Analysis: PS5 Pro Sales Expected to Lag Behind PS4 Pro Slightly; Premium Pricing Reflects Sony’s Risk-Aversion Stance.

The unveiling of the PS5 Pro is undoubtedly overshadowed by the staggering price tag of $699, excluding additional accessories like drives and stands. A steep contrast to the $449 price point of the standard PS5 Slim Digital Edition sans drive. The price gap of $250, or 55%, between the two models raises eyebrows.

Comparing the Pro variant of the PS5 to its predecessor, the PS4 Slim, which saw a price drop to $299, and the launch price of the PS4 Pro at $399, a mere $100 difference, or 33%, illustrates a widening chasm between the regular and Pro models.

According to an analysis by Piers Harding-Rolls of Ampere Analysis, projections indicate that the PS5 Pro may sell around 1.3 million units by the start of 2024, mirroring the sales figures of the PS4 Pro in its initial release year of 2016. Additionally, the forecast suggests the PS5 Pro could sell approximately 13 million units by 2029, aligning with consumer tendencies to upgrade to the Pro variant.

Harding-Rolls’ analysis underscores Sony’s pricing strategy for the PS5 Pro, reflecting a calculated approach geared towards profitability rather than aggressive market penetration. The absence of a direct competitor like Xbox Series, which lacks a mid-cycle upgrade option akin to the Xbox One X, further consolidates Sony’s pricing freedom and market positioning.

While the increased price of the PS5 Pro may deter some consumers compared to the PS4 Pro era, dedicated gamers may not be deterred by the premium pricing. The appeal of enhanced gaming experiences may outweigh cost considerations for enthusiasts, while the general gaming populace may find the standard PS5 a more cost-effective option.

In a nutshell, the PS5 Pro’s launch signals Sony’s effort to engage the PlayStation community with enhanced offerings, targeting gaming aficionados seeking top-tier experiences that align with the brand’s ‘Pro’ ethos.

TLDR: The PS5 Pro’s premium pricing and enhanced features cater to dedicated gamers, while Sony’s strategic approach aims to carve a niche in the competitive gaming market.