Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) bid farewell to its outgoing President and CEO, Jim Ryan, with a unique and special gift. Ryan was presented with a one-of-a-kind PlayStation 5 (PS5) console, customized to commemorate his contributions to the company.
The custom console features a retro gray finish, reminiscent of the original PlayStation (PS1), and proudly displays the classic quad-color “PS” logo, an iconic symbol of PlayStation’s legacy. The design pays homage to the PS1, which played a significant role in establishing Sony’s dominance in the gaming industry.
Not only does the console itself showcase a nostalgic vibe, but the accompanying DualSense controller also received a DualShock 1 makeover. The controller now sports a cable and a plug cover for the front USB-C port, further embracing the retro theme.
To add a final touch of nostalgia, the packaging of this special edition PS5 is inspired by the box art of the PS1. It is a fitting tribute to the console that revolutionized gaming and paved the way for the success of subsequent PlayStation generations.
During a heartfelt thank-you party organized in honor of Jim Ryan’s outstanding leadership, industry legends such as Ken Kutaragi, the “Father of PlayStation,” Kazunori Yamauchi, the creator of the Gran Turismo series, Nicolas Doucet, the director of Astro’s Playroom, and Sony CEO Kenichiro Yoshida were present to express their gratitude.
While it remains uncertain if a version of this unique PS5 will be available to the general public, speculation is brewing that Sony may consider releasing a special edition PS5 Slim to celebrate the 30th anniversary of PlayStation next year. Such a release would undoubtedly bring joy to fans who have eagerly awaited a more limited edition version of the console.
Jim Ryan’s farewell gift serves as a reminder of his significant contributions to Sony Interactive Entertainment and the PlayStation brand. As he passes the torch to his successor, gamers around the world eagerly anticipate the future of PlayStation under new leadership, while cherishing the memories and milestones that have shaped the gaming industry.
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”