Commemorating three decades since its groundbreaking debut in the US and Europe, Sony is set to unveil an expansive historical retrospective titled “PlayStation: The First 30 Years.” This eagerly anticipated volume, priced at $125, is currently available for preorder, with shipments expected in 2026, marking a significant milestone for gaming enthusiasts.
Crafted by Read Only Memories, a British publisher renowned for its meticulously researched video game history books, “PlayStation: The First 30 Years” is a substantial 400-page hardcover. It`s envisioned as the ultimate visual record of the console`s evolution, offering readers an unprecedented look behind the scenes.
The book promises a treasure trove of previously unreleased images from Sony`s extensive research and development archives, featuring everything from early prototypes and conceptual sketches to detailed development models. These visuals provide a fascinating glimpse into the creative process that shaped one of gaming`s most influential platforms.
Accompanying these visuals are insights and commentary from pivotal figures in PlayStation`s genesis, including visionaries like Ken Kutaragi, Teiyu Goto, and Yujin Morisawa. The book also boasts fresh photographic contributions by Benedict Redgrove, celebrated for his evocative work on “NASA: Past and Present Dreams of the Future.” Adding another layer of historical authenticity, the art direction is helmed by Nicole Motby and Studio.Build, the distinguished graphic-design firm behind the iconic original cover art for classic titles like *Wipeout*, *Wipeout 2097*, and *Wipeout 3*.
The Deluxe Edition: A Collector`s Item
For dedicated collectors, a premium Deluxe Edition, priced at $325, is strictly limited to just 1,994 copies. This exclusive version offers enhanced features such as exposed binding, an elegant clamshell presentation box, and unique art prints. Given that 50 copies have already been claimed via Read Only Memories, rapid sell-out is anticipated, making it a highly coveted item for serious fans.
While the initial offering appears to be exclusive to Read Only Memories, a broader international release through other publishers remains a possibility. This strategy aligns with Read Only Memories` past successes, where titles such as *WipEout Futurism: The Graphic Archives* and *500 Years Later: An Oral History of Final Fantasy 7* have seen global distribution through partners like Thames & Hudson, often featuring distinct cover designs.
Visual Highlights from “PlayStation: The First 30 Years”
Beyond the Book: Other Anniversary Celebrations
Beyond the literary tribute, Sony is extending its anniversary celebrations into fashion, collaborating with Reebok on a special footwear collection inspired by the iconic original PlayStation console. This collection, launching in October, will feature three distinct sneaker designs: the InstaPump Fury 94 for Japan, the Pump Omni Zone II for the US, and the Workout Plus for the United Kingdom. These releases offer fans another unique way to commemorate PlayStation`s enduring legacy.