Sony launched the original PlayStation in Japan on December 3, 1994.
The console was developed by Sony Computer Entertainment and became Sony’s first major home video-game system. It used CD-ROM software rather than the cartridges favored by Nintendo and Sega at the time, giving developers greater storage capacity for games, music, and video sequences.
The PlayStation reached North America and Europe in September 1995. Its library included major releases such as Final Fantasy VII, Gran Turismo, Metal Gear Solid, and Crash Bandicoot. The system eventually sold more than 100 million units worldwide, making it one of the most successful consoles of its generation.
A common mix-up is attributing the PlayStation’s origins solely to Nintendo. Sony and Nintendo had explored a CD-ROM partnership, but the collaboration ended before Sony released its own console.