The recent farewell party for Jim Ryan, the outgoing CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment, has the internet feeling a mix of excitement and envy. At this event, Ryan was gifted a unique PlayStation 5 console, designed in the style of the original PlayStation. This special edition PS5, along with its PS1-themed DualSense controller, has caught the attention of gaming enthusiasts worldwide, leading to a surge of interest and desire among the community.
Jim Ryan has been a pivotal figure in PlayStation’s journey, having been with the company since the early days of the original PlayStation console. His departure marks the end of an era, and the gift he received is a fitting tribute to his contributions. The PS5 console, styled after the PS1, is not just a nod to the past but also a symbol of the evolution of PlayStation over the years. The console, with its classic grey color scheme and a DualSense controller that mimics the original PS1 controller’s design, represents a blend of nostalgia and modern gaming technology.
The customization of the PS5 extends to even the smallest details, such as the USB-C cable designed to resemble the classic PS1 controller cable. The packaging of the console mirrors the PS1’s original box, adding to the authenticity of the tribute. This meticulous attention to detail has not gone unnoticed by the gaming community, who have expressed their admiration and desire for similar custom consoles.
Sad I won’t be around for #TheGameAwards but I couldn’t pass up the chance to go to Jim Ryan’s thank you party and be around some legends and this one of a kind “Jim Ryan” PS5 with PS1 style. pic.twitter.com/WP7qwtxDI0
— 🎮Yuichi (@InstallBase) December 7, 2023
While this PS5 model was a one-of-a-kind creation for Jim Ryan, its reveal comes at a time when PlayStation have high expectations for the brand’s 30th anniversary next year. The excitement generated by Ryan’s custom PS5 has led to a lot of speculation and, more importantly, hope among fans that Sony might release a similar special edition console for its upcoming anniversary. This sentiment is reminiscent of the 20th anniversary of PlayStation, when Sony released a limited edition PS4 in a grey color scheme to pay homage to the original PlayStation.
It’s ironic though that Ryan, an executive that PlayStation owners have had a love-hate relationship with in recent years, mostly due to his comments about re-releases and remakes and his live-service plans, is getting a PS1-style console as he departs Sony.
Nevertheless, the internet’s reaction to the PS1-style PS5 has been overwhelmingly positive. Many gamers express their desire to own a piece of PlayStation history. Social media platforms are filled with pleas for Sony to consider making a special edition like this available to the public. The enthusiasm is not just about owning a unique console; it’s also about celebrating the legacy and impact of PlayStation in the gaming world.
As Sony approaches a significant milestone in its history, the response to this unique console could influence its future decisions regarding special editions and commemorative releases. The demand for such a console highlights the deep connection gamers have with the PlayStation brand and their eagerness to celebrate its heritage.
Ultimately, for all the criticism that Ryan has received over the years, we can’t deny that he guided PlayStation to some of its most commercially successful years. PS5, in particular, is on track to set a new sales record this fiscal year.
