PS6 Delay & Switch 2 Price Hike? How AI-Driven RAM Shortages Are Impacting Gaming Consoles (2026)

The gaming industry is facing a crisis as the battle for AI supremacy disrupts the market. Sony might be forced to delay the highly anticipated PlayStation 6, a move that could shake up the carefully planned release strategy. But that's not all—Nintendo is rumored to be considering a price increase for the Switch 2, leaving gamers wondering about the future of their favorite consoles.

Here's the deal: The ongoing AI expansion by tech giants is causing a severe RAM shortage. Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and Meta are investing heavily in AI data centers, leading to a skyrocketing demand for RAM. This has resulted in memory shortages and soaring prices, creating a challenging situation for consumer electronics manufacturers.

Valve has already felt the impact, delaying its Steam Machines due to RAM and storage issues. Microsoft, too, is reportedly planning to increase Xbox Series X/S prices again, all because of the global RAM shortage. And now, Sony might join the delay club, with Bloomberg reporting a potential PS6 release in 2028 or 2029. This delay would be a significant deviation from their original plans, which hinted at a 2027 release.

But here's where it gets controversial: Some analysts believe a 2028 launch is more likely, and a delay could be a strategic move to maintain user engagement. Meanwhile, Nintendo might be taking a different approach, as they consider increasing the price of the Switch 2, which has already sold over 17 million units. While Nintendo initially downplayed the impact of RAM shortages on pricing, recent statements suggest a potential change in direction.

The RAM crisis is a complex issue, and its effects on the gaming industry are far-reaching. To understand the full scope, check out Eurogamer's in-depth analysis, which explores the reasons behind the soaring RAM prices and what this means for gamers.

What do you think? Are these delays and price hikes an inevitable consequence of the AI race, or is there more to the story? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's discuss the future of gaming in the age of AI.