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"PlayStation Consoles: Complete Release Date History"

May 26,25(2 months ago)

PlayStation stands as one of the most iconic brands in gaming history, from the groundbreaking PlayStation 1 with titles like Final Fantasy VII to the latest PlayStation 5, featuring blockbuster hits like God of War: Ragnarok. Over the past three decades, Sony has released numerous consoles, including revisions, portable systems, and new generations. With the PS5 Pro now available for pre-order, we've put together a comprehensive list of every PlayStation console ever released.

As we celebrate 30 years since the launch of the first PlayStation, let's take a nostalgic journey through the evolution of this legendary gaming brand.

Which PlayStation had the best games? -------------------------------------

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How Many PlayStation Consoles Have There Been?

In total, fourteen PlayStation consoles have been released since the first PlayStation hit North America in 1995. This count includes Slim revisions, as well as 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

The Sony PlayStation revolutionized the gaming industry by introducing CD-ROM technology, a significant departure from Nintendo's cartridges. This allowed for larger, more complex games, leading to iconic titles like Metal Gear Solid, Final Fantasy VII, Resident Evil 2, Vagrant Story, and Crash Bandicoot, cementing the PlayStation's legacy.

PS One - September 19, 2000

The PS One was a compact redesign of the original PlayStation, featuring the same gameplay in a smaller package but without the reset button. In 2002, Sony introduced the Combo, an attachable screen for the PS One, made possible by the removal of certain ports. Remarkably, the PS One outsold the PlayStation 2 in 2000.

PlayStation 2 - October 26, 2000

Launching in October 2000, the PlayStation 2 brought a significant leap in graphics with detailed 3D models, becoming the best-selling console ever. Even today, its extensive library of games remains beloved, with titles like those listed in our best PS2 games feature continuing to captivate players.

PlayStation 2 Slim - November 2004

The PlayStation 2 Slim improved upon its predecessor in design, efficiency, and performance. The top-loading disc drive addressed issues with dual-layer discs, while the smaller, more efficient design marked Sony's first use of the 'Slim' moniker, a tradition continued across subsequent PlayStation generations.

PlayStation Portable - March 24, 2005

The PlayStation Portable, or PSP, was Sony's first foray into portable gaming under the PlayStation brand. It offered versatile entertainment options, including games, movies, and music, using UMDs for physical media. The PSP's connectivity with PlayStation 2 and 3 added to its appeal, especially with its strong lineup of games.

PlayStation 3 - November 17, 2006

The PlayStation 3 marked a major leap forward, introducing the PlayStation Network for online multiplayer and digital downloads, as well as Blu-ray support and backwards compatibility with PS1 and PS2 games. Its capabilities made it a formidable media center, especially noted for being among the best Blu-ray players in 2024.

PlayStation 3 Slim - September 1, 2009

The PlayStation 3 Slim reduced the original PS3's size and power consumption significantly, with a redesigned cooling system. However, it notably dropped backwards compatibility for PS1 and PS2 games, a feature that has not returned in subsequent models.

PlayStation Vita - February 22, 2012

The PlayStation Vita was Sony's advanced entry into portable gaming, offering cross-play with PS3 and later, Remote Play for PS4 games. At launch, it stood out as the most technologically advanced handheld console, boasting a rich library of titles.

PlayStation 3 Super Slim - September 25, 2012

The PlayStation 3 Super Slim was the final revision of the PS3, featuring a top-loading Blu-ray drive and improved power efficiency. Its durable design and compact form factor made it a lasting favorite among PS3 enthusiasts.

PlayStation 4 - November 15, 2013

The PlayStation 4 offered a significant performance boost, with internals over five times faster than the PS3. It introduced memorable titles like Uncharted 4, God of War, and Ghost of Tsushima, along with a user-friendly removable HDD and the ergonomic DualShock 4 controller.

PlayStation 4 Slim - September 15, 2016

The PlayStation 4 Slim was a more compact and efficient version of the PS4, maintaining the same performance in a quieter, smaller package. This iteration was well-received for its design improvements and energy savings.

PlayStation 4 Pro - November 10, 2016

The PlayStation 4 Pro brought 4K and HDR support to the PlayStation lineup, doubling the GPU power of the original PS4. This allowed for enhanced visuals and smoother gameplay, particularly on 4K displays.

PlayStation 5 - November 12, 2020

The PlayStation 5 set new standards with ray tracing, 120FPS support, and native 4K output. Coupled with the innovative DualSense controller, featuring adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, the PS5 has delivered some of the most immersive gaming experiences of the decade.

PlayStation 5 Slim - November 10, 2023

The PlayStation 5 Slim maintains the power of the PS5 in a smaller form factor, introducing a modular design. This allows users to purchase the console without a disc drive and add it later if needed, enhancing flexibility and convenience.

PlayStation 5 Pro - November 7, 2024

The PS5 Pro was officially unveiled during Sony's PlayStation 5 Technical Presentation, focusing on higher frame rates, enhanced ray tracing, and the introduction of machine learning via PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR). Priced at $699.99 USD, it includes a 2TB SSD, a DualSense controller, and Astro's Playroom, but omits the disc drive for a sleeker design.

Upcoming PlayStation Consoles

The PS5 Pro was the major reveal for 2024, but as for the next generation, speculation suggests the PS6 could launch anytime between 2026 and 2030.

When do you think the PS6 will launch? --------------------------------------
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