PS5 Forecasted for 2020 Launch, PS4 Sales Will Likely Be Great In 2019 But Down From 2018

In its recent report for January 2018, The NPD Group noted how the Nintendo Switch shifted the most number of consoles. However, it made sure to note that – despite each platform being neck and neck – it was the PlayStation 4 that garnered the most revenue. With a global lifetime total that’s likely crossed 75 million units, what could possibly be left for Sony’s console to achieve? Perhaps 100 million sold?

GamingBolt spoke to NPD analyst Mat Piscatella about the PS4’s sales and asked if it’s possible that the console hits 100 million units sold by 2019 end. Piscatella responded that, “Hardware units are mainly driven by content and pricing strategies. I’m interested in seeing how the PS4’s price point changes over the year both in base price as well as in promotional pricing. I do expect the PS4 to have another great year of sales, but I do expect it to be down versus 2018.”

This is to be expected because as times change, demands for different functions will continue to grow. Sony is doing a good job with its software lineup though with fresh games that also release on a consistent basis. But how long can the company continue in this vein before releasing a brand new console?

We asked Piscatella when the right time would be for Sony to launch the PlayStation 5. Unsurprisingly, he forecasts 2020 is a potential release year, echoing predictions by Wedbush Morgan’s Michael Pachter. “2020 is what I have in my forecast. The data suggest there’s no need to do it earlier. But I’ve been surprised before so I’m as interested in this as anyone,” he said.

Would you be interesting in the PlayStation 5 so many years later or should it arrive sooner? Let us know in the comments below. Stay tuned for our fill interview with Mat soon.