02 / Company & ownership
Behind the brand.
PlayStation is operated by Sony Interactive Entertainment, a wholly owned Sony Group company; the original console launched in Japan in 1994. The ecosystem includes PS5, first-party accessories, PlayStation VR2 and PlayStation Plus. Check PS5 disc versus digital configuration, console generation, model group and exact accessory support. 'Officially licensed' third-party products are not Sony-manufactured. PlayStation Plus is a paid subscription for many online multiplayer, cloud and catalogue features, with tiers and availability varying by account and region. PS VR2 is designed for PS5, is not compatible with PS4, and has separate PC-adapter requirements; PlayStation states it is not for children under 12.
