Translation guide
How to refer to video game consoles in Japanese, from formal terms to casual slang.
The standard, neutral way to say 'video game console' in Japanese.
The most common and neutral term for any gaming console, including handhelds.
新しいゲーム機を買った。
I bought a new video game console.
Literally 'home-use game machine', used to distinguish home consoles from handhelds or arcade machines.
家庭用ゲーム機の市場は拡大している。
The home video game console market is expanding.
Specifically refers to stationary consoles that connect to a TV, as opposed to handhelds.
据え置き型ゲーム機はテレビに接続して使う。
Stationary game consoles are used by connecting to a TV.
Informal ways to refer to a game console in everyday conversation.
Short for 'game hardware', commonly used in casual speech and gaming media.
次世代ゲームハードが発表された。
The next-gen game console was announced.
Abbreviation of 'hardware', often used when the context of gaming is clear.
どのハードで遊んでるの？
Which console are you playing on?
Literally 'the main unit of the game', used to refer to the console itself, especially when distinguishing from controllers or accessories.
ゲームの本体が壊れた。
The game console broke.
Referring to a console by its brand or model name, which is the most natural way in many contexts.
In Japanese, it's very common to simply use the name of the console (e.g., プレステ, スイッチ, Xbox) rather than a generic term.
プレステ5を買うために並んだ。
I lined up to buy a PS5.
スイッチでマリオを遊んでる。
I'm playing Mario on the Switch.
Japanese speakers often use the specific console name (e.g., プレステ, スイッチ) instead of a generic word. This is natural and recommended in casual conversation.
Direct translations like 'ビデオゲームコンソール' are not used in natural Japanese. Stick to the terms listed above.