The PlayStation 5 rental industry is thriving like never before.
Triyansh Gill on Unsplash / Unsplashed
In early March, PlayStation Direct introduced a program allowing players to rent a PlayStation 5 at an affordable monthly rate, which has seen remarkable success in Japan. It has been reported that many of the approximately 400 stores offering this service have sold out. Players can rent a PlayStation 5 for eight days for just under $7, or for 15 days for about $12.
A similar program in the UK has also seen great success. Unfortunately, such an option is not currently available in the United States. While some services do offer rentals of PlayStation 5s, they typically come with rent-to-own agreements that are less cost-effective compared to the offerings from PlayStation Direct.
Recent hits like Monster Hunter Wilds have contributed to the appeal of the rental service, as per reports. The stores selected for this service were picked based on their customer traffic and location, suggesting that more outlets in Japan may soon start renting out PlayStation 5s — raising hopes that this service could eventually reach the United States.
Sony
Sony has recently increased the price of the PlayStation 5 in certain regions. The United States is not among those countries, but ongoing trade tensions and new tariffs might lead to a future price increase here. Economic uncertainties lead consumers to be more cautious about their spending, thus offering a PlayStation 5 rental service could allow gamers who cannot otherwise afford the console access to it.
Even after five years in the market, the console remains unaffordable for many. Considering these factors, the United States appears to be an ideal market for a rental service. With any luck, Sony will leverage its trials in the UK and Japan as a model to reach a broader audience.
Patrick Hearn covers smart home technology such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, smart light bulbs, and more. If it’s related to…
Build your PS5 library with these must-have Lego games
Lego games are not just some of the finest PS5 titles for children, but they cater to gamers of all ages. These games primarily involve transforming other media into Lego form while adding a humorous twist to the storyline. Each new title builds upon the existing formula while keeping the enjoyable elements intact. You can find Lego adaptations of superhero games, fantasy titles, and even Lego versions of some of the best PS5 games. However, a few stand out in terms of quality. The top Lego games are enjoyable on their own or in co-op mode, offering plenty of content, variety, and engaging gameplay. It’s advisable to check our list of the best Lego games on PS5 before choosing one, especially if it features your favorite franchise, to ensure it’s worth your time. If you seek more recommendations, there’s likely at least one forthcoming PS5 game that will catch your attention.
Read more
3 PlayStation Plus games to try this weekend (March 28-30)
As we wrap up March and move into April, the world of video games is buzzing with activity, although PlayStation seems a bit quieter. While Nintendo fans have just received a Direct and are anticipating another for the Switch 2, we are still waiting for the next set of new PlayStation Plus games to keep us entertained until highly anticipated titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 launch. While Xbox enthusiasts delve into Atomfall, and Nintendo fans speculate about the next Direct, I’ve discovered the best PlayStation Plus games to enjoy this weekend as we eagerly anticipate new PS5 releases.
Bloodborne
Bloodborne - Official Story Trailer: The Hunt Begins | PS4
There’s never a bad reason to play Bloodborne; however, if you need one, this week marks the 10th anniversary of this iconic Souls title that continues to captivate us. This game represented a notable shift from the traditional Dark Souls gameplay, which emphasized defensive strategies, to a much more fast-paced and aggressive style. The gameplay remains tight and responsive, even at 30 FPS, and the atmosphere is still unmatched by any other FromSoftware title. After a decade of hoping for a remaster, remake, PC port, or even just a PS5 update, it might be time to accept that this is what we have and appreciate it for what it is.
Monster Hunter Wilds’ first update is just around the corner, and it’s a substantial one
Capcom has revealed that the first title update for Monster Hunter Wilds will be available — for free! — on April 3, 2025. This update will bring significant enhancements to the game, including the introduction of the Grand Hub and a new mini-game called Barrel Bowling, which is exactly what it sounds like: throwing barrel bombs at a series of targets.
Other articles
Yale Assure Lock 2 vs. Lockly Vision Zeno: which smart lock is superior?
Are you considering purchasing the Yale Assure Lock 2 or the Lockly Vision Zeno? Let's take a detailed look to determine which one is the better option for your front door.
The costs for these widely-used computer accessories are increasing.
Logitech increases prices by as much as 25% due to tariff effects; check out alternatives on Amazon for affordable options now!
I used to believe that Google had the top AI translation app, but I was mistaken.
I previously believed that Google offered the best AI-driven translation application, but after a recent visit to China, I realized I was mistaken. The app that surpassed it is powered by DeepSeek.
LG's newest smart monitor features wheels for mobility, but requires a power outlet.
The Smart Monitor Swing includes a specialized stand that features integrated wheels.
The scenes from Zach Cregger’s Weapons are incredibly frightening.
The initial teaser for Zach Cregger's Weapons offers a glimpse into the chilling enigma surrounding a group of missing children.
A ranking of the top collaborations between Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan.
With the success of Sinners, it's a great moment to reflect on all past collaborations between Ryan Coogler and Michael B. Jordan.
The PlayStation 5 rental industry is thriving like never before.
Sony's trial PlayStation 5 rental service is showing remarkable success in Japan.