Sony has quietly launched a new version of its PlayStation 5 in Japan, and the first sales figures confirm a strong start. This is a 100% digital slim model, cheaper… but reserved only for the Japanese market. An intriguing strategy, which could well announce a trend for 2026.
“Sony announced earlier this month that a new version of the PlayStation 5 console would be sold in Japan, exclusively in the Land of the Rising Sun.” This edition, equipped with an 825 GB SSD, is distinguished above all by its regional restriction: it is zoned, a rarity for a PlayStation console for years.
An exclusively Japanese and zoned PS5
This new model, called “zoned digital PS5”, has been sold only in Japan since November 21, 2025. Unlike recent consoles usually zoned, this one is restricted to the Japanese region. A constraint which could limit its international appeal, despite an attractive price.
“The zoned PlayStation 5 console has an RRP of 55,000 yen, which equates to around £270/$355.” This price represents a notable drop compared to the models currently on sale in the West, and comes at the right time as the end-of-year holidays approach.
Sales up sharply one week after launch
Recently available, this PS5 has experienced a sudden surge in sales. According to figures reported by Push Square, “as of November 23, it sold 23,381 copies, compared to 5,855 the previous week.” A spectacular progression, even though the console remains ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2, still in the lead on the Japanese market. This initial success could convince Sony to extend this model to other regions, but zoning remains a significant obstacle for Western markets.
Strategic positioning before Christmas
The timing chosen by Sony is not insignificant. As Black Friday and the holidays approach, the market is flooded with discounts on games and accessories. However, the overall price of consoles remains on the rise this year, including at Nintendo and Xbox. Offering a cheaper and lighter version of the PS5 could attract a new segment of budget-sensitive consumers. This release could also be a life-size test to gauge the reaction of the Japanese market to a return to zoning, long abandoned since the PS3.
Towards a global launch? Nothing is confirmed
Sony has not yet mentioned the possibility of marketing this version elsewhere. However, some observers believe that in the event of prolonged success, a western version, potentially without zoning, could see the light of day.
In the meantime, this “Japan only” PS5 intrigues, seduces, and could well redistribute the cards in a context where prices continue to rise, but where demand remains strong.