Sony Interactive Entertainment president Hideaki Nishino has hinted that the PlayStation 6 could be a handheld/home console hybrid, positioning it to rival the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch 2. In a recent statement, Nishino suggested that the next-generation platform will expand beyond the traditional living room experience.
PS6 as a Hybrid Console
Speaking about the future of PlayStation, Nishino said: "PlayStation has long been strongly associated with the idea of playing in the living room. However, in recent years, more users globally have been using personal monitors. In response, we are selling peripherals such as monitors and speakers to break away from the fixed perception that 'PlayStation equals the living room' and to broaden usage scenarios."
He added: "For the next-generation platform, rather than simply serving as an alternative to PCs, we aim to deliver value that is unique to PlayStation. This includes not only technological advancements but also an expansion of usage styles, enabling a seamless experience that can be enjoyed naturally beyond the living room."
These comments indicate that the PS6 will combine a traditional home console with handheld capabilities, similar to the Nintendo Switch 2. Sony has a history of successful handheld devices, including the PSP and PS Vita, which were praised for their displays and graphics.
PS6 Release and Cost Concerns
As the PlayStation 5 approaches its sixth anniversary, rumors about its successor have intensified. Some reports have suggested that the PS6 may be delayed until 2029 and could cost over £1,000 to manufacture due to rising memory costs, making the retail price even higher. However, Nishino's comments offer a more optimistic view of Sony's next-generation plans.
PlayStation Store Closures and Physical Media Phase-Out
In a separate announcement, Sony confirmed plans to close the PlayStation Store on PS3 and PS Vita in 2027. "After nearly two decades of supporting the PS3 console generation, we wanted to let you know we will be closing the PlayStation Store on PS3, as well as on PS Vita," Sony explained. "PlayStation Store on PS3 will close in select markets starting this year, followed by global closures for PS3 and PS Vita next year. That means new content purchases will no longer be possible once the PlayStation Store closes on these devices. To ease the transition, players will still be able to download previously purchased content after the closing date for the foreseeable future."
Additionally, Sony has confirmed that physical discs for PlayStation games will cease production starting in 2028. This follows the recent announcement that the physical edition of GTA 6 will not include an actual disc when it launches in November.
