Sony’s new language-locked PS5 console launches in Japan today, and it couldn’t arrive at a better moment.
The latest Famitsu sales data for Japan reveals the manufacturer’s machine sold just 5,855 units last week. While sales likely slowed in anticipation for the new cut-price model, the number looks apocalyptic compared to the Switch 2’s total of 101,549 units during the same period.
For those who missed the announcement, the new PS5 console releasing specifically in Japan will have its language locked and will only support local PSN accounts. This is to stop the unit being exported overseas to locations like mainland China.
The weak yen paired with increasing hardware prices has hit Sony’s next-gen console particularly hard, where it’s fallen way behind Nintendo’s family of hybrid formats.
Recent reports claimed previous PlayStation management was not fussed about its domestic market, but new CEO Hideaki Nishino – a Japanese executive – is desperate to improve the platform holder’s position.
While it’s unlikely Sony will ever be able to usurp Nintendo in its home territory, the hope is that this new model – which cuts the price significantly, from ¥72,980 (~$473) to ¥55,000 (~$350) – will at least give the console some momentum again.
We should get the first few days of sales for this new model in next week’s Famitsu.
