The Sony PlayStation 3 launched back in 2006 with a hefty price tag of $499 for the 20GB model and $599 for the 60GB model. This high price point caused controversy and concern among gamers, but in retrospect, it brought a host of positive benefits to the gaming industry.

First and foremost, the original price of the PS3 set a new standard for console gaming. At the time, it was the most expensive console on the market, surpassing its competitors, the Xbox 360 and the Nintendo Wii. This showed a commitment from Sony to deliver top-of-the-line technology and pushed its rivals to innovate and improve their own products.

But what were the actual benefits of this high price point? For starters, it allowed for the inclusion of cutting-edge technology in the console. The PS3 was the first console to feature a Blu-Ray player, which revolutionized the gaming experience by providing high-definition graphics and the ability to play movies in crystal-clear quality. This feature alone justified the high price for many consumers, as it eliminated the need for a separate Blu-Ray player and saved them money in the long run.

In addition, the high price of the PS3 allowed Sony to cover the costs of developing its Cell microprocessor, a technology that was ahead of its time. This powerful processor allowed for more realistic and complex games, providing a more immersive experience for players. It also paved the way for future consoles to follow suit and continue to push the boundaries of gaming technology.

The PS3's original price also benefited the gaming industry as a whole. By charging a premium for its console, Sony was able to earn back its development costs and invest in creating exclusive and high-quality games for the platform. This attracted more game developers to the platform, resulting in a diverse and robust library of games. This also encouraged healthy competition among game developers, driving them to create innovative and engaging titles that would attract consumers to the platform.

Moreover, the high price of the PS3 had a positive impact on the longevity of the console. With such advanced technology and a well-developed library of games, the PS3 remained relevant and in demand for a longer period of time. This allowed players to enjoy their console for longer and made for a more worthwhile investment in the long run.

The original price of the PS3 also highlighted Sony's commitment to quality. By pricing their console higher, they showed that they were not willing to compromise on the quality of their product. This set a standard for future consoles and ensured that gamers could trust in Sony's commitment to delivering high-quality gaming experiences.

Finally, the high price of the PS3 had a positive impact on the resale value of the console. As it aged, the PS3's price did not drop as dramatically as its competitors’, and it remained in demand among gamers. This not only benefited consumers who wanted to sell their console, but also those who were interested in purchasing a used PS3 at a more affordable price.

In conclusion, the original high price of the PS3 may have caused a stir among gamers at the time, but it ultimately brought a host of positive benefits to the gaming industry. From setting a new standard for console gaming, to spurring innovation, to creating a robust library of games, the PS3's price played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of modern gaming.