Sony is slowly leaving Microsoft behind in the console wars as the PlayStation 4 has managed to top 6 million units sold, while the Xbox One is still struggling to break 5 million. The 6 million figure came as Sony launched the console in Japan, where it sold 370,000 units so far, and 322,083 during the first two days.
It's a big success story for Sony, as the company only managed to pull through 88,443 PlayStation 3 units in the first two days when that console launched in Japan. It could be a clear sign that the PlayStation brand is back to the glory days of the PlayStation 2, which means the possibility of Sony selling over 100 million PlayStation 4 systems is a real possibility.
In the history of PlayStation, this was the first time Sony has ever chosen to launch its console in Japan behind every other market. It proves that Sony was hell-bent on toppling Microsoft in the United States and other key countries. Furthermore, it also proves how confident Sony is when it comes down to its home market.
"There have now been more than 3.6 million live broadcasts, and more than 56 million spectate sessions on PS4 through Twitch and Ustream," writes Sony employee John Koller, on the PlayStation blog. "In fact, since January 1st, PS4 gamers account for 20% of daily broadcasters on Twitch. PS4 owners are also embracing the Share button on the DUALSHOCK 4 Wireless Controller, with more than 100 million shares captured as fans show friends their latest achievements on Facebook and Twitter.
"And soon, you'll be able to share your greatness in new ways. Developers are beginning to take advantage of PS4's new interactive live broadcasting gaming features, integrating modes that allow broadcasted gameplay to become interactive for spectators. Even as a viewer, you can now influence livestreamed gameplay.
"For example, Dead Nation: Apocalypse Edition features a built-in Broadcast+ mode where you can stream your gameplay while viewers on the PS4 or a web browser influence positive and negative effects during gameplay. More social feedback is on the way too, with Dynasty Warriors 8 Xtreme Legends Complete Edition in March and Daylight in April," Koller said.
The momentum of the PlayStation 4 is important for Sony, as the company is counting on its gaming division to help turn around its dying electronic businesses. At the moment, Sony is a troubled company that is expected to announce a loss of over $1 billion, and the PlayStation 4's current success is in no way ready to help the company see a profit.
In fact, Sony is selling each PlayStation 4 at a loss, and is expected to make a profit only in 2015 if momentum continues.
