Why Sony's Shift in Focus from Units Sold to Engagement Time is a Smart Move for PlayStation

Sony recently released its full-year results for 2023, with the PlayStation division showing steady growth, albeit lower than initial expectations. A key aspect of the report was the company's shift in focus from unit sales to engagement time, which has raised concerns among gamers. However, this change in strategy is not a new development, but rather a continuation of a approach that began with the transition from PS3 to PS4. By focusing on engagement time, Sony aims to capture the full scope of the PlayStation business, including non-traditional interactions with its software and services. This approach has driven the company's decisions on hardware and services, such as the development of the PS5's SSD and the introduction of the PS Portal device. While there are potential downsides to this focus, including the risk of prioritizing monetization over game quality, Sony's track record of producing high-quality first-party games suggests that this approach can be beneficial for both the company and its customers.