Analyst Predicts $1,000 PS6 and Shift Toward Game Streaming

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The cheapest PS5 will soon cost $599.99, marking an increase from its original launch price of $399.99 five years ago. Prices for all gaming consoles are climbing, leading to predictions that the PS6 could potentially reach $1,000 if it launches next year. This substantial price hike is expected to significantly influence the gaming industry, making it difficult for many players to afford the latest consoles.

Wedbush Securities analyst Michael Pachter suggests the answer lies in transitioning to game streaming. During the latest episode of the Pachter Factor, he stated, “I believe prices will continue to rise, and the solution to that is to move away from consoles and stream games directly to your TV. Someone will figure out how to play console games without a console, and we won’t even care anymore. I’ve been predicting the end of the traditional console cycle for over a decade.”

Sony currently offers a comprehensive streaming service that allows gamers to play directly on their PS5 or, in the case of the PS Portal, without owning a console at all. While the experience is generally good, technological limitations like latency can affect gameplay, especially in fast-paced titles. Strategy-based games such as visual novels and turn-based RPGs tend to perform well with cloud streaming, but twitchy, action-heavy games often suffer.

Despite the technological progress, questions remain about the financial sustainability of streaming services. Access currently requires a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, which adds a significant cost. Sony needs to run multiple game instances to support streaming, and this infrastructure isn’t cheap. The business model raises concerns about whether companies really want to operate large server farms powered by their own electricity, and if consumers are willing to pay hefty subscription fees for the convenience.

While continued investment by Sony in streaming indicates belief in its future potential, many still see it as a distant goal rather than an immediate reality.