PlayStation stands as a towering giant in the gaming world, with a legacy that spans over three decades. From the iconic PlayStation 1, which introduced gamers to groundbreaking titles like Final Fantasy VII, to the cutting-edge PlayStation 5, featuring blockbuster hits like God of War: Ragnarok, Sony has consistently been at the forefront of the gaming industry. Over the years, numerous consoles have been launched, including mainline models, slim revisions, portable devices, and now, with the PS5 Pro available for pre-order, we celebrate the comprehensive journey of every PlayStation console released.
As Sony marks 30 years since the launch of its first console, let's take a nostalgic journey through the history of PlayStation!
AnswerSee ResultsLooking to save on a new PlayStation 5 or new titles for your system? Be sure to check out the best PlayStation deals available today.How Many PlayStation Consoles Have There Been?
In total, fourteen PlayStation consoles have been released since the original PlayStation debuted in 1995 in North America. This count includes slim revisions and the two portable consoles released under the PlayStation brand.
Latest Model### PlayStation 5 Pro
5See it at AmazonEvery PlayStation Console in Order of Release
PlayStation - September 9, 1995
It all began with the Sony PlayStation, which revolutionized gaming with its CD-ROM technology. This allowed for larger, more complex games, attracting major developers like Square Enix. The PlayStation left an indelible mark on gaming history with classics like Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, and Crash Bandicoot.
PS One - September 19, 2000
PS One, a sleek redesign of the original PlayStation, offered the same gaming experience in a more compact form. The notable change was the removal of the reset button, and in 2002, Sony introduced the attachable Combo screen, enabled by the console's streamlined design. Interestingly, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000.
PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000
PlayStation 2 elevated gaming with vastly improved graphics, moving away from polygon-based visuals to detailed 3D models. It remains the best-selling console ever, though the Nintendo Switch is closing the gap. Dive into our selection of the best PS2 games to understand its enduring appeal.
PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004
With the PlayStation 2 Slim, Sony enhanced performance, efficiency, and design. The new top-load disc drive resolved issues with dual-layer discs, and the console's power consumption was reduced through internal redesigns. The 'Slim' moniker reflects its smaller size, setting a precedent for future PlayStation models.
PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005
PlayStation Portable (PSP) marked Sony's entry into handheld gaming. With its UMD format, the PSP could play games, movies, and music, and even connect with PS2 and PS3 for certain features. The best PSP games showcased the strength of its library.
PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006
PlayStation 3 introduced significant advancements, including PlayStation Network (PSN) for online multiplayer and digital downloads. It also offered backwards compatibility with PS1 and PS2 games and supported Blu-ray discs, positioning consoles as top-tier media players even in 2024.
PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009
Three years after the original, the PlayStation 3 Slim reduced weight, size, and power consumption, with a revamped cooling system. However, it dropped backwards compatibility, a feature not seen again in subsequent models.
PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012
PlayStation Vita, Sony's next portable, allowed cross-play with PS3 and later supported PS4 Remote Play. At launch, it was the most advanced handheld, offering features unmatched by competitors.
PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012
PlayStation 3 Super Slim, the final PS3 revision, featured a top-load Blu-ray drive, enhanced power efficiency, and a sleeker design. This model proved to be the most durable PS3, thanks to its robust build.
PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013
PlayStation 4's internals were five times faster than the PS3, enabling stunning visual enhancements. It brought iconic games like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima, along with a removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller. The best PS4 games continue to be celebrated today.
PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016
PlayStation 4 Slim was a more power-efficient version of the PS4, with the same performance in a smaller, quieter package, enhancing its appeal.
PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016
PlayStation 4 Pro introduced 4K and HDR support, utilizing upscale technology and boasting a GPU twice as powerful as the standard PS4, allowing for enhanced frame rates.
PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020
PlayStation 5, the most powerful console to date, supports ray tracing, 120FPS, and native 4K output. The accompanying DualSense Controller introduced adaptive triggers and haptic feedback. Explore our list of the best PS5 games for a glimpse at its remarkable library.
PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023
PlayStation 5 Slim maintained the powerful internals of the original PS5 but in a smaller form factor. Its modular design allows for the separate purchase of a disc drive.
PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024
Leaks confirmed the arrival of the PS5 Pro, unveiled during Sony's PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation. This mid-generation upgrade focuses on higher frame rates, improved ray tracing, and introduces machine learning via PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). The PS5 Pro, sans disc drive, launches at $699.99 USD, including a 2TB SSD, a DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom.
Upcoming PlayStation Consoles
The PS5 Pro was the anticipated reveal for 2024. As for the next generation, speculation suggests the PS6 might launch between 2026 and 2030.
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