Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced a price increase for the PlayStation 5 in select markets across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand, effective April 14, 2025. The decision, attributed to a “challenging economic environment” including high inflation and fluctuating exchange rates, marks the second price hike for the PS5 in these regions since 2022.
The price adjustments primarily affect the PS5 Digital Edition across all listed markets, with the standard PS5 (with Ultra HD Blu-ray disc drive) also seeing increases in Australia and New Zealand. The PS5 Pro’s recommended retail price (RRP) remains unchanged. In a surprising move, Sony is also reducing the price of the standalone PS5 Disc Drive, offering some relief for those considering a Digital Edition upgrade.
New PS5 Prices
- Europe: PS5 Digital Edition rises to €499.99 (up €50 from €449.99, a 10.25% increase); standard PS5 price unchanged.
- United Kingdom: PS5 Digital Edition increases to £429.99 (up £40 from £389.99, a 10.25% increase); standard PS5 price unchanged.
Australia: Standard PS5 climbs to AUD $829.95 (up AUD $30 from $799.95, a 3.75% increase), Digital Edition jumps to AUD $749.95 (up AUD $100 from $649.95, a 15.4% increase). - New Zealand: Standard PS5 rises to NZD $949.95 (up NZD $40 from $909.95, a 4.4% increase), Digital Edition increases to NZD $859.95 (up NZD $90 from $769.95, a 11.7% increase).
Disc Drive Price Reduction
- Europe: Now €79.99 (down from €99.99, a 20% decrease).
- United Kingdom: Now £69.99 (down from £99.99, a 30% decrease).
- Australia: Now AUD $124.95 (down from $159.95, a 21.9% decrease).
- New Zealand: Now NZD $139.95 (down from $179.95, a 22.2% decrease).
Why the Change?
Sony’s blog post cites global economic pressures, with some speculating that U.S. import tariffs—potentially as high as 145% on Chinese-made goods—may be influencing the decision. Posts on X and reports from outlets like IGN note that the PS5 is now significantly pricier than at launch: the Digital Edition in Europe is €100 higher than its original €400, and in Australia, the standard model is AUD $80 above its debut price of AUD $750. Fans have expressed frustration, with some calling it a “GTA 6 tax” to offset costs for upcoming blockbusters.
The disc drive price cut has sparked theories about Sony’s strategy. Some, including NeoGAF discussions, suggest it encourages Digital Edition buyers to add physical media support, potentially boosting PS5 Pro appeal or digital store reliance. Others see it as a response to declining physical game sales.
Mixed Reactions and What’s Next
The price hike has drawn backlash, with Reddit communities like r/PS5 labeling it “greedflation,” especially as the PS5 nears its fifth year. Conversely, the disc drive discount softens the blow for some, with one X user noting, “Lower disc drive price makes the Digital Edition more flexible.” No U.S. price increase has been announced, but Bloomberg and The Verge warn one may loom due to tariffs.
Gamers in affected regions are urged to act fast if considering a purchase, as retailers may still honor pre-hike prices temporarily. With Marathon launching September 23, 2025, and Grand Theft Auto VI on the horizon, the PS5 remains a hot commodity—albeit at a steeper cost.