Released back in 2022, the PlayDate is an interesting handheld console which uses a crank as its main method of control – necessitating its own library of unique and bespoke titles. While a success within its own niche, the handheld is unfortunately set to get a not insignificant price increase next week.

As reported by deals tracker Wario64, come the 25th of March, the PlayDate will receive a permanent price hike, upping the cost from $199 to $229 USD.

In addition, the store will also host a limited number of refurbished units for sale on the same day (costing $179).

Unfortunately, it appears as though this price increase isn’t being matched by any additional features/content, with the new $229 price tag seemingly still only including the original 24 games (aka Season 1).

While certainly not the cheapest device in the world, the PlayDate is a cool and nifty little handheld, and so if you were thinking of purchasing one, now is the time to do so.

KitGuru says: What do you think of this price increase? Was it expected? Should additional games be offered in the package? Let us know down below.

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