Device prices are rising and developers are breathing a sigh of relief
Gaming is undergoing a major transformation these days. After years of waiting for the next generation of gaming devices, reports indicate that Sony and Microsoft may delay the launch of their new devices due to rising manufacturing costs. But strangely, game developers welcome this delay!
Why are device prices rising?
The main reason is the shortage of electronic components. The huge demand for data centers for generative AI (Generative AI) has caused a crisis in the supply of electronic chips. This has led to unprecedented price hikes for current devices — for the first time in gaming history, we are seeing device prices rise after launch instead of falling.
Rumors are circulating that the manufacturing cost of the PlayStation 6 device could reach $1000 for Sony! At the same time, Xbox has warned that component prices could double again over the coming year, which could affect its next-generation project codenamed “Project Helix.”
“Delay is better for us” — developers’ words
In an interview with Eurogamer, Konrad Tomaszkiewicz — director of The Blood of Dawnwalker and former director of The Witcher 3 — said that the delay of the next generation of devices is good news for developers like him.
Tomaszkiewicz said: “When you have a game and you know the systems and features of the current devices, you know what to do. Every new platform is a new challenge: you need to learn it, know its limits, what you can and cannot do. Most importantly, you need to build an additional version of the game that needs to be maintained later.”
He explained that his team at Rebel Wolves is currently working on four versions of the game (Xbox Series S/X, PlayStation 5, and two versions for PC). Adding two new platforms means doubling the workload!
What does this mean for the Saudi gamer?
This is good news for gamers in Saudi Arabia and the Arab world. Instead of rushing to launch devices at exorbitant prices, companies will focus on improving current devices. This means:
- Continued support for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S for longer
- Release of more improved and high-quality games on current devices
- Avoiding paying exorbitant prices for a new device that may have limited features
- An opportunity to save up for the new device at a leisurely pace
Nintendo Switch 2 situation is different
On the other hand, Nintendo Switch 2 devices are moving steadily forward. Capcom has confirmed that Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen runs at 30 frames per second and above on Switch 2, even exceeding developers’ expectations! This is thanks to the advanced RE Engine, which adapts efficiently to mobile devices.
Conclusion
The delay of the next generation of PlayStation and Xbox devices may be the best thing happening to the gaming industry right now. Developers get extra time to perfect their work, gamers avoid exorbitant prices, and the industry as a whole benefits from more mature devices and better-quality games.
Frequently Asked Questions — FAQ
When will next-generation devices be released?
There is no confirmed date yet. Expectations indicate that PS6 and the new Xbox will not be released before 2028 at the earliest due to rising manufacturing costs.
How much will the PS6 device cost?
Reports indicate that its manufacturing cost could reach $1000 for Sony, which means the retail price will be much higher. But these are just speculations for now.
Will I be able to play PS5 games on PS6?
Sony has confirmed its commitment to backward compatibility, but details have not yet been announced.
Is Switch 2 considered next-generation?
Switch 2 is an update to Nintendo’s current generation, not a direct competitor to PS6 or the upcoming Xbox. But it offers an excellent hybrid gaming experience at a lower price.
Are device prices affected in Saudi Arabia?
Device prices in Saudi Arabia are usually affected
Prices in Saudi Arabia are rising with global prices. However, with the delay in the next generation, current PS5 and Xbox prices may stabilize or gradually decrease.
