Long-time PlayStation leader Jim Ryan was presented a one-of-a-kind PS5 console styled after the classic PlayStation 1 as a farewell gift at his recent retirement party.
Lead Up to Special Gift
Ryan has served as the President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment since 2019, overseeing the entire PlayStation brand. Earlier this year in November, he announced he would be stepping down from the leadership role and retiring.
His retirement party was held on December 7th, where Sony’s staff surprised Ryan with the custom PS1-styled PS5 console.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Jim Ryan named President & CEO of SIE | April 2019 |
| Ryan announces retirement | November 2022 |
| Ryan’s farewell party held | December 7, 2023 |
Details and Reactions to the PS1-Styled PS5
The PS5 console was designed with the same gray coloring, ridges, and overall styling found on the original 1994 PlayStation console. This gives it a clear visual throwback to PlayStation’s early generations.
Sony staff commented that the custom PS5 was made specially for Ryan as a “thank you” for his years leading the brand.
Photos of the unique console quickly circulated online, with many gamers and industry figures praising the retro PS1 design. PlayStation’s official Twitter account shared an image with the caption “Epic win for Ryan!”
Many noted how perfectly the PS5 hardware matched with the classic PlayStation styling. Others called for Sony to produce a PS1-edition version available to purchase.
“This custom PS1 PS5 is awesome! Would buy in a heartbeat. Make it happen @PlayStation!”
There does not seem to be any current plan to mass produce the special edition design. The PS1-styled PS5 was a one-time gift specific for Ryan’s retirement.
Ryan’s PlayStation Legacy
Ryan has been with PlayStation for over 25 years, starting in the UK marketing department in 1998. He quickly moved up the corporate ladder in European regional roles before becoming CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe in 2007.
In 2011, Ryan was named President of Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, overseeing the PlayStation brand across Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. He excelled in these leadership positions, driving growth for PlayStation in the region.
Ryan is credited with championing PlayStation’s shift to emphasize online networked services and recurring revenue. He also oversaw the launch of the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 consoles during his tenure as global President & CEO.
What Comes Next?
With Ryan’s departure, Jim Ryan will be handing leadership of Sony Interactive Entertainment over to Hiroki Totoki. As the company’s Chief Financial Officer since 2020, Totoki has played a key role in PlayStation’s business operations and plans for the future.
The gaming industry will be watching closely how Totoki guides PlayStation post-Ryan. He will inherit a strong brand, with expectations to expand services and maintain PlayStation’s advantage over rivals Xbox and Nintendo.
As for Ryan, he leaves behind an unmatched legacy at PlayStation. The special PS1-edition PS5 serves as a farewell gift representing his 25+ years helping build PlayStation into a gaming juggernaut. No word yet on what Ryan plans for his post-retirement life, but the custom console will likely hold prime placement in his home.
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