Gaming is getting more expensive. PS5 and Xbox now have to prove that they are still worth it. Two opportunities are available now: the State of Play in June 2026 and the Summer Game Fest 2026.
Everything is getting more expensive, and price increases are affecting gaming as well: Just a few days ago, the prices for the Steam Deck were dramatically increased, but the “real” consoles are affected too: PS5 and Xbox have also raised their prices.
The rising prices are also putting great pressure on the current consoles: It is no longer enough to just deliver trailers or brand maintenance. Players want reasons why the expensive consoles are still worth it in an expensive time.
PlayStation and Xbox must prove that they can do more than just trailers
What does the situation look like? Sony not only raised the prices for the PS5 by 100 euros in 2060, but also recently made significant adjustments to the subscription prices of PS Plus. Overall, gamers are increasingly confronted with higher costs. But this also means great pressure for the console manufacturers, who must justify the increased prices.
What opportunities are there now? With the State of Play on June 2, 2026 and the Summer Game Fest starting June 5, 2026, there are two major opportunities for Sony and Microsoft to show what they want and can deliver with their consoles. Microsoft only has the Summer Game Fest available, as the State of Play is a Sony-exclusive event.
The companies are expected not only to announce upcoming games but also to give users a good reason to invest in their platforms now. Such large fairs or events are a good opportunity to build trust and highlight their strengths.
The pressure on Xbox and PlayStation is particularly high because the two devices symbolize consoles as a whole. Their appearances can thus be seen as a test of how healthy and future-proof classic console gaming appears, and whether the investment is still worth it.
Xbox and PlayStation must therefore now show that their consoles still offer clear value in 2026 and can be an attractive investment for players. In a time of uncertainty, high cost pressure, and growing competition, mere trailers are no longer enough: Companies like Sony or Microsoft must prove that they can convince players.
The PlayStation at least plays into this advantageously, that they want to refocus on exclusive titles to strengthen the console again.
What do you think? Do PS5 and Xbox need to make an effort now to convince players, or do you think they can currently impress with their games and hardware? Let us know in the comments!
If you are looking to buy a gaming PC or upgrade your old machine, you will have to dig deep into your pockets. Especially RAM, which used to be one of the cheapest components, is currently absurdly expensive. And it will likely remain that way for a while, experts say: RAM is currently incredibly expensive, market researchers are sure: it will stay that way for a while
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