It's been about 4 years since the PlayStation 4 was released back in 2013. Usually, the next generation of consoles will begin development around this time. But there hasn't been any indication of the development for the PlayStation 5 from Sony. Console generations may be headed towards a longer development cycle as shown by the long transition from the PlayStation 3 towards the PS4. But judging from the success of the PlayStation 4, the release of the next generation of the PlayStation is a sure thing.

In Japan, the PlayStation 4 just reached a new milestone it terms of success. As of now, the PlayStation 4 has sold 4.5 million units with 200,000 amounting to the newly released Playstation 4 Pro as reported by Gaming Bolt. Sony is doing very well in Japan and it only points to the development of the PlayStation 5.

In terms of worldwide sales, the PlayStation 4 has now sold more than 53.4 million units according to Sony. It is currently on pace to be Sony's second best selling console trailing only the legendary PlayStation 2. The PlayStation 2 holds the record for the best-selling console of all time at 150 million units sold in its lifetime and with the PlayStation 4 trailing behind it, the PlayStation 5 will be next in line.

It would be foolish for Sony to stop their console business as it has proven to be a huge success for the company. Sony's stock may be dwindling but their consoles may be their only segment that is keeping them afloat. It's why the development of the PlayStation 5 should be one of Sony's top priorities heading to the next several years to ensure their future.

If Sony repeats the success of PS4 with the PlayStation 5 it will surely help their fortunes. But regardless of what Sony's condition or stock, gamers can be assured of the next console generation. The problem is, it would likely take a while before the new console gets released as the PS4 continues its dominance. Rest assured that Sony is already starting the development for the PS5.