Celebrate 30 Years of PlayStation with 10 Fun Facts You (Probably) Didn't Know

I still remember unwrapping my first PlayStation back in the '90s—it was gray, bulky, and everything I ever wanted. Fast forward 30 years, and I'm still here, surrounded by every PlayStation console that's ever been released, from the classic PS1 to the sleek PS5, and yes, even the portable gems like the PSP and the Vita. PlayStation was more than just a gaming console; it was an entire era of excitement, a portal to unforgettable adventures (Get it? Portal? Still haven't bought that one), It was a piece of gaming history that defined my childhood and beyond.

To celebrate 30 incredible years of PlayStation, we've gathered 10 fun and interesting facts that will take you down memory lane, Especially if you're a seasoned gamer who stood in line for the PS2 launch but also if you are a newer fan who only experienced the magic of the PS5. So let's hit that iconic startup sound and dive into some PlayStation nostalgia.

01
The Gray Pioneer

When the original PlayStation launched in 1994, it stood out not just for its groundbreaking technology but also for its iconic gray color, inspired by workstation computers of the era. Interestingly, Sony's U.S. division wanted it to be black, but the Japanese side refused to budge. Ultimately, subsequent PlayStation consoles switched to black—except for the PS5, which sported a white exterior at launch.

Via Geek Universe
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02
The Iconic PlayStation Startup Sound

The original PlayStation startup sound is perhaps one of the most iconic noises for gamers of that era. According to sound designer Takafumi Fujisawa, it was created to evoke a sense of entering a new world—an exciting adventure waiting just behind the logo. It's nostalgic for millions of fans today.

Via SynysterShadow
03
A Turbulent Beginning

The PlayStation we know and love today actually started as a failed collaboration between Sony and Nintendo. Originally, Sony was supposed to create a CD add-on for Nintendo's Super Nintendo console. When the deal fell through, Sony decided to develop the PlayStation as a standalone product—an epic decision that changed gaming history forever.

Via Cleepers2
04
Controller Prototypes Galore

When Sony developed the original PlayStation controller, they struggled with the design, creating over 200 prototypes! The signature triangle, circle, cross, and square buttons have become iconic, with their meanings deeply rooted in Japanese culture: the circle represented "yes" or "okay," the cross symbolized "cancel.", The square represented a "File" or "Document" and the triangle is "Up" or "Back".

Via Hit-Japan Video Games and Anime
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05
The PS2 Was an Absolute Beast in Sales

The PlayStation 2, released in 2000, remains the best-selling console of all time, having just recently surpass 160 million units worldwide. One big reason for this massive success? It doubled as a DVD player, something that was a must-have at the time.

Via Game Rant
06
PlayStation’s Breakthrough into CDs

The switch to CDs was a game-changer. Unlike its rivals still using cartridges, PlayStation's decision to use CDs reduced manufacturing costs and allowed developers more room to create their games. This choice led to beloved titles like Final Fantasy VII, Ridge Racer, and Metal Gear Solid, which redefined what games could be.

Via Geek Universe
07
PlayStation Goes to War?!

In 2000, the U.S. media reported that Saddam Hussein's Iraq had purchased over 1,400 PlayStation 2 consoles, allegedly intending to use their microprocessors for military purposes. This led to concerns about PlayStation technology being used for missile guidance systems.

Via xataka
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08
The Mysterious PS9 Advertisement

If you watched PlayStation ads in the early 2000s, you might recall a mysterious PS9 commercial, predicting a future console that looked more like a sci-fi dream with a virtual reality orb. Sony was clearly already thinking ahead—way ahead!

Via MRQUICK
09
The PS5 Sold Out—Fast

Despite supply issues, the PlayStation 5 quickly became the hottest gaming device in the market. It sold 7.8 million units in its first year, making it the most successful launch year for any PlayStation console.

Via The Gamer
10
PlayStation Is a Global Sensation

To date, Sony has sold more than 579 million PlayStation consoles across all generations. Europe leads in PlayStation sales, with over 203 million units purchased. It seems like Europeans just can't get enough!

Via Coolcaesar