PS6 and Project Helix consoles projected to cost $1000+ after PS5 price increase

The latest PS5 and PS5 Pro price increase has buyers scrambling to purchase consoles at their current MSRPs. However, it has also raised concerns about the affordability of next-generation systems. Several analysts told GamesRadar+ that $1000 prices for the PS6 and Project Helix are possible.

Sony's aggressive price hike

With stores about to list the base PS5 for $100 higher and the Pro model $150 more, the extent of the price increase surprised Circana’s Mat Piscatella. While the memory shortage rages on, in February, CFO Lin Tao suggested that the company was prepared for the crisis. Consultant Dr. Serkan Toto added that PlayStation may have decided on a single, larger adjustment with the chance of discounts if conditions improve.

Unfortunately, some sources expect that higher component costs will continue until at least 2028. Rumors point to a Project Helix and PS6 release date in late 2027. Both systems will likely ship with ample amounts of DRAM and VRAM. As a result, it could be difficult for Microsoft and Sony to encourage early adopters.

Dr. Toto and researcher Joost van Dreunen anticipate that the consoles will challenge budgets. Particularly if tariffs continue, Toto said: “I think $999 at least for one variant of the PS6 is not impossible.” Meanwhile, van Dreunen believes that if the memory shortage persists, a “$1,000 console will be the norm.”

Bleak forecast for console profits

In the case of the new Xbox console, that estimate is not as surprising. Former executive Sarah Bond called the machine “premium” and “high-end”. With its design inspired by a PC, Microsoft may also not subsidize its costs. In the past, manufacturers have taken losses on hardware, hoping to offset them through game and service sales.

When tariffs emerged prior to its debut, Nintendo decided to keep the Switch 2 at its announced MSRP. Yet, the original Switch and accessories were not as fortunate. Following the PS5 price increase, gamers may see a launch PS6 price that’s not significantly higher than its still available predecessor.

Another scenario is that Project Helix and the PS5 follow-up will suffer release date delays. Critics already wonder whether modest performance gains will be enough to entice buyers.