Marking three decades since its groundbreaking launch in the US and Europe, Sony is celebrating the PlayStation console`s enduring legacy with the announcement of “PlayStation: The First 30 Years.” This commemorative book, delving into the console`s rich history, is slated for release in 2026.
Published by Read Only Memories, a British specialist in video game history books, “PlayStation: The First 30 Years” is presented as a 400-page hardcover, intended as the ultimate visual record of the console. It features an extensive collection of never-before-seen images from Sony`s research and development archives, showcasing early prototypes, concept sketches, and development models.
Accompanying these visuals are insightful commentaries from pivotal figures in PlayStation`s creation, including Ken Kutaragi, Teiyu Goto, and Yujin Morisawa. The book also incorporates new photography by Benedict Redgrove, known for his work with NASA: Past and Present Dreams of the Future. Adding a touch of nostalgia, the art direction is overseen by Nicole Motby and Studio.Build, the design team behind the iconic original cover art for the Wipeout series (Wipeout, Wipeout 2097, and Wipeout 3).
PlayStation: The First 30 Years Deluxe Edition
A limited Deluxe Edition of “PlayStation: The First 30 Years” will be available, restricted to 1,994 copies. This premium version includes distinct features such as exposed binding, an elegant clamshell presentation box, and a collection of exclusive prints.
While the initial release appears to be exclusively through Read Only Memories, a broader distribution via other publishers is possible. This is a common practice for Read Only Memories, as seen with their other titles like “Wipeout Futurism: The Graphic Archives,” “Like a Hurricane: An Unofficial Oral History of Street Fighter 2,” “500 Years Later: An Oral History of Final Fantasy 7,” and “Videogame Atlas: Mapping Interactive Worlds,” which have all received worldwide publication by Thames & Hudson, sometimes with varied cover art.
Other Commemorative Items
God of War: 20th Anniversary Retrospective Set
Fans might also be interested in the God of War: 20th Anniversary Retrospective Set, a two-volume hardcover collection. This set pays homage to the beloved franchise, featuring concept artwork, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive interviews with the creators. The first volume explores the original God of War Trilogy and its spin-off titles, while the second provides an in-depth look at the development of God of War (2018) and God of War: Ragnarök.
A Deluxe Edition of the God of War collection is also available, enhancing the set with a two-piece slipcase cover, distinctive artwork, and a bifold portfolio containing a pair of lithographs.
PlayStation x Reebok Sneaker Collaboration
Beyond books, Sony has collaborated with Reebok to launch a special line of sneakers inspired by the original PlayStation console. This collection includes three distinct designs: the InstaPump Fury 94 for Japan, the Pump Omni Zone II for the US, and the Workout Plus for the United Kingdom, all set to debut in October.
Best-Selling PlayStation Games (30 Years)
