In a surprise gesture, Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) President and CEO Jim Ryan was presented with a one-of-a-kind custom PlayStation 5 (PS5) console during a recent farewell party. The unique PS5, featuring a retro-inspired design reminiscent of the original PlayStation (PS1), has sparked excitement among gaming enthusiasts and raised questions about the possibility of a wider release.
A nostalgic tribute to gaming history
The custom PS5 console gifted to Jim Ryan embraces the iconic design elements of the first-generation PS1, celebrating the 20th anniversary of the beloved gaming platform. The console’s exterior boasts the retro gray finish of the PS1, and it prominently features the classic quad-color “PS” logo that defined an era of gaming.
Not stopping at the console itself, Sony’s design team meticulously transformed the DualSense controller, giving it a DualShock 1 makeover. This includes a cable connection reminiscent of earlier controllers, as well as a charming plug cover designed to fit over the PS5’s front USB-C port. The attention to detail is evident in the special packaging as well, paying homage to the iconic box art of the PS1.
During the farewell party held in honor of Jim Ryan, numerous industry legends gathered to celebrate his tenure at Sony Interactive Entertainment. Notable figures in attendance included the “father of PlayStation” Ken Kutaragi, renowned game developer Kazunori Yamauchi of Gran Turismo fame, Nicolas Doucet from Team Asobi, and Sony’s CEO Kenichiro Yoshida.
However, one conspicuous absence was Shuhei Yoshida, PlayStation’s BAFTA-winning indies lead, who was notably absent due to his commitment to The Game Awards, where he accepted the “Games for Impact” award on behalf of Awaceb, the developer behind the indie title “Tchia.”
A collector’s dream – Will it be available to the masses?
The big question on the minds of many gaming enthusiasts is whether this unique custom PS5 will be made available to the general public. While Sony has not officially announced any plans for a wider release, the timing of this gift raises speculation.
With PlayStation’s 30th anniversary approaching next year, it is plausible that Sony may consider producing a similar special edition for the PS5 Slim. Such a release would undoubtedly be met with enthusiasm from fans eager to own a piece of gaming history.
