For gamers, it is always exciting when a new gaming generation arrives, as it means they can expect amazing advancements and mind-blowing innovations. To experience these requires cracking open that wallet and forking out some cash. Over the years, the price of both Microsoft and Sony consoles has fluctuated, and while gamers may complain about how expensive the PS5 and Xbox Series X are, they aren't the most expensive consoles from either company when taking inflation into consideration.
Fortunately, this time around, Xbox and PlayStation offer cheaper versions of their current-generation consoles, though gamers have to be willing to make a few sacrifices. With PlayStation, this means living without a disc drive and relying entirely on digital downloads. For Xbox gamers, this means enjoying games at a slightly lower resolution.
PlayStation - From PS1 to PS4
Sony's venture into gaming started off with the PlayStation, which was launched in 1995. The console was a colossal success, and since its release, it has sold over 102 million units. At launch, the PS1 cost $299 which, adjusted for inflation, equates to about $581 in 2022. The PS1 was followed by the even more successful PS2, which was released in 2000. To date, it has sold over 158 million units, and bestselling games on the console include hits like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and Gran Turismo 4. At launch, the PS2 also cost $299, which equates to about $514 in 2022.
Following the global success of the PS2, gamers were eager to see what Sony would produce next. The PS3 launched in 2006, and it was the first console to make use of Blu-ray technology. It also introduced the Sixaxis controller, although Sony quickly reverted to the DualShock range. At launch, there were two versions of the PS3 available - a 20GB console and a 60GB console which cost $499 and $599 respectively. The high price was a shock to most gamers, as it equates to $733. and $879 in 2022.
The PS4 launched in 2013, and during its lifetime, it enjoyed several big releases including The Last of Us Part 2, Death Stranding, and God of War, to name a few. At launch, the console cost $399, which is equivalent to $507 in 2022. This is pricey, but still far cheaper than its little brother, the PS3. With the PS5 currently sporting a $499 tag for the standard edition and a $399 tag for the digital edition, it is around the same price as the PS4 and PS2, and a little cheaper than the PS1.
Xbox - From Xbox to Xbox Series X/S
With gaming growing increasingly popular, it was no surprise that Microsoft eventually entered the market. The original Xbox launched in 2001, and while it arrived quite late to the scene, it managed to make a name for itself. At launch, the console cost $299, which is equivalent to $500 in today's money. The console was followed by the Xbox 360 which directly competed with the PS3. Overall, it was a successful console, selling over 84 million units globally. It cost $299 at launch in 2005, which is equivalent to about $453 in 2022.
The Xbox One hit stores in 2013, directly competing with the PS4. It brings its own exciting Xbox exclusives to lure gamers, including Forza Motorsport 7, Grounded, and Gears 5. At launch, the console cost $499, which is equivalent to $634 in 2022. The Xbox Series X currently sells for $499, which is around the average price of an Xbox console, while the Series S has a $299 tag, making it one of the cheapest Xbox consoles ever.
Although the PS5 and Xbox Series X are expensive, analysis shows that they have pricier predecessors. The current-generation consoles have been on the market for a few years, and already there are rumors that revisions may be on the way. Some reports claim that Sony is planning a version of the PS5 with a detachable disc drive, though there has yet to be any official word on this. Only time will tell what PS5 and Xbox Series X competition may hold.
