If you believe in the concept of "console wars," you'll be aware that Sony's PlayStation 4 outsold Microsoft's Xbox One by more than two to one. In actuality, the PS4 is among the most popular gaming consoles ever.
To get to those lofty heights, the PlayStation 5 still has a ways to go. Here are all the reasons why, at least initially, we don't think you should get a PS5.
1. Limited Number of First-Party Exclusive Games
Multiple gaming platforms, such as a PC, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Series X/S, are frequently used by gamers. Because of this, it's crucial for a console to have fantastic exclusive titles that are available only on that platform.
The PS5 only has a select few, which is a concern. Even while titles like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Returnal, and Astro's Playroom are excellent, buying a console for hundreds of dollars is not necessary.
Sony held a PlayStation Showcase in May 2023 with the hope that first-party announcements would astound onlookers. Unfortunately, it didn't amount to much because it was primarily focused on third-party games, many of which appeared to be interesting but would also be expensive, as Microsoft quickly noted on Twitter.
This will alter over time. The abundance of first-party exclusive titles that the PS5 urgently needs will finally be offered by Sony. However, it has been 2.5 years since the PS5's release, and it is challenging to single out a single game that is a system seller at this time.
2. Most Games Are Available on the PS4
The fact that many of these "exclusives" use the term broadly makes the problem worse. This is due to the fact that they are also accessible via PC or PS4. Although it is irrelevant if you don't own either of those, millions of people do.
Numerous of these exclusives are actually PS4 game updates. The PS5 version of games like God of War Ragnarök, Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut, and Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales looks incredible, but the PS4 version is equally impressive.
But let's not be too harsh on Sony for this. It's fantastic that the business hasn't abruptly disconnected PS4 users in an effort to drive them to upgrade to the PS5. Simply said, there isn't much need to upgrade from the PS4 if you're only interested in the gameplay experience rather than the PS5's superior graphics or the controller's haptic feedback. In fact, even if you don't already possess either, the PS4 might be worthwhile.
3. The PS5 Is Too Expensive
A price increase for the PS5 was announced by Sony in August 2022, citing the difficulties presented by the "global economic environment". A PS5 costs $500 in the US, which is a lot of money. However, if you purchase the Digital Edition (which lacks a disc drive), you can save $100.
This doesn't even consider the cost of peripherals, PlayStation Plus (needed for online play), additional storage (the PS5's 667GB of accessible space will be swiftly used up), or the rising price of games.
The Xbox Series X is also $500, for comparison. The Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series S, meanwhile, are both $300. That is $200 less than the MSRP of a PS5. Starting at $399 is even the Steam Deck, which is effectively a mobile and dockable PC.
The performance of these less expensive gadgets is undoubtedly less powerful, and they support different games. However, these are the best options if you're only looking for a fun gaming machine and need to keep your money in your pocket.
4. Wait for the Inevitable Upgraded PS5
The PS5 is a substantial beast, measuring 390mm by 104mm by 260mm and weighing 4.5kg. The PS5 might not physically fit in a media unit where you typically store your consoles beneath the TV. The console's design is good, but it's not exactly a focal point, and you don't want it to take over the space.
Therefore, why not simply wait for the inevitable redesign? Three years after the primary console, the PS4 Slim was unveiled, offering a much-needed slimmer form factor. The PS4 Pro, which offers 4K gaming over 1080p on the standard console, is another option.
The PS4 Slim is now the most popular PS4 model. With every platform, as has always happened, the PS5 will inevitably experience the same issue.
Should You Buy a PS5?
Ultimately, you are the only person who can decide if you ought to get a PS5. If none of these objections seem like a deal-breaker to you, terrific! Go ahead and purchase the PS5, and maybe you'll enjoy it for hundreds of hours.
But a lot of people could want to stop. Perhaps wait till there are more PS5-only titles, the price reduces, or for the updated model. for each of the three. The PS5 will probably be in a better position and a must-have gaming system by that time.
