In the winter of 1994, a single game console dramatically changed the atmosphere of the gaming industry. Its name was “PlayStation”. At the time, while Nintendo and Sega reigned as absolute presences, the electronics giant Sony suddenly entered the arena. Like a sudden mixed martial artist appearing in a fighting ring, the PlayStation instantly became the center of attention. It goes without saying that many fans were breathless at its form, which fused a challenging attitude unbound by the concept of “games” with innovative technology.

At the time, 3D graphics in games were limited to “something resembling three dimensions”. However, the PlayStation succeeded in rendering smooth 3D graphics with texture mapping without the need for dedicated chips. In particular, the footage of a T-Rex moving smoothly, which was shown when the console was first announced, was shocking. In that moment when many people felt, “This can't be done at home,” the future of gaming changed. The evolution of graphics completely transformed game narratives, expressions, and emotions. This one machine proved that.

Among the software titles that appeared simultaneously with the launch, Ridge Racer was particularly outstanding. It was a miracle that the racing game, which had been generating excitement in arcades, arrived in homes in just about a year. And it's notable that its fidelity went beyond a mere “port”. The unrealistic feeling of control—drifting around corners without losing speed—paradoxically captivated players. The moment the sound of car engines and screeching tires echoed from the television, everyone must have been convinced that “the limits of gaming are still far ahead”.

The PlayStation's appeal wasn't limited to the hardware's performance. The titles lined up for it truly built the era. Tekken's dynamic battle direction, BIOHAZARD's terror in the silence, Final Fantasy VII's epic narrative—all of them broke the conventional wisdom of the time. Particularly striking was the adoption of the CD-ROM medium. This kept software prices down, making diverse gaming experiences available at an accessible price point. The slight sense of luxury when holding the black-backed disc is also one of the nostalgic memories.

The TV commercial starting with the chant “1, 2, 3!” and that strangely addictive sound effect—the phrases everyone has heard at least once are likely remembered more than the product itself by many people. They were very skillful at creating an atmosphere that made people think, “PlayStation seems kind of interesting,” rather than just providing a product introduction. The bold declaration of aiming for one million units also brought a fresh wind to the industry at the time.

Recording hits not only in Japan but worldwide, the PlayStation achieved the feat of being the first home console to surpass 100 million units shipped. That momentum was further refined with the appearance of the “PS one” in 2000; its miniaturized form blended naturally into living spaces while continuing to emit a timeless presence. The “gaming revolution” that began with this one machine is still ongoing.