Sony is releasing a special-edition PlayStation 5 console to coincide with the launch of Marvel's Wolverine, but the system will be digital-only, a decision that has already drawn criticism from players concerned about the company's apparent shift away from physical media.
The console features custom plates adorned with Wolverine's likeness and claw marks, available in two color schemes: a yellow inspired by the hero's suit and a silver mimicking his adamantium claws. Accompanying DualSense controllers will also feature the same color options. Pre-orders are set to begin on August 19, with the official launch scheduled for September 15, the same day the game is released. The yellow-themed console and controllers will be available at select retailers, while the silver variant will be sold exclusively through PlayStation's direct online store.
The exclusion of a disc drive on this limited-edition PS5 has become a focal point for many, especially following recent announcements that Sony plans to cease the production of physical PlayStation discs. This digital-only approach for the Wolverine-themed console is seen by some as another step in Sony's ongoing pivot toward digital distribution. For consumers who prefer physical copies or wish to purchase a disc-drive-equipped PS5 with the new aesthetic, Sony will offer separate console faceplates. These decorative plates will be available for both the standard PS5 Slim models, released in 2023, and the PS5 Pro. However, obtaining a disc-drive PS5 with the Wolverine styling will necessitate purchasing the standard $649.99 console and then separately acquiring the $74.99 faceplate kit.
The pricing for the special edition items is as follows:
PlayStation 5 Digital Edition – Marvel’s Wolverine Battle Yellow Limited Edition Bundle: $649.99 USD / £569.99 GBP / €649.99 EUR / ¥96,980 JPY DualSense Wireless Controller – Marvel’s Wolverine Battle Yellow Limited Edition: $84.99 USD / £74.99 GBP / €84.99 EUR / ¥12,480 JPY PlayStation 5 Console Covers – Battle Yellow Limited Edition: $74.99 USD / £64.99 GBP / €74.99 EUR / ¥9,980 JPY PlayStation 5 Pro Console Covers – Marvel’s Wolverine Battle Yellow Limited Edition: $74.99 USD / £64.99 GBP / €74.99 EUR / ¥9,980 JPY PlayStation 5 Pro Console Covers – Marvel’s Wolverine Adamantium Limited Edition: $74.99 USD / £64.99 GBP / €74.99 EUR DualSense Wireless Controller – Marvel’s Wolverine Adamantium Limited Edition: $84.99 USD / £74.99 GBP / €84.99 EUR / ¥12,480 JPY