PlayStation launches its own online store in the US
Sony cuts out the middleman with direct to consumer offering
PlayStation’s US arm has launched an online store to sell consoles, games and accessories direct to consumers.
It’s integrated within the PlayStation.com website, enabling users to navigate between product information pages and the store.
“Fans will find that prices on the new store align with those found at other retailers,” Sony Interactive Entertainment’s Stephen Turvey claimed in a PlayStation Blog post announcing the store’s launch.
The store has gone live with a limited selection of just 18 physical games, although there are “plans to expand down the line”.
Additionally, it’s running the following PS4 bundle promotions until October 31:
- PlayStation 4 + a 12-month subscription of PS Plus for $339.99 USD (regularly $359.98 USD)
- PlayStation 4 Pro + a 12-month subscription of PS Plus for $429.99 USD (regularly $459.98 USD)
PlayStation Plus members who are signed in will be eligible for free one-day express shipping.
The platform holder made several product announcements during a PlayStation State of Play live stream on Tuesday.
In addition to confirming the Last of Us Part 2 release date, Sony revealed three The Last of Us 2 special editions and announced a limited edition Death Stranding PS4 Pro bundle.
Sony claimed in July that PS4 had shipped 100 million units since launching in November 2013, reportedly reaching the milestone faster than any other console.
While PlayStation 5 is expected to arrive in 2020, in May the platform holder outlined the critical role PS4 still has to play in the years to come.
It said PS4 will continue to be PlayStation’s “engine of engagement and profitability for the next three years” and “provide the fertile early adopter gamer base critical for next gen success”.