Relive the iconic PlayStation 1 boot screen with new PS5 update

Nostalgia boost incoming with the new PS5 update!

PS One Boot Screen Cover
This iconic boot screen is back for a limited time. | © Sony

December 3, 2024, marks the 30th anniversary of the original PlayStation’s release in Japan, a milestone that celebrates three decades of gaming excellence. Sony, keen to honor its rich legacy, has introduced a slew of nostalgic features for its current products, including a special update for the PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro.

The highlight of this update is a tribute to the original PlayStation, or PS One, which debuted in 1994 and transformed gaming with its groundbreaking 3D graphics and iconic boot-up sequence. PS5 owners can now customize their console’s interface with animations and design elements inspired by Sony’s console history, from the PS1 to the PS4.

The iconic PS1 boot screen is available for the PS5 now!

The centerpiece of this feature is the faithfully recreated PS1 boot-up screen, complete with its distinct sound and visuals. Players can relive the nostalgia by selecting their favorite interface design from the system settings. This feature encapsulates Sony’s journey through the decades, offering fans a trip down memory lane.

In addition to this update, Sony has rolled out other celebratory initiatives. The PlayStation Portal, Sony’s handheld gaming device, has received a long-awaited functionality update, and rumors of limited-edition accessories abound. These items will complement the highly sought-after 30th Anniversary Edition of the PS5, which has already sold out worldwide.

However, there’s a catch. Sony has stated that the retro interface designs, including the PS1 boot-up experience, will only be available for a limited time. While no end date for this feature has been announced, fans are encouraged to enjoy the nostalgic nods while they last.

In terms of their legacy, each PlayStation console has reflected Sony’s commitment to pushing technological limits, redefining the gaming landscape, and shaping the way players interact with their favorite medium.

The PlayStation 2 followed the PS1 in 2000, becoming the best-selling console of all time. It paved the way for the PS3 in 2006, the PS4 in 2013 and the PS5 in 2020. The PlayStation 5, represents the pinnacle of Sony's console evolution. Its bold design and focus on future-proofing have ensured its popularity, even as demand continues to outstrip supply.

The 30th anniversary serves as a reminder of Sony’s profound impact on the gaming industry, from the PlayStation 1’s humble beginnings to the cutting-edge capabilities of the PS5. As players revisit iconic moments from Sony’s past, this celebration cements the PlayStation legacy for a new generation of gamers.

Florian Frick
Florian Frick