iconic symbols. Can you shed some light on this?
Design Expert (DE): Absolutely! The PlayStation controller’s buttons—circle, cross, square, and triangle—are not just mere symbols; they carry thoughtful significance. Teiyu Goto, the original designer, imbued each button with a meaning that reflects actions and directions. As a notable example, the triangle represents a viewpoint, akin to the perspective of a person’s head, while the square corresponds to documents, hinting at menus and options.
TNE: It’s fascinating to think that something seemingly simple holds so much importance.Aside from their meanings, what can you tell us about the historical context of these designs?
DE: In Goto’s early designs, he initially faced pressure to change the button colors. Thankfully, he stood firm on his original palette, which has since become iconic. the color scheme we recognize today was crucial in establishing brand identity, distinguishing the PlayStation from competitors. Ultimately, the button functions evolved as well, with the cross being used for confirmation and the circle for cancellation. This adaptation to global conventions shows how dynamic the gaming industry is.
TNE: With the rise of gaming over the past three decades,how do these symbols integrate into broader PlayStation branding?
DE: That’s a great question.The round, cross, square, and triangle buttons have transcended the controller’s physical interface; they are now part of the PlayStation packaging, consoles, and marketing materials. They’ve formed a visual language that resonates with gamers worldwide, creating a sense of community and familiarity. When someone sees these symbols, they immediately associate them with the thrill of gaming.
TNE: As we reflect on playstation’s legacy, what can designers today learn from Goto’s approach to creating such impactful symbols?
DE: Designers can learn the value of simplicity and purposefulness in their designs. Goto had a clear vision, and he understood the importance of embedding deeper meanings into straightforward icons. It’s a reminder that effective design frequently enough stems from a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and cultural resonance. Developing symbols that can stand the test of time, as the PlayStation buttons have, requires a thoughtful approach that goes beyond the visual.
TNE: As PlayStation offers massive discounts on iconic games like Gran Turismo, God of War, and Spider-Man to celebrate its anniversary, how does nostalgia play a role in the gaming industry?
DE: Nostalgia is a powerful motivator in the gaming industry. When companies like Sony offer discounts on beloved titles, it taps into the emotional connections players have with these games. It reinforces brand loyalty and encourages new players to explore games that have defined generations. The celebration of history through these sales also instills a sense of unity among the community, allowing both old and new gamers to share in that legacy.
TNE: Thank you for sharing your insights! As PlayStation continues to evolve, it truly seems imperative that they stay connected with both their history and their audience.
DE: Exactly! The beauty of the PlayStation brand lies in its commitment to honoring its legacy while continuously innovating and adapting to the present. This harmony between the past and the future allows them to maintain relevance and excitement in the ever-changing landscape of gaming.
TNE: we appreciate your thoughts on this and look forward to seeing how PlayStation continues to shape the gaming world in the years to come.
