Sony has officially opened pre-orders for a new, more affordable PlayStation 5 Digital Edition console, exclusively in Japan. This new model, dubbed the "Midnight Black" edition, carries a price tag of 55,000 yen, which converts to approximately $350 USD. The console is set for release on November 19.
Midnight Black PS5 Details
The PS5 Digital Edition Midnight Black features a matte-black finish on both the console and its accompanying DualSense controller. As it is a digital-only model, it does not include a disc drive. For those who wish to use physical media, Sony is offering a separate disc drive add-on for 11,980 yen (about $75 USD).
This Japan-exclusive model is similar to a PlayStation 5 variant that was made available in Japan last year, differing only in its colorway. This release follows a trend seen with other consoles, such as a Japan-only version of the Switch 2 which retails for 49,980 yen (approximately $315 USD), considerably less than its North American counterpart priced at $499.99.
Purchasing and Usage Restrictions
Acquiring the Japan-only PS5 Digital Edition presents significant challenges for consumers outside of Japan. Online retailers like Amazon Japan, Rakuten, and Yodobashi typically block sales to international customers. Furthermore, Sony Interactive Entertainment has stated that the Japan-only PS5 models come with severe usage restrictions. The console supports only the Japanese language and is compatible exclusively with Japanese PlayStation accounts. Accounts from other countries or regions are not supported, limiting users to the Japanese PlayStation Store for digital game purchases and play.
Given these limitations, potential buyers outside of Japan may find it more practical to purchase a second-hand PS5 and acquire the Midnight Black console covers separately from PlayStation's direct sales website. Alternatively, buying a standard, new PlayStation 5 console before any further potential price increases may also be a more straightforward option.