How much did the PlayStation cost at launch?

How Much Did the PlayStation Cost at Launch?

The original PlayStation, released in 1995, was a groundbreaking console that revolutionized the gaming industry. As the first console to popularize 3D graphics, it paved the way for future console generations. But how much did this innovative console cost when it first launched?

The Original Launch Price

The PlayStation launched in Japan on December 3, 1994, and in North America on September 9, 1995. The initial launch price in Japan was ¥29,900 (approximately $250 USD at the time). In North America, the console was priced at $299, which is equivalent to $480 in today’s money, adjusted for inflation.

Launch Prices Around the World

Here’s a breakdown of the launch prices for the PlayStation in different regions:

A Competitive Price Point

The PlayStation’s launch price was competitive with other consoles of the time. The Sega Saturn, released in 1994, launched at a price of ¥44,000 (approximately $360 USD) in Japan, while the Nintendo 64, released in 1996, launched at a price of $200 in North America.

Impact on the Gaming Industry

The PlayStation’s affordable price point helped it gain a significant market share, which ultimately led to its success. The console’s popularity also led to the development of a thriving game industry, with many developers creating games specifically for the PlayStation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the original PlayStation launched at a price of $299 in North America, which is equivalent to $480 in today’s money. The console’s competitive price point, combined with its innovative 3D graphics capabilities, helped it gain a significant market share and ultimately revolutionize the gaming industry.

Additional Facts

• The PlayStation was released in North America on September 9, 1995.
• The console was developed by Sony Computer Entertainment and was the first console to popularize 3D graphics.
• The PlayStation was a major success, selling over 102 million units worldwide during its lifespan.
• The console’s success led to the development of a thriving game industry, with many developers creating games specifically for the PlayStation.

Table: PlayStation Launch Prices Around the World

Bullets: Key Points

• The PlayStation launched at a competitive price point compared to other consoles of the time.
• The console’s affordable price helped it gain a significant market share.
• The PlayStation’s innovative 3D graphics capabilities helped it revolutionize the gaming industry.
• The console was a major success, selling over 102 million units worldwide during its lifespan.
• The PlayStation’s success led to the development of a thriving game industry, with many developers creating games specifically for the console.