About the Days of Play 2026 Sale
The sale is hosted by Sony across various platforms, including PlayStation Direct, Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart in the U.S. It features a wide array of discounts, though the selection of physical game deals feels somewhat underwhelming compared to earlier sales this year, such as the PS Direct promotion in February.
Notable exceptions include digital deals like Resident Evil Requiem at $55.99 and Battlefield 6 at $38.49. However, fans of physical copies might find the discounts on titles like God of War Ragnarok (back to $30 after a previous $20 discount) and Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition (at $39.99, far from its recent $20 low) somewhat disappointing.
DualSense Controller Deals: A Highlight of the Sale
DualSense controller discounts are a strong point, with prices matching Black Friday 2025 lows. Standard controllers are as low as $54, while special editions like the DualSense Controller - Rhythm Blue (and other new additions) are priced at $64, a quick discount considering their recent introduction. The DualSense Edge also sees a $30 discount to $169, though it briefly hit $159 during Black Friday.
Given Sony's trend of increasing hardware prices, these deals might be a prudent buy for those considering an upgrade, especially with the DualSense Edge offering enhanced performance that makes combat feel more responsive at its reduced price.
PS5 Console and PS Plus: Limited Savings
Disappointingly, there are no direct discounts on the PS5 console (standard or Pro) and no PS Plus subscription savings, a first for the Days of Play event. Sony's recent price hikes on hardware and the PS Plus membership make these omissions particularly notable.
However, Sony offers alternatives: certified refurbished PS5 consoles provide a cost-effective entry point, and a trade-in promotion with Back Market gives an extra $50 voucher towards a PS5/PS5 Pro purchase when trading in a PS4. This deal, while helpful, feels like small consolation for those who missed pre-price hike deals.
Additional Incentives: Trade-In and PlayStation Visa Promotion
The trade-in process is straightforward, with a PS4 Pro in good condition potentially fetching around $100 in trade-in value plus the $50 bonus, totaling $150. This compares favorably to typical retailer offers.
New applicants for the PlayStation Visa can earn a $100 statement credit after spending $500 within 60 days, with no annual fee. The card also offers rewards on PlayStation and select service purchases, redeemable for PS Store credit. However, the value proposition is most appealing to those with significant upcoming PlayStation expenditures.
What This Means for Players
This year's Days of Play sale is a mixed bag, heavily reliant on the shopper's specific needs. Gamers looking to expand their libraries or upgrade their controller will find excellent deals, particularly on the DualSense Edge and select PS5 exclusives. However, the lack of console discounts and the limited appeal of the credit card promotion might disappoint those seeking broader savings.
The trade-in offer and refurbished console route are sensible alternatives for newcomers or upgraders, indicating Sony's push towards more creative pricing strategies amidst rising costs.
More Days of Play Deals and Next Steps
- Ghost of Yotei - $49.99 (Physical), $49.69 (Digital)
- Death Stranding 2 - New all-time low (price visible in cart)
- PSVR2 - $100 off
- DualSense Controllers - Up to $30 off, including special editions
- Certified Refurbished PS5 Consoles - Ongoing offer at PS Direct
- Trade-In Bonus - Extra $50 towards PS5/PS5 Pro with PS4 trade-in
- PlayStation Visa Promotion - $100 statement credit for new applicants
As the sale runs until June 10, keep an eye on PlayStation Direct and participating retailers for any late additions or unexpected discounts. For now, the best strategy involves targeting specific, deeply discounted titles and considering the long-term value of refurbished consoles or the DualSense Edge, given the current pricing landscape.
