If today's news out of Tokyo Game Show is any indiciation, the PlayStation 4 could receive a price cut in North America this holiday season.
Sony announced today plans to reduce the price of the PS4 in Japan from ¥39,980 to ¥34,980 ($292.79). As detailed by IGN, that's about the equivalent of a $50 price reduction, which could suggest a similar price cut will be offered in North America this holiday season.
Currently priced at $399, it's unlikely the PlayStation 4 will receive a discount in October, as that's when Uncharted: The Nathan Drake Collection releases. With Naughty Dog's blockbuster already considered a system seller — bundling the three games from what is arguably PlayStation's greatest exclusive franchise — Sony probably won't need to lower the price of the PS4 just yet. Not to mention, Sony has already announced an Uncharted: Nathan Drake Collection PS4 Bundle that will retail for $399, which pretty much rules out any price cut.
However, with the PS4 turning two in November and Sony likely facing stiff competition from Microsoft, which will undoubtedly have its own attractive Xbox One deals this holiday season, it could be the perfect time to lower the price. As it stands, Microsoft's Xbox One is already selling for $50 cheaper than the PS4. Although Microsoft hasn't revealed its holiday plans just yet, you can bet the company will have some attractive deals this holiday season (perhaps even a $299 Xbox One?).
If you recall, the only months the Xbox One outsold the PS4 since the two competing systems released in 2013 was during last year's holiday season when Microsoft had insane holiday deals. For Sony to remain competitive with the PlayStation 4 this holiday season, they are going to need more than just regularly priced $399 bundles — especially with a pretty weak lineup (in terms of exclusives) this winter.
Long story short, I think it's safe to expect a price cut for the PS4 in North America, but it probably won't come until November.
