New PlayStation controller capsule toys will play system start-up sounds
Gamers seeking nostalgic PlayStation merchandise will soon be able to add new capsule toys based on each of the console series’ controllers to their collection.
BANDAI is set to release the “PlayStation Game Start! Sound Collection” as part of its popular Gashapon (capsule toy) lineup this June.
Each miniature figure, which doubles as a keychain, is a replica of a past, or present, PlayStation controller that plays their respective systems’ start-up sound.
Gashapon, a beloved aspect of Japanese pop culture, are vending machine toys dispensed in plastic capsules.
Known for offering miniature figures, toys and other collectables, they often feature characters or items from popular anime, manga, video games and other franchises.
This particular collection should appeal to the vast and dedicated fanbase of Sony’s PlayStation console family.
Since its debut in 1994, the PlayStation brand has played a pivotal role in shaping the modern gaming landscape, with each successive console generation dominating the sales of consoles around the world.
So far, 5 mainline PlayStation home consoles have been released and a key part of each console’s identity is its unique startup sound – a distinct audio cue that instantly transports players back to countless gaming sessions.
The “PlayStation Game Start! Sound Collection” features miniature mascots of five distinct PlayStation controllers, each attached to a convenient ball chain:
- PlayStation (PS1) Controller
- Representing the console that revolutionized 3D gaming.
- PlayStation 2 (PS2) Controller
- From the best-selling home console of all time, known for its vast game library and DVD playback.
- PlayStation 3 (PS3) Controller
- Symbolizing Sony’s entry into the Blu-ray era and online gaming.
- PlayStation 4 (PS4) Controller
- From the console that dominated the mid-2010s with high-fidelity graphics.
- PlayStation 5 (PS5) Controller
- The latest generation, featuring haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
The core appeal of these Gashapon lies in their interactive element: by simply pressing the center button on each miniature controller, it will emit the authentic startup sound of its corresponding console.
Each miniature PlayStation controller will cost 500 yen (approximately $3.20 USD) and as with all Gashapon style items, they will be dispensed at random.
As these items are distributed through Gashapon machines, availability will vary, but they are expected to be found in arcades, toy stores, and specialty shops across Japan from the second week of June.
© Bandai, Sony
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