The COVID-19 pandemic has caused numerous issues for developers, both big and small, but it’s impact on next-gen console development has been the most mysterious. While Microsoft and Sony state that the Xbox Series X and PS5 respectively are on track, reports indicate that the latter is facing issues. According to sources speaking with Bloomberg, the PS5 will have 5 to 6 million units available in the fiscal year ending March 2021.
The volume of units produced could change depending on how the pandemic shakes out. It’s interesting to note that Sony’s board was originally scheduled to meet in March to approve its plans for the current fiscal year but this hasn’t happened. One strategy that’s being discussed is to reduce the price of the PS4 and PS4 Pro around the PS5’s release to bring in more subscribers for PlayStation Plus and PlayStation Now.
It also seems that the price tag for the PS5 will be somewhat hefty. Developers working on titles for the platform expect the price to range from $499 to $549. The company is also apparently having issues pricing the console due to scarcity of components. Sony hasn’t issued a statement on any of the above.
Currently, the PS5 is slated to release in holiday 2020. Stay tuned for more details in the coming months.